Current Affairs

Mizoram Becomes India’s First Fully Literate State

Mizoram has officially become the first state in India to achieve full functional literacy, as announced by Chief Minister Lalduhoma on 20 May 2025 in Aizawl. The declaration was made during a ceremony at Mizoram University, attended by Union Minister Jayant Chaudhary and other dignitaries.

Building on a strong foundation (91.33% literacy in 2011), Mizoram implemented the ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram, a national adult education program under NEP 2020. A door-to-door survey in 2023 identified 3,026 non-literate individuals, and with the help of 292 volunteer teachers, the state raised its literacy rate to 98.20%, surpassing the Ministry of Education’s benchmark for full literacy (95%).

ULLAS focuses on five areas: foundational literacy, life skills, basic education, vocational training, and continuing education. Nationally, the program has reached over 2.37 crore learners and involved more than 40.84 lakh volunteer teachers.

Mizoram’s success follows Ladakh, which in June 2024 became the first fully literate administrative unit. Mizoram, however, is the first state to achieve this milestone.

International Tea Day – May 21

Today (21 May), we celebrate ☕ International Tea Day, honoring one of the most beloved beverages worldwide! 🌏

📜 History

Originally established in 2005 by tea-producing countries like India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and others, International Tea Day was formally recognized by the United Nations in 2019. The day highlights the cultural, economic, and social importance of tea, especially in developing nations where tea cultivation supports millions of livelihoods.

🌿 Significance

Tea is more than just a drink—it’s a tradition, a conversation starter, and an integral part of many cultures. Beyond its soothing flavors, tea contributes to sustainable agriculture, fair trade, and economic stability for millions of farmers and workers worldwide.

🍃 How to Celebrate?

  • Enjoy a cup of your favorite tea & try a new blend!
  • Learn about sustainable tea practices & support fair trade.
  • Share a tea moment with friends & loved ones.

Q. Which country is known for its traditional tea ceremony called ‘Chanoyu’?

A) India
B) China
C) Japan
D) Sri Lanka

Ans: C) Japan

Indian Navy Inducts Ancient Stitched Ship to Revive Maritime Heritage

On 21 May 2025, the Indian Navy inducted an Ancient Stitched Ship during a ceremonial event at Naval Base, Karwar, with Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat as the chief guest. This unique vessel is a recreation of a 5th-century CE ship, inspired by a painting from the Ajanta Caves, and was developed under a tripartite agreement signed in July 2023 between the Ministry of Culture, Indian Navy, and Hodi Innovations.

Constructed by traditional Kerala artisans led by master shipwright Babu Sankaran, the ship was hand-stitched using ancient techniques. It was launched in February 2025 at Hodi Shipyard, Goa. Without surviving blueprints, the design was recreated using artistic extrapolation, archaeological research, naval architecture, and hydrodynamic testing in collaboration with IIT Madras.

The ship features square sails, steering oars, and a stitched hull, offering a striking contrast to modern vessels. The Indian Navy supervised the project, ensuring historical authenticity while maintaining seaworthiness.

With its induction, the project enters Phase 2, aiming to sail along ancient maritime trade routes, starting with a voyage from Gujarat to Oman, symbolizing a revival of India’s seafaring heritage.

Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI) grew by 0.5% in April 2025

The Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI) grew by 0.5% in April 2025 compared to April 2024. Positive growth was recorded in the production of Cement, Coal, Steel, Electricity, and Natural Gas.

The Eight Core Industries — Coal, Crude Oil, Natural Gas, Refinery Products, Fertilizers, Steel, Cement, and Electricity — account for 40.27% of the IIP (Index of Industrial Production).

  • Cumulative growth of ICI from April 2024 to March 2025 was 4.5%.
  • Final growth for January 2025 stood at 5.1%.

