Current Affairs 17 March 2025

Current Affairs 17 March 2025

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1. Mumbai Indians Won The Women’s Premier League 2025 Final
Mumbai Indians clinched the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 title with a dominant performance in the final. They outplayed their opponents with both bat and ball, securing a comfortable victory. Star players delivered under pressure, showcasing their experience and composure on the big stage. This marks Mumbai Indians’ second WPL championship, reinforcing their reputation as one of the most successful teams in the league. The celebrations were electric, as the team lifted the trophy amid cheers from thousands of fans.
Foot notes:
  • Mumbai Indians' Score: Mumbai Indians scored 149/7 in 20 overs, with Harmanpreet Kaur leading the charge with a brilliant 66 off 44 balls.
  • Delhi Capitals' Response: Delhi Capitals, in response, scored 141/9 in 20 overs, falling short of the target by 8 runs.
  • Player of the Match: Harmanpreet Kaur was awarded the Player of the Match for her outstanding performance.
  • Player of the Series: Nat Sciver-Brunt was named the Player of the Series.
  • Venue: The match was played at the Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai.
2. The Bihar government promoted Amit Lodha (IG) to the rank of ADG of Police
The Bihar government has promoted Amit Lodha, who was serving as Inspector General (IG), to the rank of Additional Director General (ADG) of Police. Known for his sharp leadership and commendable service, Lodha has played a key role in several major policing operations in Bihar. His promotion comes as part of a broader reshuffle within the state police department. Lodha, who is also recognized for his bestselling book "Bihar Diaries," has earned respect both within and outside the police force. The new role will see him take on larger responsibilities in maintaining law and order in the state.
Foot notes:
  • Previous Role: Prior to his promotion, Lodha served as Inspector General (IG) at the State Crime Records Bureau.
  • Background: Lodha, a 1998 batch IPS officer, has gained recognition for his crime-fighting efforts in Bihar, particularly during his tenure as Superintendent of Police in Nalanda district.
  • Controversies: Despite his commendable service, Lodha has faced allegations of corruption and disproportionate assets, leading to an investigation by the Enforcement Directorate.
  • Notable Achievements: Lodha has received several awards, including the President's Police Medal for Gallantry and the Internal Security Medal, and has authored a book, "Bihar Diaries," which inspired the Netflix series "Khakee: The Bihar Chapter".
3. India Tops Medal Tally with 134 Medals at Para Athletics GP
India topped the medal tally at the Para Athletics Grand Prix by securing an impressive total of 134 medals. The Indian contingent delivered outstanding performances across multiple events, dominating both track and field competitions. With a combination of 58 gold, 45 silver, and 31 bronze medals, India showcased its growing strength in para athletics on the global stage. The achievement highlights the dedication and resilience of Indian para-athletes, who continue to break barriers and set new records. This historic win has brought pride to the nation and further boosted India’s reputation in international para sports.
Foot notes:
  • Medal Tally: India's 134 medals put them ahead of the Neutral Para Athletes contingent and Uzbekistan in the overall standings.
  • Notable Performances: Indian athletes delivered exceptional performances across various track and field events, showcasing the country's growing strength and depth in para-athletics.
  • Podium Sweep: India achieved a podium sweep in the men's Shot Put F11–F20 category, with Sagar, Janka Singh, and Balaji Rajendran securing gold, silver, and bronze medals, respectively.
  • Individual Medal Winners: Several Indian athletes won individual medals, including Preeti Pal, who secured a bronze medal in the women's 200m T35–T38 event.
  • Global Recognition: India's impressive performance at the World Para Athletics Grand Prix 2025 has brought recognition to the country's para-athletes, highlighting their talent and dedication to their sport.
4. India Masters Clinch Historic IML 2025 Title
India Masters clinched the historic IML 2025 title with a thrilling performance in the final match. The team displayed exceptional skill, strategy, and teamwork to outclass their opponents and lift the coveted trophy. This victory marks India Masters' first-ever title in the Indian Masters League (IML), making it a memorable moment in the tournament’s history. Star players rose to the occasion, delivering match-winning performances that captivated fans across the country. The win has cemented India Masters’ place among the elite teams in the league, sparking celebrations among their supporters.
