Current Affairs - Awards and Honours

M. Rajeshwar Rao, a seasoned Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), has been entrusted with the responsibility of heading the Monetary Policy and Economic Research Departments. He succeeds Michael Patra, whose term ended on January 15, 2025. Rao brings with him over four decades of experience in the RBI, having previously managed critical departments like Regulation, Risk Monitoring, and Communication. His expanded role includes participating temporarily in the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) until a permanent successor to Michael Patra is appointed.

Nawaf Salam, a former presiding judge at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), has been appointed as Lebanon's new Prime Minister. Receiving nominations from two-thirds of Lebanon’s 128-member parliament, he takes over from caretaker PM Najib Mikati, who garnered only 9 votes. Nawaf Salam, known for his distinguished judicial career, joined the ICJ in 2018 and was elected its president for a three-year term in February. His appointment signifies a pivotal change in Lebanon’s political leadership amidst ongoing challenges.

Devajit Saikia, a former first-class cricketer and ex-Secretary of the Assam Cricket Association (ACA), has been elected as the new BCCI Secretary. He succeeds Jay Shah, who now serves as the ICC Chairman. This transition marks a significant leadership change within the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), as Saikia brings extensive cricketing and administrative experience to his new role. Alongside his appointment, Prabhtej Singh Bhatia has been elected as BCCI Treasurer, highlighting a dynamic restructuring in the Indian cricket administration.

Retired Justice B.N. Srikrishna, renowned for chairing India's first data protection law committee, has been named the chair of Equal's advisory board. Equal focuses on ID verification and secure, consent-driven data sharing, collaborating with account aggregator firm OneMoney. The board includes other distinguished members, such as retired RBI Deputy Governors and former UIDAI CEOs, emphasizing its commitment to responsible data governance and security.

Dr Syed Anwar Khursheed, an eminent Indian physician based in Saudi Arabia, was awarded the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award in 2025. With over 45 years of service, he has significantly contributed to healthcare, education, and community welfare, including pivotal efforts during COVID-19 and the Hajj Medical Program. As Vice President of the Saudi-Indian Healthcare Forum, he plays a crucial role in strengthening healthcare ties between the two nations.