We at Edusprint Academy are committed to bringing you the most relevant and updated 17th, 18th and 19th May 2025 current affairs from trusted and official sources. These updates are designed to keep you ahead in your exam preparation journey.
Our comprehensive Current Affairs of 17th, 18th and 19th May 2025 current affairscoverage aims to enhance your knowledge and boost your scores in Banking, Insurance, SSC, Railways, UPSC, and all State Government Exams. Explore our Current Affairs tailored to simplify your exam preparation.
IEPFA & SEBI Launch ‘Niveshak Shivir’ to Help Investors Claim Unclaimed Shares & Dividends
In May 2025, the Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA), under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), partnered with SEBI to launch the nationwide initiative ‘Niveshak Shivir’ aimed at helping investors reclaim unclaimed dividends and shares. The initiative features investor helpdesks in Mumbai and Ahmedabad offering face-to-face support via Registrars and Transfer Agents (RTAs) such as Link Intime India and KFin Technologies. Demat shareholders are advised to contact companies directly for shares due for transfer to IEPFA, while physical shareholders can verify and claim through the IEPFA portal or Form IEPF-5. A digital search tool aids shareholders in tracking shares, with an Integrated Digital Portal (IDP) set to launch by August 2025 for real-time claims processing. IEPFA, established in 2016, is headed by CEO Anita Shah Akella, and SEBI, statutory since 1992, is chaired by Tuhin Kanta Pandey.
DST Launches India’s First Cluster of CCU Testbeds to Reduce Cement Industry Emissions
In May 2025, the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Ministry of Science & Technology, launched India’s first cluster of five Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU) testbeds targeting emission reduction in the cement industry. The pilot facility is in Ballabgarh, Haryana, with others in UP, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Goa. Unveiled during the 27th National Technology Day on May 11, 2025, by Union MoS Dr. Jitendra Singh, the testbeds operate under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to foster translational R&D with academic and industry collaboration.
Union MoS Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani Addresses Bharat 6G 2025 to Boost India’s 6G Leadership
On May 14, 2025, Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, Union Minister of State for Communications and Rural Development, addressed the Bharat 6G 2025 International Conference in New Delhi. Highlighting India’s position among the top six countries globally in 6G patent filings, he announced a Rs 300 crore funding for 111 research projects. The nine-year Bharat 6G Vision (2022–2031), launched by PM Narendra Modi, aims for India to become a global 6G leader by 2030, focusing on R&D, field trials, and global standards via the Bharat 6G Alliance. The initiative is poised to transform healthcare, education, agriculture, and smart cities.
DFCCIL Launches India’s Longest Rail Flyover Girder at Kalamboli, Maharashtra
In May 2025, the Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited (DFCCIL), under the Ministry of Railways, installed India’s longest rail flyover girder—an open web steel girder measuring 110.5 metres and weighing 1,500 tonnes—on the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor at Kalamboli, Maharashtra. The girder was launched with a 34-metre radial shift over active railway tracks without disrupting train operations, showcasing advanced engineering and precise coordination. DFCCIL, established in 2006 with headquarters in New Delhi, is tasked with developing dedicated freight corridors to enhance logistics and freight transport efficiency nationwide.
State news
Tamil Nadu’s L.R. Srihari Becomes India’s 86th Chess Grandmaster
On 15 May 2025, L.R. Srihari, a 19-year-old from Tamil Nadu, became India’s 86th Grandmaster by securing his third GM norm at the Asian Individual Men’s Chess Championship 2025 in Al-Ain, UAE, defeating GM Iniyan Paneerselvam. His first GM norm came at the Budapest GM Round-Robin (August 2023), the second at the Qatar Masters (October 2023), and he crossed the 2500 Elo rating at the 2024 Dubai Open. Notably, P. Shyaamnikhil, also from Tamil Nadu, became the 85th GM in May 2024. The FIDE Grandmaster title requires three norms and a 2500+ Elo rating. 🧠 First Indian GM: Viswanathan Anand (1988) | First Woman GM: Koneru Humpy (2002) 🏢 FIDE Headquarters: Lausanne, Switzerland | President: Arkady Dvorkovich
Uttar Pradesh Launches Mukhyamantri Suposhan Abhiyan to Tackle Child Malnutrition
In May 2025, the Government of Uttar Pradesh launched the Mukhyamantri Suposhan Abhiyan, a nutrition campaign targeting 11.13 lakh children (aged 3–6) in 8 aspirational districts — Chitrakoot, Fatehpur, Bahraich, Shravasti, Balrampur, Siddharthnagar, Chandauli, and Sonebhadra. The program provides a 400-calorie, 15–20g protein morning snack (flavored milk, fruits, millet-chikki) daily under the Take-Home Ration (THR) model, implemented via Bal Vikas Sewa Evam Pushtahar Vibhag. With a budget of ₹254.83 crore (₹44/child/day), the initiative includes health monitoring to address anaemia, stunting, and underweight conditions. 📌 Builds on: Sambhav Abhiyan | Focus: Nutrition Security & Child Welfare
Rajasthan’s Traditional Sangri Bean Receives GI Tag
In May 2025, Rajasthan’s traditional Sangri bean was granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Geographical Indication Registry (GIR), Chennai, under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (DPIIT). Sangri, a slender bean from the Khejri tree (Prosopis cineraria — the state tree of Rajasthan), is key to the popular dish ‘Kher Sangri’ and is found mainly in Jaisalmer and Barmer. The GI tag application was filed in January 2025 by Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University (SKRAU), Bikaner. 🏷️ Darjeeling Tea was the first Indian GI product; as of May 2025, Uttar Pradesh leads with 77 GI products. 📌 GI governed by: GI Act, 1999 | Valid for 10 years, renewable 🏢 GIR HQ: Chennai (Established 2003) 🗺️ Rajasthan CM: Bhajan Lal Sharma | Governor: Haribhau Kishanrao Bagade | Capital: Jaipur 🌿 National Parks: Ranthambore, Keoladeo
Award news
President Murmu Presents 58th Jnanpith Award to Gulzar and Jagadguru Ramabhadracharya
On 16 May 2025, President Droupadi Murmu presented the prestigious 58th Jnanpith Award, India’s highest literary honour, at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. Jagadguru Ramabhadracharya was recognized for his remarkable contributions to Sanskrit scholarship, while celebrated Urdu poet and lyricist Gulzar (Sampooran Singh Kalra) was honoured for his exceptional work in Urdu literature, although he could not attend the ceremony. Instituted in 1965 by Bharatiya Jnanpith, the award includes a cash prize of ₹11 lakh, a bronze idol of Vagdevi (Goddess Saraswati), and a citation, recognizing literary excellence across Indian and English languages.
Rank and report news
Cristiano Ronaldo Tops Forbes 2025 Highest-Paid Athletes List
In May 2025, Cristiano Ronaldo topped Forbes’ list of the world’s highest-paid athletes for the third consecutive year and fifth time overall, earning a total of USD 275 million between May 2024 and May 2025. His on-field earnings were USD 225 million, primarily from Saudi club Al-Nassr, and off-field earnings amounted to USD 50 million from endorsements and business deals. Stephen Curry ranked second with USD 156 million, followed by Tyson Fury at USD 146 million. Notably, no Indian or female athletes featured in the Top 50. Forbes, founded in 1917, is headquartered in Jersey City, USA, and led by CEO Sherry Phillips.
UNESCO and G20 Collaborate to Promote Ethical AI Governance
In May 2025, UNESCO and the G20, under South Africa’s Presidency, launched a joint initiative to promote ethical AI governance in the public sector, aiming to build technical capacity and ethical awareness among civil servants. A global workshop held on 11 April 2025 in Gqeberha, South Africa, focused on role-specific AI training, human rights-based AI implementation, and public-private partnerships, featuring examples like Singapore’s “AI Wednesdays.” Since 2021, UNESCO’s programme has supported over 50 countries, advocating for inclusive and people-centric AI governance, aligned with the AI and Digital Transformation Competency Framework.
OPEC Forecasts 3.39% Rise in India’s Oil Demand in 2025
In May 2025, OPEC projected a 3.39% increase in India’s oil demand in 2025, from 5.55 million bpd to 5.74 million bpd, citing the country’s growing energy needs. Demand is expected to rise further to 5.99 million bpd in 2026, surpassing China’s growth rate of 1.5% (2025) and 1.25% (2026). India remains the third-largest oil consumer after the USA (projected 20.5 million bpd in 2025) and China. Global oil demand is forecast to grow by 1.3 million bpd annually through 2026. OPEC, founded in 1960 in Baghdad, has 12 member nations, with headquarters in Vienna, and is currently led by Secretary General Haitham Al Ghais. India is not a member of OPEC.
TCS, HDFC, Airtel & Infosys in Kantar BrandZ 2025 Top 100 Global Brands
The Kantar BrandZ 2025 report ranked TCS (45th, USD 57B), HDFC Bank (56th, USD 44B), Airtel (66th, USD 37B), and Infosys (73rd, USD 33B) among the Top 100 most valuable global brands, marking strong global presence of Indian companies. Apple retained the top position with a brand value of USD 1.3 trillion, followed by Google (USD 944B), Microsoft (USD 884B), Amazon (USD 866B), and Nvidia (USD 509B). The combined brand value of the top 100 reached a record USD 10.7 trillion, reflecting a 29% YoY growth.
India and EU Launch ₹391 Crore Research Projects on Marine Plastic and Green Hydrogen
On 15 May 2025, India and the EU jointly launched two major research projects worth ₹391 crore under the India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC). The initiatives focus on Marine Plastic Litter (MPL) and Waste-to-Green Hydrogen (W2GH), co-funded by Horizon Europe and Indian ministries (MoES & MNRE). The MPL project aims to reduce ocean pollutants, aligned with the UN Ocean Science Decade and India’s National Marine Litter Policy. The W2GH project seeks to develop affordable tech for converting biogenic waste into green hydrogen, in line with the EU Hydrogen Strategy and India’s NGHM. TTC, launched in 2023, is India’s first such council and EU’s second, reflecting strategic cooperation in clean tech and sustainability.
Economy news
UN Lowers India’s 2025 GDP Growth Forecast to 6.3%
In May 2025, the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN-DESA), in its report ‘The World Economic Situation and Prospects as of mid-2025’, revised India’s GDP growth forecast for Calendar Year (CY) 2025 to 6.3%, down from 7.1% in CY24, citing global uncertainties. Despite this, India remains one of the fastest-growing major economies, supported by strong domestic consumption and public investment. The forecast for CY26 is slightly higher at 6.4%. Globally, economic growth is projected at 2.4% in 2025 and 2.5% in 2026, both 40 basis points lower than January 2025 estimates. The report is published by the Global Economic Monitoring Branch under UN-DESA’s Economic Analysis and Policy Division. UN-DESA Info: Established: 1948 | HQ: New York, USA | Under-Secretary-General: Li Junhua
Appointment news
Arunabha Ghosh Appointed South Asia Envoy for COP30 Climate Summit
In May 2025, Arunabha Ghosh, Founder and CEO of the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW), was appointed as the South Asia Envoy for the upcoming 30th UN Conference of Parties (COP-30), scheduled for November 2025 in Belém, Brazil. He is among 10 international envoys chosen to represent strategic regions and support global climate negotiations. Ghosh, who also serves as Vice-Chair of the UN Committee for Development Policy (UNCDP), will facilitate regional climate dialogue, ensure South Asian perspectives are well-represented, and strengthen communication between regional and global climate stakeholders. The envoys will serve on a voluntary and personal basis, acting as key conduits for regional feedback into the climate process. About CEEW: CEO – Arunabha Ghosh | HQ – New Delhi | Established – 2010 | Leading climate & energy think tank
Defence news
Indian Army Successfully Conducts Teesta Prahar Exercise in West Bengal
In May 2025, the Indian Army (IA) conducted a large-scale integrated field training exercise Teesta Prahar at the Teesta Field Firing Range, West Bengal, focusing on operational preparedness, inter-unit coordination, and adaptability in challenging riverine terrain. The exercise included Infantry, Artillery, Armoured Corps, Mechanised Infantry, Para SF, Army Aviation, Engineers, and Signals, showcasing next-gen weapon systems and advanced battlefield technologies. It featured tactical drills, adaptive manoeuvres, and operations in adverse weather, emphasizing jointness and synergy. IA Chief – Gen. Upendra Dwivedi | Motto – Seva Paramo Dharma | Established – 1895 | HQ – New Delhi
DRDO’s DMSRDE Develops Polymeric Membrane for Desalination
The Defence Materials Stores and Research & Development Establishment (DMSRDE), a DRDO lab in Kanpur, UP, developed a nanoporous multi-layered polymeric membrane for high-pressure seawater desalination, specifically for Indian Coast Guard (ICG) vessels. The membrane, developed within 8 months, is chloride corrosion-resistant, enhances plant stability, and was successfully tested on an ICG Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV), awaiting final 500-hour operational approval. DMSRDE Location – Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh | Function – Advanced defence material research
India Tests Indigenous Bhargavastra Counter-Drone System
India successfully tested the Bhargavastra, an indigenous, low-cost counter-drone system, at Gopalpur, Odisha, developed by Solar Defence and Aerospace Ltd. (SDAL), a subsidiary of Solar Industries India Ltd. (SIIL), Nagpur. The system uses a dual-layer defence—Hard Kill with micro-rockets (20m lethal radius) and Guided Micro-Missiles for precision targeting. It can detect small drones up to 2.5 km, radar range 6–10 km, and includes EO/IR sensors, C4I Command Centre, and modular architecture for jamming/spoofing. Designed for operations across diverse terrains including altitudes above 5,000 m. SIIL MD & CEO – Manish Satyanarayan Nuwal | Founded – 1983 | HQ – Nagpur, Maharashtra
BEL Signs Contract with Indian Army to Manufacture IDDIS Counter-Drone System
In May 2025, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), a Navratna DPSU under the Ministry of Defence, signed a contract with the Indian Army to manufacture the Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction System (IDDIS), jointly developed with DRDO under the Make in India initiative. IDDIS detects, tracks, and neutralizes hostile drones using electronic jamming and high-energy lasers, with a detection range of 5–8 km, and complements the Akashteer air defence system. Since April 7, 2025, BEL secured orders worth ₹572 crore, including SDRs, DCUs, AI-based naval solutions, and more. BEL CMD – Manoj Jain | HQ – Bengaluru, Karnataka | Founded – 1954 DRDO Chairman – Samir V Kamat | HQ – New Delhi | Founded – 1958
Our comprehensive Current Affairs of May 15th and 16th 2025 coverage aims to enhance your knowledge and boost your scores in Banking, Insurance, SSC, Railways, UPSC, and all State Government Exams. Explore our Current Affairs tailored to simplify your exam preparation.
Maharashtra Leads in GST Revenue Collection for FY25
Maharashtra has emerged as the top-performing state in Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections for the Financial Year 2024-25 (FY25), recording a total collection of Rs 3,18,497 crore. The state also topped the list for April 2025, with a monthly GST revenue of Rs 41,645 crore. However, the growth rate of Maharashtra’s financial capital declined from 13% in April 2024 to 11% in April 2025.
Gujarat secured the second position with a GST collection of Rs 1,74,938 crore, followed by Karnataka in the third place with Rs 1,43,023 crore.
The total GST revenue collection in 2024 reached Rs 21.36 lakh crore, the highest since the GST regime was introduced in 2017. This reflects an 8.86% increase compared to the previous year.
According to the latest data from the Ministry of Finance, GST revenue in April 2025 stood at Rs 2,36,716 crore, marking an annual growth rate of 12.6%.
About the GST Council The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council is a constitutional body formed under the 101st Constitutional Amendment Act, 2016, and is governed by Article 279-A of the Indian Constitution. Chairperson: Nirmala Sitharaman, Union Finance Minister Established: 2016
IWAI Opens New Office in Srinagar to Boost River Navigation in Jammu & Kashmir
In May 2025, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), headquartered in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, established a new office in Srinagar, located at Transport Bhawan in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir (J&K). IWAI operates under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW).
This development aims to strengthen the Inland Water Transport (IWT) sector in J&K. The J&K government provided the office space, and the office became operational on May 13, 2025.
The Srinagar office will serve as the central hub for IWAI’s operations in the region, overseeing the development of river navigation infrastructure.
In March 2025, IWAI signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of J&K to develop navigation infrastructure on three National Waterways (NWs):
NW-26 (River Chenab)
NW-49 (River Jhelum)
NW-84 (River Ravi)
About Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) Chairman: Vijay Kumar Headquarters: Noida, Uttar Pradesh Established: 1986
Indore Becomes India’s First Beggar-Free City
In May 2025, the District Magistrate of Indore, Madhya Pradesh, announced that Indore has become the first beggar-free city in India. This achievement is the result of an anti-begging campaign launched in February 2024 aimed at eliminating begging from the city.
The initiative has been recognized by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MSJE) and a World Bank team as a model project. Indore is one of the 10 cities where the MSJE launched a pilot project to address the issue of begging.
Key Highlights:
The city previously had around 5000 beggars, including 500 children, all of whom were rehabilitated.
Adults were assisted in finding employment, and children were enrolled in schools.
Individuals found begging at intersections and roads were relocated to rehabilitation centres with food and accommodation provided.
FIRs were filed against beggars from other states.
The administration launched a dedicated helpline number for citizens to report beggars through WhatsApp or other platforms, prompting immediate rescue operations.
A reward of Rs 1000 was offered for credible reports on the presence of beggars.
Illinois Tech Becomes First US University to Establish Campus in India
In May 2025, the Illinois Institute of Technology (Illinois Tech), based in Chicago, USA, became the first American university to receive approval from the University Grants Commission (UGC) of India to open a degree-granting campus in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
The Mumbai campus is scheduled to open in 2026, marking a significant advancement in India–USA educational collaboration.
Key Highlights:
The campus will offer undergraduate and graduate degrees in Computer Science, Engineering, and Business.
It will follow the same experiential, industry-aligned curriculum as the Chicago campus, including the Elevate program, which provides research opportunities, internships, and career development.
Courses will be conducted by an internationally recruited faculty, including visiting professors from Chicago and educators with global academic credentials.
Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood Launches Report on India’s Priority Corridors for Zero Emission Trucking
In May 2025, Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, the Principal Scientific Advisor (PSA) to the Government of India, launched a report titled India’s Priority Corridors for Zero Emission Trucking in New Delhi. The report was presented by Akshima Ghate, Managing Director of the Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI), based in the United States of America (USA).
The report identifies 10 key highway corridors in India that have the highest potential for the adoption of Zero-Emission Trucks (ZETs), aiming to support a national shift toward sustainable freight transportation.
Key Highlights:
The report was developed with the support of the Centre of Excellence for Zero Emission Trucking – IIT Madras (CoEZET-IIT Madras) in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
RMI and pManifold Business Private Limited, based in Nagpur, Maharashtra, served as knowledge partners.
A three-phase process was used to shortlist the top 10 ZET corridors from an initial list of 230, using qualitative and quantitative assessments.
Key parameters for selection included toll traffic data, supply-demand mapping, stakeholder consultations, and field research.
Additional criteria included high freight traffic, industrial activity, availability of ancillary services, and grid infrastructure readiness.
According to the report, long-distance trucks account for nearly 40% of India’s fuel consumption and transport emissions.
The report also serves as a reference for the PM E-DRIVE scheme, launched in 2024 by the Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) with a budget of Rs 500 crore, to promote zero-emission transport solutions in India.
Cargo Handling at Major Indian Ports Grows 4.3% to 855 Million Tonnes in FY25
In May 2025, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) released official data showing that cargo handling at 12 major Indian ports increased by 4.3%, rising from 819 Million Tonnes (MT) in FY24 to approximately 855 MT in FY25. This growth highlights the resilience and capacity of Indian ports to manage rising trade volumes.
Key factors contributing to this increase include higher container throughput (10%), fertilizer cargo handling (13%), Petroleum, Oil, and Lubricants (POL) cargo handling (3%), and miscellaneous commodities (31%) compared to the previous year.
Two major ports, Paradip Port Authority (Odisha) and Deendayal Port Authority (Kandla, Gujarat), crossed the historic milestone of handling over 150 MT cargo in FY25, establishing their importance in maritime trade.
POL cargo, including crude oil, petroleum products, LPG, and LNG, was the largest category, accounting for 254.5 MT or 29.8% of total cargo handled.
About Indian Ports Association (IPA): Established in 1966, IPA is a statutory body under the Societies Registration Act, working to promote growth and development of major ports under MoPSW supervision. Chairman: Sunil Paliwal Headquarters: New Delhi
Ministry of Commerce and Industry Prohibits Use of Antimicrobials in Aquaculture Sector
In May 2025, the Department of Commerce (DoC) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoC&I), in consultation with the Export Inspection Council (EIC), issued a prohibition on the use of several medically important antimicrobials in the aquaculture sector.
This order was issued under the Export (Quality Control and Inspection) Act, 1963, which provides a legislative framework to ensure the quality of India’s export commodities through strict quality control and inspection.
Key Points:
The overuse and misuse of antibiotics in food-animal production to promote growth or control diseases is a major driver of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).
MoC&I has specified a list of antibiotics, antivirals, and antiprotozoals banned from use in the culture of shrimps, prawns, and other fishery products.
The ban includes 12 classes of antibiotics and 6 specific antibiotics that are authorized only for human use, as per the World Health Organization (WHO) List of Medically Important Antimicrobials for Human Medicine.
India Gifts 15 Electric Vehicles to Nepal for Mountain Dialogue
In May 2025, the Government of India (GoI) gifted 15 Electric Vehicles (EVs) to Nepal to support logistics for the inaugural Sagarmatha Sambaad, a global dialogue on climate change scheduled from 16 to 18 May 2025 in Kathmandu, Nepal.
The vehicles were handed over by Indian Ambassador to Nepal, Naveen Srivastava, to Nepal’s Foreign Minister, Arzu Rana Deuba, during a ceremony at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Kathmandu. These EVs will be used to transport delegates, officials, and guests attending the summit.
Key Points:
Sagarmatha Sambaad is a biennial, multi-stakeholder global dialogue initiated by the Government of Nepal.
The first edition’s theme is “Climate Change, Mountains, and the Future of Humanity.”
The dialogue aims to address the critical impacts of climate change on mountainous regions and promote regional and international cooperation for sustainable solutions.
C-DOT and Synergy Quantum Sign MoU to Develop Quantum Key Distribution Technology for Drone-Based Systems
In May 2025, the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), the leading telecom Research & Development institution under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of Communications (MoC), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Synergy Quantum India Private Limited, based in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
The collaboration aims to develop drone-based Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) systems using the decoy-based BB84 protocol with polarization encoding at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6 or above.
Key Highlights:
Both organizations will combine their expertise to create QKD technologies suitable for integration into drone platforms.
The focus is on developing solutions that are cost-effective and scalable, promoting widespread adoption across various sectors.
Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) is a secure communication technology based on quantum mechanics that allows two parties to generate a shared secret key for encryption and decryption.
QKD provides unbreakable encryption, making it ideal for transmitting sensitive data securely.
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh Inaugurates India’s First Publicly Funded DST-ICGEB Bio-foundry in New Delhi
In May 2025, Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, dedicated India’s first publicly funded DST-ICGEB Bio-foundry during the 31st Board Meeting of Governors of the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) in New Delhi.
Dr. Singh described India as an emerging global biotech destination, noting that the country’s bioeconomy has grown from USD 10 billion in 2014 to USD 165.7 billion in 2024, with a goal to reach USD 300 billion by 2030.
About the ICGEB Bio-foundry:
A state-of-the-art facility focused on advancing synthetic biology, biomanufacturing, and precision biotechnology.
A key part of India’s BioE3 policy (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment), approved in August 2024 to promote sustainable and regenerative bioeconomy practices.
India to Launch First Manned Deep Ocean Mission ‘Samudrayaan’ by End of 2026
In May 2025, Balaji Ramakrishnan, Director of the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, announced that India’s first manned deep ocean mission, Samudrayaan, will be launched by 2026.
The mission will deploy the manned submersible vehicle Matsya to reach a depth of 6,000 meters (6 km) under the sea with three scientists onboard. It forms part of India’s Deep Ocean Mission (DOM), aimed at exploring deep-sea resources and advancing scientific research.
This initiative supports India’s goals in the blue economy, deep-sea mining, and underwater biodiversity studies.
Key Points:
NIOT is the nodal agency for the mission.
The Matsya submersible weighs 25 tonnes and is India’s 4th generation deep-sea vehicle, built with indigenous technology featuring a titanium hull to withstand deep ocean pressure and temperature.
The mission will enable the collection of critical samples and provide scientific insights into deep-sea ecosystems.
A key milestone, a 500-meter depth trial, is expected by the end of 2025.
About Samudrajivah:
An innovative technology focusing on large-scale open sea fish farming, currently in the demonstration phase.
It uses electronically monitored submerged fish cages designed for offshore environments, leveraging the nutrient-rich deep sea for fish growth.
Equipped with sensors to remotely monitor fish biomass, growth, movement, and water quality.
About National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT): Director: Balaji Ramakrishnan Headquarters: Chennai, Tamil Nadu Founded: November 1993
About ICAR Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI): Director: Dr. Grinson George Headquarters: Kochi, Kerala
State news
Assam Government Approves “Eti Koli Duti Paat” Scheme and Renames Dibrugarh Airport
In May 2025, the Assam Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, approved the “Eti Koli Duti Paat” scheme aimed at providing financial assistance to tea garden workers in Assam. Under this scheme, each permanent and temporary worker in Assam’s tea gardens will receive a one-time payment of Rs. 5000. This announcement coincided with the 200th celebration of Assam Tea.
Other Key Approvals by Assam Cabinet:
Renaming Dibrugarh Airport after Bhupen Hazarika, the legendary singer and cultural icon, to honor his 100th birth anniversary.
Approval of the Assam Electronics Components Manufacturing Top-Up scheme, 2025.
Implementation of the Chief Minister’s ‘Jibon Prerna Scheme’ for graduates and scholars, set to launch from October 2025.
Karnataka Launches ‘Petologist App’ for Pet Owners, Clinics, and Farms
In May 2025, N. S. Boseraju, Minister for Science and Technology, Government of Karnataka, launched ‘Petologist’, a veterinary healthcare app developed by Bengaluru-based Transduceideas Technologies LLP. The launch event also featured Dr. Ashok S. Alur, Vice Chancellor of Kodagu University.
About Petologist:
Supported by the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana – RAFTAAR Agribusiness Incubation (R-ABI) Scheme under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.
A digital healthcare platform connecting pet owners and farmers with licensed veterinarians, clinics, and hospitals.
Offers features like digital health records, vaccination tracking, medication reminders, farm animal monitoring, and telemedicine consultations to improve animal healthcare in urban and rural areas.
Incubated at the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), established in 1889 and located in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh.
Currently in soft launch phase, accessible to a select group of veterinarians and clinics in Karnataka.
International news
Five Indian Languages Feature in Top 20 Most Spoken Languages Globally in 2025
According to Ethnologue, a leading source on world languages, five Indian languages have made it to the list of the top 20 most spoken languages worldwide in 2025. These include Hindi (3rd), Bengali (7th), Urdu (11th), Marathi (16th), and Telugu (18th).
