4.5/5
Current Affairs 05 March 2025
1. RBL Bank appoints Narendra Agrawal as President & Head of Branch Banking
RBL Bank has appointed Narendra Agrawal as its new President
and Head of Branch Banking. In this role, he will be responsible for overseeing the bank’s branch operations, customer acquisition, and retail banking strategies. Agrawal brings extensive experience in banking and financial services, having held leadership positions in various institutions. His appointment is expected to strengthen RBL Bank’s customer outreach and operational efficiency. With this leadership change, the bank aims to enhance its retail banking presence and drive growth in the competitive financial sector.
and Head of Branch Banking. In this role, he will be responsible for overseeing the bank’s branch operations, customer acquisition, and retail banking strategies. Agrawal brings extensive experience in banking and financial services, having held leadership positions in various institutions. His appointment is expected to strengthen RBL Bank’s customer outreach and operational efficiency. With this leadership change, the bank aims to enhance its retail banking presence and drive growth in the competitive financial sector.Foot notes:
-
Experience: Narendra Agrawal brings over 25 years of experience in the retail banking sector, having worked at leading institutions like Kotak Mahindra Bank, Citibank, and ICICI Bank.
-
Role: As President & Head of Branch Banking and Retail Liabilities, Agrawal will focus on deposit growth, enhancing customer experience through an omnichannel strategy, and strengthening the business's contribution to the bank's long-term plan.
-
Expertise: Agrawal specializes in managing large teams, delivering high business volumes, and driving market expansion with a digital-first approach.
-
Qualifications: He holds an MBA from the Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta, and has pursued executive education programs in fintech, financial blockchain, and digital transformation from Harvard Business School.
-
Impact: Agrawal's appointment is expected to strengthen RBL Bank's retail banking operations and drive business growth through his expertise in digital transformation and customer-centric strategies.
2. Ashish Sinha, appointed as Ambassador of India to the Republic of Estonia
Ashish Sinha has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India
to the Republic of Estonia. A seasoned diplomat, he brings extensive experience in foreign affairs and international relations. His appointment is expected to strengthen bilateral ties between India and Estonia, focusing on trade, technology, and cultural exchanges. Sinha will play a key role in enhancing diplomatic cooperation and fostering strategic partnerships. He is set to assume his new responsibilities soon, furthering India's global outreach in the Baltic region.
to the Republic of Estonia. A seasoned diplomat, he brings extensive experience in foreign affairs and international relations. His appointment is expected to strengthen bilateral ties between India and Estonia, focusing on trade, technology, and cultural exchanges. Sinha will play a key role in enhancing diplomatic cooperation and fostering strategic partnerships. He is set to assume his new responsibilities soon, furthering India's global outreach in the Baltic region.Foot notes:
-
Background and Experience: Ashish Sinha is a seasoned Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer from the 2005 batch, currently serving as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs.
-
Diplomatic Role: As Ambassador to Estonia, Sinha will play a crucial role in strengthening diplomatic ties between India and Estonia, which have been cordial and friendly since their establishment in 1991.
-
Bilateral Relations: The appointment comes at a time of growing bilateral engagement between the two nations, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently meeting Estonia's President Alar Karis to discuss expanding cooperation in trade, technology, and cultural exchanges.
-
Key Areas of Focus: Sinha's priorities as Ambassador will include enhancing trade and economic ties, promoting cultural exchanges, and exploring opportunities for cooperation in areas like technology and innovation.
-
Assumption of Duty: Sinha is expected to take up his new assignment shortly, marking a significant milestone in India-Estonia relations.
3. Uttarakhand Launches Mukhyamantri Ekal Mahila Swarozgar Yojana
The Uttarakhand government has launched the Mukhyamantri Ekal
Mahila Swarozgar Yojana to empower single women by providing them with self-employment opportunities. This scheme aims to support widows, divorced, and abandoned women by offering financial assistance and skill development programs. Under the initiative, beneficiaries will receive loans and subsidies to start small businesses or entrepreneurial ventures. The program also focuses on training and capacity building to ensure sustainable income generation. Through this effort, the state government seeks to promote economic independence and uplift the social status of single women in Uttarakhand.
Mahila Swarozgar Yojana to empower single women by providing them with self-employment opportunities. This scheme aims to support widows, divorced, and abandoned women by offering financial assistance and skill development programs. Under the initiative, beneficiaries will receive loans and subsidies to start small businesses or entrepreneurial ventures. The program also focuses on training and capacity building to ensure sustainable income generation. Through this effort, the state government seeks to promote economic independence and uplift the social status of single women in Uttarakhand.Foot notes:
-
Objective: The scheme aims to empower single women in Uttarakhand by providing them with financial assistance to start their own businesses, thereby making them self-reliant.
