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PM Modi Honoured with Sri Lanka’s Highest Civilian Award for Strengthening Bilateral Ties

On April 5, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded the Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana, Sri Lanka’s highest civilian honour for foreign Heads of State and Government, by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in Colombo. The award recognizes PM Modi’s significant contributions to strengthening India-Sri Lanka relations and symbolizes deep friendship between the two nations.

PM Modi expressed gratitude, calling it an honour for all 140 crore Indians, and highlighted the shared spiritual and cultural heritage of both countries. The medal’s design features symbols such as the Dharma Chakra and Pun Kalasa, reflecting their Buddhist legacy and prosperity.

This marks Modi’s 22nd international recognition, reinforcing his image as a global statesman. During the visit, both leaders also launched bilateral projects like the Sampur Solar Power Project and signed MoUs in energy, digital transformation, and trilateral cooperation (including the UAE). India’s aid to Sri Lanka now totals around $7 billion, including grants and investments exceeding $2 billion.

DRDO and Indian Army Successfully Test Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missiles (MRSAM)

On April 4, 2025, the DRDO and Indian Army successfully conducted four flight tests of the Army version of the Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) from Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha.

The missiles intercepted and destroyed aerial targets at various ranges and altitudes, demonstrating full operational capability. The tests involved targets at long range, short range, high altitude, and low altitude. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated all involved and said the tests re-established the weapon system’s effectiveness.

PM Modi’s Bangkok Summit and Sri Lanka State Visit

On April 4, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the 6th BIMSTEC Summit held in Bangkok, where he unveiled several India-led initiatives focused on institution and capacity building across the region. Key announcements included the setting up of BIMSTEC Centres of Excellence in India for Disaster Management, Sustainable Maritime Transport, Traditional Medicine, and Agriculture Research & Training.

He also launched the BODHI programme (BIMSTEC for Organized Development of Human Resource Infrastructure), aimed at providing training and scholarships to youth, professionals, and researchers. Other initiatives included a pilot study on Digital Public Infrastructure, a cancer care capacity-building programme, and the proposal for an annual BIMSTEC Business Summit in India, alongside the creation of a BIMSTEC Chamber of Commerce.

PM Modi welcomed the signing of the BIMSTEC Maritime Transport Agreement, adoption of the Bangkok Vision 2030, and the BIMSTEC Eminent Persons Group Report. He paid tribute to victims of the recent earthquakes in Myanmar and Thailand, and praised Thailand’s leadership in BIMSTEC.

Additionally, PM Modi visited the Wat Pho Buddhist Temple in Bangkok, highlighting the cultural ties between India and Thailand.

Later the same day, PM Modi arrived in Colombo for a three-day state visit to Sri Lanka at the invitation of President Anura Kumara Dissanayaka. He was received by Sri Lankan ministers at the airport. During his visit, PM Modi will engage in bilateral talks, inaugurate Indian-assisted projects, and visit Anuradhapura, where he will pray at the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi temple and inaugurate railway connectivity projects in the northern region.

Bangladesh Assumes BIMSTEC Chairmanship for 2025–2027

On April 4, 2025, Bangladesh assumed the Chairmanship of BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) for the next two years, during the BIMSTEC Summit held in Bangkok. The Chairmanship was handed over by the Prime Minister of Thailand to Chief Adviser of Bangladesh’s Interim Government, Muhammad Yunus.

In his acceptance, Yunus emphasized the need for an inclusive and action-oriented BIMSTEC, reaffirming Bangladesh’s commitment to regional cooperation and development.

BIMSTEC consists of seven member countries: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.

Hitesh Becomes First Indian Boxer to Enter World Cup 2025 Final

On April 4, 2025, Hitesh made history by becoming the first Indian boxer to reach the final of the Boxing World Cup 2025, held in Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil. He secured a dominant 5-0 victory over Makan Traore of France in the men’s 70kg semifinal.