Hindi, with 609.1 million speakers, ranks as the 3rd most spoken language globally and holds the position of the most spoken language in India.
Key Highlights:
English is the most widely spoken language in the world in 2025, spoken as a first or second language by 1.53 billion people across 188 countries.
Chinese Mandarin, the official language of China, ranks 2nd globally with 1.18 billion speakers, and is the largest language by native speakers.
Spanish, the official language of Spain and 20 other countries, is the 4th most spoken language, with 558.5 million speakers.
GRID 2025: Global Internal Displacements Hit Record 83.4 Million in 2024; India Sees 5.4 Million Cases
On May 13, 2025, the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC), based in Geneva, Switzerland, and the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), based in Oslo, Norway, jointly released the Global Report on Internal Displacement (GRID) 2025. The report offers a detailed overview of internal displacement trends worldwide.
The report revealed that the number of internally displaced people (IDPs) reached an all-time high of 83.4 million globally by the end of 2024, doubling since 2018.
In India, displacements reached 5.4 million in 2024, the highest in 12 years.
Key Highlights:
Sudan recorded 11.6 million IDPs, the highest ever in a single country, primarily due to civil war.
Other severely affected countries include the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Afghanistan, and Myanmar, each hosting over 3 million IDPs.
Natural disasters accounted for 45.8 million displacements in 2024 — the highest since IDMC began tracking in 2008.
In India, floods were responsible for 66% of displacements, including 2.5 million in Assam, which faced its worst floods in over a decade.
About Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC): Director – Alexandra Bilak Headquarters – Geneva, Switzerland Established – 1998
Banking news
SBI Enters Global Top 100 in Net Profit, Becomes Third Indian Company to Achieve This Milestone
Mumbai-based State Bank of India (SBI), India’s largest Public Sector Bank (PSB), has achieved a significant milestone by ranking among the world’s most profitable companies.
With a net profit of USD 9.2 billion (Rs. 77,561 crore) in Financial Year 2024-25 (FY25), SBI is placed 98th globally in annual earnings, according to Bloomberg data.
Key Points:
SBI is the third Indian company to enter the global top 100 most profitable companies after ONGC (2009) and Reliance Industries Limited (2021).
The bank’s rise is driven by a 31% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in net profit over the past five years.
This achievement follows nearly a decade since SBI’s merger with five associate banks, positioning it among the world’s top 50 banks by assets.
Key Highlights:
SBI now ranks alongside global giants such as Alphabet, Apple, NVIDIA, and JPMorgan Chase.
Alphabet tops the list with profits of USD 111 billion, highlighting the strong earnings in the tech sector.
Saudi Aramco follows with USD 105 billion, showing the profitability of the energy sector.
Other tech leaders like Apple, Microsoft, NVIDIA, and Meta are also in the top 10.
The list is dominated by USA companies with 43 entries, followed by China with 19, and Germany with five companies.
About State Bank of India (SBI):
SBI is a Public Sector Bank and financial services company headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
In 2017, SBI merged with five associates: State Bank of Bikaner and Jaipur, State Bank of Hyderabad, State Bank of Mysore, State Bank of Patiala, State Bank of Travancore, and the Bharatiya Mahila Bank.
Chairman: Challa Sreenivasulu Setty
Established: 1955
Tagline: Pure Banking, Nothing Else
Canara Bank Launches ‘CANARA TruEdge’ Savings and Current Account
In May 2025, Canara Bank, headquartered in Bengaluru, Karnataka, launched ‘CANARA TruEdge’, a specialized and feature-rich suite of Current and Savings Accounts. This offering targets the unique banking needs of institutional clients across sectors such as healthcare, education, religious organizations, and other non-individual entities.
The account requires zero initial deposit for smooth onboarding.
Benefits increase proportionally with higher account balances.
Union Bank of India Launches ‘Union Wellness Deposit’ Scheme
In Mumbai, Maharashtra, Union Bank of India (UBI) introduced “Union Wellness Deposit”, a new retail term deposit scheme with a fixed tenure of 375 days. It offers an interest rate of 6.75% per annum, with an additional 0.50% for senior citizens.
MD & CEO: A. Manimekhalai
Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra
Tagline: ‘Good People to Bank with’
Established: 1919
MSMEs Merchandise Export Share Rises to 45.7% in FY24: SIDBI Report
The Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) released a report titled ‘Understanding the Indian MSME Sector: Progress, and Challenges’ based on a survey of 2,097 MSMEs across 19 sectors.
Udyam Registration Portal registrations surged to over 6.2 crore by March 2025, up from 2.5 crore in March 2024, showing strong formalization.
MSMEs contribute nearly 30% to India’s GDP and provide employment to over 11 crore individuals.
Export Contribution: MSMEs’ share in India’s exports grew steadily to 43.59% in FY23, 45.73% in FY24, and 45.79% in FY25.
Women Entrepreneurship: Female-owned proprietary establishments rose from 22.9% in 2022-23 to 26.2% in 2023-24.
SIDBI Details:
Chairman & MD: Manoj Mittal
Headquarters: Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
Established: 1990
Uttarakhand Secures Rs 1910 Crore Funding from European Investment Bank for Urban Infrastructure
In May 2025, Uttarakhand secured funding of Rs 1910 crore from the European Investment Bank (EIB), Luxembourg, to improve urban infrastructure in four cities under the Uttarakhand Urban Sector Development Agency (UUSDA). The agreement signing is planned for June 2025.
Projects will focus on:
Pithoragarh: Drinking water and sewerage system development
Sitarganj, Rudrapur, Kashipur: Enhancement of drinking water supply infrastructure
Detailed Project Reports have been prepared and reviewed by the Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance.
The initiative aims to improve sanitation and access to clean drinking water to enhance living standards and boost development in urban areas.
RBI Imposes Rs 2.72 Crore Penalty on SBI and Jana Small Finance Bank for Regulatory Non-Compliance
In May 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed a total penalty of Rs 2.72 crore on State Bank of India (SBI) and Jana Small Finance Bank (SFB) for failing to comply with regulatory guidelines.
SBI was fined Rs 1.728 crore for violations related to:
Loans and Advances restrictions
Customer protection in unauthorized electronic transactions
Discipline in opening current accounts
Jana SFB was penalized Rs 1 crore for contraventions under the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.
Award news
Brazilian Microbiologist Mariangela Hungria Wins 2025 World Food Prize
On May 13, 2025, the World Food Prize Foundation, headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, USA, announced that Dr. Mariangela Hungria, a Brazilian microbiologist, is the winner of the 2025 World Food Prize.
The award recognizes Dr. Hungria’s pioneering work in developing biological alternatives to chemical fertilizers, which has greatly advanced sustainable agriculture practices in Brazil and globally.
She will receive the award at the World Food Prize Borlaug Dialogue International Symposium in October 2025 in Des Moines.
The prize includes a monetary award of USD 500,000.
Dr. Hungria is the 10th woman to be honored with the World Food Prize.
About World Food Prize Foundation:
Chairman: Paul Schickler
Headquarters: Des Moines, Iowa, USA
Founded: 1986
Appointment news
Harvansh P. Chawla Appointed Chairman of BRICS Chamber of Commerce & Industry
In May 2025, Harvansh P. Chawla, a senior corporate legal expert, was appointed as Chairman of the New Delhi-based BRICS Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BRICS CCI) to strengthen economic ties among BRICS nations – Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
His appointment comes ahead of the 17th BRICS Summit scheduled for 6-7 July 2025 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Under his leadership, the Chamber aims to promote inclusive economic growth, innovation, and sustainable development within the Global South framework.
About Harvansh P. Chawla:
Founder and Managing Partner of K.R. Chawla & Co. Advocates, New Delhi.
Advisor to Trade and Invest British Columbia in India, a partnership with the Ministry of Jobs, Trade and Technology, British Columbia, Canada.
Selected by the Ministry of Finance, Government of India to draft counter guarantees for infrastructure projects; among the first to work on port privatization in India.
Member of international bodies including the International Bar Association (IBA), Inter Pacific Bar Association (IPBA), and Indo-US Business Council (IUBC).
Championed a surge in intra-BRICS trade, reaching USD 162 billion in 2022-23.
Facilitated green energy partnerships in solar, hydrogen fuel, and smart grid technologies among BRICS countries.
Promoted digital innovation through BRICS-wide digital payment systems and tech startups.
About BRICS Chamber of Commerce & Industry:
Chairman – Harvansh P. Chawla
Headquarters – New Delhi
Established – 2012
Santosh Kumar Sarangi Given Additional Charge as CMD of Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI)
In May 2025, the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) appointed Santosh Kumar Sarangi as the additional Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI), New Delhi. He will hold the position until a regular appointment is made.
He succeeds Rameshwar Prasad Gupta (R.P. Gupta), whose term ended prematurely on 10 May 2025 by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC).
About Santosh Kumar Sarangi:
1994-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, Odisha cadre.
Currently Secretary of Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).
Former Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
Held leadership roles including Chairman of APEDA and Tea Board of India.
Served as Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Education and Chairperson of the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE).
About R.P. Gupta:
Retired 1987-batch IAS officer from Gujarat cadre.
CMD of SECI since June 2023.
Former Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
About Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI):
Navratna Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) under MNRE.
CMD – Santosh Kumar Sarangi
Headquarters – New Delhi
Founded – 2011
Ed Smith Appointed President of Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC)
In May 2025, former England cricketer and selector Edward Thomas Smith was appointed as the President of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), London. He will serve a one-year term starting 1 October 2025.
His appointment was made by the current MCC President, Lord King of Lothbury, at the MCC Annual General Meeting held at Lord’s Cricket Ground.
About Edward Thomas Smith:
Former England cricketer, commentator, journalist, and author.
Played for Kent, Middlesex, and England over 13 seasons, scoring nearly 13,000 runs including 34 centuries.
Retired in 2008 and authored five books.
Chief Selector for England Men’s Cricket Team from 2018 to 2021.
England won the ICC Men’s World Cup in 2019 during his tenure as chief selector.
Co-founder of the Institute of Sports Humanities (ISH), focused on nurturing future sports leaders.
FM Nirmala Sitharaman Reviews Book “The Tamils: A Portrait of Community” by Nirmala Lakshman
In May 2025, Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Ministry of Finance, reviewed the book “The Tamils: A Portrait of Community” by Nirmala Lakshman in The Book Review, a respected India-based academic journal. The book was published by New Delhi-based Aleph Book Company.
The review praised the book for its deep exploration of justice and fairness as key themes in Tamil culture, highlighting stories like King Manuneedhi Cholan’s legendary act of justice.
The book provides a comprehensive narrative of Tamil history and culture, covering the community’s evolution from the Stone Age through the Sangam era to the present day.
Nirmala Lakshman is the Publisher and Chairperson of THE HINDU Group of Publications.
She previously served as Joint Editor of The Hindu, founded and edited The Hindu Literary Review, and created Young World, India’s only children’s newspaper supplement.
Vice President Releases Haryana Governor’s Autobiography “Janta Ki Kahani – In Meri Aatamkatha”
In May 2025, the Vice President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar, released the autobiography “Janta Ki Kahani – In Meri Aatamkatha” written by Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatraya. The release event took place at Maharashtra Sadan, New Delhi.
The book portrays Bandaru Dattatraya’s political and social journey, emphasizing his strong grassroots connection with the people and his dedication to the upliftment of the underprivileged. It also highlights important historical and political events he witnessed over several decades.
About Bandaru Dattatraya:
Born on 12 June 1947 in Hyderabad.
Serving as Governor of Haryana since July 2021.
Senior leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Former Union Minister of State for Labour (1999–2004) under Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
Four-time Lok Sabha member from Secunderabad, Telangana.
Known for decades of political and social service focused on humility and public welfare.
Dr. Ajay Kumar Appointed Chairman of UPSC
In May 2025, the Government of India appointed Dr. Ajay Kumar, former Defence Secretary and retired IAS officer of the 1985 Kerala cadre, as the new Chairman of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). His tenure is for 6 years or until he reaches the age of 65, whichever comes first.
The appointment was approved by President Droupadi Murmu under Article 316(1) of the Constitution of India, as per an order from the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), Ministry of Personnel. He succeeds Preeti Sudan, whose tenure ended on April 29, 2025.
About UPSC:
Responsible for conducting civil services exams for recruitment to prestigious services such as IAS, IFS, and IPS
Headed by a Chairman, with up to 10 members
Chairman: Dr. Ajay Kumar
Headquarters: New Delhi
Established: 1926
Mikaela Jaworski Named Chair of IOC Coordination Commission for Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games
In May 2025, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) appointed Mikaela Cojuangco Jaworski as the new Chair of the IOC Coordination Commission for the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games. The appointment was made by IOC President Thomas Bach at an Executive Board meeting in Lausanne, Switzerland.
She will succeed Kristy Coventry, who will become IOC President in June 2025, and will chair the Coordination Commission meeting in Brisbane from May 20 to 22, 2025.
Key Points:
Mikaela will oversee the planning and delivery of the 2032 Games, working closely with the Organizing Committee, Olympic Movement stakeholders, local authorities, and International Sports Federations.
Her role is to ensure the project meets the highest standards, delivering an inclusive, sustainable, and memorable Olympic experience for athletes, fans, and communities.
About Mikaela Cojuangco Jaworski:
Former international equestrian athlete for the Philippines
Gold medalist in individual jumping at the 2002 Asian Games and team gold at the 2005 Southeast Asian Games
IOC member since 2013 and Executive Board member since 2020
Participated in Coordination Commissions for the 2020 Tokyo and 2024 Paris Olympics
About IOC:
Non-governmental organization organizing the Olympic Games and overseeing National Olympic Committees, International Federations, athletes, and stakeholders
President: Thomas Bach
President Elect: Kirsty Coventry (from June 23, 2025)
Headquarters: Lausanne, Switzerland
Established: 1894
Sports news
India’s Kynan Chenai and Sabeera Haris Win Bronze at ISSF Shotgun World Cup 2025
In May 2025, Indian shooters Kynan Chenai and Sabeera Haris won the bronze medal in the Trap Mixed Team event at the ISSF Shotgun World Cup 2025, held from May 3 to 12 in Nicosia, Cyprus. This was the third World Cup event of the 2025 season.
The Indian duo defeated Turkey’s Tolga Tuncer and Pelin Kaya with a close score of 34-33 in the final match.
In the qualification round, the Indian pair ranked 4th out of 34 teams with a total score of 142 out of 150.
The second Indian team, consisting of Shardul Vihan and Kirti Gupta, finished 17th with a score of 137.
China won the gold medal in the trap mixed team event by defeating Poland 42-39 in the final, while Poland secured the silver medal.
Overall Medal Tally:
Neutral Athletes topped the standings with 2 gold medals from 5 events.
China earned 1 gold and 1 silver medal.
Spain and Italy shared the third position with 1 gold medal each.
Next Event: The next ISSF Shotgun World Cup is scheduled from July 4 to 14, 2025, at the Trap Concaverde shooting range in Lonato del Garda, Italy.
Important days
8th UN Global Road Safety Week 2025 – May 12 to 18
The United Nations Global Road Safety Week (UNGRSW) is a biennial campaign led by the World Health Organization (WHO), based in Geneva, Switzerland. It aims to raise awareness about road safety and promote actions to reduce road traffic deaths and injuries worldwide.
The 8th edition of UNGRSW is observed from May 12 to 18, 2025. The theme for 2025 is #MakeWalkingSafe and #MakeCyclingSafe, focusing on the urgent need for safer infrastructure and policies to protect pedestrians and cyclists on the roads.
Background:
In 2005, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) passed Resolution 60/5, directing the WHO and UN Regional Commissions to organize periodic global road safety weeks.
The first UN Global Road Safety Week took place from April 23 to 29, 2007.
Since 2013, the event has been observed every two years.
India Strengthens Healthcare and Financial Ties with Maldives through Strategic Agreements
In May 2025, HLL Lifecare Limited, a Government of India (GoI) enterprise under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoH&FW), signed a strategic agreement with State Trade Organisation Plc (STO), a government-owned entity of the Maldives responsible for importing and distributing essential goods. This partnership falls under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) — a flagship initiative of GoI aimed at delivering affordable, high-quality medicines to the public.
Under this collaboration, India will ensure a steady supply of essential medicines to the Maldives through HLL Lifecare Limited, strengthening healthcare cooperation between the two nations.
Key Highlights:
PMBJP, launched in November 2008 by the Department of Pharmaceuticals (DoP) under the Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers (MoC&F), focuses on making quality medicines accessible at affordable prices through government-supported pharma PSUs.
To support Maldives’ fiscal stability, the GoI extended financial assistance by rolling over a USD 50 million Treasury Bill for another year.
The State Bank of India (SBI), India’s largest public sector bank headquartered in Mumbai, subscribed to the treasury bill issued by the Ministry of Finance (MoF) of the Maldives, reinforcing bilateral financial cooperation.
About Maldives:
President: Mohamed Muizzu
Capital: Malé
Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR)
State news
Madhya Pradesh & Maharashtra Sign MoU for World’s Largest Groundwater Recharge Project
In May 2025, the Governments of Madhya Pradesh (MP) and Maharashtra signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Bhopal for the Tapti Basin Mega Recharge Project, a groundbreaking initiative valued at Rs 19,244 crore. This project is set to become the world’s largest groundwater recharge effort.
The agreement was finalized during the 28th MP-Maharashtra Inter-State Control Board meeting, attended by Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
Key Details:
The Tapti Basin Mega Recharge Project aims to address water scarcity, ensure sustainable irrigation, and improve drinking water supply through large-scale groundwater recharge.
The project will provide permanent irrigation to:
1,23,082 hectares in Madhya Pradesh (Burhanpur and Khandwa districts)
2,34,706 hectares in Maharashtra (Jalgaon, Akola, Buldhana, and Amravati districts)
90% of the project cost will be funded by the Government of India (GoI).
About Madhya Pradesh:
Chief Minister (CM): Mohan Yadav
Governor: Mangubhai Chhaganbhai Patel
Capital: Bhopal
Wildlife Sanctuaries: Singhori Wildlife Sanctuary, Son Gharial Wildlife Sanctuary
Adani Group Unveils India’s First Hydrogen-Powered Mining Truck in Chhattisgarh
In May 2025, Adani Enterprises Limited (AEL), the flagship firm of the Ahmedabad-based Adani Group, launched India’s first hydrogen-powered fuel cell truck dedicated to mining logistics in Raipur, Chhattisgarh. This groundbreaking initiative aims to promote sustainable transportation by replacing traditional diesel-powered vehicles with clean energy alternatives.
The hydrogen-powered truck was flagged off by Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and will be used to transport coal from the Gare Pelma III Block in Raigarh to a state-run power plant. The Chhattisgarh State Power Generation Company Limited (CSPGCL) had appointed AEL as the mine developer and operator of the block through a competitive bidding process.
Key Highlights:
The truck is equipped with three hydrogen tanks and advanced smart technology, capable of transporting up to 40 tonnes of cargo across a 200-kilometre range.
The vehicle uses a Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cell stack for efficient and eco-friendly energy conversion.
The development of the hydrogen fuel cell truck was a result of collaboration between AEL and leading Indian and global energy tech firms as well as a major auto manufacturer.
The project is spearheaded by Adani Natural Resources (ANR) and Adani New Industries Limited (ANIL)—both subsidiaries of AEL. ANR sources hydrogen fuel cells from ANIL, which focuses on green hydrogen, solar modules, wind turbines, and battery technologies.
Environmental Significance:
Hydrogen fuel cell trucks produce only water vapour and warm air, drastically reducing emissions and noise pollution compared to diesel vehicles.
This initiative supports India’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070 and aims to cut down dependence on crude oil imports.
About Chhattisgarh:
Chief Minister: Vishnu Deo Sai
Governor: Ramen Deka
Capital: Raipur
Prominent Festivals: Hareli Festival, Madai Festival
Rank and report news
India Leads Global PMI Rankings for Manufacturing and Services: J.P. Morgan Report
In May 2025, J.P. Morgan, headquartered in New York, USA, released its latest Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) report for April 2025, highlighting India as the top performer among both developed and emerging economies in terms of manufacturing and services activity.
According to the report:
India’s Manufacturing PMI stood at 58.2
India’s Services PMI reached 58.7 These figures were the highest globally, outperforming major economies in both sectors.
In contrast, the Global Manufacturing PMI fell from 50.3 in March 2025 to 49.8 in April 2025, indicating a contraction in global manufacturing activity.
Key Insights:
The J.P. Morgan Global Manufacturing PMI is a composite index developed in partnership with S&P Global Market Intelligence, the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), and the International Federation of Purchasing and Supply Management (IFPSM).
It is based on monthly surveys conducted with purchasing executives from over 30 countries, representing a broad spectrum of global manufacturing output.
About J.P. Morgan Chase & Co.:
Chairman and CEO: Jamie Dimon
Headquarters: New York, USA
International news
Sri Lanka Hosts 4th RIMES Ministerial Conference; India Co-Chairs the Event
From May 7 to May 9, 2025, Sri Lanka hosted the 4th Ministerial Conference of the Regional Integrated Multi-Hazard Early Warning System (RIMES) in Colombo, with support from the World Bank (USA) through CARE Component-1, and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), UK.
India served as co-chair alongside Sri Lanka at the conference. The Indian delegation was led by Dr. M. Ravichandran, Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), while Santosh Jha, High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, represented India at the RIMES Council Meeting held on the sidelines of the main event.
Conference Theme:
“Actionable Early Warnings and Climate Services for All”
Key Highlights:
The conference concluded with the adoption of a Ministerial Declaration, reaffirming the commitment of RIMES member states to strengthen multi-hazard early warning systems, climate services, and promote disaster-resilient development across the region.
About Sri Lanka:
President: Anura Kumara Dissanayake
Capitals: Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte (Legislative), Colombo (Judicial and Executive)
Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (SLR)
Adani Group & Bhutan’s DGPC Sign MoU to Develop 5,000 MW Hydropower Projects
In May 2025, Adani Group (Ahmedabad, India) and Druk Green Power Corporation Limited (DGPC) (Thimphu, Bhutan) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly develop 5,000 MW of hydropower projects in Bhutan.
Key Details:
The MoU was signed by Dasho Chhewang Rinzin, MD of DGPC, and Naresh Telgu, COO of Adani Green Hydro, in the presence of Bhutan’s Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay and Energy Minister Lyonpo Gem Tshering in Thimphu.
The initiative will include hydropower and pumped storage projects, to be identified and executed in phases based on Detailed Project Reports (DPRs).
This collaboration builds on the ongoing Wangchhu Hydropower Project (570 MW, expandable to 900 MW), in which DGPC holds 51% and Adani holds 49%.
The MoU supports Bhutan’s Renewable Energy Roadmap, which targets 20,000 MW of renewable energy capacity by 2040.
Banking news
Public Sector Banks Record ₹1.78 Trillion Profit in FY25;
In FY 2024–25, Public Sector Banks (PSBs) in India posted a record cumulative profit of ₹1.78 lakh crore, reflecting a 26% year-on-year growth from ₹1.41 lakh crore in FY24. This marks a ₹37,100 crore increase in absolute terms.
Key Highlights:
State Bank of India (SBI) led the PSBs with a net profit of ₹70,901 crore, contributing over 40% of the total PSB profits. This represents a 16% growth from FY24.
Punjab National Bank (PNB) achieved the highest percentage growth, doubling its net profit to ₹16,630 crore (102% increase).
Punjab & Sind Bank (P&SB) followed with a 71% rise in profits to ₹1,016 crore.
QNB Becomes First MEA Bank to Open Branch in India’s GIFT City
In May 2025, Qatar National Bank (QNB), the largest financial institution in the Middle East and Africa (MEA), became the first MEA-based bank to establish a branch in GIFT City IFSC, Gandhinagar, Gujarat — India’s first international financial services centre and SEZ.
Key Points:
The branch aims to support Indian corporates seeking international banking partnerships for global expansion.
QNB operates in 28 markets across three continents, and this branch will strengthen its international presence.
QNB India Private Ltd, headquartered in Mumbai, has been active since 2017, offering structured credit solutions and full-fledged banking services across India.
Award news
Bhuwan Ribhu Becomes First Indian Lawyer to Receive WJA ‘Medal of Honour’
In May 2025, Bhuwan Ribhu, a prominent Indian child rights lawyer and activist, became the first Indian lawyer to be awarded the ‘Medal of Honour’ by the World Jurist Association (WJA). The award was conferred during the World Law Congress 2025, held from May 4 to 6 in the Dominican Republic, North America.
Ribhu was recognized for his 20-year-long legal advocacy against child marriage, trafficking, sexual abuse, and forced labour.
He received the award from Eddy Olivares Ortega (Labour Minister, Dominican Republic) and Javier Cremades (President, WJA).
Notable past WJA honorees include Nelson Mandela, Winston Churchill, and Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
Kerala’s Water Heritage Museum Added to UNESCO’s Global WAMU-NET List
The Water Heritage Museum operated by the Centre for Water Resources Development and Management (CWRDM) in Kozhikode, Kerala, has been added to the WAMU-NET, a global network under UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme (IHP).
It is the third Indian museum on the list, joining JAL Water Museum (Udaipur, Rajasthan) and Living Water Museum (Pune, Maharashtra).
The museum highlights Kerala’s traditional water practices and includes features like a climate change lab, medicinal plant garden, star garden, and butterfly garden.
WAMU-NET promotes the cultural significance of water and supports sustainable water management worldwide.
Science And Tech News
Chinese Scientists Develop Asia’s First Rice Pangenome to Boost Climate Resilience
In May 2025, researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) in Beijing, China, unveiled the first-ever pangenome of Asian cultivated rice (Oryza sativa L.), marking a major milestone in agricultural genomics. This comprehensive genome was derived by decoding 144 wild and cultivated rice varieties from across Asia.
The initiative aims to accelerate the development of high-yielding, disease-resistant, and climate-resilient rice varieties, essential to address rising global temperatures and growing food security concerns.
Key Highlights:
The pangenome compiles all genes found in rice, including both common (core) and variety-specific (accessory) genes, enabling deeper insights into rice diversity and adaptation.
Built using PacBio HiFi sequencing and advanced computational tools, the genome revealed:
69,531 genes, including 28,907 core genes and 13,728 wild-rice-specific genes.
3.87 billion base pairs of genetic sequences not found in previous rice reference genomes.
The study traced all Asian cultivated rice back to Or-IIIa, a subgroup of Oryza rufipogon, the wild ancestor of japonica rice.
20% of the genes found are unique to wild rice, valuable for traits like environmental adaptation, phenotypic plasticity, and regeneration.
Sports news
Asian Blitz Chess Championship 2025 – UAE
On May 11, 2025, Russian Grandmaster (GM) Ivan Zemlyanskii and Kazakhstan’s Woman Grandmaster (WGM) Alua Nurman emerged as champions of the 2025 Asian Blitz Chess Championship, held in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Organized by the Al Ain Chess and Mind Games Club under the aegis of the Asian Chess Federation (ACF) and the International Chess Federation (FIDE), the tournament witnessed intense competition.
Ivan Zemlyanskii remained unbeaten, scoring 8 out of 9 points, and secured the Open title along with a USD 2,500 cash prize.
