Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 Gains Presidential Assent
President Droupadi Murmu approved the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, on April 5, following heated debates in Parliament. This legislation seeks to enhance the management of Waqf properties by introducing reforms aimed at greater transparency and accountability. Key changes include provisions to involve non-Muslims and women in Waqf governing bodies and measures to protect Waqf lands from encroachments or misuse. While supporters praise its potential to empower marginalized groups, critics argue its constitutionality, sparking legal challenges and public discourse nationwide. The Act signifies a pivotal development in the administration and governance of Waqf properties across India.
PM Modi Unveils India’s First Vertical-Lift Sea Bridge in Tamil Nadu
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the New Pamban Bridge on April 6, 2025, replacing the iconic century-old structure. Spanning 2.07 kilometers over the Palk Strait, this vertical-lift sea bridge connects Rameswaram Island to the mainland and is the first of its kind in India. Built at a cost of ₹550 crore, it features a 72.5-meter lift span that elevates 17 meters to facilitate ship movement. Engineered with marine-grade materials to withstand harsh conditions, the bridge promises durability for a century. This milestone enhances connectivity, boosts trade and tourism, and stands as a testament to India’s advancing infrastructure.
Discovery of Rajaraja Chola I Inscription in Madurai Unveils Historical Insights
A fascinating inscription linked to Rajaraja Chola I has been unearthed atop the Somagiri hills in Melavalavu, Madurai. Dated to around 1000 CE, this engraving begins with the king’s prestigious title, “Raja Raja Mummudichola,” and sheds light on his influence in the Pandya region. It mentions Viranarana Pallavarayan, a military leader who secured the area, and Malaiyappa Sambu, credited with carving steps to a sacred temple ledge. This discovery offers valuable insights into Chola-era governance, temple architecture, and cultural advancements, enriching our understanding of one of South India’s most illustrious dynasties.
India Proposes $1.3 Trillion Climate Finance Under Baku to Belém Roadmap
During the 11th BRICS Environment Ministers’ meeting in Brazil on April 4, 2025, India called for BRICS nations to mobilize $1.3 trillion to support climate financing under the Baku to Belém Roadmap. The initiative aims to assist Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and encourage sustainable development. India emphasized the importance of equitable carbon budgeting and ensuring a balanced energy transition, focusing on the needs of developing nations. Key proposals included enhancing climate finance mechanisms and strengthening global cooperation. This call to action underscores India’s commitment to addressing climate challenges and driving progress towards a sustainable future.
Global Trade Shaken by Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’ Tariff Policy
President Donald Trump’s announcement of the ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs on April 2, 2025, has significantly impacted international trade. These tariffs include a minimum 10% tax on imports, with heightened rates targeting specific nations, such as India (27%) and China (34%). The policy aims to safeguard American industries and reduce trade deficits while promoting domestic manufacturing. However, it has sparked fears of inflation, supply chain disruptions, and retaliatory tariffs from affected countries. The move may generate substantial revenue for the U.S., but it also poses challenges to global economic stability and diplomatic relations, marking a pivotal shift in trade dynamics.
Chandrayaan-3’s ChaSTE Unlocks Moon’s Thermal Secrets
The Chandra’s Surface Thermophysical Experiment (ChaSTE), a payload on Chandrayaan-3’s Vikram lander, has delivered remarkable findings from the Moon’s south pole. Successfully deployed on August 24, 2023, ChaSTE investigated the thermal properties of lunar regolith by measuring temperature variations up to 10 cm beneath the surface. Using advanced sensors, the experiment revealed extreme temperature differences, with surface heat peaking at 70°C during the lunar day, while subsurface temperatures dropped to -10°C. These results provide valuable insights into the Moon’s heat dynamics and soil composition, paving the way for future exploration and potential human habitation efforts.