Current Affairs - Awards and Honours

Henrique Braun has been elected as the Chief Executive Officer of The Coca-Cola Company, with his appointment taking effect on 31 March 2026. He will succeed James Quincey, who will move into the role of Executive Chairman after nearly a decade as CEO. Braun brings nearly 30 years of experience at Coca-Cola, having served in key leadership roles across multiple global markets, including Latin America, Greater China, South Korea, and international development. His background as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer positions him to drive innovation, consumer-centric strategies, and global growth for the company.

Andrej Babis has been appointed as the Prime Minister of the Czech Republic after his ANO party successfully formed a coalition with two eurosceptic groups. His political stance includes a stronger nationalist approach and a campaign focused on reducing aid to Ukraine. The coalition emphasises that the European Union must respect national sovereignty and operate within defined limits. This appointment marks a significant shift in Czech politics, particularly given Babis’s alignment with positions often associated with Donald Trump. His leadership is expected to influence the country’s direction on EU relations and foreign policy in the coming years.

Supriya Sahu, serving as the Additional Chief Secretary to the Government of Tamil Nadu, received the prestigious UNEP Champions of the Earth 2025 Award for her groundbreaking climate leadership. Recognized in the Inspiration and Action category, she has led transformative initiatives across sustainable cooling, heat resilience, and ecosystem restoration. Her efforts have generated millions of green jobs, enhanced forest cover, and strengthened climate resilience for millions of people in Tamil Nadu. By integrating community participation with innovative environmental solutions, she has positioned the state as a global frontrunner in adaptation and climate governance. Her contributions illustrate the impact of bold, localized climate action on global sustainability.

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network announced a major leadership change with the appointment of Dr Renuka Iyer as its new Chief Medical Officer. She brings over two decades of experience in oncology, clinical research, and academic medicine, particularly in the field of gastrointestinal cancers. Her background includes significant contributions to cancer guideline development, immunotherapy research, and evidence-based practice. As CMO, she will guide the development and updating of NCCN’s widely used clinical practice guidelines, oversee educational initiatives, and support global collaborations aimed at improving cancer care standards. Her expertise positions her to play a central role in advancing NCCN’s mission worldwide.

Sipan Garg assumed additional charge as the CMD of THDC India Limited on November 16, 2025, after the sudden demise of R. K. Vishnoi. With over 24 years of experience in finance, taxation, accounts, and commercial operations in the power sector, he brings strong leadership and financial expertise to the role. Garg continues to serve as Director (Finance), a position he has held since August 2024, and his prior roles as CFO at two NTPC subsidiaries further strengthen his credentials. His appointment ensures leadership continuity at a crucial time for THDC, especially as the company expands its renewable and clean energy initiatives.