Current Affairs - Awards and Honours

Paschal Donohoe has been appointed as the Managing Director and Chief Knowledge Officer of the World Bank Group, bringing with him over twenty years of experience across public administration, economic policy, and the private sector. His background includes serving as Ireland’s Minister for Finance and holding the influential role of President of the Eurogroup, where he played a major part in steering EU financial coordination during challenging periods. With additional corporate experience from Procter & Gamble, Donohoe is well-positioned to lead the World Bank’s knowledge initiatives, strengthen global cooperation, and enhance evidence-based solutions for development challenges across emerging and developing economies.

Sipan Garg has taken on the additional responsibility of CMD of THDC India Ltd beginning November 16, 2025, after the sudden passing of R K Vishnoi. Alongside this new role, he continues to serve as Director (Finance), a position he has held since August 17, 2024. With over 24 years of experience in finance, taxation, and power-sector operations, he brings deep expertise to this leadership post. His earlier engagements as CFO in prominent NTPC subsidiaries further strengthen his capability to guide THDC during a crucial period of operational continuity and strategic expansion.

Temasek Holdings, Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund, appointed Piyush Gupta, former CEO of DBS Bank, as its non-executive Chairman for India, effective December 1, 2025. In this role, Gupta will guide India-focused investment strategies, support portfolio companies, and strengthen engagement with government and business stakeholders. Gupta’s extensive experience, including leading DBS Bank through a digital transformation and regional expansion across Asia-Pacific, positions him to provide strategic insight and deepen Temasek’s presence in India. His appointment reflects the firm’s commitment to long-term growth in key sectors such as financial services, technology, healthcare, and clean energy.

Ramprasad Sridharan has been appointed as the new Managing Director of PUMA India, bringing with him more than 25 years of retail and brand leadership experience. His career includes senior roles at United Colors of Benetton, Clarks, and Reebok India. With his background in brand transformation, digital expansion, and consumer-focused strategy, he is expected to guide PUMA India toward stronger market positioning, enhanced digital initiatives, and a more robust retail presence. His leadership aligns with PUMA’s ambition to grow rapidly in India’s fast-expanding sportswear and lifestyle market.

Jawed Ashraf, a seasoned former IFS officer from the 1991 batch, has been appointed as the Chairman of the India Trade Promotion Organization on a two-year contractual basis. His appointment comes after his retirement from diplomatic service, with terms structured similarly to those of re-employed Central Government officers. With extensive experience in global diplomacy, trade discussions, and international engagement, he is expected to contribute significantly toward enhancing India’s trade promotion activities. His leadership is anticipated to further strengthen ITPO’s role in facilitating global business linkages, fostering trade partnerships, and supporting India’s economic outreach initiatives.