Important News - 2025-03-29

29 March 2025

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Heritage (3)

UVCE’s New Campus Plan at Jnanabharathi Bio Park Faces Ecological Hurdles

A three-member committee led by Srinivas C., Registrar (Evaluation) of Bangalore University, has determined that the proposed site for the new campus of the University Visvesvaraya College of Engineering (UVCE) at the Jnanabharathi campus is unsuitable for construction. The site, identified for UVCE’s establishment as an autonomous institute on the IIT model at an estimated cost of ₹500 crore, has been a protected ‘Bio Park’ for over 25 years. The committee’s report emphasizes the ecological significance of the area, which includes diverse flora and fauna, including 150 tree species, 47 IUCN red-listed species, and a historical sandalwood reserve. The site also hosts 134 bird species, 64 butterfly species, and thousands of medicinal plants listed under the National Medicinal Plant Board. The report aligns with the National Forest Policy and UGC’s Nagar Vana Yojana, stating that diverting the land would violate the Biodiversity Act 2004 and Environmental Protection Act 1986, causing severe ecological damage. Despite the report, university sources claim it will not be submitted to the government, and there is no objection to UVCE’s establishment at Jnanabharathi.

Waqf Tribunal Questions Kerala Waqf Board's Opposition to Munambam Residents' Inclusion in Land Dispute Case

The Waqf Tribunal in Kozhikode has directed the Kerala State Waqf Board to clarify its legal authority to prevent residents of Munambam from joining a case filed by Farook College. The college had challenged the board's decision to classify 404 acres of land in Munambam as Waqf property. Two residents sought to be included in the case, which Farook College supported, but the Waqf Board opposed. The tribunal questioned the board's stance, especially since the petitioner had no objections, and scheduled the next hearing for April 3, 2023. The dispute dates back to the 1960s when 600 families in Munambam, Ernakulam district, purchased the land from Farook College, unaware it was Waqf property based on a 1950 deed. The Nissar Commission, appointed in 2009, later declared the land as Waqf property and deemed the sale illegal.

Maharashtra Approves ₹13.46 Crore for Tukaram Omble Memorial Under Rural Memorials Scheme

The Maharashtra government has approved ₹13.46 crore for the construction of a memorial dedicated to Ashok Chakra awardee and 26/11 hero Tukaram Omble in his native village, Kedambe, in Satara district. The project is funded under the state’s 'Establishment of Memorials for Great Personalities in Rural Areas' scheme. An initial amount of ₹2.7 crore, which is one-fifth of the total cost, will be released in the fiscal year 2025 to commence the construction. Tukaram Omble, a Mumbai Police sub-inspector, was posthumously awarded the Ashok Chakra, India’s highest peacetime gallantry award, for his exceptional bravery during the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. The memorial will honor his legacy and contributions to the nation.

Sports (1)

Hyderabad to Host 2027 Asian Karate Championship, Announces Mahesh Goud

The 2027 Asian Karate Championship will be hosted in Hyderabad, as announced by Mahesh Kumar Goud, TPCC chief and State Karate Association president, during the closing ceremony of the four-day national karate championship at Gachibowli stadium. Teams from Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, and Haryana emerged victorious in the national championship. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy emphasized the government's commitment to promoting sports, highlighting the establishment of a Sports University as a key initiative. Mr. Goud praised the Chief Minister’s focus on sports and noted increased funding for sports activities. The event saw participation from 36 teams representing 28 states, along with teams from the Army and paramilitary forces. Notable attendees included SAT Chairman Shivsena Reddy, MD Sonibala, and Karate India president Bharat Sharma.

Economy (5)

Tamilnad Mercantile Bank Expands with Six New Branches Across Three States

Tamilnad Mercantile Bank (TMB) has expanded its operations by inaugurating six new branches across Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Uttar Pradesh. The newly opened branches are located at Rathinapuri in Coimbatore district, P.N. Road and Peruntholuvu in Tiruppur district, Ettayapuram in Thoothukudi district, Karimanagar in Telangana, and Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh. Each branch is equipped with onsite ATM and CRM facilities to enhance customer service. Salee S. Nair, the Managing Director and CEO of TMB, stated that the bank has further expansion plans across India in the near future. This move aligns with the bank’s vision of strengthening its presence and accessibility in key regions.

