NEWS ON AIR https://newsonair.gov.in/Default.aspx Website cell, IT Unit, NSD, All India Radio, New Broadcasting House, New Delhi, India ? 2006 All rights reserved. All India Radio AIR International News Bangladesh: Special literary award conferred on Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458269 INT The Foundation of SAARC Writers and Literature (FOSWAL) conferred a special literary award on Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on Sunday. Sri Lanka’s merchandise exports in February fell by 8% with a drop in earnings in apparel and textile industries https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458267 INT Sri Lanka’s merchandise exports in February fell by eight percent with a drop in earnings in the apparel and textile industries. Israel's PM Benjamin Netanyahu fires Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, after speech called on govt to stop e proposed judicial overhaul and hold talks with its opponents https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458265 INT Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu fired Defence Minister Yoav Gallant yesterday, a day after his speech called on the government to stop the proposed judicial overhaul and hold talks with its opponents. US says, there is no indication that Russia has moved any nuclear weapons yet https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458257 INT The United States has said, there is no indication that Russia has moved any nuclear weapons yet. This was stated by US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby on Sunday. Emergency declared in Mississippi following devastating tornado in US https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458250 INT US President Joe Biden approved on Sunday an emergency declaration for Mississippi after the state was hit by devastating storms and a tornado which killed at least 25 people there and left a trail of destruction while one person was killed in Alabama. IMF Chief Georgieva warns of increased financial stability risks following recent turmoil in banking sector https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458251 INT International Monetary Fund Chief Kristalina Georgieva warned on Sunday that risks to financial stability had increased and stressed the need for vigilance following the recent turmoil in the banking sector. Bangladesh Prez and PM pay tributes to Liberation War martyrs on their Independence Day https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458245 INT Bangladesh celebrated its Independence Day today, with President M Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina paying rich tributes to the Liberation War martyrs by placing wreaths at the National Memorial at Savar, on the outskirts of Dhaka. At least 19 African migrants killed after boat sinks off Tunisia https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458242 INT An official at the Forum for Social and Economic Rights told a news agency that the Tunisian coast guard rescued five people from the boat off the coast of Mahdia after a journey that started from Sfax beaches. Russian President announces plan to station tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458235 INT President of Russia Vladimir Putin announced yesterday that Russia will install tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus. Mr. Putin said that the action would not violate nuclear non-proliferation commitments. IMF Chief urges action as global recession risks rise https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458237 INT International Monetary Fund Chief Kristalina Georgieva said yesterday that risks to global financial stability have increased and urged continuous vigilance. At least 26 killed in devastating tornado in several towns of Mississippi in US https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458230 INT In the United States, at least 26 people were killed after a tornado and severe storms swept through the state of Mississippi last night. Millions of people around the world observe annual Earth Hour to raise awareness about climate change https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458225 INT Millions of people around the world observed the annual Earth Hour on Saturday to raise awareness about climate change. The ‘Earth Hour’ event encourages individuals to turn off all lights and electrical appliances at their homes and offices for an hour to promote awareness about energy conservation France bans recreational use of TikTok, Twitter, Instagram and other mobile applications on govt employees’ phones https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458221 INT France has announced that it is banning the recreational use of TikTok, Twitter, Instagram, and other mobile applications on government employees’ phones because of concerns about insufficient data security measures. Manipur govt deploys additional security forces along Indo-Myanmar border in wake of clashes between Myanmar Army and People's Defence Force https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458215 INT Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh said that the State government has deployed additional security forces along the Indo-Myanmar border in the wake of reports of clashes between the Myanmar Army and the resistance group People's Defence Force on the Myanmar side near the border for the last fe Paul Rusesabagina, portrayed as hero in Hollywood film Hotel Rwanda, released from prison https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458217 INT In Rwanda, Paul Rusesabagina, a former hotel manager portrayed as a hero in the Hollywood film Hotel Rwanda, has been released from prison. Rwandan court had sentenced him to 25 years for terrorism two years ago. Gordon Moore, co-founder of Intel and creator of Moore's Law, dies at 94 in Hawaii https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458201 INT Intel co-founder and creator of Moore's Law, Gordon Moore dies at the age of 94 in Hawaii. Intel and