Ministry of Agriculture (Government of India) implements National Mission on Edible Oils–Oil Palm (NMEO-OP) to reduce import dependence
Key Updates:
The Government of India (GoI) is implementing the National Mission on Edible Oils–Oil Palm (NMEO-OP) to enhance domestic production and reduce reliance on imported edible oils.
Oil palm cultivation is currently being pursued across more than 14 states, including the North-Eastern region.
Mature oil palm plantations in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana have demonstrated productivity levels of approximately 19 tonnes of Fresh Fruit Bunches (FFB) per hectare annually.
In many other rainfed or partially irrigated regions of India, the average FFB yield in mature plantations is estimated to be below 8 tonnes per hectare annually.
Oil palm has the highest oil productivity per hectare annually compared to other major Indian oilseed crops, including soybean, mustard, groundnut, sunflower, and coconut.
Implementing companies in the oil palm sector typically become EBITDA positive after a period of eight to ten years.
Low capacity utilisation of oil palm mills has been observed in states including Goa, Odisha, and Mizoram.
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All India Distillers’ Association (AIDA) reports ethanol supplies of 515 crore litres (Mid of May)▼
India's cumulative ethanol supplies reached approximately 515 crore litres during the first six months of Ethanol Supply Year (ESY) 2025-26, according to the All India Distillers’ Association (AIDA).
The industry has supplied nearly 49% of the total contracted volume of 1,059 crore litres.
Grain-based distilleries contributed approximately 333 crore litres, with maize emerging as the largest contributor at around 182 crore litres, followed by surplus rice/surplus food grain (SFG) at nearly 125 crore litres and damaged food grains (DFG) at approximately 26 crore litres.
Sugarcane-based distilleries supplied nearly 182 crore litres, consisting of sugarcane juice (SCJ) at approximately 130 crore litres, B-heavy molasses (BHM) at around 45 crore litres, and C-heavy molasses (CHM) at nearly 7 crore litres.
Monthly supplies crossed approximately 102 crore litres in December 2025, 95 crore litres in March 2026, and 92 crore litres in April 2026.
Coconut Promotion Scheme announced in Union Budget 2026–27 (Mid of March)▼
India leads global coconut production with over 30% share.
Coconut cultivation supports nearly 30 million people, including around 10 million farmers.
The Coconut Promotion Scheme was introduced in the Union Budget 2026–27.
The scheme is part of a ₹350 crore allocation for high-value crops.
State-wise fund allocation and utilisation details are yet to be finalised.
Information shared by Bhagirath Choudhary, Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, in Lok Sabha.
National Mission on Cocoa – Aim for Self‑sufficiency by 2040 (Mid of April)▼
The knowledge paper recommends launching a National Mission on Cocoa to achieve self‑sufficiency by 2040‑41.
The Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare will shape a dedicated policy framework for cocoa, aligned with the Union Budget 2026‑27.
Phase 1 (2026‑28) proposes establishing a Centre of Excellence and creating nearly 250 hectares of polyclonal seed gardens across states.
Phase 2 (2028‑30) aims to set up regional CoE hubs and train about 1 lakh farmers, with a target of supplying 25 million seedlings and launching a pilot digital farmer registry.
Phase 3 (2030‑35) seeks to expand cocoa cultivation to 1 lakh hectares, improve yields, and scale up R&D, targeting 50 percent of domestic cocoa demand.
Phase 4 (2035‑40) envisions full self‑sufficiency in cocoa production and positioning India as a global cocoa processing hub, with 100 percent digital traceability.
Domestic cocoa consumption is projected to reach 4.67 lakh tonnes by 2040, growing at a CAGR of 5.5 percent.
Current imports exceed $866 million annually, with India meeting less than 20 percent of its cocoa requirement.
The roundtable “India’s Cocoa Future: Self Sufficiency and Global Value Chain Integration” was held in New Delhi, launching the knowledge paper.
Naveen Kumar Patle, Additional Commissioner (Horticulture), Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, highlighted the need for a dedicated cocoa policy.
Syed Junaid Altaf, Chairperson, Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) Task Force on Horticulture, emphasised cocoa’s potential to boost farmer incomes and export‑oriented growth.
Cocoa Self‑Sufficiency Roadmap – Targeting Domestic Production by 2040 (Mid of April)▼
The roadmap is overseen by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (MAFW).
It proposes the establishment of a National Mission on Cocoa.
Phase 1 (2026‑28) includes launching the mission, setting up a Centre of Excellence and creating nearly 250 hectares of polyclonal seed gardens across states.
Phase 2 (2028‑30) aims to train nearly 1 lakh farmers, supply around 25 million seedlings, establish regional CoE hubs and pilot a digital farmer registry and traceability system.
Phase 3 (2030‑35) targets expanding cocoa cultivation to 1 lakh hectares and meeting 50 percent of domestic cocoa demand.
Phase 4 (2035‑40) envisions self‑sufficiency in cocoa production, positioning India as a global processing hub and achieving 100 percent digital traceability.
Domestic cocoa consumption is projected to reach 4.67 lakh tonnes by 2040, growing at a CAGR of 5.5 percent.
India currently meets less than 20 percent of its cocoa requirement, with annual imports exceeding $866 million.
Implementation begins in 2026.
Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) awards ₹29.83 crore purchase order to RRP Defense Ltd
Key Updates:
Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) has awarded a purchase order worth ₹29.83 crore to RRP Defense Ltd for the supply of optical lens components.
The order was issued by the Machilipatnam unit of BEL.
The scope of the order includes the supply of GE SF Lens 1 (Ø50X6.0) and GE SF Lens 2 (Ø26X4.5).
RRP Defense Ltd, an Indian Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) specialising in thermal imaging technologies and advanced electro-optical systems, was formerly known as Euro Asia Exports Ltd.
The contract involves phased monthly deliveries continuing up to December 2026, with the first lot expected within 8–10 weeks of the purchase order receipt.
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India's Ministry of Defence signs ₹1,476 crore contract with Bharat Electronics Ltd for Indian Army systems (Start of May)▼
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed a ₹1,476 crore contract with Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) to procure five ground-based mobile electronic systems for the Indian Army.
The mobile electronic systems are intended to boost the surveillance and networking infrastructure of the Indian Army.
The systems will feature a minimum of 72 per cent indigenous content.
The contract was inked under the Buy (Indian-Indigenously designed, developed and manufactured) category in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.
The procurement aligns with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make-in-India initiatives to strengthen the indigenous defence manufacturing ecosystem.
Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited signs tech transfer pact with DRDO lab for naval systems on April 28, 2026 (Start of May)▼
Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) entered into a licensing agreement for transfer of technology (LAToT) with the Naval Science & Technological Laboratory (NSTL), Visakhapatnam.
NSTL is a constituent laboratory of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
The agreement pertains to the gas turbine–infrared suppression system (GT-IRSS) for naval vessels.
BHEL will undertake the fabrication, installation, and commissioning of the LM2500 gas turbine infrared suppression system developed by NSTL-DRDO.
The pact aligns with the government's 'Make in India' initiative to strengthen indigenous capabilities in naval systems.
BHEL reported a provisional and unaudited turnover of approximately ₹32,350 crore for FY26.
The total outstanding order book of BHEL was about ₹2.4 lakh crore at the end of FY26.
Indian Army signs first-ever Capital Procurement Contract via GeM Portal (Start of April)▼
Indian Army executed its first capital procurement contract through Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal.
Contract covers supply of 93 Telescopic Handlers under Buy (Indian) category.
Contract signed with M/s JCB India Ltd at total cost of Rs 25.90 Cr.
Procurement aims to compress timelines while maintaining procedural integrity.
Move reinforces Government’s push towards Aatmanirbharta in defence and promotes Indian industry participation.
GeM portal was developed in five months based on recommendations of a Group of Secretaries.
India signs Rs 1,950 crore deal with Bharat Electronics Limited for two mountain radars for Indian Air Force (Start of April)▼
The Ministry of Defence signed a Rs 1,950 crore contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for procurement of two mountain radars and associated infrastructure for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The mountain radar is indigenously designed and developed by the Electronics and Radar Development Establishment of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
The radars will be manufactured by BEL and their installation will enhance India’s air defence and reduce dependence on foreign equipment.
Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) launches $10 billion Energy, Food Security and Economic Resilience Facility
Key Updates:
The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has launched a $10 billion Energy, Food Security and Economic Resilience Facility to support member countries affected by the Middle East conflict.
The facility provides a time-bound financing envelope of up to $10 billion over two years to offer budgetary assistance, funding for critical expenditures, and liquidity support.
India is the second-largest shareholder in the Beijing-headquartered AIIB with 7.58 per cent voting rights, following China which holds 26.54 per cent.
Other major shareholders in the $100 billion capitalised institution include Russia with 5.9 per cent voting rights and Germany with 4.1 per cent voting rights.
The AIIB, which began operations in 2016 and is AAA-rated, currently has more than 100 approved members including Bangladesh, Pakistan, Australia, Israel, and the UAE.
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IBM launches first Infrastructure Innovation Centre in India at Bengaluru ISDL campus (Start of March)▼
IBM opened the Sangam Infrastructure Innovation Center inside its India Systems Development Lab (ISDL) campus in Bengaluru on 5 March 2026.
The centre will co-create secure, scalable enterprise AI solutions with clients, Independent Software Vendors (ISVs), Global System Integrators (GSIs), Global Capability Centers (GCCs) and ecosystem partners.
A recent IBM Institute for Business Value study found 58% of Indian organisations have raised infrastructure investments due to rising AI demand and projected a 19% growth in infrastructure budgets in 2025.
43% of Indian organisations are establishing or planning AI Centers of Excellence as enterprises shift from experimentation to scaled AI deployment.
Asian Development Bank (ADB) to invest $70 Billion in Asia-Pacific infrastructure by 2035 (Start of May)▼
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) will support $70 billion in new energy and digital infrastructure projects across the Asia-Pacific region by 2035.
Under the Pan-Asia Power Grid Initiative, ADB aims to mobilise $50 billion for cross-border power infrastructure, including 22,000 circuit-kilometers of transmission lines.
The power initiative targets the integration of 20 gigawatts of renewable energy and aims to reduce regional power sector emissions by 15% by 2035.
The Asia-Pacific Digital Highway will mobilise $20 billion to finance digital corridors, subsea fibre networks, and satellite links to provide broadband access to 200 million people.
ADB President Masato Kanda advised countries like India to strengthen domestic economies and build reserves to ensure resilience against global order stress tests.
IBM opens first Infrastructure Innovation Centre in India at India Systems Development Lab (ISDL) campus (Start of March)▼
International Business Machines (IBM) launched its first Infrastructure Innovation Centre named Sangam Infrastructure Innovation Centre housed within the new India Systems Development Lab (ISDL) campus.
The collaborative engineering hub will unite IBM systems architects and infrastructure specialists from ISDL to co-create AI solutions with clients, Independent Software Vendors (ISVs), Global System Integrators (GSIs), Global Capability Centers (GCCs) and ecosystem partners.
A recent IBM Institute for Business Value study found 58 per cent of Indian organisations have increased infrastructure investments due to rising AI demand and projected a 19 per cent growth in infrastructure budgets in 2025.
43 per cent of organisations are establishing or planning AI Centers of Excellence as enterprises move from experimentation to scaled deployment.
SIDBI Venture Capital Limited (SVCL) to deploy ₹1,005 crore Antariksh Venture Capital Fund for Indian space startups from FY2027 (Start of April)▼
The Antariksh Venture Capital Fund, managed by SIDBI Venture Capital Limited (SVCL), will begin investing in Indian space startups from the first quarter of FY2027.
The fund has a committed corpus of ₹1,005 crore aimed at boosting private sector innovation in India’s space economy.
SVCL received Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) registration for the fund on 31 October 2025.
The fund completed its initial closing on 10 November 2025 after appointing a custodian and registering with depositories for issuing alternative investment fund units.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh announced that the first round of funding approvals is expected soon.
Ministry of Steel seeks withdrawal of anti-dumping duty on metallurgical coke imports
Key Updates:
The Ministry of Steel has requested the Ministry of Finance to withdraw anti-dumping tariffs on low-ash metallurgical coke (met coke) imports.
India is the world's second-largest crude steel producer.
A provisional anti-dumping duty on low-ash metallurgical coke imports was imposed in December for a period of six months.
India primarily imports met coke from China, Indonesia, Poland, Japan, and Switzerland.
Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Ltd (RINL) experienced a 20 per cent rise in input costs due to the inability to procure adequate met coke at reasonable domestic prices.
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Government of India (GoI) increases customs duty on precious metals to 15% (Mid of May)▼
The GoI has increased the effective import tax on gold and silver to 15% from the previous rate of 6%.
The 15% duty structure comprises a 10% basic customs duty and a 5% Agriculture Infrastructure and Development Cess (AIDC).
Customs duty on platinum imports has been raised to 15.4% from 6.4% to contain pressure on foreign exchange reserves during the West Asia crisis.
According to the World Gold Council (WGC), inflows into India’s gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs) surged 186% year-on-year to a record 20 metric tonnes during the March quarter.
The GoI previously implemented a 3% Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST) on gold and silver imports, leading to April gold imports hitting a near 30-year low.
Coca-Cola India and Invest UP sign MoU for community and environmental initiatives (End of April)▼
Coca-Cola India Pvt Ltd has entered into a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Invest UP, Government of Uttar Pradesh.
The partnership aims to support environmental stewardship, community well-being, and enhance access to safe hydration solutions across Uttar Pradesh.
The collaboration focuses on developing water access infrastructure, strengthening waste collection and recycling systems, and enabling skill-building and livelihood opportunities for local communities.
The initiative specifically targets high-footfall tourism destinations to enhance environmental infrastructure and visitor experience.
Sugar Export Policy: Prohibition of Raw, White and Refined Sugar Exports till September 30 (Mid of May)▼
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has prohibited the export of raw, white, and refined sugar until September 30 to stabilise domestic prices.
