Important News - 2025-03-28
28 March 2025
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Miscellaneous (5)
Davangere Doctors Save Man After Toilet Cleaner Ingestion in Six-Hour Surgery
Doctors at S.S. Narayana Super Speciality Centre in Davangere successfully saved the life of a 40-year-old man who consumed toilet cleaner in a suicide attempt. The patient was in critical condition upon arrival, having ingested hydrochloric acid and other toxic chemicals. A team led by surgical gastroenterologist R.K. Hanumanth Naik performed a six-hour surgery, including a total gastrectomy, cervical esophagostomy, and feeding jejunostomy, to address severe stomach injuries. The patient remained on ventilator support for six days and was later discharged in stable condition. The successful outcome was attributed to the collaborative efforts of a dedicated medical team.
IIMB 50th Convocation Highlights Couples’ Academic Journeys and Personal Bonds
The Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB) celebrated its 50th convocation on Friday, highlighting inspiring stories of couples who pursued their MBA degrees while maintaining strong personal bonds. Pawan Gupta and Sangita Bhakat, who first met in 2018, chose different IIMs—IIMB and IIM Calcutta respectively—to pursue their MBA programmes. Despite being apart, they stayed connected through late-night calls and shared their journey of academic and personal growth. Saurabh Arya and Nimisha Sut, another couple, graduated from IIMB and IIM Ahmedabad, respectively, balancing their studies with family commitments. Shivangi Rajora and Ashish Singh Bhandari, who met during their PhD studies at IIMB, supported each other through their academic journeys and later got married. These stories underscore the dedication and resilience of individuals pursuing higher education while nurturing relationships.
Andhra Pradesh Reschedules Class 10 Social Studies Exam to April 1 Due to Eid Holiday
The Class 10 Social Studies examination in Andhra Pradesh has been rescheduled to April 1 due to the declaration of March 31 as a public holiday for Eid-ul-Fitr (Ramzan). School Education Director V. Rama Raju announced this change and instructed officials to inform all relevant stakeholders about the new date. Additionally, officials were advised not to collect examination materials on March 31. Meanwhile, the Biology examination was conducted peacefully on Friday, with 6,27,673 out of 6,36,241 registered students appearing for the test. The examination was held across 3,450 centers, with 1,376 centers inspected by flying squads. In Chittoor district, a student was debarred for copying, and the responsible invigilator was suspended. The examination process otherwise proceeded smoothly across all districts.
New Tambaram-Rameswaram Train Service via Tiruvarur Announced
The announcement of a new train service from Tambaram to Rameswaram via Tiruvarur and Thiruthuraipoondi has been widely welcomed by rail users, particularly those in the east delta region. This service, set to be flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 6 during the inauguration of the new Pamban bridge, aims to enhance connectivity between Chennai and Rameswaram. The train will pass through key locations such as Tiruvarur, Thiruthuraipoondi, Adirampattinam, Pattukottai, and Peravurani in the delta region, as well as Aranthangi. Rail user associations have requested stops at additional stations, including Muthupet, Adirampattinam, Pattukottai, Peravurani, and Aranthangi, to further benefit local commuters. The Tiruvarur District Rail Passengers Welfare Association has expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Modi, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, and Union Minister L. Murugan for addressing this demand. They have also urged the railway administration to provide halts at Peralam, Muthupet, Adirampattinam, and Peravurani.
Rising Human-Carnivore Conflicts in Nilgiris: Causes and Solutions
Recent incidents of human-carnivore conflicts in the Nilgiris, resulting in the deaths of two individuals within two weeks, have raised concerns about the underlying causes. Since 2019, nine people have been killed in encounters with tigers and leopards in the region. Experts attribute these incidents to a combination of factors, including rising carnivore populations, habitat loss, fragmentation, and a lack of viable prey. Notably, one animal, identified as MDT-23 (Mudumalai Tiger-23), is suspected of causing four deaths. Most incidents occur in 'interface-areas' where human and animal habitats overlap. Conservationists emphasize the need for grassland restoration, habitat improvement, and early-warning systems to mitigate conflicts. Local NGOs are also urged to collaborate with communities to adopt best practices for coexistence with wildlife.
