Dear Readers, get to know the daily current affairs today covering all the National & International Events provided here in this article. Current Affairs is an important topic in various competitive exams like IBPS/SBI/PO/Clerk and other competitive exams. To score better in this section, be updated with the daily happenings. Check the Daily Current Affairs May 2026 updates here. Revision is very important in remembering current affairs. Candidates after learning the Daily current affairs 05th May 2026, can test their knowledge by attempting Current Affairs Quiz provided with answers. Daily current affairs 05th May 2026 covers current affairs from International & National news, Important Days, State News, Banking & Economy, Business News, Appointments & Resignation, Awards & Honour, Books & Authors, Sports News, etc.,

Daily Current Affairs PDF of 05th May 2026

Get More: Static GK Pdfs

CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING, FINANCE & BUSINESS

Finance Ministry Notifies 100% foreign direct investment in Insurance Sector and Amends Foreign Exchange Management Act Rules to Liberalise Investment Framework

• The Central Government has notified 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the insurance sector under the automatic route.
• The reform aims to liberalise and modernise India’s insurance sector framework to attract global investment.

Key Highlights :

• Key laws being amended include the Insurance Act, 1938, the LIC Act, 1956, and the IRDAI Act, 1999.
• The implementation of 100% FDI will be subject to approval and regulation by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI).
• The Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) will remain under a separate framework with a foreign investment cap of 20% under the automatic route.
• The reform aligns with the “Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha (Amendment of Insurance Laws) Act, 2025”, which increased the FDI limit from 74% to 100%.
• Insurance companies with foreign investment must ensure at least one resident Indian citizen holds key leadership positions such as Chairperson, MD, or CEO.
• The 100% FDI limit also applies to insurance intermediaries, including brokers, reinsurance brokers, corporate agents, third-party administrators, surveyors, loss assessors, managing general agents, and insurance repositories.
• The reform aims to align India with global insurance standards and achieve the vision of “Insurance for All by 2047”.
• The notification was issued by the Ministry of Finance on May 2, 2026.
• The Foreign Exchange Management (Non-debt Instruments) (Second Amendment) Rules, 2026 formalised the FDI changes.
• Earlier, the Parliament passed the insurance amendment bill in December 2025, enabling the increase in FDI cap.
• In February 2026, the DPIIT under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry also notified the 100% FDI allowance in the insurance sector.

DFS Organises Colloquium of Debts Recovery Appellate Tribunals Chairpersons and Debts Recovery Tribunals Presiding Officers to Enhance Debt Recovery System Efficiency

• The Department of Financial Services (DFS) organised a colloquium of Debt Recovery Tribunals (DRTs) and Debt Recovery Appellate Tribunals (DRATs) at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi to improve tribunal functioning.
• The main objective was to reduce pendency of cases and accelerate disposal of debt recovery matters across tribunals.
• Tribunals were encouraged to adopt best practices from high-performing DRTs to improve efficiency and output.
• Debt Recovery Tribunals (DRTs) are specialised judicial bodies established under the Recovery of Debts Due to Banks and Financial Institutions Act, 1993 (DRT Act).
• DRTs handle cases involving disputed bank loans above ₹20 lakh.
• The SARFAESI Act, 2002 (Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest Act) enables banks and financial institutions to recover secured debts without court intervention at the first stage.
• As of early 2026, there are 39 DRTs and 5 DRATs functioning across India.
• The colloquium was attended by senior DFS officials, public and private sector banks, and the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA).
• A key focus was on improving capacity building, infrastructure strengthening, and training programmes to enhance tribunal performance.
• DRTs have shown an increase in monthly disposal rates due to reforms and targeted improvements.
• The DFS regularly conducts such colloquiums as a platform for policy dialogue, reform, and performance enhancement.

About Ministry of Finance:

• Cabinet Minister: Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman
• Minister of State (MoS): Shri Pankaj Chaudhary

Bank Loans Against Jewellery Rise Nearly Fivefold to ₹4.6 Lakh Crore by March 2026-Reserve Bank of India Data

• According to Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data, bank loans against jewellery surged nearly 5 times to ₹4.6 lakh crore in March 2026, up from ₹93,301 crore two years earlier.
• On a year-on-year basis, gold/jewellery loans grew 123%, marking the fastest growth among all lending sectors.
• Priority sector housing loans rose sharply by 39.8% to ₹10.44 lakh crore, while overall housing credit increased by 11.5% to ₹33.56 lakh crore.
• Personal loans registered a growth of 16.2% year-on-year, reflecting sustained consumer demand.
• Agriculture and allied credit grew by 15.7%, compared to 10.4% earlier, showing improved rural credit flow.
• Industry credit expanded by 15%, indicating recovery in the manufacturing and industrial sector.
• Services sector credit surged by 19% year-on-year, driven by lending to NBFCs, trade, and commercial real estate.
• Credit to consumer durables declined by 5.3%, reflecting a slowdown in retail durable demand.
• Export credit contracted by 8.4%, indicating weakness in external trade financing.