The export policy for sugar was amended from restricted to prohibited.
India exported $1.9 billion of these sugar varieties in FY25, with the top destinations being Sudan, Libya, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.
Exemptions to the prohibition include exports to the European Union (EU) and United States of America (USA) under Codex Maximum Residue Limit (CXL) and Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) quota.
Additional exemptions apply to the Advance Authorization Scheme, Government-to-Government exports, and consignments already in the physical export pipeline.
Government of India raises gold and silver import duty to 15% from 6% to curb imports. (Mid of May)▼
The Government of India has raised the import duty on gold and silver to 15% from 6%, comprising a 10% basic customs duty and a 5% Agriculture Infrastructure and Development Cess.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged Indians to avoid buying gold for a year, a rare public call highlighting government concern over pressure on foreign exchange reserves.
The India Bullion and Jewellers Association warned that the duty hike could affect demand as gold and silver prices were already elevated.
Inflows into India's gold exchange-traded funds surged 186% year-on-year in the March quarter to a record 20 metric tons, according to the World Gold Council.
April gold imports hit a near 30-year low due to a 3% integrated goods and services tax (IGST) levy, which had prompted banks to pause purchases for over a month.
India and six nations flag UK steel curbs at World Trade Organization (WTO)
Key Updates:
India and six other countries raised concerns at the World Trade Organization (WTO) regarding the United Kingdom's (UK) steel safeguard measures.
The UK's proposed measures, slated to come into effect on July 1, will reduce overall quota volumes by 60% compared to earlier safeguard measures.
Steel imports exceeding the specified quota levels will face a 50% tariff.
The issue impacts the implementation of the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) signed on July 24, 2025.
The countries flagging concerns at the WTO Council for Trade In Goods include India, Brazil, Turkiye, Switzerland, Australia, Japan, and Korea.
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India urges WTO ministerial for time-bound tech-transfer roadmap to aid developing nations (Start of March)▼
India submitted a draft ministerial declaration asking developed members to facilitate transfer of advanced environmentally sound technologies (ESTs) to developing and least-developed countries (LDCs).
The declaration cites export controls on inputs such as semiconductor chips and rare earth minerals and rigid intellectual-property regimes as persistent barriers to technology access.
India requested developed countries to share regional and sector-specific technology needs, experiences, challenges and best practices to cut high access costs and domestic capacity constraints.
New Delhi proposed a detailed review of technology-transfer provisions in WTO agreements covering TRIPS, agriculture, technical barriers to trade, and sanitary and phytosanitary measures.
The text seeks operationalisation of existing TRIPS flexibilities for technology transfer and a time-bound roadmap to be adopted at the forthcoming WTO ministerial meeting later this month.
World Trade Organization (WTO) to hold 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14) in Yaoundé, Cameroon from March 26 to 29, 2026 (End of March)▼
The World Trade Organization (WTO) will convene its 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14) from March 26 to 29, 2026, in Yaoundé, Cameroon.
The Ministerial Conference (MC) is the highest decision-making body of the WTO and generally meets once every two years to decide on WTO law.
A total of 166 WTO member countries are expected to participate in the conference to deliberate on global trade rules.
Key agenda items include the potential incorporation of plurilateral agreements, such as the Investment Facilitation for Development and the Agreement on Electronic Commerce, into the WTO rulebook.
The conference will address the e-commerce moratorium, an agreement not to impose tariffs on electronic transmissions, which is scheduled to expire on March 31.
Members will discuss Special and Differential Treatment (SDT) for developing countries and Least Developed Countries (LDCs) to provide special rights based on economic standing.
The United States (U.S.) has proposed prohibiting larger economies, including India, China, Brazil, and Indonesia, from accessing SDT special rights.
The conference aims to address the paralysis of the WTO dispute settlement system caused by the lack of appointments to the Appellate Body.
Since its establishment in 1995, the WTO has successfully created only two new major agreements: the Trade Facilitation Agreement and the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies.
Bharat Steel 2026 scheduled for 16-17 April at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi (Start of March)▼
Bharat Steel is India’s premier annual steel industry event convened under the Ministry of Steel, Government of India.
The 2026 edition will be held on 16 and 17 April 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.
Stall booking for the event is currently open.
Russia, Oman, Australia, United Arab Emirates, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, South Korea, Mozambique, Brazil and Sweden are listed as International Partners.
Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Jharkhand and Maharashtra are listed as State Partners.
CAFE Phase III fuel-efficiency norms (effective April 2027) and mandatory ADAS norms for commercial vehicles (effective January 2027) announced
Key Updates:
CAFE Phase III fuel-efficiency norms are expected to take effect from April 2027.
Mandatory advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) for commercial vehicles will begin with new platforms from January 2027, with broader implementation by October 2027.
The norms require automakers to significantly improve fleet-wide fuel efficiency and lower emissions.
Compliance is expected to increase the technology and compliance content per vehicle, creating a structural growth opportunity for component suppliers.
Vehicle lightweighting using aluminium casting and advanced polymers is emerging as a key compliance lever under CAFE III.
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Aluminium Extrusion Manufacturers Association of India (ALEMAI) launches Aluminium Bharat initiative to boost downstream capacity utilisation (Mid of April)▼
Aluminium Extrusion Manufacturers Association of India (ALEMAI) launched the ‘Aluminium Bharat’ initiative in New Delhi on 7 April 2026.
The initiative targets strengthening India’s aluminium value chain that supports over 10 lakh jobs.
ALEMAI will host ‘Aluminium Bharat 2026’ exhibition alongside Alumex India 2026 at Gandhinagar from 26 to 29 September 2026.
Midstream and downstream aluminium segments report production decline of 40-50 per cent.
Installed domestic capacity is 4.2 million tonnes, with extrusion units operating at 1.2-1.3 million tonnes and rolled/flat products at about 1.5 million tonnes.
Rising raw material and energy costs, limited aluminium scrap availability, and higher input costs versus global peers erode competitiveness.
Domestic manufacturers face tariff imbalances from low-cost imports benefiting from foreign subsidies and trade agreements.
Sigma Advanced Systems secures ₹3,800 crore aerospace parts contract from Rolls-Royce Holdings Plc (End of April)▼
Hyderabad-based Sigma Advanced Systems has secured a ₹3,800 crore order from Rolls-Royce Holdings Plc to supply aerospace parts.
The contract will be executed over the next seven years.
Sigma Advanced Systems will supply high-precision-engineered, safety-critical components and assemblies for Rolls-Royce's aerospace programmes.
Deliveries will be made through the company's manufacturing network across India and the United Kingdom (UK).
Sunil Kumar Kalidindi is the chief executive at Sigma Advanced Systems.
World Economic Forum (WEF) projects global GDP to rise by $56 trillion in five years (Mid of April)▼
The World Economic Forum (WEF) estimates global GDP will increase by about USD 56 trillion over the next five years.
The projected growth is attributed to advancements in artificial intelligence, quantum computing and other emerging technologies.
The report identifies information technology services, advanced manufacturing, energy and other technology‑driven industries as the largest growth opportunities.
Agriculture, education, healthcare, tourism and transport services are also expected to benefit from increased innovation and modernisation.
Information technology services, advanced manufacturing, health and healthcare, and accommodation and leisure are highlighted as key drivers of global economic growth.
Real estate, electronics, insurance and pensions, and chemicals and materials are noted as sectors less likely to drive major growth.
Emerging markets face new challenges from geo‑economic fragmentation and the expansion of AI and robotics reshaping traditional development models.
The WEF warns of risks including rising debt levels, societal polarisation and the impact of climate change.
Advancements in frontier technologies and accelerated green and energy transitions are expected to support the economic expansion.
Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) III Norms to Regulate Vehicle Fuel Efficiency (Mid of May)▼
The government is expected to notify the final Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) III norms by the end of May 2026.
The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) is updating the compliance formula to shift the reference fuel from E20 to E25/E27 to align with India's ethanol roadmap.
The CAFE III norms are scheduled for implementation starting from April 1, 2027.
The framework aims to reduce dependence on imported crude, expand ethanol usage, and accelerate the adoption of cleaner technologies.
The norms will determine compliance credits for battery electric vehicles, strong hybrids, and flex-fuel technologies.
Indian automakers are preparing distinct strategies: Maruti Suzuki plans ethanol-compatible technology for high-volume models, Toyota Kirloskar Motor is combining flex-fuel engines with strong hybrids, and Tata Motors intends to launch flex-fuel technology around late 2026 or early 2027.
'Revival of Languishing Products (Cotton Bomkai Saree)' to preserve heritage craft in Odisha
Key Updates:
The Government of Odisha approved the 'Revival of Languishing Products (Cotton Bomkai Saree)' project in the last financial year.
The initiative is led by the Handlooms, Textiles and Handicrafts Department to safeguard the authenticity of the original cotton Bomkai saree in Ganjam district.
The project focuses on two key areas: documenting traditional designs and motifs of rare Bomkai weaves and training a new generation of artisans.
The department conducted a five-day orientation programme in coordination with the State Agency for Development of Handloom Clusters to collect design and colour specifications.
The next phase of the project aims to train more weavers from Ganjam district in the original Bomkai weaving technique.
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Vishwa Sutra launched to promote Indian handlooms globally (End of April)▼
The Ministry of Textiles (MoT) launched the ‘Vishwa Sutra – Weaves of India for the World’ initiative to promote Indian handlooms globally.
The initiative was developed by the Office of the Development Commissioner Handlooms in collaboration with the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT).
A designer collection based on the initiative was presented at the 61st Femina Miss India held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
The initiative features 30 distinct handloom weaves representing different states, reinterpreted with design inspirations from 30 countries.
The project aligns with the Government's vision of Vocal for Local to Global and the Prime Minister’s 5F framework: Farm to Fibre to Factory to Fashion to Foreign.
Vishwa Sutra launched to promote Indian handlooms globally (End of April)▼
The Ministry of Textiles launched the ‘Vishwa Sutra – Weaves of India for the World’ initiative.
The initiative was developed by the Office of the Development Commissioner Handlooms in collaboration with the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT).
A designer collection based on the initiative was presented at the 61st Femina Miss India held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
The initiative aims to present Indian handlooms in a contemporary global design framework.
It brings together 30 distinct handloom weaves from across the country, each representing a different state, reinterpreted with design inspirations from 30 countries.
The initiative highlights the vision of Vocal for Local to Global and the Prime Minister’s 5F framework: Farm to Fibre to Factory to Fashion to Foreign.
Mission for Cotton Productivity: ₹5,659.22 Crore Outlay (Start of May)▼
The Union Cabinet approved the Mission for Cotton Productivity (2026-27 to 2030-31) with a total outlay of ₹5,659.22 crore.
The mission aligns with the '5F vision' (Farm to Fibre to Factory to Fashion to Foreign) and aims to increase cotton production to 498 lakh bales by 2031.
It seeks to enhance lint productivity from 440 kg/hectares to 755 kg/hectares by 2031.
The mission will benefit approximately 32 lakh farmers and initially focus on 140 districts across 14 states and 2,000 ginning/processing factories.
The programme will be implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Textiles, involving the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), and All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRPs).
Mission for Cotton Productivity: ₹5,659.22 Crore Outlay (Start of May)▼
The Union Cabinet approved the Mission for Cotton Productivity for the period 2026-27 to 2030-31 with a total outlay of ₹5,659.22 crore.
The mission aligns with the '5F vision' (Farm to Fibre to Factory to Fashion to Foreign) to enhance cotton productivity and promote high-quality cotton exports.
It aims to achieve a production of 498 lakh bales (170 kg lint each) by 2031 by increasing lint productivity from 440 kg/hectares to 755 kg/hectares.
About 32 lakh farmers will benefit, with an initial focus on 140 districts in 14 states and 2,000 ginning/processing factories.
The mission will be implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Textiles, involving the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), and All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRPs).
Karnataka Public Schools (KPS) Project with ₹3.5 Crore Outlay per School
Key Updates:
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will lay the foundation stone for the construction of 1,000 Karnataka Public Schools (KPS) across the state at Shivamogga on June 1.
The initiative involves an estimated expenditure of ₹3.5 crore per school to provide modern educational facilities under a single roof.
The Department of School Education and Literacy will build 800 schools, while the Minorities Department will construct the remaining 200 schools.
Shivamogga district will have 19 schools upgraded to KPS status, supported by a ₹12 crore Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) fund from a private firm.
School Education and Literacy Minister Madhu Bangarappa highlighted that Pre-University Course (PUC) results in the state have improved to 92.2% from a previous 45%.
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School Education System in India Policy Report: 13 Recommendations and 125 Performance Indicators (Start of May)▼
National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog) released a policy report titled School Education System in India: Temporal Analysis and Policy Roadmap for Quality Enhancement.
The report presents a decade-long analysis of the Indian school education system across parameters including access, enrolment, infrastructure, equity, inclusion, and learning outcomes.
It provides a roadmap consisting of 13 recommendations, comprising eight systemic and five academic reforms focused on composite schools and evidence-based rationalisation.
The policy document outlines 33 implementation pathways structured across short, medium, and long-term horizons with identified actors at Central, State, and local levels.
It includes over 125 measurable Performance Success Indicators to track progress and features case studies of good practices from Central, State, and District levels.
Karnataka to Implement Grassroots Climate Action Plans for 5,994 Gram Panchayats (Mid of May)▼
Karnataka is developing individual climate action plans for 5,994 gram panchayats and 340 urban local bodies to institutionalise climate accountability at the grassroots level.
The Environmental Management and Policy Research Institute (EMPRI) is spearheading the initiative to align local actions with India’s net-zero journey.
The state is monitoring 105 climate targets across 15 departments for the 2025–2030 period, which are reviewed monthly by an apex committee headed by the Chief Secretary.
