Current Affairs

Monsoon 2025 Arrives Early: Promising Outlook for Agriculture

The Southwest Monsoon 2025 made an early onset in Kerala on May 24, arriving eight days ahead of schedule, one of the earliest in recent years. It has already progressed into Maharashtra, Karnataka, Goa, and parts of Northeast India, bringing heavy rainfall to coastal regions.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts an above-normal monsoon, raising hopes for record kharif crop production. The early onset is attributed to favorable atmosphere-ocean interactions, including the Madden-Julian Oscillation, and neutral El Niño and Indian Ocean Dipole conditions.

While the monsoon is expected to benefit agriculture and water availability, concerns remain over urban flooding, especially in Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai. The monsoon’s further progress will be crucial in determining its overall economic and environmental impact.

World Football Day : May 25

World Football Day is celebrated annually on May 25th to honor the global influence of football (soccer) and its power to unite people across cultures and backgrounds. The United Nations officially declared this day in 2024, marking the 100th anniversary of the first international football tournament with global representation, held on May 25, 1924, during the Paris Olympics.

The day recognizes football as more than a sport—it is a universal language that promotes peace, social inclusion, health, and development. The UN highlights football’s role in achieving Sustainable Development Goals, empowering communities, and fostering tolerance, cooperation, and well-being worldwide.

India Becomes World’s Fourth-Largest Economy, Set to Overtake Germany

India has become the world’s fourth-largest economy, surpassing Japan, according to NITI Aayog CEO B.V.R. Subrahmanyam on 24 May 2025. India’s GDP now stands at $4.3 trillion, as per IMF data, placing it behind only the US ($30.5 trillion), China ($19.2 trillion), and Germany. India is expected to overtake Germany within 2.5 to 3 years to become the third-largest economy.

The IMF projects India will remain the fastest-growing major economy, with a growth rate exceeding 6% annually over the next two years. India’s GDP has doubled from $2.1 trillion in 2015, and is projected to reach $5.5 trillion by 2028. Meanwhile, Germany is expected to see zero growth in 2025, making it vulnerable in the global economic race due to trade tensions.

Jafar Panahi Wins Palme d’Or at 78th Cannes Film Festival

Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi won the Palme d’Or at the 78th Cannes Film Festival on 15 May 2025 for his film It Was Just an Accident. The festival featured 22 films in its main competition. Panahi, known for his criticism of the Iranian government, received a standing ovation and emphasized freedom of expression in Iran during his speech. Japanese director Hayakawa Chie’s film Renoir was nominated but did not win. Cannes is one of the world’s top film festivals, along with Venice and Berlin.

RBI Approves Record ₹2.68 Lakh Crore Surplus Transfer to Central Government for FY 2024-25

On 23 May 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved a record surplus transfer of over ₹2.68 lakh crore to the Central Government for the financial year 2024-25. The decision was made during a board meeting chaired by RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra in Mumbai.

The Board of Directors also reviewed both domestic and global economic conditions and approved the RBI’s Annual Report and Financial Statements.

The surplus was calculated under the revised Economic Capital Framework, which mandates maintaining the Contingent Risk Buffer (CRB) between 5.50% and 7.50% of the RBI’s balance sheet. For 2024-25, the CRB has been raised to 7.50%.

This is the highest-ever dividend transfer by the RBI, intended to support government finances amid continuing economic challenges.

Supreme Court Directs Cadre Review of CAPFs Within Six Months

On 24 May 2025, the Supreme Court of India directed that a long-pending cadre review be conducted for all Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs)—including the ITBP, BSF, CRPF, CISF, and SSB—within six months. This review was originally due in 2021 but had been delayed.

A bench of Justices Abhay S Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan instructed the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) to take appropriate action within three months of receiving the action-taken report from the Ministry of Home Affairs concerning cadre review, service rules, and recruitment rules.

The court issued these directions in response to pleas seeking Non Functional Financial Upgradation (NFFU), cadre restructuring, and the removal of IPS officer deputation in CAPFs.

The Court emphasized the critical role of CAPFs in ensuring border security and handling internal security, and highlighted the challenges involved in coordination with state governments and police forces.

Singapore’s New Cabinet Sworn In After PAP’s Strong Election Win

On 23 May 2025, Singapore’s new Cabinet was sworn in after the People’s Action Party (PAP) achieved a strong victory in the recent general election, winning 87 out of 97 seats and securing 65.57% of the popular vote.

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who took office in May 2024 following Lee Hsien Loong, emphasized his administration’s commitment to adapting to global change, boosting the economy, and strengthening international relations.

The reshuffled Cabinet includes several Indian-origin leaders in prominent roles:

  • K. Shanmugam remains Minister for Home Affairs and is now also Coordinating Minister for National Security.
  • Vivian Balakrishnan continues as Foreign Minister.
  • Indranee Rajah stays in the Prime Minister’s Office.
  • Murali Pillai has been promoted to Senior Minister of State for Law and Transport.
  • Janil Puthucheary is now Senior Minister of State for Education, Sustainability, and the Environment.

The election results reflect increased public support for the PAP compared to the 2020 elections, where it secured 61.24% of the vote.

Rising North East Investors Summit 2025

The Rising North East Investors Summit 2025, held in New Delhi on May 23-24, aims to attract global and domestic investments into India’s North Eastern Region (NER). Organized by MDoNER, NEC, and FICCI, the event provides a platform for investors, policymakers, and business leaders to explore opportunities in sectors like tourism, agro-processing, IT, infrastructure, and renewable energy.

With ministerial sessions, B2B & B2G meetings, and startup showcases, the summit fosters collaboration and positions Northeast India as a hub for sustainable development and strategic investments. The event is expected to drive economic growth, strengthen alliances, and unlock the region’s vast potential.