Finance Ministry Notifies Foreign Direct Investment Relaxation for Foreign Firms with Up to 10% Chinese Stake under FEMA Rules

• The Government of India has tweaked rules under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) to allow certain overseas investments under the automatic route.
• The new provision permits overseas entities with up to 10% Chinese shareholding to invest in India without prior government approval.
• This decision follows the Cabinet approval in March 2026, which revised the regulatory framework for foreign investments.
• The amendment is implemented through the Foreign Exchange Management (Non-debt Instruments) (Amendment) Rules, 2026, which have come into immediate effect.
• The relaxation enables global firms with limited Chinese or Hong Kong ownership to invest more easily in India.
• However, the rule does not apply to entities registered in China, Hong Kong, or other land-border countries.
• This restriction ensures continued focus on national security safeguards in foreign investment policy.

NPCI Bharat BillPay Limited and Juspay Introduce Unified Switch and Software Development Kit to Enhance Banking Connect Net Banking Platform

• NPCI Bharat BillPay Limited (NBBL), a subsidiary of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), has partnered with Juspay Technologies Private Limited with an aim to launch a unified switch and Software Development Kit (SDK) for the Banking Connect platform.
• The initiative is designed to enhance the net banking experience across India.
• Banking Connect is an interoperable platform that standardises net banking workflows across banks and payment aggregators.
• It helps move beyond fragmented legacy integrations and improves digital payment infrastructure.
• The platform provides a single unified integration layer with central routing and structured data delivery.
• It enhances security, customer experience, and operational efficiency in net banking systems.
• The framework enables faster onboarding of banks and partners and supports scalable innovation.
• The SDK technology supports interoperability, open architecture, and ecosystem-wide innovation.
• The system reduces issues such as non-uniform reconciliation processes and reliance on legacy web-based flows.
• It allows banks and partners to connect through a central switch, improving risk management and fraud detection systems.
• The platform is expected to standardise processes and reduce integration timelines for participants.
• NBBL, through its Bharat Connect platform, continues to provide interoperable bill payment and collection services for individuals and businesses.

Recent News :

• In April 2026, NPCI Bharat Bill Pay Limited (NBBL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), onboarded Postal Life Insurance (PLI) as a biller under the insurance category on the Bharat Connect

Tata AIA Life Insurance Introduces ‘Shubh Health Criti’ Unit-Linked Health Fund Plan

• Tata AIA Life Insurance Company Limited has launched a new Unit Linked Insurance Plan (ULIP) named ‘Shubh Health Criti’ in India.
• The plan is designed to build a market-linked health fund to meet long-term medical and critical illness expenses.
• It provides coverage for over 60 critical illnesses and is available for individuals aged 18 to 65 years.
• The product includes a 30-year premium guarantee, integrating investment growth with healthcare financial planning.
• The plan combines insurance protection, investment growth, and structured health preparedness.
• It integrates Tata AIA Health SIP (Systematic Investment Plan), Health Buddy, and Comprehensive Protection Rider.
• These components provide insurance cover, wellness support, and protection benefits while building a market-linked health corpus.
• Key benefits include premium waiver on death or disability, and accidental death and disability cover.
• It also offers terminal illness benefits with term booster for enhanced financial protection.
• The plan includes dual-life OPD cover for family members, supporting outpatient healthcare expenses.
• It provides a return of Health Buddy premiums (if opted) as an additional benefit.
• The Health Buddy ecosystem promotes preventive healthcare through screenings and health tracking tools.
• On maturity, policyholders receive the total fund value based on Net Asset Value (NAV) along with eligible returns.
• The plan represents a shift towards integrated insurance and investment-based healthcare financing solutions.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL AND STATE NEWS

Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation Releases “Women and Men in India 2025” Report

• The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation released the 27th edition of its publication titled “Women and Men in India 2025: Selected Indicators and Data” at the National Deliberative Summit on Data for Development held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
• The report provides gender-disaggregated data across key sectors such as population, education, health, economic participation, decision-making, and violence against women, based on inputs from various ministries and organisations.
• It also includes metadata for 50 key indicators to improve clarity and understanding of statistical concepts and methodologies.

