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Current Affairs 24 April 2025
1. Jitendra Mishra Elected President of CIFEJ
Jitendra Mishra has been elected as the President of the
International Centre of Films for Children and Young People (CIFEJ). The announcement came during the organization's annual conference, where Mishra was chosen for his extensive experience in promoting children's cinema. Known for his passion for creating meaningful content for young audiences, Mishra's leadership is expected to steer CIFEJ towards new heights in the coming years. His election marks a significant moment for the organization, which has long championed the cultural and educational value of films aimed at children and youth. As President, Mishra plans to expand CIFEJ's reach globally, fostering collaboration between filmmakers, educators, and institutions. His appointment has been widely praised, with many hopeful that his vision will inspire a new wave of impactful films for young people.
International Centre of Films for Children and Young People (CIFEJ). The announcement came during the organization's annual conference, where Mishra was chosen for his extensive experience in promoting children's cinema. Known for his passion for creating meaningful content for young audiences, Mishra's leadership is expected to steer CIFEJ towards new heights in the coming years. His election marks a significant moment for the organization, which has long championed the cultural and educational value of films aimed at children and youth. As President, Mishra plans to expand CIFEJ's reach globally, fostering collaboration between filmmakers, educators, and institutions. His appointment has been widely praised, with many hopeful that his vision will inspire a new wave of impactful films for young people.Foot notes:
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Unanimous Election: Jitendra Mishra was unanimously elected as President of CIFEJ for the 2025-2027 term, receiving support from over 50 active members across 40 countries.
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Global Platform for Youth Cinema: As President, Mishra aims to leverage cinema to raise awareness about social issues and inspire youth, promoting culturally diverse films for children and young audiences worldwide.
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CIFEJ's Mission and Background: CIFEJ, established in 1955 under UNESCO, is a global organization promoting quality audio-visual content for children and youth, with its headquarters in Athens, Greece.
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Leadership and Vision: Mishra's leadership focuses on empowering young minds through meaningful cinema, with plans to expand CIFEJ's global footprint and offer filmmakers a platform to showcase their work.
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Diverse Board and Global Collaboration: The CIFEJ board features experts from Canada, Cyprus, China, Tunisia, Romania, Iran, Japan, and Greece, reflecting global support for Mishra's vision and collaborative efforts to advance youth-centric cinema.
2. India’s First Quantum Computing Village in Amaravati
India’s first Quantum Computing Village has been established
in Amaravati, marking a significant milestone in the country’s technological landscape. This initiative aims to foster innovation and research in quantum computing, positioning India as a global leader in the emerging field. The village is equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure to support startups, researchers, and institutions focused on quantum technologies. It will serve as a hub for education and collaboration, offering opportunities for students and professionals to engage with cutting-edge quantum computing projects. With government backing and partnerships with international tech giants, the village is expected to drive advancements in sectors like cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and drug discovery. The establishment of the Quantum Computing Village is a testament to India’s commitment to building a future-ready, tech-driven economy.
in Amaravati, marking a significant milestone in the country’s technological landscape. This initiative aims to foster innovation and research in quantum computing, positioning India as a global leader in the emerging field. The village is equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure to support startups, researchers, and institutions focused on quantum technologies. It will serve as a hub for education and collaboration, offering opportunities for students and professionals to engage with cutting-edge quantum computing projects. With government backing and partnerships with international tech giants, the village is expected to drive advancements in sectors like cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and drug discovery. The establishment of the Quantum Computing Village is a testament to India’s commitment to building a future-ready, tech-driven economy.Foot notes:
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Location and Size: The Quantum Computing Village will be set up on 50 acres of land in Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh, and will serve as a global hub for quantum innovation.
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Key Players: The project involves collaboration between the Andhra Pradesh government, Real-Time Governance Society (RTGS), IBM, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), and Larsen & Toubro (L&T). IBM will provide advanced quantum systems, while L&T will handle the construction of an Iconic Building to house these systems.
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Infrastructure: The village will feature a dedicated data center, high-performance computing resources, and IBM's Quantum System Two. The infrastructure specifications will be jointly finalized by IBM and TCS.
