4.5/5
Current Affairs 13 November 2024
1. DBS Bank appointed Rajat Verma as Chief Executive Officer for India
DBS Bank’s India unit has nominated Rajat Verma, its head of
institutional banking, as the bank’s new CEO, according to sources familiar with the matter. Verma is set to succeed Surojit Shome, who will retire after leading DBS Bank India since 2015. His nomination has been submitted to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for approval, as required for all CEO appointments in Indian banks. Verma was appointed managing director and head of institutional banking at DBS India last year.
institutional banking, as the bank’s new CEO, according to sources familiar with the matter. Verma is set to succeed Surojit Shome, who will retire after leading DBS Bank India since 2015. His nomination has been submitted to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for approval, as required for all CEO appointments in Indian banks. Verma was appointed managing director and head of institutional banking at DBS India last year.Foot notes:
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Rajat Verma, nominated to replace Shome, was appointed DBS Managing Director and head of institutional banking for India last year.
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Before DBS, Verma spent over 26 years at HSBC, where he was head of commercial banking in India.
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DBS has operated in India for about 30 years and has over 530 branches across 19 states.
About DBS Bank:
Headquarters : Mumbai, Maharashtra
MD & CEO : Surojit Shome
2. South Western Command Launches Defence Think Tank 'Gyan Shakti'
Jaipur’s South Western Command has launched the "Gyan Shakti"
think tank to enhance collaboration on defense and security matters among the armed forces, industry, state government, and academia. This initiative seeks to strengthen Rajasthan's defense manufacturing by capitalizing on the state’s infrastructure, skilled workforce, and strategic location near the western border.
think tank to enhance collaboration on defense and security matters among the armed forces, industry, state government, and academia. This initiative seeks to strengthen Rajasthan's defense manufacturing by capitalizing on the state’s infrastructure, skilled workforce, and strategic location near the western border.Foot notes:
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The South Western Command, based in Jaipur, has launched the Gyan Shakti think tank to foster dialogue on defense and security matters between the armed forces, industry, State government, and academia.
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The initiative aims to support Rajasthan's vision of becoming a $350 billion economy by 2029.
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Gyan Shakti will leverage the knowledge and experience of veterans to boost defense transformation and encourage their involvement in national security and nation-building efforts.
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Lt. Gen. Manjinder Singh highlighted that the think tank will contribute to India's goals of Rising Rajasthan and Viksit Bharat by 2047.
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The think tank's formation marks a key step in enhancing Rajasthan’s defense manufacturing capabilities and creating a collaborative framework for strengthening national security.
3. Defence Space Agency Hosts 'Antariksha Abhyas’ 2024
India's Defence Space Agency has launched its first tri-services
space exercise, "Antariksha Abhyas - 2024," aimed at securing space assets and integrating advanced technologies to enhance national security in space. The exercise includes participation from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Defence Cyber Agency, Intelligence agencies, Strategic Forces Command, ISRO, and DRDO.
space exercise, "Antariksha Abhyas - 2024," aimed at securing space assets and integrating advanced technologies to enhance national security in space. The exercise includes participation from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Defence Cyber Agency, Intelligence agencies, Strategic Forces Command, ISRO, and DRDO.Foot notes:
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In his opening address, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan emphasized that space, once seen as the final frontier, is now crucial for India’s defense and security. He highlighted India’s strong space legacy and military capabilities, positioning the nation to tackle challenges in space.
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The CDS stressed that space is becoming more congested, contested, competitive, and commercial. He urged military leaders to secure national interests by fostering innovation and collaborating with DRDO, ISRO, and academia to develop advanced technologies and systems.
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Antariksha Abhyas – 2024 aims to improve understanding of space-based assets and services, operational dependencies on space, and vulnerabilities in the event of disruptions or denial of space services.
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Participants include the Defence Space Agency, Army, Navy, Air Force, Defence Cyber Agency, Defence Intelligence Agency, Strategic Forces Command, ISRO, and DRDO.
4. Donald Trump appointed Elise Stefanik as U.N. Ambassador
President-elect Donald Trump has selected Republican Rep. Elise
Stefanik to be the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, making this his first Cabinet appointment for his second term. Known for her strong support of Israel and as a close Trump ally, Stefanik has been a prominent figure in Congress, particularly on matters of foreign policy and security. At 40, she has built a career marked by her outspoken backing of Trump and her leadership within the GOP, establishing herself as a key player in both domestic and global politics.
Stefanik to be the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, making this his first Cabinet appointment for his second term. Known for her strong support of Israel and as a close Trump ally, Stefanik has been a prominent figure in Congress, particularly on matters of foreign policy and security. At 40, she has built a career marked by her outspoken backing of Trump and her leadership within the GOP, establishing herself as a key player in both domestic and global politics.Foot notes:
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Rising Star: Elected to represent New York’s 21st District in 2014, at age 30, becoming the youngest woman ever elected to Congress at the time. She has served five terms.