Hitesh is a rising Indian boxer known for his speed and precision in the ring. Hailing from Haryana, he has steadily climbed the national boxing ranks, earning recognition for his dedication, discipline, and powerful performance in the 70kg weight category.

Meanwhile, three other Indian boxers — Jadumani Singh (50kg), Sachin Siwach (60kg), and Vishal (90kg) — earned bronze medals after reaching the semifinals in their respective categories.

Parliament Passes Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 was passed by Parliament after the Rajya Sabha approved it on April 3, 2025, with 128 votes in favor and 95 against, following a 12-hour debate. The Lok Sabha had already approved the Bill.

The Bill aims to streamline the management of Waqf properties, ensure transparency and accountability, and promote heritage protection and social welfare, particularly improving the status of Muslim women, including widows and divorcees. It proposes an inclusive Waqf Board, with representation from different Muslim sects and a limited number of non-Muslim members to preserve its secular nature.

Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stated the Bill would benefit crores of poor Muslims without interfering with Waqf properties, aligning with the government’s “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” vision. The Bill was drafted after consultations with stakeholders and the Joint Parliamentary Committee.

Opposition leaders, including Mallikarjun Kharge, Dr. Syed Naseer Hussain, and others, opposed the Bill, calling it anti-secular, unconstitutional, and politically motivated. However, several leaders like HD Devegowda supported the Bill, citing misuse of Waqf properties.

Parliament also passed the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2025, repealing the Mussalman Wakf Act of 1923.

India Secures Three Medals at World Boxing Cup Brazil 2025

On April 3, 2025, Indian boxers Manish Rathore, Hitesh, and Abhinash Jamwal advanced to the semifinals of their respective weight categories at the World Boxing Cup in Brazil, guaranteeing three more medals for India.

  • Abhinash Jamwal defeated Germany’s Dennis Brill in the 65 kg category by unanimous decision.
  • Hitesh triumphed over Italy’s Gabriele Guidi Rontani in the 70 kg division.
  • Manish Rathore beat Australia’s Yusuf Chotia in the 55 kg category.

In the upcoming semifinals:

  • Rathore will face Nursultan Altynbek of Kazakhstan
  • Hitesh will take on Makan Traoré
  • Jamwal will fight Gianluigi Malanga of Italy

India now looks forward to turning these guaranteed medals into gold.

Manoj Kumar passed away at the age of 87

Veteran actor and director Manoj Kumar passed away in Mumbai on April 4, 2025, at the age of 87. Widely known as ‘Bharat Kumar’ for his iconic patriotic roles, he was honored with the Padma Shri and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for his significant contributions to Indian cinema.

Born as Harikrishna Giri Goswami, he redefined patriotism in Bollywood through classics like Upkar (1967), Purab Aur Paschim (1970), and Kranti (1981). His powerful screen presence and memorable performances made him a legend. Other popular films include Patthar Ke Sanam, Shor, Sanyasi, and Roti Kapda Aur Makan.

Poonam Gupta appointed as Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)

Dr. Poonam Gupta has been appointed as the Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for a three-year term starting April 1, 2025, succeeding Michael Debaprata Patra. She previously served as Director General of NCAER and has extensive experience with the World Bank and IMF.

Holding a PhD in International Economics, she specializes in economic growth, financial stability, and policy analysis. As Deputy Governor, she will oversee monetary policy, financial supervision, and economic forecasting. Her leadership is expected to strengthen RBI’s regulatory framework and support India’s economic growth amid key financial challenges.

Impact of Donald Trump’s 26% Reciprocal Tariff on Indian Economy

Donald Trump’s announcement of a 26% reciprocal tariff on Indian goods has significant implications for India’s economy and trade relations. This tariff, effective from April 9, 2025, is aimed at countering what Trump described as India’s high tariffs on American goods, which he claimed were as high as 52%.

The sectors most affected include automobiles, IT, and pharmaceuticals, with potential declines in export revenues. For instance, Indian automobile companies like Tata Motors, which exports vehicles to the US, have already seen a drop in stock value. On the other hand, pharmaceutical exports are currently exempt from this tariff, offering some relief to Indian companies.

