Padma Awards 2025: 69 Eminent Personalities Honoured at Rashtrapati Bhavan

On 27 May 2025, President Droupadi Murmu conferred Padma Awards to 69 distinguished individuals at the second Civil Investiture Ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi. The awards included:

  • Padma Vibhushan – 3 recipients
  • Padma Bhushan – 9 recipients
  • Padma Shri – 57 recipients

Padma Vibhushan Awardees:

  • Justice (Retd.) Jagdish Singh Khehar – Public Affairs
  • Kumudini Lakhia – Arts
  • Sharda Sinha (posthumously) – Folk Music

Padma Bhushan Awardees:

  • Jatin Goswami, Kailash Nath Dixit, Sadhvi Ritambhara – Various fields
  • Bibek Debroy (posthumously) – Economics

Padma Shri Awardees:

  • Ajay Bhatt – Inventor of USB technology (Science & Engineering)
  • Dr. Neerja Bhatla – Research in cervical cancer prevention
  • Sant Ram Deswal – Literature & Education
  • Manda Krishna Madiga, Syed Ainul Hasan, Prashant Prakash, Nagendra Nath Roy – Various fields
  • Hugh Gantzer and Colleen Gantzer (posthumously) – Joint recipients

The Padma Awards, among the highest civilian honors in India, are conferred across disciplines such as art, social work, public affairs, science, medicine, education, sports, and civil service. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Union Ministers also attended the ceremony.

Earlier in April, 71 Padma Awards were conferred at the first investiture ceremony for 2025.

Asian Athletics Championships 2025: Gulveer Singh Wins Gold in 10,000m

On 27 May 2025, India’s Gulveer Singh won the gold medal in the Men’s 10,000-metre race at the Asian Athletics Championships held in Gumi, South Korea, with a time of 28 minutes 38.63 seconds.

Earlier in the day, Servin Sebasthiyan secured India’s first medal of the tournament by winning bronze in the men’s 20 km race walk, clocking 1 hour, 21 minutes, and 13.6 seconds. Wang Zhaozhao of China won gold, and Kento Yoshikawa of Japan took silver in the same event. Another Indian athlete, Amit, finished fifth in the race walk.

Today Current Affairs MCQs : 27 May 2025

Q. Who became the President of Romania on 26 May 2025?
A. Ilie Bolojan
B. George Simion
C. Nicusor Dan
D. Klaus Iohannis

Show Answer
Answer: C. Nicusor Dan
On 26 May 2025, Nicusor Dan assumed office as the President of Romania after winning the presidential runoff election held on 18 May, where he secured 53.6% of the votes.

Q. Who set a new world record in the F42 javelin category in May 2025?
A. Sumit Antil
B. Roberto Floriani Edenilson
C. Mahendra Gurjar
D. Neeraj Chopra

Show Answer
Answer: C. Mahendra Gurjar
On 26 May 2025, Indian para athlete Mahendra Gurjar made history by setting a new world record in the men’s F42 javelin throw with a distance of 61.17 meters at the Nottwil World Para Athletics Grand Prix in Switzerland.

Q. Where did Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurate the new Locomotive Manufacturing Plant in May 2025?
A. Vadodara, Gujarat
B. Surat, Gujarat
C. Dahod, Gujarat
D. Rajkot, Gujarat

Show Answer
Answer: C. Dahod, Gujarat

PM Modi Inaugurates Advanced Locomotive Manufacturing Plant in Dahod, Gujarat

On 26 May 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a state-of-the-art Locomotive Manufacturing Plant in Dahod, Gujarat, marking a major boost to India’s railway infrastructure and freight capacity. He also flagged off the first electric locomotive produced at the facility.

Accompanied by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, PM Modi emphasized that the Dahod plant, aligned with his vision for world-class travel infrastructure, will manufacture 9,000 HP electric locomotives for both domestic use and export.

These advanced locomotives, equipped with regenerative braking systems, will enhance freight efficiency and promote energy conservation.

