“IMPORTANT DAYS”

International Day of Women in Diplomacy 2025: Breaking Barriers, Leading Change

The International Day of Women in Diplomacy (IDWD) is observed annually on June 24 to honour and recognize the essential role that women play in the field of diplomacy—historically male-dominated but now slowly transforming with the rise of capable and dynamic women leaders. Designated by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) during its 76th session in 2022 (Resolution A/RES/76/269), this day is a call to action for greater gender equality in foreign policy, peace processes, and global governance.

“AWARDS”

India Post Payments Bank Wins Digital Payments Award 2024–25

India Post Payments Bank (IPPB), a 100% government-owned payments bank under the Department of Posts, has been conferred the prestigious Digital Payments Award 2024–25 by the Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance. This award celebrates IPPB’s exemplary performance in expanding digital financial services and promoting inclusive banking across the country, especially in underserved rural regions.

“SPORTS”

Pant Becomes First Indian Keeper to hit centuries in both Test innings

In a memorable display of skill and grit, Rishabh Pant etched his name into the record books during the Headingley Test against England in June 2025. The dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman smashed centuries in both innings—134 in the first and 118 in the second—becoming only the second wicketkeeper in Test history to achieve this rare feat. His exceptional performance helped India post five centuries in a single Test match for the first time, underlining a dominant showing by the visitors.

India’s Maaya Rajeshwaran clinches women’s single ITF J200 Gladbeck title in Germany

In Tennis, India’s Maaya Rajeshwaran has clinched the women’s singles ITF J200 Gladbeck title in Germany. The 16-year-old defeated Switzerland’s Noelia Manta 6-2, 6-4 in the final. This triumph marks Maaya’s maiden ITF Junior title on European clay. Earlier in the semifinals, she defeated Daphnee Mpetshi Perricard of France 6-2, 6-1. It is Maaya’s seventh ITF Junior title overall. Her earlier titles include victories at J100 and J300 events.

“APPOINTMENTS”

India Reappoints Ambassador to North Korea After Four Years

India has named Aliawati Longkumer, a 2008-batch Indian Foreign Service officer, as its new ambassador to North Korea, restoring high-level diplomatic representation in Pyongyang after a four-year gap. This appointment follows India’s reopening of its embassy in December 2024, signaling a cautious revival of engagement with the reclusive nation amidst geopolitical shifts in the Indo-Pacific. India has appointed a new ambassador to North Korea for the first time since 2021, marking a return to full diplomatic representation.

Katrina Kaif Named Global Brand Ambassador for Maldives Tourist

Bollywood actress Katrina Kaif has been appointed as the global brand ambassador for Maldives tourism by the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), alongside the launch of their summer sale campaign aimed at attracting global tourists. Katrina Kaif, with her widespread international appeal, is expected to boost the Maldives’ image as a luxury destination; she described the country as a perfect blend of “elegance and tranquility.”

“NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL NEWS”

Delhi Gets Green Light for First-Ever Artificial Rain Pilot Project to Combat Air Pollution

Delhi has received official approval for its first-ever artificial rain (cloud seeding) pilot project, aimed at combating severe air pollution and managing weather conditions in the national capital. The project is being spearheaded by the Delhi government in collaboration with IIT Kanpur, leveraging scientific techniques to artificially induce rainfall using cloud seeding methods.