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Current Affairs 09 June 2025
1. Sat Pal Bhanoo appointed as Interim CEO & MD of LIC
Sat Pal Bhanoo has been appointed as the interim Managing Director and Chief Executive
Officer (MD & CEO) of Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), following the end of Siddhartha Mohanty’s term, effective June 8, 2025. The Government, via the Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance, formally entrusted him with full financial and administrative powers for up to three months, until September 7, 2025, or until a permanent successor is appointed.
Officer (MD & CEO) of Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), following the end of Siddhartha Mohanty’s term, effective June 8, 2025. The Government, via the Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance, formally entrusted him with full financial and administrative powers for up to three months, until September 7, 2025, or until a permanent successor is appointed.Foot notes:
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This interim appointment comes after the completion of Siddhartha Mohanty's term as the CEO and MD of LIC on June 7, 2025.
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LIC is India’s largest life insurer and a major institutional investor.
About LIC:
Founded In :1956
HQ: Mumbai
2. Tamil Nadu Declares Dhanushkodi as Greater Flamingo Sanctuary
Tamil Nadu has officially declared the Dhanushkodi lagoon as the Greater Flamingo
Sanctuary, encompassing roughly 524.7 hectares of both forest and revenue land in Ramanathapuram district, marking the protection on World Environment Day, June 5, 2025 . Situated within the ecologically sensitive Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve, this area features a mosaic of habitats—including sand dunes, mudflats, marshes, and mangroves—that serve as vital resting and feeding grounds for migratory birds along the Central Asian Flyway . A recent wetland bird census recorded 10,761 individual birds across 128 species, among them both greater and lesser flamingos.
Sanctuary, encompassing roughly 524.7 hectares of both forest and revenue land in Ramanathapuram district, marking the protection on World Environment Day, June 5, 2025 . Situated within the ecologically sensitive Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve, this area features a mosaic of habitats—including sand dunes, mudflats, marshes, and mangroves—that serve as vital resting and feeding grounds for migratory birds along the Central Asian Flyway . A recent wetland bird census recorded 10,761 individual birds across 128 species, among them both greater and lesser flamingos.Foot notes:
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This sanctuary covers an area of 524.7 hectares and is situated within the ecologically sensitive Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve.
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These habitats are crucial for a diverse array of marine life, nesting sea turtles, and over 128 species of wetland birds, as evidenced by a 2023-24 survey that recorded over 10,700 wetland birds. The sanctuary aims to safeguard this rich biodiversity.
About Tamil Nadu:
Capital: Chennai
Governor: R. N. Ravi
CM: M. K. Stalin
3. India Pavilion Among Top 5 at World Expo 2025 in Osaka
The India Pavilion, named Bharat Mandap, has been ranked among the top five most
admired pavilions at World Expo 2025 in Osaka, standing alongside those of the USA, Italy, France, and host nation Japan. Curated by the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts under the Ministry of Culture, it offers a seamless blend of India’s ancient civilizational heritage—such as the Bodhisattva Padmapani and blue‑lotus motifs—and modern themes like sustainability, Ayurveda, and space exploration. Its prime location in the Expo’s “Connecting Lives Zone”, interactive cultural exhibits, and minimal queues have made it a standout attraction drawing large crowds.
admired pavilions at World Expo 2025 in Osaka, standing alongside those of the USA, Italy, France, and host nation Japan. Curated by the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts under the Ministry of Culture, it offers a seamless blend of India’s ancient civilizational heritage—such as the Bodhisattva Padmapani and blue‑lotus motifs—and modern themes like sustainability, Ayurveda, and space exploration. Its prime location in the Expo’s “Connecting Lives Zone”, interactive cultural exhibits, and minimal queues have made it a standout attraction drawing large crowds.Foot notes:
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The India Pavilion stands alongside pavilions from global powerhouses such as the United States, Italy, Japan, and France, indicating its significant impact and appeal to visitors.
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The India Pavilion seamlessly blends the nation's ancient cultural heritage with its modern technological advancements and aspirations for sustainable development.
