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Current Affairs Monthly Capsule | May 2024
Table of Content
Awards and Honours Current Affairs ................................................................................................. 3
Banking Business and Economy Current Affairs ............................................................................. 14
Books and Authors Current Affairs .................................................................................................. 24
Defence Current Affairs ................................................................................................................... 25
Government Schemes and Policies Current Affairs ......................................................................... 32
Days and Events Current Affairs ...................................................................................................... 33
International Current Affairs ............................................................................................................. 42
MoU and Agreements Current Affairs ............................................................................................. 50
National Current Affairs ................................................................................................................... 54
Appointments Current Affairs .......................................................................................................... 60
Obituaries Current Affairs ................................................................................................................ 73
Science and Technology Current Affairs .......................................................................................... 78
Sports Current Affairs Current Affairs ............................................................................................. 89
Summits and Conferences Current Affairs ..................................................................................... 105
Reports and Indices Current Affairs ............................................................................................... 108
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Awards and Honours Current Affairs

Indian-American Bruhat Soma wins Scripps National Spelling Bee title.
• Bruhat Soma, a 12-year-old Indian-American, has won the Scripps National Spelling Bee.
• Bruhat emerged victorious in the Scripps National Spelling Bee, earning more than USD 50,000
in cash and other prizes.
• This year's contest came down to a tiebreaker in which Bruhat spelled 29 words correctly in 90
seconds, beating Faizan Zaki, who managed to correctly spell 20 words
Indian-origin artist Anish Kapoor tops the Hurun India Art List 2024.
• London-based Indian-origin artist Anish Kapoor has topped the Hurun India Art List of the most
successful Indian artists alive for the 6th consecutive year.
• The list ranks the top 50 living Indian artists according to the sales of their works sold at public
auctions.
• India’s most successful artists register record sales of Rs 301 crore”, marking a 19% year-on-year
growth.
The Hindu’s ‘Made of Chennai’ Campaign wins Global Recognition.
• Hindu's 'Made of Chennai' campaign won the 'Best in Audience Engagement' category at the
WAN-IFRA 2024 Digital Media Awards.
• Made of Chennai, launched during the Madras Month in August 2023, was a 45-day celebration
of the city's birthday.
• The campaign was praised for its innovative approach to connecting the community,
demonstrating the powerful potential of creative media platforms.
Startek won Fortress Cybersecurity Award for Organizational Excellence
• Startek is a global customer experience and business process outsourcing company.
• Startek's proprietary cloud platform, Startek Cloud, plays a crucial role in enabling secure work-
from-home solutions for its associates.
• The Fortress Cybersecurity Award is given by the Business Intelligence Group to organizations
that demonstrate a strong focus on cybersecurity and data protection.
Satyadeep Gupta sets World Record to scale Mt Everest and Mt Lhotse.
• Satyadeep Gupta became the first person to scale Mt Everest and Mt Lhotse twice in one season
and the first Indian to traverse the two peaks in 11 hours and 15 minutes.
• Gupta scaled Mt Lhotse (8,516 m) at noon and Mt Everest (8,849 m) at 12:45 am, breaking records
for the fastest traversal between these peaks.
• Gupta's feat marks the first Double Dual Ascent of both peaks in one season.
PFC wins "CSR Champion Award" for sustainability efforts.
• Power Finance Corporation received the CSR Champion Award in the Non-Fossil Fuel category
at the Outlook Planet Sustainability Summit 2024 in Goa.
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• V. Srinivas presented the award to PFC's Chairperson & Managing Director, Smt. Parminder
Chopra.
• PFC's impactful CSR initiatives focus on health, sanitation, education, environment, skill
development, and empowering differently-abled individuals.
REC wins ‘Sustainability Champion – Editor’s Choice Award’
• REC Limited has received the 'Sustainability Champion – Editor’s Choice Award' at the Outlook
Planet Sustainability Summit & Awards 2024.
• Outlook Group organized the award ceremony in collaboration with IIT Goa.
• Smt. Saraswathi, Senior General Manager at REC’s Mumbai Office, accepted the award.
• REC is a 'Maharatna' company. Founded: 25 July 1969
• CMD: Shri Vivek Kumar Dewangan
Major Radhika Sen to receive Advocate of the Year Award.
• Major Radhika Sen, an Indian woman peacekeeper, who served with the UN mission in Congo,
will be honored with a prestigious 2023 UN Military Gender Advocate of the Year.
• She served in the East of the Democratic Republic of the Congo from March 2023 to April 2024
as the Commander of MONUSCO’s Engagement Platoon for the Indian Rapid Deployment
Battalion
• UN Secretary-General: Antonio Guterres
ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East announces Green Airports Recognition.
• 3 Indian Airports have been awarded under the Silver category:
o Indira Gandhi Airport (Delhi) under ‘Over 35 mn. passengers per annum’ category
o Kempegowda Airport (Bengaluru) under the ‘Between 15-35 mn. passengers per annum’
category.
o Chaudhary Charan Singh Airport (Lucknow) under ‘less than 8 mn. passengers per annum’
category.
• Theme: Biodiversity and Nature-based Solutions
Savannah Gankiewicz of Hawaii crowned Miss USA Title.
• Savannah Gankiewicz of Hawaii has been crowned Miss USA 2023, more than a week after the
previous titleholder resigned for mental health reasons.
• Gankiewicz is a model who leads a female empowerment nonprofit organization.
• She will hold the title until August.
• Gankiewicz replaces former Miss USA 2023 Noelia Voigt.
Payal Kapadia wins Grand Prix at Cannes, makes history.
• Payal Kapadia won the Grand Prix for her film "All We Imagine as Light," making her the first
Indian filmmaker to achieve this.
• The film is the 1st Indian movie in 30 years and the 1st by an Indian female director to be
showcased in the main competition.
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• The Indo-French production tells the story of a nurse named Prabha and an unexpected gift from
her estranged husband, directed by Kapadia.
Indian Techie Muneeb Amin Bhatt honored in NASA's Hall of Fame
• Muneeb Amin Bhatt, from Kulgam district in Jammu and Kashmir, has been inducted into NASA's
'Hall of Fame' for discovering data breach vulnerabilities.
• He was previously recognized by Apple's 'Hall of Fame' in 2023 for identifying system
vulnerabilities.
• At just 22 years old, this Indian cybersecurity researcher has earned accolades from two of the
world's leading organizations.
18-year-old UP E-rickshaw driver won UK Empowerment Award
• Arti, an 18-year-old from Noida, Uttar Pradesh, won the Amal Clooney Women’s Empowerment
Award in the UK for her role in the Pink E-rickshaw initiative.
• A single mother and e-rickshaw driver, Arti provides for her daughter while promoting female
safety and empowerment in a traditionally male-dominated field.
• Recognized globally, Arti shared her inspiring journey at Buckingham Palace.
Chris Hemsworth received Hollywood Walk of Fame
• Christopher Hemsworth is an Australian actor.
• The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce honoured him for his contributions to motion pictures.
• The Hollywood Walk of Fame is an iconic sidewalk attraction in Los Angeles, U.S., that features
stars' names to honour their achievements in the entertainment industry.
Anasuya Sengupta won Un Certain Regard Best Actress trophy at Cannes
• Anasuya Sengupta, one of the lead stars of Bulgarian director Konstantin Bojanov's Hindi-
language movie "The Shameless", bagged the Best Actress award in the Un Certain Regard
category at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival.
• Sengupta, who hails from Kolkata, is the first Indian artist to win the category's top acting honour,
marking a significant milestone for India at the prestigious film gala.
Indian cinematographer Santosh Sivan received Pierre Angénieux tribute
• Santosh Sivan received the Pierre Angénieux ExcelLens in Cinematography at Cannes Film
Festival 2024, becoming the first Asian honoree.
• Celebrated for over 55 feature films, including collaborations with Mani Ratnam and international
projects.
• Sivan joined legendary cinematographers like Roger Deakins as recipients, citing the influence of
Angénieux lenses in his work.
India's 'Sunflowers Were the First Ones to Know' won La Cinef award
• The film 'Sunflowers Were the First Ones to Know' by Chidananda S Naik from FTII, Pune, has won
first prize at La Cinef award at the Cannes Film Festival 2024.
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• The film, featuring an elderly woman and a stolen rooster affecting sunlight in a village, is inspired
by Karnataka folklore.
• La Cinef awarded second prizes to films from Greece and the US, with the third prize going to a
UK entry.
Jenny Erpenbeck won International Booker Prize 2024
• Jenny Erpenbeck's novel Kairos won the 2024 International Booker Prize, sharing the £50,000 with
translator Michael Hofmann.
• The novel explores a profound romance in 1980s Berlin, juxtaposed against the backdrop of the
Cold War & the fall of the Berlin Wall.
• Hofmann emphasized the novel's depth in portraying personal & political turmoil; Erpenbeck
reflects on East Germany's cultural nuances.
UAE honours Indian Diplomatic Missions with Excellence Awards.
• India's Embassy in Abu Dhabi and Consulate in Dubai were awarded the prestigious Shield of
Honour at the 5th Minister of Foreign Affairs Excellence Awards ceremony, making India the only
country to receive two honors.
• 18 foreign missions and 9 Ministry of Foreign Affairs departments were awarded, endorsing the
UAE's commitment to excellence in diplomatic relations.
Thiruvananthapuram Airport achieved Zero Waste to Landfill status
• Thiruvananthapuram International Airport was awarded the zero waste to landfill (ZWL) accolade
by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII-ITC) Centre of Excellence.
• It is the first airport in India to receive this recognition, achieving 99.50% waste diversion from
landfills.
• The award confirms the airport's implementation of leading waste management practices.
B.R. Guar Gum named most trusted cotton seed brand
• B.R. Guar Gum Private Limited has won the Most Trusted Cotton Seed Brand in North India at the
Global Excellence Awards 2024.
• The award highlights the company's commitment to quality and trust in the agricultural sector.
• International Healthcare Limited (PVS GROUP) received the Global Animal Healthcare Excellence
Award at the same event.
Jyoti Atre becomes oldest Indian Woman to Scale Everest.
• Bhopal's Jyoti Atre, at 55, became the oldest Indian woman to summit Mount Everest on May 19,
reaching an altitude of 8,848.86 meters on her second attempt after weather derailed her 2023
climb at 8,160 meters.
• She was part of a 15-member team led by Bolivian climber David Hugo Ayaviri Quispe.
• Jyoti broke the record held by 53-year-old Sangeeta Bahl, who summited Everest on May 19, 2018.
Indian-origin Scientist Shrinivas R Kulkarni wins Shaw Prize.
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• Indian-Origin Awardee: Shrinivas R Kulkarni, a professor at Caltech, wins the Shaw Prize in
Astronomy for 2024
• Pioneering Work: Recognized for groundbreaking discoveries in millisecond pulsars, gamma-ray
bursts, supernovae, and other transient astronomical phenomena
• Other winners include Swee Lay Thein and Stuart Orkin in Life Science and Medicine, and Peter
Sarnak for Mathematical Sciences.
NTPC secured 3rd rank at ATD BEST Awards 2024
• NTPC secured 3rd rank globally at ATD BEST Awards 2024, marking the highest placement for
any Indian company.
• The ATD BEST Awards, established by the Association for Talent Development (ATD), USA, is one
of the most esteemed international recognitions in the field of Learning and Development.
• NTPC CMD: Gurdeep Singh.
• PSU status: Maharatna.
• Jurisdiction: Ministry of Power, GoI.
Urmimala Boruah, first Indian Pageant Director at Cannes red carpet
• Assam’s Urmimala Boruah, CEO of the Queens of the World India Pageant and National Director
of the International Pageants, made her debut at the 77th edition of the Cannes Film Festival in
France.
• She has now become India’s first Pageant Director to grace the red carpet at this esteemed
celebration.
• The 77th annual Cannes Film Festival is taking place from 14 to 25 May 2024.
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar honored with Commemorative Stamp
• Sri Sri Ravi Shankar received the first stamp marking 200 years of Indian Origin Tamils in Sri
Lanka.
• The stamp was presented by the Governor of the Eastern Province, Senthil Thondaman.
• The release symbolizes recognition for the historically neglected Indian-origin Tamil community
in Sri Lanka.
Fuji Electric India earns Great Place to Work Certification.
• Fuji Electric India receives Great Place to Work® certification for the second consecutive year,
reflecting its employee-friendly policies.
• The certification is based on positive employee feedback, showcasing a supportive, dynamic, and
inclusive workplace culture.
• Yosuke Ishizaka: Head of Fuji Electric India
• Great Place To Work/CEO: Yeshasvini Ramaswamy
• Founder: Prasenjit Bhattacharya
IN-SPACe bagged Leadership Award at Geospatial World Forum
• IN-SPACe won the "Public Policy: Enabling Industry Development" award at 2024 Geospatial
World Forum for enhancing India's space sector.
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• The award highlights IN-SPACe's support for private and non-governmental entities in space
industry.
• Indian National Space Promotion & Authorization Center (IN-SPACe), an autonomous agency
under Department of Space, facilitates private sector participation.
9th edition of Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia list released
• ENTERTAINMENT: Pavithra Chari, Arpan Kumar Chandel
• CONSUMER TECHNOLOGY: Kush Jain, Arth Chowdhary, Deyvant Bhardwaj, Oshi Kumari
• ENTERPRISE TECHNOLOGY: Kunal Aggarwal, Gaurav Piyush, Mayank Varshney, Yash Sharma
• FINANCE AND VENTURE CAPITAL: Aalesh Avlani, Srinivas Sarkar, Kushagra Manglik
• HEALTHCARE AND SCIENCE: Karan Ahuja, Aryan Chauhan
• MEDIA, MARKETING: Kavan Antani
Ruskin Bond awarded Sahitya Akademi Fellowship.
• Eminent English author Ruskin Bond was awarded the Sahitya Akademi Fellowship.
• Ruskin Bond has written over 300 short stories, essays, and novels and more than 30 books for
children.
• Awards: Sahitya Akademi Award (1992), Sahitya Akademi’s Bal Sahitya Puraskar (2012), Padma
Shri (1999) and Padma Bhushan (2019).
• His notable works: ‘Vagrants in the Valley’, ‘Angry River’, ‘Too Much Trouble’.
Shabana Azmi awarded Freedom of the City of London
• Shabana Azmi, renowned Indian actress, awarded Freedom of the City of London for her
cinematic and advocacy work.
• Azmi, with numerous accolades including 5 National Awards and 6 Filmfare Awards, was honored
during UK Asian Film Festival.
• The Freedom of the City recognizes significant contributions to London or public life since the
13th century.
Sharekhan triumphs with top industry recognitions in 2024
• Sharekhan by BNP Paribas, a leading full-service broker in India, featured in Dun & Bradstreet's
list of top BFSI and FinTech companies for 2024.
• Recognition highlights Sharekhan's dedication to customer satisfaction through innovative
financial services.
• Sharekhan secured the Most Trusted Brand Award for the second consecutive year, reinforcing
its commitment to reliability and excellence.
'Lord Curzon Ki Haveli' wins big at UK-Asian Film Festival
• Anshuman Jha has won the Best Director award for 'Lord Curzon Ki Haveli,' his directorial debut,
at the UK-Asian Film Festival 2024.
• Arjun Mathur received the Best Actor award for his performance in the black comedy thriller.
• The film earned praise and a standing ovation at the historic Regent Street Cinema in London,
marking a successful festival run.
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Chandrakant Satija won Global Excellence Award

