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CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING, FINANCE & BUSINESS

Financial Intelligence Unit-India and Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre Sign Landmark Memorandum of Understanding to Strengthen Fight Against Cyber Fraud and Financial Crimes

• The Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND) and the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen India’s fight against cyber frauds and financial crimes.
• The MoU was signed by Shri Amit Mohan Govil (Director, FIU-IND) and Shri Rajesh Kumar (CEO, I4C), marking enhanced inter-agency intelligence collaboration.
• The agreement aims to improve information sharing, coordination, and operational intelligence support between both agencies.
• It comes at a time when India’s digital payment ecosystem has expanded significantly, increasing the need for cybersecurity safeguards and fraud prevention mechanisms.
• The collaboration will help in preventing financial crimes, protecting digital transactions, and supporting asset recovery efforts.
• A key objective is to develop feedback mechanisms to improve fraud detection systems at the national level.
• The MoU also focuses on creating and sharing red flag indicators and guidelines for financial institutions to strengthen cyber fraud prevention.
• The initiative represents a “whole-of-government” approach to tackling cybercrime and financial misconduct.

About Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND) :

• The FIU-IND is the national agency responsible for receiving, processing, analysing, and disseminating information on suspicious financial transactions.
• It also plays a key role in combating money laundering and terror financing.

About Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) :

• The I4C functions under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and provides a framework for coordinated cybercrime response across law enforcement agencies (LEAs).
• I4C operates platforms like the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP), Cyber Police Portal, and Suspect Registry for real-time intelligence sharing.
• These platforms help in combating online financial frauds, telecom misuse, and banking-related cybercrimes through proactive coordination among stakeholders.

About Ministry of Finance:

• Cabinet Minister: Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman
• Minister of State (MoS): Shri Pankaj Chaudhary

Key Highlights of Reserve Bank of India’s First Bi-Monthly Monetary Policy for Financial Year 2026-27

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) conducted the 60th and 1st Bi-monthly Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting for Financial Year 2026-27 (FY27) from April 06 to April 08, 2026.
• The meeting was chaired by Sanjay Malhotra, with participation from MPC members Dr. Nagesh Kumar, Saugata Bhattacharya, Prof. Ram Singh, Dr. Poonam Gupta, and Indranil Bhattacharyya.

Key Highlights :

• The MPC kept the repo rate unchanged at 5.25% under the Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF) and maintained a ‘Neutral’ policy stance due to global uncertainties and West Asia conflict.
• The Standing Deposit Facility (SDF) rate was retained at 5.00%, while the Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) rate and Bank Rate were held at 5.50%.
• The MPC cited factors like rising crude oil prices, rupee depreciation, and supply chain disruptions as key reasons for its cautious stance.
• The GDP growth forecast for FY27 was revised downward by 50 basis points to 6.9% from the earlier estimate of 7.4%.
• The Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation is projected at 4.6% for FY27, remaining within the tolerance band of ±2%, with core inflation estimated at 4.4%.
• The next MPC meeting is scheduled to be held from June 03 to June 05, 2026.

National Stock Exchange of India Partners with S&P Global Energy to Launch Derivatives Based on Platts Benchmarks

• The National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) has partnered with S&P Global Energy to launch exchange-traded derivatives based on Platts benchmarks.
• The initiative will initially introduce futures contracts linked to Platts Dated Brent Crude Oil, a globally recognised international crude oil pricing benchmark.
• The move will enable Indian market participants to access global crude oil prices through a regulated domestic exchange platform.
• The NSE, based in Mumbai, was incorporated in 1992 and began operations in 1994 to bring transparency to Indian financial markets.
• The collaboration integrates S&P Global Platts pricing benchmarks into India’s commodity derivatives ecosystem.
• The Dated Brent Crude Oil (Platts) Futures received regulatory approval, with the official launch scheduled for 13 April 2026.
• The contracts aim to serve a wide range of participants including refiners, importers, traders, financial institutions, and investors.
• The initiative will provide exposure to global Brent crude oil markets while operating within a domestic regulated framework.
• The integration of Platts benchmarks is expected to enhance transparency, price discovery, and credibility in India’s energy derivatives market.
• Overall, the move strengthens India’s position in global commodity trading and energy price alignment mechanisms.

