ROY’S INSTITUTE OF COMPETITIVE EXAMINATION

Current Affairs
(21st April 2025 to 20th May 2025)

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BOOKS And Authors :

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The Kashmir Shawl
Name of the Book

"Ramanujan: Journey of a Great Mathematician"

“PMO: Prime Minister’s Office Through the Years”
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Rosie Thomas (pseudonym for British journalist Janey King)
Arun Singhal and Devendra Kumar Sharma.
Himanshu Roy
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‘Janta Ki Kahani – Meri Aatamkatha’ Autobiography of Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatraya
International Affairs :

• In April 2025, the Trump administration froze $2.3 billion in federal funding to Harvard University after it
rejected a list of controversial demands including dismantling DEI programs, enforcing merit-based policies, and
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restricting student activism. This unprecedented move has triggered a national debate over academic freedom,
executive overreach, and constitutional rights of private institutions.
• Amid escalating US-China trade tensions, China has instructed its major airlines to halt the purchase and delivery of Boeing
aircraft following President Trump’s 145% tariff on Chinese goods. The move affects 179 aircraft orders from Air China,
China Eastern, and China Southern, and suspends the import of US aircraft parts, hitting Boeing hard. Meanwhile, Airbus
and China’s COMAC emerge as key beneficiaries, gaining ground in the Asian aviation market.
• In 2024, Tanzania recorded its hottest year since 1970, with an average national temperature of 24.3°C, 0.7°C
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above normal, surpassing the previous record set in 2023. The year saw a significant rise in nighttime
temperatures, with the minimum temperature averaging 19.3°C, 1.1°C above the long-term average. In contrast,
the maximum temperature averaged 28.8°C.

• The World Health Organization (WHO) has finalized a Pandemic Treaty proposal, set to be presented at the
78th World Health Assembly on May 19, 2025. The agreement, drafted by the Intergovernmental Negotiating
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Body (INB), aims to strengthen pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response (PPR) through a binding
international instrument under the WHO Constitution.

• The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been elected as Chair of INTERPOL’s Committee on Governance, with
Lt. Col. Dana Humaid Al Marzouqi securing 67% of member state votes during the election held at INTERPOL
HQ, Lyon on April 11, 2025. This marks the UAE’s first leadership role on this key platform, enhancing its
global influence in policing and law enforcement diplomacy.
• In a landmark move, India signed an agreement with the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) to host its
headquarters and secretariat, reaffirming its leadership in global wildlife conservation. Launched by PM Modi
in April 2023 during the 50th anniversary of Project Tiger, the IBCA focuses on the protection of seven major
big cats—tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, cheetah, jaguar, and puma. Now a treaty-based intergovernmental
body (from 2024), with India, Liberia, Eswatini, Somalia, and Nicaragua ratifying it, the alliance will receive
₹150 crore support (2023–2029) from India for infrastructure and operations.
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• In a historic move, New York City Mayor Eric Adams proclaimed April 14, 2025, as Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
Day, honoring the 135th birth anniversary of the architect of the Indian Constitution. The announcement, made
at the United Nations Headquarters, featured a keynote by Union Minister Ramdas Athawale, who highlighted
Ambedkar’s contributions to social justice, human rights, and the 2030 SDGs.

• Operation ATALANTA, launched by the European Union in 2008, is a key maritime security initiative focused
on the Western Indian Ocean and Red Sea regions. Initially created to combat the rise in piracy off the coast of
Somalia, the operation has since evolved to address broader security challenges. A notable development includes

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a proposed joint exercise with the Indian Navy in May 2025 to strengthen cooperation and combat regional
piracy threats.
• UNESCO added 16 new Global Geoparks, bringing the total to 229 across 50 countries, covering 855,000

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km². These geoparks span Asia, Europe, Africa, and Latin America, showcasing exceptional geological heritage—
from volcanic formations and fossil sites to glacial landscapes. Notable new entries include Mt Paektu (North
Korea), Kanbula (China), Arran (UK), and Tungurahua Volcano (Ecuador). While India has no Global Geoparks
yet, these sites support conservation, education, and sustainable development, under the Global Geoparks

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Network (GGN) launched in 2015 by UNESCO.
• On April 18, 2025, the Government of Nepal introduced a draft law to restrict Mount Everest access only to

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climbers who have previously summited a peak above 7,000 meters, aiming to improve safety, reduce fatalities,
control overcrowding, and address environmental degradation. This move is part of the Integrated Tourism Bill,
promoting responsible mountaineering and aligning with SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production)
by enhancing waste management and sustainable tourism on the world’s highest peak.
• The Singapore General Election 2025 culminated in a landslide victory for the People’s Action Party (PAP) under Prime
Minister Lawrence Wong, who led the party to secure 87 of 97 seats with 65.57% of the vote. This was his first electoral
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test as PM after succeeding Lee Hsien Loong. The elections were held amid economic slowdown, tariff pressures, and rising
domestic concerns like housing and cost of living. Despite opposition calls for greater checks, voters prioritized stability and
governance, reaffirming PAP’s long-standing political dominance.
• India and the European Union have entered the 11th round of FTA negotiations, adopting a two-phase strategy to fast-track
trade liberalisation. With a focus on reducing non-tariff barriers and expanding market access, this effort aims to finalise an
interim agreement before moving to more contentious issues. India’s recent diplomatic push, including agreements with the UK,
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US, and Australia, underscores its commitment to global trade integration and economic resilience amid global protectionist
trends.
• In a pioneering move, Bhutan has partnered with Binance Pay and DK Bank to roll out a crypto payment
system in its tourism sector, allowing visitors to use over 100 cryptocurrencies for services like flight bookings,
SDF fees, and local shopping. This system, using QR code technology, automatically converts payments to the
Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN), ensuring price stability for vendors. With over 100 local businesses already
onboard—many in rural areas—the initiative marks a milestone in financial inclusion, digital innovation, and
global crypto adoption.
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• Honduras officially opened its embassy in New Delhi, reflecting growing diplomatic and economic engagement
with India. This move strengthens ties in trade, development, climate resilience, and technology.
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national Affairs :
• The Telangana government has become the first in India to implement Scheduled Castes (SC) sub-categorisation, following
the Supreme Court’s approval. On April 14, 2025—coinciding with Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s birth anniversary—the state issued
a Government Order (GO) enforcing the Telangana Scheduled Castes (Rationalization of Reservations) Act, 2025. The
move aims to rationalize the existing 15% SC reservation by dividing 59 SC sub-castes into three groups based on inter-se
backwardness, thus ensuring more equitable distribution of benefits. This initiative aligns with historical efforts like the Lokur
Committee (1965) and more recent Justice Ramachandra Raju and Usha Mehra Commissions, reflecting a shift toward targeted
affirmative action.
• In a landmark judgment in State of Tamil Nadu vs. Governor of Tamil Nadu (2023), the Supreme Court of India addressed a
critical void in the legislative process—delays in Presidential assent to State Bills reserved under Article 201. For the first time,
the Court established a 3-month deadline for the President’s decision, ensuring accountability and protecting the principles
of federalism and democratic governance. Additionally, the Court advised that the President ought to seek the opinion of
the Supreme Court under Article 143 in cases where a Bill is reserved for perceived unconstitutionality. This judgment is a
significant step toward safeguarding the spirit of cooperative federalism and curbing executive arbitrariness.
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• The Ministry of Ayush organized a special session of the Rashtriya Karmayogi Jan Seva Programme on April
16, 2025, at Ayush Bhawan, New Delhi, under the Mission Karmayogi framework in collaboration with the
Capacity Building Commission (CBC). The programme aimed to enhance service orientation, professional
capacity, and public service efficiency among ministry personnel. The first phase, inaugurated by Vaidya Rajesh
Kotecha, focused on creating a responsive workforce.
• The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has introduced a Blue Category for industries providing Essential
Environmental Services (EES), such as waste-to-energy plants, biomining, and compressed biogas (CBG)
plants. These industries will receive extended consent validity (an additional 2 years, totaling 7 years) to
incentivize their role in managing pollution and promoting sustainable practices. The Pollution Index (PI)

