Nidhi Tiwari Appointed as PM Modi’s Private Secretary
Nidhi Tiwari, a 2014-batch Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, has been named Private Secretary to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Her appointment, approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, is co-terminus with the PM’s term. Tiwari has served as Deputy Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) since 2023 and worked in the Ministry of External Affairs on disarmament and international security issues. Hailing from Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, she brings deep expertise in foreign and security affairs to her new role, which is expected to strengthen coordination and strategic initiatives within the PMO.
Sagarmala Programme: 10 Years of Maritime Growth
The Sagarmala Programme, launched in March 2015 by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, celebrates a decade of transforming India’s maritime infrastructure. Focused on port modernization, enhanced connectivity, port-led industrialization, coastal community upliftment, and sustainable coastal shipping, it has completed 272 projects worth ₹1.41 lakh crore. Coastal shipping witnessed a 118% rise, while inland waterway cargo surged by 700%, reducing road and rail congestion. These achievements align with the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, which aims to establish India as a global maritime powerhouse, leveraging innovation and efficiency to enhance its logistics ecosystem and trade competitiveness.
President Murmu Opens National Conference on Environmental Sustainability
President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the National Conference on ‘Environment – 2025,’ a two-day event held in New Delhi. Organized by the National Green Tribunal (NGT), the conference aims to address key environmental challenges, including pollution, climate change, and biodiversity conservation. Highlighting India’s achievements in meeting environmental targets ahead of deadlines, President Murmu emphasized the importance of balancing development with sustainability through an eco-conscious lifestyle. Bringing together policymakers, environmentalists, and legal experts, the event fosters collaborative solutions to environmental issues, reaffirming India’s global leadership in promoting sustainability and safeguarding the planet for future generations.
PM Modi Presents MY-Bharat Summer Vacation Calendar for Kids
On March 30, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the MY-Bharat Summer Vacation Calendar to encourage children to utilize their holiday creatively and productively. The initiative includes diverse activities, such as study tours to Jan Aushadhi Kendras, visits to border villages under the Vibrant Village Campaign, cultural programs, sports events, and technology camps. Children can also engage in skill-building courses on the environment and leadership. Modi highlighted the importance of learning beyond the classroom and urged families to share their experiences on social media using #HolidayMemories, fostering innovation and community spirit during the summer break.
Anahat Singh and Kareem El Torkey Shine at Indian Open 2025
The Indian Open 2025 PSA Copper event showcased top-tier squash at Bombay Gymkhana, Mumbai, from March 24-28. In the women’s final, Anahat Singh, India’s leading squash player, delivered a commanding performance, defeating Hong Kong’s Helen Tang in straight sets (11-9, 11-5, 11-8) in just 24 minutes. Meanwhile, Egypt’s Kareem El Torkey triumphed in the men’s final, overcoming India’s Abhay Singh 3-1 (12-10, 11-4, 7-11, 12-10) in a gripping match. This first-ever PSA Copper tournament held in India spotlighted exceptional talent and elevated squash’s profile in the country. Both champions proved their mettle in this thrilling competition.
Eid-ul-Fitr 2025: A Time of Reflection, Charity, and Celebration
Eid-ul-Fitr, also known as Ramzan Eid or Meethi Eid, is celebrated on March 31, 2025, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan. It signifies gratitude to Allah for the strength to observe fasting and emphasizes compassion through Zakat-al-Fitr, where alms are given to the needy. The day begins with special prayers, followed by festive gatherings featuring dishes like Seviyan. Families exchange gifts, enhancing the joy of the occasion. Eid-ul-Fitr fosters unity, spiritual renewal, and the importance of sharing, making it one of the most cherished celebrations in the Islamic faith.