Important News - 2025-03-27

27 March 2025

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Politics (11)

Priyanka Gandhi Lauds Kerala Panchayats, Inaugurates Aspirational Districts Projects in Wayanad

Congress General Secretary and Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra expressed pride in the efficient functioning of panchayats in Kerala during her three-day visit to her constituency. She highlighted their dedication during the aftermath of landslides in Wayanad last year, where panchayat members worked selflessly to assist disaster victims, irrespective of political affiliations. Ms. Vadra also spoke at the inauguration of projects funded by the Aspirational Districts Programme, including the Smart Anganwadi at Angadisseri, the Athirattukunnu Lift Irrigation Project, and the Irithilottukunnu check-dam. She emphasized the role of women in upholding democracy and society and assured Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) and Anganwadi workers of efforts to increase their wages. Additionally, she raised concerns in Parliament about wage delays under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). The irrigation and check-dam projects inaugurated by her aim to support paddy farmers in the region, which faces erratic rainfall due to climate change.

Panchamasali Community Demands BJP Revoke Yatnal’s Suspension by April 10

The suspension of Basanagouda Patil R. Yatnal from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has sparked controversy, with Sri Basava Jaya Mrutyunjay Swami, the seer of Kudalasangama Panchamasali Mutt, alleging it as a conspiracy orchestrated by BJP State president B.Y. Vijayendra and his father, former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa. Speaking in Belagavi on Thursday, the seer criticized Yediyurappa for failing to fulfill his promises to the Panchamasali community, particularly regarding their re-categorization from 3B to 2A in the backward classes list. The Panchamasali community, a significant subgroup among Lingayats, has historically influenced elections since J.H. Patel’s tenure as Chief Minister. Community leaders have set a deadline of April 10 for the BJP to revoke Yatnal’s suspension, threatening a protest in Belagavi on April 13 if their demand is unmet. Meanwhile, BJP leaders like B. Sriramulu and Ramesh Jarkiholi have expressed concerns over the expulsion, with Jarkiholi labeling it as ‘unfortunate’ but likely to be reversed soon.

Karnataka Information Commissioner Arrested for Accepting Bribe

Ravindra Gurunath Dhakappa, the State Information Commissioner posted at the Kalaburagi Bench of the Karnataka Information Commission, was arrested by the Lokayukta Police on Thursday, April 25, 2024, for accepting a bribe of ₹1 lakh through an online transfer. The bribe was allegedly taken to deliver a favourable order to an applicant. Superintendent of Police (Lokayukta) B.K. Umesh confirmed the arrest, stating that the accused had negotiated a bribe of ₹3 lakh with the applicant over the phone. The Lokayukta Police acted on a complaint filed by Saibanna Sasi Benakanahalli, editor of Kalaburagi Kalarava monthly, who alleged that Dhakappa demanded ₹3 lakh to remove his name from a blacklist. Benakanahalli had filed 117 petitions under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, which were pending before the Belagavi and Kalaburagi Benches of the State Information Commission. These petitions were dismissed on February 12, 2025, and Benakanahalli was fined ₹1,000 per application. The Lokayukta Police, led by Deputy Superintendent of Police Geetha Benal, laid a trap and caught Dhakappa red-handed.

Assam CM Clarifies Non-Recognition of News Portal Workers as Journalists

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, on March 27, 2025, clarified that Dilwar Hussain Mozumder, the arrested chief reporter of news portal The CrossCurrent, is not recognized as a journalist by the State government. Sarma cited police reports stating Mozumder demanded a significant loan from the Assam Cooperative Apex Bank in Guwahati and allegedly mistreated a man from a Scheduled Tribe (ST) community. The Chief Minister emphasized that Mozumder, who owns multiple businesses and works part-time at the portal, was arrested for reasons unrelated to journalism. Sarma reiterated that the State government only recognizes individuals working in electronic and print media as journalists, excluding those in news portals. Mozumder, who was granted bail on March 26, 2025, faces additional charges in other cases. The arrest occurred while he was covering a protest by the Jatiya Yuva Shakti, the youth wing of the Assam Jatiya Parishad, against alleged financial irregularities in the bank. The Press Club of India noted that Mozumder was detained after approaching the bank’s managing director for an interview. The Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, define news portals as publishers of news content, but the State government has not yet extended recognition to such entities.

