1. President Droupadi Murmu emphasizes role of mediation to expedite justice delivery and Social Progress.
2. President Droupadi Murmu has emphasised that the dispute resolution mechanism under the Mediation Act should be effectively extended to rural areas so that the Panchayats are legally empowered to mediate and resolve the conflicts in villages.
3. Indian Railways has introduced a Bharat Gaurav Deluxe Train for the Char Dham Yatra. The train will cover religious places like Badrinath, Joshimath, Rishikesh, Puri, Konark, Rameshwaram, Dwarka, alongside other religious places like Kashi Vishwanath, Bhimshankar, Trimbakeshwar.
4. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi .
5. NITI Aayog released a report titled Enhancing Competitiveness of MSMEs in India, in collaboration with the Institute for Competitiveness (IFC). The report provides a comprehensive analysis of India’s Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), identifying key challenges and presenting a set of systemic reforms aimed at boosting their competitiveness.
6. The National Testing Agency, NTA, will conduct the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test – NEET (UG) 2025 tomorrow across over five thousand centres in the country and 13 cities abroad.
7. RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav on Saturday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, pressing for reservation in a wide range of categories and stressing that the conduct of the caste census would merely mark the first step of the long journey towards social justice.
8. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy rainfall over Odisha. All the districts of West Bengal will receive scattered rainfall with thunderstorms.
9. Shimla Municipal Corporation Commissioner's Court ruled on Saturday that all five stories of the disputed Sanjauli mosque in Shimla were unauthorised and ordered the demolition of the entire structure.
10. An FIR was registered at the Avalahalli Police Station in Bengaluru on Saturday against playback singer Sonu Nigam for allegedly hurting the sentiments of Kannadigas during a recent musical event in Bengaluru. The complaint was filed bythe pro-Kannada organisation Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (KRV).
11. India has announced a Defence Credit Line of 200 million dollars (in Indian Rupees) to support the modernization of Angola's armed forces.
12. The US has approved an F-16 fighter jet training and sustainment package worth 310 million dollars for Ukraine. The Pentagon announced that the package includes aircraft modifications, flight training, maintenance support, spare parts, ground handling equipment, and specialized software systems.
13. The Government of India has initiated a significant procurement drive to bolster its air defence capabilities by acquiring the next-generation Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS-NG). The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) seeking Indian vendors to supply 48 launchers, 48 night-vision sights, 85 missiles, and one missile test station under the “Buy (Indian)” category, emphasising the government’s commitment to indigenous defence production and the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
14. Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully carried out maiden flight-trials of Stratospheric Airship Platform from Sheopur Trial site in Madhya Pradesh on 03 May 2025.
15. The Central Reserve Police Force has dismissed from service its jawan Munir Ahmed for "concealing" his marriage with a Pakistani woman as his action was found to be detrimental to national security. The jawan was last posted with the 41st battalion of paramilitary CRPF.
16. Authorities of ordnance factory Khamaria (OFK) in Madhya Pradesh’s Jabalpur district have cancelled leaves of more than two days of the officers and employees. The decision was taken to meet the production target.
1. On May 2, 2025, India and Denmark signed a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), reinforcing their long-standing cooperation in the energy sector.
2. Former U.S. National Security Advisor John Bolton has said that even though nobody wants to see a wider conflict in South Asia, India has every right to act in self-defence against Pakistan following the heinous Pahalgam terror attack.
3. India Bans Pakistani Ships, Imports and Postal Services After Pahalgam Attack.
4. Anthony Albanese's Labor Party wins Australian Federal Election; Prime Minister Modi congratulates him on re-election. President Droupadi Murmu met President of Angola João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço at Rashtrapati Bhavan and hosted a banquet in his honour.
5. India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is expected to skip Russia’s Victory Day parade on May 9, 2025, in Moscow, following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s earlier decision to cancel his own visit in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack.
6. Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal met with Navroz D Udwadia, Co-founder and Partner of Alpha Wave Global, in London during his multi-nation European tour aimed at strengthening trade and investment ties.
7. Russia Declares Emergency in Novorossiysk After Ukrainian Drone Attack.
8. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations has launched a new initiative — Accelerating Innovative Monitoring for Nature Restoration (AIM4NatuRe). Backed by the United Kingdom with a funding of US$ 9 million, the programme aims to strengthen countries’ capabilities to monitor and report progress in restoring degraded ecosystems.
9. Australia's Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, has won with a larger majority in the federal election. The Labour Party has secured at least 84 seats in the 150-seat House of Representatives.
10. In the USA, seven people died in a collision between a tour bus and a truck near Yellowstone National Park.
11. The voting in Singapore's election has ended. This election is a significant moment for Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, as he faces his first big challenge from a stronger opposition. A total of 211 candidates, including two independents, are contesting the 97 elected parliamentary seats.
12. Former Royal family member Prince Harry has said he would love reconciliation with the members of the royal family despite the courts ruling against his appeal for automatic increased security for him and his family in the U.K.
13. The White House has confirmed a military parade will be held to mark the US Army's 250th anniversary on 14 June next month, which falls on the same day as President Donald Trump's birthday.
14. Hefazat-e-Islam Holds Rally in Dhaka, Demands Abolition of Women’s Affairs Reform Commission. deeming it Anti-Quran.
15. Vietnam recently celebrated the 50th anniversary of the fall of Saigon, which marked the official end of the Vietnam War on 30 April 1975. Known in Vietnam as the “Day of Southern Liberation for National Reunification,” this anniversary is of deep historical significance, symbolizing the triumph of communist North Vietnam over the U.S.-supported South.
$ USD ₹ 85 (Approx.)
💷 GBP ₹113 (Approx.)
€ Euro : ₹ 96 (Approx.)
🇨🇳 Yuan ¥ : ₹12 (Approx.)
BSE SENSEX 80,501.99 +259.75 (0.32%)
NIFTY 24,346.70 +12.50 (0.051%)
GOLD : ₹ 95,500/ 10gm (24 krt)
SILVER : ₹ 98,000/KG
1. Indian Premier League 2025 74 T20s Mar 22 - May 25 52nd Match
Saturday, 03 May 2025 Bengaluru, M.Chinnaswamy Stadium Royal-challengers-Bengaluru
RCB : 213-5 (20) Chennai-Super-kings CSK : 211-5 (20) Royal Challengers Bengaluru won by 2 runs
(b) 53rd Match Sunday , 04 May 2025, Kolkata, Eden Gardens Kolkata Knight Riders vs
Rajasthan Royals Today @ 3:30 PM (LOCAL) 54th Match Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium
Punjab Kings vs Lucknow Super Giants Today @ 7:30 PM (LOCAL)
2. Sri Lanka Womens Tri-Nation Series, 2025 7 ODIs Apr 27 - May 11 Match @ 04 May 2025 (Sunday) 4th Match • Colombo, R.Premadasa Stadium Sri Lanka Women vs India Women Today @ 10:00 AM (LOCAL)
Vedic Ritu/ Vasanta
Drik Ritu : Grishma (Summer)
PAKSHA : Shuklapaksh (In Purnimanta calendar)
Vikram Samvat - 2082
Month : Vaishakh 22 (In Amanta calendar)
Shaka Samvat - 1947
Month :Vaishakh 07
Tithi : Ashtami
Nakshatra : Pushya (up to 12:53 pm) Ashlesha
Rahu : 05:15 PM – 06:52 PM
Yamaganda : 12:23 PM – 02:00 PM
Sharing pain will reduce it.
Sharing happiness will increase it.
Chintu : Mera ghar itna bada hai ki usme local train chalti hai.
Friend : Yeh to kuchh bhi nahi hai, mera ghar itna bada hai ki agar ek se dusre kone chale jaao to roaming lagti hai.
1. One एकम् (ekam)
2. Two द्वे (dve)
3.Three त्रीणि (treeni)
4. Four चत्वारि (chatvaari)
5. Five पञ्च (pancha)
6. Six षट् (shat)
7. Seven सप्त (sapta)
8. Eight अष्ट (ashta)
9. Nine नव (nava)
10. Ten दश (dasha)
ENGLISH IDIOMS & PHRASES
He's sitting on the fence He can't make up his mind
ANTONYMS - Expand - Contract Diminish
SYNONYMS - Question - Interrogate
1776: Rhode Island becomes the first American colony to renounce allegiance to King George III.
1904: The United States begins construction on the Panama Canal.
1910: The Royal Canadian Navy is created.
1919: The May Fourth Movement, a student-led protest against the Treaty of Versailles, takes place in Tiananmen Square, Beijing, China.