Key focus areas for the village-level plans include water-use efficiency, cultivation of drought-resistant crops and millets, agroforestry, and a target to plant five crore saplings.
A research report by the Bangalore Chamber of Industry and Commerce (BCIC) and SDM Institute for Management Development highlighted that Karnataka has crossed the 50 per cent mark in renewable energy generation.
Kartavya-KAAMS Launched for AI-Enabled Attendance of Karnataka School Staff (Mid of May)▼
The Department of School Education and Literacy (DSEL) of Karnataka launched the Karnataka Advanced Attendance Management System (Kartavya-KAAMS).
The Kartavya-KAAMS is an Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Geographic Information System (GIS) enabled facial recognition mobile application.
It is mandatory for permanent teaching and non-teaching staff to register attendance twice a day via the app starting from the academic year 2026-27.
Employees must register using their Karnataka Government Insurance Department (KGID) number registered in the Human Resource Management System (HRMS).
The app will monitor attendance at schools, training programmes at State, District, and Block levels, and Secondary School Leaving Certificate (SSLC) evaluation centres.
Karnataka Budget 2026-27 allocates Rs 4.48 lakh crore with AI Centre of Excellence and flood relief (Start of March)▼
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah presented the State Budget 2026-27 with a total outlay of Rs 4,48,004 crore.
The state will set up two centres in collaboration with the Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology, the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms and NASSCOM at a total cost of Rs 16 crore to establish a state-of-the-art AI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.
Karnataka will have a Leopard Rehabilitation Centre in Bannerghatta Biological Park at an estimated cost of Rs 5 crore.
The state will implement disaster management projects over five years for Rs 5,000 crore to address flooding in Bengaluru under the Karnataka Water Security and Resilience Programme (KWSRP), a World Bank-funded initiative.
The government is developing a Karnataka-specific economic framework described as the '11G model' to guide the state's growth.
15,000 vacant posts of teachers in schools and colleges will be filled in the next fiscal year.
A grant of Rs 565 crore will be provided for the construction of new rooms and repair works in government primary, high schools, and Pre-University Colleges.
Rs 75 crore is allocated for the construction of toilets and Rs 25 crore for the procurement of furniture in schools.
A grant of Rs 125 crore will be made for the maintenance of government primary schools, high schools, and Pre-University Colleges.
Rs 3,900 crore will be spent for upgradation of 800 schools to Karnataka Public Schools (KPS).
Odisha Government Mandates Electric Vehicles (EVs) and 10% Fuel Reduction for Official Work
Key Updates:
Chief Minister (CM) Mohan Charan Majhi issued an eight-point directive mandating a 10 per cent reduction in fuel consumption across all Odisha government departments.
The state government made it mandatory from 1 June to purchase and hire only electric vehicles (EVs), including two-wheelers and four-wheelers, for official use.
All government-level meetings, reviews, and training programmes must be conducted in virtual mode unless physical presence is absolutely necessary.
Senior officials allotted government vehicles are required to carpool using a single vehicle, while employees travelling to distant locations are directed to prefer buses or trains.
The Finance Department will issue guidelines within 15 days regarding vehicle entitlements and the use of personal EVs for official work by government officers.
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PM E-DRIVE Scheme: ₹123 Crore for EV Chargers in Karnataka (Mid of May)▼
The Union Government approved Karnataka's proposal for the installation of 1,243 electric vehicle (EV) chargers with an outlay of ₹123 crore under the PM E-DRIVE initiative.
The Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) is developing the 'Unified Bharat e-Charge' platform to enable EV users to discover charging stations, access multiple charging networks, and make payments through a single interface.
The PM E-DRIVE scheme has a total outlay of ₹10,900 crore, with ₹2,000 crore specifically earmarked for EV public charging infrastructure.
Proposals worth ₹503 crore for 4,874 EV chargers have been cleared for Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) including Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL), Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), and states including Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Kerala, Telangana, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
Other key initiatives include the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) Scheme for battery manufacturing (₹18,100 crore), the PLI Auto Scheme for cleaner vehicles (₹25,938 crore), and the Rare Earth Permanent Magnet (REPM) Scheme for rare earth magnet manufacturing (₹7,280 crore).
India Electric Vehicle Battery Demand Projected to Reach 200 GWh by 2032 (Mid of May)▼
The Indian Energy Alliance (IESA) projected that India's electric vehicle (EV) battery demand will grow tenfold from 20 GWh in 2025 to 200 GWh by 2032.
The IESA, in association with Customized Energy Solutions (CES), will release the India EV and EV Component Market Outlook 2025-2034 report at the 12th India Energy Storage Week (IESW) in the national capital.
Total EV sales in India crossed 2.5 million units in 2025, comprising 1.5 million two-wheelers and 0.7 million three-wheelers.
Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) battery chemistry holds a 70 per cent market share in the electric two-wheeler segment, while Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) chemistry is gaining ground in other segments.
BLDC motors account for 71 per cent of the two-wheeler market, while PMSM motors have emerged as the preferred technology in electric passenger vehicles with over 90 per cent market share.
Delhi Draft Electric Vehicle Policy 2026–2030: Up to ₹1 Lakh Scrappage Incentive and Full Road Tax Waiver (Mid of April)▼
The Delhi government released the draft Electric Vehicle Policy 2026–2030 to accelerate electric vehicle (EV) adoption through financial incentives and infrastructure mandates.
The policy proposes a 100 per cent exemption on road tax and registration fees for electric cars priced up to ₹30 lakh until 31 March 2030.
Strong hybrid vehicles priced up to ₹30 lakh will be eligible for a 50 per cent exemption on road tax and registration fees.
A scrappage incentive of up to ₹1 lakh is proposed for the first 1,00,000 applicants who replace Delhi-registered BS-IV or older vehicles with new electric cars priced up to ₹30 lakh.
Additional scrappage incentives include ₹50,000 for electric goods carriers, ₹25,000 for electric three-wheelers, and ₹10,000 for electric two-wheelers.
From 1 January 2026, no new Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) two-wheelers or light goods vehicles will be permitted to join aggregator and delivery fleets.
From 1 January 2027, only electric three-wheelers, including auto-rickshaws, will be permitted for new registrations in Delhi.
Electric two-wheelers priced up to ₹2.25 lakh will receive phased subsidies starting at ₹10,000 per kWh (capped at ₹30,000) in the first year, reducing to ₹3,300 per kWh by the third year.
Electric auto-rickshaws will receive a flat incentive of ₹40,000 in the first two years and ₹30,000 in the third year.
Incentives for electric goods carriers in the N1 category are set at ₹1 lakh in the first year, ₹75,000 in the second year, and ₹50,000 in the third year.
All new infrastructure projects by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC), and Delhi Cantonment Board must be EV-charging ready.
Delhi Transco Limited (DTL) has been designated as the nodal agency for planning and coordinating public charging and battery swapping stations.
PM E-DRIVE scheme revised with tighter deadlines and capped incentives (End of March)▼
The Ministry of Heavy Industries issued revised guidelines for the PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) scheme with a total outlay of ₹10,900 crore.
Electric two-wheelers registered till 31 July 2026 and electric three-wheelers (including e-rickshaws and e-carts) registered till 31 March 2028 are eligible for incentives.
Ex-factory price caps for eligibility are ₹1.5 lakh for electric two-wheelers and ₹2.5 lakh for electric three-wheelers.
Support is capped at 24,79,120 electric two-wheelers and 39,034 electric three-wheelers.
The electric three-wheeler (L5) sub-component closed on 26 December 2025 after its target was met.
If funds are exhausted before 31 March 2028, the scheme or its relevant sub-components will close early and no further claims will be entertained.
Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) Strengthens Enforcement and Licensing Norms for FY 2025-26
Key Updates:
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) intensified enforcement in FY 2025-26, with state authorities managing nearly 98% of Food Business Operators (FBOs) under their licensing regimes.
Regulatory bodies conducted 3,97,009 inspections and analysed 1,65,747 food samples, leading to 1,756 criminal convictions and the imposition of ₹154.87 crore in financial penalties.
The initiative brought over 10 lakh street food vendors under formal oversight and initiated 945 food recalls to prevent unsafe products from reaching the public.
Licensing thresholds were rationalised to require Basic Registration for turnover up to ₹1.5 crore, a State Licence for ₹1.5 crore to ₹50 crore, and a Central Licence for turnover exceeding ₹50 crore.
FSSAI expanded testing infrastructure by notifying 18 laboratories, including advanced microbiological testing facilities in Singtam (Sikkim) and Tirumala (Andhra Pradesh).
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FSSAI reforms grant perpetual validity to licences and raise registration turnover threshold (Mid of March)▼
Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) stated that its registration certificates and licences will now have perpetual validity and will not require renewal.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare approved the perpetual validity reform effective from the date of the FSSAI announcement.
The turnover threshold for registration has been increased from ₹12 lakh to ₹1.5 crore effective 10 March.
State licensing will apply up to ₹50 crore turnover and Central licensing beyond this limit, effective 1 April 2026.
Street food vendors registered with Municipal Corporations or Town Vending Committees under the Street Vendors Act 2014 will be deemed registered with FSSAI.
The deemed registration is expected to benefit more than 10 lakh street food vendors by removing the need for multiple registrations.
MoHFW Regulatory Reforms for Food Safety and Ease of Doing Business (Mid of March)▼
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) approved comprehensive regulatory reforms aligned with the recommendations of the High-Level Committee on Non-Financial Regulatory Reforms of NITI Aayog.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) registrations and licences will now have perpetual validity, eliminating the requirement for periodic renewals for Food Business Operators (FBOs).
With effect from 1st April 2026, the turnover threshold for registration will be increased from ₹12 lakhs to ₹1.5 crore.
The threshold for State licensing has been set up to ₹50 crores, with Central licensing applicable for businesses exceeding this limit.
Street food vendors registered under the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014, will be considered as deemed registered under FSSAI, benefiting over 10 lakh vendors.
A technology-enabled, dynamic risk-based inspection framework will be implemented to incentivise compliant businesses and reduce repetitive inspections based on nature of food and past compliance records.
PM-AASHA and Atmanirbhar Pulses Mission: Expansion of MSP Procurement in Chhattisgarh and Bihar (End of April)▼
The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution expanded procurement operations under the PM-AASHA scheme in Chhattisgarh and launched the first structured pulse procurement in Bihar under the Atmanirbhar Pulses Mission.
The procurement drive is led by the National Cooperative Consumers' Federation of India Ltd. (NCCF) and the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd (NAFED).
In Bihar, NCCF initiated organised procurement of masoor (lentil) supported by Warehousing Development and Regulatory Authority (WDRA)-approved warehouses in collaboration with the Central Warehousing Corporation (CWC).
Bihar has a procurement target of 32,000 tonnes of masoor, with 100.4 metric tonnes procured as of 22 April 2026.
In Chhattisgarh, PM-AASHA procurement uses the E-Samyukti portal for digitised farmer participation.
Chhattisgarh has 85 Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) centres operational in Dhamtari, Durg, Balod, Balodabazar, Raipur, Raigarh, and Sarangarh, with planned expansion in Sarguja, Kondagaon, and Koriya.
NCCF set procurement targets in Chhattisgarh for 63,325 MT of chana and 5,360 MT of masoor.
As of 22 April 2026, NCCF achieved procurement of 9,032 MT of chana and 7.98 MT of masoor in Chhattisgarh.
NAFED established 137 procurement centres through State Level Agencies in Chhattisgarh, alongside 7 direct centres for chana and 3 for masoor.
As of 22 April 2026, NAFED procured 3,850 MT of chana and 109 MT of masoor in Chhattisgarh.
Punjab launches 'Meri Rasoi' scheme to provide quarterly food kits to 40 lakh families (End of February)▼
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced the 'Meri Rasoi' scheme for 40 lakh families registered under the National Food Security Act.
The scheme will distribute essential food kits quarterly through Markfed and the Department of Food and Civil Supplies.
Each kit will contain pulses, sugar, iodised salt, turmeric, and mustard oil to address nutritional gaps beyond subsidised wheat.
The first distribution round is scheduled for April with quality control measures in place.
Saudi Arabia joins International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) on 23 May 2026
Key Updates:
Saudi Arabia joined the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) as its new member on 23 May 2026.
The IBCA is a treaty-based global entity headquartered in New Delhi and was launched as India's brainchild.
The alliance aims to conserve seven big cats: Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar, and Puma.
India is a founding member and is home to five of the seven big cats, excluding the Jaguar and Puma.
Currently, 26 of the 95 big cat range countries have joined the IBCA, including Russia, Cambodia, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Armenia, Ethiopia, Mongolia, and Rwanda.
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Pakistan, Qatar, and Turkey Discuss Expansion of Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement with Saudi Arabia on 13 May 2026 (Mid of May)▼
Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif announced that Qatar and Turkey could join the existing strategic defence agreement between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement in September 2025, which stipulates that aggression against one signatory is treated as aggression against the other.
The proposed expansion aims to establish a broader regional security and economic framework, frequently described as a potential Islamic North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO).
A Pakistani military contingent recently arrived at the King Abdulaziz Air Base in Saudi Arabia as part of ongoing joint military and regional security cooperation.
Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India is closely monitoring the development for its implications on national security and regional stability.
India postpones first International Big Cat Alliance Summit in New Delhi (End of May)▼
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has postponed the first International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) Summit, which was originally scheduled for 1 June 2026 in New Delhi.
The summit was being organised in conjunction with the Fourth India–Africa Forum Summit (IAFS IV), which has also been deferred following consultations with the African Union (AU) and the African Union Commission.
A key expected outcome of the summit is the adoption of the Delhi Declaration on Big Cat Conservation, a unified global commitment to strengthen transboundary cooperation and landscape-based conservation.
The IBCA was established by the Government of India in 2024 through the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) to conserve seven species: tigers, lions, leopards, snow leopards, cheetahs, jaguars, and pumas.
