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Current Affairs 13 May 2025
1. Health Minister Y Satya Yadav presented Florence Nightingale Awards to nurses
Union Health Minister Y Satya Yadav recently presented the
prestigious Florence Nightingale Awards to recognize the outstanding contributions of nurses across India. The awards honor nurses for their dedication, compassion, and exceptional service in the healthcare sector. This annual recognition is named after Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. The ceremony celebrated the pivotal role nurses play in patient care, especially during public health crises. Minister Yadav praised the awardees for their unwavering commitment and tireless efforts in improving public health.
prestigious Florence Nightingale Awards to recognize the outstanding contributions of nurses across India. The awards honor nurses for their dedication, compassion, and exceptional service in the healthcare sector. This annual recognition is named after Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. The ceremony celebrated the pivotal role nurses play in patient care, especially during public health crises. Minister Yadav praised the awardees for their unwavering commitment and tireless efforts in improving public health.Foot notes:
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Award Presentation: The President of India presented the National Florence Nightingale Awards 2024 to 15 nursing professionals in recognition of their outstanding commitment to duty and service to the community.
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Award Details: Each award consists of a Certificate of Merit, a Cash Award of Rs.1,00,000/-, and a medal, given to outstanding nursing personnel employed in Central, State/UTs, and Voluntary Organizations.
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Categories: The awards were presented in three main categories: ANM (Auxiliary Nurse Midwife), LHV (Lady Health Visitor), and Nurse, acknowledging registered nurses across various specializations.
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Awardees: The recipients represented various states and union territories, reflecting the nationwide impact of nursing excellence, with notable awardees including Maj Gen Ignatius Delos Flora from Delhi and Dr. Tabasum Irshad Handoo from Jammu & Kashmir.
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Significance: The awards motivate nursing professionals to strive for excellence, raise awareness about the critical role of nurses in healthcare delivery, and help set benchmarks for quality nursing care across different regions of India.
2. India's Ladakh records World's highest snow leopard population
India’s Ladakh region has achieved a remarkable feat by recording
the world’s highest population of snow leopards. This discovery highlights the region’s rich biodiversity and its importance in global wildlife conservation. The survey was conducted using scientific methods, including camera traps and field assessments. Ladakh's harsh climate and rugged terrain provide a perfect natural habitat for these elusive big cats. Conservation efforts by the Indian government and local communities have played a key role in this success.
the world’s highest population of snow leopards. This discovery highlights the region’s rich biodiversity and its importance in global wildlife conservation. The survey was conducted using scientific methods, including camera traps and field assessments. Ladakh's harsh climate and rugged terrain provide a perfect natural habitat for these elusive big cats. Conservation efforts by the Indian government and local communities have played a key role in this success.Foot notes:
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Snow Leopard Density: Ladakh has the world's highest recorded density of snow leopards, with approximately 477 animals, accounting for nearly 68% of India's estimated 709 snow leopards.
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Habitat and Distribution: Snow leopards in Ladakh occupy an extensive area of 47,572 square kilometers, with Hemis National Park recording the world's highest snow leopard density of about 2.07 individuals per 100 square kilometers.
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Conservation Factors: The region's success in conservation is attributed to cultural values, good governance, and a healthy prey population, showcasing decades of community-defended protection and a shift from hunting to conservation.
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Coexistence with Humans: Over 60% of Ladakh's snow leopards coexist in landscapes shared with humans, emphasizing the need for inclusive conservation planning, especially in the face of development and climate pressure.
3. India & Chile Sign TOR for Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement Negotiations
India and Chile have taken a significant step to enhance their
bilateral trade relations by signing the Terms of Reference (ToR) for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) on May 8, 2025. This agreement aims to build upon the existing Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) between the two nations, which was initially signed in 2006 and expanded in 2016. The CEPA is set to encompass a broader range of sectors, including digital services, investment promotion, cooperation among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and critical minerals.
bilateral trade relations by signing the Terms of Reference (ToR) for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) on May 8, 2025. This agreement aims to build upon the existing Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) between the two nations, which was initially signed in 2006 and expanded in 2016. The CEPA is set to encompass a broader range of sectors, including digital services, investment promotion, cooperation among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and critical minerals.Foot notes:
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CEPA Negotiations: India and Chile have launched formal negotiations for a CEPA, aiming to significantly enhance bilateral trade and investment cooperation between the two countries. The first round of negotiations is scheduled to take place from May 26-30, 2025, in New Delhi.
