Daily GK Update- 5th May, 2026

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Nepal Promulgates Constitutional Council Ordinance: Nepal’s President promulgated the Constitutional Council Ordinance, which is a legal instrument used to amend or introduce provisions with immediate effect under the country’s constitutional framework. The Constitutional Council is a statutory body in Nepal that deals with appointments to key constitutional offices. The Constitutional Council in Nepal is a high-level body formed under the Constitution of Nepal, 2015. It is associated with recommendations for appointments to constitutional positions such as the Chief Justice, heads of constitutional bodies, and other senior officials. Nepal adopted a federal democratic republican constitution in 2015. The Constitution provides for separation of powers among the executive, legislature, and judiciary, and it also establishes constitutional bodies for governance and oversight.

 

2. Veteran Producer R.B. Choudary Dies in Road Accident: Veteran film producer R.B. Choudary died in a road accident. He was associated with Indian cinema and was known in the film production field. Film production in India covers the financing, development, and making of motion pictures in languages such as Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Bengali, and Marathi. Producers manage budgets, casting, scheduling, and distribution arrangements for films. Road accidents are a major public safety issue in India and are governed by the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and related traffic regulations. Common causes include speeding, rash driving, poor road conditions, and violation of traffic rules.

 

3. Cabinet Launches Cotton Productivity Mission: The Union Cabinet has launched the Cotton Productivity Mission to improve cotton yield and strengthen the cotton value chain in India. Cotton is a major commercial crop and a key raw material for the textile sector, which uses both long-staple and medium-staple varieties. Cotton is a fibre crop grown in tropical and subtropical regions. India is one of the largest cotton producers in the world, and cotton cultivation is concentrated in states such as Gujarat, Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Punjab. The Cotton Productivity Mission focuses on higher productivity, better quality fibre, and improved farm-level practices. It also covers the use of scientific methods, improved seeds, and better agronomic techniques for cotton cultivation.

 

4. Cabinet Approves Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme 5.0: The Union Cabinet has approved Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme 5.0, which belongs to the family of credit guarantee measures used in India for liquidity support to eligible borrowers. The Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme, or ECLGS, was first introduced in 2020 as a pandemic-era measure for collateral-free additional credit to stressed businesses. The Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme is a government-backed credit guarantee framework for lending institutions. It was designed to provide additional working capital support through guaranteed loans to eligible entities, including micro, small and medium enterprises, and certain other borrower categories notified under the scheme. Micro, small and medium enterprises form a major borrower segment under Indian credit support programmes. Credit guarantee schemes in India are used to improve access to formal finance by covering a part of the lender’s default risk.

 

5. Cabinet Approves Multitracking Railway Projects: The Union Cabinet has approved multitracking railway projects across 19 districts in India. Railway multitracking refers to the construction of additional railway lines on existing or new corridors to increase line capacity, reduce congestion, and improve train movement on busy routes. The approved works cover railway connectivity across 19 districts. Multitracking projects are generally taken up on saturated routes where single or double lines face heavy traffic and operational constraints. Indian Railways uses multitracking to expand capacity on trunk routes, freight corridors, and suburban sections. Such projects are usually executed by the Ministry of Railways through its zonal railways and construction units.

 

6. Tripura Appoints Runiel Debbarma as TTAADC Chief Executive Member: Tripura appointed Runiel Debbarma as the Chief Executive Member of the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC). The TTAADC is a Sixth Schedule autonomous district council in Tripura and functions under the provisions of the Constitution of India. The Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council was created under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, which provides for autonomous district councils in certain tribal areas of the North-East. The council administers tribal-majority areas in Tripura and has powers related to local governance, land, forests, and customary practices. The Chief Executive Member is the head of the executive committee of an autonomous district council. The office is similar to the leader of a local executive body and is associated with administration, implementation of council decisions, and coordination of departments under the council.

 

7. Cabinet Approves Supreme Court Judge Strength Increase from 33 to 37: The Union Cabinet approved on 5 May 2026 a proposal to increase the sanctioned strength of Supreme Court judges from 33 to 37, excluding the Chief Justice of India. With the Chief Justice of India included, the total strength of the Supreme Court will rise from 34 to 38 judges. The strength of the Supreme Court is governed by The Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Act, 1956. The proposed change will require an amendment through The Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026, which will be introduced in Parliament. The Supreme Court has more than 92,000 pending cases. The increase in judge strength is linked to the functioning of more benches at the same time, since the court hears matters through division benches and larger constitutional benches.

 

8. UP Approves Cow Dung Economy Push: Uttar Pradesh has approved a policy push linked to the use of cow dung for income generation in the farm sector. The initiative is connected with gaushalas, organic manure production, and rural livelihood activities in the state. Cow dung is used in India for compost, biogas, bio-slurry, and traditional fuel applications. In rural areas, cow dung-based products are linked with cattle rearing, dairy activity, and organic farming practices. Gaushalas are shelters for cattle and are present in several Indian states. They are often associated with fodder management, animal care, dung collection, and production of manure-based inputs.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India and Africa Seek Stronger Cooperation: India and African countries are preparing for deeper cooperation ahead of the India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS), a multilateral platform for dialogue between India and African states. The India-Africa partnership covers political, economic, developmental, and institutional engagement across the Indian Ocean and the African continent. The India-Africa Forum Summit is the main institutional mechanism for India’s engagement with Africa at the summit level. The first IAFS was held in 2008 in New Delhi, and it brought together India and African Union member states for collective discussions. The summit format has been used to discuss trade, capacity building, development assistance, and regional cooperation. India and Africa share historical links through the Indian Ocean trade network, anti-colonial movements, and the Indian diaspora in East and Southern Africa. India has supported African capacity building through the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation programme, which began in 1964.

