National News
Enhancing Surveillance Capabilities: Indian Army’s New Drone Inductions
In a strategic move to bolster its surveillance capabilities along the Pakistan border, the Indian Army is set to induct advanced drones, including the Drishti-10 (Hermes-900). Scheduled for an induction ceremony in Hyderabad on May 18, these drones mark a significant addition to the Army’s existing fleet, aligning with the ‘Make in India’ initiative in Defence.
International News
Nepal’s Kami Rita Sherpa Sets New Record with 29th Everest Ascent
Renowned Nepali mountaineer Kami Rita Sherpa has achieved a historic feat by conquering Mount Everest for the 29th time. At 54 years old, Kami reached the 8,849-meter summit at 7:25 am local time on Sunday, leading a group of climbers organized by Seven Summit Treks. His remarkable journey began in 1992, and since then, he has fearlessly conquered several of the world’s highest peaks, including K2, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Manaslu. Kami’s dedication and expertise have solidified his place in mountaineering history.
India-Oman Collaboration on Shark and Ray Research in Arabian Sea
In a significant move to bolster research and conservation efforts concerning sharks and rays in the Arabian Sea, India and Oman are set to embark on a joint initiative. This collaboration aims to enhance understanding, promote conservation, and facilitate capacity building in elasmobranch research, with a particular focus on the Arabian Sea region.
Appointments News
N Chandrasekaran to Chair Tata Electronics
Tata Sons chairman N Chandrasekaran is set to assume the role of chairman at Tata Electronics, a significant move that underscores the Tata group’s commitment to its $14 billion investment in the semiconductor business. Chandrasekaran will succeed Banmali Agrawala, who has held the position for several years and has recently taken on an advisory role within the group.
Dileep Sanghani Elected As Chairman Of IFFCO
The Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative (IFFCO) has successfully conducted its 15th RGB elections for its Board of Directors, marking a remarkable milestone in cooperative governance. This massive exercise, spanning over two months, encompassed participation from more than 36,000 cooperative societies across the nation.
Wipro Appoints Vinay Firake as CEO of APMEA Strategic Market Unit
Wipro, a leading IT major, has announced the appointment of Vinay Firake as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of its Asia Pacific, India, Middle East, and Africa (APMEA) strategic market unit (SMU), effective immediately. Firake will report directly to Srini Pallia, Wipro’s CEO and Managing Director, and will also join the company’s executive board.
Business News
Reliance Capital Acquisition: Hinduja Group’s IIHL Receives IRDAI Approval
Hinduja Group’s IndusInd International Holdings (IIHL) has obtained approval from the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) for the acquisition of Reliance Capital. This acquisition encompasses Reliance Capital’s insurance subsidiaries, including Reliance General Insurance and Reliance Nippon Life Insurance.
Business News
India’s Factory Output and Industrial Production Highlights
Factory output in India saw a notable rise, registering a growth of 4.9% in March, a significant leap from the 1.9% recorded in the same period the previous year. However, this figure fell slightly short of February 2024’s 5.7%. For the fiscal year 2023-24, the factory output grew by 5.8%, a marginal increase from the previous year. The uptick was particularly evident in manufacturing and construction goods output.
Coca-Cola India Joins Forces with Hockey India to Empower Women’s Hockey
Anandana, The Coca-Cola India Foundation, has forged its maiden alliance with Hockey India for the National Women’s Hockey League 2024. This collaboration aims to elevate women’s hockey by providing essential resources and support to players, aligning with Coca-Cola India’s commitment to sports and gender equality through its #SheTheDifference campaign.
Sports News
Neeraj Chopra Kicks Off 2024 Season with Silver at Doha Diamond League
Neeraj Chopra, the reigning Olympic and world champion in javelin throw, started his 2024 season on a strong note, securing a second-place finish at the Doha Diamond League 2024. Chopra’s impressive throw of 88.36m on his final attempt fell just 2cm short of Czechia’s Jakub Vadlejch, the reigning Diamond League champion and Tokyo 2020 silver medalist.
Awards News
Dr. Soumya Swaminathan Honoured with Honorary Doctorate by McGill University
Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, a globally renowned leader in public health and infectious diseases, has been named among the 10 exceptional individuals to receive an honorary degree from Canada’s prestigious McGill University during the Spring 2024 Convocation ceremonies.
Important Days
International Nurses Day 2024 Observed on 12th May
Every year on 12 May, the world observes International Nurses Day to honor the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale, the pioneer of modern nursing. This day serves as a tribute to the selfless dedication and vital contributions of nurses worldwide. Florence Nightingale, born on 12 May 1820 in Florence, Italy, was a British nurse and social reformer. Her unwavering compassion and tireless efforts during the Crimean War (1853-56) earned her the legendary title of “Lady with the Lamp.”
International Day of Plant Health 2024 Observed on 12th May
The International Day of Plant Health (IDPH) is observed annually on 12 May to raise awareness about the critical importance of protecting plant health. This global initiative aims to prevent hunger, reduce poverty, safeguard biodiversity, and promote economic development worldwide. This year, the International Day of Plant Health falls on Sunday, 12 May 2024, coinciding with Mother’s Day, an event that recognizes the love, care, and sacrifices of mothers.
Obituaries News
Punjabi Poet and Writer Surjit Patar Passes Away at 79
The literary world mourns the loss of Surjit Patar, a renowned Punjabi poet, writer, and Padma Shri recipient, who passed away in Ludhiana, Punjab, at the age of 79.