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Objective: The Quantum Computing Village aims to advance research, development, and collaboration in quantum computing, positioning Amaravati as a global hub for quantum innovation and enabling India to become a leader in computational technologies.
3. Oscar Piastri Wins 2025 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix
Oscar Piastri made history at the 2025 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix by
claiming his first-ever Formula 1 victory. The McLaren driver executed a flawless race, managing tire degradation and strategic pit stops to fend off challenges from rivals. In a tense final laps showdown, Piastri held off a fast-charging Max Verstappen, whose late push fell just short. The win marks a significant milestone for both Piastri and McLaren, showcasing their progress and growth throughout the season. The race in Jeddah provided thrilling action, with several on-track battles and dramatic moments, but Piastri's composure under pressure set him apart. His triumph was celebrated by his team and fans alike, propelling him into the spotlight as one of F1's rising stars.
claiming his first-ever Formula 1 victory. The McLaren driver executed a flawless race, managing tire degradation and strategic pit stops to fend off challenges from rivals. In a tense final laps showdown, Piastri held off a fast-charging Max Verstappen, whose late push fell just short. The win marks a significant milestone for both Piastri and McLaren, showcasing their progress and growth throughout the season. The race in Jeddah provided thrilling action, with several on-track battles and dramatic moments, but Piastri's composure under pressure set him apart. His triumph was celebrated by his team and fans alike, propelling him into the spotlight as one of F1's rising stars.Foot notes:
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Winning Performance: Oscar Piastri won the Grand Prix with a flawless drive, securing his third win of the 2025 season and taking the lead in the Drivers' Championship standings with 99 points.
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Penalized Rival: Max Verstappen, who started from pole position, received a 5-second penalty for cutting the corner and gaining an advantage over Piastri on the first lap, ultimately finishing second behind Piastri.
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Podium Finishers: Charles Leclerc from Ferrari secured his first podium finish of the season, coming in third, while Lando Norris from McLaren finished fourth after a strong recovery drive from 10th place.
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Championship Standings: Piastri's win propelled him to the top of the Drivers' Championship standings, 2 points ahead of Norris and 12 points ahead of Verstappen. McLaren also solidified their lead in the Constructors' Championship.
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Race Drama: The Grand Prix featured a Safety Car deployment after a collision between Yuki Tsunoda and Pierre Gasly on the first lap, and several drivers, including Leclerc and Norris, engaged in intense battles for position throughout the race.
4. Indian Chess Grandmaster Koneru Humpy Won FIDE Women’s Grand Prix
Indian Chess Grandmaster Koneru Humpy clinched the title at the
FIDE Women’s Grand Prix, showcasing her exceptional skill and consistency. This victory further solidifies her position as one of the top female chess players in the world. Throughout the tournament, she demonstrated strategic brilliance and mental resilience against tough international competition. Humpy’s win is a proud moment for Indian chess and inspires many aspiring players across the country. Her performance also earns her valuable points in the FIDE Women’s World Championship cycle. With this achievement, Koneru Humpy continues to be a strong force in global women's chess.
FIDE Women’s Grand Prix, showcasing her exceptional skill and consistency. This victory further solidifies her position as one of the top female chess players in the world. Throughout the tournament, she demonstrated strategic brilliance and mental resilience against tough international competition. Humpy’s win is a proud moment for Indian chess and inspires many aspiring players across the country. Her performance also earns her valuable points in the FIDE Women’s World Championship cycle. With this achievement, Koneru Humpy continues to be a strong force in global women's chess.Foot notes:
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Final Round Wins: Humpy beat Bulgarian player Nurgyul Salimova in the 9th and final round, while Zhu Jiner won against Russia's Polina Shuvalova.
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Points and Ranking: Humpy and Zhu Jiner tied for the top spot, but Humpy took the lead due to superior tie-breaks, earning 117.5 points from the fifth leg tournament.
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Other Notable Performances: Divya Deshmukh, a wildcard entrant, finished third with 5.5 points, scoring four victories, three draws, and losing two games to Humpy and Zhu.
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Humpy's Achievements: This win adds to Humpy's impressive record, which includes becoming the youngest female Grandmaster at 15 years and 1 month old, and winning the Women's World Rapid Chess Championship in 2019 and 2024.
