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CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING, FINANCE & BUSINESS

Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority Organises Atal Pension Yojana Annual Felicitation Programme in New Delhi

• The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) organised the Atal Pension Yojana (APY) Annual Felicitation Programme in New Delhi.
• During the programme, 53 APY Service Providers (SPs), 10 State Level Bankers’ Committees (SLBCs), and top 5 branches and Lead District Managers (LDMs) were awarded for outstanding performance in achieving APY targets during FY 2025-26.
• He highlighted that Atal Pension Yojana (APY) crossed 9 crore gross enrolments with Assets Under Management (AUM) exceeding ₹54,000 crore.
• A record 1.35 crore subscribers were added under APY during FY 2025-26.

Key Highlights :

• Shri S. Ramann, Chairperson of PFRDA, stated that APY recorded its highest-ever annual enrolment during FY 2025-26.
• He highlighted the increase in enrolments among the 18–25 years age group, reflecting rising awareness about long-term financial security among youth.
• Mamta Shankar, Whole Time Member (Economics), PFRDA, noted that women participation under APY reached a record 55.14% during FY 2025-26.
• APY has been implemented across all States and Union Territories of India.
• Total gross enrolments under APY crossed 9.10 crore as of 18 May 2026.
• Among Public Sector Banks (PSBs), State Bank of India (116%), Union Bank of India (105%), and UCO Bank (105%) emerged as top performers in achieving annual APY targets.
• Other strong-performing PSBs included Indian Bank (104%) and Bank of Maharashtra (103%).
• In the Major Private Banks category, IDBI Bank achieved 156% of its APY target.
• Among Regional Rural Banks (RRBs), Jharkhand Rajya Gramin Bank recorded the highest achievement with 288%.
• Other leading RRBs included Tripura Gramin Bank (185%), Meghalaya Rural Bank (163%), Punjab Gramin Bank (153%), and Assam Gramin Vikash Bank (152%).
• AU Small Finance Bank achieved 118%, while Ujjivan Small Finance Bank achieved 100% of APY targets.
• Among Cooperative Banks, Shri Mahila Sewa Sahakari Bank recorded the highest achievement at 242%.
• Other top-performing cooperative banks included Andhra Pradesh State Co-op Bank (175%), South Canara DCC Bank (168%), Balaghat DCC Bank (149%), and Sabarkantha DCC Bank (130%).
• Among SLBCs, Jharkhand (170%), Bihar (167%), and West Bengal (156%) emerged as top achievers.
• Assam (130%) and Madhya Pradesh (133%) also showed strong performance in APY implementation.

About Ministry of Finance:

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

About PFRDA:

• Established: 2003 (Statutory status from PFRDA Act, 2013)
• Under which Ministry: Ministry of Finance, Government of India
• Headquarters: New Delhi
• Chairman: Sivasubramanian Ramann
• Purpose: To promote, develop, and regulate the pension sector in India, especially the National Pension System (NPS) and other old-age income security schemes.

Bajaj General Insurance Unveils MHCP EDGE+ Health Plan Offering Coverage up to Rs 5 Crore

• Bajaj General Insurance Limited (BGIL) launched ‘My Health Care Plan Edge+ (MHCP EDGE+)’, a next-generation health indemnity insurance plan for individuals and families.
• The plan offers health insurance coverage ranging from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 5 crore.
• MHCP EDGE+ provides unlimited reinstatement benefits, modular add-ons, global treatment coverage, and wellness-linked healthcare services.
• The main objective of the plan is to reduce out-of-pocket healthcare expenses through flexible, customisable, and long-term health protection solutions.
• The policy covers hospitalisation, surgeries, Intensive Care Unit (ICU) charges, AYUSH treatments, organ donor treatments, global treatments, and preventive healthcare services.
• AYUSH includes Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy
• The plan provides unlimited reinstatement within the same policy year.
• Eligibility for the plan starts from 3 months of age with a policy tenure of up to 5 years.
• MHCP EDGE+ offers lifetime renewability and flexible waiting period options.
• The Consumables Plus add-on helps reduce non-payable discharge expenses.
• The Super Cumulative Bonus add-on enables faster growth of the sum insured amount.
• The Major Illness and Accident Multiplier add-on provides enhanced financial protection during critical medical events.
• The Age Shield rider locks the insurance premium at the entry age of the policyholder.
• The Smart Tenure rider allows pooling of the sum insured across the policy tenure.
• The Health Limitless rider offers one claim without any annual limit.
• The Health Prime rider provides services such as teleconsultation, diagnostics, preventive health check-ups, and lifestyle management services.

NCDEX Introduces ‘RAINMUMBAI’, India’s First Exchange-Traded Weather Derivatives Contract

• National Commodities and Derivatives Exchange Limited (NCDEX) launched India’s first exchange-traded weather derivatives contract named ‘RAINMUMBAI’.
• The launch of RAINMUMBAI marks India’s entry into a regulated weather-risk trading market.

