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Current Affairs 12 & 13 April 2025
1. President Murmu Gets Honorary Doctorate in Slovakia
President Droupadi Murmu has been conferred with an honorary
doctorate by Constantine The Philosopher University in Nitra, Slovakia, during the final day of her four-day state visit to Slovakia and Portugal. This prestigious recognition celebrates her distinguished career in public service, her advocacy for social justice and inclusion, and her contributions to education, women's empowerment, and the preservation of cultural and linguistic diversity . She emphasized the importance of education in personal and national development, highlighting India's commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and global collaboration through initiatives like the National Education Policy .
doctorate by Constantine The Philosopher University in Nitra, Slovakia, during the final day of her four-day state visit to Slovakia and Portugal. This prestigious recognition celebrates her distinguished career in public service, her advocacy for social justice and inclusion, and her contributions to education, women's empowerment, and the preservation of cultural and linguistic diversity . She emphasized the importance of education in personal and national development, highlighting India's commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and global collaboration through initiatives like the National Education Policy .Foot notes:
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Honorary Doctorate: President Murmu was conferred with a Doctorate Honoris Causa degree by Slovakia's Constantine Philosopher University, recognizing her exceptional contributions to public service, social justice, and education.
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First Visit in 29 Years: This visit marks the first by an Indian president to Slovakia in nearly three decades, highlighting growing diplomatic connections between the two nations. President Murmu arrived in Slovakia at the invitation of Slovakian President Peter Pellegrini.
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Recognition of Contributions: The university awarded President Murmu the honorary degree for her work in public service and governance, advocacy for social justice and inclusion, contributions to education, women's empowerment, and preservation and promotion of cultural and linguistic diversity.
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Importance of Education: President Murmu emphasized the transformative power of education in reducing societal inequalities, stating that "education is a means not only for individual empowerment but for national development as well."
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Historic Significance: The ceremony was held at Nitra, a historic city in Slovakia, and President Murmu expressed her gratitude to the university for the recognition, highlighting the role of education in neutralizing societal inequities.
2. Madhya Pradesh Declares New Wildlife Sanctuary Named After Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
The Madhya Pradesh government has announced the establishment
of a new wildlife sanctuary named Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Abhyaran in Sagar district. Spanning 258.64 square kilometers, the sanctuary encompasses reserved forest areas in the North Sagar Forest Division, including Banda and Shahgarh tehsils . This initiative, unveiled ahead of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's 134th birth anniversary on April 14, aims to bolster biodiversity conservation and promote eco-tourism in the region. By dedicating the sanctuary to Dr. Ambedkar, the state pays tribute to his legacy of social justice while emphasizing environmental stewardship. This move reflects Madhya Pradesh's commitment to integrating ecological preservation with inclusive development .
of a new wildlife sanctuary named Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Abhyaran in Sagar district. Spanning 258.64 square kilometers, the sanctuary encompasses reserved forest areas in the North Sagar Forest Division, including Banda and Shahgarh tehsils . This initiative, unveiled ahead of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's 134th birth anniversary on April 14, aims to bolster biodiversity conservation and promote eco-tourism in the region. By dedicating the sanctuary to Dr. Ambedkar, the state pays tribute to his legacy of social justice while emphasizing environmental stewardship. This move reflects Madhya Pradesh's commitment to integrating ecological preservation with inclusive development .Foot notes:
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Enhance Ecological Balance: Strengthen the ecological food chain and conserve biodiversity
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Boost Conservation Efforts: Provide a safe shelter for wildlife and promote sustainable eco-tourism
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Generate Employment Opportunities: Create jobs for local communities through tourism and conservation initiatives
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Promote Eco-Tourism: Develop the area as a hub for wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists
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Honor Constitutional Heritage: Pay tribute to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution
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Location: Sagar district, covering North Sagar Forest Division, Banda Tehsil, and Shahgarh forest zones
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Inauguration: Planned before Ambedkar Jayanti in 2025, marking his 134th birth anniversary
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Significance: A symbol of Madhya Pradesh's commitment to environmental conservation and honoring national icons
3. Dr. Ambrish Mithal Conferred with the Prestigious IOF 2025 CSA Medal of Achievement
Dr. Ambrish Mithal has been honored with the prestigious IOF 2025
CSA Medal of Achievement, a significant recognition from the International Osteoporosis Foundation. This award celebrates his outstanding contributions to the field of bone health and endocrinology in the Asia-Pacific region. Dr. Mithal has played a pioneering role in advancing awareness, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis in India. His research and advocacy have significantly influenced public health policies related to bone and mineral disorders. The IOF acknowledged his decades-long commitment to improving patient care and promoting medical education. This global recognition marks a proud moment for Indian medical professionals and highlights Dr. Mithal's lasting impact on global health.