Karnatak University Guest Lecturers Continue Protest for Higher Remuneration

The indefinite protest by assistant and guest lecturers of Karnatak University and its constituent colleges entered its fourth day on Thursday, March 28, 2024. The lecturers are demanding the implementation of a Syndicate decision from September 2022, which proposed increasing their remuneration from ₹28,000 to ₹40,000. Additionally, they seek the continuation of their services for all 12 months with remuneration and the reinstatement of the earlier system exempting teachers with over three years of experience from annual interviews. The protest, which began on March 24, has seen participation from retired teacher and activist Mohan Siddhanti, activist Laxman Bakkai, and Sharanu Mushtigeri, President of the Karnatak University Assistant/Guest Lecturers Association. Despite efforts by the university management, including Acting Vice-Chancellor Jayashree S., to persuade the protestors to withdraw, the lecturers remain resolute in continuing their agitation until their demands are met. During the protest, Mahadev Arera, the general secretary of the association, experienced chest pain and was shifted to the District Hospital.

Andhra Pradesh CM Naidu Reaffirms Commitment to Waqf Property Protection and Minority Welfare

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, while addressing the Muslim community at the State government-hosted Iftar in Vijayawada, reaffirmed his government's commitment to protecting waqf properties. He highlighted that the TDP government had safeguarded waqf properties in the unified Andhra Pradesh and assured continued efforts under the NDA rule. Naidu emphasized the TDP's historical association with minority welfare, citing the establishment of the Minorities Finance Corporation during N.T. Rama Rao's tenure and the construction of the Haj House in Hyderabad. He criticized the YSRCP government for delaying the Haj House project in Amaravati. Naidu also noted the allocation of ₹5,300 crore for minority welfare in the 2025-26 Budget and the reconstitution of the Waqf Board after the cancellation of G.O. No.43. Ministers N. Md. Farooq and Kollu Ravindra, along with Guntur East MLA Mohammed Naseer Ahmed, were present at the event.

BJP Leader Gopalakrishnan Apologizes to CPI(M)'s Sreemathi Over Unsubstantiated Allegations

BJP leader B. Gopalakrishnan publicly apologized to CPI(M) leader P. K. Sreemathi for making unsubstantiated allegations against her during her tenure as the State Health Minister of Kerala. The allegations, made during a TV channel discussion, accused Ms. Sreemathi of extending undue favors to her son, Sudhir Nambiar, in connection with the purchase of medicines for the government. Mr. Gopalakrishnan admitted that he had no evidence to support his claims. The apology was tendered in Kochi on Thursday following a mediation process initiated to settle the matter outside the court. Earlier, Mr. Gopalakrishnan had apologized in a Kannur court, but Ms. Sreemathi was dissatisfied with the manner of the apology. He later approached the Kerala High Court to quash the proceedings against him. Ms. Sreemathi stated that the baseless allegations had caused significant mental stress and tarnished her reputation, and she pursued legal action to undo the damage caused by the defamatory claims.

Kochi Corporation Budget 2025–26 Approved Amid Opposition Protests

The Kochi Corporation Budget for the fiscal year 2025–26 was approved on March 27, 2025, despite a boycott and walkout by the Opposition United Democratic Front (UDF). The UDF protested over the alleged omission of ₹11 crore received as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds from the Budget documents. Deputy Mayor K.A. Ansiya presented the Budget, but the UDF demanded her response instead of Mayor M. Anilkumar, leading to their walkout. The Mayor later accused the Opposition of deliberately disrupting the council proceedings and attempting to sabotage development projects. The Budget includes provisions for health insurance, uniforms, and vehicles for Haritha Karma Sena members, with plans to extend these benefits to autorickshaw operators and the wider working class. Additionally, health cards, medical camps, and treatment schemes were proposed for waste collection workers, headload workers, anganwadi workers, ASHA workers, and Kudumbashree members. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticized the Mayor for leaving the council hall without a formal vote on the Budget discussion, claiming it violated procedural rules.

