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CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING. FINANCE & BUSINESS

Cabinet Approves Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS 5.0) to Support MSMEs and Businesses

• The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS 5.0) to address short-term liquidity challenges arising due to the West Asia crisis.
• The scheme is implemented through National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company Limited (NCGTC), providing credit guarantee coverage to lending institutions (MLIs).

Key Highlights :

• It offers 100% guarantee coverage for MSMEs and 90% coverage for non-MSMEs and the airline sector on defaulted credit amounts.
• Eligible borrowers include MSMEs, non-MSMEs, and scheduled passenger airlines having standard loan accounts as of March 31, 2026.
• The scheme provides additional credit up to 20% of peak working capital (Q4 FY26) for MSMEs/non-MSMEs, capped at ₹100 crore, and up to 100% (₹1,500 crore cap) for airlines.
• The guarantee fee is NIL, making the scheme highly supportive for businesses facing liquidity stress.
• Loan tenor is 5 years for MSMEs/non-MSMEs (including 1-year moratorium) and 7 years for airlines (including 2-year moratorium).
• The guarantee cover remains co-terminus with the loan tenure, ensuring full risk protection for lenders.
• The scheme is applicable for loans sanctioned between the date of guidelines issuance and 31 March 2027.
• The objective is to ensure business continuity, job protection, supply chain stability, and uninterrupted domestic production, especially for MSMEs and the aviation sector.

Department of Financial Services Approves Viability Plan 2.0 to Strengthen Regional Rural Banks

• The Department of Financial Services has approved Viability Plan 2.0 for Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) to strengthen financial stability, governance reforms, and operational efficiency.
• The plan builds on the earlier Viability Plan (FY 2021–22 to FY 2024–25), which focused on performance monitoring and governance improvements in RRBs.
• The revised Viability Plan 2.0 will be implemented for three years (FY 2025–26 to FY 2027–28) to ensure continued oversight and long-term competitiveness.
• The framework includes 30 performance parameters based on four key pillars: operational excellence, asset quality, profitability, and growth.
• Key metrics under the plan include CRAR, credit-deposit ratio, digital adoption, NPA levels, recovery performance, profitability ratios, and implementation of Government schemes.
• The initiative provides a comprehensive framework for assessing and monitoring the financial health of RRBs across India.
• It covers all 28 Regional Rural Banks, aiming to improve financial sustainability and efficiency.
• The plan supports alignment with national priorities such as rural credit expansion, digital inclusion, and financial outreach.

National Stock Exchange of India Introduces Electronic Gold Receipts to Boost Transparency in Gold Trading

• National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) has launched the Electronic Gold Receipts (EGR) segment with approval from Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to create a transparent and efficient gold trading ecosystem.
• The initiative aims to enhance price discovery, broaden market participation, and strengthen investor confidence in gold trading.

About Electronic Gold Receipts (EGRs) :

• Electronic Gold Receipts (EGRs) are dematerialised securities backed by physical gold stored in SEBI-approved vaults, and are traded electronically on stock exchanges.
• EGRs help formalise gold investments by providing a regulated and digital trading mechanism.
• A key benefit is that no Goods and Services Tax (GST) is applicable on EGR trading until the conversion into physical gold.
• The platform caters to a wide range of participants including jewellers, refiners, traders, institutional investors, and retail investors.
• It enables small-ticket investments in gold through secure and digital modes, improving accessibility and financial inclusion.
• The initiative helps modernise gold as an asset class, reduce fragmented pricing benchmarks, and strengthen the overall gold market infrastructure in India.
• Securities and Exchange Board of India is the regulator governing EGRs.
• EGRs are traded on the EGR segment of National Stock Exchange of India (NSE).
• They are classified as securities under the Securities Contracts (Regulation) Act (SCRA), 1956.
• Depositories maintain EGRs in demat form and ensure match with physical gold holdings.
• Vault Managers handle deposit, storage, and withdrawal of physical gold backing EGRs.