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Leadership Role: Became Chairwoman of the House Republican Conference in May 2021, following Liz Cheney’s removal over Trump criticism.
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Trump Ally: A strong defender of Trump, particularly during his first impeachment and in efforts to expunge both impeachments.
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Defender of Israel: Advocates for Israel, especially after the October 2023 Hamas attacks, and calls for defunding the UNRWA.
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Position on Ukraine: Initially supported aid packages to Ukraine but opposed further assistance, including a $60.8 billion package in 2024.
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House Vacancy: Her potential U.N. appointment could create a vacancy in the House, complicating the GOP’s slim majority.
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Electoral Background: Involved in challenging post-2020 election results but condemned the January 6th Capitol violence.
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Background: Graduated from Harvard, worked for President George W. Bush and Speaker Paul Ryan. Married to Matt with one son, Sam.
5. Yubi Group appointed Vipul Mahajan as Chief Business Officer
Yubi Group announced the appointment of Vipul Mahajan as its
Chief Business Officer. In this role, Mahajan will focus on expanding Yubi's relationships with lenders in private sector, PSU, and international markets. He will also lead efforts to strengthen partnerships with key stakeholders in financial services, including NBFCs, banks, and regulatory bodies. With nearly 20 years of experience in business development, partnerships, go-to-market strategies, and analytics, Mahajan previously served as the head of commercial, fintech, and direct-to-consumer business at TransUnion CIBIL. He has also held leadership positions at Yes Bank, Barclays, and HDFC Bank.
Chief Business Officer. In this role, Mahajan will focus on expanding Yubi's relationships with lenders in private sector, PSU, and international markets. He will also lead efforts to strengthen partnerships with key stakeholders in financial services, including NBFCs, banks, and regulatory bodies. With nearly 20 years of experience in business development, partnerships, go-to-market strategies, and analytics, Mahajan previously served as the head of commercial, fintech, and direct-to-consumer business at TransUnion CIBIL. He has also held leadership positions at Yes Bank, Barclays, and HDFC Bank.Foot notes:
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Vipul Mahajan has joined Yubi Group as Chief Business Officer, bringing extensive experience in business development, partnerships, and analytics.
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He has held leadership roles at Yes Bank, Barclays, and HDFC Bank, where he implemented innovative product solutions and drove business growth using platforms, data, and analytics.
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Mahajan has also contributed to the RBI’s Standing Committee on Strengthening Analytical Framework, enhancing its analytics framework.
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Expressing enthusiasm for his new role, Mahajan looks forward to contributing to Yubi’s vision and expanding its market presence in the financial services space.
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Yubi Group, founded in 2020 by CEO Gaurav Kumar, supports the entire debt lifecycle and has facilitated over Rs 140,000 crore in debt volumes, serving 17,000+ enterprises and 6,200+ investors and lenders.
6. Alix Didier Fils-Aime Sworn in as Haiti’s New Prime Minister
Alix Didier Fils-Aime, a businessman, has been sworn in as Haiti’s
new prime minister, pledging to tackle the nation’s critical security challenges and work toward restoring stability. His predecessor, Garry Conille, was removed from office after just five months due to a power struggle with Haiti’s transitional council over ministerial appointments.
new prime minister, pledging to tackle the nation’s critical security challenges and work toward restoring stability. His predecessor, Garry Conille, was removed from office after just five months due to a power struggle with Haiti’s transitional council over ministerial appointments.Foot notes:
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Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aime emphasized that restoring security is crucial for Haiti’s future and pledged his “energy, skills, and patriotism” to address the nation’s issues.
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Haiti's interim government, with support from the U.S. and other regional powers, aims to stabilize the country and prepare for elections next year.
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Over 1,200 deaths were recorded between July and September 2024 due to gang violence, with kidnappings and sexual violence ongoing.
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UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged Haitian leaders to prioritize the country’s interests and work towards a stable transition.
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Fils-Aime’s government faces the complex tasks of addressing both security and political instability ahead of the upcoming elections.
About Haiti:
Capital: Port-au-Prince
Official languages: Haitian Creole, French
Currency: Haitian Gourde
7. Amandeep Johl Appointed CEO of Professional Golf Tour of India
Amandeep Johl has been appointed as the CEO of the Professional
Golf Tour of India (PGTI), starting in January 2025. With 34 years of experience in Indian and Asian golf, Johl succeeds Uttam Singh Mundy, who was instrumental in founding PGTI. PGTI President and cricket legend Kapil Dev commended Johl's leadership, highlighting its importance for the growth of Indian golf.