the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation announced in a press release today. At least 21 people die as destructive tornado and strong thunderstorms sweep across Mississippi in US https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458204 INT In the United States, at least 21 people died as a destructive tornado and strong thunderstorms swept across Mississippi last night. UAE Food Bank launches initiative to eradicate food waste and distribute 3 million meals during Ramadan https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458199 INT The UAE Food Bank, in collaboration with various partners, has announced an ambitious initiative to distribute three million meals and food parcels to disadvantaged individuals and families during Ramadan. UN accuses Russia, Ukraine forces of ‘summary executions’ of prisoners https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458179 INT The United Nations has said that it was deeply concerned over summary executions of prisoners of war by both Russian and Ukrainian forces on the battlefield. Syria Attacks: US president Biden warns Iran US would act forcefully to protect Americans https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458177 INT President Joe Biden has warned Iran that the United States would act forcefully to protect Americans. Biden's statement came after the US military carried out air strikes against Iran-backed forces in retaliation for an attack in Syria. Donald Trump's ex-aides ordered to testify in Capitol riots probe https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458164 INT A US Judge has ordered Donald Trump's ex-aides to appear before the grand jury investigating the notorious attack on the US Capitol building. US military carries out multiple air strikes in Syria https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458161 INT The U.S. military carried out multiple air strikes in Syria on Thursday night against Iran-aligned groups that it blamed for a drone attack that killed an American contractor and injured five American troops UK King Charles III's state visit to Paris postponed amid mass protest against pension reforms https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458154 INT United Kingdom King Charles III's state visit to Paris has been postponed amid the mass protest against the unpopular pension reforms. Pakistan: JIT to probe cases against PTI Chief Imran Khan https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458149 INT In Pakistan, a high-level Joint Investigation Team (JIT) has been formed to look into four cases filed against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Chairman Imran Khan and his supporters for allegedly attacking courts and law enforcement. WHO calls for intensified actions to eradicate Tuberculosis in South East Asia region https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458145 INT On World Tuberculosis Day, the World Health Organisation has called for intensified actions to eradicate the disease in the South East Asia region which bears the world's highest TB burden. Armenian PM announced to be peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan based on joint official statements https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458125 INT Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan on Thursday announced that there will be a peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan based on joint official statements adopted at the highest level. Music video released on revolutionary freedom fighter Preetilata Waddedar of Chattogram https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458123 INT A music video based on the life of revolutionary freedom fighter Preetilata Waddedar was released on the occasion of martyr’s day in Kolkata on Thursday, 23 March 2023. Issue of vandalism by pro-Khalistan extremists at Indian High Commission in London on Thursday raised in British House of Commons https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458120 INT The issue of vandalism by pro-Khalistan extremists at the Indian High Commission in London on Thursday was raised in the British House of Commons. Sri Lanka decides to divest stake in seven state-owned enterprises https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458117 INT Sri Lanka has decided to divest its stake in seven state-owned enterprises. Sri Lanka President Ranil Wickremesinghe said the state has no business engaging in business and cited India’s example of divesting from Public Sector Undertakings. Israel’s parliament passed first of several laws aimed towards contentious judicial overhaul https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458115 INT Israel’s parliament has passed the first of several laws aimed toward a contentious judicial overhaul. The law passed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition would limit the ways a sitting prime minister can be declared unfit for office. US and Canada reached agreement to turn away asylum seekers at unofficial border crossings https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458114 INT The US and Canada have reached an agreement to turn away asylum seekers at unofficial border crossings. North Korea claims to test an underwater drone capable of carrying nuclear warhead https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458112 INT North Korea has claimed to test an underwater drone capable of carrying a nuclear warhead that could create a radioactive tsunami. Protests intensify in France over govt's plan to raise pension age https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458102 INT In France, police fired tear gas to repel violent protesters in Paris as hundreds of thousands of protesters marched across the country against President Emmanuel Macron's plan to raise the pension age. 26 % of world's population does not have safe drinking water: UNESCO report https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458085 INT 26 per cent of the world's population does