1979: Margaret Thatcher becomes the first female Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
1989: NASA's Space Shuttle Atlantis launches the Magellan probe to Venus.
1990: Latvia declares independence from the Soviet Union.
1998: A federal judge sentences "Unabomber" Ted Kaczynski to life in prison.
Audrey Hepburn (1929): Belgian-born British actress.
Thomas Henry Huxley (1825): English biologist, anatomist, and academic.
Horace Mann (1796): American educator.
Tyagaraja ( 1767 ) also known as Tyagayya, was a renowned composer of Carnatic music, a form of Indian classical music
Tipu Sultan (1799): Indian ruler.
Moe Howard (1975): American actor and comedian.
1. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold delegation-level talks with the President of Angola, Joao Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço in New Delhi today.
2. India Hosts First Global Media Dialogue at WAVES 2025, ₹254 Cr Deals Inked. The dialogue was organised by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, with support from the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India.
3. Union Home Secretary held a meeting in New Delhi to discuss the issue of releasing an extra 4 thousand 5 hundred cusecs of water from Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) Dams for eight days to meet the urgent water needs of Haryana and some parts of Rajasthan.
4. Rheumatic disorders, conditions caused by a dysregulated immune system, are prevalent among neonates and children.
5. Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat inaugurated the 14th open seminar on India: The Land of Exponential Growth at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.
6. The Delhi Legislative Assembly has removed the glass panels enclosing the Speaker's Gallery and the Press Gallery on the orders of Speaker Vijender Gupta.
7. Telangana State Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy welcomed the decision of the Central Government to hold a Caste survey as part of the next Census.
8. On May 1, 2025, the Election Commission of India (ECI) announced three new initiatives to improve electoral roll accuracy, streamline voter information, and enhance the credibility of Booth Level Officers (BLOs).
USD ₹ 85 (Approx)
💷 GBP ₹113(Approx)
€ Euro : ₹ 96 Approx)
🇨🇳 Yuan ¥ : ₹ 12
BSE SENSEX 80,501.99 +259.75 (0.32%)🌲
NIFTY 24,346.70 +12.50 (0.051%)🌲
GOLD : ₹ 95,500/ 10gm (24 krt)
SILVER : ₹ 98,000/KG
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
---------------------------------------
1. The High Commission of India in Bangladesh held a solemn remembrance ceremony on Friday to pay tributes to the memory of those who lost their lives in the brutal terrorist attacks on 22 April 2025 in Pahalgam in Jammu & Kashmir
2. Swami Vivekananda cultural centre in Sri Lanka hosts curtain raiser for 11th International Day of Yoga. The event was held at Hindu Boys College in Colombo, where over 1000 students practised Yoga.
3. The European Union (EU) on Friday called on New Delhi and Islamabad to show restraint and pursue dialogue to defuse tensions amid speculation about India's possible retaliation against Pakistan in view of the cross-border linkages to the Pahalgam terror attack.
4. The High Commission of India in Bangladesh organised a curtain raiser event at Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre, Dhaka on Friday to mark 50 days to the International Day of Yoga, 2025. The theme of the 10th International Day of Yoga is: ‘Yoga for One Earth, One Health’.
5. Pakistan has officially closed its airspace to Indian carriers.
6. Former Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto has publicly acknowledged Pakistan’s historical connections with extremist and terror organisations, marking a significant admission from the country’s political leadership. His remarks follow similar statements by Defence Minister Khwaja Asif, who also conceded Pakistan’s involvement in backing and funding such groups in the past.
7. India on Friday blocked Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's official YouTube account amid soaring tension between the two nations.
8. Pakistan on Friday announced that it would continue to keep the Wagah border crossing open for its citizens stranded in India, following New Delhi's decision to revoke visas in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack.
9. A massive 7.4 magnitude earthquake hit the southern coasts of Chile and Argentina.
10. Namibia has recorded 56,130 malaria cases and 95 deaths since December 2024, Health Minister Esperance Luvindao said.
11. Israeli fighter jets strike near Syrian Presidential palace in Damascus.
12. Iran, the United States, and Oman have decided to postpone the fourth round of nuclear talks due to logistical and technical reasons.
13. US President Donald Trump has nominated Mike Waltz as the next US Ambassador to the United Nations. Waltz, a former soldier, congressman, and Trump’s current National Security Advisor, is expected to bring his experience to the new role.
14. The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) of Bangladesh issued a show-cause notice to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Shakil Alam Bulbul, a leader of Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) – the banned student wing of Awami League – in an alleged contempt of court case.
15. Kamla Persad-Bissessar has reclaimed the position of Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, marking a significant political comeback after her tenure from 2010 to 2015.
16. Nepal’s government is planning to implement stricter regulations for Mount Everest expeditions. Under the new rules, only climbers who have already scaled peaks over 7,000 meters will be allowed to attempt the summit.
Vedic Ritu/ Vasanta
Drik Ritu : Grishma (Summer)
Paksha : Shuklapaksh (In Purnimanta calendar)
Vikram Samvat - 2082
Month : Vaishakh 21 (In Amanta calendar)
Shaka Samvat - 1947
Month : Vaishakh 06
Tithi : Saptami
Nakshatra : Punarvasu (up to 12:34 pm)Pushya
Rahu :09:10 AM – 10:46 AM
Yamaganda : 02:00 PM – 03:37 PM
National News:
PM Modi's Visit: Prime Minister Modi visited Andhra Pradesh and inaugurated/laid the foundation for development projects.
India-Pakistan Tensions: Following a terror attack in Pahalgam, India shut its airspace to Pakistani aircraft until May 23rd. S. Jaishankar called for justice for the attack.
WAVES 2025 Summit: The Global Entertainment Summit opened in Mumbai, with PM Modi highlighting India's role in media.
Statehood Day: India celebrated the 65th anniversary of Maharashtra and Gujarat.
Caste Survey: Telangana CM supported the caste survey and urged the Centre for transparency. Karnataka CM also called for a central survey.
Delhi Cleanliness Drive: Delhi CM launched a 20-day cleanliness drive.
GST Collection: GST collection hit a record high in April 2025.
Voter Rolls: Election Commission of India launched new measures to clean up voter rolls, including electronic death record integration.
Coal Production: India's coal production saw an increase.
Forest Alert System: Madhya Pradesh introduced India's first AI-powered real-time forest alert system.
Sugar Sector Reforms: Reforms aimed to safeguard farmers' rights and streamline sugar governance.
New UPSC Member: Sujata Chaturvedi was appointed as a new UPSC member.
Sports News:
IPL: Chennai Super Kings were eliminated from the IPL playoffs. Punjab Kings defeated Chennai Super Kings.
Chelsea: Chelsea secured their 8th Women's Super League title.
International News:
Gaza: India urged an immediate ceasefire and hostage release in Gaza.
Sudan: UN chief called for peace in Sudan.
South Korea: South Korea's acting leader Han quit.
Other News:
Aviation fuel and commercial LPG prices were reduced.
Supreme Court rejected a plea for a judicial probe into the Pahalgam terror attack.
OYO announced plans to enter the food business.
Stock Market Performance:
Indian equities opened higher following a public holiday.
Sensex and Nifty closed with mild gains.
FIIs continued their buying streak.
Key Company News:
Adani Group reported strong Q4 FY25 results.
Federal Bank's Q4 net profit increased.
Zomato (Eternal) reported a net profit for Q4FY25 but announced shutting down Zomato Quick and Everyday businesses.
Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services reported in-line FY25 performance.
Infosys finalized the takeover of MRE Consulting.
Sector Focus:
Auto sector was in focus with the release of April sales data from major companies like Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors, Hyundai, Mahindra & Mahindra, TVS Motor Company, and Royal Enfield.
Other Business News:
GST collection hit an all-time high in April 2025.
India and EU prepared for trade deal negotiations.
CCI approved KKR's acquisition of HealthCare Global Enterprises Ltd.
OYO planned to enter the food business.
Market Outlook:
Market sentiment was cautiously positive.
Analysts suggested buying opportunities in quality stocks during consolidation.
Teacher : “Taj Mahal Kisne Banaya Thha?”
Chintu : “Ji Majduro Ne”
Teacher : “Oh.. Mera Matlab Hai Banvaya Kisne Thha?”
Chintu : “Ji Thekedar Ne“
The science behind wearing of Vermillion (Sindoor or KumKum)
Tradition of wearing Sindoor or vermillion is said to have traveled through more than 5,000 years of Hindu culture.
