Current Affairs - Awards and Honours

President Trump appointed Elise Stefanik, a New York Representative, as the UN Ambassador, citing her strong support for Israel. Stefanik, then 40, was a loyal Trump ally and served as the House Republican Conference Chair. Her prior experience included working in the West Wing of the White House under President George W. Bush's administration, specifically in the Domestic Policy Council Staff and the Chief of Staff's office. This appointment highlighted Stefanik's rising influence in Republican politics and foreign policy.

Arvindar Singh Sahney, a veteran with over three decades of experience in the oil and gas sector, has taken the reins as the new chairman of Indian Oil Corporation (IOC). Currently serving as Executive Director of Business Development in the Petrochemicals division, Sahney's appointment was announced by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas on November 13, 2024. His tenure as chairman is approved for five years, commencing from the date of assumption of office. With extensive experience in petroleum refining, petrochemicals marketing, and energy transition, Sahney is poised to lead IOC's green energy initiatives.

Jan Zelezny, a legendary Czech javelin thrower, has been chosen to coach Neeraj Chopra, India's double Olympic medallist. Zelezny's impressive credentials include three Olympic gold medals and five of the top ten best javelin throws in history. He holds the world record with a throw of 98.48m, achieved in Germany in 1996. As one of the greatest javelin throwers of all time, Zelezny's expertise and guidance are expected to help Chopra improve his technique and achieve even greater success in international competitions. This partnership aims to elevate Chopra's performance and bring more glory to Indian athletics.

Harsha Vardhan Agarwal, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Emami Limited, is set to become the new FICCI President, succeeding Anish Shah. As the current Senior Vice President of FICCI, Agarwal will assume his new role on November 21, 2024, at the 97th Annual General Meeting. He is one of the youngest and most promising second-generation leaders of the Emami Group, known for his strategic thinking and leadership skills. Agarwal has been instrumental in several key acquisitions and initiatives, including the acquisition of Zandu Pharmaceutical Works Ltd and Kesh King.

Anil Pradhan, a renowned social worker and engineer from Odisha, received the prestigious Rohini Nayyar Prize for Rural Development. This award acknowledges his remarkable contributions to rural infrastructure and education. Notably, Pradhan is also recognized for designing Asia's first university rocket team, VSLV. The prize comprises a ₹10 lakh cash award, a citation, and a trophy, symbolizing his dedication and innovative approach to rural development. This award highlights Pradhan's efforts to make a positive impact on rural communities.