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Current Affairs 08 & 09 February 2025
1. Dmitry Bakanov becomes the new Director General of Roscosmos
Dmitry Bakanov has been appointed as the new Director General of
Roscosmos, Russia’s space agency. He takes over leadership at a critical time when Roscosmos is focusing on lunar exploration, satellite advancements, and international collaborations. Bakanov, known for his expertise in aerospace engineering and strategic planning, aims to enhance Russia’s space competitiveness. Under his leadership, Roscosmos is expected to accelerate projects like the Luna program and deep-space missions. His appointment signals a push for modernization and technological innovation within Russia’s space sector.
Roscosmos, Russia’s space agency. He takes over leadership at a critical time when Roscosmos is focusing on lunar exploration, satellite advancements, and international collaborations. Bakanov, known for his expertise in aerospace engineering and strategic planning, aims to enhance Russia’s space competitiveness. Under his leadership, Roscosmos is expected to accelerate projects like the Luna program and deep-space missions. His appointment signals a push for modernization and technological innovation within Russia’s space sector.Foot notes:
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Bakanov's appointment was made through a decree signed by Russian President Vladimir Putin, relieving Yury Borisov of his duties as Director General.
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Before taking the helm at Roscosmos, Bakanov served as Russia's deputy transport minister and led the state-backed Gonets satellite communications system from 2011 to 2019.
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Notably, Bakanov is just 39 years old, making him a relatively young leader in the space industry. Despite his age, he has accumulated significant experience in the field.
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As the new Director General, Bakanov faces several challenges, including revitalizing Russia's space program, which has faced setbacks and criticism under Borisov's leadership.
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Russian officials expect Bakanov to bring dynamic development to Roscosmos, focusing on areas like manned cosmonautics, nuclear power in space, and reusable launch vehicles.
2. Vandita Pandey appointed as Director in the Department of Youth Affairs
Vandita Pandey has been appointed as the Director in the
Department of Youth Affairs, where she will play a key role in shaping policies for youth development. With extensive experience in public administration, she aims to enhance programs focused on skill development, leadership, and community engagement. Her appointment comes at a time when the government is emphasizing youth empowerment through various initiatives and digital platforms. She will work closely with stakeholders to strengthen national and international collaborations in the sector. Pandey’s leadership is expected to bring innovative strategies to support and uplift young people across the country.
Department of Youth Affairs, where she will play a key role in shaping policies for youth development. With extensive experience in public administration, she aims to enhance programs focused on skill development, leadership, and community engagement. Her appointment comes at a time when the government is emphasizing youth empowerment through various initiatives and digital platforms. She will work closely with stakeholders to strengthen national and international collaborations in the sector. Pandey’s leadership is expected to bring innovative strategies to support and uplift young people across the country.Foot notes:
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Vandita Pandey has been appointed as Director in the Department of Youth Affairs.
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Background: She is a 2011 batch IPS officer from the Tamil Nadu cadre.
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Pandey has held various leadership roles in law enforcement and public administration.
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Department of Youth Affairs: The department focuses on youth development and empowerment programs.
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Leadership: As Director, Pandey will play a crucial role in shaping the department's policies and initiatives.
3. Tarundeep Rai Wins Bronze in Men’s Recurve Archery
Indian archer Tarundeep Rai secured the bronze medal in the men’s
recurve archery event, adding another achievement to his illustrious career. Competing against top archers, he showcased remarkable precision and consistency throughout the tournament. His victory highlights India's growing presence in international archery and serves as inspiration for young archers. This medal further cements Rai’s legacy as one of India’s most accomplished archers. His performance reflects years of dedication and training, bringing pride to the nation.
recurve archery event, adding another achievement to his illustrious career. Competing against top archers, he showcased remarkable precision and consistency throughout the tournament. His victory highlights India's growing presence in international archery and serves as inspiration for young archers. This medal further cements Rai’s legacy as one of India’s most accomplished archers. His performance reflects years of dedication and training, bringing pride to the nation.Foot notes:
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Asian Games Medalist: Tarundeep Rai won a silver medal in the men's recurve individual event at the 2010 Asian Games in Guangzhou, China.