Karnataka’s MSIL to Launch E-commerce Platform in Phases

Mysore Sales International Ltd. (MSIL), a Karnataka government enterprise, is preparing to launch its e-commerce platform to facilitate the sale of various products. This initiative aims to create a marketplace for both government and private producers, similar to the Central Government’s Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal. Minister for Large and Medium Industries M.B. Patil chaired a meeting with senior officials, directing them to develop a roadmap for the platform’s implementation. The platform will be rolled out in four phases. In the first phase, only MSIL products will be available. The second phase will include products from other government enterprises such as Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Ltd., Lidkar, Mysore Silk, Cauvery Emporium, and KMF (Nandini). The third phase will introduce consumer and electronic products, while the final phase will include fresh and perishable goods. The platform will also support MSMEs and women’s self-help groups. With nearly 900 million internet users in India, the initiative is well-timed to capitalize on the growing e-commerce market.

BBMP’s Revenue Doubles to ₹19,928 Crore by 2025-26 Amid Increased State Reliance

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has witnessed a remarkable increase in its revenue targets, with total receipts more than doubling from ₹9,189 crore in 2023-24 to ₹19,928 crore in 2025-26, marking a 116% growth. This surge is attributed to a 121% increase in BBMP’s Own Source Revenue (OSR) and a 113% rise in State and Central government grants. For the fiscal year 2025-26, BBMP has set ambitious targets, including ₹5,716 crore from property tax, ₹2,000 crore from Premium FAR, and ₹750 crore from advertising revenue. The adoption of GIS-based technology and the One Time Settlement (OTS) scheme has significantly boosted property tax collections, with ₹4,900 crore collected in 2024-25, making Bengaluru the city with the highest property tax collection in India for the second consecutive year. Despite these efforts, BBMP’s reliance on State and Central government grants remains high, with their share of total receipts increasing from 40% in 2024-25 to 44% in 2025-26. The introduction of new advertisement and FAR policies is expected to further enhance non-tax revenues, but concerns about fiscal sustainability persist due to the growing dependence on state funding.

Kerala Treasuries Process ₹24,000 Crore in FY 2024-25, Expected to Reach ₹26,000 Crore

State treasuries in Kerala managed financial transactions amounting to ₹24,000 crore for the fiscal year 2024-25, as disclosed by Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal on March 30, 2024. The Minister shared this information during a media interaction following his visit to the District Treasury in Thiruvananthapuram, marking the last working day of the financial year. Balagopal further highlighted that the total transaction value is expected to reach ₹26,000 crore once the final day's transactions are accounted for. March 29 was designated as the last working day due to holidays on March 30 (Sunday) and March 31 (Id-ul-fitr). To ensure smooth processing, departments were instructed to submit their bills by March 26. The Finance and Treasuries departments had made advanced arrangements, processing 26,000 bills on March 28 alone.

Kerala Agricultural University Presents ₹258.53 Crore Deficit Budget for 2025-26

The Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) unveiled its deficit Budget for the financial year 2025-26, amounting to ₹258.53 crore. Presented by Agriculture Minister and Pro-Chancellor P. Prasad during the General Council meeting at the university headquarters, the Budget projects a revenue of ₹650.79 crore and an expenditure of ₹909.32 crore. Key initiatives include the ‘Sadgamaya’ anti-drug programme, the launch of Nila Wine from the Agricultural University Winery, and the ₹24.77-crore ‘Kera Project’ funded by the World Bank to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from paddy fields. The Budget also allocates funds for postgraduate and research student financial assistance, the RAWE programme, library enhancement, and educational initiatives. Research focuses include developing an AI-based pest and disease warning system, high-yielding crop varieties, hybrid vegetables, and water-saving systems for paddy cultivation. Additionally, the Budget supports nano-products for eco-friendly plant protection, agricultural entrepreneurship, and the availability of high-quality seeds and organic inputs for farmers. Infrastructure development includes hostel construction, renovation, and the establishment of a coconut museum in Balaramapuram. The meeting was attended by Vice-Chancellor B. Ashok, Revenue Minister K. Rajan, MLAs G.S. Jayalal, P. Nandakumar, P.P. Sumod, and other council members.

