Current Affairs - Awards and Honours

Keerthy Suresh has taken on the significant role of UNICEF India’s Celebrity Advocate, bringing her strong public influence and dedicated fan base to support critical social causes. As an acclaimed actor known across Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Hindi cinema, she is well-positioned to highlight issues related to child rights, mental health, and emotional well-being. Her involvement is intended to inspire communities, mobilize awareness campaigns, and encourage positive action for children’s welfare. By leveraging her platform, she aims to contribute to long-term change and elevate national conversations around the needs and rights of children.

Thota Tharani, one of India’s most distinguished art directors and production designers, received the Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres in 2025 for his exceptional contribution to cinema and visual arts. His career spans over four decades, during which he has shaped the visual identity of numerous iconic films across multiple languages. His mastery in crafting culturally immersive and historically accurate sets has elevated film aesthetics in Indian cinema. The award recognises his impact not only within India but also on the global arts landscape, placing him among other renowned Indian recipients who have enriched artistic expression through their craft.

The National Gopal Ratna Awards 2025 include a cash reward of ₹5 lakh each for the top performers in the Best Dairy Farmer and Best Dairy Cooperative/FPO/MPC categories. These awards aim to honour those who significantly contribute to India’s livestock and dairy ecosystem through excellence in dairy farming and cooperative management. By recognizing top dairy farmers and cooperatives, the initiative encourages improved breeding practices, scientific cattle management, and innovation in milk production. The awards also reinforce the importance of these stakeholders in strengthening India’s position as the world’s largest milk producer while promoting sustainable and efficient dairy development nationwide.

S Krishnan, a highly experienced banking professional, has been appointed as the part-time chairman of J&K Bank for the term spanning November 13, 2025, to March 26, 2028. His extensive background includes serving as Managing Director and CEO of Punjab & Sind Bank as well as Tamilnad Mercantile Bank, where he contributed significantly to restructuring, digital expansion, and operational improvements. As an existing independent director on the board of J&K Bank, he brings valuable insights into the bank’s functioning. His appointment is expected to enhance governance, strengthen compliance frameworks, and support financial inclusion and digital initiatives across Jammu & Kashmir and neighboring regions.

Varsha Das, a renowned Gujarati writer, has been invited as the Chief Guest for the Bal Sahitya Puraskar 2025 ceremony. The event, scheduled for 14 November 2025, celebrates outstanding contributions to children’s literature across 24 Indian languages. The award spans various literary forms such as poetry, stories, novels, memoirs, and plays, highlighting the richness and diversity of children’s writing in India. Each awardee receives ₹50,000 along with a bronze plaque, making it a prestigious recognition. Varsha Das’s presence underscores the importance of literary influence and cultural contribution in shaping young readers.