Current Affairs

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.

UP Government Approves 20% Reservation in Police Jobs for Agniveers

On 3 June 2025, the Uttar Pradesh government approved a 20% reservation for Agniveers in recruitment for the state police and Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) after their 4-year military service under the Agnipath scheme.

This decision, made during a cabinet meeting led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, applies to roles like constable, mounted police, and fireman. Additionally, age relaxation of up to 3 years will be granted to eligible Agniveers.

This initiative aims to support Agniveers’ transition to civilian life and offer job security. UP Police is set to recruit for around 28,000 posts, significantly benefiting Agniveers. Haryana had earlier implemented a similar reservation policy.

RCB Wins Indian Premier League (IPL) Trophy 2025 Final Against Punjab Kings

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) won their first-ever Indian Premier League (IPL) title on 3 June 2025, defeating Punjab Kings (PBKS) by 6 runs at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad.

  • RCB’s Batting: Scored 190/9 in 20 overs;
    • Virat Kohli top-scored with 43 runs
    • Captain Rajat Patidar added 26 runs
  • PBKS’ Bowling:
    • Arshdeep Singh and Kyle Jamieson took 3 wickets each
  • PBKS’ Chase: Ended at 184/8;
    • Shashank Singh scored an unbeaten 61 runs
  • RCB’s Bowling:
    • Krunal Pandya gave away just 17 runs in 4 overs and took 2 crucial wickets, earning Player of the Match

Post-Match Awards:

  • 🧡 Orange Cap: Sai Sudarshan (Gujarat Titans) – Highest run-scorer
  • 💜 Purple Cap: Prasidh Krishna (Gujarat Titans) – Most wickets
  • ⭐ Most Valuable Player (MVP): Suryakumar Yadav (Mumbai Indians)

RCB captain Rajat Patidar dedicated the win to Virat Kohli and fans, crediting team management and coaching staff for their support.

IATA’s 81st Annual General Meeting: A Milestone for Global Aviation

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) hosted its 81st Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit (WATS) from June 1-3, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, India. This prestigious event marked the return of the IATA AGM to India after 42 years, last held in 1983.

Key Highlights:

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Address: PM Modi emphasized India’s rapid aviation growth, stating that the country is now the third-largest domestic aviation market.
  • India’s Aviation Transformation: The success of the UDAN scheme has enabled 15 million passengers to experience affordable air travel.
  • Global Participation: Over 1,700 delegates, including airline CEOs, government officials, and industry leaders, attended the event.
  • Future of Aviation: Discussions focused on sustainable aviation fuel, financing decarbonization, and air connectivity.

India’s Role in Global Aviation

PM Modi highlighted India’s three pillars driving aviation growth:
1️⃣ A vast market – Reflecting India’s aspirational society.
2️⃣ Strong talent pool – Innovators in AI, robotics, and clean energy.
3️⃣ Supportive policy ecosystem – Enabling industrial expansion.

Looking Ahead

With 240 million passengers flying annually, India’s aviation sector is projected to reach 500 million passengers by 2030. The summit reinforced India’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and global cooperation in aviation.

Germany’s Annalena Baerbock Elected President of the UN General Assembly

On 2 June 2025, Annalena Baerbock, former Foreign Minister of Germany, was elected President of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), receiving 167 out of 193 votes in a secret ballot initiated by Russia. She will succeed Philemon Yang of Cameroon and assume her one-year term in September 2025, coinciding with major global events including the UN’s 80th anniversary.

Baerbock becomes the first woman from Western Europe and the fifth woman overall to hold the post. Germany had initially nominated diplomat Helga Schmid, but switched to Baerbock after a political reshuffle.

Despite Russia’s opposition, Baerbock pledged to work with all nations under her theme “Better Together“, emphasizing unity in tackling global challenges like conflict and climate change. UN Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed her election and called for global cooperation to address shared problems.

Karol Nawrocki Wins Poland’s Presidential Runoff Election

In Poland, Karol Nawrocki, an independent candidate supported by the opposition Law and Justice party, won the presidential runoff election, securing around 51% of the vote, according to the final results announced on June 2, 2025. He defeated Rafal Trzaskowski, the ruling Civic Coalition candidate and Mayor of Warsaw, who received over 49% of the vote.

This was Nawrocki’s first presidential campaign, and despite trailing in polls and exit surveys, he achieved a narrow victory. Born in 1983 in Gdansk, Nawrocki will succeed President Andrzej Duda, whose second and final term ends on August 6, 2025.

IPL 2025 Final: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Punjab Kings

The grand finale of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is here! Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) are set to battle it out for their maiden IPL title at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, on June 3, 2025, at 7:30 PM IST.

