Important News - 2025-03-19

19 March 2025

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Schemes (4)

Kerala Assembly Passes Kerala State Elderly Commission Bill 2025 for Elderly Welfare

On Wednesday, the Kerala Assembly unanimously passed the Kerala State Elderly Commission Bill, 2025, aimed at safeguarding the rights of the elderly. This Bill replaces the Kerala State Elderly Commission Ordinance, 2024, which was promulgated by the Governor in December 2024. The Bill was tabled in January 2025 and subsequently referred to a Subject Committee for review. Minister for Social Justice R. Bindu emphasized that the Bill aims to establish a robust mechanism to ensure the protection and welfare of the elderly. According to the 2011 Census, the elderly constituted 12.6% of Kerala's population, a figure that rose to 23% by 2018 and is projected to reach 25% by 2030. The Bill addresses issues such as neglect and abuse faced by the elderly and ensures the proper implementation of the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007. The Kerala State Elderly Commission will be responsible for providing guidelines on elderly welfare, enabling their rehabilitation, and utilizing their skills for public benefit. The commission will consist of a chairperson, who will hold the rank of a government Secretary, and up to three members, all of whom must be elderly. One member will be from the Scheduled Castes or Scheduled Tribes, and another will be a woman. The chairperson and members will serve a term of three years.

Nellore Farmers Advised to Sell Paddy at MSP Through Government Procurement Centres

State Civil Supplies Minister Nadendla Manohar urged farmers in SPSR Nellore district to avoid selling paddy to middlemen at lower rates. He advised them to instead sell their produce at government-established procurement centres to receive the Minimum Support Price (MSP) with payments guaranteed within 24 hours. During a meeting with Nellore-based ministers, MLAs, and district administration officials at the State Assembly in Amaravati, the Minister highlighted that 46% of the paddy harvest in the district has already been completed. He also announced the establishment of a control room for paddy procurement, the availability of five lakh bags, and directed public representatives to visit procurement centres to address any issues. Additionally, Mr. Manohar emphasized the need to reduce middlemen involvement by collaborating with Rice Millers Associations and ensuring smooth transportation of paddy to neighbouring districts like Prakasam and Bapatla. The meeting was attended by Endowments Minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy, Sarvepalli MLA Somireddy Chandramohan Reddy, Kovur MLA Vemireddy Prashanti Reddy, and Nellore District Collector O. Anand.

WCD Launches Comprehensive Action Plan to Enhance Child Nutrition

The Women and Child Development (WCD) department has formulated a comprehensive action plan aimed at enhancing the nutritional status of children across India. This initiative involves collaboration with various departments, including the Kerala University of Health Sciences, the Indian Medical Association, and the Indian Academy of Paediatrics. A key component of the plan is the training of at least one nurse in the Gynaecology department of every hospital as a lactation counsellor to promote breastfeeding and neonatal care. This decision was made to address the time constraints faced by doctors and to ensure better communication with new mothers and their families. The training syllabus is currently under revision, and certification is planned, with the program set to be piloted in Thiruvananthapuram district. Additionally, the WCD will conduct growth assessments of students in prematric and post-matric hostels and model residential schools under the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe Development departments, in partnership with nutritionists. Anganwadi workers will perform monthly assessments and focus on raising awareness about anaemia and improving haemoglobin levels. The department also plans to implement an aquaponics project in anganwadis with available space, aiming to provide children with fresh vegetables and fish, with support from the Fisheries department. This project will also be piloted in Thiruvananthapuram.

Andhra Pradesh Government Acquires 340 Mobile Ambulatory Veterinary Vehicles Under MAVC Scheme

The Andhra Pradesh government, under the leadership of Minister for Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development, and Fisheries Kinjarapu Atchannaidu, purchased 340 customised mobile ambulatory vehicles from Tata Motors between 2019 and 2024. These vehicles are part of the Mobile Ambulatory Veterinary Clinics (MAVCs) initiative, aimed at providing veterinary services efficiently. The procurement was done in two phases, with costs including vehicle purchase, fabrication, veterinary diagnostic kits, medical supplies, and large animal hydraulic lift facilities. The total operation and maintenance costs amounted to ₹148 crore up to May 2022, managed by EMRI-Green Health Services through an e-tendering process. Each MAVC is staffed with one veterinarian, one para-vet, and one driver-cum-attendant, supported by a 24x7 call center with 20 seats. The selection of Tata Motors was based on technical specifications, cost competitiveness, and compliance with MAVC requirements.

