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Current Affairs 12 May 2025
1. Nirupama Devi Finishes 4th at Asian Weightlifting Championships
Nirupama Devi delivered an impressive performance at the Asian
Weightlifting Championships, finishing in fourth place. Competing against elite athletes from across the continent, she showcased remarkable strength and determination. Although she narrowly missed out on a medal, her consistent lifts kept her among the top contenders. This result highlights her growing potential on the international stage. Her performance is a proud moment for Indian weightlifting and a promising sign for future competitions.
Weightlifting Championships, finishing in fourth place. Competing against elite athletes from across the continent, she showcased remarkable strength and determination. Although she narrowly missed out on a medal, her consistent lifts kept her among the top contenders. This result highlights her growing potential on the international stage. Her performance is a proud moment for Indian weightlifting and a promising sign for future competitions.Foot notes:
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Final Ranking: She finished 4th in the competition, narrowly missing the bronze medal.
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Lift Details: Devi successfully lifted 91kg in snatch and 115kg in clean and jerk, totaling 206kg. However, she failed to lift 120kg and 125kg in the clean and jerk section, which cost her the bronze medal.
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Medal Winners: The gold medal was won by China's Li Shuang with a total lift of 239kg (105kg + 134kg), while the silver medal went to Elreen Ann Ando of the Philippines with a total lift of 232kg (102kg + 130kg). Mun Min-hee of South Korea took the bronze medal with a total lift of 214kg (94kg + 120kg).
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Indian Team Performance: India sent a two-member team to the championships, with Dilbag Singh set to compete in the men's 96kg event on Tuesday.
2. Bhutan launched the World’s first National-level Cryptocurrency Tourism Payment System
Bhutan has made history by launching the world’s first national-level
cryptocurrency tourism payment system. This innovative move aims to modernize the country's tourism sector by offering digital and seamless payment options for international visitors. Tourists can now use cryptocurrency to pay for services such as hotels, travel bookings, and local experiences. The initiative is part of Bhutan's broader vision to integrate advanced financial technologies while maintaining sustainable tourism practices. By adopting blockchain-based payments, the country enhances transparency, security, and efficiency in transactions. This bold step positions Bhutan as a global pioneer in combining fintech and tourism on a national scale.
cryptocurrency tourism payment system. This innovative move aims to modernize the country's tourism sector by offering digital and seamless payment options for international visitors. Tourists can now use cryptocurrency to pay for services such as hotels, travel bookings, and local experiences. The initiative is part of Bhutan's broader vision to integrate advanced financial technologies while maintaining sustainable tourism practices. By adopting blockchain-based payments, the country enhances transparency, security, and efficiency in transactions. This bold step positions Bhutan as a global pioneer in combining fintech and tourism on a national scale.Foot notes:
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Partnership: Bhutan has partnered with Binance Pay and DK Bank to roll out this innovative payment system, allowing tourists to use digital currencies for various services during their stay.
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Cryptocurrency Support: The system supports over 100 cryptocurrencies, including BNB, BTC, and USDC, and enables real-time transactions using dynamic or static QR codes through the Binance app.
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Benefits for Locals: This initiative empowers local businesses, including small-scale artisans and vendors in remote areas, to accept cryptocurrency payments with just a smartphone and a QR code, promoting financial inclusion.
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Tourism Experience: The payment system simplifies travel logistics by reducing transaction fees and currency exchange challenges, allowing tourists to enjoy a cashless and card-free experience in Bhutan.
3. Kynan and Sabeera win Bronze in Mixed Trap Event at Shotgun World Cup
Olympian Kynan Chenai and Sabeera Haris clinched a bronze
medal for India in the trap mixed team event at the ISSF Shotgun World Cup 2025 held in Nicosia, Cyprus. The Indian duo edged out Turkey's Tolga Tuncer and Pelin Kaya with a narrow 34-33 victory in the bronze-medal match at the Cyprus Olympic Shooting Range. In the qualification round, they secured fourth place among 34 teams, amassing a combined score of 142—Sabeera contributing 72 and Kynan 70. This bronze marks India's first medal at the tournament, with China taking gold and Poland securing silver in the event. The second Indian pair, Shardul Vihan and Kirti Gupta, finished 17th with a score of 137. Kynan and Sabeera's podium finish underscores India's growing prowess in international shooting competitions.
medal for India in the trap mixed team event at the ISSF Shotgun World Cup 2025 held in Nicosia, Cyprus. The Indian duo edged out Turkey's Tolga Tuncer and Pelin Kaya with a narrow 34-33 victory in the bronze-medal match at the Cyprus Olympic Shooting Range. In the qualification round, they secured fourth place among 34 teams, amassing a combined score of 142—Sabeera contributing 72 and Kynan 70. This bronze marks India's first medal at the tournament, with China taking gold and Poland securing silver in the event. The second Indian pair, Shardul Vihan and Kirti Gupta, finished 17th with a score of 137. Kynan and Sabeera's podium finish underscores India's growing prowess in international shooting competitions.Foot notes:
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Bronze Medal Win: Kynan Chenai and Sabeera Haris secured the bronze medal by defeating Turkey's Tolga Tuncer and Rumeysa Pelin Kaya with a score of 34-33 in the bronze playoff match.