 

2. India Among Top Migration Corridors: India remained one of the largest migration corridors in the world in 2024, and remittances to India reached $134 billion in the same year. Remittances are cross-border personal transfers sent by migrant workers to households in their home countries. A migration corridor is a route between a country of origin and a country of destination for migrant workers and other migrants. India has large migration links with the Gulf region, North America, Europe, and parts of Asia. Remittances are recorded in balance of payments statistics and are classified as personal transfers in many international datasets. India has ranked among the largest remittance-receiving countries for several years because of its large overseas workforce.

 

3. India and Japan Hold Healthcare Cooperation Meeting: India and Japan held a healthcare cooperation meeting in Delhi to discuss bilateral engagement in the health sector. Such meetings between two countries usually cover public health systems, medical technology, disease control, and capacity-building frameworks. India and Japan maintain a Special Strategic and Global Partnership, which covers economic, security, and people-to-people cooperation. Health cooperation forms part of wider bilateral engagement between the two countries. Healthcare cooperation between countries can include hospital management, digital health, telemedicine, pharmaceuticals, and training of medical professionals. Japan has a strong healthcare system with advanced medical technology, while India has a large public health network and a major pharmaceutical industry.

 

4. Cape Breton University Signs MoUs with Indian Institutions: Cape Breton University, a public university in Nova Scotia, Canada, has signed memoranda of understanding with Indian institutions for academic cooperation. A memorandum of understanding, or MoU, is a formal agreement used by universities for collaboration in areas such as student exchange, research, and joint academic activities. Cape Breton University is located in Sydney, Nova Scotia, in eastern Canada. It is a public university and is known for programmes in business, engineering, health, and arts. Canadian universities often use MoUs to create institutional links with foreign universities and colleges. An MoU is a non-binding document that records areas of cooperation between two or more institutions. In higher education, MoUs commonly cover faculty exchange, student mobility, joint seminars, credit transfer, and collaborative research. Such agreements are used by universities in Canada, India, and other countries.

 

5. India Gifts 10 BHISHM Cube Units to Jamaica: India has gifted 10 BHISHM Cube mobile hospital units to Jamaica as part of bilateral cooperation in health support. BHISHM stands for Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog, Hita and Maitri, and the system is designed for rapid medical response in emergencies and disaster zones. BHISHM Cube is a modular mobile medical unit developed for field deployment. It can be transported to affected areas and used for triage, emergency care, and short-term treatment. The system is intended for use in disaster relief, mass casualty situations, and remote locations with limited medical infrastructure. India and Jamaica maintain diplomatic relations through the Commonwealth framework and wider South-South cooperation. India has extended assistance to several countries through medical aid, disaster relief supplies, and capacity-building support in public health.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Navy Chief Meets Myanmar Naval Leadership: The Chief of the Naval Staff of India met Myanmar’s naval leadership to discuss maritime security cooperation. The meeting formed part of bilateral defence engagement between India and Myanmar, which share a land boundary of about 1,643 km and a maritime boundary in the Bay of Bengal. India and Myanmar are connected through the Bay of Bengal and the eastern Indian Ocean region. Myanmar is a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and lies on India’s eastern flank, adjoining the states of Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram. Maritime security cooperation between two navies can include information sharing, coordinated patrols, search and rescue, and training exchanges. India’s naval diplomacy in the Bay of Bengal region is linked with the Indian Ocean Region and the Act East Policy.

 

2. Japan and Philippines Deepen Defence Ties: Japan and the Philippines have expanded defence cooperation through joint exercises and wider military engagement. Both countries are maritime states in the Indo-Pacific region and maintain security partnerships with several regional and extra-regional powers. Japan and the Philippines have strengthened defence ties through bilateral military exercises, port calls, and defence dialogue. The two countries are members of the Indo-Pacific security architecture and share concerns related to maritime security in the South China Sea and the East China Sea. Japan has also provided defence equipment and capacity-building support to the Philippines under its security assistance framework. Joint exercises between the two countries include naval and air force coordination, search-and-rescue drills, and interoperability training. Such exercises are used to improve communication, operational readiness, and coordination in maritime domains. The Philippines has also conducted exercises with the United States, Australia, and other regional partners.