Foot notes:
  • Dominant Performance: India Masters delivered an all-round performance, restricting West Indies Masters to 148/7 and then chasing down the target with ease.
  • Ambati Rayudu's Match-Winning Innings: Rayudu scored 74 runs off 50 balls, including nine boundaries and three sixes, to guide India Masters to victory.
  • Sachin Tendulkar's Elegant Start: Tendulkar gave India Masters a blistering start, scoring 25 runs off 18 balls, including two fours and one six.
  • Vinay Kumar's Bowling Masterclass: Vinay Kumar picked up three wickets for 26 runs, helping to restrict West Indies Masters to a modest total.
  • Historic Moment: The victory marked a historic moment for Indian cricket, with India Masters becoming the first team to win the IML title.
5. Prasar Bharati Won Hockey India Jaman Lal Sharma Award 2024
Prasar Bharati has been honored with the prestigious Hockey India Jaman Lal Sharma Award 2024. The award recognizes Prasar Bharati's significant contribution to the promotion and coverage of hockey in India. Through its extensive broadcasting network, Prasar Bharati has played a crucial role in bringing the sport to a wider audience across the nation. This recognition highlights the organization’s dedication to supporting Indian sports and preserving the legacy of hockey. The award ceremony was marked by appreciation from the hockey fraternity for Prasar Bharati’s continued efforts in uplifting the sport.
Foot notes:
  • Recognition: The award acknowledges Prasar Bharati's significant role in promoting hockey in India.
  • Broadcasting Partner: As the official broadcaster, Prasar Bharati has helped increase the visibility of hockey in India.
  • Global Reach: The broadcaster's efforts have also contributed to the growth of hockey's global fan base.
  • Hockey India's Gratitude: Hockey India recognized Prasar Bharati's dedication to the sport and its role in shaping the future of hockey in India.
  • Award Ceremony: The award was presented at the Hockey India 7th Annual Awards 2024, which celebrated the achievements of Indian hockey players, officials, and legends.
6. Flipkart elevates Akash Jain to Director of Marketing, Head of Media
Flipkart has elevated Akash Jain to the position of Director of Marketing and Head of Media. In his new role, Jain will be responsible for leading Flipkart's marketing strategies and overseeing media planning and execution. His promotion comes as part of the company’s efforts to strengthen its brand presence and drive customer engagement. Jain has been a key contributor to Flipkart’s growth, bringing valuable insights and leadership to various successful campaigns. This move signals Flipkart’s commitment to enhancing its marketing capabilities in an increasingly competitive e-commerce landscape.
Foot notes:
  • Responsibilities: Jain will drive innovative advertising campaigns and optimize media strategies to strengthen Flipkart's position in India's competitive e-commerce landscape.
  • Experience: Jain brings nearly a decade of experience within Flipkart, having contributed significantly to the company's media and marketing strategies across various verticals.
  • Previous Role: Prior to his promotion, Jain served as Head of Media – Associate Director, managing media strategies across digital and ATL channels for key commerce categories.
  • Business Growth: Jain's appointment comes at a time when Flipkart is experiencing robust growth, with a 21% increase in revenue reported for the financial year 2023-24.
  • New Initiatives: Jain will also oversee media strategies for Flipkart's emerging verticals, including the recently launched quick commerce initiative, Flipkart Minutes.
7. Valueattics Reinsurance Becomes India’s First Private Reinsurer
Valueattics Reinsurance has made history by becoming India’s first private reinsurance company. This milestone marks a significant step in the liberalization and growth of India’s insurance and reinsurance sectors. As a private reinsurer, Valueattics aims to offer innovative risk management solutions and strengthen the domestic reinsurance market. The move is expected to enhance competition, drive efficiency, and reduce dependence on foreign reinsurers. Industry experts believe this development will support the broader vision of deepening insurance penetration and boosting resilience in India’s financial ecosystem.
Foot notes:
  • IRDAI Approval: Valueattics Reinsurance received approval from the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) to commence reinsurance operations.
  • Capital Base: The company will start with a capital base of ₹2.1 billion (US$21.43 million), backed by Fairfax Financial Holdings and Oben Ventures LLP.