🔥 Key Highlights:

  • RCB’s Road to the Final: Finished second in the league stage and secured a dominant 8-wicket victory over PBKS in Qualifier 1.
  • PBKS’ Comeback: After losing Qualifier 1, PBKS bounced back with a thrilling five-wicket win against Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2.
  • Star Players to Watch:
    • Virat Kohli (RCB) – 614 runs this season, aiming for another explosive performance.
    • Shreyas Iyer (PBKS) – 603 runs, looking to lead his team to glory.
    • Josh Hazlewood (RCB) – Needs four wickets to claim the Purple Cap.

🏆 A Historic Moment Awaits!
Neither RCB nor PBKS have won the IPL title before, making this a first-time champion moment. Will RCB finally break their finals curse, or will PBKS rise to the occasion?

📺 Where to Watch:

  • TV Broadcast: Star Sports Network (India)
  • Live Streaming: JioCinema (India), Willow TV (USA), Sky Sports Cricket (UK).

World Bicycle Day 2025: Pedaling Towards a Healthier, Greener Future

Every year on June 3rd, the world comes together to celebrate World Bicycle Day, recognizing the power of the humble bicycle in transforming lives, promoting health, and fostering sustainable transport.

History of World Bicycle Day

World Bicycle Day was officially declared by the United Nations in 2018, thanks to the efforts of Professor Leszek Sibilski and his advocacy for the recognition of bicycles as a simple, affordable, and environmentally friendly means of transport. The UN acknowledges cycling as a mode of transportation that contributes to cleaner air, reduced traffic congestion, and improved public health.

Significance of World Bicycle Day

🚴 Promotes Sustainable Mobility: Bicycles are an eco-friendly mode of transportation, reducing carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.
🚴 Encourages a Healthier Lifestyle: Cycling is an excellent form of exercise that improves cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and enhances mental well-being.
🚴 Enhances Social Inclusion: Cycling is accessible to people of all economic backgrounds, making it a tool for equality and empowerment.
🚴 Reduces Traffic Congestion: With more people riding bicycles, cities can become more livable by easing road congestion and lowering pollution levels.

Indian Army Conducts Field Trials Of Next-Gen Indigenous Defence Technologies

On 1 June 2025, the Indian Army began trials of next-generation defence technologies at key sites across the country, including Pokhran, Babina, and Joshimath. These trials, conducted under near-combat conditions with electronic warfare simulations, are meant to rigorously test the performance of new systems.

Air defence demonstrations are also being held in Agra and Gopalpur.

Technologies being tested include:

  • Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS)
  • UAV-launched Precision-Guided Munitions
  • Loitering Munitions
  • Low-Level Lightweight Radars
  • Electronic Warfare Platforms
  • Vertical-launch Drones

These systems are developed under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, with active participation from multiple defence industry partners. The goal is to ensure rapid integration of emerging battlefield technologies.

India-Mongolia Joint Military Exercise “Nomadic Elephant 2025” Begins in Ulaanbaatar

The 17th edition of the India-Mongolia joint military exercise, Nomadic Elephant, began on 31 May 2025 at the Special Forces Training Centre in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, and will continue until 13 June 2025.

Key dignitaries at the opening ceremony included India’s Ambassador to Mongolia Atul Malhari Gotsurve and Major General Lkhagvasuren Ganselem of Mongolia. Both expressed hopes that the joint training would deepen defence ties and improve operational cooperation between the two nations.

This year’s exercise features:

  • Counter-terrorism operations in semi-mountainous terrain.
  • Training for UN peacekeeping operations, simulating real-world multinational scenarios.

The expanded scope reflects increased defence cooperation and aims to boost interoperability, coordination, and mutual trust between the armed forces of India and Mongolia.

Miss Thailand Opal Suchata Chuangsri Crowned Miss World 2025 in Hyderabad

Opal Suchata Chuangsri, representing Thailand, was crowned Miss World 2025 at the 72nd Miss World Pageant held on 31 May 2025 in Hyderabad, India. She was crowned by the outgoing Miss World Krystyna Pyszková of the Czech Republic, marking Thailand’s first-ever win in Miss World history.

The event featured 108 contestants from across the globe, who competed through fast-track challenges like:

  • Head-to-Head Challenge
  • Top Model
  • Beauty with a Purpose
  • Talent
  • Sports
  • Multimedia

The competition advanced from 40 quarterfinalists to a continental Top 10, a Top 5, and finally to the winner. The runner-up title went to Miss Ethiopia, Hasset.

Miss Opal stood out with her poise and values, wearing a floral-themed white gown. During the Q&A round, she responded to actor Sonu Sood’s question about her journey, saying it taught her the power of storytelling and personal responsibility, emphasizing that actions should always speak louder than words.

