Author name: Ajay Gulia

"Ajay Kumar Gulia is the lead editor at gknow.in. With a deep background in competitive exam coaching, he has helped thousands of students stay updated with daily current affairs. He meticulously vets every MCQ to ensure it meets the standards of UPSC and SSC boards."

NEET UG 2025 Results Declared – Mahesh Kumar Tops the Exam

The National Testing Agency (NTA) announced the Medical Entrance exam NEET UG 2025 results on June 14, 2025. Score cards are available for download on the official website ntaneet.nic.in, where candidates can also check the merit list.

The NEET UG exam was conducted on May 4, 2025, with participation from over 22 lakh candidates across 5,400+ centres in 552 cities in India and 14 international cities.

  • Topper: Mahesh Kumar (Rajasthan)
  • 2nd Rank: Uttkarsh Awadhiya (Madhya Pradesh)
  • 3rd Rank: Krishang Joshi (Maharashtra)

The exam witnessed wide-scale participation, reaffirming its status as the largest medical entrance test in India.

Helicopter Crash in Uttarakhand Claims Seven Lives

A tragic helicopter crash in Uttarakhand on the morning of June 15, 2025, claimed seven lives, including an infant and the pilot. The incident occurred in the Kedarnath–Guptkashi sector, near Gaurikund, between 5:30 and 5:45 AM, likely due to poor weather conditions.

The helicopter had taken off from Guptkashi at 5:10 AM, briefly landed at Kedarnath at 5:18 AM, and departed again at 5:19 AM. Preliminary reports suggest Controlled Flight into Terrain (CFIT) as the cause, due to low visibility and heavy cloud cover.

Rescue operations are underway by NDRF and SDRF teams. Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami held an emergency meeting with officials from DGCA and the Civil Aviation Ministry.

In response:

  • Aryan Aviation’s operations for the Char Dham Yatra have been suspended.
  • Licenses of two TransBharat Aviation pilots were suspended for six months for flying in unsuitable weather.
  • All helicopter operations in the region were halted on June 15 and 16.
  • UCADA has been directed to conduct a comprehensive safety review and establish a real-time flight monitoring Command-and-Control Room.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation reiterated that aviation safety is paramount, directing DGCA to strictly enforce weather and operational protocols to prevent such incidents in the future.

PM Modi’s Three-Nation Visit to Cyprus, Canada, and Croatia – June 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a three-nation visit to Cyprus, Canada, and Croatia on June 15, 2025.

Cyprus (First Leg)

  • First Indian PM visit to Cyprus in over 20 years.
  • Cyprus supports India’s stance on Kashmir, cross-border terrorism, and UNSC reforms.
  • PM Modi will meet President Nikos Christodoulides to discuss trade, investment, education, maritime cooperation, digital connectivity, and regional security.
  • Indian High Commissioner Manish called the visit “result-oriented and robust,” aligned with Cyprus Vision 2035 and India’s Vision Vikshit Bharat 2047.
  • Emphasis on synergy, technology partnerships, cultural ties, and people-to-people contact.

Canada (Second Leg)

  • PM Modi will attend the G7 Summit in Kananaskis from June 16–17.
  • This will be his sixth consecutive G7 participation.
  • Discussions will cover energy security, emerging tech, AI-energy nexus, and quantum technologies.
  • He will also hold bilateral meetings with G7 leaders and heads of international organizations.

Croatia (Final Leg)

  • PM Modi to arrive in Croatia on June 18, marking the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister.
  • Croatia is seen as a potential partner in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.
  • The visit aims to boost ties with EU members and enhance India-Croatia relations.

17th India-Mongolia Joint Military Exercise NOMADIC ELEPHANT Concludes in Ulaanbaatar

The 17th edition of the India-Mongolia Joint Military Exercise NOMADIC ELEPHANT concluded on June 13, 2025 at Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.

Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh praised the professionalism and dedication of the Indian soldiers, highlighting the exercise as a symbol of the strong friendship and shared cultural ties between India and Mongolia.