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Qualification Round Performance: The Indian pair finished fourth in the qualification round with a combined score of 142, behind Poland, China, and Turkey. Sabeera scored 72, while Kynan shot 70.
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Kynan's Experience Key to Victory: Kynan's international experience played a crucial role in the bronze match, as he shot 23 out of 25 targets, outperforming Turkey's Tolga who hit 17 targets.
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India's First Shotgun Medal: This bronze medal was India's first shotgun medal at the 2025 ISSF World Cup season, marking a significant achievement for the Indian shooting contingent.
4. Virat Kohli announces Retirement from Test Cricket
Indian cricket legend Virat Kohli has announced his retirement from
Test cricket, concluding a remarkable 14-year career in the longest format of the game. The 36-year-old made the announcement on May 12, 2025, just days after fellow cricketer Rohit Sharma also stepped away from Test cricket. Kohli's Test career boasts 123 matches, during which he amassed 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and 31 fifties. He served as India's Test captain from 2014 to 2022, leading the team to 40 victories in 68 matches, making him the most successful Indian Test captain and placing him fourth globally for most Test wins as captain .Kohli's retirement marks the end of an era for Indian cricket, as he follows closely on the heels of Rohit Sharma's departure from the format.
Test cricket, concluding a remarkable 14-year career in the longest format of the game. The 36-year-old made the announcement on May 12, 2025, just days after fellow cricketer Rohit Sharma also stepped away from Test cricket. Kohli's Test career boasts 123 matches, during which he amassed 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and 31 fifties. He served as India's Test captain from 2014 to 2022, leading the team to 40 victories in 68 matches, making him the most successful Indian Test captain and placing him fourth globally for most Test wins as captain .Kohli's retirement marks the end of an era for Indian cricket, as he follows closely on the heels of Rohit Sharma's departure from the format. Foot notes:
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Career Statistics: Kohli played 113 Test matches, scoring 9,230 runs at an average of 48.67, including 30 centuries and 31 fifties. His highest score was an unbeaten 254 against South Africa in Pune.
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Captaincy Legacy: As Test captain, Kohli led India in 68 matches, winning 40 — the most by any Indian captain. Under his leadership, India reached two consecutive ICC World Test Championship finals and climbed to the No. 1 Test ranking.
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Following Rohit Sharma's Footsteps: Kohli's retirement comes just a week after fellow senior player Rohit Sharma announced his retirement from Test cricket, both informing the BCCI of their decisions before the upcoming Test series against England.
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Future Plans: Although Kohli has retired from Test cricket and previously from T20 cricket after India's T20 World Cup triumph, he is expected to continue playing ODIs, where he has amassed a record-breaking 51 centuries.
5. Shri Satish Upadhyaya, Honoured with ‘Biomass Changemaker of the Year’ Award 2025
Shri Satish Upadhyay, Mission Director of the SAMARTH Mission,
was honored with the 'Biomass Changemaker of the Year' Award at the 4th BBB Summit & Expo held in New Delhi on May 8–9, 2025. This recognition celebrates his pivotal role in advancing biomass utilization and promoting sustainable energy practices in India. Under his leadership, the SAMARTH Mission has been instrumental in integrating agri-residue into thermal power plants, thereby reducing carbon emissions and enhancing rural economies. The award underscores his commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration in the bioenergy sector.
was honored with the 'Biomass Changemaker of the Year' Award at the 4th BBB Summit & Expo held in New Delhi on May 8–9, 2025. This recognition celebrates his pivotal role in advancing biomass utilization and promoting sustainable energy practices in India. Under his leadership, the SAMARTH Mission has been instrumental in integrating agri-residue into thermal power plants, thereby reducing carbon emissions and enhancing rural economies. The award underscores his commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration in the bioenergy sector.Foot notes:
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Contribution to Bioenergy: He emphasized the importance of viewing biomass supply chain management from the demand side and enhancing demand creation for the development of market-driven mechanisms for biomass offtake.
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Environmental and Social Benefits: Upadhyay highlighted that biomass utilization has critical environmental and social benefits for the country, and the SAMARTH Mission's work on biomass co-firing is increasing biomass utilization in power generation.
