Current Affairs, 28 March 2025
World Theatre Day 2025: Honoring Theatre Arts
World Theatre Day, celebrated annually on March 27th, serves as a tribute to the art of theatre and its impact on culture and society. Established in 1961 by the International Theatre Institute (ITI), the event aims to highlight the power of theatre as a medium for storytelling, education, and social transformation.
The 2025 theme, "Theatre and a Culture of Peace," emphasizes how theatre can promote mutual understanding, unity, and dialogue among diverse communities. Historically, theatre has been a powerful tool for expressing human emotions, reflecting societal changes, and even advocating for justice.
On this day, theatre organizations worldwide conduct performances, workshops, and discussions to raise awareness about theatre’s role in society. The ITI also shares an annual message from a notable theatre personality, inspiring artists and audiences globally.
Theatre has evolved significantly, from classical Greek tragedies to modern experimental plays, adapting to technological advancements and social narratives. Whether performed on grand stages or in small community settings, theatre continues to connect people and keep artistic traditions alive.
DRDO & Indian Navy Test-Fire VLSRSAM Missile
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy have achieved a major milestone with the successful test-firing of the Vertical Launch Short Range Surface-to-Air Missile (VLSRSAM). This missile is designed to enhance India's naval defense capabilities by providing a quick and effective response against airborne threats.
The VLSRSAM, developed indigenously, is intended for deployment on naval warships and is equipped with advanced guidance systems for high accuracy. The missile can counter various aerial threats, including enemy aircraft, drones, and cruise missiles.
This achievement is a testament to India's growing expertise in defense technology and aligns with the ‘Make in India’ initiative, which seeks to strengthen self-reliance in defense manufacturing. By successfully developing and testing such high-tech weaponry, India is reinforcing its position as a global defense power.
The missile system is expected to be deployed on Indian Navy warships soon, significantly improving the country's ability to safeguard its maritime borders against potential threats.
Roshni Nadar Joins World's Richest Women
Roshni Nadar, the Chairperson of HCL Technologies, has made history by becoming the first Indian woman to enter the list of the world’s top 10 richest women. With her leadership, HCL Technologies has expanded its global presence and strengthened its position as a major player in the IT industry.
Roshni, the daughter of HCL’s founder Shiv Nadar, took over the leadership in 2020 and has since played a crucial role in driving the company’s success. Under her guidance, HCL has secured multi-billion-dollar deals in cloud computing, AI, and digital transformation services.
Beyond business, Roshni is a dedicated philanthropist, working through the Shiv Nadar Foundation to promote education, rural development, and social welfare. Her inclusion in the list of the world’s richest women is a reflection of her significant contributions to both business and society.
Her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women, proving that leadership, innovation, and perseverance can lead to great achievements.
New Pamban Bridge: Engineering Marvel
The New Pamban Bridge, an ambitious infrastructure project, is set to revolutionize connectivity between Rameswaram and the Indian mainland. The bridge is being constructed to replace the century-old Pamban Bridge, which was India’s first sea bridge built in 1914.
A key feature of the new bridge is its vertical lift mechanism, which allows ships to pass through without interrupting rail traffic. This innovative design will make transportation more efficient, benefiting both passengers and freight movement.
The new structure is designed using state-of-the-art technology to withstand harsh environmental conditions, ensuring long-term durability and safety. It is expected to boost tourism and economic activity in the region, benefiting local businesses and enhancing trade opportunities.
Given its strategic importance, the New Pamban Bridge represents a significant step toward India’s commitment to strengthening its infrastructure and regional connectivity, making travel between mainland India and Rameswaram smoother and more efficient.
US Imposes 25% Tariff on Imported Cars and Auto Parts
The United States has imposed a 25% tariff on imported cars and auto parts, aiming to support domestic automobile manufacturers. However, this policy shift is expected to have widespread consequences, particularly for global suppliers, including India.
India is one of the leading exporters of automobile components to global automakers, and the new tariff could result in reduced demand for Indian products. This might lead to financial losses for Indian manufacturers and job cuts within the industry.
Experts predict that car prices in the US will rise due to the increased cost of imports, impacting American consumers. Additionally, automakers might shift production strategies, potentially leading to long-term changes in global trade dynamics.
To counter the impact, Indian companies may need to explore alternative markets, strengthen domestic production, and focus on innovation in electric vehicle manufacturing to stay competitive in the rapidly evolving automobile sector.