-
Eligibility: The scheme is open to single women, including widows, divorcees, and those abandoned by their husbands, with a family income of less than 72,000 per annum.
-
Benefits: Under the scheme, women will receive a subsidy of up to 50% of the project cost, with a maximum limit of 50,000, to establish their businesses.
-
Application Process: Although the scheme has been announced, the application process is yet to be revealed. The government is expected to release more information on the application process and required documents soon.
-
Impact: The scheme is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of single women in Uttarakhand, enabling them to become financially independent and contributing to the state's economic growth.
4. Ajinkya Rahane announced as Captain of KKR for IPL 2025
Ajinkya Rahane has been announced as the captain of Kolkata
Knight Riders (KKR) for IPL 2025. The experienced batsman takes over the leadership role, bringing stability and strategic acumen to the team. Rahane, known for his composed demeanor and tactical mindset, will aim to guide KKR to a strong campaign in the upcoming season. His appointment reflects the franchise’s confidence in his leadership abilities and vast IPL experience. Under his captaincy, KKR will look to build a balanced squad and compete for the championship title.
Knight Riders (KKR) for IPL 2025. The experienced batsman takes over the leadership role, bringing stability and strategic acumen to the team. Rahane, known for his composed demeanor and tactical mindset, will aim to guide KKR to a strong campaign in the upcoming season. His appointment reflects the franchise’s confidence in his leadership abilities and vast IPL experience. Under his captaincy, KKR will look to build a balanced squad and compete for the championship title.Foot notes:
-
New Leadership: Ajinkya Rahane has been announced as the captain of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for the IPL 2025 season, replacing Shreyas Iyer.
-
Experience and Maturity: Rahane brings his experience and maturity as a leader, having previously captained Rajasthan Royals and led India to a historic Test series win in Australia in 2020-21.
-
Vice-Captain: Venkatesh Iyer, who was bought by KKR for 23.75 crore, will serve as Rahane's deputy.
-
Challenges Ahead: Rahane faces the challenge of defending KKR's title, which they won in 2024 under Shreyas Iyer's leadership.
-
Season Opener: KKR will begin their IPL 2025 campaign against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on March 22.
5. Secunderabad RPF Shakti teams get FICCI smart policing award 2025
The Secunderabad RPF Shakti teams have been honored with the
FICCI Smart Policing Award 2025 for their outstanding contributions to railway security and women's safety. The Shakti teams, comprising specially trained personnel, have played a crucial role in preventing crimes and ensuring passenger safety, particularly for women and vulnerable groups. Their proactive approach, including surveillance, patrolling, and quick response mechanisms, has significantly enhanced security in railway stations and trains. This recognition by FICCI highlights the effectiveness of technology-driven policing and community engagement in law enforcement. The award serves as a testament to the team's dedication to creating a safer travel environment for passengers.
FICCI Smart Policing Award 2025 for their outstanding contributions to railway security and women's safety. The Shakti teams, comprising specially trained personnel, have played a crucial role in preventing crimes and ensuring passenger safety, particularly for women and vulnerable groups. Their proactive approach, including surveillance, patrolling, and quick response mechanisms, has significantly enhanced security in railway stations and trains. This recognition by FICCI highlights the effectiveness of technology-driven policing and community engagement in law enforcement. The award serves as a testament to the team's dedication to creating a safer travel environment for passengers.Foot notes:
-
Recognition of Excellence: The Secunderabad RPF Shakti teams have been recognized for their outstanding efforts in smart policing, showcasing their commitment to safety and security.
-
FICCI Smart Policing Awards: The FICCI Smart Policing Awards aim to acknowledge and promote innovative policing practices across India, encouraging police forces to adopt modern technologies and strategies.
-
Shakti Teams' Achievements: Although specific details about the Secunderabad RPF Shakti teams' achievements are not available, their recognition by FICCI highlights their significant contributions to smart policing.
-
Categories and Evaluation: The FICCI Smart Policing Awards cover various categories, including women's safety, child safety, cyber security, and community policing. A panel of experts evaluates entries based on innovation, impact, and scalability.