Recent News :

• In April 2026, India’s leading stock exchange,the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) , announced a strategic collaboration with Indian Gas Exchange Limited (IGX) to launch India’s first exchange-traded natural gas derivatives based on a domestic benchmark with an aim to improve risk management in the gas market.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL AND STATE NEWS

Puducherry Deployed ‘Nila’ Humanoid Robot at Polling Booth During Assembly Elections

• Election authorities in Puducherry deployed ‘Nila’ humanoid robot for the first time during Assembly elections at the VOC Government School polling booth to enhance voter experience through technology-driven assistance.

About ‘Nila’ Humanoid Robot:

• The initiative aimed to create a high-technology and welcoming environment for voters, especially to encourage participation among young voters and first-time voters.
• The robot was developed by Robo Mirror, Coimbatore, and was dressed in a traditional saree, greeting voters with flowers, providing polling booth directions, and assisting elderly and first-time voters.
• ‘Nila’ is an event-based interactive humanoid robot equipped with sensor-based voter detection capability, supports communication in Tamil and English languages, and can perform walking and hand-waving interactions.
• The robot is designed for deployment in multiple public settings, including elections, official functions, and social events such as weddings.

RECENT NEWS

• The Government of India will launch a CBDC-based Food Subsidy Distribution Pilot under PMGKAY in Puducherry on the 26 February 2026. The pilot will use the Digital Rupee (CBDC) for direct subsidy transfer to beneficiaries.

NITI Aayog Released Report Titled “From Borrowers to Builders: Women and India’s Evolving Credit Market”

• Nidhi Chhibber, Chief Executive Officer of the National Institution for Transforming India Aayog, released the second edition of the report titled “From Borrowers to Builders: Women and India’s Evolving Credit Market” in New Delhi.
• The report highlighted that women hold a credit portfolio of ₹76 lakh crore, accounting for 26% of total system credit, registering a 4.8-fold increase since 2017.

Key Highlights:

• The report was prepared under the Women Entrepreneurship Platform and developed by TransUnion CIBIL in collaboration with MicroSave Consulting.
• Credit penetration among women increased from 19% in 2017 to 36% in 2025, with around 16 crore credit-active women borrowers, growing at a 9% Compound Annual Growth Rate.
• The report stated that nearly 45 crore women are credit-eligible in India, of which around two-thirds remain unserved, indicating significant potential for expansion in women’s access to formal credit systems.

RECENT NEWS

NITI Aayog has released the second annual edition of the Fiscal Health Index 2026. This is the report designed to assess the fiscal performance and financial stability of Indian states. This report was launched in New Delhi by NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Suman Bery and CEO Nidhi Chhibber. 

About NITI Aayog

• Established: January 1, 2015, replacing the Planning Commission.
• Chairperson:Prime Minister of India
• Vice-Chairperson:Shri Suman Bery.
• CEO: Nidhi Chhibber

Union Cabinet Approved Nutrient Based Subsidy Rates, Jaipur Metro Phase-2 and Revised Cost of Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited Rajasthan Refinery Project

• The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved multiple proposals to strengthen agricultural support systems, urban transport infrastructure, and energy security.
• The Cabinet approved the proposal of the Department of Fertilizers under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers for fixing Nutrient Based Subsidy rates for Kharif Season 2026 on Phosphatic and Potassic fertilizers for the period from April 1, 2026 to September 30, 2026, with a tentative budgetary allocation of ₹41,533.81 crore.
• The Cabinet also approved Jaipur Metro Phase-2 Project, a 41-kilometre corridor connecting Prahladpura to Todi Mod in Jaipur, with an estimated cost of ₹13,037.66 crore, to improve urban mobility and public transport connectivity.
• The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the revised project cost of HPCL Rajasthan Refinery Limited in Rajasthan from ₹43,129 crore to ₹79,459 crore to strengthen domestic refining capacity and energy infrastructure.
• Additionally, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited will make an additional equity investment of ₹8,962 crore, increasing its total equity contribution to ₹19,600 crore in the refinery project.

RECENT NEWS

• Rajasthan state government has launched the Industrial Park Promotion Policy for the year 2026 to attract investment and create jobs. It will be led Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma and the policy aims to develop the world-class industrial parks. With this it will position the state as a future ready industrial destination.