Kashappanavar Opposes Panchamasali Protest Against Yatnal’s Suspension

Congress MLA and national president of the Panchamasali Samaj, Vijayanand Kashappanavar, has announced that he will not support a protest organized by the Panchamasali Reservation Agitation Committee against the suspension of BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal from the party on April 13. Kashappanavar stated that the BJP leadership’s decision to suspend Yatnal was justified, citing Yatnal’s indiscipline and severe criticism of party leaders. He also criticized the Panchamasali Peetha seer, Sri Basava Jaya Jayamruthyunjaya Swami, for making political decisions without consulting community leaders, including himself. Kashappanavar emphasized that the seer should refrain from giving political advice and that no MLA would resign based on the seer’s directives.

Punjab Police Intensifies Anti-Drug Campaign, Targets High-Level Networks

On March 27, 2025, Punjab Police Director General Gaurav Yadav announced a significant reduction in street-level drug supply due to an intensified crackdown on narcotics trade in the state. The police have shifted their focus to dismantling high-level drug networks by targeting key suppliers and kingpins, referred to as the 'big fish'. Since the launch of the anti-drug campaign on March 1, 2025, Punjab Police has arrested 4,142 drug smugglers, registered 2,384 FIRs, and seized 146.3 kg of heroin, 85.3 kg of opium, 19.95 quintals of poppy husk, 7.69 lakh intoxicant tablets-capsules, and ₹5.83 crores in drug money. Inspired by the success of Village Defence Committees (VDCs) in rural areas, the police are now forming 'Mohalla Committees' in urban areas to empower local communities in combating the drug menace collectively.

Proposal to Merge Rural Police Stations into Bengaluru City Police Commissionerate

A proposal is under consideration to merge three rural police stations—Kumbalgodu in Ramanagara district, Avalahalli, and Hebbagodi in Bengaluru Rural district—into the Bengaluru City Police Commissionerate. This move is driven by the urbanisation of these areas and the shift in the nature of crime, which now includes offences like robbery, mobile snatchings, ATM thefts, and cyber crimes. Additionally, urbanised parts of Madanayakanahalli and Vishwanathapura police station limits are proposed to be merged with adjoining city police stations. This follows the recent inclusion of Talaghattapura and Byadarahalli police stations into the city. The State Budget has also announced an increase in the number of police divisions in Bengaluru from eight to eleven. City Police Commissioner B. Dayananda stated that these proposals are likely to be accepted by the government. Meanwhile, there is lobbying to include more police stations, such as Vijayapura, Rajanukunte, Bannerghatta, Jigani, Surya City, and Sarjapura, into the City Police Commissionerate, as these areas have also urbanised significantly.

Schemes (1)

Tamil Nadu Allocates ₹1,000 Crore for Rural Road Development Under Mudhalvarin Grama Salaigal Membattu Thittam

The Tamil Nadu government has allocated ₹1,000 crore for the improvement of roads in village panchayats and panchayat unions under the Mudhalvarin Grama Salaigal Membattu Thittam during the fiscal years 2025-26. This funding includes ₹344 crore from the Scheme Component of Pooled Assigned Revenue (SCPAR), ₹200 crore from the Capital Grant Fund (CGF) (District), ₹300 crore from the CGF (State), and ₹156 crore from the CGF (Other District Roads). The initiative, announced by the Chief Minister in June 2023, aims to enhance 10,000 km of panchayat union roads between 2024-25 and 2025-26, with a total budget of ₹4,000 crore. In 2024-25, 1,963 road improvement projects covering 2,435 km were initiated, and an additional 746 roads were taken up earlier this year. The government plans to undertake approximately 2,500 km of road improvements in 2025-26.

