Current Affairs

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PM Modi Chairs 11th Governing Council Meeting of NITI Aayog

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the 11th Governing Council Meeting of NITI Aayog on 11 June 2026 at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre, New Delhi. The meeting was held under the theme “Inclusive Human Development for Viksit Bharat @2047.”

The meeting brought together Chief Ministers, Lieutenant Governors, Union Ministers, and NITI Aayog officials to discuss strategies for achieving inclusive and sustainable development across the country.

Key focus areas included human capital development, future-ready skills, employment generation, entrepreneurship, healthcare, nutrition, and social equity. The discussions emphasized strengthening governance, digital public infrastructure, data-driven policymaking, and cooperation between the Centre and States.

2026 FIFA World Cup Kicks Off: Exam-Oriented Notes

The 2026 FIFA World Cup officially began on 11 June 2026. It is being jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, making it the first FIFA World Cup hosted by three countries and the first edition featuring 48 teams. The opening match was played between Mexico and South Africa at Mexico City Stadium (Estadio Azteca). (FIFA)

Key Facts: FIFA World Cup 2026

  • Edition: 23rd FIFA World Cup
  • Host Countries: Canada, Mexico, United States
  • Teams: 48 (highest ever)
  • Matches: 104
  • Opening Match: Mexico vs South Africa
  • Opening Venue: Mexico City Stadium (Estadio Azteca)
  • Final: 19 July 2026, New York–New Jersey Stadium

Exam-Ready One-Liners

  • FIFA stands for Fédération Internationale de Football Association.
  • FIFA was founded in 1904.
  • FIFA headquarters is located in Zurich, Switzerland.
  • The first FIFA World Cup was held in 1930 in Uruguay.
  • Uruguay won the inaugural FIFA World Cup.
  • The 2026 FIFA World Cup is hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
  • The 2026 edition features 48 teams and 104 matches.
  • Brazil is the most successful FIFA World Cup team with 5 titles.
  • Argentina are the defending champions, having won the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Reliance and Meta Partner to Build India’s First AI Hyperscale Data Centre

In June 2026, Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) and Meta Platforms announced a landmark partnership to build India’s first custom-built AI-enabled hyperscale data centre at Jamnagar, Gujarat. The facility will support large-scale artificial intelligence training and processing workloads.

Under the agreement, Reliance will design, construct, operate, and manage the data centre, while Meta will lease its entire computing capacity. The project’s first phase will provide 168 MW of computing power and is expected to become operational within 24 months.

The data centre will be directly connected to Meta’s Project Waterworth, a global subsea cable network spanning over 50,000 km, enabling faster and more efficient data processing for users of WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook in India.

The project also emphasizes sustainability. It will operate on 100% renewable energy, supported by new solar and wind projects, and will use desalinated seawater-based cooling systems to reduce pressure on freshwater resources.

This initiative strengthens the growing partnership between Reliance and Meta and positions India as a major hub in the global artificial intelligence infrastructure ecosystem.

China’s Chang’e-7 Mission Achieves Breakthrough in Lunar Water Exploration

On 8 June 2026, the China National Space Administration (CNSA) announced a major milestone in lunar exploration through its Chang’e-7 mission. The mission successfully demonstrated the extraction and analysis of water molecules from the Moon’s south pole region, marking a significant step toward the utilization of lunar resources.

The Chang’e-7 mission aims to directly detect and map water ice deposits in permanently shadowed craters near the Moon’s south pole, including the Shackleton Crater. The mission includes an orbiter, lander, rover, relay satellite, and a flying mini-probe (hopper) designed to explore deep craters that never receive sunlight.

The discovery is important because lunar water could support future human missions by providing drinking water, oxygen, and rocket fuel. It is also expected to play a key role in China’s plan to establish an International Lunar Research Station in the 2030s.

Narendra Modi Becomes India’s Longest-Serving Elected Prime Minister

On 10 June 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi became the longest-serving elected Prime Minister in India’s history. He completed 4,399 consecutive days in office, surpassing the record of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, who served 4,398 days as an elected Prime Minister between 1952 and 1964.

Prime Minister Modi first took oath on 26 May 2014 and has since led the country through three consecutive terms. His tenure has been marked by major developments in digital governance, infrastructure, welfare delivery, economic growth, and India’s global influence.

