NATIONAL UPDATES:
1. Dr Joram Aniya: NITI Aayog Gets First Full-Time Member from Arunachal Pradesh: On 2 May 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the appointment of Dr Joram Aniya as a full-time member of NITI Aayog. She became the first person from Arunachal Pradesh and the first person from the Northeast to hold this position in India’s policy think tank. NITI Aayog stands for National Institution for Transforming India. It functions as the Government of India’s policy think tank and replaced the Planning Commission in 2015. The Prime Minister serves as the Chairperson of NITI Aayog. Dr Joram Aniya has more than 18 years of experience in teaching, research, and public policy engagement. She is an academician, writer, and folklorist. She was the first woman from the Nyishi community to earn a PhD. She was also the first scholar in Arunachal Pradesh to obtain a doctorate in Hindi language studies.
2. Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram Revamped for Lifestyle Diseases: The Union Health Ministry rolled out the revised Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK 2.0) guidelines in New Delhi on 3 May 2026. The programme covers children from birth to 18 years and includes preventive, promotive, and curative care under a single framework. The Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram was launched in 2013 under the National Health Mission. The earlier framework focused on the “4Ds”, which are defects at birth, diseases, deficiencies, and developmental delays. RBSK 2.0 expands this framework to include mental health conditions, behavioural issues, and risk factors for non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. The revised scope also covers obesity and early diabetes risk among children. Screening under the programme continues through Mobile Health Teams. These teams conduct screening at Anganwadi centres for children aged 0-6 years and in schools for older children.
3. India Launches 100th Vande Bharat Trainset: Indian Railways rolled out the 100th Vande Bharat trainset on 2 May 2026 from the Modern Coach Factory at Raebareli. The trainset is a 16-coach chair-car rake fitted with a Siemens propulsion system and will undergo oscillation trials before induction into regular passenger service. The Jammu–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express began regular operations on 2 May 2026 as the first direct rail link between Jammu and Srinagar. The service runs with a 20-coach configuration, covers the route in about 4 hours and 50 minutes, and operates six days a week. Vande Bharat sleeper services began commercial operations on 17 January 2026 for long-distance travel of 800 km to 1,200 km. The first sleeper prototype was rolled out by BEML in September 2024. The Raebareli-built trainset includes fully sealed gangways, automatic plug doors, noise reduction systems, and the Kavach Automatic Train Protection system. Kavach is an indigenous train collision avoidance and protection system used on Indian Railways routes.
4. Ishank Singh Becomes Youngest to Swim Palk Strait: In a remarkable feat of endurance and determination, young swimmer Ishank Singh has become the youngest individual to successfully swim across the Palk Strait. The achievement has placed him among an elite group of open-water swimmers and brought national recognition to his accomplishment. Ishank Singh completed the challenging swim across the Palk Strait, which separates India from Sri Lanka, under demanding ocean conditions. Known for strong currents, marine life, and unpredictable weather, the stretch is considered one of the toughest open-water swimming routes in the world. His success marks a significant milestone in Indian sports, particularly in endurance swimming.
5. Actor Sudesh Kumar of Dosti Fame Passes Away: Veteran actor Sudesh Kumar, best known for his role in the classic Hindi film Dosti, has passed away, marking the end of an era in Indian cinema. He gained recognition for portraying emotionally rich characters during the 1960s and 1970s, particularly in films centred on friendship, love, and social struggles. Sudesh Kumar became a household name with “Dosti”, a 1964 film that explored the deep bond between two underprivileged boys. The film was widely acclaimed for its sensitive storytelling and music. His performance in the tragic narrative resonated with audiences and established him as a promising talent in Hindi cinema.
6. Rohit Jain Appointed RBI Deputy Governor: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the appointment of Rohit Jain as Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India. Currently serving as Executive Director in the central bank, Jain will assume the role for a period of three years from the date of joining on or after May 3, 2026. His elevation reflects continuity within the institution’s leadership. Rohit Jain brings nearly three decades of experience within the RBI, having handled diverse portfolios. His expertise includes banking supervision, financial regulation, and institutional oversight. As Executive Director since December 2020, he was responsible for critical supervisory functions, particularly in monitoring banking operations and ensuring financial stability.
