Daily GK Update- 1st June, 2026

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. President’s Police Colour Conferred on Sikkim Police: President Droupadi Murmu conferred the prestigious President’s Police Colour on the Sikkim Police during an Alankaran Parade held at Paljor Stadium. With this recognition, Sikkim became the 15th state in India and the 3rd state from the North-East region to receive the President’s Police Colour. The President’s Police Colour is the highest ceremonial honour awarded to a police force in India, recognizing exceptional service, professionalism, and commitment to national security and public welfare.

 

2. AYUSHEXCIL and Spices Board Sign MoU to Promote Ayush Products Globally: The Ayush Export Promotion Council and the Spices Board of India signed an MoU to strengthen the global promotion of Ayush products, medicinal spices, and India’s traditional wellness ecosystem.The partnership aims to boost exports through quality assurance, standardisation, research, innovation, international market development, and promotion of functional foods, nutraceuticals, herbal extracts, and Ayurvedic products.Under the proposed “Spice and Heal” initiative, both organizations will focus on branding, traceability, scientific validation, capacity building, and participation in international trade fairs to position India as a global leader in holistic health and natural healing solutions.

 

3. Ministry of Corporate Affairs Allows CSR Spending Through ZCZP Instruments: The Ministry of Corporate Affairs has allowed companies to deploy up to 10% of their annual CSR expenditure through Zero Coupon Zero Principal (ZCZP) instruments, aiming to strengthen India’s Social Stock Exchange ecosystem.A ZCZP instrument carries no interest payment and no principal repayment, making it a philanthropic funding mechanism that channels social impact investments through a market-based framework.Under Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013, eligible companies are required to spend at least 2% of their average net profits on CSR activities, and non-compliance can attract penalties of up to ₹1 crore.

 

4. Sarbananda Sonowal Launches Logistics Port Performance Index (LPPI) 2024–25 at JNPA, Mumbai: Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal launched the Logistics Port Performance Index (LPPI) 2024-25 during the 37th Foundation Day celebrations of the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority in Mumbai.LPPI is a national benchmarking framework developed under the Sagar Aankalan Framework to evaluate port performance across Dry Bulk Cargo, Liquid Bulk Cargo, and Container Cargo categories.Top-performing ports were Paradip Port Authority in Dry Bulk Cargo, Sikka Port and Terminals in Liquid Bulk Cargo, and Mundra Port in Container Cargo, while JNPA secured the second position among major container ports.

 

5. Delhi High Court Frames Right to Be Forgotten Rules: The Delhi High Court delivered a 144-page judgment on 29 May 2026 on the enforcement of the right to be forgotten in digital records. Justice Sachin Datta recognised the right to be forgotten as an integral facet of the fundamental right to privacy under Article 21 of the Constitution. Article 21 of the Constitution protects the right to life and personal liberty, and the Supreme Court recognised privacy as a fundamental right in Justice K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India, 2017. The Delhi High Court linked informational privacy with the continued availability of judicial records on internet search platforms.

 

6. Mesalina Bishnoi Recorded in India for First Time: Mesalina bishnoi is a newly described lizard species from Rajasthan and the first confirmed record of the genus Mesalina in India. The formal description was published on 1 June 2026 after specimen collection from an open semi-desert habitat near Gajner in the Bikaner district. Mesalina bishnoi belongs to the genus Mesalina and was placed within the Mesalina watsonana species complex. Scientists used morphological examination and genetic analyses to confirm it as a previously unknown species. A field survey in August 2025 led to the collection of the specimen near Gajner in western Rajasthan. The habitat was an open semi-desert zone, which is part of the arid landscape of the Thar region.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Yemen’s Former President Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi Dies: Former Yemeni President Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi has passed away. He was a key political figure in Yemen during a period of significant political transition and conflict.Hadi served as the President of Yemen from 2012 to 2022, leading the country for a decade before transferring his powers to a presidential leadership council.

 

2. Banks Sanction ₹35,194 Crore Under ECLGS 5.0: The Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS) 5.0 is a government credit guarantee scheme approved by the Union Cabinet on 5 May 2026 for industries affected by the West Asia crisis, including Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and airlines. Banks had sanctioned ₹35,194 crore in loans under the scheme by 29 May 2026. ECLGS 5.0 has a budgetary outlay of ₹18,100 crore and is designed to facilitate additional credit flow of ₹2.55 lakh crore. The scheme includes a specific allocation of ₹5,000 crore for airlines. Borrowers eligible for ECLGS 5.0 must have credit facilities classified as Standard, excluding Special Mention Account-2, as of 31 March 2026. The scheme remains open for loan sanctions until 31 March 2027 or until guarantees for the full ₹2.55 lakh crore are issued, whichever occurs earlier.

 

3. India-US Trade Deal Enters Final Stage: India and the United States are in the final stage of an interim trade pact under the first tranche of the proposed Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA). As of 1 June 2026, India’s Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal stated that 99% of the discussions for the first phase had been completed. Chief negotiators from the United States and India are meeting in New Delhi from 1 to 4 June 2026. The US delegation is led by Brendan Lynch, and the Indian delegation is led by Darpan Jain, Additional Secretary in the Department of Commerce. The talks are focused on finalising the legal text and related details of the interim pact.

