Current Affairs - Awards and Honours

Manoj Jain has been appointed as the Chairman and Managing Director of Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), a prominent Indian defence electronics company. With a career spanning over three decades at BEL, Jain has held various key positions, including Director (R&D) and Director (Bangalore Complex), before assuming his current role. His appointment signifies continuity and leadership in driving BEL's strategic initiatives and technological advancements in the defence sector.

Atul Kumar Chaudhary, an Indian Telecom Service (ITS) officer of the 1989 batch and currently serving as Deputy Director General (DDG) at the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), has been appointed as the Secretary of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). Chaudhary's extensive experience in telecom and administrative roles, including at BSNL and the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), makes him well-suited for overseeing regulatory matters and policy implementation in the telecommunications sector in India.

Pradeep Singh Kharola, currently serving as the Chairman and Managing Director of India Trade Promotion Organisation, has been appointed as the Director General of the National Testing Agency (NTA) in an additional capacity. This decision follows the removal of Subodh Kumar Singh amid controversies regarding exam irregularities. Kharola, an IAS officer of the 1985 batch, will oversee NTA's operations until a regular incumbent is appointed or further orders are issued by the government.

Bhartruhari Mahtab, a seven-term Lok Sabha member and former member of the BJD who recently joined the BJP, has been appointed as the pro tem Speaker of the Lok Sabha. The pro tem Speaker is appointed temporarily to conduct essential duties until a permanent Speaker is elected by the House.

Girish Tanti, Vice-Chairman of Suzlon Group, has been appointed as the Chairman of Global Wind Energy Council India. His role is pivotal in advancing India's wind energy goals and strengthening its position in the global wind market, aligning with government policies and industry efforts. His dual leadership role with GWEC underscores his influence and commitment to driving momentum and dialogue in the sector.