Membership of the alliance is open to all United Nations (UN) member states, including range countries harbouring these species and non-range countries interested in supporting big cat conservation.
Saudi Arabia Joins India-led International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) as 26th Member (Mid of May)▼
Saudi Arabia is set to join the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) as its 26th member country.
The IBCA was launched by India to promote coordinated global action for protecting major big cat species and their habitats.
The alliance aims to protect seven major big cat species: Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar, and Puma.
As of May 2026, the alliance includes 25 member countries, including India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Russia, Kenya, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka, and five observer nations: Kazakhstan, Namibia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Ecuador.
India's conservation efforts include Project Tiger and programmes for Tigers, Asiatic lions, Leopards, Snow leopards, and Cheetah reintroduction.
Priyanka Mittal Appointed Co-Chair of Saudi-India Business Council (SIBC) (Start of May)▼
Priyanka Mittal, Director of KRBL Limited, has been appointed as Co-Chair of the Indian side of the Saudi-India Business Council (SIBC) by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).
Dr. Siddeek Ahmed, Chairman of Eram Holdings, has been nominated as Chair of the Indian side of the SIBC.
The SIBC is a bilateral platform jointly established by FICCI and the Federation of Saudi Chambers (FSC).
The SIBC aims to strengthen economic cooperation, enhance trade relations, and facilitate investment opportunities between India and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
KRBL Limited is the parent company of India Gate, which is recognised as the World's No.1 basmati rice brand.
India blocks China's request for WTO dispute panel on solar sector support measures on May 22
Key Updates:
India blocked China's first request to establish a dispute panel at the World Trade Organization (WTO) during a Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) meeting on May 22 in Geneva.
The dispute relates to India's support measures for the information technology sector and solar cells and modules, which China claims discriminate against its goods.
China alleged that India's measures infringe upon the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade 1994 (GATT 1994), the Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures, and the Agreement on Trade-Related Investment Measures.
India's measures to promote domestic manufacturing in the solar sector include imposing duties on imported solar cells and modules, mandating the use of locally manufactured solar equipment in certain government-backed projects, the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM), and a production-linked incentive scheme.
China emerged as India's largest trading partner in 2025-26 with bilateral trade reaching USD 151.1 billion and a trade deficit of USD 112.16 billion.
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India Adds Record 44 GW Solar Capacity in 2025 to Reach 150 GW Total (Mid of May)▼
India added a record 44 gigawatts (GW) of solar capacity in 2025, bringing the total installed solar power capacity to 150 GW.
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) attributed this growth to the PM Surya Ghar, PM-KUSUM, and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme.
India's annual addition of 44 GW surpasses the United States (30-40 GW) and trails only China and the European Union (EU).
India's total solar capacity in the pre-2014 era was 2.5 GW.
India's crude oil import dependence is 85 per cent.
US Department of Commerce (DOC) imposes 123.04% anti-dumping duty on Indian solar imports (End of April)▼
The US Department of Commerce (DOC) has announced a preliminary anti-dumping duty of 123.04% on solar cells and modules from India.
The DOC identified critical circumstances for imports from companies including Mundra Solar Energy, Mundra Solar PV, Kowa, and Premier Energies.
The suspension of liquidation will apply to shipments entered for consumption up to 90 days prior to the publication of the order.
The combined tariff burden on Indian supplies exceeds 200%, which includes existing countervailing duties of over 125%.
The National Solar Energy Federation of India (NSEFI) and the Indian Solar Manufacturers Association (ISMA) have initiated processes to contest the findings.
US Commerce Department imposes preliminary antidumping duties on solar imports from India, Indonesia and Laos (End of April)▼
The US Commerce Department announced preliminary antidumping duties on solar cells and panels imported from India, Indonesia and Laos.
The preliminary duty rates, known as dumping margins, are 123.04 per cent for India, 35.17 per cent for Indonesia, and 22.46 per cent for Laos.
India, Indonesia and Laos accounted for $4.5 billion in US solar imports last year, representing approximately two-thirds of the total.
The petition for these duties was filed by the Alliance for American Solar Manufacturing and Trade, which includes First Solar, Qcells, Talon PV and Mission Solar.
The US Commerce Department will announce final decisions for solar cells from India and Indonesia on or around July 13, and for imports from Laos on or around September 9.
Preliminary countervailing duties were announced for India, Indonesia and Laos in February.
Government of India sets 60-day FDI clearance for 40 sub-sectors from land-bordering nations (Start of May)▼
The Government of India has established a 60-day timeline to process and decide Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) proposals from countries sharing land borders, including China, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Afghanistan.
The expedited clearance applies to 40 sub-sectors under six broad categories: capital goods manufacturing, electronic capital goods and electronic component manufacturing, polysilicon wafers, advanced battery components, rare earth permanent magnets, and rare earth processing.
Specific sub-sectors identified for fast-track approval include insulation items, castings and forgings for power plants, machine tools, display components (plasma, polymer, LCD, LED), camera modules, electronic capacitors, speakers and microphones for ICT products, Li-ion batteries, wearables, and rare earth metal facilities.
A mandatory condition for these proposals is that the majority shareholding and control of the investee entity must remain with resident Indian citizens or Indian-owned and controlled entities at all times.
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) mandated that Indian investee firms must report investment details prior to inward remittance under the Foreign Exchange Management (Mode of Payment and Reporting of Non-debt Instruments) Regulations, 2019, for access by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
Pakistan to issue PKR 75 commemorative coin to mark 75 years of diplomatic ties with China
Key Updates:
The Government of Pakistan announced the issuance of a special PKR 75 commemorative coin to celebrate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations with China.
The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) will make the coin available to the general public from May 25, 2026, through its banking counters across the country.
Pakistan and China established formal diplomatic relations in 1951, with Pakistan being the first Muslim nation to establish ties with the People's Republic of China.
China remains Pakistan's largest trading partner and a major investor through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship project of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to visit China from May 23 to 26, 2026, to attend anniversary events and further deepen bilateral strategic ties.
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China Confirms On-Site Technical Support to Pakistan During Operation Sindoor (Mid of May)▼
China confirmed providing on-site technical support to Pakistan during a four-day conflict with India known as Operation Sindoor.
Technical support was provided by Zhang Heng, an engineer from the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) Chengdu Aircraft Design and Research Institute.
The Pakistan air force operates a fleet of J-10CE jets produced by an AVIC subsidiary.
Deputy Chief of Army Staff Lt General Rahul R Singh asserted that China used satellites to monitor Indian military deployment during the conflict.
Reports indicate that China plans to sell the J-35 stealth bomber to Pakistan.
Pakistan puts $1.5 billion weapons sale to Sudan on hold following Saudi Arabia objection (End of April)▼
Pakistan has suspended a $1.5 billion agreement to supply weapons and jets to Sudan.
The deal was put on hold after Saudi Arabia requested its termination and declined to finance the purchase.
The conflict in Sudan involves the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed a mutual defence pact last year, treating aggression against either nation as an attack on both.
A separate $4 billion deal between Pakistan and the Libyan National Army is also reportedly in jeopardy.
Pakistan and China sign three Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) on 27 April 26 (End of April)▼
Three Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed between institutions from Pakistan and China during a ceremony held in Changsha.
The ceremony was attended by Asif Ali Zardari.
The Sindh Local Government Department and Loxin Environmental Technology Group signed an MoU to collaborate on a seawater desalination project to increase urban water supply.
An agreement to enhance cooperation in agricultural technology was signed between the Sindh Local Government Department and Longping High-Tech Information Company.
An MoU to support the development of the tea industry and strengthen economic, trade, and people-to-people ties was signed between Muske and Femte Trading Company, Hunan Tea Group, and Jialong International Technology Hainan.
China launches Pakistani satellite PRSC-EO3 (Start of May)▼
China launched the Pakistani satellite PRSC-EO3 from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Centre in Shanxi Province.
The satellite was launched using a Long March-6 carrier rocket.
PRSC-EO3 is the fourth Pakistani satellite launched by China since last year.
Two Pakistani nationals arrived in Beijing on April 24 for training at the Astronaut Centre of China.
The China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) announced that one of the trainees will participate in a space mission as a payload specialist, becoming the first foreign astronaut to board the Tiangong space station.
Venezuela and United States officials to visit India for energy and Quad talks starting 23 May 2026
Key Updates:
Venezuela's Interim President Delcy Rodriguez is scheduled to visit India to discuss bilateral ties, although the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has not yet announced the visit.
United States (US) Secretary of State Marco Rubio will travel to India from 23 May to 26 May 2026, visiting Kolkata, Agra, Jaipur, and New Delhi.
Rubio will attend the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) foreign ministers’ meeting in New Delhi on 26 May 2026 to discuss energy security, trade, and defence cooperation.
India has ramped up oil imports from Venezuela to offset lost cargoes from West Asia, following previous purchase cycles in 2019-20 and 2023-24.
Indian Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) have maintained a presence in Venezuela since 2008 and established partnerships with the national oil company (PDVSA).
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Vietnam President To Lam arrives in India on 5 May 2026 on first state visit (Start of May)▼
Vietnam President To Lam arrived in India on 5 May 2026 on his first state visit since assuming office earlier that month.
He was received at the airport by Union Minister Nityanand Rai and accorded a warm welcome.
The visit marks ten years of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and Vietnam, as stated by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
President To Lam also serves as the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam.
His itinerary includes visits to Bodh Gaya and Mumbai, reflecting cultural and economic dimensions of the partnership.
United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio to visit India from May 23-26 (End of May)▼
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will undertake a four-day visit to India from May 23-26 to further cooperation in trade, defence, and energy.
The visit will include travel to the cities of Kolkata, Agra, Jaipur, and New Delhi.
Secretary Rubio will hold meetings with senior Indian officials to discuss security, trade, energy, and defence cooperation.
In July 2025, Rubio hosted counterparts of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) to establish the Quad Critical Minerals Initiative to secure and diversify supply chains.
India recently hosted foreign ministers of BRICS nations, including Sergei Lavrov of Russia and Abbas Araghchi of Iran.
Venezuela to release 300 prisoners under amnesty law by May 22, 2026 (End of May)▼
Venezuela is releasing 300 prisoners between May 19 and May 22, 2026, under an amnesty law aimed at freeing political detainees.
The amnesty law was adopted in February as part of reforms by interim leader Delcy Rodriguez following the United States (US) ouster of Nicolas Maduro in January.
The release process includes minors, individuals over 70 years old, persons with medical conditions, and former police officials linked to the April 2002 overthrow of Hugo Chavez.
On May 19, 2026, 16 political prisoners accused of offenses in the oil industry were released.
The interior ministry stated that over 8,000 people have benefited from the amnesty, including 314 released from prison and others granted freedom after parole.
India Vice President CP Radhakrishnan visits Sri Lanka on 19-20 April 2026 (Mid of April)▼
Vice President CP Radhakrishnan embarked on a two-day official visit to Sri Lanka from 19-20 April 2026.
This marks the first bilateral visit by an Indian vice president to Sri Lanka.
The Vice President will meet the President of Sri Lanka Anura Kumara Disanayaka and the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka Harini Amarasuriya.
The visit includes interactions with Tamil leaders and the Indian-origin Tamil community from the Northern and Eastern regions of Sri Lanka.
The Vice President will address the Indian diaspora in Colombo and virtually hand over houses to beneficiaries under the third phase of the Indian Housing Project.
With the completion of the third phase, the total number of houses for Tamil communities will reach 50,000.
A fourth phase of the Indian Housing Project is currently building 10,000 additional houses.
The itinerary includes a visit to Nuwara Eliya to inspect Indian Housing Projects and interact with the local Tamil community.
India hosts Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi on May 26, 2026
Key Updates:
India hosted the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi on May 26, bringing together top diplomats from Australia, Japan and the United States.
The meeting was held at the invitation of External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited New Delhi to participate in the ministerial dialogue.
The ministers discussed advancing Quad cooperation across priority areas, reviewed progress on ongoing Quad initiatives, and reflected on recent developments in the Indo-Pacific region.
The foreign ministers were also expected to hold bilateral meetings with the External Affairs Minister and call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
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PM Modi and US President Trump expected to meet at G7 Summit in Evian-les-Bains, France from June 15-17, 2026 (End of May)▼
French President Emmanuel Macron invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the G7 Summit during his official visit to India from February 17-19, 2026.
The G7 Summit is scheduled to be held in Evian-les-Bains, located in the French Alps, from June 15 to 17, 2026.
US President Donald Trump is expected to attend the summit; his last meeting with PM Modi took place on February 13, 2025 at the White House.
The G7 member nations are the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and Canada; the European Union also participates in the summit.
According to a senior White House official, no formal signed agreements are expected; the focus will be on building consensus on artificial intelligence, trade, and global efforts to tackle crime.
United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio to visit India from May 23-26 (End of May)▼
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will undertake a four-day visit to India from May 23-26 to further cooperation in trade, defence, and energy.
The visit will include travel to the cities of Kolkata, Agra, Jaipur, and New Delhi.
Secretary Rubio will hold meetings with senior Indian officials to discuss security, trade, energy, and defence cooperation.
In July 2025, Rubio hosted counterparts of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) to establish the Quad Critical Minerals Initiative to secure and diversify supply chains.
India recently hosted foreign ministers of BRICS nations, including Sergei Lavrov of Russia and Abbas Araghchi of Iran.
India hosts BRICS Foreign Ministers' Meeting in New Delhi on 14-15 May 2026 (Mid of May)▼
The BRICS Foreign Ministers' Meeting is scheduled for 14th and 15th May 2026 in New Delhi.
The meeting is held under India's 2026 chairship and is chaired by External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar.
The theme for India's BRICS 2026 chairship is Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.
The theme reflects a Humanity First and people-centric approach emphasised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 2025 BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro.
This is the fourth occasion on which India is hosting a BRICS summit-level engagement.