Key Highlights :

• The RAINMUMBAI contract is scheduled to be implemented from 01 June 2026.
• The main purpose of the contract is to hedge against the financial risks arising from rainfall extremes and rainfall variability in Mumbai, Maharashtra, and surrounding regions.
• The weather derivative contract was developed in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay (IIT-B).
• The contract is based on official rainfall data provided by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
• The contract uses a tick size of 1 millimeter (mm) with a lot multiplier of Rs 50 per mm.
• The maximum order size permitted under the contract is 50 lots.
• The RAINMUMBAI contract will follow a cash-settlement process.
• Settlement data will be sourced from IMD surface rainfall observations and Automatic Weather Stations (AWSs) located at Santa Cruz and Colaba in Mumbai.
• The contract is structured on the scientifically designed Cumulative Deviation Rainfall (CDR) model.
• The CDR model measures the deviation of actual rainfall from the Long Period Average (LPA) during the monsoon season (June–September).
• The benchmark for the derivative contract has been prepared using a 30-year rainfall dataset from 1991 to 2020.
• The weather derivative product is expected to benefit users such as farmers, construction companies, power utilities, logistics operators, and banks handling agricultural loan portfolios.

ICRA Cuts India’s Financial Year 2026-27 Gross Domestic Product Growth Projection to 6.2%

• ICRA Limited (formerly Investment Information and Credit Rating Agency of India Limited) revised down India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth forecast for Financial Year 2026-27 (FY27) to 6.2% from its earlier estimate of 6.5%.
• The GDP forecast was reduced by 30 basis points (bps) by ICRA.
• The agency stated that the downward revision in India’s economic growth outlook was mainly due to elevated crude oil prices caused by the ongoing West Asia conflict.
• ICRA projected India’s GDP growth at 7.5% for FY26.
• The FY26 GDP estimate of 7.5% is 10 bps lower than the National Statistical Office (NSO)’s Second Advance Estimate (SAE) of 7.6%.
• According to ICRA, India’s GDP growth in the fourth quarter (Q4: January–March) of FY26 is expected to moderate to a three-quarter low of 7%.
• India’s GDP growth had stood at 7.8% in Q3FY26, which is higher than the projected 7% growth in Q4FY26.
• The report highlighted that India’s Merchandise exports in Q4FY26 declined by 2.8% year-on-year (Y-o-Y).
• The decline in merchandise exports was attributed to slow global growth and energy supply disruptions arising from the West Asia conflict.

Recent News :

• In May 2026, Morgan Stanley, the American brokerage firm, released its latest Mid-Year Outlook for India, revising India’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth forecast for FY2026–27 (FY27) upward by 50 basis points (bps) to 6.7%, compared to the earlier estimate of 2% (April 2026).

 CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL AND STATE NEWS

Government to Launch JEEVAN (Joint Elderly Empowerment and Virtual Assistance Network) App and SHATAYU (Senior Holistic Care Assistance and Training for Your Utility) Dashboard for Senior Citizens

• Union Minister Virendra Kumar will launch the JEEVAN (Joint Elderly Empowerment and Virtual Assistance Network) mobile application and the SHATAYU (Senior Holistic Care Assistance and Training for Your Utility) dashboard.
• The initiative is aimed at improving elderly care services through technology, policy support and community participation.
• The launch is being organised by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment during a virtual programme themed “Creating a Well-Functioning Care Economy.”
• The government’s initiative reflects increasing focus on senior citizen welfare and strengthening India’s eldercare infrastructure.
• The two major digital platforms being launched are:
• JEEVAN mobile app for senior citizens
• SHATAYU dashboard for geriatric caregivers
• The JEEVAN app is designed specifically for senior citizens to improve access to elderly care services, support systems and important information.
• The app is expected to function as a technology-driven support platform aimed at improving convenience and accessibility for elderly citizens.
• The broader objective of the JEEVAN app is to integrate senior citizens into a more connected and efficient care ecosystem.
• The SHATAYU dashboard is designed for geriatric caregivers and elderly care stakeholders.
• The JEEVAN and SHATAYU initiatives aim to improve:
• Senior citizen support access
• Caregiver coordination
• Technology-enabled care delivery
• Policy implementation efficiency
• Community participation in caregiving
• During the programme, Karnataka and Kerala will present best practices related to the care economy sector.
• The two states are known for strong healthcare and social welfare delivery systems.
• The event will be attended by:
• Central government ministries
• State and Union Territory representatives
• Academia
• Care sector experts
• Policy stakeholders

RECENT NEWS

• The panel appointed by the Supreme Court of India has urged the Union government to withdraw the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill 2026. As the committee states the raising serious concerns over its impact on transgender rights. The recommendation was sent to Union Minister Virendra Kumar on the same day the Lok Sabha passed the Bill and it intensifying the debate.

Delhi Plans to Raise Ration Card Income Eligibility Limit to ₹2.5 Lakh

• The Delhi government has announced plans to increase the annual income eligibility limit for ration cards from ₹1.2 lakh to ₹2.5 lakh.
• The move is expected to expand access to subsidized food benefits for many lower middle-income households in Delhi.
• Currently, residents with annual income above ₹1.2 lakh are not eligible for ration cards under the Public Distribution System (PDS).
• The proposed increase reflects changing economic conditions, including rising inflation and higher urban living costs.
• The government believes many families earning slightly above the earlier limit still face financial pressure due to increasing expenses.
• Rising costs of:
• Rent
• Transport
• Food
• Education
• Healthcare

have increased the need for broader welfare coverage in the national capital.

