Current Affairs 13 & 14 March 2025

1. Jayshree Vencatesan, first Indian to Receive Ramsar Award for Wetland Wise Use
Jayshree Vencatesan has become the first Indian to receive the
prestigious Ramsar Award for Wetland Wise Use. The award recognizes her remarkable contributions to the conservation and sustainable management of wetlands in India. As a passionate environmentalist, Vencatesan has played a crucial role in promoting community participation and scientific approaches to wetland preservation. Her efforts have significantly impacted the protection of vital wetland ecosystems, ensuring their sustainable use for future generations. This global recognition highlights her dedication to environmental stewardship and inspires others to follow in her footsteps.

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Ramsar Award Recipient: Jayshree Vencatesan became the first Indian to receive the prestigious Ramsar Award for Wetland Wise Use.
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Conservation Efforts: Vencatesan has been instrumental in conserving the Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu, India.
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Wetland Expertise: Her work focuses on wetland conservation, management, and wise use, highlighting the importance of these ecosystems for biodiversity and human well-being.
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International Recognition: The Ramsar Award recognizes Vencatesan's outstanding contributions to wetland conservation and management, both nationally and internationally.
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Inspiring Others: Vencatesan's achievement serves as an inspiration to conservationists, researchers, and policymakers, promoting the importance of protecting wetlands and their ecosystem services.
2. India Becomes the Top Source of FDI into Dubai
India has emerged as the top source of Foreign Direct Investment
(FDI) into Dubai. This achievement highlights the strong economic ties between India and the UAE, reflecting India's growing global investment footprint. The surge in FDI from India has significantly contributed to Dubai's economic growth and diversification. Key sectors attracting Indian investment include real estate, technology, and infrastructure. This milestone underscores India's role as a major player in the international investment landscape.

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India's Rise to the Top: India has surpassed other countries to become the top source of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into Dubai, reflecting the growing economic ties between India and the UAE.
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FDI Figures: According to the Dubai Investment Development Agency (Dubai FDI), India accounted for a significant share of FDI into Dubai, with investments totaling billions of dirhams.
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Diversified Investments: Indian investors have diversified their investments across various sectors in Dubai, including real estate, manufacturing, logistics, and financial services.
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Strategic Partnership: The UAE and India have a strategic partnership, with the UAE being one of India's largest trading partners. This partnership has facilitated increased investment flows between the two countries.
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Growing Economic Ties: India's rise as the top source of FDI into Dubai reflects the growing economic ties between the two countries, driven by factors such as trade agreements, investment incentives, and cultural exchange.
3. CCRH Signs MoU to Promote Research in Homoeopathy
The Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy (CCRH) has
signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote research and development in homoeopathy. This collaboration aims to enhance scientific studies and evidence-based practices in the field. The MoU will facilitate joint research initiatives, capacity building, and knowledge exchange among stakeholders. It marks a significant step towards integrating homoeopathy into mainstream healthcare through rigorous research. The partnership is expected to boost innovation and credibility in homoeopathic treatment approaches.

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Partnership Details: The Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy (CCRH) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Adamas University, Kolkata, to enhance academic and research collaboration in Homoeopathy.
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Objectives: The MoU aims to promote scientific research, knowledge exchange, and interdisciplinary studies in Homoeopathy, as well as to integrate Homoeopathy into mainstream healthcare.
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Key Areas of Focus: The partnership will focus on fostering academic and research collaboration, promoting scientific advancements, and encouraging evidence-based research in Homoeopathy.
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Benefits: The MoU is expected to contribute to the broader acceptance and integration of Homoeopathy in mainstream healthcare, ultimately benefiting the masses.
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Previous Collaborations: CCRH has previously collaborated with other institutions, such as AIIMS Bhubaneswar, to promote research in Homoeopathy and integrate it into existing healthcare systems.
4. India Bags Four Medals Including Two Gold At Special Olympics World Winter
India has achieved a remarkable feat by bagging four medals,
including two gold, at the Special Olympics World Winter Games. The athletes showcased outstanding performance in various winter sports, bringing pride to the nation. The two gold medals reflect the hard work and dedication of the Indian contingent. Along with the golds, India also secured silver and bronze medals, highlighting the diverse talent of the team. This accomplishment marks a significant milestone in India's journey in international winter sports.

