Current Affairs - Awards and Honours

Nand Kishore has been appointed as the new Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of IL&FS Group, effective October 1, 2024. Before this role, he served as the company's Managing Director. His appointment comes after the completion of CS Rajan’s six-year term, during which IL&FS successfully resolved a significant portion of its financial issues, managing to achieve a debt resolution amounting to ₹55,000 crores.

THDC India Limited (THDCIL) was honoured with the "Best Display" award at the UP International Trade Show 2024 in Greater Noida, recognizing its commitment to sustainability and energy security. The company showcased its cutting-edge power solutions, earning praise from Union Minister Shandilya Giriraj Singh, who presented the award. As a Mini Ratna Category-I Enterprise, THDCIL operates several power plants, including the Tehri Dam and Koteshwar Dam, and is venturing into thermal power generation and solar parks.

M V Shreyams Kumar of Mathrubhumi has been elected as the President of The Indian Newspaper Society (INS), succeeding Rakesh Sharma of Aaj Samaj. Kumar, born on April 15, 1967, is an experienced media professional and politician who has previously served as a member of the Kerala Legislative Assembly and Rajya Sabha. He has played a significant role in expanding the Mathrubhumi group’s media presence, launching several editions and platforms to serve the Malayalee community both in India and abroad. His leadership will be pivotal for the INS in advocating for the interests of the publishing industry.

Sumant Kathpalia has been reappointed as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD & CEO) of IndusInd Bank for a three-year term from March 24, 2025, to March 23, 2028, pending approvals from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and shareholders. Since joining IndusInd Bank in 2007, Kathpalia has played a crucial role in the bank’s turnaround and growth, implementing effective strategies in financial management, investor relations, and digitization. His extensive 36-year banking experience includes significant positions at Citibank, Bank of America, and ABN AMRO.

Air Marshal SP Dharkar, a seasoned fighter pilot with over 3,600 flying hours, has been appointed as the next Vice Chief of Air Staff, succeeding Air Marshal AP Singh. Dharkar has had an illustrious career, serving as the Director General of the Defence Space Agency and commanding frontline fighter squadrons. He has also led the Eastern Air Command for the past two years. His appointment is a significant development in the Indian Air Force's leadership. Dharkar's extensive experience and leadership skills make him well-suited for this critical role.