U.S. and U.K. Surpass Gulf Nations in Remittances to India
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reports a dramatic shift in remittance sources, with the U.S. and U.K. emerging as the top contributors to India’s inward remittances. Together, they accounted for 40% in FY24, up from 26% in FY17, reflecting the growing influence of India’s diaspora in professional sectors. The U.S. alone contributed 28%, driven by higher-paying jobs and skilled labor migration. In contrast, the Gulf nations’ share has declined due to slower growth in blue-collar employment. This trend underscores changing migration dynamics and highlights India’s evolving economic connections with developed nations.
India Takes Action Against Unfairly Priced Chinese Imports
India has imposed anti-dumping duties on five Chinese products to shield its domestic industries from low-cost imports that distort market competition. The targeted items include Soft Ferrite Cores, vacuum insulated flasks, aluminium foil, Trichloro Isocyanuric Acid (used in water treatment), and Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) Paste Resin. Recommended by the Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR), these measures aim to level the playing field for Indian manufacturers. Duties on certain products are provisional for six months, while others will remain for five years. This move reinforces India’s commitment to fostering fair trade and supporting local industry growth.
Oscar Piastri Wins Chinese Grand Prix as McLaren Dominates
Oscar Piastri claimed a stunning victory at the Chinese Grand Prix, leading his McLaren teammate Lando Norris in an impressive one-two finish. This marks Piastri’s first Grand Prix win, showcasing his exceptional driving skill and strategy on the challenging Shanghai International Circuit. McLaren’s dominance highlights their resurgence in the 2025 Formula 1 season, with both drivers earning valuable points toward the championship. The race featured intense competition, but McLaren’s performance proved unbeatable, solidifying their position as top contenders. Piastri’s win signals a promising future for the team and establishes him as a rising star in Formula 1.
Project PARI: Transforming Public Spaces with Creative Expression
The Ministry of Culture, in collaboration with the Lalit Kala Akademi (LKA), has launched Project PARI to revitalize public spaces through innovative art initiatives. This project seeks to enhance urban and rural landscapes with vibrant murals, sculptures, and installations, celebrating India’s rich cultural heritage. By involving local artists and communities, it promotes inclusivity and creative expression. Public spaces such as parks, metro stations, and marketplaces will be transformed into hubs of artistic inspiration. Project PARI aims to foster a deeper connection between art and society, creating visually appealing environments that enrich daily life and celebrate India’s diverse artistry.
2024 Records Highest Migrant Death Toll in Five Years
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported 8,938 migrant deaths in 2024, marking the deadliest year since 2019. Asia saw the highest fatalities with 2,778 deaths, followed by 2,452 in the Mediterranean Sea and 2,242 across Africa. The Americas recorded losses, including 341 in the Caribbean and 174 in the Darién Gap. These tragic figures highlight the dangers faced by migrants pursuing safety or economic stability. The IOM stresses that these deaths are preventable and calls for global action to address migration challenges, establish safer routes, and provide protections for vulnerable groups facing exploitation and violence.
Chandrayaan-4: ISRO’s Ambitious Lunar Sample Collection Mission
India’s Chandrayaan-4 mission, scheduled for launch in October 2027, aims to achieve a groundbreaking milestone in space exploration. Led by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), this mission will not only perform a soft landing on the lunar surface but also collect and return lunar samples to Earth for detailed analysis. The advanced spacecraft features innovative technology for sample extraction and preservation, highlighting ISRO’s growing expertise in space science. Chandrayaan-4 represents a significant step forward for India’s space program, aspiring to unlock new insights into the Moon’s composition and origin, while cementing India’s position in global space exploration.