Kalesar National Park: Haryana’s Biodiversity Gem
Located in the Yamunanagar district of Haryana, Kalesar National Park is a serene haven spread across 13,000 acres. Nestled in the Shivalik hills, it features lush sal forests, flowing streams, and diverse wildlife, including leopards, barking deer, and over 150 species of birds. Established in 2003, the park shares borders with Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh, adding to its ecological significance. Kalesar also houses the historic Kalesar Mahadev Temple, attracting both nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts. With its breathtaking landscapes and thriving biodiversity, it stands out as a symbol of conservation and natural beauty in India.
Akarsh Shroff Receives National Youth Award for Education Reforms
Akarsh Shroff, founder of YuvaSpark, was honored with the National Youth Award on April 3, 2025, for his groundbreaking contributions to early childhood education in India. Through YuvaSpark, Shroff has transformed over 600 anganwadi centers with digital tools, enabling interactive and localized learning for educators. The initiative has enhanced rural education infrastructure, positively impacting more than 3.46 lakh children across 10 states, including orphanages and government schools. Recognized for his dedication to community welfare and education innovation, Shroff received the award from Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, showcasing his commitment to empowering future generations and driving social change in India.
South Indian Film Icon Ravikumar Passes Away at 71
Veteran actor Ravikumar, celebrated for his romantic roles in Malayalam and Tamil cinema during the 1970s and 1980s, passed away on April 4, 2025, at a private hospital in Chennai after battling cancer. Known for his roles in classics like Avalude Ravukal, Lisa, and Angadi, he worked alongside legendary directors such as I.V. Sasi and J. Sasikumar. Ravikumar’s performances, paired with timeless musical numbers, earned him acclaim and a devoted fan base. Having acted in over 100 films and several television serials, his contributions to South Indian cinema remain unforgettable. His funeral will be held in Chennai on April 5.
PM Modi Strengthens Regional Ties at BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok
Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, Thailand, on April 3-4, 2025. The summit emphasized boosting regional cooperation in areas like trade, connectivity, and disaster management. Modi proposed linking India’s UPI system with BIMSTEC nations, introducing a BIMSTEC Chamber of Commerce, and encouraging trade in local currencies. He also announced the establishment of a BIMSTEC Centre for Disaster Management in India to enhance regional resilience. The adoption of the Bangkok Vision 2030 document marked a shared commitment to prosperity and development within the Bay of Bengal region, highlighting India’s pivotal role in regional collaboration.
Kumbakonam Betel Leaf and Thovalai Flower Garland Receive GI Tags
The renowned Kumbakonam betel leaf and Thovalai flower garland from Tamil Nadu have earned Geographical Indication (GI) tags, celebrating their distinctiveness and cultural heritage. The Kumbakonam betel leaf, grown in the fertile Cauvery basin, is prized for its soft texture and medicinal benefits. The Thovalai flower garland, intricately woven using oleander and rose flowers, showcases exceptional artistry passed through generations. These GI tags protect their authenticity, prevent misuse, and enhance market opportunities for local farmers and artisans. This recognition highlights Tamil Nadu’s rich cultural identity and contributes to preserving its traditional crafts and agricultural practices.
Puducherry’s Breakthrough in Cattle Breeding with IVF Technology
Puducherry achieved a significant milestone in livestock development with the birth of its first calf through In-Vitro Fertilized Embryo Transfer (IVF-ET) technology in Kanuvapet village. Supported by the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, this initiative aims to improve cattle genetics and enhance milk production. By implanting embryos with superior traits into surrogate cows, the program targets creating high-yielding offspring. With a success rate exceeding the national average, Puducherry plans to produce 500 elite cattle across Puducherry and Karaikal. This accomplishment highlights the transformative potential of advanced reproductive techniques in strengthening India’s dairy sector and boosting rural livelihoods.