Politics (5)

IUML President Hosts Exclusive Iftar for Priyanka Gandhi in Panakkad

On March 29, 2025, Syed Sadikali Shihab Thangal, the State president of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), hosted an exclusive Iftar party for Congress national general secretary and Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra at his residence in Panakkad, Kerala. The event, held during the holy month of Ramzan, was attended by a select group of Congress leaders, including A.P. Anil Kumar, T. Siddique, Aryadan Shoukath, V.S. Joy, P.T. Ajaymohan, and Alipatta Jameela. IUML leaders such as P.K. Kunhalikutty, P.K. Basheer, P. Abdul Hameed, and P.M.A. Salam also participated. During her visit, which lasted from 6:15 p.m. to 7:05 p.m., Priyanka Gandhi engaged in discussions with IUML leaders regarding the United Democratic Front’s prospects in Kerala, particularly in the upcoming Nilambur byelection.

CM Revanth Reddy Attends Brahmotsavams and Iftar in Kodangal, Assures Constituency Development

Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy visited his Kodangal constituency on Saturday, March 30, 2024, to participate in the Brahmotsavams festival at the Sri Venkateswara Swamy temple. Later, he attended an Iftar event hosted by Muslim organizations. During the Iftar, Mr. Reddy made political remarks, urging people to disregard the 'frustrated' claims of the Opposition parties, which he attributed to their inability to accept their loss of power. He emphasized that the Congress party is the only one working for the progress of minorities and providing them opportunities in nation-building. Mr. Reddy assured the people of Kodangal that they need not worry about their future or seek help from others, as he would ensure the constituency receives all necessary resources.

Joint Action Committee Demands Justice for Pastor Praveen Pagadala’s Suspicious Death

A Joint Action Committee (JAC) has been established to seek justice for Pastor Praveen Pagadala, whose death under suspicious circumstances has sparked widespread concern. The JAC, led by Edward Samuel, Chairman of the NGOs Network at the All India Federation of Mother Teresa’s Social Organisations, has demanded the Andhra Pradesh government release the post-mortem report and CCTV footage related to the case. They have also called for a thorough and transparent investigation to ensure accountability. Kaveti International Law Firm, represented by Dr. Kaveti Srinivas Rao, has taken up the case pro bono, filing petitions in the High Courts of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, as well as the United Nations Human Rights Council. The firm has also sought the intervention of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for an independent probe. Madiga political leader Kiran Kumar raised doubts about the official narrative, citing discrepancies in the CCTV footage, while Catholic leader Leo Lewis claimed Praveen had received threats prior to his death. The International Christian Rescue Mission, a US-based organisation, has urged the American government to intervene to protect Christian minorities in India. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the matter.

N. Lokesh Advocates Youth Inclusion and Reforms in TDP

N. Lokesh, the national general secretary of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and IT Minister, emphasized the need for internal reforms within the party to encourage the inclusion of young leaders. Speaking at the TDP’s formation day celebrations at its central office, Lokesh proposed that leaders should either advance to higher positions after two terms or take a break to allow fresh talent to emerge. He highlighted the importance of continuous change and the promotion of sincere party workers. Lokesh also reflected on the TDP’s 43-year journey, noting its resilience and strong leadership. He stated that the party’s primary focus is on the development of the state and the well-being of its people, with a goal of creating a poverty-free society. To achieve this, the TDP has implemented various schemes, including ‘Thalliki Vandanam’ and ‘Annadata Sukhibhava’, which are set to be launched in May. Additionally, Lokesh mentioned the party’s significant achievement of registering over one crore members in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana within 83 days, with an expenditure of ₹140 crore on worker welfare.