India hosts BRICS Foreign Ministers' Meeting in New Delhi in May 2026 (Mid of May)▼
India assumed the BRICS Chairmanship on January 1, 2026, and hosted the BRICS Foreign Ministers' Meeting in New Delhi.
India's trade with BRICS nations surged to $416 billion.
India advocated for the reform of the United Nations (UN), specifically calling for an expanded Security Council.
Dr. Bhaskar Jyoti Sonowal from Assam was elected president of the BRICS Entrepreneurs Alliance (BEA) Global Forum for the 2026-27 term.
India is scheduled to host the BEA Global Summit in November 2026.
International researchers discover fuel-efficient lunar trajectory via far-side approach
Key Updates:
A group of international scientists has identified a new shortcut to the Moon that reduces fuel consumption and maintains stable communication with Earth throughout the journey.
The research, published in the journal Astrodynamics, utilised over 30 million simulations to analyse various potential routes between Earth and the Moon.
The study found that approaching the Moon from its opposite side creates a more economical trajectory, saving approximately 58.8 m/s of fuel compared to the previously cheapest route.
This novel approach leverages existing gravitational fields more effectively, which could lead to reduced mission costs, increased cargo capacity, or longer spacecraft lifespans.
The proposed route avoids communication blackouts experienced by missions like the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Artemis 2 by ensuring the spacecraft remains connected to Earth for the entire trip.
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National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Tests High-Power Lithium-Fed Plasma Engine for Mars Missions (Start of May)▼
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) successfully conducted high-power testing of a lithium-fed magnetoplasmadynamic (MPD) thruster at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in California.
The prototype engine achieved a power output of 120 kilowatts (kW), marking a 25-fold increase over the electric propulsion systems used in current deep-space probes like the Psyche spacecraft.
The MPD thruster operates by heating a tungsten electrode to over 2,800 degrees Celsius to transform lithium vapor into plasma, which is then accelerated through a magnetic field to generate constant thrust.
NASA plans to integrate this technology with Nuclear Electric Propulsion (NEP) systems, such as the proposed Space Reactor-1 Freedom, to meet the 2 to 4 megawatt power requirement for crewed Mars missions.
The engine technology aims to use 90% less propellant than traditional chemical rockets and must demonstrate the capability to operate continuously for over 23,000 hours for interplanetary travel.
Chandrayaan-3 receives 2026 Goddard Astronautics Award (End of May)▼
The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) presented the 2026 Goddard Astronautics Award to India's Chandrayaan-3 mission in Washington DC on May 21.
Chandrayaan-3 became the first spacecraft to achieve a soft landing near the Moon's south pole on August 23, 2023.
The mission confirmed the presence of key chemical elements in the lunar south polar soil and provided data to support future human missions to the Moon.
India's Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Kwatra, accepted the award on behalf of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) at the AIAA ASCEND 2026 Conference.
The Goddard Astronautics Award is the highest honour bestowed by the AIAA for notable achievements in astronautics and was established in its current form in 1975.
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Launches Artemis II Mission to the Moon (Start of April)▼
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) launched the Artemis II mission on 1 April 2026 from Launch Complex 39B at the Kennedy Space Center (KSC) in Florida.
The mission marks the first piloted moonshot in 53 years since the conclusion of the Apollo programme.
The crew consists of Commander Reid Wiseman, Pilot Victor Glover, Mission Specialist Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen from the Canadian Space Agency (CSA).
The Space Launch System (SLS) rocket, standing 322 feet tall, generated 8.8 million pounds of thrust to propel the Orion crew capsule into space.
The mission is designed to travel a record distance of 252,000 miles from Earth, looping around the far side of the moon without landing.
The Orion spacecraft features four solar array wings with a 63-foot wingspan to provide electrical power for life-support systems and avionics.
The nine-and-a-half-day flight serves as a technical test to prepare for future missions to land astronauts on the moon in 2028.
Jeremy Hansen is the first Canadian astronaut to travel beyond near-Earth orbit.
The spacecraft successfully transitioned communications to the Deep Space Network (DSN), marking the first such switch for a crewed mission in 50 years.
The mission is expected to conclude with a splashdown in the Pacific Ocean on 10 April 2026.
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Completes Artemis II Moon Mission (Mid of April)▼
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) successfully concluded the Artemis II mission with the Orion spacecraft splashing down in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of San Diego.
The mission crew consisted of commander Reid Wiseman, pilot Victor Glover, mission specialist Christina Koch, and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen.
Artemis II set a new record for the farthest distance humans have traveled from Earth, reaching a maximum distance of 252,756 miles during the lunar flyby.
The Orion capsule, named Integrity, traveled a total estimated distance of 694,481 miles over a mission duration of 9 days, 1 hour, and 31 minutes.
During atmospheric reentry, the spacecraft reached a maximum speed of 24,661.21 mph and its heat shield endured temperatures of approximately 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
A system of 11 parachutes was deployed to slow the capsule from 300 mph to a splashdown velocity of approximately 17-20 mph.
The United States Navy recovery ship USS John P. Murtha was utilised to recover the crew and the spacecraft from the Pacific Ocean.
The mission involved a lunar flyby where the spacecraft reached its closest approach of 4,067 miles above the surface of the moon.
The crew carried a plush mission mascot named Rise, designed by an eight-year-old, which served as the zero-gravity indicator for the mission.
China National Space Administration (CNSA) Confirms Chang’e-7 Lunar Mission for 2026
Key Updates:
The China National Space Administration (CNSA) has confirmed the launch of the Chang’e-7 mission in the second half of 2026.
The mission targets the lunar South Pole to search for water ice in permanently shadowed regions.
The hardware for the mission includes an orbiter, a lander, a rover, and a specialised flying probe designed to explore deep lunar craters.
Chang’e-7 is a strategic component of the multi-phase Lunar Exploration Program (CLEP).
The mission serves as a foundational step for the construction of the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS), a permanent base planned in collaboration with Russia and other international partners.
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Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Team Visits Japan for Chandrayaan-5 Launch Site Assessment (Start of May)▼
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) team visited Japan to evaluate launch site preparations for the 2028 Chandrayaan-5 mission.
The visit aimed at assessing launch facility preparations, technical compatibility, and joint mission planning between ISRO and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).
ISRO and JAXA have increased cooperation in satellite technology, earth observations, and lunar exploration.
Deliberations included evaluation of launch mechanism, safety considerations, and environmental conditions for deep space missions.
Chandrayaan-5 is expected to be equipped with advanced devices, conduct extensive lunar research, and improve landing systems.
Chandrayaan-3 receives 2026 Goddard Astronautics Award (End of May)▼
The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) presented the 2026 Goddard Astronautics Award to India's Chandrayaan-3 mission in Washington DC on May 21.
Chandrayaan-3 became the first spacecraft to achieve a soft landing near the Moon's south pole on August 23, 2023.
The mission confirmed the presence of key chemical elements in the lunar south polar soil and provided data to support future human missions to the Moon.
India's Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Kwatra, accepted the award on behalf of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) at the AIAA ASCEND 2026 Conference.
The Goddard Astronautics Award is the highest honour bestowed by the AIAA for notable achievements in astronautics and was established in its current form in 1975.
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Schedules Artemis 2 Lunar Mission for April Launch (End of March)▼
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is planning to launch the Artemis 2 mission in April to send four astronauts around the moon.
The mission will be launched from Launch Pad 39B at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida.
The 322-foot Space Launch System (SLS) rocket will carry the Orion crew capsule for a 10-day journey.
The crew consists of NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen from the Canadian Space Agency (CSA).
Artemis 2 will be the first mission to fly the SLS rocket and Orion capsule with humans aboard.
The mission aims to travel up to 6,000 miles beyond the far side of the moon, the farthest humans have ever ventured in space.
Potential two-hour launch windows have been identified for 1 April, 2 April, 3 April, 4 April, 5 April, 6 April, and 30 April.
The Artemis programme aims to establish a permanent lunar base near the south pole of the moon to facilitate future human expeditions to Mars.
NASA plans for a moon landing to occur as early as 2028 during the Artemis 4 mission, following the Artemis 3 mission in 2027.
China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) Selects Pakistani Astronauts for Tiangong Space Station (End of April)▼
The China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) selected Muhammad Zeeshan Ali and Khurram Daud as the first foreign reserve astronauts for space mission training.
One of the selected candidates will participate in a space mission as a payload specialist on board the Tiangong space station.
The Tiangong space station currently orbits approximately 400 km above the Earth and has been in orbit for nearly five years.
The agreement for the mission was signed between the CMSA and Pakistan's Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) in February last year.
The Tiangong space station was developed by China after its reported exclusion from the International Space Station (ISS).
Department of Space (DoS) Approves Space Manufacturing Hubs in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu
Key Updates:
The Department of Space (DoS) has approved the establishment of Common Technical Facilities (CTFs) in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu to expand the country's space infrastructure.
The Gujarat government has identified a land parcel in Khoraj, near Ahmedabad, for a cluster focusing on spacecraft, payload systems, and space-based applications.
A space vehicles cluster will be established in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, focusing on the manufacturing, testing, and integration of launch vehicle systems.
The DoS has sanctioned ₹100 crore for the Space Vehicle Common Testing Facility Centre (SV CTFC) in Thoothukudi, with land and buildings provided by the Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO).
The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) will manage the procurement, installation, and commissioning of the technical infrastructure before transferring ownership to state governments.
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OmSpace Rocket and Exploration (OSRE) Test-Fires Sounding Rocket in Gujarat (Mid of March)▼
OmSpace Rocket and Exploration (OSRE) successfully launched a 4.2-metre sounding rocket from Bavaliyari near Dholera, becoming the first entity to launch a rocket from Gujarat.
The single-stage sub-orbital rocket reached a target altitude of 3 kilometres before executing a safe landing using a dual-parachute recovery system.
The mission validated several indigenous technologies, including a 3D-printed torch igniter, a sugar-based solid propellant motor, and a carbon fibre and advanced composites-based airframe.
The rocket components were entirely researched, developed, and manufactured in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
The launch was conducted with permissions from the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe), the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), and the Airport Authority of India (AAI).
The data from this flight will be used to develop Infinity One, an orbital-class reusable launch vehicle currently under development by OSRE.
The event was attended by the Gujarat State Science and Technology Minister, Arjun Modhwadia.
India and Italy Strengthen Space Cooperation at Space Meetings Veneto 2026 (Mid of May)▼
The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) led a delegation of nine space-tech companies to the Space Meetings Veneto 2026 held in Venice, Italy.
The participating Indian companies included Astrogate Labs, Astrobase Space Technologies, VyomIC, Suhora, Kepler Aerospace, Hyspace Technologies, TakeMe2Space, Jarbits Pvt Ltd, and Dhruva Space.
Karnataka-based Astrobase Space Technologies signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Italy’s Impulso Space to explore launch opportunities and integrated mission management.
Kepler Aerospace signed a framework agreement with Apogeo Space to expand Ground Station as a Service (GSaaS) infrastructure and collaborate on CubeSat systems and payload technologies.
The engagement is part of the 2025–2029 India–Italy Joint Strategic Action Plan announced during the G20 Summit in 2024 to deepen commercial space cooperation.
Karnataka launches India's first state-led Centre of Excellence for Space Technology in Bengaluru (Start of May)▼
The Karnataka government launched the country's first state-led Centre of Excellence for Space Technology in Bengaluru on May 1, 2026.
The Centre was established by the Karnataka government through the Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS) in collaboration with the Satcom Industry Association India (SIA-India).
The Centre was inaugurated by Minister for Electronics, IT/BT, and Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, Priyank Kharge.
The CoE SpaceTech Foundation has been established under a Memorandum of Agreement between KITS and SIA-India to drive research and innovation in space technologies.
The Centre has formalised strategic MoUs with multiple industry and academic partners to support research in space biotech and microgravity, enable collaboration, build talent pipelines, and provide startups with training and market access.
India Hosts 35th ISO Technical Committee Meeting on Space Systems in New Delhi (Start of May)▼
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is hosting the 35th Plenary and Working Groups meetings of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Technical Committee 20/Subcommittee 14 in New Delhi.
The subcommittee is responsible for developing global standards for Space Systems and Operations, including design, manufacturing, launch, and orbital management.
Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare highlighted that policy reforms and the creation of the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) have advanced private sector participation.
The meeting focuses on critical industry challenges such as space debris mitigation, orbital congestion, and the long-term sustainability of outer space activities.
Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) Chairman Pawan Goenka stated that robust international standards are essential for driving innovation and integrating India into the global space economy.
India Accounts for 97 of World's 100 Hottest Cities According to AQI Rankings
Key Updates:
According to live global temperature rankings agency AQI, 97 out of the 100 hottest cities in the world were located in India as of May 22.
Balangir in Odisha and Sasaram in Bihar recorded the highest global temperatures at 48 degrees Celsius, followed by Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh at 47 degrees Celsius.
The list includes 34 cities from Uttar Pradesh: Varanasi, Mirzapur, Moradabad, Sitapur, Prayagraj, Jaunpur, Pilibhit, Shahjahanpur, Bijnor, Rampur, Bareilly, Ghazipur, Akbarpur, Muzaffarnagar, Amroha, Mainpuri, Fatehpur, Ayodhya, Balrampur, Budaun, Sambhal, Siddharthnagar, Auraiya, Etawah, Shamli, Etah, Banda, Aligarh, Bahraich, Jhansi, Firozabad, Agra, Hathras, and Mathura.
The remaining Indian entries comprise cities from West Bengal (Kulti, Asansol, Bankura, Durgapur, Berhampore, Baharampur), Madhya Pradesh (Rewa, Chhatarpur, Gwalior, Satna, Singrauli), Chhattisgarh (Bilaspur, Mahasamund, Raipur, Durg), Andhra Pradesh (Rajamahendravaram, Kakinada, Bhimavaram), Odisha (Balangir, Rourkela), Uttarakhand (Rudrapur, Haridwar), Rajasthan (Sri Ganganagar, Bharatpur), Maharashtra (Chandrapur), Jharkhand (Dhanbad), and Chandigarh.
