Tata Group Chairman N. Chandrasekaran Receives Honorary Knighthood from UK
The United Kingdom has awarded an honorary knighthood to N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Group, in recognition of his contributions to UK-India business relations. The honor, The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (Civil Division), was presented by King Charles III. Chandrasekaran praised Tata Group’s strong ties with the UK, noting their iconic brands like Jaguar Land Rover and Tetley, and their employment of over 70,000 people in the UK. He expressed gratitude to the UK government for its support and reaffirmed Tata’s commitment to strengthening its presence in the country.
Standard Chartered Names P.D. Singh as India CEO
Standard Chartered Bank has secured approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to appoint P.D. Singh as its new Chief Executive Officer for India, effective April 1, 2025. Singh, with nearly 30 years of experience in banking and finance, will take over from Zarin Daruwala, who is set to retire on March 31, 2025. Before joining Standard Chartered, Singh was the CEO of JP Morgan Chase Bank in India and held key roles at HSBC. His extensive expertise is expected to drive growth and add value for the bank’s stakeholders.
Government Extends PM-AASHA Scheme to Support Farmers Until 2025-26
The Indian government has extended the Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA) scheme until 2025-26. This flagship initiative ensures remunerative prices for farmers by supporting the procurement of pulses, oilseeds, and copra at the Minimum Support Price (MSP). It includes the Price Support Scheme (PSS), Price Stabilization Fund (PSF), Price Deficit Payment Scheme (PDPS), and Market Intervention Scheme (MIS). The extension is expected to boost domestic production, reduce import dependency, and stabilize market prices, providing significant support to the agricultural sector.
Health Hazard: Faecal Bacteria in Ganga at Prayagraj
The Ganga River at Prayagraj, deeply revered by millions, faces significant contamination from faecal bacteria, especially during the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela. Reports from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) indicate that faecal coliform levels have exceeded safe limits, posing serious health risks. Exposure to the contaminated water can lead to gastrointestinal infections, skin and eye infections, typhoid, hepatitis A, and respiratory issues. Authorities are urged to address the pollution immediately to ensure the safety of pilgrims and local communities.
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana Celebrates Nine Years
India’s flagship crop insurance scheme, the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), marked its ninth anniversary on February 18, 2025. Launched in 2016 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, PMFBY has offered financial protection to farmers against crop losses caused by natural calamities such as floods, droughts, and pests. The scheme has evolved with technology to ensure quicker and more accurate claim settlements. Recently, the Union Cabinet approved its continuation until 2025-26 with a budget of ₹69,515.71 crore. Affordable premiums and comprehensive coverage have significantly benefited Indian agriculture.
Union Minister Pabitra Margherita Inaugurates SILKTECH 2025
Union Minister of State for Textiles & Foreign Affairs, Pabitra Margherita, inaugurated the CSB’s International Conference – SILKTECH 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, on February 18, 2025. The event, part of Bharat Tex 2025, highlighted emerging technologies in the silk sector. Margherita emphasized zero-waste technologies and the Prime Minister’s vision to triple textile production and exports through quality research and global collaborations. Key publications were released, and six MoUs were signed to foster innovation and collaboration in the silk industry.