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Current Affairs 27 February 2025
1. Former Jharkhand Chief Secretary L. Khiangte appointed JPSC Chairman
Former Jharkhand Chief Secretary L. Khiangte has been
appointed as the Chairman of the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC). A seasoned bureaucrat, Khiangte has held several key administrative positions in the state government. His vast experience in governance and public administration is expected to bring efficiency and transparency to the commission. The appointment aims to strengthen the recruitment process for government services in Jharkhand. Khiangte's leadership will play a crucial role in ensuring fair and merit-based selections.
appointed as the Chairman of the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC). A seasoned bureaucrat, Khiangte has held several key administrative positions in the state government. His vast experience in governance and public administration is expected to bring efficiency and transparency to the commission. The appointment aims to strengthen the recruitment process for government services in Jharkhand. Khiangte's leadership will play a crucial role in ensuring fair and merit-based selections.Foot notes:
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Appointment and Oath: L. Khiangte, former Chief Secretary of Jharkhand, took oath as Chairman of the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) on February 27, 2025.
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Governor's Approval: The appointment was approved by Governor Santosh Gangwar, who also administered the oath of office to Khiangte at Raj Bhawan in Ranchi.
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Background: L. Khiangte is a 1988 batch IAS officer who previously served as Chief Secretary of Jharkhand, appointed by the Hemant Soren government on December 6, 2023.
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Expectations: Governor Gangwar hopes that Khiangte's appointment will expedite the process of filling vacant government posts.
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Significance: The appointment is significant as it aims to streamline the recruitment process and fill vacant positions in the Jharkhand government.
2. Punjab Schools to Compulsorily Teach Punjabi
The Punjab government has made Punjabi a compulsory
subject in all schools across the state. This decision aims to promote and preserve the rich linguistic and cultural heritage of Punjab. Schools will be required to ensure that students learn Punjabi as a mandatory subject from primary to higher secondary levels. Strict guidelines will be implemented to enforce this policy, with penalties for non-compliance. The move is expected to strengthen regional identity and enhance students’ proficiency in their mother tongue.
subject in all schools across the state. This decision aims to promote and preserve the rich linguistic and cultural heritage of Punjab. Schools will be required to ensure that students learn Punjabi as a mandatory subject from primary to higher secondary levels. Strict guidelines will be implemented to enforce this policy, with penalties for non-compliance. The move is expected to strengthen regional identity and enhance students’ proficiency in their mother tongue.Foot notes:
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Mandatory Punjabi Classes: The Punjab government has made it compulsory for all schools in the state to teach Punjabi as a subject from Class 1 to Class 12.
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Language Preservation: The decision aims to preserve and promote the Punjabi language, which is an integral part of the state's culture and heritage.
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Government and Private Schools: The directive applies to all schools in Punjab, including government, private, and convent schools.
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Exemptions: However, schools affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE) are exempt from this rule, but they will still need to offer Punjabi as an optional subject.
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Implementation: The Punjab School Education Board will ensure the implementation of this decision and provide necessary resources and support to schools to incorporate Punjabi language classes into their curriculum.
3. Friedrich Merz Ascends as Germany’s New Chancellor
Friedrich Merz has risen to become Germany’s new
Chancellor, following a historic shift in the country’s political landscape. His ascension marks the culmination of years of political experience, as he previously led the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and has been a prominent figure in German politics. Merz's leadership is seen as a return to conservative values, with a focus on economic reform and strengthening Germany’s role in Europe. His rise comes after a period of uncertainty and challenges for the CDU, including the leadership transition after Angela Merkel’s tenure. With his new position, Merz faces the task of navigating Germany through pressing issues such as climate change, international relations, and domestic economic stability.
Chancellor, following a historic shift in the country’s political landscape. His ascension marks the culmination of years of political experience, as he previously led the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and has been a prominent figure in German politics. Merz's leadership is seen as a return to conservative values, with a focus on economic reform and strengthening Germany’s role in Europe. His rise comes after a period of uncertainty and challenges for the CDU, including the leadership transition after Angela Merkel’s tenure. With his new position, Merz faces the task of navigating Germany through pressing issues such as climate change, international relations, and domestic economic stability.Foot notes:
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Election Victory: Merz's CDU, in alliance with the Christian Social Union (CSU), secured 28.5% of the votes, defeating Chancellor Olaf Scholz's Social Democratic Party (SPD).