Key Highlights:

• Presents comprehensive gender-based indicators across rural–urban, State and Union Territory levels, and time series data
• Aims to support evidence-based policymaking for inclusive and sustainable development
• Sex ratio at birth improved from 904 (2017–19) to 917 (2021–23)
• Infant mortality rate declined consistently for both male and female infants (2008–2023)
• Gender parity achieved across all levels of school education from Primary to Higher Secondary
• Gross Enrolment Ratio in higher education increased to 30.2 for females and 28.9 for males (2022–23)
• Labour Force Participation Rate increased for both genders, with rural females rising from 37.5 per cent to 45.9 per cent (2022–2025)
• Women in managerial positions increased by 102.54 per cent, compared to 73.80 per cent increase for men (2017–2025)
• Highlights improving gender indicators and evolving socio-economic trends in India

RECENT NEWS

• To recognise exceptional lifetime contributions in statistics, the Government of India has invited nominations for the Sukhatme National Award in Statistics – 2026. Instituted by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), the award honours eminent Indian statisticians whose work has significantly strengthened the system of official statistics in India.

Tamil Nadu Becomes Top Marine Fish Producing State in 2025

• According to the Indian Council of Agricultural Research–Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Tamil Nadu has emerged as the top marine fish producing state in India in 2025, overtaking Gujarat.
• The shift is attributed to a significant decline in Gujarat’s fish landings due to adverse weather conditions, extended fishing bans, and cyclonic disturbances. Despite this, India’s total marine fish production increased by about 3 per cent year-on-year to 3.57 million tonnes in 2025.

Key Highlights:

• Gujarat recorded around 15 per cent decline in marine fish landings, losing its top position
• Decline caused by reduced fishing days due to adverse weather, Operation Sindoor-related ban, and extended fishing ban (60 to 75 days)
• Impact of cyclonic disturbances including Cyclone Shakti affected Gujarat and Daman and Diu
• Tamil Nadu emerged as the leading marine fish producing state in 2025
• Kerala retained third position with 0.62 million tonnes, showing marginal growth
• Karnataka recorded over 43 per cent increase, while Maharashtra saw over 16 per cent growth
• Indian mackerel remained the most landed species (0.27 million tonnes), followed by cephalopods and oil sardine (0.25 million tonnes each)
• Cephalopods and threadfin breams recorded strong growth, reaching decadal-high levels
• Pelagic fish contributed 54 per cent of total marine catch
• Marine fish landings generated around ₹69,254 crore at landing level and ₹97,702 crore at retail level
• Marketing efficiency improved to 70.88 per cent, with Kerala recording the highest efficiency (72.83 per cent)

RECENT NEWS

• Tamil Nadu has emerged as the India’s top textile exporter in 2024-25 with state has surpassing Gujarat and Maharashtra with exports worth of $7,997.17 million. In the last four years state recorded a strong growth of over 29% which is reflecting consistent policy support and expansion. 

About Tamil Nadu:

• Capital: Chennai
• Chief Minister: K. Stalin
• Governor: Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar
• National Parks: Mudumalai National Park, Mukurthi National Park, Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park, Indira Gandhi (Anamalai) National Park, Guindy National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary, Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary, Kalakad Wildlife Sanctuary, Sathyamangalam Wildlife Sanctuary, Vallanadu Wildlife Sanctuary, Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary

India Launches Multi-Lane Free Flow Barrier-less Tolling System on National Highway-48

• Shri Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, announced the launch of India’s first Multi-Lane Free Flow barrier-less tolling system at the Chorayasi Toll Plaza on the Surat–Bharuch section of National Highway-48 in Gujarat.
• The system enables non-stop toll collection through advanced digital technologies, marking a key advancement in smart highway infrastructure development.