Amit Shah Launches ‘Vinimay’ Land Port Management System (LPMS)

Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the Land Port Management System (LPMS) ‘Vinimay’ on 9 June 2026. The new digital platform aims to modernize and streamline operations at India’s land ports by enabling seamless coordination among customs, immigration, border security forces, and other agencies.

The LPMS introduces end-to-end digital processing for cargo and passenger movement, including slot booking, payments, tracking, and single-window clearances. It is integrated with major national platforms such as ICEGATE, ULIP, and the motor vehicle ecosystem, ensuring efficient and transparent border management.

The Land Ports Authority of India (LPAI), under the Ministry of Home Affairs, currently manages 15 land ports across India’s borders with Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.

India Records Current Account Surplus of $7.1 Billion in Q4 of FY 2025–26

India recorded a current account surplus of 7.1 billion US dollars (0.7% of GDP) during the January–March quarter of FY 2025–26, according to the latest report released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

For the entire financial year 2025–26, India’s current account deficit (CAD) stood at 25.2 billion US dollars (0.6% of GDP), compared to 22.9 billion US dollars in FY 2024–25.

The RBI report noted that the merchandise trade deficit widened to 83.4 billion US dollars in the fourth quarter, while net services receipts increased to 60.4 billion US dollars, providing support to the external sector.

India also witnessed an increase in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), with net inflows rising to 6.9 billion US dollars during FY 2025–26, compared to 1.0 billion US dollars in the previous year. However, Foreign Portfolio Investment (FPI) recorded a net outflow of 16.4 billion US dollars during the fiscal year.

The report further stated that India’s foreign exchange reserves increased by 7.2 billion US dollars in the January–March quarter, although reserves declined by 23.6 billion US dollars during the entire FY 2025–26 on a Balance of Payments (BoP) basis.

President Murmu Honours Armed Forces and Police Personnel with Gallantry Awards

President Droupadi Murmu conferred India’s prestigious Gallantry Awards at the Defence Investiture Ceremony 2026 (Phase-I) held at Rashtrapati Bhavan on 8 June 2026. The awards recognized exceptional acts of bravery by personnel of the Armed Forces, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), and other security agencies.

The ceremony was attended by Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

Several personnel were awarded the Kirti Chakra, Shaurya Chakra, and Vir Chakra for their courage in counter-terrorism operations, anti-insurgency missions, border security duties, aviation emergencies, maritime expeditions, and humanitarian rescue operations.

Among the notable awardees was Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair, one of India’s selected Gaganyatris, who received the Kirti Chakra. Numerous soldiers and officers were also honoured for their bravery in operations across Jammu & Kashmir, the Northeast, and along India’s borders. Several gallantry awards were conferred posthumously in recognition of supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation.

India Wins SAFF Women’s Championship 2026, Clinches Record Sixth Title

India won the SAFF Women’s Championship 2026 title by defeating defending champions Bangladesh 3-1 in the final played at Madgaon, Goa, on 6 June 2026. With this victory, the Blue Tigresses lifted the trophy after a gap of seven years and secured a record sixth SAFF Women’s Championship title.

India took the lead through Pyari Xaxa, while Ritu Porna Chakma equalized for Bangladesh before halftime. In the second half, goals from Sanfida and Linda Kom helped India dominate the match and seal a memorable 3-1 win. Throughout the tournament, the Indian team displayed impressive form and finished as deserving champions.

French Open 2026: Zverev and Andreeva Win Singles Titles

Alexander Zverev won his maiden Grand Slam at the French Open 2026, defeating Italy’s Flavio Cobolli in a dramatic five-set final. In women’s singles, 19-year-old Mirra Andreeva claimed her first Grand Slam title, marking a breakthrough moment in her career.

🎾 French Open 2026 – Key Highlights

🏆 Men’s Singles

  • Champion: Alexander Zverev (Germany).
  • Final Opponent: Flavio Cobolli (Italy).
  • Scoreline: 6–1, 4–6, 6–4, 6–7(5), 6–1.
  • Significance:
    • Zverev’s first Grand Slam title after losing three previous finals.
    • First German man to win a Grand Slam since Boris Becker and the first German ever to win Roland Garros.

👩 Women’s Singles

  • Champion: Mirra Andreeva (Russia).
  • Achievement: Won her first Grand Slam title at just 19 years old.

Shreyas Iyer Appointed India’s New T20 Captain; Sooryavanshi Included in Squad

The BCCI has appointed Shreyas Iyer as the new captain of India’s T20 International team, replacing Suryakumar Yadav, on 6 June 2026. The decision marks the beginning of a new leadership cycle for Indian cricket ahead of major events such as the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and the next T20 World Cup.