• Chandrakant Satija received the Global Excellence Award 2024 for being the "Most Trusted
Admission Consultant in Vidarbha Region."
• He founded Chandra Admission Consultants, aiding students with quality education and career
counseling for over 21 years.
• The award was presented by Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty Kundra at Sahara Star Hotel,
Mumbai.
Dr. Soumya Swaminathan honored by McGill University
• Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, WHO’s former Chief Scientist, received an honorary degree from
McGill University, Canada.
• Having served at WHO, her tenure included Deputy Director General (Programmes) and the
organization's first Chief Scientist, through the Covid-19 pandemic.
• McGill University recognizes individuals for significant contributions to scholarship, science, arts,
or public service etc.
Hindustan Shipyard Limited's CMD receives PSU Samarpan Award.
• HSL CMD Hemant Khatri has been honoured with the esteemed 'PSU Samarpan Award' by Gov
Connect at the award ceremony held in New Delhi.
• The 'PSU Samarpan Award' acknowledges the significant contributions of Public Sector
Undertakings to the country's progress.
• Hindustan Shipyard:
• Founded - 21 June 1941
• Headquarters - Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India
• Nationalised - 1961.
Malabar Gold and Diamonds receives Legal Era - Indian Legal Awards
• Malabar Gold and Diamonds was the world's 6th largest jewelry group and ranked 19th in
Deloitte's Global Ranking of Luxury Products.
• Malabar Gold & Diamonds was established in 1993 in Kerala.
• With an annual turnover of $5.2 billion, it has over 350 stores spread across 13 countries.
• MP Ahammed - Chairman of Malabar Group.
• Vice Chairman - KP Abdul Salam
Infosys receives world's first ISO 42001:2023 Certification for AIMS.
• Infosys has been certified with ISO 42001:2023 for its Artificial Intelligence Management System
(AIMS), the world's first international standard on AI management systems, by TUV India.
• The ISO 42001:2023 certification provides a clear roadmap and systematic approach to AI
management, through effective risk mitigation and streamlined processes.
• Manish Bhuptani: Managing Director of TUV India
OTTplay bagged INMA Global Media Awards 2024
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• OTTplay clinched Gold for Best Product Iteration and Silver in Best Use of an Event at INMA 2024,
beating global competitors.
• The platform's transition to an OTT aggregator, addressing the challenge of multiple
subscriptions, was celebrated for its innovation.
• This achievement underscores OTTplay's commitment to innovation and elevating the digital
media industry standards.
Genius Box honored by BIS for quality and branding excellence
• Genius Box has been recognized by the Bureau of Indian Standards for exceptional quality in
educational DIY kits, maintaining no failures in 3 years.
• The brand revolutionized learning with a "play-full-learning" approach, focusing on engagement
and creativity.
• Kits designed for varied interests and ages, promoting hands-on experiences that foster a love
for learning, endorsed by educators.
Pawan Sindhi honored with Global Pride of Sindhi Award 2024
• Mr. Pawan Sindhi has been honored with the Global Pride of Sindhi Award 2024 for his societal
contributions.
• The award ceremony in Mumbai celebrated his dedication to humanity, peace, and prosperity.
• Mr. Sindhi thanked mentors, the press, and society for their support, emphasizing the role of
service and respect in nation-building.
Pulitzer awards 2024: Part 1:
Pulitzer winners:
• Public service: ProPublica
• Breaking news: Staff of Lookout Santa Cruz
• Investigative reporting: Hannah Dreier of The New York Times
• Explanatory reporting: Sarah Stillman of The New Yorker
• National reporting: Staff of Reuters and Staff of The Washington Post
• International reporting: Staff of The New York Times
• Commentary: Vladimir Kara-Murza, The Washington Post
Pulitzer awards 2024: Part 2:
• Feature writing: Katie Engelhart, The New York Times
• Criticism: Justin Chang of The Los Angeles Times
• Editorial writing: David E. Hoffman of The Washington Post
• Breaking news photography: Staff of Reuters
• Feature photography: Staff of The Associated Press
• Fiction: “Night Watch,” by Jayne Anne Phillips
• Drama: “Primary Trust,” by Eboni Booth
• Biography: “King: A Life,” by Jonathan Eig
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Bhavi Mehta bagged Oxford Bookstore Book Cover Prize 2024