Key Highlights:

• Introduced as a state-of-the-art tolling mechanism eliminating the need for physical toll booths
• Combines Automatic Number Plate Recognition with Artificial Intelligence analytics and Radio Frequency Identification-based Electronic Toll Collection system
• Ensures real-time toll processing without disrupting vehicle speed
• Contributes to streamlined traffic flow on high-density highway corridors
• Supports logistics efficiency by enabling faster freight movement
• Aligns with global practices in intelligent transport systems
• Strengthens digital integration in road infrastructure management
• Helps in reducing operational costs associated with manual toll collection
• Enhances user convenience through contactless and automated systems
• Part of the broader vision to develop modern, technology-enabled National Highways network in India
• Payment of notices to be completed within 72 hours, failing which penalties including double toll charges may apply
• Continued non-compliance may lead to FASTag blacklisting and restriction of vehicle services through VAHAN platform
• Acts as a pilot project for potential nationwide implementation of advanced tolling systems

RECENT NEWS

• The Gujarat High Court has issued the policy which the banning the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for making the judicial decisions or to drafting judgments. As High court has recognized that AI can improve efficiency but it also emphasized that human reasoning must remain at the center of justice to ensuring fairness, accountability and judicial independence.

About Gujarat:

• Chief Minister: Bhupendra Patel
• Governor: Acharya Devvrat
• Capital: Gandhinagar
• National Parks: Gir National Park, Blackbuck National Park, Vansda National Park, Marine National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, Velavadar Blackbuck Sanctuary, Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, Barda Wildlife Sanctuary, Purna Wildlife Sanctuary

India Placed on United States Trade Representative Priority Watch List 2026

• India has been included in the Priority Watch List of the United States Trade Representative Special 301 Report 2026, indicating concerns over the country’s intellectual property rights framework.
• The report reviews how effectively trading partners protect patents, copyrights, trademarks, and trade secrets, and is used by the United States of America to push for stronger compliance.

Key Highlights:

• The report is an annual evaluation mechanism for monitoring global intellectual property protection practices
• Classification system includes Priority Foreign Country, Priority Watch List, and Watch List
• India’s placement points to gaps in legal enforcement and administrative efficiency
• Concerns relate to limited protection environment for innovation-driven industries
• Leads to increased bilateral engagement for policy reforms and corrective measures
• May shape future trade policy discussions and negotiations
• Continued concerns can escalate to action under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974
• Vietnam placed under Priority Foreign Country, the most severe category in 2026
• Upgradation or downgrade of countries reflects changing global compliance dynamics
• Highlights the importance of strong intellectual property systems in global economic integration

Andaman and Nicobar Islands Sets Guinness World Record with Largest Underwater National Flag

• The Andaman and Nicobar Islands achieved a Guinness World Record by unfurling the world’s largest underwater national flag at Radhanagar Beach on Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island).
• The Indian National Flag, measuring 60 × 40 metres, was deployed underwater through a coordinated operation and received official recognition from Guinness World Records, marking a significant achievement for the country.

Key Highlights:

• Record created for the largest underwater national flag, measuring 60 × 40 metres
• Event conducted at Radhanagar Beach, Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island)
• Operation involved over 200 trained divers ensuring precise underwater deployment
• Participation of multiple agencies including Andaman and Nicobar Police, Forest Department, Indian Navy, and Indian Coast Guard
• Inclusion of young divers (school students) highlighting youth participation in national initiatives
• Demonstrates high-level coordination and operational efficiency in marine conditions
• Enhances global visibility of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands
• Expected to promote scuba diving, marine tourism, and adventure activities in the region
• Contributes to boosting tourism and local economic development

Sikkim Becomes India’s First Fully Paperless Judiciary

• Surya Kant, Chief Justice of India, announced that Sikkim has become the first state in India to achieve a fully paperless judiciary.
• The announcement was made at the National Conclave on Technology and Judicial Education in Gangtok.
• The development marks a significant step towards digital justice delivery, with court processes being carried out entirely through electronic systems, eliminating the need for physical paperwork and improving overall efficiency.

Key Highlights:

• Sikkim sets a national example by implementing a fully digital judicial system
• Entire court procedure conducted through electronic filing, digital documentation, and online services
• Initiative implemented with support from the High Court of Sikkim
• Linked with the electronic Courts Mission Mode Project for judicial digitization
• Use of Supreme Court Portal for Assistance in Court Efficiency and Supreme Court Vidhik Anuvaad Software for enhancing judicial processes
• Facilitates online access to case status, court orders, and judgments
• Promotes ease of justice delivery by reducing dependency on manual processes
• Helps in minimizing administrative burden and improving system efficiency
• Contributes to modern, transparent, and technology-driven judiciary in India

RECENT NEWS

• The Indian Orchid Festival 2026 was concluded successfully in Pakyong district of Sikkim. This festival attracting orchid growers, entrepreneurs, researchers and floriculture experts from across India. The four day festival was organized by ICAR-National Research Centre for Orchids (ICAR-NRCO) with the theme “Orchids for Beauty & Prosperity.” 

