On February 27, 2025, the world will celebrate the seventh annual World NGO Day, a day dedicated to recognizing and honoring the invaluable contributions of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in addressing global issues. The official theme for this year is "Empowering Grassroots Movements for a Sustainable Future", highlighting the vital role of local NGOs in fostering sustainable development and creating lasting change. Since its inception in 2010, World NGO Day has gained international recognition as a platform to honor the efforts of NGOs in addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges. This year's celebrations will serve to acknowledge and appreciate the tireless efforts of individuals and groups who dedicate their efforts to making a positive impact on society through their humanitarian work.
Learn about the fascinating history and legend behind St George, the patron saint of England, Georgia, and Moscow. Although little is known about the real St George, he is believed to have been born into a Christian family in Turkey and became a soldier under Emperor Diocletian's reign, ultimately being martyred for his faith. The iconic legend of George slaying a dragon to rescue a maiden may be fictional, but it has cemented his place as a revered figure and his day is still celebrated in England on April 23.
India's representative at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Kshitij Tyagi, fired back at Pakistan's allegations of human rights violations in Jammu and Kashmir, calling it a "failed state" that survives on international handouts and abuses the OIC as its mouthpiece. Tyagi also emphasized that Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh will always be an integral part of India, as progress and development in these regions speak for themselves. The scathing response was delivered during the seventh meeting of the 58th session of UNHRC.
Amidst a dramatic rescue operation, Pakistan Army successfully eliminated 33 militants and freed all 440 passengers who were taken hostage when a train was hijacked by the Baloch Liberation Army in remote south-west Pakistan. The operation, led by Army spokesman Lt Gen Ahmad Sharif Chaudhry, resulted in the death of 21 hostages and 4 paramilitary soldiers as well as the destruction of the Jaffar Express. The unprecedented attack, the first-ever hijacking of an entire train in Pakistan, had most of its hostages being civilians, contrary to claims of the militant group.
In a stunning revelation, the British Monarch is reportedly planning to offer the United States an "associate membership" status in the Commonwealth during President Trump's state visit to the UK. Trump has already shown support for the idea, expressing his approval through a tweet on his Truth Social account. This move is seen as a way for the King to strengthen the relationship between the two countries and symbolize their close ties.
As we mark the 32nd anniversary of World Water Day, it's important to recognize the significance of this global observance in promoting sustainable water management. First introduced in 1992, World Water Day serves as a call to action to address global water challenges and aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 6. This year's theme, "Glacier Preservation," highlights the crucial role glaciers play in freshwater supply, climate regulation, and sustaining life. Let's come together to prioritize glacier preservation in our efforts to combat climate change and the global water crisis.
Heathrow Airport in London will be closed for the entire day on Friday due to a large fire that broke out at a nearby electrical substation. The closure, which is expected to last until midnight, will cause significant travel disturbances and passengers are advised not to travel to the airport. The cause of the fire, which occurred about a mile and a half from the airport, is still unknown and firefighters are currently working to contain the blaze. This will be a prolonged incident, according to Assistant Commissioner Pat Goulbourne, and travelers are advised to contact their airlines for further information.
During the ‘Future Forward’ forum hosted by CII, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates commended India's digital ecosystem, inclusive economic growth, and technological breakthroughs as a model for the world. He highlighted the importance of scaling India's innovative solutions globally to address challenges in emerging economies, reaffirming the Gates Foundation's commitment to working with Indian innovators and policymakers. Other dignitaries, such as former Minister Smriti Irani and CII President Sanjiv Puri, also lauded India's success in initiatives like Ayushman Bharat and digital financial inclusion. In the world of sports, PV Sindhu made history by winning the World Championships while India's Sankar Muthusamy Subramanian achieved a shocking victory against Danish player Anders Antonsen.
Astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore made a splashdown landing off the coast of Florida after spending an additional 278 days in space. A group of dolphins welcomed their return, circling their SpaceX capsule as they were readied for hoisting onto a recovery ship. While Wilmore and Williams enjoyed their prolonged stay in space, they also acknowledged the challenge it posed for their families and expressed gratitude for the prayers offered at Hindu temples and Baptist churches for their safe return.
After spending 9 months in space, astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore safely returned to Earth aboard SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft. Actor R Madhavan welcomed Williams back with a heartfelt message, expressing immense relief and joy. The spacecraft, carrying Williams, Wilmore, and two others, streaked through the atmosphere before deploying parachutes for a gentle splashdown off the Florida coast, marking the end of their 260 uncertain days in space.
The Israeli government confirmed that they consulted with the Trump administration before launching a wave of airstrikes on Gaza, killing over 400 people. Hamas, the militant group in control of Gaza, has accused the U.S. of bearing full responsibility for the attacks. The strikes came after Trump's ultimatum to release all remaining hostages or face the consequences, raising questions about what more can be done to pressure Hamas. The White House has not explicitly stated that the strikes were in response to Trump's threat, but warned that "all hell" will break loose on Iran and its allied militias, including Hamas.