BrainBuzz Academy

Why in the News?
Indore and Udaipur have become the first Indian cities to receive global recognition as accredited wetland cities under the Ramsar Convention’s Wetland City Accreditation (WCA) program. Indore’s Sirpur Lake and Udaipur’s five major wetlands were key factors in achieving this prestigious acknowledgment, highlighting the cities’ efforts in wetland conservation and sustainable management.
Key Takeaways
Indore: Sirpur Lake, a Ramsar site, is renowned for its water bird congregation and development into a bird sanctuary.
Udaipur: Known as the “City of Lakes,” it boasts five significant wetlands—Pichola, Fateh Sagar, Rang Sagar, Swaroop Sagar, and Doodh Talai—which play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance.
Global Recognition: Indore and Udaipur are now part of an exclusive list of 31 wetland-accredited cities worldwide, showcasing India’s commitment to wetland conservation.
Do You Know?
What is WCA?
The Wetland City Accreditation is a voluntary system introduced under the Ramsar Convention at COP12 in Uruguay (2015). It recognizes cities that actively value and conserve their wetlands. Accreditation is valid for six years and renewable based on compliance with six established criteria.
Significance of WCA:
Promotes conservation and sustainable use of urban and peri-urban wetlands.
Encourages cities to foster a positive relationship with these ecosystems for socio-economic and ecological benefits.
Supports India’s Amrit Dharohar initiative, which focuses on wetland conservation under the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEF&CC).
Static Points About Ramsar Convention
The Ramsar Convention is an international treaty adopted in 1971 (effective from 1975) to conserve and ensure the wise use of wetlands and their resources.
India is home to 85 Ramsar sites, reflecting its rich and diverse wetland ecosystems.
Additional Observations
Indore and Udaipur's achievement in joining the list of wetland-accredited cities underscores the importance of integrating wetland conservation into urban planning. By fulfilling the six criteria of WCA—ranging from wetland restoration to public awareness—these cities demonstrate a model approach for others to follow.
Conclusion
The recognition of Indore and Udaipur as wetland-accredited cities marks a significant milestone in India’s journey toward ecological sustainability. It not only highlights the country’s rich wetland heritage but also emphasizes the need for continued efforts in wetland conservation to ensure a harmonious balance between urban development and natural ecosystems.

Why in the News?
Jannik Sinner, the 23-year-old World No. 1, retained his Australian Open title with a commanding win over Germany’s Alexander Zverev in the final. Sinner triumphed 6-3, 7-6(4), 6-3 on Rod Laver Arena, becoming the first Italian — male or female — to secure three Grand Slam titles. His victory solidifies his position as a dominant force in men’s tennis while extending his impressive winning streak to 21 matches
Key Takeaways
Historic Milestone: With this victory, Sinner surpassed Nicola Pietrangeli to become the only Italian with three Grand Slam titles.
Elite Company: Sinner joined the ranks of tennis legends Andre Agassi, Roger Federer, and Novak Djokovic as one of the few players to defend their Australian Open titles this century.
Zverev’s Struggles Continue: Despite being one of the sport’s top talents, Alexander Zverev lost his third Grand Slam final, leaving his quest for a maiden Major title unfulfilled.
Do You Know?
Jannik Sinner’s triumph comes amidst the backdrop of a doping controversy. He tested positive for traces of clostebol last year but was exonerated. However, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has appealed the decision, with a hearing scheduled for April.
Sinner’s victory marked his 19th career title, highlighting his rapid rise and consistency in professional tennis.
Last year, Sinner needed five sets to win his first Grand Slam, but this year’s final was a more clinical performance.
Static Points About Australian Open 2025
Location: The tournament is held annually at Melbourne Park, Australia.
Court Surface: Hard court, known for its fast pace and high bounce.
Trophy History: The Norman Brookes Challenge Cup for men’s singles has been awarded since 1934.
Additional Observations
Sinner’s journey to success exemplifies resilience and focus. Despite facing external pressures due to the doping appeal, he demonstrated exceptional mental strength, seamlessly defending his title. His victory speech reflected his sportsmanship, as he consoled Zverev and encouraged him to keep striving for his first Grand Slam title.
Conclusion
Jannik Sinner’s triumph at the 2025 Australian Open cements his legacy as a rising legend in tennis. With an unmatched blend of skill, determination, and composure, he continues to set new benchmarks in the sport while inspiring fans worldwide. All eyes now turn to the Court of Arbitration for Sport hearing, which may determine how his future unfolds.

