Current Affairs 03 January 2025

1. Ajay Kumar Bhalla appointed as 19th Governor of Manipur
Ajay Kumar Bhalla has been appointed as the 19th Governor of
Manipur. Known for his extensive administrative experience, Bhalla has held key positions during his illustrious career in public service. His appointment is expected to bring a strategic vision to Manipur's governance, fostering development and stability in the region. With a deep understanding of the challenges facing northeastern states, Bhalla's leadership is anticipated to strengthen the state's socio-economic fabric. This new role marks another significant milestone in his distinguished journey as a civil servant.

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He was sworn in as the Governor of Manipur on January 3, 2025, by Manipur High Court Chief Justice D Krishnakumar in the presence of Chief Minister N Biren Singh.
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Bhalla will work closely with Chief Minister N Biren Singh to promote development and growth in the state, and his leadership is expected to play a crucial role in restoring peace and normalcy.
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Bhalla is a retired IAS officer from the Assam-Meghalaya cadre, having joined the civil services in 1984, and he has held various significant positions in the Indian government throughout his career.
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His appointment has been welcomed by Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh, who expressed optimism that Bhalla's leadership could restore peace and normalcy in the state.
2. Odia Poet Prativa Satpathy To Receive Gangadhar National Award
Odia poet Prativa Satpathy has been selected to receive the
prestigious Gangadhar National Award. This recognition honors her exceptional contributions to the world of literature, particularly in Odia poetry. Satpathy’s works have captivated readers with their depth, emotional resonance, and cultural significance. Her poetry reflects the rich literary heritage of Odisha, showcasing her mastery in capturing human emotions and societal themes. The Gangadhar National Award serves as a well-deserved acknowledgment of her literary achievements and her lasting impact on the literary community.

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Pratibha Satpathy is set to receive the prestigious Gangadhar National Award for Poetry 2023, a testament to her outstanding contributions to Odia literature.
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With a career spanning over four decades, Satpathy has established herself as a leading poet in Odia literature, known for her thought-provoking and emotionally charged writings.
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Her poetry collections, such as 'Sesha Janha' and 'Tanmaya Dhuli', have been widely acclaimed and have won her numerous awards, including the Sahitya Akademi Award.
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Satpathy's works have been translated into several Indian and foreign languages, making her poetry accessible to a broader audience and cementing her position as a prominent figure in Indian literature.
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Throughout her career, Satpathy has received numerous awards and honors, including the Sahitya Akademi Award, Moortidevi Award, and Sarala Award, recognizing her significant contributions to Odia literature.
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Satpathy's work continues to inspire and influence new generations of writers and poets, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of Odia literature.
3. Thalatha Atukorale appointed UNP General Secretary
Thalatha Atukorale has been appointed as the General Secretary of
the United National Party (UNP). A prominent figure in Sri Lankan politics, Atukorale brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the role. Her appointment is seen as a strategic move to strengthen the party's position and drive its vision forward. Known for her commitment to public service, she is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the party's policies and strategies. This milestone highlights her growing influence and contributions within the political landscape of Sri Lanka.

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Atukorale will play a crucial role in shaping the party's direction and policies, working closely with the party leader, Ranil Wickremesinghe.
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The UNP has been undergoing significant reforms and restructuring efforts, and Atukorale's appointment is seen as a key step in this process, aiming to revitalize the party and make it more competitive.
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Atukorale brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role, having served in various capacities within the party and in government, which will be invaluable in her new position.
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The UNP faces significant challenges, including rebuilding its base and regaining public trust, and Atukorale will need to work closely with other party leaders to address these issues.
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Atukorale's appointment marks a new era for the UNP, and her leadership will be critical in shaping the party's future and determining its success in upcoming elections.
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To achieve the party's goals, Atukorale will need to foster collaboration and unity among party members, as well as build alliances with other political parties and stakeholders.
4. India Finish Sixth in Asian Women’s Handball Championship 2024
India secured a commendable sixth-place finish in the Asian
Women’s Handball Championship 2024. The team showcased determination and skill throughout the tournament, competing against some of the continent's strongest teams. This performance marks a significant improvement, reflecting the growing potential of Indian women in handball. Their efforts also highlight the progress being made in developing the sport within the country. The championship served as a valuable platform for the team to gain experience and prepare for future international challenges.

