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Current Affairs 16 April 2025
1. Yash Vir Singh wins javelin gold at Indian Open Athletics 2025
Yashvir Singh clinched the gold medal in the men's javelin throw at
the 2025 Indian Open Athletics Championships, showcasing his exceptional talent. The Rajasthan athlete achieved a remarkable throw of 82.13 meters, surpassing his previous personal best and asserting his dominance in the field. This victory adds to his impressive track record, including breaking Neeraj Chopra's U20 record with a 78.68-meter throw in 2021 . Singh's consistent performances highlight his potential to represent India on international platforms. His dedication and skill continue to inspire upcoming athletes in the country.
the 2025 Indian Open Athletics Championships, showcasing his exceptional talent. The Rajasthan athlete achieved a remarkable throw of 82.13 meters, surpassing his previous personal best and asserting his dominance in the field. This victory adds to his impressive track record, including breaking Neeraj Chopra's U20 record with a 78.68-meter throw in 2021 . Singh's consistent performances highlight his potential to represent India on international platforms. His dedication and skill continue to inspire upcoming athletes in the country.Foot notes:
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Yash Vir Singh's Profile: Yash Vir Singh is an Indian javelin thrower with a personal best of 82.13 meters, achieved in 2022.
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Ranking Among Indian Javelin Throwers: He ranks eighth among Indian javelin throwers who have crossed the 80-meter mark, with top throwers including Neeraj Chopra (89.94 meters) and Shivpal Singh (86.23 meters).
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Indian Open Athletics Meet 2025: The Athletics Federation of India has scheduled the Indian Open Athletics Meet 2025 in Chennai and Jharkhand
2. Shreyas Iyer Named ICC Men’s Player of March 2025
Shreyas Iyer has been named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for
March 2025, recognizing his pivotal role in India's victorious ICC Champions Trophy campaign. Iyer amassed 243 runs across five matches, averaging 48.60, and emerged as India's top scorer in the tournament. His standout performances included a crucial 79 against New Zealand in the group stage and vital contributions of 45 and 48 in the semi-final and final, respectively, underscoring his consistency under pressure. This accolade marks a significant milestone in Iyer's career, highlighting his importance to India's middle-order lineup. Expressing his elation, Iyer stated he was "over the moon" after securing his first ICC trophy with the national team.
March 2025, recognizing his pivotal role in India's victorious ICC Champions Trophy campaign. Iyer amassed 243 runs across five matches, averaging 48.60, and emerged as India's top scorer in the tournament. His standout performances included a crucial 79 against New Zealand in the group stage and vital contributions of 45 and 48 in the semi-final and final, respectively, underscoring his consistency under pressure. This accolade marks a significant milestone in Iyer's career, highlighting his importance to India's middle-order lineup. Expressing his elation, Iyer stated he was "over the moon" after securing his first ICC trophy with the national team.Foot notes:
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Award Details: Shreyas Iyer won the ICC Men's Player of the Month award for March 2025, beating out New Zealand's Jacob Duffy and Rachin Ravindra.
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Tournament Performance: Iyer played a crucial role in India's Champions Trophy victory, scoring 243 runs in three matches at an average of 57.33 and a strike rate of 77.47.
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Significance: Iyer's award marks back-to-back wins for Indian players, following Shubman Gill's victory in February 2025.
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Player's Reaction: Shreyas Iyer expressed gratitude and honor, dedicating his success to teammates, coaches, support staff, and fans.
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Impact: His consistent performances in high-pressure matches solidified his position as a key contributor to India's international cricket success.