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Building on Existing Agreement: The CEPA will build upon the existing Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) between the two nations, which was signed in March 2006 and expanded in September 2016. The new agreement seeks to encompass a broader range of sectors.
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Key Areas of Focus: The CEPA will focus on areas such as digital services, investment promotion and cooperation, MSME collaboration, critical minerals, and more. This aims to enhance economic integration, promote inclusive growth, and create new opportunities for businesses in both countries.
4. Bhuwan Ribhu Becomes First Indian Lawyer to Receive World Law Congress Honour
Bhuwan Ribhu has become the first Indian lawyer to receive the
prestigious Medal of Honour from the World Jurist Association, awarded at the World Law Congress in the Dominican Republic. Since beginning his legal career in 2005, Ribhu has been a tireless advocate for child rights, filing over 60 public interest litigations that have led to significant legal reforms in India. He co-founded Just Rights for Children (JRC), a coalition of over 250 organizations, which between April 2023 and March 2024 rescued more than 85,000 trafficked children and prevented over 330,000 child marriages. His recognition underscores India's leadership in child protection and highlights the ongoing journey toward justice for vulnerable children.
prestigious Medal of Honour from the World Jurist Association, awarded at the World Law Congress in the Dominican Republic. Since beginning his legal career in 2005, Ribhu has been a tireless advocate for child rights, filing over 60 public interest litigations that have led to significant legal reforms in India. He co-founded Just Rights for Children (JRC), a coalition of over 250 organizations, which between April 2023 and March 2024 rescued more than 85,000 trafficked children and prevented over 330,000 child marriages. His recognition underscores India's leadership in child protection and highlights the ongoing journey toward justice for vulnerable children.Foot notes:
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Historic Recognition: Bhuwan Ribhu has been awarded the Medal of Honour by the World Jurist Association, a prestigious recognition for his work in child rights and protection, making him the first Indian lawyer to receive this global honour.
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Two Decades of Service: Ribhu has dedicated over 20 years to protecting children from exploitation, leading to significant legal reforms and court interventions that have transformed child protection in India.
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Global Impact: His work has not only saved hundreds of thousands of children and women from exploitation but also inspired international cooperation in child justice, shaping child rights law globally.
5. India won Women’s ODI Tri-Series
India clinched the 2025 Women's Tri-Nation ODI Series title with a
commanding 97-run victory over Sri Lanka in the final held at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana led the charge with a brilliant 116 off 101 balls, marking her 11th ODI century and propelling India to a formidable total of 342/7. The Indian bowling attack, spearheaded by Sneh Rana and Amanjot Kaur, dismantled the Sri Lankan batting lineup, sharing seven wickets between them. Rana's exceptional performance throughout the tournament, claiming 15 wickets in five matches, earned her the 'Player of the Series' accolade. This tri-series, featuring India, Sri Lanka, and South Africa, served as a crucial preparation ahead of the upcoming Women's Cricket World Cup.
commanding 97-run victory over Sri Lanka in the final held at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana led the charge with a brilliant 116 off 101 balls, marking her 11th ODI century and propelling India to a formidable total of 342/7. The Indian bowling attack, spearheaded by Sneh Rana and Amanjot Kaur, dismantled the Sri Lankan batting lineup, sharing seven wickets between them. Rana's exceptional performance throughout the tournament, claiming 15 wickets in five matches, earned her the 'Player of the Series' accolade. This tri-series, featuring India, Sri Lanka, and South Africa, served as a crucial preparation ahead of the upcoming Women's Cricket World Cup.Foot notes:
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Final Match Result: India Women defeated Sri Lanka Women by 97 runs in the final match held on May 11, 2025, at Colombo.
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Smriti Mandhana's Century: Smriti Mandhana scored her 11th ODI century, hitting a hat-trick of boundaries to reach the mark off 92 balls, playing a crucial role in India's victory.