Heritage (1)

Historic Aluva-Munnar Road Reemerges as a Major Issue in Idukki

The Aluva-Munnar Road, historically known as the Royal Road, has become a significant issue in Idukki district. This road, which was washed away during the 1924 floods, connects Ernakulam and Munnar and has been a subject of public demand for reopening. A joint action council organized a protest march on the road, led by Idukki MP Dean Kuriakose, Kothamangalam MLA Antony John, and former Kothamangalam bishop Mar George Punnakkottil. The Forest Department filed a case against the bishop and participants, leading to further protests by the Kothamangalam and Idukki dioceses. Fr. Jose Kulathur, Chancellor of the Kothamangalam diocese, accused the Forest Department of illegally encroaching on the PWD-owned road. Historically, the road was developed in the early 20th century to facilitate tea exports from Munnar to Kochi. Despite being washed away in 1924, it remains a point of contention due to its shorter route compared to the current Neryamangalam road. Forest Minister A.K. Saseendran stated in the Assembly that reopening the road would require passing through 26 km of deep forest, potentially increasing human-wildlife conflicts. Bishop Mar George Madathikandathil criticized the Forest Department for its stance, vowing to continue the protest.

Miscellaneous (5)

72 School Staff Accused Under POCSO Act; Minister Vows Strict Action

In a recent press conference, Minister for General Education V. Sivankutty revealed that 72 teaching and non-teaching staff from government and aided schools are facing accusations under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The Minister emphasized that no one would be protected, and stringent action would be taken against the accused. The files of these individuals are currently pending with the Director of General Education (DGE), Shanavas S., who has been instructed to investigate the matter thoroughly. Additionally, the Minister addressed issues of exam malpractice, including the circulation of question papers through WhatsApp groups and YouTube channels. The DGE has been tasked with collecting details of these activities, which will be handed over to the police and cyber cell. The department has previously taken strict action against similar malpractices, including arresting individuals involved in question paper leaks and dismissing concerned teachers. To further prevent exam malpractice, the Minister has deployed observers in districts to conduct surprise inspections in schools. Cases of malpractice detected during these inspections will be addressed by the examination board at the time of result declaration.

Amazon India Launches Yamare Lake Restoration Project to Enhance Water Security

Amazon India, in collaboration with the local environmental organization SayTrees, has initiated a restoration project at Yamare Lake near Sarjapur Road. The project aims to rejuvenate the lake, which has suffered significant degradation due to its past use as a waste disposal site. The restoration efforts are expected to increase the lake's water volume from less than one acre to approximately 21 acres, transforming it into a thriving ecosystem. This initiative is part of Amazon's broader goal to enhance water availability, groundwater infiltration, and long-term water security in the region. Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar emphasized the importance of corporate stewardship in addressing environmental challenges, particularly in light of Karnataka's severe drought last year, which has heightened concerns over Bengaluru's water security. The project is projected to replenish over 270 liters of water annually, benefiting the local community and aligning with Amazon's commitment to return more water to Indian communities than it uses by 2027.

ICAI to Conduct CA Final Exams Three Times Annually Starting 2025

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) announced on March 27, 2025, that the CA Final exams will be conducted three times a year starting from 2025, replacing the previous two-exam format. This decision aligns with global best practices and aims to provide students with more opportunities to attempt the exams. The exams will now be held in January, May, and September, similar to the Intermediate and Foundation course exams, which were already transitioned to a thrice-yearly schedule. Additionally, the Post Qualification Course in Information Systems Audit will also see its assessment tests conducted three times a year in February, June, and October, enhancing accessibility for members. The 26th Council of the ICAI made this historic decision during the 441st Council Meeting held at ICAI HQ in New Delhi.

Freight Train Derailment Near Tambaram Railway Station Disrupts Services in Chennai

On March 27, 2025, a freight train derailed near Tambaram railway station in Chennai, causing delays to several express trains bound for Villupuram from Chennai Egmore. The freight train, which was transporting cars, was involved in shunting operations between Tambaram and Sanatorium railway stations. While moving at a slow speed on the shunting line, three empty coaches derailed as it approached Tambaram station. Railway maintenance staff were immediately deployed to restore the derailed coaches and ensure the resumption of normal services. Senior officials from the Chennai division of Southern Railway were present at the site to oversee the restoration process. Safety concerns prompted delays to express trains traveling from Chennai Egmore to various destinations via Villupuram.