Recent News :

• In April 2026, The National Stock Exchange (NSE) witnessed a 7% decline in active client base to 4.57 crore in FY26, compared to 4.92 crore in FY25.

Asian Development Bank Launches Financing Partnership Facility to Strengthen Critical Mineral Supply Chains in Asia-Pacific

• The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has launched a new financing facility titled “Critical Minerals-to-Manufacturing Financing Partnership Facility” to strengthen critical minerals supply chains across Asia and the Pacific region.
• The initiative was announced during the ADB 59th Annual Meeting (AM) of the Board of Governors held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
• The facility aims to support secure, sustainable, and resilient critical minerals supply chains, essential for manufacturing and clean energy transitions.
• The financing structure includes two key windows:
• Grant Window: Provides funding for feasibility studies, environmental and social assessments, technical assistance, and knowledge-sharing activities.
• Catalytic Finance Window: Focuses on mobilising co-financing and risk-sharing from partner institutions and investors.
• ADB has also established a Critical Minerals Database to improve transparency, data coordination, and efficiency in global supply chains.

Recent News :

• In May 2026, The Asian Development Bank launched a USD 70 billion initiative to expand energy and digital infrastructure across Asia-Pacific by 2035.

About ADB :

• Formation : 19 December 1966
• Headquarters : Philippines
• President : Masato Kanda
• Members : 69 countries

Securities and Exchange Board of India Introduces Fast-Track Approval System for Private Placement Memoranda of Alternative Investment Funds

• The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has introduced a fast-track mechanism for processing Private Placement Memoranda (PPM) of Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs).
• The new system enables faster launch of AIF schemes, while placing greater responsibility on merchant bankers and AIF managers.
• Under the revised framework, AIFs (excluding Large Value Funds for Accredited Investors) can launch schemes and circulate PPMs 30 days after filing documents with SEBI.
• Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) are privately pooled investment vehicles that serve as an alternative to mutual funds and stock markets.
• AIFs are regulated by Securities and Exchange Board of India under the SEBI (Alternative Investment Funds) Regulations, 2012.
• Classification of AIFs in India:
• Category I AIFs invest in socially and economically beneficial sectors such as infrastructure, startups, SMEs, and social ventures.
• Includes Venture Capital Funds and Angel Funds, which support early-stage innovative startups with high growth potential.
• Category II AIFs include funds that do not employ excessive leverage and focus on private equity, debt, real estate funds, and fund of funds.
• Category III AIFs are high-risk hedge funds that use leverage and advanced trading strategies in both listed and unlisted derivatives to generate short-term capital gains.

Recent News :

• In May 2026, The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) operationalised the Past Risk and Return Verification Agency (PaRRVA) framework to improve transparency in performance claims made by market intermediaries.

About SEBI :

• Established : 12 April 1988 as an executive body and was given statutory powers on 30 January 1992 through the SEBI Act, 1992
• Headquarters : Mumbai, Maharashtra
• Chairman : Tuhin Kanta Pandey
• SEBI is the regulatory body for securities and commodity markets in India under the ownership of the Ministry of Finance (MoF), GoI.

 CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL AND STATE NEWS

Bureau of Indian Standards Issues Six New Standards for Assistive Technologies

• The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), under the Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA), Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution (MoCAF&PD), has published six new Indian Standards for priority medical assistive technologies under the National List of Essential Assistive Products (NLEAP)
• The initiative aims to enhance accessibility, safety, and quality of assistive devices in India.