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Savills ranks Bengaluru as world's fastest-growing major city through 2035 (Start of May)▼
Global real estate advisory firm Savills identified Bengaluru as the world’s fastest-growing major city through 2035 in its Growth Hubs Index.
The index evaluated 245 cities globally based on indicators including projected Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth to 2035, personal wealth expansion, and inward migration.
India emerged as a standout performer with multiple cities featuring in the top 20, reflecting broad-based urban growth momentum across the country.
Bengaluru's top position is attributed to its strong talent pool and its growing appeal as a destination for Global Capability Centres (GCCs).
The Asia-Pacific region dominates the rankings, accounting for 85% of the top 20 and approximately 75% of the top 50 fastest-growing cities globally.
Gurgaon topped India’s pollution chart in March 2026, Haryana held four of top 10 polluted cities: CREA (Start of April)▼
Gurgaon recorded the highest monthly average PM2.5 level of 116 μg/m³ in March 2026, making it India’s most polluted city that month.
Haryana contributed four cities—Gurgaon, Bahadurgarh, Faridabad and Manesar—to the national top 10 most polluted list for March.
The other top 10 polluted cities in March were Singrauli, Mandideep, Ghaziabad, Bhiwadi, Noida and Nandesari.
Across the full financial year 2025-26, Ghaziabad emerged as India’s most polluted city.
Haryana had nine out of 24 monitored cities exceeding the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for PM2.5, the highest among states.
Uttar Pradesh followed with eight out of 21 cities breaching the NAAQS.
Under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), nine Uttar Pradesh cities cut PM10 by over 40 % versus the 2017-18 baseline.
Maharashtra posted three, West Bengal, Uttarakhand and Punjab two each, and Tamil Nadu, Jharkhand, Nagaland, Jammu & Kashmir, Chhattisgarh, Bihar and Assam one city each with similar >40 % PM10 reductions.
Odisha led with five cities registering an increase in PM10, while Madhya Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh each had two cities showing higher concentrations relative to the baseline.
Dehradun (Uttarakhand) achieved the steepest PM10 reduction of 75 % compared to 2017-18.
Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh) recorded the highest PM10 increase at 73 % over the same period.
Delhi reported a 17 % reduction in PM10 levels since 2017-18.
IQAir World Air Quality Report 2025 ranks India 6th most polluted globally (End of March)▼
India is the sixth most polluted country for fine particulate matter (PM2.5) according to the World Air Quality Report 2025 published by IQAir.
Uttar Pradesh’s Loni is the world’s most polluted city with an annual average PM2.5 concentration of 112.5 µg/m³, a 23% rise from 2024.
Delhi is the fourth most polluted city globally; other Indian cities in the global top-10 are Byrnihat, Ghaziabad and Ula.
Only 14% of global cities met the World Health Organization (WHO) annual PM2.5 guideline of 5 µg/m³, down from 17% the previous year.
Wildfires intensified by climate change contributed about 1,380 megatons of carbon, degrading air quality in Europe, Canada and the United States.
The end of the US State Department’s global air quality monitoring programme in March 2025 weakened monitoring in 44 countries and left six without any monitoring.
India Achieves Milestones in Space Exploration, Solar Energy, and Digital Health Records
Key Updates:
India’s Chandrayaan-3 lunar mission has been honoured with the 2026 Goddard Astronautics Award by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA).
The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) has linked over 100 crore health records with Ayushman Bharat Health Accounts (ABHA), doubling the count from 50 crore in February 2025.
India’s rooftop solar capacity reached 20.8 GW in 2025, driven by the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana which facilitated a 123% year-on-year increase in installations.
The Government of India has notified new fuel standards for petrol blended with up to 30% ethanol to advance the clean energy transition and reduce crude oil imports.
The Department of Space (DoS) approved Common Technical Facilities in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu to strengthen the private-sector space ecosystem with the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe).
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India records highest-ever annual wind capacity addition of 6.05 GW in FY26 (Start of April)▼
India added 6.05 GW of wind capacity in FY26, a 46% increase year-on-year.
The previous record annual wind capacity addition was 5.5 GW in FY17.
Total installed wind power capacity in India has crossed 56 GW.
Gujarat, Karnataka and Maharashtra led the capacity additions in FY26.
The expansion included standalone wind projects and hybrid wind-solar installations.
Green energy open access supported demand from commercial and industrial consumers.
Government measures include concessional customs duty on key components and waiver of inter-state transmission system (ISTS) charges until June 2028.
The National Institute of Wind Energy (NIWE) provided technical support for project development.
The record capacity addition supports India’s target of 500 GW non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030.
India Adds Record 44 GW Solar Capacity in 2025 to Reach 150 GW Total (Mid of May)▼
India added a record 44 gigawatts (GW) of solar capacity in 2025, bringing the total installed solar power capacity to 150 GW.
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) attributed this growth to the PM Surya Ghar, PM-KUSUM, and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme.
India's annual addition of 44 GW surpasses the United States (30-40 GW) and trails only China and the European Union (EU).
India's total solar capacity in the pre-2014 era was 2.5 GW.
India's crude oil import dependence is 85 per cent.
Energy Statistics India 2026 released by National Statistics Office (NSO) (Start of April)▼
The National Statistics Office (NSO), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, released the 33rd edition of 'Energy Statistics India 2026' on 30 March 2026.
The publication integrates data on reserve, capacity, production, consumption, and import/export of all energy commodities including Coal, Lignite, Petroleum, Natural Gas, and Renewable Energy.
New additions include credit flow to domestic energy sectors, world energy statistics, consumption of domestic coal through e-auction, imported non-coking coal, sub-sectoral electricity consumption under industry from the Annual Survey of Industries (ASI), industry-wise HSD distribution through retail/reseller, and international aviation and marine bunker data for the first time.
Total Primary Energy Supply (TPES) for FY 2024-25 grew by 2.95% to 9,32,816 KToe.
India’s renewable energy potential reached 47,04,043 Megawatt as on 31 March 2025, with solar energy at 33,43,378 Megawatt (71% share), wind at 11,63,856 Megawatt, and large hydro at 1,33,410 Megawatt.
Rajasthan (23.70%), Maharashtra (14.26%), Gujarat (9.10%), Andhra Pradesh (9.1%), Karnataka (8.59%), and Madhya Pradesh (8.09%) together account for over 70% of the total renewable energy potential.
Installed renewable electricity capacity rose from 90,134 Megawatt on 31 March 2016 to 2,29,346 Megawatt on 31 March 2025, recording a CAGR of 10.93%.
Gross electricity generation from renewables increased from 1,89,314 GWh in FY 2015-16 to 4,16,823 GWh in FY 2024-25, a CAGR of 9.17%.
Per-capita energy consumption grew from 15,296 Mega Joule/person in FY 2015-16 to 18,096 Mega Joule/person in FY 2024-25, a CAGR of 1.89%.
Transmission and distribution losses reduced from about 22% in FY 2015-16 to about 17% in FY 2024-25.
Coal (including lignite) remained the dominant energy source, with supply rising from 3,87,761 Ktoe in FY 2015-16 to 5,52,315 Ktoe in FY 2024-25.
Total Final Consumption (TFC) of energy increased by 30.41% from 4,69,212 Ktoe in FY 2015-16 to 6,08,578 Ktoe in FY 2024-25.
Credit flow to the energy sector expanded over six-fold from ₹1,688 crore in 2021 to ₹10,325 crore in 2025.
Central Electricity Authority (CEA) projects 70% non-fossil fuel share in India’s installed capacity by 2035-36 (End of March)▼
Central Electricity Authority (CEA) report released on 19 March 2026 at Bharat Electricity Summit projects India’s installed power generation capacity at 1,121 GW by 2035-36.
Non-fossil fuel sources are projected to contribute 786 GW, accounting for 70% of total installed capacity.
Solar sector is projected to contribute 509 GW, coal 315 GW, wind 155 GW, large hydro 77 GW, nuclear 22 GW, gas 20 GW, biomass 16 GW, and small hydro 6 GW.
As of 31 January 2026, India’s installed capacity stood at 520.5 GW with 52% from non-fossil sources.
During FY 2025-26 (till 31 January 2026), 52.5 GW capacity was added, including 43 GW from renewable energy.
Peak electricity demand is projected to grow at 5.58% CAGR to reach 459 GW by 2035-36.
Total electricity requirement is projected to grow at 6.41% annually to 3,365 billion units by 2035-36.
Energy storage capacity of 174 GW / 888 GWh is envisaged, including 80 GW / 321 GWh of battery energy storage systems and 94 GW / 567 GWh of pumped storage projects.
Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) offers full technology transfer of Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) to Indian private industry.
Key Updates:
The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) has announced a full transfer of technology of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) to the Indian private industry.
The opportunity is aimed at capable Indian industries that have handled multi-disciplinary turn-key projects and are keen on assimilating PSLV technology to offer commercial launch services in the global medium-lift satellite launch market.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will provide infrastructural and hand-holding support for a defined period of 30 months or until realisation and launch of two PSLV vehicles by the selected party, whichever is earlier.
The technology transfer is restricted to private Indian entities; the respondent or at least one consortium member must have experience in the domain of space or aerospace for a period of not less than five years.
The respondent's annual turnover for any three of the last five years must be greater than Rs 400 crore, or the valuation of the entity must be at least Rs 1,000 crore.
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Akasha300 high-temperature 3D printer delivered to Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) to boost India’s space manufacturing (End of March)▼
The Akasha300, a high-temperature multi-material extrusion 3D printer, has been successfully launched and delivered to the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) in Valiyamala.
It uses dual-extrusion technology operating at temperatures up to 350°C, with future upgrades expected to reach 500°C.
Its heated bed reaches up to 110°C (upgradeable to 150°C) and its enclosed chamber can sustain up to 80°C.
The development was supported by the Space Technology Innovation and Incubation Centre at IIST and backed by the Kerala Startup Mission.
Deployment at LPSC is expected to accelerate research in propulsion systems, materials science, and next-generation manufacturing techniques.
Akasha300 high-temperature 3D printer delivered to Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) (End of March)▼
The Akasha300 is a high-temperature multi-material extrusion 3D printer developed in India.
It was successfully launched and delivered to the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) in Valiyamala.
The printer uses dual-extrusion technology operating at temperatures up to 350°C, with future upgrades expected to reach 500°C.
Its heated bed reaches up to 110°C (upgradeable to 150°C) and its enclosed chamber can sustain up to 80°C.
The development was supported by the Space Technology Innovation and Incubation Centre at IIST and the Kerala Startup Mission.
India and Italy Strengthen Space Cooperation at Space Meetings Veneto 2026 (Mid of May)▼
The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) led a delegation of nine space-tech companies to the Space Meetings Veneto 2026 held in Venice, Italy.
The participating Indian companies included Astrogate Labs, Astrobase Space Technologies, VyomIC, Suhora, Kepler Aerospace, Hyspace Technologies, TakeMe2Space, Jarbits Pvt Ltd, and Dhruva Space.
Karnataka-based Astrobase Space Technologies signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Italy’s Impulso Space to explore launch opportunities and integrated mission management.
Kepler Aerospace signed a framework agreement with Apogeo Space to expand Ground Station as a Service (GSaaS) infrastructure and collaborate on CubeSat systems and payload technologies.
The engagement is part of the 2025–2029 India–Italy Joint Strategic Action Plan announced during the G20 Summit in 2024 to deepen commercial space cooperation.
Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Bellatrix Aerospace sign MoU to develop Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) satellite technologies. (Start of March)▼
Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Bengaluru-based Bellatrix Aerospace signed an MoU on Thursday to collaborate on design, development and manufacturing of satellite systems and payloads for Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) operations.
VLEO altitude ranges between 100 and 450 kilometres, enabling higher-resolution images, faster communications and better atmospheric science.
Bellatrix Aerospace, founded in 2015, specialises in satellite propulsion technologies and satellite subsystems.
Gurindervir Singh breaks National Record to win 100m Gold
Key Updates:
Gurindervir Singh won the gold medal in the 100-metre sprint with a national record time of 10.09 seconds on 23 May 2026.
The performance took place at the Birsa Munda Athletics Stadium in Ranchi during the 29th National Senior Athletics Federation Competition.
Animesh Kujur finished in second place with a timing of 10.20 seconds, after having clocked 10.15 seconds in the semi-final heats.
Both athletes achieved the qualification standard of 10.16 seconds set by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
Gurindervir Singh became the first Indian sprinter to break the 10.10-second threshold, marking the second-fastest time in Asia for the season.
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Sarun Payasingh wins Indian Athletics Series long jump title in Ranchi (Mid of April)▼
Odisha’s Sarun Payasingh won the men’s long jump with a leap of 7.46 m at the fourth leg of the Indian Athletics Series in Ranchi.
Maharashtra’s Sarvesh Anil Kushare claimed the men’s high jump title clearing 2.19 m.
Railways’ Vithya Ramraj won the women’s 400 m hurdles in 57.02 seconds.
Maharashtra’s Aniket took the men’s 100 m in 10.60 secs, followed by Rohan Ghosh (West Bengal) 10.68 secs and Varun Oori (Tamil Nadu) 10.74 secs.
Odisha’s Mahendra Santa won the men’s 200 m in 21.96 secs, ahead of Paras (Himachal Pradesh) 22.31 secs and Pijush Ghosh (West Bengal) 22.37 secs.
West Bengal’s Md Mahasin Awal topped the men’s 800 m in 1:53.21, followed by Debraj Mallick (West Bengal) 1:53.62 and Vipin Kumar (Uttar Pradesh) 1:54.42.
Uttar Pradesh’s Sandeep Pal won the men’s 5 000 m in 14:11.62, ahead of Shivaji P (Reliance) 14:15.15 and Mrunal Sarode (Army) 14:16.84.