 

4. Centre Signs MoU with ISRO for Water Research: The Ministry of Jal Shakti and the Indian Space Research Organisation signed a Memorandum of Understanding on 1 June 2026 in New Delhi. The agreement covers the use of satellite technology and space-based applications for water resource management in India. The workshop also launched the MAHA on Water programme, which stands for Mission for Advancement in High-Impact Areas for Water. The programme is a joint initiative of the Ministry of Jal Shakti and the Anusandhan National Research Foundation. An open call for startups and MSMEs was announced under the Bharat Water Innovation Network platform. The platform is linked to innovation in the water sector.

 

5. Coinbase Launches Direct INR Deposits in India: Coinbase launched direct Indian Rupee (INR) deposit and withdrawal services in India on 1 June 2026. Indian customers can use bank accounts and the Immediate Payment Service (IMPS) for INR transfers without peer-to-peer rails or intermediaries. Coinbase is a United States-based cryptocurrency exchange founded in 2012. The platform now offers spot trading and perpetual futures contracts for major crypto assets to users in India. Coinbase also maintains local INR order books and access to its global exchange for broader liquidity. Coinbase is registered with India’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU-IND). The company complies with Indian taxation rules for virtual digital asset transactions, including tax deducted at source (TDS). In India, virtual digital assets are covered under the Income-tax Act, 1961, and TDS applies to specified crypto transfers.

 

6. India’s Seafood Exports Touch Record $8.46 Billion: India’s seafood exports in fiscal year 2025-26 (FY26) reached 8.46 billion, or ₹73,890.46 crore, with a total export volume of 19,72,018 metric tonnes. The Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) confirmed the FY26 value on 1 June 2026, and earlier provisional data released on 21-22 April 2026 had placed the export value at 8.28 billion. Frozen shrimp remained the largest export item in FY26, earning $5,624.48 million, or ₹49,037.93 crore. Frozen shrimp accounted for 66.52% of total US dollar earnings from India’s seafood exports in FY26. The United States remained the largest importer of Indian seafood in FY26. Exports to the United States fell by 10.82% in rupee value and 14.22% in dollar value, while exports to China rose by 22.7% in value and 20.1% in volume.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

DEFENCE

 

1. Vice Admiral Ajay Kochhar Assumes Charge as Vice Chief of Naval Staff: Vice Admiral Ajay Kochhar has assumed charge as the 48th Vice Chief of the Naval Staff (VCNS) of the Indian Navy.

Before this appointment, he served as Commander-in-Chief of the Andaman and Nicobar Command, India’s only integrated tri-service command.

2. Vice Admiral Vineet McCarty Takes Charge of ANC: Vice Admiral Vineet McCarty, AVSM, assumed charge as the 20th Commander-in-Chief of the Andaman & Nicobar Command (ANC) on 1 June 2026 at Sri Vijaya Puram. He succeeded Vice Admiral Ajay Kochhar, who relinquished command on 25 May 2026 and took over as Vice Chief of the Naval Staff. Before this appointment, he served as Assistant Chief of the Naval Staff (Staff Requirements), Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet, Commandant of the Indian Naval Academy, and Controller Personnel Services. In his new role, he will oversee operational control and development of military assets in the island territories, including Great Nicobar Island.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Sumit Antil Breaks World Record at Indian Open International Para Athletics Championships 2026: Two-time Paralympic champion Sumit Antil set a new world record in the Men’s Javelin Throw F64 category with a throw of 74.82 metres at the Indian Open International Para Athletics Championships 2026 in Bengaluru.Representing Haryana, Antil surpassed his previous world record of 73.29 metres, which he had established at the Asian Para Games 2022, and won the gold medal.

 

2. Royal Challengers Bengaluru Retain IPL Title : Royal Challengers Bengaluru successfully defended their IPL title by defeating Gujarat Titans by five wickets in the final at Narendra Modi Stadium.Virat Kohli starred in the chase with an unbeaten 75 off 42 balls and was named Player of the Match, while Washington Sundar scored an unbeaten 50 for Gujarat Titans.Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was named Most Valuable Player of the Season and won the Orange Cap with 776 runs, becoming the youngest-ever Orange Cap winner at 15 years and 65 days. He also secured the Emerging Player, Super Striker, and Super Sixes awards.

 

3. ICC Suspends Cricket Canada Over Governance Breaches : The International Cricket Council (ICC) suspended Cricket Canada from membership with immediate effect on 1 June 2026. The ICC Board took the decision after meetings in Ahmedabad, India, and cited serious breaches of membership obligations linked to governance concerns. Cricket Canada is the national governing body for cricket in Canada and is a member of the ICC. ICC membership is governed by obligations related to administration, finance, governance, and compliance with anti-corruption rules.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Mission SANA: India’s First Indigenous Super-Pressure Platform Launched: Red Balloon Aerospace launched Mission SANA, India’s first indigenous super-pressure platform carrying commercial payloads from seven national and international partners, marking a major milestone in the country’s near-space capabilities.With this mission, India joined the United States, France, Japan, and China as one of only five nations possessing indigenous stratospheric (hydrogen) balloon technology.The company’s VISTA super-pressure platform was launched from Indira Gandhi Stadium and ascended to about 25 km above Earth, carrying payloads for biological experiments, propulsion technology, earth observation, onboard computing, and navigation system validation.