Key Highlights:

• IS 18558 Part 1: 2025 (Elbow Crutches): Specifies safety, ergonomics, and testing methods, aligned with International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 11334-1
• IS 5145: 2026 (Walking Sticks): Indigenous standard covering materials, dimensions, and performance for single-point sticks
• IS 18558 Part 4: 2025 (Multi-leg Walking Sticks): Defines requirements for enhanced stability using three or more legs
• IS 19631: 2026 (Portable Ramps): Indigenous standard for wheelchair access and mobility support in buildings and transport systems
• IS 19189: 2025 (Tactile Guide Maps): Guidelines for accessible navigation for visually impaired persons
• IS 19190: 2025 (Braille on Signage): Establishes uniform Braille standards on equipment and public infrastructure
• Supports implementation of National List of Essential Assistive Products (NLEAP) for inclusive accessibility
• Promotes standardisation, safety, and usability of assistive devices
• Aims to strengthen inclusive infrastructure and accessibility for persons with disabilities in India

About BIS

• The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the National Standards Body of India, established under the BIS Act 2016 (which came into force on October 12, 2017) to ensure the harmonious development of standardization, marking, and quality certification of goods.It succeeded the Indian Standards Institution (ISI), which was established on January 6, 1947.

Union Government Notifies South Coast Railway Zone with Headquarters at Visakhapatnam

• The Union Government has notified the creation of the South Coast Railway Zone (SCoR) with headquarters at Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh under the Railways Act, 1989.
• The new zone will become operational from 1 June 2026, aiming to improve railway administration, regional connectivity, and operational efficiency through reorganisation of existing zones.

Key Highlights:

• South Coast Railway Zone (SCoR) created by reorganising East Coast Railway (ECoR) and South-Central Railway (SCR)
• Includes Guntakal, Guntur, and Vijayawada divisions (earlier under South Central Railway)
• Waltair division of East Coast Railway bifurcated:
• Part becomes Visakhapatnam division under South Coast Railway
• Remaining merged into new Rayagada division under East Coast Railway
• East Coast Railway (Headquarters: Bhubaneswar) to include Sambalpur, Khurda Road, and Rayagada divisions
• South Central Railway (Headquarters: Secunderabad) to retain Hyderabad, Nanded, and reorganised Secunderabad divisions
• Jurisdiction adjustments in Guntur, Guntakal, Vijayawada, and Secunderabad divisions for better efficiency
• Aims to improve coordination, passenger services, freight movement, and project execution
• Expected to boost industrial growth and port connectivity, especially around Visakhapatnam
• Addresses long-pending demand for a separate railway zone in Andhra Pradesh
• Railway zones function under General Managers for efficient administration and operations

RECENT NEWS

• Honorable Chief Minister of the Andhra Pradesh N. Chandrababu Naidu has launched the Amaravati Quantum Reference Facility (AQRF) on the 14th April, 2026 which is the country’s first indigenously built open access quantum computing platform. This initiative is aims to build the sovereign quantum hardware ecosystem and to accelerate the domestic innovation.

About Andhra Pradesh:

• Chief Minister: N. Chandrababu Naidu 
• Governor: S. Abdul Nazeer
• Capital: Amaravati
• National Parks: Sri Venkateswara National Park, Papikonda National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary, Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary, Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary, Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary, Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary

National Council of Educational Research and Training Launches PRASHAST 2.0 for Early Identification of Disabilities

• The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has launched PRASHAST 2.0 (Pre-Assessment Holistic Screening Tool), an upgraded digital platform for early identification of disabilities in school children.
• The tool enables teachers to detect learning and developmental challenges at an early stage, promoting inclusive education and ensuring that no child is left behind.

Key Highlights:

• PRASHAST 2.0 (Pre-Assessment Holistic Screening Tool) is a digital screening platform available in mobile and web formats
• Designed to identify 21 types of disabilities as defined under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016
• Supports teachers, school heads, and special educators in systematic screening of students
• Follows a two-level assessment process:
• Initial screening by teachers based on classroom observations
• Detailed assessment by special educators or counsellors
• Enables early intervention, educational support, and access to government schemes
• Integrated with national platforms such as Unified District Information System for Education Plus, Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry Identification, and Swavlamban Card Portal
• Generates standardised school-level reports to support disability certification for Children with Special Needs
• Linked with Samagra Shiksha for providing benefits and support services
• Aligned with National Education Policy 2020 focusing on inclusive, equitable, and technology-driven education
• Promotes data-driven decision making in the education system

Union Cabinet Approves Increase in Supreme Court Judge Strength to 37

• The Union Cabinet, led by Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, has approved a proposal to increase the judge strength of the Supreme Court of India from 33 to 37 judges (excluding the Chief Justice of India).
• The proposal will be introduced through the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026, to amend the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Act, 1956, with the aim of improving judicial efficiency and speedy disposal of cases.