It is said that Sindoor activates the pituitary and pineal gland, so that the body and mind of a married women could function better. Applying the red vermilion also activates the chakras in the forehead and on the crown, which attracts cosmic and pranic energy. Sindoor is prepared using mercury, turmeric and lime. Mercury acts as a catalyst that helps ease stress, while keeping the brain active and alert. Mercury also helps in controlling blood pressure, activating sexual drive and libidinal energy.
sah gacchati (सः गच्छति) - He goes
saa gacchati (सा गच्छति) - She goes
tat gacchati (तत् गच्छति) - It goes
te gacchanti (ते गच्छन्ति) - They(masculine) go
The big issue, the problem people are avoiding
Feeble - Sturdy, Strong
fertile - fruitful
Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna (25 April 1919 – 17 March 1989) was a Congress Party leader and former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh
In the Puranas, Lakshman is described as an incarnation of Sheshnag, the multiple-headed nāga (serpent) upon whom rests the god Vishnu, whose avatar Rama is considered
The sudarshan chakra of Vishnu was born as Bharata, whereas the shank incarnated as Shatrughna.
Vedic Ritu/ Vasanta
Drik Ritu : Vasanta
PAKSHA :: Krishnapaksh
(In Purnimanta calendar)
Vikram Samvat - 2082
Month : Vaishak 13
(In Amanta calendar)
Shaka Samvat - 1947
Month : Chaitra 27
Tithi : Dwadashi (up to 11:45 am)Trayodashi
Nakshatra Purva Bhadrapada (up to 8:53 am)Uttara Bhadrapada
Rahu 10:49 AM – 12:24 PM
Yamaganda 03:36 PM – 05:12 PM
TODAYS TOP NEWS
1. The Government announces caste enumeration to be part of next census; Leaders across party lines welcome the decision. The Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken a decision in this regard.
2. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved a new highway from Shillong to Silchar at a cost of 22 thousand 864 crore rupees.
3. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has welcomed the Centre's decision to conduct the Caste Census in the country.
4. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta flagged off a Run for One Nation, One Election at Delhi University in New Delhi.
5. In Uttarakhand, the portals of Gangotri and Yamunotri shrines, in Uttarkashi district, have been opened for the devotees with traditional Vedic chants, on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya yesterday.
6. Maharashtra govt revises monetary compensation for destitute in staterun beggars’ homes. The wage, which stood at a token 5 rupees per month, has now been raised significantly to 1200 rupees per month. Maharashtra currently operates 14 beggars’ homes, collectively housing 4,127 individuals.
7. Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi met the family of Shubham Dwivedi, a resident of Kanpur who was among the 26 people killed in the Pahalgam terror attack.
8. India is gearing up for the launch of the NASAISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) satellite, scheduled for June 2025. This satellite will monitor critical changes on Earth, including deforestation and natural disasters.
9. Senior IAS officers in Telangana, Jayesh Ranjan, assumed charge as CEO of Industry & Investment Cell in Chief Minister’s Office as well as of Speed Proactive Efficient and Effective Delivery (SPEED) initiative.
10. The Ministry of Agriculture has issued new guidelines for establishing Bioinput Resource Centres (BRCs) under the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF). These centres are intended to support local farming communities by supplying natural inputs and guidance.
11. Ghaziabad Nagar Nigam has created history by becoming the first Urban Local Body (ULB) in India to issue a Certified Green Municipal Bond, raising ₹150 crore for establishing an advanced Tertiary Sewage Treatment Plant (TSTP) under the Swachh Bharat Mission–Urban.
12. Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) Hyderabad on Wednesday issued a thunderstorm warning accompanied by gusty winds over the next five days. However, an orange heat wave alert was also issued for 17 districts which are expected to experience temperatures between 41 degree Celsius and 44 degree Celsius.
13. In Maharashtra, on the occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, a day traditionally marked by a high number of weddings, District Administration of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar has taken strong measures to prevent child marriages.
14. The special teams of the Government Railway Police have traced a total of 130 mobile phones belonging to rail commuters and citizens, which were either lost or stolen during the last month, using the Central Equipment Identity Register (C.E.I.R) portal. The recovered phones were handed over to their owners.
15. The Supreme Court recently raised concerns over the practice of declaring candidates elected unopposed, suggesting that a minimum vote share should be required to ensure democratic legitimacy. This came in response to a PIL arguing that the absence of elections in such cases deprives citizens.
16. Jana Sena leader and Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan on Tuesday took strong objection to the Congress comment on Prime Minister, he called for filing a case over the Congress party’s ‘Gayab (Missing)’ post, and said it was a threat to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan also said that those who are supporting and speaking in favour of Pakistan should leave India.
17. In Andhra Pradesh, six people, including five medical students, were killed in a road accident in Pothireddypalem in Nellore district. The incident happened on NH 67 near Nellore when a vehicle in which six medical students were travelling lost control and rammed into a house.
18. In West Bengal, at least 15 people were killed in a fire that broke out in a hotel in the fruit market in Machhua area in central Kolkata.
19. The stage is all set for India's first World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit, WAVES 2025 to begin in Mumbai today. The mega event will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Jio World Convention Centre. The fourday summit with the tagline Connecting Creators, Connecting Countries is poised to position India as a global hub for media, entertainment, and digital innovation.
21. The Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) of the Indian Army has spoken to the Pakistani DGMO and warned against any unprovoked violations by the Pak Army along the Line of Control.
22. The Indian Army effectively responded to firing by the Pakistan military along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday night.
23. In Jammu & Kashmir, all security arrangements have been put in place to ensure the safety, security, and comfort of all visiting tourists and other visitors to the Kashmir region.
24. Indian Navy's frontline Guided Missile Destroyer, INS Kochi has reached Male in Maldives.
25. Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma took over as the new Commanderin Chief of the Udhampur based Northern Army Command. Lieutenant General Sharma has replaced Lieutenant General MV Suchendra Kumar.
FINANCE
$ USD : ₹ 85 (Approx.)
💷 GBP : ₹113 (Approx.)
€ Euro : ₹ 96 (Approx.)
🇨🇳 Yuan : ₹12 (Approx.)
BSE SENSEX 80,242.24 −46.14 (0.057%)🔻
NIFTY 24,334.20 −1.75 (0.0072%)🔻
GOLD : ₹ 97,900/ 10gm (24 krt)
SILVER : ₹ 100,000/KG
1. The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) has recently received tax exemptions from the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT). This decision allows NMCG to be recognised as an authority under clause 46A of section 10 of the Income Tax.
2. CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) spending by listed Indian companies rose 16% to ₹17,967 crore in FY 202324, driven by improved profits. HDFC Bank topped the list with the highest CSR spend, followed by Reliance Industries, TCS, and ONGC.
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
1. External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar spoke to his Kuwaiti counterpart Abdullah Ali AlYahya. He thanked him for Kuwait’s solidarity and support in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terrorist attack.
2. In Jammu and Kashmir, nearly sixty Pakistani women and their children, most of them married to former Kashmiri terrorists, were deported to Pakistan through the Wagah border. The families, which gathered from districts including Srinagar, Baramulla, Kupwara, Budgam, and Shopian, were escorted in buses to Punjab for handover to Pakistani authorities.
3. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has dismantled the cybercrime networks of online child sexual exploitation with international linkages. CBI took the action under operation Hawk, which has been launched on the basis of inputs received from USA.
4. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has recently launched the Accelerating Innovative Monitoring for Nature Restoration (AIM4NatuRe) initiative. This programme, funded by GBP 7 million from the United Kingdom, aims to enhance the monitoring and reporting of global ecosystem restoration efforts.
5. In Bangladesh, the High Court granted bail to former ISKCON leader Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari in a sedition case. Mr Chinmoy Das is a spokesperson for Bangladesh Sammilit Sanatan Jagran Jote. Das was arrested on sedition charges on November 25.
6. Vietnam celebrated the 50th anniversary of the end of the war with the United States. Celebrations included a grand military parade in the southern Vietnamese city of Saigon. The war, which started in 1954, ended on 30 April 1975.
7. In Sweden, three people have tragically lost their lives following a shooting incident at a hair salon near Vaksala Square in Uppsala.
8. Former Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena has paid 1 million Sri Lankan rupees in compensation ordered by Sri Lanka’s Supreme Court. The court had ordered the compensation following the annulment of the presidential pardon granted to Jude Shramantha Jayamaha, who was convicted in the Royal Park murder.
9. Saudi Arabia warns Pakistan of strict penalties over violation of Haj regulations. The ministry warned that any Pakistani performing or attempting to perform Hajj without a valid permit will face a fine of up to 20,000 Saudi Riyals.
