Current Affairs - March 11, 2025 Current Affairs

Dr Sridhar Mitta was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his exceptional contributions to technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship over five decades. He played a pivotal role as Wipro’s first employee and CTO and co-founded NextWealth Entrepreneurs. His innovative work, including the "Lab on Hire" model, significantly boosted Indian IT's global presence, making him a key figure in shaping the IT landscape both in India and internationally. This recognition highlights his enduring impact on the tech industry.

The Assam state government has announced plans to launch its own satellite, ASSAMSAT, to enhance data access for various socio-economic initiatives and improve border security. This satellite will focus on sectors like agriculture, disaster management, infrastructure development, and security operations. Assam becomes the first Indian state to launch its own satellite, marking a significant step in the state's technological advancement. The initiative will also help with real-time border surveillance, disaster mitigation, and enhancing agricultural productivity through satellite-based data.

India has signed a $248 million deal with Russia’s Rosoboronexport to acquire advanced 1,000 horsepower engines for its T-72 battle tanks. This agreement is aimed at enhancing the mobility and combat strength of the Indian Army. In addition, the deal includes the transfer of technology to India’s Armoured Vehicles Nigam Ltd (AVNL) for the licensed production of these engines, supporting India’s defence manufacturing sector and aligning with its Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives. Russia continues to be a vital defence partner for India, especially for tank and aircraft technology.

The Indian Navy's First Training Squadron (1TS), consisting of INS Sujata, INS Shardul, and ICGS Veera, successfully concluded its visit to Phuket, Thailand. During their visit to the Phuket Deep Sea Port, the squadron participated in coordinated tactical manoeuvres, joint exercises, and professional exchanges with the Royal Thai Navy (RTN). The visit strengthened the maritime partnership between India and Thailand and involved various cultural and training engagements, highlighting the importance of international naval cooperation and enhancing regional security.

Takashi Nakajima has been appointed as the new President and CEO of Honda Cars India Ltd. (HCIL), effective April 1, 2025. He succeeds Takuya Tsumura, who is returning to Honda’s headquarters in Japan after a successful three-year tenure in India. Nakajima brings 30 years of experience in the automobile industry and has held key leadership roles in various markets, including Russia, China, and Japan. His extensive background in business planning, marketing, and sales promotions equips him to lead Honda Cars India effectively in a competitive market.

The 54th National Safety Week is being observed across India from March 4 to March 10, 2025. This annual observance aims to raise awareness about safety measures in various industries and workplaces to prevent accidents and ensure the well-being of employees. The event is organized by the National Safety Council (NSC) of India, emphasizing the importance of safety for achieving a developed and progressive nation. The theme for this year, "Safety & Well-being Crucial for Viksit Bharat," focuses on the essential role of safety in India's growth.

In the 2024 Air Pollution Rankings, India holds the 5th position, behind countries like Chad, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. While the average PM2.5 levels in India improved by 7%, falling to 50.6 mg/cu m, the country still struggles with severe pollution levels. India is home to 12 out of the top 20 most polluted cities globally, with Byrnihat topping the list. The WHO recommends PM2.5 levels of no more than 5 mg/cu m, a standard that only 17% of cities globally met last year, illustrating the extent of the pollution problem.

INS Imphal, commissioned in December 2023, participated in the 57th Mauritius National Day celebrations on March 12, 2025. This marked the ship's maiden port call in Mauritius, where it contributed a marching contingent, a naval band, and a helicopter for the flypast. INS Imphal is the third ship of the four Project 15B (Visakhapatnam-class) indigenous destroyers, designed to enhance India's naval capabilities. Participation in the National Day celebrations highlights the strengthening of ties between India and Mauritius.

India has signed an MoU to develop a state-of-the-art Multi-Modal Logistics Park (MMLP) in Varanasi. The park, covering 150 acres, will significantly enhance regional connectivity. It will be strategically connected to NH7, the Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor, and National Waterway-1, offering easy access to the Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport. This development aims to improve logistics and transportation infrastructure in the region, boosting economic activity and accessibility.

CISF Raising Day is observed every year on March 10 to honour the important role of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) in safeguarding vital infrastructure across India. In 2025, the country celebrates the 56th CISF Raising Day with a grand event in Thakkolam, Tamil Nadu. The CISF was established on March 10, 1969, and this day highlights their contributions to national security and economic stability through parades, award ceremonies, and various community service initiatives.

Deepti Sharma has reached the 5th position in the ICC Women's All-rounders Rankings, accumulating 344 points and surpassing Amelia Kerr. Along with her all-rounder ranking, she is also ranked 3rd in the T20 all-rounder rankings and 4th in the ODI bowling rankings. Deepti is known for her versatile skills, batting left-handed and bowling right-arm off break. Her impressive rankings highlight her all-round contribution to the game.