7. Prime Minister Appoints Two New NITI Aayog Members: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the appointment of academicians Joram Aniya and R. Balasubramaniam as full-time members of NITI Aayog. The decision follows the recent reconstitution of the apex policy body aimed at strengthening India’s governance framework with wider expertise and representation. The appointments come after a significant restructuring of NITI Aayog on April 24. Ashok Kumar Lahiri was appointed as Vice-Chairperson, alongside new full-time members including Rajiv Gauba, K. V. Raju, Gobardhan Das, Abhay Karandikar and M. Srinivas. This move is aimed at revitalising the institution’s role in policy formulation and long-term development planning.
INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:
1. Nepal Objects to Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lipulekh: Nepal has objected to the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand and has raised the issue through diplomatic protests with India and China. Nepal claims that Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura and Kalapani fall within its territory under the 1816 Sugauli Treaty. Lipulekh Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand near the India-China-Nepal tri-junction. India has used the route for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra since 1954, and the route has also been linked with border trade and movement across the Himalayan frontier. The 1816 Sugauli Treaty was signed between the British East India Company and the Kingdom of Nepal after the Anglo-Nepalese War. Nepal cites this treaty in support of its claim over the areas of Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura and Kalapani, which are part of the western border dispute between India and Nepal.
2. ADB Unveils $70 Billion Connectivity Plan for Asia: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) announced a $70 billion regional investment plan on 3 May 2026 for electricity links and digital infrastructure across Asia and the Pacific by 2035. ADB President Masato Kanda made the announcement at the bank’s 59th annual meeting in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The Pan-Asia Power Grid Initiative aims to integrate about 20 gigawatts of renewable energy across borders by 2035. It also plans to build 22,000 circuit-kilometres of transmission lines and improve electricity access for 200 million people. The power initiative is projected to generate around 840,000 jobs by 2035. It also targets a 15% reduction in regional power sector emissions by 2035. The plan has two major components. The first is the 50 billion Pan-Asia Power Grid Initiative. The second is the 20 billion Asia-Pacific Digital Highway. Both programmes cover cross-border infrastructure in the Asia-Pacific region.
3. US Launches Project Freedom in Strait of Hormuz: The United States launched Project Freedom on 4 May 2026 to escort commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz and restore freedom of navigation. The operation involves US Central Command (CENTCOM) assets, including guided-missile destroyers, more than 100 land and sea-based aircraft, multi-domain unmanned platforms, and 15,000 service members. The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow maritime passage between Oman and Iran that connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. It is one of the world’s most important oil transit chokepoints and a major route for commercial shipping. Project Freedom aims to escort about 800 commercial vessels that have remained stranded because of a dual blockade in the strait. US President Donald Trump announced the initiative on 3 May 2026 and described it as a humanitarian gesture for neutral vessels and their crews.
4. India Ranks 157 in Press Freedom Index: India ranked 157th out of 180 countries in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index released on 30 April 2026 by Reporters Without Borders (RSF). The ranking placed India in the “very serious” category for press freedom, and India fell six places from its 2025 rank of 151. The World Press Freedom Index is an annual ranking prepared by Reporters Without Borders, also known as RSF. The index assesses press freedom conditions in 180 countries and territories using indicators linked to pluralism, media independence, environment, self-censorship, legal framework, transparency, and safety. RSF linked India’s decline to violence against journalists, concentrated media ownership, and media outlets with political alignment. The report also referred to judicial harassment of independent media and the use of criminal statutes such as defamation and national security laws against journalists.