Gallantry Awards 2025: President Murmu Confers Kirti and Shaurya Chakras to 39 Bravehearts

On 22 May 2025, President Droupadi Murmu honored 39 gallantry award recipients during the Defence Investiture Ceremony 2025 at Rashtrapati Bhawan, recognizing their extraordinary courage and sacrifice in service to the nation. A total of six Kirti Chakras and 33 Shaurya Chakras were conferred upon personnel from the Armed Forces, CAPF, and State/UT Police, with 11 awards given posthumously.

The Kirti Chakra and Shaurya Chakra are among India’s highest peacetime gallantry awards, awarded for acts of exceptional bravery and selflessness. Notable posthumous recipients of the Kirti Chakra included Rifleman Ravi Kumar, Colonel Manpreet Singh, DSP Himayun Muzzammil Bhat, and Naik Dilwar Khan, all recognized for their valor during counter-terror operations, particularly in Jammu & Kashmir.

The Shaurya Chakra recipients included Major Vijay Verma, Deputy Commandant Vikrant Kumar, and Inspector Jeffrey Hmingchullo among others. Seven Shaurya Chakras were awarded posthumously, including to Major Aashish Dhonchak and Captain Deepak Singh.

Personnel displayed heroism in counter-terrorism operations, anti-piracy missions, internal security, and disaster management. Highlights included:

  • Indian Navy officers like Commodore Sharad Sinsunwal led successful anti-piracy and firefighting operations.
  • Indian Air Force officers such as Wing Commander Vernon Desmond Keane executed life-saving aerial rescues.
  • CRPF personnel, including Deputy Commandant Lakhveer and posthumous awardee Constable Pawan Kumar, played crucial roles in anti-Maoist operations.

This ceremony underscored the bravery, professionalism, and dedication of India’s security forces in ensuring national security across land, sea, and air.

UK Returns Chagos Islands to Mauritius; Diego Garcia Base Leased Back for 99 Years

On 22 May 2025, the United Kingdom signed an agreement transferring sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, resolving a long-standing territorial dispute. In return, the UK will lease back the Diego Garcia military base for $136 million per year for at least 99 years, ensuring continued operation of the US-UK base, which is vital for British security and counter-terrorism efforts.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the base’s importance to national safety and intelligence operations. The Chagos Islands, formerly part of British Indian Ocean Territory, were separated from Mauritius in 1965, and inhabitants were forcibly removed for the construction of the US base.

India welcomed the treaty, calling it a milestone in the decolonization of Mauritius and a step towards upholding international law and sovereignty. India reaffirmed its support for Mauritius’s legitimate claim and committed to enhancing maritime security and stability in the Indian Ocean region.

India Accelerates National EV Charging Grid under PM E-Drive

India has launched a major push toward clean mobility with the rollout of the PM E-Drive scheme, backed by a ₹2,000 crore investment. The initiative aims to set up 72,000 public EV charging stations across India, covering metro cities, highways, airports, toll plazas, and industrial corridors.

The announcement came after an inter-ministerial meeting chaired by Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy, with officials from key ministries. The program supports Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of making India a global leader in sustainable transport and energy security.

BHEL (Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited) is being considered as the nodal agency to handle demand aggregation and develop a unified EV super app, which will offer real-time booking, payment integration, and progress tracking.

The EV grid will span 50 national highway corridors and focus on high-traffic zones. The government sees this project as a cornerstone for green economic growth, Make in India manufacturing, and job creation, while paving the way for net-zero mobility.

Gujarat Records 891 Asiatic Lions in 2025 Census – A Conservation Milestone

Gujarat has completed its 16th lion population census, revealing 891 Asiatic lions as of May 2025. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel announced the results, praising Project Lion and the Forest Department’s dedication. The census covered 35,000 sq km across 58 talukas in 11 districts over four days (May 10–13), involving 3,254 personnel.

The survey, conducted in two phases, shows a growing lion population and spread beyond Gir Forest, indicating success in habitat connectivity. Preliminary data shows 196 adult males, with the rest including females, cubs, and sub-adults.

Golden Dome Missile Defence Shield Announced by President Trump

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a $175 billion “Golden Dome” missile defense shield aimed at protecting the United States from long-range missile threats, including those from China and Russia. Inspired by Israel’s Iron Dome but envisioned on a much larger scale, the Golden Dome will integrate hundreds of satellites to detect, track, and potentially intercept incoming missiles.

General Michael Guetlein of the U.S. Space Force has been appointed to lead this ambitious initiative. The system will complement existing U.S. missile defenses and is expected to be completed by January 2029, though experts question the feasibility of that timeline and cost.

Trump also mentioned that Canada has shown interest in joining the project.

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.

Indian economy to grow at 6.3 % during current fiscal

According to the United Nations’ mid-year World Economic Situation and Prospects (WESP) report, India’s economy is projected to grow at 6.3% in the current financial year, making it the fastest-growing major economy globally—ahead of China (4.6%), the US (1.6%), and the European Union (1%).

This growth is driven by robust household spending, strong government investment, and booming services exports, despite global economic challenges. Although slightly down from the earlier 6.6% forecast in January, India’s performance remains strong in a slowing global economy.

In 2026, India’s GDP growth is expected to be 6.4%, still healthy but slightly below earlier estimates. On a broader scale, the global economy faces rising trade tensions and policy uncertainty, with Germany potentially experiencing negative growth (-0.1%).

The report also highlighted positive trends for India:

  • Inflation is expected to decline from 4.9% in 2024 to 4.3% in 2025, staying within the central bank’s target range.
  • Employment and economic stability are showing signs of improvement.

India continues to shine as a bright spot in an otherwise fragile global economic outlook.

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.

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