India Unveils National Critical Mineral Mission to Drive Sustainable Growth
India has launched the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) to secure essential minerals crucial for green energy technologies like solar panels, wind turbines, and electric vehicles. Led by the Geological Survey of India (GSI), the initiative includes 1,200 exploration projects aimed at reducing dependence on imports. The government is also promoting lithium and cobalt investments overseas and streamlining regulatory approvals to boost private sector involvement. With a ₹163 billion allocation, the mission focuses on strengthening mineral value chains and scaling up lithium-ion battery recycling to 75,000 tons annually, ensuring a resilient and sustainable future for India’s energy sector.
Nilgiri Tahr Census 2025: Kerala and Tamil Nadu Unite for Conservation
Kerala and Tamil Nadu have joined forces for a synchronized Nilgiri Tahr census, set to take place from April 24 to 27, 2025. This large-scale survey, marking 50 years of Eravikulam National Park, will cover 89 census blocks in Kerala and 176 in Tamil Nadu, ensuring a comprehensive population estimate of the endangered mountain ungulate. Wildlife experts, forest officials, and trained volunteers will utilize camera traps and genetic analysis via pellet samples to refine conservation strategies. The data, processed using the bounded count method, will aid long-term efforts to protect the Nilgiri Tahr and its natural habitat.
STREE Summit 2025: Hyderabad Leads the Way in Women’s Safety and Empowerment
The second edition of the STREE Summit is set to take place on April 15, 2025, in Hyderabad, hosted by the Hyderabad City Security Council (HCSC). The event will bring together policymakers, experts, advocates, and professionals to discuss crucial issues surrounding women’s safety and empowerment. With panel discussions, workshops, and interactive sessions, the summit aims to promote gender equality and security. The UN Women’s theme—“For All Women and Girls – Rights, Equality, Empowerment”—guides the dialogue**, ensuring meaningful action toward a safer future. HCSC Chairperson C.V. Anand emphasized the importance of collective efforts in fostering change.
Oscars 2028 to Introduce Best Stunt Design Category, Honoring Action Choreography
The 100th Academy Awards in 2028 will feature a new category: Best Stunt Design, recognizing the contributions of stunt professionals in filmmaking. After years of advocacy, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has finally acknowledged the artistry and complexity behind action sequences. The category will celebrate films released in 2027, highlighting innovation in stunt coordination, choreography, and execution. Voting criteria and eligibility rules are set to be finalized by 2027, paving the way for an exciting addition to the prestigious awards. This historic change ensures stunt work receives the recognition it deserves on Hollywood’s biggest stage.
Breakthrough Prize 2025: Celebrating Scientific Excellence and Revolutionary Discoveries
The 2025 Breakthrough Prize, known as the Oscars of Science, honored leading researchers in Physics, Life Sciences, and Mathematics for groundbreaking achievements. Physicists from CERN won the Fundamental Physics Prize for their contributions to Higgs boson research. Life Sciences awards recognized advancements in gene editing, weight-loss drugs, and multiple sclerosis treatments. Mathematician Dennis Gaitsgory was awarded for solving the Geometric Langlands Conjecture. With a total prize fund of $18.75 million, the event highlighted global scientific innovation, inspiring future generations to push the boundaries of discovery. Curious about specific breakthroughs from this year’s winners?
PM Modi Unveils ₹3,880-Crore Development Drive to Transform Varanasi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched a ₹3,880-crore development initiative aimed at modernizing Varanasi while preserving its rich heritage. The projects span infrastructure, energy, education, public welfare, and law enforcement, boosting the city’s connectivity and rural economy. Key efforts include road expansions, drinking water supply improvements, polytechnic colleges, libraries, and revitalized ghats to enhance tourism and cultural preservation. Investments in sports facilities and law enforcement infrastructure further underscore the city’s transformation. The initiative reflects the government’s vision of blending tradition with progress, ensuring Varanasi’s sustainable growth as a cultural and economic hub.