Lawmakers in the Solomon Islands selected a pro-China candidate as their Prime Minister, in an indication the Pacific nation will remain a close Beijing ally.
Jeremiah Manele won the Prime Minister vote, beating out his opponent in a 31-18 count.
He will succeed former PM Manasseh Sogavare, a vocal critic of the West.
Manele was Foreign Minister in 2019, when the Solomons chose to switch its longstanding diplomatic recognition of Taiwan to China - a move that shocked regional neighbours.
India to Host 46th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting in Kochi
India reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Antarctica's delicate ecosystem and advancing scientific exploration in the region. The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), Government of India, in collaboration with the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), is set to host the 46th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM 46) and the 26th Meeting of the Committee for Environmental Protection (CEP 26) from May 20 to 30, 2024, in Kochi, Kerala.
The Antarctic Treaty, enacted in 1959 and enforced in 1961, designates Antarctica as a zone dedicated to peace, scientific collaboration, and environmental preservation. Over 56 countries have ratified the Treaty, showcasing global support for its principles.
Established under the Madrid Protocol in 1991, the CEP advises the ATCM on environmental conservation and protection in Antarctica. India, a Consultative Party since 1983, actively contributes to the decision-making process alongside 28 other Consultative Parties.
Jamshyd Godrej and Smita Crishna, Godrej & Boyce's Owner after Split
The 127-year-old business empire of the Godrej Group is all set for a shareholding realignment. In the redistribution, the billion-dollar company will now be split between Adi and Nadir Godrej and their cousins Jamshyd Godrej and Smita Crishna Godrej.
While Adi and Nadir will lead Godrej Industries, Jamshyd and Smita will inherit Godrej & Boyce, along with its affiliates and substantial real estate assets, including prime property in Mumbai.
Jamshyd Godrejis presently the Chairman and Managing Director of Godrej & Boyce, a flagship company within the Godrej Group, known for products ranging from consumer goods to engineering solutions.
He was awarded the Padma Bhushan, the third-highest civilian award in India, in 2003.
Smita Crishna Godrej is India's third-richest woman, according to Forbes, with a substantial net worth of $3.8 billion.
She was honoured with the Extraordinary Leadership Award by Education World at their Education World Grand Jury Awards in 2016.
RBI Cancels Acemoney (India) NBFC License for Irregular Lending Practices
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) cancelled the license of Acemoney (India) Limited, a Delhi-based non-banking financial company (NBFC), citing irregular lending practices. This action stems from the company's violation of RBI guidelines regarding excessive interest charges and inadequate protection of customer information. Specifically, the RBI noted discrepancies in Acemoney's management of risks and code of conduct in its digital lending operations through third-party apps.
The RBI exercised its authority under Section 45-IA (6) of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, to cancel Acemoney India's NBFC license. The company, registered in February 2017, operated loan services through various apps such as AgMoney, NiceCash, Leading Cash, and others. This enforcement action underscores the RBI's commitment to maintaining the integrity and stability of India's financial system.
Uttarakhand Suspends Licences of 14 Patanjali Ayurved Products
The Uttarakhand government has suspended the manufacturing licenses of 14 products from Patanjali Ayurved, founded by Baba Ramdev, citing misleading advertisements about their efficacy. This move comes amid ongoing scrutiny and legal proceedings against Ramdev for non-compliance with directives to cease misleading advertising.
The drug regulator of Uttarakhand has suspended the manufacturing licenses of 14 products made by Patanjali Ayurved due to repeatedly publishing misleading advertisements regarding their effectiveness. The government's order, dated April 24, highlights the company's failure to comply with regulations regarding truthful advertising.
Google Launches AI-powered 'Speaking Practice' Feature for English Learning
Google introduced 'Speaking Practice,' an AI-driven feature embedded within its search platform, aiming to enhance users' English speaking abilities through interactive exercises.
Google's Speaking Practice harnesses AI technology to assist English learners in Argentina, Colombia, India, Indonesia, Mexico, and Venezuela. This feature, part of Google's Search Labs program, offers AI-driven interactive language exercises for users to practice conversational English.
To access Speaking Practice, users must join Google's Search Labs programme. Once enrolled, users can activate the feature to make it accessible within Google Search.
While Speaking Practice doesn't replace comprehensive language courses, it offers a valuable opportunity for users to practice conversational English.
Paris Saint-Germain Clinches Record 12th Ligue-1 Title
In a triumphant display of dominance, Paris Saint-Germain secured their record 12th Ligue-1 title in the 2023-24 season. The club's relentless pursuit of excellence saw them claim victory for the third consecutive year, further solidifying their stature as a powerhouse in French football. Under the astute leadership of coach Luis Enrique, PSG showcased their prowess with a commanding performance throughout the season.
Kenyan Dominance at TCS World 10K Bengaluru
The 16th edition of the Tata Consultancy Services World 10K Bengaluru witnessed Kenyan runners Peter Mwaniki (28:15) and Lilian Kasait (30:56) emerging victorious in the international elite men's and women's categories, respectively.
Mwaniki pulled away from his compatriot Hillary Chepkwony (28:33) at the 7.5 km mark, displaying a burst of speed that left his fellow Kenyan trailing.
Mirroring Mwaniki's strategy, Kasait distanced herself from her closest rival, Emmaculate Achol (31:17), by surging ahead at the 7.1 km mark.
Despite their impressive performances, Mwaniki and Kasait were unable to break the event records (men: 27:38, women: 30:35) on the new route, which received praise from most runners.