WGM Alua Nurman claimed the Women’s title with 7.5 points, edging out Russia’s Valentina Gunina based on a superior opponents’ average rating. She was awarded USD 1,500.
About FIDE:
President: Arkady Dvorkovich
Headquarters: Lausanne, Switzerland
Established: 1924
India Bags 7 Medals at Archery World Cup 2025 Stage 2 in Shanghai
India delivered a stellar performance at the Archery World Cup 2025 Stage 2, held from May 6–11, 2025 in Shanghai, China, finishing second in the overall medal standings.
India’s Medal Tally:7 medals – 2 Gold, 1 Silver, and 4 Bronze
Top Performer:South Korea (7 medals – 5 Gold, 2 Silver)
Indian Highlights:
Madhura Dhamangaonkar won Gold in Women’s Individual Compound, her first-ever individual World Cup gold.
The Men’s Compound Team (Ojas Deotale, Abhishek Verma, Rishabh Yadav) clinched Gold after defeating Mexico in the finals.
About World Archery:
President: Ugur Erdener (Turkiye)
Headquarters: Lausanne, Switzerland
Founded: 1931
Important days
International Day of Plant Health (IDPH) 2025 – May 12
The 4th International Day of Plant Health (IDPH) was observed on May 12, 2025, to emphasize the crucial role of plant health in ensuring food security, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable economic growth.
Theme 2025:“The Importance of Plant Health in One Health”
IDPH was established by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) via resolution A/RES/76/256 in March 2022.
The first IDPH was commemorated in 2022.
The observance is supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC), which organize awareness campaigns and global initiatives.
RGI Releases CRS, SRS, and MCCD Reports for 2021; Life Expectancy in India Declines
The Registrar General of India (RGI), functioning under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), has published three major reports for the year 2021:
Sample Registration System (SRS) Statistical Report 2021
Vital Statistics of India Based on the Civil Registration System (CRS) 2021
Medical Certification of Cause of Death (MCCD) Report 2021
Purpose of the Reports
The Civil Registration System (CRS) records all registered births and deaths in India.
The Sample Registration System (SRS) provides survey-based estimates of births and deaths and includes unregistered events, making it a crucial complement to CRS data.
The Medical Certification of Cause of Death (MCCD) captures a small portion of registered deaths that are medically certified.
Key Findings
Crude Death Rate (CDR): According to the SRS 2021 report, the Crude Death Rate rose to 7.5 deaths per 1,000 people, making 2021 the deadliest year of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Increase in Registered Deaths (CRS): The CRS report showed an increase of around 2 million deaths in 2021 compared to previous years.
Covid-19 Deaths (MCCD): The MCCD report recorded 4,13,580 Covid-19 deaths in 2021 and 1,60,618 deaths in 2020, indicating a significant rise during the second wave of the pandemic.
Decline in Life Expectancy (SRS): According to the SRS data, the life expectancy at birth was estimated at 69.8 years for the period 2017 to 2021, a decrease from the previous estimate for 2016 to 2020.
In urban areas, life expectancy declined by 0.3 years
In rural areas, it declined by 0.1 years
Completion of 10 Years: PMSBY, PMJJBY, and APY
The three major social security schemes – Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY), Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY), and Atal Pension Yojana (APY) – have completed 10 years since their launch on 9th May 2015 by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
Objective of the Schemes
These schemes were introduced to provide affordable financial protection, especially for the underserved and vulnerable sections of society. They aim to expand insurance and pension coverage to help citizens withstand life’s uncertainties and ensure long-term financial security.
Enrolment Figures (as of April 2025)
PMJJBY: Over 23.6 crore enrolments
PMSBY: Over 51 crore enrolments
APY: Over 7.6 crore enrolments
About PMJJBY (Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana)
Purpose: Provides life insurance cover in case of death due to any reason.
Managed by: The scheme is managed by the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC). However, participating banks or post offices can tie up with any life insurance company for its implementation.
Eligibility and Duration:
Open to individuals aged 18 to 50 years
Must hold a bank or post office account with consent for auto-debit
The insurance cover is for one year, from 1st June to 31st May
Ladakh Records World’s Highest Snow Leopard Density
In May 2025, the Union Territory of Ladakh has been identified as the region with the world’s highest density of snow leopards (Panthera uncia). This finding is based on a study conducted by the Department of Wildlife Protection (DWP), Ladakh, in collaboration with the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun, and the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), New Delhi.
Study Publication: The findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal PLOS ONE, by the Public Library of Science (PLOS).
Key Findings of the Study
Total Snow Leopard Population in India: Estimated at 709 individuals
Snow Leopards in Ladakh: 477 individuals, making up nearly 68 percent of India’s total population
Habitat Area in Ladakh: Covers a vast region of 47,572 square kilometres
Hemis National Park in Ladakh recorded the highest snow leopard density globally with 2.07 individuals per 100 square kilometres, surpassing earlier records from Tibet
Significance of Ladakh: Ladakh is now considered a critical conservation stronghold for the snow leopard in India and globally.
Major Wildlife Sanctuary: Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary
Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy Launches Portal to Boost Non-Ferrous Metal Recycling
In May 2025, Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy, heading the Ministry of Coal (MoC) and Ministry of Mines (MoM), launched the Non-Ferrous Metal Recycling Website and Stakeholders’ Portal to strengthen India’s non-ferrous metal recycling ecosystem.
Launch Details
The launch event was held in New Delhi
Present at the event were Minister of State Satish Chandra Dubey (MoM), senior officials from MoM, and the Jawaharlal Nehru Aluminium Research Development and Design Centre (JNARDDC)
Developed Under
The portal was developed under the National Non-Ferrous Metal Scrap Recycling Framework (NNMSRF)
Objective: To promote resource efficiency, centralise data, empower stakeholders, and enhance transparency
Key Features of the Portal
Target Metals: Focus on aluminium, copper, lead, zinc, and other critical elements
National Registry: For dismantlers, recyclers, traders, and collection centres
Data Tracking Tools: Monitor raw material flows, product types, technology use, and workforce trends
Performance Benchmarking: Evaluate efficiency of the recycling sector
Gap Identification: Assess needs for infrastructure, skill development, and sectoral growth
Support Systems: Provide standardization, certification, and awareness campaigns
International news
Sanjay Seth Represents India at 80th Victory Day Celebration in Moscow
Sanjay Seth, Minister of State for the Ministry of Defence, represented India at the 80th Victory Day celebration in Moscow, Russia, on 9 May 2025. Initially, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was set to participate in the event, but due to the Pahalgam terror incident, he sent Sanjay Seth as his representative.
During his visit, Sanjay Seth met Russian President Vladimir Putin, as well as Russian Deputy Defence Minister Colonel General Alexander Fomin. They discussed military cooperation and military-technical collaboration, agreeing to further deepen their ties under the existing institutional mechanisms.
This visit reaffirmed the strategic relationship between India and Russia.
Victory Day Celebration in Russia
Date of Celebration: 9 May The Victory Day celebration in Russia is held annually in Moscow’s Red Square to commemorate the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. On 9 May 1945, Nazi Germany signed the instrument of surrender, ending the war. The surrender agreement was signed on 8 May 1945, but due to the time zone difference, Russia observes the day on 9 May.
Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, Russian President Boris Yeltsin made the event an annual tradition from 9 May 1995. The day is dedicated to the 25-27 million Soviet citizens who lost their lives during the war.
The event features a military parade showcasing Russia’s military power.
Participation of World Leaders
Each year, Russia invites world leaders to participate in the Victory Day celebration. This year, the Chinese President Xi Jinping was the chief guest.
Several other global leaders also attended, including:
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic
Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas
World Bank Land Conference 2025 Held in Washington DC, USA
The World Bank Land Conference 2025 (WBLC 2025), a major international event in the land sector, was held from May 5 to 8, 2025, in Washington DC, United States of America.
The World Bank, based in Washington, has been hosting the Land Conference for over 20 years, gathering over 1,000 participants from government, academia, civil society, and the private sector.
Theme of WBLC 2025
“Securing Land Tenure and Access for Climate Action: Moving from Awareness”
This theme focused on strengthening land rights to support climate action.
India Recognized as Country Champion
India was honored as a Country Champion at the conference.
Recognition was given under the leadership of Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR).
This highlighted India’s leadership in inclusive land governance and empowerment at the grassroots level.
India’s Contribution Showcased
A high-level Indian delegation, led by Vivek Bharadwaj, showcased key digital land governance initiatives:
SWAMITVA Scheme – Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas.
Gram Manchitra – An advanced GIS-based spatial planning platform used for rural planning.
These were presented at two major sessions during the conference.
Minister of State (MoS): S.P. Singh Baghel – Constituency: Agra, Uttar Pradesh
Pakistan Launched Operation Bunyan al-Marsus Against India
On May 10, 2025, Pakistan launched a military campaign named Operation Bunyan al-Marsus targeting Indian military installations in Jammu and Kashmir, Pathankot (Punjab), and Bhuj (Gujarat).
This was in retaliation to India’s Operation Sindoor, conducted on May 7, 2025.
Meaning and Origin of the Operation’s Name
The operation’s name, Bunyan al-Marsus, is derived from the Quran, meaning “a wall constructed of molten lead”, symbolizing unity, strength, and resilience.
Key Aspects of the Operation
The operation was commanded by Pakistan’s military leadership, led by General Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff.
A Fatah-II hypersonic ballistic missile was launched by Pakistan targeting Delhi but was successfully intercepted by Indian Air Defence Systems in Sirsa, Haryana.
The strike followed India’s attacks on three Pakistani airbases:
Nur Khan Air Base near Rawalpindi
Murid Air Base in Chakwal, around 120 km from Islamabad
Rafiqui Air Base in Shorkot, Punjab province
Ceasefire Agreement
On May 10, 2025, India and Pakistan agreed to a full and immediate ceasefire, ending the most intense escalation between the two nations in decades.
The ceasefire was brokered through diplomatic efforts, with US President Donald Trump playing a crucial role.
Media Address and Operation Details
On May 11, 2025, Pakistan’s DG of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Major General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, addressed the media detailing the conduct and conclusion of Operation Bunyan al-Marsus.
About Fatah-II Missile System
Fatah-II is a guided Multi-Launch Rocket System (MLRS) developed by Pakistan.
It has a strike range of 450 km, an upgrade from Fatah-I, which has a range of 140 km.
In 2024, a test trial of Fatah-II demonstrated precision-strike capability with a Circular Error Probable (CEP) of less than 10 meters.
About Pakistan
Prime Minister: Shehbaz Sharif
Capital: Islamabad
Currency: Pakistani Rupee (PKR)
Banking news
RBI Eases FPI Norms to Boost Corporate Bond Inflows
In May 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra, introduced new relaxations for Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) investing in Indian corporate bonds. The objective is to attract more foreign inflows by simplifying investment rules.
Key Changes Announced by RBI
Short-Term Debt Investment Limits Removed: Earlier, FPIs could only invest up to 30 percent of their total corporate bond investments in securities with residual maturity of one year or less. This restriction has now been removed.
Concentration Limits Eliminated: Previously, investment in corporate debt securities by an individual FPI or its related entities was restricted to:
15 percent of the investment limit for long-term FPIs
10 percent for other FPIs These limits have been abolished to give investors more flexibility.
Immediate Implementation: These revised norms are effective immediately, as per the RBI circular.
New Digital Lending Reporting Norms
Under RBI’s Digital Lending Directions 2025:
All Banks and other Regulated Entities (REs) must report details of their Digital Lending Applications (DLAs) via the Centralised Information Management System (CIMS) portal.
The CIMS portal will be operational from May 13, 2025.
Regulated Entities must upload initial data by June 15, 2025.
Bhutan Launches World’s First National Crypto Tourism Payment System
In May 2025, Bhutan made history by launching the world’s first national cryptocurrency tourism payment system. This initiative is a collaboration between Binance Pay (a subsidiary of Binance Holdings Limited) and DK Bank of Bhutan, the country’s first fully digital bank.
The system allows international tourists to use cryptocurrencies for making payments during their stay in Bhutan, aiming to promote cashless travel, financial inclusion, and technological innovation.
Key Features of the System
Cashless Travel Experience: Tourists with Binance accounts can use over 100 cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (BTC), Binance Coin (BNB), and United States Dollar Coin (USDC) to pay for:
Airline tickets
Visa fees
Hotel bookings
Monument entries
Tour guides and local purchases
QR Code-Based Payments: Real-time transactions are made possible via static and dynamic QR codes, eliminating the need for traditional card terminals.
Automatic Currency Conversion: Payments in crypto are instantly converted to Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN) by DK Bank, ensuring stable payouts for vendors.
Financial Inclusion: Over 100 Bhutanese businesses, including those in remote areas, have adopted this system, giving them access to the global USD 3 trillion cryptocurrency market.
Benefits for Travelers and Merchants
Lower Transaction Costs: Tourists benefit from reduced foreign exchange fees and lower transaction costs.
Global Market Access: Bhutanese merchants can now connect with global digital finance platforms, enhancing their economic reach.
About Binance Pay
Binance Pay is a crypto payment platform developed by Binance Holdings Ltd, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume. It allows users to send, receive, and pay with multiple cryptocurrencies securely.
About Bhutan
Prime Minister – Dasho Tshering Tobgay
Capital – Thimphu
Currency – Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN)
SMBC Acquires 20% Stake in YES Bank for Rs 13,483 Crore
In May 2025, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Japan’s 2nd largest banking group, Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc. (SMFG), entered into a definitive agreement to acquire a 20% stake in YES Bank Limited, based in Mumbai, Maharashtra, through a secondary stake purchase valued at approximately Rs 13,483 crore.
This acquisition marks the largest cross-border investment in the Indian banking sector and is expected to propel YES Bank’s next phase of growth, profitability, and value creation. The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Competition Commission of India (CCI).
Key Details of the Transaction
SBI’s Stake Divestment:
As part of this transaction, State Bank of India (SBI) will divest its 13.19% stake in YES Bank at Rs 21.50 per equity share, amounting to Rs 8,889 crore.
SBI’s shareholding in YES Bank will reduce from 23.97% to just over 10% after the deal.
Private Banks Divestment:
7 private banks including ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Axis Bank, IDFC First Bank, Federal Bank, and Bandhan Bank will divest a combined 6.81% stake in YES Bank, valued at Rs 4,594 crore.
Key Points to Note
In March 2020, SBI and the other 7 private banks invested in YES Bank under a Reconstruction Scheme approved by RBI.
As of March 31, 2025, the private banks held stakes in YES Bank as follows:
HDFC Bank (2.75%)
ICICI Bank (2.39%)
Kotak Mahindra Bank (1.21%)
Axis Bank (1.01%)
IDFC First Bank (0.92%)
Federal Bank (0.76%)
Bandhan Bank (0.70%)
Both Federal Bank and Bandhan Bank announced the sale of 0.5% of their stakes in YES Bank, bringing Bandhan Bank’s stake down to 0.21% from 0.7%.
YES Bank was advised by Citigroup Global Markets Private Limited (Citi) as its financial advisor and AZB & Partners as its legal advisor.
In May 2025, Porter, a Bengaluru (Karnataka)-based on-demand logistics platform, raised USD 200 million (approx. Rs. 1700 crore) in a Series F funding round, making it India’s 3rd unicorn of 2025 after Netradyne and Juspay.
Porter focuses on enhancing urban logistics, supporting Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and empowering gig workers across the country.
Key Funding Highlights
Investors: Funding was led by:
Kedaara Capital Investment Managers Ltd (Mumbai-based private equity firm)
Wellington Management Company (Boston, USA-based global asset manager)
Funding Type: Combination of primary capital infusion and secondary share sales by existing shareholders.
Purpose of Funding:
Expansion to new cities
Strengthening technology infrastructure
Supporting over 1 million gig workers
Valuation: With this funding, Porter’s valuation reached between USD 1.1 billion to USD 1.2 billion, earning the unicorn status (startup valued over USD 1 billion).
What is Series F Funding?
A Series F round is typically the sixth major venture capital funding stage.
Involves mature startups that have already completed earlier rounds (Series A to E).
Used to secure additional capital for further growth or strategic objectives.
About Porter
Founded: In 2014 by IIT graduates – Pranav Goel, Uttam Digga (CEO), and Vikas Choudhary (Executive Vice Chairman).
Services:
Intra-city logistics solutions
On-demand trucks, packers and movers, and enterprise logistics
Operations:
Present in 22 cities across India
Active in 2 international markets
Serves over 30 lakh customers
Engages around 3 lakh gig workers monthly
State news
Uttar Pradesh Adds 12 New Products Under ODOP Scheme The Uttar Pradesh government has expanded its One District, One Product (ODOP) Scheme by adding 12 new products, bringing the total number of products under the scheme to 74. The scheme was launched by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on 24 January 2018, aiming to enhance the popularity and sales of indigenous products and crafts from the state’s districts.
Newly Included Products Under ODOP:
The 12 newly added products are:
Baghpat: Agricultural implements and accessories
Saharanpur: Hosiery products
Firozabad: Food processing
Ghaziabad: Metal products and textile/apparel items
Amroha: Metal and wooden handicrafts
Agra: Petha industry and all types of footwear
Hamirpur: Metal products
Bareilly: Wooden products
Etah: Chicory products
Pratapgarh: Food processing
Bijnor: Rushes and related products
Ballia: Sattu product
About the One District One Product (ODOP) Scheme:
Launch Date: The scheme was launched on 24 January 2018 by the Uttar Pradesh government.
Objective:
Promote and enhance the sales of unique, indigenous products from each of Uttar Pradesh’s 75 districts.
Each district identifies its unique product, which is then given a Geographical Indication (GI) tag to certify its origin.
Support:
The state provides financial support to manufacturers.
A common marketing facility is created to promote these products both nationally and internationally.
Impact: The scheme aims to create employment opportunities, increase exports, and contribute towards Uttar Pradesh’s goal of achieving a one-trillion-dollar economy by 2029.
Delhi Assembly: First in the Country to Be Fully Powered by Solar Power
The Delhi Legislative Assembly has become the first legislative assembly in India to be fully powered by solar energy. On 12 May 2025, the Delhi Legislative Assembly Speaker, Vijendra Gupta, and Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Vinai Kumar Saxena, jointly laid the foundation stone for a 500-kilowatt solar power plant at the assembly premises. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta was the chief guest at the ceremony.
This achievement adds to Delhi’s growing solar power initiatives, following the installation of the country’s first vertical bi-facial solar plant by Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) at the Okhla Vihar Metro Station.
Solar Power Project of the Delhi Assembly
Current Setup: A 200-kilowatt rooftop solar power plant currently partially meets the energy needs of the Delhi Legislative Assembly.
Upgrade Plans: The existing plant will be dismantled and replaced by a new 500-kilowatt rooftop solar power plant covering 3,250 square feet.
Project Timeline: The new solar power plant is expected to be completed in 45 days and fully commissioned before the next Delhi Legislative Assembly monsoon session.
Cost and Output: The Rs 2 crore project is expected to generate 8,20,000 units annually, sufficient to meet the assembly’s energy requirements of 7,00,000 units.
Surplus Power: Any surplus electricity will be fed into the national electricity grid, generating revenue for the assembly.
Warranty and Benefits: The solar plant will come with a 30-year warranty and is expected to bring the Delhi Assembly’s electricity bill to zero, significantly reducing the carbon footprint of the assembly.
Status of Solar Power in India
As of 31 January 2025, India’s total installed solar power capacity stands at 100.3 GW, making it the fourth country globally, after China, the United States, and Germany, to reach this milestone.
India’s Solar Target: India aims to achieve a 500 GW installed power capacity from clean energy sources (including solar, wind, small hydropower, and nuclear energy) by 2030.
UP CM Yogi Adityanath Unveils ‘UP-AGREES’ and ‘AI Pragya’ with World Bank Support
In May 2025, Uttar Pradesh (UP) Chief Minister (CM)Yogi Adityanath, along with Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank (WB), jointly launched two key initiatives: UP AGREES (Uttar Pradesh Agriculture Growth and Rural Enterprise Ecosystem Strengthening) and AI Pragya (Artificial Intelligence Programme for Resourcefulness, Awareness, Growth, and Youth Advancement). These initiatives aim to drive agricultural innovation and digital transformation in the state of UP during a launch event in Lucknow.
Key Initiatives
UP AGREES Initiative: The UP AGREES project is designed to revolutionize agriculture in the 21 districts of the Bundelkhand and Purvanchal regions of UP. The aim is to enhance productivity and promote technology-based farming. The project has a budget of Rs. 4000 crore, with Rs. 2737 crore provided as a loan from the World Bank for a period of six years, while the UP government will contribute Rs. 1166 crore.
AI Pragya Initiative: The AI Pragya program aims to build a strong Artificial Intelligence (AI) talent base in UP by training 10 lakh youths across the state. This initiative will equip young individuals with the digital skills necessary for success in emerging technological fields.
About Uttar Pradesh (UP)
Chief Minister (CM): Yogi Adityanath
Governor: Anandiben Patel
Capital: Lucknow
National Park (NP): Dudhwa National Park
Karnataka and IN-SPACe Sign MoUs to Boost Space Industry
In May 2025, the Government of Karnataka and Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe), based in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to strengthen Karnataka’s position in India’s commercial space sector. These agreements focus on setting up a Centre of Excellence (CoE) for space technologies and a public-private space manufacturing park.
The MoUs were signed by Dr. Ekroop Caur, Secretary to the Government (Electronics, IT, Biotechnology, and Science & Technology) of Karnataka, and Lochan Sehra, Joint Secretary of IN-SPACe. The signing ceremony was attended by Dr. Shalini Rajneesh, IAS, Chief Secretary of Karnataka, and Dr. Pawan Goenka, Chairman of IN-SPACe.
Key Initiatives
Centre of Excellence (CoE) for Space Technologies:
Located in Bengaluru (Karnataka), this center will focus on driving research and innovation in the space technology domain.
Space Manufacturing Park:
A public-private partnership model will be used to develop a manufacturing park aimed at next-generation satellite and launch vehicle production.
Alignment with Indian Space Policy
These initiatives are in line with the Indian Space Policy, 2023, which aims to promote innovation and support the growth of the NewSpace ecosystem in India.
Karnataka’s Strong Space Infrastructure
Karnataka already has a robust space-related infrastructure, including key institutions like:
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL)
Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL)
National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL)
Books and author news
Book Launch of “India@2047: Leading the Global Economic Order”
In May 2025, Shyam Prakash Sharma, Chief Economist at New Economic Order Economists and the Chief Economist of the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, released his book titled “India@2047: Leading the Global Economic Order”. The launch event was held at Juniper Hall, India Habitat Centre in New Delhi, Delhi.
The book aims to envision India’s growth and its path to becoming a global economic leader by the 100th year of its independence in 2047.
Key Points of the Book
Key Enablers of Economic Transformation: The book identifies important enablers of India’s journey towards global economic leadership, including initiatives like:
Make in India
Pradhan Mantri (PM) Gati Shakti
Record-breaking Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), which has surpassed USD 1 trillion.
India’s Economic Strengths: The book highlights India’s strong macroeconomic fundamentals, such as:
Rising tax revenues
High foreign exchange reserves
Stable debt-to-GDP ratio, showcasing a maturing and stable economy.
Chapters Overview: The book is structured into seven chapters, focusing on India’s economic growth through various lenses:
Reforms
Digital innovation
Sustainability
Global integration
India’s Role in Global Forums: The book discusses India’s evolving influence in international forums, including:
Group of 20 nations (G-20)
BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa)
Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC)
Sports news
India Wins Tri-Nation ODI Series in Sri Lanka
The Indian women’s cricket team, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, emerged victorious in the three-nation ODI Tri-Series in Sri Lanka, defeating the host nation in the final by 97 runs. The series, which took place from 27 April to 11 May 2025, saw Sri Lanka, India, and South Africa competing.
Tournament Details:
Venue: All matches were held at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
League Stage Performance:
India won one match and lost one match against the host Sri Lanka.
India won both its matches against the South African team.
Points Table: India topped the points table in the league stage and secured a spot in the final. Sri Lanka finished second and also advanced to the final.
Important days
National Technology Day 2025 – May 11
National Technology Day is celebrated annually on May 11. The celebrations for May 11, 2025, will be organized by the Technology Development Board (TDB). It will feature participation from scientists, technocrats, industry leaders, academic institutions, policymakers, and startup founders.
The 2025 edition marks the 27th celebration of National Technology Day, commemorating the historic 1998 Pokhran nuclear tests. The Technology Development Board (TDB), under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Ministry of Science and Technology (MoS&T), has unveiled the official theme for the year as “YANTRA – Yugantar for Advancing New Technology, Research & Acceleration”.
Background
Historic Significance: National Technology Day marks the historic achievements of May 11, 1998, when India conducted Operation Shakti (Pokhran-II) nuclear tests and saw the maiden flight of the indigenous Hansa-3 aircraft.
Declaration by Atal Bihari Vajpayee: In recognition of these milestones, former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee declared May 11 as National Technology Day in 1999.
First National Technology Day: The Council for Technology organized the first-ever National Technology Day on May 11, 1999.
International Day of Vesak or Buddha Purnima 2025 – May 12
The United Nations (UN) International Day of Vesak, also known as Buddha Purnima, is celebrated every year on the Full Moon day in May to honor Lord Buddha’s teachings and promote global cultural harmony.
In 2025, the International Day of Vesak was observed on May 12, marking the **2,587th birth anniversary of Gautama Buddha.
Key Points
UN Recognition: On December 15, 1999, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) passed Resolution A/RES/54/115, officially recognizing the International Day of Vesak, which is observed annually on the Full Moon day in May. The first International Day of Vesak was celebrated in 2000.
Vietnam Hosting: The 2025 celebration of International Day of Vesak was hosted by the Vietnam Buddhist Academy in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The theme for 2025 was “Solidarity and Tolerance for Human Dignity; Buddhist Wisdom for World Peace and Sustainable Development”.
India’s Participation: For the first time, India showcased the sacred Buddha relics from Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh (UP) in Vietnam during the celebrations.
PMFBY Claim Settlement Update: 97% Claims Resolved; Goa, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu Achieve 100%
In April 2025, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW) presented data in the Lok Sabha highlighting the performance of the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) and the Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS). The data reveals that 97% of total reported claims—amounting to Rs 1,34,353 crore out of Rs 1,38,401 crore—have been successfully settled across the country.
Key Highlights:
States with 100% Claim Settlement:
Goa, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu achieved 100% claim settlement under the schemes.
States with the Highest Claims Filed (FY 2018-19 to FY 2023-24):
Maharashtra – Rs 33,259 crore (Approx. 24% of total claims)
Rajasthan – Rs 25,284 crore
Madhya Pradesh (MP) – Rs 22,749 crore
States with the Highest Claims Paid (as of March 31, 2025):
Maharashtra – Rs 32,628 crore
Madhya Pradesh – Rs 22,274 crore
Rajasthan – Rs 24,806 crore
States/UTs with the Lowest Claims Paid in Last 6 Years:
Goa – Rs 0.1 crore
Andaman & Nicobar Islands – Rs 0.1 crore
Sikkim – Rs 0.6 crore
Manipur – Rs 6.2 crore
This data reflects the strong implementation of crop insurance schemes in major agricultural states while also highlighting regions where participation and payouts remain minimal.