not have safe drinking water and 46 per cent lack access to safely managed sanitation, according to a report published by UNESCO at the UN 2023 Water Conference in New York. Sri Lanka’s National Election Commission defers Local Government polls https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458075 INT Sri Lanka’s National Election Commission has announced that postal voting for the Local Government polls will not be held as scheduled earlier. French workers block access to airports as pension protests continue in France https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458068 INT French workers angry with a rise in the pension age to 64 years blocked access to airports on Thursday as part of a nationwide day of protests. US Federal Reserve hikes interest rate by 25 basis point to curb inflation despite banking turmoil https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458034 INT The US central bank has raised interest rates again, despite fears that the move could add to financial turmoil after a string of recent bank failures. Bangladesh: US discusses elections with ruling Awami League leaders https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458041 INT US Ambassador to Bangladesh Peter Haas discussed the next general elections with leaders of the ruling Awami League in Dhaka yesterday. Investment bridge between India & Saudi Arabia on anvil https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=458020 INT On the sidelines of his visit to Saudi Arabia for attending the first India-GCC Senior Officials Meeting, Dr. Ausaf Sayeed, Secretary (CPV & OIA) held wide-ranging bilateral meetings with his Saudi counterparts. IMF Facility a step towards building better future for youth & uplifting country, says Sri Lanka's President https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457991 INT The Report of the IMF Extended Fund Facility to Sri Lanka was tabled in parliament today, March 22, by President Ranil Wickremesinghe. 13 people killed, 200 injured after earthquake hits large parts of Pakistan & Afghanistan https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457979 INT At least 13 people have been killed and more than 200 injured after a 6.5 magnitude earthquake shook large parts of Pakistan and Afghanistan. Venezuelan President appoints PDVSA head Pedro Rafael Tellechea as new oil minister https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457985 INT Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro appointed Pedro Rafael Tellechea, the head of state oil company PDVSA, as the country's new oil minister on Tuesday, March 21, a day after his predecessor resigned amid an extensive corruption investigation centred on the company. Millions of people under flood warnings in California https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457986 INT In California, millions of people in the Central and Southern of the state, including Los Angeles under flood warnings as the calamity wreaked havoc in the region. Thirty thousand education workers strike in Los Angeles; cancel classes for nearly half million students https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457984 INT Thirty thousand education workers supported by the teachers union went on strike in Los Angeles on Tuesday, March 21. They cancelled the classes for nearly half a million students in the country's second-largest school district. There is possibility of significant reduction in fuel prices next month, says Sri Lanka’s Power Minister https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457983 INT Sri Lanka’s Power Minister Kanchana Wijesekara has said that there is a possibility of a significant reduction in fuel prices next month. Twenty sixth edition of ‘Elevate’ held in Dubai on Tuesday https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457968 INT The sixth pitching session of the second season of Elevate concluded in Dubai today, the event saw the participation of six Startups in India and an unprecedented registration of 180 investors. US President signs bipartisan bill to declassify intelligence about origins of Covid-19 https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457973 INT US President Joe Biden has signed a bipartisan bill that directs the federal government to declassify intelligence about the origins of Covid-19. Sixth pitching session of second season of "Elevate" concludes in Dubai https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457966 INT The sixth pitching session of the second season of "Elevate" concluded in Dubai on Tuesday. The event saw the participation of six Startups in India and an unprecedented registration of 180 investors. Chinese President Xi Jinping arrives at Kremlin for talks with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457959 INT Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived at the Kremlin on Tuesday for formal talks with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, on matters of concern including the Ukraine conflict. US President Joe Biden signs bill to declassify intelligence about Covid-19 origins https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457943 INT US President Joe Biden has signed a bipartisan bill that directs the federal government to declassify intelligence about the origins of Covid-19. IMF approves Sri Lanka’s much-awaited bailout package https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457887 INT The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund has approved Sri Lanka’s bailout program under an Extended Fund Facility. IMF has said the first tranche of the loan will be released in the next couple of days. Japan views Bangladesh and other areas to south as single economic zone https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457914 INT Japan views Bangladesh and other areas to the south as a single economic zone and it will seek to promote the Bay of Bengal-Northeast India industrial value chain concept in cooperation with India and Bangladesh to foster the growth of the entire region, says Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. US condemns attack on Indian Consulate in San Francisco https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457885 INT The United States has condemned the attack on the Indian Consulate in San Francisco. The US State Department said that it pledges to defend the safety and security of such facilities as well as the diplomats who work within them. Thailand's king dissolves parliament ahead of general elections in May https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457900 INT Thailand's king has dissolved parliament, paving the way for a general election in early May. Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha's new conservative, royalist party faces a strong challenge from the Pheu Thai party, led by exiled former PM Thaksin Shinawatra's daughter Paetongtarn. France: Both votes fails controversial bill to raise retirement age from 62 to 64 https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457895 INT The French government has survived a vote of no-confidence, which was triggered when it forced through an increase in the pension age to 64. IMF board to consider approval for Sri Lanka’s bailout package https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457837 INT The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund, IMF, will consider Sri Lanka’s bailout package for approval today. Nepal: Newly-elected V Prez Ramsahaya Prasad Yadav takes oath of office & secrecy https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457872 INT Newly-elected Vice-President Ramsahaya Prasad Yadav on Monday took oath of office and secrecy. Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal wins vote of confidence in Parliament https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457863 INT Prime Minister of Nepal Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' has won the vote of confidence in the House of Representatives. Dahal received 172 votes in the 275-member Parliament. China's embassy in Central African Republic urges its citizens to avoid travelling outside Bangui https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457870 INT China's embassy in the Central African Republic has urged its citizens to avoid travelling outside the capital Bangui after nine Chinese workers were killed in an attack by militants at a gold mine outside the city. Bangladesh commissions its first submarine base https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457867 INT Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the first submarine base of Bangladesh ‘BNS Sheikh Hasina’ at Pekua in Cox’s Bazar on Monday. Chinese President Xi Jinping arrives in Moscow for three-day visit https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457862 INT Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Moscow on Monday for a three-day visit. During his visit, the two sides will discuss strategic cooperation in the energy, military spheres, and the Ukraine conflict. Australia's Victoria police release images of Khalistani supporters indulged in violence on Jan 29 https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457856 INT Australia's Victoria police on Monday released images of Khalistani supporters who indulged in violence on the 29th of January. In a statement, the Victoria Police appealed to identify six men. Taliban bans festival of Nowruz in Afghanistan's Daikundi province https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457852 INT Taliban have banned the festival of Nowruz in the central Daikundi province, warning residents if they are caught celebrating the occasion, they will be treated accordingly. Switzerland's biggest bank UBS agrees to take over troubled Credit Suisse in emergency rescue deal https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457806 INT The Swiss National Bank said that UBS would be taking over embattled lender Credit Suisse. The announcement came after a weekend of emergency talks in Switzerland between the two banks and the country's financial regulators. Ram Sahaya Prasad Yadav sworn-in as Vice President of Nepal https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457824 INT In Nepal, newly elected Vice-President Ram Sahaya Prasad Yadav today took the oath of office and assumed charge in a special ceremony in Kathmandu. Govt. keen to promote films in Bangladesh: Information Minister Dr. Hasan Mahmud https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457819 INT Information and Broadcasting Minister Dr. Hasan Mahmud has said that the government is keen to popularise films in Bangladesh for which a special fund of Taka 1000 crore has been created to provide concessional loans to filmmakers. Central African Republic: Gunmen stormed Chinese-operated gold mine and killed 9 people https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457816 INT In the Central African Republic, Gunmen stormed a Chinese-operated gold mine and killed at least nine people yesterday. 'Pongala' celebrated in Ajman UAE paying obeisance to Mother Goddess Shakthi https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457798 INT In UAE, Pongala Utsav was celebrated in Ajman today by ‘Mandaikadu Amman Sea Samaj international’(MASSI- UAE), paying obeisance to Mother Goddess Shakthi by making 108 offerings. Islamabad Police file FIR including terrorism charges against former Pakistan PM Imran Khan and over a dozen other PTI leaders https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457795 INT The Islamabad Police have filed an FIR - including terrorism charges - against former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and more than a dozen other PTI leaders for attacking police officers and causing chaos outside the Federal Judicial Complex (FJC). Russian President Vladimir Putin makes surprise visit to Mariupol https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457792 INT Russian President Vladimir Putin has made a surprise visit to Mariupol. Putin arrived in