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The pavilion's design also incorporates symbolic elements such as the Padmapani Bodhisattva from Ajanta cave murals and a Blue Lotus Façade, embodying India's ethos of compassion and interconnectedness.
4. Sailesh C. Mehta appointed as Chairman of Fertiliser Association of India
Sailesh C. Mehta has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Fertiliser Association of
India (FAI), succeeding N. Suresh Krishnan. Mehta, who currently serves as the Managing Director of Deepak Fertilisers and Petrochemicals Corporation Ltd., brings over four decades of experience in the fertiliser and chemical industry to this role. He has previously served as the Chairman of FAI's Western Region for more than five years. In his new capacity, Mehta aims to act as a bridge between the government, industry, and farmers, focusing on elevating Indian agriculture and farm productivity on the global stage. He emphasizes the importance of balanced and nutrient-efficient fertilisers to support sustainable growth in India's agricultural sector.
India (FAI), succeeding N. Suresh Krishnan. Mehta, who currently serves as the Managing Director of Deepak Fertilisers and Petrochemicals Corporation Ltd., brings over four decades of experience in the fertiliser and chemical industry to this role. He has previously served as the Chairman of FAI's Western Region for more than five years. In his new capacity, Mehta aims to act as a bridge between the government, industry, and farmers, focusing on elevating Indian agriculture and farm productivity on the global stage. He emphasizes the importance of balanced and nutrient-efficient fertilisers to support sustainable growth in India's agricultural sector.Foot notes:
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Sailesh C. Mehta, succeeds N. Suresh Krishnan, the MD & CEO of Paradeep Phosphates Ltd.
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He has been instrumental in transforming DFPCL into a diversified conglomerate and has previously served as the Chairman of FAI's Western Region for over five years, demonstrating his long-standing commitment and understanding of the industry's dynamics.
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The sector is undergoing significant changes, with increasing emphasis on nutrient-based subsidy reforms, adoption of green ammonia, digital tracking of fertilizers, and the promotion of bio-fertilizers and nano-urea.
About Fertiliser Association of India:-
Founded : 1955
HeadQuarter: New Delhi
5. Portugal Crowned Nations League Champions After Dramatic Penalty Shootout Win
Portugal secured their second UEFA Nations League title with a dramatic 5–3 win on
penalties against Spain, following a 2–2 draw in regular and extra time at the Allianz Arena in Munich. Cristiano Ronaldo delivered a pivotal equaliser in the 61st minute, marking his record-extending 138th international goal and propelling the match into extra time. Nuno Mendes was named Player of the Match after a commanding display, including scoring Portugal’s first equaliser and subduing Spain’s teenage phenom Lamine Yamal.
penalties against Spain, following a 2–2 draw in regular and extra time at the Allianz Arena in Munich. Cristiano Ronaldo delivered a pivotal equaliser in the 61st minute, marking his record-extending 138th international goal and propelling the match into extra time. Nuno Mendes was named Player of the Match after a commanding display, including scoring Portugal’s first equaliser and subduing Spain’s teenage phenom Lamine Yamal.Foot notes:
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Spain took the lead twice through Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Oyarzabal. Ronaldo's goal was his 138th international goal, adding another significant milestone to his legendary career.
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The decisive moment came when Portugal's goalkeeper Diogo Costa saved Spain's fourth penalty from Alvaro Morata, setting the stage for Ruben Neves to calmly convert Portugal's fifth penalty and seal the victory.
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This victory adds another major international trophy to Portugal's cabinet, alongside their Euro 2016 triumph and their previous Nations League title. The high-stakes final, featuring a classic rivalry.