3. Mykolas Alekna Breaks Own Discus Throw World Record with Historic 75.56m at Oklahoma Throws Series
Lithuania's Mykolas Alekna shattered his own discus world record
with a monumental throw of 75.56 meters at the Oklahoma Throws Series on April 13, 2025. This historic feat made him the first athlete to surpass the 75-meter mark in men's discus throw. Alekna's previous record of 74.35 meters, set at the same venue in 2024, was eclipsed twice during the competition—first with a 74.89-meter throw, followed by the record-breaking 75.56-meter effort. The event saw exceptional performances, including Australia's Matthew Denny's 74.78-meter throw, which also surpassed the previous world record.
with a monumental throw of 75.56 meters at the Oklahoma Throws Series on April 13, 2025. This historic feat made him the first athlete to surpass the 75-meter mark in men's discus throw. Alekna's previous record of 74.35 meters, set at the same venue in 2024, was eclipsed twice during the competition—first with a 74.89-meter throw, followed by the record-breaking 75.56-meter effort. The event saw exceptional performances, including Australia's Matthew Denny's 74.78-meter throw, which also surpassed the previous world record.Foot notes:
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New World Record: Alekna shattered his own world record with a stunning 75.56-meter throw at the Oklahoma Throws Series in Ramona, USA, on April 13, 2025.
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First to Break 75 Meters: He became the first man in history to throw a discus over 75 meters, solidifying his position as a generational talent in the sport.
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Previous Record: Alekna's previous record was 74.35 meters, which he set on April 14, 2024, at the same Oklahoma Throws Series meeting, breaking Jürgen Schult's 38-year-old record of 74.08 meters.
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Competition: Alekna's throw of 75.56 meters left Australia's Matthew Denny, the Olympic bronze medalist, in second place with a personal best throw of 74.78 meters.
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Family Legacy: Mykolas Alekna comes from a family of athletic excellence, being the son of two-time Olympic gold medalist Virgilijus Alekna, who had a personal best throw of 73.88 meters.
4. Mirabai Chanu Appointed Chairperson of IWLF Athletes Commission
Olympic silver medallist Mirabai Chanu has been unanimously
elected as the Chairperson of the Indian Weightlifting Federation's (IWLF) Athletes Commission on April 15, 2025. Expressing her gratitude, Chanu thanked the IWLF and its president Sahdev Yadav for their trust, stating that representing the voice of fellow weightlifters is a matter of great pride for her. She pledged to take her responsibilities seriously and work towards amplifying athletes' perspectives across all key channels to ensure a focused sporting environment. Chanu also acknowledged the unwavering support of her coach, Vijay Sharma, in her journey. Her appointment is seen as a significant step in strengthening athlete representation within the federation and promoting the growth of weightlifting in India.
elected as the Chairperson of the Indian Weightlifting Federation's (IWLF) Athletes Commission on April 15, 2025. Expressing her gratitude, Chanu thanked the IWLF and its president Sahdev Yadav for their trust, stating that representing the voice of fellow weightlifters is a matter of great pride for her. She pledged to take her responsibilities seriously and work towards amplifying athletes' perspectives across all key channels to ensure a focused sporting environment. Chanu also acknowledged the unwavering support of her coach, Vijay Sharma, in her journey. Her appointment is seen as a significant step in strengthening athlete representation within the federation and promoting the growth of weightlifting in India.Foot notes:
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Appointment: Mirabai Chanu, Olympic silver medalist and renowned weightlifter, has been appointed as the Chairperson of the IWLF Athletes Commission, effective April 16, 2025.
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Commission's Role: The Athletes Commission aims to represent and amplify the voices of weightlifters, ensuring their concerns are addressed and they can focus on their sport without distractions.
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Term and Responsibilities: Chanu will serve a four-year term, working closely with Vice-Chairperson Sathish Kumar, a two-time Commonwealth Games gold medalist, to bridge the gap between athletes and the governing body.
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Leadership Experience: Chanu brings unmatched experience and leadership to the Commission, having brought global recognition to Indian weightlifting through her achievements, including a silver medal at Tokyo 2020 and a World Championship gold in 2017.