Miscellaneous (8)

Free Oral Health Check-Up and Awareness Campaign in Belagavi on World Oral Health Day

On World Oral Health Day, a free oral health check-up and awareness campaign will be organised at the KLE VK Institute of Dental Sciences in Belagavi. The event, sponsored by HALEON and the Indian Society of Periodontology (ISP), aims to educate patients on the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene for overall wellbeing. Participants will receive toothbrushes, toothpaste, and pamphlets with tips for oral health maintenance. The Department of Periodontics, in collaboration with ISP, will oversee the event. The campaign theme for 2024-2026, set by the World Dental Federation (FDI), is “A Happy Mouth is … A Happy Mind.”

KTU Organizes Idea Pitching Competition for Engineering Students with Start-up Grants

APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University (KTU) has launched an idea pitching competition exclusively for first and second-year undergraduate engineering students from its affiliated colleges. The competition, organized through KTU's start-up cell, will be conducted in three stages: college level, zonal level, and State level. Winners at the State level will receive start-up grants from the university to further develop their innovative ideas. This initiative aims to encourage young engineers to think creatively and transform their ideas into viable start-ups.

Karnataka Orders Inspection of Unauthorised Hostels and Tutorials in Private Schools

In response to the tragic death of two students due to food poisoning in a private school hostel in Mandya district, Karnataka, the Commissioner of Public Instruction, K.V. Trilok Chandra, has issued an order directing all Deputy Directors of Public Instruction (DDPIs) to inspect and submit detailed reports on unauthorized hostels and tutorials being operated by private schools within their jurisdictions. The order emphasizes that some private school managements have been illegally running hostels and tutorials on school premises despite having permission only to run schools. The Commissioner has stressed the need for immediate inspections and the submission of reports with necessary documentation to ensure student safety. He also warned that failure to comply would result in accountability for Block Education Officers (BEOs) and DDPIs, with strict action to be taken as per rules in case of any mishaps. This directive follows the recent incident in T. Kagepura village, Malavalli taluk, Mandya district, where two students from Meghalaya died, and over 40 others fell ill after consuming contaminated food in a private school hostel.

Rasmi Film Society Advocates for Drug-Free Cinema Culture

On March 19, 2025, the Rasmi Film Society convened a meeting of its executive committee, adopting a resolution to condemn the use of drugs in films and on film sets. The society emphasized the need to promote a drug-free cinema culture, warning that the depiction of drug use in films could negatively influence youth, spread unhealthy habits, and send a detrimental message. The meeting was presided over by Rasmi Film Society president Manambur Rajanbabu, with secretary Anil K. Kurupan welcoming the attendees. Notable speakers included V.M. Suresh Kumar, G.K. Rammohan, Haneef Rajaji, N.V. Mohammedali, Noushad Mambra, K.T. Indira, and Anuraj M. Additionally, the society paid tributes to the late scriptwriter Sreevaraham Balakrishnan, lyricist Mankombu Gopalakrishnan, and social activists K.K. Kochu and A.K. Puthussery.

Vatal Nagaraj Opposes Rishab Shetty’s Role as Shivaji in Historical Film

Kannada actor Vatal Nagaraj has expressed opposition to Rishab Shetty’s decision to portray Maratha ruler Shivaji in an upcoming historical film. Speaking in Mysuru on Wednesday, Nagaraj argued that Karnataka has its own historical figures, such as Sangolli Rayanna and Kittur Chennamma, who deserve representation. He also highlighted the lack of statues of Kannadiga personalities in Maharashtra, despite the presence of Shivaji’s statues in Karnataka. Nagaraj called for the Kannada film industry to support the Karnataka bandh on March 22, which protests the assault on KSRTC bus crew in Belagavi and demands development projects like Mahadayi, Kalasa Banduri, and Mekedatu. He urged various sectors, including KSRTC staff, malls, and businesses, to join the bandh, which also seeks a ban on the Maharashtra Ekikaran Samiti.

