NATIONAL UPDATES:
1. Nirmala Sitharaman Inaugurates ‘Corporate Bhavan’ in Kolkata: Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated the Corporate Bhavan in New Town, Kolkata, which brings together key offices of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs like RD (East), RoC, NCLT, IBBI, SFIO, and the Official Liquidator under one roof.The facility aims to serve as a single-window interface for companies, startups, auditors, and investors, enhancing regulatory services and boosting the ease of doing business by cutting costs and improving operational efficiency.The first-ever Prime Minister Internship Scheme (PMIS) Facilitation Centre was also launched at the Bhavan to help eligible youth (aged 21–24) access internship opportunities, receive career guidance, and navigate the application process.Built at a cost of ₹150.43 crores, the seven-storey Corporate Bhavan spans 13,239 sq. meters and is equipped with features like energy-efficient systems, CO₂ sensors, waste recycling, smart parking, and a focus on occupant well-being.
2. ASI Completes Restoration of 16th-Century Rajon ki Baoli Stepwell in Delhi: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), in collaboration with the World Monuments Fund India (WMFI) and the TCS Foundation, completed the conservation of Rajon ki Baoli (a 16th-century Lodi-era stepwell in Mehrauli Archaeological Park, New Delhi), preserving its historical and architectural integrity using traditional materials and techniques.The restoration project focused on cleaning, desilting, structural repairs, and water quality improvement, including introducing fish for ecological balance, and was part of WMFI’s Historic Water Systems of India initiative, aligned with climate heritage conservation.Alongside physical restoration, ASI and partners engaged local communities through educational and participatory programs to raise awareness about the Baoli’s cultural and ecological significance; Rajon ki Baoli is now open to the public for visits.
3. Rajiv Ranjan Lays Foundation Stone for ₹100-Crore Integrated Aqua Park in Tripura: Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh laid the foundation stone for an Integrated Aqua Park in Unakoti district, Tripura, with an estimated cost of ₹100 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).The Aqua Park aims to enhance fish production in Tripura, which currently faces a deficit, and is expected to add approximately 2,500 metric tonnes of fish annually.The project supports the government’s vision of making states self-reliant in fisheries and aligns with the broader goal of strengthening the Blue Economy.It is expected to generate significant employment opportunities and boost the economic development of the region by promoting local fish farming and allied activities.
INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:
1. Minister of State for Defence to lead Indian delegation at LIMA 2025 in Malaysia: Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth, will lead the Indian delegation to LIMA 2025 in Langkawi, Malaysia (May 20–24), where a dedicated Indian Pavilion will be inaugurated to showcase India’s defence innovation and self-reliance.Key Indian defence PSUs like HAL, BDL, BEML, and private firms will exhibit cutting-edge aerospace and maritime technologies; a Dornier aircraft and an Indian Naval Ship will also be featured.Minister Seth will hold bilateral talks with the Malaysian Defence Minister to enhance defence cooperation under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and Malaysia.
2. 17 May – World Telecommunication and Information Society Day: World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) is celebrated annually on 17 May to raise awareness about the importance of telecommunications and information technology (ICT) in society.The day highlights how digital technologies and communication tools can bridge the digital divide, promote social and economic development, and foster innovation globally.Since 1969, World Telecommunication Day has been observed on May 17 to commemorate the foundation of the ITU and the signing of the first International Telegraph Convention in 1865.
3. 18 May – World AIDS Vaccine Day: World AIDS Vaccine Day is observed every year on 18 May to recognize the efforts of scientists, researchers, and health professionals who are working to develop a safe and effective vaccine against HIV/AIDS.Theme 2025 – Immunize. InspireIt marks the anniversary of a speech given by U.S. President Bill Clinton on 18 May 1997, where he emphasized the need for an AIDS vaccine during a commencement address at Morgan State University, USA.