Industry-wise Performance in April 2025 (YoY):

  • Cement: ↑ 6.7%
  • Coal: ↑ 3.5%
  • Steel: ↑ 3.0%
  • Electricity: ↑ 1.0%
  • Natural Gas: ↑ 0.4%
  • Crude Oil: ↓ 2.8%
  • Fertilizers: ↓ 4.2%
  • Refinery Products: ↓ 4.5%

Additional Notes:

  • Data for Feb, Mar, and Apr 2025 are provisional.
  • Renewable energy is included in electricity generation since April 2014.
  • A new steel product, HRPO, is included since March 2019.
  • The next ICI release (for May 2025) will be on 20th June 2025.

PM Modi Addresses 78th World Health Assembly: Highlights India’s Global Health Vision

On May 20, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva via videoconferencing. Emphasizing the theme “One World for Health”, he reiterated India’s commitment to an inclusive and collaborative global health model, aligning it with India’s own vision of “One Earth, One Health.”

Key highlights of his address include:

  • Inclusive Health Model: PM Modi highlighted Ayushman Bharat, the world’s largest health insurance scheme, now covering 580 million+ people, including those above 70 years.
  • Digital Healthcare: He showcased India’s digital initiatives like Health IDs, telemedicine (340 million+ consultations), and vaccine tracking systems.
  • Affordable Medicines: Mentioned Jan Aushadhi Kendras, offering quality, low-cost medicines.
  • Support to Global South: PM reaffirmed India’s solidarity with developing nations, offering its health models as replicable and scalable solutions.
  • Promotion of Yoga: Invited nations to celebrate the 11th International Day of Yoga under the theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health.”
  • Pandemic Preparedness: Applauded the WHO Pandemic Treaty (INB Treaty) as a milestone for future health security.

PM Modi concluded by emphasizing global cooperation, inclusivity, and resilience as the pillars of a healthier world.

ISRO Investigates PSLV-C61 Failure to Place EOS-09 in Orbit

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has set up a committee to investigate the failure of the PSLV-C61 mission, which was unable to place the EOS-09 Earth observation satellite into its intended orbit on 18 May 2025.

ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan stated that while the first two stages of the four-stage rocket operated successfully, an anomaly in the third stage caused the mission to fail. The launch took place at 5:59 am from Sriharikota following a 22-hour countdown.

Despite the setback, ISRO plans to continue with its scheduled launches, with one mission planned every month in 2025. Multiple review discussions have been held to identify the cause of the failure.

Khelo India Beach Games 2025 Inaugurated in Diu

The first edition of the Khelo India Beach Games (KIBG) was inaugurated on May 19, 2025, at Ghoghla Beach in Diu by Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya. The colorful opening ceremony showcased India’s cultural diversity through traditional dance performances.

Over 1,350 athletes from more than 30 states and Union Territories are participating in the Games, competing in six medal events:

  • Football
  • Volleyball
  • Sepaktakraw
  • Kabaddi
  • Pencak Silat
  • Open Water Swimming

Additionally, Mallakhamb and Tug-of-War will be featured as non-medal demonstration sports.

International Museum Day 2025 Celebrated Across India

International Museum Day was celebrated on May 18, 2025, with the theme “Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities.” The day is observed annually to raise awareness about the vital role of museums in cultural exchange, enrichment, and promoting mutual understanding and peace.

To mark the occasion, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) announced free entry to all ASI monuments and museums across India for the day. This included 52 site museums and all ticketed monuments, aiming to encourage public engagement and offer a unique opportunity to explore India’s cultural heritage.

The celebration emphasized the role of museums in preserving heritage, educating the public, and fostering dialogue across generations. ASI’s impressive reach includes 3,698 protected monuments and 52 museums, with 26 sites listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, showcasing its commitment to preserving India’s rich historical and architectural legacy.

Q. When is International Museum Day celebrated annualy?
A. May 15
B. May 16
C. May 18
D. May 20

Answer: ✅ C. May 18
International Museum Day was celebrated on May 18, 2025, with the theme “Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities.”