5. Mayon Volcano Eruption Triggers Evacuations in Albay province in Philippines: Mayon Volcano in Albay province, south of Manila in the Philippines, recorded renewed volcanic activity on 3 May 2026. Authorities evacuated thousands of residents and kept Alert Level 3 under the country’s five-step volcano warning system. Mayon Volcano is an active stratovolcano in Albay province on Luzon island. It lies about 330 kilometres south-east of Manila and forms part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, a belt of frequent earthquakes and volcanoes around the Pacific Ocean. Phivolcs recorded strombolian activity, short-lived lava fountaining, and continuous lava effusion on 3 May 2026. A pyroclastic density current, or PDC, also moved up to four kilometres down the Mi-isi gully on 2 May 2026, while remaining inside the danger zone. A PDC is a fast-moving mixture of hot gas, ash, and volcanic fragments. Strombolian activity refers to intermittent bursts of lava and gas from a volcanic vent.
6. Government Issues Childhood Diabetes Management Guidelines: India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare launched the first-ever Guidance Document on Diabetes Mellitus in Children on 3 May 2026 at the National Summit on Best Practices in Public Healthcare Service Delivery. The document sets a national framework for screening, diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management of diabetes in children from birth to 18 years. The framework provides universal health screening for children from birth to 18 years through community and school platforms. It includes free-of-cost services at public health facilities, such as screening, diagnostic tests, lifelong insulin therapy, glucometers, test strips, and follow-up care. The document also links community-level screening with district hospital management and advanced care at medical colleges. This structure creates a continuum of care for children with diabetes across primary, secondary, and tertiary health facilities.
OTHER UPDATES:
DEFENCE
1. India Tests Hypersonic Anti-Ship Missile with 1500km Range: India has successfully conducted the second flight test of its long-range hypersonic anti-ship missile (LR-AShM), marking a significant advancement in maritime defence capability. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the missile was tested off the Odisha coast and is designed to enhance India’s strategic reach in deep ocean regions. The LR-AShM boasts a strike range exceeding 1,500 kilometres and can reach speeds of up to Mach 10, making it one of the fastest weapons in India’s arsenal. During its glide phase, it maintains an average speed of around Mach 5, enabling it to evade modern radar and interception systems. The missile uses a two-stage hypersonic glide vehicle design, which enhances both speed and manoeuvrability.
2. Russia Tests Soyuz-5 Rocket with Powerful Engine: Russia has successfully test-launched the Soyuz-5 rocket, marking a significant advancement in its space programme. The launch demonstrates the country’s continued focus on modernising launch vehicles and enhancing payload capabilities amid growing global competition in space exploration. The Soyuz-5 is a next-generation medium-lift launch vehicle designed to replace older Soviet-era rockets. Developed by Russia’s space agency, it is intended to support both commercial and government missions. The rocket is capable of carrying payloads of up to 17 tonnes to low Earth orbit, making it a versatile option for satellite deployment and future space missions. A key highlight of the Soyuz-5 is its powerful liquid-fuelled engine, considered among the most advanced in its class. The engine uses refined propulsion systems to deliver higher thrust and efficiency compared to earlier models. This technological upgrade allows the rocket to carry heavier payloads while maintaining reliability and cost-effectiveness.
3. Indian Navy Inducts Fourth Stealth Frigate Mahendragiri: India has strengthened its maritime capabilities with the induction of ‘Mahendragiri’, the fourth stealth frigate under Project 17A. Built as part of India’s indigenous warship programme, the vessel reflects the country’s growing self-reliance in defence manufacturing and advanced naval technology. Mahendragiri is a state-of-the-art stealth guided-missile frigate constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL). It belongs to the Nilgiri-class frigates under Project 17A, which are designed with improved stealth features, enhanced survivability, and advanced combat systems. The ship is named after a mountain peak in Odisha, continuing the Indian Navy’s tradition of naming frigates after mountain ranges. The warship incorporates cutting-edge stealth technology to reduce radar cross-section, making it difficult to detect. It is equipped with advanced weapons, including surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missiles, anti-submarine warfare systems, and modern surveillance radars. The frigate also supports helicopter operations, enhancing its reach in maritime missions.
