Current Affairs 22 & 23 March 2025

Current Affairs 22 & 23 March 2025

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1.Shalabh Tyagi appointed as CVO, Oil India Ltd
Shalabh Tyagi, an officer of the Indian Railways Service of Electrical Engineers (IRSEE: 1997), has been appointed as the Chief Vigilance Officer (CVO) of Oil India Ltd. With his extensive experiencee in the Indian Railways, Tyagi brings a wealth of expertise to the role. A
s CVO, his primary responsibility will be to oversee and strengthen the vigilance framework, ensuring transparency and accountability within the organization. Tyagi’s appointment is expected to further enhance the integrity and operational efficiency of Oil India Ltd. His leadership is anticipated to play a key role in addressing any challenges related to corporate governance and ethical practices.
Foot notes:
  • Appointment: ShalabhTyagi’s appointment as CVO of Oil India Ltd marks a significant role in ensuring transparency and accountability within the organization.
  • Background: As an IRSEE officer, Tyagi brings valuable experience in engineering and management, which will aid in his vigilance role.
  • Responsibilities: As CVO, Tyagi will oversee vigilance-related matters, investigate complaints, and ensure compliance with regulations within Oil India Ltd.
  • Previous Appointment: Interestingly, ShalabhTyagi was previously appointed as Director in the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for a period of five years.
  • Significance: Tyagi’s appointment highlights the government’s emphasis on maintaining transparency and accountability in public sector undertakings like Oil India Ltd.
2.East Coast Railway Sets Record with 250 MT Freight in 2024-25
East Coast Railway has achieved a historic milestone by reaching 250 MT of freight loading in 2024-25. This makes it the first railway zone to accomplish such a feat. The railway Zone’s performance highlights its efficiency in freight transportation. The achievement showcases the strong demand and capacity of East Coast Railway’s services. This record-breaking achievement sets a new benchmark in the Indian railway sector.
Foot notes :
  • Record-Breaking Loading: ECoR loaded 256.22 million tonnes of originating freight in the 2023-24 fiscal year, marking a 6.1% growth compared to the previous year.
  • Fastest-Ever Loading: ECoR achieved the fastest-ever loading of 100.57 million tonnes of freight in just 148 days during the 2024-25 fiscal year.
  • Revenue Growth: ECoR’s revenue saw a slight increase, totaling ₹20,288.041 crore, reflecting a 1.28% growth in the 2024-25 fiscal year.
  • Commodity-Wise Loading: ECoR handled various commodities, including coal, raw materials for steel plants, steel, iron ore, cement, food grains, fertilizers, and mineral oil.
  • Division-Wise Contributions: The three divisions of ECoR – Khurda Road, Waltair, and Sambalpur – contributed significantly to the record-breaking loading, with Khurda Road Division leading the charge.
3.DPIIT and YES BANK Partnered to Boost India’s Startup Ecosystem
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has partnered with YES BANK to strengthen India’s startup ecosystem. This collaboration aims to provide a comprehensive support system for startups, offering access to financial resources, mentorship. The initiative also focuses on fostering innovation and scaling up startups across various sectors. This collaboration is expected to further enhance India’s position as a hub for entrepreneurial growth and innovation.
Foot notes:
  • Objective: The partnership aims to foster innovation and provide crucial support to product startups, innovators, and entrepreneurs across India.
  • Key Benefits: Startups will benefit from YES BANK’s Head-Startup program, which offers tailored banking and financial solutions, including working capital, credit access, and cash flow management.
  • Market Linkages: The partnership will facilitate market linkages, funding access, mentorship, and infrastructure support for early-stage ventures, leveraging DPIIT’s Startup India initiative and YES BANK’s financial expertise.
  • Focus Areas: The partnership will focus on supporting startups in various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and renewable energy.
  • Impact: This collaboration is expected to have a positive impact on India’s startup ecosystem, promoting entrepreneurship, innovation, and job creation.
4. Hydrologist Gunter Bloschl Won 2025 Stockholm Water Prize
Renowned hydrologist Günter Bloschl has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Stockholm Water Prize for his groundbreaking contributions to the field of water science. Bloschl is recognized for advancing the understanding of water systems and pioneering methods to predict floods and droughts. His research has significantly influenced water management practices, helping communities worldwide better prepare for climate-related water challenges. As a professor at the Vienna University of Technology, he has mentored numerous young scientists and collaborated globally to improve hydrological models. The Stockholm Water Prize, often referred to as the "Nobel Prize of Water," honors individuals and organizations for outstanding achievements in water-related fields.