 

3. India May Discuss BrahMos Sale to Vietnam: India may discuss the sale of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile to Vietnam. BrahMos is a joint venture missile system developed by India and Russia, and it is used by the Indian Armed Forces. BrahMos is a two-stage supersonic cruise missile with a range that has been extended in different variants. It can be launched from land, sea, air, and submarine platforms in specific configurations. The missile derives its name from the Brahmaputra and Moskva rivers. India and Vietnam have maintained defence cooperation through training, maritime security, and capacity-building activities. Vietnam is located in Southeast Asia and has a long coastline along the South China Sea. Defence ties between the two countries have included naval interactions and strategic dialogue. BrahMos is among the most advanced missile systems associated with India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem. India has pursued defence exports to several countries under its broader export promotion framework. The missile is known for supersonic speed and precision strike capability.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Scientists Discover Rare Giant Tree Species in Andes: Scientists have identified a rare giant tree species in the Andes, a major mountain range in South America that extends through seven countries, including Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina. The discovery adds to the known plant diversity of the Andean region, which contains multiple ecological zones from tropical forests to alpine habitats. The Andes is the longest continental mountain range in the world, stretching for about 7,000 km along the western edge of South America. It includes high-altitude ecosystems such as cloud forests, páramo grasslands and montane forests, which support many endemic plant and animal species. Tree species are woody perennial plants with a single main stem or trunk and a height generally above 5 metres at maturity. Botanical identification uses features such as leaf shape, bark texture, flower structure, fruit type and seed morphology, along with genetic analysis in modern taxonomy.

 

2. Scientists Discover Virus That Kills Drug-Resistant Bacteria: Scientists have identified a virus that can infect and kill drug-resistant bacteria. Such viruses are known as bacteriophages, or phages, and they target specific bacterial cells rather than human cells. Bacteriophages are viruses that infect bacteria and replicate inside them. They were first discovered in the early 20th century and have been studied as alternatives to antibiotics in bacterial infections. Drug-resistant bacteria survive treatment with one or more antibiotics. This condition is linked to antimicrobial resistance, a global public health concern that affects common infections such as pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and wound infections.

3. L&T to Develop Coal-to-Ammonium Nitrate Project: Larsen & Toubro, commonly known as L&T, will develop a coal-to-ammonium nitrate project in Odisha. Ammonium nitrate is an industrial chemical used mainly in fertilisers and in controlled industrial applications. Coal-to-ammonium nitrate projects use coal as a feedstock for chemical conversion. Such projects are linked to coal gasification, a process in which coal is converted into synthesis gas, or syngas, through controlled reaction with oxygen, steam, or air. Ammonium nitrate has the chemical formula NH4NO3. It is a white crystalline salt and is widely used in agriculture as a nitrogen fertiliser. It is also used in mining and quarrying as an industrial explosive component under regulated conditions.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. NSE Launches Electronic Gold Receipts: The National Stock Exchange (NSE) has launched Electronic Gold Receipts (EGRs) as a market instrument for gold trading in India. EGRs are electronic records that represent ownership of gold stored in a vault or approved depository system. Electronic Gold Receipts are tradable instruments backed by physical gold of specified purity and weight. They are designed for use in the regulated gold ecosystem and can be traded on recognised stock exchanges. EGRs are linked to vaulting, assaying, and settlement mechanisms that operate under a regulated framework. The instrument allows gold to be held in dematerialised form, which is a feature used in securities and commodity markets.

 

2. India Pushes ADB for Reforms: India has called for reforms in the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and for stronger financial support from the Manila-based multilateral lender. The ADB was established in 1966 and has 69 members, including 50 from Asia and the Pacific and 19 from outside the region. The Asian Development Bank is a regional development bank that finances projects in Asia and the Pacific. Its headquarters are in Manila, Philippines, and its core functions include sovereign lending, private sector financing, technical assistance, and policy support. The ADB provides loans, grants, equity investments, and guarantees for infrastructure, social sector, climate, and regional cooperation projects. Its ordinary capital resources and concessional Asian Development Fund are the main financial windows used for development assistance.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Anand RK, Suparna Sharma Win 2026 Pulitzer Prize: Indian illustrator Anand RK, freelance investigative journalist Suparna Sharma, and Natalie Obiko Pearson of Bloomberg won the 2026 Pulitzer Prize in the Illustrated Reporting and Commentary category on 4 May 2026. The winning work, titled trAPPed, is a visual investigation into India’s digital arrest scam. The Pulitzer Prize is an annual set of awards administered by Columbia University in New York. The Illustrated Reporting and Commentary category recognises work that combines visual storytelling with reporting. trAPPed examines a case involving a neurologist in India who was placed under digital arrest through her phone. The project was published by Bloomberg and deals with online fraud, surveillance, and scam networks.

 

 

Daily GK Update- 4th May, 2026

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Nitin Gadkari Launches India’s First MLFF Barrier-Less Tolling System in Gujarat: Nitin Gadkari announced the launch of India’s first Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) barrier-less tolling system at Chorayasi Toll Plaza on the Surat–Bharuch section of NH-48 in Gujarat. The MLFF system enables seamless toll collection without stopping, using technologies like Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) and FASTag.

 

2. Government to Launch Prashast 2.0 for Early Identification of Disabilities in Children: The Government of India will launch Prashast 2.0, an upgraded digital platform to identify 21 types of disabilities in children and support Children With Special Needs (CWSN). The platform will enable early detection of disabilities at the school level by teachers and school heads, ensuring timely intervention and inclusive education. Developed by the Department of School Education and Literacy, the platform is currently under User Acceptance Testing in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Delhi with participation from Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan.