Ernakulam Intensifies Measures to Curb Hepatitis A and Other Infectious Diseases

The Ernakulam district administration and the Health department have intensified efforts to combat the spread of infectious diseases, particularly hepatitis A, in areas like Thrikkakara, Kalamassery, Eloor, and Thiruvaniyoor. A dual approach involving public awareness campaigns and punitive actions against those responsible for conditions leading to disease spread has been implemented. The district panchayat is also involved in this initiative. Recent data indicates a rise in hepatitis A cases in industrial units, hostels, and apartment complexes, although dengue cases have decreased over the past month. District Medical Officer Dr. Asha Devi emphasized that violators of the Kerala Public Health Act, 2023, will face legal consequences, including fines ranging from ₹2,000 to ₹30,000 for offenses such as distributing contaminated water or failing to vaccinate domestic animals. Three establishments, including a pig farm, were shut down for non-compliance. The administration has sought police and local body cooperation to address contaminated drinking water supply issues, mandating regular chlorination of water sources in residential areas.

Limited Participation in 'We Can' Anti-Drug Campaign at Government Polytechnic College, Kalamassery

The 'We Can' anti-drug campaign at Government Polytechnic College, Kalamassery, has faced limited cooperation from hostel residents despite intensified efforts following a recent police raid. During the raid, nearly two kilograms of suspected ganja were seized from the men’s hostel. Launched six months ago by Principal Aiju Thomas, the campaign has seen only 10 out of 60 hostel residents take an anti-narcotics oath. Principal Thomas attributed the reluctance to post-raid confusion, fear, and the academic year’s end. Notably, most participants in the campaign are members of the National Cadet Corps (NCC), led by NCC officer Bineesh Kumar. While students are aware of drug use on campus, many hesitate to report it due to fear of repercussions. The college has identified eight unauthorized entry points suspected of being used for drug smuggling and is taking steps to seal them. Future plans include continuous programs in collaboration with enforcement agencies like the Excise Department.

Mandya DC Ensures Exam Arrangements for Students Recovering from Food Poisoning

Mandya Deputy Commissioner Kumara announced on Wednesday that arrangements will be made for 22 Meghalaya students and 14 local students from Gokula Educational Institutions, Malavalli, who are recovering from food poisoning, to take their examinations after being discharged from the hospital. The students, studying in classes 1 to 9, will be shifted to the district child protection unit post-recovery, with food provided at Bala Mandira as per doctors' advice. The Department of Public Instruction has been instructed to facilitate the examinations, with SSLC students allowed to write either exam-1 or exam-2 based on medical advice and parental consent. Dr. Kumara directed officials to probe the admission documents of Meghalaya students and hold parents' meetings for local students. A committee will inspect residential schools in the district to assess basic facilities, including food quality. Strict action was warned against schools serving outside food, and nodal officers will oversee residential schools managed by various departments. District Child Protection Officer Rashmi confirmed health monitoring arrangements for hospitalised children at MIMS Hospital, Mandya.

Economy (5)

Telangana Budget 2023-24 Focuses on Welfare and Development, Allocates ₹72,399 Crore for Marginalized Communities

The Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) president, Mahesh Kumar Goud, praised the state budget as progressive and realistic, emphasizing its focus on the welfare of marginalized communities. The budget allocated ₹40,234 crore for Scheduled Castes (SC), ₹17,169 crore for Scheduled Tribes (ST), ₹11,405 crore for Backward Classes, and ₹3,591 crore for minority welfare. Additionally, ₹3,527 crore was allocated to the industrial sector, aligning with the ₹1.78 lakh crore investments secured at Davos. Goud highlighted the government’s commitment to development through increased allocations for irrigation, agriculture, and education. He also commended the Chief Minister, A. Revanth Reddy, and Finance Minister, Mallu Bhatti Vikramaraka, for ensuring that SC and ST sub-plan funds were not diverted. The Rajiv Yuva Vikasam scheme was noted as a potential game-changer for youth development, with the overall budget expected to boost the state’s progress.