10. Recently, Mexico and the United States reached a critical agreement concerning water distribution from the Rio Grande basin. This agreement comes after rising tensions, including threats from U.S. President Donald Trump regarding tariffs and sanctions.
SPORTS
1. INDIAN PREMIER LEAGUE 2025 74 T20s Mar 22 May 25
(a) Wednesday, 30 Apr 2025 49th Match • Chennai, MA Chidambaram Stadium Chennaisuperkings CSK: 190 (19.2) Vs Punjab kings PBKS: 1946 (19.4) Punjab Kings won by 4 wkts.
(b) 50th Match Thursday, 01 May 2025 Jaipur, Sawai Mansingh Stadium Rajasthan Royals Vs Mumbai Indians Today @ 7:30 PM
2. Sri Lanka Women's TriNation Series, 2025, 7 ODI’s Apr 27 May 11 2nd Match played on Tuesday, 29 Apr 2025 at Colombo, R. Premadasa Stadium Indian women Team INDW: 2766 (50) Vs South African women RSAW: 261 (49.2) India Women won by 15 runs
3. India’s top cueist Pankaj Advani began his campaign in a commanding manner, beating Tathya Sachdev 860170 in the CCI Billiards Classic competition in Mumbai.
4. Sachin Yadav, Rohit Yadav, and Sahil Silwal will be the Indian javelin throwers participating in the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic Event on 24th May in Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru.
5. Former national shooting coach and Dronacharya awardee Prof. Sunny Thomas, who played a pivotal role in transforming the country into a shooting powerhouse, passed away at Uzhavoor in Kottayam district, Kerala. He was 83.
01st May Thursday
Vedic Ritu/ Vasanta
Drik Ritu : Grishma (Summer)
Paksha : Shuklapaksh (In Purnimanta calendar)
Vikram Samvat 2082
Month : Vaishakh 19 (In Amanta calendar)
Shaka Samvat 1947
Month : Vaishakh 04
Tithi : Chaturthi (up to 11:24 am)Panchami
Nakshatra : Mrigashirsh (up to 2:20 pm) Ardra
Rahu : 02:00 PM – 03:37 PM
Yamaganda : 05:57 AM – 07:34 AM
Thought of the day
Strength is life; weakness is death.
JOKE OF THE DAY
I am joining a secret society of electrical engineers. They just asked me to step into a large coil with a battery attached.
This is their current induction process.
Learn Sanskrit
एषः कः? who is he?
एषा का ? who is she?
ENGLISH IDIOMS & PHRASES
Fortune favors the bold - Take risks
ANTONYMS - Asleep - Awake/Conscious
SYNONYMS - Fix - Mend
TODAY
International Labour Day: Also known as May Day or International Workers' Day, it is a global celebration of labourers and the working class. It commemorates the historical struggles for workers' rights, such as the eight-hour workday, fair wages, and safe working conditions. This day has its origins in the labor movement of the late 19th century, particularly the Haymarket affair in Chicago in 1886. In many countries, including India, it is a public holiday marked by parades, rallies, and other events emphasizing the importance of workers' contributions to society.
In Jaipur, Rajasthan, India, as in many other parts of the country, you would likely find government offices, banks, and educational institutions closed for Labour Day.
Various events and activities might be organized by labor unions and other organizations to mark the day and highlight workers' rights.
May Day (Spring Festival): Besides being International Labour Day, May 1st also has older roots as a traditional spring festival in many European cultures. It marks the beginning of summer and is often associated with celebrations involving flowers, such as gathering wildflowers, making floral garlands, and maypole dances. While International Labour Day is the more prominent observance today, the vernal traditions of May Day still exist in some regions.
Historical Events on May 1st: Many notable events have occurred on this date throughout history. For example:
The first "Great Exhibition" opened in London in 1851.
The U.S. destroyed the Spanish Pacific fleet in the Battle of Manila Bay in 1898.
Ford Motor Company adopted a 40-hour work week in 1926.
The Empire State Building was dedicated in New York City in 1931.
The Soviet Red Army captured Berlin in 1945.
Formation of States in India (1960): On May 1st, 1960, the state of Bombay in India was divided based on linguistic lines, leading to the creation of two new states:
Maharashtra: Celebrates Maharashtra Day on May 1st.
Gujarat: Celebrates Gujarat Day on May 1st.
Opening of the Empire State Building (1931): The iconic Empire State Building in New York City was officially opened on May 1st, 1931.
First Adhesive Postage Stamp (1840): The "Penny Black," the world's first adhesive postage stamp used in a public postal system, was officially issued in the United Kingdom on May 1st, 1840.
Ford's 40-Hour Work Week (1926): On May 1st, 1926, the Ford Motor Company became one of the first major companies in the United States to adopt a five-day, 40-hour work week for its factory workers.
U-2 Incident (1960): An American U-2 spy plane piloted by Francis Gary Powers was shot down over the Soviet Union on May 1st, 1960, leading to a diplomatic crisis during the Cold War.
European Union Expansion (2004): On May 1st, 2004, the European Union underwent its largest expansion, with ten new member states joining: Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, and Slovenia.
1840: The world's first adhesive postage stamp, the Penny Black, was issued in the United Kingdom.
1851: The first-ever "Great Exhibition" opened in London.
1898: The U.S. Asiatic Squadron destroyed the Spanish Pacific fleet in the Battle of Manila Bay, during the Spanish-American War.
1925: The All-China Federation of Trade Unions, which became the world's largest trade union, was founded.
1960: Fidel Castro declared Cuba a socialist nation and banned elections.
1961: Harper Lee secured the Pulitzer Prize for her novel "To Kill a Mockingbird."
1978: Naomi Uemura became the first person to reach the North Pole alone.
Notable Births on May 1st:
1672: Joseph Addison, English essayist, poet, playwright, and politician.4
1769: Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington, Irish-English field marshal and politician, who defeated Napoleon at Waterloo.
1852: Calamity Jane (Martha Jane Cannary Burke), American frontierswoman and professional scout.
1913: Balraj Sahni, Indian actor and writer.
1916: Glenn Ford, Canadian-American actor.
1923: Joseph Heller, American author of "Catch-22".
1939: Judy Collins, American folk singer.
1946: Joanna Lumley, British actress.
1955: Anand Mahindra, Indian businessman.
1967: Tim McGraw, American country singer.
1969: Wes Anderson, American film director.
1982: Jamie Dornan, Northern Irish actor.
1988: Anushka Sharma, Indian actress and producer.
Notable Deaths on May 1st:
1572: Pope Pius V.
1873: David Livingstone, Scottish missionary and explorer.
1904: Antonín Dvořák, Czech composer.
1945: Joseph Goebbels, German Nazi politician.
1994: Ayrton Senna, Brazilian Formula One racing driver.
2008: Nirmala Deshpande, Indian social activist.
2017: Anatoli Aleksin, Russian writer.
2019: Alessandra Panaro, Italian actress.
2023: Gordon Lightfoot, Canadian singer-songwriter.
Today, May 1st, 2025, is also observed as:
School Principals' Day
Silver Star Service Banner Day
National Day of Prayer
Law Day
National Mother Goose Day
National Loyalty Day
National Chocolate Parfait Day
BORN TODAY
(a) Shambhavi Krishna Somanahalli Mallaiah Krishna or (S. M. Krishna) is a politician who served as Minister of External Affairs of India from 2009 to October 2012. He was the 10th Chief Minister of Karnataka from 1999 to 2004 and the 19th Governor of Maharashtra from 2004 to 2008.
(b) Suresh Kalmadi is an Indian politician. He is a former member of the Indian National Congress. He was a member of parliament from Pune until May 2014.
