Bangalore City University Renamed in Honor of Dr. Manmohan Singh
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced the renaming of Bangalore City University to Dr. Manmohan Singh Bengaluru City University. This change honors the former Prime Minister’s pivotal role in India’s economic liberalization and financial reforms. The announcement occurred during the budget presentation for the financial year 2025-26. Government Arts College and Government R.C. College will now be integrated as constituent colleges under the newly renamed university.
LIC Recognized as World’s 3rd Strongest Insurance Brand
Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has been named the third strongest insurance brand globally, with a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 88 out of 100, as per the Brand Finance Insurance 100 report for 2025. Poland’s PZU secured the top position with a BSI score of 94.4, followed by China Life Insurance, which came in second with a score of 93.5. LIC also ranked 12th among the most valuable insurance brands worldwide in overall brand value.
Rajeev Shukla Succeeds Jay Shah in ACC Leadership
Jay Shah stepped down from his role as Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President in December 2024, after three consecutive terms. Rajeev Shukla, Vice-President of the BCCI, has now assumed the position on the ACC Executive Board. Jay Shah will now serve as the Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC). Additionally, former BCCI Treasurer Ashish Shelar has been appointed as an Ex-Officio Board Member on the ACC Board.
Massive Iceberg A23a Runs Aground Near South Georgia Island
The world’s largest iceberg, A23a, has run aground near South Georgia, a remote British territory. Covering about 3,300 sq km and weighing nearly 1 trillion tonnes, it has drifted north from Antarctica since 2020. This grounding may affect local wildlife like penguins and seals by blocking access to feeding areas. On the upside, the melting iceberg might release nutrients into the water, potentially benefiting the local ecosystem.
Punjab Introduces ‘Project Hifazat’ for Women’s and Children’s Safety
Punjab’s Social Security, Women, and Child Development Minister, Dr. Baljit Kaur, launched ‘Project Hifazat’ to bolster the safety of women and children facing violence. This initiative includes a 24×7 helpline (181) for immediate aid, interdepartmental coordination for rescue operations, legal aid, medical assistance, and psycho-social support. The project aims to remove the fear that prevents women from reporting abuse, including domestic violence and workplace harassment. Implementation will be overseen by Deputy Commissioners, with District Program Officers managing execution.
Lithuania Withdraws from Cluster Bomb Convention
Lithuania has exited the international treaty banning cluster bombs, citing security concerns about Russia. Effective March 6, 2025, the decision has faced criticism from human rights groups. The Lithuanian parliament voted to withdraw last July, and the country had to wait six months after submitting exit documents to the United Nations. Lithuania argues that the move is essential to bolster its defenses amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.