G. Kishan Reddy Criticizes Budget for Lack of Implementation and Poor Revenue Estimates

Union Minister of Coal and Mines and Telangana BJP president G. Kishan Reddy criticized the recent Budget, stating that it prioritizes grand announcements over actual implementation. In a media statement on Wednesday, Reddy accused the current government of failing to fulfill its guarantees, citing insufficient allocations in the Budget. He highlighted that GST collections were ₹5,000 crore less than the figures projected in the previous year’s Budget, indicating poor revenue estimation. Reddy also condemned the Budget for relying heavily on revenue from liquor sales, arguing that it neglects the welfare of the people and the development of the state. He emphasized that the people of Telangana have been misled over the past 15 months due to the government’s lack of seriousness in addressing key issues.

Telangana's 2025-26 Budget Allocates ₹23,355 Crore for Irrigation Sector

The 2025-26 budget for the irrigation sector in Telangana has been allocated ₹23,355 crore, marking a 4.8% increase from the revised estimates of ₹22,285 crore in 2024-25. Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, who oversees Finance and Energy, presented the budget to the Assembly. The allocation includes ₹11,800 crore for schemes aimed at completing ongoing projects like Palamuru-Rangareddy, Sita Rama, Devadula, Udayasamudram-Brahmana Vellamla, and Bunadigani Kalva, as well as initiating new projects such as Kodangal and Pranahita lift irrigation schemes. Additionally, ₹11,500 crore is earmarked for establishment costs, including salaries, land acquisition, loan repayments, and operation and maintenance of completed projects. The government also plans to fully fund the second phase of telemetry equipment installation in the Krishna Basin for better water accounting. Despite a massive ₹1.81 lakh crore spent on irrigation from 2014 to 2024, only 15.81 lakh acres of irrigation potential were created, with significant investments in projects like Kaleshwaram yielding limited results. The government is also bearing ₹18,000 crore annually for loan repayments due to high borrowing costs. Minister for Irrigation N. Uttam Kumar Reddy praised the budget, emphasizing its focus on ensuring uninterrupted water supply for Telangana farmers and securing the state's water rights in the Krishna and Godavari Basins through the Brijesh Kumar Tribunal (KWDT-II).

IndiGo to Receive Airbus A321 XLR Aircraft from FY2026, Expands International Reach

IndiGo, India's largest airline, is set to receive its Airbus A321 XLR aircraft starting from the financial year 2026, as confirmed by CEO Pieter Elbers. The delivery of these aircraft was delayed due to certification issues faced by Airbus, pushing the initial timeline from 2024-2025. IndiGo has placed an order for 69 A321 XLRs, part of its larger 2019 order of 300 A320 neo family aircraft. The A321 XLR is the longest-range single-aisle aircraft, enabling non-stop flights to distant destinations such as Europe and Southeast Asia. The airline is also expanding its international reach, with plans to operate non-stop flights to Manchester and Amsterdam starting July 2024, using wet-leased Boeing 787-9s until its own Airbus A350s join the fleet by mid-2027. The A321 XLRs will feature 12 business and 183 economy seats, catering to a mix of customer needs. IndiGo is also exploring new destinations like Athens, Geneva, and Denpasar, leveraging the extended range of the XLRs. The airline has moved away from its pure low-cost carrier (LCC) model, focusing on cost leadership while adapting to evolving customer demands.

Telangana’s 2025-26 Hyderabad Budget Reflects Continuity with Minor Adjustments

The Telangana State government has presented the budget for Hyderabad for the financial year 2025-26, which largely mirrors the allocations of the previous year with minor adjustments. Notable changes include an increased outlay of ₹63.38 crore for the Quli Qutub Shah Urban Development Authority (QQSUDA), up from ₹13.38 crore, primarily for the construction of the new Osmania General Hospital building and the Musi River Front Development, which has a separate allocation of ₹1,500 crore. Conversely, the budget for the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) has been reduced to ₹121 crore from the initial ₹200 crore. The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) received ₹2,654 crore for the Hyderabad City Innovative and Transformative Infrastructure (H-CITI) project, along with ₹10 crore from Professional Tax revenue and ₹10 lakh from Motor Vehicle Tax. Additionally, ₹12.16 crore was allocated for establishment expenses. The Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply & Sewerage Board retained its allocation of ₹3,385 crore, with ₹300 crore designated for the 20 kilolitres free water supply scheme. The Hyderabad Metro Rail project received ₹1,100 crore, including ₹500 crore for Metro connectivity to the Old City and ₹100 crore for airport connectivity. The budget also highlights a ₹100-crore assistance for Future City, reflecting the government’s focus on expanding Hyderabad’s infrastructure and development.

