4.5/5
Current Affairs 15 May 2025
1. Justice B.R. Gavai Sworn in as the 52nd CJI
Justice B.R. Gavai has been sworn in as the 52nd Chief
Justice of India, marking a significant moment in the history of the Indian judiciary. He succeeds Chief Justice Sanjeev Khanna and will serve a tenure that is expected to uphold the values of justice and constitutional integrity. Justice Gavai is only the second Dalit to become the Chief Justice of India, following in the footsteps of Justice K.G. Balakrishnan. Known for his deep understanding of constitutional law and a balanced judicial approach, Justice Gavai has had a distinguished career in the legal field. His appointment is seen as a step forward in promoting diversity and representation in the judiciary.
Justice of India, marking a significant moment in the history of the Indian judiciary. He succeeds Chief Justice Sanjeev Khanna and will serve a tenure that is expected to uphold the values of justice and constitutional integrity. Justice Gavai is only the second Dalit to become the Chief Justice of India, following in the footsteps of Justice K.G. Balakrishnan. Known for his deep understanding of constitutional law and a balanced judicial approach, Justice Gavai has had a distinguished career in the legal field. His appointment is seen as a step forward in promoting diversity and representation in the judiciary.Foot notes:
-
Judicial Background: Justice Gavai began practicing law at 25 and was appointed judge at the Bombay High Court in 2003. He was later elevated to the Supreme Court on May 24, 2019.
-
Sub-classification within Scheduled Castes: Justice Gavai advocated for the application of the "creamy layer" principle to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, ensuring real equality.
-
Protection of Individual Rights: Justice Gavai declared the arrest of NewsClick founder Prabir Purkayastha as illegal, emphasizing the importance of supplying grounds of arrest to the accused.
-
Prolific Judge: During his tenure, Justice Gavai has served on over 700 benches and authored around 300 judgments, showcasing his significant contributions to various legal fields.
2. India Ranks Among Top Six Patent Filers in 6G Technology
India has emerged as a significant player in the global race
for 6G technology, now ranking among the top six countries in 6G patent filings. This advancement is part of the government's proactive approach under the 'Bharat 6G Vision', aiming to position India at the forefront of 6G design, development, and deployment by 2030. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has been instrumental in this progress, funding next-generation testbeds and evaluating numerous proposals to accelerate 6G research. India's goal is to contribute 10% of global 6G patents and one-sixth of the global standards in the next three years. This strategic push is supported by collaborations between the government, academia, and industry leaders, fostering a robust innovation ecosystem.
for 6G technology, now ranking among the top six countries in 6G patent filings. This advancement is part of the government's proactive approach under the 'Bharat 6G Vision', aiming to position India at the forefront of 6G design, development, and deployment by 2030. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has been instrumental in this progress, funding next-generation testbeds and evaluating numerous proposals to accelerate 6G research. India's goal is to contribute 10% of global 6G patents and one-sixth of the global standards in the next three years. This strategic push is supported by collaborations between the government, academia, and industry leaders, fostering a robust innovation ecosystem.Foot notes:
-
Ranking and Potential Impact: India is now among the top six nations globally in 6G patent filings, with the potential to add $1 trillion to the economy by 2035. This ranking positions India alongside major global players like the US, China, Japan, South Korea, and the European Union.
-
Government Support and Funding: The government has funded over 111 research projects with 300 crore to support innovation in 6G technology. Initiatives like "Bharat 6G Vision" and "Bharat 6G Alliance" aim to drive technological innovation and collaboration.
-
Research and Development: India is focusing on key areas like spectrum efficiency, AI integration, and quantum communication to develop 6G technology. The country has also established research centers and partnerships with global universities and tech companies.
-
Patent Filings and Global Standards: India could secure 10% of all 6G patents globally and contribute one-sixth to global standards within the next three years. The Department of Telecommunications has launched a patent and IPR support framework to encourage inventors and organizations to file patents.