Atal Pension Yojana (APY): Empowering India’s Unorganised Sector with Retirement Security
The Atal Pension Yojana (APY) is a flagship social security scheme launched by the Government of India under the Ministry of Finance (MoF) on May 9, 2015, and became operational on June 1, 2015. The scheme is aimed at providing retirement benefits to workers in the unorganised sector, ensuring financial protection for the poor and underprivileged sections of society.
Key Highlights of Atal Pension Yojana:
Administered By:
Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA)
Operates under the National Pension System (NPS) architecture
Scheme Features:
Voluntary savings scheme offering defined pension benefits
Pension amount is linked to the subscriber’s age at joining and monthly contributions
Eligibility (Initial): All Indian citizens aged 18 to 40 years
Revised Eligibility: From October 1, 2022, income tax payers are excluded from the scheme
Enrolment & Corpus Growth:
Enrolment rose from 1.54 crore (March 2019) to 7.65 crore (April 2025)
Total corpus mobilized: ₹ 45,974.67 crore
About PFRDA:
Purpose: Regulates and promotes the pension sector in India
Statutory Status: Granted through the PFRDA Act, 2013, notified on February 1, 2014
Under:Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance
Chairman:Sivasubramanian Ramann
Headquarters:New Delhi
Established:2013
The Atal Pension Yojana continues to serve as a crucial pillar for retirement planning in India’s vast unorganised workforce, significantly increasing financial inclusion and long-term social security.
Expansion of Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS): Boosting Capital Access for Innovation-Led Enterprises
In May 2025, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoC&I) notified a significant expansion of the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS). This move is aimed at enhancing capital mobilization for startups, especially those involved in innovation, R&D, and cutting-edge technologies. The expansion replaces the earlier notification dated October 6, 2022, and is effective from May 8, 2025.
Key Highlights of the CGSS Expansion:
Increased Guarantee Limit:
Guarantee cover per borrower doubled from ₹10 crore to ₹20 crore
Enhanced Coverage:
For loans up to ₹10 crore: 85% of default amount is guaranteed
For loans above ₹10 crore: 75% of default amount is guaranteed
Reduced Annual Guarantee Fee (AGF):
For startups in 27 Champion Sectors: reduced from 2% to 1% per annum
Champion Sectors are identified under the Make in India initiative
This will encourage innovation in domestic manufacturing and support self-reliance
Impact:
Reduced risk for financial institutions lending to startups
Encourages greater R&D, experimentation, and technological innovation
Ensures better financial flow and longer runway for early-stage enterprises
About the CGSS:
Launched: October 6, 2022
Purpose: Provide credit guarantees for loans to DPIIT-recognized startups
Managed by:National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company Limited (NCGTC) under Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance
Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoC&I):
Union Minister:Piyush Goyal (Mumbai North, Maharashtra)
Minister of State:Jitin Prasada (Pilibhit, Uttar Pradesh)
Coal Ministry Signs Agreement to Promote Coal Gasification Projects under Financial Incentive Scheme
On May 8, 2025, the Ministry of Coal (MoC) signed the Coal Gasification Plant Development and Production Agreement (CGPDPA) with selected applicants under Category II of the Coal Gasification Financial Incentive Scheme (FIS). The initiative aims to promote cleaner and more sustainable energy alternatives by advancing coal gasification technology.
Important Highlights
The agreement supports the development of coal gasification plants, a cleaner alternative to traditional coal combustion.
Coal gasification converts coal into synthesis gas (syngas), reducing environmental impact.
Selected Category II Participants
The following companies have been chosen under Category II of the scheme:
Jindal Steel and Power Limited (JSP) – New Delhi, Delhi
New Era Cleantech Solution Private Limited – Mumbai, Maharashtra
Greta Energy and Metal Private Limited – Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Presence of Key Officials
Sanoj Kumar Jha, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Coal
Asheesh Kumar, Officer on Special Duty (Technical)
BK Thakur, Director (Technical), Ministry of Coal
Overview of the Financial Incentive Scheme for Coal Gasification
Launched in 2024 with a total budget of Rs 8500 crore
Objective: Achieve 100 million tonnes of coal gasification by 2030
Encourages participation from both public and private sector entities
Categories under the Scheme
Category I – Government Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs)
Budget: Rs 4050 crore
Support: Up to 3 projects
Grant: Rs 1350 crore or 15 percent of capital expenditure, whichever is lower
Disbursal: In two equal installments
Category II – Government PSUs and Private Sector Companies
Budget: Rs 3850 crore
Selection: Through transparent tariff-based bidding, in consultation with NITI Aayog
Grant: Rs 1000 crore or 15 percent of capital expenditure, whichever is lower
Category III – Demonstration Projects Using Indigenous Technology
Budget: Rs 600 crore
Grant: Rs 100 crore or 15 percent of capital expenditure, whichever is lower
Eligibility: Minimum capex of Rs 100 crore and syngas production of at least 1500 Nm³ per hour
Selection: Through transparent bidding
About the Ministry of Coal
Union Minister: G Kishan Reddy (Constituency – Secunderabad, Telangana)
Minister of State: Satish Chandra Dubey (Rajya Sabha – Bihar)
Adani Green Energy Becomes World’s First Renewable Energy IPP to Achieve Water Positivity
On May 8, 2025, Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL), based in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, achieved a significant global milestone by becoming the world’s first Renewable Energy (RE) Independent Power Producer (IPP) to become water positive. AGEL, a joint venture between the Adani Group and Total Energies (France), attained this status with a massive 14 GW operational portfolio, reaching the goal one year ahead of its FY26 target.
Key Highlights of AGEL’s Water Positive Achievement
First among top 10 global RE IPPs to be certified as water positive.
Certified by Intertek, a UK-based global assurance firm, after evaluating water usage and conservation data across:
103 operational sites
85 water conservation sites
Over 1.23 lakh people have benefited through 85 rejuvenated water ponds, especially in water-scarce regions.
More than 54 percent of AGEL’s operational capacity uses robotic, waterless cleaning technology for solar panels.
This alone helps save approximately 546 million litres of water annually.
Additional sustainability initiatives include:
Rainwater harvesting
Deepening of traditional water bodies
Pilot projects like condensing clean drinking water from humid air
AGEL’s entire operational portfolio achieved water positivity by FY25, a year ahead of schedule.
Understanding Water Positivity
Water positivity means that an organization returns more freshwater to the environment than it consumes during its operations. It involves:
Reducing and optimizing water usage
Preserving and replenishing natural water sources
Additional Certifications
AGEL’s operational portfolio is also:
Single-use plastic free
Zero waste-to-landfill compliant
About Adani Green Energy Limited
CEO: Ashish Khanna
Headquarters: Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Founded: 2016
India and Chile Sign Terms of Reference to Launch Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement
On May 8, 2025, India and Chile signed the Terms of Reference (ToR) for negotiating a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), marking a major step forward in strengthening bilateral trade and economic cooperation.
Key Highlights
The ToR was signed by:
H.E. Juan Angulo, Ambassador of Chile to India
Vimal Anand, Joint Secretary, Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce & Industry (MoC&I), and India’s Chief Negotiator for CEPA
First round of CEPA negotiations will begin on May 26, 2025.
Background and Timeline
2005: India and Chile signed a Framework Agreement on Economic Cooperation.
2006: A Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) was signed.
2016: An expanded PTA was signed and came into force on May 16, 2017.
2019: Both countries agreed to further expand the PTA.
2025: ToR for CEPA signed to launch a broader and deeper economic engagement.
Objectives of the India-Chile CEPA
Build on the existing PTA and expand trade coverage.
Australia and UK Universities to Establish Campuses in Navi Mumbai’s Educity
In May 2025, Maharashtra’s City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) signed agreements with two prestigious global universities—University of York (United Kingdom) and University of Western Australia (Australia)—to establish their campuses in Educity, Navi Mumbai, a world-class education hub.
Key Highlights
Location: Educity, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra
Investment: Rs. 1500 crore for each campus
Partner Universities:
University of York (UK)
University of Western Australia (Australia)
About the Campuses
The University of York campus is expected to begin operations in 2026, subject to approval from the University Grants Commission (UGC).
It will offer Undergraduate (UG) and Postgraduate (PG) programs in:
Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Cybersecurity
Business
Economics
Creative Industries
About Educity
Educity is a mega educational hub being developed by CIDCO in Navi Mumbai.
The project aims to host 10 to 12 globally top-ranked universities, creating a global standard education ecosystem in India.
Karnataka Startup Launches India’s First AI-Based All-in-One Agriculture App
In April 2025, SBOF Agrosmart Private Limited, a Belagavi, Karnataka-based startup, launched India’s first AI-powered all-in-one agriculture app, aimed at revolutionizing farming through Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and precision agriculture tools. The launch event took place in Belagavi in the presence of Karnataka’s Minister of Public Works, Satish Jarkiholi.
Objective: To empower farmers with smart, real-time, data-driven solutions using AI and IoT
Launch Location: Belagavi, Karnataka
Technology: Integrates AI, IoT, and precision farming methods
Features of the App
24/7 Multilingual Chatbot Assistance: Ensures continuous support in multiple languages
Real-Time Crop Advisory: Provides region-specific, data-backed recommendations for crop health and productivity
Government Scheme Updates: Keeps farmers updated on the latest schemes and subsidies for informed financial planning
Addresses Key Challenges: Helps mitigate issues like unpredictable climate, market volatility, pest outbreaks, poor input quality, and lack of access to schemes and technology
India Contributes to Major Milestone in ITER Fusion Project
In April 2025, the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), the world’s largest nuclear fusion project located in southern France, achieved a key milestone in developing its main magnet system. India played a pivotal role in building essential infrastructure for confining super-hot plasma particles, which are crucial for fusion energy production.
Key Highlights
Collaborators: ITER is a global project involving the United States, China, Japan, Russia, and the European Union (EU), with more than 30 countries participating.
India’s Contribution: India was instrumental in designing and manufacturing critical components, including the cryostat and cryolines for cooling the magnets.
Central Solenoid: The final component of the magnet system, the Central Solenoid, has been completed and tested by the USA and will be assembled in France. This magnet will drive the plasma for fusion reactions.
Future Milestone: The start-up phase of the ITER project is scheduled for 2033.
India’s Role
Cryostat: India designed and built the 30-meter tall and wide cryostat, which houses the entire ITER Tokamak.
Cryolines: India constructed the cryolines that carry liquid helium to cool the magnets to minus 269°C, necessary for superconductivity.
Other Contributions: India also provided the reactor’s in-wall shielding, cooling systems, and key parts of the heating systems that will increase plasma temperature to over 150 million°C (10 times hotter than the Sun’s core).
About Tokamak Reactor
Function: The Tokamak reactor is an experimental device designed to achieve controlled nuclear fusion, mimicking the process that powers the Sun.
Design: It uses powerful magnetic fields to confine superheated plasma in a doughnut-shaped chamber and enables atomic nuclei to fuse, releasing energy.
Development: Initially developed by Soviet researchers in the 1960s, the Tokamak design is now considered the leading approach for magnetic confinement fusion worldwide.
State news
Delhi Police Launches ‘Nayi Disha’ Initiative to Reinstate School Dropouts
In a significant step towards community empowerment, Delhi Police has launched the ‘Nayi Disha – A Path Back to Learning’ programme aimed at reintegrating school dropouts into the education system. This initiative focuses on engaging with families, understanding the causes of dropout, and providing holistic support through collaboration with NGOs, schools, and social workers.
Key Highlights:
Target Group: The programme specifically targets children who dropped out of school due to financial, domestic, or academic challenges.
Direct Engagement: Police officers will conduct door-to-door outreach to identify and support affected children, ensuring a direct approach to tackle the problem.
Holistic Support: The initiative offers emotional counselling, academic assistance, and admission facilitation to help children re-enter the education system.
Collaboration with Stakeholders: Partnerships with NGOs, schools, and social workers aim to provide necessary resources, such as funding and tuition support, for a successful reintegration.
Implementation Strategy:
Personal Visits: Police officers will visit the families of dropouts to understand the underlying reasons for school abandonment.
Supportive Measures: Emotional counselling and psychological support will be offered to motivate children and parents.
NGO Collaboration: Non-governmental organizations will assist with funding, tuition, and mentorship.
School Re-enrollment: Schools are encouraged to facilitate a smooth re-enrollment process for the children returning to education.
Background Context:
Many children in Delhi drop out of school due to issues like poverty, domestic instability, and lack of academic support. By shifting their role from law enforcement to social empowerment, the Delhi Police aims to address these challenges and promote educational continuity for disadvantaged children.
Significance of the Initiative:
Transforming Police Role: This initiative highlights the shift from a protective to an empowering role for the police, making them social mentors in urban governance.
Long-term Social Goals: It aligns with broader social development goals related to education and child welfare.
Model for Other Cities: The programme could serve as a model for other metropolitan cities grappling with similar dropout issues.
Building Trust: It also aims to strengthen community trust in police institutions through active involvement in community development.
International news
58th Annual Meeting of ADB Board of Governors Held in Milan
The 58th Annual Meeting (AM) of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) Board of Governors took place from May 4 to 7, 2025, at the Allianz MiCo-Milano Convention Centre in Milan, Italy.
Theme and Inauguration
The theme of the meeting was “Sharing Experience, Building Tomorrow”.
Masato Kanda, President of ADB, inaugurated the event.
Key Highlights
Indian Delegation: The Indian delegation was led by Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, from the Ministry of Finance (MoF) and Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MoCA), along with officials from the Department of Economic Affairs (DoEA).
ADB’s Commitment to India: ADB committed USD 5 billion in loans, grants, and other forms of assistance to India in 2024.
Record Financial Performance: The Board of Governors approved ADB’s 2024 financial statements and reported a record-breaking USD 1.539 billion allocation from its net income, marking the highest net income allocation in the bank’s nearly 60-year history.
From April 28 to May 2, 2025, the Quad partners – India, Australia, Japan, and the United States of America (USA) – conducted a Tabletop Exercise (TTX) at the Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies (APCSS) in Honolulu, Hawaii. The exercise simulated the launch of the Quad Indo-Pacific Logistics Network (IPLN), focusing on enhancing maritime coordination among the nations.
Key Objectives of the Tabletop Exercise (TTX)
The exercise was designed to simulate real-world maritime scenarios, aiming to improve coordination, interoperability, and information-sharing among the Quad nations and maritime agencies.
About the Quad Indo-Pacific Logistics Network (IPLN)
Purpose: The IPLN is a strategic initiative to boost logistics capabilities among the Quad nations for disaster response in the Indo-Pacific region.
Focus: It ensures faster, coordinated, and efficient deployment of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), creating a robust logistics network.
Key Features of IPLN
Civilian-First Focus: Prioritizes effective responses to natural disasters such as cyclones, tsunamis, and public health emergencies.
Shared Logistics Framework: Encourages joint resource planning, digital logistics mapping, and real-time tracking for efficient crisis management.
Interoperability: Strengthens logistical coordination and builds mutual trust among the Quad nations, enabling scalable crisis responses.
Technology-Driven: Promotes the use of digital tools for improving the supply chain’s responsiveness.
Regional Reach: Targets the Indo-Pacific region, including islands, coastal nations, and remote areas prone to disasters.
Complementary Initiatives
Quad Pandemic Preparedness Workshop 2025: Held in New Delhi, India in March 2025, under India’s Quad presidency.
Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA): Focuses on maritime security and the monitoring of illegal fishing using satellite technology.
About the Quad
Purpose: The Quad is an informal strategic group focused on strengthening cooperation and ensuring maritime security, economic growth, and regional stability in the Indo-Pacific, particularly in response to China’s growing influence.
History: Launched in 2007 by Japanese PM Shinzo Abe, with support from Australia, India, and the USA, the initiative was revived in 2017.
Appointment news
Cardinal Robert Prevost Elected as the 267th Pope of the Catholic Church
On May 8, 2025, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a U.S.-based clergy member, was elected as the 267th Pope of the Catholic Church during the Papal conclave held in the Sistine Chapel, Vatican City.
Key Points:
Pope Name: He adopted the name Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first pope from the United States.
Succession: He succeeds Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025.
Selection Process:
Following the death of Pope Francis, 133 cardinals from around the world gathered at the Papal conclave in Vatican City to elect the new pope.
Cardinal Prevost was chosen after the fourth ballot, held on the second day of the conclave.
Defence news
BrahMos Missile Manufacturing Facility Inaugurated in Lucknow by Rajnath Singh
India has taken a major step towards defence self-reliance with the inauguration of the BrahMos missile production facility in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh on May 11, 2025. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh virtually inaugurated the facility, developed by BrahMos Aerospace with an investment of ₹300 crore. The unit is part of the Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor and aims to boost indigenous missile manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Key Highlights
Inauguration Date: May 11, 2025
Inaugurated by: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh (virtually)
Technological Advancement: Introduces advanced missile manufacturing technologies in Uttar Pradesh
Job Creation: Expected to generate around 500 direct and thousands of indirect employment opportunities
Economic Growth: Boosts local economy and positions Lucknow as a key defence manufacturing hub
Technology Transfer: Facilitates growth of the aerospace sector with new tools and processes
Background and Broader Impact
BrahMos Aerospace was formed as an Indo-Russian joint venture between DRDO and NPO Mashinostroyenia.
The Lucknow facility was developed on land allocated in December 2021 and is part of a larger initiative by the Uttar Pradesh Defence Corridor to attract defence investments.
The state has also allocated land to other defence companies, with an anticipated creation of over 3,000 jobs.
Award news
Sonu Sood to Receive Humanitarian Award at Miss World 2025 for COVID-19 Relief Work
Renowned Bollywood actor and philanthropist Sonu Sood will be honoured with the Humanitarian Award by the Miss World Organisation during the 72nd Miss World Festival. The award recognises his selfless contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic and his continued efforts in social welfare. The event will be held on May 31, 2025, at the HITEX Arena in Hyderabad, Telangana.
Key Highlights
Award: Humanitarian Award
Recipient: Sonu Sood
Event: 72nd Miss World Festival
Venue: HITEX Arena, Hyderabad, Telangana
Date: May 31, 2025
Organised by: Miss World Organisation
Special Role: Sonu Sood will also serve as a grand finale judge at the Miss World pageant
Reason for the Honour
COVID-19 Relief Efforts:
Arranged transport for stranded migrant workers and students
Provided oxygen cylinders and medical aid during the second wave
Distributed food, medicines, and essentials across India
Sood Charity Foundation (SCF) Initiatives:
Focus areas: Education, healthcare, disaster relief, and skill development
Continuation of relief activities beyond the pandemic
Statements from Leaders
Sonu Sood: “This award reinforces our purpose—to bring hope, support, and dignity to those in need.”
Julia Morley, CEO of Miss World Organisation: “His compassion and tireless dedication reflect the true spirit of ‘Beauty with a Purpose.’”
Background
Sonu Sood rose to national and global recognition during India’s COVID-19 lockdown in 2020. His hands-on approach to supporting the vulnerable during the crisis earned him wide appreciation, which later evolved into structured charitable programs through his foundation.
Significance
This international honour reaffirms Sonu Sood’s impact as a humanitarian and positions him as a global role model for compassion and community service.
Sports news
Virat Kohli Retires from Test Cricket Marking the End of a Glorious Era
Cricketing iconVirat Kohli has officially announced his retirement from Test cricket, closing a remarkable chapter in Indian and world cricket. Known for his fiery passion, disciplined leadership, and consistent run-scoring, Kohli’s contribution to the longest format of the game will be remembered for generations.
Career Overview
Test Debut: 2011
Total Matches: 123
Total Runs: 9230
Batting Average: 46.85
Centuries: 30
Half-Centuries: 31
Highest Score: 254 not out vs South Africa (Pune, 2019)
Double Centuries: 7
India’s Fourth-Highest Test Run Scorer after Tendulkar, Dravid, and Gavaskar
Impactful Test Captaincy
Captaincy Tenure: 2014–2022
Matches as Captain: 68
Wins: 40
Losses: 17
Win Percentage: 58.82 percent (highest among Indian Test captains)
Milestone Victory: First-ever Indian Test series win in Australia (2018–19)
Other Achievements: India reached No. 1 in ICC Test rankings during his leadership
Final Series and Recent Form
Last Match: 2025 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Sydney
Series Result: Australia won 3-1
Runs Scored in Series: 190 in 9 innings with 1 century
Age at Retirement: 36
Reason for Retirement: Decline in recent form and a natural transition phase
End of an Era
Kohli’s retirement closely follows Rohit Sharma’s exit from the Test format, marking a significant shift in Indian Test cricket leadership.
Rising star Shubman Gill is being considered for the role of Test captain.
India now faces the challenge of rebuilding the team’s core ahead of the upcoming five-match Test series in England.
Legacy of Kohli’s Test Career
One of the few Indian batsmen to score centuries in all major Test-playing nations — Australia, England, South Africa, and New Zealand.
His seven double centuries are the most by an Indian captain.
Elevated the fitness standards of the Indian team and emphasized pace bowling depth and aggression.
Virat Kohli’s departure from Test cricket brings down the curtain on one of the most impactful careers in Indian cricket history, both as a batter and a leader. His legacy will inspire future generations of cricketers aiming to excel in red-ball cricket.
Science and tech news
Sarvam AI Launches ‘Bulbul v2’ Text-to-Speech Model Supporting 11 Indian Languages
In May 2025, Sarvam Artificial Intelligence (Sarvam AI), based in Bengaluru, Karnataka, launched ‘Bulbul v2’, an advanced AI-powered Text-to-Speech (TTS) model designed to offer natural-sounding speech in 11 Indian languages. This model enhances digital voice applications with authentic regional accents.
Key Features of Bulbul v2:
Supported Languages: The model supports Hindi, Marathi, Punjabi, Odia, Tamil, Bengali, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Gujarati, and English.
Flagship Model: Bulbul v2 is the upgraded version of Bulbul v1, which was released in August 2024.
Cost-Effective: It offers India-first pricing for API access, making AI speech services more affordable across the country.
Customization: Provides fine control over pitch, pace, and loudness, with multiple sample rates ranging from 8 kHz to 24 kHz.
Smart Normalization: Includes advanced features like smart normalization for numbers, dates, and mixed-language text, ensuring more accurate and natural speech output.
Books and author
Kaunain Sheriff M’s Book “The Johnson & Johnson Files: The Indian Secrets of a Global Giant” Released
In May 2025, Kaunain Sheriff M, the National Health Editor at The Indian Express, released his book titled “The Johnson & Johnson Files: The Indian Secrets of a Global Giant”. The book offers an in-depth investigation into a major medical device controversy involving Johnson & Johnson (J&J), one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies. The book was published by Juggernaut Books, based in New Delhi.
Key Highlights of the Book:
Focus on the ASR Hip Implant Scandal: The book explores the Articular Surface Replacement (ASR) hip implant scandal, which started in 2003 when J&J’s subsidiary DePuy Orthopaedics introduced the implants, claiming their durability.
Global Recall and Indian Impact: By 2010, the implants were globally recalled due to high failure rates and metal toxicity. However, approximately 4,700 Indian patients had already received them, unaware of the associated risks.
Investigative Foundation: Sheriff’s book builds upon investigative reports published by The Indian Express in 2018-2019, shedding light on corporate negligence and regulatory oversights that compromised patient safety.
Indian Patients’ Struggle for Justice: The narrative emphasizes the long battle faced by Indian patients who fought for justice and compensation, contrasting this with the USD 2.5 billion settlement that Johnson & Johnson provided to patients in the USA.
Important days
Time of Remembrance and Reconciliation for WWII Victims: 8-9 May 2025
The United Nations (UN) annually observes Time of Remembrance and Reconciliation for Those Who Lost Their Lives during the Second World War on 8th and 9th May to honor the victims of WWII, which claimed the lives of around 40 million civilians and 20 million soldiers.
2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII.
Key Points:
UN Resolution: On 22 November 2004, the UN General Assembly (UNGA) adopted the resolution A/RES/59/26, officially designating 8-9 May as a day of remembrance for WWII victims.
Global Tribute: The resolution encourages UN Member States, NGOs, and individuals worldwide to observe these days each year in tribute to the victims of WWII.
First Observance: The first observance was held in 2005, marking the 60th anniversary of the end of WWII and the 60th anniversary of the establishment of the UN.
About the United Nations (UN):
Secretary-General: António Guterres
Headquarters: New York, USA
Established: 1945
International Nurses Day 2025 Overview
International Nurses Day (IND) is celebrated globally on May 12 every year to mark the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. The day honors the crucial contributions of nurses to public health and healthcare systems worldwide.
Theme for 2025 The 2025 theme is: “Our Nurses. Our Future. Caring for nurses strengthens economies” This emphasizes the urgent need to invest in the well-being, rights, and professional development of nurses to strengthen both healthcare systems and economic stability.
Why It Matters in 2025 The theme reflects challenges like post-pandemic fatigue, nurse shortages, and the increasing strain on global health systems. The International Council of Nurses (ICN) urges governments and institutions to enhance support for nurses to ensure a resilient healthcare infrastructure.
Key Objectives of International Nurses Day 2025
Promote physical, mental, and occupational well-being of nurses
Advocate for increased funding, fair wages, and safe workplaces
Emphasize the link between nurse welfare and economic strength
Celebrate the dedication and compassion of nurses across the world
Historical Background
Florence Nightingale (1820–1910) revolutionized nursing during the Crimean War
In 1953, Dorothy Sutherland proposed a global nurses’ day
ICN officially established IND in 1965
May 12 was designated as the fixed date in 1974
The lamp symbolizes Nightingale’s legacy and features in lamp-lighting ceremonies
Themes from Previous Years
2024 – Our Nurses. Our Future: The Economic Power of Care
2023 – Our Nurses. Our Future
2022 – Nurses: A Voice to Lead – Invest in Nursing and Respect Rights to Secure Global Health
Significance of IND 2025
Highlights the global nursing crisis due to underinvestment
Promotes healthcare reforms focusing on education, staffing, and leadership
Encourages collaboration among nurses, governments, and healthcare bodies
Urges governments to prioritize nurse support for healthier societies and economie
Major Challenges Faced by Nurses Globally
Burnout and mental stress from high workloads
Inadequate compensation and prolonged working hours
Staff shortages and limited training opportunities
PMFBY Claim Settlement Update: 97% Claims Resolved; Goa, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu Achieve 100%
In April 2025, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW) presented data in the Lok Sabha highlighting the performance of the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) and the Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS). The data reveals that 97% of total reported claims—amounting to Rs 1,34,353 crore out of Rs 1,38,401 crore—have been successfully settled across the country.
Key Highlights:
States with 100% Claim Settlement:
Goa, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu achieved 100% claim settlement under the schemes.
States with the Highest Claims Filed (FY 2018-19 to FY 2023-24):
Maharashtra – Rs 33,259 crore (Approx. 24% of total claims)
Rajasthan – Rs 25,284 crore
Madhya Pradesh (MP) – Rs 22,749 crore
States with the Highest Claims Paid (as of March 31, 2025):
Maharashtra – Rs 32,628 crore
Madhya Pradesh – Rs 22,274 crore
Rajasthan – Rs 24,806 crore
States/UTs with the Lowest Claims Paid in Last 6 Years:
Goa – Rs 0.1 crore
Andaman & Nicobar Islands – Rs 0.1 crore
Sikkim – Rs 0.6 crore
Manipur – Rs 6.2 crore
This data reflects the strong implementation of crop insurance schemes in major agricultural states while also highlighting regions where participation and payouts remain minimal.