 

3. India Deploys Aarogya Maitri in Jamaica Under BHISHM Initiative to Boost HADR Outreach: India deployed the Aarogya Maitri in Jamaica under its Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) framework, strengthening ties with Caribbean nations. The BHISHM Initiative (Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog Hita & Maitri) is an emergency medical aid programme featuring portable hospital systems for disaster situations. The BHISHM Cube (mobile hospital unit) includes medicines, ICU setup, and surgical equipment, capable of treating around 200 patients on the ground.

 

4. Department of Posts Signs MoU with DTDC Express Limited to Boost Logistics & E-commerce Delivery: The Department of Posts under the Ministry of Communications signed an MoU with DTDC Express Limited to strengthen India’s logistics and e-commerce ecosystem. The partnership aims to combine DoP’s extensive nationwide network with DTDC’s logistics expertise to enhance parcel delivery services, building on their collaboration that began in 2025.

 

5. Anupinder Singh Grewal Appointed President of National Company Law Tribunal: Anupinder Singh Grewal has been appointed as the President of the National Company Law Tribunal for a 5-year term or until the age of 67, whichever is earlier. The National Company Law Tribunal is a quasi-judicial body under the Companies Act, 2013, dealing with corporate disputes, insolvency, and company law matters.

 

6. Rohit Jain Appointed as RBI Deputy Governor for Three-Year Term: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has appointed Rohit Jain as the new Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). His appointment is for a tenure of three years, and he succeeds T. Rabi Sankar. Prior to this role, he was serving as an Executive Director (ED) at the RBI.

 

7. India Launches Fire Safety Week in Hospitals: The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is observing a nationwide Fire Safety Week from 4 May to 10 May 2026 across healthcare facilities in India. The observance covers hospitals, medical colleges, district hospitals, and multi-speciality hospitals. Fire safety in hospitals includes prevention, detection, evacuation, and emergency response systems for patients, staff, and visitors. Healthcare facilities use fire extinguishers, alarm systems, emergency exits, and evacuation plans as part of standard safety arrangements. Union Health Secretary Smt. Punya Salila Srivastava will inaugurate the observance at Kartavya Bhawan in New Delhi. A “Fire Safety in Health Facilities” pledge will be administered during the week to reaffirm compliance with safety norms and preparedness measures. Healthcare facilities have been advised to conduct fire safety assessments using an updated checklist and submit reports through the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP). The initiative is coordinated with the Directorate General of Fire Services, Civil Defence and Home Guards under the Ministry of Home Affairs.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. China Launches Pakistan’s PRSC-EO3: China successfully launched the Pakistani satellite PRSC-EO3 from Taiyuan Satellite Launch Centre using a Long March-6 rocket on 26 April. The satellite was placed into its planned orbit, marking another milestone in space cooperation between China and Pakistan.

 

2. Ashutosh Gowariker Appointed Festival Director for 57th International Film Festival of India: Ashutosh Gowariker has been appointed as the Festival Director for the 57th edition of the International Film Festival of India, to be held in Goa. The International Film Festival of India, established in 1952, is South Asia’s oldest film festival. The festival is jointly organised by the National Film Development Corporation under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Entertainment Society of Goa.

 

3. 2 May – World Tuna Day: World Tuna Day is observed every year on 2 May to raise awareness about the importance of tuna fish and sustainable fishing practices. Theme 2026 – Sustaining Tuna, Sustaining Nations and Advocating for Tuna Conservation The day highlights the need for conservation of tuna species and maintaining a balanced marine ecosystem.

 

4. 2 May – International Harry Potter Day: International Harry Potter Day is celebrated every year on 2 May to honour the legacy of the Harry Potter series. The day marks the anniversary of the Battle of Hogwarts, a key event symbolising the victory of good over evil. It recognises the global impact of the Harry Potter books written by J. K. Rowling

 

5. 3 May – World Press Freedom Day: World Press Freedom Day is observed every year on 3 May to highlight the importance of press freedom and freedom of expression. Theme 2026 – Shaping a Future of Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development, and Security The day was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993, following a recommendation by UNESCO.

 

6. Singapore, New Zealand Sign Critical Goods Supply Chain Pact: Singapore and New Zealand signed a legally binding agreement on 4 May 2026 to strengthen supply chain resilience and maintain the flow of critical goods. The pact covers essential supplies such as food, fuel, healthcare products, chemical products, and construction products. Supply chain resilience refers to the ability of trade and logistics systems to continue functioning during shocks, shortages, or transport disruptions. The agreement commits both countries not to impose unnecessary export restrictions on essential goods, including during crises. The pact will be incorporated into the Agreement on a Closer Economic Partnership, the free-trade agreement between Singapore and New Zealand that came into force in January 2001. The two countries also signed a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in October 2025, which covers six pillars of cooperation, including trade, security, and supply chain resilience.

 

7. Canada becomes First non-European Country to Attend an EPC Summit: Canada became the first non-European country to participate in a European Political Community (EPC) summit when Prime Minister Mark Carney attended the 8th EPC meeting in Yerevan, Armenia, on 4 May 2026. The EPC was created in 2022 after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine and brings together European Union members and other European states for political dialogue. The European Political Community is a political forum launched in 2022. It includes EU member states and non-EU European countries such as the United Kingdom, Turkey, Norway and Switzerland. The forum does not function as a membership body for the European Union. The 8th EPC summit was co-chaired by Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and European Council President Antonio Costa. Nearly 50 heads of state and government took part in discussions on politics, security and infrastructure. Canada’s participation followed an invitation extended by Antonio Costa on 28 April 2026.