3. Anita Anand appointed as Canada's Foreign Minister
Anita Anand has been appointed as Canada's new Minister
of Foreign Affairs, marking a historic milestone as the first Hindu woman and the first woman of Indian origin to hold this position. Born in Kentville, Nova Scotia, to Indian immigrant parents, Anand has had a distinguished career as a law professor and politician. She previously served as Canada's Minister of National Defence, where she played a key role in addressing military misconduct and supporting Ukraine during the Russian invasion. Anand took her oath of office on the Bhagavad Gita, reflecting her cultural and religious heritage. Anand's leadership is expected to influence Canada's approach to international affairs, including its relations with India and the United States.
of Foreign Affairs, marking a historic milestone as the first Hindu woman and the first woman of Indian origin to hold this position. Born in Kentville, Nova Scotia, to Indian immigrant parents, Anand has had a distinguished career as a law professor and politician. She previously served as Canada's Minister of National Defence, where she played a key role in addressing military misconduct and supporting Ukraine during the Russian invasion. Anand took her oath of office on the Bhagavad Gita, reflecting her cultural and religious heritage. Anand's leadership is expected to influence Canada's approach to international affairs, including its relations with India and the United States.Foot notes:
-
Background: Anand is a lawyer, academic, and politician. She holds four degrees, including a Bachelor of Arts in political studies from Queen's University and a Bachelor of Laws from Dalhousie University.
-
Minister of National Defence: She played a central role in Canada's efforts to provide military aid to Ukraine during the 2022 Russian invasion.
-
Minister of Public Services and Procurement: Anand oversaw Canada's procurement of vaccines and personal protective equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic.
-
Notable Achievements: She received the Yvan Allaire Medal from the Royal Society of Canada for her outstanding contribution to governance of private and public organizations.
4. Neeraj Chopra conferred with Honorary Lt. Colonel Rank in Territorial Army
Neeraj Chopra, India's celebrated javelin thrower and
double Olympic medalist, has been conferred the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army. The Ministry of Defence announced this recognition on May 13, 2025, with the appointment effective from April 16, 2025, as per the Gazette of India. Chopra's military journey began in 2016 when he joined the Indian Army as a Naib Subedar under the sports quota, eventually rising to the rank of Subedar Major by 2024. The honorary rank acknowledges his exceptional contributions to Indian sports and his embodiment of military values such as discipline and dedication.
double Olympic medalist, has been conferred the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army. The Ministry of Defence announced this recognition on May 13, 2025, with the appointment effective from April 16, 2025, as per the Gazette of India. Chopra's military journey began in 2016 when he joined the Indian Army as a Naib Subedar under the sports quota, eventually rising to the rank of Subedar Major by 2024. The honorary rank acknowledges his exceptional contributions to Indian sports and his embodiment of military values such as discipline and dedication.Foot notes:
-
Honorary Rank: Neeraj Chopra, the Olympic gold medalist and javelin ace, has been bestowed with the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army, effective April 16, 2025. This prestigious title recognizes his outstanding achievements in sports and his prior service in the armed forces.
-
Previous Military Service: Chopra had previously held the rank of Naib Subedar in 2016 and was later promoted to Subedar and Subedar Major in 2021 and 2024, respectively. He was due for retirement this year, making the honorary commission a notable recognition of his contributions.
-
Presidential Endorsement: The honorary title was conferred by the President of India under Para 31 of the Territorial Army Regulations, 1948.
-
Achievements: Neeraj Chopra has etched his name in history with a gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. He has also won gold at the 2023 World Athletics Championships in Budapest, solidifying his legacy in javelin throwing.
5. Dvara Solutions partners with Kissandhan Agri Financial
Dvara Solutions has entered into a strategic partnership with
Kissandhan Agri Financial Services Pvt. Ltd., an RBI-regulated NBFC and part of the SLCM Group, to enhance multi-asset lending in India's rural sectors. Through this collaboration, Kissandhan will leverage Dvara's flagship Perdix platform to streamline and scale its lending operations across various products, including Micro LAP, Group Loans, Farmer Loans, and Medium-Term Loans. The integration aims to digitize and automate key aspects of Kissandhan's lending processes, thereby improving efficiency and customer experience. This partnership aligns with both organizations' commitment to financial inclusion and supporting the agri and rural ecosystem.
Kissandhan Agri Financial Services Pvt. Ltd., an RBI-regulated NBFC and part of the SLCM Group, to enhance multi-asset lending in India's rural sectors. Through this collaboration, Kissandhan will leverage Dvara's flagship Perdix platform to streamline and scale its lending operations across various products, including Micro LAP, Group Loans, Farmer Loans, and Medium-Term Loans. The integration aims to digitize and automate key aspects of Kissandhan's lending processes, thereby improving efficiency and customer experience. This partnership aligns with both organizations' commitment to financial inclusion and supporting the agri and rural ecosystem.Foot notes:
-
Strategic Partnership: Dvara Solutions has formed a strategic alliance with Kissandhan Agri Financial Services, an RBI-regulated Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC), to streamline loan lifecycle workflows and improve operational efficiency.