5. Vithya, Yashas Won 400 M Hurdles Titles In National Federation Senior Athletics Competition 2025
Vithya and Yashas emerged victorious in the 400m hurdles titles at
the National Federation Senior Athletics Competition 2025. Both athletes delivered outstanding performances, showcasing speed, endurance, and flawless technique. Their wins highlight their dedication and rigorous training leading up to the event. Vithya dominated the women's category, while Yashas impressed with a commanding run in the men's event. These victories mark significant milestones in their athletic careers and bring pride to their respective states. Their achievements also boost India’s hopes for strong representation in upcoming international competitions.
the National Federation Senior Athletics Competition 2025. Both athletes delivered outstanding performances, showcasing speed, endurance, and flawless technique. Their wins highlight their dedication and rigorous training leading up to the event. Vithya dominated the women's category, while Yashas impressed with a commanding run in the men's event. These victories mark significant milestones in their athletic careers and bring pride to their respective states. Their achievements also boost India’s hopes for strong representation in upcoming international competitions.Foot notes:
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Vithya Ramraj's Winning Performance: Vithya Ramraj from Tamil Nadu won the women's 400m hurdles title with a meet record time of 56.04 seconds, surpassing Saritaben Gayakwad's previous record of 57.21 seconds set in 2019. This performance also qualified her for the Asian Athletics Championships.
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Yashas P's Winning Time: Yashas P from Karnataka claimed the men's 400m hurdles title with a personal best time of 49.32 seconds, narrowly missing the Asian Championships qualification mark of 49.19 seconds.
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Competition Highlights: Vithya Ramraj's winning time was notable, while Yashas P expressed that he missed the Asian qualification mark due to a lack of competition in the event.
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Other Medalists: In the women's event, Anu R from Kerala took silver with 58.26 seconds, and Ashwini R from Tamil Nadu secured bronze with 1:02.41 minutes. In the men's event, Subhas Das took silver with 50.11 seconds, and Ruchit Mori claimed bronze with 51.08 seconds.
6. Klaus Schwab Resigns as Chairman of World Economic Forum
Klaus Schwab, the 87-year-old founder of the World Economic
Forum (WEF), has resigned as chairman, ending over five decades at the helm of the influential organization. Schwab, who established the WEF in 1971, announced his immediate departure during an extraordinary board meeting on April 20, 2025 . His resignation comes amid an independent investigation into allegations of financial and ethical misconduct involving Schwab and his wife, Hilde, including misuse of WEF funds and resources . Both have denied the accusations and are pursuing legal action against the whistleblower. The WEF board has appointed former Nestlé CEO Peter Brabeck-Letmathe as interim chairman while initiating a search for a permanent successor .
Forum (WEF), has resigned as chairman, ending over five decades at the helm of the influential organization. Schwab, who established the WEF in 1971, announced his immediate departure during an extraordinary board meeting on April 20, 2025 . His resignation comes amid an independent investigation into allegations of financial and ethical misconduct involving Schwab and his wife, Hilde, including misuse of WEF funds and resources . Both have denied the accusations and are pursuing legal action against the whistleblower. The WEF board has appointed former Nestlé CEO Peter Brabeck-Letmathe as interim chairman while initiating a search for a permanent successor .Foot notes:
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New Leadership: Peter Brabeck-Letmathe, former CEO of Nestlé, has been appointed as interim Chairman until a permanent successor is found. A search committee will be responsible for selecting the new Chairman.
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Legacy and Impact: Klaus Schwab's leadership and vision for stakeholder capitalism have had a profound impact on the World Economic Forum and global economic governance. His resignation marks the end of an era and presents an opportunity for the organization to redefine its role in the global community.
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Challenges Ahead: The World Economic Forum faces significant challenges, including criticism of elitism, internal cultural controversies, and backlash against globalization. The organization will need to navigate these challenges and adapt to a rapidly changing world under new leadership.
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Future Direction: The WEF's future success will depend on its ability to foster dialogue between public and private sectors, address global concerns, and redefine its relevance in a world where traditional systems of governance are under scrutiny. The organization's new leadership will play a crucial role in shaping its future direction.