BJP Rebel Yatnal Vows to Combat Dynastic Politics in Karnataka

Basangouda R. Patil Yatnal, a BJP rebel leader and MLA who was expelled from the party for six years, has intensified his criticism of former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa and his son, BJP State President B.Y. Vijayendra. On Saturday, Yatnal vowed to continue his fight against what he termed 'dynastic and adjustment politics.' Addressing the media in Bengaluru before departing for his hometown, Vijayapura, Yatnal asserted that he would not seek reinstatement into the party, emphasizing his commitment to the BJP's core principles. He pledged to campaign across Karnataka to combat nepotism and unethical political practices. Yatnal's supporters held a meeting in Bengaluru on Friday, resolving to appeal to the party's central leadership to reconsider his expulsion. Yatnal, who was expelled for repeated violations of party discipline, criticized decision-making at lower levels in Karnataka, despite praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Meanwhile, Vijayendra clarified that neither he nor his father had any role in Yatnal's expulsion, stating that the decision was made by the central leadership based on disciplinary committee notices and prolonged observation of the situation.

Schemes (3)

MGNREGA Workers Demand Reduced Work Hours Amid Heatwave in Kalyana Karnataka

In the Kalyana Karnataka region, particularly in Kalaburagi, Yadgir, and Raichur districts, the extreme heatwave conditions during summer months have made outdoor work, especially under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), increasingly challenging. With temperatures often exceeding 44°C, labourers face significant health risks. Historically, the Union government reduced the mandatory workload for full wages during April and May to mitigate these risks. However, this year, no such relief has been announced, prompting protests from labour leaders and activists. Sharanabasappa Mamshetty, president of the Kalaburagi District unit of the Karnataka Prantha Raitha Sangha, led a protest demanding a 20-30% reduction in workload during peak summer months and the immediate release of pending MGNREGA wages. K. Neela, district secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), also emphasized the need for the Union government to issue workload concessions and improve basic facilities at worksites, including clean drinking water and rest tents. Additionally, concerns were raised about the discontinuation of onsite childcare facilities, which has forced many mothers to choose between work and childcare. Bhanwar Singh Meena, CEO of the Kalaburagi Zilla Panchayat, acknowledged the demands and stated that workload adjustments require Central government approval.

BBMP Launches Bengaluru Climate Action Plan with Focus on Energy Efficiency and Urban Greenery

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has unveiled the Bengaluru Climate Action and Resilience Plan (BCAP) as part of its latest budget, targeting climate-focused interventions at the grassroots level. One ward in each Legislative Assembly constituency will be selected for BCAP implementation in the 2025-26 fiscal year, with an allocation of ₹28 crore. The budget emphasizes energy conservation, proposing alignment with the Karnataka Energy Conservation Building Code (2018). A ₹2 crore public building energy audit will assess efficiency in BBMP offices, schools, and health centers, alongside solar rooftop installations and emission reduction measures. Additionally, the Forest Wing will receive ₹51.69 crore for urban forestry, wildlife conservation, and planting five lakh saplings. The budget also includes ₹92 crore for horticulture, park infrastructure, and playground upgrades, and ₹118 crore for park maintenance. A tree census will be completed this year to guide conservation strategies. Climate Action and Eco Clubs will be established in schools to promote environmental responsibility through activities like rainwater harvesting and kitchen gardening.

SSUS Budget 2025-26 Introduces New Academic Programmes and Initiatives

The Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit (SSUS) has unveiled its Budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year, introducing several new academic initiatives. Key highlights include the launch of an integrated teacher education programme with 50 seats and a four-year undergraduate programme in Urdu at the university’s regional centre in Koyilandy. Additionally, a postgraduate diploma programme in Ayurveda hospital management will be initiated at the Ettumanoor regional centre. The Budget, approved during the Syndicate meeting held on March 29, 2025, at the Kalady main campus, projects an income of ₹154.9 crore and an expenditure of ₹169.4 crore. K. Premkumar, MLA and convener of the finance standing committee, presented the Budget. Significant allocations include ₹1 crore for student exchange projects with foreign universities, ₹90 lakh for strengthening the Centre for Online Studies, ₹3 crore for research fellowships, and ₹1 crore for purchasing books and journals for university libraries.

