1 IRIS: India’s first AI teacher robot
A school in Thiruvananthapuram , Kerala has unveiled an unprecedented innovation in education with the introduction of India’s first Generative Artificial Intelligence teacher robot ‘Iris’ . Developed in collaboration with MakerLabs EduTech, Iris aims to transform traditional teaching methods through personalized learning experiences for students. Equipped with voice assistant and IRIS, it engages students in interactive learning activities. IRIS answers user questions, provides clarifications, as well as provides educational materials through personal communication. With 4-wheels and 5 Degrees of Freedom (DoF) movements, IRIS can move independently and engage in hands-on learning activities.
2 India signs trade and economic partnership agreement with European Free EFTA
India has signed a trade and economic partnership agreement with the European Free Trade Association – EFTA in New Delhi . These signings were done in the presence of Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal . On this occasion, Shri Goyal said that under this agreement, the European Free Trade Association countries will invest 100 billion dollars in India . This will create many employment opportunities. These countries include Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland .
3 Union Minister G Kishan Reddy inaugurates Central Tribal University in Telangana
Union Minister for Culture and Tourism G. Kishan Reddy , Telangana Panchayati Raj Minister D. Anasuya Seethakka and Parliamentarian Kavitha inaugurated the Youth Training Center Sarakka-Central Tribal University at Jakaram in Mulugu district of Telangana . This is an important step towards increasing educational opportunities for the tribal community.
4 Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project under consideration
Despite the recent signing of an agreement on long-term power partnership between India and Nepal, progress on the Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project (PMP) has stalled. The impasse over PMP is a challenge to the progress of relations between India and Nepal, especially regarding equitable distribution of benefits. In January 2023, India and Nepal signed a bilateral agreement to export 10,000 MW of power in the next 10 years . Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project (PMP) is a bi-national hydroelectric project to be developed on the Mahakali River located on the border of India and Nepal. A treaty was signed by India and Nepal in February 1996, which is known as the Mahakali Treaty . The implementation of the Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project is the focus of the Mahakali Treaty.
5 DST and T-Hub launch AI-ML Hub in Hyderabad
The Department of Science and Technology (DST) in collaboration with T-Hub has launched Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence Technology Hub (MATH) in Hyderabad . The initiative aims to accelerate AI innovation, facilitate job creation, and foster a supportive ecosystem for AI and ML startups. The MATH initiative aims to create more than 500 AI-related jobs by 2025.
6 Kristina Piszkova of Czech Republic won the title of Miss World
24-year-old Christina Prizkova of Czech Republic has won the title of Miss World . At the grand event held in Mumbai , Christina was crowned the 71st Miss World . Participants from 115 countries took part in the competition. The previous Miss World, Karolini Białawska of Poland , crowned Christina. Yasmina Zeytoun of Lebanon was the runner-up in the competition .
7 Indian Oil will produce Formula 1 fuel in India
The country’s leading oil company Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOC) is set to revolutionize the motorsports industry by creating a fuel suitable for adrenaline-pumping Formula One (F1) racing . With its latest offering, ‘ Storm ‘ Petrol, IOC aims to expand its stock of niche fuels, meeting the high-performance demands of motor racing enthusiasts.
8 Zoya Akhtar and Asma Khan won ‘India-UK Achievers’ award
Famous filmmaker Zoya Akhtar and British Indian chef Asma Khan were honored at the annual ‘ India-UK Achievers ‘ awards in London . Akhtar’s acclaimed work in cinema and Khan’s contribution to Pakistan were celebrated during the event. The award recognizes the achievements of Indian students and alumni who have undertaken international programmes. Zoya Akhtar was honored with the Living Legend Award for her work in furthering the understanding of India. This initiative was launched in India in partnership with the British Council and the Department of Trade of the UK Government. This initiative was launched by the National Indian Students and Alumni Union (NISAU) UK last year in 2023.
9 India’s real GDP growth likely to be 7% and 6.8% in FY25 and FY26: UBS
UBS estimates India’s real GDP growth at 7% and 6.8% for fiscal years 2025 and 2026, respectively . Despite this, India is expected to maintain its position as one of the fastest growing global economies. The report highlights continued growth momentum in the first three quarters of fiscal year 2024, driven by cyclical recovery and structural reforms.
10 In Arunachal Pradesh, Army won the Santosh Trophy for the seventh time by defeating Goa 1-0.
Army has won the 77th Santosh Trophy football tournament . Army defeated Goa 1-0 in the final held at the Golden Jubilee Stadium in Papam Pare district of Arunachal Pradesh . The winning goal was scored by Army’s Shafeel PP. Army goalkeeper Sayad-bin-Abdul-Qadir was adjudged player of the match.
11 James Anderson becomes the first fast bowler in the world to take 700 Test wickets
The great fast bowler James Anderson, who took the most wickets for England in Test history , has achieved a big feat in the Dharamsala Test. Anderson took the 700th wicket of his Test career by dismissing Kuldeep Yadav here . He is the first fast bowler in the world and the third bowler overall to achieve this feat . The names of two spinners Muttiah Muralitharan (800) and Shane Warne (708) are included in his first 700 wicket club . Anderson’s target will now be Shane Warne’s record.