Mariupol by helicopter, accompanied by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin. North Korea fires short-range ballistic missile towards sea, latest in a series of tests carried out since beginning of 2023 https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457787 INT North Korea today fired a short-range ballistic missile towards the sea, off the east coast of the Korean Peninsula, the latest in a series of tests carried out by it since the beginning of the year. Amid rising concerns about drought, Afghanistan seeks help from UN asking for storage facilities for wheat https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457783 INT Afghanistan has sought help from the United Nations (UN) amid rising concerns about drought in the country, asking the UN to provide storage facilities for wheat. According to the Afghan news agency, the chamber of agriculture and livestock has called the UN to help the country. 19 officers of Indian armed forces reach Sri Lanka for week-long strategic study tour https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457778 INT Nineteen officers from the three services of the Indian armed forces have reached Sri Lanka today. UAE, China review enhancing joint investment opportunities in new economic sectors https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457775 INT Representatives from the Ministry of Economy, UAE, recently held a bilateral meeting with representatives of Deputy International Trade for the People's Republic of China, at the UAE-China Economic Forum held in Dubai. Protest breaks as govt restricts same-sex parent rights in Italy https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457766 INT Protests broke out in Italy as the country’s new government led by Giorgia Meloni restricted the rights of same-sex parents. According to media reports, hundreds of people have taken to the streets in Milan to protest against the move. The protestors waved rainbow flags across the city to demonstrat Bangladesh:16 people died and more than 24 people injured as bus falls into ditch https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457765 INT At least 16 people died and more than 24 people were reportedly injured when a bus fell into a ditch in Madaripur district of Bangladesh. The accident took place today morning. The bus was on its way to Dhaka when the driver lost control on the approach road to Padma bridge in Simana area under Ka France : Violence erupts between protesters and security forces for a third night over govt's decision to abandon vote on unpopular pension reforms https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457760 INT In France, violence broke out between protesters and security forces for a third night in central Paris yesterday over the government's decision to abandon a parliamentary vote on unpopular pension reforms. Toshakhana case: Imran Khan's arrest warrants cancelled https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457736 INT Former Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan’s arrest warrants in the Toshakhana case were cancelled by Additional District and Sessions Judge Zafar Iqbal after permitting him to go back upon marking his attendance outside the Islamabad Judicial Complex. Indian Higher Education Meet 2023 inaugurated in Dhaka https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457735 INT High Commissioner Pranay Verma and Minister of Education of Bangladesh Dr. Dipu Moni on Saturday jointly inaugurated the Indian Higher Education Meet 2023. Nepal, India agree to formulate modality to supply electricity to Indian states via Bihar https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457734 INT A meeting of the Nepal-India Power Exchange Committee is to prepare a modality for power export from Nepal to other states of India through a central transmission line via the Bihar grid. Indian Embassy in Kathmandu celebrates 21st Golden Jubilee Scholarship Day https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457733 INT The Embassy of India, Kathmandu celebrated the 21st Golden Jubilee Scholarship Day on Saturday. On the occasion, Ambassador Naveen Srivastava announced that a special Embassy of India’s roll of honour will be awarded to meritorious graduating Golden Jubilee scholars, in different categories from nex Friendship pipeline is the beginning of a new chapter in India-Bangladesh relations - Prime Minister Modi https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457731 INT The opening of the India-Bangladesh Friendship pipeline to carry High Speed Diesel from West Bengal’s Siliguri to Bangladesh’s Parbatipur marks the beginning of a new chapter in the relationship between the two countries, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi while inaugurating the pipeline on Saturday Tens of thousands protest across France against govt's plans to raise retirement age https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457728 INT Tens of thousands of people protested on Friday across France against the government's plans to raise the retirement age. The reform will raise the retirement age in France from 62 to 64 - and there have been protests for weeks against it. Short-term inflation in Pakistan hits record 45.64 pc https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457719 INT Short-term inflation in Pakistan based on the Sensitive Price Index (SPI), saw a record increase to 45.64 per cent for the combined income group on a year-on-year basis for the week ending 16th of March. Middle East's first plant based meat factory opens in Dubai https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457713 INT The IFFCO Group, a UAE-based food products company, has opened the first 100% plant-based meat factory in the Middle East, located in Dubai Industrial City. Indian Embassy in Riyadh celebrates International Year of Millets https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457711 INT The Embassy of India in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on