5. Saurabh Chaudhary Wins Bronze in 10m Air Pistol At ISSF World Cup 2025
Saurabh Chaudhary secured a bronze medal in the men's 10m air
pistol event at the 2025 ISSF World Cup in Lima, Peru, marking his first individual international podium finish since 2022. The 22-year-old shooter from Uttar Pradesh scored 219.1 points in the final, finishing behind China's Hu Kai, who clinched gold with 246.4 points, and Brazil's Felipe Almeida Wu, who took silver with 241.0 points . Chaudhary led early in the final but slipped in the later stages, while his cousin Varun Tomar narrowly missed the podium, finishing fourth. This medal adds to Chaudhary's recent success, including a mixed team bronze with Suruchi Singh at the Buenos Aires World Cup. His performance in Lima signifies a strong comeback to the international shooting circuit.
pistol event at the 2025 ISSF World Cup in Lima, Peru, marking his first individual international podium finish since 2022. The 22-year-old shooter from Uttar Pradesh scored 219.1 points in the final, finishing behind China's Hu Kai, who clinched gold with 246.4 points, and Brazil's Felipe Almeida Wu, who took silver with 241.0 points . Chaudhary led early in the final but slipped in the later stages, while his cousin Varun Tomar narrowly missed the podium, finishing fourth. This medal adds to Chaudhary's recent success, including a mixed team bronze with Suruchi Singh at the Buenos Aires World Cup. His performance in Lima signifies a strong comeback to the international shooting circuit.Foot notes:
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Event Details: The ISSF World Cup 2025 was held in Lima, Peru, in April 2025, where Chaudhary showcased his skills in the 10m air pistol event.
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Competition: Chaudhary competed against top shooters, including Olympic champions, in a tightly contested match, demonstrating his resilience and talent.
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Medal Achievement: Although there's some confusion about the medal match details, Chaudhary's bronze medal win highlights his remarkable comeback to the Indian shooting team.
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Indian Performance: India had a strong showing at the ISSF World Cup, with Rudrankksh Patil winning gold in the men's 10m air pistol event and other Indian shooters securing medals in different categories.
6. MoU signed between Ministry of Labour & Employment and Swiggy
The Ministry of Labour & Employment signed a Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) with Swiggy to enhance employment opportunities in India's gig economy. This collaboration aims to integrate Swiggy's verified delivery and logistics job listings into the National Career Service (NCS) portal through API-based integration, facilitating real-time job postings and seamless application tracking. The initiative is expected to mobilize over 1.2 million job opportunities across urban and semi-urban areas over the next two to three years, with a focus on inclusive hiring for youth and women. Union Labour Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya highlighted the NCS portal's role in workforce mobilization, noting its database of over 1.25 crore active job seekers and 40 lakh registered employers.
Understanding (MoU) with Swiggy to enhance employment opportunities in India's gig economy. This collaboration aims to integrate Swiggy's verified delivery and logistics job listings into the National Career Service (NCS) portal through API-based integration, facilitating real-time job postings and seamless application tracking. The initiative is expected to mobilize over 1.2 million job opportunities across urban and semi-urban areas over the next two to three years, with a focus on inclusive hiring for youth and women. Union Labour Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya highlighted the NCS portal's role in workforce mobilization, noting its database of over 1.25 crore active job seekers and 40 lakh registered employers.Foot notes:
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Partnership Details: The Ministry of Labour & Employment and Swiggy signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on April 15, 2025, to enhance gig and logistics employment opportunities through the National Career Service (NCS) portal.
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Job Creation Goal: The partnership aims to create over 12 lakh job opportunities in the next 2-3 years, focusing on inclusive hiring and promoting employment for youth, women, and individuals seeking flexible work.
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NCS Portal Integration: Swiggy will integrate its gig opportunities, including delivery, logistics, and support roles, onto the NCS portal, ensuring real-time job postings and seamless application tracking for users.
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Key Features: The MoU emphasizes inclusive hiring, structured onboarding processes, digital empowerment, and awareness of worker welfare schemes, providing a one-stop solution for employment, skilling, and counselling.
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Government Vision: The partnership aligns with the government's initiative to collaborate with private organizations to bridge gaps in the labour market, fostering an enabling ecosystem for India's diverse workforce.
