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Current Affairs 20 February 2025
1. Rekha Gupta took oath as Delhi Chief Minister
Rekha Gupta is set to be sworn in as the Chief Minister of Delhi,
marking a new chapter in the city's political landscape. Her leadership is expected to bring fresh initiatives and governance strategies to the capital. With this appointment, she joins the ranks of prominent political figures who have held the prestigious position. The oath-taking ceremony will be a significant event, drawing attention from political leaders and citizens alike. Her tenure will be closely watched as she takes on the responsibilities of leading Delhi.
marking a new chapter in the city's political landscape. Her leadership is expected to bring fresh initiatives and governance strategies to the capital. With this appointment, she joins the ranks of prominent political figures who have held the prestigious position. The oath-taking ceremony will be a significant event, drawing attention from political leaders and citizens alike. Her tenure will be closely watched as she takes on the responsibilities of leading Delhi.Foot notes:
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Guest List: The event will be attended by prominent figures, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and BJP National President JP Nadda, as well as around 50,000 guests, including auto-rickshaw drivers, slum dwellers, farmers, and gig workers.
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Security Arrangements: Over 25,000 security personnel and more than 15 companies of paramilitary forces have been deployed to ensure smooth proceedings and maintain law and order.
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Rekha Gupta's Statement: She expressed gratitude towards PM Modi and the BJP high command for giving her this opportunity, stating that it's a moment of pride for women in the country and that she aims to fulfill every commitment of the BJP.
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Historical Significance: Rekha Gupta will become the fourth woman to hold the position of Delhi Chief Minister, marking a significant moment for women's empowerment in India.
2. Nita Ambani Honored with Governor of Massachusetts' Citation
Nita Ambani has been honored with the Governor of Massachusetts'
Citation, recognizing her contributions to philanthropy and social impact. This prestigious acknowledgment highlights her efforts in education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment through the Reliance Foundation. Her leadership has played a crucial role in driving initiatives that uplift communities both in India and globally. The citation reflects her commitment to fostering positive change and creating opportunities for the underprivileged. This recognition further cements her influence as a global philanthropist dedicated to meaningful social transformation.
Citation, recognizing her contributions to philanthropy and social impact. This prestigious acknowledgment highlights her efforts in education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment through the Reliance Foundation. Her leadership has played a crucial role in driving initiatives that uplift communities both in India and globally. The citation reflects her commitment to fostering positive change and creating opportunities for the underprivileged. This recognition further cements her influence as a global philanthropist dedicated to meaningful social transformation.Foot notes:
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Nita Ambani's Achievements: Nita Ambani has emerged as one of the most influential voices of India on the world stage, playing a vital role in showcasing India's soft power and bringing the best of India to the world.
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Reliance Foundation: As the founder and chairperson of Reliance Foundation, Nita Ambani has been instrumental in driving the organization's efforts to create a positive impact on society.
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Personal Touch: On the occasion of receiving the citation, Nita Ambani wore a magnificent handwoven Shikargah Banarasi saree, highlighting her commitment to promoting India's rich artistic heritage on the global stage.
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Global Recognition: This recognition is a testament to Nita Ambani's tireless efforts to make a difference in the lives of people around the world, and her commitment to creating a better future for all.
3. India Becomes IALA Vice President, Boosts Maritime Leadership
India has been appointed as the Vice President of the International
Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA), strengthening its position in global maritime leadership. This recognition underscores India’s growing influence in shaping international maritime policies and safety standards. As Vice President, India will play a key role in enhancing navigation systems, coastal security, and technological advancements in the sector. The appointment reflects the country’s commitment to promoting safe and efficient maritime operations. This achievement further boosts India's reputation as a key player in global maritime affairs.
Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA), strengthening its position in global maritime leadership. This recognition underscores India’s growing influence in shaping international maritime policies and safety standards. As Vice President, India will play a key role in enhancing navigation systems, coastal security, and technological advancements in the sector. The appointment reflects the country’s commitment to promoting safe and efficient maritime operations. This achievement further boosts India's reputation as a key player in global maritime affairs.Foot notes:
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Transition to IGO: IALA's transition from a non-governmental organization to an inter-governmental organization underscores its enhanced role in shaping international standards and best practices for safe and efficient navigation.