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categorizes industries into Red, Orange, Green, and now Blue, with waste-to-energy plants and agro-residue-
based CBG plants moved to the Blue Category due to their environmental benefits.
• In a landmark judgment on April 15, 2025, the Supreme Court of India, led by Justices J.B. Pardiwala and

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R. Mahadevan, issued strong directives on child trafficking, urging parental vigilance and warning of organized
trafficking gangs exploiting children for sexual exploitation, forced labour, illegal adoptions, and child marriage
using technology for coordination. The court held hospitals accountable for newborn safety, exposed loopholes
in the Juvenile Justice Act, cancelled bail of 13 accused, and ordered trial completion within six months, with

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strict warnings to state authorities and High Courts for any non-compliance.
• India is set to become the world’s fastest-growing large aviation market by 2026, surpassing China in growth rate, with a

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projected 10.5% passenger traffic growth compared to China’s 8.9%. Key drivers include low trips per capita, a rising middle
class, enhanced aviation infrastructure, expanding airline networks, and supportive policies like UDAN and Gati Shakti.
India’s CAGR (2023–2027) is projected at 9.5%, higher than China’s 8.8%, positioning India as the third-largest aviation
market globally by the next three decades.
• Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated India’s first Athlete Passport Management Unit (APMU)
at the National Dope Testing Laboratory (NDTL), New Delhi, on April 17, 2025, marking a major stride in
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anti-doping efforts. As the 17th APMU globally, it will manage Athlete Biological Passports (ABP) by tracking
biological markers over time to detect doping patterns without identifying banned substances directly. This
initiative aligns India with global anti-doping standards and strengthens its role as a leader in ethical sports,
especially within the Global South.
• A landmark study in The Quarterly Journal of Economics highlights the success of Surat’s cap-and-trade programme for
particulate matter (PM) emissions—the world’s first ETS for PM and India’s first pollution trading system. Launched in
September 2019 by the GPCB and the University of Chicago’s Energy Policy Institute, the scheme used CEMS, emission
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permits, and auctions to regulate 318 industrial plants.

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the Vizhinjam International Seaport on May 2, 2025, near
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. It is India’s first semi-automated deep-water international container transshipment
port, developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) between the Kerala Government and Adani Ports,
with an investment of over ₹18,000 crore. Strategically located near global shipping routes, the port boosts
India’s trade, supports the Make in India initiative, and enhances Kerala’s role as a maritime hub.
• On April 20, 2025, two male cheetahs (likely Prabhas and Pavak) from Kuno National Park (KNP) were
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relocated to Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary (GSWS) in Madhya Pradesh, marking a major step in India’s
Cheetah Reintroduction Project. This expansion aims to establish GSWS as a second home for cheetahs, with
64 sq.km enclosures and a boosted prey base. While plans to bring 6–8 cheetahs from South Africa are delayed,
4 cheetahs from Botswana are expected in May.
• The GP-DRASTI (Drone Response and Aerial Surveillance Tactical Interventions) program by Gujarat Police
introduces quadcopters for real-time surveillance, quick crime response, and evidence gathering across 33 police
stations in Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Surat, and Vadodara. Equipped with HD cameras, night vision, and 1 km zoom,
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drones can track targets, provide live footage, and assist in facial recognition during criminal events.
• In a significant development in the Indian legal landscape, Justice (Retd.) Dinesh Maheshwari, a former
Supreme Court judge, has been appointed as the Chairperson of the 23rd Law Commission of India in April
2025. The announcement marks a crucial step in the government’s ongoing efforts to review and recommend
reforms in various aspects of Indian law, particularly the long-debated Uniform Civil Code (UCC).
• The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra (KMY) is a significant annual pilgrimage symbolizing deep religious and
cultural ties between India and China. It holds immense importance for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and followers
of the Bon religion. Circumambulating Mount Kailash is believed to bring spiritual merit, and bathing in Lake
Mansarovar is thought to cleanse one’s sins. The pilgrimage was suspended in 2020 due to the COVID-19
pandemic and border tensions. Its resumption after five years marks a positive development in religious tourism
and bilateral cooperation. On April 26, 2025, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced the resumption of the Kailash
Mansarovar Yatra. The pilgrimage will be conducted between June and August 2025. A total of 750 pilgrims will be allowed,
divided into batches traveling via Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand) and Nathu La Pass (Sikkim).

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• On April 22, 2025, a terrorist attack in Baisaran, Pahalgam (Anantnag, South Kashmir) claimed 26 lives
and injured many, targeting tourists during the peak season in a major blow to J&K’s tourism revival. The
attackers, believed to be 2–3 terrorists, opened indiscriminate fire at the scenic, foot-access-only meadow. This
first such tourist-targeted attack in 2025 has triggered travel cancellations, jeopardized the local economy, and
raised serious security and political concerns, with condemnation from national and regional leaders and
intensified calls for policy reassessment.
• India’s largest cruise terminal, the Mumbai International Cruise Terminal (MICT), was inaugurated by Union Minister
Sarbananda Sonowal on April 21, 2025, marking a major boost to cruise tourism and maritime infrastructure. With an annual
capacity of 1 million passengers and the ability to handle five ships simultaneously, the Rs 556 crore terminal supports ships

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up to 300 meters in length.
• In response to the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people, including a foreign national, the Indian government has
implemented a 5-point action plan targeting Pakistan. Key measures include the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty,

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closure of the Attari-Wagah border, cancellation of the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme for Pakistani nationals, expulsion
of Pakistani military advisors, and a reduction in diplomatic staff at the Indian High Commission in Islamabad. These steps
aim to isolate Pakistan diplomatically and curb cross-border terrorism. The attack, executed by Pakistani nationals, is under
investigation, with a massive manhunt launched for the perpetrators.

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• In a major diplomatic fallout after the Pahalgam terror attack, Pakistan has suspended the 1972 Simla Agreement, closed the
Wagah border, banned Indian airlines from its airspace, and halted all trade with India, citing alleged Indian involvement in

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terrorism. This follows India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, downgrade of diplomatic ties, visa cancellations, and
closure of the Attari post. With all bilateral agreements now effectively frozen, tensions between the nuclear neighbors have
sharply escalated, with Pakistan warning that any diversion of Indus water would be an "Act of War."
• Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar launched the “Mahila Samvad” campaign, a state-wide initiative focused
on empowering rural women by connecting them with welfare schemes and amplifying their voices in policy
discussions. The campaign aims to educate women about government schemes, encourage their active use of
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public resources (healthcare, education, livelihood), and establish a two-way communication channel with
government officials.
• Amaravati, the planned capital of Andhra Pradesh, is set to become the world’s first city powered entirely by
renewable energy, with a focus on solar, wind, and hydropower. Covering 217 sq km along the Krishna River,
the project, costing ₹65,000 crore, aims to generate 2,700 MW of clean energy by 2050, with at least 30% from
solar and wind.
• The Maharashtra State Wildlife Board has declared DPS Flamingo Lake as a conservation reserve, marking
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the first formal protection for a wetland linked to the Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary. This significant move
aims to preserve the fragile wetland ecosystem of Navi Mumbai, reflecting the state government’s commitment
to wildlife conservation amidst rapid urban development.
• Similipal, a rich ecological region in Odisha, was officially declared the 107th National Park of India and
second in Odisha on April 24, 2025, covering 845.70 sq km across 11 forest ranges. Known for its biodiversity—
including 55 mammals, 361 bird species, and being a major tiger reserve—this move marks a milestone in
conservation. Proposed in 1980, the park’s core area was cleared of human habitation, except for Bakua village,
which was excluded.
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• Madhya Pradesh has taken a significant leap towards forest conservation with the launch of India’s first AI-
based real-time forest alert system. This system uses satellite data, AI, and mobile-based field reporting to detect
land encroachment, deforestation, and other changes in forest areas. The initiative is being piloted in five forest
divisions and is poised to become a model for effective forest management in India.
• Kirthiga Reddy, former Meta India head and now CEO of Verix, has launched AI Kiran on April 21, 2025,
in partnership with the Indian government and global bodies, to empower Indian women in AI. The initiative
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offers mentorship, funding access, and blockchain-verified recognition, targeting sectors like healthcare,
education, and sustainability. Despite high female representation in STEM education, the share of women in
GenAI roles is low—just 33% at junior levels and 19% at senior levels—a gap AI Kiran aims to bridge.
• Ghaziabad Nagar Nigam has issued India’s first Certified Green Municipal Bond, raising ₹150 crore to build
a 40 MLD Tertiary Sewage Treatment Plant (TSTP) using microfiltration, ultrafiltration, nanofiltration, and
RO technologies. The plant supplies recycled water to 1,400+ industrial units, promoting urban water
sustainability. Developed under the PPP-HAM model, the project won the Best Municipal Treated Water Reuse
Award and reflects Ghaziabad’s leadership in green finance and smart city initiatives.
• The Election Commission of India (ECI) has introduced three key reforms—electronic access to death registration data,
revamped voter information slips (VIS), and standard photo identity cards for Booth Level Officers (BLOs). These initiatives,
guided by CEC Gyanesh Kumar, aim to boost electoral roll accuracy, improve voter communication, and enhance field-level
transparency. The integration with the Registrar General of India, compliance with electoral laws, and improved BLO visibility
collectively strengthen the voter-centric approach of India’s democratic process.