Atal Pension Yojana (APY): Empowering India’s Unorganised Sector with Retirement Security
The Atal Pension Yojana (APY) is a flagship social security scheme launched by the Government of India under the Ministry of Finance (MoF) on May 9, 2015, and became operational on June 1, 2015. The scheme is aimed at providing retirement benefits to workers in the unorganised sector, ensuring financial protection for the poor and underprivileged sections of society.
Key Highlights of Atal Pension Yojana:
Administered By:
Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA)
Operates under the National Pension System (NPS) architecture
Scheme Features:
Voluntary savings scheme offering defined pension benefits
Pension amount is linked to the subscriber’s age at joining and monthly contributions
Eligibility (Initial): All Indian citizens aged 18 to 40 years
Revised Eligibility: From October 1, 2022, income tax payers are excluded from the scheme
Enrolment & Corpus Growth:
Enrolment rose from 1.54 crore (March 2019) to 7.65 crore (April 2025)
Total corpus mobilized: ₹ 45,974.67 crore
About PFRDA:
Purpose: Regulates and promotes the pension sector in India
Statutory Status: Granted through the PFRDA Act, 2013, notified on February 1, 2014
Under:Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance
Chairman:Sivasubramanian Ramann
Headquarters:New Delhi
Established:2013
The Atal Pension Yojana continues to serve as a crucial pillar for retirement planning in India’s vast unorganised workforce, significantly increasing financial inclusion and long-term social security.
Adani Green Energy Becomes World’s First Renewable Energy IPP to Achieve Water Positivity
On May 8, 2025, Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL), based in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, achieved a significant global milestone by becoming the world’s first Renewable Energy (RE) Independent Power Producer (IPP) to become water positive. AGEL, a joint venture between the Adani Group and Total Energies (France), attained this status with a massive 14 GW operational portfolio, reaching the goal one year ahead of its FY26 target.
Key Highlights of AGEL’s Water Positive Achievement
First among top 10 global RE IPPs to be certified as water positive.
Certified by Intertek, a UK-based global assurance firm, after evaluating water usage and conservation data across:
103 operational sites
85 water conservation sites
Over 1.23 lakh people have benefited through 85 rejuvenated water ponds, especially in water-scarce regions.
More than 54 percent of AGEL’s operational capacity uses robotic, waterless cleaning technology for solar panels.
This alone helps save approximately 546 million litres of water annually.
Additional sustainability initiatives include:
Rainwater harvesting
Deepening of traditional water bodies
Pilot projects like condensing clean drinking water from humid air
AGEL’s entire operational portfolio achieved water positivity by FY25, a year ahead of schedule.
Understanding Water Positivity
Water positivity means that an organization returns more freshwater to the environment than it consumes during its operations. It involves:
Reducing and optimizing water usage
Preserving and replenishing natural water sources
Additional Certifications
AGEL’s operational portfolio is also:
Single-use plastic free
Zero waste-to-landfill compliant
About Adani Green Energy Limited
CEO: Ashish Khanna
Headquarters: Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Founded: 2016
India and Chile Sign Terms of Reference to Launch Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement
On May 8, 2025, India and Chile signed the Terms of Reference (ToR) for negotiating a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), marking a major step forward in strengthening bilateral trade and economic cooperation.
Key Highlights
The ToR was signed by:
H.E. Juan Angulo, Ambassador of Chile to India
Vimal Anand, Joint Secretary, Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce & Industry (MoC&I), and India’s Chief Negotiator for CEPA
First round of CEPA negotiations will begin on May 26, 2025.
Background and Timeline
2005: India and Chile signed a Framework Agreement on Economic Cooperation.
2006: A Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) was signed.
2016: An expanded PTA was signed and came into force on May 16, 2017.
2019: Both countries agreed to further expand the PTA.
2025: ToR for CEPA signed to launch a broader and deeper economic engagement.
Objectives of the India-Chile CEPA
Build on the existing PTA and expand trade coverage.
Australia and UK Universities to Establish Campuses in Navi Mumbai’s Educity
In May 2025, Maharashtra’s City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) signed agreements with two prestigious global universities—University of York (United Kingdom) and University of Western Australia (Australia)—to establish their campuses in Educity, Navi Mumbai, a world-class education hub.
Key Highlights
Location: Educity, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra
Investment: Rs. 1500 crore for each campus
Partner Universities:
University of York (UK)
University of Western Australia (Australia)
About the Campuses
The University of York campus is expected to begin operations in 2026, subject to approval from the University Grants Commission (UGC).
It will offer Undergraduate (UG) and Postgraduate (PG) programs in:
Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Cybersecurity
Business
Economics
Creative Industries
About Educity
Educity is a mega educational hub being developed by CIDCO in Navi Mumbai.
The project aims to host 10 to 12 globally top-ranked universities, creating a global standard education ecosystem in India.
Karnataka Startup Launches India’s First AI-Based All-in-One Agriculture App
In April 2025, SBOF Agrosmart Private Limited, a Belagavi, Karnataka-based startup, launched India’s first AI-powered all-in-one agriculture app, aimed at revolutionizing farming through Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and precision agriculture tools. The launch event took place in Belagavi in the presence of Karnataka’s Minister of Public Works, Satish Jarkiholi.
Objective: To empower farmers with smart, real-time, data-driven solutions using AI and IoT
Launch Location: Belagavi, Karnataka
Technology: Integrates AI, IoT, and precision farming methods
Features of the App
24/7 Multilingual Chatbot Assistance: Ensures continuous support in multiple languages
Real-Time Crop Advisory: Provides region-specific, data-backed recommendations for crop health and productivity
Government Scheme Updates: Keeps farmers updated on the latest schemes and subsidies for informed financial planning
Addresses Key Challenges: Helps mitigate issues like unpredictable climate, market volatility, pest outbreaks, poor input quality, and lack of access to schemes and technology
India Contributes to Major Milestone in ITER Fusion Project
In April 2025, the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), the world’s largest nuclear fusion project located in southern France, achieved a key milestone in developing its main magnet system. India played a pivotal role in building essential infrastructure for confining super-hot plasma particles, which are crucial for fusion energy production.
Key Highlights
Collaborators: ITER is a global project involving the United States, China, Japan, Russia, and the European Union (EU), with more than 30 countries participating.
India’s Contribution: India was instrumental in designing and manufacturing critical components, including the cryostat and cryolines for cooling the magnets.
Central Solenoid: The final component of the magnet system, the Central Solenoid, has been completed and tested by the USA and will be assembled in France. This magnet will drive the plasma for fusion reactions.
Future Milestone: The start-up phase of the ITER project is scheduled for 2033.
India’s Role
Cryostat: India designed and built the 30-meter tall and wide cryostat, which houses the entire ITER Tokamak.
Cryolines: India constructed the cryolines that carry liquid helium to cool the magnets to minus 269°C, necessary for superconductivity.
Other Contributions: India also provided the reactor’s in-wall shielding, cooling systems, and key parts of the heating systems that will increase plasma temperature to over 150 million°C (10 times hotter than the Sun’s core).
About Tokamak Reactor
Function: The Tokamak reactor is an experimental device designed to achieve controlled nuclear fusion, mimicking the process that powers the Sun.
Design: It uses powerful magnetic fields to confine superheated plasma in a doughnut-shaped chamber and enables atomic nuclei to fuse, releasing energy.
Development: Initially developed by Soviet researchers in the 1960s, the Tokamak design is now considered the leading approach for magnetic confinement fusion worldwide.
State news
Delhi Police Launches ‘Nayi Disha’ Initiative to Reinstate School Dropouts
In a significant step towards community empowerment, Delhi Police has launched the ‘Nayi Disha – A Path Back to Learning’ programme aimed at reintegrating school dropouts into the education system. This initiative focuses on engaging with families, understanding the causes of dropout, and providing holistic support through collaboration with NGOs, schools, and social workers.
Key Highlights:
Target Group: The programme specifically targets children who dropped out of school due to financial, domestic, or academic challenges.
Direct Engagement: Police officers will conduct door-to-door outreach to identify and support affected children, ensuring a direct approach to tackle the problem.
Holistic Support: The initiative offers emotional counselling, academic assistance, and admission facilitation to help children re-enter the education system.
Collaboration with Stakeholders: Partnerships with NGOs, schools, and social workers aim to provide necessary resources, such as funding and tuition support, for a successful reintegration.
Implementation Strategy:
Personal Visits: Police officers will visit the families of dropouts to understand the underlying reasons for school abandonment.
Supportive Measures: Emotional counselling and psychological support will be offered to motivate children and parents.
NGO Collaboration: Non-governmental organizations will assist with funding, tuition, and mentorship.
School Re-enrollment: Schools are encouraged to facilitate a smooth re-enrollment process for the children returning to education.
Background Context:
Many children in Delhi drop out of school due to issues like poverty, domestic instability, and lack of academic support. By shifting their role from law enforcement to social empowerment, the Delhi Police aims to address these challenges and promote educational continuity for disadvantaged children.
Significance of the Initiative:
Transforming Police Role: This initiative highlights the shift from a protective to an empowering role for the police, making them social mentors in urban governance.
Long-term Social Goals: It aligns with broader social development goals related to education and child welfare.
Model for Other Cities: The programme could serve as a model for other metropolitan cities grappling with similar dropout issues.
Building Trust: It also aims to strengthen community trust in police institutions through active involvement in community development.
International news
58th Annual Meeting of ADB Board of Governors Held in Milan
The 58th Annual Meeting (AM) of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) Board of Governors took place from May 4 to 7, 2025, at the Allianz MiCo-Milano Convention Centre in Milan, Italy.
Theme and Inauguration
The theme of the meeting was “Sharing Experience, Building Tomorrow”.
Masato Kanda, President of ADB, inaugurated the event.
Key Highlights
Indian Delegation: The Indian delegation was led by Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, from the Ministry of Finance (MoF) and Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MoCA), along with officials from the Department of Economic Affairs (DoEA).
ADB’s Commitment to India: ADB committed USD 5 billion in loans, grants, and other forms of assistance to India in 2024.
Record Financial Performance: The Board of Governors approved ADB’s 2024 financial statements and reported a record-breaking USD 1.539 billion allocation from its net income, marking the highest net income allocation in the bank’s nearly 60-year history.
From April 28 to May 2, 2025, the Quad partners – India, Australia, Japan, and the United States of America (USA) – conducted a Tabletop Exercise (TTX) at the Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies (APCSS) in Honolulu, Hawaii. The exercise simulated the launch of the Quad Indo-Pacific Logistics Network (IPLN), focusing on enhancing maritime coordination among the nations.
Key Objectives of the Tabletop Exercise (TTX)
The exercise was designed to simulate real-world maritime scenarios, aiming to improve coordination, interoperability, and information-sharing among the Quad nations and maritime agencies.
About the Quad Indo-Pacific Logistics Network (IPLN)
Purpose: The IPLN is a strategic initiative to boost logistics capabilities among the Quad nations for disaster response in the Indo-Pacific region.
Focus: It ensures faster, coordinated, and efficient deployment of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), creating a robust logistics network.
Key Features of IPLN
Civilian-First Focus: Prioritizes effective responses to natural disasters such as cyclones, tsunamis, and public health emergencies.
Shared Logistics Framework: Encourages joint resource planning, digital logistics mapping, and real-time tracking for efficient crisis management.
Interoperability: Strengthens logistical coordination and builds mutual trust among the Quad nations, enabling scalable crisis responses.
Technology-Driven: Promotes the use of digital tools for improving the supply chain’s responsiveness.
Regional Reach: Targets the Indo-Pacific region, including islands, coastal nations, and remote areas prone to disasters.
Complementary Initiatives
Quad Pandemic Preparedness Workshop 2025: Held in New Delhi, India in March 2025, under India’s Quad presidency.
Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA): Focuses on maritime security and the monitoring of illegal fishing using satellite technology.
About the Quad
Purpose: The Quad is an informal strategic group focused on strengthening cooperation and ensuring maritime security, economic growth, and regional stability in the Indo-Pacific, particularly in response to China’s growing influence.
History: Launched in 2007 by Japanese PM Shinzo Abe, with support from Australia, India, and the USA, the initiative was revived in 2017.
Appointment news
Cardinal Robert Prevost Elected as the 267th Pope of the Catholic Church
On May 8, 2025, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a U.S.-based clergy member, was elected as the 267th Pope of the Catholic Church during the Papal conclave held in the Sistine Chapel, Vatican City.
Key Points:
Pope Name: He adopted the name Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first pope from the United States.
Succession: He succeeds Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025.
Defence news
BrahMos Missile Manufacturing Facility Inaugurated in Lucknow by Rajnath Singh
India has taken a major step towards defence self-reliance with the inauguration of the BrahMos missile production facility in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh on May 11, 2025. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh virtually inaugurated the facility, developed by BrahMos Aerospace with an investment of ₹300 crore. The unit is part of the Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor and aims to boost indigenous missile manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Key Highlights
Inauguration Date: May 11, 2025
Inaugurated by: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh (virtually)
Technological Advancement: Introduces advanced missile manufacturing technologies in Uttar Pradesh
Job Creation: Expected to generate around 500 direct and thousands of indirect employment opportunities
Economic Growth: Boosts local economy and positions Lucknow as a key defence manufacturing hub
Technology Transfer: Facilitates growth of the aerospace sector with new tools and processes
Background and Broader Impact
BrahMos Aerospace was formed as an Indo-Russian joint venture between DRDO and NPO Mashinostroyenia.
The Lucknow facility was developed on land allocated in December 2021 and is part of a larger initiative by the Uttar Pradesh Defence Corridor to attract defence investments.
The state has also allocated land to other defence companies, with an anticipated creation of over 3,000 jobs.
Award news
Sonu Sood to Receive Humanitarian Award at Miss World 2025 for COVID-19 Relief Work
Renowned Bollywood actor and philanthropist Sonu Sood will be honoured with the Humanitarian Award by the Miss World Organisation during the 72nd Miss World Festival. The award recognises his selfless contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic and his continued efforts in social welfare. The event will be held on May 31, 2025, at the HITEX Arena in Hyderabad, Telangana.
Key Highlights
Award: Humanitarian Award
Recipient: Sonu Sood
Event: 72nd Miss World Festival
Venue: HITEX Arena, Hyderabad, Telangana
Date: May 31, 2025
Organised by: Miss World Organisation
Special Role: Sonu Sood will also serve as a grand finale judge at the Miss World pageant
Sports news
Virat Kohli Retires from Test Cricket Marking the End of a Glorious Era
Cricketing iconVirat Kohli has officially announced his retirement from Test cricket, closing a remarkable chapter in Indian and world cricket. Known for his fiery passion, disciplined leadership, and consistent run-scoring, Kohli’s contribution to the longest format of the game will be remembered for generations.
Career Overview
Test Debut: 2011
Total Matches: 123
Total Runs: 9230
Batting Average: 46.85
Centuries: 30
Half-Centuries: 31
Highest Score: 254 not out vs South Africa (Pune, 2019)
Double Centuries: 7
India’s Fourth-Highest Test Run Scorer after Tendulkar, Dravid, and Gavaskar
Impactful Test Captaincy
Captaincy Tenure: 2014–2022
Matches as Captain: 68
Wins: 40
Losses: 17
Win Percentage: 58.82 percent (highest among Indian Test captains)
Milestone Victory: First-ever Indian Test series win in Australia (2018–19)
Other Achievements: India reached No. 1 in ICC Test rankings during his leadership
Final Series and Recent Form
Last Match: 2025 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Sydney
Series Result: Australia won 3-1
Runs Scored in Series: 190 in 9 innings with 1 century
Age at Retirement: 36
Reason for Retirement: Decline in recent form and a natural transition phase
End of an Era
Kohli’s retirement closely follows Rohit Sharma’s exit from the Test format, marking a significant shift in Indian Test cricket leadership.
Rising star Shubman Gill is being considered for the role of Test captain.
India now faces the challenge of rebuilding the team’s core ahead of the upcoming five-match Test series in England.
Legacy of Kohli’s Test Career
One of the few Indian batsmen to score centuries in all major Test-playing nations — Australia, England, South Africa, and New Zealand.
His seven double centuries are the most by an Indian captain.
Elevated the fitness standards of the Indian team and emphasized pace bowling depth and aggression.
Virat Kohli’s departure from Test cricket brings down the curtain on one of the most impactful careers in Indian cricket history, both as a batter and a leader. His legacy will inspire future generations of cricketers aiming to excel in red-ball cricket.
Science and tech news
Sarvam AI Launches ‘Bulbul v2’ Text-to-Speech Model Supporting 11 Indian Languages
In May 2025, Sarvam Artificial Intelligence (Sarvam AI), based in Bengaluru, Karnataka, launched ‘Bulbul v2’, an advanced AI-powered Text-to-Speech (TTS) model designed to offer natural-sounding speech in 11 Indian languages. This model enhances digital voice applications with authentic regional accents.
Books and author
Kaunain Sheriff M’s Book “The Johnson & Johnson Files: The Indian Secrets of a Global Giant” Released
In May 2025, Kaunain Sheriff M, the National Health Editor at The Indian Express, released his book titled “The Johnson & Johnson Files: The Indian Secrets of a Global Giant”. The book offers an in-depth investigation into a major medical device controversy involving Johnson & Johnson (J&J), one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies. The book was published by Juggernaut Books, based in New Delhi.
Key Highlights of the Book:
Focus on the ASR Hip Implant Scandal: The book explores the Articular Surface Replacement (ASR) hip implant scandal, which started in 2003 when J&J’s subsidiary DePuy Orthopaedics introduced the implants, claiming their durability.
Global Recall and Indian Impact: By 2010, the implants were globally recalled due to high failure rates and metal toxicity. However, approximately 4,700 Indian patients had already received them, unaware of the associated risks.
Investigative Foundation: Sheriff’s book builds upon investigative reports published by The Indian Express in 2018-2019, shedding light on corporate negligence and regulatory oversights that compromised patient safety.
Indian Patients’ Struggle for Justice: The narrative emphasizes the long battle faced by Indian patients who fought for justice and compensation, contrasting this with the USD 2.5 billion settlement that Johnson & Johnson provided to patients in the USA.
Important days
Time of Remembrance and Reconciliation for WWII Victims: 8-9 May 2025
The United Nations (UN) annually observes Time of Remembrance and Reconciliation for Those Who Lost Their Lives during the Second World War on 8th and 9th May to honor the victims of WWII, which claimed the lives of around 40 million civilians and 20 million soldiers.
2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII.
Key Points:
UN Resolution: On 22 November 2004, the UN General Assembly (UNGA) adopted the resolution A/RES/59/26, officially designating 8-9 May as a day of remembrance for WWII victims.
Global Tribute: The resolution encourages UN Member States, NGOs, and individuals worldwide to observe these days each year in tribute to the victims of WWII.
First Observance: The first observance was held in 2005, marking the 60th anniversary of the end of WWII and the 60th anniversary of the establishment of the UN.
About the United Nations (UN):
Secretary-General: António Guterres
Headquarters: New York, USA
Established: 1945
International Nurses Day 2025 Overview
International Nurses Day (IND) is celebrated globally on May 12 every year to mark the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. The day honors the crucial contributions of nurses to public health and healthcare systems worldwide.
Theme for 2025 The 2025 theme is: “Our Nurses. Our Future. Caring for nurses strengthens economies” This emphasizes the urgent need to invest in the well-being, rights, and professional development of nurses to strengthen both healthcare systems and economic stability.
Why It Matters in 2025 The theme reflects challenges like post-pandemic fatigue, nurse shortages, and the increasing strain on global health systems. The International Council of Nurses (ICN) urges governments and institutions to enhance support for nurses to ensure a resilient healthcare infrastructure.
Union Cabinet Approvals – May 7, 2025: Key Decisions on Skilling, Education, and Energy
The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved several significant initiatives on May 7, 2025, aimed at strengthening skilling infrastructure, higher education, and coal allocation policies. The key highlights are as follows:
1. National Scheme for ITI Upgradation and Skilling
Approval granted for the National Scheme for Industrial Training Institute (ITI) Upgradation and the establishment of five (5) National Centres of Excellence (NCoE).
Objective: To equip over 2 million youth with industry-relevant skills over the next five years.
This scheme will be implemented as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) with a total outlay of ₹60,000 crore, as announced in the Union Budgets of 2024-25 and 2025-26.
2. Expansion of Five New IITs
The Cabinet approved the academic and infrastructure expansion of the following Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs):
IIT Tirupati (Andhra Pradesh)
IIT Palakkad (Kerala)
IIT Bhilai (Chhattisgarh)
IIT Jammu (Jammu & Kashmir)
IIT Dharwad (Karnataka)
This move aims to boost research capacity, student intake, and campus development in these newer IITs.
3. Revised SHAKTI Policy for Coal Allocation
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), also chaired by the PM, approved the Revised SHAKTI Policy (Scheme for Harnessing and Allocating Koyala Transparently in India).
The revised policy enhances transparency and flexibility in coal allocation to the power sector.
Focus: Meeting both long-term and short-term coal requirements efficiently.
The original SHAKTI Policy was launched in 2017 to ensure transparent allocation of coal linkages through auction or tariff-based bidding.
India Launches Chip-Based e-Passports to Boost Traveller Security – May 2025
In a landmark step toward modernizing travel documents, the Government of India (GoI) has officially introduced chip-based e-passports across the nation in May 2025, aiming to enhance the security of travellers and facilitate smooth international travel.
Key Features of e-Passports:
Equipped with Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology and an embedded antenna as part of the passport inlay.
Ensures enhanced data security by storing the passport holder’s information, including biometric data, in an encrypted format, making it difficult to forge.
Timeline & Implementation:
These e-passports were initially rolled out on a pilot basis on April 01, 2024, under the Passport Seva Programme-Version 2.0 (PSP-V2.0).
The full-scale implementation in 2025 follows the pilot’s success, with the government introducing updated passport regulations to further improve security, privacy, and inclusivity.
About the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA):
Union Minister: Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar (Rajya Sabha – Gujarat)
Union Minister Piyush Goyal Highlights India’s Clean Energy Leadership at Columbia India Energy Dialogue – May 2025
In May 2025, Union Minister Piyush Goyal of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoC&I) addressed the Columbia India Energy Dialogue in New Delhi, underscoring India’s global leadership in the clean energy transition and reaffirming its dedication to inclusive and equitable climate action.
Key Highlights of the Dialogue:
The dialogue brought together major stakeholders from India and the United States (USA) to explore collaborative strategies for clean energy advancement and combating climate change.
Organized by the India Program at Columbia University’s Center on Global Energy Policy (CGEP), part of the School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA), in partnership with the Columbia Global Center in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
India’s Climate and Energy Milestones:
Minister Goyal emphasized climate change as a global issue, calling for universal commitment under the principle of Common But Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR).
India met its 2030 Renewable Energy (RE) target of 200 Gigawatts (GW) in 2022, 8 years ahead of schedule.
The country has built a 500 GW interconnected national grid under a 2014 initiative, enabling 24/7 affordable energy and large-scale clean energy integration.
Massive growth in solar power, which expanded 30-fold over the past decade.
Rapid adoption of innovations like:
LED lighting
Green hydrogen
Biofuels and ethanol blending
Electric mobility
Green ammonia
Emergence of clean energy-powered data centres
Academic Collaboration:
Minister Goyal invited Columbia University (USA) to collaborate with Indian Institutes of Eminence and consider establishing a campus in India, strengthening academic and technological cooperation.
India and UK Finalize Free Trade Agreement and Double Contribution Convention – May 2025
In May 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer jointly announced the successful conclusion of a Comprehensive and Mutually Beneficial India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) along with a Double Contribution Convention aimed at strengthening bilateral trade, investment, and economic growth.
Key Highlights:
The India–UK FTA is aligned with India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision and aims to boost India’s role in global value chains.
The FTA provides zero-duty market access for 99 percent of Indian exports to the UK, covering nearly 100 percent of total trade value.
Current India–UK bilateral trade stands at USD 60 billion and is projected to double by 2030 as a result of the agreement.
The Double Contribution Convention has been introduced to prevent double taxation for temporarily assigned workers between India and the UK, facilitating smoother business operations and labour mobility.
About the United Kingdom:
Prime Minister – Sir Keir Starmer
Capital – London
Currency – Pound Sterling (GBP)
India Lists First Mortgage Backed Pass Through Certificates on National Stock Exchange
In May 2025, M. Nagaraju, Secretary of the Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance, officially listed India’s first Mortgage-Backed Pass Through Certificates (PTCs) on the National Stock Exchange (NSE) in Mumbai. These PTCs were structured by RMBS Development Company Limited, also based in Mumbai.
Key Highlights:
This initiative is designed to boost liquidity in the housing finance market and attract long-term investors.
The PTCs are backed by housing loans originated by LIC Housing Finance Limited (LIC HFL).
The issuance involved one lakh certificates, each with a face value of Rs 1 lakh, amounting to a total of Rs 1,000 crore. The issue was fully subscribed, demonstrating strong market interest.
For the first time in India, the coupon rate of a PTC was discovered through the NSE’s Electronic Book Provider (EBP) platform.
These PTCs carry a 7.26 percent annual coupon and have a maturity period of approximately 20 years.
They have received AAA(SO) credit ratings from both CRISIL Limited and CARE Ratings, indicating the highest level of credit safety.
Issued in dematerialized form, these certificates are transferable and tradable on the secondary market, ensuring investor liquidity.
PM Modi Presents India’s Vision for Space Exploration at GLEX 2025
In May 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 12th Global Conference on Space Exploration (GLEX 2025) via video conference, outlining India’s future space roadmap and stressing the country’s commitment to collaborative and peaceful space exploration. He emphasized that India’s space journey is rooted in collective progress, not competition.
Key Highlights:
GLEX 2025 was held from May 7–9, 2025, in New Delhi, organized by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF), Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and Astronautical Society of India (ASI).
PM Modi underlined the significance of India’s Chandrayaan missions:
Chandrayaan-1 (2008): Discovered water on the Moon.
Chandrayaan-3 (2023): Made India the first country to land near the Moon’s south pole.
He recalled the Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) or Mangalyaan launched in 2014, which made India the first Asian country to reach Mars orbit, and the first in the world to do so on its maiden attempt.
Looking ahead, PM Modi announced India’s plan to launch its own space station, the Bharatiya Antariksha Station, by 2035.
Banking news
Kotak Mahindra Bank Launches Solitaire Credit Card for High Net Worth Individuals
In May 2025, Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited (KMBL), headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra, launched the Kotak Solitaire Credit Card, a premium, invite-only metal card under its Solitaire Program, exclusively for High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs).