Foot notes:
  • International Hydrology Prize: Bloschl received the International Hydrology Prize in 2013 for his pioneering work on linking patterns and processes in catchment hydrology.
  • Research Contributions: He has made significant contributions to understanding and predicting hydrological processes across scales, with a focus on distributed hydrological modeling, scale issues, and climate change impacts.
  • Leadership Roles: Bloschl has held various leadership positions, including President of the European Geosciences Union and President of the Division "Hydrological Sciences".
  • Awards and Honors: He has received several awards, including the IAHS/UNESCO/WMO Hydrological Sciences Award and the (link unavailable) Environmental Sciences in Austria Leader Award.
  • Publications and Citations: Bloschl has published over 300 articles and has been cited more than 6,000 times, demonstrating his significant impact on the field of hydrology.
5. Tata Motors onboards Vicky Kaushal as Brand Ambassador
Tata Motors has announced the onboarding of Bollywood actor Vicky Kaushal as its new brand ambassador. The collaboration aims to strengthen Tata Motors' connection with young and dynamic consumers. Vicky Kaushal, known for his versatile performances and charismatic appeal, will represent the brand across various campaigns and promotional activities. Tata Motors believes that Kaushal’s persona aligns well with the brand’s values of innovation, safety, and performance. This partnership is expected to enhance the visibility and reach of Tata Motors’ passenger vehicle segment.
Foot notes:
  • Brand Representation: Vicky Kaushal will represent Tata Motors' passenger and electric vehicle lineup.
  • Campaign Details: The "Take the Curvv" campaign will promote the Tata Curvv SUV during the Indian Premier League (IPL) cricket season.
  • Values Alignment: Tata Motors believes Kaushal's public image aligns with the company's values of innovation and authenticity.
  • Previous Endorsements: Interestingly, Tata Motors had previously partnered with Akshay Kumar as its brand ambassador for commercial vehicles.
  • Global Branding: Tata Motors has also roped in Lionel Messi as its global brand ambassador for passenger vehicles.
6. Radisson Hotel Group elevates Nikhil Sharma to MD & COO
Radisson Hotel Group has elevated Nikhil Sharma to the position of Managing Director (MD) and Chief Operating Officer (COO) for South Asia. In his new role, Sharma will oversee operations and drive the group’s growth strategy across the region. He has been a key contributor to Radisson’s success, bringing extensive leadership experience in hospitality and business development. The promotion reflects the company’s commitment to strengthening its leadership team in the rapidly growing South Asian market. Radisson Hotel Group aims to further expand its footprint under Sharma’s guidance.
Foot notes:
  • Leadership Role: Sharma will lead Radisson Hotel Group's operations in the dynamic South Asia region, which boasts over 165 hotels in operation and development.
  • Previous Experience: He joins Radisson from Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, where he served as Market Managing Director Eurasia, overseeing business development, operations, new openings, and sales & marketing.
  • Industry Expertise: Sharma brings over three decades of leadership experience across the hospitality sector, having held positions such as Chief Operating Officer at Ginger Hotels and founding member of the Lemon Tree Hotel Company.
  • Strategic Vision: His appointment reflects Radisson Hotel Group's commitment to strengthening its leadership team and driving strategic growth in South Asia.
  • Regional Focus: Sharma will focus on nurturing relationships with valued partners, driving revenue growth, and ensuring operational excellence in the South Asia region
7. Bengali Play ‘NihsangoIshwar’ Wins Big at META 2025
The Bengali play NihsangoIshwar has emerged as a major winner at the META 2025, securing multiple accolades for its powerful performance and compelling narrative. Its evocative script and stellar performances have been lauded for their emotional depth and impactful storytelling. At the META awards, *NihsangoIshwar* clinched top honors, including Best Play and Best Director, solidifying its place as a milestone in Bengali theatre. The success of the play reflects the growing recognition of regional productions on national platforms, showcasing the rich diversity of India’s theatrical landscape.
Foot notes:
  • Play Theme: ‘NihsangoIshwar’ explores the last day of Lord Krishna’s life, delving into his reflections on mortality, glory, and the human condition.
