4.5/5
Current Affairs 27 January 2025
1. Jitender Pal Singh Appointed as India’s New Ambassador to Israel
Jitender Pal Singh has been appointed as India’s new Ambassador
to Israel, reflecting the continued strengthening of bilateral ties between the two nations. A seasoned diplomat with extensive experience, Singh has previously held key positions in the Ministry of External Affairs and various Indian missions abroad. His appointment comes at a time when India and Israel are deepening cooperation in areas such as defense, agriculture, and technology. Singh’s expertise is expected to further enhance strategic partnerships and foster cultural exchanges. The Indian government views this appointment as pivotal in advancing shared goals and mutual interests in the region.
to Israel, reflecting the continued strengthening of bilateral ties between the two nations. A seasoned diplomat with extensive experience, Singh has previously held key positions in the Ministry of External Affairs and various Indian missions abroad. His appointment comes at a time when India and Israel are deepening cooperation in areas such as defense, agriculture, and technology. Singh’s expertise is expected to further enhance strategic partnerships and foster cultural exchanges. The Indian government views this appointment as pivotal in advancing shared goals and mutual interests in the region.Foot notes:
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Singh is a seasoned diplomat with a 2002 Indian Foreign Service batch background, currently serving as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs, and has previously led the Pakistan-Afghanistan-Iran division.
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He has held significant positions, including Deputy High Commissioner to Pakistan and a posting in Kabul, where he gained firsthand experience in crisis management during terror attacks on the Indian embassy.
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Singh played a crucial role in shaping India's policy towards the Taliban in Afghanistan and has been instrumental in facilitating high-level discussions, including a meeting between Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and the Taliban's acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi.
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His appointment comes at a time when India-Israel relations are on the rise, with trade between the two nations thriving, particularly in areas like diamonds, petroleum, and electronic machinery, and Israel being a key supplier of military hardware to India.
2. P. Suriaraj Appointed Executive Director of Dhanlaxmi Bank
P. Suriaraj has been appointed as the Executive Director of
Dhanlaxmi Bank, marking a significant leadership addition to the organization. With over three decades of experience in the banking sector, Suriaraj brings extensive expertise in operations, risk management, and strategic planning. His appointment is expected to drive the bank's growth initiatives and strengthen its operational efficiency. The leadership change aligns with Dhanlaxmi Bank's focus on expanding its customer base and enhancing financial services. Suriaraj’s vision and leadership skills will be instrumental in navigating the bank through evolving industry challenges.
Dhanlaxmi Bank, marking a significant leadership addition to the organization. With over three decades of experience in the banking sector, Suriaraj brings extensive expertise in operations, risk management, and strategic planning. His appointment is expected to drive the bank's growth initiatives and strengthen its operational efficiency. The leadership change aligns with Dhanlaxmi Bank's focus on expanding its customer base and enhancing financial services. Suriaraj’s vision and leadership skills will be instrumental in navigating the bank through evolving industry challenges.Foot notes:
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Suriaraj brings over 28 years of experience in the banking industry, having worked with prominent banks such as State Bank of India, ICICI Bank, and Axis Bank.
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He has held various leadership positions, including Head of Retail Banking, Head of Credit, and Head of Risk Management, and has a strong background in areas like credit, risk, and retail banking.
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Suriaraj is an expert in areas like credit appraisal, risk assessment, and portfolio management, and has a deep understanding of the banking regulatory framework.
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As Executive Director of Dhanlaxmi Bank, Suriaraj will be responsible for driving the bank's growth strategy, overseeing risk management, and improving operational efficiency.
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The bank has been undergoing a transformation under the leadership of its Managing Director and CEO, Shakti Chakraborty, and Suriaraj's appointment is expected to further strengthen the bank's leadership team and support its growth plans.
3. Sinner Secures Back-to-Back Aussie Open Championships
Jannik Sinner has secured back-to-back Australian Open
championships, solidifying his position as one of tennis's brightest stars. The Italian ace displayed exceptional skill and resilience throughout the tournament, defeating top-ranked opponents to claim the title. Sinner’s powerful groundstrokes and strategic gameplay were key to his success in defending his crown. This historic win makes him one of the few players to achieve consecutive victories at the Australian Open. Fans and analysts alike are hailing his achievement as a testament to his growing dominance in the sport.
championships, solidifying his position as one of tennis's brightest stars. The Italian ace displayed exceptional skill and resilience throughout the tournament, defeating top-ranked opponents to claim the title. Sinner’s powerful groundstrokes and strategic gameplay were key to his success in defending his crown. This historic win makes him one of the few players to achieve consecutive victories at the Australian Open. Fans and analysts alike are hailing his achievement as a testament to his growing dominance in the sport.Foot notes:
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Sinner's victory marks a historic achievement, as he becomes the first Italian player to win three Grand Slam titles, and the youngest player to win back-to-back Australian Open titles since Jim Courier in 1992-1993.
