Current Affairs - Persons

Sujata Saunik, an IAS officer of the 1987 batch, recently assumed office as Maharashtra's first woman Chief Secretary on July 1. Her appointment marks a significant departure from the traditional pattern, breaking a 64-year-old precedent in the state's administrative history. Saunik's extensive career includes roles as assistant collector in Aurangabad, collector of Jalgaon, and municipal commissioner of Nashik. She has also served in various capacities in the central government and held international assignments. Her appointment underscores the state government's commitment to gender empowerment and administrative leadership, particularly in the lead-up to the upcoming Assembly elections.

K T Parnaik, the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh and a retired Lieutenant General launched the book 'Kargil War: The Turning Point'. Authored by Colonel M B Ravindranath, a Vir Chakra awardee, the book offers insights into the operations of the 2nd Battalion of Rajputana Rifles during Operation Vijay in 1999. The launch event occurred at the Rajendra Singhji Army Officers Institute in Bengaluru, commemorating the bravery and strategic manoeuvres of Indian forces during the Kargil War. Governor Parnaik's involvement highlights the book's significance in documenting India's military history and honouring its heroes.

Arundhati Roy, the Booker Prize-winning author, received the Pen Pinter Prize for 2024 in recognition of her significant literary contributions. Established by English PEN to celebrate impactful literature and defend freedom of expression, the Pen Pinter Prize honours the memory of Nobel-Laureate playwright Harold Pinter. The award underscores Roy's role in addressing critical social issues through her writing, amidst challenges to freedom of expression, highlighting her courage and literary prowess.

The book 'Gateways to the Sea: Historic Ports and Docks of Mumbai Region' was released by Shri Ramesh Bais, the Governor of Maharashtra, during a literary event at Raj Bhavan Mumbai on June 22, 2024. The event celebrated the maritime heritage of Mumbai, emphasizing Governor Bais's role in unveiling this significant work.

Harpal Singh Bedi, who passed away at the age of 72, was a veteran sports journalist known for his extensive coverage of Indian sports over more than four decades. He held prominent roles such as sports editor of UNI and consulting editor for Statesman. Bedi also served as the press attaché for India's Olympic contingent in 2012. His influence extended beyond reporting, as he mentored numerous young journalists, leaving a lasting impact on sports journalism in India.