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Current Affairs 04 April 2025
1. Equitas Small Finance Bank appoints Balaji Nuthalapadi as Executive Director
Equitas Small Finance Bank has announced the appointment of Balaji
Nuthalapadi as its new Executive Director. With over two decades of experience in the banking and financial services sector, Nuthalapadi brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the role. Prior to this appointment, he held various senior positions at leading financial institutions, showcasing his expertise in operations, strategy, and customer service. His leadership is expected to play a key role in driving the bank’s next phase of growth and innovation. The bank expressed confidence that his strategic vision will align with their mission of financial inclusion and digital transformation. Nuthalapadi’s appointment has been approved by the Reserve Bank of India and will take effect immediately.
Nuthalapadi as its new Executive Director. With over two decades of experience in the banking and financial services sector, Nuthalapadi brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the role. Prior to this appointment, he held various senior positions at leading financial institutions, showcasing his expertise in operations, strategy, and customer service. His leadership is expected to play a key role in driving the bank’s next phase of growth and innovation. The bank expressed confidence that his strategic vision will align with their mission of financial inclusion and digital transformation. Nuthalapadi’s appointment has been approved by the Reserve Bank of India and will take effect immediately.Foot notes:
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Previous Roles: Before joining Equitas, Nuthalapadi served as Managing Director & Head of Centralized Controls Testing Execution at Citi, where he led a global controls testing team. He also oversaw operations and technology functions across India and Southeast Asia as Managing Director and Head of Operations and Technology for Citi South Asia.
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Education and Expertise: Nuthalapadi is an alumnus of the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad (IIM-A). He has a strong background in operations, technology, and wealth management, with expertise in driving digital transformation and operational excellence.
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Approval and Welcome: His appointment is subject to approval by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Board of Directors. Vasudevan P N, Managing Director & CEO of Equitas Small Finance Bank, welcomed Nuthalapadi to the leadership team, praising his vast experience and passion for digital banking, financial inclusion, and social impact.
2. MSRDC Honoured with Prestigious SKOCH 2025 Award
The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation
(MSRDC) has been honoured with the prestigious SKOCH 2025 Award. This recognition celebrates MSRDC’s outstanding contribution to infrastructure development and innovative project execution across Maharashtra. The award was conferred for the corporation’s excellence in implementing large-scale road and expressway projects with a focus on sustainability and efficiency. MSRDC’s initiatives, such as the Mumbai–Nagpur Samruddhi Mahamarg, were highlighted for their transformative impact on regional connectivity.
(MSRDC) has been honoured with the prestigious SKOCH 2025 Award. This recognition celebrates MSRDC’s outstanding contribution to infrastructure development and innovative project execution across Maharashtra. The award was conferred for the corporation’s excellence in implementing large-scale road and expressway projects with a focus on sustainability and efficiency. MSRDC’s initiatives, such as the Mumbai–Nagpur Samruddhi Mahamarg, were highlighted for their transformative impact on regional connectivity.Foot notes:
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Recognition of Excellence: The SKOCH Award recognizes outstanding contributions in governance, inclusive growth, technology excellence, corporate leadership, citizen service delivery, and capacity building.
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Project Overview: The Hindu Hrudaysamrat Balasaheb Thackeray Maharashtra Samruddhi Mahamarg is a high-speed greenfield expressway that connects 392 villages across 26 talukas in 10 districts of Maharashtra.
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Impact on Travel Time: The project has significantly reduced travel time between Nagpur and Mumbai from 16-18 hours to just 7-8 hours, enhancing access to Mumbai.
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Economic Benefits: The expressway has catalyzed agricultural and industrial development in the Vidarbha and Marathwada regions, creating new growth opportunities for agro-based and manufacturing industries.
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Leadership Recognition: The award was presented to MSRDC Vice Chairman and Managing Director, Dr. Anilkumar Gaikwad, at the 100th SKOCH Summit held in New Delhi.
3. India Ranks 36 in Network Readiness Index
India has secured the 36th position in the latest Network
Readiness Index (NRI) 2025. The index, published by the Portulans Institute, evaluates countries based on their digital infrastructure, technology adoption, governance, and impact. India’s improved ranking reflects significant progress in digital transformation and connectivity, particularly in expanding internet access and promoting digital literacy. The country has performed exceptionally well in areas like AI readiness, e-governance, and mobile broadband penetration. Government initiatives such as Digital India and investments in 5G infrastructure have played a key role in this advancement.
Readiness Index (NRI) 2025. The index, published by the Portulans Institute, evaluates countries based on their digital infrastructure, technology adoption, governance, and impact. India’s improved ranking reflects significant progress in digital transformation and connectivity, particularly in expanding internet access and promoting digital literacy. The country has performed exceptionally well in areas like AI readiness, e-governance, and mobile broadband penetration. Government initiatives such as Digital India and investments in 5G infrastructure have played a key role in this advancement. Foot notes:
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Ranking Improvement: India climbed 11 positions from 60th in 2023 to 49th in 2024, with a score improvement from 49.93 to 53.63.