-
Adoption of Perdix Platform: Kissandhan will adopt Dvara Solutions' Perdix platform, which includes loan origination system, loan management system, reports, platform services, and co-lending module. This platform is already used by over 20 institutions, managing assets worth over 15,000 crore.
-
Enhanced Loan Offerings: The partnership will enable Kissandhan to offer various loans, including micro loan against property (Micro LAP), group loans, farmers loans, and medium-term loans, thereby expanding its agricultural finance services.
-
Impact on Farmers: Kissandhan has disbursed 3,263.99 crore in loans to farmers, impacting over 7 lakh farmers and benefiting 37,185 women loan beneficiaries in the Agri and allied sector.
6. DST & DRDO Join Hands to Strengthen India’s Space Surveillance
India is intensifying its focus on space surveillance and
situational awareness through strategic collaborations between key scientific and defense institutions. The Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES), under the Department of Science & Technology (DST), has partnered with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) to develop technologies aimed at tracking space objects, including near-Earth objects and artificial satellites. These concerted efforts underscore India's commitment to strengthening its space infrastructure and ensuring the safety and security of its assets in the increasingly contested space domain.
situational awareness through strategic collaborations between key scientific and defense institutions. The Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES), under the Department of Science & Technology (DST), has partnered with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) to develop technologies aimed at tracking space objects, including near-Earth objects and artificial satellites. These concerted efforts underscore India's commitment to strengthening its space infrastructure and ensuring the safety and security of its assets in the increasingly contested space domain.Foot notes:
-
DRDO's Naval Technology Advancements: DRDO has inaugurated a state-of-the-art facility called the Submersible Platform for Acoustic Characterisation and Evaluation (SPACE) at the Underwater Acoustic Research Facility in Kulamavu, Idukki, Kerala.
-
Enhancing Anti-Submarine Warfare Capabilities: The SPACE facility is designed to evaluate complete sonar systems, allowing for quick deployment and easy recovery of scientific packages.
-
Advanced Research and Development: DRDO is working on various projects, including aerodynamics and materials research. They are also focusing on developing technologies that can be used for defense and space applications.
-
Exporting Defense Technology: DRDO believes that exporting defense technology to friendly countries can strengthen India's strategic position globally, secure international partnerships and create high-tech industry and employment opportunities.
7. ONDC appoints Vibhor Jain as acting CEO
The Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) has
appointed Vibhor Jain as its acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective immediately. Previously serving as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) and a member of the eight-member Executive Committee, Jain's elevation comes in the wake of several top-level departures, including that of founding CEO Thampy Koshy, Chief Business Officer Shireesh Joshi, and Non-Executive Chairperson R.S. Sharma. This move aims to provide cohesive execution and stability as ONDC continues its mission to democratize digital commerce across India.
appointed Vibhor Jain as its acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective immediately. Previously serving as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) and a member of the eight-member Executive Committee, Jain's elevation comes in the wake of several top-level departures, including that of founding CEO Thampy Koshy, Chief Business Officer Shireesh Joshi, and Non-Executive Chairperson R.S. Sharma. This move aims to provide cohesive execution and stability as ONDC continues its mission to democratize digital commerce across India.Foot notes:
-
Leadership Role: Jain, who previously served as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of ONDC, will now lead the organization during this interim phase, overseeing key strategic decisions and driving cohesive execution.
-
Executive Committee: Prior to Jain's appointment, an 8-member executive committee, which included Jain, managed ONDC's responsibilities. The committee's interim role has now concluded, with Jain taking over as the single point of leadership.
-
Transaction Milestone: ONDC has crossed over 200 million transactions since its inception in 2021, showcasing its growth and impact in the digital commerce sector. The platform connects sellers and buyer apps across sectors like mobility, food delivery, logistics, ecommerce, and fashion.