Shreyas Iyer will lead India in the upcoming T20 series against Ireland and England, as well as the Asian Games 2026 in Japan. Tilak Varma has been named the vice-captain of the team.

The BCCI has also included young sensation Vaibhav Sooryvanshi in the squad for the first time, following his great IPL 2026 season, scoring highest runs. Prince Yadav has also been added to the squad.

Shreyas Iyer brings strong leadership experience, having captained Delhi Capitals, Kolkata Knight Riders, Punjab Kings, and Mumbai in domestic cricket. He has also been one of the most consistent performers in recent IPL seasons.

R. Praggnanandhaa Becomes First Indian to Win Norway Chess Title

Indian Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa created history by becoming the first Indian to win the Norway Chess title on 5 June 2026 in Oslo, Norway. The 20-year-old achieved the feat by defeating Germany’s Vincent Keymer in the final round.

Praggnanandhaa finished the tournament with 18 points and won the championship after a remarkable comeback. During the event, he registered impressive victories against top players, including World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen and World Champion D. Gukesh.

Surha Tal in Ballia Declared India’s 100th Ramsar Site

Surha Tal (Jai Prakash Narayan Bird Sanctuary) in Ballia, Uttar Pradesh has officially been designated as India’s 100th Ramsar site on June 5, 2026, marking a historic milestone in wetland conservation. This 3,400-hectare wetland is rich in avifaunal biodiversity, supports migratory birds, recharges groundwater, and strengthens climate resilience.

🌿 Key Highlights of Surha Tal’s Ramsar Designation

  • Location: Ballia district, Uttar Pradesh
  • Official Name: Jai Prakash Narayan Bird Sanctuary (popularly known as Surha Tal)
  • Area Covered: ~3,400 hectares
  • Declared As: India’s 100th Ramsar site on World Environment Day (June 5, 2026)
  • Ecological Importance:
    • Habitat for migratory and resident birds
    • Supports local irrigation and groundwater recharge
    • Acts as a buffer against floods and droughts
    • Enhances climate resilience and biodiversity conservation

📖 What is a Ramsar Site?

  • Definition: Wetlands of international importance recognized under the Ramsar Convention (1971, Iran).
  • India’s Membership: Joined in 1982; now has 100 Ramsar sites across states and union territories.
  • Global Context: UK leads with 176 sites; India ranks among the top three globally.
  • Functions of Ramsar Wetlands:
    • Flood control and water purification
    • Carbon storage and climate regulation
    • Habitat for endangered species
    • Livelihood support for local communities

📊First Ramsar Site in India – Chilika Lake (Odisha) & Keoladeo National Park (Rajasthan)

RBI Keeps Repo Rate Unchanged at 5.25%

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), in its Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting held on 5 June 2026, unanimously decided to keep the repo rate unchanged at 5.25%. The MPC also retained its neutral policy stance, citing global economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions in West Asia, and inflation concerns.

RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra stated that the decision was taken after assessing current macroeconomic and financial conditions. Accordingly, the Standing Deposit Facility (SDF) rate remains at 5.0%, while the Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) rate and Bank Rate remain at 5.5%.

The RBI highlighted risks arising from supply chain disruptions, rising energy prices, global market volatility, and ongoing geopolitical tensions. Despite these challenges, the Governor noted that the Indian economy is better positioned than in previous periods of global turbulence due to its strong economic fundamentals.

Neelkanth Mishra Appointed India’s Executive Director at World Bank

On 4 June 2026, noted economist Neelkanth Mishra was appointed as India’s Executive Director at the World Bank for a three-year term. He succeeds Parameswaran Iyer and will be based at the World Bank headquarters in Washington, D.C.

As Executive Director, Mishra will represent India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka on the World Bank Board. His appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC).

Neelkanth Mishra is an alumnus of IIT Kanpur and has held several prominent positions, including Chief Economist at Axis Bank, Head of Global Research at Axis Capital, and Managing Director at Credit Suisse. He has also served as a member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM), Chairperson of UIDAI, and a member of TRAI.

In his new role, he will help oversee the World Bank’s policies, lending decisions, and development projects, particularly those affecting South Asian countries.

World Environment Day 2026

World Environment Day is observed every year on 5 June to raise awareness about environmental protection and encourage sustainable actions. It is led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and is the world’s largest environmental awareness campaign.