IIT Ropar Student Dies by Suicide Amid Academic Pressure; Body Flown to Hyderabad

Arun Marymesi, a 23-year-old final-year Metallurgical and Materials Engineering student at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Ropar in Punjab, tragically passed away on March 22, 2024, at the Post-Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh. He had consumed poison in his hostel room a week prior, and despite expressing regret and a desire to live during his final moments, he succumbed to the effects. Arun’s body was flown from Chandigarh to Hyderabad in a cargo flight on March 25 and later taken to his home in Ramapuram village, Nandyal district, Andhra Pradesh. His family, devastated by the loss, called for government intervention to address such incidents. Arun had been struggling with academic pressures, including a low GATE score and four backlogs, which reportedly led to his decision. This was not his first attempt at self-harm, as he had previously tried to harm himself six months earlier. The incident has raised concerns about the mental health support systems in place at IITs, particularly for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, and the easy accessibility of toxic substances online.

Economy (4)

YES India Ships First Locally Manufactured Semiconductor Tool from Coimbatore

Yield Engineering Systems (YES), a provider of materials and interface engineering equipment solutions, is set to ship its first commercial ‘VeroTherm Formic Acid Reflow’ tool to a leading global semiconductor manufacturer from its manufacturing facility in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. This marks the first time that equipment for advanced semiconductor applications, such as High Bandwidth Memory (HBM) crucial for AI and High-Performance Computing (HPC), has been produced in India. YES India, which began operations in Coimbatore three years ago, inaugurated its manufacturing plant in September 2023 and plans to expand its facility with an investment of over ₹500 crore in the next five years. The Coimbatore facility is designed to meet the growing demand for YES’s solutions, including VertaCureTM, VerothermTM, and VeroFlexTM systems for advanced wafer and panel-level packaging applications. The company aims to ship 15-20 similar tools in 2025 for global clients. Tamil Nadu’s Minister for Industries, T.R.B. Rajaa, highlighted the state’s commitment to becoming a global semiconductor hub, with the TN Budget 2025 announcing semiconductor manufacturing parks in Sulur and Palladam under a new ₹500-crore Semiconductor Mission. S. Krishnan, Secretary of MEITy, emphasized that this shipment signifies a significant milestone for India’s semiconductor industry.

Dr. T.M. Thomas Isaac Advocates for Increased Women’s Workforce Participation in Kerala

Former Finance Minister of Kerala and advisor of the Vijnana Keralam project, Dr. T.M. Thomas Isaac, emphasized the importance of increasing women’s workforce participation for the state’s progress. While male workforce participation in Kerala stands at 70%, women’s participation remains below 40%. Dr. Isaac highlighted that this gender employment gap could be reduced by enhancing job skills and opportunities for women. He spoke at a discussion titled “Employment and Growth – A Dialogue with Dr. T.M. Thomas Isaac,” organized as part of the HR Conclave led by Vijnana Kerala (Thrissur) on April 26, 2023. The event aimed to address employment challenges and featured participation from HR representatives of local companies. Among the 1,53,000 jobseekers registered in the district, training and support will be provided to participants of the upcoming Mega Job Fair in Thrissur. Additionally, 24 job stations and 94 facilitation centers have been established across the district to assist job seekers. The program was explained by M.A. Sumi, Associate Director of K-DISC (Kerala Development and Innovation Strategic Council). The event was attended by District Industries Centre Deputy Director Linu George, Kerala Small Scale Industries Association Secretary Nobi Joseph, and Thrissur Management Association Senior Vice-President C. Padmakumar.

Karnataka High Court Limits Pension Deduction to 50% for Retired Bank Employee

The Karnataka High Court has criticized a public sector bank for deducting the entire monthly pension of a retired employee to recover a defaulted loan. The court ruled that such an action violates Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty. The petitioner, 70-year-old Murugan O.K., a retired Canara Bank employee from Kerala, had taken two housing loans during his service and was a guarantor for his daughter’s educational loan. After retiring in 2014, he was allowed to repay the remaining loan through EMIs. However, due to missed payments, the bank began deducting his entire pension from July 2024, leaving him with no income. The court noted that bank regulations do not permit the recovery of the entire pension unless the employee is convicted of serious crimes. It emphasized that pension is a deferred payment for services rendered and is essential for the economic security of retirees. The court allowed the bank to deduct only 50% of the pension, in line with the norm for active employees, and permitted the bank to use other legal measures to recover the loan.