The Indian Army contingent included 45 personnel, mainly from the ARUNACHAL SCOUTS battalion.

The two-week-long exercise focused on enhancing interoperability between the two nations’ armed forces in semi-conventional operations, particularly in semi-urban and mountainous terrain under a United Nations mandate.

World Blood Donor Day -14 June : “Give Blood, Give Hope: Together We Save Lives”

Every year on 14 June, the world comes together to celebrate World Blood Donor Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of voluntary blood donation and honoring those who selflessly donate blood to save lives.

Why Blood Donation Matters

Blood transfusions are critical in medical emergencies, surgeries, and treatments for conditions like cancer, anemia, and trauma injuries. However, many countries still face shortages of safe blood supplies, making regular donations essential.

2025 Theme: “Give Blood, Give Hope: Together We Save Lives”

This year’s theme emphasizes the life-saving impact of blood donation and encourages communities to unite in support of this noble cause.

How You Can Participate

  • Donate Blood: Visit your nearest blood donation center and contribute to saving lives.
  • Spread Awareness: Share information on social media to inspire others to donate.
  • Volunteer: Support local blood donation drives and encourage participation.

Blood donation is a simple act with a profound impact. By donating, you become a lifeline for those in need. Let’s celebrate World Blood Donor Day by making a difference—one donation at a time!

Israel Launches “Rising Lion” Strikes on Iran: Middle East on Edge

In a major escalation, Israel has launched a military operation codenamed “Rising Lion” targeting Iran’s nuclear and military sites. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared the strikes were meant to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, calling it a preemptive measure to secure Israel’s survival.

Key Details:

  • Targets: Iran’s nuclear enrichment facilities, missile factories, and top military commanders
  • Impact: Major explosions reported in Tehran, including at Natanz, a key nuclear site
  • Casualties: Confirmed by Iranian state media, including senior military officials
  • Force Used: Dozens of Israeli aircraft involved

International Reaction:

  • The U.S. denied involvement, focusing on protecting its personnel
  • Donald Trump reportedly warned Israel against the strikes, citing risk of mass casualties and disruption to diplomacy

Iran’s Response:

  • Vowed harsh retaliation through missile and drone attacks
  • Closed its airspace and put its military on high alert

India Post Launches ‘Gyan Post’ for Affordable Book Delivery

The Department of Posts has launched ‘Gyan Post’, a dedicated postal service to deliver educational, cultural, social, and religious books at affordable rates.
This initiative supports the New Education Policy (NEP) by enhancing access to printed learning materials, especially in rural and remote areas of India.

Key Features of Gyan Post:

  • Minimum rate: ₹20 for packets up to 300 grams
  • Maximum rate: ₹100 for packets up to 5 kilograms (taxes extra)
  • Available at all post offices
  • Tracking facility included for transparency and reliability

The service is designed to bridge the educational divide by promoting cost-effective distribution of knowledge resources.
For more information, users can contact their nearest post office or visit the official India Post website: www.indiapost.gov.in

Air India London Flight Crash: 241 Dead, Former Gujarat CM Among Victims

A devastating Air India crash on 12 June 2025 claimed 241 lives when a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner headed to London crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad airport. The flight had 242 people on board, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members. Only one survivor, Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, has been confirmed.

The victims included 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, seven Portuguese nationals, and one Canadian. Among the deceased was former Gujarat Chief Minister and BJP leader Vijay Rupani. Several individuals on the ground also lost their lives.

The pilot issued a ‘Mayday’ distress call shortly after takeoff at 1:39 PM. The aircraft was piloted by Capt. Sumeet Sabharwal (8,200 flight hours) and First Officer Clive Kundar (1,100 hours). The Dreamliner had been delivered to Air India in 2014.

Boeing, the aircraft manufacturer, expressed condolences and stated its readiness to support Air India and the investigation.

