“FESTIVAL”

Logo for 7th North East Youth Festival 2024 Unveiled

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has officially unveiled the logo for the highly anticipated 7th North East Youth Festival 2024. The emblem beautifully encapsulates the vibrant essence of the eight northeastern states, marking a tribute to the rich cultural tapestry of the region. Moreover, the festival has chosen the Phayre’s leaf monkey as its mascot, further symbolizing the unique biodiversity and heritage of the North East. Scheduled to take place in Tripura from February 26 to 29, this four-day cultural gala promises to be a spectacular convergence of youth, art, and tradition.

“AWARD”

Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2024

The Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival Awards 2024 took place in Mumbai, where 40 individuals received accolades for their significant contributions to the advancement of Indian cinema. Selected by a panel comprising esteemed figures from the Indian film industry, these awardees were recognized at the 70th edition of DPIFF. The ceremony was a glamorous affair, attended by luminaries like Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji, Kareena Kapoor, Vikrant Massey, Nayanthara, Shahid Kapoor, Aditya Roy Kapur, and Sandeep Reddy Vanga, making it a memorable evening.

“DEFENCE”

Trilateral Exercise ‘Dosti-16’ Kicks Off In Maldives

Indian and Sri Lankan coast guard ships joined the Dosti 16 exercise held in the Maldives from February 22-25. This year marked a significant development with Bangladesh participating as an observer, indicating a widening scope for the exercise and underlining the growing importance of maritime collaboration in tackling evolving challenges.

DRDO To Test Indigenous Laser Weapon DURGA-2

In a notable stride towards advanced military technology, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is reportedly gearing up to test a real prototype of its indigenous laser weapon system, DURGA-2. The project, designed in secrecy by the Indian defence establishment, has garnered attention in global strategic circles due to its potential to transform warfare dynamics by neutralizing ballistic missiles.

Turkey’s First Fifth-Generation Aircraft, KAAN, Completes Maiden Flight

Turkey celebrates a milestone achievement as its first fifth-generation aircraft, KAAN, successfully completes its inaugural flight, marking a significant advancement in the country’s military capabilities. Successful Maiden Flight: On February 21, KAAN embarked on its first flight, soaring through the skies for 13 minutes and reaching an altitude of 8,000 feet, highlighting Turkish engineering and aviation expertise.

 “APPOINTMENT”

Appointment of Salil Parekh to the USISPF Board of Directors

In a significant move that highlights the deepening ties between the technology sectors of India and the United States, Salil Parekh, the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Infosys, has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the US India Strategic and Partnership Forum (USISPF). This appointment underscores the critical role of digital trade in consolidating the strategic partnership between the two nations. Salil Parekh, with a distinguished career spanning nearly three decades in the IT services industry, is recognized for his leadership in executing business turnarounds and managing successful acquisitions.

New Chairmen Appointed for BOI, IOB, and UCO Bank

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has made significant appointments for the chairmanship of several prominent banks in India. Former LIC Chairman M R Kumar has been appointed as the part-time non-official Director and non-executive Chairman of the Bank of India (BOI). Mr Kumar’s appointment comes with a term of three years, during which he is expected to bring his wealth of experience to the helm of BOI.

Appointment of Srinivasan Sridhar as IOB Chairman

In another noteworthy appointment, Srinivasan Sridhar has been selected as the part-time non-official Director and non-executive Chairman of the Board of Indian Overseas Bank (IOB). Mr. Sridhar’s appointment is also for a term of three years, contingent upon his resignation from the Board of Bank of Baroda. This appointment underscores the government’s commitment to strengthening the leadership of IOB and enhancing its operational efficiency.

Appointment of Aravamudan Krishna Kumar as UCO Bank Chairman

Additionally, Aravamudan Krishna Kumar has been appointed as the part-time non-official Director and non-executive Chairman on the Board of UCO Bank. Similar to the appointments at BOI and IOB, Mr. Kumar’s tenure spans three years, subject to his resignation from the Board of Suraksha Asset Reconstruction Limited. His appointment reflects the government’s focus on bolstering the leadership of UCO Bank and driving its growth trajectory forward.

Ashish Vijayakar Appointed as MD & CEO of SBM Bank India

SBM Bank India, a subsidiary of the State Bank of Mauritius, has announced the appointment of Ashish Vijayakar as the Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer (MD & CEO) of the Bank. The appointment is effective from February 17, 2024, and has been approved by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) as per their letter dated February 6, 2024.

 “NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL NEWS”

Uttar Pradesh To Set Up First Turtle Conservation Reserve

The Forest Department in Uttar Pradesh’s Gonda district, in collaboration with the Turtle Survival Alliance Foundation India, is initiating a conservation effort. This endeavor aims to establish a turtle conservation reserve along the Sarju river, a tributary of the Ghaghra river. Gonda district is known for its turtle diversity, making it an ideal location for such a conservation effort.

Sri Lanka To Host Geeta Mahotsav’s 5th edition From March 1

The International Gita Mahotsav (IGM), a celebration deeply rooted in the spiritual and cultural heritage of India, is set to embark on a new journey as it finds its foreign soil in Sri Lanka. Scheduled from March 1 to 3, the fifth edition of the IGM promises to be a grand affair, bringing together devotees and enthusiasts from around the world.