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World Archery Championships: He won a silver medal in the men's team event at the 2005 World Archery Championships in Madrid, Spain, and another silver medal in the same event at the 2019 World Archery Championships in 's-Hertogenbosch, Netherlands.
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Olympic Participations: Rai has participated in four Olympic Games, starting with the 2004 Athens Olympics, where he finished 43rd in the men's individual recurve event.
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National Ranking Archery Tournament: He won the men's recurve title in the final leg of the National Ranking Archery Tournament in 2023.
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Awards and Recognition: Tarundeep Rai was awarded the Padma Shri in 2021 and the Arjuna Award in 2005 for his contributions to Indian sports.
4. Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers Clinch Title Of Hockey India League
Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers emerged victorious in the Hockey India
League, clinching the championship title with a dominant performance. The team showcased exceptional skill, teamwork, and resilience throughout the tournament, defeating formidable opponents in crucial matches. Their triumph marks a historic moment for Bengal hockey, boosting the sport’s popularity in the region. Led by a strong squad and strategic gameplay, the Tigers outperformed their rivals in a thrilling final. This victory not only brings glory to the team but also inspires young hockey players across India.
League, clinching the championship title with a dominant performance. The team showcased exceptional skill, teamwork, and resilience throughout the tournament, defeating formidable opponents in crucial matches. Their triumph marks a historic moment for Bengal hockey, boosting the sport’s popularity in the region. Led by a strong squad and strategic gameplay, the Tigers outperformed their rivals in a thrilling final. This victory not only brings glory to the team but also inspires young hockey players across India.Foot notes:
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Hat-trick Hero: Jugraj Singh was the star of the show, scoring a hat-trick in the 25th, 32nd, and 35th minutes to lead his team to victory.
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Match Details: The final match was played at the Birsa Munda International Hockey Stadium in Rourkela, with the Tigers coming out on top in a closely contested encounter.
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Revival of Hockey India League: The Hockey India League was revived after a gap of seven years, and the Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers made the most of this opportunity to claim the title.
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Team Effort: While Jugraj Singh's hat-trick was instrumental in the Tigers' victory, it was a team effort that ultimately led to their success in the tournament.
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Exciting Future Ahead: With this victory, the Shrachi Rarh Bengal Tigers have established themselves as a force to be reckoned with in Indian hockey, and fans can look forward to exciting times ahead.
5. Niraj won gold in men's 50m rifle 3-position event
Indian shooter Niraj clinched the gold medal in the men’s 50m rifle 3-
position event with a stellar performance. Displaying exceptional focus and precision, he outscored his competitors in all three shooting stances—kneeling, prone, and standing. His victory highlights India’s rising dominance in shooting sports on the international stage. This gold medal adds to his growing list of achievements and serves as motivation for aspiring marksmen. Niraj’s triumph is a testament to his dedication, training, and unwavering determination.
position event with a stellar performance. Displaying exceptional focus and precision, he outscored his competitors in all three shooting stances—kneeling, prone, and standing. His victory highlights India’s rising dominance in shooting sports on the international stage. This gold medal adds to his growing list of achievements and serves as motivation for aspiring marksmen. Niraj’s triumph is a testament to his dedication, training, and unwavering determination.Foot notes:
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Outstanding Performance: Niraj Kumar outperformed two Tokyo Olympians, Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar and Sanjeev Rajput, to claim the top spot.
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Qualification Round: Kumar qualified for the final with a score of 584 out of 600, securing fourth place.
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Final Match: In the gold medal match, Niraj defeated Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar 17-11.
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Competition Details: The event was held at the Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range in New Delhi, with 94 participants competing in the qualifying round.
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Impressive Field: The competition featured seasoned shooters, including Sanjeev Rajput, who topped the qualifiers with a score of 588.