India is reportedly considering reducing tariffs on $23 billion worth of US imports to mitigate the impact, but no agreement has been finalized yet. The broader economic effects will depend on how long these tariffs remain in place and whether India and the US can negotiate a trade deal to ease tensions.

This move underscores the complexities of global trade and the challenges emerging economies like India face in balancing domestic interests with international trade dynamics.

Lok Sabha Passes Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 Amid Heated Debate

The Lok Sabha passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 on April 2, 2025, with 288 votes in favor and 232 against. The House also approved the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill 2024, repealing the Mussalman Wakf Act 1923.

Key Provisions and Government’s Stand:

  • Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju moved the bill, stating that it focuses solely on Waqf properties and aims to make Waqf Boards more inclusive and transparent.
  • The bill mandates representation from different Muslim sects and women in Waqf Boards.
  • Rijiju criticized the 2013 amendments under the UPA government for allowing misuse of Waqf laws and questioned why, despite India having the highest number of Waqf properties globally, Indian Muslims remain economically disadvantaged.

Opposition’s Criticism:

  • Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi called the bill unconstitutional and alleged it was an attempt to defame minorities and divide society.
  • Samajwadi Party’s Akhilesh Yadav accused the government of using the bill to divert attention from economic issues like unemployment and inflation.
  • TMC’s Kalyan Banerjee, DMK’s A Raja, and other opposition leaders criticized the bill, calling it anti-minority and an attack on Muslim rights.

Government’s Response:

  • Union Home Minister Amit Shah clarified that non-Muslims will not manage Waqf properties, dismissing fears of interference in religious practices.
  • He argued that the bill aims to prevent land mismanagement and enhance transparency, blaming the Congress for past misuses of Waqf-related laws.
  • BJP’s Ravi Shankar Prasad emphasized that the bill promotes gender justice by ensuring women’s representation in Waqf Boards.

Support from Other Parties:

  • TDP’s Krishna Prasad Tenneti supported the bill, highlighting the mismanagement of Waqf properties worth ₹1.2 lakh crore.
  • JD(U) leader Rajiv Ranjan Singh asserted that the bill ensures justice for all sections of Muslims while curbing misuse of Waqf properties.
  • Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Shinde referred to the legislation as “UMEED” (Unified Waqf Management Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development), aimed at uplifting minorities.

The bill’s passage marks a significant move in reforming Waqf property management, though controversy and political opposition remain strong.

6th BIMSTEC Summit on April 4, 2025, in Bangkok, Thailand

The 6th BIMSTEC Summit is set to take place on April 4, 2025, in Bangkok, Thailand. This summit marks a significant milestone as it is the first in-person BIMSTEC meeting since 2018. The theme for this year’s summit is “BIMSTEC – Prosperous, Resilient, and Open”, reflecting the organization’s focus on enhancing regional cooperation in areas such as trade, security, connectivity, and human security.

The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is a regional organization comprising seven member states: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. Established in 1997, BIMSTEC aims to foster economic and technical collaboration among countries bordering the Bay of Bengal.

During the summit, leaders are expected to adopt the Bangkok Vision 2030, which outlines a roadmap for regional development and cooperation. Key discussions will focus on enhancing maritime transport, completing the India–Myanmar–Thailand Trilateral Highway, and addressing shared challenges such as climate change, terrorism, and poverty.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is attending the summit and will also hold bilateral talks with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to strengthen India-Thailand relations. Following the summit, PM Modi is scheduled to visit Sri Lanka to further enhance bilateral ties.

This summit underscores BIMSTEC’s role as a bridge between South Asia and Southeast Asia, promoting regional integration and collaboration across various sectors. It is a pivotal moment for the member states to reaffirm their commitment to a prosperous and resilient Bay of Bengal region.

NHAI Raises Toll Charges by Up to 5% Across Highways

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has raised toll charges by 4-5% as part of its annual inflation adjustment based on the wholesale price index. The additional revenue will support highway maintenance and expansion projects.

Key toll hikes include:

  • Delhi-Meerut Expressway: Toll for cars from Sarai Kale Khan to Meerut increased from ₹165 to ₹170, and from Ghaziabad to Meerut from ₹70 to ₹75.
  • Chhijarsi toll plaza (NH-9): Car tolls rose from ₹170 to ₹175, light commercial vehicles to ₹280, and trucks to ₹590.
  • Lucknow Highways: Light vehicles will pay ₹5-10 more per trip, while heavy vehicles will pay ₹20-25 extra.
  • Delhi-Jaipur Highway (Kherki Daula toll plaza): No hike for private cars and jeeps, but larger vehicles face a ₹5 increase per trip.
  • Monthly passes: For cars, it increased from ₹930 to ₹950, and for cabs, from ₹1,225 to ₹1,255.

India has 855 toll plazas, with 675 government-funded and 180 privately operated.

Niharika Singhania Wins Gold at Azelhof CSI Lier Equestrian Competition

On April 1, 2025, young Indian equestrian Niharika Singhania secured first place at the prestigious Azelhof CSI Lier competition in Belgium. Competing against international riders, she showcased exceptional skill and composure.

Niharika participated in the Two Phases special event, riding Hotese Charboniere, and finished with 40.72 and 40.34 penalty points, earning gold.

Chilean President Gabriel Boric Font Visits India to Strengthen Bilateral Ties

Chilean President Gabriel Boric Font is on a state visit to India from April 1 to April 5, 2025, marking 76 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations. President Droupadi Murmu welcomed him at Rashtrapati Bhavan and hosted a banquet in his honor.

During his visit, President Boric is engaging in New Delhi, Agra, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. He held discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on minerals, energy, defense, agriculture, and space cooperation. Both leaders agreed to initiate talks for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.

The visit also highlights cultural and educational exchanges, including student programs and Chile’s growing interest in Yoga and Ayurveda. President Boric emphasized Chile’s commitment to strengthening ties with India, recognizing its global geopolitical significance.

This visit reinforces India-Chile cooperation in trade, innovation, and culture, reflecting a shared vision for a prosperous future.

India Achieves Record 25 GW Renewable Energy Addition

India’s renewable energy sector recorded its highest-ever capacity addition of 25 gigawatts (GW) in the 2024-2025 financial year, marking a 35% increase from the 18.57 GW installed in 2023-24. Solar energy led the growth, rising from 15 GW to nearly 21 GW, a 38% increase.

New and Renewable Energy Minister Pralhad Joshi announced initiatives to decarbonize transportation and households, including mandating bioCNG blending with compressed and piped natural gas. Solar PV cell manufacturing capacity tripled to 9 GW, and the PM KUSUM Scheme showed significant progress. The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana benefited 1.1 lakh households and generated 7 lakh jobs.

RBI Reports 98.21% Return of ₹2000 Notes

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced that 98.21% of ₹2000 banknotes have been returned to the banking system as on March 31, 2024. On May 19, 2023, the RBI declared the withdrawal of ₹2000 notes from circulation. At that time, ₹3.56 lakh crore worth of ₹2000 notes were in circulation, which has now reduced to ₹6,366 crore as of March 31, 2024.

The deposit and exchange facility at bank branches was available until October 7, 2023, but remains open at 19 RBI issue offices. People can also send ₹2000 notes via India Post for credit to their bank accounts. Despite withdrawal, ₹2000 notes remain legal tender.

Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) for Central Government employees came into effect on April 1, 2025

The Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) for Central Government employees came into effect on April 1, 2025, as an option under the National Pension System (NPS). The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) has issued regulations for its implementation, covering three categories of employees:

  1. Existing central government employees under NPS as of April 1, 2025.
  2. New recruits joining the service on or after April 1, 2025.
  3. Retired employees under NPS who retired on or before April 30, 2025, through regular or voluntary retirement.