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• The statue unveiling and road naming in honor of Bodofa Upendranath Brahma on his 35th death anniversary
represents a symbolic tribute to his non-violent struggle for tribal identity, cultural preservation, and equal
rights. As the architect of peaceful mobilization for Bodoland, Bodofa’s legacy continues to inspire tribal youth
across India. The government emphasized progress on the 2020 Bodo Accord, peaceful integration of over
10,000 former insurgents, and the vision of “Live and Let Live” rooted in Bathou religion.
• On May 2, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the ₹8,800 crore Vizhinjam International Deepwater
Multipurpose Seaport in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, marking India’s first deepwater transshipment port capable
of handling the world’s largest cargo ships. Strategically located near international shipping routes, it aims to
reduce dependency on foreign ports, boost maritime trade, and position India as a global logistics hub.

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• The Kalaignar Centenary Park in Chennai, inaugurated in February 2024, offers a blend of entertainment,
education, and relief from the heat. The park, built on land reclaimed from the Agri Horticultural Society,
features attractions like a 500-metre zipline, aviary, treehouses, botanical exhibits, and a children’s play area.

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• Cheetah Nirva has given birth to five cubs at Kuno National Park, Sheopur district, Madhya Pradesh, announced
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, raising the park’s cheetah and cub count to 29 and the national total to 31. Earlier,
two cheetahs were shifted to Gandhi Sagar sanctuary. Mr. Yadav hailed the births as a success for the Cheetah

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Project, highlighting India’s rich biodiversity and credited the achievement to the conservation efforts under
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's guidance.

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• Karnataka’s Lakkundi temples, built during the Kalyana Chalukya era, are being considered for inclusion in
the UNESCO tentative list of World Heritage Sites. The state has collaborated with INTACH to draft and finalize
the proposal, focusing on the architectural significance, especially the Vesara temple style and stepwells. These
monuments meet key UNESCO criteria for showcasing cultural exchange and historical value. If accepted, the
full nomination dossier will be submitted after a year.This move marks a major step in conserving and globally recognizing
India’s ancient architectural heritage.
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• The Department of Posts will release a commemorative stamp to celebrate the centenary of Pandit Chatur
Lal, a legendary tabla exponent. Known for introducing the tabla to Western audiences, he collaborated with
notable figures like Pandit Ravi Shankar and Yehudi Menuhin, and was a pioneer in fusion music, working
with jazz drummer Papa Jo Jones.
• In a significant military development, the Indian Armed Forces on launched ‘Operation Sindoor’, a series
of precision strikes on terrorist camps located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK).
The operation comes in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 25 Indian nationals
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and one Nepali citizen, triggering widespread outrage and demands for decisive action.
• Goldsikka’s latest unveiling of an AI-powered Gold-Melting ATM marks a major advancement in digital
banking and gold commerce. With features like real-time purity testing, automated cash transfers, and AR
jewellery previews, the ATM offers a futuristic approach to secure and efficient gold transactions. The move
aligns with India’s broader digital transformation goals and could revolutionise how people interact with precious
metals.
• Operation Hawk 2025, launched by the CBI with international support, targeted online child sexual exploitation
networks operating via platforms like Discord and Arisu. The operation led to the arrest of two individuals—
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Sheik Muizz Ahmed and Mukul Saini—who coerced minors into sharing explicit content through intimidation
and threats. The success of this operation, following earlier initiatives like Operation Carbon and Operation
Megh Chakra, emphasizes the significance of global cooperation and rapid response in addressing cyber-enabled child sexual
abuse. This marks a vital step towards protecting vulnerable minors from online exploitation.
• Union Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu has approved Greenfield airports in Kota (Rajasthan)
and Puri (Odisha) on May 5, 2025. These airports aim to boost regional connectivity, promote tourism, and
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support economic development. Kota, a center for education and industry, and Puri, a renowned pilgrimage
site, are both crucial locations that will now benefit from enhanced air infrastructure. This move aligns with
the UDAN scheme and is a part of the government’s long-term aviation strategy to make air travel more
accessible and inclusive.
• Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis unveiled a visionary initiative at the WAVES Summit 2025
by announcing India’s first Edu City in Navi Mumbai in partnership with foreign universities. The University
of York and Western Australia University signed MoUs totaling Rs 3,000 crore to establish offshore campuses.

• Additionally, mega investments were secured for AI-powered Film Cities by Prime Focus and Godrej, promising large-scale
employment and positioning Navi Mumbai as a global knowledge and entertainment hub. The initiative aligns with NEP
2020 and sets the stage for Maharashtra’s upcoming AI policy.
• In a rare constitutional move, President Droupadi Murmu has invoked Article 143 of the Constitution to seek
the Supreme Court’s advisory opinion on a range of legal questions concerning the powers and conduct of
Governors and the President in relation to State legislation under Articles 200 and 201. This Presidential
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Reference stems from a recent Supreme Court judgment criticizing delays by the Tamil Nadu Governor in granting assent to
Bills passed by the State Legislature. On May 13, 2025, President Murmu referred 14 constitutional questions to the Supreme
Court after a two-judge Bench judgment (April 8, 2025) deemed the Tamil Nadu Governor’s delay in Bill assent as
unconstitutional. The move is significant as it seeks to resolve long-standing ambiguities regarding the discretionary powers
of Governors and the President, and the limits of judicial intervention under Article 142.
• In a landmark moment for India’s semiconductor ambitions, Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurated
the country’s first 3nm chip design centres in Noida and Bengaluru. Set up by Renesas Electronics India, these
state-of-the-art facilities represent a transformative leap in India’s chip design capabilities, aligning with the
nation’s vision of becoming a global semiconductor powerhouse under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat mission.