 

2. India’s First SkyCast System Launched at IGI Airport: Union Minister Jitendra Singh inaugurated India’s first SkyCast System at Indira Gandhi International Airport, marking a significant advancement in aviation weather monitoring.The system was launched under Mission Mausam, a Government of India initiative aimed at modernizing the country’s weather forecasting infrastructure.SkyCast is an integrated atmospheric remote sensing system designed for fog monitoring, turbulence detection, weather forecasting, and aviation safety, enhancing operational efficiency and flight safety.

 

3. IIMC Launches AIME Academy for AI in Media and Entertainment : The Indian Institute of Mass Communication launched the Artificial Intelligence in Media and Entertainment (AIME) Academy in New Delhi to strengthen AI-driven capabilities in the media sector.The Academy will function on five key pillars—capacity building, research, innovation and incubation, responsible AI and policy development, and industry–academia collaboration—to promote widespread AI adoption across India’s media ecosystem.It aims to act as a national hub for AI literacy and innovation in media, supporting organisations like Doordarshan, All India Radio, and Press Information Bureau, while also advancing training programs and AI toolkits for future media professionals.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Ageas Federal Life Insurance Partners with Policybazaar to Boost Digital Insurance Distribution: Ageas Federal Life Insurance has entered into a digital distribution partnership with Policybazaar to expand its online reach and strengthen digital insurance distribution.The partnership aims to provide India’s growing base of digitally savvy consumers with a seamless end-to-end online journey for purchasing insurance products. Through the Policybazaar platform, AFLI’s range of protection, savings, and wealth-creation products will be easily accessible, comparable, and available for online purchase.

 

2. Zoho Corporation Invests ₹70 Crore in ONDC to Strengthen India’s Digital Commerce Infrastructure: Zoho Corporation has invested ₹70 crore in Open Network for Digital Commerce to support the development of sovereign digital technology infrastructure in India. ONDC is an initiative of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, aimed at promoting open and inclusive digital commerce.

ONDC was incorporated on 30 December 2021 and seeks to democratize e-commerce by enabling interoperability between buyers and sellers across digital platforms.

 

3. DFS Launches Common Landing Portal for Unclaimed Financial Assets : The Department of Financial Services has launched the Common Landing Portal for Unclaimed Financial Assets to help citizens easily search for and claim their unclaimed financial assets. Developed in collaboration with the Public Sector Bank Alliance, the portal provides a unified platform to search for unclaimed bank deposits, insurance claims, shares, dividends, and mutual funds across the financial ecosystem. The initiative aims to create a more accessible, transparent, and citizen-centric financial ecosystem, while making it easier for individuals to reconnect with their rightful financial assets.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Indian Peacekeepers Honoured by the United Nations: On the occasion of the International Day of UN Peacekeepers, the United Nations posthumously honoured two Indian peacekeepers with the prestigious Dag Hammarskjöld Medal.The medal was awarded by António Guterres to Lance Havildar Harbhajan Singh and Naib Subedar Sujit Kumar Pradhan in recognition of their sacrifice while serving in UN peacekeeping missions.Major Abhilasha Barak received the 2025 United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award for her outstanding contribution to gender equality and inclusion in peacekeeping operations.

 

2. Tamil Nadu Farmer Valluvan Recognised as UN FAO Soil Farmer Hero for Sustainable Tree-Based Farming: Valluvan from Pollachi was recognised as a UN FAO Soil Farmer Hero for successfully adopting sustainable and tree-based agricultural practices.He transformed his 11-hectare farm from a loss-making coconut plantation into a highly profitable farming model through diversified and sustainable agricultural methods. Inspired by the Isha Foundation’s Save Soil – Cauvery Calling Programme, Valluvan adopted multi-crop farming, multi-tier agriculture, and tree-based farming, enhancing both productivity and soil health.

 

 

Daily GK Update- 31st May, 2026

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. ₹236 Crore “Mission Queen Pineapple” Launched in Tripura to Boost Production: The ₹236 crore “Mission Queen Pineapple, Tripura” was launched in New Delhi as a three-year transformative initiative to boost production, processing, and export of Tripura’s premium Queen Pineapple. Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Tripura CM Manik Saha, and Agriculture Minister Ratan Lal Nath jointly launched the mission. The project aims to address low farm-gate prices (₹6–₹10/kg) by promoting value addition and exports, where processed Queen Pineapple can fetch ₹80–₹150/kg. The fruit is known for its sweetness, aroma, and high nutritional value, rich in vitamins A, B, C and minerals like potassium and magnesium.

