Current Affairs - Awards and Honours

Acharya Prashant, a philosopher and author, was honored with the ‘Most Impactful Environmentalist’ award by the Green Society of India on World Environment Day. This award recognized his unique contribution to merging spiritual clarity with environmental awareness. His work has inspired millions to embrace sustainable living practices, highlighting the importance of mindfulness and responsibility towards nature. Such recognition emphasizes the growing connection between spiritual wisdom and environmental stewardship in addressing global ecological challenges.

Dettol selected MS Dhoni as the face of its newly launched ‘Icy Cool’ personal care range in May 2025. Known as “Captain Cool,” Dhoni embodies the qualities of calmness and resilience, which align perfectly with the campaign’s theme—providing cooling relief and germ protection during the intense Indian summer. The product line includes soaps, body wash, and handwash designed to combat heat-related hygiene issues such as excessive sweating and germ buildup. The partnership leverages Dhoni’s strong national appeal and trusted public image to communicate the brand’s commitment to seasonal relevance, hygiene, and comfort through an engaging commercial campaign.

S Mahendra Dev, an eminent economist with a distinguished career in development economics, rural studies, and public policy, has been appointed as the Chairman of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM) as of June 5, 2025. With academic credentials including a PhD from Delhi School of Economics and post-doctoral work at Yale University, Dev has held various prestigious roles, such as Director of IGIDR and editor of Economic and Political Weekly. His appointment reflects a renewed emphasis on development-centric policy advice, especially in agriculture and rural economy, as India navigates key economic reforms and inclusive growth strategies.

Ashwani Lohani, a veteran administrator and former CMD of Air India as well as ex-Chairman of the Railway Board, has been appointed as the Director of the Prime Ministers Museum and Library (PMML) for a three-year tenure. His extensive leadership experience in sectors like aviation, railways, and tourism positions him to bring transformative changes to the PMML, an institution dedicated to preserving the legacy of India's Prime Ministers. This appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, filling the vacancy after the previous director’s exit.

Asheesh Pandey and Kalyan Kumar have been selected by the Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB) to take over as MD & CEO of Union Bank of India and Central Bank of India, respectively. Pandey, currently Executive Director at Bank of Maharashtra, will succeed A Manimekhalai, while Kalyan Kumar, currently ED at Punjab National Bank, will succeed MV Rao. These appointments are part of a strategic leadership transition in major public sector banks, aimed at promoting governance, ensuring continuity, and enhancing operational efficiency in India’s banking sector. Their selection followed a competitive evaluation of 23 candidates conducted by FSIB in May 2025.