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Current Affairs Daily Digest – August 14 2024

1. Sandeep Poundrik Assumes Role as Secretary of the Ministry of Steel

Shri Sandeep Poundrik has officially assumed his position as the Secretary of the Ministry of Steel, taking over his duties at Udyog Bhawan. He was warmly welcomed by senior officials from the Ministry upon his appointment. Poundrik is a 1993-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the Bihar cadre.

Previous Roles and Experience

Shri Poundrik brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Before this appointment, he served as the Additional Chief Secretary in the Industries Department of the Bihar government, where he held key responsibilities across various governmental roles. His career also includes significant positions at the national level, such as an Advisor in the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) under the Ministry of Home Affairs and as a Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. These diverse roles have equipped him with extensive expertise in managing both state and central government functions, which will be invaluable in his new role in the Ministry of Steel.

2. PR Sreejesh Appointed as New Head Coach of India’s Junior Men’s Hockey Team

Hockey India (HI) has officially announced that retiring goalkeeper PR Sreejesh will take on the role of head coach for the Indian junior men’s hockey team. This announcement comes in the wake of India’s recent bronze medal victory at the 2024 Olympics, a momentous occasion for Indian hockey.

Announcement and Significance

The decision was made public on August 8, 2024, shortly after India clinched the bronze medal by defeating Spain 2-1 in a closely contested match. Sreejesh played a pivotal role in this victory, with his crucial saves making a significant difference in securing the win. His move from being a key player to taking on the responsibility of coaching the next generation marks an important transition in his career and is a testament to his enduring impact on the sport.

HI’s Statement

Hockey India expressed their enthusiasm and support for Sreejesh’s new role through a social media post, celebrating this new chapter in his career. On Instagram, the organization posted:

“The Legend makes another Legendary move. PR Sreejesh has been appointed as the new head coach of the Jr. Men’s Hockey Team. From playing to coaching, you continue to inspire all the youngsters. Looking forward to your coaching stint!”

This transition from player to coach signifies not only Sreejesh’s lasting influence on Indian hockey but also his commitment to nurturing the next generation of players. His extensive experience and leadership on the field are expected to greatly benefit the junior team, helping to shape future champions in Indian hockey.

3. DRDO Successfully Test Long Range Glide Bomb ‘GAURAV’ From Su-30 MK-1

On August 13, 2024, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted the first flight test of the long-range glide bomb (LRGB) named Gaurav. The test was carried out using a Su-30 MK-I fighter jet from the Indian Air Force, marking a significant achievement in India’s defense technology.

About Gaurav

Gaurav is an advanced air-launched glide bomb weighing 1,000 kg, specifically designed for long-range precision targeting. Once launched, the bomb uses a highly accurate hybrid navigation system to guide itself towards the target, ensuring precision strikes even from a considerable distance. This makes Gaurav a valuable asset in enhancing the Indian Air Force’s combat capabilities.

Indigenously Developed

The Gaurav glide bomb has been developed entirely in India by the Research Centre Imarat, located in Hyderabad. This indigenous development is a testament to India’s growing self-reliance in defense technology. During the test, Gaurav hit its target on Long Wheeler’s Island with pinpoint accuracy, demonstrating its effectiveness. The entire flight was closely monitored, with comprehensive data collected through telemetry and electro-optical tracking systems along the coastline.

This successful test reinforces India’s commitment to advancing its defense capabilities through homegrown technology, reducing reliance on foreign military equipment, and enhancing the operational readiness of the Indian Armed Forces.

4. Rana Ashutosh Kumar Singh Assumes Role as MD at SBI

Rana Ashutosh Kumar Singh has been appointed as the new Managing Director (MD) of the State Bank of India (SBI). In this role, he will be responsible for overseeing the Risk Compliance and Stressed Assets Resolution Group (SARG) departments. His appointment comes after receiving government approval last week and marks a significant leadership change within the bank.

New MD Appointment

Rana Ashutosh Kumar Singh has taken over as MD of SBI, succeeding Alok Choudhary. He will hold this position until June 30, 2027. In his new role, Singh will manage critical functions, including risk management and the resolution of stressed assets, which are essential to the bank’s financial health and stability.

Deputy MD Role

Gajendra Singh Rana, who previously served as the chief general manager of SBI’s Mumbai circle, has been promoted to Deputy Managing Director (DMD) for retail and real estate. He takes over from Singh, who previously held this role.

Chairman Appointment

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved the appointment of CS Setty as the new Chairman of SBI. He will assume this role following the conclusion of Dinesh Khara’s term on August 28. This transition at the top of India’s largest bank is expected to bring new leadership perspectives and strategies to the institution.

These changes reflect a strategic effort to strengthen SBI’s leadership team, ensuring continued focus on risk management, asset resolution, and the bank’s overall growth and stability.