National News
Bharat Pavilion Unveiled at the 77th Cannes Film Festival
Inauguration of the Bharat Pavilion, formerly known as the India Pavilion, marked a significant moment at the 77th Cannes Film Festival. The renaming reflects India’s commitment to traditional storytelling while seeking global collaborations.
Special Commemorative Coin Released on MDL Shipyard 250th Anniversary
Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane unveiled a commemorative Rs 250 coin during the celebration of the 250th anniversary of Mazagon Dock Limited (MDL) in New Delhi on May 14, 2024. The event, hosted by MDL, commemorated its evolution from a dry dock in 1774 to a premier naval shipyard under the Ministry of Defence.
IndiaSkills 2024: Unveiling India’s Premier Skill Competition
The grand commencement of IndiaSkills 2024 took place at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka, New Delhi on 15 May 2024. Over the span of four days, this esteemed competition will assess the proficiency of students across 61 diverse categories, providing a platform for showcasing talent at both national and international levels.
Defence News
Indian Air Force Tests BHISHM Portable Hospital for Airdrop in Agra
The Indian Air Force recently conducted a test in Agra for the BHISHM portable hospital, a crucial component of “Project BHISHM” aimed at providing rapid and comprehensive medical assistance during emergencies. These portable cubes, part of a broader initiative, can cater to up to 200 casualties, emphasizing swift response and extensive care.
Economy News
India’s Urban Unemployment Rate Declines to 6.7% in March Quarter
The 22nd Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) conducted by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) revealed that the unemployment rate among individuals aged 15 years and above in urban areas of India decreased to 6.7% in the January-March 2024 period. The survey offers insights into various labor force indicators, including unemployment rate, worker population ratio (WPR), and labor force participation rate (LFPR) based on the Current Weekly Status (CWS) approach.
LIC Granted 3-Year Extension by Sebi to Achieve 10% Public Shareholding
In a move aimed at granting additional time to Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) of India to meet regulatory requirements, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) has extended LIC’s deadline to achieve a minimum 10% public shareholding. LIC, a state-owned insurance giant, now has until May 16, 2027, to fulfill this obligation.
Agreements News
PhonePe Launches UPI in Sri Lanka in Partnership with LankaPay
In a significant move, PhonePe has joined forces with LankaPay to introduce UPI payments in Sri Lanka. This collaboration allows PhonePe users to seamlessly utilize UPI for transactions across LankaPay QR merchants, providing them with familiarity and security while traveling. The partnership aims to enhance the payment experience for Indian tourists and business travelers in Sri Lanka, while also offering a cost-effective solution for merchants. The initiative received commendation from key figures including PhonePe’s CEO, Ritesh Pai, LankaPay CEO Channa de Silva, and Sri Lankan Central Bank Governor Nandalal Weerasinghe.
Awards News
Ruskin Bond Awarded Prestigious Sahitya Akademi Fellowship
In a momentous occasion, the eminent author Ruskin Bond has been bestowed with the Sahitya Akademi Fellowship, the highest honour conferred by India’s premier literary organization, the Sahitya Akademi. Due to Bond’s ill health, the prestigious award was presented to him at his Mussoorie home by Sahitya Akademi President Madhav Kaushik and Secretary K. Sreenivasarao, in the presence of his son.
Science and Technology News
NASA Appoints New Chief for Artificial Intelligence
NASA has given a new role to David Salvagnini as the agency’s Chief Artificial Intelligence (AI) Officer. This is an addition to his current job as Chief Data Officer. The appointment shows NASA’s commitment to using AI technology responsibly.
Sports News
Sunil Chhetri Announces Retirement from International Football
Sunil Chhetri, India’s most decorated footballer, has announced his retirement from international football. The FIFA World Cup Qualifier game against Kuwait in Kolkata on June 6 will be his last appearance for the national team.
Important Days
International Day of Living Together in Peace 2024
The International Day of Living Together in Peace is an annual observance held on 16 May every year. Established by the United Nations General Assembly, this day aims to support global efforts in promoting peace, unity, and solidarity among nations and individuals.
International Day of Light 2024: Celebrating the Power of Light
The International Day of Light is an annual celebration established by UNESCO to recognize the significance of light and light-based technologies in revolutionizing our society and various aspects of our daily lives.
Obituaries News
Veteran Congress Leader and Former Governor Kamla Beniwal Passes Away at 97
The Indian political landscape mourns the loss of a pioneering figure, Kamla Beniwal, who breathed her last on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at the age of 97. Beniwal, a veteran Congress leader and former governor of Gujarat, Tripura, and Mizoram, left an indelible mark on the nation’s political arena with her unwavering commitment and decades-long service.
Former Indian Army Officer Killed in Gaza Attack
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has claimed the life of Colonel (Retd.) Waibhav Anil Kale, a former Indian Army officer who was serving as a staff member of the United Nations Department of Safety and Security (DSS) in the region. The tragic incident occurred on May 13, 2024, when Kale’s vehicle came under attack in Rafah, Gaza, marking the first international casualty since the latest escalation of hostilities between Israel and Hamas.