Key Highlights:

• Total sanctioned strength to increase from 34 to 38 judges (including Chief Justice of India)
• Aims to address rising pendency of cases and increasing workload on judges
• Will facilitate faster constitution of benches, quicker hearings, and timely disposal of cases
• Strengthens capacity to handle complex constitutional and legal matters
• Based on Article 124 of the Constitution of India, which empowers Parliament to determine the number of judges
• Reflects continuous expansion of judiciary in line with growing litigation and population
• Historical increase in judge strength:
• 1956: 10 judges (excluding Chief Justice of India)
• 1960: 13 judges
• 1977: 17 judges
• 1986: 25 judges
• 2008: 30 judges
• 2019: 33 judges
• 2026 (proposed): 37 judges
• Expenditure for additional judges to be met from the Consolidated Fund of India, the principal account of the Government of India
• Expected to improve overall functioning, efficiency, and delivery of justice in the Supreme Court of India

Union Cabinet Approves Ship Repair Facility at Vadinar, Gujarat

• The Union Cabinet, led by Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, has approved the establishment of a state-of-the-art ship repair facility at Vadinar, Gujarat, with an investment of around ₹1,570 crore.
• The project was cleared by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) and will be implemented by Deendayal Port Authority in partnership with Cochin Shipyard Limited, aiming to strengthen India’s maritime infrastructure and ship repair capabilities.

Key Highlights:

• Project to be developed as a brownfield expansion with modern ship repair infrastructure
• Strategic location at Vadinar due to deep draft availability and proximity to major ports like Mundra and Kandla
• Located along major international shipping routes, enabling easy access for large vessels
• Infrastructure includes 650-metre jetty, floating dry docks, and advanced repair workshops
• Facility capable of handling vessels up to 300 metres length, addressing existing capacity gaps
• Expected to generate around 290 direct and 1,100 indirect employment opportunities
• Promotes growth of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in marine and logistics sectors
• Reduces dependence on foreign shipyards, minimizing foreign exchange outflow
• Enhances efficiency and turnaround time for ship repair services in India
• Strengthens competitiveness of Indian ports, especially on the western coast
• Aligned with Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 for developing India as a global maritime hub

RECENT NEWS

• Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the Kaynes Semicon Plant in Sanand, Gujarat on the March 31, 2026. This inauguration signals the India’s growing strength in the semiconductor manufacturing and with ambition to become the global tech leader.

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

Union Cabinet Approves Two Semiconductor Projects under India Semiconductor Mission

• The Union Cabinet, led by Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, has approved two semiconductor projects under the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) with a combined investment of over ₹3,936 crore.
• The projects will be set up in Gujarat and are expected to generate over 2,200 skilled jobs, strengthening India’s position in the global semiconductor ecosystem.

Key Highlights:

• Approval for two semiconductor units:
• Compound semiconductor fabrication facility with Mini/Micro Light Emitting Diode production
• Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) facility
• Crystal Matrix Limited to establish facility in Dholera, focusing on Gallium Nitride technology-based fabrication
• Production capacity: 72,000 square metres of Mini/Micro Light Emitting Diode panels annually and 24,000 Red-Green-Blue wafer sets
• Applications include televisions, smartphones, automotive displays, and Extended Reality devices
• Suchi Semicon Private Limited to set up Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test unit in Surat
• Capacity of 1,033 million chips per year, focusing on power electronics and analog integrated circuits
• Chips to be used in automotive, industrial, and consumer electronics sectors
• Total projects under India Semiconductor Mission increased to 12, with cumulative investment of around ₹1.64 lakh crore
• Government support extended to 315 academic institutions and 104 startups in semiconductor design
• Some projects have already begun commercial production, indicating progress in domestic chip manufacturing