India Achieves 64.3% Social Security Coverage in 2025: Ranks 2nd Globally

India’s social security coverage surged from 19% in 2015 to 64.3% in 2025, reflecting a 45 percentage point increase in a decade, as per International Labour Organisation’s ILOSTAT data.

Over 94 crore people in India are now covered under at least one social protection benefit, making India the second-highest in the world in terms of social security beneficiaries.

ILO Director General Gilbert F. Houngbo praised India’s pro-poor and labour-friendly policies under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.

During the International Labour Conference in Geneva, Labour Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya credited the Government’s sustained efforts in creating an inclusive, rights-based social protection system, calling this the fastest global expansion in coverage.

New Tatkal Booking Rules: Aadhaar Authentication Mandatory from 15 July 2025

From 15 July 2025, Aadhaar-based OTP authentication will be mandatory for booking online Tatkal tickets via the IRCTC website and app. The move aims to promote fair and transparent booking practices.

For Tatkal tickets booked at PRC counters or by authorised agents, OTP verification will be done using the mobile number provided at the time of booking.

To prevent misuse, IRCTC agents will be barred from booking Tatkal tickets during the first 30 minutes of the booking window:

  • 10:00–10:30 AM for AC classes
  • 11:00–11:30 AM for non-AC classes
    The Centre for Railways Information Systems (CRIS) and IRCTC have been instructed to implement these changes and inform all departments accordingly.

Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2025: Pratham Puja Performed, Yatra Begins 3rd July

On 11 June 2025, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha performed the Pratham Puja at the Holy Cave, marking the ceremonial start of the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. He encouraged devotees to visit in large numbers and prayed for the progress of J&K and the nation. He highlighted improved pilgrim facilities and foolproof security by Police, Army, CRPF, and CAPFs.

The Yatra will begin on 3rd July 2025 via both Pahalgam (Anantnag) and Baltal (Ganderbal) routes and will conclude on 9th August (Raksha Bandhan).

The LG also inspected the Baltal Base Camp Hospital and instructed for 24/7 medical readiness, availability of staff, equipment, oxygen, and medicines for the safety of pilgrims.

India Achieves Zero Power Shortage as Peak Demand Hits Record 241 GW

On 10 June 2025, Union Power Minister Manohar Lal announced that India met its peak power demand of 241 GW with zero shortage — a major milestone in the country’s energy sector. He highlighted that during 2024–25, India added its highest-ever generation capacity of 34 GW, including 29.5 GW from renewable sources.

Over the last 11 years under the Narendra Modi government, the power sector has made unprecedented progress, with a focus on service, good governance, and welfare. By the end of 2025, non-fossil energy sources are expected to exceed 50% of India’s total energy capacity.

The length of transmission lines has grown from 2.91 lakh circuit kilometers to 4.94 lakh circuit kilometers, significantly strengthening energy infrastructure.

Peak power demand has almost doubled from 130 GW to 250 GW in 11 years, with a forecast of 270 GW by year-end. At the same time, energy shortages have dropped sharply from 4.2% in 2013 to 0.1% last year.

Recent data shows a zero gap between power demand and supply, signaling India’s movement towards becoming a power-surplus nation.

India’s First Underwater Museum to Be Developed Around INS Guldar in Maharashtra

India’s first underwater museum and artificial coral reef will be developed around the decommissioned warship INS Guldar near Nivati Rocks at Vengurla in Sindhudurg district, Maharashtra. Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis virtually attended the project initiation.

The centrally supported initiative aims to promote marine conservation and tourism, featuring scuba diving and future submarine tours. The Union Tourism Ministry has approved ₹46.91 crore for the project.

INS Guldar, a 1,120-ton warship, was decommissioned in January 2024 and handed over to the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation. After completing environmental cleaning, the ship will be scuttled to serve as an underwater museum and coral reef site.

MS Dhoni Inducted into ICC Hall of Fame

MS Dhoni, legendary Indian wicketkeeper-batter and former captain, has been inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame, announced by the International Cricket Council on 10 June 2025. He is among seven cricketers honoured this year, including Matthew Hayden (Australia) and Hashim Amla (South Africa).

