NATIONAL NEWS

Tragic Terror Attack in Pahalgam Claims Lives of Tourists

• A devastating terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam region resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists.

• Armed assailants opened fire on civilians in the scenic Baisaran area, a popular tourist spot often referred to as 'mini Switzerland.'

• According to initial reports, the attackers descended from the surrounding hills before targeting the unsuspecting crowd.

• The tranquil valley, known for its lush green landscapes, was suddenly turned into a scene of horror.

• In response to the incident, the Jammu and Kashmir administration released emergency helpline numbers for assistance.

• The attack has raised security concerns just ahead of the 38-day Amarnath Yatra, set to commence on July 3.

• Authorities are now intensifying security measures in the region to ensure the safety of pilgrims and tourists.

India Takes Strong Measures Against Pakistan Following Pahalgam Terror Attack

• In retaliation to the Pahalgam terror attack, India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 and shut down the Integrated Check Post at Attari.

• On April 23, Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired an emergency Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting to assess the security situation.

• The CCS issued instructions for heightened vigilance across India to ensure national security.

• Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced that Pakistani nationals will no longer be allowed to travel to India under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES).

• All SVES visas previously issued to Pakistani nationals have been revoked, and those in India must leave within 48 hours.

• Pakistan’s Defence, Naval, and Air Advisors at its High Commission in New Delhi have been declared Persona Non Grata and must depart within a week.

• India will also withdraw its own Defence, Navy, and Air Advisors from the Indian High Commission in Islamabad, reducing diplomatic personnel from 55 to 30 by May 1.

SPORTS

Koneru Humpy Triumphs at Pune FIDE Women's Grand Prix

• Indian Grandmaster Koneru Humpy emerged victorious at the Pune FIDE Women’s Grand Prix, finishing with an impressive 7 out of 9 points.

• She secured her final round win playing with the White pieces against Bulgarian IM Nurgyul Salimova.

• Chinese GM Zhu Jiner also scored 7/9, but Humpy claimed the title based on superior tiebreak scores.

• Despite the tie, both Humpy and Zhu will share the Grand Prix points and prize money.

• Humpy’s strong performance significantly boosts her chances of qualifying for the upcoming Women’s Candidates Tournament.

• Zhu Jiner finished in second place after defeating Russian IM Polina Shuvalova in her final game.

• Indian IM Divya Deshmukh claimed third place with 5.5/9 points following a draw against Polish GM Alina Kashlinskaya.

• The tournament showcased a dominant showing from Indian players, with two finishing in the top three.

AWARDS

Poshan Tracker App Earns PM’s Award for Administrative Innovation

• The Secretary of the Ministry of Women and Child Development was honoured with the Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration for the Poshan Tracker initiative.

• The award was conferred under the “Innovation” category, recognizing the app’s transformative role in improving public service delivery.

• The Poshan Tracker is a mobile application designed to support Anganwadi workers by offering real-time data on nutrition and childcare services.

• Developed as part of the Saksham Anganwadi and Mission Poshan 2.0 programs, the app enhances transparency and efficiency in service implementation.

• The 2024 edition of the Prime Minister’s Awards aims to acknowledge outstanding contributions by civil servants in three key areas.

• These categories include Holistic Development of Districts, Aspirational Blocks Programme, and Innovation.

• The recognition of the Poshan Tracker underscores the government’s commitment to using digital tools to strengthen grassroots-level governance.

STATE NEWS

IAF’s Surya Kiran Airshow in Patna Honors 1857 Hero Babu Kunwar Singh

• The Indian Air Force's Surya Kiran aerobatic team performed a breathtaking airshow over Patna as a tribute to freedom fighter Babu Kunwar Singh.

• The event was organized as part of Valour Day Vijayotsav, celebrating Kunwar Singh’s contributions during the 1857 uprising in Bihar’s Bhojpur region.

• The airshow opened with a spectacular series of aerial manoeuvres, showcasing the IAF’s flying prowess.

• A dramatic highlight was a skydiver leaping from an IAF helicopter while unfurling the Indian national flag mid-air.

• The Surya Kiran team, flying in nine Hawk jets, executed precise and synchronized aerobatic formations.

• Their high-speed stunts and coordinated flight patterns captivated the audience and demonstrated top-tier aviation skill.

• The two-day celebration combined patriotic tribute with aerial excellence, leaving a lasting impression on the people of Patna.

Arunachal Pradesh Hosts International Conclave on Buddha Dhamma and Cultural Heritage

• Arunachal Pradesh’s Deputy Chief Minister, Chowna Mein, inaugurated the two-day International Conclave in Namsai.

• The event’s theme, ‘Buddha Dhamma and North-East India’s Cultural Heritage,’ highlights Buddhism’s deep spiritual and cultural roots in the region.

• Organized by the International Buddhist Confederation and India’s Ministry of Culture, the conclave aims to explore Buddhism’s impact on North-East India.

• Bhutan’s Consul General, Jigme Thinley Namgyal, graced the inaugural session with his presence.

• The first day featured three engaging panel discussions focused on Buddhism’s history, art, and cultural exchanges.

• The second day will offer Vipassana meditation sessions, fostering spiritual reflection and mindfulness.

• A special prayer session for world peace is scheduled to take place at the Golden Pagoda in Namsai, marking the event’s spiritual significance.