Approximately 23 lakh employees are expected to benefit from the scheme. Employees who joined on or after January 1, 2004, can choose to switch from NPS to UPS. Eligible employees can enroll and submit claims through the Protean CRA portal starting April 1.

The UPS offers 50% of the average basic pay drawn in the last 12 months before retirement, provided the employee has completed a minimum of 25 years of service. In the case of the employee’s demise, the family will receive 60% of the pension. The scheme also guarantees a minimum pension of ₹10,000 per month for those with at least 10 years of service.

India and US Launch Fourth Edition of Exercise Tiger Triumph 2025 for HADR Cooperation

Exercise Tiger Triumph 2025, the fourth edition of the India-US bilateral Tri-Service Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Exercise, began in Visakhapatnam on April 1, 2025. The Harbour Phase will run from April 1 to April 7, including an Opening Ceremony with a joint Flag Parade on INS Jalashwa. The exercise will conclude on April 13 with a Closing Ceremony on the US Navy Ship Comstock.

Following the Harbour Phase, participants will proceed to the Sea Phase off Kakinada for Maritime, Amphibious, and HADR operations. The exercise aims to enhance interoperability and establish Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for a Combined Coordination Center (CCC) to facilitate cooperation between the Indian and US Joint Task Forces (JTF) during emergencies.

India will be represented by INS Jalashwa, Gharial, Mumbai, and Shakti, along with P8I Maritime Patrol Aircraft, Army troops from 91 Inf Brigade and 12 Mech Infantry Battalion, Air Force C-130 Aircraft, MI-17 Helicopters, and the Rapid Action Medical Team (RAMT). The US will participate with US Navy Ships Comstock and Ralph Johnson and troops from the US Marine Division.

Rajgir to Host Hero Asia Cup Hockey 2025 from August 29 to September 7

Rajgir, Bihar, will host the Hero Asia Cup Hockey 2025 from August 29 to September 7 at the newly developed Rajgir Hockey Stadium. This will be the second international event in Rajgir, following the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy in 2024.

Eight teams, including India, Pakistan, Japan, Korea, China, and Malaysia, will compete, with two additional teams qualifying through the AHF Cup. South Korea leads the tournament’s history with five titles, while India and Pakistan have won three each.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the event was signed between Hockey India and the Bihar State Sports Authority at the Patliputra Sports Complex. Present at the signing were Hockey India Secretary General Bholanath Singh, Bihar Sports Department’s Additional Chief Secretary B. Rajender, Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey, and Indian team captain Harmanpreet Singh. Approximately 20,000 spectators are expected, with officials highlighting the tournament’s role in boosting Bihar’s sports infrastructure.

Shirley Botchwey Becomes First African Woman to assume office as Commonwealth Secretary-General

Shirley Botchwey assumed office as the 7th Secretary-General of the Commonwealth on April 1, 2025, becoming the first African woman to hold the position. With 20 years of leadership experience in diplomacy, international relations, governance, and public service, she previously served as Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration from 2017 to 2024 and was a member of Ghana’s National Security Council.

The Commonwealth Secretary-General, nominated by Commonwealth leaders, serves a maximum of two four-year terms and is responsible for upholding Commonwealth values, representing the organization, and managing the Commonwealth Secretariat.

Vikram Samvat: The Hindu New Year 2025

Vikram Samvat, one of the traditional Hindu lunar calendars, marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year. In 2025, the Vikram Samvat New Year celebrated on March 30th, ushering in the year 2082. This calendar, widely followed in North and Western India, holds deep cultural, religious, and historical significance.

Origin and History

The Vikram Samvat era is believed to have been established by the legendary king Vikramaditya of Ujjain after his victory over the Shakas in 57 BCE. Unlike the Gregorian calendar, which follows the solar cycle, Vikram Samvat is a lunisolar calendar, aligning months with the moon’s phases while adjusting with the solar year.

How is the Hindu New Year Celebrated?

