Current Affairs - April 3, 2025 Current Affairs

Sivasubramanian Ramann has been appointed as the new Chairperson of the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) for a tenure of five years. He currently serves as the Deputy Comptroller & Auditor General (CAG) and Chief Technology Officer at the CAG of India. His role will involve overseeing and regulating India’s pension sector, strengthening the regulatory framework, and enhancing transparency and governance within pension schemes like the National Pension System (NPS) and Atal Pension Yojana (APY).

Nikhil Singhal, a distinguished media strategist, Founder of Vigor Media Worldwide, and President of the Noida High Rise Federation, has been awarded the Uttar Pradesh Anmol Ratan Award. The ceremony took place at the Taj Lucknow, organized by the Tapasya Foundation Trust, and was graced by Shri Akhilesh Yadav, former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh. This prestigious award recognizes Singhal’s outstanding contributions to the public relations industry, his innovative communication strategies, and his leadership in advocating for high-rise residents' rights in Noida. His work has significantly shaped the PR landscape in India.

According to the information, 98.21% of ₹2000 notes have been returned to the banking system following their withdrawal in May 2023. This indicates a strong response from the public in exchanging or depositing the notes. The other options are incorrect percentages that do not reflect the actual return rate of ₹2000 notes.

N Chandrasekaran has been appointed to the IMF’s Advisory Council on Entrepreneurship & Growth to contribute to fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and productivity. The other options are notable figures related to the IMF or economic history Kristalina Georgieva is the IMF Managing Director, while John Maynard Keynes and Harry Dexter White are founders associated with the Bretton Woods system.

International Mine Awareness Day is observed annually on April 4 to raise awareness about the dangers posed by landmines and to promote global efforts for their removal. The day highlights the significant impact of landmines on civilian populations, particularly in war-affected regions. It also emphasizes the importance of demining activities, victim assistance, and the adoption of new technologies to address this issue. The theme for 2025, "Safe Futures Start Here," underscores the need for a landmine-free world, with support from the United Nations and various international organizations.

Aditya Birla Capital Limited (ABCL) has merged with its fully owned NBFC subsidiary, Aditya Birla Finance Ltd. (ABFL), effective from April 1, 2025. This strategic merger aims to simplify the corporate structure, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen financial stability. The merger received necessary approvals from regulatory bodies like SEBI, RBI, and NCLT, along with shareholders and creditors. The leadership transition includes Ms. Vishakha Mulye as MD & CEO and Mr. Rakesh Singh as Executive Director & CEO (NBFC), marking a significant step in ABCL’s growth trajectory in the financial services sector.

The Warangal Chapata Chilli, also known as Tomato Chilli, has been granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, recognizing its unique qualities and regional significance in Telangana. This GI tag is expected to benefit around 20,000 farmers in the Warangal region by enhancing their income and boosting demand in domestic and international markets. The chilli is known for its bright red colour, mild pungency, and use as a natural colouring agent. Its cultivation has been a part of Telangana’s agricultural heritage for over 80 years, making it a valuable product for the state’s economy.

H Shankar has officially assumed the role of Managing Director (MD) of Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited (CPCL), a position he has been holding in an additional capacity since July 16, 2024. With his background in mechanical engineering and management, coupled with his extensive experience in the oil and gas industry, H Shankar is poised to lead CPCL’s strategic initiatives. His contributions include driving infrastructure development, introducing sustainable products, and supporting India’s space and defence sectors with specialized fuels. His leadership is expected to enhance CPCL’s growth and sustainability in the energy sector.

The Government of Andhra Pradesh is set to launch the 'Zero Poverty – P4 Policy' initiative on Ugadi (March 30, 2025) as part of its ambitious Swarna Andhra-2047 vision. This poverty eradication program aims to eliminate poverty in the state by 2047 through a unique Public, Private, People Partnership (P4) model. The initiative focuses on empowering underprivileged families, referred to as ‘Bangaru Kutumbam,’ with housing, sanitation, water, energy, and entrepreneurship opportunities. The policy encourages contributions from well-off families (Margadarsis) to support these families, promoting sustainable socio-economic development.

Kamal Haasan has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry’s (FICCI) Media and Entertainment Committee South. This appointment was announced during the FICCI’s Media and Entertainment Business Conclave South Connect 2025 in Chennai. Known for his influential career as an actor, filmmaker, and entrepreneur, Haasan’s leadership is expected to bring valuable insights and drive growth in India’s media and entertainment sector. His vision includes transforming the industry into a $100 billion sector, promoting regional collaborations, and enhancing India’s global presence in animation and VFX.