Current Affairs - Awards and Honours

During an official visit to Portugal on April 7, 2025, the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, was awarded the prestigious ‘City Key of Honour’ by the Mayor of Lisbon. This recognition came as India and Portugal marked 50 years of diplomatic relations, highlighting the strengthening cultural, technological, and economic ties between the two nations. President Murmu's visit underscored shared values and mutual aspirations in areas such as innovation and digital transformation. Her participation in a state banquet hosted by Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa further emphasized the deepening bilateral relationship and Portugal’s appreciation of India’s global engagement.

Justice Arun Palli has been recommended by the Supreme Court for appointment as the Chief Justice of the Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court. This recommendation comes in light of the impending retirement of Justice Tashi Rabistan. Justice Palli has been serving as a judge of the Punjab and Haryana High Court since his elevation in 2013. In addition to his judicial responsibilities, he also holds key roles in legal service institutions, including as executive chairman of the Haryana State Legal Services Authority and a member of the governing body of NALSA since October 2023.

Mohsin Naqvi, who is also the Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Pakistan’s Interior Minister, has been appointed as the new President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). He succeeded Shammi Silva of Sri Lanka, who held the position briefly. Naqvi’s appointment signifies an important leadership change in Asian cricket, reflecting a commitment to expanding the region's influence in global cricket affairs. With a vision to promote collaboration, growth, and innovation across Asian cricketing nations, Naqvi steps into this role with a blend of administrative experience and a clear agenda to advance cricket development throughout the continent.

Seema Agrawal, a senior IPS officer, has been appointed as the new Director-General of Police (DGP)/Director of Fire and Rescue Services. She stepped into this role following the retirement of the previous DGP, Abhash Kumar, on March 31. Before her current posting, she served as the DGP of Civil Supplies, demonstrating her strong leadership and experience in high-responsibility roles. Her appointment is part of a larger reshuffle involving several IPS officers, aimed at enhancing administrative efficiency within the state police force. This strategic move underscores the importance of experienced leadership in essential public safety departments.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with the Mitra Vibhushana, the highest civilian honour for Heads of State and Government in Sri Lanka. The award was presented by Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in recognition of Modi's efforts to strengthen the ties between India and Sri Lanka. This marks the 22nd international recognition by a foreign country for the Prime Minister.