News Headlines from Business News Agencies :
Business Standard :
India-US BTA: Officials discuss opportunities for 'early mutual wins'
India bags 22% of global IPO share, rakes in $2.8 bn. in Q1 2025: EY report
Coca-Cola beats profit estimates in Q1, says tariff impact manageable
Indian refiners purchase more US crude ahead of proposed trade talks in May
Trent Q4 results: Net profit plunges 56% to Rs 311 crore, income up 27%
GM posts strong Q1, but will reassess expectations for 2025 due to tariffs
Spotify Q2 profit forecast misses estimates as payroll taxes weigh down
Vedanta unveils technology to create a productive, future-ready workplace
India's farm exports might face challenges in FY26, but all is not lost
UP govt. signs MoUs to boost solar push, targets 500 GW green energy by 2030
Paytm's gaming firm gets Rs 5,712 cr. GST notice, will seek relief
Bajaj Group seeks CCI nod to acquire Allianz's stake in ₹24,180 cr. deal
Economic Times :
BEML launches India's largest indigenously developed electric rope shovel
Trai seeks views on effectiveness of current peak DLC tariffs
Indian economy stable & resilient in the face of tariff-related uncertainties: Finance Ministry
Unilever, Reliance see signs of consumer demand revival in India
BYD to bring two more plug-in hybrid models to Germany this year
SC orders CBI probe into Supertech builder projects in NCR
Canara HSBC Life Insurance files DRHP with Sebi for IPO
ALTERRA invests $100 mn in clean energy platform Evren
Air India to start daily flights from Delhi to Tokyo starting June 15
Avaada Group, Maharashtra govt. ink pact to set up 3,600 MW pumped storage projects at Rs 15,100 cr
Max Healthcare Institute to invest Rs 6,000 cr to add 3,700 beds by 2028
Mint :
India, Rotterdam Port plan green, digital corridor for clean energy exports to Europe
Merck to spend $1 billion on new factory to make US supplies of blockbuster drug
LIC of India hikes stake in HCL Technologies to 5%
Instant Finance Updates - Telegram channel
PayPal beats profit targets, maintains annual earnings forecast amid US trade uncertainty
Stainless steel industry urges govt. to take measures to protect domestic players
UPS Plans 20,000 Job Cuts This Year After Amazon Pullback
Astra Zeneca’s Soriot Warns US Against Trade Tariffs on Medicines
Deutsche Bank Debt Trading Hits Record on Market Volatility
Thailand cabinet approves tax incentives for plug-in hybrid vehicles
HSBC sees up to $1.6 billion in loss on China bank stake reduction
M&M to use EV playbook to strengthen foray in e-bus space via SML Isuzu buy
TODAYS NEWS HEADLINES
1. PM Modi addressed the YUGM Conclave, a first-of-its-kind strategic conclave convening leaders from government, academia, industry, and innovators at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.
2. Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi has said that green hydrogen is the fuel of the future and urged, the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises to collaborate for technology development in the production of Green Hydrogen.
3. In Jammu & Kashmir, all security arrangements have been put in place to ensure the safety, security, and comfort of all visiting tourists to the Kashmir region.
4. The Delhi Cabinet approved a draft bill to regulate fees in private and government schools in the National Capital. The decision was made in response to growing frustration among parents over exorbitant hikes in school fees.
5. The Supreme Court Judge, Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai will be the next Chief Justice of India. Union Minister of Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal said.
6. The government has approved over 153 crore rupees of additional central assistance to Manipur, affected by a hailstorm during the year 2024.
7. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday lauded 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi for becoming the youngest-ever centurion in T20 cricket, and announced a cash reward of Rs 10 lakh for his stellar performance.
8. The Telangana Board will announce the TS SSC Class 10th results on April 30, 2025. Over 5.09 lakh students appeared in the exams held from March 21 to April 4. This year, students will receive both marks and grades, and results will be accessible online through the official BSE Telangana portal.
9. Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has said there should be a national-level debate on Operation Kagar. Operation Kagar, launched by the Ministry of Home Affairs, is aimed at eradicating Naxals and dismantling the political ideology of Maoism.
The Union Home Minister announced that the central government is working towards a Naxal-free India, setting a target to eliminate Naxalism by 31st March 2026, ensuring that no citizen has to lose their life because of it.
This operation, aimed at eliminating Maoist insurgents in Chhattisgarh, has sparked criticism for its heavy-handed approach, especially with allegations of the killing of tribals and youths.
10. Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju has extended his wishes to all one lakh 22 thousand 518 pilgrims undertaking the sacred Haj journey. The first flights took off with 288 pilgrims from Lucknow and 262 pilgrims from Hyderabad.
11. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced 50 lakh rupees in financial assistance for families of victims from the state in the Pahalgam terror attack.
13. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy rainfall at isolated places over Odisha, Assam, and Meghalaya.
14. The University Grants Commission has allowed higher educational institutions to admit students twice a year, a move teachers fear would disrupt academic activities.
15. One of India’s most revered pilgrimages, the Char Dham Yatra in Uttrakhand will begin today on the auspicious occasion of Akshay Tritiya.
16. AKSHAYA TRITIYA is celebrated today (30 April, Wednesday)
It is celebrated on the Shukla Paksha Tritiya of the Hindu month of Vaisakha. According to the Mahabharata, on this day Lord Krishna presented the 'akshaya patra' to the pandavas while on their exile. He blessed them with this bowl that would continue to produce unlimited amount of food that would never leave them hungry. This day is also celebrated as the birth anniversary of Lord Parashurama.
17. Uttar Pradesh government launched major anti-encroachment drives in districts bordering Nepal on Monday, clearing illegal structures in areas up to 10 km from the border.
18. Maharashtra minister Vikhe Patil, 53 others booked in sugar mill loan fraud case.
19. All India Muslim Personal Law Board has appealed to the people of the country to switch off the lights of their homes, offices and businesses on Wednesday from 9 pm to 9:15 pm to protest the Waqf (Amendment) Act.
20. Amid controversy over alleged unauthorised use of Israeli spyware Pegasus for surveillance of politicians, journalists, activists and others, the Supreme Court on Tuesday said there was nothing wrong in using a spyware for security purposes even as it assured that individual apprehensions of privacy breach will be addressed.
21. Lieutenant governor Manoj Sinha's administration has indefinitely shut more than half of the tourist destinations and trekking routes in Kashmir for visitors, citing security reasons in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror strike.
22. Investigations have identified Hashim Musa, a Pakistani national, as the mastermind behind the Pahalgam attack. Crucially, Musa is a former para commando of the Pakistan Army’s Special Forces, specifically believed to have served in the elite Special Service Group (SSG). After being dismissed from the Pakistan Army, he joined the banned terrorist organization Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
FINANCE
$ USD: ₹ 86 (Approx.)
💷 GBP: ₹113 (Approx.)
€ Euro : ₹ 98 (Approx.)
🇨🇳 Yuan: ₹ 12 (Approx.)
BSE SENSEX 80,288.38 +70.02 (0.087%)
NIFTY 24,335.95 +7.45 (0.031%)
GOLD : ₹ 97,500/ 10gm (24 krt)
SILVER : ₹ 100,500/KG
1. The National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) has extended its condolences and Donates 1 Crore to Pahalgam Attack Victims’ Families that occurred in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on 22nd April 2025.
2. Recently RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra has said that the Indian economy remains less exposed and better placed to withstand spillovers from global growth slowdown, elevated financial markets volatility and dented consumer and investor confidence as India’s growth is driven largely by domestic demand.
3. The Government has approved the procurement of Tur, Urad and Masur under Price Support Scheme equivalent to 100 percent of the production of the state for the procurement year 2024-25.
4. Mother Dairy, a key player in the dairy sector, has announced a price increase for milk by up to Rs 2 per litre starting April 30, 2025, to mitigate the impact of rising input costs.
ENTERTAINMENT NEWS
1. Bollywood superstar Ajay Devgn is all set to return to the big screen with Raid 2, the much-anticipated sequel to the 2018 blockbuster Raid. Directed by Raj Kumar Gupta, the film sees Devgn reprise his powerful role as IRS officer Amay Patnaik, a character that resonated strongly with audiences in the original.
2. Ground Zero marks Emraan Hashmi's return to the silver screen after he was last seen in Tiger 3 in a negative role. In this film, Emraan is seen in the role of Narendra Nath Dhar Dubey, who is best known for leading an operation against terrorist Rana Tahir Nadeem, known as Ghazi Baba, in 2003. Emraan Hashmi's movie is based on a counter-terrorism operation that eliminated Ghazi Baba, who was behind the 2001 parliament and Akshardham Temple attack.
3. Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has instructed the officials concerned to prepare a comprehensive action plan for the successful conduct of the Miss World 2025 beauty pageant in the State starting 10 May 2025.
WORLD NEWS
1. External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar spoke to Foreign Ministers of Greece, Cyprus, Panama, Somalia, Slovenia,Guyana and discussed the Pahalgam terrorist attack.
2. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has reaffirmed that India is likely to be among the first countries to finalise a trade agreement with the United States.
3. Pakistan’s Sindh province, protests have intensified against the construction of six new canals on the Indus River. Lawyers, social activists, and civil society groups have rejected the recent declaration by the Council of Common Interests. The project, approved by Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari in July 2024.
4. Jagmeet Singh’s significant defeat in the 2025 Canadian federal election, coupled with his resignation as leader of the New Democratic Party (NDP), is widely viewed as a positive development for India-Canada relations, which had been severely strained in recent years due to diplomatic controversies and the rise of Khalistani separatist rhetoric in Canadian politics.
