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).

 

Daily GK Update- 29th May, 2026

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Assam Becomes First Northeast State to Pass Uniform Civil Code Bill, 2026: Assam Legislative Assembly passed the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill, 2026, making Assam the first North-Eastern state and the third state in India to adopt such legislation. The UCC Bill aims to create a common civil legal framework for matters like marriage, divorce, succession, and live-in relationships, while excluding Scheduled Tribes to protect constitutional safeguards and customary practices.

 

2. Sikkim Declared Fully Literate State Under ULLAS Initiative: Sikkim has been declared a fully literate state under the ULLAS initiative, becoming the third state in Northeast India and the fifth state in the country to achieve full literacy.The ULLAS initiative, launched by the Ministry of Education under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, focuses on adult education, functional literacy, and lifelong learning for people aged 15 years and above.

 

3. Indian Railways Approves First 10-Car Hydrogen Fuel Cell DEMU Train on Jind–Sonipat Route: The Ministry of Railways has approved the introduction of a 10-car Hydrogen Fuel Cell-based DEMU train on the Northern Railway Jind–Sonipat section, marking a major step towards green mobility in Indian Railways.The approved trainset is a 1200 KW Hydrogen Fuel Cell-based DPRS DEMU with a maximum operational speed of 75 kmph, aimed at promoting eco-friendly rail transport.This initiative is part of Indian Railways’ broader infrastructure push, which includes sanctioning 100 railway projects in FY 2025–26 with an investment of ₹1.53 lakh crore.

 

4. Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu Releases Second Edition of Novel “Bazaar” in Himachal Pradesh: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu released the second edition of the novel “Bazaar”. The book is authored by Niranjan Dev Sharma and highlights key social and political events from 1971 to 1992.

 

5. Rusty-spotted Cat Recorded in Uttar Pradesh’s National Chambal Sanctuary: The Rusty-spotted Cat, scientifically named Prionailurus rubiginosus, was documented for the first time in the National Chambal Sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh in May 2026. This record is the first confirmed presence of the species in southern Uttar Pradesh and adds a new locality to its known range in the state. The National Chambal Sanctuary is a protected area in Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan along the Chambal River. It is known for riverine habitats, gharials, mugger crocodiles, Gangetic river dolphins, and several bird species associated with alluvial plains and ravines.

 

6. Centre Plans Social Security for Gig Workers: India is preparing social security benefits for gig and platform workers, including accident insurance, health coverage, maternity support, and old-age protection. The framework links the Social Security Code, 2020, the e-Shram portal, and the National Social Security Board for Gig and Platform Workers. Gig workers are persons engaged in short-term, task-based, or platform-mediated work. Platform workers provide services through digital intermediaries such as ride-hailing, food delivery, and home-service applications. The Social Security Code, 2020, recognises gig workers as a distinct category for welfare coverage.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Kolkata to Host Main Celebration of International Day of Yoga 2026: The main celebration of International Day of Yoga 2026 will be held in Kolkata on June 21, as announced by Union Minister of State for Ayush Prataprao Jadhav.The theme for this year’s observance is “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” emphasizing yoga’s importance in promoting physical fitness, mental well-being, preventive healthcare, and balanced living.The announcement was made during Yoga Mahotsav 2026 at Khajuraho Group of Monuments, where thousands of participants joined a mass demonstration of the Common Yoga Protocol.

 

2. 79th World Health Assembly Concludes in Geneva: The 79th World Health Assembly concluded in Geneva after six days, where member states adopted over 20 decisions and 13 resolutions on global health issues.The assembly, held under the theme “Reshaping global health: a shared responsibility,” focused on key areas such as tuberculosis, antimicrobial resistance, stroke, emergency care, and precision medicine.

 

3. 24 May -World Schizophrenia Awareness Day: World Schizophrenia Awareness Day is observed every year on 24 May to spread awareness about schizophrenia, a severe mental health disorder affecting thinking, emotions, and behaviour.The day aims to reduce stigma, promote early diagnosis, and encourage access to proper mental health treatment and support for patients and their families.

 

4. 28 May – International Day of Action for Women’s Health: International Day of Action for Women’s Health is observed every year on 28 May to advocate for women’s rights and equitable access to healthcare services worldwide.Theme 2026 – Essential, Not Optional: Strengthening Health Systems to Uphold Health Rights and SRHRJ in Times of PolycrisisThe day focuses on promoting bodily autonomy, reproductive rights, and comprehensive healthcare access for women and girls across all regions.

 

5. UN Blacklist Adds Israel and Russia for Sexual Violence: The United Nations included Israeli armed and security forces and Russian armed and security forces in its annual blacklist for conflict-related sexual violence on 28-29 May 2026. The 2025 report listed 77 government and non-government parties across a dozen countries. Israel was included in the blacklist for the first time since the review began more than 15 years ago. The inclusion was linked to documented patterns of sexual violence against Palestinian detainees in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories in 2023, 2024, and 2025. Verified incidents included rape with objects, gang rape, physical violence to genitals, forced nudity, and abusive strip searches. The cases affected 14 men, seven women, nine boys, and one girl from Gaza and the West Bank.

