Günter Blöschl Receives 2025 Stockholm Water Prize for Hydrology Excellence
Austrian hydrologist Günter Blöschl has been awarded the 2025 Stockholm Water Prize for his transformative contributions to water resource management and flood risk mitigation. Renowned for his expertise in flood hydrology and sociohydrology, Blöschl’s research has advanced global understanding of flood scaling and the effects of climate change on water systems. As a professor at the Vienna University of Technology, he collaborates globally on sustainable water management strategies. This prestigious award, often referred to as the “Nobel Prize of Water,” highlights his profound impact on science and society in addressing critical global water challenges.
‘To the Seventh Generation’ Celebrates CMC Vellore’s Inspiring Journey
On March 20, 2025, V.I. Mathan, former director of Christian Medical College (CMC) Vellore, unveiled the book To the Seventh Generation: The Journey of Christian Medical College Vellore at a ceremony in Chennai. The book traces the institution’s growth, focusing on founder Ida Scudder’s transformative vision and its enduring impact on Indian healthcare. Dr. Vikram Mathew, the current director, and Dr. V.V. Bashi, a leading cardiothoracic surgeon, received the first copies. With over 50 years of service at CMC, Dr. Mathan reflects on its achievements, values, and mission, celebrating its legacy of compassion and excellence in medical care.
Japan Qualifies for 2026 FIFA World Cup as First Non-Host Nation
Japan has secured its place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the first non-host team to qualify. In a decisive match against Bahrain in Saitama, Japan triumphed 2-0 with second-half goals by Daichi Kamada and Takefusa Kubo. This victory ensures one of the top two spots in Group C of the Asian qualifiers, marking Japan’s eighth consecutive World Cup appearance. With three matches remaining, Japan’s early qualification underscores their dominance and preparedness. They now join host nations Canada, Mexico, and the United States in the expanded 48-team tournament, setting high expectations for their campaign.
‘March of Glory’ Honors India’s 1975 Hockey World Cup Victory
Commemorating the 50th anniversary of India’s first Hockey World Cup triumph, the book March of Glory was released on March 21, 2025. Co-authored by hockey historian K. Arumugam and journalist Errol D’Cruz, the book vividly narrates India’s historic journey to victory in Kuala Lumpur. It includes rare photographs, gripping accounts of crucial matches, and insights into the final game against Pakistan, where Ashok Kumar’s decisive goal secured the win. The book pays tribute to the legendary team led by Ajit Pal Singh, celebrating their resilience and highlighting the golden chapter they wrote in India’s sporting history.
Enhanced Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission Targets Livestock Development
The Government of India has boosted the Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM) by allocating ₹3,400 crore for the 2021-26 period, including an additional ₹1,000 crore. This initiative aims to improve milk production, livestock productivity, and rural livelihoods. Among its key features are a 35% capital subsidy for Heifer Rearing Centres and a 3% interest subvention on loans for acquiring high genetic merit IVF heifers. It also emphasizes artificial insemination, breed enhancement, and farmer training programs. These measures are designed to strengthen the dairy sector and enhance farmers’ incomes through sustainable livestock practices, supporting agricultural growth.
Incentive Scheme to Boost Small BHIM-UPI Transactions Announced
The Government of India has launched a ₹1,500 crore incentive scheme for the financial year 2024-25 to promote low-value BHIM-UPI transactions. Targeting transactions up to ₹2,000, the initiative encourages small merchants to adopt UPI payments, fostering digital inclusion. Running from April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025, it offers a 0.15% incentive on the transaction value. Acquiring banks will receive 80% of claims unconditionally, while 20% depends on factors like uptime and technical performance. By reducing costs for small merchants and boosting digital payment adoption, the scheme aims to advance financial inclusion and strengthen India’s digital economy.