About Rajasthan:

• Capital: Jaipur
• Governor: Haribhau Bagade
• Chief Minister: Bajan Lal Sharma
• National Parks: Ranthambhore National Park, Sariska Tiger Reserve, Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary), Desert National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary, Ranthambore Wildlife Sanctuary, Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary

Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs Approved Two Hydroelectric Projects in Arunachal Pradesh Worth ₹40,175 Crore

• The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved two hydroelectric projects in Arunachal Pradesh with a total investment of ₹40,175.33 crore to strengthen renewable energy capacity, energy security, and infrastructure development in the North-Eastern region.
• The approved projects include the 1,200-megawatt Kalai-II Hydroelectric Project in Anjaw district and the 1,720-megawatt Kamala Hydroelectric Project across Kamle district, Kra Daadi district, and Kurung Kumey district.
• The Kalai-II Hydroelectric Project, to be developed on the Lohit River, received approval with an investment of ₹14,105.83 crore. The project has an installed capacity of 1,200 megawatts and is expected to generate 4,852.95 million units of electricity annually, with completion planned within 78 months. The project also includes construction of 29 kilometres of roads and bridges to improve connectivity in Namsai district and Anjaw district.
• The Kamala Hydroelectric Project received approval with an investment of ₹26,069.50 crore and has an installed capacity of 1,720 megawatts, expected to generate 6,870 million units of electricity annually. The project includes ₹4,743.98 crore for flood moderation, ₹1,340 crore for enabling infrastructure, and ₹750 crore as Central Financial Assistance for the State’s equity share.
• The Kamala project will support peak demand management, national grid balancing, and flood moderation in the Brahmaputra River basin, contributing to sustainable development and improved energy infrastructure in the region.

RECENT NEWS

• Arunachal Pradesh Foundation Day 2026 will be celebrated on 20 February to mark the formation of Arunachal Pradesh as the 24th state of India in 1987. Known as the “Land of the Rising Sun,” it is the first region in India to receive sunlight.

About Arunachal Pradesh:

• Chief Minister: Pema Khandu
• Governor: General Kaiwalya Trivikram Parnaik
• Capital: Itanagar
• National Parks: Namdapha National Park, Mouling National Park, Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary, Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary,
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Pakke Tiger Reserve, Kamlang Wildlife Sanctuary, Dampa Tiger Reserve, Daying Ering Wildlife Sanctuary

CURRENT AFFAIRS : INTERNATIONAL NEWS

India Elected to United Nations Economic and Social Council Subsidiary Bodies; Preeti Saran Re-elected to Human Rights Committee

• The Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations announced that India was elected by acclamation to key subsidiary bodies of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).
• India has secured positions in major UN bodies, including the Commission on Science and Technology for Development (CSTD) (2027–2030), the Committee on Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO Committee) (2027–2030), and the Committee for Programme and Coordination (CPC) (2027–2029).
• The CSTD serves as an intergovernmental forum to discuss issues related to science, technology, and development.
• The NGO Committee is responsible for evaluating applications for consultative status and handling reclassification requests from NGOs.
• The CPC acts as the main subsidiary organ for planning, programming, and coordination within the United Nations system.
• Additionally, Preeti Saran, India’s Ambassador, has been re-elected to the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (CESCR) for 2027–2030.
• The CESCR is a body of 18 independent experts that monitors the implementation of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.
• The Covenant ensures key economic, social, and cultural rights such as adequate food, housing, education, health, social security, water, sanitation, and work.
• This achievement strengthens India’s global presence and enhances its role in international policymaking, development, and human rights governance.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

Nasscom Foundation Names U.B. Pravin Rao as Its New Chairperson

• Nasscom Foundation has appointed B. Pravin Rao as its new Chairperson, effective immediately.
• He succeeds Rostow Ravanan, who has completed his tenure as Chairperson.
• B. Pravin Rao brings over 35 years of experience in the technology sector, including global operations, large-scale transformation, and execution excellence.
• He previously served as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Infosys from 2014 to 2021.
• He has been associated with National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM) since 2014, holding key roles such as Vice-Chairperson and Chairman.
• His appointment brings continuity and strategic depth to the Foundation’s next phase of growth and initiatives.
• As Chairperson, he will help guide the Foundation’s strategic priorities and contribute to the government’s vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India).