Politics (5)

Calicut University Senate Member Alleges Rejection of Questions Ahead of March 22 Meeting

At the University of Calicut, a Senate member, V.S. Nikhil, who is affiliated with the pro-Left faction and serves as a functionary of the university employees’ union, has alleged that his proposed questions for the upcoming Senate meeting on March 22 were rejected. The questions pertained to cases referred by the university to the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau for investigation and the appointment of a lawyer other than the university’s standing counsel in the Kerala High Court. The first question was rejected under Section XIII of the university’s Statute 22, which prohibits questions on matters pending before statutory tribunals or judicial authorities. The second question was disallowed under Sections I and II of Statute 25, which empowers the Vice-Chancellor to reject questions deemed inconsistent with the university’s interests or those containing insinuations. Mr. Nikhil has criticized the rejection as “childish” and a “misinterpretation” of rules, alleging an attempt to conceal facts from the Senate, the university’s supreme authority. He has urged the Vice-Chancellor to reconsider the decision to ensure transparency and uphold the Senate’s rights. Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar is expected to attend the meeting.

J&K Government Probes Insecticide Contamination Amid Calls for CBI Inquiry into Rajouri Deaths

Amid increasing demands from legislators for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the Budhal deaths in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri district, the J&K Government stated on March 19, 2025, that the Home Department is investigating the case. The government is specifically probing the source of contamination caused by the insecticide chlorfenapyr, which was detected in the viscera samples of all 17 deceased individuals by the Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL) in Chandigarh. Health Minister Sakina Itoo informed the J&K Assembly that the police and health departments are working together to trace the origin of the poisoning and prevent further casualties. The Opposition, including PDP legislator Javed Iqbal Choudhary and CPI(M) MLA M.Y. Tarigami, has called for a CBI inquiry to rule out any conspiracy. Independent MLA Choudhary Akram also supported the demand for a CBI-led investigation. The illness, which began on December 7 and lasted until February, affected 28 people and resulted in 17 deaths, including 12 children and a pregnant woman. Doctors initially suspected neurotoxins as the cause but were unable to identify the source.

Bidadi Police Arrest Two Workers for Writing Pro-Pakistan Slogans

On March 14, 2024, the Bidadi police arrested two factory workers, Hameed Hussain (21) from Yadgir and Sadiq (24) from Kalaburagi, for allegedly writing pro-Pakistan slogans and abusive content against Kannadigas on the washroom walls of their factory in Bhimenahalli near Bidadi. The incident escalated into unrest as workers and local activists protested, demanding strict action. The accused reportedly acted in retaliation after being mocked by colleagues over India's victory against Pakistan in the ICC Champions Trophy cricket match. The factory management erased the slogans and issued a warning, but an employee shared the content on social media, leading to widespread outrage. The HR department filed a complaint, prompting the Bidadi police to investigate. The suspects were identified through handwriting analysis and booked under Section 196 (promoting disharmony) and Section 353(2) (circulating false statements to create enmity) of the BNS, along with relevant sections of the IT Act.

Andhra Pradesh Health Minister Advocates Reforms in Disciplinary Proceedings

Y. Satya Kumar Yadav, Minister for Health, Medical Education, and Family Welfare in Andhra Pradesh, emphasized the need for reforms in disciplinary proceedings to ensure their timely resolution. This call came during his review of a case involving an Assistant Secretary in the Andhra Pradesh Vaidya Vidhan Parishad (APVVP). The officer had been accused of irregularities in 2009 while serving as a Section Officer, including violations of administrative and financial rules, excessive budget estimates, and irregularities in preparing seniority lists. An inquiry was initiated in 2010, but due to technical reasons, five inquiry officers were changed over the years. In 2011, the Lokayukta of the composite Andhra Pradesh dismissed the allegations, stating the officer had no independent authority to sanction works and the complaint was made out of grudge. Despite this, the disciplinary proceedings continued for another eight years. The fifth Inquiry Officer initially found no proof of the charges but later added that the corruption charge was valid. The officer, who retired in March 2021, has been receiving only a provisional pension due to the pending proceedings. Taking into account the Lokayukta’s directions and the prolonged inquiry, the Minister directed officials to close the case.