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. INS Mahendragiri Delivered to Indian Navy: INS Mahendragiri, the sixth ship of the Nilgiri-class (Project 17A), has been delivered to the Indian Navy at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, Mumbai. It is the fourth Nilgiri-class stealth frigate built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, enhancing India’s indigenous naval capabilities.

 

2. India-Cambodia CINBAX-II 2026 Military Exercise Begins: The second edition of the India-cambodia/">Cambodia Bilateral Military Exercise CINBAX-II 2026 began at Techo Sen Phnom Thom Mreas Prov Royal Cambodian Air Force Training Centre, also known as Camp Basil, in Kampong Speu Province, Cambodia. The exercise is scheduled from 4 to 17 May 2026 and involves company-level joint training under Chapter VII of the UN mandate. CINBAX stands for Cambodia-India Bilateral Army Exercise. The 2026 edition is the second iteration of the exercise between the Indian Army and the Royal Cambodian Army. The exercise is conducted in a sub-conventional environment, which is a military term used for counter-terrorism, internal security, and similar operations below the level of conventional war.

 

3. Balikatan 2026 Drills Continues in Philippines: Balikatan 2026 is a joint military exercise between the Philippines and the United States that began on 20 April 2026 and is scheduled to end on 8 May 2026. The exercise involves more than 17,000 troops from the Philippines, the United States, Australia, Japan, Canada, France, and New Zealand. About 10,000 United States personnel and 7,000 Filipino service members are taking part in the exercise. Japan and Canada are full-time participants in Balikatan 2026, and Japan’s Self-Defense Force has deployed active combat personnel for the first time since World War II. The United States Space Force is also participating for the first time in Balikatan. The exercise focuses on island defence, maritime security, and a simulated enemy invasion. A counter-landing live-fire drill was held in Laoag City on 4 May 2026, where United States forces used High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, or HIMARS. Japan fired its Type 88 ground-to-surface missile to sink a mock enemy ship.

 

SPORTS 

 

Shreyas Iyer Named Brand Ambassador for F1 Programme in India: Shreyas Iyer has been appointed as the brand ambassador for the F1 programme in India by Mumbai Falcons Racing Limited. The announcement coincided with the launch of the F1 Sim Racing India Open 2026, a national-level esports event aimed at identifying and nurturing digital racing talent.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited Signs Tech Transfer Pact with DRDO for Naval GT-IRSS System: Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited signed a licensing agreement (LAToT) with Naval Science & Technological Laboratory, a lab under the Defence Research and Development Organisation, for technology transfer. The agreement covers the Gas Turbine–Infrared Suppression System (GT-IRSS) for naval vessels, with BHEL responsible for fabrication, installation, and commissioning of the LM2500-based system developed by NSTL-DRDO.

 

2. Paranal solar ESPRESSO Telescope achieves first light: The Paranal solar ESPRESSO Telescope (PoET) achieved first light at the European Southern Observatory’s Paranal Observatory in Chile’s Atacama Desert. The system completed test observations and acquired spectra of the full solar disc and selected solar regions. PoET operates with ESO’s ESPRESSO instrument, which is a high-resolution spectrograph used for precise astronomical measurements. The telescope is designed for daytime solar observations, while the Very Large Telescope (VLT) uses the same instrument at night. PoET includes a main telescope with a 60-centimetre mirror for observing specific solar regions such as sunspots. It also has a smaller telescope for collecting light from the entire solar disc. The system is managed remotely from the Centre for Astrophysics of the University of Porto in Portugal.

 

3. Pathfinder to be India’s First AI Orbital Data Centre Satellite: Pixxel and Sarvam announced Pathfinder on 3 May 2026 as India’s first AI-powered orbital data centre satellite. Pathfinder is a 200 kg-class demonstration satellite planned for launch in the fourth quarter of 2026. An orbital data centre satellite is a spacecraft that processes data in space instead of sending all raw data to Earth. Pathfinder is designed to analyse data in orbit and reduce the time between data capture and insight generation. Pathfinder will carry data centre-class Graphics Processing Units, which are used for high-performance computing. It will also carry Pixxel’s hyperspectral imaging camera for real-time capture and processing of spectral data. The satellite will be developed at Pixxel’s Gigapixxel manufacturing facility in India, which is planned for satellite production of up to 100 units.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. GST collections in India hit a record ₹2.42 Lakh Crore in April 2026: India’s Goods and Services Tax collections reached an all-time high of ₹2.42 lakh crore in April 2026, reflecting strong economic activity. The collections recorded a Year-on-Year growth of 8.7% compared to April last year (₹2.33 lakh crore).

