Every year on March 1, the world comes together to celebrate World Civil Defence Day. This international event serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of being prepared for emergencies and disasters.

World Civil Defence Day was first established in 1990 by the International Civil Defence Organisation (ICDO) to commemorate the anniversary of the adoption of the ICDO's Constitution. Since then, it has grown into a significant global platform for raising awareness about the vital role civil defence plays in protecting communities.

Zero Discrimination Day is observed on March 1 annually. The specific day is dedicated to promoting equality, inclusion, and diversity worldwide. It is an opportunity to celebrate everyone’s right to live a full and productive life with dignity – regardless of their age, gender, sexuality, nationality, ethnicity, skin colour, height, weight, profession, educational qualifications, belief systems, or any other element that has the potential to violate human rights and perpetuate poverty and inequality. Each year, Zero Discrimination Day has a specific theme to focus attention on particular areas where discrimination is prevalent.

Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, on February 28, suspended the solar policy of the Delhi government announced by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal last month.

Speaking on it, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Sandeep Pathak expressed deep disappointment, accusing the BJP of directing their anger not just at Arvind Kejriwal but at Delhi and its residents.

"This is a matter of great sorrow. The solar policy that I encourage everyone in the country to read is a highly progressive and advanced policy, not just for Delhi but the Prime Minister and the BJP should consider implementing it nationwide. Leave aside the country. If it's happening in Delhi, at least let it be implemented there. However, they are creating obstacles as if it's their approach towards everything. Their anger is not just directed at Kejriwal but also against Delhi and the people of Delhi because they want to change how Kejriwal wins, questioning why he wins. They can't stand to see any success or happiness for the people of Delhi. It hurts them to witness such good policies being halted. They want to stop all work and their goal is not to progress the country. They are just involved in dirty politics," Sandeep Pathak said.

It also proposes imprisonment of two to seven years for anyone who undertakes the profession of travel agent without obtaining a registration certificate under the provisions of the proposed Act or contravenes the provisions of the proposed Act

The Haryana assembly on Wednesday passed nine bills, including the Haryana Registration and Regulation of Travel Agents Bill. The bill proposes imprisonment of three to 10 years for anyone who attempts or is found involved in human trafficking or is found involved in preparation of forged documents.

India ranks 42nd in the International IP Index for 2024, out of 55 countries evaluated. India’s overall score also remained unchanged at 38.64 percent according to the 12th edition of the US Chamber of Commerce’s Global Innovation Policy Center’s International IP Index.

The Index evaluates the IP frameworks of the world's top 55 economies, revealing significant improvements in 20 economies. While the United States is once again the world leader, there were notable advancements led by Saudi Arabia, Brazil, and Nigeria. However, challenges persist, as 27 economies showed no change and eight, including Ecuador, experienced declines due to weak IP enforcement.

The World Gold Council Tuesday named Sachin Jain its new CEO for India.

Jain, who will take up the new role next month, brings with him a deep understanding of the Indian consumer and jewellery market.

He joins from De Beers where he has held several senior roles over the past 13 years. As managing director of DeBeers India, he has led the De Beers Forevermark business in India and the Middle East.

Bharti Enterprises founder and chairman Sunil Mittal on Wednesday became the first Indian citizen to be awarded Honorary Knighthood, the Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE), by King Charles III for advancing India – UK business relations.

“I am deeply humbled by this gracious recognition from His Majesty, King Charles. UK and India have historical relations, which are now entering a new era of increased cooperation and collaboration. I remain committed to working towards strengthening the economic and bilateral trade relationships between our two great nations,” Mittal said.

All of 14, Dhinidhi Desinghu on Wednesday produced a record-breaking swim to clock the 'Best Indian Time' in the girl's 100m freestyle event on way to a fourth place finish at the 11th Asian Group Aquatics Championships in Philippines.

Dhinidhi broke the previous record of 57.35s set by Kenisha Gupta, clocking a new Indian best time of 57.33s competing in the 'C' category at New Clark City in Capas, Philippines.

NTPC Green Energy Limited (NGEL), a wholly owned subsidiary of NTPC Limited, has signed a joint venture agreement with Maharashtra State Power Generation Company Limited (MAHAGENCO) for the development of renewable energy parks in the state of Maharashtra, according to an official statement.

The company to be set up under the joint venture will develop GW-scale renewable energy parks and undertake projects of this scale in a phased manner. The agreement aligns with the green energy objectives of NTPC and is another step in the Government of India's efforts towards energy transition, said the statement.

Peru has announced a nationwide health emergency in response to a significant rise in dengue fever cases, exacerbated by a combination of extreme heat and heavy rains.

Health Minister Cesar Vasquez revealed that the death toll attributed to the virus has reached 32 this year, with a total of 31,300 reported cases in just the first eight weeks, marking a notable increase from previous years.

The decision to declare a health emergency was made by the Peruvian government's cabinet on Monday, following warnings from Vasquez about an impending dengue outbreak. The measure, approved promptly, aims to provide additional resources and support to healthcare providers grappling with the surge in cases, particularly in the hardest-hit regions.