Renowned for his calm under pressure and tactical brilliance, Dhoni is celebrated as one of the game’s greatest finishers, leaders, and wicketkeepers. His international career boasts 17,266 runs, 829 dismissals, and 538 matches for India — a reflection of his consistency, fitness, and longevity.

Dhoni led India to three ICC titles:

  • 2007 T20 World Cup
  • 2011 ODI World Cup
  • 2013 Champions Trophy

His ODI achievements include:

  • Most stumpings in ODIs (123)
  • Highest score by a wicketkeeper (183)*
  • Most matches as India’s captain (200)

Reacting to the honour, Dhoni said it’s a wonderful feeling to be named among all-time greats and something he will cherish forever.

Though he retired in 2020, Dhoni continues to play in the IPL for Chennai Super Kings, now cemented in cricketing immortality.

NHAI Releases First-Ever Asset Monetization Strategy for Road Sector

To unlock the value of operational National Highway assets and boost Public-Private Partnership (PPP), the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) launched its first-ever ‘Asset Monetization Strategy for the Road Sector’ on 9 June 2025.

  • The strategy provides a structured framework to mobilize capital through Toll-Operate-Transfer (ToT), Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs), and securitization models.
  • These instruments have already helped NHAI raise over ₹1.4 lakh crore across 6,100 km of highways under the National Monetisation Pipeline.
  • It is built on three core pillars:
    1. Value maximization of road assets
    2. Transparency and investor information dissemination
    3. Market development and broader investor participation

NHAI Chairman Santosh Kumar Yadav emphasized that the strategy ensures financial sustainability and private sector involvement, enhancing road asset quality and longevity.

Member Finance, N.R.V.V.M.K. Rajendra Kumar, added that the document fosters structured, transparent monetisation, boosting investor confidence.

The strategy supports the Government of India’s Asset Monetisation Plan (2025–30) and marks a shift to sustainable, market-driven infrastructure financing.

🔗 Read the full strategy: NHAI Asset Monetization Strategy Document

International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations – June, 10

The International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations is observed annually on June 10 to promote mutual understanding, respect, and cooperation among diverse cultures and societies. Established by the United Nations in 2024, the day serves as a global call to action for fostering peaceful coexistence and eliminating discrimination.

Background and Significance

The initiative was proposed by China and co-sponsored by over 80 countries, emphasizing that all civilizational achievements constitute “the collective heritage of humankind”. The resolution highlights the crucial role of dialogue in maintaining global peace, advancing shared development, and enhancing human well-being.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has stressed that dialogue is the path to peace, urging nations to listen, speak, and connect to build a world rich in diversity, united in solidarity, and equal in dignity and human rights.

Objectives of the Day

The observance aims to:

  • Encourage intercultural dialogue to bridge gaps between civilizations.
  • Promote mutual respect and eliminate prejudice and discrimination.
  • Strengthen global solidarity by fostering cooperation among nations.
  • Address pressing global challenges through shared understanding.

Why Dialogue Matters Today

In an era of rising intolerance, misinformation, and xenophobia, dialogue is essential for building trust and understanding. The UN has emphasized that civilizational diversity should be celebrated, not feared, as it contributes to world peace, human welfare, and sustainable development.

Axiom-4 Mission 2025: India’s Shubhanshu Shukla Heads to Space with Global Crew

The Axiom-4 mission is set to launch on June 10, 2025, marking a significant milestone in private spaceflight. Operated by Axiom Space in collaboration with NASA and SpaceX, the mission will send four astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft.

Crew Members

The Axiom-4 crew consists of:

  • Peggy Whitson (USA) – Mission Commander
  • Shubhanshu Shukla (India) – Mission Pilot
  • Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski (Poland) – Mission Specialist
  • Tibor Kapu (Hungary) – Mission Specialist

This mission is historic as it marks the first time astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary will travel to the ISS. Shubhanshu Shukla will be the second Indian astronaut to go to space after Rakesh Sharma’s 1984 mission.