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Indian Delegation: The Indian delegation to the assembly was led by Shri T.K. Ramachandran, Secretary of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, and included notable members such as Shri Mukesh Mangal, Joint Secretary, and Shri N. Muruganandam, Director General of Lighthouses and Lightships.
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Hosting IALA Events: India is set to host the IALA Council meeting in December 2025 and the IALA Conference & General Assembly in September 2027 in Mumbai, further strengthening its influence in the sector.
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Maritime Safety: India's election to the Vice Presidency of IALA highlights its dedication to maritime safety and its active collaboration with international partners to advance navigation aids globally.
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Global Recognition: This recognition is a significant boost to India's maritime leadership, demonstrating its capability to contribute to global maritime governance and safety standards.
4. Google Opens 'Ananta' Campus in Bengaluru
Google has inaugurated its state-of-the-art 'Ananta' campus in
Bengaluru, reinforcing its commitment to expanding operations in India. The new facility is designed to foster innovation, collaboration, and technological advancements. With cutting-edge infrastructure, the campus aims to support Google's growing workforce and business in the region. Bengaluru, known as India’s tech hub, continues to attract major global corporations investing in research and development. This expansion highlights Google’s long-term vision for digital growth and innovation in the country.
Bengaluru, reinforcing its commitment to expanding operations in India. The new facility is designed to foster innovation, collaboration, and technological advancements. With cutting-edge infrastructure, the campus aims to support Google's growing workforce and business in the region. Bengaluru, known as India’s tech hub, continues to attract major global corporations investing in research and development. This expansion highlights Google’s long-term vision for digital growth and innovation in the country.Foot notes:
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Design and Features: The campus is designed with sustainability in mind, featuring 100% wastewater recycling, rainwater harvesting, and a large installation of electrochromic glass. It has a city grid layout with individual 'neighbourhoods' for focused work and a central gathering space called 'Sabha' for community and collaboration.
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Capacity and Investment: The Ananta campus can seat upwards of 5,000 employees and is a significant investment in India's tech ecosystem. Google currently has over 10,000 employees in India, and this new campus marks a major milestone in the company's commitment to the country.
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Focus on Innovation and AI: The campus is designed to foster innovation and collaboration, with a focus on AI adoption to drive systemic impacts across sectors such as agriculture, health, and fintech. Google aims to work in deep partnership with India's vibrant research and startup ecosystem to develop world-class products and solve complex challenges.
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Significance for India: The opening of Ananta reinforces Bengaluru's status as India's Silicon Valley and highlights the country's significance in Google's global strategy. The campus is a testament to Google's commitment to India and its vision for the country's technological future.
5. Shubman Gill Becomes No. 1 ODI Batter in ICC Rankings
Shubman Gill has achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the
No. 1 ODI batter in the latest ICC rankings. His consistent performances with the bat have earned him the top spot, showcasing his growing dominance in international cricket. This achievement places him among the elite batters in the world and strengthens India’s presence in the rankings. Gill’s rise has been fueled by his impressive form in recent matches, where he delivered crucial innings for the team. His journey to the top reflects his dedication, talent, and bright future in the sport.
No. 1 ODI batter in the latest ICC rankings. His consistent performances with the bat have earned him the top spot, showcasing his growing dominance in international cricket. This achievement places him among the elite batters in the world and strengthens India’s presence in the rankings. Gill’s rise has been fueled by his impressive form in recent matches, where he delivered crucial innings for the team. His journey to the top reflects his dedication, talent, and bright future in the sport.Foot notes:
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Shubman Gill has achieved the top spot in the ICC ODI batting rankings, surpassing other notable players.
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He has had an impressive career, with a batting average of 57.66 in ODIs and a total of 2191 runs.
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Gill's rise to the top is a testament to his consistent performance and skill as a batsman, with a current rating of 781.
