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Current Affairs 18 March 2025
1. Dr. Shivkumar Kalyanaraman Appointed as CEO of ANRF
Dr. Shivkumar Kalyanaraman has been appointed as the
CEO of the Advanced Network Research Foundation (ANRF). He is a renowned expert in networking and communication technologies with extensive experience in research and leadership roles. As CEO, Dr. Kalyanaraman will spearhead ANRF’s mission to advance next-generation networking solutions and innovation. His appointment is expected to strengthen ANRF’s efforts in driving cutting-edge research and fostering industry collaborations. This move marks a significant step in accelerating India’s capabilities in advanced network infrastructure and technology development.
CEO of the Advanced Network Research Foundation (ANRF). He is a renowned expert in networking and communication technologies with extensive experience in research and leadership roles. As CEO, Dr. Kalyanaraman will spearhead ANRF’s mission to advance next-generation networking solutions and innovation. His appointment is expected to strengthen ANRF’s efforts in driving cutting-edge research and fostering industry collaborations. This move marks a significant step in accelerating India’s capabilities in advanced network infrastructure and technology development.Foot notes:
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ANRF's Mission: As the CEO, Dr. Kalyanaraman will lead ANRF in its mission to seed, grow, and promote research and development (R&D) and foster a culture of research and innovation throughout India's universities, colleges, research institutions, and R&D laboratories.
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ANRF's Objectives: ANRF aims to provide high-level strategic direction for scientific research in India, forge collaborations among industry, academia, and government departments, and create an interface mechanism for participation and contribution of industries and state governments.
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Dr. Kalyanaraman's Vision: With his extensive experience in technology and research, Dr. Kalyanaraman is expected to steer ANRF towards achieving its ambitious goals, including promoting interdisciplinary research, boosting India's position in global scientific research rankings, and developing advanced infrastructure for research institutions.
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Allocation and Funding: ANRF has been allocated Rs. 966 crore for the financial year 2024-25, which will be utilized to support its research and development initiatives.
2. Vantage Wins ‘Best Global Broker’ at Money Expo Mexico 2025
Vantage has been awarded the title of ‘Best Global Broker’
at the Money Expo Mexico 2025. This recognition highlights the company’s excellence in providing top-tier trading services worldwide. Vantage stood out for its advanced trading platform, customer-centric approach, and innovative financial solutions. The award reinforces the firm’s reputation as a trusted and leading broker in global financial markets. The win at such a prestigious event reflects Vantage’s ongoing commitment to empowering traders and investors globally.
at the Money Expo Mexico 2025. This recognition highlights the company’s excellence in providing top-tier trading services worldwide. Vantage stood out for its advanced trading platform, customer-centric approach, and innovative financial solutions. The award reinforces the firm’s reputation as a trusted and leading broker in global financial markets. The win at such a prestigious event reflects Vantage’s ongoing commitment to empowering traders and investors globally.Foot notes:
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Award Recognition: Vantage was honored with the 'Best Global Broker 2025' award, reaffirming its commitment to providing cutting-edge trading solutions, transparency, and client-centric services.
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Event Participation: Vantage participated as a Titanium Sponsor at Money Expo Mexico 2025, held on February 26-27, and engaged with industry professionals and showcased its innovative offerings.
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Thought Leadership: Vantage played a central role in the conference's thought leadership sessions, contributing to key discussions on community monetization and the future of investment banking.
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Commitment to Innovation: Vantage remains at the forefront of innovation, equipping traders with the tools they need to stay ahead in today's dynamic market.
3. Telangana Government Launches ‘Rajiv Yuva Vikasam’ Scheme to Boost Self-Employment
The Telangana government has launched the ‘Rajiv Yuva
Vikasam’ scheme to promote self-employment and entrepreneurship among the youth. The scheme aims to provide financial assistance, skill development, and business training to young individuals across the state. By supporting small businesses and startups, the initiative seeks to generate sustainable livelihoods and reduce unemployment. The government also plans to collaborate with industry experts to offer mentorship and market linkages to the beneficiaries. ‘Rajiv Yuva Vikasam’ is expected to play a key role in empowering the youth and driving economic growth in Telangana.
Vikasam’ scheme to promote self-employment and entrepreneurship among the youth. The scheme aims to provide financial assistance, skill development, and business training to young individuals across the state. By supporting small businesses and startups, the initiative seeks to generate sustainable livelihoods and reduce unemployment. The government also plans to collaborate with industry experts to offer mentorship and market linkages to the beneficiaries. ‘Rajiv Yuva Vikasam’ is expected to play a key role in empowering the youth and driving economic growth in Telangana.Foot notes:
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Objective: The scheme aims to provide self-employment opportunities to 5 lakh unemployed youth in Telangana, with a focus on marginalized communities such as SC, ST, BC, and Minority groups.
