Current Affairs - Awards and Honours

Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar has been reassigned as the Governor of Kerala, succeeding Arif Mohammed Khan, who was transferred to Bihar. This reshuffle, announced by President Droupadi Murmu, also included Ajay Kumar Bhalla being appointed as the Governor of Manipur, replacing Anusuiya Uikey. Hari Babu Kambhampati was moved to Odisha to replace Raghubar Das, while General Dr. Vijay Kumar Singh was appointed as the Governor of Mizoram to replace Kambhampati. These strategic appointments aim to address political, administrative, and security challenges in the respective states, reflecting the significance of robust leadership in strengthening regional governance.

Justice V. Ramasubramanian, a former Supreme Court judge, has been appointed as the chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) by President Droupadi Murmu. His tenure as a Supreme Court judge spanned from September 23, 2019, to June 29, 2023. Along with his appointment, Priyank Kanoongo and Dr Justice Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi (Retd.) were also named as NHRC members, reinforcing the leadership of this key human rights body.

Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia has been appointed as the Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court by the Centre. He was formerly the senior-most puisne Judge of the Punjab and Haryana High Court. His appointment, recommended by the Supreme Court Collegium, came after a delay of more than three months following the retirement of Justice Rajiv Shakdher in October 2024. Justice Sandhawalia's legal career includes a law degree from Panjab University and a practice at the Punjab and Haryana High Court.

Sriram Krishnan, an Indian-American entrepreneur and tech leader, has been appointed by President-elect Donald Trump as Senior AI Policy Advisor at the White House. With a rich background in technology, including stints at Microsoft, Twitter, and Facebook, Krishnan will work with David Sacks to shape U.S. AI policy. His expertise in AI, technology, and public policy will play a critical role in ensuring the U.S. remains a global leader in artificial intelligence. Krishnan’s role will also involve coordinating efforts across the government and advising on AI strategies.

Abhijit Majumder has been appointed as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Oil India Limited, succeeding Rupam Barua. Majumder, who has been serving as Director (Finance) since November 20, is a distinguished member of the Institute of Cost & Management Accountants of India. Oil India Limited, a Maharatna PSU established in 1959, plays a significant role in India's energy sector, with Ranjit Rath serving as its Chairman and Managing Director.