Current Affairs - Awards and Honours

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.

Sunil Bharti Mittal, Chairman of Bharti Enterprises, has been inducted into the World Bank’s Private Sector Investment Lab (PSIL) as part of its renewed initiative launched on April 24, 2025. The PSIL focuses on stimulating private sector investments in key sectors like infrastructure, energy, healthcare, and more within developing economies. Mittal’s inclusion underscores the rising influence of Indian business leaders in shaping global investment strategies aimed at overcoming financial and regulatory barriers. His role will contribute to driving job creation and fostering economic development in emerging markets, aligning with PSIL’s core objective of sustainable growth through private enterprise.

Kapil Dev, the legendary cricketer and captain of India’s 1983 World Cup-winning team, has been named the brand ambassador for SoBo Mumbai Falcons, a new franchise in the T20 Mumbai League 2025. His appointment aims to enhance the team’s visibility and credibility ahead of the league’s third edition, which will be held from May 26 to June 8 at Wankhede Stadium. Kapil Dev's association brings immense prestige and connects cricket fans with the heritage of Indian cricket, while also supporting the growth of domestic T20 leagues in India through his mentoring and promotional presence.