Today in History (Mar 20th, 1953)
The Republic of Tunisia, the former colony of France in the Maghreb region of Africa, gained independence from France on 20th March, 1953. Tunis is the capital of Tunisia.
World Sparrow Day
The World Sparrow Day is observed annually on 20th March to raise worldwide awareness to protect and conserve the house sparrows which are threatened due to increasing pollution in the urban areas. It is a global initiative of the Nature Forever Society of India, established by Mohammad Dilawar, in collaboration with the France-based Eco-Sys Action Foundation.
6.8 magnitude earthquake in Ecuador and Peru
Ecuador and Peru experienced a strong earthquake of 6.8 magnitude on the Richter scale. The epicenter of the earthquake was located 80 km south of Guayaquil, the 2nd largest city in Ecuador. Around 15 people have been reported to be killed, and many trapped inside the rubbles.
Dubai-based Emaar became first overseas company to start project in Kashmir
The Dubai-based Emaar, a multinational real estate development company, became the first overseas company to invest in a mega-mall in Srinagar. The project is spread over 10 lakh square feet which aims to boost infrastructure and ease of living in Kashmir. The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, created the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.
Sergio Perez wins Saudi Arabian Grand Prix
Sergio Perez of Mexico won the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix for Red Bull. Max Verstappen, a two-time world champion, came second, whereas George Russell of Mercedes finished third.
Sangita Kalanidhi Award 2023 awarded to Bombay Jayshree
Renowned Carnatic singer Bombay Jayshree is to be awarded the Sangita Kalanidhi Award 2023. Ms. Vasanthalakshmi Narasimhachari, renowned Bharatnatyam and Kuchipudi dancer, is to be awarded the Nritya Kalanidhi Award, 2023.
Russian President Vladimir Putin made a surprise visit to Mariupol
Russian President visited Mariupol, a port city in the Donetsk Oblast of Ukraine, which was captured by Russia in May, 2022, during the ongoing Russia Ukraine crisis. Earlier, in 2014, Russia annexed Crimea after holding a referendum which was condemned by Ukraine and international community.