Economy (3)
BEML Secures ₹405 Crore Order for Metro Trainsets Under Namma Metro Phase 2
BEML Limited has secured an additional order worth ₹405 crore from the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) for the supply of seven metro trainsets (42 cars) under Phase 2 of the Namma Metro project. This order increases the total number of trainsets ordered from BEML to 60, comprising 360 metro cars. The trainsets, designed and developed by BEML’s in-house engineering teams in Bengaluru, feature a six-car driverless configuration and are built using high-tensile Austenitic stainless steel for enhanced durability, safety, and passenger comfort. Each car is equipped with two roof-mounted air conditioners for optimal travel experience. BEML has incorporated cutting-edge technology in the trainsets, including an IP-based Passenger Announcement (PA) and Passenger Information System (PIS), a Passenger Saloon Surveillance System (PSSS) for real-time station updates, and an LCD-based dynamic route map display. The trainsets also feature electrically driven automatic doors synchronized with Platform Screen Doors for improved passenger safety. This latest order extends contract 5RS-DM, which was originally awarded to BEML in August 2023 in a globally competitive bid valued at approximately ₹3,177 crore. The metro expansion under Phases 2, 2A, and 2B is expected to significantly enhance Bengaluru’s metro network.
BYD Plans First Indian Electric Vehicle Plant in Telangana, Awaits Government Approval
Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD (Build Your Dreams) is planning to establish its first manufacturing plant in India, with Telangana emerging as the likely location. The project, which is awaiting approval from the Indian and Chinese governments, is expected to be a significant investment, potentially one of the largest in Telangana across industries. The plant is anticipated to create thousands of jobs and foster the growth of a component manufacturing ecosystem. Telangana’s progressive policies, central location, and early focus on electric mobility are key factors in its favor. The Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) will play a crucial role in granting the necessary clearances. Other states like Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra are also in contention for the project. The initiative aligns with the Indian government’s broader strategy to attract foreign investments, particularly from China, amid improving bilateral relations. The project was previously stalled due to tensions following the Galwan Valley clash in 2020. BYD’s entry into India could pave the way for more Chinese companies to invest in the country. The Telangana government, led by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, is actively working to attract global investors by offering land and infrastructure support. The proposed site for the plant is near Olectra’s electric bus facility in Chandanvelly, with potential alternative locations also under consideration. This development coincides with Tesla’s active consideration of entering the Indian market.
Telangana Budget 2025-26 Faces Criticism for Underfunding Key Sectors
The Telangana Budget for 2025-26, presented by the Congress government, has been criticized by State BJP president and Union Minister of Coal and Mines, G. Kishan Reddy, for insufficient allocations to key sectors such as health, education, agriculture, and rural development. Reddy highlighted that the education budget remains significantly lower than the national average of 15%, while healthcare received only 4.8% of the total budget. Rural development was allocated a mere 4.1%, and the agriculture budget saw a drastic 48% reduction compared to the previous year. Reddy also pointed out that the 2023-24 budget estimates of ₹2,39,455 crore fell short by 29%, with actual receipts at ₹1,69,329 crore, and a revenue balance drop of 84%. He accused the government of poor fiscal planning and urged a reassessment of priorities to ensure inclusive growth and long-term prosperity for Telangana.
Schemes (5)
Karnataka to Establish Foreign Language Labs in Nursing Colleges for Global Job Opportunities
To improve the global employability of nursing students, the Karnataka government has announced the establishment of foreign language laboratories in all nursing colleges. Medical Education and Skill Development Minister Dr. Sharan Prakash Patil made this announcement during the inauguration of the physiotherapy building at Dr. B.R. Ambedkar College of Physiotherapy. He highlighted the increasing international demand for skilled nurses and allied health professionals, particularly from countries like Germany, Italy, Japan, and the UAE. These hospitals require candidates proficient in their native languages. To address this, nursing students will have the option to learn German, Japanese, Italian, and English during their course period. Dr. Patil also emphasized the need to eliminate substandard paramedical and nursing colleges and encouraged professional medical colleges to introduce allied health sciences courses on their campuses to ensure high-quality education with robust teaching and infrastructure.
Kozhikode District Panchayat Launches '02 Million Pledge' Campaign Against Substance Abuse
The Kozhikode district panchayat has announced a comprehensive mass awareness campaign to combat substance abuse, supported by three-tier panchayats and various socio-cultural and political organisations. The campaign will include a mass oath-taking session, titled the '02 Million Pledge', where two million citizens will express solidarity with anti-drug activities. To plan the campaign, a meeting of three-tier panchayat heads and leaders of prominent organisations will be held in the first week of April. Ward-level grama sabhas will be convened in all grama panchayats to discuss the programmes, followed by panchayat-level meetings of political parties, voluntary organisations, and social activists. The ground-level meetings are scheduled to conclude by the second week of April, with the first public convention set for the first week of May. District panchayat president Sheeja Sasi has coordinated with various government departments, including Health, Youth Welfare, and Social Justice, to ensure their cooperation. The campaign also includes the formation of local vigilance committees and quick response teams to intensify efforts against drug trafficking and abuse.