• Along with the eligibility expansion, the Delhi government has also cancelled around 7.72 lakh ration cards during a major verification and clean-up drive.
• The cancellation exercise was aimed at improving transparency and accuracy in welfare distribution.
• Ration cards are usually cancelled due to reasons such as:
• Duplicate entries
• Ineligible beneficiaries
• Incorrect documentation
• Migration or inactive beneficiaries
• Aadhaar or verification mismatches
• The verification drive indicates the government’s effort to ensure welfare benefits reach genuine beneficiaries only.
• A ration card is an important welfare document under India’s Public Distribution System (PDS).
• It allows eligible households to access subsidized food grains and essential commodities.
• Depending on the beneficiary category, ration card holders may receive:
• Rice
• Wheat
• Sugar
• Other subsidized essential commodities

RECENT NEWS

• Indira Gandhi International Airport of the New Delhi now preparing for one of the its biggest passenger convenience upgrades for the future. After a lot of years discussion, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has confirmed that the airport will get its first automated air train system and it is designed to make the transfers between the terminals much faster and easier.

India Approves Major Chenab River Projects Worth ₹2,600 Crore

• India has approved major infrastructure and hydropower projects linked to the Chenab River, with a total investment of nearly ₹2,600 crore.
• The projects are expected to be implemented by National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC).
• The decision comes shortly after India placed engagement under the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) framework in abeyance following heightened tensions with Pakistan after the Pahalgam terror attack.
• The projects aim to improve India’s utilization of river waters and expand hydropower generation capacity in the Chenab basin.
• The biggest project approved is the ₹2,352 crore Chenab-Beas Link Tunnel Project.
• The project is planned in the Lahaul-Spiti region of Himachal Pradesh and involves the construction of an 8.7-kilometre tunnel.
• The tunnel project aims to divert surplus water from the Chenab basin into the Beas river system as part of an inter-basin river transfer strategy.
• A proposed 19-metre barrage is also expected to be constructed under the initial phase of the project.
• Another important project approved is the Dulhasti Stage-II Hydropower Project located in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir.
• The Dulhasti Stage-II project aims to increase hydropower generation capacity in the Chenab basin.
• Jammu and Kashmir is considered one of India’s most important regions for untapped hydropower potential.
• The timing of these projects is strategically significant because the Chenab River is one of the western rivers governed under the Indus Waters Treaty.
• The Indus Waters Treaty was signed in 1960 between India and Pakistan with mediation by the World Bank.
• Under the treaty:
• Pakistan received primary rights over the Indus, Jhelum and Chenab rivers
• India retained limited rights for:
• Irrigation
• Non-consumptive uses
• Run-of-the-river hydropower generation
• The treaty is considered one of the most enduring international water-sharing agreements and has survived multiple wars and political tensions between India and Pakistan.
• India is also reportedly accelerating work on several additional hydropower projects in the Chenab basin, including:
• Kiru
• Kwar
• Ratle
• Pakal Dul
• Sawalkote
• Among these, the 1,856 MW Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project is one of the largest planned hydropower ventures in the region.

RECENT NEWS

• The Indian Railways has announced that the Jammu-Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra rail section will undergo the critical protection and rehabilitation works worth ₹238 crore. This project aims to strengthen passenger safety, improve operational reliability and will make the strategically important route more resilient against the difficult terrain. 

Delhi Forest Department Plans ‘Vaman Van’ Biodiversity Project

• The Delhi Forest Department is planning to develop ‘Vaman Van’, a unique interactive biodiversity space aimed at promoting environmental awareness, ecological education and nature conservation.
• The project will focus on showcasing dwarf and miniature plant species to create an engaging and compact biodiversity zone for children, students and visitors.
• Vaman Van is designed as an interactive ecological learning space where visitors can directly observe plant diversity and understand forest ecosystems through practical experience.
• The initiative aims to improve public awareness about:
• Forest ecosystems
• Plant diversity
• Ecological balance
• Environmental conservation
• Sustainable living practices
• According to officials, the project is especially intended to make environmental education more engaging for school students and younger generations.
• The proposed biodiversity zone is expected to be developed in Delhi’s western forest range.
• Unlike traditional parks, Vaman Van will function as a living environmental classroom where visitors can closely study miniature plant varieties and biodiversity concepts.

About Delhi:

• Chief Minister: Rekha Gupta
• Lieutenant Governor: Taranjit Singh Sandhu
• Capital: New Delhi
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary, Yamuna Biodiversity Park, Aravalli Biodiversity Park

Project Cheetah Records Major Success as India’s Cheetah Population Reaches 53

• India’s flagship wildlife restoration programme Project Cheetah has achieved a major milestone as the country’s cheetah population increased to 53, including 33 cubs born in India.
• The progress reflects successful adaptation, breeding and survival of cheetahs reintroduced under one of the world’s most ambitious wildlife conservation programmes.
• Project Cheetah was launched to reintroduce cheetahs into India after the species was officially declared extinct in the country in 1952 due to hunting and habitat loss.
• The programme initially began with the translocation of 20 cheetahs from Namibia and South Africa.
• In early 2026, an additional nine cheetahs from Botswana were introduced to strengthen genetic diversity and improve long-term sustainability of the population.
• A high-level review meeting chaired by Bhupender Yadav assessed the progress of Project Cheetah and discussed expansion plans for the next phase of the mission.
• Project Cheetah is considered the world’s first intercontinental translocation project involving large wild carnivores.
• Kuno National Park remains the primary habitat under Project Cheetah and continues to show encouraging signs of successful acclimatization and breeding.
• The next phase of the project focuses on expanding cheetah habitats beyond Kuno National Park through a landscape-based conservation strategy.
• Gandhisagar Wildlife Sanctuary has been prepared as the second major habitat to support future population expansion and reduce ecological pressure on Kuno.
• The Banni Grasslands in Gujarat are also being prepared as a future cheetah habitat after progress in prey augmentation and habitat readiness.
• Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary is another proposed future site for cheetah introduction under the expansion strategy.
• Project Cheetah also reflects strong international conservation cooperation involving countries such as Namibia, South Africa and Botswana for scientific transfer and management of cheetah populations.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: AWARDS AND HONOURS