Seven All-Party Delegations to Visit 32 Nations under Operation Sindoor

As part of Operation Sindoor, India is sending seven All-Party parliamentary delegations to 32 countries, showcasing a united political front against terrorism. A total of 59 Members of Parliament, along with retired diplomats, will participate in this diplomatic outreach.

Delegation 1 (led by Baijayant Panda, BJP):
Visiting Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Algeria
Includes Ghulam Nabi Azad, Nishikant Dubey, Asaduddin Owaisi

Delegation 2 (led by Ravi Shankar Prasad, BJP):
Visiting UK, France, Germany, EU, Italy, Denmark
Includes Amar Singh, Priyanka Chaturvedi, M J Akbar

Delegation 3 (led by Sanjay Kumar Jha, JDU):
Visiting Indonesia, Malaysia, South Korea, Japan, Singapore
Includes Yusuf Pathan, John Brittas, Salman Khurshid

Delegation 4 (led by Shrikant Eknath Shinde, Shiv Sena):
Visiting UAE, Liberia, Congo, Sierra Leone
Includes Bansuri Swaraj, Sasmit Patra, E.T. Mohammed Basheer, S.S. Ahluwalia

Delegation 5 (led by Shashi Tharoor, Congress):
Visiting US, Panama, Guyana, Brazil, Colombia
Includes Sarfaraz Ahmad, Shambhavi, GM Harish Balayogi, Murli Deora

Delegation 6 (led by Kanimozhi Karunanidhi, DMK):
Visiting Spain, Greece, Slovenia, Latvia, Russia
Includes Mian Altaf Ahmed, Rajeev Rai, Prem Chand Gupta

Delegation 7 (led by Supriya Sule, NCP-SCP):
Visiting Egypt, Qatar, Ethiopia, South Africa
Includes Rajiv Pratap Rudy, Anurag Singh Thakur, V Muraleedharan, Manish Tewari

This major diplomatic outreach reflects India’s bipartisan commitment to counter global terrorism and enhance international cooperation.

India Wins SAFF U-19 Championship 2025

India clinched the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Under-19 Football Championship 2025 by defeating Bangladesh 4-3 in a thrilling penalty shootout in the final held at the Yupia Outdoor Stadium, Arunachal Pradesh, on 18 May 2025. The match went into penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation time, with Shami Singamayum scoring the decisive penalty for India.

The Indian team received massive support from the home crowd and displayed a strong performance throughout the tournament. India entered the final as favourites, having secured dominant wins over Sri Lanka, Nepal, and the Maldives in earlier stages, including the semifinals.

This victory marks a significant triumph over the defending champions Bangladesh, and underscores India’s rising strength in South Asian youth football.

President Confers 58th Jnanpith Award to Jagadguru Rambhadracharya and Gulzar

On May 16, 2025, President Droupadi Murmu conferred the 58th Jnanpith Award at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi to:

  • Jagadguru Rambhadracharya – a renowned Sanskrit scholar, honored for his extraordinary literary contributions, including over 240 books and four epics, despite being visually impaired.
  • Gulzar – an acclaimed poet and lyricist, celebrated for his impact on Hindi and Urdu literature. He was unable to attend due to illness.

The Jnanpith Award, instituted in 1965 by Bharatiya Jnanpith Trust, honors outstanding literary work in Indian languages.

President Murmu praised both laureates and emphasized that literature unites and awakens society, highlighting the historical role of writers in India’s freedom struggle and social reform.

This ceremony highlighted India’s rich literary heritage, honoring the wisdom, creativity, and dedication of two iconic figures.

R Praggnanandhaa Wins Superbet Chess Classic 2025 in Romania

On May 16, 2025, Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa emerged victorious at the Superbet Chess Classic 2025 held in Bucharest, Romania, after a tense three-way tiebreak playoff.