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• Neeraj Chopra, India’s javelin star and Olympic gold medallist, has been conferred the honorary rank of
Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army, as per a May 13, 2025 government notification. The honour
acknowledges his sports excellence and military service as Subedar Major. A former world and Olympic
champion, Neeraj joins the ranks of personalities like M.S. Dhoni, reflecting India’s respect for civilian

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achievements in nation-building. The Territorial Army, a crucial support wing of the Indian Army, celebrates
its 75 years of service.
• The Supreme Court of India, while addressing a suo motu petition on the rise in child rape incidents, has ordered the Centre
and State governments to urgently set up exclusive POCSO courts. It underlined that trial delays violate the Protection of

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Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012, which mandates speedy justice. States like Tamil Nadu, Bihar, Maharashtra, UP,
Odisha, and West Bengal have been flagged for judicial backlog. This move is critical to ensure timely justice, strengthen

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child protection mechanisms, and uphold child rights.
• The Delhi Police has initiated ‘Nayi Disha – A Path Back to Learning’, a community outreach programme
designed to bring school dropouts back into the education system. With the help of NGOs, schools, and
counsellors, the initiative offers admission support, emotional guidance, and academic aid. It highlights a
paradigm shift in policing from traditional enforcement to social empowerment. The project is already yielding
results and is set to expand citywide.
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APPOINTMENTS :
National
Name Designation
Chairperson of the 23rd Law Commission of India
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Justice Dinesh Maheshwari

First-ever Indian brand ambassador for the iconic French luxury
house, Chanel

Ananya Panday
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Secretary of the Department of Agricultural Research and Education

(DARE) and the Director General of the Indian Council of
Agricultural Research (ICAR)

Dr. Mangi Lal Jat

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First Indian Brand Ambassador for Dreame Technology

Kriti Sanon
Executive Director of Reliance Industries Ltd

Anant Ambani

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Name Designation
52nd Chief Justice of India

Justice B.R. Gavai

Head of Revamped National Security Board

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Ex-RAW Chief Alok Joshi

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Brand Ambassador of SoBo Mumbai Falcons

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Kapil Dev

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Managing Director of the National Film Development Corporation

Prakash Magdum
Chairman of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
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Ajay Kumar
Chairman of BRICS Chamber of Commerce & Industry
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Harvansh Chawla
International
Name Designation
Vice President and Managing Director (VP & MD) of the Boeing
India Engineering & Technology Center (BIETC)
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Stacie Sire

Obituary News :
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• In a solemn moment for the Roman Catholic Church and the global community, Pope Francis, the first Latin
American and Jesuit pope in history, passed away at the age of 88, the Vatican announced. He was the first pope
from the Americas. He was the first Jesuit pope and the first non-European pope in over 1,200 years.

• Former ISRO Chairman and visionary scientist Dr. K. Kasturirangan passed away at the age of 84 on April 25,
2025, in Bengaluru. As Project Director, he led India’s first two experimental earth observation satellites,
BHASKARA-I and BHASKARA-II. Under his guidance, ISRO launched its first operational remote sensing
satellite, IRS-1A, which became the cornerstone of India’s Earth observation program.
• Dr. Mathew Samuel Kalarickal, renowned as the ‘Father of Angioplasty in India’, passed away on April 18, 2025,
at the age of 77 in Chennai. Known for revolutionizing heart care in India by introducing angioplasty in 1986 who
was awarded Padma Shri (2000) and Dr. B.C. Roy Award (1996).
• Dr. Subbanna Ayyappan, a pioneering fisheries scientist and recipient of the Padma Shri, was found dead in
the Cauvery river near Srirangapatna, Karnataka, on May 10, 2025. Known as the architect of India’s Blue Revolution, his
mysterious death has sparked calls for a court-monitored CBI probe amid allegations of institutional corruption.
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• Former Uruguayan President Jose Mujica, famously known as the “world’s poorest president” due to his humble
lifestyle, passed away at the age of 89 after battling oesophageal cancer. Mujica’s extraordinary life journey—from
guerrilla fighter to the nation’s progressive leader—was marked by his deep commitment to simplicity, social
reforms, and human dignity.

AWARDS & Honours :

International
• Mariangela Hungria, a Brazilian microbiologist, has received the 2025 World Food Prize for her pioneering

n
research in biological nitrogen fixation—a natural method that supports crop growth with reduced reliance on
chemical fertilizers. Her innovations have significantly contributed to Brazil.

• In a historic recognition of India’s fight for child justice, renowned lawyer and child rights activist Bhuwan Ribhu

o
has become the first Indian lawyer to receive the Medal of Honour from the World Jurist Association. Awarded
during the World Law Congress 2025 held in the Dominican Republic, the accolade acknowledges Ribhu’s two-
decade-long commitment to eradicating child exploitation through legal reforms, court interventions, and advocacy.

i
• Nicaragua’s historic newspaper La Prensa has received the 2025 UNESCO/Guillermo Cano Press Freedom Prize

at
for its unwavering dedication to truth and accountability.

• India has asserted its dominance in world cricket as Jasprit Bumrah and Smriti Mandhana were named Wisden’s
Leading Cricketers in the World for 2025.
uc
• Bollywood actor and philanthropist Sonu Sood is set to be honoured with the prestigious Humanitarian Award at
the 72nd Miss World Festival for his remarkable philanthropic efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Pulitzer Prizes 2025:

Public Service : Kavitha Surana, Lizzie Presser, Cassandra Jaramillo & Stacy Kranitz
Ed

Breaking News Reporting : The Washington Post staff

CE

Investigative Reporting : Reuters staff – “Fentanyl Express”

Explanatory Reporting : Azam Ahmed, Christina Goldbaum & Matthieu Aikins (NYT)
RI

Local Reporting : Alissa Zhu, Nick Thieme & Jessica Gallagher (Baltimore Banner & NYT)

National Reporting : The Wall Street Journal staff – Elon Musk investigation

International Reporting : Declan Walsh & NYT staff – Sudan conflict

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Feature Writing : Mark Warren (Esquire)

Commentary : Mosab Abu Toha (The New Yorker)

n
Criticism : Alexandra Lange (Bloomberg CityLab)

o
Editorial Writing : Raj Mankad & team (Houston Chronicle)

i
at
Illustrated Reporting : Ann Telnaes (Washington Post)

Breaking News Photography : Doug Mills (NYT) – Trump assassination attempt

uc
Feature Photography : Moises Saman (The New Yorker) – Syria prison
Ed

Audio Reporting : The New Yorker staff – “In the Dark” podcast

• Madhusudan Sai, a prominent humanitarian, was recently honored by Fiji with the ‘Companion of the Order of
Fiji’ for his exceptional contributions to healthcare and social welfare. His efforts, particularly through the
establishment of the Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Children’s Hospital.
CE

• Payal Kapadia, the acclaimed filmmaker behind ‘All We Imagine As Light’, has received the prestigious ‘Officer
of the Order of Arts and Letters’ from the French Government. This recognition comes after her historic victory at
the Cannes Film Festival in 2024.

• Laureus World Sports Awards 2025

RI

Category Winner
World Sportsman of the Year

Mondo Duplantis
World Sportswoman of the Year

Simone Biles

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World Team of the Year

Real Madrid
Breakthrough of the Year

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Lamine Yamal
Comeback of the Year

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Rebeca Andrade

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Sportsperson with a Disability

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Action Sportsperson of the Year
Jiang Yuyan
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Tom Pidcock
Sport for Good Award
Ed

Kick4Life
Sporting Icon Award

Rafael Nadal
CE

Lifetime Achievement Award

Kelly Slater
• Five distinguished military personnel were honoured with the prestigious MacGregor Memorial Medal for the years 2023 and
RI

2024, in recognition of their exceptional contributions to military reconnaissance, exploration, and adventure. The awards were
conferred by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan at a ceremony hosted by the United Service Institution of
India (USI) in New Delhi.
Year Recipient Name Rank/Position Service Branch Contribution Area
Wing Commander D. Panda Indian
Military reconnaissance/
2023 Air Force Air Force
adventure

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Rahul Kumar Pandey
Electrical
2023 Indian Navy Exploration/military service
Artificer (Radio)

Chief Electrical
Reconnaissance/technology in
2024 Aircraft Artificer Indian Navy
naval systems

n
(Radio)
Ram Ratan Jat

o
2024 Sergeant Indian Air Force Adventure/military excellence

Jhumar Ram Poonia

i
Director,

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NIMAS, High-altitude mountaineering
2024 Indian Army
Arunachal (Mt. Kangchenjunga)
Col. Ranvir Singh Jamwal Pradesh

National
uc
• The PoshanTracker Application, developed by the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD),
has been awarded the Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration 2024 under the Innovation
(Centre) category.