About Sikkim:

• Chief Minister: Prem Singh Tamang
• Governor: Om Prakash Mathur
• Capital: Gangtok
• National Parks: Khangchendzonga National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary, Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary, Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary

Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Launches National Framework for Childhood Diabetes Management

• The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has introduced a national framework for managing childhood diabetes for the 0–18 years age group.
• The initiative emphasizes early identification, standardized treatment, and long-term disease management to reduce complications and mortality.
• It is supported by the release of the Guidance Document on Diabetes Mellitus in Children, establishing a uniform national protocol.
• The framework strengthens the healthcare system by creating linkages from grassroots screening to tertiary-level treatment, and highlights the government’s focus on Non-Communicable Diseases in children.

Key Highlights:

• Introduction of a standardized national protocol for childhood diabetes management
• Implementation of population-wide screening through community and school networks
• Adoption of symptom-based awareness strategy (4Ts: Toilet, Thirsty, Tired, Thinner) for early recognition
• Provision of a completely free treatment package including insulin, diagnostic tools, and regular monitoring
• Focus on continuous care and follow-up to prevent long-term health risks
• Establishment of a multi-tier healthcare delivery system ensuring seamless patient referral and management
• Aims to improve early detection rates, treatment adherence, and overall health outcomes in children

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla Reconstitutes Four Parliamentary Committees for 2026–27 Term

• Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has reconstituted four Parliamentary Committees for the year 2026–27.
• The Committee on Estimates has been chaired by BJP MP Dr. Sanjay Jaiswal and comprises 30 members from the Lok Sabha.
• The Committee on Public Undertakings will be headed by BJP MP Baijayant Panda and includes 15 Lok Sabha members and 7 Rajya Sabha members.
• The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has been chaired by Congress MP K. C. Venugopal consists of 15 Lok Sabha members and 7 Rajya Sabha members.
• The Committee on the Welfare of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (SC/ST) will be headed by BJP MP Faggan Singh Kulaste.
• This committee comprises 20 members from Lok Sabha and 10 members from Rajya Sabha.
• The tenure of all four Parliamentary Committees will be from 1st of this month to 30th April next year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Approves Appointment of Dr. R. Balasubramaniam and Dr. Joram Aniya as Full-Time Members of National Institution for Transforming India Aayog

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the appointment of Dr. R. Balasubramaniam and Dr. Joram Aniya as full-time members of National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog).
• With these appointments, the total number of full-time members in NITI Aayog has increased to seven.
• Dr. R. Balasubramaniam is a former member of the Capacity Building Commission and author of the book “Power Within”.
• Dr. Joram Aniya is an academician with expertise in public policy and Nyishi culture.
• Her appointment is historic as she is the first woman from the Nyishi community with a PhD and the first Hindi doctorate from Arunachal Pradesh.
• Earlier, on 24 April, the government appointed a new Vice-Chairperson of NITI Aayog and replaced four of the five full-time members.
• Renowned economist Ashok Lahiri has been appointed as the Vice-Chairperson of NITI Aayog, replacing Suman Berry.
• Suman Berry had been serving as Vice-Chairperson since April 2022.
• This marks the first major restructuring of NITI Aayog since its formation in 2015.

About NITI Aayog:

• The National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog) is a government agency that advises the central and state governments of India. 
• It was established on January 1, 2015, replaced the Planning Commission
• Headquarters : New Delhi, India
• Functions of NITI Aayog – The organization focuses on national development planning, innovation, policy evaluation, and addressing inter-sectoral issues, while also ensuring national security interests in economic policies.
• The NITI Aayog Governing Council is the apex body comprising the Prime Minister, Chief Ministers of all States, and Lieutenant Governors of Union Territories (UTs).
• The Prime Minister of India serves as the Chairperson, while the Vice-Chairperson is appointed by the PM, reflecting its top-down policy structure.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : DEFENCE NEWS

Hon’ble President of India,Smt. Droupadi Murmu Visits Army Training Command (ARTRAC) Headquarters in Shimla