7. SGA appoints Kevin Shah as Managing Director
Strategic Growth Advisors (SGA) has elevated Kevin Shah to the
position of Managing Director, recognizing his pivotal role in the firm's evolution. Previously serving as Executive Director, Shah was instrumental in diversifying SGA's service offerings by introducing key verticals such as Corporate Reporting, Public Relations, and Brand & Design . Founder and Chairman Samir Shah lauded Kevin's 13-year journey with the company, highlighting his empathetic leadership and commitment to innovation. In his new role, Kevin Shah aims to further strengthen SGA's culture, deepen client partnerships, and drive innovation across services. His appointment marks a significant milestone in SGA's journey, reflecting the trust he has earned and the value he has brought to the organization .
position of Managing Director, recognizing his pivotal role in the firm's evolution. Previously serving as Executive Director, Shah was instrumental in diversifying SGA's service offerings by introducing key verticals such as Corporate Reporting, Public Relations, and Brand & Design . Founder and Chairman Samir Shah lauded Kevin's 13-year journey with the company, highlighting his empathetic leadership and commitment to innovation. In his new role, Kevin Shah aims to further strengthen SGA's culture, deepen client partnerships, and drive innovation across services. His appointment marks a significant milestone in SGA's journey, reflecting the trust he has earned and the value he has brought to the organization .Foot notes:
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Previous Role: Shah previously served as Executive Director, playing a crucial role in expanding SGA's service portfolio by introducing three new verticals: Corporate Reporting, Public Relations, and Brand and Design.
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Leadership Style: Shah's leadership approach is rooted in empathy, purpose, and performance, focusing on nurturing talent, deepening client partnerships, and driving innovation across service offerings.
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Company's Future Plans: Under Shah's leadership, SGA aims to scale new heights, push boundaries in integrated communications, and maintain its core values while adapting to the dynamic industry landscape.
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Founder's Comments: Samir Shah, Founder and Chairman of SGA, praised Kevin's appointment as a significant milestone, reflecting the trust and value he has brought to the organization over 13 years.
8. Amararam Gujar appointed as High Commissioner of India to the Republic of Malawi
Amararam Gujar, a 2008-batch Indian Foreign Service officer, has
been appointed as India's next High Commissioner to the Republic of Malawi . Currently serving as the Deputy Chief of Mission at the Indian Embassy in Rome, Gujar is expected to assume his new role shortly . His appointment underscores India's commitment to strengthening diplomatic relations with Malawi, a nation with which India has shared cordial ties since establishing diplomatic relations in 1964 . The re-establishment of India's resident mission in Malawi in March 2012 further solidified this partnership . Gujar's extensive diplomatic experience is anticipated to enhance bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including trade, development, and cultural exchange.
been appointed as India's next High Commissioner to the Republic of Malawi . Currently serving as the Deputy Chief of Mission at the Indian Embassy in Rome, Gujar is expected to assume his new role shortly . His appointment underscores India's commitment to strengthening diplomatic relations with Malawi, a nation with which India has shared cordial ties since establishing diplomatic relations in 1964 . The re-establishment of India's resident mission in Malawi in March 2012 further solidified this partnership . Gujar's extensive diplomatic experience is anticipated to enhance bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including trade, development, and cultural exchange.Foot notes:
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Background: Gujar is an Indian Foreign Service Officer from the 2008 batch, bringing extensive experience and expertise to the role.
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Diplomatic Relations: India and Malawi have historically enjoyed friendly bilateral relations, strengthened by regular high-level exchanges between the two nations since establishing diplomatic ties in 1964.
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Role and Responsibilities: As High Commissioner, Gujar is expected to play a key role in strengthening bilateral relations, promoting people-to-people exchanges, trade, and investment between India and Malawi.
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Previous Experience: Gujar's experience as Deputy Chief of Mission in Rome will be beneficial in navigating regional dynamics and fostering greater cooperation with neighboring countries.