Awards (3)

State Government Announces Best Doctors’ Awards 2023

The State government has announced the recipients of the Best Doctors’ Awards 2023, recognizing excellence in modern medicine across various sectors. The awards were conferred upon doctors working in State Health Services, Insurance Medical Services, Medical Education Service, Dental Specialities, and the private health sector. Dahar Mohammed, Assistant Surgeon at Noolpuzha Family Health Centre, Wayanad, won the award in the Health Services category. V.P. Paily, Senior Consultant in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Rajagiri Hospital, Aluva, was honored in the private sector. Bindu Mary Francis, Insurance Medical Officer at ESI Dispensary, Pattathanam, received the award in the Insurance Medical Services category. R. Aravind, Head of Infectious Diseases at Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram, was recognized in the Medical Education Service category. Babu EC, Assistant Dental Surgeon at Fort Taluk Hospital, won the award in the Dental Specialities category. The awards will be distributed on April 7, coinciding with World Health Day, as announced by the Health Minister’s office.

Chief Minister’s Excellence Awards Recognize Top Commercial and Industrial Establishments

The Chief Minister’s Excellence Awards were distributed on Saturday to recognize outstanding commercial and industrial establishments across 13 sectors in the State. The event was presided over by Antony Raju, MLA, and attended by Labour Secretary K. Vasuki and Labour Commissioner Safna Nazarudeen. Minister for Labour V. Sivankutty emphasized the importance of cooperation between workers and employers, stating that it is a cornerstone of the government’s policy. He highlighted the current positive state of labour in the State, marked by minimal disputes, high wages, job security, and unbiased workplaces. The awards were given to establishments in sectors such as automobile, construction, finance, hospital, hotel, insurance, information technology, jewellery, security, medical lab, star hotels and restaurants, supermarket, and textiles.

Thrissur Celebrates State School Arts Festival Winners at Suvarnolsavam

The winners of the State School Arts Festival were honored at the inauguration of ‘Suvarnolsavam’ in Thrissur on Saturday. The event, organized jointly by the district administration and the Department of General Education under the leadership of the Thrissur district panchayat, celebrated the achievements of Thrissur’s students who secured the golden cup at the festival. Revenue Minister K. Rajan, who congratulated the students, emphasized the importance of addressing societal issues through creativity and collective efforts against substance abuse. Higher Education Minister R. Bindu, the chief guest, highlighted the role of artistic training in fostering human values and combating substance abuse. The event, held at the Thrissur Town Hall, was presided over by district panchayat president V.S. Prince and included the distribution of gifts, cultural performances, and a Panchavadyam procession, culminating in a mega photo session at Thekkinkadu Maidan. The ceremony was attended by P. Balachandran, MLA; District Collector Arjun Pandian; Thrissur DEO A. Ansar; District Education Sub-Director A.K. Ajitha Kumari; students; teachers; and parents.

Miscellaneous (4)

Hyderabad Metro Extends Services and Launches New Features from April 1

L&T Metro Rail Hyderabad (L&TMRH) and Hyderabad Metro Rail (HMR) have announced an extension of metro rail services, with the last train now departing at 11:45 p.m. instead of 11 p.m. from Monday to Friday, effective April 1, 2024. Additionally, the students’ pass offer, which allows 30 trips for the price of 20, has been extended until March 2026. However, the Super Saver holiday offer and peak discount offers, introduced in April 2024, will be discontinued after March 31. A joint press release by HMR MD N.V.S. Reddy and L&TMRH MD K.V.B. Reddy also highlighted the expansion of SVIDA mobile’s fleet to 200 dedicated feeder vehicles, serving over 16,000 daily commuters for first and last-mile connectivity. Furthermore, L&TMRH launched the T-Savaari mobile app and revamped the Hyderabad Metro Passenger Website, introducing features like a star rating system for feedback, QR ticket cancellation, real-time status updates, and a rewards system for loyalty points.

