Current Affairs - Persons

John McFall, a former British Paralympian with a prosthetic leg, has been medically approved by the European Space Agency (ESA) for long-duration space missions to the International Space Station (ISS). This marks a historic milestone in making space exploration more inclusive. McFall’s selection in 2022 for ESA’s “Fly! Feasibility” study, which evaluated the viability of astronauts with disabilities in space, represents significant progress in broadening access to space and challenges traditional views on the physical requirements for astronauts.

Mohammed Shami became the fastest Indian bowler to reach 200 ODI wickets, achieving the milestone in just 104 matches. This performance surpassed the previous record held by Ajit Agarkar, who had reached 200 wickets in 133 matches. Shami is also the second-fastest bowler overall, behind Mitchell Starc, who achieved the feat in 102 matches. Additionally, Shami is the eighth Indian cricketer to take 200 wickets in One Day Internationals, marking a significant achievement in his career.

P D Singh has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer for Standard Chartered India, starting from April 1, 2025. He will take over the role from Zarin Daruwala, who is set to retire on March 31, 2025. Before this appointment, P D Singh served as the CEO of JP Morgan Chase Bank in India, where he played a pivotal role in developing the bank’s corporate banking division. His vast experience in the banking sector makes him well-suited for this leadership role at Standard Chartered.

Jannik Sinner, the World No.1 tennis player, has been suspended for three months due to two positive doping tests. The suspension will last from February 9 to May 4th. Although initially cleared by the International Tennis Integrity Agency, Sinner reached a settlement with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) to accept the suspension. This suspension highlights the serious consequences athletes face in doping cases, even if they are initially cleared by other bodies.

The memoir 'I Am a Soldier’s Wife: The Life and Love of Toni Lidder' was written by Geetika Lidder, the wife of Brigadier LS Lidder. The book is a tribute to her husband's remarkable journey as both a soldier and a devoted family man. Geetika Lidder’s writing captures the essence of his leadership, bravery, and humanity, offering personal insights into his life. The memoir also reflects on Geetika's own resilience after the tragic 2021 helicopter crash, making it a deeply emotional and inspiring account of love and loss.