4.5/5
Current Affairs 25 & 26 January 2025
1. Akhil Gupta Appointed As Chairman Of Bharti AXA Life Insurance
Akhil Gupta has been appointed as the new Chairman of Bharti AXA
Life Insurance, bringing a wealth of leadership experience to the company. Gupta, known for his expertise in business strategy and operations, will play a key role in guiding the insurer's growth and strategic direction. His appointment is expected to strengthen Bharti AXA's position in the competitive insurance market, focusing on customer-centric solutions and innovation. Under his leadership, the company aims to expand its footprint and enhance its product offerings. Gupta's extensive industry knowledge and strategic vision will be instrumental in driving the company's future success.
Life Insurance, bringing a wealth of leadership experience to the company. Gupta, known for his expertise in business strategy and operations, will play a key role in guiding the insurer's growth and strategic direction. His appointment is expected to strengthen Bharti AXA's position in the competitive insurance market, focusing on customer-centric solutions and innovation. Under his leadership, the company aims to expand its footprint and enhance its product offerings. Gupta's extensive industry knowledge and strategic vision will be instrumental in driving the company's future success.Foot notes:
-
He brings over 40 years of experience to the table, having played a pivotal role in Bharti's growth and strategic partnerships with investors like Warburg Pincus and Temasek.
-
Gupta has led the formation of various partnerships for Bharti with leading international operators and has been instrumental in raising several billion dollars through project finance and capital markets.
-
As Chairman of Bharti AXA Life Insurance, he will oversee the company's strategy and direction, and his expertise will be crucial in driving growth and expansion.
-
Gupta is a Chartered Accountant by qualification and has done an Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School, giving him a strong foundation in finance and management.
-
He has received numerous awards, including the ET Telecom Lifetime Achievement Award and the CA Lifetime Achievement Award, and has written a book on management called "Some Sizes Fit All".
2. Ogilvy India won 'Effie Agency of the Year' Awards 2024
Ogilvy India has been awarded the prestigious 'Effie Agency of the
Year' title at the 2024 Effie Awards. This recognition is a testament to the agency's outstanding creativity and effectiveness in delivering impactful marketing campaigns. Ogilvy India's ability to consistently drive results for its clients across various sectors played a key role in securing this honor. The agency's innovative strategies and focus on measurable outcomes have set a benchmark in the advertising industry. This win further solidifies Ogilvy India's position as a leading agency in the competitive marketing landscape.
Year' title at the 2024 Effie Awards. This recognition is a testament to the agency's outstanding creativity and effectiveness in delivering impactful marketing campaigns. Ogilvy India's ability to consistently drive results for its clients across various sectors played a key role in securing this honor. The agency's innovative strategies and focus on measurable outcomes have set a benchmark in the advertising industry. This win further solidifies Ogilvy India's position as a leading agency in the competitive marketing landscape.Foot notes:
-
Ogilvy India has won the prestigious 'Effie Agency of the Year' award at the 24th edition of the Effie India Awards 2024, held in Mumbai on January 24.
-
This award is a testament to the team's relentless creativity, dedication, and ability to drive impactful campaigns that resonate with both clients and audiences.
-
Piyush Pandey, the Chief Advisor at Ogilvy Advertising, expressed his delight and praised the team, saying "Team Ogilvy is doing wonders".
-
The Effie India Awards are unique in that they recognize creativity, strategy, and effectiveness from all perspectives, including peers, clients, and academicians.
-
Ogilvy's win is a significant achievement, with the agency being credited with 1,152 entries from 75 agencies, and a rigorous judging process involving 486 jury members, including 254 marketing professionals.
3. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh flagged off Battlefield Surveillance System ‘SANJAY’
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh flagged off the Battlefield
Surveillance System (BSS) ‘SANJAY,’ a cutting-edge technology designed to enhance the Indian Army’s surveillance capabilities. The system is equipped with advanced sensors and communication tools, enabling real-time data collection and analysis for effective battlefield management. ‘SANJAY’ will provide the armed forces with an edge in monitoring and tracking enemy movements, ensuring timely and precise responses. This initiative is part of India’s continued efforts to modernize its defense systems and improve national security. The introduction of the BSS marks a significant leap forward in the country’s defense technological advancements.