University of Madras Faces Internet Shutdown and Budget Delays Due to Administrative Issues

The University of Madras has faced a shutdown of its internet services and website for the past three days due to non-payment of a ₹9 lakh firewall license fee. This has disrupted critical services, including the publication of exam results for the Institute of Distance Education on March 25. A student reportedly lost an internship opportunity at the Reserve Bank of India due to the inability to download mark sheets. The delay in payment approval stems from administrative issues, including the absence of a Vice-Chancellor since August 2023, as the State government and the Governor are in disagreement over the inclusion of the University Grants Commission chairman’s nominee in the Vice-Chancellor search panel. Additionally, the university’s annual budget for 2024-25, estimated at ₹147.79 crore, has not been presented due to administrative delays, leading to concerns over salary payments and a projected revenue loss of ₹14 crore. On March 11, the Special Secretary to the government clarified that the State has no obligation to provide grants to the university, despite earlier government orders aiding its financial crises.

Kerala University Faces Backlash Over Lost MBA Answer Sheets and Re-Examination Order

The University of Kerala has faced severe criticism after directing 71 MBA students from five colleges to retake a third-semester examination held nearly a year ago. This decision was prompted by the loss of several answer sheets during evaluation by a contract lecturer, Pramod. The answer scripts for the Project Finance paper, conducted in May 2024, were handed over to Pramod for home valuation on December 23. However, a bag containing the scripts reportedly went missing during his travel from Palakkad to Thiruvananthapuram on January 13. Pramod filed a police complaint and informed the university the next day. The issue was discussed at a Syndicate meeting on March 17, but it only came to public attention recently when the university emailed affected students, instructing them to appear for a special examination on April 7. Vice-Chancellor (in-charge) Mohanan Kunnummal has ordered an inquiry and will chair a high-level meeting of examination officials on April 1. The Syndicate Standing Committee on Examinations will also meet the same day to address the issue. Registrar K.S. Anil Kumar stated that the university has filed a police complaint and will take further action based on the investigation's findings. The re-examination will be funded by the university, and students will not be charged. The university plans to recover expenses from the responsible lecturer, who may also face a ban from examination duties. Higher Education Minister R. Bindu condemned the incident, holding the lecturer accountable for dereliction of duty and stating that legal action will be initiated. Students from the 2022-24 batch have criticized the decision, citing difficulty in preparing for the exam in a short timeframe. Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan criticized the government's mismanagement, stating that the incident has jeopardized students' futures.

Advanced Blood Centre Inaugurated at Amara Hospital in Tirupati

A state-of-the-art blood centre was inaugurated at Amara Hospital in Renigunta, Tirupati, on Saturday. The facility was inaugurated by Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) trust board member G. Bhanuprakash Reddy and Srikalahasti MLA Bojjala Venkata Sudheer Reddy. The event was attended by the hospital’s chairman Prasad Gourineni and managing director Ramadevi Gourineni. The new centre functions as a blood bank, central laboratory, and stem cell and molecular research centre. It is equipped with advanced technology for blood collection, testing, processing, and storage. The centre offers a wide range of blood-related procedures, including whole blood, packed cells, saline washed RBC, fresh progenitor plasma, cryoprecipitate, platelet-rich plasma, platelet concentration, single donor platelets, and single donor plasma. Dr. Ramadevi, a neurologist, highlighted that the 24X7 facility is accessible not only to hospitalised patients but also to the general public. Prasad Gourineni, a paediatric orthopaedic, urged the public to donate blood to address the shortage of blood-related products.

Festivals (1)

Prabhotsavam Celebrated During Ugadi Brahmotsavams in Srisailam

The ‘Prabhotsavam’ festival was celebrated with great religious enthusiasm in Srisailam on the third day of the ‘Ugadi Brahmotsavams’ on Saturday. Thousands of devotees participated in the procession of Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy and Goddess Bhramarambha, which took place on the four ‘mada streets’ of the temple. The prabha was adorned with 11 varieties of flowers, similar to the ‘Radhotsavam’. In the evening, the processional idols of Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy and Goddess Bhramarambha were carried on the ‘Nandi Vahanam’, while the idol of Goddess Bhramarambha was decorated as Maha Saraswathi. Earlier in the day, special rituals such as ‘Rudra Homam’ and ‘Chandi Homam’ were performed. On Sunday, ‘Panchanga Sravanam’ will be conducted in the morning on the occasion of Ugadi, followed by ‘Radhotsavams’ in the evening, where Goddess Bhramarambha will be adorned as Sri Ramavani Sameta Rajarajeswari, allowing devotees to receive blessings.