6. India Bags 6 Gold Medals on Day 1 of Taiwan Open
India made a strong start at the 2025 Taiwan Open athletics meet in Taipei by winning six
gold medals on the first day. Jyothi Yarraji claimed gold in the women’s 100 m hurdles with a time of 12.99 seconds, while Tejas Shirse won the men’s 110 m hurdles in 13.52 seconds. Pooja secured the top spot in the women’s 1500 m event with an impressive performance. Abdulla Aboobacker earned gold in the triple jump with a leap of 16.21 meters. Both the Indian men’s and women’s 4×100 m relay teams also struck gold, setting meet records in the process.
gold medals on the first day. Jyothi Yarraji claimed gold in the women’s 100 m hurdles with a time of 12.99 seconds, while Tejas Shirse won the men’s 110 m hurdles in 13.52 seconds. Pooja secured the top spot in the women’s 1500 m event with an impressive performance. Abdulla Aboobacker earned gold in the triple jump with a leap of 16.21 meters. Both the Indian men’s and women’s 4×100 m relay teams also struck gold, setting meet records in the process.Foot notes:
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Jyothi Yarraji continued her strong season by winning gold in the women's 100m hurdles with a time of 12.99 seconds.
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Tejas Shirse, the national record holder, also secured gold in his favored event, the men's 110m hurdles, with a season-best time of 13.52 seconds.
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India showcased its prowess in sprint relays by winning gold in both the men's and women's 4x100m relay events.
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The women's quartet of Sudheeksha Vadluri, Abinaya Rajarajan, Sneha SS, and Nithya Gandhe won with a meet record time of 44.07 seconds.
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The men's team, comprising Gurindervir Singh, Animesh Kujur, Manikanta Hoblidhar, and Amlan Borgohain, also secured gold with a time of 38.75 seconds.
7. India’s Junior Women’s Hockey Team Triumphs 32 Over Belgium
The Indian junior women’s hockey team commenced their European tour with an
exhilarating 3–2 victory over Belgium at the Hockey Center of Excellence in Antwerp on June 8, 2025. Geeta Yadav put India ahead early in the 11th minute before Belgium responded through Marie Goenns and Louise van Hecke to take a 2–1 lead. Undeterred, India fought back with Sonam equalizing in the 40th minute, and Lalthantluangi converting a penalty corner four minutes later to seal the win. The closing stages saw India’s defence hold firm under pressure, denying Belgium any further breakthroughs. This triumph not only sets a positive tone for the rest of their tour in Europe but also boosts their confidence ahead of the upcoming Junior Women’s World Cup in Santiago.
exhilarating 3–2 victory over Belgium at the Hockey Center of Excellence in Antwerp on June 8, 2025. Geeta Yadav put India ahead early in the 11th minute before Belgium responded through Marie Goenns and Louise van Hecke to take a 2–1 lead. Undeterred, India fought back with Sonam equalizing in the 40th minute, and Lalthantluangi converting a penalty corner four minutes later to seal the win. The closing stages saw India’s defence hold firm under pressure, denying Belgium any further breakthroughs. This triumph not only sets a positive tone for the rest of their tour in Europe but also boosts their confidence ahead of the upcoming Junior Women’s World Cup in Santiago.Foot notes:
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The Indian goals were scored by Geeta Yadav, Sonam (field goals), and Lalthantluangi (penalty corner). Belgium also put up a strong fight, with goals from Marie Goenns and Louise Van Hecke.
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This tour is a crucial part of India's preparation for the FIH Hockey Women's Junior World Cup 2025, which is scheduled to take place in Santiago, Chile, in December 2025.
8. Swimming-Canadian teen McIntosh shatters 400 metres freestyle record
Canadian teenage swimming sensation Summer McIntosh shattered the women's 400 m
freestyle world record at the Canadian Swimming Trials in Victoria, British Columbia, on June 7, 2025, clocking a stunning 3:54.18 . Her time eclipsed the previous world record of 3:55.38, held by Australia’s Ariarne Titmus from the 2023 World Championships . The 18‑year‑old, already a three‑time Olympic gold medallist, credited her exceptional performance to intense training and feeling remarkably strong, even during the final 100 m of the race .
freestyle world record at the Canadian Swimming Trials in Victoria, British Columbia, on June 7, 2025, clocking a stunning 3:54.18 . Her time eclipsed the previous world record of 3:55.38, held by Australia’s Ariarne Titmus from the 2023 World Championships . The 18‑year‑old, already a three‑time Olympic gold medallist, credited her exceptional performance to intense training and feeling remarkably strong, even during the final 100 m of the race .Foot notes:
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This performance not only broke the previous world record but also shaved more than a second off the mark of 3:55.38, which was held by Australian rival Ariarne Titmus.