CURRENT AFFAIRS : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Union Minister Jayant Chaudhary Launches Campaign to Establish ‘Skills Outcomes Fund’ for Youth Employment Opportunities

• Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Jayant Chaudhary of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) launched an initiative to establish the Skills Outcomes Fund (SOF) in New Delhi.
• The SOF is a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at enhancing employment opportunities for youth from low-income backgrounds across India.
• The fund is designed to mobilize capital and link skilling programs to verified employment outcomes, making it one of the world’s largest Outcomes-Based Financing (OBF)
• The initiative is led by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) under the MSDE, acting as the nodal implementing agency.
• The SOF follows a blended finance model, combining government, private, and philanthropic capital through an outcomes-based financing framework.
• Payments under the scheme are linked to verified employment results, ensuring performance-driven funding.
• The fund focuses on demand-driven, employer-led skilling in high-growth sectors such as Information Technology – Information Technology Enabled Services (IT-ITeS), Banking Financial Services and Insurance (BFSI), healthcare, logistics, green jobs, and electronics.
• The initiative aims to strengthen job-ready skills development, improve youth employability, and promote industry-aligned training ecosystems in India.

Union Minister of State Jitendra Singh Announces Seismological Observatory and Doppler Weather Radar Projects

• Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Jitendra Singh announced the establishment of a Seismological Observatory in Kishtwar and a Doppler Weather Radar (DWR) in Doda, Jammu & Kashmir.
• The announcement was made during the District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DISHA) meeting held at the DC Office Complex, Doda.
• The proposed Doppler Weather Radar (DWR) will enable real-time weather monitoring, improve early warning systems, and strengthen disaster management under the Mission Mausam
• The Seismological Observatory will enhance India’s national seismic monitoring network, improve earthquake detection and analysis, and boost disaster preparedness and risk mitigation.
• Automated Weather Stations (AWS) will be installed in Paddar and Machail, with site selection already completed to improve weather forecasting in remote regions.
• These initiatives aim to expand India’s meteorological and seismic observation infrastructure, especially in vulnerable mountainous areas of Jammu & Kashmir.
• The minister also reviewed development proposals including an airstrip under the UDAN scheme in Kishtwar, pending land acquisition clearance.
• He further discussed the long-pending proposal for a Saffron Park in Kishtwar, aimed at boosting agro-based development.
• Promotion of Kala Zeera (cumin seeds) under the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative was also emphasized to develop it as a signature local product.

Aluminium Extrusion Manufacturers Association of India Launches ‘Aluminium Bharat’ Initiative to Strengthen Domestic Manufacturing and Enhance Global Competitiveness

• The Aluminium Extrusion Manufacturers Association of India (ALEMAI) has launched the ‘Aluminium Bharat’ initiative to strengthen India’s domestic aluminium manufacturing capabilities and promote sustainable industrial growth.
• The initiative aims to position India as a global leader in aluminium production and exports by enhancing the entire aluminium value chain.
• The initiative was unveiled by Union Minister of State Jitin Prasada under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoC&I) in New Delhi.
• ‘Aluminium Bharat’ focuses on collaboration between policymakers, industry leaders, and global stakeholders to develop a strategic roadmap for sectoral growth.
• As part of the initiative, ALEMAI will host ‘Aluminium Bharat 2026’, India’s first comprehensive exhibition dedicated to the aluminium value chain.
• The exhibition is scheduled from September 26 to 29, 2026, showcasing innovations, technologies, and investment opportunities in the aluminium sector.
• The aluminium industry supports over 10 lakh jobs in India, highlighting its importance for employment generation and industrial growth.
• Strengthening the downstream aluminium sector is crucial for achieving India’s USD 5 trillion economy goal and the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

Indian Council of Agricultural Research Forms Special Task Force to Enhance Agricultural Resilience Amid Geopolitical Challenges

