Current Affairs - Awards and Honours

Anurag Bhushan, a senior Indian Foreign Service officer from the 1995 batch, has been appointed as India’s Ambassador to Sweden. This appointment reflects India’s intent to deepen diplomatic and economic relations with Sweden, a key partner in clean energy, technology, and sustainable development. Bhushan’s role is strategically important for advancing bilateral cooperation in innovation, climate action, and trade. His diplomatic experience and current position as Additional Secretary in the MEA prepare him to strengthen India’s presence in Northern Europe and support joint initiatives like LeadIT 2.0 on low-carbon industrial transitions.

Bhawna Agarwal has been appointed as the Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) India. With over 25 years of experience in technology, digital startups, and media, she brings a wealth of knowledge to the role. Agarwal joined HPE in 2019 and quickly rose through the ranks, playing a key role in expanding the company’s business and client relationships. She takes over from Som Satsangi, a veteran with more than 27 years at HPE, who will remain with the company until July 2025 to support a smooth leadership transition. Her leadership supports HPE’s growing focus on India’s digital transformation and local manufacturing under the “Make in India” initiative.

Harvansh Chawla, a distinguished lawyer and international trade expert, has taken on the role of Chairman of the BRICS Chamber of Commerce & Industry (CCI). His appointment is expected to enhance economic cooperation, investment, and trade among the BRICS and BRICS Plus countries. Under his leadership, the chamber aims to tackle trade barriers, encourage cross-border alliances, and promote innovation in key sectors. Chawla brings deep expertise in global trade policy and legal frameworks, positioning him as a strategic figure to guide BRICS CCI’s efforts in fostering inclusive and sustainable economic development across member nations.

Ajay Kumar, a seasoned 1985-batch IAS officer from the Kerala cadre and former Defence Secretary, has been appointed as the Chairman of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). His appointment was approved by President Droupadi Murmu, following the end of Preeti Sudan’s term in April 2025. Known for his expertise in defence reforms and digital governance, Ajay Kumar’s leadership is expected to bring strategic insight and reform-oriented direction to UPSC, which plays a pivotal role in selecting India’s civil servants. His distinguished academic background and administrative experience make him well-suited for this influential role in public service recruitment.

Justice Surya Kant, a senior judge of the Supreme Court of India, has been appointed as the Executive Chairman of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), effective May 14, 2025. This appointment follows the convention of naming the second senior-most judge of the apex court to the post. He succeeds Justice BR Gavai and will lead NALSA in its mission to provide free legal services to the underprivileged and promote access to justice across the country. Justice Kant's vast experience, including his tenure as Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court, underpins his capacity to strengthen legal aid frameworks in India.