• The Airports Authority of India’s Hubballi Airport has achieved a major milestone by receiving the Platinum
Honour at the ACI Green Airports Recognition 2025. Acknowledged for its pioneering sustainable energy
initiatives, the award—presented during the regional assembly in New Delhi.
Ed

• Achyuta Samanta, the founder of KIIT and KISS, was recently presented with the 2025 Gurudev Kalicharan
Brahma Award in Kokrajhar, Assam. The award, given by the Gurudev Kalicharan Brahma Trust, honors
individuals for their outstanding efforts in education and societal development.

• The National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC) was recently honored with the Udyog Vikas Award at
an event organized by Janmabhumi Daily in Kerala. This recognition acknowledges NICDC’s pivotal role in transforming
CE

India’s industrial and logistical landscape.

• Kumar Mangalam Birla, the 57-year-old Chairman of the Aditya Birla Group, will be conferred with the prestigious Lata
Deenanath Mangeshkar Award on April 24, 2024.
SPORTS NEWS :
• Carlos Alcaraz defeated Jannik Sinner 7-6 (5), 6-1 to win his first-ever Italian Open title on May 18, 2025
RI

• India’s U-19 football squad lifted the SAFF U-19 Championship 2025 trophy after a penalty shootout win against Bangladesh
in the final held in Yupia, Arunachal Pradesh.

• Indian chess prodigy Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa achieved a major milestone in his career by winning his
first-ever Grand Chess Tour tournament — the Superbet Classic 2025 held in Bucharest, Romania.
• In a landmark moment for Indian athletics, Neeraj Chopra breached the 90m mark for the first time in his career
at the Doha leg of the 2025 Diamond League held on May 16. With a throw of 90.23m, Chopra became the first
Indian and only the third Asian to achieve this feat in men’s javelin. However, despite leading for most of the
competition, Chopra was overtaken in the final round by Germany’s Julian Weber, who clinched first place with a
throw of 91.06m.
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• Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) held a special ceremony at the Wankhede Stadium to honour India’s cricketing
icon Rohit Sharma by renaming a stand after him. The tribute followed his recent retirement from Test and T20
formats, and acknowledged his leadership in India’s recent success at ICC.
• India has gained a new Grandmaster in the world of chess as 19-year-old Chennai-based player Srihari LR secured
his third GM norm at the Asian Individual Chess Championship in Al-Ain, UAE. With this achievement, he becomes
the country’s 86th Grandmaster.
• FIFA has officially lifted the suspension imposed on the Republic of Congo’s football federation (FECOFOOT),

n
ending a three-month standoff caused by allegations of third-party interference. The ban, which stemmed from a
prolonged dispute between FECOFOOT and the Congolese sports ministry, had disrupted national football operations
and led to the closure of key sports facilities, including the federation’s headquarters.

o
• India Shines at Archery World Cup 2025 with 7 Medals
Total Medals: 7 (2 Gold, 1 Silver, 4 Bronze)
Deepika Kumari

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 Bronze in Women’s Recurve Individual
 Defeated Korea’s Kang Chae-young 7-3
 18th individual World Cup medal
at
uc
Parth Salunkhe

 Bronze in Men’s Recurve Individual

Ed

 Defeated Baptiste Addis (France) 6-4

 First senior-level medal; U21 World Champion
Compound Events Success
w Women’s Compound Individual
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Gold – Madhura Dhamangaonkar defeated Carson Krahe (USA) 139-138

w Men’s Compound Team
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Gold – Abhishek Verma, Rishabh Yadav, Ojas Deotale

w Women’s Compound Team

Silver – Jyothi Surekha Vennam, Madhura Dhamangaonkar, Chikitha Taniparthi

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w Mixed Compound Team

Bronze – Abhishek Verma & Madhura Dhamangaonkar

w Men’s Individual Compound

n
o
Bronze – Rishabh Yadav, beat Kim Jongho (Korea) in shoot-off
• On May 12, 2025, the Taliban administration in Afghanistan announced a nationwide suspension of chess, citing that the game

i
may contradict their religious laws by potentially promoting gambling. This temporary ban is subject to review by Islamic
scholars, adding to a growing list of activities.

at
• Indian cricket legend Virat Kohli has officially announced his retirement from Test cricket, marking the end of
a historic and transformative chapter in the sport. Over a 14-year-long Test career, Virat Kohli played 123 matches,
scoring an impressive 9230 runs at an average of 46.85. His highest score came in 2019, a phenomenal 254 not out
against South Africa. Kohli’s tally includes 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries, placing him among India’s all-time
greats.
uc
• On May 7, 2025, Rohit Sharma announced his retirement from Test cricket. He made this decision shortly before
the upcoming India vs England Test series, despite earlier expressing interest in leading the squad.

• The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has introduced a significant policy update barring transgender women from
participating in all levels of women’s cricket. This decision follows a Supreme Court ruling that affirms legal definitions of
gender based strictly on biological sex.
Ed

• China once again showcased its dominance in global badminton by securing the Sudirman Cup 2025, overpowering South
Korea 3-1 in the final.
• In a significant disciplinary move, the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) has suspended former Indian cricketer S. Sreesanth
from all association-related cricketing activities for a period of three years. The decision was made at a special General Body
meeting held in Kochi on April 30, 2025, following Sreesanth’s controversial remarks criticizing the association over the
exclusion of Sanju Samson from the Indian squad for the ICC Champions Trophy.
• The 2026 Asian Games, set to be hosted in Japan's Aichi and Nagoya prefectures from September 19 to October 4, will see
CE

the debut of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) as a medal sport, alongside the retention of cricket.

• Liverpool Football Club secured the 2024–25 Premier League title after a dominant 5-1 win over Tottenham
Hotspur.
RI

• India has once again affirmed its global leadership in yogic sports with a historic performance at the 2nd Asian Yogasana Sport
Championship, clinching an astounding 83 gold medals. Held at the iconic KD Jadhav Arena in New Delhi, the championship
brought together athletes from 21 nations, showcasing the growing appeal and competitive spirit of yogasana across Asia.

• Rajasthan Royals 14-year old Vaibhav Suryavanshi became the youngest batsman to smash IPL’s century and
second-fastest century he scored a century off just 35 balls, smashing 7 fours and 11 sixes against Gujarat Titans.
• Rohit Sharma, the Mumbai Indians' opening batsman, has joined an elite group by becoming the second Indian
cricketer after Virat Kohli to score 12,000 runs in T20 cricket. He achieved this feat during the IPL 2025 match
against Sunrisers Hyderabad.
• The South Asian Senior Athletics Championships 2025, originally scheduled for May 3–5 in Ranchi, Jharkhand, have been
postponed for the second time in seven months. Initially planned for October 2024, the delay this time has reportedly been
due to visa clearance issues involving Pakistani athletes.
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• India’s shooting squad wrapped up a strong performance at the 2025 ISSF World Cup held in Lima, Peru, securing a total
of seven medals—two gold, four silver, and one bronze—to finish third in the overall medal tally, just behind China and the
United States.
Gold Medalists

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 Suruchi Singh – Women’s 10m Air Pistol (also gold in Buenos Aires)

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 Suruchi Singh & Saurabh Chaudhary – 10m Air Pistol Mixed Team

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Silver Medalists

 Manu Bhaker – Women’s 10m Air Pistol at

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 Arjun Babuta – Men’s 10m Air Rifle
Ed

 Simranpreet Kaur Brar – Women’s 25m Pistol (her first World Cup medal)
CE

 Rudrannksh Patil & Arya Borse – 10m Air Rifle Mixed Team
Bronze Medalist
RI

 Saurabh Chaudhary – Men’s 10m Air Pistol

• Australian McLaren driver Oscar Piastri claimed a commanding win at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah,
securing his third victory of the season.