Golf Tour of India (PGTI), starting in January 2025. With 34 years of experience in Indian and Asian golf, Johl succeeds Uttam Singh Mundy, who was instrumental in founding PGTI. PGTI President and cricket legend Kapil Dev commended Johl's leadership, highlighting its importance for the growth of Indian golf.Foot notes:
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The Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) announced on Wednesday that Amandeep Johl will step in as its new CEO starting January 2025. Johl, a highly respected figure in Indian golf, brings a wealth of experience to this role.
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His appointment follows another key leadership change with cricket legend Kapil Dev taking on the position of PGTI President in June this year. Johl will succeed Uttam Singh Mundy, who has played a pivotal role in PGTI since its inception.
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Johl, a former PGTI board member, will officially take charge on January 1, assisting Mundy with the handover process until December 31.
8. Indian Oil Welcomes Arvindar Singh Sahney as New Chairman
Arvindar Singh Sahney has been appointed as the new chairman of
Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), the country's largest oil firm, according to an official order from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas on November 13, 2024. Sahney currently holds the position of Executive Director of Business Development in IOC's Petrochemicals division.
Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), the country's largest oil firm, according to an official order from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas on November 13, 2024. Sahney currently holds the position of Executive Director of Business Development in IOC's Petrochemicals division.Foot notes:
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In August, Sahney was initially selected as Director of Business Development but has now been elevated to chairman.
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The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved his five-year tenure, effective from the date he assumes office, until superannuation or further orders.
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The chairman role has been vacant since Shrikant Madhav Vaidya completed his extended term on August 31, 2024. Satish Kumar Vaduguri, Director of Marketing, served as acting chairman in the interim.
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Sahney is the second individual, after B Ashok in 2014, to be appointed as chairman without prior board-level experience.
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Indian Oil Corporation, a Fortune 500 company, plays a key role in India’s oil and gas sector, contributing to national energy security and supply.
About Indian Oil:
Headquarters: New Delhi
Founded: 1964
9. World Kindness Day 2024 is observed on 13th November
World Kindness Day 2024 is observed on November 13th. Although
it is not officially recognized by the United Nations, many small organizations worldwide celebrate it. India also marks this day to promote kindness among people. The goal of the celebration is to highlight the importance of kindness, a value that brings people together and spreads love. Various awareness programs are held on this day to encourage the understanding that kindness is an essential human quality. It is believed that kindness can help reduce conflicts between countries and nations.
it is not officially recognized by the United Nations, many small organizations worldwide celebrate it. India also marks this day to promote kindness among people. The goal of the celebration is to highlight the importance of kindness, a value that brings people together and spreads love. Various awareness programs are held on this day to encourage the understanding that kindness is an essential human quality. It is believed that kindness can help reduce conflicts between countries and nations.Foot notes:
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Pandemic Impact: The world faced immense challenges during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, with doctors, nurses, and support staff showing immense kindness in saving lives through their dedication and love.
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Chennai Floods: During the Chennai floods, many young volunteers risked their lives to provide food and essential services to those in need.
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Kindness in Crisis: Acts of kindness during such crises highlight how it can save lives and bring communities together.
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Global Harmony: Kindness helps reduce conflicts between people and nations.
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World Kindness Day 2024: Celebrated to raise awareness about kindness and its transformative impact on society.
10. Legendary Bengali Theatre Personality Manoj Mitra passed away
Renowned theatre personality Manoj Mitra of West Bengal passed
away at the age of 86 on Tuesday morning after a prolonged age-related illness. He took his last breath at 8:50 am in a private hospital in Kolkata, as confirmed by his brother, writer Amar Mitra. The body will be taken to Rabindra Sadan at 3 pm for the public to pay their respects. Mitra, celebrated for his contributions to both stage and screen, is remembered fondly by Bengali audiences for his role in Bancharamer Bagan (1980).
away at the age of 86 on Tuesday morning after a prolonged age-related illness. He took his last breath at 8:50 am in a private hospital in Kolkata, as confirmed by his brother, writer Amar Mitra. The body will be taken to Rabindra Sadan at 3 pm for the public to pay their respects. Mitra, celebrated for his contributions to both stage and screen, is remembered fondly by Bengali audiences for his role in Bancharamer Bagan (1980). Foot notes:
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Mitra started his acting journey in 1957 and made his film debut in 1979; he also taught philosophy at various colleges before leading the Drama Department at Rabindra Bharati University.
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His first play, Mrityur Chokhe Jal, was written in 1959, but he gained major recognition with the play Chak Bhanga Madhu in 1972.
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Mitra founded the theatre group Sundaram and later briefly formed Ritayan before returning to Sundaram.
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Known for plays like Absanna Prajapati, Neela, Singhdwar, and Fera, he made a mark on both stage and screen.
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He acted in several acclaimed films by directors like Tapan Sinha, Satyajit Ray, and Buddhadeb Dasgupta, including the iconic Bancharamer Bagan, based on his play Sajano Bagaan, and roles in Ghare Baire and Ganashatru.
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