Surveillance System (BSS) ‘SANJAY,’ a cutting-edge technology designed to enhance the Indian Army’s surveillance capabilities. The system is equipped with advanced sensors and communication tools, enabling real-time data collection and analysis for effective battlefield management. ‘SANJAY’ will provide the armed forces with an edge in monitoring and tracking enemy movements, ensuring timely and precise responses. This initiative is part of India’s continued efforts to modernize its defense systems and improve national security. The introduction of the BSS marks a significant leap forward in the country’s defense technological advancements.Foot notes:
-
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has launched the 'SANJAY' Battlefield Surveillance System, a game-changer for the Indian Army, which will enhance battlefield transparency and transform the future of warfare.
-
The system is an automated platform that integrates inputs from all ground and aerial battlefield sensors, processing them to produce a Common Surveillance Picture of the battlefield over a secured network.
-
SANJAY is equipped with state-of-the-art sensors and cutting-edge analytics, enabling it to monitor vast land borders, prevent intrusions, and assess situations with unparalleled accuracy.
-
The system has been indigenously developed by the Indian Army and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) at a cost of Rs 2,402 crore, promoting 'Aatmanirbharta' and self-reliance in defence technology.
-
The induction of SANJAY will be done in three phases, starting from March to October 2025, and will be deployed to all operational Brigades, Divisions, and Corps of the Indian Army, marking a significant leap towards data and network centricity.
4. Michael Clarke Inducted into the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame
Michael Clarke, the former Australian cricket captain, has been
inducted into the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame. Known for his leadership and outstanding batting skills, Clarke’s career was marked by numerous records and significant achievements. His contributions to Australian cricket, both as a player and a captain, earned him a place among the sport’s greats. Clarke led Australia to victory in the 2015 Ashes series, one of the highlights of his captaincy. This prestigious recognition acknowledges his legacy and enduring impact on the game of cricket.
inducted into the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame. Known for his leadership and outstanding batting skills, Clarke’s career was marked by numerous records and significant achievements. His contributions to Australian cricket, both as a player and a captain, earned him a place among the sport’s greats. Clarke led Australia to victory in the 2015 Ashes series, one of the highlights of his captaincy. This prestigious recognition acknowledges his legacy and enduring impact on the game of cricket.Foot notes:
-
He becomes the 64th member of the Hall of Fame, joining an elite group of Australian cricketers who have made significant contributions to the game.
-
Clarke's impressive career statistics, including 8643 runs and 28 centuries in Test cricket, have cemented his place as one of Australia's all-time greats.
-
His leadership and batting prowess were instrumental in Australia's success during his playing days, including the 2015 ICC World Cup win.
-
Clarke's induction is a proud moment for him, and he has expressed his gratitude and surprise at being recognized in this way, noting that it's an honor to be alongside his idols and role models ¹.
-
The Australian Cricket Hall of Fame committee has praised Clarke's achievements, describing him as a player who defined his generation, and his induction is a fitting tribute to his dedication and passion for the game.
5. Arshdeep Singh Becomes India’s Leading Wicket-Taker In T20Is
Arshdeep Singh has made history by becoming India's leading
wicket-taker in T20Is, surpassing previous records held by some of the country's top bowlers. His consistent performances with the ball, coupled with his ability to bowl in crucial moments, have been instrumental in India’s success in the format. Arshdeep's rise to the top spot highlights his growing reputation as one of the most promising fast bowlers in world cricket. His achievement is a testament to his hard work, discipline, and skill in the shortest format of the game. The milestone also underscores the significant role he plays in India's T20I bowling lineup, with many expecting him to achieve even greater heights in the future.
wicket-taker in T20Is, surpassing previous records held by some of the country's top bowlers. His consistent performances with the ball, coupled with his ability to bowl in crucial moments, have been instrumental in India’s success in the format. Arshdeep's rise to the top spot highlights his growing reputation as one of the most promising fast bowlers in world cricket. His achievement is a testament to his hard work, discipline, and skill in the shortest format of the game. The milestone also underscores the significant role he plays in India's T20I bowling lineup, with many expecting him to achieve even greater heights in the future.Foot notes:
-
Arshdeep Singh has become India's leading wicket-taker in T20Is, surpassing Yuzvendra Chahal with 97 wickets in 61 innings.
-
He achieved this milestone during the first T20I against England, where he took two wickets, including the crucial scalp of Ben Duckett.
-
Arshdeep's impressive performance has earned him a spot at the top of the list of Indian bowlers with the most wickets in T20Is, followed by Chahal and Bhuvneshwar Kumar.
-
His strike rate of 12.9 is the best among full-member bowlers who have taken 75+ wickets in T20Is, making him a valuable asset to the Indian team.
-
Arshdeep is now just three wickets away from becoming the first Indian bowler to reach the 100-wicket mark in T20Is, a feat that will further cement his position as one of the leading bowlers in the format.