Minister P. Narayana Prioritizes ₹823 Crore Projects for Kakinada District
Municipal Administration and Urban Development Minister and Kakinada district In-charge Minister P. Narayana announced plans to expedite two major projects in Kakinada district during a review meeting on Friday. The first project involves the proposed ₹500 crore renovation of the Government General Hospital (GGH) in Kakinada. The second project, costing ₹323 crore, aims to prevent coastal erosion through the Uppada geotube initiative. Narayana emphasized that both projects would be prioritized for Central funding. Collector S. Shan Mohan noted that the State government has yet to approve the Uppada geotube project for submission to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). Additionally, Narayana directed officials to prevent pollution of agricultural crops and groundwater resources caused by aquaculture, which spans over 23,000 acres in the district. The meeting was attended by Kakinada Urban Development Authority Chairman Tummala Ramaswamy, MLAs Vanamadi Venkateswara Rao, and Pantham Nanaji.
BJP Launches Outreach Campaigns to Promote Central Government Schemes
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has decided to launch ground-level outreach campaigns to ensure wider dissemination of Central government schemes. This decision was taken during the first meeting of the BJP’s core committee after Rajeev Chandrasekhar assumed the role of State president. The party aims to address the issue of people missing out on these schemes due to the State government’s perceived reluctance to implement them. BJP State general secretary P. Sudheer announced that help desks will be established in all district offices by April 15 to facilitate access to Central schemes. The party plans to distribute pamphlets containing detailed information about the Union government’s assistance to the State. Additionally, the BJP has completed the reconstitution of its booth and mandalam committees, with district committees set to be reconstituted by April 15, emphasizing greater inclusion of women and youth. The party also highlighted its efforts to increase the honorarium of Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) in BJP-ruled panchayats and municipalities, urging the Chief Minister to address ASHAs’ demands.
Minister Directs Kidwai Institute to Admit EWS Patients as In-Patients During Health Investigation Wait
Sharan Prakash Patil, Minister for Medical Education and Skill Development, has issued a directive to the Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology (KMIO) in Bengaluru to admit patients from economically weaker sections (EWS) as in-patients during the waiting period for final health investigation reports. This decision, officially implemented during the minister’s visit to KMIO on November 10, 2023, aims to alleviate the financial burden on patients who travel long distances, especially from northern Karnataka, for medical check-ups. Previously, KMIO allocated beds only after final diagnosis, leaving patients without accommodation during the interim period. The minister highlighted that over 90% of KMIO’s patients belong to the Below Poverty Line (BPL) category and cannot afford private accommodation in Bengaluru. To address this, KMIO will provide consent forms for patients opting for in-patient admission during the 1-2 days required for issuing final reports. While KMIO already offers free accommodation and meals at its ‘Dharmashala’, the minister stressed that hospital wards should be prioritized when beds are available. Additionally, KMIO has been directed to convert Shantidhama (special ward) and Aniketana (semi-special ward) into general wards to accommodate more patients. This initiative ensures that economically disadvantaged patients receive necessary care and comfort during critical health investigations.
Festivals (1)
‘Mohan Sandhya’ Music Programme to Feature Poly Varghese and Renowned Artists
The music programme ‘Mohan Sandhya,’ led by Poly Varghese, a renowned exponent of the mohan veena, will take place on Saturday at 6:30 p.m. at Ganesham Soorya Nataka Kalari in Thycaud. The event will feature performances by artists Naresh Madgaonkar, Punit Gadekar, and Mahendra Chari, who will showcase their skills on instruments such as the mohan veena, santoor, tabla, and pakhawaj. Admission to the programme is free, offering an opportunity for music enthusiasts to enjoy a rich cultural experience.
