Current Affairs - Awards and Honours

Sanjay Malhotra, a seasoned bureaucrat and the Revenue Secretary, has been appointed as the 26th Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). A 1990-batch IAS officer from the Rajasthan cadre, he succeeds Shaktikanta Das. Malhotra brings over three decades of experience across diverse sectors such as finance, taxation, power, IT, and mining. His extensive background in policy reforms, fiscal health, and sectoral leadership positions him as a strong choice for this key position in India’s financial governance.

The Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) received the 3rd PSU Transformation Award for "Innovative Product Development" for its Firm, Dispatchable Renewable Energy (FDRE) supply model designed for DISCOMs. This model ensures tailored renewable energy solutions to meet the specific demands of states and DISCOMs. The award, presented in New Delhi on December 5, 2024, recognizes SECI's innovative approach to advancing sustainable energy and addressing challenges in the renewable energy sector.

Shammi Silva, the President of Sri Lanka Cricket, has been appointed as the President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). He brings a wealth of experience, having previously chaired the ACC Finance & Marketing Committee. Silva acknowledged the significant achievements of outgoing President Jay Shah, including securing record commercial rights for the ACC Asia Cup 2024–31 and introducing new event structures, signalling a promising tenure ahead for the ACC.

Jasleen Kaur, a Glasgow-born Scottish Sikh artist, has been honoured with the prestigious 2024 Turner Prize for her solo exhibition Alter Altar. Her work combines sculpture, sound, and music to delve into themes of community, cultural inheritance, and anti-colonial struggles. Kaur’s innovative storytelling transforms everyday objects into powerful symbols of resilience and identity, exploring the Sikh philosophy of Miri Piri and the migrant experience. The exhibition received acclaim for its profound reflections on memory, history, and personal and political narratives.

Veronica Michelle Bachelet, former President of Chile, has been honoured with the Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament, and Development 2024. Her work in advancing human rights, promoting peace, and advocating for gender equality has earned her this prestigious recognition. The selection was made by a distinguished jury led by Shivshankar Menon, reflecting her global impact in fostering equitable and peaceful development.