The Hindu New Year, also known as Nav Varsh or Chaitra Shukla Pratipada, is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India, especially in states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh. Key traditions include:

  1. Religious Observances – Devotees visit temples, offer prayers, and seek blessings for prosperity.
  2. Gudi Padwa (Maharashtra) – Homes are decorated with Gudis (a bamboo stick with a bright cloth and neem leaves).
  3. Ugadi (Andhra Pradesh & Karnataka) – People prepare Ugadi Pachadi, a special dish symbolizing life’s different flavors.
  4. Navreh (Kashmir) – Kashmiri Hindus celebrate with rituals and traditional feasts.
  5. Baisakhi (Punjab) – Marks the harvest festival and the Sikh New Year.

Astrological Significance

The Hindu New Year begins with the Chaitra month (March-April) and is considered auspicious for new ventures. Astrologers analyze the Panchang (Hindu almanac) to determine favorable timings (Muhurats) for important activities.

Vikram Samvat 2082: What to Expect

According to Hindu astrology, the year 2082 will be governed by Jupiter (Brihaspati), bringing opportunities for growth, wisdom, and spiritual progress. Key festivals like Diwali, Holi, and Raksha Bandhan will be observed based on this calendar.

Indian Air Force Joins Multinational Air Exercise INIOCHOS-25 in Greece

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is participating in the multinational air exercise INIOCHOS-25, which began today, March 31, 2025, at Andravida Air Base in Greece. Hosted by Greece’s Hellenic Air Force, the 12-day exercise will run until April 11. The IAF contingent includes Su-30 MKI fighters, IL-78, and C-17 aircraft.

INIOCHOS-25 aims to enhance international cooperation, interoperability, and combat readiness through combined air operations and tactical training in complex scenarios. With participation from 15 countries, the exercise promotes mutual learning and strengthens military ties.

Operation Brahma: India’s Aid to Quake-Hit Myanmar

India has launched Operation Brahma, a massive humanitarian mission to assist Myanmar after a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck the country and neighboring Thailand on March 28, 2025. The earthquake, one of the strongest in over a century, caused widespread destruction, claiming over 1,600 lives and injuring thousands.

Under Operation Brahma, India swiftly mobilized its armed forces, deploying five military aircraft and naval ships to deliver relief materials, medical equipment, and rescue teams. The Indian Air Force transported an 80-member National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team and a 118-member Army field hospital unit, equipped with specialized medical and rescue tools. Additionally, naval ships carried 40 tonnes of humanitarian aid, including food, medicines, and emergency supplies.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed solidarity with Myanmar, emphasizing India’s commitment as a “close friend and neighbor” during this crisis. The operation reflects India’s policy of being the first responder in the region, showcasing its dedication to humanitarian assistance.

India’s efforts are focused on providing immediate relief and supporting recovery in the worst-hit areas, such as Mandalay. The operation highlights India’s preparedness and compassion in responding to natural disasters.

Eid-ul-Fitr: Celebrating the End of Ramzan on 31 March

Eid-ul-Fitr, one of the most significant festivals in Islam, is a day of joy, gratitude, and togetherness, marking the end of the holy month of Ramzan. This year, in India, the festival is being celebrated on 31 March 2025 with great fervor and enthusiasm.

Ramzan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a time of fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims around the world. Observing the fast during Ramzan, known as sawm, is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It is a month of spiritual discipline, self-restraint, and heightened devotion, culminating in the celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr.

On this special day, families and communities come together to offer the special Eid prayer, known as Salat al-Eid, at mosques or open prayer grounds. The day begins with the giving of Zakat al-Fitr or Fitrana, a charitable act to support the less fortunate, ensuring that everyone can partake in the celebrations. This act highlights the essence of compassion and generosity that is central to Eid-ul-Fitr.

Eid-ul-Fitr is also synonymous with feasting and sharing. Homes are adorned, and tables are filled with delicious traditional dishes such as sheer khurma (a sweet vermicelli dessert), biryani, kebabs, and other regional delicacies. It is a time to exchange greetings of “Eid Mubarak,” visit relatives and friends, and strengthen bonds of love and unity.

