Current Affairs - Awards and Honours

Parminder Chopra has taken on the additional role of Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) at REC Limited for a three-month tenure while continuing her existing role as CMD of Power Finance Corporation Ltd. (PFC). With over 35 years of experience in the power and financial sectors, Chopra has been instrumental in financial restructuring and renewable energy financing. Her appointment to this role highlights her leadership in the energy sector, alongside her notable achievements at PFC, including leading the company to record-high profits and pioneering its transition into renewable energy financing.

Ashok Singh Thakur has been elected as the Chairman of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) for a 3-year term. INTACH, founded in 1984, is a leading organization in India focused on the preservation of cultural, natural, tangible, and intangible heritage. Under Thakur’s leadership, the organization is working to revise its Charter to adopt an interdisciplinary approach to heritage conservation, reflecting its commitment to preserving India's diverse heritage in a holistic manner.

Amitabh Kant, former CEO of NITI Aayog and India’s G20 Sherpa, was appointed as the new Chancellor of NIIT University, starting from March 10, 2025. He succeeds Shri K Kasturirangan, a distinguished scientist. Kant's leadership is expected to bring a strategic shift towards industry-driven education, leveraging his expertise in economic policy and technological innovation. His role aligns with NU’s focus on preparing future-ready professionals through industry-linked education and skilling, continuing the legacy of promoting national growth and innovation.

Anuj Kumar Singh, a 2009-batch IRSEE officer, was appointed as Joint Secretary (Director level) in the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) under the Central Staffing Scheme. His appointment, for a tenure of five years or until further orders, is based on his technical and administrative experience, particularly in the railway sector. Singh was selected for central deputation on the recommendation of the Ministry of Railways. He is expected to bring significant improvements to UPSC’s operational efficiency and strategic planning, marking a key leadership change in the organization.

Vijay Sankar, the Honorary Consul General of Denmark for Southern India and Chairman of The Sanmar Group, was awarded the Knight’s Cross of the Order of Dannebrog by the King of Denmark. This prestigious honour recognized his exceptional consular services and significant contributions to strengthening Indo-Danish relations. The award was presented at a ceremony held in Chennai on March 18, 2025. This recognition also highlights the Sankar family's longstanding association with Denmark’s consular services, spanning three generations.