1. Joyshree Das Verma appointed President of the FICCI Ladies Organization
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Joyshree Das Verma was appointed as the 41st National President of the FICCI Ladies Organization (FLO) for the year 2024-25.
An Overview of the News
Joyshree Das Verma brings with her 25 years of rich experience covering both corporate and entrepreneurial sectors.
She currently serves as the Honorary Consul of Israel for Northeast India and is the Director of Kapro Management Solutions Pvt. Ltd., a pan-India human resource consultancy company.
In his role as Honorary Consul, he has played a key role in strengthening India-Israel relations, especially in the 8 Northeastern states of India in areas such as agriculture, water, IT, technology, health, innovation, tourism, trade, and commerce. In the areas.
The agenda of her tenure includes organizing various events aimed at empowering women by providing networking opportunities, skill development, and support for entrepreneurial endeavors in various sectors.
About FLO
It was established in 1983 as a division of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).
FICCI acts as the apex body of industry and commerce in India.
FLO functions as a pan-India organization for women, with 19 chapters across the country.
Chapters are located in Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Bangalore, Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Coimbatore, Hyderabad, Indore, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Jaipur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Kanpur, Ludhiana, Mumbai, North East, Pune, Uttarakhand and Vadodara.
Its headquarters is located in New Delhi.
FLO's membership base includes entrepreneurs, professionals, and corporate executives.
FLO is recognized as the oldest women-led and women-centric business chamber in Southeast Asia.
2. Moushumi Basu appointed as the new president of the JNU Teachers Association
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School of International Studies professor Moushumi Basu was appointed the new president of the Jawaharlal Nehru University Teachers Association (JNUTA).
An Overview of the News
JNUTA announced a new team of office bearers for the 2024-2025 term.
Meenakshi Sundriyal and Pradeep K Shinde were appointed vice presidents of JNUTA.
Syed Akhtar Hussain will serve as secretary, while Vikas Bajpai and Kaushal Kishore Chandel were appointed deputy secretaries.
Vikas Rawal was appointed treasurer of the JNU Teachers Association.
This appointment signals a new beginning for JNUTA, as he prepares to lead the teachers union and address the needs and concerns of faculty members.
With a diverse group of experienced academicians playing a leading role, the JNU Teachers Union is set to continue advocating for the rights and welfare of the teaching community at Jawaharlal Nehru University.
Jawaharlal Nehru University:
It is located in Delhi, India, and is a public research university.
Established in 1969, it was named after Jawaharlal Nehru, who served as the first Prime Minister of India.
JNU is famous for its premier faculties and research focus especially on social sciences and applied sciences.
Chancellor - Kanwal Sibal
Vice Chancellor - Shantishree Dhulipudi Pandit
3. IIT alumnus Pawan Davuluri appointed to head Microsoft's Windows and Surface team
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Pavan Davuluri, a 23-year veteran at Microsoft, has been appointed as the new head of the combined Windows and Surface teams following the departure of Panos Panay.
An Overview of the News
Davuluri, a graduate of IIT Madras and the University of Maryland, has extensive experience across PC, Xbox, Surface and Windows leadership roles.
In his former role, as corporate vice president of Windows and Silicon and System Integration, he oversaw initiatives focused on optimizing Windows for Arm-based processors.
It aims to consolidate operating system and device efforts under one leader, emphasizing a holistic approach for the AI age.
The move enables closer collaboration between the Windows group and Microsoft's AI team, which is now led by Mustafa Suleiman.
Microsoft's intense focus on AI is evident in its recent acquisitions and key talent hires, which is in line with CEO Satya Nadella's strategic vision.
About Microsoft
Microsoft Corporation, based in Redmond, Washington, is a leading American multinational technology company.
Its major software products include the Windows operating system, Microsoft 365 suite, and Edge web browser.
Globally renowned, Microsoft is recognized for its innovation and diverse software offerings.
Founders - Bill Gates, Paul Allen
CEO - Satya Nadella
Headquarters - Redmond, Washington, United States
CFO - Amy Hood
4. Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid becomes first Bangladeshi umpire in ICC elite panel
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Bangladesh's Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid became the first umpire from his country to be appointed to the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Umpires.
An Overview of the News
This was confirmed following the International Cricket Council's (ICC) annual review and selection process.
Selection Process:
Sharfuddoula's elevation from the Emirates ICC International Panel of Umpires was decided by a selection panel comprising ICC General Manager – Cricket, Wasim Khan (Chair), former player and commentator Sanjay Manjrekar, retired New Zealand umpire Tony Hill, and consultant officiating expert Mike Riley.
