NATIONAL UPDATES:
1. Cabinet approves revised ‘SHAKTI’ policy for coal allocation to power sector: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved fresh coal linkages under the revised SHAKTI policy to enhance coal availability and flexibility for thermal power generation across India.Two-Window Allocation Mechanism Introduced: The revised policy simplifies coal allocation into Window-I (for government projects at notified prices) and Window-II (for all thermal plants via auction with market flexibility and no PPA requirement).
The policy is expected to boost both brownfield and greenfield thermal capacity additions near coal sources and reduce dependence on imported coal, especially for Imported Coal-Based (ICB) plants.Coal source rationalisation aims to reduce transportation costs and electricity tariffs by easing railway congestion and improving coal delivery efficiency.Coal India Limited (CIL) and Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) will be directed to implement the revised policy, and all relevant ministries, state governments, and regulatory bodies will be informed for further dissemination.
2. G Kishan Reddy Launches Dedicated Non-Ferrous Metal Recycling Portal: Union Minister of Coal and Mines, G Kishan Reddy, has launched a dedicated Non-Ferrous Metal Recycling Website and Stakeholders’ Portal to promote a structured, transparent, and sustainable recycling ecosystem in India, in the presence of senior officials from the Ministry of Mines and JNARDDC.The portal, developed under the National Non-Ferrous Metal Scrap Recycling Framework, aims to improve data visibility, support evidence-based policymaking, and empower stakeholders in the recycling of aluminium, copper, lead, zinc, and critical elements.The platform includes a national registry for recyclers, dismantlers, and traders, along with tools for tracking raw material flows, technology adoption, and performance benchmarking. It also supports the development of standards, certification systems, and awareness campaigns.
3. Cabinet approves National Scheme for Industrial Training Institute (ITI) Upgradation: The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a ₹60,000 crore Centrally Sponsored Scheme to upgrade 1,000 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and establish five National Centres of Excellence (NCOEs) over five years.The funding includes contributions from the Centre (₹30,000 crore), States (₹20,000 crore), and Industry Partners (₹10,000 crore), with the Asian Development Bank and World Bank co-financing 50% of the central share.The scheme aims to transform ITIs into aspirational, industry-managed institutions under a hub-and-spoke model, aligned with current industry demands. Five existing National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) in Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kanpur, and Ludhiana will be upgraded to host the new NCOEs.The initiative addresses skill gaps in modern, capital-intensive sectors such as electronics, automotive, and renewable energy. A need-based investment model gives institutions the autonomy to upgrade infrastructure and introduce trades that match market demand.
4. CCRAS Revives Two Key Ayurvedic Manuscripts to Preserve India’s Traditional Medical Heritage: The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), under the Ministry of Ayush, has successfully revived two important Ayurvedic manuscripts—Dravyaratnākara Nighaṇṭu and Dravyanamākara Nighaṇṭu, crucial for the preservation and advancement of India’s traditional medical heritage.The manuscripts were unveiled during an event held by the RRAP Central Ayurveda Research Institute in Mumbai.Authored by Mudgala Paṇḍita in 1480 AD, this previously unpublished lexicon offers in-depth knowledge of drug synonyms, therapeutic actions, and medicinal properties. It was widely referenced in Maharashtra until the 19th century.The critical edition of the text, revived by Dr. Sadanand D. Kamat, provides valuable insights into Ayurvedic pharmacology (Dravyaguna) and documents novel medicinal substances from plant, mineral, and animal origins.
5. India’s First Geothermal Production Well Drilled in Arunachal Pradesh: The Centre for Earth Sciences and Himalayan Studies (CESHS) has successfully drilled Northeast India’s first geothermal production well at Dirang in Arunachal Pradesh, marking a significant milestone in sustainable energy for the region.Once operational, the geothermal energy will be used for eco-friendly technologies such as fruit and meat drying, space heating, and controlled-atmosphere storage systems, essential for improving agriculture and living conditions in the high-altitude terrain of Arunachal Pradesh.The project is the result of a collaborative effort between CESHS, the Norwegian Geotechnical Institute (NGI), Icelandic geothermal firm Geotropy ehf, and the drilling team from Guwahati Boring Service (GBS), based on years of extensive geochemical surveys in western Arunachal Pradesh.