• Bhavi Mehta won the 9th Oxford Bookstore Book Cover Prize 2024 for "The Book Beautiful" by
Pradeep Sebastian, receiving INR 1 lakh, a trophy, and a certificate.
• The award event took place at the India Habitat Centre.
• Jury Chair Dr. Alka Pande praised the prize's role in highlighting the creativity and effort of cover
designers, underlining the importance of visual storytelling in publishing.
DBS Bank India recognised as ‘Best Employer’ 2023
• DBS Bank India has been recognised as a ‘Best Employer’ 2023 by Kincentric for the fourth
consecutive year.
• The award acknowledges organisations with exceptional employee experiences and a strong
culture of engagement.
• The Development Bank of Singapore, headquartered in Singapore, is a leading financial services
group in Asia.
• CEO: Piyush Gupta.
QuantPower emerged as Best Trading Platform in India
• QuantPower, by Wisdom Tree Ventures, won Best Trading Platform in India for 2nd year, offering
AI-enabled trading with advanced tools.
• As an all-in-one platform, QuantPower facilitates both algorithmic and manual trading,
enhancing decision-making for investors.
• Wisdom Tree Ventures secured Fintech Company of the Year 2024, driving financial innovation &
excellence in India's fintech sector.
MAHE confered honourary doctorate on K.V. Kamath
• Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), a Deemed to be University conferred a honourary
doctorate on K.V. Kamath, Chairman of National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and
Development and Chairman of Jio Financial Services Ltd.
• Responding to the recognition, Mr. Kamath said receiving the honourary doctorate from MAHE
was a humbling recognition that he would cherish deeply.
Palestinian journalists awarded 2024 Guillermo Cano World Press Prize.
• UNESCO awarded its World Press Freedom Prize to all Palestinian journalists covering the war in
Gaza.
• Mauricio Weibel - Chairman of the international jury of media professionals.
• The Award Ceremony occurred in the margins of the World Press Freedom Conference in
Santiago, Chile.
• This Prize, Created in 1997, honors the press freedom anywhere in the world.
Meryl Streep set to receive Cannes honorary Palme D'Or award
• Meryl Streep will receive special Palme d'Or at Cannes Film Festival's opening ceremony on May
14.
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• The Hollywood icon expressed immense honor, stating winning at Cannes representing the
highest achievement in filmmaking.
• Streep, with a career spanning five decades, looks forward to returning to the renowned French
festival.
• Mary Louise "Meryl" Streep is an American actress.
The Hindu won 3 awards at International Newspaper Design Competition
• The Hindu's explainer page on Neeraj Chopra's success won three awards at the 6th International
Newspaper Design Competition.
• The awards include 'Best of Show,' 'Gold' in 'Best of Sports Page,' and an award of excellence in
'Best of Double Spread' categories.
• Judges praised the page's layered information, world-class illustrations, and engaging narrative,
offering a medal-winning experience.
Philip Morris International's India affiliate recognised Top Employer
• PMI's India affiliate, IPM India, earned Top Employer recognition for the fifth consecutive year,
showcasing excellence in people practices.
• PMI itself secured Global Top Employer status for the eighth consecutive year, with affiliates
recognized across 33 countries.
• The Top Employers Institute certifies over 2,300 organizations globally, impacting over 12 million
employees' lives positively
Purnima Devi Barman receives 'Green Oscar' Whitley Gold Award 2024.
• A wildlife biologist from Assam has been honoured with a leading UK wildlife charity award for
her conservation efforts of the endangered Greater Adjutant Stork (Hargila).
• Dr Purnima Devi Barman won the GBP 1,00,000 Whitley Gold Award from the Whitley Fund for
Nature.
• Hargila had seen its population to an estimated 450 birds in Northeast India, but due to her
efforts, it has now 1800.
Vegas Mall won prestigious MAPIC 2024 award
• Vegas Mall was awarded "Most Admired Shopping Centre of Year" at MAPIC Awards 2024 for
mixed land use development.
• It has earned recognition for integrating international retail, office spaces, food court, and
hypermarket, enhancing shopping experiences.
• VP Ravinder Choudhary attributed success to dedication towards luxury, leisure, and innovation,
thanking patrons for their support.
Dr. Bina Modi felicitated by Vice President for Contributions to SILF
• Dr. Bina Modi, Chairperson and Managing Director of Modi Enterprises – KK Modi Group, was
honoured by the Vice President of India, Sh. Jagdeep Dhankar, for her ‘Outstanding Contribution
to the cause of Corporate Social Responsibility’.
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• The event marked the inauguration of the new building for the Society of Indian Law Firms (SILF),
with Vice President gracing the occasion as the chief guest.
Startek received prestigious accolades at World HRD Congress
• Startek®, a global customer experience (CX) solutions provider, was honored with 5 awards at the
World HRD Congress in the Philippines.
• It has received the award in the categories of Best Workplace Practices, Best Use of Social Media
and Other Recruitment Methods, and Diversity and Human Resources.
• The company is a leading global provider of IT-enabled business process outsourcing solutions.
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Banking Business and Economy Current Affairs

National Stock Exchange launches India's first EV index.
• NSE Indices has introduced India's first electric vehicle Index.
• The base date for the Nifty EV & New Age Automotive Index is April 2, 2018, with a base value set
at 1000.
• Sector representation weight of Nifty EV:
o Automobile - 72.13%
o IT - 11.31%
o Chemicals - 10.63%
o Capital Goods - 6.39%
• Top constituents by weightage in Nifty EV:
o Bajaj Auto - 7%
o Tata Motors - 6.49%
RBI shifts 100 tonnes of Gold from UK to India.
• RBI has moved over 100 tonnes of Gold from the UK to its domestic vaults.
• It marks the 1st time at least since 1991 when the Gold at this scale has been added to the stock.
• At the end of March 2024, the RBI held 822.10 tonnes of Gold, of which 408.31 tonnes were held
domestically.
• RBI purchased 200 tonnes of Gold in 2009 during the financial crisis.
• RBI bought 19 tonnes of Gold in Q4-FY24
RBI estimates Economic Growth Rate to be 7% in 2024-25.
• RBI has projected the Indian economy to grow 7% in the current financial year 2024-25.
• The Indian economy expanded at a strong pace from 2023-24 ending April 1, 2023, to March 31,
2024, with the real GDP growth rate increasing to 7.6% from 7% in the financial year 2022-23.
• The 3rd consecutive financial year has been 7% or more while the overall FY24 GDP growth is
likely to touch 8%.
RBI to announce comprehensive regulatory measures in FY25
• New norms are increasing provisioning for banks from incurred credit loss to ECL model,
enhancing bad loan management.
• Overhaul of income recognition, asset classification, and provisioning norms; new project finance
prudential guidelines.
• Expansion of CBDC pilots and climate finance regulations to address systemic risks and promote
financial stability.
• RBI: Chairman: Shakti Kant Das.
Unclaimed deposits with banks rise 26% to Rs 78,213 crore.
• 26% Increase in Unclaimed Deposits: Unclaimed deposits rose to Rs 78,213 crore by March 2024,
from Rs 62,225 crore.
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• New Guidelines to Address Issue: RBI issued comprehensive guidelines for banks to review,
prevent fraud, and trace owners of inoperative accounts.
• Centralized Portal Launch: RBI developed UDGAM, a web portal to help depositors locate
unclaimed deposits across multiple banks.
ADB commits $2.6 billion in sovereign lending to India
• The Asian Development Bank (ADB) committed $2.6 billion in sovereign lending to India in 2023
for various projects aimed at strengthening urban development, supporting industrial corridors,
and improving connectivity and logistics.
• ADB was founded in 1966.
• Hq: Manila, Philippines.
• Membership: 68 countries.
• Chairman: Masatsugu Asakawa.
• Largest share (by proportion): Japan, USA, China.
Morgan Stanley forecasts 6.8 % growth rate in 2024
• This expectation is driven by robust domestic demand and favorable economic trend.
• It further expects inflation to remain within policymakers' comfort zone, with retail inflation
projected to average 4.5% in the next financial year.
• The firm's forecast is supported by India's recent economic performance, which has seen GDP
growth rates of 7.2% in 2022-23 and 8.7% in 2021-22.
Income Tax department notified cost inflation index for current fiscal
• The newly notified Cost Inflation Index (CII) for the FY 2024-25 at 363, is an increase from the
previous fiscal year's CII of 348, corresponding to an annual inflation rate of 4.3%.
• The CII is a crucial tool used in calculating long-term capital gains arising from the sale of
immovable property, securities, and jewellery.
• It helps adjust the purchase price of assets for inflation.
RBI Gov. Shaktikanta Das launches" PRAVAAH", Retail Direct mobile app.
• The PRAVAAH portal (Platform for Regulatory Application, Validation and AutHorisation) is a
secure, centralized web-based platform designed for individuals and entities to seek
authorizations, licenses, or regulatory approvals from the RBI.
• RBI Retail Direct mobile app for easy retail investment in government securities, and FinTech
Repository for comprehensive fintech data.
RBI imposes monetary penalty on Yes Bank and ICICI Bank.
• RBI has imposed monetary penalties on Yes Bank and ICICI Bank for non-compliance with certain
directions issued by it.
• The penalties imposed on them are ₹91 lakh and ₹1 crore, respectively.
• Yes Bank did not comply with 'Customer Service in Banks', and 'Unauthorized Operation of
internal/Office Accounts'.
• ICICI Bank did not comply with 'Loans and Advances - Statutory and Other Restrictions'.
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China became India's largest trading partner with $118.4 billion.