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He defeated Zverev in straight sets, 6-3, 7-6(4), 6-3, showcasing his relentless baseline game, physical power, and mental steeliness.
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Sinner's win streak continues, with 21 consecutive match wins at hard-court Grand Slams, and he's now the fifth player in the Open Era to win three successive Grand Slam titles.
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Zverev, on the other hand, faces a 0-3 loss record in Grand Slam finals, and was visibly upset after the match, saying "it sucks standing next to this trophy" and congratulating Sinner on his win.
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Sinner's dominance has solidified his position as the world's best men's player, with Zverev himself saying "you are the best player in the world by far.
4. Iniyan Panneerselvam Won Johor Chess Title
Indian Grandmaster Iniyan Panneerselvam has won the prestigious
Johor Chess Championship, showcasing his exceptional strategic acumen and skill. The victory marks a significant milestone in his career, solidifying his reputation as one of India’s rising chess talents. Iniyan delivered a stellar performance, defeating strong opponents from around the globe in a fiercely contested tournament. His triumph highlights India’s growing prominence in the international chess arena. Iniyan’s achievement is expected to inspire young chess enthusiasts across the country to pursue excellence in the sport.
Johor Chess Championship, showcasing his exceptional strategic acumen and skill. The victory marks a significant milestone in his career, solidifying his reputation as one of India’s rising chess talents. Iniyan delivered a stellar performance, defeating strong opponents from around the globe in a fiercely contested tournament. His triumph highlights India’s growing prominence in the international chess arena. Iniyan’s achievement is expected to inspire young chess enthusiasts across the country to pursue excellence in the sport.Foot notes:
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He showcased an exceptional performance to clinch the title on January 24, 2025, demonstrating his skill and strategy in the game.
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Iniyan is India's 71st grandmaster and has been actively participating in tournaments since 2008, with over 250 tournaments and more than 150 medals under his belt.
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The Johor International Open Chess Tournament is a prestigious event that attracts top players from around the world, and Iniyan's win is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport.
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Iniyan has also been sharing his knowledge and expertise through Fritztrainer format, providing valuable insights and strategies for other chess players to learn from.
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His win is a significant achievement for Indian chess, and Iniyan is sure to continue making waves in the chess world with his impressive skills and accomplishments.
5. Odisha Warriors Won Inaugural Women’s HIL Title
The Odisha Warriors clinched the inaugural Women’s Hockey India
League (HIL) title, marking a historic moment in Indian hockey. The team displayed exceptional skill and teamwork, defeating formidable opponents in a thrilling final match. This victory is a testament to their dedication and the growing prominence of women’s hockey in the country. The Odisha Warriors’ triumph has garnered widespread praise and is expected to inspire a new generation of female hockey players. The league’s success has also underscored the importance of nurturing talent and investing in women’s sports.
League (HIL) title, marking a historic moment in Indian hockey. The team displayed exceptional skill and teamwork, defeating formidable opponents in a thrilling final match. This victory is a testament to their dedication and the growing prominence of women’s hockey in the country. The Odisha Warriors’ triumph has garnered widespread praise and is expected to inspire a new generation of female hockey players. The league’s success has also underscored the importance of nurturing talent and investing in women’s sports.Foot notes:
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The match was a high-intensity clash, with both teams giving it their all, and Odisha Warriors emerging victorious with a 2-1 scoreline.
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Rutuja Dadaso Pisal was the star of the show, scoring both goals for Odisha Warriors in the 20th and 56th minutes, including the winning goal that sealed the title.
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Soorma Hockey Club put up a good fight, with Penny Squibb equalizing for them in the 28th minute, but ultimately fell short.
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The last quarter was tense, with both teams playing cautiously, but Odisha Warriors held their nerve to win the title.