6. Kerala Launches ‘Jyothi’ Scheme to Enrol Migrant Children in Schools and Anganwadis: The Kerala government has introduced the ‘Jyothi’ scheme to ensure that children of migrant workers, aged 3 to 18, are enrolled in educational institutions.Children aged 3 to 6 will be enrolled in anganwadis, while those aged 6 and above will be integrated into public schools.Beyond education, the scheme offers health check-ups and welfare support for migrant children. Additionally, a new Aadhaar-linked migrant registry has been launched to facilitate better tracking and support for these children.
7. Maharashtra Launches ‘Adishakti Abhiyan’ for Women Empowerment: Maharashtra government has launched the ‘Adishakti Abhiyan’ to promote women’s empowerment and raise awareness about welfare schemes for women and children, announced on Ahilyabai Holkar’s 300th birth anniversary.The campaign will tackle issues like malnutrition, maternal and infant mortality, domestic violence, and child marriage, while encouraging women’s participation in local governance through Panchayati Raj.Committees will be formed from village to state level to oversee the implementation, and the government will introduce Adishakti Awards to recognize exceptional efforts by Gram Panchayats annually.
INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:
1. India Embarks on Nationwide Rollout of Secure Chip-Enabled e-Passports: India has launched e-passports nationwide, incorporating RFID chips and antennas for enhanced security and data protection. This move aligns India with technologically advanced nations and modernises travel documentation.The trial phase began on April 1, 2024, under the Passport Seva Programme Version 2.0. The e-passports store encrypted personal details, including biometrics, making them more secure and tamper-resistant. They also feature a Machine-Readable Zone (MRZ) for faster border checks, improving travel efficiency.E-passports are being issued in select cities such as Chennai, Jaipur, Hyderabad, and others. These locations serve as pilot centers before nationwide rollout.
2. Friedrich Merz elected 10th Chancellor of Germany: Freidrich Merz of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) party has been elected as the 10th Chancellor of Germany. Freidrich Merz was elected as German Chancellor by the Bundestag (German Parliament).For the first time after World War II, a German Chancellor has been elected in the second round of voting in the Bundestag.Freidrich Merz succeeded Olaf Scholz, whose coalition government lost the 2025 Bundestag general election.Friedrich Merz leads a three-party coalition government of the CDU, Christian Social Union (CSU), and Social Democrats (SPD).
3. 8 May – World Red Cross Day 2025: World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day is observed every year on 8 May to commemorate the birth anniversary of Henry Dunant, the founder of the Red Cross Movement and the first Nobel Peace Prize laureate.The day honours the humanitarian efforts of Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers worldwide who provide aid during disasters,conflicts, and health emergencies.Theme 2025 – Keeping Humanity AliveThe Indian Red Cross Society, established in 1920, plays a vital role in disaster relief, blood donation, and health initiatives across the country.
OTHER UPDATES:
DEFENCE
1. CBI Director Praveen Sood gets one-year extension: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved a one-year extension for Praveen Sood as the Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), beyond his original tenure, which was set to end on May 24, 2025.
The extension was discussed in a high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, attended by Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, where Sood’s possible extension was considered.Sood, a 1986-batch IPS officer from Karnataka, previously served as the Director General of Police (DGP) in Karnataka. Before being appointed CBI director in May 2023, he held significant roles including Commissioner of Police in Bengaluru and Mysuru, DGP (internal security), and advisor to the government of Mauritius.