Saturday celebrated the International Year of Millets (IYM) by live-streaming the inauguration of the Global Millets (Shree Anna) Conference in New Delhi, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Indian diaspora in Dhaka virtually attends Global Millets Conference https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457709 INT High Commissioner Pranay Verma along with the Indian community members based in Bangladesh on Saturday virtually attended the Global Millets Conference inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Indian Embassy in Kathmandu celebrates International Year of Millets 2023 https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457708 INT The Embassy of India, Kathmandu celebrated the International Year of Millets (IYM) - 2023 on 18 March 2023 by live-streaming the inauguration of the Global Millets (Shree Anna) Conference in New Delhi by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. US resumes surveillance drone flights over Black Sea region following Russian fighter jet intercept https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457702 INT The United States has resumed surveillance drone flights over the Black Sea region following a Russian fighter jet intercept on Tuesday that led to the downing of a US surveillance drone, two American officials said yesterday. An RQ-4 Global Hawk flew a mission to the region yesterday, the officials ICC's arrest warrant: Russia not an ICC member and bears no obligations under it, said spokeswoman for Ministry of Foreign Affairs https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457700 INT The International Criminal Court's arrest warrant against Russian President Vladimir Putin has no meaning for the country as the nation had withdrawn from the ICC treaty in 2016, according to a report by CNN. Campaign on ‘Mission Life’ concludes with seminar in Dhaka https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457674 INT The week-long campaign run by the Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre (IGCC) of the High Commission of India in Dhaka concluded on Friday. Ram Sahaya Prasad Yadav elected as Nepal's third Vice President https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457665 INT Janata Samajbadi Party leader Ram Sahaya Prasad Yadav has been elected as Nepal's third Vice President. President Droupadi Murmu speaks to Nepal President Ram Chandra Paudel over telephone https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457664 INT President Droupadi Murmu spoke to President of Nepal Ram Chandra Paudel over telephone on Friday evening. Chinese President Xi Jinping to visit Russia next week, first since Russia-Ukraine war began a year ago https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457655 INT Chinese President Xi Jinping will visit Russia from Monday to Wednesday at the invitation of President Vladimir Putin, the Chinese Foreign Ministry announced Friday. Bangladesh: Peace march from Kolkata culminates at Gandhi Ashram, Noakhali https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457650 INT A peace march consisting of 4 women starting from Gandhi Bhawan Kolkata culminated at Gandhi Ashram Trust, Noakhali. A closing ceremony was organised by the Gandhi Ashram Trust on Thursday to honour the people taking part in the march. Better connectivity between India & Bangladesh is driving force for prosperity: High Commissioner Pranay Verma https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457637 INT High Commissioner of India to Bangladesh Pranay Verma said that better connectivity between India and Bangladesh is the driving force for prosperity. Sri Lankan govt plans to restart Light Rail Transit project https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457642 INT The Sri Lankan government has said that it will consider restarting the 2.2 billion dollar Light Rail Transit project, stretching from Colombo Fort to Malabe. Voting underway to elect Nepal’s next Vice President https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457640 INT The Electoral College is voting to elect a new Vice-President of Nepal today. Voting started at 10:00 am will run till 3:00 pm. The Electoral College consists of 332 members from the Federal Parliament and 550 members of the Provincial Assemblies. Protests, clashes across France after government pushes through pension change without vote https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457634 INT In France, Police clashed with protesters yesterday after President Emmanuel Macron decided to force through his controversial pension reform without calling a vote in France's lower house of parliament. New Zealand to ban TikTok on devices linked to parliament https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457633 INT New Zealand will ban TikTok on devices with access to the parliamentary network because of cybersecurity concerns. EU calls for UN to probe Iran schoolgirl poisonings https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457628 INT The European lawmakers called on the UN Human Rights Council yesterday to conduct an independent investigation into a wave of poisonings that have hit schoolgirls in Iran. Poland to send four fighter jets to Ukraine in coming days https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457620 INT Poland' President Andrzej Duda has promised to send four Soviet-era Mig fighter jets to Ukraine in the coming days. PM Modi, Bangladesh PM Hasina to inaugurate India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline on Saturday through video-conference https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457609 INT Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina will inaugurate the India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline this Saturday through video-conference. This is the first cross-border energy pipeline between India and Bangladesh. Less than 20 percent of the children participated in remote learning during COVID 19 in Bangladesh: UNICEF https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457607 INT In a startling finding, UNICEF found that fewer than one in five children in Bangladesh participated in remote learning during COVID-19 school closure.. 