📜 One-Line Summary of Today's News

A committee report states that the proposed site for UVCE’s new campus at Jnanabharathi is ecologically sensitive and unsuitable for construction.
Hyderabad has been selected as the host city for the 2027 Asian Karate Championship, announced by Mahesh Kumar Goud during the national karate championship in Gachibowli stadium.
Tamilnad Mercantile Bank has opened six new branches in Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Uttar Pradesh as part of its expansion strategy.
Karnataka’s Mysore Sales International Ltd. (MSIL) is launching a phased e-commerce platform to support government and private producers, akin to the Government e-Marketplace (GeM).
BBMP’s revenue targets have more than doubled to ₹19,928 crore by 2025-26, driven by a 121% increase in Own Source Revenue and a 113% rise in government grants, though reliance on state funding remains high.
IUML State president Syed Sadikali Shihab Thangal hosted an Iftar party for Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, focusing on Kerala’s political landscape and the Nilambur byelection.
MGNREGA workers in Kalyana Karnataka demand reduced work hours and immediate wage payments during extreme summer heatwaves, citing health risks and lack of basic facilities.
Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy participated in Brahmotsavams and Iftar in Kodangal, emphasizing Congress's commitment to minority progress and assuring constituency development.
Kerala’s state treasuries handled financial transactions worth ₹24,000 crore in 2024-25, with an expected total of ₹26,000 crore after final transactions, as announced by Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal.
The State government recognized outstanding doctors across various medical sectors with the Best Doctors’ Awards 2023, to be distributed on World Health Day, April 7.
The Waqf Tribunal has asked the Kerala State Waqf Board to justify its legal stance in opposing Munambam residents from joining a case involving 404 acres of disputed Waqf land.
Hyderabad Metro extends last train timings to 11:45 p.m., introduces new app features, and expands feeder services from April 1, 2024.
A Joint Action Committee has been formed to seek justice for Pastor Praveen Pagadala, whose suspicious death has led to demands for a transparent investigation and intervention by national and international bodies.
N. Lokesh calls for internal reforms in TDP to promote young leaders and highlights the party’s focus on state development and poverty alleviation.
BBMP introduces the Bengaluru Climate Action and Resilience Plan (BCAP) with a ₹28 crore allocation for ward-level implementation, emphasizing energy efficiency, urban forestry, and park development.
The Prabhotsavam festival was celebrated with religious fervor in Srisailam during the Ugadi Brahmotsavams, featuring procession rituals and special pujas.
The Maharashtra government has sanctioned ₹13.46 crore for constructing a memorial in honor of 26/11 hero Tukaram Omble in his native village, Kedambe, under the 'Establishment of Memorials for Great Personalities in Rural Areas' scheme.
Kerala Agricultural University’s 2025-26 Budget focuses on anti-drug initiatives, agricultural research, and infrastructure development, with a deficit of ₹258.53 crore.
The Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit’s 2025-26 Budget introduces new academic programmes, including teacher education, Urdu studies, and Ayurveda management, with significant funding for research and student exchange projects.
The University of Madras is grappling with internet shutdowns, budget delays, and administrative disputes, impacting students and staff.
Kerala University orders 71 MBA students to retake an exam due to lost answer sheets, sparking criticism and an inquiry.
A state-of-the-art blood centre, functioning as a blood bank, laboratory, and research facility, was inaugurated at Amara Hospital in Tirupati.
The Chief Minister’s Excellence Awards were distributed to honor outstanding establishments across 13 sectors, emphasizing worker-employer cooperation and the State’s positive labour environment.
Thrissur honored the winners of the State School Arts Festival at the Suvarnolsavam event, emphasizing creativity and societal issues.
Expelled BJP leader Basangouda R. Patil Yatnal continues his campaign against dynastic politics and criticizes B.S. Yediyurappa and B.Y. Vijayendra in Karnataka.