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They matched their best-ever finish at the tournament, which is a fantastic achievement.
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The championship was hosted in New Delhi, India, for the first time, and the team's performance was a great showcase of their skills in front of their home crowd.
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India played against China in the 5th/6th place playoff and lost 41-30, but they still managed to secure sixth place.
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The team had some standout performers, including youngster Bhawana Sharma and experienced goalkeeper Nina Shil, who were instrumental in their success.
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The team's performance has given them a lot of hope for the future, and they're looking forward to the next opportunity to compete and improve their skills.
5. Rupinder’s double helps Bengal Tigers secure their second win in Hockey India League
Rupinder Pal Singh's impressive double strike propelled the Bengal
Tigers to their second victory in the ongoing Hockey India League. His exceptional performance was the driving force behind the team's dominant display on the field. With precise execution and strategic gameplay, Rupinder showcased his skill as a key player for the Tigers. This win further solidifies the team's position in the league standings and boosts their morale for upcoming matches. The Bengal Tigers' success highlights their strong coordination and determination to excel in the tournament.

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The team defeated Team Gonasika 2-1 in their second match of the ongoing league at the Birsa Munda stadium.
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Rupinder's brace was instrumental in the team's victory, with his goals being the difference between the two teams.
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The Bengal Tigers' defence was also impressive, standing strong against Team Gonasika's attacks and helping the team notch their second straight win.
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Player of the Match Abhishek praised the team's performance, saying it was a tough match but they managed to come out on top.
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The win is a significant boost for the Bengal Tigers, who are looking to make a strong impression in the Hockey India League.
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The Bengal Tigers have moved up the league table and are looking confident about their chances in the upcoming matches.
6. Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar Sworn In As Kerala Governor
Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar has been sworn in as the Governor of
Kerala. The ceremony took place with great solemnity, marking his official assumption of the gubernatorial responsibilities. Known for his vast experience in public service and administration, Arlekar brings a wealth of knowledge to his new role. His appointment is expected to foster collaborative governance and contribute to the state's growth and development. This marks a new chapter in Kerala's administration under his stewardship.

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He was administered the oath of office by Kerala High Court Chief Justice Nitin Madhukar Jamdar at a ceremony held at Raj Bhavan, which was attended by top political leaders and dignitaries, including Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
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Arlekar previously served as the Governor of Bihar and has stated that he doesn't try to confront the government or administration, but rather assists them.
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The ceremony was a significant event, with many notable figures in attendance, including Congress MP Shashi Tharoor and West Bengal Governor CV Anand Bose.
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Arlekar's appointment as Governor of Kerala was made by President Droupadi Murmu on December 21, and he has expressed his commitment to working with the state government.
7. Harmanpreet Singh conferred with Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award
Harmanpreet Singh, the captain of the Indian men's hockey team,
has been honored with the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award. This recognition highlights his exceptional contributions to Indian hockey and his consistent performances on the international stage. Under his leadership, the team has achieved significant milestones, bringing glory to the nation. The award reflects his dedication, skill, and inspiring role in elevating the sport's profile in India. Harmanpreet's achievement serves as a motivation for aspiring athletes across the country.