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Financial Assistance: Eligible beneficiaries can receive financial assistance ranging from 50,000 to 4 lakh to establish self-employment units. The scheme offers concessional loans with subsidies ranging from 60% to 80%.
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Implementation: The scheme will be implemented through the SC, ST, and BC Welfare Corporations, which will identify eligible beneficiaries and provide them with financial assistance and vocational training.
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Key Benefits: The scheme aims to promote self-employment, reduce unemployment, and foster entrepreneurship among marginalized groups in Telangana. It is expected to benefit 4,000 to 5,000 youth in each Assembly constituency.
4. ISRO Chairman V Narayanan Launches Thermal Research Centre at IIT Madras
ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan has inaugurated a state-of-
the-art Thermal Research Centre at IIT Madras. The new facility aims to advance research in thermal management technologies, crucial for space missions and aerospace applications. This collaboration between ISRO and IIT Madras will focus on developing innovative solutions for heat transfer, thermal control systems, and space-grade materials. The centre is expected to enhance India’s capabilities in designing efficient thermal systems for satellites and other space vehicles. The launch marks a significant step in strengthening academia-industry partnerships to support India’s growing space program.
the-art Thermal Research Centre at IIT Madras. The new facility aims to advance research in thermal management technologies, crucial for space missions and aerospace applications. This collaboration between ISRO and IIT Madras will focus on developing innovative solutions for heat transfer, thermal control systems, and space-grade materials. The centre is expected to enhance India’s capabilities in designing efficient thermal systems for satellites and other space vehicles. The launch marks a significant step in strengthening academia-industry partnerships to support India’s growing space program.Foot notes:
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Thermal Research Centre: The newly launched centre aims to enhance research in thermal management for spacecraft and launch vehicles, which is crucial for India's space exploration endeavors.
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Collaboration between ISRO and IIT Madras: The centre will facilitate collaboration between ISRO scientists and IIT Madras faculty and researchers to tackle complex thermal challenges in space applications.
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Advanced Research Facilities: The centre will provide advanced research facilities, including high-fidelity simulations and testing, to support the development of reusable spacecraft and deep-space exploration capabilities.
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Honoring Shri S. Ramakrishnan: The centre is named after Shri S. Ramakrishnan, an IIT Madras alumnus and renowned aerospace engineer who made significant contributions to launch vehicle engineering.
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Boost to India's Space Program: The establishment of this centre is expected to contribute significantly to India's space program, including missions like Gaganyaan and future lunar and interplanetary endeavors.
5. Hockey Jharkhand Crowned 15th Hockey India Senior Women National Champion
Hockey Jharkhand has been crowned the champion of the
15th Hockey India Senior Women National Championship. The team delivered an outstanding performance, showcasing skill, teamwork, and determination throughout the tournament. With this victory, Hockey Jharkhand has solidified its position as a dominant force in Indian women’s hockey. The championship win is a testament to the hard work of the players and coaching staff. This triumph will inspire young athletes in the region to pursue excellence in the sport.
15th Hockey India Senior Women National Championship. The team delivered an outstanding performance, showcasing skill, teamwork, and determination throughout the tournament. With this victory, Hockey Jharkhand has solidified its position as a dominant force in Indian women’s hockey. The championship win is a testament to the hard work of the players and coaching staff. This triumph will inspire young athletes in the region to pursue excellence in the sport.Foot notes:
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First-Ever National Title: This is Hockey Jharkhand's first-ever Senior Women National Championship title, marking a significant milestone for the team.
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Defeating Defending Champions: Hockey Jharkhand dethroned defending champions Hockey Haryana with a 4-3 shootout win in the final, after the match ended 1-1 in regulation time.
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Match Highlights: Pramodni Lakra scored the equalizing goal for Hockey Jharkhand in the 44th minute, while Captain Rani scored for Hockey Haryana in the 42nd minute.
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Tournament Format: The 15th Hockey India Senior Women National Championship 2025 featured a new knockout format in Division A, with 12 teams participating.
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Third-Place Winner: Hockey Mizoram secured the third place by defeating Hockey Maharashtra, while Hockey Haryana settled for the silver medal.