Leading career of Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid:
He has been a part of the International Panel since 2006, making his first international appearance in 2010 when he umpired an ODI between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
Sharfuddoula was the first Bangladeshi umpire to officiate in an ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
He officiated five matches in the previous Cricket World Cup in India and stood as a neutral umpire in the Brisbane Test between Australia and West Indies, making him the second Bangladeshi umpire to achieve this feat.
Experience and Achievements:
Sharfuddoula has officiated in various international formats, including Men’s Test Matches, ODIs, and T20Is, as well as Women’s matches.
His experience includes standing in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup and ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.
Changes in the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees:
Reduction in Panel Size:
The Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees has been reduced to six members from seven, with Chris Broad not included in the panel.
Chris Broad's Career Highlights:
Chris Broad, who had been on the panel since 2003, has officiated in numerous Test Matches, ODIs, T20Is, and Women’s T20Is.
He has contributed to multiple ICC Men’s Cricket World Cups and ICC Men’s T20 World Cups, along with ICC Women’s T20 World Cups.
Current Members of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees:
The panel consists of David Boon (Australia), Jeff Crowe (New Zealand), Ranjan Madugalle (Sri Lanka), Andrew Pycroft (Zimbabwe), Richie Richardson (West Indies), and Javagal Srinath (India).
5. Allu Arjun's wax statue unveiled at Madame Tussauds, Dubai
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Telugu cinema icon Allu Arjun achieved a significant milestone in his career with the unveiling of his wax statue at Madame Tussauds in Dubai.
An Overview of the News
The unveiling ceremony of Allu Arjun's wax statue took place recently, with the actor posting pictures from the event on his social media platforms.
In the pictures shared, Allu Arjun is shown posing with his wax statue, along with his children, wife Sneha Reddy, other family members and team members.
The wax statue is dressed in a striking red blazer with black pants and formal shoes, mirroring Allu Arjun's iconic look from the blockbuster film Ala Vaikunthapuramlu.
About Allu Arjun
Indian actor Allu Arjun is a leading actor of Telugu cinema and he is one of the highest-paid actors in Indian cinema.
Allu Arjun has been included in the Forbes India Celebrity 100 list continuously since 2014.
His accolades include one National Film Award, six Filmfare Awards and three Nandi Awards.
6. Arnab Banerjee takes over as Chairman of ATMA
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Arnab Banerjee, Managing Director and CEO of CEAT Limited was elected Chairman of Automotive Tyre Manufacturers' Association (ATMA), succeeding the previous leadership.
An Overview of the News
ATMA members include industry giants such as Apollo Tyres, Bridgestone India, CEAT, Continental India, Goodyear India, JK Tire & Industries, MRF, and TVS Tyres.
Industry Scenario:
The current industry scenario is characterized by rapid technological advancements, environmental considerations and emerging market dynamics.
Banerjee's leadership is ready to carry out these changes effectively.
About Arnab Banerjee:
Banerjee joined CEAT in 2005 as vice president of sales and marketing, climbing the ranks steadily to become chief operating officer in 2018.
Boasts an impressive educational background from prestigious institutions including Harvard Business School, IIM Kolkata, and IIT Kharagpur, complemented by an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) certification.
Background of ATMA:
Established in 1975, ATMA is a leading industry body advocating for India's Rs 90,000 crore (US$11 billion) automotive tire sector.
Represents eight major tire companies, which account for more than 90% of the country's tire production.
7. Mohammad Yousuf Wani Takes Oath as Additional Judge
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Mohammad Yousuf Wani took oath as Additional Judge of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court.
An Overview of the News
On March 25, Chief Justice N Kotiswar Singh administered the oath of office to Mohammad Yousuf Wani.
The ceremony took place in Srinagar and was attended by various judges.
Attendance:
Physically present:
Justices Tashi Rabstan, Rajnesh Oswal, Vinod Chatterji Koul, Sanjay Dhar, Javed Iqbal Wani, Rahul Bharti, Moksha Khajuria Kazmi, and Wasim Sadiq Nargal.
Virtually attended from Jammu:
Justices Atul Sreedharan, Sanjeev Kumar, Sindhu Sharma, Puneet Gupta, Mohd Akram Chowdhary, and Rajesh Sekhri.
Conduct of the Ceremony:
Conducted at the chief justice's chamber.
Conducted by the registrar general of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, Shahzad Azeem.
Increase in Judicial Strength:
Following Mohammad Yousuf Wani's appointment, the number of judges in the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh rose to 16, including the chief justice.