• The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has constituted a Special Task Force (STF) on Agriculture to strengthen India’s agricultural resilience amid global disruptions.
• The STF aims to address challenges related to geopolitical uncertainties, climate variability, supply chain disruptions, and rising input costs affecting the agriculture sector.
• The initiative focuses on ensuring food security, agricultural input security, and data-driven policy support for the Government of India (GoI).
• The first meeting of the STF was chaired by Mangi Lal Jat, Secretary of DARE (Department of Agricultural Research and Education) and Director General (DG) of ICAR.
• The STF was formed in response to issues such as global food and fertiliser supply chain disruptions, energy market volatility, and climate risks.
• ICAR is strengthening the Mera Gaon Mera Gaurav (MGMG) programme in 100 Aspirational Districts through Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs).
• Key initiatives include promoting balanced fertiliser use, millet region mapping, and eco-fisheries diversification during the Kharif season.
• A major technological focus is on Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR), which helps save 20–30% water and reduces labour costs.
• ICAR is also strengthening the All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Agricultural Meteorology for real-time weather-based advisories.
• A weekly monitoring system will be implemented through Nodal Officers in each Subject Matter Division (SMD) for coordinated execution of action plans.
• The STF will ensure continuous institutional feedback and periodic meetings for effective implementation of agricultural strategies.

Recent News :

• In April 2026, The ICAR–Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) launched a deep-sea expedition in the Arabian Sea to study seamount fisheries.

About ICAR :

• The ICAR (established in 1929 under the Societies Registration Act, 1860) is an autonomous body under MoA&FW responsible for agricultural research and education.
• ICAR functions as the apex body for agricultural research coordination, guidance, and management in India.
• It focuses on key areas such as crop science, horticulture, animal science, fisheries, agricultural engineering, natural resource management, and extension services.
• ICAR aims to promote agricultural productivity, sustainability, and technological innovation across India’s farming ecosystem.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : DEFENCE NEWS

Indian Ocean Ship SAGAR Departs Malé, Strengthening India–Maldives Maritime Ties

• The Indian Ocean Ship SAGAR (IOS SAGAR), deployed on INS Sunayna, departed from Malé (Maldives), strengthening India–Maldives maritime relations.
• The visit reinforced maritime cooperation, operational coordination, and strategic partnership between the Indian Navy and the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).
• On departure, the ship conducted a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with MNDF Coast Guard Ship Ghazee, enhancing interoperability and joint operational capability.
• The exercise highlighted improved maritime coordination between both naval forces.
• During the visit, Commander Siddharth Chaudhary, Commanding Officer of IOS SAGAR, called on senior MNDF leadership including Major General Ibrahim Hilmy (Chief of Defence Force) and Brigadier General Mohamed Saleem (Commandant, Coast Guard MNDF).
• Discussions focused on joint training initiatives, defence cooperation, and sustained strategic engagement.
• The ship carried a multinational crew from 16 friendly foreign countries, promoting international maritime cooperation and collaboration.
• The visit also included cultural exchanges, sports activities, and social interactions with MNDF personnel to enhance camaraderie and mutual understanding.
• The deployment underlines India’s commitment to regional maritime security, stability, and capacity building in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
• The mission reflects the broader vision of strengthening maritime bonds and cooperative security frameworks between partner nations.

About Ministry of Defence:

• Cabinet Minister: Rajnath Singh
• Minister of State (MoS): Sanjay Seth

CURRENT AFFAIRS: MOUS AND AGREEMENT

Gas Authority of India Limited Signed Long-Term Charter Agreement with Alpha Gas for Liquefied Natural Gas Carrier Energy Fidelity

• GAIL (India) Limited (formerly Gas Authority of India Limited), a Maharatna Public Sector Undertaking, signed a long-term charter party agreement with Alpha Gas, a Greek shipping company, for the Liquefied Natural Gas carrier ‘Energy Fidelity’ to strengthen liquefied natural gas transportation capacity.
• The agreement was executed between GAIL (India) Limited and Pantheon Maritime Services Private Limited, a Singapore-based affiliate of Alpha Gas, and was formally signed at the headquarters of Alpha Gas in Athens.
• The agreement was signed by S Bairagi, Executive Director (Marketing – Shipping and International Liquefied Natural Gas) of Gas Authority of India Limited, and Anna Angelicoussis, owner of Alpha Gas.

Key Highlights:

• The Liquefied Natural Gas carrier ‘Energy Fidelity’ has a cargo capacity of 174,000 cubic metres, enabling large-scale liquefied natural gas transportation.
• The vessel is equipped with a modern two-stroke propulsion system, along with advanced air lubrication technology and shaft generators, which enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions during operations.
• The agreement will strengthen Gas Authority of India Limited’s liquefied natural gas transportation capability, supporting India’s transition towards cleaner energy sources such as natural gas.
• The collaboration aligns with the Government of India’s maritime development roadmap under the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, contributing to long-term national energy security and supply chain strengthening.