6. BEL Signs 2,906 Crore Deal with MoD for Indigenous LLTR (Ashwini) Radar
Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has signed a 2,906 crore
contract with the Ministry of Defence for the supply of indigenous Low Level Transportable Radar (LLTR), named 'Ashwini'. The Ashwini radar is designed to enhance the Indian Air Force’s surveillance and detection capabilities at low and medium altitudes. This advanced radar system is a significant step towards self-reliance in defense manufacturing under the ‘Make in India’ initiative. The deal highlights BEL’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology to strengthen India’s air defense network. The deployment of Ashwini radars will greatly boost the country’s operational readiness and security infrastructure.
contract with the Ministry of Defence for the supply of indigenous Low Level Transportable Radar (LLTR), named 'Ashwini'. The Ashwini radar is designed to enhance the Indian Air Force’s surveillance and detection capabilities at low and medium altitudes. This advanced radar system is a significant step towards self-reliance in defense manufacturing under the ‘Make in India’ initiative. The deal highlights BEL’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology to strengthen India’s air defense network. The deployment of Ashwini radars will greatly boost the country’s operational readiness and security infrastructure.Foot notes:
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Radar Capabilities: The Ashwini radar is an active electronically scanned phased array radar, capable of tracking aerial targets ranging from high-speed fighter aircraft to slow-moving targets like Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and helicopters.
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Indigenous Development: The LLTR (Ashwini) radar has been indigenously designed and developed by the Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (LRDE), a laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
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Strategic Importance: The procurement of the Ashwini radar will significantly enhance the Indian Air Force's operational preparedness and air surveillance capabilities, while also promoting self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
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Alignment with Aatmanirbhar Bharat: This deal aligns with the government's Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, aiming to reduce dependence on foreign-origin equipment manufacturers and boost indigenous defence production.
7. Intel Appoints Lip-Bu Tan as CEO
Intel has appointed Lip-Bu Tan as its new Chief Executive
Officer. Tan, a seasoned semiconductor industry leader, is expected to drive Intel's strategic growth and innovation. He previously served as CEO of Cadence Design Systems and has been a board member at several leading tech companies. Under his leadership, Intel aims to strengthen its position in the chipmaking sector and expand its AI and advanced manufacturing capabilities. The appointment signals Intel’s commitment to accelerating technological advancements and market competitiveness.
Officer. Tan, a seasoned semiconductor industry leader, is expected to drive Intel's strategic growth and innovation. He previously served as CEO of Cadence Design Systems and has been a board member at several leading tech companies. Under his leadership, Intel aims to strengthen its position in the chipmaking sector and expand its AI and advanced manufacturing capabilities. The appointment signals Intel’s commitment to accelerating technological advancements and market competitiveness.Foot notes:
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Experience: Lip-Bu Tan, a veteran tech executive, has been appointed as the new CEO of Intel. He has previously served as the CEO of Cadence Design Systems and has over 40 years of experience in the tech industry.
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Background: Tan has a strong background in the semiconductor industry, having worked with companies like Cadence, Broadcom, and IBM. This experience will be valuable in leading Intel's efforts to regain its footing in the highly competitive chip market.
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Current Role: Tan has been serving as the chairman of the board at Cadence Design Systems and has been a member of Intel's board of directors since 2006.
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Challenge Ahead: As the new CEO, Tan faces the challenge of reviving Intel's fortunes, which have been impacted by increased competition from companies like AMD and NVIDIA.
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Market Expectations: Investors and analysts will be watching Tan's leadership closely, expecting him to outline a clear strategy for Intel's growth and competitiveness in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.
8. Hilton Gurugram Baani City Centre appoints Abishek Chandran as Cluster Director of Marketing & Communications
Hilton Gurugram Baani City Centre has appointed Abishek
Chandran as the Cluster Director of Marketing & Communications. In his new role, Chandran will oversee the marketing strategies and communication initiatives for the property and its associated cluster. He brings a wealth of experience in brand management, digital marketing, and public relations within the hospitality industry. His appointment is expected to strengthen the hotel’s market presence and enhance guest engagement. The leadership team is confident that Chandran’s expertise will drive impactful campaigns and elevate the brand’s positioning in the region.
Chandran as the Cluster Director of Marketing & Communications. In his new role, Chandran will oversee the marketing strategies and communication initiatives for the property and its associated cluster. He brings a wealth of experience in brand management, digital marketing, and public relations within the hospitality industry. His appointment is expected to strengthen the hotel’s market presence and enhance guest engagement. The leadership team is confident that Chandran’s expertise will drive impactful campaigns and elevate the brand’s positioning in the region.Foot notes:
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Role and Responsibilities: As Cluster Director of Marketing & Communications, Abishek will lead marketing and communication strategies across the cluster, working closely with the cluster commercial director, general managers, and Hilton brand’s teams.
