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International News
Humza Yousaf Resigns as Scottish First Minister: Political Drama Unfolds
Humza Yousaf, Scotland’s first Muslim First Minister and leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP), has announced his resignation amid political turmoil. The decision follows the collapse of the SNP’s coalition with the Scottish Greens, triggering opposition no-confidence motions. Yousaf cited a refusal to compromise his values and principles for political power, amidst challenges including a funding scandal and the departure of former leader Nicola Sturgeon.
Sri Lanka Lifts Import Restrictions on Trucks and Heavy Vehicles
Sri Lanka, amidst a financial crisis stemming from a severe shortage of dollars, has taken a significant step by partially lifting import restrictions. This move aims to rejuvenate the economy, which has been struggling since March 2020.
State News
Tamil Nadu’s Conservation Efforts for the Endangered Nilgiri Tahr
The government of Tamil Nadu has launched a three-day survey of the Nilgiri Tahr, the state’s iconic animal. This initiative aims to better understand and conserve this endangered species that faces numerous challenges, including habitat loss and poaching.
Appointments News
Sarvadanand Barnwal Appointed as Director in Department of Land Resources
Sarvadanand Barnwal, an Indian Statistical Service (ISS) officer of the 2010 batch, has been appointed as Director in the Department of Land Resources. The appointment was made on Friday, April 26, 2024, through an order issued by the Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT).
Bharat Biotech’s Krishna Ella Leads Indian Vaccine Manufacturers
In a significant development, the Indian Vaccine Manufacturers Association (IVMA) has announced the appointment of Krishna Ella, co-founder and executive chairman of Bharat Biotech, as its new president for the next two years, effective April 2024. Ella will take over the presidency from Adar C. Poonawala, who held the position from 2019 to March 2024.
Awards News
India Today Group’s AI Anchor Sana Shines at Global Media Awards
Sana, the AI-powered news anchor developed by the India Today Group, has achieved remarkable success at the prestigious International News Media Association (INMA) Global Media Awards held in London. This groundbreaking AI innovation has captured two coveted awards, solidifying its position as a trailblazer in the field of AI-driven journalism.
Alok Shukla Wins Prestigious Goldman Environmental Prize 2024
Alok Shukla, a renowned environmental activist and convenor of Chhattisgarh Bachao Andolan, has been selected for the prestigious 2024 Goldman Environmental Prize. Also known as the “Green Nobel Prize,” this annual award honours grassroots environmental champions worldwide for their outstanding contributions to environmental protection.
Eminent Personalities Honoured with Prestigious Pandit Lacchu Maharaj Award
Noted Hindi film superstars Hema Malini and Saira Banu, along with other prominent personalities from the fields of art and culture, will be honoured with the prestigious Pandit Lacchu Maharaj Award. The award ceremony will take place on 31 August 2024 in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.
MAHE Confers Honorary Doctorate on K.V. Kamath
Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) honored K.V. Kamath, Chairman of National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development and Chairman of Jio Financial Services Ltd., with an honorary doctorate at a special convocation on April 29, 2024. The ceremony celebrated Kamath’s exceptional leadership in banking, finance, and sustainable development, recognizing his significant contributions to India’s financial sector and global impact.
Science and Technology News
IIT Guwahati Introduces Innovative 3D Printed Dummy Ballot Unit
In a collaborative effort between the Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation Cell (SVEEP) of Kamrup Election District and the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, a groundbreaking 3D-printed dummy ballot unit has been unveiled. The initiative aims to enhance voter awareness and engagement, particularly among new voters and senior citizens, by providing a practical experience of the voting process.
Defence News
IAF and Indian Navy Induct Rampage Missile for Enhanced Strike Capabilities
The Indian Air Force (IAF) and Indian Navy have bolstered their combat capabilities with the induction of the Rampage long-range supersonic air-to-ground missile, previously utilized by the Israeli Air Force in operations against Iranian targets. The missile, known as the High-Speed Low Drag-Mark 2 within the Indian Air Force, offers a striking range of up to 250 kilometers.
Sports News
MS Dhoni Sets New IPL Record in CSK’s Dominant Win
The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) secured a resounding 78-run victory over the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Sunday, potentially shaping the trajectory of both teams’ 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) campaigns. This emphatic win significantly boosted CSK’s net run rate, propelling them to the third position in the league standings. Conversely, SRH suffered their second consecutive defeat, slipping to the fourth spot.
Important Days
Ayushman Bharat Diwas 2024, Celebrating India’s Healthcare Initiative
Ayushman Bharat Diwas is celebrated annually on April 30 to raise awareness about the Ayushman Bharat Yojana and its goals. This year, it falls on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. The day was established by the government to highlight the scheme’s objective of providing better access to affordable and quality healthcare services, especially for the underprivileged.
30 APRIL CURRENT AFFAIRS 2024 | ALL EXAMS IMP. CURRENT AFFAIRS | ASHISH GAUTAM SIR