Politics (8)
Activists Oppose Deocha Pachami Coal Mining Project in West Bengal
Civil rights organizations have raised concerns over the proposed Deocha Pachami coal mining project in West Bengal's Birbhum district, alleging that locals are being subjected to threats and surveillance by the police. Activists, including Anuradha Talwar of Paschim Banga Khet Majoor Samity, argue that residents should have the right to oppose the project, which is expected to displace thousands of families. The situation has drawn comparisons to past land acquisition disputes in Singur and Nandigram during the Left Front government. An interim report by Paschim Banga Khet Majoor Samity and Shramjibi Mahila Samity highlights instances of intimidation, including nighttime detentions and obstruction of human rights activists. The ₹35,000 crore project, announced by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on February 6, 2024, is touted as the largest coal block in India and the second-largest globally. Critics, including Subha Protim Roy Chowdhury and Udbhas Das, emphasize the lack of environmental impact assessments and detailed project reports, questioning the relocation of forest trees and the displacement of tribal communities. Activists like Jui Koley stress the need for improving existing facilities, such as sanitation and education, rather than uprooting residents.
Rahul Gandhi Criticizes Govt. for Inaction on Rising Drug Menace Among Youth
Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, raised concerns on Friday about the growing drug menace in India, particularly among the youth. In a post on X, he highlighted that India has 2.3 crore opioid users and nearly 1 crore inhalant users, a number exceeding the entire population of Haryana. Gandhi criticized the government for its apparent unwillingness to address this crisis, which he described as a threat to an entire generation. He emphasized the need for societal collaboration to combat the epidemic, addressing root causes such as unemployment, hopelessness, and societal pressures. Gandhi’s remarks followed a meeting with a delegation of doctors and influencers from Kerala, who informed him about the escalating drug problem in the state, leading to increased crime, medical emergencies, and mental health issues. They stressed the urgent need for awareness campaigns, de-addiction centers, and counselors to tackle the issue.
Mayawati Criticizes SP Over Rana Sanga Controversy and Dalit Exploitation
Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) president Mayawati criticized the Samajwadi Party (SP) for engaging in what she termed as 'dirty politics' over the Rana Sanga controversy. She accused the SP of exploiting Dalit leaders for political gains and cautioned Dalits against such tactics. Mayawati referenced past incidents, including the June 2, 1995, Lucknow State Guest House attack during the Mulayam Singh Yadav-led government, urging the SP leadership to reflect on their actions. She emphasized that the SP should cease using the Agra incident to further oppress Dalits. Meanwhile, protests and counter-protests erupted in Uttar Pradesh following SP MP Ramji Lal Suman's remarks about Rana Sanga, with ABVP activists staging demonstrations across the state. Suman, a Dalit leader in the Rajya Sabha, defended his statement linking Rana Sanga to Babur's arrival in India, refusing to apologize and asserting that historical facts cannot be denied. Rana Sanga, also known as Sangram Singh I, ruled Mewar from 1508 to 1528.
BJP Karnataka Rebels Appeal to High Command to Revoke Yatnal’s Expulsion
Rebel leaders within the Karnataka unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) convened on Friday to discuss the expulsion of senior MLA Basanagouda R. Patil Yatnal, who was removed from the party for six years due to alleged anti-party activities. The meeting, held at former Davangere MP G.M. Siddeshwar’s residence in Bengaluru, included prominent party MLAs such as Ramesh Jarkiholi, B.P. Harish, and Kumar Bangarappa. The group decided to appeal to the BJP high command to reconsider Yatnal’s expulsion, emphasizing that their actions were in the interest of the party. They also addressed the show-cause notice issued to MLA B.P. Harish, providing him with legal and political guidance to draft his response. The rebels clarified that they are not forming a new political outfit but are committed to strengthening the BJP in Karnataka ahead of the 2028 elections. They also expressed hope for changes in the state leadership, particularly regarding the removal of B.Y. Vijayendra as the state unit chief.
Chhattisgarh Amends Property Registration Law for Gender-Neutral Rights
The Chhattisgarh government has amended the colonial-era Registration Act, 1908, through the Registration (Chhattisgarh Amendment) Bill, 2025, to replace the term 'son' with the gender-neutral 'child' in adoption deeds. This change aims to ensure equal rights for both sons and daughters in property registration. The amendment, approved by the State Assembly during the recent Budget Session, also focuses on simplifying and making the property registration process more transparent by leveraging information technology. States like Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka have previously made similar amendments. The cabinet approved the Bill earlier this month, emphasizing improvements in the ease of doing business in the state.
Youth Congress Leader Muzamill Attar Booked for Provocative Social Media Posts
The Belagavi Police have registered a case against Muzamill Attar, a 32-year-old Youth Congress leader, for allegedly posting provocative messages on social media. The messages included images of historical figures Tipu Sultan and Aurangzeb, accompanied by inflammatory lines and a song from the Hindi film 'Agnipath'. The case was filed by the Police Department's social media monitoring team, which flagged the content as potentially inciting unrest. The incident has drawn attention to the increasing scrutiny of social media posts for provocative or divisive content.