 

2. IBC Completes 10 Years: ₹4 Lakh Crore Recovery Marked as Landmark Reform in India’s Insolvency Framework: The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016, has completed 10 years, emerging as a major institutional reform that strengthened India’s credit markets, improved corporate discipline, and enhanced investor confidence by promoting timely debt resolution and repayment culture. As of March, the IBC framework has successfully resolved 1,419+ cases, enabling creditors to recover over ₹4 lakh crore, significantly improving credit discipline and overall economic efficiency in India’s financial system. The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Act, 2026 aims to accelerate resolution timelines, strengthen creditor rights, and improve business confidence, thereby further boosting India’s investment climate and economic resilience.

 

3. 51st PRAGATI Meeting Chaired by PM Narendra Modi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the 51st meeting of PRAGATI (Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation), an ICT-enabled platform that promotes coordination between Central and State Governments for project monitoring and grievance redressal. During the meeting, the Prime Minister reviewed seven major infrastructure projects in the Railways, Power, and Road sectors across nine states, involving a cumulative investment of nearly ₹30,000 crore. The meeting also reviewed the Ken-Betwa River Inter-linking Project and the implementation progress of Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban 2.0 to ensure timely execution and effective governance.

 

4. SEBI Approves Appointment of Two Executive Directors at Central Depository Services (India) Limited: The Securities and Exchange Board of India approved the appointment of Amit Mahajan and Nayana Ovalekar as Executive Directors on the board of Central Depository Services (India) Limited (CDSL). Amit Mahajan will head Vertical 1, responsible for Critical Operations, while Nayana Ovalekar will oversee Vertical 2, handling Regulatory, Compliance, Risk Management, and Investor Grievances.

 

5. Senior IAS Officer P. Jawahar Assumes Charge as Chairman of MPEDA: Senior IAS officer P. Jawahar has assumed charge as Chairman of Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), the apex body responsible for promoting and regulating India’s marine products and seafood exports. Prior to this appointment, P. Jawahar served as Chief Electoral Officer and Commissioner-cum-Secretary of Puducherry, overseeing important departments including Industries & Commerce and Education.

 

6. 30 May – Goa Statehood Day: Goa Statehood Day is observed every year on 30 May to commemorate Goa becoming the 25th state of India on 30 May 1987, after being separated from the Union Territory of Goa, Daman and Diu. Goa was liberated from Portuguese rule on 19 December 1961 through Operation Vijay and remained a Union Territory before attaining full statehood.

 

7. 30 May – Hindi Journalism Day: Hindi Journalism Day is observed every year on 30 May to commemorate the publication of ‘Udant Martand’, the first Hindi newspaper, which was launched on 30 May 1826 in Kolkata. The newspaper ‘Udant Martand’ was founded and edited by Pandit Jugal Kishore Shukla, who is regarded as a pioneer of Hindi journalism in India.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. LIC Launches Two New Joint Life Insurance Plans “New Jeevan Sathi” for Couples with Guaranteed Benefits: Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has launched two new joint life insurance plans—New Jeevan Sathi-Single Premium and New Jeevan Sathi-Limited Premium—for couples, offering a combination of savings and life protection with guaranteed benefits. Both plans are non-par and non-linked individual savings products designed for married couples, covering both spouses under a single policy with a minimum basic sum assured of ₹3 lakh. The New Jeevan Sathi-Single Premium requires a one-time payment with guaranteed yearly additions, while the Limited Premium plan allows premium payment for a fixed period with annual guaranteed additions and premium waiver on the first death.

 

2. Slovenia Parliament Elects Janez Janša as Prime Minister for a Fourth Term: Slovenia’s parliament has voted to appoint Janez Janša as Prime Minister, marking his fourth term in office and a return of right-wing leadership in the country. Country: Slovenia | Capital: Ljubljana | Currency: Euro (€).

 

3. 29 May – International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers: International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers is observed every year on 29 May to honour the dedication, service, and sacrifices of UN peacekeepers who work to maintain peace and security in conflict-affected regions worldwide. Theme 2026 – Invest in Peace The day commemorates the establishment of the first UN peacekeeping mission, the United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation, launched on 29 May 1948 in the Middle East.

 

4. 30 May – International Day of the Potato: International Day of the Potato is observed annually on 30 May to recognise the potato’s contribution to food security, nutrition, livelihoods, and sustainable agricultural development worldwide. Theme 2026 – Where potatoes grow, livelihoods flourish The day was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly to raise awareness about the importance of potatoes as one of the world’s most widely consumed and cultivated food crops.

 

5. 31 May – World No Tobacco Day (Anti-Tobacco Day): World No Tobacco Day is observed every year on 31 May to raise awareness about the harmful health effects of tobacco use and to encourage people to quit tobacco consumption. Theme 2026 – Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products The day is led by the World Health Organisation and highlights the health, social, economic, and environmental consequences associated with tobacco and nicotine products.

