Daily current affairs for 25 May 2026 with exam-focused key facts, connected news context, and revision notes for UPSC, SSC, banking and government exams.
Editorial note for exam revisionLast updated: 25 May 2026. This briefing is structured for current affairs revision, with key updates and related coverage links to help readers connect recurring topics across days.
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.
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…
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…
The roadmap is overseen by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (MAFW). It proposes the establishment of a National Mission on Cocoa.
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.
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…
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…
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.
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…
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.
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…
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…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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…
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.
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.
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…
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.
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…
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…
'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.
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…
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…
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…
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…
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%.
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…
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…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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)…
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…
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…
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).
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…
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…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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…
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…
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.
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.
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…
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…
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.
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.
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.
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…
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…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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…
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…
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).
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…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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 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…
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)…
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.
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.
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…
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…
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.
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.
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…
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…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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 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…
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…
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.
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…
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.
National Vaccination Day is observed every year on 16 March in India. The theme for 2026 is 'Immunisation for All is Humanly Possible'.
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.
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…
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…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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…
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…
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…