CM Naidu Approves ₹28 Crore Arrears Payment for Kovur Sugar Factory Workers

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has announced the disbursement of ₹28 crore in pending arrears to the workers of the Kovur Co-operative Sugar Factory, benefiting 466 workers and their families. During the collectors’ conference, SPSR Nellore District Collector O. Anand highlighted the issue of unpaid dues, prompting the Chief Minister to direct Dr. N. Yuvaraj, Secretary of the Industries & Commerce department, to ensure the payments are made. Additionally, the 124-acre land of the factory will be transferred to the Andhra Pradesh Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (APIIC) for the establishment of new industries. The factory, established in 1979, ceased operations in 2013 due to economic difficulties, leaving workers without salaries. Nellore MP Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy and Kovur MLA Vemireddy Prashanthi Reddy expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for fulfilling the election promise made during the 2024 campaign.

Awards (1)

Shaju Puthoor Receives Senior Fellowship from Ministry of Culture

Shaju Puthoor, a renowned writer and former Principal of Shanta Higher Secondary School, Avanur, has been awarded a senior fellowship by the Ministry of Culture. The fellowship, granted in the Malayalam literature category, includes a financial grant of ₹5 lakh over a two-year period. Puthoor, who has previously received the State Teacher Award in 2011 and the National Teacher Award in 2015, is also a former Research Scholar at the Kerala Sahitya Akademi and has authored four books. This recognition highlights his significant contributions to literature and education.

Ranks & Reports (1)

Karnataka's 2024 Tiger Census Reports 393 Tigers in Five Reserves

The Karnataka Forest Department has released the 2024 Phase IV monitoring report, revealing the presence of 393 tigers in the state's five tiger reserves: Bandipur, Nagarahole, Bhadra, Biligiri Ranganathaswamy Temple (BRT), and Kali (Dandeli-Amshi). This marks a slight decline from previous years, with 408 tigers in 2023, 417 in 2022, and 472 in 2018. The survey, conducted from November 2023 to February 2024, utilized 2,160 camera traps, capturing 6.1 million wildlife images. AI-based software was employed to identify individual tigers using their unique stripe patterns. The report, titled 'Annual Report on Status of Tigers, Prey, and other Mammals-Karnataka 2024,' was released by Karnataka's Minister for Forests, Environment, and Ecology, Eshwar B. Khandre. Officials attributed the fluctuation in tiger numbers to dispersal movements, as tigers have been observed moving across landscapes and establishing territories in adjoining habitats. The All India Tiger Estimation (AITE) 2022, which covers a broader landscape, estimated Karnataka's tiger population at 563, indicating a stable overall population. The next AITE exercise in 2026 is expected to provide further clarity on tiger distribution.

Sports (1)

Kodava Hockey Festival Celebrates 25 Years with Guinness World Record and Women’s Tournament

The Kodava Hockey Festival, celebrating its 25th anniversary, is set to take place from March 28 to April 27, 2024, across three grounds in Madikeri, Kodagu district, Karnataka. Originally conceptualized in 1997 by Pandanda Kuttappa, a former State Bank of India employee and hockey referee, the festival aims to unite the Kodava community through the sport of hockey. Kodagu, often referred to as the cradle of Indian hockey, has produced over 50 national players, including seven Olympians. The festival, which began modestly with 60 participating families, has grown significantly over the years, earning a place in the Limca Book of Records and, in 2024, achieving a Guinness World Record for the largest field hockey tournament with 360 teams. This year’s event, hosted by the Muddanda family, includes special celebrations such as a women’s tournament, quiz contests, a cyclothon, and rifle shooting. The festival torch, akin to the Olympic torch, will be carried to ancestral houses of former host families. Beyond sports, the festival serves as a cultural reunion, fostering community bonding, trade discussions, and matrimonial alliances. Despite its global recognition, the event faces challenges due to inadequate infrastructure, prompting calls for enhanced government support to develop permanent hockey facilities.