 

6. Myanmar President Begins Official Visit to India: Myanmar President U Min Aung Hlaing began a five-day official visit to India on 30 May 2026. The visit runs from 30 May to 3 June 2026 and includes meetings in New Delhi, Bodh Gaya, and Mumbai. Min Aung Hlaing is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 1 June 2026 in New Delhi. He is also expected to meet President Droupadi Murmu during the visit, and he will visit Bodh Gaya on 30 May 2026 and Mumbai on 2 June 2026 for business and industry interactions. India and Myanmar share a land border of about 1,643 kilometres across Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram. The two countries have cooperation in trade, connectivity, border management, and defence under the framework of India’s Act East Policy.

 

7. China Performs First Pig Liver and Kidney Transplant: Chinese clinicians at Xijing Hospital of the Chinese Air Force Medical University transplanted two gene-edited pig kidneys and one pig liver into a 53-year-old brain-dead patient on 29 May 2026. The procedure was the world’s first simultaneous multi-organ pig-to-human transplant and used organs with six edited genes to reduce immune rejection. Xenotransplantation is the transplantation of living cells, tissues, or organs from one species to another. Pig organs are used in xenotransplantation research because pigs have organ sizes and physiological features that are closer to those of humans than many other mammals. Gene editing is used in xenotransplantation to modify donor animals and reduce rejection by the human immune system. In this case, six genes were edited in the pig organs to improve compatibility and to limit immune attack after transplantation.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. U.S.-Cuba Hold Rare Military Talks at Guantanamo Bay: United States and Cuban military officials held direct talks on 29 May 2026 at the perimeter of the United States Naval Station Guantanamo Bay in Cuba. The meeting involved General Francis Donovan, head of United States Southern Command, and Army Corps General Roberto Legra Sotolongo, First Deputy Minister of the Chief of the General Staff of Cuba. The discussions covered operational security matters linked to the base perimeter, force protection, safety of service members and their families, and operational readiness. Both the United States Southern Command and Cuba’s Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces described the meeting as positive, and both sides agreed to maintain communication between the two military commands.

 

2. India Signs BrahMos Missile Deal with Vietnam: India has signed a deal to supply BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to Vietnam, and negotiations with Indonesia are in the final stages as of 30 May 2026. The BrahMos agreement with Vietnam includes missile systems, training, and logistical support, with an estimated value of about Rs 60 billion, or around USD 629 million. BrahMos is a supersonic cruise missile jointly developed by India and Russia. It is named after the Brahmaputra and Moskva rivers, which are associated with India and Russia respectively. The missile has land, sea, and air-launched variants, and the naval version can be deployed from warships for anti-ship missions.

 

3. Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan Takes Charge of Western Naval Command: Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan assumed charge as the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command on 30 May 2026 in Mumbai. He succeeded Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan in the post. He had earlier served as the 47th Vice Chief of the Naval Staff and was commissioned into the Indian Navy on 1 January 1988. The Western Naval Command is one of the three operational commands of the Indian Navy. Its headquarters is in Mumbai, Maharashtra, and it is responsible for naval operations on India’s western seaboard and in the Arabian Sea. The command covers key sea lanes, ports, and maritime approaches along the western coast of India.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. India Semiconductor Mission Launches “Investors Support” Portal to Boost Semiconductor Investments in India: India Semiconductor Mission under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology launched the “Investors Support” portal to strengthen investor confidence in India’s semiconductor sector. Under the Semicon India Programme, the Government has so far approved 12 Fab/Packaging projects and 24 semiconductor design projects to build a resilient and sustainable semiconductor ecosystem. The portal provides investors with information related to government schemes, policies, approved projects, and regulatory requirements for semiconductor investments in India. The “Investors Support” portal also offers a secure single-window digital interface for grievance registration, coordination among stakeholders, and time-bound resolution of investor concerns.

 

2. Uttar Pradesh Introduces AI-Based Attendance System in Examinations: Uttar Pradesh has introduced AI-based and digitised systems for examination management in 2026. The measures include barcode-based attendance, real-time monitoring, biometric verification, digital evaluation, and AI-enabled CCTV surveillance at examination centres. Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Technical University, also known as AKTU, announced an AI-based system for seating plans and attendance marking for examinations on 30 May 2026. The pilot project is being implemented for MTech examinations at the Centre for Advanced Studies in Lucknow. The system covers 756 affiliated colleges in Uttar Pradesh. The AKTU model uses barcode admit cards, barcode scanning by invigilators, student photographs, scanning of the first page of answer booklets, and digital signatures on invigilators’ tablets. The process is monitored in real time from a central control room.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI Approves Three-Month Extension of Ketan Merchant as Interim CEO of Fino Payments Bank: Reserve Bank of India approved a three-month extension for Ketan Merchant as interim CEO of Fino Payments Bank, effective from May 27, 2026. Ketan Merchant was initially appointed interim CEO in March 2026 after former MD & CEO Rishi Gupta was arrested in a GST tax evasion case and later resigned through voluntary retirement on May 21, 2026.