• Virat Kohli made history by surpassing David Warner for the most fifty-plus scores in IPL history. His milestone
came during Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) victory over Punjab Kings (PBKS) in a high-stakes match at
Mullanpur surpassed David Warner with 67 fifty-plus scores in IPL history.
• Nearly three years after making her country proud with a gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics, Azerbaijani judoka
Shahana Hajiyeva has been handed a ban for failing a medical classification test which suggested that she was faking blindness
to compete in the categories where she found so much success.
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THEME OF IMPORTANT DAYS :
Important Days Theme for 2025
World Earth Day (22nd April) Our Power. Our Planet
World Book and Copyright Day (23rd April) The role of literature in achieving the Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs)
World Malaria Day (25th April) Malaria Ends With Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite
World Intellectual Property Day (26th April) IP and Music : Feel the Beat of IP

n
International Labour Day (1st May) Social Justice and Decent Work · Safety and Health of
Workers
World Tuna Day (2nd May) Our Ocean, Our Tuna, Our Future

o
World Press Freedom Day (3rd May) Reporting In The Brave New World – The Impact Of Artificial
Intelligence On Press Freedom And The Media
World Asthma Day (6th May) Make Inhaled Treatments Accessible for ALL

i
World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day (8th Keeping Humanity Alive

at
May)
World Thalassaemia Day (8th May) Together for Thalassaemia: Uniting Communities,
Prioritizing Patients
Mother’s Day (Second Sunday of May) For 2025 Celebrating Motherhood: A Timeless Bond
Mother's Day has been observed on 11th May,
uc
2025.
International Nurses Day (12th May) Our Nurses. Our Future. Caring for nurses strengthens
economies
World Hypertension Day (17th May) Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live
Longer!
World Telecommunication and Information Empowering Women through Digital Technologies
Ed

Society Day (WTISD) (17th May)

International Museum Day (18th May) The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities
World Bee Day (20th May) Bee inspired by nature to nourish us all
Summits, Conferences and Festivals :
Events Locations
Inclusive India Summit 2025 New Delhi
CE

Regional Power Conference for Western States Mumbai

20th session of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF20) New York, USA
Quad nations—India, Australia, Japan, and the United States—conducted a Tabletop Honolulu, Hawaii
Exercise (TTX)
11th edition of the Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East conference Dubai, UAE
RI

Global Media Dialogue (GMD) during the WAVES 2025 Mumbai

India and Bhutan conducted the 6th Joint Group of Customs (JGC) Meeting Thimpu, Bhutan
11th BRICS Labour & Employment Ministers' Meeting under Brazil's 2025 Presidency Brasilia, Brazil
National Workshop on “Opportunities for MSMEs in the Green Hydrogen Supply Chain” New Delhi
GITEX (Gulf Information Technology Exhibition) Africa 2025 Marrakesh, Morocco
The 2025 World Bank Land Conference Wasington DC, USA
The Seventy-eighth World Health Assembly Geneva, Switzerland

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 [ 16 ]

COMMITTEE/COMMISSION :

• Dr. Ajay Kumar, Former Secretary, Ministry of Defence took the Oath of Office and Secrecy as Chairman, Union
Public Service Commission.

n
Apps, Portals, Schemes :
• The Kerala government has launched the ‘Jyothi’ scheme, a comprehensive campaign aimed at enrolling migrant children
into the state’s education system and anganwadis.

o
• In a significant policy reform aimed at energizing India’s power sector, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA),
chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the Revised SHAKTI Policy (Scheme for Harnessing and Allocating
Koyala Transparently in India)
• Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar launched the “Mahila Samvad” campaign, a state-wide initiative aimed at connecting

i
women with welfare schemes and amplifying their voices in policy discussions.
• Haryana government has introduced the “Pandit Lakhmi Chand Kalakar Samajik Samman Yojana”, aimed at providing monthly

at
financial assistance to elderly and economically weaker artistes who have significantly contributed to the arts in the state.
• Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, in the presence of World Bank President Ajay Banga, launched two transformative
initiatives — UP AGREES and AI Pragya — aimed at revolutionizing agriculture and promoting digital skill development
across the state.
• Tripura government has announced the launch of the “Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan” from May 29 to June 12, 2025.
• India’s northeastern region, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) launched a pilot apprenticeship
scheme aimed at promoting hands-on industrial training among youth from the region.
uc
• National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the Maharashtra school education department will implement a phase-wise curriculum
reform starting 2025–26, making Hindi mandatory as a third language for Classes 1 to 5 in Marathi and English-medium
schools.
• Delhi government has introduced the Ayushman Vay Vandana Scheme, offering comprehensive health insurance coverage of
Rs 10 lakh to citizens aged 70 years and above.
• The Government of Maharashtra has launched the Pink E-Rickshaw Initiative, a pioneering scheme to empower women
Ed

economically and socially while promoting eco-friendly transport.

• Madhya Pradesh has set a new benchmark in forest management with the launch of India’s first AI-based real-time forest
alert system.
• Abhiyan, a comprehensive women-centric welfare campaign with a Rs 10.50 crore budget, to tackle key social issues such
as malnutrition, domestic violence, child marriage, and promote women’s participation in governance.
• Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), in collaboration with Microsoft, launched the ‘AI Careers
for Women’ initiative on April 22, 2025, aiming to train 20,000 women from Tier-II and Tier-III towns across six states in
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
CE

• India is set to establish its first Quantum Computing Village in Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh, led by the Real-Time Governance
Society (RTGS) with key collaborators IBM, TCS, and L&T.
• The Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT-B) has been appointed to lead the "Pushpak – National Mission on Drone
Technology," a recently launched initiative.
• The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by PM Narendra Modi, has approved a 166.80 km Greenfield High-
Speed Corridor on NH-06, from Mawlyngkhung (Meghalaya) to Panchgram (Assam) at a capital cost of ₹22,864 crore via
the Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM)
RI

• PM Modi inaugurated 103 Amrit Stations in 18 states under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, aimed at modernizing railway
infrastructure with a blend of comfort, connectivity, and cultural heritage.

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY :

• An e-passport is a conventional passport enhanced with electronic features. It contains an embedded RFID chip that securely
stores personal and biometric data. This includes fingerprints and facial recognition details. India has recently launched
biometric e-passports, joining over 120 countries. This initiative aims to modernise international travel for Indian citizens.
The introduction of e-passports enhances border security, reduces identity fraud, and simplifies immigration procedures.
• Recently, OpenAI introduced its latest reasoning models, o3 and o4-mini. These models are designed to enhance AI capabilities,
aiming for more human-like reasoning. OpenAI claims these models represent leap in technology. However, they also admit
to increased instances of inaccuracies, known as hallucinations.

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• Recent developments in artificial intelligence highlight a growing concern about AI hallucinations. A report by OpenAI
revealed that its latest models, o3 and o4-mini, exhibit higher rates of errors known as hallucinations. These errors occur
when AI systems generate incorrect or misleading information.
• EOS-09, also known as RISAT-1B, weighs approximately 1,710 kg. It is equipped with a C-band synthetic aperture radar.
This radar allows for high-resolution imaging regardless of weather conditions. Unlike optical cameras, the radar operates
effectively in clouds, rain, and even at night. The satellite will enter a sun-synchronous orbit, ensuring consistent lighting for
imaging.
• Neuralink, a neurotechnology company founded by Elon Musk, has made strides in restoring communication for individuals

n
with severe speech impairments. Recently, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted the company a Breakthrough
Device Designation for its innovative brain-chip technology. This designation is awarded to medical devices that promise
more effective treatment for life-threatening conditions. Neuralink aims to assist individuals affected by various neurological

o
disorders, including ALS, stroke, and cerebral palsy, in regaining their ability to communicate.