CURRENT AFFAIRS : INTERNATIONAL NEWS

United States of America Launches ‘Project Freedom’ Naval Operation to Secure Shipping in Strait of Hormuz

• The United States of America (USA), under President Donald Trump, launched “Project Freedom”, a naval escort operation to secure commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz amid rising Iran–USA tensions.
• The operation aims to ensure the safe passage of global shipping routes and protect against maritime disruptions, regional conflict risks, and oil supply instability.
• Project Freedom involves deployment by the United States Navy under S. Central Command (CENTCOM) to escort and secure commercial vessels.
• The operation includes warships, over 100 air- and sea-based aircraft, multi-domain unmanned platforms, and around 15,000 personnel.
• Alongside escort operations, the USA continues an economic blockade restricting maritime movement to and from Iranian ports.
• The Strait of Hormuz is a strategic maritime chokepoint connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea.
• It is considered one of the world’s most critical energy transit routes, handling a large share of global oil and energy shipments.

About United States of America :

• President : Donald Trump
• Capital : Washington, D.C.
• Currency : U.S. dollar ($)

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

Shri Shashi Shekhar Vempati Appointed as Chairperson of Central Board of Film Certification

• The Government of India, through a notification issued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on May 6, 2026, appointed Shri Shashi Shekhar Vempati as the Chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).
• He will hold office for a period of three years from the date of joining, strengthening leadership in India’s film certification regulatory framework.
• He succeeds Shri Prasoon Joshi, who stepped down after being appointed as Chairman of Prasar Bharati.
• The Central Board of Film Certification is a statutory body under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting responsible for regulating public exhibition of films in India.
• Films in India can be publicly exhibited only after certification by CBFC under the Cinematograph Act, 1952.
• CBFC functions with a Chairperson and non-official members appointed by the Central Government, and its headquarters is located in Mumbai.
• It operates through nine regional offices across India, including New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and others.
• Regional offices are supported by advisory panels consisting of members from diverse fields, nominated for a term of two years.
• The certification process is governed by the Cinematograph Act, 1952, Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 1983, and Central Government guidelines under Section 5(B).
• Shri Shashi Shekhar Vempati brings extensive experience in media, broadcasting, and public communication, and has previously served as CEO of Prasar Bharati.

About Ministry of Information & Broadcasting :

• Cabinet Minister : Ashwini Vaishnaw
• Minister of State : L. Murugan

CURRENT AFFAIRS : DEFENCE NEWS

Visit of Royal Netherlands Navy Deputy Commander and HNLMS De Ruyter to Kochi Strengthens Maritime Cooperation

• The Royal Netherlands Navy ship HNLMS De Ruyter (F804), a De Zeven Provinciën-class frigate, arrived at Kochi, marking an important step in India–Netherlands maritime cooperation.
• The visit is part of a five-month Indo-Pacific deployment, during which the ship will participate in maritime exercises with partner nations to enhance regional naval cooperation and interoperability.
• The ship was escorted by Indian Navy Fast Interceptor Craft and received a ceremonial welcome, reflecting strong naval diplomacy and goodwill.
• The visit coincides with a high-level delegation from the Royal Netherlands Navy, including Major General Rob De Wit and Ambassador Marisa Gerards.
• The delegation met officials at Southern Naval Command and discussed enhanced maritime cooperation, training exchange, and operational collaboration.
• The delegation paid tribute by laying wreaths at the SNC War Memorial on the occasion of the National Remembrance Day of the Netherlands.
• They also visited Cochin Shipyard Limited to explore India’s shipbuilding capabilities and potential industrial cooperation.
• The visit builds on previous engagement during IONS Conclave of Chiefs at MILAN 2026 in Visakhapatnam.
• The ship will undertake a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with an Indian Naval vessel on departure, enhancing naval interoperability and operational synergy.