National Thermal Power Corporation Limited Signed Memorandum of Understanding with Électricité de France for Nuclear Power Collaboration

• NTPC Limited (formerly National Thermal Power Corporation Limited), India’s largest power utility, signed a strategic non-binding Memorandum of Understanding with Électricité de France to explore collaboration in the development of nuclear power projects in India.
• The agreement was signed by Arnada Prasad Samal, Chief General Manager of Nuclear Cell, National Thermal Power Corporation Limited, and Vakisasai Ramany, Senior Vice President of International Nuclear Development, Électricité de France.

Key Highlights:

• Under the Memorandum of Understanding, both organisations will jointly assess the feasibility and modalities of cooperation, including evaluation of European Pressurised Reactor technology for its suitability in India’s nuclear energy programme.
• The collaboration will explore localisation opportunities for large-scale deployment of nuclear reactors, assess economic and tariff aspects, identify potential project sites, and provide technical support as mutually agreed.
• The partnership will also focus on human resource capability development through specialised training programmes to support India’s nuclear energy expansion.
• National Thermal Power Corporation Limited currently has an installed power generation capacity of more than 89 gigawatts, with 32 gigawatts under construction, and has set a target to achieve 149 gigawatts total installed capacity by 2032, including 60 gigawatts from Renewable Energy sources.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : OBITUARIES

Jim Whittaker, First American to Climb Mount Everest, Passed away at 97

• James Warren Whittaker (Jim Whittaker), the first American to summit Mount Everest, passed away at the age of 97 in Port Townsend, Washington,United States of America (USA).

About James Warren Whittaker :

• He was born on 10 February 1929 in Seattle, Washington, and became one of the most celebrated mountaineers in history.
• He achieved global fame by becoming the first American to summit Mount Everest on 1 May 1963, along with Nawang Gombu, becoming the 10th climber ever to reach the summit.
• His achievement came 10 years after the historic climb of Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, and helped boost mountaineering popularity in the USA.
• Career Highlight: He was the first full-time employee and later CEO (1971–1979) of Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI), expanding it into a major outdoor retail cooperative.
• He led and participated in major expeditions, including the 1978 American ascent of K2, the 1965 Mount Kennedy expedition with Robert F. Kennedy, and the 1990 Everest International Peace Climb.
• He also led unique initiatives such as guiding 10 differently-abled climbers up Mount Rainier in 1981, highlighting his commitment to inclusive mountaineering.
• Honours: He received the prestigious Hubbard Medal from the National Geographic Society, presented by former US President John F. Kennedy.
• He contributed to environmental conservation, helping establish North Cascades National Park, Pasayten Wilderness, and Redwood National Park.
• Landmarks such as Big Jim Mountain and Jim Whittaker Wilderness Peak Trail were named in his honour.
• He authored his memoir “A Life on the Edge” (1999), documenting his mountaineering journey and experiences.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: IMPORTANT DAYS

Central Reserve Police Force Valour Day Observed on 9 April

• Central Reserve Police Force Valour Day, also known as Shaurya Diwas, is observed every year on April 9 across India to honour the bravery of Central Reserve Police Force personnel during the Battle of Sardar Post in the Rann of Kutch, Gujarat.
• April 9, 2026 marks the 61st Central Reserve Police Force Valour Day.

• On April 9, 1965, the Pakistan Army launched Operation Desert Hawk, deploying a full infantry brigade to attack Sardar Post.
• A small unit of the 2nd Battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force successfully repulsed the attack, eliminating 34 Pakistani soldiers and capturing 4 soldiers, while 6 Central Reserve Police Force personnel laid down their lives in the line of duty.
• Since then, April 9 is observed annually as Central Reserve Police Force Valour Day to commemorate the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of Central Reserve Police Force personnel.

National Pet Day Observed on 11 April

• National Pet Day is observed every year on April 11 to raise awareness about animal welfare, adoption of pets from shelters, and the importance of caring for companion animals.
• The day was established in 2006 by Colleen Paige, an animal welfare advocate, to encourage pet adoption and protection of animals awaiting homes in shelters.
• Over the past decade, the National Institutes of Health has partnered in research highlighting the physical and mental health benefits of pet ownership.
• National Pet Day is primarily observed in the United States, and the observance is gradually gaining popularity in several other countries.
• The day has been promoted by public figures including Ricky Gervais, Jimmy Fallon, Willie Nelson, Taylor Swift, Cee Lo Green, Seth Meyers, Kevin Bacon, and Carrie Underwood.