  • Promoters: Valueattics Reinsurance is promoted by Prem Watsa's Fairfax group and Kamesh Goyal, who also founded Go Digit General Insurance and Go Digit Life Insurance.
  • Competition: This development ends the monopoly of General Insurance Corporation of India (GIC Re), the sole public-sector reinsurer in India.
  • Market Impact: The entry of Valueattics Reinsurance is expected to foster competition and innovation in the Indian reinsurance market.
8. N. Ganapathy Subramaniam Appointed as Chairman of Tata Communications
N. Ganapathy Subramaniam has been appointed as the new Chairman of Tata Communications. A veteran leader, Subramaniam brings decades of experience in the IT and telecom sectors to his new role. His appointment is expected to drive Tata Communications’ strategic growth and innovation initiatives globally. The company is optimistic that under his guidance, Tata Communications will strengthen its position as a global digital ecosystem enabler.
Foot notes:
  • Experience: Subramaniam brings over 40 years of experience in the IT industry, having worked with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and other organizations.
  • Previous Roles: He has held significant positions, including Chief Operating Officer and Executive Director at TCS, which he left in May 2024.
  • Expertise: Subramaniam possesses extensive knowledge in technology, operations, product development, business transformation, and change management.
  • Other Positions: He currently holds key positions in other companies, including Chairman and Non-Executive Director of Tata Elxsi Limited and Tejas Networks Limited.
  • Tata Communications' Performance: The company reported a consolidated net profit of 236 crore for the quarter ending December 2024, registering a 424% year-on-year growth.
9. Angel One appoints Rohit Chatter as Chief Data Officer
Angel One has appointed Rohit Chatter as its new Chief Data Officer. In this role, Chatter will lead the company’s data strategy, focusing on leveraging advanced analytics and data-driven insights to enhance customer experience and business operations. He brings a wealth of experience in data science, AI, and technology leadership to Angel One. The appointment aligns with the company’s vision to further integrate data and technology into its core offerings. Chatter’s leadership is expected to play a key role in driving innovation and accelerating Angel One’s digital transformation journey.
Foot notes:
  • Expertise: Chatter's expertise will play a pivotal role in accelerating Angel One's data-led transformation, strengthening its digital-first approach, and enhancing the overall investing experience.
  • Education and Skills: Chatter holds a BE in Electronics & Telecom and an MBA in General Management from NMIMS, and has extensive experience in large-scale Oracle databases, Unix, Microsoft technologies, and programming languages like Perl, Python, and Java.
  • Company's Growth Plans: Angel One aims to leverage Chatter's expertise to redefine digital investing through data-led transformation and a digital-first approach, ultimately empowering millions of investors across India with smarter financial solutions.
10. Renowned Odia Poet Ramakanta Rath passed away
Renowned Odia poet Ramakanta Rath has passed away, leaving a profound void in Indian literature. Rath was celebrated for his modernist approach and deeply philosophical poetry that reshaped Odia literature. A recipient of numerous prestigious awards, including the Jnanpith Award and the Sahitya Akademi Award, he was regarded as one of the greatest poets of contemporary Odia poetry. His notable works, such as Sri Radha and Saptama Ritu, continue to inspire readers and writers alike. The literary community mourns his loss and remembers his invaluable contribution to Indian and regional literature.
Foot notes:
  • Literary Contributions: Rath was a celebrated modernist poet, known for his philosophical and thought-provoking works that explored existential themes.
  • Awards and Recognition: Rath was a recipient of numerous prestigious awards, including the Padma Bhushan, India's third-highest civilian award, in 2006. He also received the Sahitya Akademi Award, Saraswati Samman, and Sahitya Akademi Fellowship, among others.
  • Administrative Career: Apart from his literary pursuits, Rath had a distinguished career in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), serving as the Chief Secretary of Odisha from 1990 to 1992.
  • Tributes and Legacy: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep condolences over Rath's passing, acknowledging his immense contribution to Odia literature.
  • Impact on Odia Literature: Rath's passing marks the end of an era in Odia literature, but his works will continue to inspire generations of readers and writers.
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