  • Praggnanandhaa, Alireza Firouzja, and Maxime Vachier-Lagrave were tied at 5.5 points after nine rounds.
  • The first two tiebreak games ended in draws:
    • Praggnanandhaa vs Firouzja
    • Vachier-Lagrave vs Firouzja
  • Praggnanandhaa won the decisive third game against Vachier-Lagrave to claim the title.

In other results:

  • World Champion D Gukesh finished ninth, scoring 4 points, including a draw in the final round against Fabiano Caruana.

The next leg of the Grand Chess Tour, the SuperUnited Rapid & Blitz, will be held in Croatia starting July 1, 2025.

Neeraj Chopra Breaks 90m Barrier, Finishes 2nd at 2025 Doha Diamond League

Star Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra finished second at the 2025 Doha Diamond League on 16 May 2025, despite achieving a record-breaking throw of 90.23 meters.

  • It was the first time in Neeraj’s career that he crossed the 90-meter mark, achieved in the third round.
  • However, Germany’s Julian Weber clinched first place with a final throw of 91.06 meters, surpassing Neeraj’s effort.

In another highlight:

  • India’s Parul Chaudhary finished 6th in the women’s 3000m steeplechase.
  • She set a new national record with a time of 9:13.39, beating her previous best.

India-EU Launch Joint Research Projects on Marine Pollution and Green Hydrogen

India and the European Union (EU) have jointly launched two major research initiatives in May 2025 under the India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) to address marine pollution and develop green hydrogen from waste. These projects are supported by a combined investment of ₹391 crore (approximately €41 million).

Background:

The TTC was established in 2022 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to boost strategic collaboration in trade and technology.

First Initiative – Marine Pollution:

  • Focus: Tackling marine plastic litter, microplastics, heavy metals, and organic pollutants.
  • Funded by: EU and India’s Ministry of Earth Sciences.
  • Goals:
    • Develop tools for monitoring and reducing marine pollution.
    • Support India’s National Marine Litter Policy and the EU’s Zero Pollution Action Plan.
    • Contribute to the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.

Second Initiative – Green Hydrogen from Waste:

  • Focus: Producing green hydrogen from biogenic waste (agricultural, municipal, and industrial).
  • Funded by: EU and India’s Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.
  • Aligns with: EU Hydrogen Strategy and India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission.
  • Aim: Develop cost-effective and sustainable hydrogen production technologies.

Govt Revokes Security Clearance of Celebi Airport Services India Over National Security Concerns

On May 15, 2025, the Indian government revoked the security clearance of Celebi Airport Services India Pvt. Ltd., a Turkish ground handling firm, with immediate effect, citing national security concerns. Turkey and Azerbaijan backed Pakistan and condemned India’s strikes on terror camps.

  • The clearance had been granted by the Director General of the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) in November 2022.
  • Celebi Aviation was operating in nine Indian cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Goa, Cochin, and Kannur, providing passenger handling, cargo services, aerobridge management, and other airport-related services.

Following the directive:

  • Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has terminated its association with Celebi entities at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA).
  • Alternative ground handling services are being coordinated with AISATS and Bird Group.
  • For cargo operations, DIAL is onboarding a pre-approved cargo handler to avoid disruption.
  • All Celebi employees at IGIA will be retained by the new employer under existing terms and conditions to ensure smooth transition and operational continuity.

Khelo India Youth Games 2025 Conclude: Maharashtra Tops with 158 Medals

The Khelo India Youth Games 2025 concluded on 15 May 2025 with a colourful closing ceremony at the Pataliputra Sports Complex in Patna, Bihar. The games had commenced on 4 May 2025.

  • Maharashtra emerged as the overall champion with 158 medals (58 gold, 47 silver).
  • Haryana secured second place with 117 medals (39 gold, 27 silver).
  • Rajasthan stood third with 60 medals (24 gold, 12 silver).