Mission Objectives

The Axiom-4 mission aims to conduct 60 scientific experiments, including:

  • Seven experiments by ISRO focusing on microgravity agriculture, muscle regeneration, and cognitive performance.
  • Five joint studies with NASA under its human research program.
  • Collaborative research from 31 countries, making it the most science-focused Axiom mission to date.

Launch and Duration

  • Launch Date: June 10, 2025, at 8:22 AM EDT (5:52 PM IST) from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center.
  • Docking Time: June 11, 2025, at 10:00 PM IST, after a 28-hour journey.
  • Mission Duration: 14 days aboard the ISS.

Significance for India

This mission is a major step for India’s space program, strengthening NASA-ISRO collaboration and paving the way for India’s Gaganyaan mission, planned for 2027. Shukla’s experience on Axiom-4 will be valuable for future long-duration space missions.

French Open 2025 : Carlos Alcaraz Defends Crown, Coco Gauff Clinches First Title

Men’s Singles Final – June 8, 2025

  • Carlos Alcaraz (Spain) pulled off a remarkable comeback to defend his French Open title, defeating World No. 1 Jannik Sinner (Italy) in a five-set thriller:
    4-6, 6-7, 6-4, 7-6, 7-6.
  • Alcaraz was down two sets and faced three championship points, but rallied to win.
  • With this win:
    • Alcaraz clinched his second Roland Garros title.
    • He now holds 5 Grand Slam titles, unbeaten in all five major finals.
    • Ended Sinner’s 20-match winning streak at the Grand Slams.
    • Head-to-head vs. Sinner now 8-4 in favor of Alcaraz.

Women’s Singles Final – June 7, 2025

  • Coco Gauff (USA) defeated World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka (Belarus):
    6-7(5), 6-2, 6-4 to win her first French Open and second Grand Slam title.
  • Gauff became:
    • The first American woman to win at Roland Garros since Serena Williams in 2015.
    • The youngest American to win the French Open since Serena in 2002.
    • The youngest to win both the US Open and French Open since Serena.

RBI reduced the repo rate by 50 basis points to 5.5%

The RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) on June 6, 2025 has reduced the repo rate by 50 basis points to 5.5%.

Consequently:

  • Standing Deposit Facility (SDF) rate adjusted to 5.25%
  • Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) rate and Bank Rate revised to 5.75%

The rate cut is expected to lower external benchmark lending rates (EBLR), possibly leading banks to reduce lending rates.

RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra stated that the move aligns with the CPI inflation target of 4% ±2%, while also promoting economic growth.

Inflation forecast for FY26 revised to 3.7% (earlier: 4%)

GDP growth forecast for 2025–26 is retained at 6.5%, despite concerns over geopolitical tensions and weather uncertainties.

The next MPC meeting is scheduled from August 4 to 6, 2025.

G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Canada, from June 15 to 17, 2025

The 51st G7 Summit is set to take place in Kananaskis, Alberta, Canada, from June 15 to 17, 2025. This marks the second time Kananaskis has hosted the prestigious gathering, the first being in 2002. The summit is particularly significant as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of the G7.

Key Participants

The G7 consists of seven of the world’s most advanced economies:

  • Canada (Host) – Prime Minister Mark Carney
  • France – President Emmanuel Macron
  • Germany – Chancellor Friedrich Merz
  • Italy – Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni
  • Japan – Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba
  • United Kingdom – Prime Minister Keir Starmer
  • United States – President Donald Trump
  • European Union – Represented by António Costa (Council President) and Ursula von der Leyen (Commission President).

Additionally, several guest nations have been invited, including India, Australia, Brazil, Mexico, South Africa, South Korea, and Ukraine. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has confirmed his attendance following an invitation from Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.

Agenda and Key Issues

Under Canada’s presidency, the summit will focus on:

  • Global peace and security
  • Economic resilience
  • Climate action
  • Digital transformation

The discussions will aim to strengthen international cooperation and address pressing global challenges.