Taiwan Travelogue’ Wins International Booker Prize 2026

• Taiwan Travelogue has won the International Booker Prize 2026, bringing global recognition to Taiwan’s literary culture and storytelling tradition.
• The novel was written by Yang Shuang-zi and translated into English by Lin King.
• The victory is historically significant as it marks the first work translated from Mandarin Chinese to win the International Booker Prize.
• The International Booker Prize recognises both the author and translator equally, highlighting the growing importance of literary translation in global publishing.
• The novel was originally published in Taiwan in 2020.
• The story is set in 1938, during the period when Taiwan was under Japanese colonial rule.
• The novel follows a fictional Japanese writer named Aoyama Chizuko, whose memoir forms the central narrative of the book.
• The narrative uses a metafictional style, where the real author presents herself as merely the translator of the fictional memoir.
• The story revolves around a journey across colonial Taiwan undertaken by Aoyama Chizuko during a government-sponsored lecture tour.
• She is accompanied by her interpreter Ō Chizuru (Chi-chan), and their relationship gradually develops into a complex emotional bond shaped by:
• Friendship
• Cultural exchange
• Colonial tension
• Personal freedom
• Unspoken emotional connection
• Taiwanese cuisine plays an important role in the narrative and is used as a storytelling device to reflect social, cultural and political realities.
• The 2026 shortlist for the International Booker Prize featured six major novels:
• The Nights Are Quiet in Tehran by Shida Bazyar
• She Who Remains by Rene Karabash
• The Director by Daniel Kehlmann
• On Earth As It Is Beneath by Ana Paula Maia
• The Witch by Marie NDiaye
• Taiwan Travelogue by Yang Shuang-zi
• The International Booker Prize plays an important role in promoting translated literature and strengthening cross-cultural understanding through global storytelling.
• Since 2016, the award has been presented annually to a single translated work, with the £50,000 prize money shared equally between the author and translator.

Tripti Mukherjee to Receive Padma Shri for Contribution to Kantha Embroidery

• Kantha embroidery artist Tripti Mukherjee will receive the Padma Shri on for her contribution to preserving and promoting the traditional Kantha stitching art of West Bengal.
• The award will be presented by President Droupadi Murmu.
• She is being honoured for her contribution to traditional Indian handicrafts and women empowerment through artisan training and skill development.
• Tripti Mukherjee is a renowned artisan from West Bengal with nearly 37 years of experience in Kantha embroidery.
• She developed an interest in embroidery at an early age after learning the craft from her mother.
• Kantha stitch is one of the oldest traditional embroidery styles associated with West Bengal and Bangladesh.
• It is known for decorative hand-stitching patterns mainly created using simple running stitches.
• Traditionally, old fabrics were layered together and embroidered to create artistic textile products.
• Today, Kantha embroidery is widely used in:
• Sarees
• Dupattas
• Stoles
• Bed covers
• Wall hangings
• Decorative handicrafts
• She established a training centre in Suri, West Bengal, where women are trained in Kantha embroidery skills.
• The initiative has helped many women artisans generate independent income through handcrafted textile products sold at exhibitions and fairs.
• Tripti Mukherjee has also represented Indian handicrafts at international platforms.
• In 2017, she participated in a Government of India-supported programme in Birmingham, United Kingdom, to showcase Kantha embroidery internationally.
• In 2025, she represented India at the 14th India Trend Fair in Tokyo, organised by the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts under the Ministry of Textiles.
• Before receiving the Padma Shri, she had already received several prestigious honours, including:
• National Award Certificate (2010)
• Shilp Guru Award (2016) from the Ministry of Textiles
• Bangashree Award (2017) from the West Bengal government

Dr Soumya Swaminathan Elected Fellow of the Royal Society

• Dr Soumya Swaminathan has been elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS), one of the world’s most prestigious scientific honours.
• The recognition honours her decades-long contribution to public health, infectious disease research and global healthcare leadership.
• The Royal Society is among the oldest and most respected scientific institutions in the world.
• Election as a Fellow of the Royal Society is considered one of the highest recognitions in global science and is reserved for individuals with exceptional contributions to science, medicine and innovation.
• Dr Soumya Swaminathan and her father M S Swaminathan are believed to be the first Indian father-daughter duo to both become Fellows of the Royal Society.
• Dr Soumya Swaminathan is also only the second Indian woman scientist to be elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society.
• The first Indian woman scientist to receive this honour was Gagandeep Kang.
• Dr Soumya Swaminathan previously served as:
• Chief Scientist at the World Health Organization (WHO)
• Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
• Her work has focused on major public health challenges including:
• Tuberculosis
• HIV/AIDS
• Maternal and child health
• Pandemic response
• Public health system strengthening
• During the COVID-19 pandemic, she emerged as one of the most prominent global scientific voices guiding evidence-based health policy and international public health coordination.
• The Royal Society was founded in 1660 and serves as the national academy of sciences of the United Kingdom.
• Several globally renowned scientists have been Fellows of the Royal Society, including:
• Isaac Newton
• Charles Darwin
• Albert Einstein
• Stephen Hawking

CURRENT AFFAIRS: MOUS AND AGREEMENT

India and South Korea Strengthen Strategic Ties with Indian War Memorial Inauguration

• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the Indian War Memorial at Imjingak Peace Park, marking an important milestone in relations between India and South Korea.
• The memorial honours Indian military personnel who served during the Korean War (1950–53), especially those involved in humanitarian assistance and peacekeeping duties.
• The inauguration ceremony was jointly conducted with Kwon Oh-eul.
• During the ceremony, Rajnath Singh laid a wreath, observed a two-minute silence and paid tribute to Indian soldiers whose contributions remain an important chapter in military history.
• The occasion has been described as both a symbolic and strategic milestone in India–South Korea bilateral relations.
• India was not a direct combatant in the Korean War, but it played a major humanitarian and peacekeeping role during the conflict.
• One of India’s most important contributions came from the 60 Parachute Field Ambulance Unit, popularly known as the “Maroon Angels.”
• The unit provided exceptional medical assistance during the war and reportedly treated more than 222,000 patients, making it one of the most significant humanitarian military operations of the conflict.
• India’s Custodian Force of India also played a critical role in the repatriation of prisoners of war after the conflict, contributing significantly to peacekeeping and post-war settlement efforts.
• India and South Korea also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expand cooperation in veterans’ affairs.
• The agreement focuses on collaboration in:
• Veterans welfare
• Academic exchanges
• Cultural and memorial projects
• Historical preservation initiatives
• The agreement adds a new institutional and human dimension to the growing India–South Korea strategic partnership.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : DEFENCE NEWS

Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Launches INS Sanghmitra, First Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel for Indian Navy

• Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Limited launched Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sanghmitra (Yard 3039), the first of four Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (NGOPVs) for the Indian Navy (IN).
• The launch ceremony of INS Sanghmitra was held at GRSE Yard, Kolkata, West Bengal, on 20 May 2026.

Key Highlights :

• INS Sanghmitra belongs to the Shachi-class NGOPV
• The vessel is being built under the Buy (Indian-IDDM – Indigenous Design, Development and Manufacturing)
• The project supports the Government of India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives aimed at strengthening indigenous naval and defence manufacturing capabilities.
• INS Sanghmitra is named after Sanghmitra, the daughter of Emperor Ashoka, who spread the teachings of Lord Buddha in Sri Lanka.
• The ship’s crest features the constellation Ursa Major along with a red-and-white lighthouse.
• INS Sanghmitra measures around 113 metres in length with a beam of 14.6 metres.
• The vessel has a displacement of 3,000 tonnes and a maximum speed of 23 knots.
• The endurance of the ship is 8,500 nautical miles at 14 knots.
• The vessel has a draught of 4 metres, enabling effective coastal and littoral operations.
• The launch ceremony was conducted by Mrs Sarita Vatsayan in the presence of Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, Vice Chief of the Naval Staff.
• The event was attended by senior dignitaries from the Indian Navy, Ministry of Defence, and GRSE with full naval honours and ceremonial traditions.
• A total of 11 NGOPVs are being constructed simultaneously at GRSE, Kolkata and Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL), Goa.
• The indigenously designed and built NGOPVs will enhance the Indian Navy’s capability in multi-domain operations.
• The ships will be used for surveillance and defence, search and rescue (SAR), protection of offshore assets, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), and anti-piracy missions.

Indian Army and Indian Navy Sign Memorandum of Association on Affiliation to Strengthen Inter-Service Cooperation and Joint Operational Capability

• The Indian Army (IA) and the Indian Navy (IN) signed a Memorandum of Association (MoA) on Affiliation in New Delhi, Delhi, to enhance inter-service cooperation, operational cohesion, and jointness among the armed forces.
• The MoA was signed by Lieutenant General (Lt Gen) VPS Kaushik, Adjutant General of the Indian Army, and Vice Admiral Gurcharan Singh, Chief of Personnel of the Indian Navy.
• The main objective of the agreement is to institutionalise structured professional exchanges, operational familiarisation, joint activities, and coordinated multi-domain operations between the two services.
• The initiative supports future-ready multi-domain operations, enabling rapid decision-making, cross-domain coordination, and enhanced protection of territorial and maritime interests.
• The cooperation will also facilitate future inter-service affiliations and establish broad guidelines for affiliation activities between the Indian Army and Indian Navy.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh Launches UMMID Programme, Highlights Future of Genome-Based Precision Healthcare

• Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, dedicated the UMMID (Unique Methods of Management of Inherited Disorders) Programme for Rare Genetic Disorders/Diseases to the nation.
• The event was organised by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) at Prithvi Bhawan, New Delhi.

Key Highlights :

• UMMID Programme aims to strengthen India’s healthcare system through genome-based, precision-driven, and individualized medical care based on patients’ genetic profiles.
• The initiative focuses on making the diagnosis and management of inherited and rare genetic disorders more feasible, affordable, and accessible.
• The programme is designed to prepare India’s healthcare ecosystem for the next generation of gene-based and genome-based medical care.
• During the event, the Minister released the UMMID Compendium and launched the UMMID Dashboard.
• The UMMID Dashboard aims to improve nationwide access to diagnostics, counselling, outreach services, and programme monitoring for inherited disorders.
• The UMMID Programme integrates genetic diagnostics, prenatal screening, newborn screening, genetic counselling, clinician capacity-building, and community outreach under a unified public health framework.
• The programme has already benefited nearly 3 lakh individuals through screening and diagnostic services.
• UMMID has expanded outreach to Aspirational Districts and underserved regions across India.
• The initiative has helped establish nearly 30 NIDAN Kendras for advanced diagnostics and counselling services.
• NIDAN Kendras aim to make advanced genomic healthcare accessible beyond metropolitan cities.
• The event also included presentations on the achievements and success stories of the UMMID initiative along with a short film showcasing its impact and future roadmap.