India’s representative, Nandini Gupta, exited early, failing to reach the Top 8. India has previously won the crown six times, last in 2017 with Manushi Chhillar.

Continental Queens were also crowned:

  • Miss Martinique (Americas & Caribbean)
  • Miss Ethiopia (Africa)
  • Miss Poland (Europe)
  • Miss Thailand (Asia & Oceania)

The finale featured vibrant performances, including a Bollywood segment by Jacqueline Fernandez and Ishaan Khatter. Actor Sonu Sood was honoured with the Miss World Humanitarian Award.

The judging panel included:

  • Dr. Carina Tyrell
  • Sudha Reddy
  • Rana Daggubati
  • Jayesh Ranjan
  • Manushi Chhillar
  • Namrata Shirodkar
  • Sonu Sood
  • Donna Walsh
  • Julia Morley (Miss World Chairperson & CEO)

Goa Declared Fully Literate under ULLAS Scheme on Statehood Day

On 30 May 2025, during the 39th Statehood Day celebrations at Dinanath Mangeshkar Kala Mandir in Panaji, Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant declared Goa a fully literate state under the ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram (New India Literacy Programme). This milestone makes Goa the second state in India to cross the 95% literacy benchmark, in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 goal of achieving full literacy by 2030. Mizoram has become the first state in India to achieve full functional literacy, on 20 May 2025.

Despite the PLFS Report 2023–24 citing Goa’s literacy at 93.60%, the state’s own survey found that it had surpassed the threshold for full literacy.

The achievement was made possible through a Whole-of-Government approach, involving departments like Panchayats, Municipal Administration, Social Welfare, and Women & Child Development. Swayampurna Mitras and field workers helped identify non-literates, assist learners, and raise awareness.

The ULLAS scheme, launched in 2022 and active till 2027, targets adults aged 15 and above, and includes five components:

  • Foundational Literacy and Numeracy
  • Critical Life Skills
  • Basic Education
  • Vocational Skills
  • Continuing Education

So far, over 2.4 crore learners and 41 lakh volunteer teachers have registered on the ULLAS Mobile App, and 1.77 crore learners have appeared for literacy assessments.

Goa’s success under the “Jan-Jan Sakshar” spirit demonstrates the power of volunteerism, inclusive education, and community-driven literacy campaigns, serving as a model for other states to follow in building a Viksit Bharat by 2030.

Asian Athletics Championships: Gulveer Breaks Record in Men’s 5000m

On May 30, 2025, India had a spectacular outing at the Asian Athletics Championships, with multiple medals and national records:

  • Gulveer Singh won his second gold, taking the men’s 5000m title in a Championship Record time of 13:24.78, beating the previous 2015 record. He had earlier won the 10,000m gold.
  • Pooja, an 18-year-old high jumper, clinched gold with a 1.89m leap, a U-20 national record and only the second Indian woman to medal in this event after Bobby Aloysius.
  • Nandini Agasara claimed gold in women’s heptathlon, scoring 5941 points.
  • Parul Chaudhary set a new national record in the women’s 3000m steeplechase with 9:12.46, earning silver.
  • Animesh Kujur reached the final of the men’s 200m after clocking 20.81s in the semifinal.

India now stands second in the medal tally with 18 medals (8 Gold, 7 Silver, 3 Bronze), trailing China which leads with 24 medals (15 Gold, 8 Silver, 3 Bronze).

Historic First: Women Cadets Commissioned at NDA’s 148th Passing Out Parade

On 30 May 2025, the National Defence Academy (NDA), Pune conducted the Passing Out Parade of its 148th course at Khetarpal Ground, marking a historic milestone with the commissioning of the first-ever batch of women cadets into the Indian Armed Forces.

The event was graced by General V.K. Singh (Retd.), Governor of Mizoram and former Chief of Army Staff, along with NDA Commandant Vice Admiral Ajay Kochhar. General Singh described the occasion as a matter of national pride and a step forward in gender inclusion and military modernization.

Honours awarded at the event:

  • 🥇 President’s Gold Medal – Cadet Prince Raj
  • 🥈 Silver Medal – Cadet Udayveer Singh Negi
  • 🥉 Bronze Medal – Cadet Tejas Bhat
  • 🏆 Chief of Staff Banner – Golf Squadron

The parade was attended by dignitaries, families, and senior military officials, celebrating both tradition and a new chapter in the NDA’s legacy.

President Murmu Confers National Florence Nightingale Awards 2025

On 30 May 2025, President Droupadi Murmu conferred the National Florence Nightingale Awards to 15 exceptional nursing professionals at Rashtrapati Bhavan, recognizing their outstanding contributions to India’s healthcare system.