6. Katrina Kaif Won Icon of Excellence at FILA 2025
Katrina Kaif has been honored with the Icon of Excellence Award at
the FILA 2025 (Film Industry Leaders Awards). Recognized for her outstanding contributions to Indian cinema, she continues to be a trendsetter in the industry. With her versatility, grace, and impactful performances, Katrina has established herself as one of Bollywood’s most influential stars. The award celebrates her dedication, artistic excellence, and influence on the entertainment world. This achievement further cements her legacy as a powerhouse performer in Indian cinema.
the FILA 2025 (Film Industry Leaders Awards). Recognized for her outstanding contributions to Indian cinema, she continues to be a trendsetter in the industry. With her versatility, grace, and impactful performances, Katrina has established herself as one of Bollywood’s most influential stars. The award celebrates her dedication, artistic excellence, and influence on the entertainment world. This achievement further cements her legacy as a powerhouse performer in Indian cinema.Foot notes:
-
Prestigious Honor: Katrina Kaif has been conferred with the esteemed Icon of Excellence award at FILA 2025, recognizing her outstanding contributions to the Indian film industry.
-
Distinguished Career: With a career spanning over two decades, Kaif has established herself as one of Bollywood's most successful and versatile actresses, known for her captivating performances in films like "Namastey London," "Raajneeti," and "Bharat".
-
Awards and Accolades: Throughout her career, Kaif has received numerous awards and nominations, including three Filmfare Award nominations and several Stardust, Zee Cine, and Screen Awards.
-
Inspiration to Many: Kaif's achievement serves as an inspiration to aspiring actors and actresses, demonstrating her dedication, hard work, and passion for her craft.
-
Legacy and Impact: As an Icon of Excellence, Kaif's legacy extends beyond her filmography, influencing a new generation of artists and solidifying her position as a beloved and respected figure in Indian cinema.
7. Steve Smith Announces Retirement from One-Day Internationals
Australian cricketer Steve Smith has announced his retirement from
One-Day Internationals (ODIs), marking the end of an illustrious career in the 50-over format. A key player for Australia, Smith played a crucial role in multiple ICC tournaments, including the 2015 and 2023 ODI World Cups. Known for his exceptional batting technique and leadership skills, he amassed over 5,000 ODI runs with several match-winning performances. While stepping away from ODIs, Smith will continue to focus on Test cricket and T20 formats, contributing to Australia’s success. His retirement marks the conclusion of a remarkable ODI journey that inspired cricket fans worldwide.
One-Day Internationals (ODIs), marking the end of an illustrious career in the 50-over format. A key player for Australia, Smith played a crucial role in multiple ICC tournaments, including the 2015 and 2023 ODI World Cups. Known for his exceptional batting technique and leadership skills, he amassed over 5,000 ODI runs with several match-winning performances. While stepping away from ODIs, Smith will continue to focus on Test cricket and T20 formats, contributing to Australia’s success. His retirement marks the conclusion of a remarkable ODI journey that inspired cricket fans worldwide.Foot notes:
-
Stellar ODI Career: Smith played 170 ODIs, scoring 5,800 runs with an average of 43.28 and a strike rate of 86.96. He hit 12 centuries and 35 half-centuries, with his highest score being 164 against New Zealand in 2016.
-
Legacy and Impact: Smith is Australia's 12th highest run-scorer in ODIs and was part of the teams that won the World Cup in 2015 and 2023. He will be remembered for his unorthodox yet effective batting style.
-
Reason for Retirement: Smith believes it's time for him to step aside and allow new players to prepare for the 2027 ODI World Cup. He expressed gratitude for his ODI career, calling it a "great ride" filled with memorable moments.
-
Continued Availability: Smith will continue playing Test cricket and T20 Internationals. He aims to focus on Test cricket, including the World Test Championship Final, West Indies series, and Ashes against England.
-
Tributes and Recognition: Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg praised Smith's immense contribution to the sport, acknowledging his role in elevating Australia's cricketing stature. Smith's retirement marks the end of an era in Australian cricket.
8. Aditya appointed as MD of Embassy Developments
Aditya has been appointed as the Managing Director (MD) of
Embassy Developments, a leading real estate firm. With extensive experience in the real estate sector, he is expected to drive the company’s growth and strategic initiatives. His leadership will focus on expanding Embassy’s portfolio, enhancing sustainability, and strengthening market presence. Aditya’s appointment comes at a crucial time as the company aims to innovate and adapt to evolving industry trends. Under his guidance, Embassy Developments is set to achieve new milestones in the real estate sector.
Embassy Developments, a leading real estate firm. With extensive experience in the real estate sector, he is expected to drive the company’s growth and strategic initiatives. His leadership will focus on expanding Embassy’s portfolio, enhancing sustainability, and strengthening market presence. Aditya’s appointment comes at a crucial time as the company aims to innovate and adapt to evolving industry trends. Under his guidance, Embassy Developments is set to achieve new milestones in the real estate sector.Foot notes:
-
Leadership Team: Aditya will spearhead a dynamic leadership team, including Sachin Shah as CEO and Executive Director, and Rajesh Kaimal as CFO and Executive Director.