• China became India's largest trading partner with $118.4 billion in two-way trade, surpassing the
US, whose bilateral trade with India stood at $118.28 billion.
• In 2023-24, the trade deficit rose to:
o With China - $85 billion
o With Russia - $57.2 billion
o With Korea - $14.71 billion
o With Hong Kong - $12.2 billion
• The deficit narrowed with UAE, Saudi Arabia, Russia, and Indonesia.
National Stock Exchange lowers tick size for stocks below Rs 250.
• National Stock Exchange announced a reduction in the minimum price movement (tick size) for
stocks valued below Rs 250 per share.
• Effective from 10 June 2024, the tick size will be reduced from Rs 0.05 (5 paisa) to Rs 0.01 (1 paisa).
• The Bombay Stock Exchange already uses a 1 paisa tick size for stocks below Rs 100.
• SEBI: Madhabi Puri Buch - Chairperson
• Statutory Status: January 30, 1992
Government to get Rs 3,662 crore from LIC as dividend.
• The Government of India will get Rs 3,662 crore as dividend for being Life Insurance Corporation
(LIC) of India’s largest shareholder.
• The government owns 96.5 percent stake in the insurer or 6,10,36,22,781 shares.
• LIC reported a 2.5% year-on-year rise in net profit at Rs 13,762 crore for the March quarter of the
financial year 2023-24.
• LIC: Chairperson: Siddhartha Mohanty
End of Legal Battle: BharatPe and PhonePe: ‘Pe’ Trademark Issue.
• The argument began in August 2018 when PhonePe asked BharatPe to stop using the suffix ‘Pe’
in Devanagari.
• PhonePe filed a case before the Delhi High Court, requesting that BharatPe stop using the suffix
‘Pe’ in English
• The two companies settled the legal dispute and have already taken steps to withdraw all
opposition against each other.
• BharatPe: CEO: Nalin Negi
• PhonePe: CEO: Sameer Nigam
India’s forex reserves hit record high of $648.7 billion
• RBI is the custodian of the Foreign exchange reserves in India.
• India's foreign exchange reserves include foreign currency assets (mainly US Dollar), Gold, Special
Drawing Rights (reserve currency with IMF), and Reserve Tranche Position (reserve capital with
IMF).
• It also includes bonds, Treasury bills, & government securities.
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• Foreign currency is the largest component, followed by gold.

Porter emerged as India's Third Unicorn in 2024
• Porter became India's third unicorn of the year with a valuation of $1 billion after an internal
funding round involving ESOPs.
• The logistics platform, founded in 2014, offers a marketplace for trucks, bikes, and movers, leading
in intra-city and inter-city services.
• Based in Bengaluru, Porter reported over Rs 1,700 crore in FY23 revenue and has raised around
$150 million in total funding.
RBI approves Rs 2.11 lakh cr surplus transfer to Government.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved the transfer of Rs 2,10,874 crore as surplus to the Central
Government for FY 2023-24 during its 608th meeting.
• The Contingent Risk Buffer (CRB) was increased to 6.50% for FY 2023-24, reflecting the strong
and resilient economic conditions.
• RBI transfer to Government:
• Rs 87,416 crore - 2022-23
• Rs 30,307 crore - 2021-22
• Rs 99,122 crore - FY2021
India registers record $778 Billion Export in 2023-24.
• India achieved record exports of USD 778 billion in 2023-24, with services exports rising to USD
341.1 billion and merchandise exports slightly declining to USD 437.1 billion.
• The PLI scheme helped boost exports, attracting investments and integrating India into the global
supply chain.
• The trade deficit improved from USD 121.6 billion in 2022-23 to USD 75.6 billion in 2023-24.
India stock market hits $5 trillion milestone for the first time.
• India’s stock market reached a (Rs 414.75 lakh crore) $5 trillion milestone, becoming the 5th largest
in the world.
• India hit $1 trillion for the first time on 28th May 2007.
• $2 trillion - 16th May 2017.
• $3 trillion - 24th May 2021.
• $4 trillion - 29 November 2023.
• India is expected to become the third-largest economy by 2027, and the market cap is seen as
hitting $10 trillion by 2030
Bank of Maharashtra tops among PSU banks in FY24.
• Bank of Maharashtra recorded the highest growth among PSU banks with a 15.94% increase in
total business and a 15.66% rise in deposits in FY24, surpassing top banks like SBI
• It also topped in low-cost CASA deposits with a 52.73% growth, crucial for reducing fund costs,
and reported the lowest gross NPAs at 1.88%.
• BoM led in capital adequacy ratio at 17.38%, indicating strong financial health
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YES Bank launched YES Grandeur for elite customers

• YES Bank has launched YES Grandeur, a banking program tailored for the emerging affluent
sector.
• The program offers eligibility for customers maintaining an average monthly balance (AMB) of Rs
5 lakh or a net relationship value (NRV) of Rs 20 lakh.
• The program offers personalized banking, travel, lifestyle privileges and benefits.
• Yes Bank CEO: Prashant Kumar.
• Founded in 2004.
• Hq: Mumbai.
Elon Musk launches Starlink service in Indonesia.
• Elon Musk inaugurated Starlink in Denpasar, Bali, aiming to provide reliable internet to Indonesia's
remote areas, benefiting millions in the archipelago.
• Pilot-tested in health facilities, Starlink is set to support 10,000 clinics and will trial services in
Indonesia's new capital, Nusantara.
• Starlink is already available in Southeast Asia Malaysia and the Philippines.
India’s Foreign Exchange Reserves surged to $644.15 billion.
• India’s foreign exchange reserves surged for the second straight week, by USD 2.561 billion to USD
644.151 billion in the week that ended on May 10.
• The nation’s foreign exchange reserves had recently achieved an all-time high of USD 648.562
billion.
• However, in 2024, foreign exchange reserves have cumulatively increased by about USD 23 billion
so far.
• RBI/Governor - ShaktiKant Das.
Tata Motor overtakes TCS as group's most profitable firm after 10 year
• Tata Motors reported a consolidated net profit of ₹17,483 crore for Q4FY24, surpassing TCS'
consolidated net earnings of ₹12,434 crore.
• TCS consolidated adjusted net profit of 46,625 crore in 2023-24 whereas Tata Motors' adjusted
net profit of 32,078 crore.
• Tata Group
• Founded: 1868; 156 years ago
• Founder: Jamsetji Tata
• Headquarters: Bombay House, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
HDFC Bank launched Pixel Play, India’s first Virtual Credit Card
• HDFC Bank has launched a new digital credit card called Pixel Play Credit Card that allows allows
customers to customize benefits to fit their lifestyle and select merchants of their choice to earn
cashback, choose card design, etc.
• It is 100% digital.
• HDFC Bank is an Indian banking & financial services company headquartered in Mumbai.
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• It is India's largest private sector bank by assets.