Indian Ocean Ship Sagar Arrives at Yangon Harbour in Myanmar to Strengthen Maritime Cooperation

• The Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) Sagar – INS Sunayna entered Yangon Harbour as part of India’s maritime outreach and regional engagement.
• The visit coincided with the presence of Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) Adm Dinesh K. Tripathi, highlighting strengthened India–Myanmar naval cooperation.
• The port call began with a ceremonial welcome by the Myanmar Navy, reflecting strong bilateral maritime relations.
• During the visit, the crew engaged in professional and cultural exchanges with the Myanmar Navy to enhance mutual understanding and cooperation.
• Planned activities included visits to Myanmar Navy training establishments and friendly sports exchanges between naval personnel.
• The deployment aligns with India’s MAHASAGAR vision (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across Regions), focusing on maritime security and regional cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region.
• The visit also supports India’s Neighbourhood First Policy, strengthening strategic and diplomatic ties with neighbouring countries.

Ministry of Defence Signs ₹1,476 Crore Contract with Bharat Electronics Limited for Ground-Based Mobile Electronic Systems for Indian Army

• The Ministry of Defence signed a contract worth ₹1,476 crore with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Hyderabad for procurement of five Ground-Based Mobile Electronic Systems for the Indian Army.
• The contract is under the Buy (Indian–Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured) category, promoting domestic defence production and self-reliance.
• The agreement includes a minimum of 72% indigenous content, strengthening the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative in the defence sector.
• The contract was signed in the presence of Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh at Kartavya Bhawan-2, New Delhi.
• The mobile electronic systems will enhance the surveillance, communication, and networking capabilities of the Indian Army.
• The systems are expected to modernise Army units and improve operational efficiency on the battlefield.
• The project supports the government’s vision of Make in India and indigenous defence manufacturing ecosystem

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPS & PORTALS

Swasth Bharat Portal Launched to Integrate Fragmented Health Systems and Strengthen India’s Digital Health Ecosystem

• The Swasth Bharat Portal was launched during the 10th National Summit on Innovation and Inclusivity by the Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, marking a major step in India’s digital healthcare transformation.
• The portal aims to create a unified, integrated, and scalable digital public health ecosystem by addressing the issue of fragmented and siloed health data systems.
• It functions as an aggregator platform using an API-based federated architecture, enabling interoperability and convergence across multiple health programmes.
• The portal integrates various national health programme systems into a single interface, eliminating the need for multiple logins and repeated data entry.
• It supports frontline health workers (ASHAs, ANMs, CHOs, and Medical Officers) by providing a single access platform with data visualisation tools for monitoring and evidence-based planning.
• The Swasth Bharat Portal is ABDM-compliant and integrates with ABHA (Ayushman Bharat Health Account) for secure and seamless exchange of health records.
• It is designed to connect with national registries such as the Healthcare Professionals Registry (HPR) and Health Facility Registry (HFR).
• Key benefits include a reduction in infrastructure duplication (20–30%), data entry effort (20–40%), and HR duplication (20–40%).
• It also improves decision-making speed and enables better resource optimisation and governance efficiency in the healthcare system.

About Ministry of Health and Family Welfare :

• Cabinet Minister : J. P. Nadda
• Minister of State : Prataprao Ganpatrao Jadhav

CURRENT AFFAIRS : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

India’s Defence Production Hits ₹1.54 Lakh Crore with 174% Growth, Defence Exports Rise to ₹23,622 Crore with 34-Fold Increase in a Decade: Dr. Jitendra Singh

• Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh stated that India has entered a decisive phase in its defence transformation, driven by technology, indigenous innovation, and private sector participation.
• He made these remarks at the North Tech Symposium 2026 held in Prayagraj, highlighting India’s evolving defence ecosystem and global positioning.
• The Minister emphasized that modern warfare is increasingly technology-driven, relying on real-time data systems, automation, AI, and advanced platforms.
• India has transitioned from a major defence importer to an emerging defence exporter, marking a major shift in self-reliance.
• Defence production has reached ₹1.54 lakh crore, registering a 174% increase over the last decade.
• Defence exports have risen to ₹23,622 crore, showing a 34-fold increase in ten years.
• The private sector contributed around ₹15,000 crore to total defence exports, highlighting growing public-private collaboration.
• The government has significantly increased defence allocation, with the Budget 2026–27 earmarking ₹6.81 lakh crore, an increase of 9.5%.
• The North Tech Symposium 2026 is themed “Raksha Triveni Sangam – Where Technology, Industry and Soldiering Converge”.
• The event is jointly organised by the Indian Army Northern and Central Commands in collaboration with the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers.
• The symposium serves as a platform bringing together the Armed Forces, industry, academia, and start-ups to develop indigenous defence solutions.
• Key focus areas include AI, unmanned systems, counter-drone technology, robotics, cyber warfare, electronic warfare, communication systems, and mobility platforms.
• The event features participation from 280+ industry partners and 284 exhibition stalls, along with live demonstrations to accelerate Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence.

SpaceX Launches Falcon 9 Carrying South Korea’s CAS500-2 Satellite and 45 Rideshare Payloads from California

• SpaceX successfully launched a Falcon 9 rocket from Space Launch Complex 4 East (SLC-4E) at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, United States of America (USA) .
• The mission deployed Republic of Korea’s CAS500-2 Earth observation satellite into a Sun-synchronous orbit (SSO).
• CAS500-2 is a 534 kg high-resolution Earth observation satellite, developed by Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI) and Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI).
• The satellite is designed for high-resolution optical imaging for Earth observation purposes.
• The mission also carried 45 secondary payloads, including CubeSats, small satellites, technology demonstration units, and commercial/research satellites.
• It was a multi-customer rideshare mission, showcasing cost-effective satellite deployment capability.
• The Falcon 9 first-stage booster (B1071) completed its 33rd flight, highlighting reusability in space missions.
• The booster successfully landed at Landing Zone 4 (LZ-4) within 7.5 minutes, marking the 34th landing at that site.
• This mission marked the 608th successful booster landing by SpaceX, reinforcing its leadership in reusable rocket technology.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS

Badminton World Federation Thomas and Uber Cup Finals 2026 Concluded in Denmark

• The Badminton World Federation (BWF) Thomas and Uber Cup Finals 2026 were held at Horsens, Denmark.
• This marked the 34th edition of the Thomas Cup (men’s team championship) and the 31st edition of the Uber Cup (women’s team championship).

Key Highlights:

• People’s Republic of China won the Thomas Cup 2026, defeating France (3–1), securing its 13th title
• Republic of Korea won the Uber Cup 2026, defeating People’s Republic of China (3–1), securing its third title
• Thomas Cup 2026 winners:
• Gold: China
• Silver: France
• Bronze: Denmark and India
• Uber Cup 2026 winners:
• Gold: South Korea
• Silver: China
• Bronze: Japan and Indonesia
• Tournament format: 16 teams divided into 4 groups, top two teams advance to quarter-finals, followed by knockout stage (best-of-five format)
• Reinforces importance of team-based international badminton competitions under Badminton World Federation

CURRENT AFFAIRS : OBITUARIES

Italian Former F1 Driver and Paralympic Champion Alex Zanardi Passed Away

• Alessandro Leone Zanardi, popularly known as Alex Zanardi, passed away at the age of 59 in Veneto, Italy.

About Alessandro Leone Zanardi :

• He was born on October 23, 1966, in Bologna, Italy.
• He began his career as a professional Formula 1 (F1) driver, competing in 41 Grands Prix between 1991 and 1999.
• His best F1 performance was 6th place at the 1993 Brazilian Grand Prix, while racing with teams like Jordan, Minardi, Lotus, and Williams.
• In Championship Auto Racing Teams (CART)/IndyCar, he won back-to-back championships in 1997 and 1998 with Chip Ganassi Racing, securing 15 race wins.
• Despite this, he made a comeback in motorsport through the World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) (2005–2009), achieving 4 victories using specially adapted hand controls.
• He later became a world-class para-cyclist, winning 4 Paralympic gold medals and 2 silver medals representing Italy.
• He also secured 12 Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) World Titles, along with victories in New York Marathon and Ironman events.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: IMPORTANT DAYS

World Athletics Day 2026 Observed on 7 May

• World Athletics Day 2026 is observed on 7 May 2026 to promote awareness about athletics and encourage participation in sports.
• The day was first observed in 1996 and was launched by Primo Nebiolo, President of the International Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF), to honour sportspersons and inspire youth to bring pride to the nation.