CSA Medal of Achievement, a significant recognition from the International Osteoporosis Foundation. This award celebrates his outstanding contributions to the field of bone health and endocrinology in the Asia-Pacific region. Dr. Mithal has played a pioneering role in advancing awareness, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis in India. His research and advocacy have significantly influenced public health policies related to bone and mineral disorders. The IOF acknowledged his decades-long commitment to improving patient care and promoting medical education. This global recognition marks a proud moment for Indian medical professionals and highlights Dr. Mithal's lasting impact on global health.Foot notes:
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Award Recognition: The medal honors individuals who have significantly advanced the field of osteoporosis through original and outstanding scientific contributions.
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Dr. Mithal's Contributions: He is recognized for establishing India's first bone density measurement service in 1996 and has continuously encouraged bone and mineral research in the region.
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Leadership Roles: Dr. Mithal has chaired the IOF's Nutrition Working Group and led the Asia Pacific Audits in 2009 and 2013, shaping global vitamin D guidelines.
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Awards and Honors: He is a recipient of the Padma Bhushan (2015), IOF President's Award (2016), and Dr. B. C. Roy Award (2017) for his contributions to endocrinology.
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Current Role: Dr. Mithal serves as Group Chairman and Head of the Endocrinology and Diabetes Department at Max Health Care in New Delhi.
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Impact: His work has increased awareness and treatment of bone and mineral disorders, and he continues to champion the fight against fragility fractures in India's aging population.
4. Singapore Airports Top The List World Airport Rankings 2025
Singapore Changi Airport has once again secured the top position in
the Skytrax World Airport Rankings for 2025, marking its 13th win in this prestigious category. Known for its exceptional amenities, Changi offers attractions like the Jewel complex, the world's tallest indoor waterfall, lush gardens, and a wide array of entertainment options, making it a destination in itself. Doha's Hamad International Airport, last year's winner, claimed the second spot, followed by Tokyo Haneda Airport in third place. These rankings underscore the continuous efforts of airports worldwide to enhance passenger experience through innovation and superior service.
the Skytrax World Airport Rankings for 2025, marking its 13th win in this prestigious category. Known for its exceptional amenities, Changi offers attractions like the Jewel complex, the world's tallest indoor waterfall, lush gardens, and a wide array of entertainment options, making it a destination in itself. Doha's Hamad International Airport, last year's winner, claimed the second spot, followed by Tokyo Haneda Airport in third place. These rankings underscore the continuous efforts of airports worldwide to enhance passenger experience through innovation and superior service.Foot notes:
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Ranking: Singapore Changi Airport secured the top spot, followed by Hamad International Airport in Doha, Qatar, at number two, and Tokyo Haneda Airport at number three.
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Award Recognition: The World Airport Awards, conducted by Skytrax, are considered the most prestigious recognition of airport excellence, with customer satisfaction surveys driving the rankings.
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Evaluation Criteria: The awards are based on passenger feedback and reviews, evaluating airports on various aspects such as terminal facilities, airport products, staff service, security, and immigration processes.
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Singapore Changi Airport's Strengths: Changi Airport is known for its exceptional passenger experience, offering a wide range of amenities, including entertainment options, shopping, and dining.
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Global Recognition: This award highlights Singapore Changi Airport's commitment to providing a world-class travel experience, solidifying its reputation as a major aviation hub.
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Industry Impact: The World Airport Awards recognize excellence in airport services, influencing passenger choices and driving airports to continually improve their facilities and services.