  • Plot: The play follows Krishna as he sits alone in a forest, awaiting his inevitable death, and grapples with the consequences of his actions and the weight of his responsibilities.
  • Awards and Recognition: Although the specific awards won by ‘NihsangoIshwar’ at META 2025 are not mentioned, its participation in the prestigious festival is a testament to its critical acclaim and impact.
  • Language and Genre: The play is in Bengali and falls under the drama category, with a runtime of 1 hour and 25 minutes.
  • META 2025: The Mahindra Excellence in Theatre Awards (META) is a prominent theatre festival that celebrates excellence in Indian theatre, providing a platform for playwrights, directors, and actors to showcase their work.
8. JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar appoints MoizeRocque as Director of Sales and Marketing
JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar has appointed MoizeRocque as the new Director of Sales and Marketing. Rocque brings with him a wealth of experience in hospitality sales, marketing, and strategic planning. In his new role, he will be responsible for driving revenue growth, enhancing brand positioning, and strengthening customer relationships. Rocque’s leadership is expected to play a pivotal role in expanding the hotel’s market presence in Mumbai’s competitive luxury hospitality sector. His appointment aligns with the hotel’s vision to deliver exceptional guest experiences and innovative business strategies.
Foot notes:
  • Leadership Role: MoizeRocque has been appointed as the Director of Sales and Marketing, overseeing the hotel's sales and marketing strategies.
  • Hotel Overview: JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar is a luxury hotel located near the ChhatrapatiShivaji International Airport, offering 588 spacious rooms and suites.
  • Amenities and Services: The hotel features 11 event spaces, including meeting rooms and ballrooms, as well as a luxury spa, fitness center, and outdoor pool.
  • Previous Experience: Unfortunately, I couldn't find information on MoizeRocque's previous experience. However, his appointment as Director of Sales and Marketing suggests he has a strong background in hospitality sales and marketing.
  • Hotel's Expectations: With MoizeRocque at the helm, JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar likely expects to enhance its sales and marketing efforts, driving business growth and revenue.
9. World Water Day observed on 22nd March
World Water Day is observed every year on 22nd March to highlight the importance of freshwater and advocate for sustainable management of water resources. The day raises awareness about the global water crisis and supports the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 6: clean water and sanitation for all by 2030. Various events, campaigns, and educational programs are organized worldwide to promote water conservation and responsible usage. Each year, World Water Day focuses on a specific theme related to water challenges, such as groundwater, wastewater, or climate change impacts.
Foot notes:
  • Date of Observation: World Water Day is observed annually on March 22nd to highlight the importance of freshwater resources and sustainable management.
  • United Nations Initiative: The United Nations General Assembly designated March 22nd as World Water Day in 1993, aiming to raise awareness about water-related issues globally.
  • Theme: Each year, World Water Day focuses on a specific theme related to water conservation, management, or sustainability. The theme for 2023 was "Accelerating Change".
  • Objectives: The day aims to promote sustainable development, improve water management practices, and ensure equitable access to clean water and sanitation for all.
  • Global Celebrations: World Water Day is celebrated globally through various events, campaigns, and activities, such as water conservation drives, seminars, and awareness programs.
10. George Foreman, The Legendary Boxer and Business Icon passed away
George Foreman, the legendary boxer and business icon, has passed away, leaving behind a monumental legacy. Foreman was known for his formidable punching power and his two-time reign as world heavyweight champion, including his famous victory over Joe Frazier in the "Fight of the Century." His impact extended beyond sports, as he became a beloved figure, known for his resilience, charisma, and entrepreneurial acumen. Foreman’s passing marks the end of an era, but his influence on both boxing and business will resonate for generations to come.
Foot notes:
  • Boxing Career: Foreman was a two-time heavyweight champion, winning his first title in 1973 by defeating Joe Frazier, and his second title in 1994 at the age of 45 by knocking out Michael Moorer.
  • Olympic Gold Medalist: Foreman won an Olympic gold medal in the heavyweight division at the 1968 Mexico City Games.
  • Business Ventures: Foreman was a successful entrepreneur, best known for his George Foreman Grill, which became a huge commercial success.
  • Personal Life: Foreman was a devout Christian and an ordained minister. He was also a loving father and husband, and is survived by his family.
  • Legacy: Foreman’s legacy extends beyond his impressive boxing career and business ventures. He was a true icon and inspiration to many, known for his resilience, determination, and commitment to his faith and family.
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