6. Anil Nautiyal appointed as next Ambassador of India to the Republic of South Sudan
Anil Nautiyal has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to
the Republic of South Sudan. A seasoned diplomat, he brings extensive experience in international relations and foreign policy to his new role. His appointment comes at a crucial time as India seeks to strengthen bilateral ties with South Sudan in trade, development, and capacity-building initiatives. Nautiyal will focus on enhancing diplomatic cooperation and supporting the Indian community in the region. His leadership is expected to further India’s commitment to fostering peace and development in South Sudan.
the Republic of South Sudan. A seasoned diplomat, he brings extensive experience in international relations and foreign policy to his new role. His appointment comes at a crucial time as India seeks to strengthen bilateral ties with South Sudan in trade, development, and capacity-building initiatives. Nautiyal will focus on enhancing diplomatic cooperation and supporting the Indian community in the region. His leadership is expected to further India’s commitment to fostering peace and development in South Sudan.Foot notes:
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Current Role: Nautiyal is currently serving as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs.
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Diplomatic Experience: With a career spanning over two decades, Nautiyal has gained significant diplomatic experience, having joined the Indian Foreign Service in 2004.
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India-South Sudan Relations: India was one of the first countries to recognize South Sudan's independence in 2011. The two nations have maintained strong bilateral ties, with India providing significant development assistance to South Sudan.
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Challenges Ahead: As Ambassador, Nautiyal will face challenges such as strengthening bilateral relations, promoting economic cooperation, and supporting South Sudan's democratic transition.
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Assumption of Office: Nautiyal is expected to take up his new assignment shortly, marking a significant milestone in India's diplomatic engagement with South Sudan.
7. Novotel Hyderabad Airport appoints Karthikeyan R. as Director of Operations
Novotel Hyderabad Airport has appointed Karthikeyan R. as its new
Director of Operations. With extensive experience in the hospitality industry, he is expected to enhance the hotel’s operational efficiency and guest experience. His leadership will play a crucial role in streamlining services, optimizing resource management, and driving customer satisfaction. The appointment comes as Novotel Hyderabad Airport focuses on expanding its premium hospitality offerings. Karthikeyan R.’s expertise will contribute to strengthening the hotel’s position as a top destination for business and leisure travelers.
Director of Operations. With extensive experience in the hospitality industry, he is expected to enhance the hotel’s operational efficiency and guest experience. His leadership will play a crucial role in streamlining services, optimizing resource management, and driving customer satisfaction. The appointment comes as Novotel Hyderabad Airport focuses on expanding its premium hospitality offerings. Karthikeyan R.’s expertise will contribute to strengthening the hotel’s position as a top destination for business and leisure travelers.Foot notes:
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Leadership Role: As Director of Operations, Karthikeyan will oversee the overall operations of the hotel, ensuring seamless execution and high standards of service.
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Expertise: Although specific details about Karthikeyan's background are not available, his appointment suggests that he brings significant operational expertise to the role.
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Hotel's Expectations: Novotel Hyderabad Airport likely expects Karthikeyan to enhance the hotel's operational efficiency, guest satisfaction, and overall performance.
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Previous Appointments: The hotel has made other notable appointments in the past, including Awadesh Kumar Jha as Director of F&B and Tulshi Naik as Director of F&B.
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Novotel Hyderabad Airport's Commitment to Excellence: The appointment of Karthikeyan R. as Director of Operations underscores the hotel's commitment to delivering exceptional service and experiences to its guests.
8. Delhivery appoints Vani Venkatesh as Chief Business Officer
Delhivery has appointed Vani Venkatesh as its new Chief Business
Officer, strengthening its leadership team. With extensive experience in business strategy and growth, she is expected to drive the company’s expansion and operational efficiency. Her appointment comes at a time when Delhivery is focusing on scaling its logistics and supply chain solutions across India. Venkatesh will play a key role in enhancing customer engagement and leveraging technology to optimize services. Her leadership is set to contribute to Delhivery’s vision of becoming a global logistics powerhouse.
Officer, strengthening its leadership team. With extensive experience in business strategy and growth, she is expected to drive the company’s expansion and operational efficiency. Her appointment comes at a time when Delhivery is focusing on scaling its logistics and supply chain solutions across India. Venkatesh will play a key role in enhancing customer engagement and leveraging technology to optimize services. Her leadership is set to contribute to Delhivery’s vision of becoming a global logistics powerhouse.Foot notes:
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Experience: Vani Venkatesh brings over two decades of experience across various industries, having worked with companies like Airtel, McKinsey, Unilever, and Abbott Nutrition in leadership roles.