Karnataka Govt. Orders Independent Review for Baldota Steel Plant Amid Protests

In response to widespread protests against the proposed Baldota Integrated Steel Plant in Koppal district, Karnataka, due to concerns over pollution and water scarcity, the State government has decided to conduct an independent review of the project. Industries Minister M.B. Patil announced in the Legislative Council that the evaluation would be entrusted to an independent entity like the Indian Institute of Science (IISc). The ₹17,979 crore project, with an annual capacity of 3.5 million tonnes, has faced opposition from activists and religious leaders. The government has temporarily halted work on the project until the review is completed. A committee, which may include elected representatives, will assess the environmental impact. The final decision will be based on the committee’s findings and ground realities, ensuring transparency in the process.

Heritage (3)

Scholars Advocate Integration of Vedic and Modern Education at South India Vedic Sammelan

At the closing ceremony of the South India ‘Kshetriya Vedic Sammelan’, scholars emphasized the importance of integrating Vedic education with modern learning to preserve ancient heritage and excel in both fields. The three-day event, hosted by Sri Venkateswara Vedic University (SVVU), saw participation from 100 Vedic scholars across Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala. Vice-Chancellor Rani Sadasiva Murty highlighted the university’s initiatives to promote Vedic studies, while G. Srinivasa Sharma, Vice-Chancellor of Sri Chandrasekharendra Viswa Maha Vidyalaya, urged the younger generation to study Vedas alongside modern education. G. Bhanuprakash Reddy, a member of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) trust board, reiterated the need to preserve and propagate Vedic heritage. Viroopaksha Jaddipal, registrar of Maharshi Sandipani Veda Vignana Peetham, noted that 11,000 students are currently pursuing Vedic education nationwide, with a target to increase this number to over one lakh. The conclave underscored the relevance of Vedas in fostering world peace, nature conservation, patriotism, medicine, and equality.

CM Stalin Inaugurates Statue of Archaeologist John Marshall in Chennai

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin inaugurated the statue of Sir John Hubert Marshall, a renowned British archaeologist, on Wednesday at the Government Museum Complex in Egmore, Chennai. The statue, erected at a cost of ₹50 lakh by the Information and Public Relations Department, honors Marshall’s pivotal role in the excavations of Harappa and Mohenjo-daro, which unveiled the Indus Valley Civilization. These discoveries established the Dravidian hypothesis, challenging the notion that Sanskrit was the foundation of Indian culture. The inauguration took place on Marshall’s birth anniversary, with Stalin emphasizing Marshall’s contributions to Indian archaeology and the ongoing efforts to uncover the true history of the subcontinent. Key attendees included Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu, Minister for Information and Publicity M.P. Saminathan, Health Minister Ma. Subramanian, and Tamil Nadu Minister for Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments P.K. Sekarbabu.

Ringui’s Got Talent 2024: Manipur’s ‘Bollywood Village’ Showcases Resilience and Creativity

Ringui, a Tangkhul Naga village in Manipur’s Ukhrul district, has gained the nickname 'Bollywood of Ukhrul' for its long-standing tradition of producing films, music, and plays since the 1980s. On March 16, 2024, the village hosted the 10th edition of Ringui’s Got Talent (RGT), a talent hunt event aimed at discovering actors, dancers, singers, and other performing artists. The event, organized by Dewdrops, a local organization, expanded its reach to the state level, showcasing the resilience of the community amidst ongoing ethnic conflicts in Manipur since May 2023. Winners Zanmei Makang, Kennies Khuraijam, and Machunreiliu Phaomei will receive opportunities for career progression and participation in larger events. The village’s creative journey began during the peak of extremism led by the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) in the 1980s. In 2019, the Manipur government sanctioned a ₹63-crore project to build a film centre in Ringui, which remains unrealized. The village’s latest film, Kumram Rose, is currently under production.