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India's Dominance: India won three out of four matches, topping the points table with 6 points, while Sri Lanka Women secured two wins and South Africa Women lost all three matches.
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Key Players' Performance: Tazmin Brits scored a magnificent century for South Africa Women in a losing cause against India, while Sneh Rana took 5-43 in the same match, earning her the player of the match award.
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Tournament Significance: This tri-series is part of the buildup for the ICC Women's World Cup in India, showcasing the teams' preparations and skills in the lead-up to the major tournament.
6. Gautam Gambhir Set to Become Head Coach of Indian Test Team
Gautam Gambhir has been appointed as the head coach of the
Indian men's cricket team, succeeding Rahul Dravid in July 2024. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed his appointment, entrusting him with the responsibility of leading the team across all formats. Gambhir, a former opener and key member of India's 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup-winning squads, brings a wealth of experience to the role. His coaching tenure began with a significant achievement, guiding India to victory in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, marking the team's first ICC title since 2013.
Indian men's cricket team, succeeding Rahul Dravid in July 2024. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed his appointment, entrusting him with the responsibility of leading the team across all formats. Gambhir, a former opener and key member of India's 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup-winning squads, brings a wealth of experience to the role. His coaching tenure began with a significant achievement, guiding India to victory in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, marking the team's first ICC title since 2013.Foot notes:
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Tenure: Gambhir will take charge from the upcoming away series against Sri Lanka, which includes 3 ODIs and 3 T20Is starting July 27, 2024, and his focus will be on developing a culture of excellence, discipline, and teamwork.
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Experience: Gambhir brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the game, having been a pivotal figure in Indian cricket with crucial performances in the 2007 ICC World T20 and the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup.
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Conditions: Gambhir reportedly wants full control over cricket operations for Team India, a separate team dedicated to Test cricket, and to begin planning for the 2027 ODI World Cup right away, among other conditions.
7. Santosh Kumar Sarangi appointed as CMD of Solar Energy Corporation of India Ltd.
Santosh Kumar Sarangi, Secretary of the Ministry of New and
Renewable Energy (MNRE), has been assigned the additional charge of Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI). This appointment follows the abrupt termination of Rameshwar Prasad Gupta's tenure as CMD on May 10, 2025, more than a month before its scheduled end, without any official reason cited. SECI, a Navratna central public sector undertaking, plays a pivotal role in implementing India's renewable energy initiatives, including solar, wind, and hybrid projects.
Renewable Energy (MNRE), has been assigned the additional charge of Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI). This appointment follows the abrupt termination of Rameshwar Prasad Gupta's tenure as CMD on May 10, 2025, more than a month before its scheduled end, without any official reason cited. SECI, a Navratna central public sector undertaking, plays a pivotal role in implementing India's renewable energy initiatives, including solar, wind, and hybrid projects.Foot notes:
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Current Role: Santosh Kumar Sarangi is currently serving as the Secretary of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India.
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Appointment Details: Unfortunately, the available information doesn't confirm his appointment as CMD of Solar Energy Corporation of India Ltd (SECI).
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Renewable Energy Mission: Sarangi has taken charge to steer India's renewable energy mission forward, highlighting his involvement in the sector.
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MNRE Responsibilities: As Secretary of MNRE, Sarangi oversees policy implementation, program development, and administrative functions related to renewable energy in India.
8. Dr. Mustafa Yusufali Gom Conferred the International Buddha Peace Award
Dr. Mustafa Yusufali Gom, a Mumbai-based social worker and
entrepreneur, was recently honored with the International Buddha Peace Award 2025 by the Maitry Peace Foundation. The award was presented by Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya in recognition of Dr. Gom's significant contributions to social activism and leadership in the building repairs and restoration industry. As the Managing Director of Care Takers Exterior and Interior Pvt Ltd, Dr. Gom has seamlessly blended professional excellence with compassion-driven community development. His work, inspired by the teachings of His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, promotes peace and harmony within the community.
entrepreneur, was recently honored with the International Buddha Peace Award 2025 by the Maitry Peace Foundation. The award was presented by Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya in recognition of Dr. Gom's significant contributions to social activism and leadership in the building repairs and restoration industry. As the Managing Director of Care Takers Exterior and Interior Pvt Ltd, Dr. Gom has seamlessly blended professional excellence with compassion-driven community development. His work, inspired by the teachings of His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, promotes peace and harmony within the community.Foot notes:
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Award Ceremony: The award was presented by Lakshman Prasad Acharya, Governor of Assam, during a grand ceremony organized by Maitri Peace Foundation in Guwahati, Assam.