India Successfully Conducts Trials of ‘Suryastra’ Rocket System with 300 km Strike Range off Odisha Coast

• India successfully conducted consecutive trials of the ‘Suryastra’ Universal Rocket Launcher System, achieving precise strikes on targets up to 300 kilometres (km).
• The trials successfully met all mission objectives during the testing phase.
• The high-precision trials were conducted by NIBE Limited from the Integrated Test Range.

Key Highlights :

• The Integrated Test Range (ITR) is located at Chandipur, Balasore, off the coast of Odisha.
• Suryastra is a long-range guided rocket artillery system designed to carry out precision strikes deep inside hostile territory.
• The system is capable of targeting enemy command centres, radar installations, logistics hubs, and strategic military targets.
• Suryastra was developed by Pune-based NIBE Limited in collaboration with Elbit Systems, Israel.
• The firing demonstration was conducted under a ₹293 crore procurement order of the Indian Army.
• The procurement order for Suryastra was placed in January 2026 under the Emergency Procurement window.
• The Tactical Variant of Suryastra has a strike range of 150 km.
• The 150 km Tactical Variant achieved a Circular Error Probable (CEP) of 1.5 metres (m).
• The Tactical Variant is designed for precise battlefield support and neutralisation of nearby enemy targets.
• The Strategic Variant of Suryastra has a strike range of 300 km.
• The 300 km Strategic Variant achieved a Circular Error Probable (CEP) of 2 metres (m).
• The Strategic Variant enables precision strikes on high-value targets with minimal collateral damage.
• The successful trials placed Suryastra among the world’s most accurate long-range rocket artillery systems.

Technology Development Board-Department of Science & Technology Backs Ansoz Creations for Commercialisation of Electronics and IT-Based STEM Learning Kits

• The Technology Development Board (TDB) under the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, signed an agreement with M/s Ansoz Creations Private. Limited., Bhopal.
• The agreement was signed for the project titled “Commercialization of Electronics and IT based STEM Activity Kit.”
• The initiative aims to strengthen India’s indigenous educational technology and experiential learning ecosystem.
• M/s Ansoz Creations Pvt. Ltd. will work on scaling up the manufacturing of advanced STEM activity kits.
• The STEM kits are designed to support adaptive, experiential, and personalized cognitive learning for different age groups.
• The company stated that the support from TDB would enhance its manufacturing and innovation capabilities in the education technology sector.
• The initiative is expected to contribute towards building a future-ready learning ecosystem in India.
• The project also aims to promote innovation-driven talent development among students and learners in the country.
• The collaboration reflects the Government of India’s focus on strengthening STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education through indigenous technology solutions.

Recent News :

• In May 2026, The Technology Development Board (TDB) under the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, signed an agreement with Helix Cell Therapeutics Private Limited, Hyderabad, Telangana for a project on dual-targeting CAR-T cell therapy for Multiple Myeloma.

Anusandhan National Research Foundation Selects 10 Institutions to Establish Convergence Research Centres of Excellence

• The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) announced the selection of 10 Convergence Research Centres of Excellence (CoEs) under its flagship Convergence Research Centres of Excellence Programme.
• The initiative aims to promote the integration of Scientific Knowledge, Social Sciences, Humanities, Science, and Technology through a multi-disciplinary and transdisciplinary research approach.
• The programme focuses on addressing complex societal and systemic challenges through collaborative and integrated research.
• The initiative is aligned with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which promotes multidisciplinary education and research integration.
• The programme also supports the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, aimed at transforming India into a developed, innovative, inclusive, and self-reliant nation.
• The programme received 945 proposals from academic and research institutions across the country, reflecting its national importance.

Key Highlights :

• The selected 10 Centres of Excellence (CoEs) involve collaboration among 20 institutions, including IITs, NITs, State Universities, Central Universities, Private Universities, Colleges, and R&D institutions.
• Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Gandhinagar was selected for the project “Centre for Human-Climate Interactions and Environmental Histories (CHIEH)” under the theme Archaeology and Traditional Knowledge Systems.
• National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru was selected for the project on Archaeomaterials, Archaeometallurgy, Earth Sciences, and Conservation Research under Archaeology and Traditional Knowledge Systems.
• Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras was selected for “SAṂYoga - Center for Sanskrit AI Music and Yoga” under the theme Archaeology and Traditional Knowledge Systems.
• National Institute of Technology (NIT) Agartala was selected for the project “AI-assisted Digital Curation and Global Promotion of North-East Indian Folklore” under the theme Digital Humanities.
• Institute for Human Development (IHD), Delhi was selected for a project studying the impact of Generative AI on the Indian Labour Market under Digital Humanities.
• Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Dharwad was selected for the Centre of Excellence for Rural Livelihoods and Development (CoE-RLD) under the theme Rural Development.
• Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu was selected for the Centre of Excellence on Digital Empowerment and Livelihood Development of Artisans (CoE-DELDA) under Rural Development.
• Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur was selected for the Centre for Research and Intervention in Language Performance under Health and Psychology.
• Chanakya University was selected for the Center for Languages and Lifeworlds under the theme Emerging Technologies for Social Issues.
• PSGR Krishnammal College for Women was selected for a project focused on accelerating MSMEs’ transition to contemporary technologies through Academia-Industry Partnerships under Computational Economics.
• The programme requires intra-disciplinary and inter-disciplinary collaboration among institutions and researchers.
• The programme highlights the importance of technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics, and Big Data Analytics in driving socioeconomic progress.
• The initiative is expected to contribute towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through innovative and collaborative research models.