📜 One-Line Summary of Today's News

The Kerala Assembly passed the Kerala State Elderly Commission Bill, 2025, to protect the rights and welfare of the elderly, replacing the 2024 Ordinance.
A free oral health check-up and awareness campaign, sponsored by HALEON and ISP, was organised in Belagavi on World Oral Health Day to promote good oral hygiene.
The Telangana budget for 2023-24, praised as progressive and realistic, allocated ₹72,399 crore for SC, ST, Backward Classes, and minority welfare, alongside significant investments in irrigation, agriculture, and industry.
A pro-Left member of the Calicut University Senate has accused the administration of rejecting his questions for the upcoming Senate meeting, citing alleged misinterpretation of rules and lack of transparency.
The J&K Government is investigating insecticide contamination in Rajouri deaths, while the Opposition demands a CBI probe to rule out conspiracy.
State Civil Supplies Minister Nadendla Manohar urged Nellore farmers to sell paddy at MSP through government procurement centres, ensuring payments within 24 hours and reducing middlemen involvement.
KTU is conducting a three-stage idea pitching competition for engineering students, offering State-level winners start-up grants to support their innovative projects.
Two factory workers in Bhimenahalli were arrested by the Bidadi police for writing pro-Pakistan slogans and abusive content, leading to protests and legal action under the BNS and IT Act.
Karnataka's Commissioner of Public Instruction mandates inspections of unauthorised hostels and tutorials in private schools following a fatal food poisoning incident in Mandya district.
Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy condemned the recent Budget for its lack of implementation, poor revenue estimates, and neglect of public welfare and state development.
Andhra Pradesh Health Minister Y. Satya Kumar Yadav calls for guidelines to ensure timely resolution of disciplinary proceedings, citing a case that lasted over 15 years.
The Rasmi Film Society adopted a resolution on March 19, 2025, to promote a drug-free cinema culture and condemned the depiction of drug use in films.
Karnataka government opts for an independent review of the Baldota Integrated Steel Plant in Koppal district following protests over environmental concerns.
Scholars at the South India Kshetriya Vedic Sammelan emphasized the integration of Vedic education with modern learning to preserve heritage and excel in both fields.
The Women and Child Development department has initiated a year-long action plan to improve children’s nutritional status through training, assessments, and aquaponics projects.
Vatal Nagaraj opposes Rishab Shetty’s portrayal of Shivaji, advocating for Karnataka’s historical figures and supporting the March 22 Karnataka bandh.
Ernakulam district administration and Health department have launched a dual strategy of awareness and punitive measures to control the spread of hepatitis A and other infectious diseases.
The 2025-26 budget for Telangana's irrigation sector allocates ₹23,355 crore, focusing on completing ongoing projects and initiating new ones to enhance irrigation potential.
IndiGo will receive its Airbus A321 XLR aircraft from FY2026, enabling extended-range flights and marking its expansion into international markets.
Tamil Nadu CM M.K. Stalin inaugurated a ₹50 lakh statue of archaeologist John Marshall, celebrating his contributions to the discovery of the Indus Valley Civilization and the Dravidian hypothesis.
Ringui, Manipur’s ‘Bollywood Village,’ hosted its 10th talent hunt event, Ringui’s Got Talent, to promote performing arts and highlight the resilience of its community amidst ongoing ethnic conflicts.
The 'We Can' anti-drug campaign at Government Polytechnic College, Kalamassery, struggles to gain full cooperation from hostel residents despite intensified efforts following a police raid.
Mandya Deputy Commissioner Kumara announced exam arrangements for 36 students recovering from food poisoning, with a committee to inspect residential schools' facilities.
The Andhra Pradesh government procured 340 mobile ambulatory vehicles for veterinary services under the MAVC scheme, costing ₹148 crore up to May 2022.
The Telangana government’s 2025-26 budget for Hyderabad largely replicates the previous year’s allocations, with notable changes in funding for QQSUDA, HYDRAA, and infrastructure projects like the Musi River Front Development and Metro Rail connectivity.