SPORTS
1. India Storms into Thomas Cup Semis with 3-0 Win: India delivered a dominant performance to defeat Chinese Taipei 3-0 and secure a place in the semi-finals of the Thomas Cup, assuring themselves of at least a bronze medal. The emphatic victory highlights India’s growing strength in international badminton and its consistency in major team events.
India outclassed Chinese Taipei in all three matches of the quarter-final tie, sealing the contest without dropping a single rubber. The team displayed strong coordination and composure, overpowering their opponents in both singles and doubles categories. This clean sweep ensured a smooth progression into the last four stage. Indian shuttlers delivered across formats, with top singles players setting the tone early in the tie. The doubles pair complemented the effort with a decisive win, underlining the team’s balanced strength. The collective performance reflected depth in the squad and effective match strategy.
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
1. South Korea Launches CAS500-2 Earth-Observation Satellite: South Korea launched its domestically developed Earth-observation satellite Compact Advanced Satellite 500-2 (CAS500-2) into orbit on 3 May 2026. The satellite, also called Next-Generation Medium Satellite No. 2 or Cha Middle 2, lifted off aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, United States. The launch took place at 3:59 p.m. Korea time, which was midnight local time in California. The Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA) oversaw the mission. The launch came after a delay of nearly four years, and the original launch plan used a Russian Soyuz rocket before the Russia-Ukraine war changed the arrangement. About one hour after launch, CAS500-2 separated from the Falcon 9 rocket and entered a sun-synchronous orbit at an altitude of 498 kilometres. Fifteen minutes after separation, the satellite established its first communication link with a ground station in Svalbard, Norway, and confirmed normal operation.
2. GalaxEye Launches World’s First OptoSAR Satellite: GalaxEye launched Mission Drishti, the world’s first OptoSAR satellite, on 3 May 2026. The 190-kilogram satellite lifted off on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg, California, at 12:30 PM IST. Mission Drishti is India’s largest privately developed Earth observation satellite. OptoSAR combines Electro-Optical (EO) sensors and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) sensors in a single platform. EO sensors capture images in visible and infrared wavelengths, while SAR uses microwave radar to obtain images through clouds and in darkness. The combined system supports all-weather, day-and-night imaging. Mission Drishti is an Earth observation satellite designed for data collection across varied environmental conditions. Earth observation satellites monitor land, water, atmosphere, and built-up areas from orbit. Such satellites support mapping, crop assessment, flood monitoring, and coastal surveillance.
3. Karnataka Launches Space Tech Centre of Excellence: Karnataka has taken a significant step in advancing India’s space innovation ecosystem by launching the country’s first state-led Centre of Excellence for Space Technology in Bengaluru. The initiative aims to accelerate commercial applications of space technologies while strengthening collaboration between government, industry, and academia. The Centre of Excellence for Space Technology (CoE SpaceTech Foundation) has been established by the Karnataka government through the Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS) in collaboration with the Satcom Industry Association of India (SIA-India). It is designed to promote research, innovation, and capacity building in emerging space technologies.
BANKING AND FINANCE
1. Bank of Baroda Launches Indian Sign Language Video Call Support to Enhance Inclusive Banking Services: Bank of Baroda launched Indian Sign Language (ISL) support via video calls at its Contact Centre to assist customers with hearing or speech impairments. The service is available across five platforms: website, mobile banking app, WhatsApp Banking, Phygital Branches, and ADI (GenAI-powered chatbot). Customers can choose ‘Video Call with Sign Language’, where trained ISL interpreters provide real-time assistance, enhancing inclusive and accessible banking services.
2. Flipkart, Axis Bank & PayU Introduce Biometric Authentication for Card Payments, Replacing OTP System: Flipkart, Axis Bank, and PayU have introduced biometric authentication for card payments on the Flipkart platform. Axis Bank cardholders can now approve transactions using fingerprint or Face ID, replacing the traditional OTP (One-Time Password) system. Wibmo manages authentication, while PayU handles the payment infrastructure, ensuring a more secure and seamless payment experience.
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