6. Jay Shah Elected to Marylebone Cricket Club Advisory Board
Jay Shah has been elected to the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC)
Advisory Board, marking a significant achievement in his cricket administration career. The MCC, one of the most prestigious cricketing institutions, is known for its influential role in the sport's governance and development. Shah’s election reflects his growing influence within the global cricketing community and his contributions to the sport’s growth in India. As a member of the Advisory Board, he will be involved in shaping key decisions and initiatives that affect international cricket. This appointment strengthens the relationship between the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the MCC, furthering the interests of cricket worldwide.
Advisory Board, marking a significant achievement in his cricket administration career. The MCC, one of the most prestigious cricketing institutions, is known for its influential role in the sport's governance and development. Shah’s election reflects his growing influence within the global cricketing community and his contributions to the sport’s growth in India. As a member of the Advisory Board, he will be involved in shaping key decisions and initiatives that affect international cricket. This appointment strengthens the relationship between the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the MCC, furthering the interests of cricket worldwide.Foot notes:
-
Jay Shah, the ICC chairman, has been elected as a member of the Marylebone Cricket Club's new global Advisory Board, which replaces the World Cricket Committee formed in 2006.
-
He's among 13 founding members, including notable figures like Sourav Ganguly, Graeme Smith, and Kumar Sangakkara, who will head the board.
-
The Advisory Board aims to discuss and debate important topics in global cricket, and Jay Shah's experience as ICC chairman and president of the Asian Cricket Council will be invaluable.
-
The second World Cricket Connects forum is scheduled to take place on June 7 and 8, where the advisory board will convene to address key issues in the sport.
-
Jay Shah's election to the advisory board is a significant development, given his influential position in global cricket governance, and his contributions will likely shape the future of the sport.
7. LTIMindtree appoints Venu Lambu as CEO
LTIMindtree has appointed Venu Lambu as its new CEO, marking a
significant step in the company’s leadership evolution. Lambu, with his extensive experience in the technology and business consulting sectors, is poised to drive the company's growth and innovation. His leadership will focus on expanding LTIMindtree’s global footprint and enhancing its service offerings to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving market. The appointment underscores LTIMindtree's commitment to maintaining its competitive edge in the IT services industry. Lambu’s strategic vision and expertise are expected to play a key role in shaping the future trajectory of the company.
significant step in the company’s leadership evolution. Lambu, with his extensive experience in the technology and business consulting sectors, is poised to drive the company's growth and innovation. His leadership will focus on expanding LTIMindtree’s global footprint and enhancing its service offerings to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving market. The appointment underscores LTIMindtree's commitment to maintaining its competitive edge in the IT services industry. Lambu’s strategic vision and expertise are expected to play a key role in shaping the future trajectory of the company.Foot notes:
-
Venu Lambu has been appointed as the CEO-designate of LTIMindtree, a global technology consulting and digital solutions company, with a tenure of five years till 2030.
-
He will be based out of London and work closely with the current CEO, Debashis Chatterjee, to ensure a smooth transition and gain deeper insights into the company's operations, budget, and strategic plans.
-
Lambu has over 30 years of experience in driving strategies and hyper-growth in the technology and services industry, and has held leadership positions at companies like Cognizant, HCL Technologies, and IBM.
-
He was previously the CEO of Randstad Digital, the $3 billion digital arm of Randstad, and has a strong track record of delivering consistent profitable growth in his previous roles.
-
Lambu's appointment is seen as a significant milestone in the company's leadership succession plan, and is expected to strengthen LTIMindtree's position as a leading global IT services provider.
8. Dabur Khajurprash ropes in Manu Bhaker as brand ambassador
Dabur Khajurprash has roped in Manu Bhaker, the renowned Indian
shooter, as its brand ambassador. Bhaker, known for her impressive achievements in international shooting competitions, aligns with the brand’s focus on health and vitality. As the face of Dabur Khajurprash, she will promote the product’s benefits in boosting energy and immunity through its natural ingredients. This partnership highlights Dabur's commitment to associating with top athletes who embody fitness and excellence. Bhaker's endorsement is expected to help Dabur Khajurprash reach a broader audience and strengthen its position in the health and wellness market.
shooter, as its brand ambassador. Bhaker, known for her impressive achievements in international shooting competitions, aligns with the brand’s focus on health and vitality. As the face of Dabur Khajurprash, she will promote the product’s benefits in boosting energy and immunity through its natural ingredients. This partnership highlights Dabur's commitment to associating with top athletes who embody fitness and excellence. Bhaker's endorsement is expected to help Dabur Khajurprash reach a broader audience and strengthen its position in the health and wellness market.Foot notes:
-
Dabur Khajurprash has signed Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker as its brand ambassador to raise awareness about the importance of iron-rich nutrition among Indian women.