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Key Objectives: Abishek's primary objectives will include developing and executing innovative campaigns, advancing brand growth, and cultivating robust relationships with key stakeholders to elevate Hilton Gurugram’s reputation and market position.
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Previous Successes: Abishek has a proven track record of successfully driving marketing and communication strategies, boosting brand visibility, and executing impactful campaigns that have contributed to the growth of Hilton’s portfolio.
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Leadership's Expectations: Harkaran Singh, General Manager, Hilton Gurugram Baani City Centre, expressed his excitement about Abishek's appointment, citing his passion for excellence and deep understanding of the domain as key factors in driving marketing initiatives and reinforcing the brand's presence.
9. Skechers onboards Jasprit Bumrah as Brand Ambassador
Skechers has announced Indian cricket star Jasprit Bumrah
as its new brand ambassador. The partnership aims to strengthen Skechers' presence in the Indian market by connecting with sports and fitness enthusiasts. Known for his athleticism and performance, Bumrah embodies the brand’s values of comfort, innovation, and high performance. As the face of Skechers, he will feature in upcoming campaigns promoting the brand’s athletic and lifestyle footwear. This collaboration highlights Skechers’ commitment to engaging with India’s growing sports and active lifestyle community.
as its new brand ambassador. The partnership aims to strengthen Skechers' presence in the Indian market by connecting with sports and fitness enthusiasts. Known for his athleticism and performance, Bumrah embodies the brand’s values of comfort, innovation, and high performance. As the face of Skechers, he will feature in upcoming campaigns promoting the brand’s athletic and lifestyle footwear. This collaboration highlights Skechers’ commitment to engaging with India’s growing sports and active lifestyle community.Foot notes:
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Partnership Details: As part of the agreement, Bumrah will compete in Skechers cricket footwear and feature in the brand's marketing campaigns, promoting both performance and lifestyle collections.
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Alignment with Skechers' Values: Bumrah's relentless pursuit of excellence aligns with Skechers' commitment to innovation and performance, making him an ideal fit for the brand.
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Skechers' Cricket Presence: This partnership strengthens Skechers' presence in Indian cricket, with the brand also serving as the official kit sponsor of the Mumbai Indians team.
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Bumrah's Comments: Bumrah expressed his enthusiasm for joining the Skechers family, citing the brand's blend of comfort and innovation as a perfect fit for athletes like him.
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Expanded Ambassador Roster: Bumrah joins Skechers' roster of ambassadors, which includes Indian cricketers Yastika Bhatia and Ishan Kishan.
10. Maharana Pratap’s Descendant Arvind Singh Mewar passed away
Arvind Singh Mewar, a direct descendant of Maharana
Pratap, has passed away. He was a prominent royal figure and the 76th custodian of the Mewar dynasty, known for preserving the legacy and cultural heritage of Udaipur. Arvind Singh Mewar played a key role in promoting tourism and heritage conservation through the management of the HRH Group of Hotels. His contributions to Rajasthan’s historical and cultural landscape were widely respected. His passing marks the end of an era for one of India’s most prestigious royal lineages.
Pratap, has passed away. He was a prominent royal figure and the 76th custodian of the Mewar dynasty, known for preserving the legacy and cultural heritage of Udaipur. Arvind Singh Mewar played a key role in promoting tourism and heritage conservation through the management of the HRH Group of Hotels. His contributions to Rajasthan’s historical and cultural landscape were widely respected. His passing marks the end of an era for one of India’s most prestigious royal lineages.Foot notes:
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Lineage and Family: Arvind Singh Mewar was the younger son of Bhagwant Singh Mewar and Sushila Kumari, and the brother of the late Mahendra Singh Mewar, who passed away in November 2024.
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Education and Career: Mewar was educated at Mayo College in Ajmer and later pursued hotel management studies in the UK and the US. He worked in Chicago before establishing the HRH Group of Hotels.
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Business Ventures: As the chairman of the HRH Group of Hotels, Mewar played a significant role in promoting tourism and hospitality in Rajasthan.
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Personal Life and Interests: Mewar was an avid cricketer and made his Ranji Trophy debut as the captain of Rajasthan in the 1945-46 season. He also engaged in polo during the 1970s.
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Legacy: Mewar's passing has been met with an outpouring of grief from the people of Udaipur and Rajasthan, who remember him as a respected member of the royal family and a pioneering figure in the state's tourism industry.
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