Current Affairs - Persons

The 352nd Governing Body meeting of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) is underway in Geneva, Switzerland, from October 28 to November 7. This significant gathering brings together representatives from member countries to discuss crucial labour issues and strategies for improving global working conditions. India's Labour and Employment Secretary, Sumita Dawra, will be attending the meeting to highlight India's progress in improving living standards and employment. The meeting provides a platform for countries to share best practices, address challenges, and promote decent work, aligning with the ILO's mission to protect workers' rights and promote social justice.

Colombia hosted the launch of India's updated National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan at COP 16, marking a significant step in global efforts to address biodiversity loss. This plan outlines India's commitment to halting biodiversity decline by 2030 and achieving harmonious coexistence with nature by 2050. The strategy focuses on collaborative approaches to restore ecosystems, wetlands, and coastal areas. By launching this plan at COP 16, India demonstrates its dedication to international cooperation and collective action in protecting the world's biodiversity. Colombia's hosting of COP 16 underscores its own commitment to environmental conservation.

Sumathi Dharmawardena, a Sri Lankan legal expert, has taken over as the new independent chair of the ICC's Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU), succeeding Sir Ronnie Flanagan who led the unit for 14 years. Dharmawardena brings a strong background in sports corruption investigations and legal representation, including roles with Interpol and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). As the ACU's Independent Chair, he will oversee and lead the unit responsible for maintaining the integrity of cricket, guiding the General Manager on integrity, and ensuring effective strategies to prevent corruption across international cricket. His expertise in overseeing high-profile investigations and prosecutions under the Prevention of Offences relating to the Sports Act makes him well-equipped to tackle sports corruption.

National Unity Day is celebrated on October 31 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who played a pivotal role in uniting India after independence. The 'Run for Unity' event, initiated by Prime Minister Modi in 2015, aims to promote unity and development, reflecting Patel's vision for a strong and cohesive India. Patel's legacy includes the unification of 550 princely states, laying the foundation for modern India. His contributions were recognized with the construction of the world's tallest statue in Kevadia, Gujarat, as a tribute.

Renowned director Francis Ford Coppola, celebrated for his influential films like The Godfather and Apocalypse Now, has been chosen as the recipient of the 2025 AFI Life Achievement Award. This honour recognizes his significant contributions to American cinema and his lasting impact on filmmaking. The award ceremony, held at the Dolby Theatre, will support AFI's educational programs and will be broadcast on TNT and Turner Classic Movies, allowing fans and aspiring filmmakers to celebrate Coppola’s achievements and his influence on cinematic history.