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Expertise in Biomass Supply Chain: His expertise in biomass supply chain management was showcased at a national seminar organized by Sardar Swaran Singh National Institute of Bio-Energy Technology (SSS-NIBE), where he stressed the need for efficient biomass supply chains to support India's transition to a circular bio-economy.
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Award Recognition: Although specific details about the award ceremony are not available, the recognition as ‘Biomass Changemaker of the Year’ Award 2025 underscores Upadhyay's commitment to innovation and leadership in the biomass sector.
6. Justice Surya Kant appointed as NALSA Executive Chairman
Justice Surya Kant has been appointed as the Executive Chairman
of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), effective from May 14, 2025. This appointment follows the convention of the second senior-most judge of the Supreme Court assuming the role, succeeding Justice B.R. Gavai, who is set to become the 52nd Chief Justice of India. Justice Surya Kant, currently serving as the Chairman of the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee, has been instrumental in promoting access to justice and advocating for legal aid reforms. His leadership is anticipated to further NALSA's mission of providing free and accessible legal aid to marginalized and economically weaker sections across the country.
of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), effective from May 14, 2025. This appointment follows the convention of the second senior-most judge of the Supreme Court assuming the role, succeeding Justice B.R. Gavai, who is set to become the 52nd Chief Justice of India. Justice Surya Kant, currently serving as the Chairman of the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee, has been instrumental in promoting access to justice and advocating for legal aid reforms. His leadership is anticipated to further NALSA's mission of providing free and accessible legal aid to marginalized and economically weaker sections across the country.Foot notes:
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Background: Justice Kant succeeds Justice BR Gavai, who is set to be sworn in as the 52nd Chief Justice of India (CJI) on May 14. As per convention, the post of NALSA Executive Chairman is occupied by the second senior-most judge of the Supreme Court of India.
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Role and Responsibilities: As Executive Chairman, Justice Surya Kant will lead NALSA's mission to provide accessible and free legal aid to all citizens, particularly those from marginalized and economically weaker sections of society across India.
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Experience: Prior to his nomination, Justice Kant has played a significant role in advancing access to justice and has been a strong proponent of legal aid and institutional reforms in the justice delivery system. He currently chairs the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee (SCLSC).
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Significance: Justice Kant's appointment is expected to strengthen India's access-to-justice framework and reinforce the constitutional duty to promote social justice, aligning with NALSA's mission to uphold the constitutional mandate under Article 39-A.
7. ANJ Group appoints Kushal Kunder as Chief Operating Officer
ANJ Group, a leading design and build firm in India, has appointed
Kushal Kunder as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO). Bringing over two decades of experience in operations and strategic leadership, Kunder is expected to play a pivotal role in driving the company's growth and operational excellence. His appointment aligns with ANJ Group's vision to enhance efficiency and deliver innovative solutions in the design and construction industry. Kunder's expertise will be instrumental in streamlining processes and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the organization. This move underscores ANJ Group's commitment to strengthening its leadership to navigate the evolving demands of the industry.
Kushal Kunder as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO). Bringing over two decades of experience in operations and strategic leadership, Kunder is expected to play a pivotal role in driving the company's growth and operational excellence. His appointment aligns with ANJ Group's vision to enhance efficiency and deliver innovative solutions in the design and construction industry. Kunder's expertise will be instrumental in streamlining processes and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the organization. This move underscores ANJ Group's commitment to strengthening its leadership to navigate the evolving demands of the industry.Foot notes:
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Experience: Kunder brings over 28 years of experience in the real estate industry, having worked with prominent organizations such as CBRE, K Raheja Realty, and Skanska, where he developed expertise in construction, project management, and leadership.
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Role: As COO, Kunder will focus on sharpening operational capabilities, streamlining execution, and supporting the company's ambitious expansion plans across new geographies and sectors.
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ANJ Group's Background: ANJ Group is a 1000+ strong workforce company that delivers over 2.5 million square feet of built space annually across India, known for its ability to bring client visions to life through design and precision.
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Goals: With Kunder's appointment, ANJ Group aims to further enhance its growth and transformation, leveraging his technical expertise and leadership skills to deliver world-class spaces and achieve its business objectives.
8. Equirus appoints Ganesh Sankaran as Vice Chairman
Equirus Capital has appointed Ganesh Sankaran as its Vice
Chairman, marking a significant addition to its leadership team. Sankaran brings over three decades of experience in the banking and financial services sector, having previously served as Executive Director at Federal Bank. In his new role, he is expected to leverage his extensive expertise to drive strategic initiatives and strengthen Equirus's position in the investment banking industry. Sankaran's appointment aligns with Equirus's commitment to enhancing its service offerings and expanding its market presence. His leadership is anticipated to play a pivotal role in steering the company's growth trajectory and fostering innovation.