Daily GK Update- 3rd May, 2026

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Dr Joram Aniya: NITI Aayog Gets First Full-Time Member from Arunachal Pradesh: On 2 May 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the appointment of Dr Joram Aniya as a full-time member of NITI Aayog. She became the first person from Arunachal Pradesh and the first person from the Northeast to hold this position in India’s policy think tank. NITI Aayog stands for National Institution for Transforming India. It functions as the Government of India’s policy think tank and replaced the Planning Commission in 2015. The Prime Minister serves as the Chairperson of NITI Aayog. Dr Joram Aniya has more than 18 years of experience in teaching, research, and public policy engagement. She is an academician, writer, and folklorist. She was the first woman from the Nyishi community to earn a PhD. She was also the first scholar in Arunachal Pradesh to obtain a doctorate in Hindi language studies.

 

2. Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram Revamped for Lifestyle Diseases: The Union Health Ministry rolled out the revised Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK 2.0) guidelines in New Delhi on 3 May 2026. The programme covers children from birth to 18 years and includes preventive, promotive, and curative care under a single framework. The Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram was launched in 2013 under the National Health Mission. The earlier framework focused on the “4Ds”, which are defects at birth, diseases, deficiencies, and developmental delays. RBSK 2.0 expands this framework to include mental health conditions, behavioural issues, and risk factors for non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. The revised scope also covers obesity and early diabetes risk among children. Screening under the programme continues through Mobile Health Teams. These teams conduct screening at Anganwadi centres for children aged 0-6 years and in schools for older children.

 

3. India Launches 100th Vande Bharat Trainset: Indian Railways rolled out the 100th Vande Bharat trainset on 2 May 2026 from the Modern Coach Factory at Raebareli. The trainset is a 16-coach chair-car rake fitted with a Siemens propulsion system and will undergo oscillation trials before induction into regular passenger service. The Jammu–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express began regular operations on 2 May 2026 as the first direct rail link between Jammu and Srinagar. The service runs with a 20-coach configuration, covers the route in about 4 hours and 50 minutes, and operates six days a week. Vande Bharat sleeper services began commercial operations on 17 January 2026 for long-distance travel of 800 km to 1,200 km. The first sleeper prototype was rolled out by BEML in September 2024. The Raebareli-built trainset includes fully sealed gangways, automatic plug doors, noise reduction systems, and the Kavach Automatic Train Protection system. Kavach is an indigenous train collision avoidance and protection system used on Indian Railways routes.

 

4. Ishank Singh Becomes Youngest to Swim Palk Strait: In a remarkable feat of endurance and determination, young swimmer Ishank Singh has become the youngest individual to successfully swim across the Palk Strait. The achievement has placed him among an elite group of open-water swimmers and brought national recognition to his accomplishment. Ishank Singh completed the challenging swim across the Palk Strait, which separates India from Sri Lanka, under demanding ocean conditions. Known for strong currents, marine life, and unpredictable weather, the stretch is considered one of the toughest open-water swimming routes in the world. His success marks a significant milestone in Indian sports, particularly in endurance swimming.

 

5. Actor Sudesh Kumar of Dosti Fame Passes Away: Veteran actor Sudesh Kumar, best known for his role in the classic Hindi film Dosti, has passed away, marking the end of an era in Indian cinema. He gained recognition for portraying emotionally rich characters during the 1960s and 1970s, particularly in films centred on friendship, love, and social struggles. Sudesh Kumar became a household name with “Dosti”, a 1964 film that explored the deep bond between two underprivileged boys. The film was widely acclaimed for its sensitive storytelling and music. His performance in the tragic narrative resonated with audiences and established him as a promising talent in Hindi cinema.

 

6. Rohit Jain Appointed RBI Deputy Governor: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the appointment of Rohit Jain as Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India. Currently serving as Executive Director in the central bank, Jain will assume the role for a period of three years from the date of joining on or after May 3, 2026. His elevation reflects continuity within the institution’s leadership. Rohit Jain brings nearly three decades of experience within the RBI, having handled diverse portfolios. His expertise includes banking supervision, financial regulation, and institutional oversight. As Executive Director since December 2020, he was responsible for critical supervisory functions, particularly in monitoring banking operations and ensuring financial stability.

 

7. Prime Minister Appoints Two New NITI Aayog Members: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the appointment of academicians Joram Aniya and R. Balasubramaniam as full-time members of NITI Aayog. The decision follows the recent reconstitution of the apex policy body aimed at strengthening India’s governance framework with wider expertise and representation. The appointments come after a significant restructuring of NITI Aayog on April 24. Ashok Kumar Lahiri was appointed as Vice-Chairperson, alongside new full-time members including Rajiv Gauba, K. V. Raju, Gobardhan Das, Abhay Karandikar and M. Srinivas. This move is aimed at revitalising the institution’s role in policy formulation and long-term development planning.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Nepal Objects to Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lipulekh: Nepal has objected to the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand and has raised the issue through diplomatic protests with India and China. Nepal claims that Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura and Kalapani fall within its territory under the 1816 Sugauli Treaty. Lipulekh Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand near the India-China-Nepal tri-junction. India has used the route for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra since 1954, and the route has also been linked with border trade and movement across the Himalayan frontier. The 1816 Sugauli Treaty was signed between the British East India Company and the Kingdom of Nepal after the Anglo-Nepalese War. Nepal cites this treaty in support of its claim over the areas of Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura and Kalapani, which are part of the western border dispute between India and Nepal.