5. James Anderson Receives Knighthood for His Services to Cricket
James Anderson, England's most successful Test bowler, has been
awarded a knighthood in former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's resignation honours list, recognizing his exceptional contributions to cricket over a 21-year international career. Anderson retired from international cricket in July 2024, having taken 704 Test wickets—the most by any English bowler and the third-highest globally—across 188 matches. His achievements include four Ashes victories and a total of 991 wickets across all formats, solidifying his status as one of the game's greats. At 42, Anderson continues to play domestically for Lancashire, despite a recent calf injury sidelining him early in the 2025 season. This honor not only celebrates his on-field accomplishments but also his enduring influence on cricket in England and beyond.
awarded a knighthood in former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's resignation honours list, recognizing his exceptional contributions to cricket over a 21-year international career. Anderson retired from international cricket in July 2024, having taken 704 Test wickets—the most by any English bowler and the third-highest globally—across 188 matches. His achievements include four Ashes victories and a total of 991 wickets across all formats, solidifying his status as one of the game's greats. At 42, Anderson continues to play domestically for Lancashire, despite a recent calf injury sidelining him early in the 2025 season. This honor not only celebrates his on-field accomplishments but also his enduring influence on cricket in England and beyond.Foot notes:
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Knighthood Honor: James Anderson, the legendary English fast bowler, has been awarded a knighthood as part of former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's resignation honors list, recognizing his exceptional contribution to cricket.
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International Career: Anderson retired from international cricket in July 2024 after a 21-year career, playing 188 Test matches, 194 One Day Internationals, and 19 T20 internationals, becoming England's all-time leading wicket-taker in Tests with 704 wickets.
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Achievements: He was part of England's cricketing success, including four Ashes victories and a T20 World Cup title in 2010, and holds the record for the most wickets taken by an England pacer in ODI cricket with 269 scalps.
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Previous Recognition: Anderson received the Order of the British Empire (OBE) award at Buckingham Palace in London in 2016, and this knighthood is a testament to his dedication and service to the sport.
6. Ashok Kumar , Director, Department of Justice, appointed as Inspector General
Ashok Kumar, a 2006-batch IPS officer from the Himachal Pradesh
cadre, has been appointed as Inspector General in the Border Security Force (BSF) on central deputation. Prior to this, he served as Director in the Department of Justice, Ministry of Law and Justice, where he oversaw legal aid initiatives for underprivileged communities . His new appointment is effective until November 26, 2026, marking a significant role in India's border security framework . Mr. Kumar's extensive experience in law enforcement and public administration is expected to contribute significantly to the BSF's operational leadership. His appointment is part of a broader reshuffle aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of India's internal security apparatus.
cadre, has been appointed as Inspector General in the Border Security Force (BSF) on central deputation. Prior to this, he served as Director in the Department of Justice, Ministry of Law and Justice, where he oversaw legal aid initiatives for underprivileged communities . His new appointment is effective until November 26, 2026, marking a significant role in India's border security framework . Mr. Kumar's extensive experience in law enforcement and public administration is expected to contribute significantly to the BSF's operational leadership. His appointment is part of a broader reshuffle aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of India's internal security apparatus.Foot notes:
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Appointment: Ashok Kumar, Director, Department of Justice, has been appointed as Inspector General in the Border Security Force.
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Term: His appointment is valid until November 26, 2026.
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Background: Ashok Kumar is an IPS officer of the 2006 batch from the Himachal Pradesh cadre.
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New Role: As Inspector General, he will oversee and manage operations within the Border Security Force.
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Previous Experience: Although specific details about his experience in the Department of Justice are not available, his appointment suggests a strong background in law enforcement and administration.
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Simultaneous Appointments: Around the same time, other IPS officers have also received new appointments and promotions, such as G V G Ashok Kumar, who was appointed as Deputy Inspector General of Police in the Eluru Range in Andhra Pradesh, and Shri Ashok Kumar Yadav, who was transferred and appointed as Deputy Inspector General of Police in the Bhavnagar Range in Gujarat.