Chairman, marking a significant addition to its leadership team. Sankaran brings over three decades of experience in the banking and financial services sector, having previously served as Executive Director at Federal Bank. In his new role, he is expected to leverage his extensive expertise to drive strategic initiatives and strengthen Equirus's position in the investment banking industry. Sankaran's appointment aligns with Equirus's commitment to enhancing its service offerings and expanding its market presence. His leadership is anticipated to play a pivotal role in steering the company's growth trajectory and fostering innovation. Foot notes:
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Experience: Sankaran brings over three decades of experience in banking and financial services, having held prominent roles at HDFC Bank, Federal Bank, and Axis Bank. He is recognized for his strategic vision, business-building expertise, and strong execution capabilities.
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Leadership: As Vice Chairman, Sankaran will play a pivotal role in shaping the firm's growth roadmap and bolstering its leadership across core business verticals. He will work closely with the leadership teams to build on the company's momentum and create long-term value for clients and stakeholders.
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Appointment Significance: The appointment underscores Equirus Group's commitment to strengthening its leadership team for its next phase of expansion. Sankaran's experience and expertise will help enhance the company's capabilities and better serve its clients.
9. International Nurses Day observed on 12th May
International Nurses Day was observed on 12th May to honor the
invaluable contributions of nurses worldwide. The date marks the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. This year’s celebration highlighted the critical role nurses play in healthcare systems, particularly in the wake of global health challenges. Various events, campaigns, and awareness programs were held across the globe to recognize their dedication and resilience. Health institutions and governments expressed gratitude towards nurses for their unwavering commitment to patient care. The day served as a reminder of the need to invest in nursing education, safety, and workforce development.
invaluable contributions of nurses worldwide. The date marks the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. This year’s celebration highlighted the critical role nurses play in healthcare systems, particularly in the wake of global health challenges. Various events, campaigns, and awareness programs were held across the globe to recognize their dedication and resilience. Health institutions and governments expressed gratitude towards nurses for their unwavering commitment to patient care. The day served as a reminder of the need to invest in nursing education, safety, and workforce development.Foot notes:
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Founder and History: The International Council of Nurses (ICN) has observed this day since 1965. The idea was first proposed in 1953 by Dorothy Sutherland, an official with the U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare, but it wasn't officially recognized until January 1974.
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Role of Nurses: Nurses play a vital role in healthcare systems globally, providing compassionate care, education, and support to patients. Their responsibilities extend beyond bedside care to advocacy, research, and community engagement.
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Themes and Celebrations: Each year, ICN designates a theme for International Nurses Day. The 2025 theme is "Nurses: A Voice to Lead – Delivering Quality, Securing Equity". Celebrations include award ceremonies, public awareness initiatives, workshops, and tributes to nurses.
10. Margot Friedlander Renowned Witness to Nazi Persecution passed away
Margot Friedländer, a renowned Holocaust survivor and educator,
passed away on May 9, 2025, in Berlin at the age of 103. Born Anni Margot Bendheim in 1921, she survived the Theresienstadt concentration camp after losing her mother and brother to Auschwitz. Following the war, she emigrated to the United States, where she lived for over six decades with her husband, Adolf Friedländer, another Holocaust survivor. In 2010, at the age of 88, she returned to Berlin and dedicated her life to Holocaust education, speaking to German youth about her experiences and advocating against antisemitism and racism. Her memoir, Try to Make Your Life, published in 2008, encapsulated her mother's final words and her journey of survival and resilience.
passed away on May 9, 2025, in Berlin at the age of 103. Born Anni Margot Bendheim in 1921, she survived the Theresienstadt concentration camp after losing her mother and brother to Auschwitz. Following the war, she emigrated to the United States, where she lived for over six decades with her husband, Adolf Friedländer, another Holocaust survivor. In 2010, at the age of 88, she returned to Berlin and dedicated her life to Holocaust education, speaking to German youth about her experiences and advocating against antisemitism and racism. Her memoir, Try to Make Your Life, published in 2008, encapsulated her mother's final words and her journey of survival and resilience.Foot notes:
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Life Story: Born in 1921, Friedlander experienced the horrors of the Nazi regime firsthand. She was deported to the Theresienstadt concentration camp in 1943 but managed to escape and went into hiding.
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Advocate for Awareness: After the war, Friedlander dedicated her life to sharing her experiences and raising awareness about the atrocities committed during the Holocaust. She gave talks and interviews, ensuring that future generations would learn from history.
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Public Recognition: Friedlander's story gained significant public attention, especially after a book and documentary featured her life. She became a symbol of resilience and a voice for Holocaust remembrance.
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Legacy: Margot Friedlander's passing marks the loss of a significant historical witness. Her legacy lives on through her story, which continues to educate and remind people of the importance of combating hatred and intolerance.
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