National Safe Motherhood Day Observed on 11 April

• India observes National Safe Motherhood Day every year on April 11 to raise awareness about maternal health, safe pregnancy, and access to quality healthcare services for mothers.
• The day is observed on the birth anniversary of Kasturba Gandhi, spouse of Mahatma Gandhi.
• The theme for National Safe Motherhood Day 2026 is “Equity in Maternal Healthcare: Leaving No Mother Behind.”
• India became the first country to officially declare April 11 as National Safe Motherhood Day, following a proposal by the White Ribbon Alliance India, and the day was designated by the Government of India in 2003.
• The observance focuses on improving maternal healthcare awareness, institutional delivery support, and access to medical services, which contribute to reducing maternal mortality in the country.

Daily CA One- Liner: April 11

• Election authorities in Puducherry deployed ‘Nila’ humanoid robot for the first time during Assembly elections at the VOC Government School polling booth to enhance voter experience through technology-driven assistance
• Nidhi Chhibber, Chief Executive Officer of the National Institution for Transforming India Aayog, released the second edition of the report titled “From Borrowers to Builders: Women and India’s Evolving Credit Market” in New Delhi
• The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved multiple proposals to strengthen agricultural support systems, urban transport infrastructure, and energy security
• The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved two hydroelectric projects in Arunachal Pradesh with a total investment of ₹40,175.33 crore to strengthen renewable energy capacity, energy security, and infrastructure development in the North-Eastern region
• GAIL (India) Limited (formerly Gas Authority of India Limited), a Maharatna Public Sector Undertaking, signed a long-term charter party agreement with Alpha Gas, a Greek shipping company, for the Liquefied Natural Gas carrier ‘Energy Fidelity’ to strengthen liquefied natural gas transportation capacity
• NTPC Limited (formerly National Thermal Power Corporation Limited), India’s largest power utility, signed a strategic non-binding Memorandum of Understanding with Électricité de France to explore collaboration in the development of nuclear power projects in India
• Central Reserve Police Force Valour Day, also known as Shaurya Diwas, is observed every year on April 9 across India to honour the bravery of Central Reserve Police Force personnel during the Battle of Sardar Post in the Rann of Kutch, Gujarat
• National Pet Day is observed every year on April 11 to raise awareness about animal welfare, adoption of pets from shelters, and the importance of caring for companion animals
• India observes National Safe Motherhood Day every year on April 11 to raise awareness about maternal health, safe pregnancy, and access to quality healthcare services for mothers
• The Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND) and the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen India’s fight against cyber frauds and financial crimes.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) conducted the 60th and 1st Bi-monthly Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting for Financial Year 2026-27 (FY27) from April 06 to April 08, 2026.
• The National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) has partnered with S&P Global Energy to launch exchange-traded derivatives based on Platts benchmarks.
• The Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations announced that India was elected by acclamation to key subsidiary bodies of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).
• Nasscom Foundation has appointed B. Pravin Rao as its new Chairperson, effective immediately.
• Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Jayant Chaudhary of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) launched an initiative to establish the Skills Outcomes Fund (SOF) in New Delhi.
• Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Jitendra Singh announced the establishment of a Seismological Observatory in Kishtwar and a Doppler Weather Radar (DWR) in Doda, Jammu & Kashmir.
• The Aluminium Extrusion Manufacturers Association of India (ALEMAI) has launched the ‘Aluminium Bharat’ initiative to strengthen India’s domestic aluminium manufacturing capabilities and promote sustainable industrial growth.
• The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has constituted a Special Task Force (STF) on Agriculture to strengthen India’s agricultural resilience amid global disruptions.
• The Indian Ocean Ship SAGAR (IOS SAGAR), deployed on INS Sunayna, departed from Malé (Maldives), strengthening India–Maldives maritime relations.
• James Warren Whittaker (Jim Whittaker), the first American to summit Mount Everest, passed away at the age of 97 in Port Townsend, Washington,United States of America (USA).