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Previous Roles: At Airtel, she held several management positions, including CEO of Global Business, CEO of Delhi NCR Region, Chief Marketing Officer, and CEO of Retail Business.
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Responsibilities: As Chief Business Officer at Delhivery, Venkatesh will oversee key business units, including express parcel services, part-truckload freight, and supply chain services.
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Leadership Comments: Sahil Barua, Managing Director and CEO of Delhivery, praised Venkatesh's experience in managing complex businesses in dynamic market environments, stating that she will strengthen the company's leadership team.
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Company Background: Delhivery is a leading logistics company in India, operating a nationwide network covering over 18,700 pin codes and providing a range of logistics services, including express parcel transportation and supply chain management.
9. AM Fresh wins Fruit Logistica Innovation Award 2025
AM Fresh has won the prestigious Fruit Logistica Innovation Award
2025 for its groundbreaking advancements in the fresh produce industry. The award recognizes the company’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and enhancing the quality of fruits and vegetables. AM Fresh’s cutting-edge technology and genetic research have revolutionized the way fresh produce is cultivated and distributed globally. This achievement highlights the company’s leadership in delivering high-quality, nutritious, and environmentally friendly products. The recognition at Fruit Logistica further strengthens AM Fresh’s position as a pioneer in the agri-tech and fresh food sector.
2025 for its groundbreaking advancements in the fresh produce industry. The award recognizes the company’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and enhancing the quality of fruits and vegetables. AM Fresh’s cutting-edge technology and genetic research have revolutionized the way fresh produce is cultivated and distributed globally. This achievement highlights the company’s leadership in delivering high-quality, nutritious, and environmentally friendly products. The recognition at Fruit Logistica further strengthens AM Fresh’s position as a pioneer in the agri-tech and fresh food sector.Foot notes:
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Innovation Recognition: The Fruit Logistica Innovation Award is a prominent recognition of innovative products, services, or technologies in the fresh produce industry.
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Global Competition: The award attracts a global pool of competitors, with exhibitors from 86 countries participating in Fruit Logistica 2025.
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Sustainability Focus: This year's event highlighted innovations focusing on sustainability, supply chain advancements, and the future of fresh produce distribution.
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Previous Winners and Nominees: Although the specific details about AM Fresh's winning innovation are not available, previous nominees have included innovative products like perfectly ripe, peeled avocados with extended shelf life and climate-smart agriculture solutions.
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Industry Impact: The Fruit Logistica Innovation Award is a significant milestone for AM Fresh, underscoring its commitment to innovation and sustainability in the fresh produce industry.
10. Permanent member of Ram Janmabhoomi Trust 'Kameshwar Chaupal' passed away
Kameshwar Chaupal, a permanent member of the Ram
Janmabhoomi Trust, has passed away, leaving behind a significant legacy. He was known for his dedication to the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya and was a key figure in the trust’s activities. As the first Dalit to lay a brick for the temple foundation in 1989, he symbolized inclusivity in the movement. His contributions to social and religious causes earned him immense respect across communities. Chaupal’s passing is a great loss to the Ram Janmabhoomi Trust and the larger Hindu community.
Janmabhoomi Trust, has passed away, leaving behind a significant legacy. He was known for his dedication to the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya and was a key figure in the trust’s activities. As the first Dalit to lay a brick for the temple foundation in 1989, he symbolized inclusivity in the movement. His contributions to social and religious causes earned him immense respect across communities. Chaupal’s passing is a great loss to the Ram Janmabhoomi Trust and the larger Hindu community.Foot notes:
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Health Issues: Chaupal was undergoing treatment at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, where he had undergone a kidney transplant in August 2024.
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Last Rites: His last rites were performed in his native village in Bihar's Supaul district.
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Tributes: Leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, have paid tribute to Chaupal, acknowledging his contributions to the Ram Janmabhoomi movement.
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Contribution to Ram Janmabhoomi Movement: Chaupal played a crucial role in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement and was known for laying the first brick for the Ram Temple in Ayodhya in 1989.
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Legacy: Chaupal's legacy as a dedicated worker for the Ram Janmabhoomi movement will be remembered and honored by the people and the nation.
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