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He will be conferred with the award along with three other sportspersons, including Manu Bhaker, D Gukesh, and Praveen Kumar, for their outstanding performance in their respective sports.
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Harmanpreet led the Indian men's hockey team to their second consecutive bronze medal at the Paris Olympics, making him a top contender for the award.
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The award ceremony will take place on January 17 at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, where the President of India will present the awards to the winners.
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Harmanpreet is the sixth hockey player to receive the Khel Ratna award, and his achievement is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport.
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He will be joined by other Arjuna award winners, including Salima Tete, Abhishek, and Sanjay, who are also part of the Indian hockey team.
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The Khel Ratna award is the highest sporting honor in India, and Harmanpreet's receipt of this award is a proud moment for Indian hockey and a recognition of his contributions to the sport
8. Para-athlete Preeti Pal elated with Arjuna Award win
Para-athlete Preeti Pal has expressed immense joy and gratitude
upon receiving the prestigious Arjuna Award. This honor recognizes her exceptional achievements and dedication to para-sports, which have brought pride to the nation. Preeti’s journey has been one of resilience and determination, overcoming challenges to excel on the international stage. The award serves as a testament to her hard work and an inspiration for aspiring athletes, especially within the para-sports community. Preeti's elation highlights the significance of this recognition in her illustrious sporting career.

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Preeti's exceptional performance in the Paralympics, where she clinched two medals, played a crucial role in her receiving this honor.
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She created history by becoming the first Indian woman to win two medals in track and field events at the Paralympic Games.
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Preeti trains in Delhi under coach Gajendra Singh and has been making waves in the para-athletics scene with her impressive wins.
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She won a bronze medal in the 200m T35 event at the World Para Athletics Championships in Kobe, Japan, and also clinched an Olympic quota.
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The Arjuna Award is a testament to her hard work and talent, and she's an inspiration to many aspiring athletes.
9. Justin Langer appointed as London Spirit head coach
Justin Langer has been appointed as the head coach of the London
Spirit for the upcoming cricket season. The former Australian cricketer and coach brings a wealth of experience and tactical expertise to the role. Known for his leadership and success with the Australian national team, Langer is expected to elevate the Spirit's performance in the tournament. His appointment marks a strategic move to strengthen the team’s competitive edge. Fans and players alike are optimistic about his impact on the squad's overall development and success.

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Langer has an impressive coaching CV, having led Australia to the Ashes and the 2021 T20 World Cup title, and he's also coached Perth Scorchers in the Big Bash League and Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League.
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As a player, Langer had a stellar career, scoring over 7,500 runs in 105 Tests for Australia, and he's also played for Middlesex as an overseas player between 1998 and 2000.
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The team is looking to turn around their fortunes after a disappointing couple of seasons, and Langer is excited to be a part of this journey and help the team compete at the right end of the table.
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London Spirit's women's side had a great run in 2024, winning The Hundred title, and Langer will be looking to replicate this success with the men's team.
10. Oldest Olympic gold medallist Agnes Keleti passed away
Agnes Keleti, the oldest Olympic gold medallist and a legendary
gymnast, has passed away. Renowned for her extraordinary achievements, she won 10 Olympic medals, including five golds, representing Hungary. Her remarkable career spanned over decades, making her a symbol of resilience and excellence in sports. Keleti's legacy extends beyond gymnastics, as she inspired countless athletes worldwide with her perseverance and grace. Her passing marks the end of an era, leaving behind a rich legacy celebrated by the global sporting community.

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She was a Hungarian-Israeli gymnast who won 10 Olympic medals, including 5 golds, and was a survivor of the Holocaust.
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Born as Ágnes Klein in Budapest on January 9, 1921, Keleti joined the National Gymnastics Association in 1938 and won her first Hungarian championship in 1940.
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She won her first gold at the Helsinki games in 1952 aged 31, and reached the peak of her career in Melbourne in 1956, where she won four gold medals.
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Keleti escaped deportation to Nazi death camps by hiding in a village south of Budapest with false papers, and later settled in Israel, where she married and had two children.
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She is considered one of the greatest gymnasts of all time, and her legacy extends beyond her athletic achievements, inspiring generations of athletes and people around the world.
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The International Olympic Committee and the Hungarian Olympic Committee have paid tribute to Keleti, remembering her as a symbol of resilience and a true Olympic legend.
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