The awardees included Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs), Lady Health Visitors (LHVs), and Registered Nurses from both government and voluntary sectors, acknowledged for their dedication, compassion, and resilience.

Union Health Minister JP Nadda, along with Ministers of State Prataprao Jadhav and Anupriya Patel, attended the ceremony. Nadda praised the awardees as pillars of India’s healthcare system.

The award, instituted by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, includes:

  • A Certificate of Merit
  • A medal
  • A cash prize of ₹1 lakh

The government has recently passed the National Nursing and Midwifery Commission Act to modernize nursing education and regulation. Additionally, the setup of 157 nursing colleges aims to strengthen India’s healthcare capacity and prepare a skilled nursing workforce.

President Droupadi Murmu Inaugurates Literary Conference at Rashtrapati Bhavan

On 29 May 2025, President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated a two-day Literary Conference at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre in New Delhi. She emphasized the richness of India’s linguistic diversity, noting that its many languages and dialects reflect the spirit of Indianess.

President Murmu spoke on the evolving nature of literature, stating that while the context of love and compassion may change, the core emotional values remain constant. She underlined that modern literature must go beyond didacticism and encourage dialogue and engagement.

The event, organized by the Ministry of Culture and the Sahitya Akademi, aims to spark constructive conversations on themes like:

  • Poets’ Meet
  • Feminist Literature of India
  • Change in Literature vs. Literature of Change
  • New Directions of Indian Literature in Global Perspective

The conference will conclude with a special session on the legacy of Devi Ahilyabai Holkar.

During the event, President Murmu also accepted credentials from envoys of six countries: Thailand, Costa Rica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Turkiye, Bangladesh, and Kazakhstan.

Three High Court Judges Elevated to Supreme Court

On 29 May 2025, The central government has approved the Supreme Court Collegium’s recommendation to elevate three High Court judges to the Supreme Court of India.
The appointed judges are:

  • Justice NV Anjaria, Chief Justice of the Karnataka High Court
  • Justice Vijay Bishnoi, Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court
  • Justice AS Chandurkar, Judge of the Bombay High Court

The announcement was made by Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal via a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating that the President of India has signed off on the appointments after consultation with the Chief Justice of India, BR Gavai.

The Collegium had made the recommendation during its meeting on 26 May 2025.

Career Highlights:

  • Justice NV Anjaria: Began his practice at Gujarat High Court in 1988; became a permanent judge in 2013; appointed Chief Justice of Karnataka HC in 2024.
  • Justice Vijay Bishnoi: Started his legal career in 1989; became permanent judge of Rajasthan HC in 2015; appointed CJ of Gauhati HC in 2024.
  • Justice AS Chandurkar: Began practicing in 1988; became Additional Judge of Bombay HC in 2013.

Asian Athletics Championships 2025 – Golds for Sable, Yarraji, and 4x400m Relay Team

At the 26th Asian Athletics Championships in Gumi, South Korea, on 29 May 2025, Indian athletes delivered a stellar performance, winning three gold medals in a single day, pushing India’s overall medal tally to 14.

  • Avinash Sable won gold in the men’s 3,000m steeplechase with a season-best time of 8:20.92, becoming the first Indian man in 36 years to win this event at the Asian Championships.
  • Jyothi Yarraji claimed gold in the women’s 100m hurdles, clocking 12.96 seconds, setting a new championship record and defending her title.
  • The women’s 4x400m relay team — Jisna Mathew, Rupal Chaudhary, Kunja Rajitha, and Subha Venkatesan — won gold with a season-best time of 3:34.18.

In total for the day, India bagged 3 golds, 2 silvers, and 1 bronze, reinforcing its strong presence at the championship.

MSP Hiked for 14 Kharif Crops for 2025–26 Season

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved an increase in Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for 14 Kharif crops for the 2025–26 marketing season. The move aims to enhance farmers’ income, encourage crop diversification, and reduce import dependence.

Key MSP Increases (Per Quintal):

  • Nigerseed: ₹820 (highest increase)
  • Ragi: ₹596
  • Cotton: ₹589
  • Sesamum: ₹579
  • Paddy (staple crop): ₹69
  • Tur (Arhar): ₹450
  • Urad: ₹400
  • Moong: ₹86
  • Groundnut: ₹480
  • Sunflower seed: ₹441
  • Soybean: ₹436

India’s Crop Calendar:

  • Kharif: Sown in June-July, harvested in Oct-Nov
  • Rabi: Sown in Oct-Nov, harvested Jan onwards
  • Summer: Grown between Rabi and Kharif seasons

The MSP hike is part of a broader strategy to promote pulses, oilseeds, and nutri-cereals (Shree Anna), supporting both nutritional security and farmer welfare.

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