Russia Successfully Conducts Test of RS-28 Sarmat Intercontinental Ballistic Missile System

• Russia successfully conducted the test of the RS-28 Sarmat Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome in northern Russia.
• Russian President Vladimir Putin described the newly tested Sarmat missile system as the “world’s most powerful missile system.”
• The RS-28 Sarmat, also known by NATO designation “Satan II”, is designed to replace the Soviet-era R-36M2 Voyevoda
• The missile is approximately 35 metres long and weighs over 208 tonnes, making it one of the heaviest and most powerful ICBMs in the world.
• It has a payload capacity to carry up to 16 independently targeted smaller nuclear warheads or 10 large nuclear warheads.
• The system is equipped with Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicles (MIRVs), allowing a single missile to strike multiple targets simultaneously.
• It can also carry the Avangard hypersonic glide vehicle, which is designed to evade missile defence systems by changing direction at extremely high speeds during flight.
• The estimated strike range of the RS-28 Sarmat is over 10,000 km, while Russia claims it can exceed 35,000 km.

About Russia :

• President : Vladimir Putin
• Prime Minister : Mikhail Mishustin
• Capital : Moscow
• Currency : Russian ruble

New giant dinosaur species Nagatitan chaiyaphumensis discovered in Thailand, marked as the largest dinosaur found in Southeast Asia

• Researchers have discovered a new giant dinosaur species named Nagatitan chaiyaphumensis in Thailand, which is considered the largest dinosaur ever found in Southeast Asia.
• The fossils were discovered in Chaiyaphum province, located in northeastern Thailand, marking an important breakthrough in paleontological research.
• The recovered fossils include key skeletal parts such as spine, ribs, pelvis and leg bones, indicating a well-preserved large dinosaur specimen.
• A humerus bone measuring about 78 metres was also found, highlighting the massive size of the species.
• Scientists estimate that Nagatitan chaiyaphumensis was nearly 27 metres (90 feet) long, making it one of the largest land animals of its era.
• The dinosaur is believed to have weighed around 25–28 tonnes, classifying it among the heaviest prehistoric terrestrial creatures.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPS & PORTALS

Secretary, Ministry of Textiles Ms. Neelam Shami Rao Unveils Bharat Tex 2026 Mobile App

• Neelam Shami Rao, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, launched the Bharat Tex 2026 Event App designed as a unified digital platform for India’s largest global textile event.

Key Highlights :

• The Bharat Tex 2026 App reflects a digital-first approach aimed at strengthening business matchmaking, improving attendee experience, enabling data-driven engagement, and supporting the overall scale of the event.
• The app has been developed as a comprehensive digital companion enabling participants to access event information, discover exhibitors, schedule meetings, navigate venues, capture leads, access knowledge sessions, and receive real-time updates through a single mobile interface.
• The app offers personalised access, views, and engagement tools for stakeholders including exhibitors, speakers, international delegates, overseas buyers, domestic volume buyers, sourcing consultants, and general visitors.
• A major feature of the app is the AI Smart Assistant, designed as a 24x7 conversational guide for attendees.
• The AI Smart Assistant allows users to ask event-related queries in simple language and receive information regarding the event, venue, schedules, directions, and other key details.
• The AI-enabled feature is designed to support both Indian and international attendees through a user-friendly and responsive digital interface.
• The app supports structured business engagement through dedicated networking and meeting modules.
• The app provides advanced navigation and wayfinding support across Bharat Mandapam.
• Participants can access floor plans, search booths, locate companies, and receive stall-level directions within the venue.
• The exhibitor discovery module allows global buyers and trade visitors to conduct structured search and filtering across exhibitor categories.
• Users can search companies based on company name, product category, and exhibitor type, enabling targeted sourcing and focused business interactions.
• The app provides access to live event agenda and knowledge sessions, helping participants view conference schedules, create personal agendas, and receive session alerts.
• Bharat Tex 2026 is being organised by the Bharat Tex Trade Federation, a consortium of 11 Textile Export Promotion Councils and industry bodies.
• The event is being organised with the support of the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India.
• Bharat Tex 2026 is inspired by the Prime Minister’s 5F Vision – Farm to Fibre to Factory to Fashion to Foreign.
• The event aims to position India as a reliable, sustainable, and innovation-led global textile sourcing and investment destination.
• Bharat Tex 2026 will be held from 14–17 July 2026 at Bharat Mandapam.
• The event is expected to attract over 7,000 international buyers and more than 1,30,000 trade visitors from across the global textile ecosystem.