SBI becomes the first bank as trading, clearing member of IIBX.
• State Bank of India has become the first trading-cum-clearing member of the India International
Bullion Exchange (IIBX) in GIFT City, enhancing its IFSC Banking unit's capabilities in bullion
trading.
• RBI's allowance for IBUs to import gold as special category clients (SCCs) aims at boosting gold
and silver trading volumes on the IIBX platform.
• SBI Chairman - Dinesh Kumar Khara
Thomas Cook launches TCPay for easy international remittances.
• Thomas Cook India introduces TCPay, a digital platform for efficient international money
transfers, complemented by a Video KYC process for seamless, paperless transactions.
• Alongside remittances, Thomas Cook continues to expand its digital and physical footprint in
forex services, serving over 1 million retail customers annually and embracing a digital-first
approach.
India's forex reserves jump by USD 3.66 bn to USD 641.59 bn: RBI
• After 3 weeks of decline, India's forex reserves rebounded, increasing by $3.66 billion to $641.59
billion as of May 3, according to RBI.
• This boost was driven by a $4.459 billion hike in foreign currency assets, though gold reserves saw
a reduction of $653 million.
• The overall kitty dropped USD 2.412 billion to USD 637.922 billion for the previous week.
Setu unveiled Sesame, India's 1st domain-specific LLM for BFSI sector
• Setu, a leading Indian fintech company and part of the Pine Labs Group, unveiled Sesame, India’s
first Large Language Model (LLM) specifically designed for the banking, financial services, and
insurance (BFSI) sector.
• It has been developed with indigenous AI research firm Sarvam AI.
• A LLM is a computational model which can achieve general-purpose language generation and
classification tasks.
RBI asks NBFCs to stick to gold loan cash payment of upto Rs 20,000
• Section 269SS of the Income Tax Act stipulated that an individual cannot accept a deposit or
loan made by another person other than in the specified modes of payment.
• Under the section, the permissible cash limit is Rs 20,000.
• Non Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) provide services like loans, stock acquisition, leasing,
insurance, and chit funds but they aren't classified as banks.
IREDA incorporated its subsidiary in GIFT City, Gujarat
• Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) is is an Indian public sector enterprise
which provides financial assistance to renewable energy projects.
• It is a Non-Banking Financial Institution.
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• Formed in 1987, it is a Mini Ratna (Category-I) organisation owned by the GoI and administratively
controlled by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.
• Chairman & MD: Pradip Kumar Das.
India becomes the 3rd country in the world with 1 million Uber driver.
• India has become the third country, following the US and Brazil, to achieve the milestone of 1
million drivers.
• Uber witnessed a 15% surge in global revenue on 31 March 2024, from the previous year, reaching
$10.13 billion.
• In February 2024, Uber signed a MoU with ONDC to broaden the spectrum of mobility options
available on the Uber app.
• Uber CEO - Dara Khosrowshahi
NPCI released the data for UPI transactions for the April Month.
• Paytm's UPI transactions decline for the third month, with a 9% drop in April, decreasing its
market share within the UPI ecosystem to 8.4%.
• Overall Transaction Numbers:
o PhonePe - 6,500 million - 48.8%
o Google Pay - 5,027.3 million - 37.8%
o Paytm - 1,117.13 million
o Cred - 138.46 million
• Paytm/Founder: Vijay Shekhar Sharma
• Founded: August 2010
India Ratings raised FY25 GDP growth forecast to 7.1% from 6.5%
• India Ratings predicted the same, citing the strong support from sustained government capex
and deleveraged corporate & bank balance sheets.
• The growth outlook has slightly exceeded the RBI's prediction of 7%, following a robust 7.6% GDP
increase in 2023-24, signaling that the economic momentum has continued.
• Gross Value Added is expected to maintain the pace of the previous year at 6.9%.
ICICI Bank introduced UPI for NRIs through international mobile number
• ICICI Bank has enabled NRI customers to use UPI in India with international mobile numbers,
eliminating the need for an Indian number.
• The service available for NRIs in 10 countries via iMobile Pay app, facilitating utility, merchant,
and e-commerce payments.
• It is aimed at enhancing payment convenience for NRIs, previously limited by the requirement for
an Indian mobile number.
India, Ghana agree for launch of UPI on Ghana interbank systems
• India & Ghana aimed to link their payment systems, UPI and Ghana Interbank Payment and
Settlement Systems (GHIPSS), for instant, low-cost transfers, targeting operationalization within 6
months.
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• Discussions on a MoU covering Digital Transformation, Local Currency Settlement, & leveraging
AfCFTA benefits are underway.
• Bilateral trade between India & Ghana grew to USD 2.87 billion in 2022-23.
ICICI market cap tops Rs 8 trillion, become the 2nd bank after HDFC
• ICICI Bank's market capitalization surpassed the 8-trillion mark and into the league of the top 5
companies by market value.
• It has become the 2nd bank to cross this milestone, after HDFC Bank.
• Reliance Industries - the most-valued Indian company - Rs 19.8 trillion.
• Tata Consultancy Services - Rs 14 trillion.
• HDFC Bank - Rs 11.6 trillion
• State Bank of India - Rs 7.4 trillion.
Bajaj Auto to launch world's first CNG-powered bike in June.
• The CNG-powered bike is to be named Bruzer 125 CNG.
• Bajaj Managing Director - Rajiv Bajaj
• Bajaj revealed that the company will start with an initial capacity of 20,000 CNG motorcycles.
• There is no other CNG motorcycle in the world at the moment.
• Bajaj Auto Limited/Founder - Jamnalal Bajaj
• Founded - 29 November 1945
• Headquarters - Pune, Maharashtra
Mining Sector recorded record production in the financial year 2023-24
• The Mineral Production Index for March 2024 was 156.1, which is 1.2% higher than the level for
March 2023.
• Production of Iron ore - 277 MMT - (7.4% increase)
• Production of limestone - 406.5 MMT - (10.7% increase)
• Production of aluminum - 41.59 Lakh Tonn - (2.1% increase)
• Iron ore and limestone together constitute about 80 percent of the total MCDR mineral
production by value.
Vedanta Group plans to invest $20 billion in India in 4 years.
• Vedanta Group, led by Anil Agarwal, plans to invest $20 billion in India over the next four years,
focusing on technology, electronics, and glass businesses, and exploring expansion into the
semiconductor and glass manufacturing sectors.
• The group has expressed readiness to sell its steel business but only at the right price, emphasizing
that the business is profitable with a dedicated team.
OECD forecasts India's GDP growth at 6.6% over next two years
• India's GDP projected to grow by 7.8% in FY 2023-24, but OECD cautions global challenges could
hinder higher growth.
• Public sector demand to drive domestic demand, while private consumption growth expected to
remain sluggish.
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• Exports, particularly in IT and consulting services, to grow supported by foreign investment.

• RBI likely to ease monetary policy in H2 2024.
American Express opened its largest campus worldwide in Gurugram
• American Express inaugurated a massive Gurugram campus, spanning nearly one million square
feet.
• Positioned in sector 74A, it will function as a central hub for the company's operations in India.
• American Express Company is an American bank holding company and multinational financial
services corporation that specializes in payment cards.
• CEO: Stephen Squeri.
Adani Green secures $400 million finance from international banks.
• The consortium of lenders includes Cooperative Rabobank U.A., DBS Bank Ltd, Intesa Sanpaolo
S.p.A., MUFG Bank, Ltd., and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation.
• One of the projects is being developed in Rajasthan with 500 MW capacity with Solar Energy
Corporation of India.
• The second one, with 250 MW capacity, is being implemented at the world’s largest RE cluster in
Khavda, Gujarat.
EZTax introduced India's first AI-Powered Tax Filing App
• EZTax launched India's first AI-enabled mobile app for income tax filing, enhancing user
experience and accuracy.
• The app's AI features include a Creative Audit module to prevent costly errors and a Tax Optimiser
to aid in saving on taxes.
• Targeting the 78% of Indian online consumers using mobiles, EZTax aims to simplify tax filing for
both seasoned and first-time taxpayers.
India cuts windfall tax on petroleum crude
• India has cut its windfall tax on petroleum crude to 8,400 Indian rupees ($100.66) a metric ton
from 9,600 rupees with effect from May 1, the government said.
• Windfall tax is levied on entities that earn disproportionate profits during unexpected market
conditions.
• It is an effective tool for governments to ensure these entities contribute a fair share of their profits
to society.
Global Services Export to reach $800 billion by 2030: Goldman Sachs.
• Goldman Sachs forecasts India's services exports to grow to $800 billion by 2030, strengthening
against supply shocks and reducing rupee volatility.
• India's IT industry revenue surged to $245 billion by FY23, driven by digital services demand, with
employment reaching 5.4 million.
• India’s services exports grew to nearly $340 billion in 2023 at a compound annual growth rate of
11% from 2005.
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GST collection hits record high of Rs 2.10 lakh crore in April 2024.
• This is the highest GST collection recorded since July 2017 of the indirect tax regime.
• The previous highest level registered under GST was Rs 1.87 lakh crore in April 2023
• Indian States GST Revenue in April 2024.
o Maharashtra - 37,671 crore
o Karnataka - 15,978 crore
o Gujarat - 13,301 crore
o Uttar Pradesh - 12,290 crore
o Tamil Nadu - 12,210 crore
o Haryana - 12,168 crore
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Books and Authors Current Affairs

Harinder Sikka released new novel 'Gobind'
• Author of "Calling Sehmat," Harinder Sikka introduced his latest novel "Gobind," exploring human
emotion & resilience.
• Set in Bihar's poverty-stricken backdrop and the valor of the Indian Navy, the narrative revolves
around themes of love, loyalty & redemption.
• Sikka described "Gobind" as a deeply personal literary journey, intertwining elements of love,
selflessness, and determination.
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Defence Current Affairs