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She had previously set the record at 3:56.08 in 2023, before Titmus broke it later that year at the World Aquatics Championships.
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With three Olympic gold medals already to her name from Paris 2024 (in 200m butterfly, 200m medley, and 400m medley), this record-breaking swim signals her formidable form and readiness to contend for more major titles.
9. Rohini Gram Panchayat Won Gold in National e-Governance Awards 2025
Rohini Gram Panchayat in Shirpur taluka of Dhule district, Maharashtra, has been awarded
the Gold Award in the newly introduced Gram Panchayat category at the National e-Governance Awards 2025, recognizing its outstanding digital governance efforts. Chosen from over 1.45 lakh entries nationwide, Rohini stood out among the four Gram Panchayats honoured, earning a trophy, certificate, and a cash prize of 10 lakh to further support its services. Rohini had previously excelled in state-level assessments, advancing to the national round where only six gram panchayats were shortlisted.
the Gold Award in the newly introduced Gram Panchayat category at the National e-Governance Awards 2025, recognizing its outstanding digital governance efforts. Chosen from over 1.45 lakh entries nationwide, Rohini stood out among the four Gram Panchayats honoured, earning a trophy, certificate, and a cash prize of 10 lakh to further support its services. Rohini had previously excelled in state-level assessments, advancing to the national round where only six gram panchayats were shortlisted.Foot notes:
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This new category, titled "Grassroots Level Initiatives for Deepening Service Delivery at Gram Panchayats or Equivalent Traditional Local Bodies," was specifically created to acknowledge outstanding digital initiatives by Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs).
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Rohini Gram Panchayat recognized for implementing over 956 digital services, significantly enhancing ease of living and improving the quality of life for citizens.
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The Gold Award includes a trophy, a certificate, and a financial incentive of 10 lakh.
10. Sarah Joseph conferred with Mathrubhumi Literary Award
Renowned Malayalam writer Sarah Joseph was honoured with the 2024 Mathrubhumi
Literary Award at a ceremony held in Kozhikode on June 7, 2025, presented by Jnanpith laureate Pratibha RayRenowned Malayalam writer Sarah Joseph was honoured with the 2024 Mathrubhumi Literary Award at a ceremony held in Kozhikode on June 7, 2025, presented by Jnanpith laureate Pratibha Ray. The award, which includes a cash prize of 3 lakh, a citation, and a sculpture by M V Devan, recognizes her lifelong contributions to literature. Sarah Joseph’s body of work, which includes notable novels and short stories, has earned her several major awards in the past, and this latest accolade reaffirms her status as a transformative figure in Malayalam literature.
Literary Award at a ceremony held in Kozhikode on June 7, 2025, presented by Jnanpith laureate Pratibha RayRenowned Malayalam writer Sarah Joseph was honoured with the 2024 Mathrubhumi Literary Award at a ceremony held in Kozhikode on June 7, 2025, presented by Jnanpith laureate Pratibha Ray. The award, which includes a cash prize of 3 lakh, a citation, and a sculpture by M V Devan, recognizes her lifelong contributions to literature. Sarah Joseph’s body of work, which includes notable novels and short stories, has earned her several major awards in the past, and this latest accolade reaffirms her status as a transformative figure in Malayalam literature.Foot notes:
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This award specifically recognizes a writer's overall contribution to Malayalam literature, acknowledging a lifetime of literary excellence and impact.
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The ceremony, held in Kozhikode on June 8, 2025, also celebrated Kozhikode's status as the 'literary city of India.'
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She has previously received numerous prestigious awards, including the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award and the Sahitya Akademi Award for her novel Aalahayude Penmakkal.
About Mathrubhumi Literary Award:
Sponsored by: Mathrubhumi
Reward: 300,000, citation, plaque
First award: 2001
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