Current Affairs - Awards and Honours

Varsha Deshpande, a dedicated women's rights activist from Satara, Maharashtra, was awarded the 2025 United Nations Population Award for her pioneering efforts in preventing sex-selective abortions and advancing gender equality. Over three decades, she has led campaigns that challenge patriarchal norms, exposed illegal abortion practices, and supported legal reforms through her organisation, Dalit Mahila Vikas Mandal. Her activism has particularly focused on marginalised women and girls, especially from Dalit communities. The award was presented on World Population Day in New York, recognising her powerful grassroots impact and contributions to reproductive rights and women’s dignity in India.

Babitha B P was appointed as the Deputy Chief Information Security Officer at the State Bank of India in June 2025. In her new position, she will be responsible for leading infrastructure security and overseeing special cybersecurity projects, ensuring the safety and trustworthiness of SBI’s digital banking platforms. With rising digital threats in the financial sector, her appointment reflects the bank’s commitment to strengthening cyber resilience. It also highlights the increasing recognition of women leaders in tech and cybersecurity, marking a significant step toward both security innovation and gender inclusivity in India's banking industry.

The 'Hem Bahadur Malla Award 2080' was conferred on former Chief Justice Kalyan Shrestha, Nepal's 25th Chief Justice, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to judicial leadership, institutional development, transitional justice, inclusive democracy, and environmental justice. The award commemorates Hem Bahadur Malla, founder of the Salt Trading Corporation. Justice Shrestha's work has significantly impacted Nepal's legal and democratic framework, making him a deserving recipient of this prestigious honour that celebrates excellence in public service and nation-building.

Priya Nair has been appointed as the new CEO and Managing Director of Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL), effective from August 1, 2025. She will take over from Rohit Jawa, who is stepping down after a two-year term. Priya, who began her career at HUL in 1995, has held various leadership roles in sales and marketing and was most recently the President of Beauty & Wellbeing at Unilever. Her vast experience and deep understanding of both Indian and global markets position her well to lead HUL through the next phase of growth in India’s dynamic FMCG sector.

Kasaragod district in Kerala was honoured with the Fisheries Department Excellence Award 2025 for its exceptional performance in implementing fisheries-related schemes effectively at the grassroots level. The award, given as part of the Annual State Farmer Awards, acknowledges districts that demonstrate leadership and efficiency in aquaculture and fisheries development. Kasaragod's recognition highlights its commitment to sustainable fishery practices, support for local fishermen, and innovation in the sector. The award encourages other districts to adopt best practices and improve the livelihood of those dependent on fisheries across the state.