🎯 MCQs with Explanations

What is the primary issue Basangouda R. Patil Yatnal is campaigning against in Karnataka?
Economic Reforms
Dynastic Politics
Environmental Policies
Healthcare Reforms
Explanation: Yatnal has vowed to fight against dynastic and adjustment politics in Karnataka.
Which university introduced the integrated teacher education programme in its 2025-26 Budget?
Jawaharlal Nehru University
Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit
University of Delhi
Banaras Hindu University
Explanation: The Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit unveiled the integrated teacher education programme in its 2025-26 Budget.
What did Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy emphasize during the Iftar event?
Opposition\'s claims are valid
Congress works for minority progress
BJP is the best party for development
No party supports minorities
Explanation: Mr. Reddy stated that the Congress party is the only one working for the progress of minorities and providing them opportunities in nation-building.
Who is currently administering the affairs of the University of Madras in the absence of a Vice-Chancellor?
University Grants Commission
Higher Education Secretary
State Governor
Finance Committee Chairman
Explanation: The Higher Education Secretary chairs the Convenor Committee managing the university’s affairs.
What was the main issue in the Munambam land dispute?
Ownership of 404 acres of land
Construction of a college
Relocation of residents
Environmental concerns
Explanation: The dispute centered around the ownership of 404 acres of land claimed by the Kerala State Waqf Board.
Which event did Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy attend in Kodangal on March 30, 2024?
Brahmotsavams
Republic Day Parade
Diwali Celebrations
Christmas Mass
Explanation: Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy attended the Brahmotsavams festival at the Sri Venkateswara Swamy temple in Kodangal.
What was the main focus of the speeches at the Suvarnolsavam event?
Economic Development
Substance Abuse Prevention
Technological Innovation
Environmental Conservation
Explanation: Both K. Rajan and R. Bindu emphasized the importance of addressing substance abuse through creativity and artistic training.
Under which scheme is the Tukaram Omble memorial being constructed?
National Heritage Scheme
Establishment of Memorials for Great Personalities in Rural Areas
Rural Development Fund
State Memorials Initiative
Explanation: The memorial is funded under the \'Establishment of Memorials for Great Personalities in Rural Areas\' scheme.
What is the total amount sanctioned by the Maharashtra government for the Tukaram Omble memorial?
₹10 crore
₹13.46 crore
₹15 crore
₹20 crore
Explanation: The Maharashtra government has sanctioned ₹13.46 crore for the memorial.
Which political alliance’s prospects were discussed during the Iftar party?
National Democratic Alliance
United Democratic Front
Left Democratic Front
Indian National Congress
Explanation: Discussions focused on the United Democratic Front’s prospects in Kerala.
Which phase of the MSIL e-commerce platform will include fresh and perishable goods?
First Phase
Second Phase
Third Phase
Fourth Phase
Explanation: The final phase of the platform will include fresh and perishable goods.
What is the new departure time for the last metro train in Hyderabad from April 1, 2024?
10:45 p.m.
11:00 p.m.
11:30 p.m.
11:45 p.m.
Explanation: The last metro train in Hyderabad will depart at 11:45 p.m. from April 1, 2024.
Who hosted the Iftar party for Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on March 29, 2025?
P.K. Kunhalikutty
Syed Sadikali Shihab Thangal
A.P. Anil Kumar
P.M.A. Salam
Explanation: Syed Sadikali Shihab Thangal, the IUML State president, hosted the Iftar party.
Which scheme faces challenges due to extreme heatwave conditions in Kalyana Karnataka?
PM-KISAN
MGNREGA
Ayushman Bharat
PMAY
Explanation: MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act) is the scheme affected by extreme heatwave conditions in Kalyana Karnataka.
Who presided over the Chief Minister’s Excellence Awards distribution event?
V. Sivankutty
Antony Raju
K. Vasuki
Safna Nazarudeen
Explanation: Antony Raju, MLA, presided over the Chief Minister’s Excellence Awards distribution event.

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