• The Hon’ble President of India and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, Droupadi Murmu, visited the Headquarters of Army Training Command (ARTRAC), Shimla.
• She was received by the Hon’ble Governor of Himachal Pradesh Shri Kavinder Gupta and Lieutenant General Devendra Sharma, GOC-in-C, ARTRAC.
• The President was briefed on the evolution of ARTRAC and its key role in providing quality training to Indian Army personnel to enhance operational efficiency.
• The briefing highlighted important initiatives such as Drone Training, adoption of niche technologies, Red Teaming concept, Digitisation, and Automation in the Indian Army.
• ARTRAC plays a crucial role in designing concepts of warfare, resource development for the Army, and engagement with Friendly Foreign Countries and Sister Services.
• The President stated that ARTRAC is a key institution in the journey towards Military Excellence, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, and Viksit Bharat.
• ARTRAC operates through 32 premier training establishments, strengthening professionalism in the Indian Army and enhancing understanding of the art and science of warfare.
• The President also discussed aspects of Army training for national security and strength with the GOC-in-C in the presence of the Governor.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : ACQUISITIONS & MERGERS

Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited Acquires 51% Controlling Stake in Colombo Dockyard PLC in First Overseas Expansion

• Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) has acquired a controlling 51% stake in Colombo Dockyard PLC (CDPLC), marking its first international acquisition.
• The deal, valued at ₹249.5 crore, makes Sri Lanka’s largest shipyard a subsidiary of MDL.
• This acquisition strengthens India’s maritime presence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
• The move is aligned with the government’s long-term maritime strategy, Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.
• The acquisition process began in January 2025 and was completed after over a year of regulatory and procedural approvals.
• The Board of Colombo Dockyard PLC has been reconstituted with MDL nominees.
• Capt Jagmohan (Retd), Chairman & Managing Director of MDL, has been appointed as Non-Executive Chairman of CDPLC with effect from 07 April 2026.
• Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDSL) is a Defence Public Sector Undertaking (DPSU) with shipyards located in Mazagaon, Mumbai.
• MDL has a market capitalisation of over ₹1.1 lakh crore, reflecting its strong financial position.
• The company reported consolidated revenue of ₹13,006.31 crore, showing a 14% year-on-year growth.

Recent News :

• In April 2026, Mahendragiri (Yard 12654), the sixth ship of Nilgiri-class (Project 17A) and the fourth ship built at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDSL), was delivered to the Indian Navy in Mumbai.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

India Successfully Conducts Second Test of Long-Range Hypersonic Anti-Ship Missile with 1,500 km Range and Mach 10 Speed

• India has successfully conducted the second flight test of a Long-Range Hypersonic Anti-Ship Missile (LR-AShM) developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
• The test was carried out off the Odisha coast, marking a major boost to maritime defence capability.
• The missile has a strike range of over 1,500 km and can achieve speeds of up to Mach 10, making it one of the fastest weapons in India’s arsenal.
• It is based on a Hypersonic Glide Vehicle (HGV) system, maintaining an average speed of around Mach 5 during the glide phase.
• The missile uses a two-stage solid rocket system, enhancing both speed and manoeuvrability.
• It is capable of evading modern radar and ship-based interception systems due to its low-altitude and unpredictable flight trajectories.
• The missile can target both stationary and moving naval assets, including aircraft carriers, enhancing its “carrier-killer”
• It features advanced indigenous sensors for high-precision targeting in the terminal phase.
• The system supports multiple payload configurations, increasing its operational versatility.
• The missile has been developed by laboratories under the Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex, Hyderabad, along with industry partners.
• The development significantly strengthens India’s maritime deterrence capability against adversaries like China and Pakistan.
• It extends India’s strategic reach into deep ocean regions and enhances defensive perimeter in open seas.

Sigma Advanced Systems Inks ₹3,800 Crore Agreement with Rolls-Royce to Supply Aerospace Components

• Sigma Advanced Systems Limited (SIGD), an Indian aerospace and defence company, has signed a 7-year long-term agreement worth ₹3,800 crore (~300 million pounds) with Rolls-Royce (UK).
• The agreement focuses on the manufacturing and supply of high-precision, safety-critical aerospace components for global aerospace programmes of Rolls-Royce.
• The scope includes aerospace components, assemblies, engine parts, and aerostructure components, ensuring high-quality and safety standards.
• The collaboration operates through an integrated India–UK manufacturing platform, combining cost efficiency with engineering excellence and proximity.
• The deal strengthens India–UK industrial cooperation in the aerospace and defence sector.
• The agreement positions Sigma Advanced Systems Limited (SIGD) as a global aerospace systems partner within the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM)
• It provides long-term revenue visibility and enhances business stability and growth prospects.
• The partnership is expected to improve financial predictability and drive high-value manufacturing capabilities.

