1. Sanjay Kaul Appointed as CEO and MD of GIFT City Group

Sanjay Kaul has been appointed as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) Group.

• GIFT City, located in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, is India’s first operational smart city and international financial services centre (IFSC).
• It is a flagship initiative by the Government of India to bring global financial services to India and compete with international financial hubs like Singapore, London, and Dubai.
• Sanjay Kaul is expected to play a key role in expanding GIFT City’s role in fintech, green finance, offshore banking, and capital markets.

2. SEBI and NSE Launch “Samuhik Pratidevan Manch”

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), in collaboration with the National Stock Exchange (NSE), has launched “Samuhik Pratidevan Manch” – a platform aimed at improving corporate accountability and investor protection.

• The initiative seeks to enhance transparency among listed companies by enabling collective disclosures, redressal mechanisms, and engagement with stakeholders.
• This aligns with SEBI’s ongoing regulatory reforms in ensuring good governance practices, corporate social responsibility, and investor confidence in capital markets.

3. Replica of Ashoka Pillar Unveiled in Sri Lanka

A replica of the historic Ashoka Pillar was unveiled in Sri Lanka, symbolizing India-Sri Lanka cultural and Buddhist ties.

• The original Ashoka Pillar (3rd century BCE) is a national emblem of India, and features the four-lion capital, originally built by Emperor Ashoka, one of the greatest patrons of Buddhism.
• The unveiling coincides with increasing bilateral cultural initiatives between India and Sri Lanka under “Buddhist Circuit Diplomacy”, promoting shared heritage, especially in the backdrop of 2500+ years of Buddhist history.
• The site of installation in Sri Lanka also aims to become a tourist and spiritual hub.

4. Suhani Singh Wins Oscar for Magicians at FISM 2025

Suhani Singh, an Indian magician, has made history by winning the prestigious Oscar of Magic at the Fédération Internationale des Sociétés Magiques (FISM) 2025.

• She is the first Indian to win at FISM, often called the "Olympics of Magic", held this year in Italy.
• FISM is the world’s largest platform for magicians, attracting elite performers globally.
• Suhani's winning act blended illusion, storytelling, and traditional Indian themes, earning her global acclaim and marking a historic moment for Indian performing arts.
• Her victory showcases India's rising presence in international performing arts, especially in a field dominated historically by Western performers.