Stay informed with the latest developments from Odisha, India, and around the world as of April 12, 2025. This comprehensive digest covers significant topics across various sectors, providing valuable insights.

Ayushman Bharat Scheme Launched in Odisha: Union Minister JP Nadda inaugurated the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme in Odisha, aiming to benefit over 3.5 crore residents.

Promotion of 29 OAS Officers: The Odisha government promoted 29 Odisha Administrative Service (OAS) officers to the rank of Special Secretary. Kahnu Charan Dhir retained his role amid these ad hoc promotions by the General Administration & Public Grievance Department. ​

National News

India-US Trade Talks Progress: India and the United States finalized terms for the first phase of a bilateral trade agreement. Indian officials are optimistic about reaching a mutually beneficial deal within the next 90 days, despite recent US tariff hikes on Indian goods. ​

Surge in Smartphone Exports: India experienced a significant increase in smartphone exports to the U.S. between January and March 2025, aiming to preempt impending tariffs. Apple iPhones accounted for over USD 17 billion of the USD 23 billion total exports in this sector. ​

GAIL Seeks Stake in US LNG Project: GAIL (India) Ltd issued a tender to acquire up to a 26% equity stake in a U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) project, along with a 15-year agreement to import 1 million metric tons of LNG annually starting between 2029 and 2030.

Operation Brahma: India's Aid to Myanmar: India deployed AI-powered robotic systems, including SAR Robo Mules and nano drones, to assist in earthquake relief efforts in Myanmar.

Hungary Relocates Embassy to Jerusalem: Hungary officially moved its embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, becoming one of the few countries to do so, a move that may have diplomatic implications in the region. 

Weather & Environment

Early Heatwave in Northern India: An early and extreme heatwave swept across northern India, with temperatures surpassing 40°C this week. Barmer in Rajasthan peaked at 46.4 degrees Celsius, significantly above April averages.

Sports

Chess Grand Slam: Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi held American Grandmaster Hikaru Nakamura to a thrilling draw in the ongoing Chess Grand Slam tournament.