4. Perito Moreno Glacier: The Perito Moreno glacier, located in Argentina, is experiencing alarming changes. Recently, it lost a massive ice block, raising concerns about its stability. This glacier, known for its dramatic ice calving events, has become a focal point for discussions on climate change and its impacts. The Perito Moreno glacier, often referred to as the ‘White Giant’, is situated near El Calafate in Santa Cruz, Argentina. It spans approximately 250 square kilometres and is freshwater source for the country. Formed during the last Ice Age around 18,000 years ago, it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981. Ice calving is a natural process where chunks of ice break off from the glacier and fall into the water. This phenomenon has been a spectacle for tourists since at least 1917. The sounds and sights of these events attract visitors worldwide. However, recent years have seen larger ice chunks breaking off, indicating potential instability.
5. UN’s Global Report on Food Crises: In 2024, the world faced an alarming rise in acute hunger. The UN’s Global Report on Food Crises brought into light that over 295 million people across 53 nations experienced severe food shortages. This marked the sixth consecutive year of increasing hunger levels. Conflict, economic shocks, and climate change were identified as primary contributors to this crisis. The situation is particularly dire in regions like the Gaza Strip, South Sudan, and Haiti. The report revealed that 22.6% of the assessed population faced acute food insecurity in 2024. This was an increase of 13.7 million from the previous year. The number of individuals experiencing famine rose to 1.9 million, more than double the figure from 2023. Conflict was the leading cause, impacting around 140 million people in 20 countries.
OTHER UPDATES:
DEFENCE
1. Arti Sarin and Sadhna S Nair Inaugurate Advanced Femto-LASIK Suite at Army Hospital Delhi Cantt: DG, Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin and DG, Medical Services (Army) Lt Gen Sadhna S Nair have inaugurated the state-of-the-art Femto-LASIK Suite at Army Hospital (Research and Referral), Delhi Cantt.This advanced laser technology provides a customised range of treatment for spectacle removal for young and middle-aged adult patients. It also underscores the Armed Forces’ dedication to cutting-edge medical care and patient welfare.The achievement of this milestone represents a significant leap forward in managing borderline cases of refractive error and various corneal diseases. Army Hospital (R&R) is the apex centre of AFMS.
2. India Launches ‘Sagar Mein Samman’ to Boost Women’s Participation in Maritime Sector: Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has launched the ‘Sagar Mein Samman’ (SMS) policy in Mumbai to promote a gender-equitable maritime workforce, aiming to enhance women’s participation in all maritime roles—from seafaring to leadership positions.The SMS initiative aligns with the Government’s DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) objectives and covers areas like training, governance, safety, skill development, and leadership to create a more inclusive maritime environment.From 2014 to 2024, the number of registered women seafarers surged by 739% (from 1,699 to 14,255), and those receiving financial aid rose from 45 to 732 annually, showing significant growth driven by government support.The event marked the International Day for Women in Maritime and included the felicitation of 10 outstanding women from the Indian maritime sector, showcasing India’s progress and commitment to gender inclusion in the industry.
3. Operation Gideon’s Chariots: Operation Gideon’s Chariots derives its name from a biblical figure known for his military prowess. The operation’s primary objective is to compel Hamas to release the remaining hostages while simultaneously diminishing the group’s influence in Gaza. Israeli authorities believe that out of the 57 hostages, around 23 may still be alive. Thousands of Israeli troops, including reservists, are mobilised for the operation. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that the goal is to dismantle Hamas, which has governed Gaza for nearly two decades. The ground operation was strategically timed to commence after President Trump’s Middle East tour concluded.
SPORTS
1. Bologna Clinches First Italian Cup Title in 51 Years with 1-0 Win Over AC Milan: Bologna ended a 51-year wait for a major trophy by beating AC Milan 1-0 to win the Italian Cup (Coppa Italia). The only goal was scored by Dan Ndoye, who had just returned from injury.This is Bologna’s first Italian Cup win since 1974. The club is owned by Canadian Joey Saputo.
2. Sunil Gavaskar Inaugurates ‘10000 Gavaskar’ Board Room at BCCI Headquarters in Mumbai: India cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar inaugurated a board room named “10000 Gavaskar” at theBCCI headquarters in Mumbai, honoring his iconic achievement.The event was attended by BCCI President Roger Binny, Vice-President Rajeev Shukla, and Secretary Devajit Saikia, celebrating Gavaskar’s milestone as the first batter to reach 10,000 Test runs.Gavaskar finished his career with 10,122 Test runs, 34 centuries, and an average above 51, while his arecord for most Test hundreds was later surpassed by Sachin Tendulkar, who also has a dedicated room at BCCI HQ.Sunil Gavaskar played for India from 1971 to 1987 and is regarded as one of the best batsmen in cricket history.