9. Ozone onboards Ranbir Kapoor and Kriti Sanon as brand ambassadors
Ozone, a leading provider of architectural hardware solutions, has
appointed Bollywood actors Ranbir Kapoor and Kriti Sanon as brand ambassadors for its latest campaign, "Makes the World Go O." The campaign emphasizes how Ozone's innovative designs can transform everyday spaces, addressing common challenges like space constraints and functionality. Managing Director Alok Aggarwal highlighted that Kapoor and Sanon's versatility and attention to detail align with Ozone's commitment to quality and design excellence. The campaign was conceptualized by creative agency Fatmen, aiming to showcase the often-overlooked impact of architectural hardware in enhancing living spaces.
appointed Bollywood actors Ranbir Kapoor and Kriti Sanon as brand ambassadors for its latest campaign, "Makes the World Go O." The campaign emphasizes how Ozone's innovative designs can transform everyday spaces, addressing common challenges like space constraints and functionality. Managing Director Alok Aggarwal highlighted that Kapoor and Sanon's versatility and attention to detail align with Ozone's commitment to quality and design excellence. The campaign was conceptualized by creative agency Fatmen, aiming to showcase the often-overlooked impact of architectural hardware in enhancing living spaces.Foot notes:
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Brand Ambassadors: Ozone, a market leader in architectural hardware solutions, has signed Ranbir Kapoor and Kriti Sanon as brand ambassadors to promote their innovative products and solutions.
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Campaign Launch: The duo features in Ozone's new brand campaign, "Makes the World Go O," which highlights how Ozone's solutions can transform everyday spaces and overcome design constraints like space, functionality, durability, and aesthetics.
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Campaign Concept: The campaign, conceptualized by Fatmen and produced by Bang Bang, focuses on showcasing Ozone's architectural hardware solutions as the "Uncelebrated Hero" of every creation, making a creator's vision possible.
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Product Features: Ozone's products, such as dropdown hanger systems, organizers and soft-closing sliding doors, are designed to make spaces stylish, functional, and intuitive, elevating everyday interactions with spaces.
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Endorsement: Ranbir Kapoor and Kriti Sanon have expressed their pride in being associated with Ozone, praising the brand's classy, innovative designs that can elevate any space, from wardrobes to kitchens and bathrooms.
10. Former Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi passed away
Former Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi passed
away on April 14, 2025, at the age of 85. He died at the National Heart Institute in Kuala Lumpur after being admitted for breathing difficulties. Known affectionately as "Pak Lah," Abdullah served as Malaysia's fifth Prime Minister from 2003 to 2009, succeeding Mahathir Mohamad. His tenure was marked by efforts to implement political reforms, combat corruption, and foster moderate Islam, though his administration later faced challenges and electoral setbacks. Abdullah's passing has led to an outpouring of tributes, with a state funeral held at the National Mosque in Kuala Lumpur, followed by his burial at the National Heroes Mausoleum.
away on April 14, 2025, at the age of 85. He died at the National Heart Institute in Kuala Lumpur after being admitted for breathing difficulties. Known affectionately as "Pak Lah," Abdullah served as Malaysia's fifth Prime Minister from 2003 to 2009, succeeding Mahathir Mohamad. His tenure was marked by efforts to implement political reforms, combat corruption, and foster moderate Islam, though his administration later faced challenges and electoral setbacks. Abdullah's passing has led to an outpouring of tributes, with a state funeral held at the National Mosque in Kuala Lumpur, followed by his burial at the National Heroes Mausoleum.Foot notes:
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Date of Passing: Abdullah Ahmad Badawi passed away on April 14, 2025, at the age of 85, due to health complications.
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Cause of Death: He died peacefully at the National Heart Institute in Kuala Lumpur, surrounded by loved ones, after experiencing breathing difficulties.
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Tenure as Prime Minister: Badawi served as Malaysia's fifth Prime Minister from 2003 to 2009, leading the country with a vision of moderate Islam and anti-corruption efforts.
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Legacy: He was known for his calm and compassionate leadership style, earning him the nickname "Pak Lah". His contributions to Malaysia's social and economic development were significant.
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Tributes: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim praised Badawi's humanity in leadership, while Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong expressed condolences, highlighting Badawi's role in strengthening ASEAN cooperation.
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Health Issues: Badawi had been experiencing health issues, including dementia, which was announced publicly in 2022, and had become wheelchair-bound.
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