Key Highlights:
Eligibility: Offered to Solitaire Program customers with a Total Relationship Value (TRV) of
₹ 75 lakh (savings accounts) or
₹ 1 crore (current accounts)
Rewards:
10 air miles per ₹100 on flight/hotel bookings via the Kotak Unbox platform
3 air miles per ₹100 on other eligible spends
Air miles valid for 3 years, redeemable for flights, hotels, or vouchers
Travel Benefits:
Unlimited lounge access (domestic/international) for primary and add-on cardholders
1% fuel surcharge waiver for transactions between ₹400 to ₹7,500
Maximum waiver: ₹10,000 per card anniversary year
Annual Fee: ₹ 25,000 + taxes (waived for Solitaire Program members); no joining fee
About Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited (KMBL):
Founder: Uday Kotak
MD & CEO: Ashok Vaswani
Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra
Established: 1985
Tagline: Let’s Make Money Simple
Economy news
CKA Birla Group: Rebranding for a Future-Ready Identity
In May 2025, the New Delhi-based CK Birla Group, a 170-year-old conglomerate, officially rebranded itself as ‘The CKA Birla Group’. This marks a strategic shift toward a technology-driven and services-led enterprise, moving beyond its traditional manufacturing base.
Leadership:
Chairman – C.K. Birla
Co-Chairman – Amita Birla
Purpose of Rebranding:
Reflects the Group’s transition to future-oriented sectors
Highlights commitment to diversity, leadership, and talent development
Key Companies under the CKA Birla Group:
Birlasoft Limited
GMMCO Limited
National Engineering Industries Limited (NBC Bearings)
BirlaNu Limited (formerly HIL Limited)
Orient Electric Limited
CK Birla Healthcare Private Limited (CK Birla Hospitals, Birla Fertility & IVF)
Orient Paper & Industries Limited
AVTEC Limited
Neosym Industry Limited
NIRL Signs PPA with RVUNL for 810 MW Solar Power Project
Also in May 2025, NLC India Renewables Limited (NIRL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of NLC India Limited, signed a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Rajasthan Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited (RVUNL) for a 810 MW solar project.
Location:
Pugal Solar Park, Bikaner district, Rajasthan
Project Details:
Awarded via competitive tariff-based bidding
Developed under Mode 8 of the MNRE’s UMREPP Scheme
Expected Outcomes:
Generate approx. 2 Billion Units (BU) of green electricity annually
Offset around 1.5 Million Metric Tonnes (MMT) of CO₂ emissions each year
Note: NLCIL was India’s first Central Public Sector Undertaking (CPSU) to set up 1 GW of renewable energy capacity.
KC Venugopal Reappointed as Chairperson of Public Accounts Committee
In May 2025, K C Venugopal, a senior Indian National Congress (INC) leader, was reappointed as Chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the Parliament of India. The appointment was made by the Lok Sabha Speaker, and his tenure will continue until April 2026, as per the Lok Sabha Secretariat.
This follows the 1967 convention of appointing the PAC Chairperson from the principal opposition party in the Lok Sabha.
About K C Venugopal:
Current Roles:
Chairperson, Public Accounts Committee (PAC)
General Secretary (Organisation), All India Congress Committee (AICC)
Previous Positions:
Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha (2020–2024)
Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation (2012–2014)
Union Minister of State for Power (2011–2012)
Member of Legislative Assembly, Kerala (1996–2009)
About the Public Accounts Committee (PAC):
Established: 1921 (pre-independence), reconstituted in 1950 (post-independence)
Significance: Ensures accountability in public fund usage by examining CAG audit reports
Composition: 22 members – 15 from Lok Sabha and 7 from Rajya Sabha
Primary Role: Reviews compliance with parliamentary financial approvals
Appointment news
Government extends CBI Director Praveen Sood’s tenure by one year
The Government of India has approved a one-year extension of Praveen Sood’s tenure as the Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). His current two-year term, which was set to end on 25 May 2025, will now continue for another year.
Key Highlights:
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the extension during a meeting on 7 May 2025.
The decision came after the committee responsible for appointing the next CBI Director failed to reach a consensus in its meeting on 6 May 2025 at the Prime Minister’s Office, New Delhi.
The meeting was attended by:
Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha
Justice Sanjiv Khanna, Chief Justice of India
Appointment Process of CBI Director:
The appointment is governed by the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, 1946, and is decided by a three-member selection committee:
Prime Minister – Chairperson
Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha (or leader of the largest party if there is no official LoP)
Chief Justice of India
Tenure Guidelines:
The CBI Director is appointed for a minimum term of two years.
The tenure can be extended by one year at a time, based on the committee’s recommendation.
The maximum tenure allowed is five years.
About the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI):
It is the premier investigating agency of the Government of India.
It primarily investigates corruption cases involving central government employees.
The CBI assists Lokpal and the Central Vigilance Commission in related investigations.
It also acts as the nodal agency for Interpol in India.
Science and tech news
Paras Defence and HevenDrones Form Joint Venture to Manufacture Hydrogen-Powered Drones in India
In May 2025, Paras Defence & Space Technologies Limited, headquartered in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Israel-based HevenDrones Limited (a subsidiary of USA-based Heven) to establish a Joint Venture (JV) for the design, manufacturing, and supply of Hydrogen-powered drones—India’s first such initiative.
The JV supports the Government of India’s Make in India initiative by promoting indigenous development of advanced Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS).
Key Highlights of the JV:
First-of-its-kind hydrogen-powered drones in India with:
Extended flight endurance
Modular payload capability
Ready-to-fly configurations
Application Areas:
Logistics in remote and border regions
Tactical surveillance
Defence supply chains
High-altitude missions
Technology Contribution:
HevenDrones will provide technology, prototypes, and production manuals.
Paras Defence will handle manufacturing, regulatory approvals, sales, and operations in India.
Governance:
The JV Board will include representatives from both companies.
CEO, CFO, and COO will be jointly appointed.
Defence news
First Arnala-Class Anti-Submarine Warfare Ship Delivered to Indian Navy
On 8 May 2025, the first Arnala-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) was officially handed over to the Indian Navy at a ceremony held at the L&T Shipyard, Kattupalli, Tamil Nadu.
Key Highlights:
The Arnala-class ASW SWC was built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, under a public-private partnership, with 80% indigenous content.
It is part of a larger Indian initiative to boost anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capability under the Atma Nirbhar Bharat programme.
Project Overview:
A total of 16 ASW SWC vessels are being built:
8 by GRSE (Arnala-class)
8 by Cochin Shipyard Limited (Mahe-class)
These vessels are set to replace the ageing Abhay-class corvettes of Soviet origin, inducted in 1989.
Mahe and Arnala-Class Vessels:
Mahe-class (by Cochin Shipyard): Mahe, Malvan, Mangrol, Malpe, and Mulki have already been delivered.
Arnala-class (by GRSE): Arnala is the first to be delivered; upcoming ships include Androth, Anjadip, Amini, Agary, and Akshay, currently under construction.
The class name “Arnala” is inspired by Arnala Fort off the Maharashtra coast.
Features of ASW SWC Vessels:
Primary Role: Detect and eliminate enemy submarines in shallow coastal waters.
Secondary Roles:
Laying sea mines
Supporting low-intensity maritime operations
Armament and Capabilities:
Equipped with:
Lightweight torpedoes
Anti-submarine rockets and mines
30mm naval surface gun
Two 16.7mm stabilised remote-controlled guns
Stealth technology and advanced sonar systems enable submarine detection.
Top speed: 25 knots
Crew capacity: 57 personnel
State news
Haryana Government Introduces ‘Pandit Lakhmi Chand Kalakar Samajik Samman Yojana’ for Senior Artists and Art Scholars
In May 2025, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and the state cabinet announced the launch of a new welfare scheme titled “Pandit Lakhmi Chand Kalakar Samajik Samman Yojana” to support senior artists and art scholars in the state.
Scheme Highlights:
Under this scheme, eligible artists and art scholars will receive a monthly honorarium of Rs. 10,000 as financial support from the government.
The initiative aims to improve the financial and socio-economic conditions of senior artists who have made significant contributions to various art forms.
Eligibility Criteria:
The scheme is open to any Haryana resident who has worked or contributed to the field of art for at least 20 years in areas such as singing, acting, drama, painting, or other visual arts.
Applicants must be 60 years or older, with their age verified through the Parivar Pehchan Patra (PPP), a family identification card in Haryana.
Income Criteria:
If the applicant’s annual income is up to Rs. 1.80 lakh, they will receive Rs. 10,000 per month.
If the income is between Rs. 1.80 lakh and Rs. 3 lakh, they will receive Rs. 7,000 per month.
Application Process:
The application process will be online, and a dedicated committee will evaluate the applications after preliminary verification by the department.
The final list of eligible beneficiaries will be prepared by this committee.
About Haryana:
Chief Minister: Nayab Singh Saini
Governor: Bandaru Dattatraya
Capital: Chandigarh
Ramsar Sites: Sultanpur National Park, Bhindawas Wildlife Sanctuary
Maharashtra Government Launches ‘Adishakti Abhiyan’ for Women Empowerment with Rs. 10.50 Crore Allocation
On May 7, 2025, the Maharashtra state cabinet, led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, approved the launch of the ‘Adishakti Abhiyan’, a state-wide campaign aimed at enhancing women empowerment at the grassroots level. The initiative comes with a budget of Rs. 10.50 crores.
Key Highlights:
The campaign was launched at a special cabinet meeting in Choundi, Maharashtra, the birthplace of Ahilyabai Holkar, the legendary 18th-century queen of the Holkar dynasty. The meeting commemorated the 300th birth anniversary of Ahilyabai Holkar and was the first cabinet meeting held outside Mumbai.
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis released a commemorative postage stamp and a special logo in honor of Ahilyabai Holkar’s 300th birth anniversary.
Announced Welfare Projects:
As part of a targeted welfare approach, CM Fadnavis announced several infrastructure projects for the Dhangar community youth:
Construction of hostels for both boys and girls in Pune and Nasik.
Establishment of a separate Industrial Training Institute (ITI) in Ahilya Nagar dedicated to girls, aimed at providing vocational training and skill development.
The Maharashtra government also decided to rename the Ahmednagar district in honor of Ahilya Devi Holkar.
Rs. 681 crore has been allocated for the preservation of Ahilyabai’s memorial in Choundi, and a new medical college will be named Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Government Medical College.
Sports news
Rohit Sharma Announces Retirement from Test Cricket
On May 7, 2025, Indian cricketer Rohit Sharma, at the age of 38, announced his retirement from Test cricket with immediate effect. The decision comes after a series of underwhelming performances, despite leading the Indian Test team since February 2022. He will continue to represent India in One Day Internationals (ODIs).
Key Career Highlights:
Test Cricket Achievements:
Debut: 2013, scoring 177 runs against West Indies at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, the second-highest debut score by an Indian.
Played 67 Test matches, scoring 4,301 runs at an average of 40.57, with 12 centuries and 18 fifties. His highest score was 212 runs against South Africa in 2019.
Captaincy: Led India in 24 Test matches, winning 12.
ODI Achievements and Records:
Holds the world record for the highest individual score in an ODI with 264 runs against Sri Lanka in 2014, along with three double centuries.
Led India to victory in the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup and the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, announcing his retirement from T20 Internationals (T20Is) after winning the 2024 T20 World Cup.
Ranked 3rd in the ICC Men’s ODI Batting Rankings as of May 2025.
Awards and Honors:
2015: Awarded the Arjuna Award, India’s second-highest sporting honor.
2020: Conferred with the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, the highest sporting honor in India.
Additional Information:
Since 2018, Rohit Sharma has served as the brand ambassador of WWF India’s Rhino Conservation.
About ICC:
Chairman: Jay Shah (India)
CEO: Geoff Allardice
Headquarters: Dubai, UAE
Founded: 1909
China Clinches 14th Title at BWF Sudirman Cup 2025
In May 2025, the People’s Republic of China secured its 14th BWF Sudirman Cup title and achieved a record fourth consecutive victory, defeating South Korea 3-1 in the final of the 19th edition of the BWF Sudirman Cup mixed-team championship.
Championship Details:
Dates: The event was held from April 27 to May 4, 2025, at the Fenghuang Gymnasium in Xiamen, Fujian Province, China.
Third place: Japan secured the third position.
Key Match Highlights:
Mixed Doubles: Feng Yanzhe/Huang Dongping (China) defeated Seo Seung-jae/Chae Yu-jung (South Korea).
Women’s Singles: An Se-young (South Korea) defeated Wang Zhiyi (China) with scores of 21-17, 21-16.
Men’s Singles: Shi Yuqi (China) overwhelmed Jeon Hyeok-jin (South Korea) with scores of 21-5, 21-5.
Women’s Doubles: Liu Shengshu/Tan Ning (China) sealed the title with a 21-14, 21-18 win over Baek Ha-na/Lee So-hee (South Korea).
Men’s Doubles: This match was not played, as China secured victory after four matches.
India’s Performance:
India faced defeats against Denmark and Indonesia, but won against England with a 3-2 scoreline.
Despite the victory, India did not advance to the quarter-finals, finishing 9th among the 16 participating teams.
About the Sudirman Cup:
Established: 1989, named in honor of Dick Sudirman, the founder and former president of the Badminton Association of Indonesia.
Held biennially, it is one of the premier mixed-team events in badminton, alongside the Thomas Cup (men’s team) and the Uber Cup (women’s team).
Title winners: China (14 titles), South Korea (4 titles), and Indonesia (1 title).
About the Badminton World Federation (BWF):
President: Poul-Erik Høyer Larsen
Headquarters: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Established: 1934
Important days
World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day 2025 – May 8
World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day is observed annually on May 8 to honor the humanitarian efforts and principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.
Core Principles:
The movement operates under seven core principles:
Humanity
Neutrality
Impartiality
Independence
Voluntary service
Unity
Universality
Theme for 2025:
The theme for World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day 2025 is “Keeping Humanity Alive.”
Historical Significance:
The day commemorates the birth anniversary of Henry Dunant, the founder of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
The first International Red Cross Day was celebrated on May 8, 1948.
About the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC):
President: Kate Forbes
Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
Founded: 1919
World Thalassaemia Day 2025 – May 8
International Thalassaemia Day (ITD), also known as World Thalassaemia Day, is observed annually on May 8 to raise awareness about Thalassaemia, a genetic blood disorder that reduces the body’s haemoglobin levels. The day celebrates the global thalassaemia community, advocates for equitable healthcare access, and acknowledges the challenges faced by individuals with the condition.
Theme and Slogan:
Theme of ITD 2025: “Together for Thalassaemia: Uniting Communities, Prioritizing Patients” – The theme emphasizes the importance of a people-centered and inclusive approach to care, putting the patient at the core of all efforts.
Slogans for ITD 2025: “WeAre1” and “PatientsFirst“.
Background:
The Thalassaemia International Federation (TIF) initiated May 8 as International Thalassaemia Day.
Panos Englezos, the president and founder of TIF, established the inaugural World Thalassaemia Day on May 8, 1994, in memory of his son George Englezos, who passed away from thalassaemia.
About Thalassaemia:
Thalassaemia is a genetic disorder affecting haemoglobin, which is essential for oxygen transport in red blood cells.
Individuals may suffer from anemia, leading to symptoms like fatigue, breathlessness, and paleness.
Thalassaemia is inherited through mutated haemoglobin genes passed from parents to children.
Types of Thalassaemia:
Alpha Thalassaemia: Caused by mutations in the gene controlling the production of alpha globin.
Beta Thalassaemia: A more severe form, resulting from defects in the gene that produces beta-globin.
Associated Health Issues:
Thalassaemia can lead to complications such as damage to the heart, liver, lungs, and endocrine organs due to iron accumulation from anemia. Patients may also face mental and societal challenges.
About Thalassaemia International Federation (TIF):
Union Cabinet Approvals – May 7, 2025: Key Decisions on Skilling, Education, and Energy
On May 7, 2025, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved three major initiatives:
National ITI Upgradation and Skilling Scheme:
Launch of a Centrally Sponsored Scheme to upgrade ITIs and set up 5 National Centres of Excellence.
Goal: Skill 2 million youth in five years.
Outlay: ₹60,000 crore (as per Union Budgets 2024–25 and 2025–26).
Expansion of Five New IITs:
Approved academic and infrastructure expansion at IIT Tirupati, Palakkad, Bhilai, Jammu, and Dharwad.
Aim: Enhance research, student intake, and campus growth.
Revised SHAKTI Policy (Coal Allocation):
Approved by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA).
Improves transparency and flexibility in coal allocation to the power sector.
Addresses both long-term and short-term coal needs.
The original policy was launched in 2017.
India Launches Chip-Based e-Passports to Boost Traveller Security – May 2025
In a landmark step toward modernizing travel documents, the Government of India (GoI) has officially introduced chip-based e-passports across the nation in May 2025, aiming to enhance the security of travellers and facilitate smooth international travel.
Key Features of e-Passports:
Equipped with Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology and an embedded antenna as part of the passport inlay.
Ensures enhanced data security by storing the passport holder’s information, including biometric data, in an encrypted format, making it difficult to forge.
About the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA):
Union Minister: Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar (Rajya Sabha – Gujarat)
Union Minister Piyush Goyal Highlights India’s Clean Energy Leadership at Columbia India Energy Dialogue – May 2025
In May 2025, Union Minister Piyush Goyal of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoC&I) addressed the Columbia India Energy Dialogue in New Delhi, underscoring India’s global leadership in the clean energy transition and reaffirming its dedication to inclusive and equitable climate action.
India’s Climate and Energy Milestones:
Minister Goyal emphasized climate change as a global issue, calling for universal commitment under the principle of Common But Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR).
India met its 2030 Renewable Energy (RE) target of 200 Gigawatts (GW) in 2022, 8 years ahead of schedule.
The country has built a 500 GW interconnected national grid under a 2014 initiative, enabling 24/7 affordable energy and large-scale clean energy integration.
Massive growth in solar power, which expanded 30-fold over the past decade.
Rapid adoption of innovations like:
LED lighting
Green hydrogen
Biofuels and ethanol blending
Electric mobility
Green ammonia
Emergence of clean energy-powered data centres
India and UK Finalize Free Trade Agreement and Double Contribution Convention – May 2025
In May 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer jointly announced the successful conclusion of a Comprehensive and Mutually Beneficial India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) along with a Double Contribution Convention aimed at strengthening bilateral trade, investment, and economic growth.
Key Highlights:
The India–UK FTA is aligned with India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision and aims to boost India’s role in global value chains.
The FTA provides zero-duty market access for 99 percent of Indian exports to the UK, covering nearly 100 percent of total trade value.
Current India–UK bilateral trade stands at USD 60 billion and is projected to double by 2030 as a result of the agreement.
The Double Contribution Convention has been introduced to prevent double taxation for temporarily assigned workers between India and the UK, facilitating smoother business operations and labour mobility.
About the United Kingdom:
Prime Minister – Sir Keir Starmer
Capital – London
Currency – Pound Sterling (GBP)
India Lists First Mortgage Backed Pass Through Certificates on National Stock Exchange
In May 2025, M. Nagaraju, Secretary of the Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance, officially listed India’s first Mortgage-Backed Pass Through Certificates (PTCs) on the National Stock Exchange (NSE) in Mumbai. These PTCs were structured by RMBS Development Company Limited, also based in Mumbai.
PM Modi Presents India’s Vision for Space Exploration at GLEX 2025
In May 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 12th Global Conference on Space Exploration (GLEX 2025) via video conference, outlining India’s future space roadmap and stressing the country’s commitment to collaborative and peaceful space exploration. He emphasized that India’s space journey is rooted in collective progress, not competition.
Key Highlights:
GLEX 2025 was held from May 7–9, 2025, in New Delhi, organized by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF), Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and Astronautical Society of India (ASI).
PM Modi underlined the significance of India’s Chandrayaan missions:
Chandrayaan-1 (2008): Discovered water on the Moon.
Chandrayaan-3 (2023): Made India the first country to land near the Moon’s south pole.
He recalled the Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) or Mangalyaan launched in 2014, which made India the first Asian country to reach Mars orbit, and the first in the world to do so on its maiden attempt.
Looking ahead, PM Modi announced India’s plan to launch its own space station, the Bharatiya Antariksha Station, by 2035.
Appointment news
KC Venugopal Reappointed as Chairperson of Public Accounts Committee
In May 2025, K C Venugopal, a senior Indian National Congress (INC) leader, was reappointed as Chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the Parliament of India. The appointment was made by the Lok Sabha Speaker, and his tenure will continue until April 2026, as per the Lok Sabha Secretariat.
This follows the 1967 convention of appointing the PAC Chairperson from the principal opposition party in the Lok Sabha.
About K C Venugopal:
Current Roles:
Chairperson, Public Accounts Committee (PAC)
General Secretary (Organisation), All India Congress Committee (AICC)
Previous Positions:
Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha (2020–2024)
Government extends CBI Director Praveen Sood’s tenure by one year
The Government of India has approved a one-year extension of Praveen Sood’s tenure as the Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). His current two-year term, which was set to end on 25 May 2025, will now continue for another year.
Science and tech news
Paras Defence and HevenDrones Form Joint Venture to Manufacture Hydrogen-Powered Drones in India
In May 2025, Paras Defence & Space Technologies Limited, headquartered in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Israel-based HevenDrones Limited (a subsidiary of USA-based Heven) to establish a Joint Venture (JV) for the design, manufacturing, and supply of Hydrogen-powered drones—India’s first such initiative.
The JV supports the Government of India’s Make in India initiative by promoting indigenous development of advanced Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS).
Defence news
First Arnala-Class Anti-Submarine Warfare Ship Delivered to Indian Navy
On 8 May 2025, the first Arnala-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) was officially handed over to the Indian Navy at a ceremony held at the L&T Shipyard, Kattupalli, Tamil Nadu.
Key Highlights:
The Arnala-class ASW SWC was built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, under a public-private partnership, with 80% indigenous content.
It is part of a larger Indian initiative to boost anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capability under the Atma Nirbhar Bharat programme.
Project Overview:
A total of 16 ASW SWC vessels are being built:
8 by GRSE (Arnala-class)
8 by Cochin Shipyard Limited (Mahe-class)
These vessels are set to replace the ageing Abhay-class corvettes of Soviet origin, inducted in 1989.
Mahe and Arnala-Class Vessels:
Mahe-class (by Cochin Shipyard): Mahe, Malvan, Mangrol, Malpe, and Mulki have already been delivered.
Arnala-class (by GRSE): Arnala is the first to be delivered; upcoming ships include Androth, Anjadip, Amini, Agary, and Akshay, currently under construction.
The class name “Arnala” is inspired by Arnala Fort off the Maharashtra coast.
State news
Haryana Government Introduces ‘Pandit Lakhmi Chand Kalakar Samajik Samman Yojana’ for Senior Artists and Art Scholars
In May 2025, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and the state cabinet announced the launch of a new welfare scheme titled “Pandit Lakhmi Chand Kalakar Samajik Samman Yojana” to support senior artists and art scholars in the state.
Scheme Highlights:
Under this scheme, eligible artists and art scholars will receive a monthly honorarium of Rs. 10,000 as financial support from the government.
The initiative aims to improve the financial and socio-economic conditions of senior artists who have made significant contributions to various art forms.
Eligibility Criteria:
The scheme is open to any Haryana resident who has worked or contributed to the field of art for at least 20 years in areas such as singing, acting, drama, painting, or other visual arts.
Applicants must be 60 years or older, with their age verified through the Parivar Pehchan Patra (PPP), a family identification card in Haryana.
Income Criteria:
If the applicant’s annual income is up to Rs. 1.80 lakh, they will receive Rs. 10,000 per month.
If the income is between Rs. 1.80 lakh and Rs. 3 lakh, they will receive Rs. 7,000 per month.
About Haryana:
Chief Minister: Nayab Singh Saini
Governor: Bandaru Dattatraya
Capital: Chandigarh
Ramsar Sites: Sultanpur National Park, Bhindawas Wildlife Sanctuary
Maharashtra Government Launches ‘Adishakti Abhiyan’ for Women Empowerment with Rs. 10.50 Crore Allocation
On May 7, 2025, the Maharashtra state cabinet, led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, approved the launch of the ‘Adishakti Abhiyan’, a state-wide campaign aimed at enhancing women empowerment at the grassroots level. The initiative comes with a budget of Rs. 10.50 crores.
Key Highlights:
The campaign was launched at a special cabinet meeting in Choundi, Maharashtra, the birthplace of Ahilyabai Holkar, the legendary 18th-century queen of the Holkar dynasty. The meeting commemorated the 300th birth anniversary of Ahilyabai Holkar and was the first cabinet meeting held outside Mumbai.
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis released a commemorative postage stamp and a special logo in honor of Ahilyabai Holkar’s 300th birth anniversary.
Sports news
Rohit Sharma Announces Retirement from Test Cricket
On May 7, 2025, Indian cricketer Rohit Sharma, at the age of 38, announced his retirement from Test cricket with immediate effect. The decision comes after a series of underwhelming performances, despite leading the Indian Test team since February 2022. He will continue to represent India in One Day Internationals (ODIs).
Key Career Highlights:
Test Cricket Achievements:
Debut: 2013, scoring 177 runs against West Indies at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, the second-highest debut score by an Indian.
Played 67 Test matches, scoring 4,301 runs at an average of 40.57, with 12 centuries and 18 fifties. His highest score was 212 runs against South Africa in 2019.
Captaincy: Led India in 24 Test matches, winning 12.
ODI Achievements and Records:
Holds the world record for the highest individual score in an ODI with 264 runs against Sri Lanka in 2014, along with three double centuries.
Led India to victory in the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup and the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, announcing his retirement from T20 Internationals (T20Is) after winning the 2024 T20 World Cup.
Ranked 3rd in the ICC Men’s ODI Batting Rankings as of May 2025.
Awards and Honors:
2015: Awarded the Arjuna Award, India’s second-highest sporting honor.
2020: Conferred with the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, the highest sporting honor in India.
Additional Information:
Since 2018, Rohit Sharma has served as the brand ambassador of WWF India’s Rhino Conservation.
About ICC:
Chairman: Jay Shah (India)
CEO: Geoff Allardice
Headquarters: Dubai, UAE
Founded: 1909
China Clinches 14th Title at BWF Sudirman Cup 2025
In May 2025, the People’s Republic of China secured its 14th BWF Sudirman Cup title and achieved a record fourth consecutive victory, defeating South Korea 3-1 in the final of the 19th edition of the BWF Sudirman Cup mixed-team championship.
Championship Details:
Dates: The event was held from April 27 to May 4, 2025, at the Fenghuang Gymnasium in Xiamen, Fujian Province, China.
Third place: Japan secured the third position.
About the Sudirman Cup:
Established: 1989, named in honor of Dick Sudirman, the founder and former president of the Badminton Association of Indonesia.
Held biennially, it is one of the premier mixed-team events in badminton, alongside the Thomas Cup (men’s team) and the Uber Cup (women’s team).
Title winners: China (14 titles), South Korea (4 titles), and Indonesia (1 title).
About the Badminton World Federation (BWF):
President: Poul-Erik Høyer Larsen
Headquarters: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Established: 1934
Important days
World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day 2025 – May 8
World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day is observed annually on May 8 to honor the humanitarian efforts and principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.
Theme for 2025:
The theme for World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day 2025 is “Keeping Humanity Alive.”
About the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC):
President: Kate Forbes
Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
Founded: 1919
World Thalassaemia Day 2025 – May 8
International Thalassaemia Day (ITD), also known as World Thalassaemia Day, is observed annually on May 8 to raise awareness about Thalassaemia, a genetic blood disorder that reduces the body’s haemoglobin levels. The day celebrates the global thalassaemia community, advocates for equitable healthcare access, and acknowledges the challenges faced by individuals with the condition.