7. Times Music appoints Anjuman Saxena as Head of A&R
Times Music has announced the appointment of Anjuman Saxena as
the new Head of A&R (Artists and Repertoire). She brings with her a wealth of experience in the Indian music industry. In her new role, Anjuman will focus on identifying and nurturing musical talent across genres. She will also be responsible for curating unique collaborations and driving innovation in the label’s music offerings. Her strategic vision is expected to strengthen Times Music’s position in both the independent and mainstream music spaces. This move aligns with the company’s aim to expand its artist-first approach and enhance its creative footprint.
the new Head of A&R (Artists and Repertoire). She brings with her a wealth of experience in the Indian music industry. In her new role, Anjuman will focus on identifying and nurturing musical talent across genres. She will also be responsible for curating unique collaborations and driving innovation in the label’s music offerings. Her strategic vision is expected to strengthen Times Music’s position in both the independent and mainstream music spaces. This move aligns with the company’s aim to expand its artist-first approach and enhance its creative footprint.Foot notes:
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Role and Expertise: Anjuman Saxena has been appointed as Head of A&R – Spiritual & Devotional at Times Music, bringing decades of experience in curating India's spiritual and devotional music landscape.
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Previous Experience: Saxena previously played a pivotal role in building Times Music's devotional and ghazal catalogue, working with legendary artists like Lata Mangeshkar, Jagjit Singh, Usha Mangeshkar, Shubha Mudgal, and Abida Parveen.
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Artistic Vision: Her artistic vision was shaped by the mentorship of Shri Promod Shankar, a Sarod player and disciple of Ustad Ali Akbar Khan. Saxena's experience also includes working at Saregama India, where she reimagined classical and Sufi works through albums like "Voices of Freedom", "Call of the River", and "Tajalli".
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Multidimensional Background: Apart from her music expertise, Saxena is a noted actor, having appeared in films like "Badrinath Ki Dulhania", "Sharmaji Namkeen", and "Bawaal", as well as OTT series like "City of Dreams". This multidimensional background brings a creative sensibility to her work in music.
8. Emami onboards Raashii Khanna as brand ambassador for Emami Pure Glow
Emami has appointed actress Raashii Khanna as the brand
ambassador for its newly launched skincare line, Emami Pure Glow. This strategic move aims to enhance the brand's appeal and establish a stronger connection with consumers across India. Emami Pure Glow enters the 4,000 crore brightening cream market with a science-backed formula featuring Japanese sakura flower and niacinamide, designed to provide a radiant glow without the common issue of white cast. Raashii Khanna expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting the product's lightweight feel, instant absorption, and its celebration of natural beauty through innovative science.
ambassador for its newly launched skincare line, Emami Pure Glow. This strategic move aims to enhance the brand's appeal and establish a stronger connection with consumers across India. Emami Pure Glow enters the 4,000 crore brightening cream market with a science-backed formula featuring Japanese sakura flower and niacinamide, designed to provide a radiant glow without the common issue of white cast. Raashii Khanna expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting the product's lightweight feel, instant absorption, and its celebration of natural beauty through innovative science. Foot notes:
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Product Features: Emami Pure Glow is formulated with natural ingredients and provides benefits such as brightening, moisturizing, and evening out skin tone. The product's unique formula and benefits align with Raashii Khanna's youthful and vibrant image.
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Market Impact: With Raashii Khanna on board, Emami aims to increase brand visibility and appeal to a wider audience, particularly young women who admire the actress. The partnership is expected to drive sales and market share for Emami Pure Glow in the competitive skin care market.
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Raashii Khanna's Endorsement: Raashii Khanna expressed her excitement about partnering with Emami Pure Glow, praising the product's ability to enhance natural beauty and provide soft, glowing skin. Her endorsement is likely to resonate with her fans and followers.
