Current Affairs - Awards and Honours

Ajith Kumar KK, known for his extensive 36-year career at Federal Bank, including roles such as Chief HR Officer and President, has been appointed as the Managing Director and CEO of Dhanlaxmi Bank. His appointment, approved by the bank's board and subject to shareholder approval, marks a strategic move to leverage his deep expertise in banking operations and leadership to steer Dhanlaxmi Bank forward.

Vinod Ganatra, an eminent children's filmmaker from India, was honoured with South Africa’s prestigious 'Nelson Mandela Lifetime Achievement Award' for his exceptional contributions to children’s cinema. He became the first Indian to receive this distinguished award at the 7th Nelson Mandela Children’s Film Festival, highlighting his illustrious career and numerous international accolades.

Ashis Kumar Dash, an officer of the Indian Trade Service (ITradeS) from the 2008 batch, has been appointed as Director of NITI Aayog. His appointment was recommended by the Department of Commerce. This role signifies Dash's responsibilities in contributing to policy formulation and strategic planning within NITI Aayog, an apex government body tasked with fostering cooperative federalism and promoting sustainable development goals across various sectors in India.

Jyoti Vij has been appointed as the new director general of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI). She brings extensive experience, currently serving as the additional director general at FICCI. Her educational background includes graduating from Shri Ram College of Commerce in 1988 and earning a master's degree in business economics from the University of Delhi in 1990. This appointment underscores FICCI's commitment to leadership continuity and advancing its strategic initiatives under Vij's stewardship.

Prem Prabhakar has been appointed as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of SBICAP Ventures Limited (SVL), effective from June 4, 2024. He brings extensive banking experience from his tenure at the State Bank of India, specializing in treasury operations and strategic leadership. As the new MD and CEO, Prabhakar will lead SVL in achieving its growth objectives and enhancing investor relations, building on the firm’s portfolio of alternative asset management, including funds like the TDC Fund and Neev Fund.