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This win marks a historic moment for Odisha Warriors, as they become the first-ever champions of the Women's Hockey India League.
6. Rohit Sharma Leads ICC Men’s T20I Team of the Year
Rohit Sharma has been named the captain of the ICC Men’s T20I
Team of the Year, recognizing his exceptional leadership and consistent performances in the shortest format. Under his captaincy, India achieved several remarkable victories, with Rohit contributing significantly as an opener. The team features a mix of experienced players and emerging talents who excelled in T20Is throughout the year. Rohit’s strategic acumen and ability to perform under pressure were pivotal in earning him this honor. His inclusion as captain highlights his influence on the global cricketing stage and his commitment to the sport.
Team of the Year, recognizing his exceptional leadership and consistent performances in the shortest format. Under his captaincy, India achieved several remarkable victories, with Rohit contributing significantly as an opener. The team features a mix of experienced players and emerging talents who excelled in T20Is throughout the year. Rohit’s strategic acumen and ability to perform under pressure were pivotal in earning him this honor. His inclusion as captain highlights his influence on the global cricketing stage and his commitment to the sport.Foot notes:
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He led India to their second T20 World Cup title, accumulating 378 runs at an average of 42.00 and a strike rate of 160.16, including a standout innings of 92 runs against Australia.
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The team features four Indian players, including Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, and Hardik Pandya, highlighting India's dominance in the T20 format.
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The team has a global representation, with players from eight different nations, including Australia's Travis Head, England's Phil Salt, and Pakistan's Babar Azam.
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Other notable inclusions in the team are Zimbabwe's Sikandar Raza, Afghanistan's Rashid Khan, and Sri Lanka's Wanindu Hasaranga, who all had impressive performances in 2024.
7. Jyothi Yarraji Won Gold, Breaks National Record in France
Indian athlete Jyothi Yarraji clinched the gold medal and shattered
the national record in the women’s 60m hurdles at an international meet in France. Her remarkable performance demonstrated exceptional speed and precision, setting a new benchmark for Indian athletics. Jyothi’s victory is a testament to her relentless dedication and rigorous training. This achievement adds to her growing list of accolades and establishes her as a rising star in track and field events. Her record-breaking run is expected to inspire aspiring athletes and boost India's presence on the global athletics stage.
the national record in the women’s 60m hurdles at an international meet in France. Her remarkable performance demonstrated exceptional speed and precision, setting a new benchmark for Indian athletics. Jyothi’s victory is a testament to her relentless dedication and rigorous training. This achievement adds to her growing list of accolades and establishes her as a rising star in track and field events. Her record-breaking run is expected to inspire aspiring athletes and boost India's presence on the global athletics stage.Foot notes:
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She clocked an incredible 8.04s in the final, bettering her previous record of 8.12s and taking home the top prize.
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This win marks a significant milestone for Jyothi, who has been working tirelessly to improve her performance and push the boundaries of Indian athletics.
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Jyothi's journey to the top has not been easy, having faced setbacks and challenges along the way, but she has consistently demonstrated her determination and resilience.
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Her victory in France is a testament to her hard work and dedication, and she continues to inspire a new generation of Indian athletes with her achievements.
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With this win, Jyothi has cemented her position as one of India's leading athletes, and we can't wait to see what she achieves next.
8. Taylor Townsend and Katerina Siniakova Claim Women’s Doubles Title at Australian Open
Taylor Townsend and Katerina Siniakova have won the Women’s
Doubles title at the Australian Open, showcasing remarkable teamwork and skill throughout the tournament. The duo displayed a flawless blend of aggressive play and tactical intelligence, overcoming tough opponents in the final. Their victory is a testament to their strong chemistry on court and their relentless pursuit of excellence. Townsend and Siniakova’s triumph marks a significant achievement in both of their careers, as they claim one of the sport's most coveted titles. This win is expected to further solidify their status as one of the top doubles teams in the world.
Doubles title at the Australian Open, showcasing remarkable teamwork and skill throughout the tournament. The duo displayed a flawless blend of aggressive play and tactical intelligence, overcoming tough opponents in the final. Their victory is a testament to their strong chemistry on court and their relentless pursuit of excellence. Townsend and Siniakova’s triumph marks a significant achievement in both of their careers, as they claim one of the sport's most coveted titles. This win is expected to further solidify their status as one of the top doubles teams in the world.Foot notes:
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They defeated Hsieh Su-Wei and Jelena Ostapenko in a thrilling final, coming from behind to win 6-2 6-7(4) 6-3 in a match that lasted over 2 hours.
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This is Siniakova's 10th Grand Slam doubles title, and she's now the world No.1 in doubles, having won three of the last four Slams.
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For Townsend, this is her second Grand Slam doubles title, and she's over the moon about winning it with her partner Siniakova.
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The American tennis star drew inspiration from watching her friend Madison Keys win the women's singles title the previous night, and she hopes their achievements will inspire young people to take up tennis.
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Siniakova and Townsend's victory is a testament to their incredible partnership, and they're already looking forward to their next challenge together.
9. Doordarshan Won ECI Media Award for Voter Awareness
Doordarshan has won the prestigious Election Commission of India
(ECI) Media Award for its outstanding efforts in promoting voter awareness. The award recognizes the channel's impactful campaigns and programs aimed at encouraging informed and responsible voting. Through creative content and extensive outreach, Doordarshan played a pivotal role in fostering democratic participation across diverse sections of society. This accolade highlights the importance of media in strengthening democratic values and empowering citizens. Doordarshan’s achievement is a proud moment for public broadcasting and a testament to its commitment to national service.
(ECI) Media Award for its outstanding efforts in promoting voter awareness. The award recognizes the channel's impactful campaigns and programs aimed at encouraging informed and responsible voting. Through creative content and extensive outreach, Doordarshan played a pivotal role in fostering democratic participation across diverse sections of society. This accolade highlights the importance of media in strengthening democratic values and empowering citizens. Doordarshan’s achievement is a proud moment for public broadcasting and a testament to its commitment to national service.Foot notes:
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Doordarshan's 360-degree campaign on voter awareness and education included a series called "Chunav Ka Parv Desh Ka Garv" during the Lok Sabha Elections 2024, which highlighted the importance of informed and responsible voting.
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The national broadcaster's coverage was impactful, and their efforts have been recognized by the Election Commission of India (ECI).
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Doordarshan won the award in the Electronic Media (TV) category, which is a testament to their outstanding efforts in voter awareness and education.
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The campaign contributed significantly to increasing voter participation by raising awareness about the voting process, and Doordarshan's win is a proud moment for the national broadcaster.
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The ECI also conferred the Best Electoral Practices Award 2024-25 for best Government department for Voter education & electoral participation on Indian Railways, and Doordarshan's win is a part of the ECI's efforts to recognize outstanding media campaigns
10. Renowned Cardiac Surgeon K.M. Cherian passed away
Renowned cardiac surgeon Dr. K.M. Cherian has passed away,
leaving behind a legacy of pioneering contributions to cardiac care. Dr. Cherian was a trailblazer in the field, known for performing India’s first successful coronary artery bypass surgery and establishing the country’s first heart transplant program. His visionary leadership led to the founding of the Frontier Lifeline Hospital in Chennai, a center of excellence for cardiac treatment and research. A mentor to countless medical professionals, Dr. Cherian's innovations significantly advanced cardiac surgery in India. His passing is a profound loss to the medical community and the nation.
leaving behind a legacy of pioneering contributions to cardiac care. Dr. Cherian was a trailblazer in the field, known for performing India’s first successful coronary artery bypass surgery and establishing the country’s first heart transplant program. His visionary leadership led to the founding of the Frontier Lifeline Hospital in Chennai, a center of excellence for cardiac treatment and research. A mentor to countless medical professionals, Dr. Cherian's innovations significantly advanced cardiac surgery in India. His passing is a profound loss to the medical community and the nation.Foot notes:
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He performed India's first successful coronary artery bypass surgery in 1975 and is credited with revolutionizing heart care in India.
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Cherian was a renowned heart surgeon who founded the Frontier Lifeline Hospital and performed India's first heart transplant, heart-lung transplant, and pediatric heart transplant.
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He was awarded the Padma Shri by the Government of India in 1991 and received a lifetime achievement award from Kasturba Medical College for his contributions to cardiothoracic surgery.
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Cherian served as the honorary surgeon to the President of India from 1990 to 1993 and was a close associate of the legendary South African heart surgeon Christiaan Barnard.
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He will be remembered for his groundbreaking work in cardiac surgery and his emphasis on technology and innovation, which has saved countless lives and inspired a new generation of doctors.
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