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Key Areas of Progress: India made significant strides in artificial intelligence, mobile networks, and broadband connectivity, contributing to global research and enhancing citizens' lives.
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Global Leadership: India's improved ranking signifies its emerging role as a global leader in technology, positioning it to influence technology trends and innovations worldwide.
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Regional Performance: India ranked 2nd among lower-middle-income countries, after Vietnam, and demonstrated significant digital progress, showcasing strengths in technological innovation and digital transformation.
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Future Prospects: India's focus on strengthening digital infrastructure, promoting research and development, and supporting innovation will likely propel further advancements in various sectors.
4. India Concludes Senior Asian Wrestling Championship With 10 Medals
India concluded the Senior Asian Wrestling Championship
2025 with an impressive haul of 10 medals. The contingent showcased a strong performance across various weight categories in both men’s and women’s events. The medal tally included 1 gold, 3 silver, and 6 bronze medals, reflecting the depth and talent in Indian wrestling. Wrestlers displayed remarkable grit and technique, standing out against tough competition from other Asian nations. This achievement highlights the consistent progress of Indian wrestling on the continental stage. The Wrestling Federation of India praised the athletes and coaches for their dedication and emphasized continued support for international success.
2025 with an impressive haul of 10 medals. The contingent showcased a strong performance across various weight categories in both men’s and women’s events. The medal tally included 1 gold, 3 silver, and 6 bronze medals, reflecting the depth and talent in Indian wrestling. Wrestlers displayed remarkable grit and technique, standing out against tough competition from other Asian nations. This achievement highlights the consistent progress of Indian wrestling on the continental stage. The Wrestling Federation of India praised the athletes and coaches for their dedication and emphasized continued support for international success.Foot notes:
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Gold Medal: Manisha Bhanwala won the gold medal in the Women's 62kg category.
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Silver Medalists: Reetika Hooda (Women's 76kg), Udit (Men's Freestyle 61kg), and Deepak Punia (Men's Freestyle 92kg) won silver medals in their respective categories.
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Bronze Medalists: Antim Pangal (Women's 53kg), Mansi Lather (Women's 68kg), Muskan (Women's 59kg), Dinesh (Men's Freestyle 125kg), Dinesh Kumar (Men's Greco-Roman 87kg), and Nitesh (Men's Greco-Roman 97kg) won bronze medals in their respective categories.
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Indian Wrestling Contingent: The 30-member Indian team consisted of 10 women, 10 men in freestyle, and 10 men in Greco-Roman categories.
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Host City: The championship was held in Amman, Jordan.
5. Francesco Bagnaia Triumphs at Grand Prix of the Americas After Marc Marquez Crash
Francesco Bagnaia clinched victory at the Grand Prix of the
Americas, delivering a commanding performance on the track. The race took a dramatic turn when Marc Marquez, who was leading in the early laps, crashed out, opening the door for Bagnaia. Seizing the opportunity, the Ducati rider maintained a consistent pace and showcased expert control to secure the win. This victory marks a significant moment in Bagnaia’s MotoGP season, boosting his position in the championship standings. Marquez’s crash was a major disappointment for fans, as he had shown strong pace throughout the weekend. Bagnaia dedicated the win to his team, acknowledging their efforts and the importance of staying focused amid unpredictable race conditions.’
Americas, delivering a commanding performance on the track. The race took a dramatic turn when Marc Marquez, who was leading in the early laps, crashed out, opening the door for Bagnaia. Seizing the opportunity, the Ducati rider maintained a consistent pace and showcased expert control to secure the win. This victory marks a significant moment in Bagnaia’s MotoGP season, boosting his position in the championship standings. Marquez’s crash was a major disappointment for fans, as he had shown strong pace throughout the weekend. Bagnaia dedicated the win to his team, acknowledging their efforts and the importance of staying focused amid unpredictable race conditions.’Foot notes:
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Bagnaia's Victory: Bagnaia secured his 30th career MotoGP win, taking a crucial 25 points. He expressed his happiness, saying it's a special feeling to be back atop the podium.
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Marquez's Crash: Marc Marquez, who had been leading the race, slid out on lap nine, losing the front at turn five. He attempted to rejoin the race but eventually retired due to extensive damage to his bike.
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New Championship Leader: Alex Marquez, Marc's brother, finished second and took the lead in the MotoGP championship standings with 87 points. Bagnaia moved up to third with 75 points.
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Podium Finishers: Fabio Di Giannantonio of VR46 Racing finished third, marking another strong performance for his team.