🎯 MCQs with Explanations

What triggered the workers to write the pro-Pakistan slogans?
A salary dispute
Mockery over India\'s cricket victory
A factory shutdown
A political rally
Explanation: The workers were mocked by colleagues over India\'s win against Pakistan in the ICC Champions Trophy, prompting their retaliation.
Who announced the arrangements for students to take exams post-recovery from food poisoning in Mandya?
K.R. Nandini
Rashmi
Dr. Kumara
Nodal Officers
Explanation: Dr. Kumara, the Mandya Deputy Commissioner, announced the arrangements for students to take exams after recovering from food poisoning.
What percentage of Kerala\'s population is projected to be elderly by 2030?
12.6%
23%
25%
30%
Explanation: By 2030, the elderly population in Kerala is expected to comprise 25% of the state\'s total population.
Who criticized the recent Budget for its lack of implementation?
Narendra Modi
G. Kishan Reddy
Rahul Gandhi
Arvind Kejriwal
Explanation: G. Kishan Reddy is the Union Minister of Coal and Mines and Telangana BJP president who criticized the Budget.
Who is expected to attend the Calicut University Senate meeting on March 22?
Chief Minister of Kerala
Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar
Vice-Chancellor of Calicut University
Union Education Minister
Explanation: Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar is expected to attend the Senate meeting scheduled for March 22.
Who issued the order to inspect unauthorised hostels and tutorials in private schools in Karnataka?
Chief Minister of Karnataka
Commissioner of Public Instruction
Deputy Director of Public Instruction
Block Education Officer
Explanation: K.V. Trilok Chandra, the Commissioner of Public Instruction, issued the order.
Which of the following destinations is IndiGo exploring for its A321 XLR flights?
New York
Athens
Tokyo
Dubai
Explanation: IndiGo is considering Athens as a potential destination for its A321 XLR aircraft.
Which project received the highest investment in the irrigation sector from 2014 to 2024?
Palamuru-Rangareddy
Sita Rama
Kaleshwaram
Devadula
Explanation: ₹93,872 crore was spent on the Kaleshwaram project from 2014 to 2024.
What was the shortfall in GST collections compared to last year’s Budget estimates?
₹3,000 crore
₹4,000 crore
₹5,000 crore
₹6,000 crore
Explanation: GST collections were ₹5,000 crore less than the figures quoted in last year’s Budget.
Which organisations sponsored the free oral health check-up in Belagavi?
WHO and UNICEF
HALEON and ISP
FDI and KLE
ISP and WHO
Explanation: The event was sponsored by HALEON and the Indian Society of Periodontology (ISP).
Which department was instructed to facilitate the examinations for the affected students?
Health Department
Department of Public Instruction
District Child Protection Unit
Social Welfare Department
Explanation: The Department of Public Instruction was instructed to facilitate the examinations for the students recovering from food poisoning.
Which university hosted the South India ‘Kshetriya Vedic Sammelan’?
Sri Venkateswara Vedic University
Sri Chandrasekharendra Viswa Maha Vidyalaya
Maharshi Sandipani Veda Vignana Peetham
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams
Explanation: The event was hosted by Sri Venkateswara Vedic University (SVVU).
Who has opposed Rishab Shetty’s decision to play Shivaji in an upcoming film?
Puneeth Rajkumar
Vatal Nagaraj
Darshan Thoogudeepa
Yash
Explanation: Vatal Nagaraj is the Kannada actor who opposed Rishab Shetty’s portrayal of Shivaji.
Who was responsible for the operations and maintenance of MAVCs in Andhra Pradesh?
Tata Motors
EMRI-Green Health Services
GVK-EMRI
State Veterinary Department
Explanation: EMRI-Green Health Services was selected through e-tendering for operations and maintenance of MAVCs.
Which project received ₹1,100 crore in the 2025-26 Hyderabad budget?
Musi River Front Development
Hyderabad Metro Rail
Osmania General Hospital
HYDRAA
Explanation: The Hyderabad Metro Rail project was allocated ₹1,100 crore in the 2025-26 budget.

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