Reliance’s Krishik M led the men’s 110 m hurdles in 13.72 secs, with Rathish (Reliance) 14.10 secs and Majgul M (Gujarat) 15.15 secs.
Rajasthan’s Shakti Singh won the men’s 400 m hurdles in 51.34 secs, followed by Karthik Y (Andhra Pradesh) 51.71 secs and Murad Sirman (Gujarat) 51.78 secs.
Maharashtra’s Uttam headed the men’s javelin with 74.85 m, ahead of Naryana Singh (NCOE Patiala) 66.62 m and Arun Modi (Bihar) 64.22 m.
Odisha’s Mousumi Roy won both women’s 100 m (11.83 secs) and 200 m (24.79 secs).
Haryana’s Bharti claimed the women’s 5 000 m in 16:55.42, followed by Mamta Pal (All India Police) 17:55.45 and Mitali Deepak (Maharashtra) 18:23.04.
Navy’s Ancy Sojan topped the women’s long jump with 6.45 m, ahead of Manisha Merel (Odisha) 5.78 m and Bidisha Kundu (West Bengal) 5.73 m.
Ishank Singh becomes youngest and fastest swimmer to conquer Palk Strait (Start of May)▼
Ishank Singh, a seven-year-old from Dhurwa, Ranchi, successfully swam across the Palk Strait covering 29 kilometres from Talaimannar (Sri Lanka) to Dhanushkodi (India).
He completed the crossing in 9 hours and 50 minutes on April 30, 2026.
The Universal Records Forum (URF World Records) awarded him a world record certificate as the Youngest and Fastest Palk Strait Swimmer.
Ishank trained for 4-5 hours daily at Ranchi's Dhurwa Dam under the guidance of coaches Aman Kumar Jaiswal and Bajrang Kumar.
Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren congratulated Ishank on his achievement.
Urvil Patel equals Yashasvi Jaiswal's fastest IPL fifty record (Mid of May)▼
Yashasvi Jaiswal and Urvil Patel jointly hold the record for the fastest half century in Indian Premier League (IPL) history, both achieving the feat in 13 balls.
Yashasvi Jaiswal scored the 13-ball fifty for Rajasthan Royals against Kolkata Knight Riders in 2023, and Urvil Patel achieved it for Chennai Super Kings against Lucknow Super Giants in 2026.
Players who recorded 14-ball fifties include KL Rahul (2018), Pat Cummins (2022), and Romario Shepherd (2025).
Players who recorded 15-ball fifties include Yusuf Pathan (2014), Sunil Narine (2017), Nicholas Pooran (2023), Jake Fraser-McGurk (2024), Vaibhav Suryavanshi (2026), and Abhishek Sharma (2026).
Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who won the U-19 world cup for India, became the youngest player to score an IPL fifty at 14 years of age against Gujarat Titans in 2025.
Sawan Barwal breaks Shivnath Singh's 48-year-old marathon national record (Mid of April)▼
Sawan Barwal clocked 2:11:58 at the Rotterdam Marathon to break Shivnath Singh's 1978 national record of 2:12:00.
Barwal finished 20th in the elite race; fellow Indian Gopi Thonakal finished 23rd in 2:13:16.
The 28-year-old from Joginder Nagar, Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh, achieved the feat in his marathon debut.
Barwal won gold in 5,000m and 10,000m at the 2025 National Games in Uttarakhand and 10,000m gold at the 2025 Federation Cup.
Hazaribag Archaeological Discovery Reported on May 23, 2026
Key Updates:
The article reports a 3200-year-old settlement in the Mohane River Basin, Hazaribag district, Chauparan block.
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has been called to intervene to protect the site.
Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) surveys were conducted by teams from IIT (ISM) Dhanbad and Visva-Bharati University.
Northern Black Polished Ware (NBPW) pottery, associated with the Indian Iron Age (700-200 BCE), was found at the site.
The settlement is believed to have been located along the ancient Uttarapath trade route, which later became the Grand Trunk Road.
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Archaeological survey of 200 sites in Greece: 2021–2025 (Mid of April)▼
The Swiss School of Archaeology in Greece (ESAG) identified over 200 ancient sites in the Eretrian plain region of Evia, Greece.
The archaeological survey was conducted between 2021 and 2025 using Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technology.
The discovered sites document continuous human activity spanning a period of 6,000 years, from prehistoric settlements to the end of the 19th century.
The survey mapped more than 30 square kilometres of land, identifying ancient farms, industrial quarries, and medieval roads.
Findings include rock-cut olive presses and connections to the Sanctuary of Artemis at Amarynthos.
Researchers utilised Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to analyse high-resolution 3D terrain maps of buried walls and ancient routes.
According to the Hellenic Ministry of Culture, the region maintained a persistent agrarian population under Mycenaean, Roman, and Ottoman administrations.
Madhya Pradesh High Court Declares Bhojshala Complex a Temple in July 2024 (Mid of May)▼
The Madhya Pradesh High Court (MPHC) declared the Bhojshala complex in Dhar district as a temple and a centre of Sanskrit learning associated with King Bhoj of the Paramara dynasty.
The court quashed the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) circular dated 7 April 2003, which previously allowed the offering of namaz at the disputed site.
A 98-day scientific survey conducted by the ASI recovered 1,710 relics, including 39 broken idols, Nagakarnika inscriptions, and symbols associated with Sanatan Dharma.
The Bhojshala complex is dedicated to Goddess Vagdevi (Saraswati) by Hindus, while the Muslim side identifies the location as the Kamal Maula mosque.
The MPHC directed the state government to provide alternate land for the mosque and to consider the repatriation of the Vagdevi idol currently located in a London museum.
Baylor University-led team unearths intact 2,600-year-old Etruscan tomb in central Italy (Start of March)▼
The San Giuliano Archaeological Research Project (SGARP), led by Baylor University, discovered an undisturbed Etruscan chamber tomb at the San Giuliano necropolis approximately 70 kilometres northwest of Rome.
The sealed tomb dates to the 7th century BC and contains the remains of four individuals laid on carved stone beds surrounded by over 100 grave goods including ceramic vases, iron weapons, bronze ornaments, and silver hair spools.
The excavation operates under Italy’s Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the Virgil Academy in Rome and the town of Barbarano Romano.
Since 2016 Baylor University students have participated in the excavation through the ‘Archaeology Research in Italy’ study abroad programme, gaining hands-on experience in stratigraphic excavation and artifact documentation under Italian heritage law frameworks.
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) begins excavation at Balirajgarh in Bihar (End of March)▼
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has commenced a large-scale scientific excavation at the Balirajgarh site in the Madhubani district of Bihar.
The site is believed to have served as a major administrative hub of the ancient Videha Kingdom and the legendary capital of King Bali.
The ASI Patna Circle aims to reach the virgin soil to determine the exact beginning of human settlement and verify if the site predates the Mauryan era.
The excavation will investigate the cultural continuity across five distinct phases: Mauryan (NBPW), Sunga, Kushan, Gupta, and Pala periods.
The site features a massive brick fortification spanning approximately 176 acres and was declared a protected site by the ASI in 1938.
Modern tools, including satellite imagery and systematic mapping, are being utilised to identify high-interest areas and navigate technical hurdles like high water tables.
Previous explorations at the site have yielded historical artefacts such as punch-marked coins, terracotta figurines, copper objects, and bone tools.
Supreme Court orders mandatory kidnapping FIRs for missing persons nationwide on May 22, 2026
Key Updates:
The Supreme Court (SC) has mandated all police stations nationwide to register a kidnapping case under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for every missing person or child.
A committee headed by Justice (retd) Mukta Gupta, including P.M. Nair and Veerendra Kumar Mishra, was constituted to frame a pan-India standard operating procedure (SOP) for tackling missing children cases.
The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reported that 47,000 children remain untraced across India.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has been directed to establish a national data grid and a specific portal to address human trafficking, missing children, and women.
The SC directed all Directors General of Police (DGPs) and police chiefs of union territories to ensure that Anti-Human Trafficking Units (AHTUs) are functional and empowered.
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Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) notifies Citizenship (Amendment) Rules, 2026 with e-OCI and minor child passport restrictions (Start of May)▼
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) notified the Citizenship (Amendment) Rules, 2026, which came into force on April 30, 2026.
Under the new rules, a minor child cannot simultaneously hold a passport of another country while holding an Indian passport.
Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) registration must now be submitted fully online through the portal https://ociservices.gov.in.
OCI cards can be issued either as a physical card or as an electronic (e-OCI) registration, with records maintained electronically in revised Form 30.
OCI applicants must provide consent for sharing biometric data for automatic registration under the Fast Track Immigration Programme.
Supreme Court ruling on Section 18 of SC/ST Act on May 11, 2026 (Mid of May)▼
A Supreme Court (SC) bench comprising Justice JB Pardiwala and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan ruled that the statutory bar on anticipatory bail under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act (SC/ST Act) must not be applied mechanically.
The SC clarified that Section 18 of the SC/ST Act, which restricts pre-arrest bail, depends on the specific facts of each case and the nature of allegations levelled in the First Information Report (FIR).
The ruling originated from an appeal against a Gujarat High Court order passed in March 2026 involving charges under Section 69 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the SC/ST Act.
The SC bench noted that judicial scrutiny is required to assess whether the ingredients of caste-based offences are prima facie established before denying liberty to the accused.
The court reinforced that the embargo under Section 18 does not prevent courts from examining if a genuine case under the statute is made out based on the material on record.
Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) 2.0 Guidelines Released for Comprehensive Child Health Screening (Start of May)▼
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) released the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) 2.0 Guidelines at the National Summit on Good Practices and Innovations in Public Healthcare Service Delivery.
The updated framework expands the established 4Ds approach—Defects at Birth, Diseases, Deficiencies, and Developmental Delays—to include mental health conditions, behavioural concerns, and non-communicable diseases.
RBSK 2.0 follows a lifecycle-based approach to provide a comprehensive continuum of care for children from birth to 18 years of age.
Health screening services are delivered through Mobile Health Teams at Anganwadi Centres and schools to identify risk factors for conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.
The guidelines introduce digital health cards, real-time data systems, and a robust referral tracking system to ensure children identified with health conditions receive facility-based diagnosis and treatment.
Supreme Court Ruling on Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code (Mid of May)▼
Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) was introduced in 1983 to protect married women from cruelty, harassment, and dowry-related abuse by husbands or their relatives.
Under Section 498A, cruelty by a husband or his relatives is a criminal offence, enabling the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) and the initiation of legal proceedings.
The Supreme Court (SC) recently allowed criminal proceedings against a husband to continue in a dowry harassment case while quashing the FIR against his family members.
The SC quashed the FIR against the in-laws on the grounds that the allegations were too general and lacked specific evidence.
The judiciary has stated that criminal law should not automatically involve every relative unless there is clear evidence of direct involvement to prevent the misuse of criminal provisions.
International Day for Biological Diversity on 22 May 2026: Acting locally for global impact
Key Updates:
The International Day for Biological Diversity is observed on 22 May, and the theme for 2026 is Acting locally for global impact.
The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) is the global alliance of regional associations and national federations dedicated to animal care and habitat conservation.
Conservation efforts by WAZA members align with Target 4 of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which aims to halt human-induced extinctions.
The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) has introduced reporting mechanisms that allow actors beyond governments to demonstrate their contributions to biodiversity recovery.
The Oklahoma City Zoo and its partners secured the first protected area dedicated to the Critically Endangered Campbell’s alligator lizard in Guatemala.
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International Biodiversity Day theme Acting Locally for Global Impact (End of May)▼
The theme for International Biodiversity Day is Acting Locally for Global Impact.
The Alliance of Bioversity and CIAT (Alliance) houses Future Seeds, a conservation and research hub containing 67,000 samples of beans, cassava, and tropical forages.
The 3rd International Agrobiodiversity Congress was convened in Kunming, China, by the Alliance, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), and Yunnan University.
The Kunming Manifesto on Agrobiodiversity was adopted as a guide for decision-makers to better incorporate agrobiodiversity in food and land systems.
The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) established the initiative on Biodiversity for Food and Nutrition to collect scientific examples for national strategies and action plans.
World Turtle Day 2026 Observed to Protect Turtles and Tortoises (End of May)▼
World Turtle Day is celebrated annually on May 23 to educate people about turtles and tortoises and inspire actions to protect them.
The observance was established in 2000 by the American Tortoise Rescue.
The theme for World Turtle Day 2026 is the Turtle Protector Pledge.
Sea turtle species include the Green sea turtle, Leatherback turtle, Hawksbill turtle, Loggerhead turtle, and Olive ridley turtle.
Leatherback turtles are the largest sea turtles in the world.
International Day of Plant Health 2026 focuses on Plant Biosecurity for Food Security (Mid of May)▼
The International Day of Plant Health is observed on 12 May 2026 at the Sheikh Zayed Centre, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Headquarters in Rome.
The theme for the 2026 observance is Plant Biosecurity for Food Security and Nutrition, highlighting biosecurity as a safety net in agrifood systems.
Opening remarks for the high-level event were delivered by FAO Director-General QU Dongyu and FAO Chief Economist Máximo Torero via video message.
The International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) Secretariat guided the dialogue involving the Ambassadors of Brazil, Mexico, and the United States, and the Director General of the Alliance of Bioversity International & CIAT.
Plant biosecurity supports the FAO Four Betters by safeguarding production systems, improving nutrition outcomes, conserving ecosystems, and strengthening resilient livelihoods.
World Bee Day observed on May 20 with theme protecting pollinators and promoting sustainable environmental practices (End of May)▼
World Bee Day is observed every year on May 20 to create awareness about the importance of bees and other pollinators.
The theme for World Bee Day 2026 focuses on protecting pollinators and promoting sustainable environmental practices.
The United Nations (UN) officially declared World Bee Day in 2017 after a proposal by Slovenia.