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Conservative Leadership: Merz's leadership marks a shift in Germany's political landscape, with rising support for right-wing parties, including the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD).
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Policy Shifts: As chancellor, Merz is expected to bring notable policy shifts, particularly in economic and foreign affairs, with a focus on reducing bureaucracy and promoting private-sector growth.
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Challenges Ahead: Merz faces the challenge of forming a stable coalition government, likely with the Social Democrats (SPD), and addressing economic struggles, immigration debates, and shifting geopolitical dynamics.
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Personal Background: Merz, 69, has had a long political career, serving in the European Parliament and the Bundestag, and working as chairman of BlackRock Germany before returning to politics in 2021.
4. Military Exercise ‘Jal-Thal-Raksha 2025’ Held at Bet Dwarka
The military exercise "Jal-Thal-Raksha 2025" was conducted
at Bet Dwarka, showcasing enhanced coordination between the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The exercise aimed to strengthen India’s defense capabilities in both maritime and land domains, focusing on joint operational strategies and interoperability between the armed forces. It involved complex simulated scenarios to test the response and readiness of troops in countering diverse security threats. Key objectives included improving tactics for coastal defense, amphibious operations, and rapid deployment of resources. The exercise was a significant step in bolstering India’s defense preparedness and enhancing its maritime security.
at Bet Dwarka, showcasing enhanced coordination between the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The exercise aimed to strengthen India’s defense capabilities in both maritime and land domains, focusing on joint operational strategies and interoperability between the armed forces. It involved complex simulated scenarios to test the response and readiness of troops in countering diverse security threats. Key objectives included improving tactics for coastal defense, amphibious operations, and rapid deployment of resources. The exercise was a significant step in bolstering India’s defense preparedness and enhancing its maritime security.Foot notes:
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Participants: The large-scale drill involved participation from 11 Ahmedabad and 31 Jamnagar Army units, the Indian Coast Guard, Marine Police, and other government agencies, including the District Administration of Devbhoomi Dwarka and the NSG.
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Activities Conducted: The exercise included coordinated security drills, such as hovercraft landings, securing critical infrastructure, and responding to potential land-based threats and terrorist attacks.
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Strategic Importance: The exercise aimed to enhance India's coastal defense capabilities, improve inter-service coordination for emergency response, and boost preparedness for security threats to key maritime zones.
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Inter-Agency Coordination: The drill was monitored by multiple government agencies, ensuring effective coordination between defense forces, paramilitary units, and district authorities in response to potential security threats.
5. Delhi Capitals Appoint Kevin Pietersen as Mentor For IPL 2025
Delhi Capitals have appointed former English cricketer Kevin
Pietersen as their mentor for the IPL 2025 season. Pietersen, known for his aggressive batting style and vast experience in international cricket, will bring valuable insights to the team. His role as mentor is expected to provide guidance to the young players and help refine the strategies for the franchise. The appointment is seen as a strategic move to enhance the team’s performance and leadership in the upcoming season. Pietersen’s extensive cricketing knowledge will play a key role in shaping the team’s tactics and fostering a competitive spirit.
Pietersen as their mentor for the IPL 2025 season. Pietersen, known for his aggressive batting style and vast experience in international cricket, will bring valuable insights to the team. His role as mentor is expected to provide guidance to the young players and help refine the strategies for the franchise. The appointment is seen as a strategic move to enhance the team’s performance and leadership in the upcoming season. Pietersen’s extensive cricketing knowledge will play a key role in shaping the team’s tactics and fostering a competitive spirit.Foot notes:
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New Role: Kevin Pietersen, former England captain, has been appointed as the mentor for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025, marking his first coaching assignment in the IPL.
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Experience: Pietersen played for three IPL franchises, including Delhi Capitals, for five seasons from 2009 and captained the team 17 times.
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Coaching Unit: He will join Hemang Badani (head coach), Matthew Mott (assistant coach), Munaf Patel (bowling coach), and Venugopal Rao (director of cricket) in the Delhi Capitals coaching unit.
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Expectations: Pietersen expressed his excitement about the new role, stating that he's looking forward to joining the squad and helping them win the ultimate prize.
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Previous Connections: Pietersen has maintained a personal relationship with Kiran Kumar Grandhi, chairman of GMR, the co-owners of the DC franchise, and previously helped broker a landmark deal between GMR and Hampshire county cricket club.