Indian Council of Medical Research Develops Priority Pathogen List for Syndromic Surveillance in India

• The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has developed a Priority Pathogen List for Syndromic Surveillance in India.
• The list was released by the Division of Communicable Diseases on 17 November 2025 for infectious disease monitoring, diagnostic standardisation, and outbreak detection.

Key Highlights :

• Syndromic surveillance is a public health monitoring system that tracks symptoms such as fever, respiratory illness, diarrhoea, and encephalitis before laboratory confirmation.
• It helps in detecting unusual disease clusters in epidemic-prone settings and supports early public health action.
• The ICMR priority pathogen list was prepared after 44 expert consultations involving clinicians, laboratory specialists, and epidemiologists.
• The pathogens are classified into four tiers based on prevalence, outbreak potential, national elimination goals, and diagnostic availability.
• This classification supports patient care, laboratory testing, and public health planning.
• The Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP) is a digital disease surveillance system under the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
• IHIP was rolled out across all states by 14 April 2021 and collects near real-time health data from public and private health facilities.
• It supports surveillance of more than 30 diseases and integrates data from hospitals, laboratories, and research centres.
• The platform replaced paper-based reporting systems in many surveillance functions and is used for outbreak detection and epidemic monitoring.
• On 20 January 2026, ICMR announced plans for a single multiplex test to detect multiple high-priority pathogens
• Multiplex testing is a laboratory technique that enables detection of more than one pathogen from a single sample, improving diagnostic speed and efficiency.
• Standardised pathogen screening helps reduce diagnostic gaps and antimicrobial resistance by enabling faster and more accurate diagnosis.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPS & PORTALS

Mizoram Unveils ‘Khuarel’ App for Enhanced Real-Time Disaster Response

• The Mizoram Government has launched the ‘Khuarel’ mobile application, a real-time disaster incident reporting and management system.
• The app was unveiled in Aizawl, Mizoram by Lalnilawma, Minister of Disaster Management & Rehabilitation (DM&R).
• Mizoram has become one of the first Northeastern states to adopt a digital disaster management solution.
• The Khuarel app has been developed by the Mizoram State e-Governance Society for disaster-prone regions.
• The app enables real-time disaster response, coordination, and communication across the state.
• It allows citizens to quickly report disaster incidents to authorities for faster response.
• The app facilitates communication between the public, DM&R Department, State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), and District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMA).
• It ensures systematic recording and management of disaster-related data.
• Key features include an offline mode, making it effective even in remote areas with poor connectivity.
• It supports a bilingual interface (Mizo and English) for better accessibility.
• The app provides a database of nearby hospitals, relief camps, and emergency contacts.
• The initiative aims to strengthen disaster preparedness, response efficiency, and coordination mechanisms.

About Mizoram:

• Capital: Aizawl
• Chief Minister: Lalduhoma
• Governor: Vijay Kumar Singh
• National Parks: Murlen National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Dampa Wildlife Sanctuary, Ngengpui Wildlife Sanctuary, Tawi Wildlife Sanctuary, Lengteng Wildlife Sanctuary, Thorangtlang Wildlife Sanctuary

CURRENT AFFAIRS: MOUS AND AGREEMENT

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Partners with Sikkim to Document Ru-Soam Indigenous Engineering

• The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has partnered with the Government of Sikkim to document the indigenous engineering practice of Ru-Soam cane bridges developed by the Lepcha community in the Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve.
• The initiative aims to study the design, durability, and environmental aspects of these bridges and assess their relevance for climate adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and resilient infrastructure development.

Key Highlights:

• Ru-Soam refers to traditional cane bridges, where ‘Ru’ means cane and ‘Soam’ means bridge
• Built using locally available materials such as bamboo, cane, and wood
• Structure includes parallel cane supports (soamgyang) tied to trees, cane loops (ahool), and bamboo decking (soamgur)
• Bridges can extend up to 100 metres and allow limited pedestrian movement
• Reflects strong ecological understanding and sustainable engineering practices of the Lepcha community
• Study involves field research, community consultations, and technical analysis
• Evaluates application of indigenous knowledge in modern infrastructure and disaster management
• Demonstrated resilience during the Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) 2023
• Aims to integrate traditional knowledge systems with scientific approaches
• Enhances global recognition of indigenous engineering practices and supports sustainable development efforts

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS

India Settles for Bronze After Semifinal Exit in Thomas Cup 2026

• India’s campaign in the Thomas Cup 2026 ended with a 0–3 defeat against France in the semifinals, resulting in a bronze medal finish in Horsens Denmark.
• The loss highlighted a challenging outing for India, as they failed to secure a single match in the semifinal tie.
• The absence of Lakshya Sen due to injury further weakened the team, while France created history by reaching their first-ever final in the tournament.