Sixth Ammunition Barge LSAM 20 Launched for Indian Navy
• The 6th barge of the 11 x ACTCM Barge Project, named 'Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile
Barge, LSAM 20 (Yard 130)', was launched by MSME shipyard M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd in
Thane for the Indian Navy.
• These barges facilitate the transportation, embarkation, and disembarkation of articles and
ammunition to ships alongside jetties and at outer harbours.
IAF contingent arrived Alaska, USA to participate in Ex. Red Flag 24
• The Red Flag 24 exercise is a significant multi-national aerial combat training exercise involving
the US, UK, and Australia.
• It is conducted annually by the US Air Force with the goal of enhancing interoperability & tactical
capabilities among participating air forces.
• The exercise involves 2 main teams: Blue Forces, which are friendly, and Red Forces, which are
hostile forces.
INS Kiltan visited Brunei, attended RBN Maritime Partnership Exercise
• Indian Naval Ship Kiltan visited Muara, Brunei, as part of Operational Deployment of Indian
Navy’s Eastern Fleet to South China Sea.
• The IN-RBN Maritime Partnership Exercise (MPX) is conducted by the Indian Navy (IN) and the
Royal Brunei Navy (RBN).
• It aims to enhance interoperability between the two navies by conducting complex maneuvers,
communication drills, and coordinated operations.
DRDO successfully tests RudraM-II Missile.
• DRDO successfully flight-tested the RudraM-II air-to-surface missile from a Su-30 MK-I aircraft
off the Odisha coast.
• The missile, equipped with state-of-the-art indigenous technologies, is designed to neutralize
various enemy assets, enhancing the IAF's capabilities.
• DRDO Chairman: Dr. Samir V Kamat.
• DRDO: HQs: New Delhi
• Formed: 1958
Army Chief General Pande accepts IOC's Hydrogen Fuel cell bus.
• The Indian Army received its first Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus from IOCL, highlighting a commitment
to sustainable transport with zero emissions.
• This bus, seating 37 passengers, offers 250-300 km mileage on a full hydrogen tank.
• An MoU was signed for a Green Hydrogen Microgrid Power Plant in Chushul for 24x7 clean energy.
• CDS: General Anil Chauhan
• Chief of the Army Staff: Manoj Pande
Indian Coast Guard hosted Oil Spill Response Drill in West Bengal
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• The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) conducted a Pollution Response Seminar and Mock Drill in Haldia,
West Bengal to enhance oil spill response capabilities.
• Key stakeholders, including oil handling agencies, participated in table-top exercises to
strengthen coordination and practice using advanced pollution response equipment.
• ICG DG: Rakesh Pal
• Formed in 1978.
• Motto: Vayam Rakṣāmaḥ
Indian Navy strengthened ties with Philippines during fleet visit
• Indian Naval Ships Delhi, Shakti, and Kiltan visited Manila, Philippines, enhancing diplomatic and
defense ties under India's Eastern Fleet deployment to the South China Sea.
• Activities included expert exchanges, sports, cultural interactions, and discussions on naval
cooperation.
• The visit underscores India's 'Act East' and SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region)
policies.
Indian Navy Ships arrived in Manila for Maritime Partnership Exercise.
• Indian Navy ships INS Delhi, INS Shakti, and INS Kiltan arrived in Manila to bolster maritime
cooperation and friendship with the Philippines, amidst tensions in the South China Sea.
• The visit includes professional exchanges, sports, and community outreach with the Philippine
Navy, culminating in a Maritime Partnership Exercise.
• Philippines/Prez: Bongbong Marcos.
• Currency: Philippine peso.
Indo-Russian venture delivers 27,000 AK-203 to Indian Army
• The Indian Army received 27,000 AK-203 assault rifles from an Indo-Russian joint venture in UP,
overcoming previous delays.
• Delays were attributed to the war in Ukraine and payment issues, but 8,000 more rifles are
expected to be delivered within 2 weeks.
• The venture has achieved a 25% indigenization level in manufacturing these rifles, marking
progress in self-reliance for defense equipment
India, Australia, Indonesia conducted Maritime Security Workshop
• India, Australia, and Indonesia concluded their second Trilateral Maritime Security Workshop in
Kochi, focusing on enhancing regional security in the Indian Ocean.
• The workshop was held at INS Dronacharya, aimed to address maritime security challenges and
foster collaboration.
• Hosted by Headquarters Southern Naval Command, the event saw participation from naval
delegates of the 3 nations.
Indian Army installed high-altitude tank repair facility in Ladakh
• The Indian Army has established one of the world's highest tank repair facilities in Eastern Ladakh,
near the China border, at altitudes over 14,500 feet.
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• These facilities, located in Nyoma and the DBO Sector, support over 500 tanks and infantry
combat vehicles.
• These new hubs ensure operational readiness of armoured vehicles in extreme conditions, with
temperatures plummeting to - 400.
Ex. Tarkash: Joint counter-terror drills held by NSG, USSOF in Kolkata
• The National Security Guard (NSG) and US Special Operations Forces (SOF) are conducting joint
counter-terror mock drills in Kolkata as part of the annual exercise 'Tarkash'.
• The exercise aims to enhance interoperability, coordination, and bilateral cooperation in urban
counter-terrorism scenarios.
• The previous edition of 'Tarkash' was held in Chennai in January 2023.
Ex-Servicemen Welfare Department organized 'Samadhan Abhiyan'.
• Ex-Servicemen Welfare Department held 'Samadhan Abhiyan' at Bangdoobi Army Camp,
Darjeeling, engaging ex-servicemen to address their query.
• Dr. Niten Chandra emphasized the government's commitment to improving welfare measures
and sought feedback to enhance support mechanisms.
• The initiative aims to honor ex-servicemen's sacrifices, resolve their issues, and foster a supportive
environment.
Indian Air Force tests "BHISHM", a portable hospital for airdrop.
• Indian Air Force tested BHISHM portable cubes for emergency airdrops, part of "Project BHISHM"
aimed at rapid response for up to 200 casualties.
• These cubes are robust, waterproof, and light, designed for various configurations, making them
ideal for diverse emergency scenarios.
• The whole unit contains 72 transportable components that can be conveniently carried by hand,
cycle, or even drone
Mumbai Shipyard launched Midget Submarine & Solar Electric Hybrid Boat
• The Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd. has successfully completed the platform design and hull of
the midget submarine named ‘Arowana’ that was launched by Shri Giridhar Aramane.
• A Solar Electric Hybrid boat with top speed of 11 Knots and a 24-passenger Fuel Cell Electric Ferry
named ‘Suchi’ have also been commissioned.
• To commemorate 250 years of MDL’s existence, a coin has been issued by RBI.
'Operation Sadbhavana': Army’s Support For North Sikkim’s Communities.
• The Indian Army's Trishakti Corps under Operation Sadbhavana provided essential aid and
healthcare to North Sikkim’s Naga and Rangrang villages post-GLOF.
• Over 150 villagers received medical attention, and youths participated in educational sessions
linked to the Agniveer Scheme for empowerment.
• These actions showcase the Army's dedication to community development and maintaining
strong ties
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Sela Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh recognised as India's highest tunnel.

• The Sela Tunnel, constructed by BRO India, has been officially recognized as the highest tunnel
in the country by the International Book of Honour, England.
• The 2.598 Km long tunnel is situated at an altitude of 13000 ft on the Tezpur-Tawang Road.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Sela Tunnel, the world's longest twin-lane tunnel,
in Arunachal Pradesh on March 9.
Central govt notifies Inter-Services Organisations Act.
• The Inter-Services Organizations (Command, Control, and Discipline) Act has officially come into
force as of May 10 announced by the Defence Ministry.
• It will enhance coordination and efficiency across the Army, Air Force, and Navy.
• The Act grants significant authority to Commanders-in-Chief and Officers-in-Command of Inter-
Services Organisations (ISOs).
• Defence Minister: Rajnath Singh
India-France held 7th edition of Exercise 'Shakti'
• The 7th Joint Military Exercise 'Shakti' was held between Indian Army & French Army in Umroi,
Meghalaya.
• It aims to enhance joint capability for Multi-Domain Operations in Sub Conventional scenarios.
• It focuses on boosting interoperability, bonhomie, & camaraderie between the armed forces of
both nations.
• The 6th edition of Ex Shakti 2021 occurred at Military School of Draguignan, France.
Bengaluru firm develops All-Terrain Vehicles with Military Potential.
• All Terrain Private Limited (A-THON) launched the “ASHVA” range of two-seater ATVs and the
“ARAV” four-seater variant for Military Purposes.
• The primary launch target is the Indian agricultural sector.
• Currently, the Indian Army and Air Force depend on imported ATVs to fulfill their operational
needs.
• ATVs can effectively transport troops and supplies in challenging environments.
Indian Air Force & Navy inducted Rampage missiles
• The IAF and Indian Navy has inducted the Rampage long-range supersonic air-to-ground missiles
which can hit targets at around 250 Km.
• The missile is known as the High-Speed Low Drag-Mark 2 missile in the IAF.
• IAF has iintegrated this missile in Su-30 MKI, Jaguar, MiG-29 fighters.
• Indian Navy has inducted it in MiG-29K.
• This missile has been developed by Israeli military industries.
Keltron bagged order worth ₹160 crore from Indian Navy
• Kerala State Electronics Development Corporation Limited (Keltron) Group of companies has got
projects worth around ₹160 crore from the Indian Navy.
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• The Indian Navy’s Advanced Torpedo Decoy System (ATDS) has been manufactured by Keltron.
• Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has placed an order with Keltron for delivering 11 underwater
arrays at an estimated cost of ₹4.50 crore per array.
Indian Army launched 1 MW Solar Plant in Sigar, Arunachal Pradesh
• The Indian Army’s Spear Corps has unveiled a cutting-edge 1 MW solar power plant in Sigar,
situated in the East Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh.
• The inauguration ceremony marked a pivotal moment in the region’s journey towards renewable
energy adoption.
• Chief of Defence Staff: General Anil Chauhan
• Chief of Army Staff: General Manoj Pande
• Motto: Sevā Paramo Dharmaḥ (Service Before Self)
Kadet Defence launches India's first "LAM Systems".
• Kadet Defence Systems (KDS), in collaboration with DRDO, has developed India's first indigenous
Loitering Aerial Munitions (LAM).
• The LAM, featuring technologies like CALM and Combat UAVs, promises enhanced operational
efficacy across diverse terrains, with a commitment to indigenous production citing over 90%
local component sourcing.
• Avdhesh Khaitan: CEO of Kadet Defence Systems
IAF, Army to jointly deploy Predator drones in Gorakhpur, Sarsawa base
• India to deploy MQ-9B Predator drones at Sarsawa and Gorakhpur airbases, enhancing
surveillance along the Line of Actual Control with China.
• The $4 billion deal involves 31 drones, led by the Indian Navy, with the drones shared between the
Navy, Army, and Air Force for comprehensive coverage.
• The Predator drones are expected to enhance India's ability to conduct unmanned surveillance.
Indian Army eyes enhanced realism with OPFOR Unit
• The Indian Army is in the process of establishing a new unit called OPFOR, or “opposing forces,”
aimed at simulating adversarial roles during military exercises and wargame training.
• The proposed OPFOR unit will be formed from existing military units and will mirror the weapons,
operating methods, and tactics of potential adversaries.
Kharga Corps of Army and Air Force completed Joint Exercise in Punjab.
• Indian Army's Kharga Corps under the aegis of Army's Western Command, and IAF conducted a
3-day joint exercise named Gagan Strike-II in Punjab.
• The exercise aimed to enhance synergy between the army and air force, practicing attacks in
dense air defence situations.
• The Gagan Strike-II exercise incorporated Apache, ALH-WSI helicopters, and Unarmed Aerial
Vehicles.
IAF conducted 'Bambi Bucket' Operation to douse Nainital forest fire
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• The Indian Air Force had deployed its Mi-17 V5 helicopter to undertake Bambi Bucket operations
to douse the forest fires near Nainital.
• Bambi bucket is a specialised apparatus designed for aerial firefighting purposes and was
introduced in 1983.
• It was invented by a Canadian man, Don Arney.
• It allows the helicopters to transport volumes of water underneath the aircraft and disperse it.
India’s first indigenous bomber UAV unveiled in Bengaluru.
• Flying Wedge Defence and Aerospace Technologies launched FWD-200B in Bengaluru, marking
India's entry into indigenous UAV manufacturing.
• This medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) drone is designed for both surveillance and
precision strikes, boasting a 100 kg payload.
• It reduces dependency on costly imports of UAVs with a 12-20 hour endurance, 370 kmph speed,
and 200 km station range.
Keel laying for the first Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel.
• The keel laying ceremony for the first Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (NGOPV) took place
on May 03, 2024, at Goa Shipyard Ltd.
• The Indian MoD contracted with GSL and GRSE for 11 NGOPVs to enhance the Indian Navy's
ability in Anti-Piracy, Coast Defence, SAR, and protecting offshore assets, reinforcing India’s
sovereignty in the Indian Ocean Region.
India and Israel conducted joint security drill in Delhi.
• India and Israel's security forces held a joint security drill in New Delhi amidst security concerns
due to the Israel-Hamas conflict
• The drill, signaling a strong India-Israel strategic partnership, focused on readiness against
terrorist threats.
• The Delhi Police, NSG, and local services such as the fire department and traffic police joined the
security drill
• Israeli Ambassador: Naor Gilon
DRDO's 'SMART' System successfully flight-tested off the Odisha coast.
• DRDO successfully flight-tested the Supersonic Missile-Assisted Release of Torpedo, enhancing
the Indian Navy's capabilities.
• SMART, a canister-based missile system, incorporates advanced technologies like two-stage solid
propulsion and precision navigation, carrying lightweight torpedoes.
• The missile was launched from the ground mobile launcher.
• Chairman DRDO - Dr Samir V Kamat
Netherlands & Indian Navy engaged in Maritime Partnership Exercise
• The Royal Netherlands Navy Ship HNLMS Tromp conducted a Maritime Partnership Exercise with
INS Trishul, involving tactical maneuvers, helicopter operations etc.
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• Rear Adm Harold Liebregs visited Mumbai, engaging in discussions on operational and technical
matters with Western Naval Command.
• The exercise enhanced naval cooperation, sharing operational insights between the two navies.
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Government Schemes and Policies Current Affairs