3. India Beat Bangladesh 4-3 to Lift 2025 SAFF U-19 Football Title: India clinched the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Under-19 Championship 2025, beating Bangladesh 4-3 in a penalty shootout in the final at the Yupia Outdoor Stadium in Yupia, Arunachal Pradesh.The home team defeated the reigning champions after a 1-1 equaliser, which led to the penalty shootout. India’s Shami Singamayum successfully netted the decisive penalty, helping the home side to lift the title.India emerged as the favourites in the tournament with dominant wins over Sri Lanka, Nepal and the Maldives in the semifinals before making it to the finals.
4. R Praggnanandhaa Wins Superbet Chess Classic After Thrilling Three-Way Tiebreak: Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa won the Superbet Chess Classic in Bucharest, Romania, by prevailing in a tense three-way tiebreak against Alireza Firouzja and Maxime Vachier-Lagrave, after all three tied at 5.5 points in nine rounds.The first two tiebreak games between Praggnanandhaa, Firouzja, and Vachier-Lagrave ended in draws, but Praggnanandhaa secured victory by winning the decisive third game against Vachier-Lagrave.World Champion D Gukesh finished ninth with 4 points, drawing his final game against Fabiano Caruana; the next Grand Chess Tour event, SuperUnited Rapid & Blitz, will take place in Croatia starting July 1.
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
1. PSLV-C61 Mission Failure: The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) is one of ISRO’s primary launch vehicles. It has been operational since the 1990s. The PSLV is designed to deploy satellites into various orbits. It supports Earth observation, navigation, and geostationary missions. The PSLV has a remarkable success rate, having completed 63 launches before the recent failure. The PSLV has experienced two previous failures. The first was in 1993 during the inaugural flight, where onboard software issues caused the mission to crash into the ocean. The second failure occurred in 2017, when the heat shield failed to separate. This prevented the IRNSS-1H satellite from being deployed into its intended orbit. Both failures highlight the challenges faced in space missions.
2. NASA’s GRAIL Mission: Recent findings from NASA’s GRAIL mission have revealed differences between the Moon’s two hemispheres. The study indicates that the nearside of the Moon, which faces Earth, is geologically distinct from the far side. This discovery sheds light on the Moon’s formation and internal structure. The Gravity Recovery and Interior Laboratory (GRAIL) mission aimed to map the Moon’s gravitational field. Launched in 2011, it consisted of two twin spacecraft named Ebb and Flow. They orbited the Moon and collected data on its gravity by measuring the distance between them. This innovative technique provided unprecedented vital information about the Moon’s interior.
BANKING AND FINANCE
1. RBI Surplus Transfer: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) plays important role in the Indian economy. Its surplus transfer to the government is for fiscal planning. The RBI is expected to transfer between ₹2.5 lakh crore and ₹3 lakh crore for the 2024-25 accounting year. This follows a record transfer of ₹2.11 lakh crore in the previous year. The RBI earns income through various channels. It invests in foreign currency assets, including bonds and treasury bills. It also earns interest from local government securities. Additionally, the RBI charges a management commission for handling government borrowings. Its primary expenditures include printing currency and staff salaries.
AWARDS AND HONOURS
1. President Murmu Confers 58th Jnanpith Award on Sanskrit Scholar Jagadguru Rambhadracharya: President Droupadi Murmu conferred the 58th Jnanpith Award on Sanskrit scholar Jagadguru Rambhadracharya at a ceremony in New Delhi; Gulzar, a renowned Urdu poet and lyricist, was also selected for the 2023 award but could not attend due to health reasons.Murmu also commended the Bharatiya Jnanpith Trust for its continuous efforts since 1965 in honoring outstanding writers across Indian languages, thereby preserving the prestige and dignity of Indian literature.
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