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He has broken several records, including being the fastest player to reach 2000 runs in 38 innings and 2500 runs in 50 innings in ODI cricket.
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As the new number one ODI batter, Gill joins an elite group of players who have achieved this ranking, and his performance will be closely watched in upcoming matches.
6. Mrithinjai Srikanthan Appointed DS in Expenditure Dept.
Mrithinjai Srikanthan has been appointed as the Deputy Secretary in
the Department of Expenditure. His new role will involve overseeing key financial policies and budgetary matters within the department. With his expertise in financial administration, he is expected to contribute significantly to economic planning and resource management. His appointment comes at a crucial time when fiscal policies play a vital role in shaping the country’s economic framework. Srikanthan’s leadership is anticipated to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in the department’s operations.
the Department of Expenditure. His new role will involve overseeing key financial policies and budgetary matters within the department. With his expertise in financial administration, he is expected to contribute significantly to economic planning and resource management. His appointment comes at a crucial time when fiscal policies play a vital role in shaping the country’s economic framework. Srikanthan’s leadership is anticipated to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in the department’s operations.Foot notes:
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Appointment Details: Mrithinjai Srikanthan, an Indian Revenue Service (IRS-C&IT) officer from the 2013 batch, has been appointed as Deputy Secretary in the Department of Expenditure under the Ministry of Finance.
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Tenure and Selection: He will serve in this post for a period of four years from the date of taking over charge, as confirmed by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) in an order issued on February 18, 2025.
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Key Responsibilities: As Deputy Secretary, Mrithinjai Srikanthan will play a crucial role in assisting central Ministries/Departments in controlling costs and prices of public services, reviewing systems and procedures to optimize outputs and outcomes of public expenditure.
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Background and Significance: This appointment is significant as it reflects the government's efforts to bring in experienced and skilled officers to key positions, ensuring effective management of public finances and expenditure.
7. Vivek Joshi Assumes Charge as Election Commissioner
Vivek Joshi has officially taken charge as the Election Commissioner
of India, marking a significant development in the country’s electoral administration. With his vast experience in governance, he is expected to play a crucial role in ensuring free and fair elections. His appointment comes at a time when electoral reforms and transparency are key focus areas. As part of the Election Commission, he will be responsible for overseeing the conduct of elections across the nation. His leadership will be closely watched as India prepares for upcoming electoral challenges.
of India, marking a significant development in the country’s electoral administration. With his vast experience in governance, he is expected to play a crucial role in ensuring free and fair elections. His appointment comes at a time when electoral reforms and transparency are key focus areas. As part of the Election Commission, he will be responsible for overseeing the conduct of elections across the nation. His leadership will be closely watched as India prepares for upcoming electoral challenges.Foot notes:
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Previous Roles: Before this, he was the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India and Member Secretary of the Fifth State Finance Commission in the State of Haryana.
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Education: Joshi is a Mechanical Engineer from IIT Roorkee, and he also holds a Master's in International Business from IIFT, New Delhi, as well as an MA and PhD in International Economics from the Graduate Institute, Geneva.
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New Team: He's part of a new team led by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, who also took charge recently, emphasizing the importance of voting for nation-building.
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Message to Voters: Kumar urged all citizens to become electors and exercise their right to vote, stating that the Election Commission of India will always stand with the voters, in accordance with the Constitution and electoral laws.
8. ParkMate appoints Ziaul Hoda as Program Head
ParkMate has appointed Ziaul Hoda as its new Program Head,
strengthening its leadership team. With his expertise in program management, he is expected to drive innovation and operational efficiency within the company. His role will focus on enhancing ParkMate’s services and expanding its market presence. This appointment aligns with the company’s vision of improving smart parking solutions through advanced technology. Hoda’s leadership is anticipated to bring strategic growth and innovation to the organization.
strengthening its leadership team. With his expertise in program management, he is expected to drive innovation and operational efficiency within the company. His role will focus on enhancing ParkMate’s services and expanding its market presence. This appointment aligns with the company’s vision of improving smart parking solutions through advanced technology. Hoda’s leadership is anticipated to bring strategic growth and innovation to the organization.Foot notes:
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New Appointment: ParkMate has appointed Ziaul Hoda as the Program Head to lead their newly established vertical division.