The theme of World Environment Day 2026 is “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future.” The campaign focuses on climate change, nature-based solutions, and the urgent need to protect ecosystems for a sustainable future. The campaign message for 2026 is #NowForClimate.

The Republic of Azerbaijan is hosting the global observance of World Environment Day 2026. The event highlights the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, conserving biodiversity, promoting clean energy, and encouraging people to take action against climate change.

World Environment Day was established by the United Nations in 1972, and the first celebration was held in 1973. Today, it is observed in more than 150 countries, involving governments, organizations, schools, and citizens in environmental conservation activities.

Five Countries Elected as Non-Permanent Members of UN Security Council

The United Nations General Assembly has elected Austria, Kyrgyzstan, Portugal, Trinidad and Tobago, and Zimbabwe as non-permanent members of the UN Security Council (UNSC) for a two-year term (2027–2028).

The five countries will begin their tenure on 1 January 2027 and serve until 31 December 2028. They will replace the outgoing non-permanent members Denmark, Greece, Pakistan, Panama, and Somalia.

The UN Security Council consists of 15 members, including 5 permanent members—China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States—and 10 non-permanent members elected by the UN General Assembly. To secure a non-permanent seat, a candidate must receive a two-thirds majority of the votes cast by member states present and voting.

The election reflects the UN’s principle of regional representation, with non-permanent seats distributed among different geographic regions and renewed on a rotating basis.

“India’s First Olympic Gold” Book by K. Arumugam Released by P. T. Usha

On 29 May 2026, Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President P. T. Usha released the book “India’s First Olympic Gold” in New Delhi. The book is authored by noted hockey historian K. Arumugam and celebrates India’s historic first Olympic gold medal in hockey at the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics.

The book highlights the Indian hockey team’s journey, including the financial difficulties, selection controversies, and the outstanding contribution of Major Dhyan Chand, who emerged as India’s first international sporting icon. It also recounts how India won the 1928 Olympic hockey gold without conceding a single goal throughout the tournament.

The victory marked the beginning of India’s dominance in Olympic hockey, with the country eventually winning eight Olympic gold medals in the sport. The book launch was attended by several prominent sports personalities, including Dilip Tirkey, former Olympians, and hockey legends.

Base Year of Wholesale Price Index (WPI) Revised to 2022–23

The Government of India has approved the revision of the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) base year from 2011–12 to 2022–23. The revised WPI series and new Producer Price Indices (PPIs) will be released on 15 June 2026 by the Office of Economic Adviser, DPIIT.

The new WPI series includes several improvements, such as an increase in the number of items from 697 to 957, inclusion of solar, wind, and nuclear energy under the electricity category, and adoption of improved methodologies for weighting and price calculation.

Along with the revised WPI, the government will also introduce Output Producer Price Index (OPPI), Input Producer Price Index (IPPI), and Service Producer Price Index (PPI) for selected services. The move is aimed at aligning India’s price measurement system with global best practices and providing a more accurate picture of producer-level inflation.

Exam-Ready Facts

  • Old WPI Base Year: 2011–12
  • New WPI Base Year: 2022–23
  • Release Date of Revised Series: 15 June 2026
  • Releasing Agency: Office of Economic Adviser, DPIIT
  • Number of WPI Items Increased: 697 → 957
  • New Energy Sources Included: Solar, Wind, and Nuclear Energy
  • New Indices Introduced: OPPI, IPPI, and Service PPI

Lokhande Prashant Sitaram Appointed New CBSE Chairperson

On 2 June 2026, The Government of India has appointed Lokhande Prashant Sitaram as the new Chairperson of the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). He succeeds Nidhi Chhibber, who completed her tenure.

At the same time, the Ministry of Education has formed a high-level committee to examine the procurement process related to the On-Screen Marking (OSM) system used by CBSE for evaluation of answer sheets. The panel will review transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the digital marking system and suggest improvements.

CBSE, established in 1962 and headquartered in New Delhi, is India’s largest national education board and conducts major examinations such as Class 10 and 12 Board Exams and CTET. The latest developments aim to strengthen the administration and evaluation processes of the board.

Five New Judges Appointed to Supreme Court of India

On 2 June 2026, Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant administered the oath of office to five new judges of the Supreme Court of India. With these appointments, the Supreme Court’s working strength increased to 37 judges against the sanctioned strength of 38.