-
Growth Initiatives: Embassy Developments has approved several growth initiatives, including asset acquisitions from the promoter group worth ₹559 crores and a 2,000 crore Qualified Institutional Placement (QIP).
-
Expansion Plans: The company plans to expand its footprint in the Indian real estate market, with a focus on luxury residential projects and commercial developments.
-
Aditya's Vision: Aditya aims to build a "truly pan-India real estate powerhouse" and is committed to working with the talented and dedicated team at Embassy Developments.
-
Parent Company: Embassy Developments is a part of the Embassy Group, a leading real estate developer in India known for its pioneering projects and innovative approaches.
9. Dr. Dinesh Shahra Receives Lifetime Achievement Award from HBTU
Dr. Dinesh Shahra has been honored with the Lifetime Achievement
Award by Harcourt Butler Technical University (HBTU) for his outstanding contributions to industry and philanthropy. A visionary entrepreneur, Dr. Shahra has played a pivotal role in transforming the agro-processing and industrial sectors in India. His work in sustainable development, innovation, and social welfare has earned him widespread recognition. The award acknowledges his decades-long dedication to fostering technological advancements and ethical business practices. Dr. Shahra's achievements continue to inspire future generations of professionals and entrepreneurs.
Award by Harcourt Butler Technical University (HBTU) for his outstanding contributions to industry and philanthropy. A visionary entrepreneur, Dr. Shahra has played a pivotal role in transforming the agro-processing and industrial sectors in India. His work in sustainable development, innovation, and social welfare has earned him widespread recognition. The award acknowledges his decades-long dedication to fostering technological advancements and ethical business practices. Dr. Shahra's achievements continue to inspire future generations of professionals and entrepreneurs.Foot notes:
-
Transformative Impact: Dr. Shahra's pioneering work in sustainable edible oil production and responsible business practices has revolutionized the industry over the past five decades.
-
Recognition: The award recognizes his dedication to innovation, sustainability, and self-reliance, making him a true role model for future generations.
-
Dinesh Shahra Foundation: Through his foundation, Dr. Shahra continues to champion sustainability, ethical leadership, and long-term preservation of natural resources.
-
Personal Commitment: Dr. Shahra concluded his speech with a strong personal commitment to sustainability, vowing to reduce waste, conserve energy, and support sustainability in every way possible.
10. Padmakar Shivalkar, The Unsung Hero of Indian Cricket passed away
Veteran Indian cricketer Padmakar Shivalkar, often regarded as the
unsung hero of Indian cricket, has passed away. A legendary left-arm spinner, Shivalkar was a stalwart in domestic cricket, representing Mumbai with remarkable consistency. Despite his exceptional performances, including multiple Ranji Trophy triumphs, he never got the opportunity to play for the Indian national team. His contributions to Mumbai cricket, especially his mastery of spin bowling, earned him immense respect in the cricketing fraternity. Shivalkar's passing marks the loss of a true domestic cricket legend whose legacy will always be remembered.
unsung hero of Indian cricket, has passed away. A legendary left-arm spinner, Shivalkar was a stalwart in domestic cricket, representing Mumbai with remarkable consistency. Despite his exceptional performances, including multiple Ranji Trophy triumphs, he never got the opportunity to play for the Indian national team. His contributions to Mumbai cricket, especially his mastery of spin bowling, earned him immense respect in the cricketing fraternity. Shivalkar's passing marks the loss of a true domestic cricket legend whose legacy will always be remembered.Foot notes:
-
Domestic Cricket Stalwart: Shivalkar was a dominant force in domestic cricket, playing for Mumbai for over two decades and taking 589 wickets in 124 first-class matches at an average of 19.69.
-
Unlucky to Miss International Career: Despite his exceptional talent, Shivalkar never played for the Indian national team due to the presence of Bishan Singh Bedi, another legendary left-arm spinner.
-
Ranji Trophy Hero: Shivalkar was instrumental in Mumbai's numerous Ranji Trophy triumphs, including a remarkable performance in the 1972-73 final against Tamil Nadu, where he took 8 for 16 and 5 for 18.
-
Awards and Recognition: Shivalkar received the C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016, the highest honor conferred by the BCCI on a former player.
-
Tributes Pour In: The cricket fraternity, including Sunil Gavaskar and VVS Laxman, has paid tribute to Shivalkar, remembering him as one of India's finest left-arm spinners and a true legend of Mumbai cricket.
2 likes |
0 comment