 

2. ADB Unveils $70 Billion Connectivity Plan for Asia: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) announced a $70 billion regional investment plan on 3 May 2026 for electricity links and digital infrastructure across Asia and the Pacific by 2035. ADB President Masato Kanda made the announcement at the bank’s 59th annual meeting in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The Pan-Asia Power Grid Initiative aims to integrate about 20 gigawatts of renewable energy across borders by 2035. It also plans to build 22,000 circuit-kilometres of transmission lines and improve electricity access for 200 million people. The power initiative is projected to generate around 840,000 jobs by 2035. It also targets a 15% reduction in regional power sector emissions by 2035. The plan has two major components. The first is the 50 billion Pan-Asia Power Grid Initiative. The second is the 20 billion Asia-Pacific Digital Highway. Both programmes cover cross-border infrastructure in the Asia-Pacific region.

 

3. US Launches Project Freedom in Strait of Hormuz: The United States launched Project Freedom on 4 May 2026 to escort commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz and restore freedom of navigation. The operation involves US Central Command (CENTCOM) assets, including guided-missile destroyers, more than 100 land and sea-based aircraft, multi-domain unmanned platforms, and 15,000 service members. The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow maritime passage between Oman and Iran that connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. It is one of the world’s most important oil transit chokepoints and a major route for commercial shipping. Project Freedom aims to escort about 800 commercial vessels that have remained stranded because of a dual blockade in the strait. US President Donald Trump announced the initiative on 3 May 2026 and described it as a humanitarian gesture for neutral vessels and their crews.

 

4. India Ranks 157 in Press Freedom Index: India ranked 157th out of 180 countries in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index released on 30 April 2026 by Reporters Without Borders (RSF). The ranking placed India in the “very serious” category for press freedom, and India fell six places from its 2025 rank of 151. The World Press Freedom Index is an annual ranking prepared by Reporters Without Borders, also known as RSF. The index assesses press freedom conditions in 180 countries and territories using indicators linked to pluralism, media independence, environment, self-censorship, legal framework, transparency, and safety. RSF linked India’s decline to violence against journalists, concentrated media ownership, and media outlets with political alignment. The report also referred to judicial harassment of independent media and the use of criminal statutes such as defamation and national security laws against journalists.

5. Mayon Volcano Eruption Triggers Evacuations in Albay province in Philippines: Mayon Volcano in Albay province, south of Manila in the Philippines, recorded renewed volcanic activity on 3 May 2026. Authorities evacuated thousands of residents and kept Alert Level 3 under the country’s five-step volcano warning system. Mayon Volcano is an active stratovolcano in Albay province on Luzon island. It lies about 330 kilometres south-east of Manila and forms part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, a belt of frequent earthquakes and volcanoes around the Pacific Ocean. Phivolcs recorded strombolian activity, short-lived lava fountaining, and continuous lava effusion on 3 May 2026. A pyroclastic density current, or PDC, also moved up to four kilometres down the Mi-isi gully on 2 May 2026, while remaining inside the danger zone. A PDC is a fast-moving mixture of hot gas, ash, and volcanic fragments. Strombolian activity refers to intermittent bursts of lava and gas from a volcanic vent.

 

6. Government Issues Childhood Diabetes Management Guidelines: India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare launched the first-ever Guidance Document on Diabetes Mellitus in Children on 3 May 2026 at the National Summit on Best Practices in Public Healthcare Service Delivery. The document sets a national framework for screening, diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management of diabetes in children from birth to 18 years. The framework provides universal health screening for children from birth to 18 years through community and school platforms. It includes free-of-cost services at public health facilities, such as screening, diagnostic tests, lifelong insulin therapy, glucometers, test strips, and follow-up care. The document also links community-level screening with district hospital management and advanced care at medical colleges. This structure creates a continuum of care for children with diabetes across primary, secondary, and tertiary health facilities.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. India Tests Hypersonic Anti-Ship Missile with 1500km Range: India has successfully conducted the second flight test of its long-range hypersonic anti-ship missile (LR-AShM), marking a significant advancement in maritime defence capability. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the missile was tested off the Odisha coast and is designed to enhance India’s strategic reach in deep ocean regions. The LR-AShM boasts a strike range exceeding 1,500 kilometres and can reach speeds of up to Mach 10, making it one of the fastest weapons in India’s arsenal. During its glide phase, it maintains an average speed of around Mach 5, enabling it to evade modern radar and interception systems. The missile uses a two-stage hypersonic glide vehicle design, which enhances both speed and manoeuvrability.

 

2. Russia Tests Soyuz-5 Rocket with Powerful Engine: Russia has successfully test-launched the Soyuz-5 rocket, marking a significant advancement in its space programme. The launch demonstrates the country’s continued focus on modernising launch vehicles and enhancing payload capabilities amid growing global competition in space exploration. The Soyuz-5 is a next-generation medium-lift launch vehicle designed to replace older Soviet-era rockets. Developed by Russia’s space agency, it is intended to support both commercial and government missions. The rocket is capable of carrying payloads of up to 17 tonnes to low Earth orbit, making it a versatile option for satellite deployment and future space missions. A key highlight of the Soyuz-5 is its powerful liquid-fuelled engine, considered among the most advanced in its class. The engine uses refined propulsion systems to deliver higher thrust and efficiency compared to earlier models. This technological upgrade allows the rocket to carry heavier payloads while maintaining reliability and cost-effectiveness.