 

2. Andhra Pradesh Unveils ₹22,000 Crore Green Energy Corridor: Andhra Pradesh announced a ₹22,000 crore Green Energy Corridor plan on 29 May 2026 for integrating 18 gigawatts of renewable energy into the state power grid. The plan is part of Green Energy Corridor Phase-III and includes solar power, pumped storage projects, transmission infrastructure, and pooling stations. Green Energy Corridor is a transmission network designed to evacuate electricity from renewable energy projects to the main grid. In this plan, 11 GW of solar power and about 7 GW from pumped storage projects are proposed for grid integration. The project includes 2,261 km of new transmission lines and five major pooling stations with a combined capacity of 9,500 MW. The proposed pooling stations are at Mudigubba, Talupula, Ramayapatnam, Porumamilla, and Koppaka.

 

 

Daily GK Update- 30th May, 2026

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. K.P. Dhanapalan Dies at 76: Senior Congress leader and former Member of Parliament K.P. Dhanapalan died on 30 May 2026 at a private hospital in Paravur, Kochi, Kerala. He was 76 years old and was undergoing treatment for age-related ailments. K.P. Dhanapalan represented the Chalakudy Lok Sabha constituency in the 15th Lok Sabha from 2009 to 2014. The Lok Sabha is the lower house of the Parliament of India and has a maximum strength of 552 members under Article 81 of the Constitution. Dhanapalan served as president of the Ernakulam District Congress Committee. He was a prominent Congress leader in central Kerala and was associated with A.K. Antony, a senior leader of the Indian National Congress.

 

2. Andhra Pradesh Unveils ₹22,000 Crore Green Energy Corridor: Andhra Pradesh announced a ₹22,000 crore Green Energy Corridor plan on 29 May 2026 for integrating 18 gigawatts of renewable energy into the state power grid. The plan is part of Green Energy Corridor Phase-III and includes solar power, pumped storage projects, transmission infrastructure, and pooling stations. Green Energy Corridor is a transmission network designed to evacuate electricity from renewable energy projects to the main grid. In this plan, 11 GW of solar power and about 7 GW from pumped storage projects are proposed for grid integration. The project includes 2,261 km of new transmission lines and five major pooling stations with a combined capacity of 9,500 MW. The proposed pooling stations are at Mudigubba, Talupula, Ramayapatnam, Porumamilla, and Koppaka.

 

3. Rajesh Kumar Singh Gets Additional Charge as DRDO Chairman: Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh was given the additional charge of Secretary, Department of Defence Research and Development, and Chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on 29 May 2026. He will take up the additional responsibilities from 31 May 2026, after the completion of the tenure of Dr. Samir V. Kamat. The Defence Research and Development Organisation is India’s premier defence research agency under the Ministry of Defence. It works on military technology, weapons systems, and strategic research for the armed forces. Rajesh Kumar Singh will hold the additional charge until a regular incumbent is appointed or until further orders, whichever is earlier. Dr. Samir V. Kamat’s tenure as DRDO Chairman ended on 31 May 2026.

 

4. India Expands Rooftop Solar Under PM Surya Ghar Scheme: India’s clean-energy housing expansion is linked to the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, a central government scheme launched in February 2024 for residential rooftop solar installations. The scheme targets one crore households by the end of 2026-27 and provides direct subsidy support for eligible domestic consumers. The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana is a rooftop solar programme for residential households. It provides a direct subsidy of up to ₹78,000 for installation of rooftop solar systems. The scheme also offers up to 300 units of free electricity per month for eligible households. The application process and subsidy disbursal under the scheme are fully digital. Subsidies are generally credited within 15 days of submission of the required documents.

 

5. 112 Emergency Helpline Set for Nationwide Expansion: The 112 emergency response system is India’s national emergency number and functions through the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) 2.0. The system integrates police, fire, ambulance, and disaster management services through a single helpline and digital response platform. The Ministry of Home Affairs has designated 112 as the national emergency number for India. The system is designed as a unified helpline for police, fire, ambulance, and other emergency services. On 28 May 2026, the Supreme Court directed all States and Union Territories to integrate existing emergency and ambulance helplines into 112 within three months. The helplines listed for integration include 100, 101, 108, 102, 1033, and 1091.

 

6. Kerala Announces Senior Citizens’ Welfare Department: Kerala issued an order on 20 May 2026 to create a separate Department for Senior Citizens’ Welfare. The state also proposed the Oommen Chandy Health Insurance Scheme, which provides up to ₹25 lakh annual health insurance coverage per family. The new department will frame and implement welfare schemes for elderly persons in Kerala. It will also coordinate existing programmes across the state and address issues linked to population ageing and social isolation among senior citizens. The Kerala State Cabinet approved the Kerala State Policy for Senior Citizens 2026 on 20 April 2026. The policy aims at dignity, welfare, and protection for the elderly population and refers to an inclusive age-friendly society.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Myanmar President Begins Official Visit to India: Myanmar President U Min Aung Hlaing began a five-day official visit to India on 30 May 2026. The visit runs from 30 May to 3 June 2026 and includes meetings in New Delhi, Bodh Gaya, and Mumbai. India and Myanmar share a land border of about 1,643 kilometres across Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram. The two countries have cooperation in trade, connectivity, border management, and defence under the framework of India’s Act East Policy. Min Aung Hlaing is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 1 June 2026 in New Delhi. He is also expected to meet President Droupadi Murmu during the visit, and he will visit Bodh Gaya on 30 May 2026 and Mumbai on 2 June 2026 for business and industry interactions.