The newly appointed judges are Justice Sheel Nagu, Justice Shree Chandrashekhar, Justice Sanjeev Sachdeva, Justice Arun Palli, and Senior Advocate V. Mohana. Four of them were serving as Chief Justices of High Courts, while V. Mohana was elevated directly from the Bar.

The appointments are expected to improve judicial efficiency and help reduce the backlog of pending cases. Notably, V. Mohana became only the second woman in India’s history to be directly elevated from the Bar to the Supreme Court, after Justice Indu Malhotra in 2018.

Satwik-Chirag Win Singapore Open 2026 Men’s Doubles Title

India’s badminton pair Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty won the Men’s Doubles title at the Singapore Open 2026 on 31 May 2026.

In the final, they defeated Japan’s Takuro Hoki and Yugo Kobayashi with a score of 21–18, 21–16.

This was the first Singapore Open title for the Indian duo. The victory strengthened India’s position in international badminton and boosted their confidence ahead of the Paris 2026 Olympics.

Satwik and Chirag are among the world’s top men’s doubles pairs and have previously won the Thomas Cup (2022) and Asian Games gold medal (2023).

RCB Wins IPL 2026 Title, Defeats Gujarat Titans by 5 Wickets

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) won the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 title by defeating Gujarat Titans (GT) by 5 wickets in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, on 31 May 2026. Chasing a target of 156 runs, Virat Kohli played a match-winning unbeaten knock of 75 runs off 42 balls, guiding RCB to 161/5 in 18 overs and securing the franchise’s second consecutive IPL championship.

Gujarat Titans posted 155/8 in 20 overs, with Washington Sundar top-scoring with an unbeaten 50 off 37 balls. RCB’s bowlers restricted GT through impressive performances from Rasikh Salam Dar (3/27), Bhuvneshwar Kumar (2/29), and Josh Hazlewood (2/37).

Virat Kohli was named Player of the Match for his unbeaten 75, which included his fastest IPL fifty, reached in just 25 balls. The victory marked RCB’s second IPL title (2025 and 2026) and their first successful title defence, making them one of the few franchises to defend an IPL crown.

31 May is World No Tobacco Day

World No Tobacco Day is observed every year on 31 May to raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco use and nicotine addiction. The World Health Organization (WHO) has chosen the theme for 2026 as “Unmasking the Appeal – Countering Nicotine and Tobacco Addiction.”

The campaign focuses on protecting children and adolescents from the growing use of e-cigarettes, vapes, and flavored nicotine products, which are often marketed as fashionable and safer alternatives to traditional tobacco. According to WHO, around 15 million adolescents aged 13–15 years use e-cigarettes globally, and young people are significantly more likely to vape than adults.

Tobacco remains a major public health challenge, causing over 7 million deaths worldwide each year. In India, tobacco-related diseases lead to approximately 1.35 million deaths annually, with oral cancers linked to smokeless tobacco products such as gutka, khaini, and pan masala being particularly common.

To reduce tobacco and nicotine addiction, WHO urges governments to ban flavored products, enforce plain packaging, restrict advertising and sponsorship, and increase taxes on tobacco products. The observance highlights the need for stronger measures to protect youth and promote a tobacco-free future.

Myanmar President U Min Aung Hlaing Visits India to Strengthen Bilateral Ties

Myanmar President U Min Aung Hlaing is on his first official visit to India from 30 May to 3 June 2026 at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit covers Bodh Gaya, New Delhi, and Mumbai, highlighting both cultural and strategic ties. Key discussions focus on defence cooperation, border security, trade, connectivity projects, and maritime cooperation.

India is expected to review progress on the India–Myanmar–Thailand Trilateral Highway and the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, which are important for connectivity with the Northeast. President Hlaing’s visit to Bodh Gaya underscores the shared Buddhist heritage between the two countries. The visit comes amid regional concerns over the situation in Myanmar and shortly after the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi. It is seen as an effort to strengthen India–Myanmar relations while balancing regional geopolitical interests.

D.K. Shivakumar to Become Karnataka’s 25th Chief Minister

Karnataka is set for a major leadership change as Chief Minister Siddaramaiah resigned on 28 May 2026, paving the way for Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar to become the state’s next Chief Minister. Shivakumar will take oath on 3 June 2026 in Bengaluru, becoming Karnataka’s 25th Chief Minister.

The transition follows consultations within the Congress leadership, including Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, aimed at maintaining party unity and resolving the long-standing Siddaramaiah–Shivakumar power-sharing issue.

Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot accepted Siddaramaiah’s resignation and dissolved the Council of Ministers. While Siddaramaiah is expected to remain influential in national politics, Shivakumar faces the challenge of managing state finances, balancing social and political interests, and implementing Congress’s welfare commitments ahead of future elections.

India’s First Hydrogen-Powered Train to Run on Jind–Sonipat Section

The Indian Railways has approved the rollout of the country’s first indigenous hydrogen-powered trainset on the Jind–Sonipat section of Northern Railway in Haryana. This eco-friendly train, developed by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO), represents India’s entry into the global league of nations experimenting with hydrogen rail technology, alongside Germany, Japan, China, and the United States.

⚙️ Key Features

  • Trainset: 10-car passenger train
  • Propulsion: 1,200 KW hydrogen fuel cell system
  • Speed: Maximum 75 kmph during pilot phase
  • Emission: Zero carbon; only water vapor and heat released
  • Refuelling Hub: Indigenous hydrogen storage and refuelling facility set up at Jind station
  • Safety: Equipped with hydrogen leak detectors, flame sensors, and 24×7 monitoring systems

Sikkim Declared Fully Literate State under ULLAS Programme

Gangtok, 27 May 2026: In a landmark achievement, Sikkim was officially declared a Fully Literate State with a literacy rate of 99.82%, surpassing the Union Education Ministry’s benchmark of 95%. The announcement was made by Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) during the 7th Convocation of Sikkim University at Manan Kendra, Gangtok, in the presence of President Droupadi Murmu and Governor Om Prakash Mathur.

The declaration comes under the ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram, a national literacy initiative launched in 2022 to ensure foundational literacy and lifelong learning for adults aged 15 and above.

📌 Other Fully Literate States/UTs in India

State/UTYear DeclaredLiteracy RateKey Highlights
MizoramMay 202598.2%First fully literate state; strong community involvement and women’s education focus.
Goa202596%Efficient administration, inclusive policies, and high investment in education.
Tripura202595.6%Success through ULLAS, cyber literacy campaigns, and tribal outreach.
Himachal Pradesh8 Sep 202599.3%Journey from 7% literacy post-independence to near-universal literacy.
Ladakh (UT)24 Jun 202497%First Union Territory to achieve full functional literacy.
Sikkim27 May 202699.82%Sixth region to achieve full literacy; inclusive development across remote areas.

🌟 Significance of Sikkim’s Achievement

  • Marks Sikkim as both India’s first fully organic state (2016) and now a fully literate state (2026).
  • Reflects inclusive growth, with literacy reaching even remote villages and elderly citizens.
  • President Murmu highlighted that women formed 60% of graduates and 70% of medallists at Sikkim University, underlining gender empowerment.

Major Abhilasha Barak Receives UN Military Gender Advocate Award

Major Abhilasha Barak, India’s first woman combat helicopter pilot, has been honoured with the United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award 2025. The announcement was made on 23 May 2026, and the felicitation ceremony is scheduled for 29 May 2026 at the UN Headquarters in New York.

She served with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) as the Commander of the Female Engagement Team. During her mission, she worked extensively on community outreach programs for women and adolescent girls and conducted gender sensitisation training for peacekeepers.

Major Abhilasha Barak became the third Indian woman officer to receive this prestigious honour after Major Suman Gawani (2019) and Major Radhika Sen (2023). The award recognises outstanding efforts in promoting gender equality and empowering women in UN peacekeeping operations.

Bakrid 2026: Why Eid-ul-Azha is Celebrated?

Eid-ul-Azha (Bakrid), one of the most important Islamic festivals, is being celebrated across most parts of India on 28 May 2026, while Jammu & Kashmir observed it on 27 May 2026 due to local moon sighting. The Government of India declared 28 May 2026 as the official gazetted holiday, leading to the closure of banks, schools, and offices.

The festival commemorates the devotion and obedience of Prophet Ibrahim, who was willing to sacrifice his son Ismail as an act of faith in Allah. According to Islamic tradition, Allah replaced the sacrifice with a ram, symbolizing mercy and unwavering faith. Eid-ul-Azha also marks the completion of the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca.

Key rituals include special Eid prayers (Namaz) at mosques and Eidgahs, followed by sermons (Khutbah). Muslims perform Qurbani (animal sacrifice) and distribute the meat among family, relatives, and the poor, highlighting the importance of charity and compassion. Families celebrate with traditional dishes such as biryani, kebabs, korma, and sheer khurma.

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