📜 One-Line Summary of Today's News

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra praised Kerala panchayats for their efficiency during disasters and inaugurated Aspirational Districts Programme-funded projects in Wayanad.
The Tamil Nadu government has sanctioned ₹1,000 crore for improving rural roads under the Mudhalvarin Grama Salaigal Membattu Thittam, targeting 10,000 km of panchayat union roads by 2025-26.
The Aluva-Munnar Road, washed away in the 1924 floods, has sparked protests in Idukki district over demands for its reopening, with concerns raised about forest encroachment and human-wildlife conflicts.
The Panchamasali community has threatened agitation if BJP does not reverse the suspension of Basanagouda Patil R. Yatnal by April 10, alleging a conspiracy by B.Y. Vijayendra and B.S. Yediyurappa.
Minister V. Sivankutty announced stringent action against 72 school staff accused under the POCSO Act and addressed exam malpractice issues, including question paper leaks through WhatsApp and YouTube.
Karnataka Information Commissioner Ravindra Gurunath Dhakappa was arrested for accepting a ₹1 lakh bribe to deliver a favourable order in an RTI case.
YES India has shipped its first locally manufactured semiconductor tool from Coimbatore, marking a significant milestone in India’s semiconductor industry.
Amazon India, in partnership with SayTrees, is restoring Yamare Lake to increase its water volume to 21 acres, aiming to improve water security and benefit local communities.
Shaju Puthoor, a writer and former principal, has been awarded a senior fellowship by the Ministry of Culture for his contributions to Malayalam literature.
Dr. T.M. Thomas Isaac emphasized the need to boost women’s workforce participation in Kerala, addressing the gender employment gap at an HR Conclave event in Thrissur.
Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that the State government does not recognize news portal workers as journalists, following the arrest of a portal reporter for unrelated charges.
Assistant and guest lecturers of Karnatak University are protesting for the implementation of a 2022 decision to increase their remuneration and other demands.
The ICAI announced that CA Final exams will be conducted three times a year from 2025 to align with global practices and provide students with more opportunities.
Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu reaffirmed his government's commitment to protecting waqf properties and enhancing minority welfare, citing historical initiatives and budgetary allocations.
A freight train derailment near Tambaram railway station on March 27, 2025, delayed express train services and prompted immediate restoration efforts by Southern Railway officials.
The Karnataka High Court ruled that a public sector bank cannot deduct more than 50% of a retired employee’s pension to recover a defaulted loan, citing constitutional and regulatory violations.
BJP leader B. Gopalakrishnan publicly apologized to CPI(M) leader P. K. Sreemathi for making unsubstantiated allegations against her during her tenure as Kerala's Health Minister.
The Kochi Corporation Budget for 2025–26 was passed amid Opposition protests over CSR fund omissions and plans for health schemes for municipal workers.
Karnataka's 2024 Phase IV monitoring report reveals 393 tigers in five reserves, with fluctuations attributed to dispersal movements, while the All India Tiger Estimation 2022 estimated the state's tiger population at 563.
The Kodava Hockey Festival, celebrating its 25th anniversary, achieved a Guinness World Record and introduced a women’s tournament, uniting the Kodava community through sport and culture.
Congress MLA Vijayanand Kashappanavar refuses to support a Panchamasali protest against BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal’s suspension, criticizing the seer’s political interference.
Punjab Police has intensified its anti-drug campaign, focusing on dismantling high-level narcotics networks and forming 'Mohalla Committees' in urban areas to combat drug abuse collectively.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has approved the payment of ₹28 crore in arrears to workers of the Kovur Co-operative Sugar Factory, benefiting 466 employees and their families.
Bengaluru City Police Commissionerate may expand by merging three rural police stations and parts of two others due to urbanisation and changing crime patterns.
A final-year IIT Ropar student, Arun Marymesi, died by suicide due to academic stress, raising concerns about mental health support in educational institutions.