 

2. China and Canada Restore Bilateral Relations: China and Canada announced the restoration of bilateral relations in May 2026 after a period of strained ties that began in 2018. The two countries agreed to resume high-level political and security talks, expand cooperation across multiple sectors, and continue dialogue on trade and national security. China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited Ottawa from 28 May 2026, which was the first visit by a Chinese foreign minister to Canada in ten years. On 29 May 2026, Wang Yi met Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand in Ottawa. The two sides agreed to resume consultations on political and security issues at the foreign ministry level. They also agreed to restart high-level dialogue on national security and the rule of law.

 

3. International Yoga Day 2026 Event in Kolkata: India will host the main International Day of Yoga 2026 event in Kolkata, West Bengal, on 21 June 2026. Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush and Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav announced the venue on 27 May 2026 during Yoga Mahotsav 2026 at Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh. Yoga Mahotsav 2026 was organised at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Western Group of Temples in Khajuraho. The event marked the beginning of the 25-day countdown to International Day of Yoga 2026. The Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga, under the Ministry of Ayush, organised the mass demonstration of the Common Yoga Protocol. The United Nations General Assembly adopted 21 June as the International Day of Yoga in 2014. The first International Day of Yoga was observed on 21 June 2015, and the day is marked annually on the summer solstice in the Northern Hemisphere.

 

4. Janez Janša Appointed as Prime Minister of Slovenia for Fourth Term: In May 2026, nationalist politician Janez Janša, the leader of the Slovenian Democratic Party (SDS), was elected as the Prime Minister(PM) of Slovenia for a fourth term, securing 51 votes in Parliament and obtaining support to form a new coalition government. Janez Janša received 51 votes in the 90-member National Assembly, paving the way for the formation of a new government. His Slovenian Democratic Party (SDS) formed a centre-right coalition with allied parties, ending the political deadlock that followed the 2026 parliamentary elections.

 

5. International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers 2026 – May 29 : International Day of United Nations (UN) Peacekeepers, observed annually across the globe on 29 May to honours the dedication, service, and sacrifice of UN peacekeepers worldwide, while remembering those who lost their lives in the cause of peace. 29 May 2026 marks the 78th anniversary of UN Peacekeeping, which began in 1948 with the deployment of military observers to the Middle East under the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO). The International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers was established by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) through Resolution 57/129 in 2002. The United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO) became the first UN peacekeeping mission, launched on 29 May 1948.

 

6. World Digestive Health Day 2026 – May 29 : World Digestive Health Day (WDHD) is observed on May 29 every year across the globe to raise awareness about the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, initiated by the World Gastroenterology Organisation (WGO). On May 29, 1958, the WGO was formally established at the last day of 1st World Congress of Gastroenterology in Washington, the United States of America (USA).

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. U.S.-Cuba Hold Rare Military Talks at Guantanamo Bay: United States and Cuban military officials held direct talks on 29 May 2026 at the perimeter of the United States Naval Station Guantanamo Bay in Cuba. The meeting involved General Francis Donovan, head of United States Southern Command, and Army Corps General Roberto Legra Sotolongo, First Deputy Minister of the Chief of the General Staff of Cuba. United States Southern Command, or SOUTHCOM, is one of the eleven unified combatant commands of the United States Department of Defence. SOUTHCOM is responsible for military operations in Central America, South America, and the Caribbean.

 

2. General Anil Chauhan Completes Tenure as CDS: General Anil Chauhan completed his tenure as Chief of Defence Staff and Secretary of the Department of Military Affairs on 30 May 2026. He received a ceremonial Guard of Honour at the South Block lawns in New Delhi on the same day. Lieutenant General NS Raja Subramani (Retd.) was appointed as the next Chief of Defence Staff on 9 May 2026. The Chief of Defence Staff is the senior-most military appointment in India and functions as the principal military adviser to the Government of India. The office was created after the recommendations of the Kargil Review Committee and the Group of Ministers process, and it was formally established in 2019. The CDS also serves as Secretary to the Government of India, Department of Military Affairs.

 