Indian Navy’s Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), ‘Arnala’

The Indian Navy will commission its first Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), Arnala, on 18 June 2025 at Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam.

  • Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Anil Chauhan, will preside over the ceremony.
  • Vice Adm Rajesh Pendharkar will host the event.

Key Highlights:

  • Arnala is the first of 16 ASW-SWC ships designed and built under Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
  • Built by GRSE, Kolkata, in partnership with L&T Shipbuilders, under PPP model.
  • Delivered to the Navy on 08 May 2025.
  • Named after the historic Arnala Fort, symbolizing maritime strength and heritage.

Technical & Strategic Significance:

  • Over 80% indigenous content, with systems from BEL, L&T, Mahindra Defence, MEIL, and 55+ MSMEs involved.
  • Capable of Subsurface Surveillance, Search and Rescue, and Low-Intensity Maritime Operations.
  • 77.6 m in length, 1490+ tonnes, and first Indian Naval ship with Diesel Engine-Waterjet propulsion.

This commissioning strengthens India’s coastal defence and naval self-reliance in the Indian Ocean Region.

Sacred Relics of Lord Buddha Arrive in Sarnath Amid Grand Ceremonial Welcome

On June 5, 2025, the sacred relics of Lord Buddha arrived in Sarnath, welcomed with traditional chants, official honours, and the presence of hundreds of monks and devotees at the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar.

  • The relics began their journey from the National Museum in New Delhi, were flown to Varanasi, and then transported to Sarnath in a ceremonial procession.
  • District Magistrate Satyendra Kumar, the Senior Superintendent of Police, and other dignitaries received the relics at Varanasi airport.
  • The Uttar Pradesh Police presented a guard of honour, while NCC cadets and a ceremonial band also participated.

Key Highlights:

  • A large number of Buddhist monks, nuns, and devotees gathered to pay their respects.
  • Most Venerable Seewali Bhante shared his experience of public reverence in Vietnam, where the relics were previously displayed.
  • Officials from the International Buddhist Confederation, the National Museum, and senior monks were present.
  • The event highlights Sarnath’s global spiritual importance, being the site of Lord Buddha’s first sermon.
  • Part of a larger initiative to strengthen cultural and spiritual ties among global Buddhist communities.

NDA Government Completed 11 years

On June 5, 2025, as the NDA government completed 11 years at the Centre, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed his government’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of the poor, describing the past decade as a period of transformative and inclusive governance.

  • In a post on X, PM Modi stated that over 25 crore people have been lifted out of poverty due to sustained government efforts.
  • He highlighted major welfare schemes such as:
    • Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana
    • PM Ujjwala Yojana
    • Jan Dhan Yojana
    • Ayushman Bharat

These schemes have improved access to housing, clean fuel, banking, and healthcare, especially for marginalised communities.

  • PM Modi emphasized the impact of:
    • Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)
    • Digital inclusion
    • Rural infrastructure development
      in delivering transparent and efficient governance.
  • The Prime Minister reiterated the goal of building an inclusive, self-reliant India, where every citizen lives with dignity.

Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY):

  • Launched in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic under Atmanirbhar Bharat package.
  • Extended for five years from January 1, 2024, at a cost of ₹11.80 lakh crore.
  • More than 81 crore beneficiaries will receive free food grains monthly under NFSA.

Chenab Bridge, World’s Highest Railway Arch, Inaugurated by PM Modi in J&K

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Jammu and Kashmir on May 6, 2025, and laid the foundation stone, inaugurated, and dedicated development projects worth over ₹46,000 crore at Katra.

  • Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project was dedicated to the nation.
    • Cost: Around ₹44,000 crore
    • Length: 272 km
    • Features: Fully electrified, 36 tunnels, and 943 bridges
    • Includes:
      • Chenab Bridge – World’s highest railway arch bridge
      • Anji Khad Bridge – India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge
  • Two Vande Bharat Express trains flagged off:
    • From Katra to Srinagar and Srinagar to Katra
    • Regular service began on Saturday
    • Features:
      • Silicone heating pads and heated plumbing to operate in sub-zero temperatures
      • Reduces travel time by nearly 3 hours
      • Offers modern amenities and climate-specific adaptations
  • Foundation stones laid for road projects, enhancing last-mile and border area connectivity.
  • Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence:
    • Foundation stone laid in Katra
    • Project worth: ₹350 crore
    • First medical college in Reasi district, boosting healthcare infrastructure

World Environment Day 2025: Focus on Ending Plastic Pollution

World Environment Day is observed on 5th June every year, led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), is the largest global platform for environmental awareness, celebrated annually since 1973 by millions worldwide.

In 2025, the event will be hosted by the Republic of Korea with the theme focused on ending plastic pollution. This initiative aligns with key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as climate action, sustainable consumption, ocean protection, and biodiversity conservation.

Delhi-NCR to Shift to CNG and Electric Autos from Jan 2026 – CAQM New Rules

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has issued new guidelines to accelerate the adoption of clean mobility in Delhi-NCR. The directions mandate that motor vehicle aggregators, delivery service providers, and e-commerce platforms must transition their fleets to CNG and Electric 3-Wheeler Auto Rickshaws.

From January 1 of next year, these entities will no longer be allowed to induct 2-Wheelers and 4-Wheeler Light Commercial Vehicles that use conventional Internal Combustion Engines (ICEs). The governments of Delhi and NCR states have been instructed to ensure strict compliance with these rules within their jurisdictions.

Monsoon Session 2025 Announced: Key Bills, Opposition Demands, and Operation Sindoor on Agenda

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has announced that the Monsoon Session of Parliament will be held from July 21 to August 12, 2025, with both houses convening at 11 a.m. on the first day.

The session is expected to be intense due to Opposition demands for a special session to discuss the terror attack in Pahalgam and India’s retaliatory Operation Sindoor against terror bases in Pakistan and PoK.

Census 2027: Two-Phase Enumeration with Caste Data to Begin in India

The Ministry of Home Affairs has announced that Population Census 2027 will be conducted in two phases and will include caste enumeration for the first time. The reference date is set as March 1, 2027, except for Ladakh and snow-bound areas of Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, where it will be October 1, 2026.

A notification under Section 3 of the Census Act, 1948 will be published in the official gazette on June 16, 2025. The census will follow the provisions of the Census Act, 1948, and Census Rules, 1990.

The last census in 2011 was also conducted in two phases. The 2021 census was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

India to Build Its First Polar Research Vessel Under MoU with Norway’s Kongsberg

On 3 June 2025, India achieved a historic milestone in its maritime and research capabilities as Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) and Norwegian firm Kongsberg during the Nor-Shipping 2025 event in Norway. The agreement marks the beginning of construction for India’s first Polar Research Vessel (PRV).

The PRV will support India’s National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) and enhance India’s role in climate change research, ocean studies, and polar exploration. Designed by Kongsberg and built by GRSE in Kolkata, the vessel will be equipped with advanced scientific instruments.

Sonowal also presented India’s new MAHASAGAR maritime strategy, upgraded from SAGAR, and highlighted programs like Sagarmala 2.0 and the $2.9 billion Maritime Development Fund to attract global investments. He also engaged with the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association (NSA) to expand collaboration in green shipping, ship recycling, and digital maritime technologies.

Lee Jae-myung Wins South Korea’s Snap Presidential Election

South Korea’s opposition leader Lee Jae-myung is set to become the country’s next president following a snap election in June 2025. He defeated incumbent President Kim Moon-soo, leader of the ruling People Power Party, who conceded defeat and accepted the public’s decision. Lee won by over 2 million votes, with more than 99% of ballots counted.

His victory comes six months after martial law was declared, which had caused national turmoil. The election is seen as a turning point, offering a chance for political stability in South Korea following months of crisis.

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