🎯 MCQs with Explanations

Who conceptualized the Kodava Hockey Festival?
Pandanda K. Bopanna
Rashin Subbaiah
Pandanda Kuttappa
Ajjinikanda Mahesh Nachaiah
Explanation: Pandanda Kuttappa, a former State Bank of India employee and hockey referee, conceptualized the festival in 1997.
What was the amount of bribe demanded by the accused in the Karnataka Information Commission case?
₹1 lakh
₹2 lakh
₹3 lakh
₹4 lakh
Explanation: The accused demanded ₹3 lakh to deliver a favourable order.
What is the primary focus of Punjab Police\'s anti-drug campaign as of March 2025?
Arresting street-level peddlers
Targeting high-level drug networks
Increasing drug supply
Promoting drug use
Explanation: Punjab Police has shifted focus to dismantling high-level drug networks by targeting key suppliers and kingpins.
Where did the freight train derail on March 27, 2025?
Chennai Egmore
Tambaram
Villupuram
Sanatorium
Explanation: The freight train derailed near Tambaram railway station in Chennai.
Where did Arun Marymesi, the IIT Ropar student, pass away?
PGIMER, Chandigarh
AIIMS, Delhi
Apollo Hospital, Hyderabad
Fortis Hospital, Mohali
Explanation: Arun Marymesi passed away at the Post-Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh.
What is the financial grant associated with the senior fellowship awarded to Shaju Puthoor?
₹2 lakh
₹3 lakh
₹5 lakh
₹10 lakh
Explanation: The senior fellowship includes a financial grant of ₹5 lakh over a two-year period.
How many school staff members are accused under the POCSO Act, as per Minister V. Sivankutty?
50
62
72
80
Explanation: Minister V. Sivankutty stated that 72 teaching and non-teaching staff are accused under the POCSO Act.
What is the significance of the Kodava Hockey Festival in 2024?
It celebrated its 10th anniversary
It achieved a Guinness World Record
It introduced a cricket tournament
It was held for the first time
Explanation: In 2024, the Kodava Hockey Festival achieved a Guinness World Record for the largest field hockey tournament.
Who is the seer of Kudalasangama Panchamasali Mutt mentioned in the news?
B.S. Yediyurappa
Sri Basava Jaya Mrutyunjay Swami
B.Y. Vijayendra
Basanagouda Patil R. Yatnal
Explanation: Sri Basava Jaya Mrutyunjay Swami is the seer of Kudalasangama Panchamasali Mutt.
Which State Chief Minister clarified that news portal workers are not recognized as journalists?
Uttar Pradesh
Assam
Maharashtra
Karnataka
Explanation: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma made the clarification.
Which fund contributes ₹300 crore to the Mudhalvarin Grama Salaigal Membattu Thittam?
SCPAR
CGF (District)
CGF (State)
CGF (Other District Roads)
Explanation: The Capital Grant Fund (CGF) (State) contributes ₹300 crore to the scheme.
Who is the Acting Vice-Chancellor of Karnatak University who met the protestors?
Mohan Siddhanti
Jayashree S.
Laxman Bakkai
Sharanu Mushtigeri
Explanation: Jayashree S. is the Acting Vice-Chancellor of Karnatak University who attempted to convince the protestors to withdraw their agitation.
Which organization will receive the 124-acre land of the Kovur Sugar Factory for industrial development?
NITI Aayog
APIIC
SEBI
NABARD
Explanation: The Andhra Pradesh Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (APIIC) will receive the land for establishing new industries.
Which ministry awarded Shaju Puthoor the senior fellowship?
Ministry of Education
Ministry of Culture
Ministry of Human Resource Development
Ministry of Home Affairs
Explanation: Shaju Puthoor was awarded the senior fellowship by the Ministry of Culture.
In which months will the CA Final exams be held from 2025 onwards?
January, April, September
January, May, September
February, June, October
March, July, November
Explanation: The CA Final exams will be conducted in January, May, and September starting from 2025.

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