AGREEMENT/MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MoU) :

i
• India and the European Union (EU) have jointly launched two major research initiatives under the India-EU Trade and

at
Technology Council (TTC). With a joint funding of approximately ₹391 crore (~€41 million).
• Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra signed an MoU on May 10, 2025, to jointly implement the Tapti Basin Mega Recharge Project.
• India and France are set to finalize a ₹63,000-crore G-to-G deal on April 28, 2025, for 26 Rafale-Marine (Rafale-M) jets—22
single-seaters and 4 twin-seater trainers—to enhance India’s naval aviation.
• India and Chile signed the Terms of Reference (ToR) to initiate negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership
Agreement (CEPA), aiming to deepen their economic relations.
uc
• India and Vietnam have taken a meaningful step toward promoting mutual spiritual and cultural cooperation by signing a
fresh Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during the 2025 UN Day of Vesak.
• India’s cross-border trade and passenger movement infrastructure, the State Bank of India (SBI) has signed a Memorandum
of Understanding (MoU) with the Land Ports Authority of India (LPAI).
• India and Denmark signed a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), reinforcing their long-standing cooperation in
the energy sector.
Ed

• India’s inland water transport (IWT) ecosystem, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) signed a Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) with Rhenus Logistics India Pvt. Ltd., a global logistics major.
• India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) concluded successfully in New Delhi on May 9, 2025.
• Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA), operating under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government
of India, has partnered with Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited (KMBL).
• Department of Posts (DoP) and SBI Funds Management Limited (SBIFM) have partnered to offer door-to-door KYC verification
services.
CE

• During the State Visit of Angola’s President to India in May 2025, three significant MoUs were signed covering Ayurveda,
Agriculture, and Culture (2025–29
• India and France are set to finalize a ₹63,000-crore G-to-G deal on April 28, 2025, for 26 Rafale-Marine (Rafale-M) jets—22
single-seaters and 4 twin-seater trainers—to enhance India’s naval aviation.
• The United States and Saudi Arabia have signed a $142 billion arms deal during President Donald Trump’s visit to Riyadh in May
2025. The deal, deemed the largest in history, includes advanced air-to-air missiles, military systems, and commercial exports.
RI

• Global tech major HCLTech has signed the European Commission’s AI Pact, reaffirming its dedication to the ethical and
responsible development of AI technologies.
• Russia and Ukraine resumed direct peace talks in Istanbul, resulting in a prisoner exchange agreement involving 1,000
individuals from each side.

Important Indexes and Reports :

Name of the Index India’s Rank Top Country
The 2025 Human Development Index (HDI) 130th (HDI Value-0.685) Iceland
has been published by the United Nations
Development Programme (UNDP). The report
includes data for 193 countries and territories.
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 [ 18 ]

• Odisha is the top state in the Fiscal Health Index 2025. It scored the highest due to its excellent debt management, smart
spending and good revenue collection. Chhattisgarh ranks second, showing strong performance in balancing its income and
expenses, with a good debt profile. Goa takes the third spot, mainly because of its high revenue collection. These states have
managed their finances well, which helps them invest more in public services and development.
Forbes India has released its much-anticipated W-Power List 2025
• Gita Gopinath – First Deputy Managing Director, IMF
• Leena Nair – Global CEO, Chanel

n
• Smriti Mandhana, PV Sindhu, and Manu Bhaker – International sportspersons
• Bloomberg has released its much-awaited list of the Top 20 Wealthiest Families in Asia for 2025. Six Indian families feature
among Asia’s richest, with the Ambani family topping the chart with a combined wealth of $90.5 billion (₹7.85 lakh crore).

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• Top Military Spenders of 2024-25
As the world’s largest military spender, the U.S. accounted for 37% of global military expenditure in 2024, with a spending
of $997 billion

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The second-largest spender, China, allocated $314 billion, making up 12% of global defense expenditure. .
India spent $86.1 billion, placing it as the fifth-largest military spender. India’s defense budget has grown by 1.6% year-on-

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year, reflecting its need for modernization and preparedness.

Defence News and Exercises :

• Operation Keller is a counter-terrorism mission launched by the Indian Army in the Keller forest area of
Shopian district in Jammu and Kashmir. The operation followed precise intelligence inputs about the presence
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of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists hiding in the Shoekal Keller region.

• Operation Sindoor: India launched military strikes on nine targets (4 in Pakistan and 5 in Pakistan-occupied
Kashmir) in the early hours of May 7, 2025. The cross-border operation by the Indian armed forces was in
response to the terror attack on civilians in Pahalgam, in Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, 2025.
Ed

• India has successfully deployed Israeli-made Harop drones in its operations, particularly during ‘Operation Sindoor‘. These
drones are advancement in unmanned combat capabilities. Their use marks a shift in modern military strategies.
• A new low-cost Counter Drone System in Hard Kill Mode 'Bhargavastra', has been designed and developed by Solar Defence
and Aerospace Limited (SDAL) signifying a substantial leap in countering the escalating threat of drone swarms.
• India’s next-generation indigenous Remote-Controlled Weapon Stations (RCWS) for the Army and Navy, developed by Zen
Technologies in partnership with AI Turing Technologies, represent a significant leap in the modernization and self-reliance
of the country’s defence sector.
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• Adani Defence and Aerospace has unveiled the groundbreaking Agnikaa jet series, marking a significant milestone as India’s
first indigenous jet-powered loitering munition line. This advanced weapons system, with variants including the Agnikaa (J1),
H1, H2, and H3, represents a major leap in India’s defence manufacturing capabilities. With a weight of 25 kg, impressive flight
duration of 1 hour, and an operational range of 190 km, the Agnikaa series is designed to fulfil diverse mission requirements
ranging from short-range tactical operations to long-range strategic strikes.
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• US President Donald Trump announced a new missile defence initiative, the ‘Golden Dome’, aimed at shielding the country
from foreign threats. He revealed that a bill currently in Congress proposes a $25 billion allocation for the project. He said
that “everything” in the Golden Dome missile defence shield he is planning will be made in the United States.

• Israel has initiated a military offensive called Operation Gideon's Chariots aimed at pressuring Hamas for
the release of Israeli hostages.
• India is advocating for the United Nations to label The Resistance Front (TRF) as a terrorist organisation. This push follows
a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in 26 fatalities. India aims to present evidence to the
UN Security Council’s 1267 Sanctions Committee, denoting TRF’s connections to Pakistan-based terror groups.
• India’s military has recently showcased its Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS). This system plays important role
in enhancing the nation’s air defence capabilities. During a recent conflict, IACCS demonstrated its ability to provide real-time data
from various air defence assets. This capability is essential for neutralising aerial threats, particularly from neighbouring countries.
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• In early May 2025, Pakistan executed drone and missile offensive against India. This escalation followed a deadly terror
attack in Pahalgam, resulting in civilian casualties. The Ministry of External Affairs of India confirmed the use of Turkish-
made SONGAR drones in this operation. The incident marks the complex geopolitical dynamics in South Asia, especially
with Turkey’s backing of Pakistan.
• GRSE delivered new Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft INS Arnala to the Indian Navy. This milestone enhances
the Indian Navy’s capabilities in coastal defence against potential submarine threats. The vessel was launched as part of a
contract signed in April 2019, which includes the construction of eight such crafts.

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• INS Arnala measures 77.6 metres in length and 10.5 metres in width. It is designed for full-scale sub-surface surveillance and
anti-submarine operations. The craft can operate in coordination with aircraft for enhanced maritime security. The vessel is
built under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, collaborating with L&T Kattupalli in Tamil Nadu.

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• Security forces are preparing to launch Operation Shiva to guard the upcoming Amarnath yatra, and thousands of personnel
will be assigned duties in Jammu and Kashmir to ensure that the annual Hindu pilgrimage to a mountain cave shrine goes
smoothly.