Theme and Slogan:
Theme of ITD 2025: “Together for Thalassaemia: Uniting Communities, Prioritizing Patients” – The theme emphasizes the importance of a people-centered and inclusive approach to care, putting the patient at the core of all efforts.
Slogans for ITD 2025: “WeAre1” and “PatientsFirst“.
About Thalassaemia International Federation (TIF):
Dr. Jitendra Singh Inaugurates the 12th Global Space Exploration Conference in New Delhi
The 12th Global Space Exploration Conference (GLEX 2025) commenced in New Delhi on 7th May 2025, and will run for three days until 9th May 2025. The event, bringing together global leaders in space exploration, aims to address recent advancements, challenges, and the future of human space exploration. The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, addressed the conference virtually on 7th May.
Conference Background:
The first GLEX was held in Beijing, China in 2010.
The previous edition took place in Oslo, Norway, in May 2023.
Organizers:
The event is organized by the International Aeronautical Federation (IAF), with ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) hosting it and the Indian Astronautical Society acting as a co-host.
Inauguration:
The conference was officially inaugurated by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, on 7th May 2025.
Theme of GLEX 2025:
The theme for this year’s conference is “Reaching New Worlds: A Space Exploration Renaissance.”
About the Global Space Exploration Conference:
The Global Space Exploration Conference seeks to facilitate the exchange of space policies and programs among space-exploring nations.
It aims to encourage collaboration among countries in addressing space exploration challenges and provides a platform for sharing lessons learned and future exploration plans.
Notable participants include ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan, Josef Aschbacher from the European Space Agency (ESA), and Kazuyoshi Kawasaki of the Japanese Space Agency (JAXA).
About the International Aeronautical Federation (IAF):
Established in 1951, the IAF is the world’s leading space advocacy organization.
It has 563 members across 81 countries, including prominent space agencies, companies, and research institutions.
Headquarters: Paris, France.
India Hosts First-Ever WAVES 2025 in Mumbai; ₹1,328 Crore Business Deals Signed
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first edition of the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES 2025) at the Jio World Centre, Mumbai, Maharashtra. The four-day summit, held from May 1–4, 2025, was a joint initiative by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MoI&B) and the Government of Maharashtra (GoM). The event was held under the tagline: “Connecting Creators, Connecting Countries.”
Key Highlights:
Special Postage Stamps Released: PM Modi unveiled commemorative postage stamps honoring five legends of Indian cinema: Guru Dutt, Raj Khosla, Ritwik Ghatak, P. Bhanumathi, and Salil Chowdhury.
Global Media Dialogue (GMD): For the first time, the MoI&B organized the GMD in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), with ministerial participation from over 50 countries. ➤ 77 countries adopted a 13-point ‘WAVES Declaration’, promoting the responsible use of emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Launch of Indian Institute of Creative Technology (IICT): Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the establishment of the IICT, a National Centre of Excellence (CoE) supported by Jio Star, headquartered in Mumbai.
Business Milestone: The summit recorded business deals worth ₹1,328 crore, marking a successful global industry engagement across audio-visual and entertainment sectors.
In-Principle Approval Granted for Greenfield Airports in Rajasthan and Odisha
In May 2025, Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu granted in-principle approval for the development of greenfield airports in Kota (Rajasthan) and Puri (Odisha). These approvals are part of the Government of India’s initiative under the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, aimed at making air travel affordable and accessible for all.
Key Highlights:
The initiative aligns with the Government’s vision to enhance regional air connectivity.
Greenfield Airports refer to aviation facilities constructed from scratch on undeveloped land.
Kota, Rajasthan Airport:
To be developed in 2 phases
Total investment: ₹1,507 crore
Kota, a major educational and industrial hub, will benefit from improved connectivity in the Hadoti region.
Puri, Odisha Airport:
To be developed in 3 phases over 1,164 acres
Total investment: ₹5,631 crore
The airport will enhance religious tourism in Puri, home to Lord Jagannath, and support regional development.
About Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA):
Union Minister: Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu ➤ Constituency: Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh
Minister of State (MoS): Murlidhar Kisan Mohol ➤ Constituency: Pune, Maharashtra
NMCG Approves Key Projects for Ganga Rejuvenation in 62nd Executive Committee Meeting
In May 2025, the 62nd Executive Committee (EC) Meeting of the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) was held in New Delhi, chaired by Rajeev Kumar Mital, Director-General of NMCG. The meeting emphasized sustainability in river rejuvenation and approved critical projects aligned with the mission’s goals of ecosystem restoration in the Ganga basin.
Key Approvals:
i. Approval was given for the project Conserving and Sustainably Managing Nathmalpur Bhagad (Wetland) in Bhojpur district, Bihar, with an estimated cost of Rs 3.51 crore. This marks the fifth wetland project undertaken under the National Ganga Plan (NGP).
ii. The EC also approved Rs 34.50 lakh for Capacity Building Initiatives under the Making Water-Sensitive Cities in the Ganga Basin project.
About Ministry of Jal Shakti:
Union Minister Chandrakant Raghunath Patil Constituency Navsari Gujarat
Minister of State V Somanna Constituency Tumkur Karnataka
Minister of State Raj Bhushan Choudhary Constituency Muzaffarpur Bihar
Government Strengthens Inland Waterways with Rhenus Group Partnership
In May 2025, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), based in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Rhenus Group, a global logistics company from Germany, to promote the use of inland waterways for cargo movement in India. IWAI is the nodal agency for National Waterways under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW).
Key Objectives of the MoU
Enable Rhenus Logistics India Pvt. Ltd. to launch scheduled barge operations across major National Waterways (NWs) in India.
Integrate global best practices into the Indian Inland Water Transport (IWT) system.
Highlights i. Rhenus will deploy 100 barges in phases, beginning with 20 barges and 6 pushers in the first phase. ii. The operations aim to transport over one million tonnes of cargo annually by the end of 2025. iii. The MoU will also support the development of scheduled IWT services across India’s NWs.
About Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal Constituency Dibrugarh Assam
Minister of State Shantanu Thakur Constituency Bangaon West Bengal
MoRTH Launches Cashless Treatment Scheme 2025 for Road Accident Victims
In May 2025, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) launched the Cashless Treatment of Road Accident Victims Scheme, 2025, providing cashless medical treatment up to Rs 1.5 lakh per accident per person across India.
Key Details of the Scheme
Effective Date: From May 5, 2025
Eligibility: Applies to any road accident victim involving a motor vehicle on any road in India
Financial Allocation: Rs 272 crore has been allotted for Financial Year 2025-26
Implementation and Features i. National Health Authority (NHA) is the implementing agency, coordinating with police, hospitals, and State Health Agencies. ii. State Road Safety Councils will act as nodal agencies for hospital onboarding, treatment coordination, and payment processing. iii. The scheme aims to provide critical treatment during the golden hour, significantly increasing survival chances. iv. Treatment coverage lasts up to 7 days from the date of the accident, at designated government and private hospitals. v. Non-designated hospitals can offer only stabilisation treatment. vi. The scheme is universal, covering all accident victims, regardless of income or category.
About Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH)
Union Minister Nitin Jairam Gadkari Constituency Nagpur Maharashtra
Minister of State Ajay Tamta Constituency Almora Uttarakhand
Minister of State Harsh Malhotra Constituency East Delhi Delhi
International news
Kiren Rijiju Leads Indian Delegation at United Nations Day of Vesak in Vietnam
Kiren Rijiju, the Union Minister for Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs, led the Indian delegation at the United Nations Day of Vesak celebrations held in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, from 6th to 8th May 2025. This marks the fourth time Vietnam has hosted the event, having previously done so in 2008, 2014, and 2019.
Opening Ceremony Highlights:
The opening ceremony was addressed by Luong Cuong, President of Vietnam, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, President of Sri Lanka, Kiren Rijiju, and other notable Buddhist monks.
Background of United Nations Day of Vesak:
UN General Assembly passed a resolution in December 1999 to observe Day of Vesak annually on the full moon day of May.
The first UN Day of Vesak was celebrated in 2000 at the UN Headquarters in New York.
Significance of Vesak in Buddhism:
Vesak commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Lord Buddha.
It is one of the most sacred events in Buddhism, celebrated during the Vaishakh month of the Hindu calendar, which corresponds to April/May on the Gregorian calendar.
Lord Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and death all occurred during Buddha Purnima, observed on the full moon in Vaishakh.
Buddha Purnima 2025 will be celebrated on 12th May 2025.
UN Day of Vesak Organization:
The event is organized by the International Council for the Day of Vesak, a global association of Buddhist communities.
The International Council has been responsible for 20 editions of UN Day of Vesak, including the 2025 celebration in Vietnam. It has been hosted 15 times in Thailand, 4 times in Vietnam, and once in Sri Lanka (2017).
Since 2013, the Council holds a Special Consultative Status with the UN Economic and Social Council.
Sacred Buddhist Relics Displayed:
Kiren Rijiju brought the Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha from India to be displayed in Vietnam.
The relics, including a portion of the skull bone of Lord Buddha, were brought from the Mulagandha Kuti Vihara in Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh.
These relics were excavated in Nagarjuna Konda, an important site for Mahayana Buddhism in Andhra Pradesh.
The relics will be displayed at 4 monasteries in Vietnam during the UN Day of Vesak.
Rank and report news
Tamil Nadu Leads India’s Textile Exports in FY25 with USD 7.99 Billion
In April 2025, Tamil Nadu (TN) emerged as India’s top textile exporter in Financial Year 2024-25 (FY25), contributing USD 7.99 billion, which accounts for 26.81% of India’s total textile exports valued at USD 36.61 billion.
In FY24, TN had exported USD 7.15 billion, contributing 20.78%, showing significant year-on-year growth.
Gujarat ranked second with USD 5.64 billion, followed by Maharashtra with USD 3.83 billion.
Key Export Categories in FY25 i. Readymade Garments: USD 15.99 billion (largest share) ii. Cotton Products: USD 12.06 billion (includes yarn, fabrics, made-ups, handlooms) iii. Man-Made Textiles: USD 4.87 billion (includes yarn, fabrics, made-ups) iv. Others: Handicrafts, carpets, jute
Reasons for Tamil Nadu’s Export Success i. The Tiruppur knitwear cluster alone contributed USD 4.69 billion (approx. Rs 40,000 crore) in FY25
Known for its integrated supply chain from yarn to finished garment
Attracts global buyers due to efficiency and sustainability ii. Price competitiveness and eco-friendly practices in Tiruppur attract major international brands iii. The upcoming withdrawal of GSP by the EU for Bangladesh by 2027 is shifting buyers toward Indian exporters
About Tamil Nadu (TN) Chief Minister – M. K. Stalin Governor – R. N. Ravi Capital – Chennai Ramsar Sites – Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary, Therthangal Bird Sanctuary
India Rises to Rank 130 in UNDP Human Development Report 2025; Iceland Leads Globally
On 6 May 2025, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) released the Human Development Report (HDR) 2025, titled “A Matter of Choice: People and Possibilities in the Age of Artificial Intelligence”, with the theme “Harnessing Digital Transformation to Advance Human Development”.
India ranked 130 in the 2023 Human Development Index (HDI) with a score of 0.685, moving up three positions from 133 in 2022 (score: 0.676).
Iceland secured the top rank globally with an HDI score of 0.972, followed by Norway (0.970) and Switzerland (0.970).
Key Findings of the Report i. India’s life expectancy increased from 58.6 years in 1990 to 72 years in 2023, setting a new record. ii. Average years of schooling in India rose from 8.2 years in 1990 to 13 years in 2023. iii. Gross National Income (GNI) per capita in India grew by over 53%, from USD 2,167.22 in 1990 to USD 9,046.76 in 2023.
About United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Administrator – Achim Steiner Headquarters – New York, United States of America Established – 1965
Banking News
SEBI Mandates Rs 1 Crore Minimum Investment and Demat for Securitised Debt Instruments
In May 2025, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra, introduced new regulations for Securitised Debt Instruments (SDIs) by amending the rules on ‘issue and listing of securities debt instruments and security receipts’.
A minimum investment threshold of Rs 1 crore has been made mandatory for issuance of SDIs by RBI-regulated originators and unregulated entities involved in securitization.
Mandatory minimum 3-year operating experience is now required for all originators.
The updated norms aim to ensure originators retain interest in underlying assets, enhancing market stability and investor confidence.
Key Regulatory Changes i. For non-RBI regulated originators, the minimum investment for subsequent transfers will also be Rs 1 crore. ii. Public offers for SDIs must remain open for at least 3 days and no more than 10 days, following SEBI’s advertising norms for non-convertible securities. iii. SEBI has introduced an ‘Investor Charter’ for Know Your Customer (KYC) Registration Agencies (KRAs), outlining available services, investor rights, and grievance redressal mechanisms.
SBI Forecasts Retail Inflation Below 3% in Q1 FY26
In May 2025, the State Bank of India (SBI), based in Mumbai, Maharashtra, released a report forecasting that India’s retail inflation, measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), will remain below 3% during Q1 FY26 (April to June 2025).
This forecast comes after a significant drop in CPI inflation to 3.34% in March 2025, the lowest in 67 months, primarily due to a major correction in food prices.
Key Highlights: i. Core inflation rose from 3.28% in August 2024 to 3.77% in October 2024, then stabilized between 3.6% and 3.7% from November 2024 to January 2025. It then increased to 4.1% in February and March 2025, the highest in 15 months.
Excluding gold, core inflation was at 3.2%, which is lower than both the core and overall CPI inflation figures. ii. **SBI projects nominal Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth for FY26 to range from 9% to 9.5%, slightly below the Union Budget 2025-26 estimate of 10%. iii. SBI suggests that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) may consider aggressive rate cuts in FY26, with a total reduction of 125 basis points—75 basis points in the first half and an additional 50 basis points in the second half of the year.
Pulitzer Prize 2025: NYT Wins 4, Reuters Honored for US Fentanyl Investigation
In May 2025, the Pulitzer Prize Board announced the winners of the 109th Pulitzer Prize (2025), recognizing excellence in categories such as Journalism, Books, Drama and Music, and Special Citations.
The New York Times (NYT) won 4 awards in various categories, increasing its total to 139 Pulitzer Prizes, a record high since the awards began in 1917.
The New Yorker magazine followed closely with 3 awards, covering areas like commentary, feature photography, and audio reporting, particularly for its coverage of overseas wars.
Key Highlights: i. The Pulitzer Prize is awarded in 24 categories, broadly divided into 15 Journalism categories, 8 Letters, Drama, and Music categories, and 1 Special Citation. ii. Renowned American Photographer Doug Mills (NYT) won the Breaking News Photography category for capturing the attempted assassination of then U.S. Presidential candidate Donald Trump on July 13, 2024, in Pennsylvania.
Renowned Entrepreneur-Social Activist Dr. Mustafa Yusufali Gom Conferred with the International Buddha Peace Award 2025
In May 2025, Dr. Mustafa Yusufali Gom, a renowned social worker and entrepreneur from Mumbai (Maharashtra), was honored with the International Buddha Peace Award 2025. The award was presented by Lakshman Prasad Acharya, Governor of Assam, during a grand ceremony organized by the Maitri Peace Foundation in Guwahati, Assam.
Dr. Mustafa Yusufali Gom, the Managing Director of Care Takers Exterior and Interior Private Limited, received the award for his exceptional social activism and leadership in the building repairs and restoration industry.
Alongside Dr. Gom, Dr. Munir Khan, an eminent structural engineer and founder of Avon Consulting Engineers, was also honored for his significant contributions to social initiatives, particularly promoting sustainable development and community welfare.
About Dr. Mustafa Yusufali Gom: i. He is the Managing Director of Care Takers Exterior and Interior Private Limited, based in Mumbai. ii. In February 2025, he received the Public Service Award from the Governor of Himachal Pradesh at the Creator and Business Excellence Awards 2025. iii. He has been previously honored with various awards, including the Bharat Ratna Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Award and recognition from the Governors of Maharashtra and Telangana.
About Dr. Munir Khan: i. With a long career in structural engineering, Dr. Khan has led over 1,500 structural audits and the restoration of more than 300 buildings. ii. His notable projects have been carried out across cities in Maharashtra, such as Mumbai, Thane, Navi Mumbai, and Mira Bhayandar. iii. In September 2024, he was awarded the International Buddha Peace Award by Jishnu Dev Varma, Governor of Telangana.
About the International Buddha Peace Award: i. Established in 2009, this award is presented annually by the Maitri Peace Foundation, a non-government voluntary organization. ii. It recognizes individuals who have made extraordinary efforts to promote peace both within and outside their communities. iii. Dr. Rashmi Saluja, Chairperson of the Global Trade & Technology Council of India (GTTCI), was a key recipient of the award in 2024.
Union Minister L Murugan Conferred the 10th National Community Radio Awards in Mumbai
On May 3, 2025, Union Minister of State (MoS), Dr. L Murugan from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MoI&B), presented the 10th National Community Radio Awards to 12 outstanding Community Radio Stations (CRS) at the 8th National Community Radio Conference. The event took place at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
The event was organized by the MoI&B and Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), in conjunction with the World Audio-Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025.
The conference brought together representatives from over 400 CRS across the country, offering an opportunity for dialogue and collaboration.
Note: As of April 2025, there are 531 community radio stations operating across India.
10th National Community Radio Awards:
The 10th National Community Radio Station Awards featured 12 awards across 4 categories:
Thematic Awards
Most Innovative Community Engagement Awards
Promoting Local Culture Awards
Sustainability Model Awards
These prestigious awards recognize the exceptional work of CRS from states including Bihar, Maharashtra, Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu (TN), Odisha, Uttarakhand, and Karnataka.
About the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MoI&B):
Union Minister: Ashwini Vaishnaw (Rajya Sabha – Odisha)
Minister of State (MoS): Dr. L. Murugan (Rajya Sabha – Madhya Pradesh)
Appointment news
Friedrich Merz Elected as Germany’s 10th Chancellor
On May 6, 2025, Friedrich Merz, leader of the Conservative Party and a lawyer, was elected as the 10th Chancellor of Germany. He won with 325 votes out of 630 seats in the second round of voting.
In the first round of secret ballot voting, he fell short by six votes, securing 310 votes while needing 316 votes to win.
President of Germany, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, officially approved Friedrich Merz as Chancellor at the Bundestag in Berlin, Germany.
Prakash Magdum Appointed as MD of NFDC
On May 5, 2025, Prakash Magdum, a 1999-batch officer of the Indian Information Service (IIS), took charge as the Managing Director (MD) of the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), a Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) based in Mumbai, Maharashtra. NFDC operates under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MoI&B), Government of India (GoI).
He succeeded Prithul Kumar, the previous MD of NFDC.
Prior to this role, Prakash Magdum served as the Additional Director General (ADG) at the Press Information Bureau (PIB) and the Central Bureau of Communication (CBC) in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
Defence news
DRDO and IN Successfully Test Indigenously Developed MIGM
In May 2025, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), under the Ministry of Defence (MoD), Government of India (GoI), in collaboration with the Indian Navy (IN), successfully conducted a combat firing (with a reduced explosive payload) of the indigenously developed Multi-Influence Ground Mine (MIGM).
The MIGM system is designed to enhance the Indian Navy’s defense capabilities against modern stealth ships and submarines, providing advanced detection and engagement features.
Key details:
The MIGM is an advanced underwater naval mine, developed by the Naval Science & Technological Laboratory (NSTL) in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, in collaboration with the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL) in Pune, Maharashtra, and the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL) in Chandigarh.
The production partners for MIGM are Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) in Visakhapatnam and Apollo Microsystems Limited (AML) in Hyderabad, Telangana.
Sports news
Indian Duo Wins U-19 Boys Doubles Title at WTT Youth Star Contender Bangkok 2025
In May 2025, Indian table tennis players Ankur Bhattacharjee and Abhinandh Pradhavadhi clinched the U-19 Boys’ Doubles title at the World Table Tennis (WTT) Youth Star Contender Bangkok 2025, held at Fashion Island, Bangkok, Thailand. They defeated South Korea’s Lee Jungmok and Choi Jiwook 3-1 in the final.
The duo secured a 3-1 victory over Australia’s Won Bae and India’s Priyanuj Bhattacharyya in the opening round, then made an incredible comeback from 0-2 to beat Japan’s Kazuki Yoshiyama and Iran’s Benyamin Faraji 3-2 in the quarter-finals.
Other Highlights:
In the U-19 Girls’ Doubles, India’s Syndrela Das and Divyanshi Bhowmick won the silver medal, losing to Thailand’s Wirakarn Tayapitak and Phatsaraphon Wonglakhon in the final.
Divyanshi Bhowmick had an impressive run in the U-15 Girls’ Singles, securing the silver medal after a 1-3 defeat to China’s Liu Ziling in the final.
In the U-15 Girls’ Doubles, the Indian pair of Riana Bhootia and Ananya Muralidharan won the silver medal.
In the U-19 Boys’ Singles, Ankur Bhattacharjee reached the quarter-finals with a 3-0 win over South Korea’s Lee Seungsoo but lost 0-3 to Japan’s Kazuki Yoshiyama.
FC Goa Clinches Kalinga Super Cup 2025 Title, Defeating Jamshedpur FC
In May 2025, FC Goa (FCG) triumphed over Jamshedpur FC (JFC) 3-0 in the Kalinga Super Cup 2025 final held at Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. This victory secured FC Goa’s second title in the tournament’s history, making them the first club to win the Super Cup twice, having previously clinched the title in 2019.
The tournament, organized by the All India Football Federation (AIFF), is India’s premier domestic knockout football competition.
The win also marked FC Goa’s first title under head coach Manolo Márquez, concluding his tenure with a perfect result.
Key Highlights:
Borja Herrera, Spanish midfielder, scored a brace for FC Goa with goals in the 23rd and 51st minutes.
Dejan Drazic, Serbian forward, added a third goal in the 71st minute, sealing the win.
Borja Herrera was named ‘Player of the Match’ for his standout performance.
With this win, FC Goa qualifies for the AFC Champions League 2 (ACL2) Playoffs, marking their return to continental football after 4 years.
Important Days
International No Diet Day 2025 – May 6
International No Diet Day (INDD) was observed on May 6, 2025, globally, to promote body acceptance, challenge diet culture, and raise awareness about the dangers of weight discrimination and fatphobia.
This observance encourages individuals to embrace their bodies, irrespective of shape or size, fostering a healthier relationship with food and self-image.
Symbol: INDD is symbolized by a light blue ribbon, representing body acceptance, eating disorder awareness, and the fight against diet culture.
Origin of INDD:
INDD was founded in 1992 by Mary Evans Young, a British feminist and director of Diet Breakers, to raise awareness about the dangers of dieting and promote self-acceptance.
The first No Diet Day was observed on May 5, 1992, with a picnic in London’s Hyde Park, where women wore stickers reading “Ditch That Diet” to symbolize freedom from restrictive eating.
In 1993, the date was shifted to May 6 to avoid overlapping with Cinco de Mayo celebrations and ensure a unique identity for the movement.
Initially observed in the United Kingdom, the movement soon gained global momentum, particularly in countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and Europe.
Goals of INDD:
Promote body acceptance and diversity across all shapes, sizes, and identities.
Raise awareness about the physical and psychological risks of restrictive dieting.
Encourage a positive relationship with food and body image.
Challenge fatphobia and weight-based discrimination.
Debunk harmful diet myths while advocating for intuitive eating and self-care.
World Asthma Day 2025 – May 6
World Asthma Day (WAD) is observed globally on the first Tuesday of May, as part of the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA), to raise awareness and improve care for asthma.
WAD 2025 was observed on May 6, 2025, with the theme “Make Inhaled Treatments Accessible for ALL.”
Background:
World Asthma Day was first observed in 1998 during the inaugural World Asthma Meeting in Barcelona, Spain, with participation from over 35 countries.
The day aligns with the spring/fall seasons when asthma symptoms often worsen due to environmental factors and is also recognized as World Allergy and Asthma Awareness Month.
About GINA:
Managing Director & Chair: Arzu Yorgancioglu (Turkey)
Headquarters: Wisconsin, USA
Launched: 1993
Border Roads Organisation Raising Day 2025 – May 7
The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) celebrates its Raising Day annually on May 7, marking its establishment in 1960 to honor the service of its personnel and reaffirm its commitment to developing critical infrastructure in India’s border areas.
May 7, 2025 marks the 66th observance of the Raising Day of BRO.
Background:
BRO was established on May 7, 1960, with the primary goal of securing India’s borders and building vital infrastructure in remote and strategic regions.
In 1985, the BRDB was re-constituted and placed under the chairmanship of the Defence Minister, aligning with national security priorities.
Over 6 decades, BRO has constructed 62,214 km of roads, 1,005 bridges, 7 tunnels, and developed 21 airfields across India.
In FY 2023-24, it completed 125 infrastructure projects worth Rs. 3,611 crore.
World Athletics Day 2025 – May 7
World Athletics Day is celebrated on May 7 each year to raise awareness among children and young people about the importance of fitness and to encourage participation in sports, especially athletics.
The theme for World Athletics Day 2025 is “Relay Around the World Challenge.”
Background:
IAAF, the international governing body for track and field athletics, introduced World Athletics Day as part of its social responsibility program titled “Athletics for a Better World.”
IAAF was established on July 17, 1912, in Stockholm, Sweden.
Kids Athletics Day:
Observed on May 7, this day encourages children to engage in sports, especially athletics, from an early age. It is a key feature of the World Kids’ Athletics Programme, a free program designed to inspire youth globally.
MoE Approves New IIFT Off-Campus Centre at GIFT City, Gujarat
In May 2025, the Ministry of Education (MoE) granted approval to establish a new off-campus centre of the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) at Gujarat International Finance Tec-City – International Financial Services Centre (GIFT-IFSC), located in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
Key Highlights:
The centre will be set up as per the UGC (Institutions Deemed to be Universities) Regulations, 2023.
The approval was granted under Section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956, marking a major move to enhance specialized education in international trade.
This development follows IIFT’s successful compliance with the Letter of Intent (LoI) issued in January 2025.
Related Institutional Development:
Monarch Networth Capital IFSC Pvt. Ltd. has received the Certificate of Registration (CoR) to operate as a Registered Fund Management Entity (FME) – Retail from the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA), also based in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
About IIFT:
Established: 1963
Under: Ministry of Commerce & Industry (MoC&I)
Focus: Capacity building in international trade
Chancellor: Sunil Barthwal
Headquarters: New Delhi, Delhi
About Ministry of Education (MoE):
Union Minister: Dharmendra Pradhan (Sambalpur, Odisha)
Ministers of State:
Jayant Chaudhary (Rajya Sabha – Uttar Pradesh)
Dr. Sukanta Majumdar (Balurghat, West Bengal)
India’s Mining Sector Records Historic High in FY25; Iron Ore, Copper, Aluminium Lead Growth
In May 2025, the Ministry of Mines (MoM) released provisional data highlighting a record-breaking performance of India’s mining sector during Financial Year 2024-25 (FY25). This achievement follows an already strong showing in FY24, reflecting continued economic momentum in sectors like energy, infrastructure, construction, automotive, and machinery.
