Current Affairs - Awards and Honours

Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director and CEO of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles and Tata Electric Mobility, has become the first Indian to be elected President of OICA (Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d’Automobiles). Headquartered in Paris and founded in 1919, OICA represents the global automobile manufacturers’ community on key issues such as safety, emissions, and trade policy. Chandra’s appointment signifies India’s growing influence in global automotive governance, especially in electric mobility and sustainable transport. His leadership will help align India’s fast-evolving vehicle ecosystem with global standards while promoting EV innovation, cybersecurity, and sustainable manufacturing in the international automotive industry.

Deepak Gupta, currently serving as Director (Projects) at GAIL (India) Limited, has been recommended by the Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) to be the next Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of the Maharatna PSU under the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas. With over 35 years of experience in the oil and gas sector, he is recognised for his expertise in project and construction management, digitization, and strategic reforms. A Mechanical Engineer from DTU and a PMP-certified professional, Gupta’s leadership is expected to strengthen GAIL’s project execution and innovation initiatives.

Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais from the United Arab Emirates has been appointed as the first woman to head UN Tourism, marking a historic breakthrough in global tourism leadership. Her appointment was confirmed during the 123rd UN Tourism Executive Council session in Segovia, Spain, and she will assume office in January 2026 for a four-year term. With over 16 years of experience in corporate governance and tourism development, Al Nowais has held key roles including Corporate Vice President at Rotana Hotels and Chair of the Abu Dhabi Chamber’s Tourism Working Group. Her leadership emphasises sustainability, digital innovation, and women’s empowerment in global tourism.

Cricket legend Rahul Dravid has been appointed as the brand ambassador for Paradeep Phosphates Ltd. (PPL) to promote sustainable farming and balanced fertiliser use across India. Announced on 5 November 2025, this collaboration leverages Dravid’s reputation for integrity and discipline to connect with farmers and drive awareness about soil health and efficient nutrient management. Through campaigns like “Kheti Ka Game Changer” and “NPK and Organic Fertilisers Ki Winning Team,” the initiative aims to simplify agronomy using cricket-inspired themes, supporting national programmes such as the NMSA and PM-PRANAM for sustainable agriculture.

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar was conferred IIT Kanpur’s Distinguished Alumnus Award, the premier recognition given by the institute to its former students for exceptional professional achievements. A 1985 B.Tech graduate in Civil Engineering from IIT Kanpur, Gyanesh Kumar has had an illustrious career in public service and governance. Instituted in 1989, this award celebrates alumni who have made significant contributions in their respective fields. The honour was presented during IIT Kanpur’s 66th Foundation Day celebrations, marking both academic excellence and leadership in public administration.