Current Affairs - Persons

Justice Kempaiah Somashekar, formerly a judge at the Karnataka High Court, has been appointed as the Chief Justice of the Manipur High Court. His appointment was recommended by the Supreme Court Collegium headed by Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai on May 15, 2025. This new leadership comes after the retirement of Justice D. Krishnakumar on May 21, 2025. Justice Somashekar’s elevation is part of the ongoing efforts to ensure experienced judicial oversight in various high courts across India. His background in Karnataka’s judiciary is expected to contribute significantly to the judicial administration in Manipur.

Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa emerged victorious at the Superbet Chess Classic in Bucharest, Romania. The tournament ended with Praggnanandhaa, Alireza Firouzja, and Maxime Vachier-Lagrave tied at 5.5 points after nine rounds, leading to a three-way tiebreak. After two drawn games, Praggnanandhaa secured his win by defeating Vachier-Lagrave in the final tiebreaker. This prestigious victory adds to his growing reputation on the international chess circuit and highlights his composure under pressure against top-tier opponents. His win at this elite tournament further cements his position as one of the rising stars in global chess.

Srihari LR, a 19-year-old chess player from Chennai, became India’s 86th Grandmaster by securing his third and final GM norm at the Asian Individual Chess Championship held in Al-Ain, UAE. He crossed the required 2500 Elo rating and remained unbeaten in the first 8 rounds of the championship, defeating notable Grandmasters like Abhijeet Gupta and Pranav V. Trained under GM Shyamsundar at Chess Thulir Academy, Srihari’s achievement highlights India’s growing strength in chess and its focus on nurturing young talent. This milestone continues India’s legacy as a rising global chess powerhouse.

Neeraj Chopra, India’s Olympic gold-winning javelin thrower, was honoured with the rank of honorary Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army. This prestigious recognition was conferred to celebrate his exceptional achievements in athletics and his role in inspiring the nation. Having won gold at the Tokyo Olympics (2020), silver at the Paris Olympics (2024), and a world championship title in 2023, Neeraj has become a symbol of national pride. Formerly serving as a Subedar Major in the Indian Army, this honorary title reflects the government's initiative to acknowledge civilians who bring glory to the nation. His award became effective from April 16, 2025.

Sonu Sood was recognized with the Humanitarian Award at the 72nd Miss World Festival held in Hyderabad on May 31, 2025. He was honoured for his extensive relief work during the COVID-19 pandemic, including assistance to migrant workers and students. His organization, the Sood Charity Foundation, has made impactful contributions across multiple areas such as healthcare, education, skill development, and disaster relief. These efforts have earned him widespread admiration and this notable recognition by the Miss World Organisation.