6. Raj Kamal Jha Won Banaras Lit Fest Award 2025
Raj Kamal Jha has been honored with the prestigious
Banaras Lit Fest Award 2025 for his significant contributions to literature. Known for his evocative storytelling, Jha's works have garnered widespread acclaim in the literary world. The award recognizes his ability to capture the complexities of human emotions and societal issues through his writing. His win at the Banaras Lit Fest highlights his growing influence in contemporary Indian literature. Jha's achievement at this renowned festival further cements his place as one of India's leading authors.
Banaras Lit Fest Award 2025 for his significant contributions to literature. Known for his evocative storytelling, Jha's works have garnered widespread acclaim in the literary world. The award recognizes his ability to capture the complexities of human emotions and societal issues through his writing. His win at the Banaras Lit Fest highlights his growing influence in contemporary Indian literature. Jha's achievement at this renowned festival further cements his place as one of India's leading authors.Foot notes:
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Novel's Theme: Jha's winning novel explores modern India, delving into the struggles of a restless, ambitious youth striving to break free from the past while grappling with lingering mistrust and division.
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Awards and Recognition: The Banaras Lit Fest Awards recognize outstanding contributions in poetry, fiction, non-fiction, and translation, with Jha's win acknowledging his exceptional storytelling and intellectual contributions.
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Festival Details: The Banaras Lit Fest 2025 will take place from March 7 to 9 at Hotel Taj, Banaras, featuring a celebration of literature, music, dance, and art.
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Other Awardees: In addition to Jha's win, the Bhartendu Harishchandra Lifetime Achievement Award will be conferred upon renowned Hindi writer Kashinath Singh.
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Jha's Literary Career: Raj Kamal Jha is a celebrated author with six novels to his credit, including "The City and the Sea" and "The Patient in Bed Number 12", which have been translated into multiple languages.
7. Vlad Marinescu Concludes Position as IJF Director General
Vlad Marinescu has officially concluded his tenure as the
Director General of the International Judo Federation (IJF). During his time in the role, Marinescu worked towards strengthening the global reach of judo and enhancing its governance. His leadership saw significant developments in the sport, including improvements in event organization and expanding judo’s presence in various countries. Marinescu's departure marks the end of an era for the IJF, with his contributions having a lasting impact on the sport’s international landscape. His successor is expected to continue building on the foundation laid during his leadership.
Director General of the International Judo Federation (IJF). During his time in the role, Marinescu worked towards strengthening the global reach of judo and enhancing its governance. His leadership saw significant developments in the sport, including improvements in event organization and expanding judo’s presence in various countries. Marinescu's departure marks the end of an era for the IJF, with his contributions having a lasting impact on the sport’s international landscape. His successor is expected to continue building on the foundation laid during his leadership.Foot notes:
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Mutual Agreement: The decision to conclude his position was reached by mutual agreement between Marinescu and the IJF.
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Contribution to IJF: Marinescu contributed significantly to the IJF's global development since 2005, supporting the federation's strategic objectives.
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IJF President's Appreciation: IJF President Marius Vizer expressed his appreciation for Marinescu's dedication and role in supporting the growth of judo worldwide.
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Background and Achievements: Marinescu has worked in international sports for over 15 years, holding various positions in the IJF, including Director of the Presidential Office and Chief Media & Marketing Officer.
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Future Endeavors: While the details of Marinescu's future endeavors are unclear, his experience and expertise will likely continue to benefit the sports industry.
8. Anant Ambani's Vantara Won Prestigious National Prani Mitra Award
Anant Ambani’s Vantara has been honored with the
prestigious National Prani Mitra Award for Excellence in Animal Welfare. The award recognizes Vantara’s outstanding efforts in promoting animal welfare, conservation, and the well-being of animals. Under Anant Ambani’s leadership, Vantara has been committed to implementing various initiatives aimed at improving the living conditions of animals and supporting their protection. This recognition highlights the organization's impactful contributions to animal care and advocacy in India. The award further solidifies Vantara’s position as a leader in the field of animal welfare.
prestigious National Prani Mitra Award for Excellence in Animal Welfare. The award recognizes Vantara’s outstanding efforts in promoting animal welfare, conservation, and the well-being of animals. Under Anant Ambani’s leadership, Vantara has been committed to implementing various initiatives aimed at improving the living conditions of animals and supporting their protection. This recognition highlights the organization's impactful contributions to animal care and advocacy in India. The award further solidifies Vantara’s position as a leader in the field of animal welfare.Foot notes:
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Exceptional Contributions: The award recognizes the exceptional contributions of Radhe Krishna Temple Elephant Welfare Trust (RKTEWT), an organization under Vantara dedicated to rescuing, treating, and providing lifelong care for elephants.