7. Home Credit India appoints Vivek Singh as Chief Executive Officer
Home Credit India has appointed Vivek Singh as its new Chief
Executive Officer, effective immediately following the board meeting held on April 7, 2025. Singh brings over two decades of experience in the financial services sector, having previously served for ten years at IDFC First Bank. In his new role, he is expected to steer Home Credit India into its next phase of growth, with a focus on innovation, customer-centric solutions, and financial inclusion. His leadership is anticipated to strengthen the company's position in the competitive consumer finance market. The appointment underscores Home Credit India's commitment to enhancing its leadership team to drive strategic initiatives. Singh's extensive experience and vision are poised to contribute significantly to the company's future endeavors.
Executive Officer, effective immediately following the board meeting held on April 7, 2025. Singh brings over two decades of experience in the financial services sector, having previously served for ten years at IDFC First Bank. In his new role, he is expected to steer Home Credit India into its next phase of growth, with a focus on innovation, customer-centric solutions, and financial inclusion. His leadership is anticipated to strengthen the company's position in the competitive consumer finance market. The appointment underscores Home Credit India's commitment to enhancing its leadership team to drive strategic initiatives. Singh's extensive experience and vision are poised to contribute significantly to the company's future endeavors.Foot notes:
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Appointment: Vivek Singh has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of Home Credit India, effective immediately, as approved by the Board of Home Credit in a meeting held on April 7, 2025.
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Experience: Singh brings over 20 years of extensive experience in the financial services sector, with a strong focus on building and scaling businesses, driving digital transformation, and managing large-scale operations.
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Previous Roles: He has previously worked with IDFC as Business Head for two-wheelers and with Tata Capital as National Sales Head of Commercial Vehicles.
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New Chapter for Home Credit India: Under the TVS Holdings umbrella, Singh's appointment marks a strategic move to chart the next phase of growth for Home Credit India, with a focus on scale, inclusion, and tech-led transformation.
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Leadership Role: As CEO, Singh will spearhead Home Credit India into its next phase of growth, leveraging his strong track record in scaling businesses and driving digital transformation.
8. Claypond Capital appoints Sekhar Garisa as Managing Director
Claypond Capital has appointed Sekhar Garisa as its new Managing
Director. Garisa brings with him extensive experience in business leadership and strategic growth. Prior to this, he held key roles in several prominent organizations across the financial and technology sectors. As Managing Director, he will focus on driving the firm’s investment strategies and expanding its global footprint. His appointment is expected to strengthen Claypond Capital’s leadership team and enhance its market presence.
Director. Garisa brings with him extensive experience in business leadership and strategic growth. Prior to this, he held key roles in several prominent organizations across the financial and technology sectors. As Managing Director, he will focus on driving the firm’s investment strategies and expanding its global footprint. His appointment is expected to strengthen Claypond Capital’s leadership team and enhance its market presence.Foot notes:
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Appointment Details: Sekhar Garisa has been appointed as the Managing Director of Claypond Capital, the family investment office of Manipal Group Chairman Dr. Ranjan Pai.
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Experience and Background: Garisa brings nearly two decades of cross-industry experience spanning FMCG, consumer internet, high-tech, and consulting. He has held leadership positions at Microsoft, McKinsey, and P&G.
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Previous Role: Before joining Claypond Capital, Garisa served as President of Product Businesses at Quess Corp, where he oversaw the transformation of job portal Foundit into a full-fledged talent-management platform.
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Education: Garisa is an alumnus of NIT Warangal and IIM Lucknow, holding an engineering degree and a management degree respectively.
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Claypond Capital's Focus: The investment firm focuses on backing visionary Indian entrepreneurs and has already invested in companies like Zepto, HealthifyMe, and PharmEasy. With Garisa's appointment, the firm is likely to step up investments in young Indian companies.
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Dr. Ranjan Pai's Comments: Dr. Pai expressed excitement about Garisa joining the team, stating that his experience and skill sets will add tremendous value to the portfolio companies and founders.
9. Campa ropes in Ram Charan as brand ambassador
Campa, the iconic Indian beverage brand owned by Reliance
Consumer Products Ltd, has appointed actor Ram Charan as its new brand ambassador. This collaboration introduces the 'Campa Wali Zidd' marketing campaign, which highlights themes of determination, resilience, and personal grit. The campaign features a high-octane brand film showcasing Ram Charan performing his own stunts, portraying a narrative of overcoming challenges through unwavering focus and commitment. Set to debut during the IPL 2025 season, the campaign aims to reach a wide audience across television, connected TV, and mobile platforms. Prasoon Joshi, Chairman and CEO of McCann Worldgroup India, emphasized that the campaign seeks to resonate with the relentless drive of today's youth, with Ram Charan embodying this spirit through his journey of dedication and transformation.
