This article features several important news events that deserve your attention. Covering everything from local happenings to international headlines, we’ve gathered the top five news stories making an impact. Join us as we highlight the key developments that are influencing our world today!
1. Air Marshal Amar Preet Singh Appointed Next Chief of Air Staff, Starting September 30
Air Marshal Amar Preet Singh has been appointed as the next Chief of Air Staff of the Indian Air Force, set to take charge from September 30, 2024. Currently serving as Vice Chief of the Air Staff, Singh brings extensive experience with over 5,000 flying hours and a distinguished career spanning nearly 40 years.
Commissioned into the Indian Air Force as a fighter pilot in December 1984, Singh has held various command, staff, and instructional positions. He has commanded an operational fighter squadron and a frontline air base, showcasing his leadership in high-stakes environments. His background includes serving as a Qualified Flying Instructor and Experimental Test Pilot, contributing significantly to projects such as the MiG-29 Upgrade and the flight testing of the Light Combat Aircraft, Tejas.
A graduate of prestigious military institutions, including the National Defence Academy and the National Defence College, Singh’s career highlights also include roles as Air Defence Commander at South Western Air Command and Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Central Air Command.
The current Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari, will retire on the same day Singh assumes his new role. The Defence Ministry confirmed Singh’s appointment, underscoring his readiness to lead the IAF in its ongoing commitment to national security and operational excellence.
2. Tirupati temple trust calms concerns over ‘beef tallow’ claims in sacred Laddu Prasadam
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has confirmed that the purity of the famous Tirupati Laddu prasadam has been restored amidst concerns about the quality of ghee used in its preparation. Following laboratory tests that revealed traces of sub-standard ghee and lard, TTD reassured devotees that the sanctity of the Srivari Laddu remains intact. The temple authority is in the process of blacklisting the contractor responsible for supplying the adulterated ghee.
The controversy has drawn attention from government officials, with Union food minister Pralhad Joshi calling for a thorough investigation. The Andhra Pradesh government is also expected to submit a report on the matter.
In a separate development, an FIR was lodged against seven users on the social media platform ‘X’ for spreading misinformation that the low-quality ghee used in the laddus was from the Amul brand. Amul has denied these claims, stating they have not supplied ghee to TTD. The accused are facing charges related to forgery and promoting enmity, highlighting the serious implications of spreading misinformation.
3. Godrej Agrovet launches farming advisory helpline “Hello Godrej”
Godrej Agrovet Limited (GAVL) has launched “Hello Godrej,” a multilingual farming advisory helpline aimed at providing real-time expert solutions for crop protection. Available in eight regional languages—Hindi, Marathi, Kannada, Telugu, Tamil, Bengali, Punjabi, and English—the initiative is designed to support farmers nationwide, improving farm productivity through accessible guidance.
Balram Singh Yadav, Managing Director of GAVL, emphasized the importance of timely access to solutions for better yields. “Hello Godrej” seeks to bridge the gap between farmers and agricultural experts by offering personalized advice tailored to their needs.
In light of changing climatic conditions and increased pest threats, this helpline addresses the urgent need for farmers to access the latest crop protection information. Through direct communication with agricultural experts, farmers can receive immediate assistance.
Rajavelu NK, CEO of GAVL’s Crop Protection Business, stated that the initiative reflects the company’s vision to be a trusted partner for Indian farmers in their pursuit of sustainable agriculture. By leveraging its extensive experience, Godrej Agrovet aims to build strong relationships with farmers, positioning itself as a reliable source for agricultural information and solidifying its leadership in the sector.
4. First indigenous air carrier INS Vikrant to be put through paces at Karwar
India’s first indigenously built aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, has officially joined the Western Fleet in Karwar for significant naval exercises, marking a milestone in enhancing the Indian Navy’s capabilities. The integration of INS Vikrant into operations with the existing INS Vikramaditya allows for twin-carrier fighter operations, positioning India among a select group of navies capable of such maneuvers.
The exercise aims to simulate a two-carrier tactical scenario, deploying all available fighter aircraft and helicopters to validate the operational readiness of various systems on the carrier. INS Vikrant, weighing approximately 44,000 tonnes, is designed to support 28-30 aircraft and will lead a Carrier Strike Group (CSG), which includes destroyers, frigates, and submarines.
Key operational checks will involve assessing the air wing’s response times, particularly during “scramble jets” orders, and testing launch capabilities under challenging conditions. The exercise will also evaluate the carriers’ crews to ensure they meet the rigorous standards outlined in the Qualitative Staff Requirements (QSR) established prior to construction. Successful validation in these exercises is crucial for INS Vikrant’s formal induction into the Indian Navy’s fleet.
5. PM Modi scans Paytm QR at Vishwakarma exhibition, highlights fintech’s role for small merchants
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the potential of mobile payments during his visit to Wardha, Maharashtra, by purchasing an artefact from a local Vishwakarma craftsman using Paytm’s QR code. This act underscores the government’s commitment to empowering artisans through the National ‘PM Vishwakarma’ Programme, which celebrates a year of progress under the PM Vishwakarma Yojana.
By showcasing the seamless transaction, PM Modi demonstrated how fintech can enhance traditional craftsmanship and foster trust in mobile payments. Paytm, a leader in digital payments, plays a crucial role in supporting small merchants by providing innovative solutions that simplify transactions and reduce cash dependency.
Recently, Paytm launched the Paytm NFC Card Soundbox, a next-generation device that combines NFC technology with QR payments, catering to millions of offline merchants. With its user-friendly interface and extensive support network, Paytm aims to bring half a billion Indians into the mainstream economy.
The Prime Minister’s visit emphasizes the importance of facilitating access to technology for artisans and small business owners, contributing to economic growth and the preservation of India’s rich cultural heritage through modern payment solutions.