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State-of-the-Art Elephant Care Centre: Vantara's Elephant Care Centre provides a chain-free, secure, and enriching environment for over 240 rescued elephants, including 30 from circuses and more than 100 from the logging industry.
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World-Class Veterinary Treatment: The centre offers world-class veterinary treatment and compassionate care to support both the physical and psychological well-being of the elephants.
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Award Presentation: The award was presented by the Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.
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Commitment to Animal Welfare: Vantara's CEO, Vivaan Karani, acknowledged the honor, stating that serving animals is not just a duty, but a commitment deeply rooted in compassion and responsibility.
9. World NGO Day observed on 27th February
World NGO Day was observed on February 27th, recognizing
the vital contributions of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) around the globe. The day celebrates the efforts of NGOs in addressing critical issues such as poverty, education, healthcare, human rights, and environmental sustainability. It highlights the tireless work of these organizations in supporting marginalized communities and creating positive social change. The observance also serves as an opportunity to acknowledge the dedication of the individuals and volunteers working with NGOs. World NGO Day reinforces the importance of collaboration between governments, organizations, and individuals to achieve a more just and sustainable world.
the vital contributions of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) around the globe. The day celebrates the efforts of NGOs in addressing critical issues such as poverty, education, healthcare, human rights, and environmental sustainability. It highlights the tireless work of these organizations in supporting marginalized communities and creating positive social change. The observance also serves as an opportunity to acknowledge the dedication of the individuals and volunteers working with NGOs. World NGO Day reinforces the importance of collaboration between governments, organizations, and individuals to achieve a more just and sustainable world.Foot notes:
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Recognition of NGOs: World NGO Day recognizes the invaluable contributions of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) worldwide, acknowledging their tireless efforts to make a positive impact on society.
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Global Celebrations: The day is celebrated in over 89 countries across six continents, with various events, discussions, appreciation ceremonies, and awareness campaigns organized by NGOs, civil society organizations, and social impact leaders.
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Objective: The primary objective of World NGO Day is to motivate people to become more actively involved within NGOs, encourage greater symbiosis between NGOs and private-public sectors, and increase awareness about the role of NGOs in addressing societal challenges.
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History: World NGO Day was first proposed by the Baltic Sea NGO Forum in 2010 and officially recognized in 2014, with the support of organizations like the United Nations and the European Union.
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Theme: Each year, World NGO Day focuses on a specific theme; for example, the 2024 theme was "Building a Sustainable Future: The Role of NGOs in Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals".
10. Broadcasting Legend Henry Kelly passed away
Broadcasting legend Henry Kelly has passed away, leaving
behind a lasting legacy in the world of television and radio. Known for his engaging presenting style, Kelly gained fame as a host of popular shows like Going for Gold and The Time, The Place, captivating audiences with his charm and wit. Throughout his career, he was admired for his professionalism and his ability to connect with both guests and viewers. His contributions to broadcasting, particularly in the UK, made him a beloved figure in the industry. Henry Kelly’s death marks the end of an era, and he will be remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike.
behind a lasting legacy in the world of television and radio. Known for his engaging presenting style, Kelly gained fame as a host of popular shows like Going for Gold and The Time, The Place, captivating audiences with his charm and wit. Throughout his career, he was admired for his professionalism and his ability to connect with both guests and viewers. His contributions to broadcasting, particularly in the UK, made him a beloved figure in the industry. Henry Kelly’s death marks the end of an era, and he will be remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike.Foot notes:
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Early Life and Career: Kelly was born on April 17, 1946, in Dublin, Ireland. He began his career in journalism, working for the Irish Times in Belfast during the 1970s.
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Transition to Broadcasting: Kelly transitioned to broadcasting in the late 1970s, hosting current affairs programs like "The World Tonight" on BBC Radio 4.
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Television Career: He went on to host popular TV game shows like "Game for a Laugh" and "Going for Gold," which aired for 10 seasons and featured a theme tune composed by Hans Zimmer.
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Radio Career: Kelly was a founding presenter on Classic FM, hosting a daily morning program from 1992 to 2003 that drew around 3.3 million listeners.
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Awards and Legacy: Kelly was voted National Broadcaster of the Year in the 1994 Sony Radio Awards. He will be remembered for his contributions to British broadcasting and his iconic voice.
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