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Next Race: The MotoGP riders will head to Qatar for the next round, where Bagnaia will look to build on his momentum.
6. Thomas Cook appoints Kartik Aaryan as brand ambassador
Thomas Cook (India) has appointed popular Bollywood actor
Kartik Aaryan as its new brand ambassador. The collaboration aims to connect with young and aspirational Indian travellers, aligning with the brand’s refreshed and youthful image. Known for his vibrant personality and wide fan base, Aaryan perfectly represents the spirit of exploration and adventure that Thomas Cook promotes. The partnership will span multiple campaigns across digital and traditional platforms, highlighting domestic and international travel offerings. With rising demand for curated travel experiences, the brand sees Aaryan as a relatable face to inspire travel among India’s newer generation.
Kartik Aaryan as its new brand ambassador. The collaboration aims to connect with young and aspirational Indian travellers, aligning with the brand’s refreshed and youthful image. Known for his vibrant personality and wide fan base, Aaryan perfectly represents the spirit of exploration and adventure that Thomas Cook promotes. The partnership will span multiple campaigns across digital and traditional platforms, highlighting domestic and international travel offerings. With rising demand for curated travel experiences, the brand sees Aaryan as a relatable face to inspire travel among India’s newer generation.Foot notes:
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Targeting Young India: Kartik Aaryan's appointment aims to leverage the growing outbound travel trend among Indian millennials and GenZ, who prioritize travel in their spending habits.
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Borderless Travel Card: The partnership commences with a campaign promoting Thomas Cook's multicurrency Borderless Travel Card, designed to provide a seamless, secure, and smooth travel experience worldwide.
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Kartik Aaryan's Appeal: Aaryan's charismatic persona, strong connection with India's youth, and significant fan base make him an ideal choice to represent Thomas Cook's innovative and agile foreign exchange services.
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Campaign Strategy: The promotional campaign featuring Kartik Aaryan will be amplified across digital platforms, connected TV, and social media to maximize reach and engagement.
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Growth Prospects: Thomas Cook India is bullish on its prepaid card business, and this partnership aims to drive growth in the young traveler segment, building on the success of its existing portfolio.
7. H. Shankar Assumes Charge as Managing Director of CPCL
H. Shankar has officially assumed charge as the Managing
Director of Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited (CPCL). With a rich experience spanning over three decades in the oil and gas sector, he brings strong leadership and technical expertise to the role. Prior to this appointment, Shankar held several key positions within Indian Oil Corporation, contributing significantly to refining operations and project management. His vision includes enhancing operational efficiency, boosting sustainability initiatives, and driving digital transformation within CPCL. The company expressed confidence in his ability to steer CPCL towards greater growth and innovation. Shankar’s leadership comes at a crucial time as CPCL undertakes major expansion and modernization projects.
Director of Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited (CPCL). With a rich experience spanning over three decades in the oil and gas sector, he brings strong leadership and technical expertise to the role. Prior to this appointment, Shankar held several key positions within Indian Oil Corporation, contributing significantly to refining operations and project management. His vision includes enhancing operational efficiency, boosting sustainability initiatives, and driving digital transformation within CPCL. The company expressed confidence in his ability to steer CPCL towards greater growth and innovation. Shankar’s leadership comes at a crucial time as CPCL undertakes major expansion and modernization projects.Foot notes:
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Background and Experience: Shankar brings over three decades of experience in the oil and gas industry, with expertise in refinery operations, project management, and strategic leadership.
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Previous Roles: He has been serving as Director (Technical) at CPCL since October 2020 and was holding additional charge as Managing Director since July 16, 2024.
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Appointment and Tenure: Shankar's appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, and he will hold the position until March 31, 2029, or until further orders.
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Key Contributions: As Director (Technical), Shankar played a crucial role in driving innovation and operational excellence, introducing value-added and sustainable products, and overseeing the production of fuels for India's space and defense sectors.
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Future Outlook: Under Shankar's leadership, CPCL is expected to focus on expanding its refining capacity, enhancing energy security, and contributing to India's journey towards energy self-sufficiency.
8. Kamal Haasan Appointed Chairperson of FICCI Media and Entertainment Committee South
Veteran actor and filmmaker Kamal Haasan has been
appointed as the Chairperson of the FICCI Media and Entertainment Committee South. His vast experience in cinema and deep understanding of the creative industry make him an ideal choice for the role. As chairperson, Haasan will focus on driving growth, innovation, and policy dialogue within the southern media and entertainment sector. FICCI acknowledged his contribution to Indian cinema and expressed confidence in his ability to elevate the industry’s regional and national presence. Haasan emphasized the importance of nurturing talent and leveraging technology for content creation and distribution. His leadership is expected to strengthen the committee’s initiatives and foster collaboration across the entertainment ecosystem.