Mahendra Gurjar Sets World Record in F42 Javelin at Para Athletics Grand Prix

On 26 May 2025, Indian para athlete Mahendra Gurjar made history by setting a new world record in the men’s F42 javelin throw with a distance of 61.17 meters at the Nottwil World Para Athletics Grand Prix in Switzerland. The 27-year-old broke the previous record of 59.19 meters, held by Brazil’s Roberto Floriani Edenilson since 2022.

Gurjar’s record came on his third attempt, following throws of 56.11m and 55.51m. The F42 category is for athletes with moderate movement impairment in one leg.

Despite competing in a combined event with athletes from categories F40, F57, F63, and F64, Gurjar won gold in F42 and set the world record in that classification.

Earlier, on 23 May, Gurjar also won gold in the long jump T42 category with a 5.59m leap — his debut in the event — and is now Asia’s top-ranked athlete in that category.

In the same Grand Prix, Sumit Antil, a double Paralympics gold medallist, won gold in the F64 javelin event with a throw of 72.35m. The F64 category includes athletes with moderate leg impairments or limb loss.

However, it’s notable that the F42 category is not included in the 2023 Asian Para Games or the 2024 Paris Paralympics.

Nicusor Dan Assumes Presidency of Romania After Winning 2025 Election

On 26 May 2025, Nicusor Dan assumed office as the President of Romania after winning the presidential runoff election held on 18 May, where he secured 53.6% of the votes. He defeated George Simion, the leader of the Alliance for the Union of Romanians, and succeeded interim President Ilie Bolojan.

In his inaugural address, the 55-year-old independent candidate emphasized the importance of reform within the framework of the rule of law, urging citizens to apply positive pressure on institutions and promising to stay receptive to public voices.

According to the Romanian Constitution, presidential elections are held every five years, with a limit of two consecutive terms.
Romania, located in southeastern Europe, is the twelfth-largest country in Europe with a population of approximately 1.9 crore (19 million).

Today Current Affairs MCQs : 26 May 2025

Q. Who won the Palme d’Or at the 78th Cannes Film Festival?
a) Hayakawa Chie
b) Suzuki Yui
c) Jafar Panahi
d) Asghar Farhadi

Show Answer
Answer: c) Jafar Panahi
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.

Q. Which country did India surpass to become the world’s fourth-largest economy?
a) Germany
b) China
c) Japan
d) United Kingdom

Show Answer
Answer: c) Japan
India has become the world’s fourth-largest economy, surpassing Japan, according to NITI Aayog CEO B.V.R. Subrahmanyam on 24 May 2025.

Q. Who is the current CEO of NITI Aayog (as of May 2025)?
a) Amitabh Kant
b) Parameswaran Iyer
c) B.V.R. Subrahmanyam
d) Rajiv Kumar

Show Answer
Answer: c) B.V.R. Subrahmanyam

Q. When is World Football Day celebrated annually?
a) June 10
b) May 25
c) April 20
d) July 1

Show Answer
Answer: b) 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.

Q. When did the Southwest Monsoon 2025 arrive in Kerala?
a) May 29
b) May 24
c) June 1
d) May 20

Show Answer
Answer: b) May 24
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.

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.

Today Current Affairs MCQs : 24 May 2025

Q. Who is the current Prime Minister of Singapore as of May 2025?
A. Lee Hsien Loong
B. K. Shanmugam
C. Lawrence Wong
D. Vivian Balakrishnan

Show Answer
Answer: C. Lawrence Wong

Q. Which forces are included in the cadre review order issued by the Supreme Court in May 2025?
A. ITBP and Indian Army
B. BSF, CISF, and Indian Navy
C. ITBP, BSF, CRPF, CISF, and SSB
D. Police and Coast Guard

Show Answer
Answer: C. ITBP, BSF, CRPF, CISF, and SSB
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.

Q. How much surplus has the RBI approved for transfer to the Central Government for FY 2024-25?
A. ₹1.5 lakh crore
B. ₹2.1 lakh crore
C. ₹3.0 lakh crore
D. ₹2.68 lakh crore

Show Answer
Answer: D. ₹2.68 lakh crore
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.