9. MyJCB App Wins "iF DESIGN AWARD 2025
The MyJCB App, developed by JCB Co., Ltd., has been honored
with the prestigious iF DESIGN AWARD 2025 in the Communication UX category of the User Experience (UX) division. This recognition highlights the app's excellence in enhancing user experience through its form, function, and innovative ideas. The app's service design and UI/UX were developed in collaboration with FOURDIGIT Inc., focusing on creating a seamless and intuitive user interface. The redesign strategy was informed by comprehensive user research, including surveys and interviews, to better understand credit card usage patterns and customer needs. Launched in 2016 and significantly renewed in November 2023, the MyJCB App now offers features like transaction history viewing, point balance checking, and security alert notifications, all aimed at providing a more convenient and secure user experience.
with the prestigious iF DESIGN AWARD 2025 in the Communication UX category of the User Experience (UX) division. This recognition highlights the app's excellence in enhancing user experience through its form, function, and innovative ideas. The app's service design and UI/UX were developed in collaboration with FOURDIGIT Inc., focusing on creating a seamless and intuitive user interface. The redesign strategy was informed by comprehensive user research, including surveys and interviews, to better understand credit card usage patterns and customer needs. Launched in 2016 and significantly renewed in November 2023, the MyJCB App now offers features like transaction history viewing, point balance checking, and security alert notifications, all aimed at providing a more convenient and secure user experience.Foot notes:
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Award Category: The MyJCB App won the iF DESIGN AWARD 2025 in the Communication UX category under the User Experience (UX) division, recognized for its excellence in enhancing user experience.
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Global Competition: The competition received 10,651 entries from 66 countries, evaluated by 131 design experts, making it one of the world's most prestigious design awards.
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Collaboration: JCB collaborated with FOURDIGIT since 2021 to enhance the MyJCB App, focusing on service design, UI/UX design, and continuous improvement processes.
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User-Centric Approach: The team developed a strategy to define the app's role in service experience based on user behavior and challenges, conducting surveys and interviews with 50 participants to analyze credit card usage patterns and customer needs.
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App Development: Following the renewal, the team improved the app through store comments, user interviews, and usage data analysis, aiming to create an app that serves all customers and delivers safer card services while listening to customer feedback.
10. Former Australian opener Keith Stackpole, passed away
Former Australian Test opener Keith Stackpole has passed away at
the age of 84, reportedly due to a suspected heart attack. Stackpole was a prominent figure in Australian cricket during the 1960s and 1970s, earning recognition for his aggressive batting style. He played 43 Test matches for Australia between 1966 and 1974, amassing 2,807 runs at an average of 37.42, including seven centuries. Notably, he scored a double century against England during the 1970-71 Ashes series, showcasing his prowess as an opening batsman. Beyond his playing career, Stackpole contributed to the sport as a mentor and commentator, influencing future generations of cricketers. He is survived by his wife, Pat, and their children, Peter, Tony, and Angela.
the age of 84, reportedly due to a suspected heart attack. Stackpole was a prominent figure in Australian cricket during the 1960s and 1970s, earning recognition for his aggressive batting style. He played 43 Test matches for Australia between 1966 and 1974, amassing 2,807 runs at an average of 37.42, including seven centuries. Notably, he scored a double century against England during the 1970-71 Ashes series, showcasing his prowess as an opening batsman. Beyond his playing career, Stackpole contributed to the sport as a mentor and commentator, influencing future generations of cricketers. He is survived by his wife, Pat, and their children, Peter, Tony, and Angela.Foot notes:
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Career Highlights: Stackpole played 43 Test matches and 6 One Day Internationals for Australia between 1966 and 1974. He was known for his aggressive batting style and formed a potent opening partnership with Bill Lawry, with whom he averaged 44.89 runs together in Tests.
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Awards and Recognition: Stackpole was awarded an MBE in 1974 for his services to cricket. He was also named a Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1973, recognizing his outstanding performance in the 1972 Ashes series.
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Commentary Career: After retiring from cricket, Stackpole became a renowned radio and TV commentator, working with the Nine and Seven Networks, and the ABC. He mentored several Victorian players, including Dean Jones and Brad Hodge, and retired from commentary in 2005.
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Legacy: Stackpole's legacy extends beyond his on-field accomplishments. Cricket Australia chair Mike Baird praised him as a great contributor to the game, citing his passion and influence in the sport. Cricket Victoria chair Ross Hepburn described him as a giant of the game and a true statesman of Victorian cricket.
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