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PERSONS IN NEWS - February 2025

Feb 2025

Jan 30, 2026

Simran Bala Becomes First Woman CRPF Officer from Rajouri

Simran Bala, 26, has become the first woman CRPF officer from Rajouri (Jammu & Kashmir) to lead an all-male marching contingent at the 77th Republic Day Parade on Kartavya Path. Her achievement marks a milestone for gender inclusion within India’s central armed police forces and serves as an inspiring example for aspiring women in uniformed services. Bala’s leadership reflects evolving attitudes toward women in leadership roles within high‑visibility national events and reinforces a broader push for gender equality in security forces.

Simran Bala, 26, becomes first woman CRPF officer from Rajouri.
Led an all-male marching contingent at Republic Day Parade.
Milestone for gender inclusion in central security forces.
Promotes representation of women in high‑profile roles.
Supports broader goals of gender equality in uniformed services.

Former India hockey coach Michael Nobbs passes away at 72

Former Australia hockey player and India coach Michael Nobbs has died at 72 after a long illness. Nobbs coached the Indian men's team during a period that included Olympic competition in London 2012. He also coached Japan and contributed to global hockey development. Nobbs’ passing is a notable loss for the sport and is commemorated by the hockey community for his coaching philosophy and international experience that helped shape Indian hockey in the 2010s.

Michael Nobbs (72) passes away after illness.
Former India men’s hockey coach (2012 London Olympics era).
Also coached Japan; contributed to international hockey.
Remembered for coaching philosophy and global experience.
Sports community notes his impact on Indian hockey.

Jan 28, 2026

Arijit Singh announces retirement; fans react online

Renowned playback singer Arijit Singh announced his retirement on January 28, 2026, prompting a flood of reactions across social media. The artist, known for hits like Tum Hi Ho and Channa Mereya, has influenced Indian cinema and music for a decade. Industry colleagues expressed surprise and support, while fans reflected on his contributions. No official details were given about future plans or projects. The announcement triggers widespread discussion about the Indian music industry’s evolution and the impact of star retirement on audiences and media coverage.

Arijit Singh announces retirement (Jan 28, 2026).
Immediate fan and industry reactions online.
No further project details disclosed yet.
Raises questions about future of Indian playback music.

Victoria Beckham honoured in France as husband and family attend Paris event

Victoria Beckham received the French honour Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters in Paris, with part of a family gathering that included David, Romeo, Cruz and Harper. The ceremony celebrated Beckham’s contributions to fashion and culture, with Victoria posting on Instagram about the recognition. The family was in Paris for the event, while Brooklyn Beckham and Nicola Peltz were reportedly absent due to a family dispute. Beckham described the honour as a reflection of decades of work and commitment to the arts and design, as observers noted the evolving balance between fashion, media and culture.

Beckham named Chevalière de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by France.
Ceremony held in Paris; family attendance included most members.
Brooklyn Beckham and Nicola Peltz reportedly absent amid family tensions.
Beckham described the honour as a culmination of decades of work.

Jan 27, 2026

Mark Tully, veteran journalist, dies at 90 in Delhi

William Mark Tully, renowned BBC correspondent and recipient of India’s Padma Bhushan, died at a private hospital in Delhi on January 25, 2026, aged 90. Born in 1935, he became a trusted voice on Indian affairs and later wrote extensively on India’s social and political evolution. Tributes poured in from leaders and peers, noting his contributions to journalism and public discourse. His legacy includes books on Indian life and politics, and a career that bridged British and Indian perspectives. The journalism community mourns the loss of a communicator who shaped contemporary understanding of India.

Mark Tully died on January 25, 2026, aged 90
Former BBC New Delhi bureau chief and Padma Bhushan recipient
Widely regarded as a chronicler of India’s modern era
Tributes from PM Modi and peers highlighted his influence

Jan 26, 2026

Kirtida Mekani, Singapore’s 'Tree Lady', passes away at 66

Kirtida Mekani, a Karnataka-born environmental advocate and long-time champion of Singapore’s green spaces, died at age 66. Known as Singapore’s 'Tree Lady', she contributed to environmental sustainability, community service and cultural heritage. Her work included promoting urban greening, community gardens and civic initiatives. Mekani received the President’s Award for environmental work and was inducted into the Singapore Women’s Hall of Fame in 2024. Her passing on January 19 leaves a lasting legacy in Singapore’s environmental and civic circles.

Age at death: 66
Known for: environmental sustainability
Honors: President’s Award (environment), Singapore Women’s Hall of Fame (2024)
Residence: Singapore; origin: Karnataka, India

Jan 23, 2026

Saina Nehwal Announces Retirement from Competitive Badminton

India’s Olympic medallist Saina Nehwal confirmed her retirement from competitive badminton during a podcast, stating she had stopped playing two years earlier and chose to leave on her own terms. The 2012 Olympic bronze medalist had not played since the Singapore Open in 2023 due to a chronic knee condition. She emphasized that there was no formal retirement announcement needed, given her personal decision to exit the sport. Nehwal’s retirement marks the end of an era for Indian badminton, which has seen rising stars in recent years and a growing women's doubles and singles program.

Saina Nehwal confirms retirement from competition.
Last played at the 2023 Singapore Open.
Cites knee condition and personal exit terms.
No formal retirement announcement was made earlier.
Legacy includes Olympic bronze and trailblazing achievements.

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