8. Appointment of PR Sreejesh as Co-chairman of FIH Athletes Committee
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PR Sreejesh, the star goalkeeper of the Indian team, and Camila Caram, a defender from the Chile women's side, have been appointed as co-chairs of the International Hockey Federation's (FIH) newly formed Athletes Committee.
An Overview of the News
The FIH Athletes Committee acts as an advisory body, making recommendations to FIH bodies.
It is expected to contribute to the 'Athlete First' approach under FIH's 'Empowerment and Engagement' strategy.
Collaboration:
Liaising with the Athletes Commission of the International Olympic Committee and other sports organizations.
To share information and research to develop the game of hockey globally.
PR Sreejesh:
He belongs to a farming family from Kizhakkambalam village in Ernakulam district of Kerala. He made his debut for India at the 2006 South Asian Games in Sri Lanka and has participated in three Summer Olympics.
He played a key role in India's gold medal win at the 2014 Asian Games and bronze medal at the 2015 FIH Hockey World League Final.
Recognized for his achievements, he received the Arjuna Award in 2015 and the Padma Shri in 2017.
About FIH
The Fédération Internationale de Hockey (FIH), commonly known as FIH, acts as the worldwide governing body for field hockey and indoor field hockey.
FIH is headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland, serving as the central hub for its operations.
The organization is responsible for managing and regulating major international tournaments in the field of hockey.
Among these tournaments, the Hockey World Cup stands out as one of the most prestigious events overseen by FIH.
Headquarters - Lausanne, Switzerland
President - Tayyab Ikram
Founded - 7 January 1924, Paris, France
CEO - Thierry Weil
9. Appointment of Nidhu Saxena as MD and CEO of Bank of Maharashtra
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Nidhu Saxena was appointed Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD and CEO) of Bank of Maharashtra by the Central Government.
An Overview of the News
The appointment of Nidhu Saxena is effective from March 27, 2024, for a tenure of three years.
Saxena replaces A S Rajeev, who has been selected as Vigilance Commissioner in the Central Vigilance Commission.
The appointment is subject to further orders and remains valid for three years or until further instructions are issued.
About Nidhu Saxena
- Before this appointment, Saxena held the position of Executive Director at Union Bank of India, where he oversaw critical areas including Treasury, International Banking, Human Resources, and Audit.
Saxena's banking career commenced at Bank of Baroda before he moved to UCO Bank, where he held various significant positions including Branch Head, Zonal Head, and Vertical Head.
He has also served on the boards of Union Bank of India (UK) and Union Asset Management Company.
Expectations for Bank of Maharashtra:
With his extensive corporate and banking experience, Saxena is expected to significantly contribute to the growth and success of Bank of Maharashtra.
Bank of Maharashtra is a public sector bank with the Government of India holding an 86.46% stake as of September 30, 2023.
10. New Members take Oath in Lokpal of India
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Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi assumed charge as the newest judicial member of the Lokpal on March 27, 2024.
An Overview of the News
Lokpal Chairperson Justice AM Khanwilkar administered the oath to Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi.
Pankaj Kumar and Ajay Tirkey took oath as new members of the Lokpal at the Lokpal Office in New Delhi on March 27, 2024.
On March 26, the tenure of two judicial members, Justice PK Mohanty and Justice Abhilasha Kumari, ended.
Additionally, on the same day, the tenure of three other members – DK Jain, Archana Ramasundaram and Mahendra Singh – expired.
Introduction of New Members:
Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi, former Chairman of the 22nd Law Commission of India and former Chief Justice of the Karnataka High Court, plays the role of judicial member.
Pankaj Kumar, a 1986 batch IAS officer of Gujarat cadre, previously served as the Chief Secretary of Gujarat.
Ajay Tirkey, a 1987 batch IAS officer of Madhya Pradesh cadre, was the former Secretary of the Department of Land Resources, Government of India.
Historical Background of Lokpal:
The concept of an ombudsman originated in Sweden in 1809 and gained global prominence with its adoption by New Zealand and Norway in 1962.
In India, the idea of a Constitutional Lokpal was first proposed in Parliament in the early 1960s by Law Minister Ashok Kumar Sen.
The terms "Lokpal" and "Lokayukta" were introduced by jurist LM Singhvi, and the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013 was ultimately passed after advocacy by the Anna Hazare-led India Against Corruption Movement.
The purpose of this Act was to establish the Lokpal at the Center and Lokayuktas in the states to investigate allegations of corruption against public officials.