Union Cabinet Approves 2% Increase in Dearness Allowance for Employees and Pensioners

The Union Cabinet on 28 March 2025 approved a 2% increase in dearness allowance (DA) for central government employees and dearness relief (DR) for pensioners, effective from January 1, 2025, raising it from 53% to 55% of basic pay or pension.

This decision will benefit around 48.66 lakh employees and 66.55 lakh pensioners, with an estimated financial burden of Rs. 6,614.04 crore per year.

The increase follows the 7th Central Pay Commission’s recommendations to provide financial support against inflation.

Khelo India Para Games 2025 to concludes, Haryana led the medal tally with 34 gold

The Khelo India Para Games 2025 concluded on March 28 at JLN Stadium, New Delhi. Union Minister Raksha Nikhil Khadse praised the event for providing a platform for para-athletes, with 18 national records broken. She commended the strong participation from Northeastern states and launched a Handbook on Accessibility of Sports Facilities.

Over 1,300 para-athletes competed in six sports, winning more than 550 medals. Haryana led the medal tally with 34 gold, followed by Tamil Nadu with 28 gold, and Uttar Pradesh with 23 gold. The games highlighted the government’s commitment to inclusive sports development.

Manisha Bhanwala won gold medal at the Asian Wrestling Championship 2025

Manisha Bhanwala won India’s first gold medal since 2021 at the Asian Wrestling Championship 2025, defeating Korea’s Ok J Kim 8-7 in the women’s 62 kg category. Antim Panghal added to the tally with a bronze in the 53 kg category, securing victory over Taipei’s Meng H Hsieh by technical superiority without conceding a point.

Indian wrestlers concluded the tournament with an impressive medal count of one gold, one silver, and six bronze medals, including two from Greco-Roman wrestlers. Congratulations to the champions for their outstanding performance!

Social Media Site X Sold to xAI for $33 Billion

Tech billionaire Elon Musk has sold the social media site X (formerly Twitter) to his AI company, xAI, in a $33 billion deal on 28 March 2025. Musk announced the sale, emphasizing that the merger will unlock significant potential by combining xAI’s advanced AI capabilities with X’s massive reach.

The deal also values xAI at $80 billion, underscoring its growing influence in the AI sector. Musk, who acquired X for $44 billion in 2022, launched xAI a year later to advance artificial intelligence technology. As the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, as well as an advisor to President Donald Trump, Musk continues to make bold moves in the tech industry.

With xAI’s expertise, X is expected to undergo major enhancements, incorporating AI-driven content curation, advanced moderation, and interactive features. While the potential for innovation excites many, concerns over privacy and AI governance remain.

This landmark deal highlights Musk’s ambition to reshape digital communication through AI integration, signaling a transformative shift in the online experience.

‘Sahkar’ Taxi: A Cooperative Model for Fairer Transportation

The Indian government is set to introduce a new cooperative-based taxi service called ‘Sahkar Taxi.‘ This initiative, announced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Parliament on March 27, 2025, aims to provide an alternative to private ride-hailing platforms like Ola and Uber. The service will include bike, cab, and auto rides, ensuring that profits go directly to the drivers instead of large corporations.

The ‘Sahkar Taxi’ service aligns with the vision of ‘Sahkar Se Samriddhi’ (Prosperity through Cooperation). Drivers will be able to register their vehicles—two-wheelers, auto-rickshaws, and four-wheelers—through cooperative societies. This model eliminates middlemen, allowing drivers to retain their full earnings and achieve better financial security.

Additionally, the government plans to establish a cooperative insurance company to support this initiative. This company will provide financial protection to drivers and others in the cooperative sector. The rollout of the ‘Sahkar Taxi’ service is expected in the coming months, offering affordable transport for passengers and fairer opportunities for drivers.

This move reflects the government’s commitment to promoting cooperative models and addressing concerns about high commission fees charged by private platforms. It is a step toward creating a more equitable and transparent transportation system in India.

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