Current Affairs - Awards and Honours

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.

S. Tripathy, a distinguished professor from IIT Kharagpur's Department of Geology and Geophysics, has been appointed as the first Director of the University of Visvesvaraya College of Engineering. This appointment marks a significant milestone for the University of Visvesvaraya College of Engineering, Karnataka, signalling a new phase of development and leadership in engineering education under his tenure.

Sudhakararao Papa has been appointed as the Director (Enterprise) of BSNL, following a competitive selection process by the Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB). His role involves overseeing the Enterprise Business unit's operations, focusing on business development strategies for corporate and SME segments within BSNL.