Key Highlights:

• India lost 0–3 to France in the semifinal, ending their campaign with a bronze medal
• Ayush Shetty lost to Christo Popov (11–21, 9–21) in the opening singles match
• Kidambi Srikanth was defeated by Alex Lanier (16–21, 18–21) in the second match
• HS Prannoy lost to Toma Junior Popov (19–21, 16–21), sealing India’s exit
• India failed to win a single match in the semifinal tie
• Lakshya Sen missed the match due to injury (swollen elbow), impacting team performance
• France reached the final for the first time in Thomas Cup history
• India secured their fourth bronze medal in the tournament after 1952, 1955, and 1979
• The performance reflects India’s continued presence in international badminton competitions

Daily CA One- Liner: May 5^th

• The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation released the 27th edition of its publication titled “Women and Men in India 2025: Selected Indicators and Data” at the National Deliberative Summit on Data for Development held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha
• According to the Indian Council of Agricultural Research–Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Tamil Nadu has emerged as the top marine fish producing state in India in 2025, overtaking Gujarat
• Shri Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, announced the launch of India’s first Multi-Lane Free Flow barrier-less tolling system at the Chorayasi Toll Plaza on the Surat–Bharuch section of National Highway-48 in Gujarat
• India has been included in the Priority Watch List of the United States Trade Representative Special 301 Report 2026, indicating concerns over the country’s intellectual property rights framework
• The Andaman and Nicobar Islands achieved a Guinness World Record by unfurling the world’s largest underwater national flag at Radhanagar Beach on Swaraj Dweep
• Surya Kant, Chief Justice of India, announced that Sikkim has become the first state in India to achieve a fully paperless judiciary
• The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has introduced a national framework for managing childhood diabetes for the 0–18 years age group
• The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has partnered with the Government of Sikkim to document the indigenous engineering practice of Ru-Soam cane bridges developed by the Lepcha community in the Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve
• India’s campaign in the Thomas Cup 2026 ended with a 0–3 defeat against France in the semifinals, resulting in a bronze medal finish in Horsens Denmark.
• The Central Government has notified 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the insurance sector under the automatic route.
• The Department of Financial Services (DFS) organised a colloquium of Debt Recovery Tribunals (DRTs) and Debt Recovery Appellate Tribunals (DRATs) at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi to improve tribunal functioning.
• According to Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data, bank loans against jewellery surged nearly 5 times to ₹4.6 lakh crore in March 2026, up from ₹93,301 crore two years earlier.
• The Government of India has tweaked rules under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) to allow certain overseas investments under the automatic route.
• NPCI Bharat BillPay Limited (NBBL), a subsidiary of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), has partnered with Juspay Technologies Private Limited with an aim to launch a unified switch and Software Development Kit (SDK) for the Banking Connect platform.
• Tata AIA Life Insurance Company Limited has launched a new Unit Linked Insurance Plan (ULIP) named ‘Shubh Health Criti’ in India.
• Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has reconstituted four Parliamentary Committees for the year 2026–27.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the appointment of R. Balasubramaniam and Dr. Joram Aniya as full-time members of National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog).
• The Hon’ble President of India and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, Droupadi Murmu, visited the Headquarters of Army Training Command (ARTRAC), Shimla.
• Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) has acquired a controlling 51% stake in Colombo Dockyard PLC (CDPLC), marking its first international acquisition.
• India has successfully conducted the second flight test of a Long-Range Hypersonic Anti-Ship Missile (LR-AShM) developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
• Sigma Advanced Systems Limited (SIGD), an Indian aerospace and defence company, has signed a 7-year long-term agreement worth ₹3,800 crore (~300 million pounds) with Rolls-Royce (UK).
• The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has developed a Priority Pathogen List for Syndromic Surveillance in India.
• The Mizoram Government has launched the ‘Khuarel’ mobile application, a real-time disaster incident reporting and management system.