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Gold Medal Winners: Bharti and Sameer stood atop the podium, winning gold medals in the Snowboarding event in Bardonecchia.
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Silver Medal Winners: Hem Chand and Harshita Thakur captured silver medals in the Novice Giant Slalom Final.
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Indian Contingent: A 49-member contingent, comprising 30 athletes and 19 support staff, is representing India at the tournament.
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Global Participation: The event features around 1,500 athletes with intellectual disabilities from 102 countries, promoting inclusivity and representation in the sporting world.
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Sports Disciplines: The Indian athletes are competing across six disciplines: Alpine Skiing, Cross Country Skiing, Floorball, Short-track Speed Skating, Snowboarding, and Snowshoeing.
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India's Past Record: India has a strong track record at the Special Olympics World Winter Games, having won a total of 167 medals in previous editions, including 73 gold, 49 silver, and 45 bronze medals.
5. Batsman Shubman Gill Retains Top Position in ODI Ranking
Indian batsman Shubman Gill has retained his top position in the ICC
ODI rankings. His consistent performances and remarkable batting skills have kept him at the pinnacle of the list. Gill’s dominance in the format reflects his dedication and talent on the field. Fans and cricket experts alike have praised his ability to perform under pressure. Maintaining the top spot is a testament to his hard work and commitment to the game.

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Career-Best Ranking: Gill has reached a career-best ranking of number one in the ICC ODI batting rankings, surpassing notable players like Babar Azam.
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Consistent Performance: Gill's consistent performance in ODIs has earned him a total of 2450 runs, with a batting average of 59.76.
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Rise to the Top: Gill overtook Babar Azam to become the number one ranked ODI batter, with 830 points.
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Indian Batters in the Rankings: Apart from Gill, other Indian batters like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma also feature in the top 10 of the ICC ODI batting rankings.
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Gill's Impressive Record: Gill has had an impressive record in ODIs, scoring 1449 runs in 2023 at an average of 63 and a strike rate of 103.72, including 7 centuries and 5 half-centuries.
6. ICC announced Shubman Gill and Alana King Shine as ICC Men’s and Women’s Player of the Month Awards for February 2025
The ICC has announced Shubman Gill and Alana King as the
winners of the ICC Men’s and Women’s Player of the Month awards for February 2025. Gill’s exceptional performances with the bat have earned him recognition on the global stage. Meanwhile, Alana King’s remarkable contributions in women’s cricket have secured her the prestigious honor. Both players have demonstrated outstanding skills and consistency throughout the month. Their achievements reflect their dedication and impact on the game.

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Shubman Gill Wins ICC Men's Player of the Month: India's Shubman Gill has been awarded the ICC Men's Player of the Month for February 2025, thanks to his outstanding performances in the ODI series against England and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
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Gill's Exceptional Form: Gill scored 406 runs in five ODIs at an average of 101.50 and a strike rate of 94.19, including three consecutive half-centuries against England.
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Alana King Wins ICC Women's Player of the Month: Australia's Alana King has been named the ICC Women's Player of the Month for February 2025, following her impressive bowling spells in the standalone Ashes Test match victory over England in Melbourne.
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King's Ashes Heroics: King took 9 wickets in the Ashes Test, including a career-best spell of 5/53 in the second innings, leading Australia to victory.
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Gill Outshines Strong Contenders: Gill beat out strong contenders like Australia's Steve Smith and New Zealand's Glenn Phillips to secure his third ICC Player of the Month title.
7. Delhi International Airport Wins Prestigious ASQ Award for Best Airport in Asia-Pacific
Delhi International Airport has been honored with the prestigious
ASQ Award for being the best airport in the Asia-Pacific region. This recognition highlights the airport's exceptional services, passenger experience, and operational efficiency. The award is a testament to the continuous efforts made to enhance facilities and maintain high standards. It showcases Delhi Airport’s commitment to providing a world-class experience to travelers. This achievement further cements its reputation as a leading aviation hub in the region.

