“IMPORTANT DAYS”

Ugadi 2024

Ugadi 2024, falling on April 9th, marks the New Year for states like Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. Rooted in Hindu mythology, it celebrates the creation of the world by Lord Brahma. Families partake in rituals like oil baths and Panchanga Sravanam, embracing the arrival of spring and the promise of a new era with joyous festivities and cultural traditions. Ugadi, the traditional New Year festival celebrated across several states in India, including Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, falls on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, according to Drik Panchang. The Pratipada Tithi, marking the first day of the Hindu calendar month of Chaitra, begins at 11:50 pm on April 8 and concludes at 10:30 pm on April 9.

Gangaur Festival 2024

Gangaur is an important festival celebrated throughout Rajasthan, commemorating the union of Lord Shiva (Gan) and Goddess Parvati (Gauri). The term “Gan” refers to Lord Shiva, while “Gauri” or “Gaur” represents Goddess Parvati, Shiva’s heavenly consort. Gangaur symbolizes the happiness and auspiciousness of marriage, making it a significant celebration for the people of Rajasthan.

Chaitra Navratri 2024

Chaitra Navratri, also known as Vasanta Navratri, is a nine-day Hindu festival dedicated to honoring the nine incarnations of Goddess Shakti. Commencing on the first day of the Hindu Luni-Solar calendar, this auspicious festival begins on April 9 and concludes on April 17 in 2024. Each day of Navratri holds special significance, marked by elaborate rituals and prayers.

National Zoo Lovers Day

National Zoo Lovers Day is celebrated every year on 8 April. National Zoo Lovers Day encourages us to explore our local zoos. Each year millions of people visit zoos and learn about the many animals that live there. Also known as zoological parks, many of them serve as breeding centers. These facilities are relied upon when species are endangered or at risk of becoming endangered. They also provide education to the public about a broad variety of animals and their habitats.

“AWARD”

Aleksei Navalny and Yulia Navalnaya Honoured with Freedom Prize

The late Russian dissident Aleksei Navalny and his wife, Yulia Navalnaya, will receive the Freedom Prize of the Media from a leading German forum, the Ludwig Erhard Summit. The award is presented annually to public figures who have made significant contributions to freedom of expression, dialogue, and democracy.

• Aleksei Navalny, a prominent Russian opposition leader and anti-corruption activist, tragically passed away. However, his legacy and commitment to democratic values will be honored with this prestigious award.
• Yulia Navalnaya, Aleksei’s wife, will accept the award in person on behalf of her husband, further highlighting their joint efforts in advocating for freedom and democracy in Russia.

“DEFENCE”

Sagar Kavach 2024: Coastal Security Exercise in Lakshadweep Islands

A two-day coastal security exercise called Sagar Kavach 01/24 was conducted off the Lakshadweep Islands from April 1-2, 2024. The exercise involved the participation of all maritime security agencies, including the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, Marine Police, Fisheries, Customs, and other security agencies.

Indian Army Enhances Air Defence with Igla-S MANPADS

The Indian Army has bolstered its Very Short Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) capabilities with the acquisition of Igla-S Man Portable Air Defence Systems (MANPADS) from Russia. This procurement, part of a larger deal for 120 launchers and 400 missiles, signifies a significant upgrade over outdated systems.

 “APPOINTMENTS”

IPS Officer Love Kumar Appointed as IG in Special Protection Group

Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Love Kumar has been appointed as the Inspector General (IG) in the Special Protection Group (SPG) for a period of two years, according to an official notification issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT). The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved this proposal from the Office of the Secretary (Security), Cabinet Secretariat.

Centre Appoints Manoj Panda as New Finance Commission Member

The appointment of Manoj Panda fills a vacancy in the Sixteenth Finance Commission, allowing it to commence its duties. Panda, an esteemed economist and former director of the Institute of Economic Growth, joins as a full-time member.

“NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL NEWS”

111-Year-Old John Alfred Tinniswood Becomes World’s New Oldest Man

Guinness World Records (GWR) has shared a video of the world’s oldest living man, 111-year-old John Alfred Tinniswood, from England. In the video, Tinniswood reveals what he believes is the secret to his exceptional longevity and also offers a piece of advice for others.

Briton, nicknamed ‘Hardest Geezer’, becomes first person to run length of Africa

British national Russ Cook, known as the “Hardest Geezer,” has successfully completed a challenging trek that took him over 352 days to finish. During his journey, he covered more than 10,000 miles, passed through 16 countries, and took over 19 million steps, all while raising money for charity. Mr. Cook departed from South Africa’s southernmost point on April 22, 2023, and faced various obstacles, including visa issues, health scares, and an armed robbery, but he persevered and reached Ras Angela, Tunisia’s most northerly point. Mr. Cook believes that he is the first person to have run the entire length of Africa, and he expressed his hope that his achievement would inspire others to take up sports.