In the Indian elite categories, Kiran Matre (29:32) etched his name in the record books by breaking the event record for Indian men's elite athletes, surpassing the previous milestone of 29:49 set by Suresh Kumar in 2015.
Actress Rupali Ganguly joined the BJP at the party headquarters in Delhi, ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
Party leaders Vinod Tawde and Anil Baluni were also present at the event.
Praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his work, Ganguly said, "The one personality that attracts everyone towards BJP is PM Narendra Modi".
Indian Army and Punit Balan Group Collaborate to Develop India's First Constitution Park
The Indian Army and the Punit Balan Group joined hands to inaugurate the nation's first Constitution Park in Pune. The ceremony, led by Lt. Gen. Ajai Kumar Singh, emphasized the importance of citizens honoring their duties outlined in the Constitution to drive India towards development by 2047.
Lt. Gen. Ajai Kumar Singh highlighted the global significance of the Indian Constitution, which not only grants Fundamental Rights but also underscores Fundamental Duties. He stressed the need for citizens to comprehend their rights and fulfill their duties, as outlined in the Constitution, for the realization of a developed India by 2047.
Lt. Gen. Singh expressed gratitude for initiatives like Constitution Park, which aim to enlighten citizens about their civic responsibilities. He thanked Punit Balan for his contribution to this endeavor, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in upholding the values of the Constitution.
Punit Balan, President of Punit Balan Group, expressed his delight in being part of the initiative and pledged to uphold the Fundamental Rights and Duties outlined in the Constitution. He affirmed the commitment of the Punit Balan Group to always support initiatives that honour the foundation of the nation.
Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan Takes over as Navy's Vice Chief
Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan took over as the Indian Navy's vice chief, filling a key role earlier held by Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi who assumed charge as the country's navy chief.
Swaminathan is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Khadakvasla; the Joint Services Command and Staff College, Shrivenham, the United Kingdom; the College of Naval Warfare, Karanja; and the United States Naval War College, Newport, Rhode Island.
Commissioned into the Indian Navy on July 1, 1987, the officer is a specialist in communication and electronic warfare and has held several key appointments in his career including the navy's chief of personnel, controller of personnel services and chief of staff of the Mumbai-based Western Naval Command.
DRDO Successfully Tests Long-range 'SMART' Anti-submarine Missile System
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted a flight test of the Supersonic Missile Assisted Release of Torpedo (SMART) from Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island, situated off the coast of Odisha.
According to the Ministry of Defence, SMART represents a cutting-edge missile-enabled lightweight torpedo delivery system aimed at bolstering the Indian Navy's anti-submarine warfare capabilities well beyond the traditional range of lightweight torpedoes.
The ministry elaborated that this canister-based missile system incorporates several advanced subsystems, including a two-stage solid propulsion system, electromechanical actuator system, and precision inertial navigation system.
World Tuna Day is celebrated every year on May 2. The day is dedicated to raising awareness about the decline in tuna stocks worldwide and the need to effectively implement international regulations to safeguard future tuna supplies. Tuna is a highly nutritious and valuable fish that is a significant source of food for both developing and developed countries.
The World Tuna Day was first observed in 2017. The day was established by the United Nations General Assembly to raise awareness about the declining tuna population and to promote the conservation and management of tuna fisheries. The tuna industry provides a significant source of food security, economic development, and employment opportunities for many countries.
AICTE Launches Career Portal for 3 Million Students to Get Jobs, Internships
A new career platform was launched by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) in partnership with apna.co, aiming to aid over 3 million students in accessing employment and internship opportunities.
The collaboration includes an exclusive opportunity for students to participate in the Silicon Valley Immersion Programme.
This fully-sponsored trip to Silicon Valley, USA, offers students the chance to engage directly with industry leaders at top companies like Google, Apple, and Microsoft.
The AICTE Career Portal offers students a range of features to empower their career planning.
Tetr Launches 4 New Base Camps across Belgium, Spain, China, and Luxembourg
Tetr College of Business, a first-of-its-kind global business school, partnered with United Business Institutes (UBI) and launched four new base camps for Tetr students across Europe and Asia, offering even greater flexibility and global immersion opportunities. This significant expansion of its international network through a strategic partnership with United Business Institutes (UBI), will enable students to pursue their 7th semester studies at any of UBI's esteemed campuses in Belgium, Spain, China, or Luxembourg. This partnership with UBI represents a major step forward for Tetr, as UBI's established presence in these regions complements Tetr's existing network, providing a wider range of cultural and business experiences for students.
The partnership between Tetr and UBI extends beyond geographical expansion. This shared focus ensures students receive a well-rounded education that prioritises ethical practices that align with the needs of today's global economy. The partnership will foster greater flexibility and global immersion for Tetr students.
Argentine Scientists Unveil Discovery of Speedy 90-Million-Year-Old Herbivore Dinosaur
Paleontologists from Argentina revealed the unearthing of a novel medium-sized herbivorous dinosaur, Chakisaurus nekul, which thrived approximately 90 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous period in present-day Patagonia. The finding sheds light on a remarkable creature known for its speed and unique tail anatomy.
Studies of Chakisaurus have unveiled an intriguing feature: its tail curved downward, a distinctive characteristic not observed in other dinosaurs. This peculiar adaptation suggests novel locomotive abilities, aiding the dinosaur in swift maneuvers and balance during its races, crucial for evading predators in its environment.
The name "Chakisaurus nekul" holds cultural significance, reflecting the indigenous heritage of the region. "Chaki" derives from the Aonikenk language, referring to an "old guanaco," a native herbivorous mammal, while "nekul" originates from the Mapudungún language, signifying "fast" or "agile."