5. India and the United States are advancing negotiations on a multi-sector Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA), with recent talks held in Washington from April 23-25 focusing on concluding the first phase by Fall 2025 (September-November).
6. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Liberal Party has retained power in the country’s general election.
7. In Trinidad and Tobago, main Opposition party, United National Congress' leader Kamla Persad Bissessar claimed victory in the general election to become next Prime Minister of the twin-island Caribbean nation, defeating ruling People’s National Party.
Kamla Persad-Bissessar serves second term as Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago.
8. Iran condemns US airstrikes on Yemen, calls attacks war crimes after 78 killed.
9. In Pakistan: 7 killed, 9 injured in powerful bomb blast at peace committee office in volatile Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.
10. The Vatican has announced that the secret conclave to elect a successor to the late Pope Francis will begin on the 7th of next month.
SPORTS
1. Indian Premier League 2025 74 T20s Mar 22 - May 25
Tuesday, 29 Apr 2025 48th Match • Delhi, Arun Jaitley Stadium
Kolkata-knight-riders KKR: 204-9 (20) Vs Delhi-capitals DC: 190-9 (20) Kolkata Knight Riders won by 14 runs
2. IPL T20 Cricket, Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s historic century, alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal’s unbeaten 70, saw Rajasthan Royals register an emphatic eight-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur on Monday. Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who scored 101 runs in 38 balls, was declared Player of the Match. Suryavanshi’s 101-run innings saw him surpass Manish Pandey, Rishabh Pant and Devdutt Padikkal to shatter the record of the youngest centurion in tournament history as he did it at the age of 14 years 32 days. It is also the second fastest century in the tournament, behind only Chris Gayle, who did it in 30 deliveries, and the fastest century by an Indian, surpassing Yusuf Pathan’s record of 37 deliveries.
3. In the Women’s Cricket, India defeated South Africa by 15 runs to register their second consecutive victory in Tri-Nation ODI series in Colombo. Opting to bat first after winning the toss, India posted 276 runs for the loss of six wickets in the allotted 50 overs.
In reply, chasing a target of 277 runs, South Africa were restricted to 261 in 49.2 overs. Besides, India and South Africa, Sri Lanka is the third team participating in the tournament.
30 Apr Wednesday
Vedic Ritu/ Vasanta
Drik Ritu: Grishma (Summer)
Paksha : Shuklapaksh (In Purnimanta calendar)
Vikram Samvat - 2082
Month : Vaishakh 18 (In Amanta calendar)
Shaka Samvat - 1947
Month : Vaishakh 03
Tithi : Tritiya (up to 2:12 pm) Chaturthi
Nakshatra: Rohini (up to 4:18 pm) Mrigashirsh
Rahu : 12:24 PM – 02:00 PM
Yamaganda : 07:34 AM – 09:11 AM
JOKE OF THE DAY
A man goes into a circus tent, finds the ringmaster, and asks to join the circus.
“What’s your act?” asks the ringmaster.
“I do bird imitations,” says the man.
“Forget about it!” says the ringmaster. “No-one comes to the circus to see bird imitations.”
“Fair enough,” says the man, and flies out of the tent.
Learn Sanskrit
भवान् कुत्र गच्छति ?
आप कहा जा रहे हो ?
(where are you going)
अहं गृहं गच्छामि
मैं घर जा रहा हु
(i am going home)
अध्ययनं कथम् प्रचलति ?
पढाई कैसी चल रही है?
(how is study going?)
सम्यक् प्रचलति
अच्छी चल रही है
(going well)
English IDIOMS & PHRASES
Every dog has his day - Everyone gets a chance at least once
ANTONYMS: Accurate - Inaccurate Indefinite
SYNONYMS: Mysterious - Occult
About Today
1492: Christopher Columbus received the royal commission from Spain to embark on his voyage.
1789: George Washington was inaugurated as the first President of the United States.
1803: The United States completed the Louisiana Purchase from France, doubling its size.
1883: Édouard Manet, a pivotal figure in the transition from Realism to Impressionism, passed away.
1897: J.J. Thomson announced his discovery of the electron.
1900: Hawaii became a territory of the United States.
1916: Germany and its allies became the first countries to implement Daylight Saving Time.
1926: Bessie Coleman, the first African-American woman to earn an international pilot's license, died in a plane crash.
1945: Adolf Hitler committed suicide in his bunker in Berlin.
1973: President Richard Nixon announced the resignations of top aides H.R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman, and Attorney General Richard G. Kleindienst.
1975: The Vietnam War ended with the fall of Saigon to North Vietnamese forces.
1980: Beatrix was inaugurated as Queen of the Netherlands.
1983: Muddy Waters, influential American blues musician, died.
1993: CERN announced that the World Wide Web would be free for anyone to use.
2004: Ten countries joined the European Union, its biggest expansion in history.
2013: Willem-Alexander became King of the Netherlands after his mother, Queen Beatrix, abdicated.
Born:
Carl Friedrich Gauss (1777): A German mathematician and physicist who made significant contributions to many fields in mathematics and science.
Dhundiraj Govind Phalke (1870): Popularly known as Dadasaheb Phalke, was an Indian producer-director-screenwriter, known as the Father of Indian cinema.
Rohit Sharma (1987): An Indian cricketer, widely regarded as one of the best opening batsmen in the world.
Died:
Édouard Manet (1883): A French painter pivotal in the transition from Realism to Impressionism.
Adolf Hitler (1945): Austrian-born German politician and leader of Nazi Germany.
Muddy Waters (1983): An influential American blues musician.
NEWS HEADLINES (INDIA)
National News
Pahalgam Attack Aftermath:
Indian Express:* "Pahalgam terror attack: Local who hid in tree key witness, NIA takes him to site of massacre."
AajTak:* "Pahalgam आतंकी हमला: कल सुबह 11 बजे PM मोदी की अध्यक्षता में होगी CCS मीटिंग" (Pahalgam terror attack: CCS meeting to be held tomorrow morning at 11 am chaired by PM Modi)
Times Now:* "India banned 16 Pakistani YouTube channels for spreading sensitive content after the Pahalgam terror attack."
India-US Relations:
Leverage Edu:* "India and the US are planning to address non-tariff barriers by signing side letters outside the main trade agreement."
Economy & Policy:
The Economic Times:* "RBI Governor said India offers strong growth, stability, and good opportunities for investors during global uncertainties caused by tariff-related risks."
Defense
Leverage Edu:* "India signs deal with France to procure 26 Rafale Marine jets, boosting Navy strength with advanced fighter aircraft."
State News
Jammu and Kashmir:
Indian Express:* "Gurez, Verinag among 50 Kashmir locations closed for tourists following Pahalgam attack."
Leverage Edu:* "Jammu and Kashmir Assembly passes resolution condemning Pahalgam terrorist attack and paying homage to victims during special session."
Maharashtra
Indian Express:* "Maharashtra to spend Rs 8,920 crore to revise 18k schemes under Jal Jeevan Mission."
Sports News
Badminton:
Leverage Edu:* "India Faces Setback in Sudirman Cup with 4-1 Loss to Denmark.”
Leverage Edu:* "India topped the Asian Yogasana Sport Championship in Delhi by winning 83 gold medals and finishing ahead of Japan and others."
International News
School Dekho:* "Israel's Gaza aid blockade faces challenge at World Court.”
Pahalgam Attack Dominance: The aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack continues to be a major focus, influencing both national security measures and diplomatic relations.
Economic Stability: Reports from the RBI Governor indicate a focus on maintaining India's economic stability amid global uncertainties.
US Relations: There's a clear emphasis on strengthening economic ties with the US, particularly in addressing trade barriers.
Digital Regulation: The government is taking a firm stance on online content, as seen in the banning of YouTube channels.
Tithi: Shukla Dwitiya (Shukla Dwitiya Tithi)
Nakshatra: Krittika
Yoga: Saubhagya
Day of the Week: Tuesday
Vikram Samvat: 2082 Kalayukta
Kaliyug: 5126
Ritu: Grishma (Summer)
TODAY
28 April : World Day for Safety and Health at Work. In the US, it's recognized as National Superhero Day and National Blueberry Pie Day, among others.
Today In History
Ancient/Medieval
1236: Death of Iltutmish, a key ruler from the Slave Dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate.
1429: Joan of Arc leads French forces to victory at the Siege of Orleans.
1600s
1639: Construction of the Red Fort in Delhi commenced.