Key Highlights:
Iron Ore: Production rose to 289 million metric tons (MMT) in FY25, up 4.3% from 277 MMT in FY24 – setting a new all-time high.
Manganese Ore: Output grew 11.8%, reaching 3.8 MMT, surpassing the previous record of 3.4 MMT in FY24.
Bauxite: Production climbed 2.9% to 24.7 MMT, compared to 24 MMT in FY24.
Lead Concentrate: Increased by 3.1%, totaling 393 thousand tonnes (THT) from 381 THT in FY24.
Surge in Non-Ferrous Metals:
Non-ferrous metals, which do not contain significant iron content, also posted impressive growth:
Primary Aluminium: Production rose from 41.6 lakh tonnes (LT) in FY24 to 42 LT in FY25.
Refined Copper: Output surged 12.6%, reaching 5.73 LT in FY25 from 5.09 LT in FY24.
Global Standing:
2nd Largest producer of Aluminium globally.
Among Top 10 producers of Refined Copper.
4th LargestIron Ore producer in the world.
Ministry of Mines (MoM) Leadership:
Union Minister: G. Kishan Reddy(Secunderabad, Telangana)
Minister of State (MoS): Satish Chandra Dubey(Rajya Sabha – Bihar)
This robust growth underscores India’s strategic role in the global mineral supply chain and the resilience of its industrial and manufacturing sectors.
Jyotiraditya Scindia inaugurates 22nd edition of Bharat Telecom 2025
On May 6, 2025, Jyotiraditya Scindia, the Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, inaugurated the 22nd edition of the Bharat Telecom Expo in New Delhi. The expo, held on May 6-7, 2025, is an annual event that showcases India’s telecom solutions on the global stage.
Key Highlights:
Organizers: The Bharat Telecom Expo is organized by the Telecom Equipment and Services Export Promotion Council (TEPC) in partnership with the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). TEPC operates under the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry, while DoT is part of the Union Ministry of Communications and Information Technology.
About the Bharat Telecom Expo 2025:
Purpose: The expo is designed as an international business platform and a reverse buyer-seller meet, offering a space for Indian telecom companies to engage with global leaders in the telecom industry.
Participation: Over 130 foreign delegates from 35+ countries, including government bodies and private enterprises, are participating in this year’s edition. Around 80 Indian telecom and ICT companies are showcasing their innovations across the telecom sector.
Goals:
Promote India’s telecom strength as a major manufacturing and service provider to the world.
Attract investment to transform India into a global telecom hub for manufacturing, services, and exports.
Facilitate interaction between Indian telecom companies and global business leaders to further strengthen the sector.
About Telecom Equipment and Services Export Promotion Council (TEPC):
Formation: TEPC was established in 2009 under the Foreign Trade Policy.
Mission: Its primary role is to promote the export of telecom equipment and services, supporting Indian companies in their export journey and positioning India as a global leader in secure, reliable, and advanced telecom solutions.
Chairman: Arnob Roy
Headquarters: New Delhi
State news
Telangana Hosts Miss World 2025: A Global Stage for Culture and Tourism
The 72nd edition of the Miss World pageant will be held in Telangana, India, from May 10 to 31, 2025. Contestants from over 120 countries will arrive in Hyderabad, marking the first time the event is hosted in Telangana. This high-profile event offers a unique opportunity for the Government of Telangana to promote the state’s tourism potential and cultural heritage globally.
Key Highlights:
Event Dates: May 10 to 31, 2025
Location: Hyderabad, Telangana
Participants: 120 delegates from around the world
Broadcast Reach: Live telecast in over 150 countries
Objectives:
Promote Telangana as a multidimensional tourism hub.
Increase foreign tourist arrivals, which stood at 1.55 lakh in 2024.
Showcase Telangana’s cultural heritage, including UNESCO landmarks and historical sites.
Attract global investments in the tourism, culture, and hospitality sectors.
Tourism and Cultural Exposure:
Contestants will visit several iconic sites, including:
Ramappa Temple (Warangal), a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Heritage monuments from the Nizam era in Hyderabad.
Other eco-tourism and spiritual sites across Telangana.
Security Measures:
Comprehensive security protocols have been confirmed by Telangana’s Director General of Police, Jitender, for all participants and guests.
Economic and Cultural Impact:
The event will enhance Telangana’s global profile, promoting both tourism and cultural diplomacy.
It will drive economic development by attracting international tourism and media attention.
Andhra Pradesh to Host India’s First Transmedia Entertainment City – Creatorland
In May 2025, the Government of Andhra Pradesh (AP) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with CreativeLand Asia (CLA) Ltd., based in Mumbai, to establish ‘Creatorland’, India’s first Transmedia Entertainment City in Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh.
Announcement: Made during the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025, held in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
Key Highlights of Creatorland:
Investment Potential: Rs 8,000–10,000 crore over the next 5–6 years.
Infrastructure:
Immersive theme parks
Advanced gaming zones
Esports arenas
Global cinema co-production zones
AI-powered Virtual Studio Complex featuring real-time rendering and volumetric capture tech.
Skill Development:
Creatorland Academy to train 10,000+ youth annually in VFX, gaming, AI, and immersive storytelling.
Employment Impact: Projected to create over 1.5 lakh jobs in entertainment, tech, and tourism sectors.
Chhattisgarh to Host India’s First AI-Based Data Centre Park in Nava Raipur
In May 2025, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai of Chhattisgarh laid the foundation stone for India’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based Data Centre Park, located in Sector-22 of Nava Raipur.
The project will be developed and managed by RackBank Datacenters Private Limited, a company based in Indore, Madhya Pradesh.
Key Highlights:
Size: The Data Centre Park will cover 13.5 acres (around 5.5 hectares), with 2.7 hectares designated as a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) focused on AI-based services.
Power Capacity: The initial phase will start with 5 MegaWatts (MW) and aims to expand up to 150 MW in future stages.
Investment: The overall development is expected to attract an investment of around Rs 2000 crore.
Technology and Services: The facility will feature GPU-based high-performance computing, live data streaming, AI processing, and data analytics services.
Target Sectors: The Data Centre Park will support advanced services in Artificial Intelligence, HealthTech, Defence, FinTech, and data analytics.
This strategic initiative is set to position Chhattisgarh as a national hub for AI infrastructure and innovation.
Meghalaya Hosts Strawberry Festival 2025 to Boost Agro-Tourism and Rural Livelihoods
The Government of Meghalaya, in partnership with Meghalayan Age Limited (MAL), and the Departments of Tourism and Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, organized the Strawberry Festival 2025 from May 2-3, 2025. The festival aimed to promote agro-tourism, support rural livelihoods, and highlight the growth of strawberry cultivation in the state.
Key Highlights:
Locations: The festival took place across three key locations in Meghalaya: Sohliya in Ri-Bhoi district, Syntung in East Khasi Hills, and Darechikgre in West Garo Hills.
Inauguration: The festival was inaugurated by Vibhor Agarwal, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of West Garo Hills.
Strawberry Production: In 2024, Meghalaya produced 1,220 metric tonnes (MT) of strawberries, a slight increase from 1,196 MT in 2023.
Activities: Visitors enjoyed various activities such as strawberry picking, workshops on winemaking, local cuisine, strawberry-based baking sessions, strawberry wine tasting, and culinary experiences.
This festival aimed to not only celebrate the state’s strawberry cultivation but also to contribute to the economic growth of rural areas through agro-tourism.
International News
PM Modi Invites Australian PM Albanese to 7th Quad Summit
On May 6, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to invite him to the 7th Quad Summit, which India will host later this year. During the call, PM Modi congratulated PM Albanese on his Labor party’s landslide victory in the recent Australian Parliamentary elections.
Key Highlights:
Landslide Victory: The Labor Party, led by Anthony Albanese, won a decisive victory in the 2025 Australian General Election, securing a majority in the 171-member House of Representatives. This victory marked Albanese’s second consecutive win, a feat not achieved by an Australian Prime Minister in the last 20 years.
About the Quad: The Quad (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue) is a strategic forum consisting of India, Australia, Japan, and the United States. Initially proposed by former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe after the 2004 Tsunami, the Quad has become a major diplomatic and security alliance, especially in countering China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific.
Upcoming Summit: The 7th Quad Summit will be hosted by India, though the meeting schedule is yet to be confirmed. The most recent 6th Quad Summit was held in Delaware, USA, on September 21, 2024.
About Australia:
Geography: Australia is the world’s smallest continent and sixth-largest country by area, located between the Indian and Pacific Oceans.
Government: It operates under a parliamentary system, with the British monarch as the head of state, and comprises six states and two territories. The capital is Canberra, and the currency is the Australian Dollar.
Historical Background: Initially a British colony, Australia became a Commonwealth in 1901.
INS Sharda Joins First India Maldives HADR Exercise in Maafilaafushi
In May 2025, the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sharda reached Maafilaafushi Atoll in the Maldives to participate in the inaugural Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercise, held from May 4 to May 10, 2025.
This joint exercise underlines growing defence and maritime cooperation between India and the Maldives, and supports India’s regional maritime vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).
Key Objectives of the Exercise:
Improve interoperability between the Indian Navy (IN) and the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF)
Focus areas include:
Disaster Response Coordination
Search and Rescue (SAR) Operations
Medical Assistance
Logistical Support
Joint Drills and Training
Community Engagement in simulated natural disaster scenarios
About MAHASAGAR Initiative:
Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March 2025 during his visit to Mauritius, MAHASAGAR expands on the 2015 SAGAR doctrine.
It aims for enhanced security and growth cooperation across the Global South in multiple sectors.
India Maldives Defence Cooperation Highlights:
India is the primary training partner of the MNDF, having trained over 1500 personnel in the past decade.
Since 2019, India has conducted over 630 missions, including medical evacuations (MEDEVACs), SAR operations, and air surveillance.
Infrastructure support includes the Composite Training Centre, Coastal Radar System, and Ekatha Harbor (established in 2023).
About Maldives:
President: Mohamed Muizzu
Capital: Male
Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR)
Nicaragua to Exit UNESCO After Press Freedom Prize Awarded to Exiled Newspaper La Prensa
In May 2025, the government of Nicaragua announced its decision to withdraw from UNESCO—the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization headquartered in Paris, France. This move comes in response to UNESCO awarding the 2025 Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize to La Prensa, a Nicaraguan newspaper in exile, on World Press Freedom Day (May 3).
Reason for Withdrawal:
The award to La Prensa, known for its critical journalism and currently operating from exile, sparked Nicaragua’s decision.
The move represents a setback for UNESCO, which has also faced criticism from USA under President Donald Trump.
Key Facts:
Nicaragua joined UNESCO in 1952 and was one of its 194 member states.
According to UNESCO’s constitution, Nicaragua’s membership will officially end on December 31, 2026, marking a 74-year association.
About La Prensa:
Officially titled La Prensa – El Diario de los Nicaragüenses, it was founded in 1926 in Managua, the capital of Nicaragua.
Since 2021, its operations have continued online from exile following the imprisonment of its leadership and confiscation of assets.
The team is now based in Costa Rica, Spain, Mexico, Germany, and the USA.
About the Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize:
Established in 1997, the award honors courage in defending press freedom, especially in hostile conditions.
Named after Guillermo Cano Isaza, a Colombian journalist assassinated in 1986 for his anti-drug cartel reporting.
About Nicaragua:
President: José Daniel Ortega Saavedra
Capital: Managua
Currency: Nicaraguan Córdoba (NIO)
Banking news
Goldsikka Launches India’s First AI Powered Gold Melting ATM in Hyderabad
In May 2025, Goldsikka Limited, headquartered in Hyderabad, Telangana, unveiled India’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) powered gold melting ATM, a pioneering innovation in the financial and jewellery sector.
Key Features of the AI-Powered Gold Melting ATM:
Multifunctional Services: Enables users to buy, sell, exchange, lease, digitize, and monetize gold and gold jewellery.
Integrated Augmented Reality (AR): Allows users to virtually try on jewellery before making a purchase.
Automated Transactions: Customers can purchase gold using credit or debit cards, and sell gold without human interference.
Gold Selling Process:
The user deposits gold into the machine.
It is melted and tested for purity.
The value of pure gold is displayed.
Upon acceptance, the amount is directly transferred to the user’s bank account.
The process takes approximately 30 minutes, during which the machine verifies Aadhar card, ID proof, and captures a photograph.
Security Measures: If any criminal activity is detected, the gold is withheld, and the machine notifies the police automatically.
Additional Information:
In 2022, Goldsikka launched India’s first real-time Gold ATM, setting the foundation for this advanced upgrade.
Economy news
Moody’s Lowers India’s 2025 GDP Growth Forecast to 6.3%
In May 2025, Moody’s Ratings, based in New York, USA, released its Global Macro Outlook 2025-26 update, revising India’s GDP growth forecast for 2025 to 6.3% from the earlier estimate of 6.5%.
Reasons for the Revision:
Global Economic Uncertainties: Factors such as the unpredictability of US policies, trade restrictions, and geopolitical tensions, especially between India and Pakistan, led to this adjustment.
2026 Forecast: Moody’s has kept its 2026 GDP growth forecast at 6.5%, following an expected 6.7% growth in 2024.
Key Highlights:
Global Economic Growth: Moody’s revised the global GDP growth forecast down to 1.9% for 2025 and 2.3% for 2026, attributing this to trade tensions, policy uncertainty, and geopolitical risks.
Trade and Investment Impact: Ongoing trade frictions, particularly between the USA and China, are expected to impact global trade and investment, especially among G-20 economies.
Risk Factors: Issues like the Ukraine conflict, Middle East instability, South China Sea tensions, and financial market instability contribute to the uncertain global economic outlook.
Monetary Policy: Moody’s predicts that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will likely implement further reductions in benchmark policy rates in 2025 to support domestic economic growth.
About Moody’s Ratings:
President: Michael West
Headquarters: New York, USA
Founded: 1909
Appointment news
Praksah Magdum take Charge as Managing Director of NDFC
Prakash Magdum Appointed Managing Director of National Film Development Corporation (NDFC)
Prakash Magdum has taken office as the Managing Director of the National Film Development Corporation (NDFC). Before his appointment, he served as the Additional Director General of the Press Information Bureau (PIB) and the Central Bureau of Communication in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
A 1999 batch officer of the Indian Information Service, Magdum has a distinguished service record. He has previously held key positions, including Director of the National Film Archive of India in Pune, Maharashtra, and Registrar of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), also in Pune.
About National Film Development Corporation (NDFC):
Establishment: The NDFC was founded in 1975 by the Government of India under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
Mission: With the tagline ‘Cinemas of India’, NDFC’s core mission is to promote Indian cinema, especially parallel or art cinema.
Key Functions and Objectives:
Integrated Film Development: NDFC is a fully integrated company capable of scripting, filming, and producing films.
Promotion of Excellence: It works towards promoting excellence in Indian cinema, encouraging films in multiple Indian languages to highlight the country’s cultural diversity.
Co-productions: The corporation facilitates co-productions of independent films (parallel films) through public-private partnerships.
International Recognition: NDFC has worked with renowned figures of Indian cinema, including Satyajit Ray, Shyam Benegal, Govind Nihalani, Adoor Gopalakrishnan, and international filmmakers like Richard Attenborough and Mira Nair.
Film Bazaar: NDFC also plays a significant role in organizing Film Bazaar India alongside the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa, promoting Indian cinema both domestically and internationally.
Production Facilities: NDFC offers production and animation services to both domestic and international clients.
Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra
Jean-Lucien Savi de Tové Elected First President of Togo Under New Parliamentary System
In May 2025, Jean-Lucien Kwassi Lanyo Savi de Tové was elected as Togo’s first President under the country’s newly implemented parliamentary system. His election was unanimous with 150 members present in the bicameral Parliament (comprising the National Assembly and Senate), which has a total of 174 seats.
Key Points:
Constitutional Reform: This election follows a major constitutional reform in May 2024, which transitioned Togo from a semi-presidential system to a parliamentary system of governance.
Successor: Jean-Lucien Savi de Tové succeeded Faure Gnassingbé, who assumed the role of President of Togo’s Council of Ministers, the most powerful position under the new system.
About Togo:
President: Jean-Lucien Kwassi Lanyo Savi de Tové
Capital: Lomé
Currency: West African CFA franc (XOF)
India Terminates K.V. Subramanian as IMF Executive Director, Appoints Parameswaran Iyer as Interim ED
In April 2025, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, terminated K.V. Subramanian as India’s Executive Director (ED) at the International Monetary Fund (IMF). His tenure, which began in November 2022, was cut short by six months without any official reason provided. Subramanian had represented India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan at the IMF.
Key Points:
Interim Appointment: Parameswaran Iyer, the current ED for India at the World Bank, has been appointed as the interim ED to represent India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan at the IMF.
Upcoming IMF Meeting: This change comes just days before a crucial IMF Board meeting on May 9, 2025, to review:
A USD 1.3 billionclimate resilience loan for Pakistan.
The first assessment of Pakistan’s ongoing USD 7 billion bailout package.
About K.V. Subramanian:
Served as the 17th Chief Economic Advisor (CEA) to the Government of India from 2018-2021.
Played a role in expert committees at the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
Served on the boards of Bandhan Bank, National Institute of Bank Management (NIBM), and RBI Academy.
About the IMF:
Managing Director: Kristalina Georgieva
Headquarters: Washington D.C., USA
Established: 1944
Member Nations: 191
FSIB Recommends Sanjay Joshi for CMD Position at Oriental Insurance Company Limited
In May 2025, the Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB), under the Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance (MoF), recommended Sanjay Joshi, a 1989-batch officer, for the position of Chairman-cum-Managing Director (CMD) at Oriental Insurance Company Limited (OICL), based in New Delhi.
Key Highlights:
R.R. Singh’s Retirement: This recommendation follows the retirement of R.R. Singh in February 2025. In his place, Amit Misra, Executive Director (ED) at OICL, was appointed as acting CMD for a three-month term starting March 1, 2025.
Approval Process: Joshi’s appointment is subject to approval from the Appointments Committee of Cabinet (ACC), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. If approved, he will serve until August 31, 2027, when he turns 60.
About Sanjay Joshi:
Current Role: He is the General Manager (GM) at United India Insurance Company Limited (UIICL) in Chennai, Tamil Nadu (TN).
Experience: With over 30 years in the general insurance sector, Joshi has held various positions, including Branch and Divisional Head at multiple regional offices.
Key Roles: At UIICL, he served as Deputy General Manager (GM) and Chief Grievance Officer (CGO), contributing significantly to product development and regulatory compliance.
Defence news
Indian Armed Forces Launch Operation Sindoor to Target Terrorist Camps in Pakistan and PoJK
In a significant military move, the Indian Armed Forces launched ‘Operation Sindoor’ on Wednesday, executing a series of precision strikes on terrorist camps located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). This action comes after the Pahalgam terror attack, which resulted in the deaths of 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen, sparking widespread outrage and demands for decisive retaliation.
Precision Strikes on Nine Terror Sites:
As per a formal statement by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), the Indian military targeted nine key locations involved in terrorist activities against India. These included:
A former Lashkar-e-Taiba base near Muzaffarabad in PoK.
A Jaish-e-Mohammad-linked seminary in Bahawalpur, Punjab Province.
A significant infiltration hub in Kotli, PoK.
The Indian government highlighted that no Pakistani military installations were targeted, emphasizing that the operation was focused, measured, and non-escalatory.
Objective of Operation Sindoor: Neutralizing Terror Infrastructure
The operation is a part of a broader strategy to restore deterrence that has been undermined since the 2019 Balakot air strikes. Sources stated that Pakistan-based terror groups had recalibrated their actions, believing that India’s response threshold had weakened. The Pahalgam attack, attributed to The Resistance Force (TRF), a proxy of Lashkar-e-Taiba, served as a catalyst for this operation.
High-Level Military Coordination:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and top military officials such as Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal A P Singh, and Defence Secretary R K Singh, led consultations to review retaliatory actions. These discussions focused on combat readiness, intelligence assessments, and the reinforcement of **forward positions along the Line of Control (LoC) in anticipation of potential Pakistani retaliation.
Other Notable Operations by the Indian Army:
Operation Parakram (2001-2002): Launched after the Indian Parliament attack, this was a massive military mobilization aimed at confronting Pakistan over cross-border terrorism.
Operation Vijay (1999): This operation was launched to recapture Kargil during the Kargil War with Pakistan. The Indian Army successfully evicted Pakistani infiltrators from the region.
Operation Rakshak (2001): Launched in Jammu and Kashmir, this operation aimed at combating militancy and terrorist activities in the region, which had escalated after the 1999 Kargil conflict.
Operation All-Out (2017-Present): Focused on counter-terrorism operations in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly targeting terrorist leadership in the region.
Indian Army Inducts New Batch of Advanced Russian-origin ‘Igla-S’ Air Defence Missiles
In May 2025, the Indian Army (IA) received a new batch of ‘Igla-S’ missiles, advanced shoulder-fired, man-portable air defence systems designed to neutralize low-flying aerial threats such as helicopters, UAVs, and low-speed aircraft, particularly in forward areas and mountainous terrain.
Key Highlights:
The Igla-S missiles were procured under an Rs 260 crore emergency procurement contract signed by the Government of India (GoI).
The Ministry of Defence (MoD), in coordination with the IA, has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for:
48 Launchers
48 Night Vision Sights
85 Missiles
1 Missile Test Station under the Very Short Range Air Defence System – Next Generation (VSHORADS-NG) program.
Indigenous Assembly:
These systems were assembled in India by Adani Defence Systems and Technologies Limited (ADSTL), based in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
Technical Advancements:
Igla-S is a modernized version of the older Igla missiles, which have been part of India’s defence inventory since the 1990s.
The new system features:
Improved countermeasure resistance
Enhanced seeker accuracy
Maximum engagement range: 6 km
Maximum target altitude: 3.5 km
This acquisition strengthens India’s air defence capabilities, particularly in tactical battlefield conditions, reinforcing its preparedness in sensitive and high-altitude operational zones.
INCOIS Launches Submarine Cable Project in Andaman & Nicobar to Boost Ocean Monitoring
In May 2025, the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), operating under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), launched a cutting-edge ‘Submarine Cable Project’ aimed at strengthening the long-term monitoring of the Indian Ocean.
Project Highlights:
The initiative is backed by international scientific collaboration and aims to improve the understanding of:
Oceanographic patterns
Seismic activities
Tsunami risks in the Andaman & Nicobar (A&N) region
A 150-kilometre-long submarine cable will be deployed off the coast of Wandoor, located in the A&N Islands.
The infrastructure will feature two science nodes, fitted with:
Oceanographic sensors
Geophysical sensors These will be installed at depths of 2,000 to 2,500 metres, enhancing real-time data collection from the seabed.
About INCOIS:
Director: Dr. Balakrishnan Nair T.M
Headquarters: Hyderabad, Telangana
Established: 1999
Science and tech news
IndiaAI & Intel India Join Forces to Strengthen AI Capabilities and Skilling Nationwide
In May 2025, Intel Technology India Pvt. Ltd., based in Bengaluru, Karnataka, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IndiaAI (the National Artificial Intelligence initiative under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology – MeitY) to enhance AI capabilities and skill development across India.
Objective:
The partnership aims to empower youth, professionals, startups, and public sector leaders with essential AI competencies to drive social impact and good governance.
Key Programmes Under the Collaboration:
YuvaAI
Introduces AI to school students via the ‘Intel AI for Youth’ program.
Offers employability-focused AI training to college students through ‘Intel AI for Future Workforce’.
StartupAI
Supports early-stage startups with technical mentorship, business guidance, and market access through the ‘Intel Startup’ Program.
IndiaAI Dialogues & Intel Digital Readiness for Leaders
Organizes workshops and immersive sessions to enhance AI policy literacy among public sector leaders.
Bhashini Integration
Bhashini, the government’s multilingual language translation platform, will be integrated into AI-powered classroom PCs to boost learning outcomes.
Sports news
Oscar Piastri Wins 2025 Miami Grand Prix for 3rd Consecutive Victory
On May 4, 2025, Oscar Piastri, an Australian Formula One (F1) driver representing McLaren (UK-based), secured his fourth win of the 2025 F1 season at the Miami Grand Prix (GP), held at the Miami International Autodrome in Miami Gardens, Florida, USA.
Key Highlights:
3rd Consecutive Win: This victory marked Piastri’s third consecutive win, following his triumphs in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. His win extended his lead in the Drivers’ Championship standings.
Historic Achievement: This marked Piastri’s sixth career win and the first time a McLaren driver has achieved three consecutive wins since Mika Häkkinen in 1997-1998.
Race Results:
Piastri’s Performance: Starting from fourth position, Piastri overtook pole-sitter Max Verstappen on lap 15, maintaining the lead to finish first, 4.630 seconds ahead of teammate Lando Norris.
Lando Norris: Despite a setback dropping him to sixth position, Norris made a strong comeback, finishing second and ensuring a McLaren 1-2 finish.
George Russell: Russell, driving for Mercedes, secured third place, overtaking Verstappen during a pit stop exchange on lap 27.
Max Verstappen: The Red Bull Racing driver, who started from pole, finished fourth after being overtaken by both McLaren drivers and Russell.
Top 3 Finishers at the 2025 F1 Miami Grand Prix:
Oscar Piastri (McLaren, Australia)
Lando Norris (McLaren, United Kingdom)
George Russell (Mercedes, United Kingdom)
About Miami Grand Prix:
Debut Race: The Miami Grand Prix debuted during the 2022 F1 season, held at the Miami International Autodrome, a circuit built around the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, USA.
Circuit Specifications: The 5.412 km (3.363 miles) track features 19 corners and three Drag Reduction System (DRS) zones, offering high-speed straights and challenging turns.
The 2025 F1 season continues with the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, scheduled from May 16 to 18, 2025 at Imola, Italy.
Obituary news
Padma Shri Awardee K.V. Rabiya Passes Away
In May 2025, K.V. Rabiya, a pioneering literacy advocate from Kerala and Padma Shri Awardee, passed away in Tirurangadi, Kerala. She was widely known for her relentless dedication to adult literacy and women’s empowerment, overcoming significant health challenges throughout her life.
Key Contributions:
Born: February 25, 1966, Malappuram, Kerala.
Health Challenges: At the age of 17, while in her first year of college, polio left her legs crippled, but she continued her social work.
Adult Literacy Campaign: In June 1990, Rabiya launched an adult literacy campaign in Tirurangadi, Malappuram, Kerala, becoming a key figure in Kerala’s literacy movement.
Chalanam Organization: In 1994, she founded Chalanam, a social organization that transformed the lives of many people, particularly in her native Vellilakad village.
Aksharaputri: Known as Kerala’s Aksharaputri (daughter of letters) for her instrumental role in Kerala’s total literacy movement.
E-Literacy: Played a significant role in making Malappuram India’s first e-literate district through the Akshaya project.
Awards and Recognition:
National Youth Award (1993) from the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MoHRD), her first national recognition.
Kannagi Sthree Shakti Award (1999), UNDP Award (2000), Joseph Mundaserry Award (2010).
Padma Shri (2022), India’s fourth-highest civilian award, for her exceptional contribution to social work and education.