Records and Achievements:

  • Multiple new records were set in weightlifting.
  • In athletics:
    • Kadir Khan (Uttar Pradesh) set a new record in the 400-metre race.
    • Aditya Pisale (Maharashtra) set a new record in the 100-metre sprint.

Justice B.R. Gavai Sworn In as 52nd Chief Justice of India

Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai was sworn in as the 52nd Chief Justice of India (CJI) on May 15, 2025, succeeding Justice Sanjiv Khanna. The oath was administered by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. He is only the second Dalit CJI after Justice K.G. Balakrishnan, and his term will run until November 23, 2025.

Born in 1960, Justice Gavai began his legal career in 1985 and became a Bombay High Court judge in 2003, later being elevated to the Supreme Court in 2019. Over six years, he has served on around 700 benches and authored nearly 300 judgments, contributing significantly to constitutional, civil, criminal, and environmental law.

Justice Gavai hails from a legacy of public service—his father, Ramakrishna Suryabhan Gavai, was a prominent Ambedkarite leader, MP, and former Governor. His appointment is being recognized as a milestone for social inclusion and representation in India’s judiciary.

Ajay Kumar appointed as UPSC Chairman

Dr. Ajay Kumar, a former Defence Secretary and 1985-batch IAS officer from Kerala cadre, has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). With a rich background in governance, defence reforms, and digital policy initiatives, Dr. Kumar brings a legacy of impactful leadership.

During his tenure as Defence Secretary (2019–2022), he was key to implementing major reforms like the Chief of Defence Staff, Agniveer scheme, and Ordnance Factory corporatisation. He also played a vital role in Digital India initiatives, contributing to UPI, Aadhaar, MyGov, and GeM.

An IIT Kanpur alumnus with a PhD in Business Administration and an MS in Applied Economics from the University of Minnesota, Dr. Kumar is expected to enhance transparency and efficiency in UPSC’s recruitment process. His appointment signals a reform-oriented and forward-thinking phase for the Commission.

BSF Jawan Purnam Kumar Shaw detained by Pakistan rangers returns to India

BSF Jawan Purnam Kumar Shaw, who was detained by Pakistan Rangers on April 23, 2025, after accidentally crossing the international border in Punjab’s Ferozepur sector, has been safely returned to India on May 14, 2025.

According to BSF sources, the handover took place peacefully at the Attari Joint Check Post in Amritsar, following established protocols. Shaw had been guarding farmers near the border fence when the incident occurred.

Cannes 2025 Opens with Tributes, Critiques, and a Strong Indian Presence

The 78th Cannes Film Festival opened in grand style on May 13, 2025, on the French Riviera, marking the start of a 12-day global celebration of cinema. At the opening ceremony, Robert De Niro received an honorary Palme d’Or, presented by Leonardo DiCaprio, and used his speech to criticize U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed 100% tariffs on foreign films.

The event featured the premiere of “Leave One Day” by Amélie Bonnin and a musical tribute to David Lynch by Mylène Farmer. Jury president Juliette Binoche addressed issues like war, climate change, and misogyny, and paid tribute to Palestinian photojournalist Fatima Hassouna, recently killed in Gaza.

India has a strong presence at Cannes 2025:

  • Payal Kapadia, Indian jury member, expressed gratitude for representing India.
  • Satyajit Ray’s 1970 classic “Aranyer Din Ratri” will screen in the Classics section.
  • Neeraj Ghaywan’s “Homebound” is selected for Un Certain Regard.
  • Anupam Kher debuts as director with “Tanvi: The Great”, premiering at Marché du Film.
  • SRFTI’s “A Doll Made Up of Clay” will also be showcased.

Ukraine and Russia to meet in Istanbul for talks to end war

Ukraine and Russia are nearing direct peace talks for the first time in three years. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to meet in Istanbul on 15 May 2025. The move follows Moscow’s proposal for direct negotiations.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed that Russia’s delegation will be in Istanbul, but did not reveal whether Putin will attend, saying the delegation’s names will be announced later.

