Current Affairs - Awards and Honours

The 2025 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was awarded to Mary E. Brunkow, Fred Ramsdell, and Shimon Sakaguchi for their pioneering research on peripheral immune tolerance. Their work identified regulatory T cells (Tregs) and the Foxp3 gene, which are critical in preventing the immune system from attacking the body’s own tissues. These discoveries have transformed immunology and provided new strategies for treating autoimmune diseases, cancer, and transplant rejection. Sakaguchi discovered Tregs, while Brunkow and Ramsdell identified the Foxp3 gene, linking their findings to a deeper understanding of immune system regulation.

Dr. R. Arthur James, Professor and Chair of Marine Science at Bharathidasan University, received the Tamil Nadu Scientist Award (TANSA) 2022 in Environmental Science. He was recognised for his exceptional contributions to marine research and promoting sustainable environmental practices. The award included a ₹50,000 cash prize and a citation, highlighting the importance of his scientific work in advancing environmental awareness and research in Tamil Nadu. His achievements reflect both academic excellence and practical impact in environmental sustainability.

Asheesh Pandey has been appointed as the Managing Director and CEO of Union Bank of India for a three-year term. Previously, he served as the Executive Director at the Bank of Maharashtra, where he gained significant experience in banking operations and credit management. His appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet and recommended by the Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB) on May 30, 2025. This leadership change is part of the government’s effort to strengthen governance and drive efficiency across India’s public sector banks.

Kalyan Kumar has been appointed as the Managing Director and CEO of the Central Bank of India for a three-year term. He previously served as the Executive Director at Punjab National Bank (PNB) and will succeed M. V. Rao upon his superannuation in July 2025. His appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet and recommended by the Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB) on May 30, 2025. With extensive experience in the banking sector, Kalyan Kumar’s leadership is expected to strengthen governance, enhance profitability, and drive digital transformation within the Central Bank of India.

Gaurav Banerjee has been appointed as the Managing Director and CEO of Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI), officially known as Culver Max Entertainment, with his term extended until August 2029. He took over leadership following the departure of long-time CEO NP Singh and was confirmed through shareholder approval at the AGM in August 2025. His tenure, starting in August 2024, represents a five-year extension that ensures leadership stability for the company. Under his guidance, SPNI continues to strengthen its television and OTT presence through SonyLIV, backed by strong financials and a significant subscriber base in India.