8. BillDesk M N Srinivasu appointed as IAMAI chairperson
M.N. Srinivasu, co-founder of BillDesk, has been appointed
as the new chairman of the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) for the 2025–2027 term. He succeeds Harsh Jain, co-founder and CEO of Dream Sports, who held the position from 2023 to 2025. Joining Srinivasu on the executive council are Harshil Mathur, CEO and co-founder of Razorpay, as Vice Chairman, and Sameer Nigam, founder and CEO of PhonePe, as Treasurer. This leadership transition reflects the growing influence of India's fintech sector within the digital ecosystem.
as the new chairman of the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) for the 2025–2027 term. He succeeds Harsh Jain, co-founder and CEO of Dream Sports, who held the position from 2023 to 2025. Joining Srinivasu on the executive council are Harshil Mathur, CEO and co-founder of Razorpay, as Vice Chairman, and Sameer Nigam, founder and CEO of PhonePe, as Treasurer. This leadership transition reflects the growing influence of India's fintech sector within the digital ecosystem.Foot notes:
-
New Executive Council: Srinivasu will be joined by Harshil Mathur, CEO and Co-founder of Razorpay, as Vice Chairman, and Sameer Nigam, Founder and CEO of PhonePe, as Treasurer, replacing Rajesh Magow and Satyan Gajwani, respectively.
-
IAMAI's Objective: As Chairman, Srinivasu will oversee IAMAI's efforts to promote the progress of the internet and digital economy in India, focusing on public policy, advocacy, research, and consumer trust and safety.
-
Governing Council: The new 24-member governing council and executive council will take charge for the 2025-2027 term at the upcoming annual general meeting, shaping the future of India's digital landscape.
-
Industry Impact: With over 600 members, including Indian and multinational corporations, as well as startups, IAMAI plays a crucial role in India's digital economy, and Srinivasu's appointment is expected to further drive the industry's growth and innovation.
9. Shri Rajeev Kalra appointed as Director of Finance, Yantra India Ltd.
Shri Rajeev Kalra has been appointed as the Director
(Finance) of Yantra India Limited (YIL), a prominent Defence Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Defence. His appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) following a recommendation from the Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) on January 10, 2025. Kalra, who has been with Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) since 1995, currently serves as General Manager (Finance) at BHEL’s Corporate R&D Centre in Hyderabad.
(Finance) of Yantra India Limited (YIL), a prominent Defence Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Defence. His appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) following a recommendation from the Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) on January 10, 2025. Kalra, who has been with Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) since 1995, currently serves as General Manager (Finance) at BHEL’s Corporate R&D Centre in Hyderabad.Foot notes:
-
Background: Shri Kalra is currently serving as General Manager (Finance) at BHEL, Corporate R&D, Hyderabad, where he has gained extensive expertise in finance and strategic management.
-
PESB Recommendation: The Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) recommended Shri Kalra for the position, highlighting his outstanding credentials and leadership skills, which are expected to bring a fresh perspective to Yantra India Limited's financial strategies and operations.
-
Yantra India Limited: Shri Kalra's appointment aims to strengthen the company's financial operations and enhance its contributions to India's defense capabilities.
-
Expected Outcomes: With Shri Kalra's expertise, Yantra India Limited is expected to support the company's growth and operational excellence goals, ultimately contributing to India's defense sector advancements.
10. Former Uruguayana President Jose "Pepe" Mujica passed away
Former Uruguayan President José "Pepe" Mujica passed
away on May 13, 2025, at the age of 89, following a battle with esophageal cancer. His death was announced by President Yamandú Orsi, who described him as a "president, activist, leader and guide" . Mujica's passing has prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from around the world. In Montevideo, thousands gathered to honor his legacy, with a funeral procession that included his widow, Lucía Topolansky, and President Orsi, who draped the national flag over his coffin . The government declared three days of national mourning, and his body was cremated and interred near his farmhouse in Rincón del Cerro, as per his wishes .
away on May 13, 2025, at the age of 89, following a battle with esophageal cancer. His death was announced by President Yamandú Orsi, who described him as a "president, activist, leader and guide" . Mujica's passing has prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from around the world. In Montevideo, thousands gathered to honor his legacy, with a funeral procession that included his widow, Lucía Topolansky, and President Orsi, who draped the national flag over his coffin . The government declared three days of national mourning, and his body was cremated and interred near his farmhouse in Rincón del Cerro, as per his wishes .Foot notes:
-
Life of Simplicity: Mujica was known for living a simple life, donating a significant portion of his salary, and traveling without escorts or privileges. He resided on his farm in Rincón del Cerro, where he passed away.
-
Progressive Policies: As President from 2010 to 2015, Mujica championed historic reforms, including:Same-sex Marriage Legalization,Abortion Decriminalization, Cannabis Regulation.
-
International Recognition: He maintained a nuanced relationship with Cuba, initially supporting its revolutionary ideals but later adopting a more critical stance.
-
Legacy: He is remembered for his personal ethics, integrity, and commitment to social justice, inspiring many in Uruguay and across Latin America.
3 likes |
0 comment