The date May 20 was chosen to honour Anton Janša, a pioneer of modern beekeeping born on this day in 1734.
Bee populations are declining due to factors including climate change, pollution, pesticide use, habitat destruction, and diseases.
Sample Registration System (SRS) Report 2024 released on May 21, 2026
Key Updates:
The Office of the Registrar General of India (ORGI), functioning under the Ministry of Home Affairs, released the Sample Registration System (SRS) report for 2024.
India’s Total Fertility Rate (TFR) remained at 1.9 in 2024, marking the fifth consecutive year it has stayed below the replacement level of 2.1.
The sex ratio at birth, which is the number of girl children born per thousand male children, increased to 918 for the 2022-2024 period from 917 in 2021-2023.
India’s crude birth rate, representing the number of births per thousand population, declined to 18.3 in 2024 from 18.4 in 2023.
The Infant Mortality Rate (IMR), defined as deaths of children under one year of age per thousand live births, decreased to 24 in 2024 from 25 in 2023.
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Bangladesh measles outbreak kills at least 38 children in 2026, driven by vaccine gaps and malnutrition (Mid of May)▼
Bangladesh is facing a worsening measles outbreak that has claimed at least 38 children this year.
Health officials reported that 21 of the deaths occurred in March alone, though the actual toll could be higher due to incomplete reporting.
The outbreak has spread across multiple districts including Dhaka, Mymensingh, Rajshahi and Chattogram.
Health Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Husain stated that no measles vaccinations have been administered in the country over the past eight years.
Health experts warn that declining vaccination rates, vaccine shortages, and malnutrition are fuelling the surge in fatalities.
India's maternal mortality drops nearly 80% since 1990: Global study (End of March)▼
India's maternal mortality ratio fell from 508 per one lakh livebirths in 1990 to 116 per one lakh livebirths in 2023.
India recorded 24,700 maternal deaths in 2023.
The Sample Registration System (SRS) 2021-23 places India's Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) at 88 per lakh live births.
India has achieved an 86% reduction in MMR since 1990, surpassing the global average reduction of 48%.
The global maternal mortality ratio declined from 321 per one lakh livebirths in 1990 to 190.5 in 2023.
The Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target is an MMR below 70 per one lakh livebirths by 2030.
104 of 204 countries and territories have not yet met the SDG maternal mortality target.
National Vaccination Day observed on 16 March with theme 'Immunisation for All is Humanly Possible' (Mid of March)▼
National Vaccination Day is observed every year on 16 March in India.
The theme for 2026 is 'Immunisation for All is Humanly Possible'.
The day commemorates 16 March 1995 when the first dose of oral polio vaccine was given under the Pulse Polio Immunisation Programme.
India’s Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) is one of the world’s largest public health initiatives providing free vaccines to children and pregnant women.
12th-century Hoysala hero stone discovered in Mandya district
Key Updates:
A 12th-century east-facing Turugolu battle for cattle hero stone (Viragallu) carved in soapstone was discovered in Maniyur village, Nagamangala taluk of Mandya district.
The discovery was made by a team from the Center of Excellence for Studies in Classical Kannada (CESCK), Mysuru.
The inscription is written in Kannada script and language across 7 lines and is dated to approximately 1130 CE during the reign of Hoysala king Vishnuvardhana.
The memorial stone commemorates the bravery and sacrifice of Maviga Manimāra, son of Attisetti, who died fighting to protect cattle.
The inscription contains royal epithets of King Vishnuvardhana, specifically Mandaleśvara, Tribhuvanamalla, Talakaḍugonda, and Vīraganga Poysala Devaru.
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Gajapati Dynasty Inscriptions Discovery: 14 March 2026 (Mid of March)▼
A 15th-century Telugu medieval inscription belonging to the Gajapati rulers of Odisha was discovered at the Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh.
The inscription identifies Kumaraguru Mahapatra as a steward officer serving under the Gajapati King Purushottama Deva.
The stone pillars containing the inscriptions were originally situated at the Kondaveedu Fort before being moved to Guntur.
The text provides instructions for ritual milk offerings and mentions pastoral communities, potentially the Koyas, for the custody of ritual cows.
Epigraphist Bishnu Mohan Adhikari stated that the findings reflect the Hari-Hara mode of worship, which integrated Shaiva and Vaishnava traditions.
A related Odia inscription at Kondaveedu records officer Srichandana Mahapatra donating Panapasa village for the Amruta Manohi Seva ritual.
Madhya Pradesh High Court Declares Bhojshala Complex a Temple in July 2024 (Mid of May)▼
The Madhya Pradesh High Court (MPHC) declared the Bhojshala complex in Dhar district as a temple and a centre of Sanskrit learning associated with King Bhoj of the Paramara dynasty.
The court quashed the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) circular dated 7 April 2003, which previously allowed the offering of namaz at the disputed site.
A 98-day scientific survey conducted by the ASI recovered 1,710 relics, including 39 broken idols, Nagakarnika inscriptions, and symbols associated with Sanatan Dharma.
The Bhojshala complex is dedicated to Goddess Vagdevi (Saraswati) by Hindus, while the Muslim side identifies the location as the Kamal Maula mosque.
The MPHC directed the state government to provide alternate land for the mosque and to consider the repatriation of the Vagdevi idol currently located in a London museum.
Yadava-era stone pillar remains found in Hinganghat on February 22, 2026 (Start of March)▼
Researchers discovered remains of a 12th-century Yadava-era temple-style stone pillar near the Vena river banks in Hinganghat, Wardha district.
The stone fragments are carved from locally available black basalt and feature an intricate lotus motif.
The carvings are identified as the Hemadpanti architectural style, which was prevalent in 12th and 13th-century temples.
The Hemadpanti style is characterised by a stone interlocking technique that does not involve the use of lime.
Researchers have been advised to approach the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) for the scientific preservation and detailed survey of the historical remains.
Ancient rock carvings discovered in Manchirevula rock shelter by Kotha Telangana Charitra Brundam (KTCB) and Climate Front Telangana researchers. (Mid of March)▼
Two petroglyphs carved on a flat rock slab located about 50 feet high inside a rock shelter behind Beerappa Temple in Manchirevula.
One carving shows prongs with sharpened tips above a circle and a handle-like shape, interpreted as a trident-circle motif.
Researchers state the trident-circle petroglyph resembles the ‘Paanch’ (hand/palm) of the ‘Peeri’ carried during Muharram processions.
A second carving depicts the traditional indoor strategy game Daadi Aata, played with 9 pieces (kaayalu), similar to Nine Men's Morris.
A comparable Daadi Aata carving exists on Golankonda hill in Alair mandal.
Raghav Chadha Appointed Chairman of Rajya Sabha Committee on Petitions
Key Updates:
Raghav Chadha has been appointed as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha Committee on Petitions.
The appointment was made by Rajya Sabha Chairman C. P. Radhakrishnan following the reconstitution of the panel.
Raghav Chadha recently switched political affiliation from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
The committee is responsible for handling public petitions and grievances.
The appointment was reported on 23 May 2026.
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Medha Vishram Kulkarni Nominated Chairperson of Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science and Technology, Environment, Forests and Climate Change (End of May)▼
Rajya Sabha Chairman C P Radhakrishnan nominated Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) member Medha Vishram Kulkarni as chairperson of the department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science and Technology, Environment, Forests and Climate Change on May 18.
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla appointed BJP member Sudheer Gupta as Chairperson of the Joint Committee on Corporate Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026.
The Rajya Sabha members of the Joint Committee on Corporate Laws (Amendment) Bill 2026 are Vinod Shridhar Tawde, Sujeet Kumar, Ujjwal Deorao Nikam, Harsh Vardhan Shringla, Vivek K Tankha, R Girirajan, S Niranjan Reddy, Sanjay Kumar Jha and Masthan Rao Yadav Beedha.
The Lok Sabha members of the Joint Committee on Corporate Laws (Amendment) Bill 2026 are Kamaljeet Sehrawat, Mukeshkumar Chandrakaant Dalal, Sudheer Gupta, Baijayant Panda, Nishikant Dubey, Tejasvi Surya, P P Chaudhary, Konda Vishweshwar Reddy, Shashank Mani, Varun Chaudhry, Sudha R, Dhanorkar Pratibha Suresh, Rahul Kaswan, Dimple Yadav, Mahua Moitra, Dayanidhi Maran, Magunta Sreenivasulu Reddy, Supriya Sule, Devesh Chandra Thakur, Anil Yeshwant Desai and Naresh Ganpat Mhaske.
Supreme Court notice to Delhi Government on DERC appointments on May 18, 2026 (Mid of May)▼
The Supreme Court (SC) issued a notice to the Delhi government and the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) on May 18, 2026.
The notice follows a plea by the Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) Energy Watchdog seeking the constitution of a selection committee for regular appointments of the DERC chairperson and members.
The Bench was headed by the Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant.
The petition states that the current composition of the DERC consists of only two pro tem members and lacks a chairperson and a person of law as a member.
The plea argues that the current status violates the Electricity Act, which requires State Electricity Regulatory Commissions to be autonomous and independent from governmental interference.
Empowerment of Women Committee Constituted for 2026-27; D Purandeswari Appointed Chairperson (Mid of May)▼
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla constituted the Empowerment of Women Committee for the year 2026-27 with effect from April 21, 2026.
Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and Member of Parliament (MP) D Purandeswari has been appointed as the Chairperson of the committee.
The committee consists of 30 members, with 20 nominated by the Speaker from the Lok Sabha and 10 nominated by the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
Members from the Lok Sabha include Hema Malini, Harsimrat Kaur Badal, Mahima Kumari Mewar, and Smita Uday Wagh, while Rajya Sabha members include Sagarika Ghose, Swati Maliwal, Sudha Murty, and PT Usha.
The Committee on Empowerment of Women was first constituted on April 29, 1997, during the 11th Lok Sabha to focus on women's welfare, empowerment, and development.
Justice Ramachandra D Huddar Appointed Chairperson of Admissions Overseeing Committee (Start of May)▼
Retired High Court judge Justice Ramachandra D Huddar has been appointed as the chairperson of the Admissions Overseeing Committee for professional courses in Karnataka.
A notification confirming the appointment was issued on April 28.
The post of chairperson had been vacant for more than one-and-a-half years after the previous chairperson's term ended in October 2024.
The appointment was made in accordance with the provisions of the Karnataka Professional Educational Institutions Regulation of Admissions and Determination of Fee Act, 2006.
The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) had been receiving complaints against private medical, engineering, and nursing colleges regarding the charging of excessive fees.
Major Abhilasha Barak awarded 2025 United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award.
Key Updates:
Major Abhilasha Barak, an Indian peacekeeper serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), has been named the recipient of the 2025 United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award.
She is serving as the Commander of the Female Engagement Team (FET) in UNIFIL and is also the first woman combat helicopter pilot of the Indian Army.
The award recognises her outreach efforts with women and girls during her deployment and gender sensitisation training for peacekeepers.
Major Abhilasha Barak is the third Indian recipient of this award, following Major Suman Gawani (2019) and Major Radhika Sen (2023).
The award was created in 2016 by the Office of Military Affairs within the Department for Peace Operations (DPO) and honours military peacekeepers who promote the principles of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security.
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Guntur Municipal Corporation wins 4th Gender Equality Mobilisation Award on April 22, 2026 (End of April)▼
The Guntur Municipal Corporation (GMC) secured the 4th Gender Equality Mobilisation (GEM) Award.
The award was presented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) at the International Day of Women in Industry 2026 celebrations in Vienna on April 22, 2026.
The civic body was recognised for the deployment of 200 women as electric auto drivers for door-to-door garbage collection.
The award was received on behalf of GMC by Sustainable Cities Project Manager and Industrial Development Officer Olga Rataj.
GMC has also earned State-level recognition for property tax collection.
L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science International Awards announces five laureates for 2026 (End of May)▼
The 2026 L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science International Awards were announced on May 19, 2026 in Paris, France, and will be presented at UNESCO headquarters on June 11, 2026.
The 2026 edition received a record 504 nominations from 89 countries, and the programme has recognised over 5,000 women researchers, including 142 laureates, seven of whom later won Nobel Prizes.
Professor Liesl Zühlke, of the University of Cape Town and Vice President of the South African Medical Research Council, was named laureate for Africa and the Arab States for improving care for children with rheumatic heart disease.
Professor Felice Jacka, Deakin Distinguished Professor at Deakin University in Australia, was awarded the Asia and the Pacific laureate for establishing the field of nutritional psychiatry linking diet, brain health, and mental health.
UNESCO and Fondation L’Oréal renewed their partnership for six years, and UNESCO noted that women still account for only one in three researchers globally.
Six Women Leaders Win 2026 Goldman Environmental Prize (End of April)▼
The Goldman Environmental Foundation announced the recipients of the 2026 Goldman Environmental Prize.
For the first time in its history, the prize has been awarded to an all-female cohort consisting of six environmental activists.
Sasha Finch, a United Kingdom-based campaigner, was recognised for her work against fossil fuel expansion and oil drilling projects.
The other winners represent regions across Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Europe.
The recipients were honoured for initiatives including forest conservation, water protection, anti-mining campaigns, and defending Indigenous land rights.
The Goldman Environmental Foundation has honoured a total of 239 winners from 98 countries, including 112 women.
John Goldman serves as the vice-president of the foundation.
Goldman Environmental Foundation honours first all-women cohort for 2026 Prize (End of April)▼
The Goldman Environmental Foundation announced an all-female cohort of six winners for the 2026 Goldman Environmental Prize.
Sasha Finch, a UK-based campaigner, is among the winners for her work opposing fossil fuel expansion and new oil drilling projects.
Other winners from Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Europe were recognised for initiatives in forest conservation, water protection, anti-mining campaigns, and defending Indigenous land rights.
The Goldman Environmental Foundation has honoured a total of 239 winners from 98 countries, including 112 women.
John Goldman is the vice-president of the foundation.