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Dr. Gom's Achievements: As the Managing Director of Care Takers Exterior and Interior Private Limited, Dr. Gom has previously received several honors for his social work, including the Bharat Ratna Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Award and recognition from the governors of Maharashtra and Telangana.
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Shared Honor: Dr. Munir Khan, a structural engineer and founder of Avon Consulting Engineers, was also bestowed with the award for his outstanding contributions to social initiatives promoting sustainable development and community welfare.
9. PromptTech Connect Won Times Business Award 2025
PromptTech Connect has been honored with the prestigious Times
Business Award 2025, recognizing its outstanding contributions to business innovation and technology. The award highlights the company's rapid growth, customer-centric solutions, and commitment to digital transformation. With a focus on empowering SMEs through advanced software and IT services, PromptTech Connect has emerged as a leading player in the tech ecosystem. This recognition reflects the company’s dedication to excellence, integrity, and delivering value-driven services across global markets.
Business Award 2025, recognizing its outstanding contributions to business innovation and technology. The award highlights the company's rapid growth, customer-centric solutions, and commitment to digital transformation. With a focus on empowering SMEs through advanced software and IT services, PromptTech Connect has emerged as a leading player in the tech ecosystem. This recognition reflects the company’s dedication to excellence, integrity, and delivering value-driven services across global markets.Foot notes:
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Business Solutions Provider: PromptTech is a global enterprise solution provider offering integrated services, including software, hardware, enterprise insurance, and business support, to drive seamless operations and long-term growth.
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Global Presence: With a presence in the Middle East, India, and the UK, PromptTech combines regional insights with international best practices to deliver tailored solutions addressing unique business challenges.
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Innovative Approach: PromptTech emphasizes innovation, technical expertise, and a hands-on approach to deliver measurable results aligning with business goals.
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Commitment to Excellence: The company fosters a culture of excellence, valuing individual ideas, and supporting personal growth, creating a supportive atmosphere for collective success.
10. Leander Paes Conferred with the Prestigious P C Chandra Puraskaar 2025
Tennis legend Leander Paes was honored with the 32nd P C
Chandra Puraskaar at a grand ceremony held at Kolkata's Science City Auditorium. Instituted by the P C Chandra Group in 1993, the award recognizes outstanding achievements across various fields and carries a tax-free honorarium of 20 lakh. Paes, celebrated for his illustrious tennis career, boasts 18 Grand Slam titles and holds the distinction of being the first Indian to compete in seven consecutive Olympic Games, earning a bronze medal in the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries from various sectors, reflecting the award's prestige and the high regard in which Paes is held.
Chandra Puraskaar at a grand ceremony held at Kolkata's Science City Auditorium. Instituted by the P C Chandra Group in 1993, the award recognizes outstanding achievements across various fields and carries a tax-free honorarium of 20 lakh. Paes, celebrated for his illustrious tennis career, boasts 18 Grand Slam titles and holds the distinction of being the first Indian to compete in seven consecutive Olympic Games, earning a bronze medal in the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries from various sectors, reflecting the award's prestige and the high regard in which Paes is held.Foot notes:
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Award Ceremony: Leander Paes received the P C Chandra Puraskaar 2025 at a grand ceremony held on May 11, 2025, at Science City Auditorium in Kolkata.
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Award Significance: The P C Chandra Puraskaar recognizes outstanding achievements across various fields, celebrating excellence and integrity, with a tax-exempt honorarium of Rs 20,00,000.
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Leander Paes' Achievements: Paes has won 18 Grand Slam titles and is the first Indian to have competed in seven consecutive Olympic Games, earning a bronze medal in the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.
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Previous Recipients: Past recipients of the award include notable figures such as ISRO Chairman S. Somanath, World Boxing Champion Mary Kom, Sarod maestro Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, cricket legend Kapil Dev, and Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi.
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