“IMPORTANT DAYS”

International Day of the Tropics 2025: Celebrating Diversity and Confronting Challenges

The International Day of the Tropics is observed every year on 29th June, and in 2025, it marks its 9th annual observance. Proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2016, this day recognizes the immense diversity and the critical role tropical regions play in shaping the global future. It also serves as a platform to raise awareness about the unique challenges these regions face due to climate, geography, and development dynamics.

National Statistics Day 2025: Honouring Data for Development

Every year on 29th June, India celebrates National Statistics Day to mark the birth anniversary of Prof. Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis, a pioneer in the field of modern statistics in India. Known as the father of Indian statistics, Mahalanobis made groundbreaking contributions such as the development of the Mahalanobis Distance and his instrumental role in India’s Five-Year Plans. This day serves as a tribute to his work in economic planning, data science, and institutional building, including the founding of the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) and the National Sample Survey (NSS).

“AWARDS”

Radhanath Swami Honoured by New York City for Spiritual and Community Leadership

Radhanath Swami, a globally respected spiritual teacher and senior monk of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), was conferred with a New York City honour at a special interfaith event hosted at the Bhakti Centre. The recognition, presented by NYC officials, celebrates his decades-long commitment to community service, interfaith dialogue, and spiritual leadership.

“APPOINTMENT”

Ravi Agrawal’s Tenure as CBDT Chairman Extended Till June 2026

The Government of India has extended the tenure of Ravi Agrawal as the Chairman of the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) till June 2026. This reappointment, approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), ensures leadership continuity in India’s apex direct tax policy-making body. Agrawal, a 1988-batch Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer, had taken over the role in June 2024 and will now continue until June 30, 2026, or until further orders.

Parag Jain Appointed as New RAW Chief After Key Role in Operation Sindoor

In a significant development in India’s national security establishment, Senior IPS Officer Parag Jain has been appointed as the new Chief of the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), India’s premier external intelligence agency. Jain, who is credited with a critical role in Operation Sindoor—India’s swift and covert response to the Pahalgam terror attack—will assume office following the retirement of Ravi Sinha on June 30, 2025.

“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.

India’s First Butterfly Sanctuary Inaugurated in Kerala’s Aralam Forest

In a significant stride towards biodiversity conservation, Kerala has become home to India’s first butterfly sanctuary. The Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary in Kannur district has officially been renamed the Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary, marking a first-of-its-kind move in the country. Spanning 55 sq. km in the lush Western Ghats, the sanctuary now serves as a dedicated refuge for over 266 butterfly species, including several rare and endangered ones.