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.

Today Current Affairs MCQs : 23 May 2025

Q. What is the name of the islands that the UK returned to Mauritius in an agreement in May 2025?
A. Maldives
B. Lakshadweep
C. Chagos Islands
D. Seychelles

Show Answer
Answer: C. Chagos Islands
On 22 May 2025, the United Kingdom signed an agreement transferring sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, resolving a long-standing territorial dispute.

Q. Which is one of the gallantry awards for Defence personnel for their extraordinary courage and sacrifice in service to the nation?
A. Padma Shri
B. Kirti Chakra
C. Bharat Ratna
D. Arjuna Award

Show Answer
Answer: B. Kirti Chakra

Q. Where is the Rising North East Investors Summit 2025 held in May 2025?

A) Mumbai
B) Guwahati
C) New Delhi
D) Kolkata

Show Answer
Ans: C) New Delhi
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).

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.

Today Current Affairs MCQs : 22 May 2025

Q. Which state became the first in India to achieve full functional literacy in May 2025?
a) Kerala
b) Tamil Nadu
c) Mizoram
d) Himachal Pradesh

Show Answer
✅ Answer: c) Mizoram
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.

Q. What is the name of the national literacy program that helped Mizoram achieve full literacy?
a) Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan
b) Digital India Literacy Mission
c) ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram
d) Shiksha Setu Abhiyan

Show Answer
✅ Answer: c) ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram
Mizoram implemented the ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram, a national adult education program under NEP 2020.

Q. What is the primary purpose of the Golden Dome shield, announced by US President in May 2025?
A) To launch satellites for GPS
B) To detect and intercept long-range missile threats
C) To replace the U.S. Navy defense systems
D) To prevent cyber attacks

Show Answer
✅ Correct Answer: B) To detect and intercept long-range missile threats
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.

Q. How many Asiatic lions were recorded in Gujarat’s 16th lion census in 2025?
A) 721
B) 817
C) 891
D) 956

Show Answer
✅ Correct Answer: C) 891
Gujarat has completed its 16th lion population census, revealing 891 Asiatic lions as of May 2025.

Q. How many public EV charging stations are planned to be established under the PM E-Drive scheme?
A. 50,000
B. 60,000
C. 72,000
D. 75,000

Show Answer
✅ Answer: C. 72,000
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.

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.

Today Current Affairs MCQs : 21 May 2025

Q. What was the theme of the 78th World Health Assembly addressed by PM Modi on May 20, 2025?
A. Health for All
B. One Earth, One Health
C. Universal Health Coverage
D. One World for Health

Show Answer
Answer: D. One World for Health
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”.

Q. Which core industry carries the highest individual weight in the Index of Eight Core Industries?
A) Coal
B) Steel
C) Electricity
D) Petroleum Refinery Products

Show Answer
Answer: D) Petroleum Refinery Products (28.04%)

Q. Indian Navy inducted an Ancient Stitched Ship in May 2025. This recreation of a 5th-century CE ship was inspired by which of the following?

A) Ancient Sanskrit manuscripts
B) A painting from the Ajanta Caves
C) Shipwrecks found along the western coast of India
D) Ancient texts from the Vedic period

Show Answer
✅ Correct Answer: B) A painting from the Ajanta Caves
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.

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

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

Show Answer
Ans: C) Japan

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.

Today Current Affairs MCQs : 20 May 2025

Q. Where was the first edition of the Khelo India Beach Games (KIBG) held in May 2025?
A. Marina Beach, Chennai
B. Baga Beach, Goa
C. Ghoghla Beach, Diu
D. Juhu Beach, Mumbai

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✅ Answer: C. Ghoghla Beach, 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.

Q. What caused the failure of ISRO’s PSLV-C61 mission to place the EOS-09 satellite in orbit on May 18, 2025?
A) An issue with the rocket’s first stage
B) Launch pad malfunction
C) An anomaly in the rocket’s third stage
D) Communication failure with the satellite

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Correct Answer: C) An anomaly in the rocket’s third stage
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