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Experience and Background: Ziaul brings 9.5 years of experience working in rapidly growing startup environments, having started his career at Mother Dairy and then proceeding to Rentomojo as the AVP-Operations.
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Entrepreneurial Ventures: He has also pursued entrepreneurship by establishing DukaanSe and building CutBox, which received funding from angel investors and 100x VC.
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Role and Responsibilities: As Program Head, Ziaul will be responsible for establishing the new business unit at ParkMate and leading its expansion across India, leveraging his expertise in business launch and growth.
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Leadership and Expectations: The founders of ParkMate, Abhimanyu and Dhananjaya Bharadwaj, have expressed their excitement about Ziaul joining the team, citing his entrepreneurial mindset, leadership skills, and deep understanding of execution as key factors in driving growth and innovation.
9. World Anthropology Day observed on 20th February
World Anthropology Day was observed on February 20th,
celebrating the study of human societies, cultures, and evolution. The day highlights the importance of anthropology in understanding human behavior and social development. Various academic institutions and organizations worldwide conducted events, discussions, and awareness programs. The occasion serves as a platform to promote the significance of anthropological research in addressing global challenges. It encourages students, researchers, and the general public to explore the impact of anthropology on modern society.
celebrating the study of human societies, cultures, and evolution. The day highlights the importance of anthropology in understanding human behavior and social development. Various academic institutions and organizations worldwide conducted events, discussions, and awareness programs. The occasion serves as a platform to promote the significance of anthropological research in addressing global challenges. It encourages students, researchers, and the general public to explore the impact of anthropology on modern society.Foot notes:
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Purpose and Significance: The day aims to promote a better understanding of anthropology and its relevance in today's world, highlighting the discipline's role in addressing global challenges such as inequality, climate change, and social justice.
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History and Establishment: The American Anthropological Association (AAA) established World Anthropology Day in 2016 to encourage anthropologists to share their work with the public and to foster a greater appreciation for the field.
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Celebrations and Events: On this day, anthropologists, students, and institutions organize various events, such as lectures, workshops, and exhibitions, to showcase the diversity and richness of human cultures and to discuss the latest research and findings in the field.
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Theme and Focus: Each year, a specific theme is chosen to focus the celebrations, such as "Anthropology and the Environment" or "Anthropology and Social Justice," allowing for in-depth exploration of critical issues and the role of anthropology in addressing them.
10. Nutella Inventor Francesco Rivella passed away
Francesco Rivella, the inventor of Nutella, has passed away, leaving
behind a legacy of innovation in the food industry. His creation became a globally loved spread, enjoyed by millions across generations. Rivella’s contribution revolutionized the confectionery world, making Nutella a household name. His vision and dedication to crafting a unique product transformed the way people enjoy chocolate and hazelnut spreads. His passing is a significant loss, but his impact on the culinary world will always be remembered.
behind a legacy of innovation in the food industry. His creation became a globally loved spread, enjoyed by millions across generations. Rivella’s contribution revolutionized the confectionery world, making Nutella a household name. His vision and dedication to crafting a unique product transformed the way people enjoy chocolate and hazelnut spreads. His passing is a significant loss, but his impact on the culinary world will always be remembered.Foot notes:
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Early Life and Career: Rivella was born in Barbaresco, Italy, and graduated with a degree in bromatological chemistry from the University of Turin.
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Contributions to Ferrero: He played a crucial role in refining the recipe for Nutella, which was first introduced in 1964.
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Legacy: Rivella's legacy extends beyond Nutella, as he also contributed to the development of other popular Ferrero products.
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Personal Life: After retiring from Ferrero, Rivella dedicated his time to fruit farming and playing pallapugno, a traditional Italian sport.
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Impact: His passing has left a significant impact on the Ferrero community and the millions of people around the world who enjoy Nutella.
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