US President Donald Trump plans to send senior envoys Steve Witkoff and Keith Kellogg to observe the talks. Putin proposed the meeting after calls from Ukraine and European nations for a 30-day ceasefire.

India’s First 3nm Chip Design Centre Inaugurated in Noida and Bengaluru

On 13 May 2025, Union Minister for Electronics and IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw, inaugurated state-of-the-art semiconductor design facilities in Noida and Bengaluru.

The key highlight is that this is India’s first design centre working on 3-nanometer chip design, placing the country in the global league of semiconductor innovation.

Mr. Vaishnaw called this a critical step toward building a nationwide semiconductor ecosystem, tapping into India’s vast engineering talent. The centre will allow end-to-end 3nm chip design within India—a national first.

He also launched a semiconductor learning kit to boost hands-on hardware skills among engineering students.
Over 270 academic institutions that already have EDA tools under the India Semiconductor Mission will now also get these new hardware kits.

CBSE Declares Class 10 and 12 Results for 2025; Girls Outshine Boys Again

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) declared the Class 10 and Class 12 board exam results on 13 May 2025.

In Class 12, the pass percentage is 88.39%, an increase of 0.41 percentage points from last year.

  • Girls outperformed boys by 5.94 percentage points, with over 91% passing.
  • Transgender students achieved a 100% pass rate.
  • Total students appeared: 16,92,794

In Class 10, the pass percentage is 93.66%, up by 0.06 percentage points compared to last year.

  • Girls again performed better, with 95% passing, 2.37 percentage points higher than boys.
  • Total students appeared: 23,71,939

The results are accessible via the official CBSE website and other digital platforms.

IPL 2025 to Resume on May 17 After Suspension Amid India-Pakistan Tensions

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced that the IPL 2025 will resume on 17 May, after a week-long suspension caused by rising India-Pakistan tensions following India’s ‘Operation Sindoor’.

The first match after resumption will feature Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Kolkata Knight Riders at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

No matches will be played in Mohali or Dharamsala.

The Punjab Kings vs Mumbai Indians match, originally scheduled in Ahmedabad, will now take place at SMS Stadium, Jaipur on 26 May.

The IPL final is set for 3 June, with the playoffs beginning on 29 May:

  • Qualifier 1: 29 May
  • Eliminator: 30 May
  • Qualifier 2: 1 June
  • Final: 3 June

Playoff venues will be announced later.

Anita Anand Appointed Canada’s Foreign Minister in Mark Carney’s New Cabinet

On 13 May 2025, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced his new cabinet, appointing Anita Anand as Foreign Minister, a key position. Maninder Sidhu was named International Trade Minister, while two others of Indian descent were appointed as Secretaries of State.

One of Anand’s top priorities will be to reset strained ties with India and manage Canada’s relations with U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration.

Carney’s new cabinet includes 28 ministers, down from 39 under Justin Trudeau, signaling a leaner team. He instructed the ministers to bring “new ideas, clear focus, and decisive actions” to their roles.

Ruby Sahota, formerly Minister of Democratic Institutions, was demoted to Secretary of State for combating crime. Randeep Sarai will handle international development as a Secretary of State.

This reshuffle gives Carney a chance to leave his mark after leading the Liberal Party to an unexpected victory in last month’s election.

India-Pakistan DGMO Talks Focus on Ceasefire Commitment and Troop Reduction

On 12 May 2025, Directors General of Military Operations (DGMO)-level talks were held between India and Pakistan. According to a statement from the Indian Army, both sides discussed maintaining the commitment to avoid any firing or aggressive actions against each other.

It was also agreed to consider immediate steps for troop reduction along the borders and forward areas, aiming to de-escalate tensions and promote peace.

