Current Affairs - Persons

Sudarsan Pattnaik became the first Indian artist to win the Russia Grand Sand Master Cup 2026 at the II International Festival of Sand Sculpture held in Kaliningrad, Russia. His award-winning creation was a three-meter-tall sand sculpture based on the theme of global warming and climate change. The artwork portrayed two contrasting faces of Earth, highlighting the consequences of environmental degradation and the importance of sustainable living and tree plantation. A renowned sand artist from Puri, Odisha, Pattnaik has represented India at numerous international events and has received several prestigious honours, including the Padma Shri, for his contributions to art and cultural diplomacy.

Harbhajan Singh and Sujit Kumar Pradhan are scheduled to be posthumously awarded the United Nations Dag Hammarskjold Medal on May 29, 2026, in recognition of their distinguished service in UN peacekeeping missions. Harbhajan Singh served in MONUSCO in the Democratic Republic of Congo, while Sujit Kumar Pradhan served in UNMISS in South Sudan. The award is presented on International Day of UN Peacekeepers, observed annually on May 29, which commemorates the establishment of the first UN peacekeeping mission in 1948. The Dag Hammarskjold Medal is the highest posthumous honour for peacekeepers, named after the second UN Secretary-General, recognising those who sacrificed their lives in the service of global peace and security.

South Africa’s highest civilian honour, the Order of Mapungubwe, was conferred on Professors Salim Abdool Karim and Keertan Dheda on May 21, 2026, in Pretoria. They were recognised for their exceptional contributions to medical science, public health epidemiology, and groundbreaking research in HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis (TB). Their work has significantly influenced national health policies and improved public health outcomes. The award is granted to South African citizens whose excellence and achievements benefit both the nation and the global community. Karim received the Order of Mapungubwe in Gold, the highest category within the honour.

Rithika Sri achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first transgender umpire in Indian cricket. After successfully passing the state panel examinations, she earned official recognition to officiate matches. Her journey reflects determination and resilience, as she has been actively involved in umpiring local and district-level games for several years. This achievement also highlights progressive steps taken by cricket authorities, such as inclusive application policies that recognise diverse gender identities. Her accomplishment not only marks personal success but also promotes inclusivity and equal opportunities in sports, encouraging broader participation across different sections of society.

Jitin Prasada, Union Minister of State for Commerce & Industry, led and concluded the official economic delegation visit to the Czech Republic during April 22–23, 2026. During this visit, he co-chaired the 13th session of the India–Czech Republic Joint Commission for Economic Cooperation and engaged in multiple high-level meetings with Czech officials. He also inaugurated the India–Czech Business Forum and explored opportunities in sectors like automotive manufacturing, artificial intelligence, robotics, and advanced laser science. His visit aimed at strengthening bilateral trade, investment ties, and technological collaboration between India and the Czech Republic.