“IMPORTANT DAYS”

International Day of Human Space Flight 2024

The International Day of Human Space Flight is commemorated every year on April 12 to mark the beginning of the space era for mankind. The United Nations General Assembly, on April 7, 2011, passed a resolution to establish the International Day of Human Space Flight on a particular day every year.

The primary reason behind choosing April 12 as the date is rooted in the Russian cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin’s achievement to orbit Earth aboard the Vostok 1 spacecraft on this day. This achievement by Gagarin paved the path for space exploration for the benefit of humanity.

The International Day of Human Space Flight is celebrated to reaffirm the role of space science and technology in accomplishing sustainable development goals, while also contributing to the improvement of the well-being of states and peoples. To celebrate the day, several space museums, science centres, and schools organise events dedicated to space-related programs.

 “AWARD”

Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital Wins ‘Best Scientific Poster Award’ 2024

Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital’s research team has been honoured with the prestigious ‘Best Scientific Poster Award’ at the 2024 Annual Meeting of the American Society for Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS). The award-winning study focused on ‘The efficacy of RevitalVision vision-training software in improving best-corrected vision in stable keratoconus patients post Crosslinking surgery.’ The research was led by ophthalmologists Prof. Lional Raj and Prof. David Heber from Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital in Tirunelveli. The prospective controlled, randomized study demonstrated remarkable clinical outcomes, offering new hope for patients suffering from keratoconus.

 “DEFENCE”

Indian Army Conducts Anti-Tank Guided Missile Training Exercise in Sikkim

In a significant training endeavor, the Trishakti Corps of the Indian Army executed a rigorous Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) exercise in Sikkim, operating at an altitude of 17,000 feet. The exercise involved Missile Firing Detachments from Mechanized and Infantry Units of the Eastern Command, emphasizing live firing scenarios against both moving and static targets, simulating battlefield conditions.

 “APPOINTMENTS”

Former Revenue Secretary Tarun Bajaj to Head US-India Tax Forum

The US-India Strategic and Partnership Forum (USISPF) has appointed former Revenue Secretary and ex-Secretary of Economic Affairs Tarun Bajaj as the head of the US-India Tax Forum. Bajaj, 61, joined the USISPF as an advisor to the Board of Directors in January and will now spearhead the US-India Tax Forum. A 1988-batch Haryana Cadre IAS officer, Bajaj served as Revenue Secretary. During his tenure with the Indian government, he played a pivotal role in shaping fiscal policies and promoting economic growth.

Sushil Sharma Appointed CMD of SJVN Limited

The Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) panel has recommended Sushil Sharma for the position of Chairman & Managing Director (CMD) of SJVN Limited. This decision was made during the panel’s meeting on April 8th. Sharma, currently serving as Director (Projects) within the organization, emerged as the frontrunner from a pool of nine candidates interviewed by the PESB selection panel.

UK’s First Woman High Commissioner to India: Lindy Cameron

Lindy Cameron, a distinguished Oxford University alumna and former CEO of the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre, has been appointed as the first woman high commissioner to India. Her appointment marks a significant milestone in UK-India relations, coming 70 years after India appointed its first high commissioner to London.

“NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL NEWS”

HDFC Bank Becomes First Private Bank to Open Branch in Lakshadweep

Private lender HDFC Bank has opened a branch at Kavaratti Island in Lakshadweep, making it the only private sector bank to have a presence in the Union Territory. This branch is aimed at upgrading the banking infrastructure in Lakshadweep by offering a wide range of services with a focus on personal banking and digital banking solutions. The branch will provide customized digital solutions, including QR-based transactions for retailers, to cater to the financial needs of individuals, families, and businesses in the region.

Former Pakistan PM Yousuf Raza Gillani Elected as Senate Chairman

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gillani and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Syedal Khan Nasir have been elected as Pakistan’s Senate chairman and deputy chairman, respectively. Senate Secretary Qasim Samad Khan confirmed their election to the top roles in the upper house of Pakistan parliament. A total of 41 newly elected Senators were sworn in as members of the House in a session of Pakistan’s Senate. The lawmakers took oath amid protests by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders.

Highest Altitude Airport in the World 2024

As air travel continues to connect the world, airports play a crucial role in facilitating global mobility. However, some airports operate under extreme conditions, situated at breathtaking altitudes where thin air and challenging weather conditions pose unique challenges for pilots and engineers alike. In this article, we delve into the realm of high-altitude aviation to explore the top ten highest altitude airports in the world as of 2024.

Citroen Makes Historic Move: First MNC to Export EVs from India

In a landmark achievement, French automaker Citroën has become the first multinational car manufacturer to export electric vehicles (EVs) produced in India to the international market. The company announced the commencement of exports of its locally manufactured ë-C3, sending an initial shipment of 500 units to Indonesia from the Kamarajar Port.