Technology
NIDAR and SwaYaan Programme
The National Innovation Challenge for Drone Application and Research (NIDAR) was launched under SwaYaan, a programme focusing on capacity building for Human Resource Development in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). This initiative aims to develop skilled workforce for India’s rapidly growing drone technology sector.
Environment
India’s First Green Waste PPP Plant
Indore is establishing India’s first green waste processing plant under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. This initiative is linked with Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban and represents innovative waste management converting green waste into useful resources like compost and biofuel.
Education
Rajiv Yuva Vikasam Scheme
Telangana’s Rajiv Yuva Vikasam scheme provides self-employment loans to youth from SC, ST, BC, and Minority communities with an allocation of ₹6,000 crore. This represents a major state investment in inclusive entrepreneurship and economic empowerment across marginalized sections.
Business & Economy
Skechers’ Cricket Ambassador Portfolio
Jasprit Bumrah joined Skechers as brand ambassador, alongside cricketers Ishan Kishan and Yastika Bhatia. This reflects Skechers’ strategic push into the Indian cricket market, leveraging star power to compete with established sportswear giants in the country’s most popular sport.
Business & Economy
Bajaj Auto’s Capital Infusion
Bajaj Auto approved a ₹1,500 crore capital infusion for its subsidiary Bajaj Auto Credit Ltd (BACL). This strengthens BACL’s funding base for planned operations in the financing sector, announced alongside Rajiv Bajaj’s reappointment as MD & CEO.
Defence
VARUNA Naval Exercise 2025
The 23rd VARUNA bilateral naval exercise between India and France is scheduled for 19-22 March 2025. The partnership began in 1993, with the exercise name adopted in 2001. VARUNA strengthens maritime cooperation and interoperability in the Indo-Pacific region.
International
Global Free Speech Index Rankings
India ranked 24th out of 33 nations in The Future of Free Speech Index. This index assesses various parameters related to free speech, expression, and media freedom across countries, providing comparative insights into democratic freedoms globally.
Sports
Kabaddi World Cup Goes Global
England will host the Kabaddi World Cup in 2025, marking the first time the tournament is held outside Asia. India’s opener is against Italy. This represents a significant milestone in kabaddi’s international expansion and recognition as a global sport.
Environment
World Sparrow Day Conservation
World Sparrow Day is observed on March 20 to raise awareness about the decline of house sparrows and other common birds. Initiated in 2010 by an India-based organization, it highlights urbanization’s impact on biodiversity and the need for species conservation.
Digital Governance
UAS and Drone Technology Development
Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) refer to drone systems comprising unmanned aircraft and supporting controls. India’s focus on UAS through programmes like SwaYaan and NIDAR reflects the strategic importance of drone technology for civil applications, defense, agriculture, and surveillance.