3. Vice Admiral Ajay Kochhar Becomes 48th Vice Chief of Naval Staff: Vice Admiral Ajay Kochhar assumed charge as the 48th Vice Chief of the Naval Staff (VCNS) on 29 May 2026 in New Delhi. He paid homage at the National War Memorial and succeeded Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan in the post. Vice Admiral Kochhar was commissioned into the Indian Navy on 1 July 1988 and has more than 37 years of service. Vice Admiral Kochhar is a specialist in Gunnery and Missile Systems. His command appointments include INS Nashak, INS Vibhuti, INS Kirpan, frigate INS Trikand, and aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya. He served as Chief of Staff, Western Naval Command, from 25 May 2024, and later held the appointment of Commander-in-Chief, Andaman and Nicobar Command, from 1 October 2025 to 25 May 2026.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Shrey Parikh Wins 2026 Scripps National Spelling Bee: Shrey Parikh, a 14-year-old Indian-origin student from Rancho Cucamonga, California, won the 2026 Scripps National Spelling Bee on 28 May 2026. The 98th annual competition was held at DAR Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C., and included nearly 250 spellers from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Defence Department schools, and five other countries. The winning word was “bromocriptine”, which Scripps defined as “a polypeptide alkaloid that is a derivative of ergot and mimics the activity of dopamine”. The champion received a 50,000 cash prize, the Scripps Cup, a commemorative medal, 2,500 from Merriam-Webster, $1,000 in flight credits from Delta Air Lines, and reference works from Encyclopaedia Britannica.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Three Chinese Astronauts Return After Seven-Month Mission: Three Chinese astronauts of the Shenzhou-21 mission returned to Earth on 29 May 2026 after 210 days in orbit. The crew consisted of Zhang Lu, Wu Fei, and Zhang Hongzhang, and their landing took place at the Dongfeng landing site in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region of northern China. The Shenzhou-21 crew launched on 31 October 2025 to replace the Shenzhou-20 crew at Tiangong. The Shenzhou-21 astronauts were later relieved by the Shenzhou-23 mission, which launched on 24 May 2026. The return used the Shenzhou-22 vehicle because the original Shenzhou-21 spacecraft was used by the Shenzhou-20 crew to return to Earth on 14 November 2025 after capsule damage linked to space debris. The Shenzhou-21 crew remained on Tiangong until the arrival of Shenzhou-22.

 

2. Kerala startup unveils India’s first AI system-on-chip: Kerala-based fabless semiconductor startup Netrasemi launched its flagship AI system-on-chip, the A2000, after silicon bring-up in May 2026. The A2000 is designed in India and uses TSMC’s 12 nm process node for edge devices such as smart cameras, edge AI boxes, and intelligent video gateways. A fabless semiconductor company designs chips without owning a fabrication plant. Netrasemi was founded in 2020 by CEO Jyothis Indirabhai and is based in Kerala. The company has raised ₹125 crore from investors including Zoho and Unicorn India Ventures. The A2000 integrates in-house developed neural processing, vision processing, image signal processing, and crypto engines. The chip is intended for compact and power-efficient edge devices, which process data near the source rather than in a central cloud server.

 

3. Odisha signs semiconductor MoU with Intel and 3DGS: Odisha signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Intel and 3D Glass Solutions on 28 and 29 May 2026 to bring substrate manufacturing technology to India. The agreement is linked to semiconductor packaging and advanced glass-based integration at Info Valley in Bhubaneswar, Khordha district. The total project cost is estimated at Rs 1,943.53 crore. Central government fiscal support is Rs 799 crore, and additional state support is about Rs 399.5 crore. The facility is expected to produce about 70,000 glass substrates annually, 50 million assembled units, and nearly 13,000 advanced 3D heterogeneous integration modules.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. MoH&FW releases the 10th NHA estimates for FY23; GHE jumps to Rs 3.85 lakh Cr: The report highlighted that Government Health Expenditure (GHE) increased from Rs 1.30 lakh crore (Cr) in 2013-14 to Rs 3.85 lakh Cr in 2022-23, stating higher public investment in the health sector.

NHA: The NHA serves as a vital tool, offering comprehensive insights into the sources, scale, and patterns of health expenditure across various entities within India’s health system.
Prepared by: The report is prepared by the National Health Accounts Technical Secretariat (NHATS), National Health Systems Resource Centre (NHSRC), MoH&FW, using the System of Health Accounts (2011) framework. In May 2026, Union Minister of State (MoS) (Independent Charge, IC) Dr. Jitendra Singh, Ministry of Science & Technology (MoST)  inaugurated two key initiatives namely: Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition (PECVD) system and Research Entrepreneurship for Translation, Innovation and NAvigation (RETINA), on the occasion of 150 years celebrations  of the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS), one of India’s most iconic scientific institutions,  at IACS’s campus in Kolkata, West Bengal (WB).

 

2. DARPG Launches ‘NeSDA 2025 Portal’ to Assess Digital Public Service Delivery: In May 2026, the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), under the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions(MoPP&P), launched the Portal for the National e-Governance Service Delivery Assessment (NeSDA), 2025 for comprehensive assessment of E-governance (electronic governance) Service Delivery. The framework covers a wide range of Government-to-Citizen (G2C) and Government-to-Business (G2B) services across key sectors including finance, labour and employment, education, local governance and utilities, social welfare, environment, tourism, public grievances and transport.

 

3. Japan’s DBJ partners HDFC Capital to invest in housing projects across India: In May 2026, Japanese financial institution Development Bank of Japan (DBJ) entered into a strategic partnership with HDFC Capital Advisors Limited (HDFC Capital ), one of India’s largest real estate private equity funds, to invest in real estate funds, with a total targeted corpus of USD 1 billion, for the construction of affordable and mid-income housing projects in India. The investment in H-DREAM is made via HDFC Capital’s offshore feeder fund structure, set up under the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) framework at the Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City).