1800s
1848: Birth of Raja Ravi Varma, a renowned Indian painter.
1852: The first edition of Peter Roget's Thesaurus was published.
1854: Lincoln University, the first HBCU, was chartered.
1863: Birth of William Randolph Hearst, influential newspaper publisher.
1900s
1945: Adolf Hitler and Eva Braun marry shortly before their suicide.
1945: US Army liberates Dachau concentration camp.
1954: Signing of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence by Jawaharlal Nehru and Zhou Enlai.
1968: The musical "Hair" premieres on Broadway.
1974: President Richard Nixon announces the release of Watergate tapes.
1975: The U.S. begins to evacuate Saigon.
1983: Harold Washington is sworn in as Chicago's first black mayor.
1992: Riots erupt in Los Angeles following the acquittal of police officers in the Rodney King trial.
1997: The Chemical Weapons Convention becomes effective.
2004: The last Oldsmobile is built, marking the end of the brand.
2011: The Wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton takes place.
2020: Death of Irrfan Khan, acclaimed Bollywood actor.
Thought of the day
"Believe in yourself, and you will achieve great things."
PJ OF THE DAY
A highway patrolman pulled alongside a speeding car on the freeway.
Glancing at the car, he was astounded to see that the blonde behind the wheel was knitting!
Realizing that she was oblivious to his flashing lights and siren, the trooper cranked down his window, turned on his bullhorn and yelled, "PULLOVER!"
"NO," the blonde yelled back, "IT'S A SCARF!"
English IDIOMS & PHRASES
"Like a dog with two tails" : Extremely happy
National Security & Foreign Affairs (Pahalgam Attack Aftermath)
Continued LoC Skirmishes: Ceasefire violations by Pakistan troops along the Line of Control (LoC) reportedly continued for a third night, with the Indian Army responding. Tensions remain high following the Pahalgam terror attack.
Indian Navy Exercises: The Indian Navy conducted successful anti-ship missile (BrahMos) tests in the Arabian Sea, demonstrating long-range strike capabilities amidst the heightened security situation.
Diplomatic Responses:
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated Pakistan is open to a "neutral, transparent investigation" into the Pahalgam attack amid diplomatic pressure.
China has backed Pakistan, advocating for an "impartial probe" and stating it is closely following the situation.
India is seeking eased US export controls for critical technologies (AI, semiconductors) as part of ongoing trade discussions.
Opposition parties in India are considering requesting a special session of Parliament to discuss the Pahalgam attack.
Crackdown in J&K: Security forces have reportedly destroyed the homes of several active terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir as part of a crackdown. The NIA has taken over the probe into the attack.
Travel & Movement: Today marks the deadline for Pakistani nationals in India (and vice-versa) to return following visa suspensions and travel restrictions imposed after the attack.
Politics & Governance
Tamil Nadu Ministers Resign: Ministers V. Senthilbalaji and K. Ponmudy resigned from the Tamil Nadu cabinet following strong remarks from courts.7 Former minister Mano Thangaraj is expected to be inducted today.
Cybercrime Centre under PMLA: The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) has been authorised to share information with the Enforcement Directorate under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act to combat cyber fraud.
Rozgar Mela: PM Modi distributed over 51,000 appointment letters at the 15th Rozgar Mela, with the EPFO recruiting nearly 1,000 youths.
Economy & Business
Stock Market: Indian stock markets are expected to open higher today, tracking global cues and focusing on the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack, Q4 results (like RIL), and the Ather Energy IPO launching today.
Ather Energy IPO: The IPO for the electric two-wheeler manufacturer opens for subscription today.
India-Pakistan Trade: Despite direct trade restrictions, Indian goods worth over $10 billion reportedly reach Pakistan indirectly via ports like Dubai and Singapore annually.
Household Debt: India's household debt has reportedly risen to 23.9% of GDP in FY25.
News Headlines from Business News Agencies :
Business Standard :
Microfinance provision speaked in Q4, says IDFC First Bank MD and CEO
Drugmakers Glenmark Pharma, Cipla plan to step up US manufacturing
Policy allowing captive port berths to PSUs by nomination likely soon
RIL to invest Rs 1.5 trillion in new energy, petrochemical expansion
Stronger judicial data grid can boost investments, says CII report
ITC presses the pedal on acquisitions to build a future-ready portfolio
Glenmark's research arm will be self-funded soon, says Glenn Saldanha
Uttarakhand to strengthen startups, sets up venture fund of Rs 200 crore
Electric bus supply to Mumbai's BEST lags with only 536 delivered in 3 yrs
Axis Bank plans to raise Rs 20,000 cr. through stake sale, debt issuance
Shift in product mix will continue in FY26: SBI Life Insurance MD & CEO
Economic Times :
Nissan cuts non-core operations to manage costs
Dixon to manufacture electronic components; Tata Electronics may invest Rs 2,000 cr. under ECMS
Odisha may produce over1/3rd of steel in India by FY31: CM Mohan Charan Majhi
NITI Aayog reviews role of central, state electricity regulators
Govt may skip clearance process of IWT for 5 key J&K hydroelectric projects
Tesla strengthens India presence with new office near Mumbai’s BKC
After Bharti Airtel's demand experts call for checks in equity conversion of statutory dues
Strategy to deal with tariffs is flexibility: Oliver Wyman's Pedro Oliveira
Canara Bank to mobilize around Rs 500 crore via Canara Robeco IPO
ADB pledges $5 billion for India's growth
KPG Spices targets Rs 100 cr. revenue in 2025-26 on network, product expansion
Mint :
Accounting lapses in derivatives portfolio to cost IndusInd Bank ₹1,960 crore in FY25
RBI predicts Indian economy to grow at 6.5%, Malhotra calls to invest
IndusInd Bank board tore-align top management roles after ₹1,959.98 cr. impact
Saudi Arabia and Qatar to pay back Syrias debt to the World Bank
Goyal criticizes attempts to secure Pharma patents through minor innovations
Sebi partners with DigiLocker to protect nominee interest after investor's death
Fortum exits India renewables market with sale to I Squared's Hexa Climate
Macrotech Developers to invest ₹8,000 crore to buy land in Mumbai, Bengaluru
Artificial Intelligence is about skill transformation, not job loss: TCS Global AI Head
Finmin targets to introduce Insurance Amendment Bill in Parliament during monsoon session
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The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed a penalty of more than ₹1.61 crore on Indian Bank and ₹63.60 lakh on Indian Overseas Bank for non-compliance with certain directions it had issued.
State News
Heatwave: Severe heatwave conditions continue in Telangana, with temperatures crossing 45°C in several districts. Jammu and Kashmir is also bracing for a heatwave.
Kerala Investments: The Kerala government announced 13 new projects worth ₹4,410 crore, set to begin in May.
Andhra Pradesh: CM Chandrababu Naidu aims to make the state poverty-free by 2029.
Sports
IPL 2025: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) defeated Delhi Capitals (DC), propelled by Krunal Pandya's unbeaten 73. Suryakumar Yadav (Mumbai Indians) currently holds the Orange Cap. Jasprit Bumrah became MI's leading wicket-taker in IPL history.
Indian Women's Cricket: The team begins preparations for the ODI World Cup with a tri-series in Sri Lanka against the hosts and South Africa.
India-Pakistan Tensions:
Diplomatic Efforts: Tensions remain high following the Pahalgam terror attack. The US and UK are engaging with both India and Pakistan, urging a "responsible solution." Pakistan has expressed openness to an international investigation involving countries like Russia or China and has discussed regional stability with Iran and China.
Border Situation: The deadline for most Pakistani nationals on visas to leave India passed on Sunday, with hundreds departing via the Attari-Wagah border. Skirmishes and ceasefire violations continue along the Line of Control (LoC) for the third consecutive day.
Military Posturing: India's Navy conducted anti-ship missile tests in the Arabian Sea, demonstrating long-range strike capabilities. Pakistan has reportedly undertaken equipment mobilization near the LoC.
Political Reactions: Indian Prime Minister Modi has vowed a harsh response against those responsible for the attack. Opposition parties in India are considering calling for a special session of Parliament.
Global Conflicts & Politics:
Russia-Ukraine War: Russia launched a major overnight drone assault on Ukraine involving nearly 150 drones, resulting in casualties. A reported US peace proposal suggesting Russian control over Crimea has caused shock and rejection in Ukraine.
Gaza Conflict: Reports indicate severe food shortages in Gaza, with Israel allegedly blocking supplies for nearly two months. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is weighing in on humanitarian aid issues. Qatar's Prime Minister mentioned some progress in Gaza truce talks. Israeli jets struck Beirut's southern suburbs again.