2. INS Kiltan Arrives in Singapore for IMDEX Asia 2025, Strengthening India-Singapore Maritime Cooperation: Indian Naval Ship INS Kiltan has arrived in Singapore to participate in IMDEX Asia 2025 at the Changi Exhibition Centre, reflecting the strong maritime relationship between India and Singapore.The ship’s crew will participate in bilateral and multilateral activities, including professional exchanges with the Republic of Singapore Navy and other participating navies, aiming to enhance naval cooperation and interoperability.The visit will feature guided tours for school children, cross-deck visits, and curated sessions for defense industries, aiming to raise awareness about maritime security and India’s naval heritage.
3. Kosmos 482 Spacecraft: The Kosmos 482 spacecraft, launched in 1972, is set to re-enter Earth’s atmosphere after over 50 years in orbit. Originally intended for a mission to Venus, it malfunctioned shortly after launch and remained in low Earth orbit. The spacecraft is expected to fall back to Earth around May 10, 2025. Experts have assessed the risks associated with its re-entry, noting that the likelihood of it causing harm is minimal. Kosmos 482 was part of the Soviet Union’s Venera Program, which aimed to explore Venus. The mission launched on March 31, 1972, shortly after Venera 8. While Venera 8 successfully landed on Venus, Kosmos 482 failed to escape Earth’s orbit due to a malfunction in its upper rocket stage. The lander module separated but remained trapped in orbit.
SPORTS
1. SAFF U-19 Championship 2025 Begins in Arunachal Pradesh: The South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) U-19 Football Championship 2025 began at Yupia in the Papum Pare district of Arunachal Pradesh.Six countries are participating in the tournament. Group A includes Bangladesh, Bhutan, and the Maldives, while Group B consists of India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal.The opening match will be played between India and Sri Lanka at the Golden Jubilee Stadium, Yupia.
BANKING AND FINANCE
2. RBI Introduces Consultative Framework for New Regulations: This approach aims to enhance transparency and stakeholder engagement. It allows stakeholders 21 days to comment on draft regulations. The RBI will also conduct an impact analysis before finalising any new rules. This initiative reflects the RBI’s commitment to a balanced regulatory environment. The RBI’s framework outlines the process for developing new regulations. It mandates the publication of draft regulations on the RBI’s website. Stakeholders can submit comments within 21 days. This process is designed to gather diverse perspectives before finalising regulations. Before finalising any regulation, the RBI will conduct an impact analysis. This analysis assesses the potential effects of the regulation. It aims to evaluate the benefits and costs associated with the proposed rules. The RBI will consider the feasibility of this analysis in each case.
AWARDS AND HONOURS
1. Bhuwan Ribhu Becomes First Indian Lawyer to Receive ‘Medal of Honour’ from World Jurist Association: Bhuwan Ribhu, a renowned child rights lawyer and founder of Just Rights for Children (JRC), became the first Indian lawyer to receive the ‘Medal of Honour’ from the World Jurist Association (WJA) at the World Law Congress in the Dominican Republic.Ribhu is known for his impactful legal work, including over 60 PILs that led to landmark rulings, especially his 2011 anti-trafficking case and 2013 campaign on missing children, which transformed India’s legal approach to child protection.His PICKET strategy to end child marriage, featured in When Children Have Children, was endorsed by the Supreme Court in 2024, and is actively followed by Vasavya Mahila Mandali in Andhra Pradesh’s NTR district, which aims to become child marriage-free by 2030.
2. Recent Award: Companion of the Order of Fiji – Karnataka-based humanitarian Madhusudan SaiLata Deenanath Mangeshkar Award 2025 – Kumar Mangalam Birla, Shraddha Kapoor, Sunil Shetty, Sachin Pilgaonkar, Sonali Kulkarni, and violinist Dr N RajamsGurudev Kalicharan Brahma Award 2025 – Achyuta SamantaBreakthrough Prize 2025 for Contribution to ALICE Collaboration at CERN – Bose Institute’s High-Energy Physics Team Knighthood for his services to Cricket – James Andersons
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