Government raises Retirement & Death Gratuity Limits to Rs 25 Lakh.
• The maximum limit for Retirement Gratuity and Death Gratuity is increased by 25%, from Rs 20
lakh to Rs 25 lakh, effective January 1, 2024.
• The Central government increased the dearness allowance (DA) and dearness relief (DR) by 4%
in March 2024.
• Gratuity is a defined benefit plan given by the employer to the employee for rendering services
continuously for five years or more.
Govt’s launches "NHCX Portal" for Faster Health Claims
• National Health Claim Exchange is a digital health claims platform developed by the National
Health Authority to ensure the faster processing of health insurance claims.
• The claim exchange has been developed as part of Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission.
• IRDAI is a statutory body that licenses the insurance industries.
• Chairperson: Debasish Panda
• Founded: 1999
• HQs: Hyderabad
India's farm input subsidies spike to $48.13 billion in 2022-23.
• WTO members, including the US and UK, expressed concerns about India's $48 billion farm input
subsidies for 2022-23, citing transparency issues.
• India attributed the increase to inflation and rising fertilizer costs, emphasizing compliance with
WTO rules
• Input subsidies under Article 6.2 of the Agreement on Agriculture allow developing countries more
flexibility in providing domestic support
CCRAS launched PRAGATI-2024 initiative for Ayurveda advancement
• The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), an autonomous body under the
Ministry of Ayush hosted the ""Pharma Research in AyurGyan And Techno Innovation" (PRAGATI-
2024) in New Delhi to boost Ayurveda research and industry collaboration.
• The initiative aims to connect researchers with industry partners for the development of safe,
effective Ayurvedic drugs and devices.
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Days and Events Current Affairs

World Milk Day: 1st June
• World Milk Day is an international day established by the Food and Agriculture Organization.
• It has been observed on June 1 each year since 2001.
• India is the world's top producer of milk.
• UP (15.72%), Rajasthan (14.44 %), MP (8.73 %), Gujarat (7.49 %), and Andhra Pradesh (6.70 %)
• Over the last 9 years, or between 2014–15 and 2022–23, India's milk output has increased by 58%.
UN’s celebrates 1st-Ever International Day of Potato on 30 May 2024.
• On 8th December 2023, the UN General Assembly adopted the resolution proclaiming 30th May
as the International Day of Potato.
• Theme: “Harvesting diversity, feeding hope”.
• Earlier 2008 celebrates as the International Year of the Potato.
• The potato originated in the South American Andes region.
• FAO celebrated the 1st International Day of Potato in Brussels, Belgium, co-hosted by Peru.
Anti-Tobacco Day: 31st May
• The Member States of the World Health Organization created World No Tobacco Day in 1987 to
draw global attention to the tobacco epidemic and the preventable death and disease it causes.
• In 1988, Resolution WHA42.19 was passed, calling for the celebration of World No Tobacco Day,
every year on 31 May.
• Tobacco cultivation in India was introduced by the Portuguese in 1605.
Goa Statehood Day: 30th May
• Goa used to be a Portuguese colony for over 450 years.
• In the year of 1961, Goa was liberated by India.
• Goa was given the status of a union territory along with Daman and Diu in 1987.
• Later in 1987, Goa was given the status of a state – Goa became the 25th state of the Indian union
that year.
• Panaji was the capital of the state and Konkani was announced to be the official language of
Goa.
Hindi Journalism Day: 30th May
• Udant Martand was the first Hindi newspaper to be published in India.
• Udant Martand was published in Calcutta.
• The date of publication was May 30, 1826. Hindi Journalism has existed in the country for about
198 years.
• On May 30, 2024, Hindi Journalism Day will be observed to honour the contribution of Hindi
journalism and the journalists
International Day of UN Peacekeepers 2024: 29th May
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• Since 1948, more than two million peacekeepers have served in 71 missions, helping countries
navigate the difficult path from war to peace.
• Currently, more than 76,000 peacekeepers from more than 120 countries are deployed in 11 global
operations.
• The day honors the establishment of the UN's first peacekeeping mission, UNTSO, which was
deployed in 1948.
• UN: Headquarters: New York
World Hunger Day: 28th May
• Theme – "Thriving Mothers".
• Economist Amartya Sen did research and successfully demonstrated that hunger in the modern
world is in fact because of the distribution problem and is also caused by government policies.
• Amartya Sen received the Nobel Prize in 1998.
• The day aims to create awareness about the struggles faced by millions of people who do not
have access to proper nutrition.
Chemicals in Medicines (Drugs):
• Antacid (Sodium Bicarbonate, Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide): neutralizes excess
acid in stomach.
• Tranquilizers (Equanil): Used to reduce stress, anxiety, hypertension.
• Analgesics (Aspirin, Morphin): To relief from pain
• Antipyretics (Paracetamol, Analgin): Reduces body temperature.
• Anti-microbial Antibiotics (Penicillin, Ofloxacin, erythromycin); Antiseptics (Soframycin, Dettol).
Intl. Week of Solidarity with People of Non-Self-Governing Territories
• International Week of Solidarity with the Peoples of Non-Self-Governing Territories is being
commemorated from 25 to 31 May.
• Theme: "Non-Self-Governing Territories: A Sacred Trust."
• A Non-Self-Governing Territory is defined as a territory whose people have not attained a full
measure of self-government.
• From 1960-2002, 54 territories gained self-government; 17 remain non-self-governing.
International Day of the Markhor: 24th May
• The markhor is found across the mountainous regions of Central and South Asia, including
Afghanistan, India, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.
• Scientific name: Capra falconeri.
• It is listed on the IUCN Red List as "Near Threatened" since 2015.
• The markhor is the national animal of Pakistan.
• On May 2, 2024, the UNGA declared May 24 the International Day of the Markhor.
World Schizophrenia Day 2024: May 24th
• The theme for 2024 is "Celebrating the Power of Community Kindness."
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• The day is observed annually on May 24th, in honour of Dr Philippe Pinel, a French physician who
is considered a pioneer in the humane treatment of psychiatric patients.
• Schizophrenia is a chronic, severe mental disorder that is caused by a chemical imbalance in brain
which cause hallucinations, unusual body movements, etc.
Africa Day: 25th May
• Africa Day is the annual commemoration of the foundation of the Organization of African Unity
on 25 May 1963.
• The First Congress of Independent African States was held in Accra, Ghana on 15 April 1958.
• It was convened by the Prime Minister of Ghana, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.
• African Union's make 2024 the "Year of Education".
2586th birth anniversary of Gautama Buddha: 23rd May
• Buddha Purnima is also known as Buddha Jayanti, Vesak, Vaishaka, and Buddha's Birthday.
• It celebrates the life and teachings of Gautama Buddha, marking his birth anniversary and the
day of attaining enlightenment (nirvana).
• Buddha, who was born in Lumbini, Nepal around 563 BC, attained enlightenment under a Bodhi
tree in Bodh Gaya, Bihar.
• Buddha died at the age of 80 at Kushinagar, UP
World Turtle Day: 23rd May
• World Turtle Day is celebrated annually on May 23 to raise awareness about the conservation of
turtles and tortoises.
• Initiated by American Tortoise Rescue in 2000, the day aims to educate people on the differences
between turtles and tortoises and their ecological importance.
• Celebrate by adopting turtles or tortoises, donating to conservation efforts, or volunteering at
rescue centers.
International Day for Biological Diversity: 22nd May
• The International Day for Biological Diversity was established by the Second Committee of the
UN General Assembly in 1993.
• The International Day for Biological Diversity is aligned with the UN Post-2015 Development
Agenda's Sustainable Development Goals, addressing a broad range of global issues.
• May 22 to commemorate the adoption of the Convention at the Rio de Janeiro Earth Summit in
1992
FIFA Foundation Day: 21st May
• Fédération Internationale de Football Association, a.k.a. FIFA, was founded on 21st May, 1904 in
Paris.
• It is an international self-regulatory governing body of football.
• Headquartered in Zürich, Switzerland, its membership now comprises 211 national associations.
• Secretary General: Mattias Grafstrom.
• President: Gianni Infantino.
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• First president: Robert Guérin.

