1. International News
Republic of Congo President Sassou Nguesso wins election
The longtime president of the Republic of Congo, Sassou Nguesso is set for another five-year term after getting over 88% of the vote.
The election day was marred by the death of his main opponent, Guy Brice Parfait Kolelas.
The African leader is one of the world’s longest-serving presidents, earning him the nickname ‘emperor’. He has led Congo for a total of 36 years.
Quick Fact: Republic of Congo Capital: Brazzaville; Republic of Congo Currency: franc.
2. Important Days
Bangladesh celebrates 50 years of independence
Bangladesh celebrates 50 years of its Independence and National Day on 26 March.
The fight for independence can be traced back to Britain’s colonial rule of the Indian subcontinent and the new nations that were carved out after its end in 1947.
On December 16, 1971, Pakistan forces surrendered and Bangladesh celebrated its freedom.
Quick Fact: The Prime Minister of Bangladesh is Sheikh Hasina and the Capital is Dhaka. The Currency is Taka.
3. Important Days
World Theatre Day: 27 March
World Theatre Day was initiated in 1961 by the International Theatre Institute (ITI), France.
It is celebrated annually on the 27th March by ITI Centres and the international theatre community.
The author of the Message of World Theatre Day 2021 is Helen MIRREN, United Kingdom.
Quick Fact: The first World Theatre Day Message was written by Jean Cocteau in 1962.
4. National News
Anish Shah to take over as M&M’s Managing Director, CEO
Anish Shah who is set to take over as the managing director and CEO of Mahindra and Mahindra will become the first professional executive to oversee the entire business of the $19.4 billion Mahindra Group.
Pawan Goenka will retire as MD and CEO and member of the board effective April 2.
Group chairman Anand Mahindra will be taking on a non-executive role.
Quick Fact: Rajesh Jejurikar is the executive director at M&M
5. Awards
Carmen Maria Machado wins The Rathbones Folio Prize 2021
‘In The Dream House: A Memoir’ by Carmen Maria Machado Wins The Rathbones Folio Prize 2021.
In the 2019 book, the author outlines her experiences in a same-sex relationship with her former partner, and the abuse she was subjected to.
It is at once an inventive and radical work, a true testimony to her narrative gift.
Quick Fact: It is the only prize in which all the books considered for the prize are selected and judged by an academy of peers, though there are three main judges.
6. World Affairs
Earth Hour 2021: 27 March
The Earth Hour is celebrated worldwide on the last Saturday of March month to show support for the fight against climate change and commitment towards a better planet. Earth Hour 2021 is being marked on March 27, 2021.
The Earth Hour 2021 theme will focus on “Climate Change to Save Earth.”
The Day is a worldwide movement organized by the WWF, encouraging individuals, communities, corporates, and households to turn off their lights for one hour, from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Quick Fact: World Wide Fund Headquarters is at Gland, Switzerland. World Wide Fund President and CEO is Carter Roberts.
7. India and the world
India conducts first-ever joint patrol in Madagascar EEZ
In the first, the navies of India and Madagascar undertook joint patrolling of Madagascar’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and also conducted a Passage Exercise (PASSEX).
Indian Naval Ship INS Shardul made a port call at Antsiranana, Madagascar as part of the First Training Squadron’s (1TS) Overseas Deployment.
INS Shardul and Malagasy Navy ship MNS Trozona carried out a Passage Exercise (PASSEX).
Quick Fact: The capital of Madagascar is Antananarivo and the President is Andry Rajoelina.
8. National Affairs
Rahi Sarnobat, Chinky Yadav and Manu Bhaker clinch Gold at ISSF Shooting World Cup
In Shooting, India won gold in the women’s 25m Pistol Team event at the ISSF World Cup in Delhi.
India beat Poland in the final to win the country’s 10th gold.
The Indian women’s team of Rahi Sarnobat, Chinki Yadav and Manu Bhaker beat Poland’s Joanna Iwona Wawrzonowska, Julita Borek and Agnieszka Korejwo.
Quick Fact: Rajeev Bhatia is the secretary of the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI).