• Initiative launched by the International Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF) under the theme “Athletics for a Better World”
• Aims to promote sports culture, fitness, and youth participation in athletics
• Sports events organised annually in schools and colleges to encourage talent development
• International Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF) founded in 1912 for governing athletics globally
• Renamed as International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) in 2001
• Further renamed as World Athletics in 2019
• Highlights the role of athletes in national pride, discipline, and global sports achievements

Daily CA One- Liner: May 7

• The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), under the Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA), Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution (MoCAF&PD), has published six new Indian Standards for priority medical assistive technologies under the National List of Essential Assistive Products (NLEAP) framework
• The Union Government has notified the creation of the South Coast Railway Zone (SCoR) with headquarters at Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh under the Railways Act, 1989
• The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has launched PRASHAST 2.0 (Pre-Assessment Holistic Screening Tool), an upgraded digital platform for early identification of disabilities in school children
• The Union Cabinet, led by Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, has approved a proposal to increase the judge strength of the Supreme Court of India from 33 to 37 judges
• The Union Cabinet, led by Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, has approved the establishment of a state-of-the-art ship repair facility at Vadinar, Gujarat, with an investment of around ₹1,570 crore
• The Union Cabinet, led by Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, has approved two semiconductor projects under the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) with a combined investment of over ₹3,936 crore
• The Badminton World Federation (BWF) Thomas and Uber Cup Finals 2026 were held at Horsens, Denmark.
• The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS 5.0) to address short-term liquidity challenges arising due to the West Asia crisis.
• The Department of Financial Services has approved Viability Plan 2.0 for Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) to strengthen financial stability, governance reforms, and operational efficiency.
• National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) has launched the Electronic Gold Receipts (EGR) segment with approval from Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to create a transparent and efficient gold trading ecosystem.
• The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has launched a new financing facility titled “Critical Minerals-to-Manufacturing Financing Partnership Facility” to strengthen critical minerals supply chains across Asia and the Pacific region.
• The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has introduced a fast-track mechanism for processing Private Placement Memoranda (PPM) of Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs).
• The United States of America (USA), under President Donald Trump, launched “Project Freedom”, a naval escort operation to secure commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz amid rising Iran–USA tensions.
• The Government of India, through a notification issued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on May 6, 2026, appointed Shri Shashi Shekhar Vempati as the Chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).
• The Royal Netherlands Navy ship HNLMS De Ruyter (F804), a De Zeven Provinciën-class frigate, arrived at Kochi, marking an important step in India–Netherlands maritime cooperation.
• The Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) Sagar – INS Sunayna entered Yangon Harbour as part of India’s maritime outreach and regional engagement.
• The Ministry of Defence signed a contract worth ₹1,476 crore with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Hyderabad for procurement of five Ground-Based Mobile Electronic Systems for the Indian Army.
• The Swasth Bharat Portal was launched during the 10th National Summit on Innovation and Inclusivity by the Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, marking a major step in India’s digital healthcare transformation.
• Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh stated that India has entered a decisive phase in its defence transformation, driven by technology, indigenous innovation, and private sector participation.
• SpaceX successfully launched a Falcon 9 rocket from Space Launch Complex 4 East (SLC-4E) at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, United States of America (USA) .
• Alessandro Leone Zanardi, popularly known as Alex Zanardi, passed away at the age of 59 in Veneto, Italy.
• World Athletics Day 2026 is observed on 7 May 2026 to promote awareness about athletics and encourage participation in sports