Major Rule Changes in IPL 2025 Promise Thrilling Action
The IPL 2025 season, starting March 22, introduces significant rules to enhance gameplay. A two-ball system will now be used in night matches, where a fresh ball is introduced from the 11th over of the second innings to tackle dew challenges. The saliva ban has been lifted, allowing bowlers to shine the ball for better grip and swing control. The Impact Player rule remains, enabling tactical substitutions during matches. These changes aim to maintain a fair balance between bat and ball, ensuring a more competitive and exciting tournament for players and fans alike.
Cabinet Greenlights Namrup-IV Fertilizer Plant to Strengthen Agriculture
The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the construction of the Namrup-IV Fertilizer Plant in Assam, a ₹10,601 crore project aimed at boosting agricultural productivity. The plant will feature a brownfield ammonia-urea complex, with an annual production capacity of 12.7 lakh metric tonnes, addressing fertilizer needs in Northeast India and nearby regions. Developed with a 70:30 debt-equity ratio, it aims to lower transportation costs, enhance self-reliance in urea production, and create employment opportunities. Scheduled for completion in 48 months, this initiative supports India’s commitment to sustainable agricultural growth and economic development.
Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission Receives ₹3,400 Crore Boost
The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has allocated ₹3,400 crore to the Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission for the 2021-26 period. This initiative aims to enhance milk production, livestock productivity, and rural livelihoods. New features include a 35% capital subsidy for setting up Heifer Rearing Centres and a 3% interest subvention on loans to buy high genetic merit IVF heifers. The program focuses on artificial insemination, advanced breeding techniques, and farmer training. By strengthening the dairy sector, this scheme intends to increase farmers’ incomes and contribute to India’s agricultural and economic development.
Sunita Williams: Acclaimed Astronaut and Naval Aviator
Sunita Lyn “Suni” Williams, a celebrated American astronaut and former U.S. Navy officer, was born on September 19, 1965, in Euclid, Ohio. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Science from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1987 and a Master’s in Engineering Management from the Florida Institute of Technology in 1995. Williams has spent over 606 days in space, setting records for spacewalk duration with nine excursions totaling over 62 hours. She participated in pivotal missions, including Expeditions 14/15 and 32/33. With a net worth of $5 million, she is a symbol of excellence in space exploration and aviation.
Ramnath Goenka Awards 2025 Honor Courage in Journalism
President Droupadi Murmu presented the Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Awards 2025 to celebrate outstanding contributions across 20 categories, including politics, sports, investigative reporting, and regional languages. Established by the Indian Express Group in 2005, the awards recognized 27 journalists for their courage and commitment to ethical reporting. Highlights included Maitri Porecha from The Hindu for covering the Balasore railway tragedy and Mridulika Jha from Aaj Tak for exposing illegal immigration networks. President Murmu emphasized the role of fact-based journalism in strengthening democracy, combating misinformation, and empowering citizens, reinforcing the need for integrity in media practices.
Kanger Valley National Park Gains UNESCO Recognition as Natural Heritage
Kanger Valley National Park, situated in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar district, has been added to UNESCO’s tentative list of World Heritage Sites under the ‘Natural’ category. Covering 200 square kilometers, the park boasts lush forests, limestone caves such as Kotamsar and Kailash, and the picturesque Tirathgarh Waterfall. Renowned for its biodiversity, it shelters rare species like the Bastar Hill Myna and diverse plant life. The designation highlights its ecological and cultural significance, promoting conservation and eco-tourism. This milestone emphasizes KVNP’s importance as one of India’s densest forests and a crucial hub for wildlife preservation and sustainable development.