Virat Kohli Retires from Test Cricket, Concludes Glorious 14-Year Career

Virat Kohli has announced his retirement from Test cricket on May 12, 2025, concluding a 14-year illustrious career in the format. He shared the news on social media, marking the end of an era in Indian Test cricket.

Kohli scored 9230 runs in 123 matches at an average of 46.85, making him India’s fourth-highest run-scorer in Tests, behind Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Sunil Gavaskar.

Debuting in 2011 against the West Indies, Kohli became India’s Test captain in 2014, leading in 68 matches—the most by any Indian captain—with 40 wins, 17 losses, and 11 draws, resulting in a win percentage of 58.82%.

Under his leadership, India achieved several milestones, including a historic series win in Australia in 2019. His last Test match was in the 2025 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which Australia won 3-1.

Kohli had previously retired from T20 Internationals after India’s 2024 T20 World Cup victory.

His retirement follows Rohit Sharma’s exit from Test cricket, with Shubman Gill now seen as the front-runner to become the next Test captain.

India to Reopen 32 Airports After Ceasefire

On 12 May 2025, the Centre issued a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) to reopen 32 airports that had been shut since 9 May due to cross-border drone and missile attacks following the Pahalgam massacre, in which 26 tourists were killed by terrorists.

The airports to gradually reopen include: Chandigarh, Srinagar, Amritsar, Ludhiana, Bhuntar, Kishangarh, Patiala, Shimla, Kangra-Gaggal, Bathinda, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Halwara, Pathankot, Jammu, Leh, Mundra, Jamnagar, Hirasar, Porbandar, Keshod, Kandla, and Bhuj.

Though a ceasefire was announced at the request of the Pakistan DGMO, the Indian government is proceeding cautiously.

According to the Indian Army, the night remained largely peaceful, with no incidents reported—a first in recent days.

The reopening signals a de-escalation in hostilities, especially after India launched ‘Operation Sindoor’ to avenge the massacre.

The move is expected to restore normalcy in flight operations, which had been widely disrupted.

Monsoon Rains to Arrive Early in India – May 27, 2025

India’s southern coast is expected to receive monsoon rains on May 27, 2025, which is five days earlier than usual, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). This marks the earliest monsoon arrival in at least five years, offering a positive outlook for agriculture and food security.

The monsoon contributes nearly 70% of India’s annual rainfall, vital for the $4 trillion economy and especially crucial for the half of India’s farmland that lacks irrigation. These rains are essential for cultivating rice, corn, soybeans, cotton, and sugarcane.

The early onset is particularly reassuring amid current military tensions between India and Pakistan, reducing fears of disruptions to food supply.

Typically, monsoon rains reach Kerala around June 1, spreading across the country by mid-July. This year, Kerala may see rain by May 27, with a ±4-day margin of error, IMD said.

In 2024, the monsoon arrived on May 30, and rainfall was the highest since 2020, helping India recover from a drought in 2023.

The IMD has forecast above-average monsoon rains for 2025, marking the second consecutive year of good rainfall. IMD classifies average rainfall as 96% to 104% of the 50-year average of 87 cm during the June–September season.

This early monsoon will likely benefit Indian farmers, especially in their role as the world’s largest rice exporters, by allowing them to begin planting earlier.

National Technology Day 2025: Celebrating India’s Scientific and Technological Prowess

National Technology Day is celebrated across India on May 11 every year to honor the contributions of scientists, engineers, and innovators who have significantly advanced the nation’s technological capabilities. The day marks a pivotal moment in India’s history—the successful nuclear tests conducted at Pokhran on May 11, 1998, under Operation Shakti.

📜 Historical Significance

On this day in 1998, India conducted five nuclear tests in Pokhran, Rajasthan, demonstrating its scientific strength and strategic independence. These tests established India as a nuclear power and were led by visionary leaders like Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam and Dr. R. Chidambaram. Following the success of the mission, then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee declared May 11 as National Technology Day.

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