Why in the News?
Azmatullah Omarzai, Afghanistan’s talented all-rounder, has been crowned the ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year for 2024. With his outstanding performances in both batting and bowling, Omarzai played a significant role in Afghanistan’s rise in international cricket, helping the team secure multiple ODI series victories. His exceptional contributions have solidified his reputation as one of the finest all-rounders in modern-day cricket.
Key Takeaways
Consistent Performer: Omarzai scored 417 runs at an impressive batting average of 52.12 and took 17 wickets at a bowling average of 20.47 in 14 ODIs.
Memorable Knocks:
An unbeaten 149* against Sri Lanka in a hard-fought match showcased his resilience and skill.
A blistering 86* off 50 balls against South Africa helped Afghanistan secure a historic series victory.
Match-Winning Contributions:
Against Bangladesh in the 3rd ODI, Omarzai’s all-round brilliance stood out with a match-winning 70* and bowling figures of 4/37.
Team Success: Afghanistan won four out of their five ODI series in 2024, with Omarzai being a key contributor in victories against Ireland, South Africa, Bangladesh, and Zimbabwe.
Do You Know?
Omarzai’s performances in 2024 elevated Afghanistan’s cricketing stature, proving the team’s ability to compete at the highest level.
His ability to perform under pressure in both batting and bowling roles has made him a cornerstone of Afghanistan’s cricketing setup.
Static Points About ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year
The ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year award is given annually to recognize the most outstanding performer in One Day Internationals.
Previous recipients include legends like Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, and Muttiah Muralitharan.
The award celebrates not just individual brilliance but also the player’s impact on their team’s success throughout the year.
Additional Observations
Omarzai’s success reflects the growing strength of Afghanistan’s cricket team on the global stage. His all-round ability and leadership under pressure have not only inspired his teammates but also captured the attention of cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
Conclusion
Azmatullah Omarzai’s recognition as the ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year is a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication. His performances in 2024 not only highlighted his individual brilliance but also played a pivotal role in Afghanistan’s success. With his contributions, Omarzai has emerged as a beacon of hope for Afghanistan cricket, setting the stage for even greater achievements in the future.

Why in the News?
India mourns the loss of its pioneering cardiac surgeon, Dr. K.M. Cherian, who passed away in Bengaluru on January 25, 2025, at the age of 82. Renowned for performing India’s first coronary bypass surgery, his contributions to cardiology spanned over five decades. His autobiography, Just an Instrument, was launched just days before his passing at the Kerala Literature Festival.
Key Takeaways
Dr. Cherian was a trailblazer in Indian cardiology, achieving many "firsts" in the field. Apart from performing the country’s first coronary bypass surgery, he conducted the first heart-lung transplant and the second cardiac transplant in India. His work extended to pediatric cardiac surgery, where he pioneered treatments, setting up specialized institutions like Frontier Lifeline Hospital and Frontier Mediville in Chennai to foster innovation in indigenous cardiac technology.
His legacy goes beyond surgeries—he mentored young professionals, emphasized research in private healthcare, and served as an honorary cardiac surgeon to the President of India. Dr. Cherian also played a humanitarian role, performing surgeries at minimal cost and aiding individuals in conflict zones, such as Iraq, during his illustrious career.
Do You Know?
Dr. Cherian trained under global leaders in cardiology, honing his skills in Australia and New Zealand before returning to India.
His association with Mother Teresa reflects his commitment to serving the underprivileged; he performed a surgery on a poor child at her request.
Beyond cardiology, he was instrumental in developing medical research facilities and encouraging global collaboration in healthcare.
Additional Observations
Dr. Cherian’s life exemplified dedication, innovation, and compassion. From his humble beginnings in Kerala to becoming one of the most celebrated names in global cardiology, his story inspires aspiring medical professionals. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to him, emphasizing his monumental contributions to healthcare and innovation.
Conclusion
Dr. K.M. Cherian’s passing marks the end of an era in Indian cardiology. His vision, humanitarianism, and relentless pursuit of excellence leave behind a legacy that will inspire generations of doctors and researchers. As his autobiography aptly suggests, he was indeed just an instrument of service to humanity.