Consumer Products Ltd, has appointed actor Ram Charan as its new brand ambassador. This collaboration introduces the 'Campa Wali Zidd' marketing campaign, which highlights themes of determination, resilience, and personal grit. The campaign features a high-octane brand film showcasing Ram Charan performing his own stunts, portraying a narrative of overcoming challenges through unwavering focus and commitment. Set to debut during the IPL 2025 season, the campaign aims to reach a wide audience across television, connected TV, and mobile platforms. Prasoon Joshi, Chairman and CEO of McCann Worldgroup India, emphasized that the campaign seeks to resonate with the relentless drive of today's youth, with Ram Charan embodying this spirit through his journey of dedication and transformation.Foot notes:
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Appointment: Ram Charan, the South Indian superstar, has been announced as the new brand ambassador for Campa, an iconic Indian beverage brand that debuted in March 2023.
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Campaign Launch: The brand has launched a new marketing campaign called "Campa Wali Zidd" which embodies determination, resilience, and personal grit, perfectly aligning with Ram Charan's own transformative journey.
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Target Audience: The campaign targets millennials and Gen Z audiences, resonating with the evolving values of today's youth and celebrating young Indians who face challenges head-on with clarity and intent.
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Key Message: The "Campa Wali Zidd" campaign emphasizes that true progress stems from resilience and the courage to keep going, inspiring viewers to pursue their goals with unshakable resolve.
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Launch Timing: The campaign will make its debut during the high-profile IPL season, reaching millions of viewers across television, connected TV, and mobile platforms.
10. Ex-Real Madrid Coach Leo Beenhakker passed away
Leo Beenhakker, the esteemed Dutch football coach, passed away
on April 10, 2025, at the age of 82. Over a distinguished career spanning five decades, he managed top clubs and national teams, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. At Real Madrid, he secured three consecutive La Liga titles from 1986 to 1989, along with a Copa del Rey and two Supercopa de España victories, earning him the nickname "Don Leo" . His domestic success also included Eredivisie titles with Ajax in 1980 and 1990, and with Feyenoord in 1999 . Internationally, Beenhakker led the Netherlands at the 1990 World Cup and guided Trinidad and Tobago to their first-ever World Cup appearance in 2006 . Tributes have poured in from clubs and players worldwide, honoring his visionary leadership and lasting contributions to football.
on April 10, 2025, at the age of 82. Over a distinguished career spanning five decades, he managed top clubs and national teams, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. At Real Madrid, he secured three consecutive La Liga titles from 1986 to 1989, along with a Copa del Rey and two Supercopa de España victories, earning him the nickname "Don Leo" . His domestic success also included Eredivisie titles with Ajax in 1980 and 1990, and with Feyenoord in 1999 . Internationally, Beenhakker led the Netherlands at the 1990 World Cup and guided Trinidad and Tobago to their first-ever World Cup appearance in 2006 . Tributes have poured in from clubs and players worldwide, honoring his visionary leadership and lasting contributions to football.Foot notes:
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Career Highlights: Beenhakker had a storied career spanning decades and continents, managing numerous clubs in Europe and Mexico, as well as several national teams.
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Real Madrid Tenure: He led Real Madrid between 1986 and 1989, and in 1992, winning three LaLiga titles, one Copa del Rey, and two Spanish Super Cups during his tenure.
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Tactical Brilliance: Beenhakker was known for his tactical brilliance, charismatic personality, and global football influence, leaving a profound impact on clubs and national teams.
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Quinta del Buitre Era: He oversaw the iconic "Quinta del Buitre" era at Real Madrid, guiding a golden generation of players that included Emilio Butragueño, Míchel, and Manolo Sanchís.
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Other Achievements: With Ajax Amsterdam, Beenhakker won two Dutch leagues, and with Feyenoord, he secured two Dutch Leagues and two Dutch Super Cups. He also managed the Netherlands, Trinidad and Tobago, Saudi Arabia, and Poland as a national coach.
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