Local Round-up: From Ashwani Kumar’s IPL Debut to India's Relief Mission to Myanmar—Here’s What Made Headlines This Week!

Local Round-up brings you what's happening across the country in travel, food, infrastructure, and sports. We have curated the updates from the weekend and the beginning of this week for you. So, read these below. 

Ashwani Kumar's Stellar IPL Debut for Mumbai Indians

Mumbai Indians' young left-arm pacer, Ashwani Kumar, delivered a remarkable performance in his IPL debut against Kolkata Knight Riders at Wankhede Stadium. Kumar's impressive figures of 4 for 24 were instrumental in bundling out KKR for just 116 in 16.2 overs, showcasing his potential as a formidable force in the tournament.

Sam Altman Appeals for Reduced Ghibli-Style Image Generations

OpenAI's CEO, Sam Altman, has requested users to limit the generation of Ghibli-style images using ChatGPT. He emphasised that the high volume of such requests is straining the system and affecting the team's ability to rest, highlighting the challenges of balancing user engagement with system sustainability.

Mumbai's First Elevated Nature Walk Opens in Malabar Hill

Mumbai inaugurated its first elevated nature walk in Malabar Hill on 30 March 2025. The 485-metre trail features a sea-viewing deck and over 100 plant species, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience the city's biodiversity. Inspired by Singapore's Tree Top Walk, this initiative aims to promote eco-tourism and environmental awareness in the urban landscape.

Cheetah Cub 'Mukhi' in Kuno National Park Turns 2

Mukhi, the first cheetah born in India after the species' reintroduction, marks a significant milestone in the country's conservation efforts at Kuno National Park. Over two years, Mukhi has exhibited excellent development, gaining strength, agility, and essential survival skills, underscoring the success of India's cheetah rehabilitation programme.

India's 'Operation Brahma' Provides Earthquake Relief to Myanmar

Under 'Operation Brahma,' India acted as a first responder to assist Myanmar following a devastating earthquake. An initial consignment of 15 tonnes of relief material, including tents, blankets, sleeping bags, food packets, hygiene kits, generators, and essential medicines, was dispatched to Yangon. Additional Indian Air Force aircraft are preparing to deliver further aid, demonstrating India's commitment to regional humanitarian assistance.

Sigandur Bridge Set for Inauguration in Karnataka

The Sigandur Bridge, also known as the Ambaragodlu-Kalasavalli Bridge, is slated for inauguration by the end of May or early June. Spanning 2.1 km across the Sharavathi River in Sagar taluk, Shivamogga district, it stands as Karnataka's largest inland bridge, featuring a 740-metre cable-stayed stretch. Initiated in 2018 with a budget of Rs 456.6 crore, this infrastructure project is expected to significantly enhance regional connectivity.

Srinagar's Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden Opens for Tourists

The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar has opened its gates to the public for the season. Formerly known as the Model Floriculture Centre, the garden's reopening marks the beginning of a new tourism season in Kashmir, aiming to boost both floriculture and tourism in the region.

Uttar Pradesh Orders Closure of Meat Shops on Ram Navami

The Adityanath-led government in Uttar Pradesh has mandated the closure of all meat shops on 6 April, coinciding with Ram Navami. Authorities have warned that violations will be penalised under the Uttar Pradesh Municipal Corporation Act, 1959, and the Food Safety Acts of 2006 and 2011. Additionally, the Urban Development and Rural Development Departments have been directed to ensure cleanliness around temples during the Navratri festival, deploying extra sanitation workers as needed.

Delhi Assembly Budget Session Commences

The Delhi Assembly's budget session began on 24 March, with the state budget presented on 25 March. The session commenced with a 'kheer ceremony,' symbolising communal harmony. Key priorities outlined include infrastructure development, water supply improvements, Yamuna river cleaning, and monthly financial aid for women, with an expected budget exceeding Rs 80,000 crore.

Encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua District

On 31 March, security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district engaged in an encounter with three terrorists in the Panjthirthi area. The operation, which marked the second gunfight in three days, involved cordoning off the area to trap the militants. The situation remained tense as efforts continued to neutralise the threat and ensure the safety of local residents.