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Award Category: Delhi Airport won the award in the category of over 40 Million Passengers Per Annum (MPPA).
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Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Program: The ASQ program is a global benchmarking program that measures passenger satisfaction through surveys.
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Passenger Satisfaction: Delhi Airport's win is based on passenger surveys that rated their satisfaction with the airport's services, including ease of navigation, check-in, shopping, and dining.
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Cleanest Airport: In addition to being named the Best Airport, Delhi Airport was also recognized as the Cleanest Airport in the Asia-Pacific region.
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Previous Wins: Delhi Airport has consistently been ranked among the best airports in Asia-Pacific, winning the ASQ Award for five consecutive years prior to this sixth win.
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Operational Excellence: The airport's win is a testament to its commitment to operational excellence, customer satisfaction, and adherence to global aviation standards.
8. Ather Energy appoints Saurabh Sharma as Head of Marketing
Ather Energy has appointed Saurabh Sharma as the new Head of
Marketing. With his extensive experience in brand strategy and marketing, Sharma is expected to drive the company’s growth and strengthen its market presence. His leadership will play a key role in enhancing brand visibility and customer engagement. Ather Energy aims to leverage his expertise to accelerate its journey as a leading electric vehicle manufacturer. This appointment reflects the company's commitment to innovation and expansion in the EV sector.

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Experience: He brings over 15 years of experience in brand building and strategic marketing across industries, having worked with Nerolac Paints and Mahindra SUVs prior to joining Ather.
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Responsibilities: As Head of Marketing, Saurabh will lead Ather's marketing strategy, focusing on brand positioning, customer engagement, and long-term growth.
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Achievements: Saurabh has been instrumental in scaling operations, expanding Ather's market presence, and driving business strategy in his previous roles.
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Leadership Expectations: His leadership is expected to drive innovative marketing strategies and strengthen Ather Energy's position in the EV industry.
9. Salman Khan becomes brand ambassador for Indian Supercross Racing League
Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has been appointed as the brand
ambassador for the Indian Supercross Racing League. His association with the league is expected to boost its popularity and attract a wider audience to the thrilling sport of supercross racing. As a passionate supporter of sports and fitness, Salman Khan’s involvement aligns well with the league’s dynamic and adventurous spirit. His presence is likely to enhance the league’s brand value and inspire young enthusiasts to participate. This collaboration marks a significant step in promoting supercross racing in India.

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Ambassador Role: Salman Khan has been appointed as the brand ambassador for the Indian Supercross Racing League (ISRL), aiming to elevate the sport's popularity in India.
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Motorsport Passion: Khan's passion for motorcycles and motorsports makes him an ideal fit for this role, and he's excited to be part of something he's truly passionate about.
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League's Vision: The ISRL aims to revolutionize motorsports in India with a long-term vision, and Khan's association is expected to boost the league's reach and make Supercross a household name.
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Family Entertainment Experience: ISRL Season 2 promises to be a complete family entertainment experience, with Khan at the forefront, making the sport more accessible and engaging for fans of all ages.
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Game-Changer for Motorsports: Khan's endorsement represents a game-changer for motorsports in India, taking the league into a new age of mainstream sports entertainment.
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Global Recognition: The ISRL has firmly placed India on the global motorsports map, and Khan's presence is expected to elevate Indian riders to the global stage.
10. Former Indian cricket, allrounder Syed Abid Ali, a key player during the 1960s and 70s, passed away
Former Indian cricketer Syed Abid Ali, a prominent all-rounder during
the 1960s and 70s, has passed away. Known for his exceptional contributions with both bat and ball, he played a crucial role in several memorable matches for India. Abid Ali's dynamic performances made him a vital part of the team during his cricketing career. His passing marks the end of an era and leaves a void in the cricketing community. Fans and fellow cricketers mourn the loss of this talented sportsman.

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Career Span: Abid Ali played for India from 1967 to 1975, featuring in 29 Test matches and 5 One Day Internationals (ODIs).
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All-Rounder: He was a versatile player who contributed to the team as a lower-order batsman, medium-pace bowler, and exceptional fielder.
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Test Debut: Abid Ali made his Test debut against Australia in Brisbane in 1967-68, taking 6 wickets for 55 runs.
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Notable Performances: He scored 78 and 81 runs in the same series against Australia and later top-scored with 70 runs against New Zealand in the 1975 World Cup.
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Coaching Career: After retiring from cricket, Abid Ali went on to coach the junior team of Hyderabad and later coached the Maldives and the UAE.
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Legacy: Abid Ali's contributions to Indian cricket have been remembered fondly, with former cricketer Sunil Gavaskar praising his skills and sportsmanship.
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