About Ministry of Textiles :

• Cabinet Minister : Giriraj Singh
• Minister of State : Pabitra Margherita

CURRENT AFFAIRS : PERSON IN NEWS

Kami Rita Sherpa, Nepal’s “Everest Man”, climbs Mount Everest for a record 32nd time

• Kami Rita Sherpa created history by scaling Mount Everest (8848.86 m) for a record 32nd time, breaking his own record for the highest number of Everest ascents.
• The 56-year-old climber became the world record holder for the most climbs to the world’s highest peak, reinforcing his legacy as the “Everest Man”.
• Kami Rita Sherpa was born in the Solukhumbu district of Nepal and began his mountaineering career in 1992, completing his first Everest ascent in 1994.
• He previously achieved his 31st Everest summit on May 27, 2025, before setting the new 32nd ascent record on May 17 (10:12 a.m. local time) while guiding a team of climbers.
• He has consistently climbed Everest almost every year since 1994, except during closures in 2014, 2015 and 2020.
• Kami Rita Sherpa has also climbed other major peaks such as K2, Cho Oyu and Manaslu multiple times, showcasing his extensive high-altitude mountaineering expertise.
• On the same expedition cycle, Lhakpa Sherpa extended her own record by becoming the first Nepali woman to summit Mount Everest 11 times.
• Lhakpa Sherpa, popularly known as the “Mountain Queen”, achieved her 11th successful ascent of Everest, setting a new benchmark in women’s mountaineering history.
• Both Kami Rita Sherpa and Lhakpa Sherpa set new records for the most climbs to the world’s highest peak, highlighting Nepal’s dominance in Everest guiding and mountaineering excellence.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS

East Bengal Win Indian Super League Title for First Time

• East Bengal FC won the Indian Super League 2026 title for the first time, ending a 22-year wait for a top-tier domestic league championship.
• East Bengal defeated Inter Kashi by 2-1 in the title-deciding match held at Kishore Bharati Krirangan.
• The victory marked one of the most significant moments in modern Indian football history and ended East Bengal’s long title drought since the 2003–04 National Football League season.
• Inter Kashi took an early lead in the 15th minute through Alfred, putting pressure on East Bengal in front of the home crowd.
• East Bengal equalised in the 50th minute through striker Youssef Ezzejjari, who played a crucial role throughout the club’s title-winning campaign.
• The winning goal was scored in the 73rd minute by Mohammed Rashid, sealing a dramatic comeback victory for East Bengal.
• The title race remained highly competitive until the final round, with clubs including:
• Mohun Bagan Super Giant
• Mumbai City FC
• Punjab FC
• Bengaluru FC
• East Bengal entered the final round level on points with Mohun Bagan Super Giant but held the advantage because of a superior goal difference.
• Youssef Ezzejjari also won the Golden Boot award after scoring 11 goals in 13 matches during the season.

Daily CA One- Liner: May 23

• 00nnounced plans to increase the annual income eligibility limit for ration cards from ₹1.2 lakh to ₹2.5 lakh.
• India has approved major infrastructure and hydropower projects linked to the Chenab River, with a total investment of nearly ₹2,600 crore
• The Delhi Forest Department is planning to develop ‘Vaman Van’, a unique interactive biodiversity space aimed at promoting environmental awareness, ecological education and nature conservation
• India’s flagship wildlife restoration programme Project Cheetah has achieved a major milestone as the country’s cheetah population increased to 53, including 33 cubs born in India
• Taiwan Travelogue has won the International Booker Prize 2026, bringing global recognition to Taiwan’s literary culture and storytelling tradition
• Kantha embroidery artist Tripti Mukherjee will receive the Padma Shri on for her contribution to preserving and promoting the traditional Kantha stitching art of West Bengal
• Dr Soumya Swaminathan has been elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS), one of the world’s most prestigious scientific honours
• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the Indian War Memorial at Imjingak Peace Park, marking an important milestone in relations between India and South Korea
• East Bengal FC won the Indian Super League 2026 title for the first time, ending a 22-year wait for a top-tier domestic league championship.
• The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) organised the Atal Pension Yojana (APY) Annual Felicitation Programme in New Delhi.
• Bajaj General Insurance Limited (BGIL) launched ‘My Health Care Plan Edge+ (MHCP EDGE+)’, a next-generation health indemnity insurance plan for individuals and families.
• National Commodities and Derivatives Exchange Limited (NCDEX) launched India’s first exchange-traded weather derivatives contract named ‘RAINMUMBAI’.
• ICRA Limited (formerly Investment Information and Credit Rating Agency of India Limited) revised down India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth forecast for Financial Year 2026-27 (FY27) to 6.2% from its earlier estimate of 6.5%.
• Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Limited launched Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sanghmitra (Yard 3039), the first of four Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (NGOPVs) for the Indian Navy (IN).
• The Indian Army (IA) and the Indian Navy (IN) signed a Memorandum of Association (MoA) on Affiliation in New Delhi, Delhi, to enhance inter-service cooperation, operational cohesion, and jointness among the armed forces.
• Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, dedicated the UMMID (Unique Methods of Management of Inherited Disorders) Programme for Rare Genetic Disorders/Diseases to the nation.
• India successfully conducted consecutive trials of the ‘Suryastra’ Universal Rocket Launcher System, achieving precise strikes on targets up to 300 kilometres (km).
• The Technology Development Board (TDB) under the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, signed an agreement with M/s Ansoz Creations Private. Limited., Bhopal.
• The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) announced the selection of 10 Convergence Research Centres of Excellence (CoEs) under its flagship Convergence Research Centres of Excellence Programme.
• Russia successfully conducted the test of the RS-28 Sarmat Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome in northern Russia.
• Researchers have discovered a new giant dinosaur species named Nagatitan chaiyaphumensis in Thailand, which is considered the largest dinosaur ever found in Southeast Asia.
• Neelam Shami Rao, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, launched the Bharat Tex 2026 Event App designed as a unified digital platform for India’s largest global textile event.
• Kami Rita Sherpa created history by scaling Mount Everest (8848.86 m) for a record 32nd time, breaking his own record for the highest number of Everest ascents.