Priyanka Gandhi Advocates Sustainable Tourism and Tribal Welfare in Wayanad
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Congress general secretary and Wayanad MP, emphasized the importance of balancing tourism growth with environmental conservation during her address at a tourism convention organized by the Association of Tourism Trade Organisations India (ATTOI) in Sulthan Bathery on March 28. She urged stakeholders to rebuild confidence in Wayanad as a tourist destination following the devastating landslides of July 2023. Vadra highlighted the need to respect nature, which she termed as the core asset of tourism. Earlier, she inaugurated the 50-acre Kattunaika Unnathi Cultural Centre, developed under the Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) initiated by A.K. Antony during his tenure as a Rajya Sabha member. Vadra also pledged to address issues faced by tribal communities, including drinking water shortages, poor road infrastructure, and wild animal attacks. She assured efforts to expedite a 12-km road project and secure the installation of crash guard iron fencing. Additionally, Vadra laid foundation stones for various projects in Thavinjal grama panchayat, including a model Anganwadi, a wayside restroom, a women’s cafeteria, and a park. She later inaugurated a newly constructed football turf at MAMO College in Manassery, Kozhikode district.
BJP May Take Action Against MLAs Somashekar and Hebbar, Says Opposition Leader
Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, the Leader of the Opposition in the Karnataka Legislative Council, has suggested that the BJP leadership might take disciplinary action against its MLAs S.T. Somashekar and Shivaram Hebbar. This comes after the party expelled rebel leader Basanagouda Patil Yatnal for six years. Narayanaswamy stated that the expulsion of Yatnal should serve as a warning to others, emphasizing that Yatnal had failed to correct his behavior despite earlier show cause notices. He also criticized Dalit organizations for not opposing Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar’s alleged statement on “changing the Constitution,” contrasting their silence with their usual protests against BJP leaders. Additionally, Narayanaswamy accused the Congress government of increasing prices of essential commodities like petrol, diesel, milk, and electricity, despite earlier assurances to the contrary. He claimed that the Congress government was focused on “honey trapping” rather than developmental work.
Defence (1)
BSF to Conduct Pension Adalat in Bengaluru on April 3
The Border Security Force (BSF) is set to organize a pension adalat on April 3 in Bengaluru, specifically for pensioners and family pensioners from Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh. The event will be held at the FTR HQ (SPL-OPS) Odisha in Bengaluru. To ensure accessibility, a videoconference facility will be arranged for those who cannot attend in person. For further details, pensioners can contact the ‘G’ Branch, Sector HQ BSF, located in Muttathara, Thiruvananthapuram. This initiative aims to address pension-related grievances and provide necessary support to the beneficiaries.
Books (1)
Centenary Seminar Celebrates Malayalam Translation of 'Les Misérables' as 'Pavangal'
The centenary celebration of the Malayalam translation of Victor Hugo’s Les Misérables, titled 'Pavangal,' was marked by a seminar organized by the Kerala Sahitya Akademi. Minister for Higher Education and Social Justice, R. Bindu, inaugurated the event, emphasizing the translation's pivotal role in shaping Kerala's literary and social landscape. Translated by Nalapat Narayana Menon, 'Pavangal' significantly influenced Malayali perspectives, challenging societal norms and highlighting themes of oppression and human suffering. Dr. Bindu highlighted its timeless relevance and its role in transforming Malayalis into global citizens. Writer and critic K.E.N. Kunjahammed described 'Pavangal' as a 'manifesto of humanity,' noting its impact on social thought in Kerala. Kerala Sahitya Akademi president K. Satchidanandan praised the translation for reshaping Malayalam literature and the Malayali psyche. The seminar featured presentations on the translation's influence on literature, prose, poetry, theatre, and cinema.
Heritage (1)
Compensation Disbursed for Bhadrachalam Temple Development Master Plan
The distribution of compensation cheques worth ₹34.45 crore to 40 families of land-losers for the development of Mada streets around the historic Sree Sitaramachandra Swamy temple in Bhadrachalam began on March 28, 2024. This initiative is part of the master plan for the comprehensive development of the temple, often referred to as ‘south Ayodhya’. Bhadrachalam Revenue Divisional Officer Damodar Rao handed over cheques worth ₹10.82 crore to 17 families on the first day, with the remaining cheques to be disbursed by March 29. The State government has sanctioned the funds to enhance the infrastructure around this significant heritage site.
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