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• India’s air defence capabilities are being enhanced with the recent acquisition of Russian-origin Igla-S missiles. These

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portable, shoulder-fired weapons are designed to target low-flying enemy aircraft, drones, and helicopters. The Indian Army
has received these Very Short Range Air Defence Systems (VSHORADS) as part of a Rs 260 crore emergency procurement
contract. This move comes in response to increased security threats along the western border, particularly following a recent
terror attack.
• India has recently finalised defence deal with France, worth ₹63,000 crore, to procure 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets for its
Navy. The deal includes 22 single-seater jets for carrier operations and four twin-seater trainer jets. Deliveries are expected
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to begin in 2028 and conclude by 2030.
• The Pahalgam terror attack, which occurred on 22 April 2025, has drawn attention due to its tragic outcome. The attack
resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists in Jammu and Kashmir. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over the
investigation from local police, marking a critical step in addressing terrorism in the region. The NIA’s involvement puts
stress on the seriousness of the situation, especially following claims of responsibility by the Resistance Front, a proxy of the
Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba.
Ed

• Recent events in Kashmir have brought into light the alarming use of M4 carbine assault rifles by terrorists. This pattern
raises concerns regarding security in the region. The recent attack in Pahalgam, where gunmen armed with M4 carbines and
AK-47s targeted tourists, has drawn attention to the origins of these American-made weapons.
• Recently, the US military deployed an anti-ship missile launcher on Batan Island in the Philippines. This marked escalation in
military presence near Taiwan and the South China Sea. The deployment occurred amid ongoing territorial disputes between
China and the Philippines. The Chinese Coast Guard seized control of Tiexian Reef, intensifying tensions in the region.
• India’s maritime strategy has evolved in recent years, particularly with the introduction of the Mutual and Holistic Advancement
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for Security and Growth for All in the Region (MAHASAGAR) initiative. This strategic framework aims to enhance regional
maritime security and cooperation, reflecting India’s commitment to its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. The successful refit of
the Maldivian Coast Guard Ship MNDF Huravee at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai is a key example of this commitment,
showcasing India’s role as a reliable partner in regional security.
RI

Economy and Banking Awareness :

• India’s smartphone industry has achieved a major milestone in the financial year 2024–25 (FY25) as exports crossed ₹2 lakh
crore for the first time.
99% of smartphones used in India are now locally manufactured, reducing import dependence.
Foxconn (Tamil Nadu) alone contributed 50% of shipments, showing a 40% YoY growth.
• In a decisive step to protect its domestic steel industry, the Government of India has announced the imposition of a 12%
provisional safeguard duty on select categories of steel imports.
The 12% tariff is a provisional measure effective for 200 days and applies specifically to a range of non-alloy and alloy steel
flat products.
• India’s core sector output recorded a 3.8% year-on-year growth in March 2025, driven by increased electricity generation due
to rising temperatures and early summer heatwaves.
The eight core sectors — coal, crude oil, natural gas, refinery products, fertilisers, steel, cement, and electricity — account
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for nearly 40% of the weight of items included in the Index of Industrial Production (IIP)
• The Income Tax Department has implemented a new rule effective from April 22, 2025, mandating a 1% Tax Collected at
Source (TCS) on the sale of luxury goods priced above ₹10 lakh.
• The World Bank has revised India’s GDP growth forecast downward for the financial year 2025-26 to 6.3%.
For FY26, the IMF reduced its estimate by 0.3 percentage points, from 6.5% to 6.2%.
The Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) projection of 6.5% for FY26.
Fitch Ratings has revised India’s GDP growth forecast downward for the 2025-26, cutting to 6.4%.

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The United Nations has revised India’s GDP growth forecast for 2025 downward to 6.3%.
Moody’s Ratings (Global Macro Outlook) has revised India’s GDP growth forecast for the 2025 down to 6.3%.

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As of May 9, 2025, India’s Long-Term Foreign and Local Currency Issuer Ratings have been upgraded from ‘BBB (low)’
to ‘BBB’ with a Stable outlook. Morningstar DBRS, a leading global sovereign credit rating agency, has upgraded India’s
long-term and short-term credit ratings on May 9, 2025.
• The Indian life insurance industry witnessed a healthy growth of 5.13% in total new business premium collection in the

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financial year 2024–25.
• The government has set up an inter-ministerial committee to develop the framework for a new national manufacturing mission.

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The mission was first announced during the Union Budget in February 2025, with the goal of increasing the manufacturing
sector’s contribution to India’s GDP. The committee, led by Niti Aayog CEO B V R Subrahmanyam.
• RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra stated that India’s inflation is expected to align well with the target during FY26.
CPI inflation mandate: 4% target with a ±2% band.
Current CPI (March 2025): 3.3% — lowest since August 2019.
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• India’s Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has released the first monthly bulletin of the revamped
Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) for April 2025.
The PLFS Monthly Bulletin for April 2025, published on 15 May 2025, is the first in the new series of monthly bulletins
under the revamped PLFS design, effective from January 2025.
Introduced a monthly rotational panel sampling approach.
Each household is surveyed 4 times across 4 consecutive months.
Ed

75% of sampling units are retained month-to-month for better consistency.

• The State Bank of India (SBI), India’s largest public sector bank, has unveiled a new customer engagement initiative by
introducing ‘Grahak Mitras’ at select branches.
• SEBI has revised the cut-off timings for redemption in overnight and liquid mutual fund schemes, effective June 1, 2025. For
offline redemptions, the cut-off time is 3:00 PM, while for online applications in overnight funds, the cut-off is 7:00 PM.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced amendments to its existing LCR framework. A key update involves introducing
an additional 2.5% run-off rate for deposits that are accessible via internet and mobile banking. The "run-off rate" for deposits
refers to the percentage of deposits a bank expects to be withdrawn or transferred during a period of stress. In simple words,
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it's the risk of deposits being withdrawn from the bank.

• Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued revised directions allowing minors aged 10 years and above to independently open and
operate savings and term deposit accounts.
• To streamline, digitize, and enhance transparency in the regulatory approval process, the RBI had introduced the PRAVAAH
portal (Platform for Regulatory Application, Validation and Authorization) in May 2024. To improve compliance and efficiency,
the RBI has made it mandatory for all regulated entities to use this online platform for all applications, effective May 1, 2025.
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• To simplify and expand mutual fund investments across India, particularly in remote regions, the Department of Posts (DoP)
and SBI Funds Management Limited (SBIFM) have partnered to offer door-to-door KYC verification services.
• fine-tune India’s monetary policy based on real-time household sentiments, the RBI has initiated three surveys: the Inflation
Expectations Survey of Households (IESH), the Urban Consumer Confidence Survey (UCCS), and the Rural Consumer
Confidence Survey (RCCS).
• CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) spending by listed Indian companies has surged by 16% in FY 2023-24.
• The State Bank of India (SBI) has launched a massive employee engagement and skill development initiative titled ‘Next
LEAP’ and ‘SuPer SBI: Great to Greater’ to make its workforce future-ready and boost performance, pride, and productivity.
• Prime Minister of India championed the ‘orange economy’ at the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES)
2025 in Mumbai, urging global companies to “Create in India, Create for the World”.
The orange economy, also called the creative economy, includes economic activities driven by culture, art, media, innovation,
and intellectual property. It spans film, music, design, gaming, publishing, performing arts, advertising, and digital content
creation.
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• Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, in the presence of World Bank President Ajay Banga, launched two transformative
initiatives — UP AGREES and AI Pragya — aimed at revolutionizing agriculture and promoting digital skill development
across the state.
• The RBI has announced that it will soon release new Rs 20 denomination banknotes bearing the signature of the newly
appointed RBI Governor, Sanjay Malhotra. These banknotes will be part of the Mahatma Gandhi (New) Series and will retain
the same design, features, and motifs as the notes currently in circulation.
• The 2025 Human Development Report, titled "A Matter of Choice: People and Possibilities in the Age of AI".

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India's performance in the report shows a rise in its Human Development Index (HDI) ranking, moving from 133rd in 2022
to 130th in 2023, with an HDI value of 0.685, placing it in the medium human development category.
• Among India's neighbors, China (78th), Sri Lanka (89th), and Bhutan (125th) have higher HDI rankings, while Bangladesh

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is tied at 130th. Nepal (145th), Myanmar (150th), and Pakistan (168th) are ranked lower.
• HDI Classification Categories
HDI Score Range Development Category

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0.800 and above Very High Human Development
0.700 – 0.799 High Human Development

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0.550 – 0.699 Medium Human Development
Below 0.550 Low Human Development
• Parameters Used in HDI
Life Expectancy at Birth:
This reflects the ability to lead a long and healthy life.
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India’s life expectancy has increased significantly, reaching 72 years in 2023.
Education Index:
This includes mean years of schooling and expected years of schooling.
Gross National Income (GNI) per Capita:
This measures the standard of living.
India’s GNI per capita rose from $2,167 in 1990 to $9,046 in 2023.
Ed

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