Iran Port Explosion: A massive explosion at the Shahid Rajaei port near Bandar Abbas, Iran, has killed dozens (reports range from 18 to 40) and injured hundreds. Iran's President visited the site and the injured.
Canada Car Attack: At least nine to eleven people were killed and dozens injured after a driver rammed a car into a crowd at a Filipino street festival in Vancouver. Police have arrested a suspect and stated there is no terror link, though the Prime Minister called it a "car-ramming attack."
US Politics: Focus remains on the early days of President Trump's second term, with analyses suggesting his actions are overturning parts of the global order. Polls indicate concerns about his influence and economic policies. Tensions between the administration and the press were highlighted at the White House Correspondents' Dinner. Controversy continues over US border policies and the deportation of immigrants, including some US citizen children.13 Trump has also called for free passage for US ships through the Panama and Suez canals.
Pope Francis Succession: Following Pope Francis's funeral, attended by world leaders including US President Trump, attention now turns to the upcoming conclave where cardinals will elect the next Pope.
Other International News:
France: President Macron condemned religious hatred following the fatal stabbing of a man in a mosque.
China: Beijing is closely monitoring the India-Pakistan situation. The government has lowered the minimum amount for tax refunds for tourists to boost spending.
Pakistan: The country's Crypto Council has signed agreements with World Liberty Financial to boost investment in the sector. The Pakistani army reported killing 54 militants attempting to cross the border from Afghanistan.
Economy: Advertising firms are bracing for reduced client spending amid tariff concerns, particularly impacting the auto industry.
Sports:
Football: Barcelona defeated Real Madrid 3-2 in extra time to win their 32nd Copa del Rey title.
Tennis: Novak Djokovic suffered an early exit from the Madrid Open after losing his opening match.
Please note that news is constantly developing, and these headlines reflect the situation as reported earlier today or late yesterday.
Today's Tithi is Vaishakh Shukla Pratipada.
According to multiple Panchang sources:
This Tithi, Pratipada, began after the Vaishakha Amavasya (New Moon) ended early this morning (around 1:00 AM - 1:01 AM IST).
Pratipada Tithi will last for most of the day until approximately 9:10 PM IST tonight.
After 9:10 PM IST, the next Tithi, Vaishakh Shukla Dwitiya, will begin.
Vedic Ritu/ Vasanta
Drik Ritu : Grishma (Summer)
Paksha : Shuklapaksh (In Purnimanta calendar)
Vikram Samvat - 2082
Month : Vaishakh 16 (In Amanta calendar)
Shaka Samvat - 1947
Month : Vaishak 01
Tithi : Pratipada
Nakshatra: Ashwini/ Bharani
Rahu : 07:35 AM – 09:12 AM
Yamaganda : 10:48 AM – 12:24 PM
"प्रातरुत्थानं शरीरस्य स्वस्थतायै शुभं भवति"
This Sanskrit phrase translates to "Waking up early in the morning is good for the health of the body."
28 April : World Day for Safety and Health at Work. In the US, it's recognized as National Superhero Day and National Blueberry Pie Day, among others.
Events:
224: The Battle of Hormozdgan was fought, effectively ending the Parthian Empire as Ardashir I defeated Artabanus V.
1192: Conrad of Montferrat, the newly elected King of Jerusalem, was assassinated in Tyre by Hashshashin (Assassins).
1253: Japanese Buddhist monk Nichiren first declared the chant "Namu Myōhō Renge Kyō," considered the founding moment of Nichiren Buddhism.
1503: The Battle of Cerignola took place, noted as one of the first European battles won primarily by gunpowder small arms.
1611: The University of Santo Tomas was established in the Philippines, now the largest Catholic university globally.
1758: The Marathas defeated the Afghans in the Battle of Attock, capturing the city.
1788: Maryland ratified the U.S. Constitution, becoming the 7th state to do so.
1789: The famous Mutiny on the Bounty occurred, led by Fletcher Christian against Captain William Bligh.
1869: Chinese and Irish laborers working on the First Transcontinental Railroad in the US laid an unmatched ten miles of track in a single day.
1881: Outlaw Billy the Kid escaped from the Lincoln County jail in New Mexico.
1916: Bal Gangadhar Tilak established the Indian Home Rule League.
1920: The Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic was founded.
1923: Wembley Stadium in London, originally named the Empire Stadium, officially opened.
1930: The first night game in organized baseball history took place in Independence, Kansas.
1932: A vaccine for yellow fever was announced for human use, a significant medical advancement.
1944: During Exercise Tiger, a rehearsal for the D-Day landings, German E-boats attacked US and UK ships, resulting in 946 deaths.
1945: Italian dictator Benito Mussolini and his mistress Clara Petacci were captured and executed by Italian partisans.
1947: Norwegian explorer Thor Heyerdahl and his crew set sail from Peru on the raft Kon-Tiki to prove ancient South Americans could reach Polynesia.
1952: The Treaty of San Francisco came into effect, officially ending the Allied occupation of Japan.
1965: U.S. troops landed in the Dominican Republic, ordered by President Lyndon B. Johnson, amid concerns about potential communist influence.
1967: Boxing champion Muhammad Ali refused induction into the U.S. Army, citing religious reasons, and was subsequently stripped of his heavyweight title.
1969: Charles de Gaulle resigned as President of France after his proposed constitutional reforms were defeated in a referendum.
1988: Aloha Airlines Flight 243 suffered explosive decompression when a large section of its roof tore off mid-flight but miraculously landed safely, though one flight attendant was lost.
1992: The USDA revealed the Food Guide Pyramid.
1994: Former CIA officer Aldrich Ames pleaded guilty to espionage, admitting he had sold secrets to the Soviet Union and Russia.
1996: Martin Bryant committed the Port Arthur massacre in Tasmania, Australia, killing 35 people and leading to stricter gun control laws.
2001: American businessman Dennis Tito became the world's first space tourist, traveling to the International Space Station aboard a Russian spacecraft.
2003: Apple launched the iTunes Music Store.
2004: CBS News program "60 Minutes II" broadcast graphic photos showing the abuse of Iraqi prisoners by U.S. military personnel at Abu Ghraib prison.
2008: ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) set a record by launching 10 satellites in a single mission.
2019: The film "Avengers: Endgame" became the first movie to earn over $1 billion globally in its opening weekend.
Notable Births:
1442: Edward IV, King of England.
1758: James Monroe, 5th President of the United States.
1848: Madhusudan Das, prominent Odia lawyer and legislator, was the first graduate and advocate of Odisha. He is known as Kulabruddha, which means Grand Old Man, Madhu Babu, and Utkala Gouraba, which means Pride of Utkal.
1908: Oskar Schindler, German industrialist credited with saving over 1,200 Jews during the Holocaust.
1916: Ferruccio Lamborghini, Italian founder of the Lamborghini automobile company.
1926: Harper Lee, American author (To Kill a Mockingbird).
1929: Bhanu Athaiya, Indian costume designer and Oscar winner.
1937: Saddam Hussein, former President of Iraq.
1941: Ann-Margret, Swedish-American actress, singer, and dancer.
1948: Sir Terry Pratchett, English fantasy author (Discworld series).
1950: Jay Leno, American comedian and former host of "The Tonight Show".
1964: Barry Larkin, American Hall of Fame baseball player.
1974: Penélope Cruz, Spanish actress.
1981: Jessica Alba, American actress.
1987: Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Indian actress.
Notable Deaths:
1719: Farrukhsiyar, Mughal Emperor.
1740: Peshwa Bajirao I, Maratha general and statesman, and his second wife Mastani.
1945: Benito Mussolini, Italian dictator, executed.
1992: Francis Bacon, Irish-born British painter.
1992: Vinayaka Krishna Gokak, Kannada writer and Jnanpith Award winner.
1993: Jim Valvano (Jimmy V), American college basketball coach and broadcaster.
2012: Patricia Medina, British actress.
2019: John Singleton, American film director (Boyz n the Hood).
2021: Michael Collins, American astronaut, Apollo 11 Command Module Pilot.
“IF I CANNOT DO GREAT THINGS, I CAN DO SMALL THINGS IN A GREAT WAY.” Martin Luther king
Chintu : Marte waqt aadmi ko kya dena chahiye?
Friend : Birla cement.
Chintu : Kyun?
Friend : Kyunki is Cement mai jaan hai
"Come rain or shine" - No matter what
ANTONYMS : Despair - Hope, Cheer
SYNONYMS : Independent - self-reliant