-
Manu Bhaker's vibrant persona and pan-India appeal make her a great fit for the brand, and her association is expected to strengthen the brand and help build a better connect with consumers.
-
The partnership aims to empower women to focus on their health and maintain healthy iron and hemoglobin levels to live a fulfilling life.
-
Dabur Khajurprash is made from premium quality dates and combines the natural sweetness of dates with a rich blend of 40+ Ayurvedic herbs and ingredients, offering a multitude of health benefits.
-
As part of the partnership, Dabur Khajurprash has launched an integrated media campaign featuring Manu Bhaker, which will showcase the importance of iron-rich nutrition and the benefits of consuming Dabur Khajurprash.
9. Harvard University Tops Times Higher Education Rankings 2025 for Engineering
Harvard University has topped the Times Higher Education Rankings
2025 for Engineering, solidifying its position as a global leader in technological education and research. The university’s engineering programs have been recognized for their cutting-edge research, innovation, and contributions to solving complex global challenges. Harvard’s commitment to fostering interdisciplinary collaborations and investing in state-of-the-art facilities has played a significant role in securing this top spot. The ranking reflects the strength of its faculty, research output, and the quality of its graduate programs. Harvard’s continued excellence in engineering underscores its role in shaping the future of technology and industry worldwide.
2025 for Engineering, solidifying its position as a global leader in technological education and research. The university’s engineering programs have been recognized for their cutting-edge research, innovation, and contributions to solving complex global challenges. Harvard’s commitment to fostering interdisciplinary collaborations and investing in state-of-the-art facilities has played a significant role in securing this top spot. The ranking reflects the strength of its faculty, research output, and the quality of its graduate programs. Harvard’s continued excellence in engineering underscores its role in shaping the future of technology and industry worldwide.Foot notes:
-
Engineering Rankings: Harvard University has been crowned the best global university for Engineering and Technology by THE World University Rankings for the fourth time in a row, with a ranking of #1.
-
Subject-wise Rankings: Harvard University has also topped the rankings for various engineering subjects, including Mechanical Engineering, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, and Computer Science, according to QS World University Rankings by Subject.
-
Global Reputation: Harvard University's engineering programs are highly regarded globally, with the university ranking #1 in the world for Engineering and Technology, and #4 in the QS World University Rankings 2025.
-
Research Quality: Harvard University's research quality is one of the key factors contributing to its high ranking, with the university scoring 99.9 for Research Environment and 99.4 for Research Quality in the THE World University Rankings.
-
Industry Outlook: Harvard University's strong industry connections and outlook also play a significant role in its ranking, with the university scoring 84.2 for Industry Outlook in the THE World University Rankings.
10. National Voters Day is observed on 25th January
National Voters Day is observed on 25th January every year in India
to encourage voter participation and raise awareness about the importance of voting. Established in 2011 by the Election Commission of India, the day aims to promote the significance of exercising the right to vote. Various events and initiatives are held across the country to inform citizens about the electoral process and the power of their vote. It also highlights the role of the Election Commission in ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections. National Voters Day serves as a reminder of the responsibility every eligible citizen holds in strengthening democracy through active participation in elections.
to encourage voter participation and raise awareness about the importance of voting. Established in 2011 by the Election Commission of India, the day aims to promote the significance of exercising the right to vote. Various events and initiatives are held across the country to inform citizens about the electoral process and the power of their vote. It also highlights the role of the Election Commission in ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections. National Voters Day serves as a reminder of the responsibility every eligible citizen holds in strengthening democracy through active participation in elections.Foot notes:
-
The day marks the foundation day of the Election Commission of India, established on 25th January 1950, and is celebrated to increase voter enrollment, especially among young voters.
-
The theme of National Voters Day 2025 is "Nothing Like Voting, I Vote for Sure", which aims to promote voter awareness and encourage citizens to exercise their right to vote.
-
The Election Commission of India presents Best Electoral Practices Awards to state and district-level officers for their outstanding performance in conducting elections, as well as to other stakeholders who contribute to voter awareness and outreach.
-
The day is also utilized to spread awareness among voters about the importance of effective participation in the electoral process, and to promote electoral literacy among citizens.
-
National Voters Day is celebrated at the national, state, district, constituency, and polling booth levels, making it one of the largest celebrations in the country, with the President of India presenting awards and honoring newly registered voters.
3 likes |
0 comment