appointed as the Chairperson of the FICCI Media and Entertainment Committee South. His vast experience in cinema and deep understanding of the creative industry make him an ideal choice for the role. As chairperson, Haasan will focus on driving growth, innovation, and policy dialogue within the southern media and entertainment sector. FICCI acknowledged his contribution to Indian cinema and expressed confidence in his ability to elevate the industry’s regional and national presence. Haasan emphasized the importance of nurturing talent and leveraging technology for content creation and distribution. His leadership is expected to strengthen the committee’s initiatives and foster collaboration across the entertainment ecosystem.Foot notes:
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Leadership Role: As Chairperson, Kamal Haasan will lead the FICCI Media and Entertainment Committee South, driving growth and development in the region's media and entertainment sector.
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Vision for Indian Cinema: Haasan emphasized the need for a long-term vision for Indian cinema, urging the government to create regulations that foster emerging technologies and promote the industry's growth.
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Focus on Regional Industries: The appointment highlights the importance of regional industries in driving global recognition, with Haasan stressing the need to promote multilingual and cross-regional collaborations.
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Key Initiatives: Haasan's vision includes encouraging bold and creative storytelling, promoting India's strength in animation and VFX, and seeking government support for regulatory reforms and access to credit.
9. National Maritime Day observed on 4th April
National Maritime Day is observed in India on 4th April every
year to commemorate the country's rich maritime heritage and honor the contributions of the shipping sector. The day marks the sailing of India’s first commercial vessel, SS Loyalty, from Mumbai to London on April 5, 1919. Celebrated since 1964, the occasion highlights the importance of maritime trade and the role of seafarers in the nation's economy. Various events, including seminars, award ceremonies, and awareness campaigns, are organized to acknowledge the efforts of maritime professionals. The theme for this year focused on sustainability and innovation in the shipping industry. National Maritime Day serves as a reminder of India’s growing stature as a key player in global maritime trade.
year to commemorate the country's rich maritime heritage and honor the contributions of the shipping sector. The day marks the sailing of India’s first commercial vessel, SS Loyalty, from Mumbai to London on April 5, 1919. Celebrated since 1964, the occasion highlights the importance of maritime trade and the role of seafarers in the nation's economy. Various events, including seminars, award ceremonies, and awareness campaigns, are organized to acknowledge the efforts of maritime professionals. The theme for this year focused on sustainability and innovation in the shipping industry. National Maritime Day serves as a reminder of India’s growing stature as a key player in global maritime trade.Foot notes:
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Historical Significance: National Maritime Day commemorates the maiden voyage of the first Indian-owned merchant vessel, SS Loyalty, which sailed from Bombay to London on April 5, 1919.
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Maritime Heritage: This day recognizes India's rich maritime heritage and its significant contribution to the global maritime industry.
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Theme and Celebrations: Each year, National Maritime Day is celebrated with a specific theme, and various events are organized across the country to promote awareness about India's maritime industry.
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Importance of Maritime Industry: The maritime industry plays a vital role in India's economy, with the country having a long coastline and a significant portion of its trade happening through sea routes.
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Global Connections: India's maritime industry is closely linked with the global economy, and National Maritime Day serves as a reminder of the country's commitment to safe, secure, and sustainable maritime trade.
10. Veteran Actor Manoj Kumar passed away
Veteran Bollywood actor Manoj Kumar has sadly passed
away, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in Indian cinema. Known for his patriotic roles and impactful storytelling, he was affectionately referred to as "Bharat Kumar" for his contributions to films that celebrated Indian values and nationalism. Manoj Kumar starred in and directed several iconic films such as Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim, Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, and Kranti. His work earned him numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for lifetime achievement. With a career spanning over four decades, he not only entertained audiences but also inspired generations through socially relevant cinema. His passing marks the end of an era, and he will be fondly remembered as a true legend of Indian film.
away, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in Indian cinema. Known for his patriotic roles and impactful storytelling, he was affectionately referred to as "Bharat Kumar" for his contributions to films that celebrated Indian values and nationalism. Manoj Kumar starred in and directed several iconic films such as Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim, Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, and Kranti. His work earned him numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for lifetime achievement. With a career spanning over four decades, he not only entertained audiences but also inspired generations through socially relevant cinema. His passing marks the end of an era, and he will be fondly remembered as a true legend of Indian film.Foot notes:
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Early Life: Manoj Kumar was born Harikrishna Giri Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Abbottabad, Pakistan.
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Career: He began his acting career in 1957 with the film Fashion and gained recognition with Kanch Ki Gudiya (1961).
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Patriotic Films: Manoj Kumar was known for his patriotic films, earning him the nickname "Bharat Kumar".
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Awards and Recognition: He received the Padma Shri in 1992 and the Dada Saheb Phalke Award in 2016 for his outstanding contribution to Indian cinema.
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