 

3. Indian Navy Inducts Fourth Stealth Frigate Mahendragiri: India has strengthened its maritime capabilities with the induction of ‘Mahendragiri’, the fourth stealth frigate under Project 17A. Built as part of India’s indigenous warship programme, the vessel reflects the country’s growing self-reliance in defence manufacturing and advanced naval technology. Mahendragiri is a state-of-the-art stealth guided-missile frigate constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL). It belongs to the Nilgiri-class frigates under Project 17A, which are designed with improved stealth features, enhanced survivability, and advanced combat systems. The ship is named after a mountain peak in Odisha, continuing the Indian Navy’s tradition of naming frigates after mountain ranges. The warship incorporates cutting-edge stealth technology to reduce radar cross-section, making it difficult to detect. It is equipped with advanced weapons, including surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missiles, anti-submarine warfare systems, and modern surveillance radars. The frigate also supports helicopter operations, enhancing its reach in maritime missions.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. India Storms into Thomas Cup Semis with 3-0 Win: India delivered a dominant performance to defeat Chinese Taipei 3-0 and secure a place in the semi-finals of the Thomas Cup, assuring themselves of at least a bronze medal. The emphatic victory highlights India’s growing strength in international badminton and its consistency in major team events.

India outclassed Chinese Taipei in all three matches of the quarter-final tie, sealing the contest without dropping a single rubber. The team displayed strong coordination and composure, overpowering their opponents in both singles and doubles categories. This clean sweep ensured a smooth progression into the last four stage. Indian shuttlers delivered across formats, with top singles players setting the tone early in the tie. The doubles pair complemented the effort with a decisive win, underlining the team’s balanced strength. The collective performance reflected depth in the squad and effective match strategy.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. South Korea Launches CAS500-2 Earth-Observation Satellite: South Korea launched its domestically developed Earth-observation satellite Compact Advanced Satellite 500-2 (CAS500-2) into orbit on 3 May 2026. The satellite, also called Next-Generation Medium Satellite No. 2 or Cha Middle 2, lifted off aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, United States. The launch took place at 3:59 p.m. Korea time, which was midnight local time in California. The Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA) oversaw the mission. The launch came after a delay of nearly four years, and the original launch plan used a Russian Soyuz rocket before the Russia-Ukraine war changed the arrangement. About one hour after launch, CAS500-2 separated from the Falcon 9 rocket and entered a sun-synchronous orbit at an altitude of 498 kilometres. Fifteen minutes after separation, the satellite established its first communication link with a ground station in Svalbard, Norway, and confirmed normal operation.

 

2. GalaxEye Launches World’s First OptoSAR Satellite: GalaxEye launched Mission Drishti, the world’s first OptoSAR satellite, on 3 May 2026. The 190-kilogram satellite lifted off on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg, California, at 12:30 PM IST. Mission Drishti is India’s largest privately developed Earth observation satellite. OptoSAR combines Electro-Optical (EO) sensors and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) sensors in a single platform. EO sensors capture images in visible and infrared wavelengths, while SAR uses microwave radar to obtain images through clouds and in darkness. The combined system supports all-weather, day-and-night imaging. Mission Drishti is an Earth observation satellite designed for data collection across varied environmental conditions. Earth observation satellites monitor land, water, atmosphere, and built-up areas from orbit. Such satellites support mapping, crop assessment, flood monitoring, and coastal surveillance.

 

3. Karnataka Launches Space Tech Centre of Excellence: Karnataka has taken a significant step in advancing India’s space innovation ecosystem by launching the country’s first state-led Centre of Excellence for Space Technology in Bengaluru. The initiative aims to accelerate commercial applications of space technologies while strengthening collaboration between government, industry, and academia. The Centre of Excellence for Space Technology (CoE SpaceTech Foundation) has been established by the Karnataka government through the Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS) in collaboration with the Satcom Industry Association of India (SIA-India). It is designed to promote research, innovation, and capacity building in emerging space technologies.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Bank of Baroda Launches Indian Sign Language Video Call Support to Enhance Inclusive Banking Services: Bank of Baroda launched Indian Sign Language (ISL) support via video calls at its Contact Centre to assist customers with hearing or speech impairments. The service is available across five platforms: website, mobile banking app, WhatsApp Banking, Phygital Branches, and ADI (GenAI-powered chatbot). Customers can choose ‘Video Call with Sign Language’, where trained ISL interpreters provide real-time assistance, enhancing inclusive and accessible banking services.

 

2. Flipkart, Axis Bank & PayU Introduce Biometric Authentication for Card Payments, Replacing OTP System: Flipkart, Axis Bank, and PayU have introduced biometric authentication for card payments on the Flipkart platform. Axis Bank cardholders can now approve transactions using fingerprint or Face ID, replacing the traditional OTP (One-Time Password) system. Wibmo manages authentication, while PayU handles the payment infrastructure, ensuring a more secure and seamless payment experience.