A new analysis using the Rangarajan poverty line shows a significant decline in poverty across all religious groups in India from 2011-12 to 2023-24, especially among Hindus and Muslims. The study attributes this to economic growth and government welfare programs. The poverty line, based on food and non-food expenditures, was updated using the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Experts highlight the role of inclusive policies in improving living standards. “The data confirms that poverty has declined across all communities,” the report states, emphasizing the impact of targeted initiatives. (PC: The Indian Express)

The Supreme Court upheld the Calcutta High Court's decision, canceling the appointment of over 25,000 teachers and non-teaching staff in Bengal. The bench ruled the hiring process was “vitiated by manipulation and fraud,” stripping it of legitimacy. The state must conduct fresh recruitment within 3 months. Candidates who fail must return salaries drawn since 2016. Former Education Minister Partha Chatterjee, jailed in connection with the scam, remains under scrutiny. BJP called it a “crushing defeat” for Mamata Banerjee. The ruling deals a major blow to her government, which had defended the appointments. (PC: NDTV)

On April 2, 2025, around 9:30 PM, an Indian Air Force (IAF) Jaguar fighter jet on a training mission crashed near Suvarda village, approximately 12 kilometers from Jamnagar city in Gujarat. The aircraft reportedly suffered a technical malfunction, forcing both pilots to eject. Tragically, one pilot succumbed to injuries, while the other is receiving treatment at a Jamnagar hospital. The IAF has expressed deep regret over the loss and ordered a court of inquiry to determine the cause of the accident. Fortunately, no civilian casualties or property damage occurred on the ground. (PC: PTI)

On April 2, 2025, the Telangana High Court ordered an immediate halt to the clearing of 400 acres of green cover near the University of Hyderabad (UoH) in Kancha Gachibowli, following protests from students, faculty, and environmentalists. The state government planned to auction the land for an IT park, but petitioners argued it is rich in biodiversity and acts as a natural climate regulator. The court has paused all land-clearing activities and scheduled the next hearing for April 3, 2025, to further assess environmental concerns and the legality of the land auction. (PC: Business Standard)

On April 2, 2025, the Lok Sabha passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill after a 12-hour heated debate, with 288 votes in favor and 232 against. The bill aims to streamline the administration of Waqf properties, ensuring transparency and better governance. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju defended the legislation, stating it would protect poor Muslims and prevent land misuse. However, opposition leaders called it unconstitutional, alleging it could curb minority rights. The bill now moves to the Rajya Sabha, where eight hours have been allocated for further discussion, potentially setting the stage for more political confrontation. (PC: ANI)

The son of a Kenyan diplomat, accused of sexually assaulting a 5-year-old on a school bus in Delhi last August, has fled the country despite multiple FIRs filed against him. Although the Delhi Police registered charges under sexual harassment and child protection laws, the accused, a Class 12 student, cannot be prosecuted due to diplomatic immunity under international law. The girl's parents have petitioned the Delhi High Court to revoke his immunity, seeking prosecution, but the case is pending, with the next hearing on April 7, 2025. Diplomatic immunity protects foreign officials from host-country legal actions. (PC: Firstpost)  

Home Minister Amit Shah said in Parliament that Waqf Boards' land in India has grown from 18 lakh acres in 2013 to 39 lakh acres in 2025. This means 21 lakh acres were added in just 12 years. He raised concerns about mismanagement and lack of transparency in Waqf properties. Shah questioned why records show leased properties dropping to zero. The new Waqf Amendment Bill, called the UMEED Bill, aims to bring transparency. It will allow court appeals and audits by retired CAG officers. The bill seeks to ensure better management of Waqf land for the Muslim community. (PC: PTI)

A Jaguar fighter jet of the Indian Air Force crashed in Gujarat's Jamnagar on Wednesday during a training mission. One pilot ejected safely, while a search operation is underway for the second pilot, police said. The aircraft crashed in an open field near Suvarda village, around 12 km from Jamnagar city, and caught fire. District SP Premsukh Delu confirmed emergency teams, including police and firefighters, are at the site. The cause of the crash is yet to be determined. Authorities are coordinating rescue efforts to locate the missing pilot. (PC: 

The government has appointed Poonam Gupta as the new Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). She will serve for three years. Gupta is currently the Director General of NCAER, India's top economic think tank. She has worked at the World Bank and IMF and has also taught at top institutions. She holds a PhD in Economics from the University of Maryland. She replaces MD Patra, who left office in January. Gupta has expertise in economic growth, central banking, and financial stability. Her appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet. (PC: ANI)

On April 2, 2025, a massive fire broke out at a garage in Dwarka’s Sector-12, New Delhi, around 9:30 AM. The blaze engulfed and destroyed 11 vehicles, including multiple cars and motorcycles, before firefighters managed to control the situation. Several fire tenders were deployed to prevent the flames from spreading to nearby structures. While no casualties have been reported, authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, with preliminary reports suggesting a possible electrical short circuit. Officials are also assessing property damage and reinforcing safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.