Image

Paschal Donohoe Named Managing Director and Chief Knowledge Officer

World Bank Group announces new leadership role to strengthen global development outcomes

The World Bank Group has appointed Paschal Donohoe as its new Managing Director and Chief Knowledge Officer, a position he will assume on 24 November 2025. The appointment, announced on 18 November, brings a senior European policymaker with public and private sector experience into the Bank’s leadership structure. The move supports the institution’s objective of improving knowledge-sharing systems and evidence-based policy solutions worldwide.

Month: 

Category: 

India Re-Elected to IMO Council with Record Category-B Vote Share

Nation secures 154 of 169 votes for 2026–27 council term

India has been re-elected to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council in Category B, winning 154 out of 169 valid votes during the 34th IMO Assembly in London on 28 November 2025. This marks India’s highest-ever vote share in the category and its second consecutive term topping the ballot, reinforcing its role as a major global maritime stakeholder. The re-election highlights international confidence in India’s shipping reforms, sustainability agenda, and blue economy growth.

Month: 

Category: 

Rare Rustic Bunting Spotted at Najafgarh Jheel for the First Time

Rustic Bunting Makes Historic First Appearance in Delhi NCR at Najafgarh Jheel

Delhi NCR has entered the ornithological spotlight with the first-ever confirmed sighting of the rare Rustic Bunting at Najafgarh Jheel, a thriving wetland habitat on the Haryana–Delhi border. The passerine, rarely reported in India, was documented by local birdwatchers during a routine survey—marking a significant moment for regional bird records.

Month: 

Category: 

Missile Scientist Tessy Thomas Receives Dr Paulos Mar Gregorios Award 2025

Tessy Thomas Awarded Dr Paulos Mar Gregorios Award 2025 for Excellence in Missile Science

Renowned aerospace scientist Dr Tessy Thomas, fondly recognised as India’s Missile Woman, has been conferred the Dr Paulos Mar Gregorios Award 2025, acknowledging her groundbreaking leadership in India’s missile development programmes. The award celebrates her role in strengthening indigenous defence technology and inspiring the next generation of women scientists.

Month: 

Category: 

New Tax Framework Proposed as GST Compensation Cess Nears End

Central Excise Amendment Bill 2025 to Reshape Tax Structure on Tobacco & Pan Masala

The Union government is preparing to introduce the Central Excise Amendment Bill 2025, a move expected to redefine the taxation landscape for tobacco and related demerit products. With the GST compensation cess scheduled to end in March 2026, the legislation aims to ensure continued high tax incidence on products such as cigarettes, hookah tobacco, gutka and chewing tobacco—sectors traditionally taxed to discourage consumption.

Month: 

Category: