Current Affairs - Awards and Honours

The book 'The Library Man of India: The Story of PN Panicker' was authored by PP Sathyan and released by Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan on May 22, 2026, at the Uprashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. The book highlights the life and contributions of PN Panicker, who is widely regarded as the Father of the Library Movement in Kerala. Through his efforts, a vast network of libraries was established across the state, promoting literacy, social awareness, and intellectual growth. His work played a major role in Kerala’s cultural renaissance and helped transform society through the power of education and access to books.

Major Abhilasha Barak was named the recipient of the 2025 United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award for her outstanding service in Lebanon as part of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). Serving as the Commander of the Female Engagement Team, she contributed significantly to community outreach programs for women and adolescent girls and promoted gender sensitisation training among peacekeepers. The award recognises exceptional efforts to advance gender equality in peacekeeping operations. Major Abhilasha Barak is also notable for being the first woman combat helicopter pilot in the Indian Army and the third Indian peacekeeper to receive this prestigious international honour.

Kevin Warsh was sworn in as the Chairman of the US Federal Reserve Board of Governors on May 23, 2026, succeeding Jerome Powell. He was nominated by President Donald Trump to lead the United States central bank during a period marked by elevated inflation levels. The Federal Reserve plays a critical role in managing monetary policy, maintaining financial stability, and influencing economic growth through tools such as interest rate adjustments and open market operations. As Chairman, Warsh is expected to guide policy decisions affecting inflation, employment, and the broader financial system, with significant implications for both the US and global economies.

Rajiv Singh, a 1993-batch IPS officer of the Tripura cadre, was appointed as the Secretary (Security) in the Cabinet Secretariat on May 22, 2026, following approval by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC). Prior to this appointment, he served as the Director General of Police (DGP) of Manipur, where he led the police force during a challenging period marked by ethnic unrest. As Secretary (Security), he becomes the administrative head of the Special Protection Group (SPG), which is responsible for providing proximate security to the Prime Minister of India and eligible family members. He succeeded Parag Jain, who had been holding additional charge of the position.

Medha Vishram Kulkarni, a BJP member of the Rajya Sabha, was nominated as the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science and Technology, Environment, Forests and Climate Change on May 18, 2026. The appointment was made by Rajya Sabha Chairman C.P. Radhakrishnan. The committee plays an important role in examining government policies, reviewing proposed legislation, and assessing budgetary allocations related to scientific and environmental sectors. Parliamentary Standing Committees are essential mechanisms for detailed legislative scrutiny and oversight, helping Parliament evaluate the functioning and performance of various government departments and ministries.