1 Himachal Pradesh launches pilot project of hemp cultivation
The Himachal Pradesh government has approved a pilot project recognising the growing demand and medicinal, agricultural and industrial utility of cannabis globally . Led by Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu, the project will evaluate the potential of cannabis cultivation in the state, particularly focusing on its medicinal and industrial uses. The project is supported by Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Agricultural University, Palampur and Dr. Y.S. Parmar Horticultural University, Nauni (Solan).
2 After America, now Argentina also decided to leave WHO
Argentina has announced its withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO) , following a similar decision by US President Donald Trump . President Javier Milley ‘s government has expressed deep disagreement with the WHO’s health policies, particularly its management of the COVID-19 pandemic . The decision has sparked debate over Argentina’s global standing, health policy and the impact on the WHO’s credibility. Critics say the decision cannot take full effect without congressional approval and could have long-term implications for Argentina’s health system and international relations.
3 Government allows trading of 10 new agricultural commodities on e-NAM
The Government of India has expanded the list of agricultural commodities to be traded on the electronic-National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) platform by adding 10 new agricultural commodities . With the inclusion of 10 new commodities, a total of 231 agricultural commodities have been approved by the government for trading on e-NAM. The 10 newly added agricultural commodities are; Dried Tulsi Leaves; Besan (Gram Flour); Wheat Flour; Chana Sattu (Roasted Gram Flour); Water Chestnut Flour; Asafoetida; Dried Fenugreek Leaves; Water Chestnut; Baby Corn; and Dragon Fruit. e-NAM is an electronic platform launched on 14 April 2016 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
4 Launch of Firefly Blue Ghost Mission 1
The Blue Ghost lander is a state-of-the-art spacecraft developed by Firefly Aerospace. Its main purpose is to deliver scientific payloads to the surface of the Moon and advance lunar research . This lander is an important part of NASA’s Lunar Surface Operations Program and Artemis Mission, which aim to establish human presence on the Moon and lay the groundwork for long-term exploration there.
5 Zepto becomes the world’s second most downloaded app in the food and drink category
Indian quick commerce startup Zepto has ranked second in the food and drinks category globally . According to a recent report by Sensor Tower, Zepto has overtaken international brands such as KFC and Domino’s , while McDonald’s ranked first. This achievement reflects India’s fast-growing quick commerce sector, where Blinkit, Zomato and Swiggy also feature in the top 10. Zepto’s success is attributed to its 300% growth in the second half of 2024 and the “ Buy Now, Pay Later ” feature.
6 Pakistan joins China’s Chang’e-8 lunar mission
In a significant milestone in Pakistan ‘s space programme, the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has partnered with the China National Space Administration (CNSA) for the Chang’e-8 lunar mission , which will be launched in 2028. This is the first time Pakistan is participating in a lunar exploration mission, which is considered a major step in the country’s space ambitions. Under this mission, Pakistan’s indigenous rover will be sent to the south pole of the Moon as part of China’s International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) project. Under this joint mission, SUPARCO will develop a 35 kg lunar rover, which will explore the inaccessible south polar region of the Moon. The region is considered important from a scientific point of view as there is a possibility of finding water ice here, which could be useful for future lunar colonization.
7 Scientists created the first kangaroo embryo using IVF
In a historic breakthrough, scientists have created kangaroo embryos using in vitro fertilisation (IVF) technology for the first time. This achievement can revolutionise the conservation of endangered marsupial species and help in saving them from the threat of extinction. The study was conducted by scientists from the University of Queensland, Australia and has been published in the scientific journal ‘Reproduction, Fertility and Development’. The research has highlighted that assisted reproductive technology (ART) can be used to conserve endangered animals like koala, Tasmanian devil, northern hairy-nosed wombat and Leadbeater’s possum.
8 Panama pulled out of China’s ‘Belt and Road’ Initiative
Panama has officially announced its exit from China ‘s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) , marking a significant geopolitical shift. President José Raúl Mulino ‘s decision comes amid growing tensions between the US and China, particularly over the Panama Canal. The move marks a significant shift in Panama’s foreign policy, which includes strengthening ties with the US and reviewing Chinese investment in the country. Panama decided to join China’s BRI initiative in 2017 when it severed ties with Taiwan and established diplomatic relations with China. The move was aimed at strengthening trade and infrastructure between Asia and Latin America. Under the BRI, Chinese companies took on major projects such as the construction of the fourth bridge over the Panama Canal and the third metro line in Panama City.
9 Namibia’s founder and first president Sam Nujoma dies at 95
Namibia ‘s founder and first president Sam Nujoma has died at the age of 95. The country’s current president Nangolo Mbumba announced this. Mr. Nujoma was the country’s president from 1990 to 2005 after Namibia was liberated from South Africa’s apartheid policy in 1990.