6th Nepal International Film festival 2023 begins in Kathmandu https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457592 INT The 6th Nepal International Film festival 2023 has begun on Thursday in Kathmandu. A renowned writer and critic of Indian films Premendra Majumdar has been nominated to the NIFF jury. ChatGPT rival launched in Abu Dhabi with 40 billion parameters https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457605 INT The Technology Innovation Institute, Abudhabi, UAE has launched Falcon LLM, a large language model (LLM) with 40 billion parameters, trained on one trillion tokens, and built by the AI and Digital Science Research Center's AI Cross-Centre Unit. Lahore HC prohibits Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf from holding rally on Sunday at Iqbal Park https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457604 INT The Lahore High Court on Thursday prohibited the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) from holding a rally this Sunday at Iqbal Park (Minar-e-Pakistan). Sri Lanka Govt Printing announces delay in printing of ballot papers for upcoming Local Government elections due to a lack of funds https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457603 INT The Department of Government Printing in Sri Lanka has informed the media of a delay in the printing of ballot papers for the upcoming Local Government election. Bangladesh: Prime Minister Hasina inaugurates 50 more model mosques, total 150 till now https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457581 INT Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inaugurated 50 more model mosques in Bangladesh on Thursday taking the number of model mosques inaugurated by her to 150. T Sri Lankan economy suffered worst ever contraction of 7.8% in 2022 https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457558 INT The Sri Lankan economy suffered the worst ever contraction of 7.8% in 2022 as per data released by the Department of Census and Statistics yesterday. North Korea fires long-range ballistic missile off its eastern coast https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457552 INT North Korea fired a long-range ballistic missile off its eastern coast this morning. The launch took place hours before the leaders of South Korea and Japan were to meet at a Tokyo summit. The summit expected to be overshadowed by North Korean nuclear threats. Seoul said that it had detected the la US Senate confirms President Joe Biden's nominee Eric Garcetti as ambassador to New Delhi https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457547 INT The US Senate confirmed President Joe Biden's nominee Eric Garcetti as ambassador to New Delhi yesterday. Senators backed Garcetti by 52-42, as seven Republicans joined the majority of Democrats in supporting Garcetti US recognizes McMahon Line as international border; Says Arunachal Pradesh is integral part of India https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457541 INT The US formally recognized the McMahon Line as the international boundary between India’s Arunachal Pradesh and China, and rejected Beijing’s claim that the northeastern state falls under Chinese territory. USA: California Governor Gavin Newsom declares state of emergency in 43 counties https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457545 INT In USA, An atmospheric river dumped more torrential rain on California on Wednesday and forcing evacuations, power outages and road closures. Meanwhile the remnants of a powerful Nor’easter blizzard buried much of upstate New York and New England under snow. US, Russia Defence ministers & military chiefs hold rare telephone conversations https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457542 INT Defence ministers and military chiefs from the US and Russia held rare telephone conversations yesterday, a day after an U.S. drone went down over the Black Sea. The Russian defence ministry in a statement said that Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu told his US counterpart, Lloyd Austin, that American United Nations Regional Workshop on “Measuring Tourism: Better data for better tourism in Asia and the Pacific” kicks off in Kathmandu on 15th of March https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457533 INT The United Nations Regional Workshop on “Measuring Tourism: Better data for better tourism in Asia and the Pacific” kicked off in Kathmandu on the 15th of March. A Delegation from Myanmar reaches Teknaf port, Bangladesh on March 15 to verify information about Rohingyas willing to return to Rakhine province https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457521 INT A delegation from Myanmar arrived at Teknaf port in Cox’s Bazar area of Bangladesh on Wednesday to verify the information about Rohingyas willing to return to the Rakhine province. Overall death toll from record-breaking tropical Cyclone Freddy rises to over 270 in Malawi, Mozambique & Madagascar https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457526 INT The overall death toll from record-breaking tropical Cyclone Freddy has risen to over 270 in Malawi, Mozambique, and Madagascar. Turkey: Floods caused by torrential rains hits 2 provinces devastated by last month’s earthquake, kills at least 5 people https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457515 INT In Turkey, floods caused by torrential rains hit two provinces that were devastated by last month’s earthquake, killing at least five people. Professionals Trade Union Collective in Sri Lanka decides to call off its ongoing islandwide strike action on 16th March 2023 https://newsonair.gov.in/Main-News-Details.aspx?id=457513 INT In Sri Lanka, the Professionals Trade Union Collective has decided to call off its ongoing islandwide strike action tomorrow.