 

6. US Designates PCC and Comando Vermelho as Terrorist Groups: The United States State Department announced on 28 May 2026 that Brazil’s two largest criminal organisations, Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC) and Comando Vermelho (CV), will be designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) from 5 June 2026. Until the FTO designation takes effect, both groups are classified as Specially Designated Global Terrorists (SDGTs), a status that restricts financial transactions under United States sanctions rules. The FTO designation is used by the United States under immigration and counterterrorism law. It allows the United States to impose financial sanctions, travel restrictions, and law-enforcement measures against designated groups and associated persons.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. North Korea Rejects Quad Denuclearisation Call : North Korea rejected the denuclearisation call made by the Quad nations on 28 May 2026 and stated that it would not abandon its nuclear weapons programme. The Quad foreign ministers met in New Delhi, India, on 23 May 2026 and issued a joint statement on 26 May 2026 that referred to North Korea’s complete denuclearisation under relevant United Nations Security Council Resolutions. United Nations Security Council Resolutions on North Korea include restrictions on arms transfers, missile-related materials, and financial support for prohibited programmes. UN member states are required to implement sanctions adopted by the Security Council under Chapter VII of the UN Charter.

 

2. Russia to Build Kazakhstan’s First Nuclear Power Plant: Russia and Kazakhstan signed an agreement on 28 May 2026 for the construction of Kazakhstan’s first nuclear power plant. The project is estimated at about $16.5 billion, and Russia is expected to finance around 85% through an export loan. Rosatom, Russia’s state nuclear corporation, will lead the project, which will use two VVER-1200 III+ reactors. The plant will be built in the village of Ulken on the shores of Lake Balkhash in south-eastern Kazakhstan. The VVER-1200 is a pressurised water reactor design used in Russia and in several overseas nuclear projects. The III+ designation refers to a Generation III+ reactor class with enhanced safety systems.

 

3. Russia Signs Military Cooperation Pact with Afghanistan: Russia and the Taliban-led authorities in Afghanistan signed a military-technical cooperation agreement on 27 May 2026 during the International Security Forum in the Moscow region. The agreement was signed by Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu and Afghan Defence Minister Mohammad Yaqoob. Military-technical cooperation is a form of state-to-state engagement that covers defence equipment, training, maintenance, logistics, and related security coordination. The exact contents of the Russia-Afghanistan document were not made public, and the agreement was described as a step in defence and security cooperation.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Kimi Antonelli Wins Canadian Grand Prix: Kimi Antonelli won the Canadian Grand Prix, securing his fourth consecutive Formula One victory and extending his championship lead to 43 points over teammate George Russell.The 19-year-old Mercedes driver finished over 10 seconds ahead of Lewis Hamilton of Ferrari, while George Russell retired from the race due to engine failure after an intense battle for the lead.

 

2. Five-Time Olympian and Asian Games Gold Medallist Raja Randhir Singh dies: Renowned Indian shooter and five-time Olympian Raja Randhir Singh passed away, marking a major loss for the Indian sports community.He was an Asian Games gold medallist, Arjuna Awardee, and also served as a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), later becoming its honorary member.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. First Hong Kong Astronaut Shenzhou-23 Launches to Tiangong space station on Historic Space Mission: China launched its latest space mission, Shenzhou-23, carrying a three-member crew to the Tiangong space station, marking the first time a Hong Kong astronaut has gone to space.The crew includes Li Jiaying, a 43-year-old police officer and payload scientist, along with two other astronauts, to conduct experiments on microgravity and human health in orbit.The mission is part of China’s broader space programme aiming for a crewed Moon landing by 2030, amid growing competition with the United States in space exploration.

 

2. IAF Signs Contracts with IIT Bombay for Su-30MKI Maintenance: The Indian Air Force signed three contracts with the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay on 27 May 2026 for predictive maintenance technologies for the Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jet fleet. The agreements cover prognostic and prescriptive maintenance systems for military aviation applications in India. Predictive maintenance uses sensor data, diagnostics, and analytics to estimate equipment condition and forecast failures before they occur. Prognostic maintenance refers to the estimation of remaining useful life, while prescriptive maintenance recommends maintenance actions based on data and system models.

 

3. India Ranks 4th in AI Performance, 5th in Digital Economy: India ranked 4th globally in Artificial Intelligence performance and 5th in digital economy rankings in the State of India’s Digital Economy 2026 report. India improved its digital economy position from 8th in 2025 to 5th in 2026, and it stood behind the United States, China and Singapore in AI performance. Developing countries accounted for 72% of global AI users, with India and China together making up nearly two-fifths of that total. A LinkedIn study cited in the Stanford University 2026 AI Index placed India first in AI skill penetration on LinkedIn and second in AI talent growth globally between 2019 and 2025.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. LIC Increases Stake in Central Bank of India to 6.06%: The Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has increased its stake in Central Bank of India from 3.16% to 6.06% after acquiring 26.26 crore equity shares (2.901%) through market purchases. Following the transaction, LIC’s total shareholding rose to 6.06%, while promoter group continues to hold the majority stake of 89.27% in the bank.