International Tea Day: 21st May
• International Tea Day is annually coordinated by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of
the UN
• It became an official international celebration in 2019 after the UN General Assembly accepted a
resolution establishing May 21st as International Tea Day.
• Tea, which is believed to have originated in Myanmar and China, is considered to be the world’s
most consumed liquid drink after water.
National Anti-Terrorism Day: 21st May
• National Anti-Terrorism Day is celebrated in India to commemorate the death anniversary of
former Indian PM Rajiv Gandhi.
• Rajiv Gandhi, the sixth PM of India was assassinated on May 21, 1991.
• It encourages people to choose peace and maintain unity and harmony.
• The day serves as a reminder to stay united in the attempts to free our society from the evils of
terrorism.
Birth Anniversary of Neelam Sanjiva Reddy: 6th President of India.
• Neelam Sanjiva Reddy was born on 19th May 1913 in Illur village, Madras Presidency.
• He was the first chief minister of Andhra Pradesh in 1956.
• On 17 March 1967, Reddy was elected Speaker of the Fourth Lok Sabha.
• In the presidential election of 1977, Reddy was elected unopposed, the only President to be elected
in this way.
• He died of pneumonia in Bangalore in 1996 at the age of 83.
World Telecommunication and Information Society Day: 17 May
• May 17 marks the anniversary of the signing of the first International Telegraph Convention and
the creation of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
• This day has been celebrated annually since 1969.
• National Telecommunications Institute for Policy Research, Innovation and Training (NTIPRIT),
Ghaziabad conducted workshop on “Global Standards & IPR” on this day.
World AIDS Vaccine Day 2024: 18th May
• Approximately 38.4 million people globally have HIV, with two-thirds in the WHO African Region.
• About 1 in 7 worldwide are infected, which implies 37.9 million people.
• This day was first observed in 1998.
• Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), a retrovirus, attacks the immune system, leading to
Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), a condition where the immune system is severely
damaged.
International Museum Day 2024: 18th May
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• International Museum Day, celebrates museums as key educators and preservers of culture and
history.
• The 2024 theme, "Museums for Education and Research," highlights their role in providing
comprehensive educational experiences.
• Originating in 1977, the event now sees participation from over 35,000 museums in 140 countries,
emphasizing global cultural exchange and awareness.
World Hypertension Day 2024: 17th May
• Theme: 'Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer.’
• More than 294 million people are living with hypertension in South-East Asia Region.
• High intake of salt, tobacco and alcohol use, unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, stress, and air
pollution are key risk factors for the rising prevalence for hypertension.
• This day was initiated by World Hypertension League in 2005
National Endangered Species Day: 17th May
• In the year 2006, David Robinson and the Endangered Species Coalition established National
Endangered Species Day.
• The theme for this year's National Endangered Species Day is - Celebrate Saving Species.
• This day is a call for action to reduce the reckless human actions that harm species.
• According to the IUCN, 40% of animals, insects, and plants on this planet are at risk of extinction.
World Telecommunication Day: 17th May
• In the year 1865, the International Telecommunication Union was founded, when the first Indian
Telegraph Convention was signed.
• In 2005, the World Summit on the Information Society asked the United Nations to declare May
17 as World Telecommunication Day.
• Digital technologies can help achieve 70% of the targets under the UN Sustainable Development
Goals by 2030.
International Day of Light: 16th May
• In the year 1960, Physicist Theodore Maiman conducted the 1st successful operation of the laser.
• In 2015, the United Nations observed the International Day of Light to raise awareness about light
science and light-based technologies and applications.
• Following this, in 2016, UNESCO adopted a resolution to celebrate it every year.
• The 1st International Day of Light was observed in 2018.
National Dengue Day: 16th May
• Dengue fever is a viral disease that spreads through the bite of an infected mosquito.
• It is caused by the dengue virus (DENV).
• It is endemic to more than 100 countries in the world.
• Dengue is caused by four distinct viruses and is spread by the female Aedes mosquitoes, which
also transmit yellow fever, Zika viruses, and chikungunya.
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International Families Day: 15th May

• In 1983, the Economic and Social Council and the Commission for Social Development
recommended that the United Nations focus on family issues.
• The UN recognized that changing economic and social structures were affecting family units
worldwide.
• Therefore, in 1993, it officially declared May 15th as the International Day of Families.
International Nurses Day: 12th May
• The International Council of Nurses (ICN) has celebrated this day since 1965.
• It is an international day observed around the world on 12 May because of the birth anniversary
of Florence Nightingale.
• This day serves as an important opportunity to recognise and pay tribute to the invaluable work
and contributions of nurses worldwide.
United Nations proclaimed May 25 as World Football Day.
• UN General Assembly proclaims May 25 as World Football Day, marking the sport's global impact
and its centennial celebration since the first international football tournament at the 1924 Paris
Olympics.
• Libya's U.N. Ambassador, Taher El-Sonni, introduced the resolution in the Assembly.
• FIFA/Founded: 21 May 1904
• Founded: Paris
• Headquarters: Zurich, Switzerland
• President: Gianni Infantino
World Migratory Bird Day 2024 :11th May
• In 2024, World Migratory Bird Day will be celebrated on two days, 11 May and 12 October, aligning
with the cyclic nature of bird migration in different hemispheres.
• World Migratory Bird Day campaign in 2024 will focus on the importance of insects for migratory
birds, and highlight concerns related to decreasing populations of insects.
National Technology Day: 11th May
• In 1998, the Indian Army conducted 5 nuclear bomb tests in Pokhran in Rajasthan under the
leadership of then PM Atal Bihari Bajpayee and Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam.
• After that India was announced as the 6th nuclear country in the world.
• Bajpayee announced that May 11 will be National Technology Day yearly.
• This day observe the country's innovative step in the field of technology.
International Day of Argania: 10 May
• The argan tree (Argania spinosa) is a native species of the sub-Saharan region of Morocco, in the
southwest of the country, which grows in arid and semiarid areas.
• It’s the defining species of a woodland ecosystem, also known as Arganeraie, which is rich in
endemic flora.
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• It is resilient to a harsh environment under water scarcity, risk of erosion and poor soils.
World Lupus Day: 10th May
• Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease, which causes inflammation and pain in the joints, muscles,
skin, and many organs of the body.
• This day is celebrated to raise awareness towards people suffering from Lupus.
• Almost 5 million people worldwide suffer from Lupus, with 1.5 million of them living in the United
States alone.
• Lupus Day was established by Lupus Canada in 2004.
Thalassaemia
• A genetic blood disorder.
• Features: Faulty hemoglobin production, excessive red blood cell destruction.
• Symptoms: Fatigue, weakness, pale or yellow skin.
• Types: Alpha and Beta Thalassemia.
• Concerns: Can lead to severe anemia, requiring regular blood transfusions.
• Management: Blood transfusions, iron chelation, possible bone marrow transplant.
👉 Click Here 👈 To Attempt the Live Test
• Maharana Pratap was a Hindu Rajput King of Mewar, Rajasthan.
• He belonged to the Sisodiya clan of Rajputs.
• Maharana Pratap was born on May 9, 1540.
• He is famously known for his Battle of Haldighati in 1576 where he fought against Mughal forces
led by Man Singh I of Amber.
• Chetak, Maharana Pratap's legendary horse, is renowned for its loyalty and valour.
World Red Cross Day: 8th May
• Theme for 2024: I give with joy, and the joy I give is a reward.”
• World Red Cross Day originates from the events following World War I, where the Red Cross
made significant contributions to fostering peace.
• The proposal led to the annual celebration of Henry Dunant’s birth anniversary on May 8th to
recognise the dedication and courage of Red Cross volunteers and staff.
Border Roads Organisation celebrated its 65th Raising Day
• The BRO is set to commence construction on the Shinkun La Tunnel, which will be the world's
highest tunnel once completed.
• The celebration event highlighted the BRO's successful operations in challenging terrains and
weather conditions, including its contributions to relief efforts during natural disasters.
• It is a statutory body under the Ministry of Defence.
• Founded: 7 May 1960.
World Athletics Day: 7th May
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• The International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) was founded in Stockholm, Sweden
on July 17, 1912.
• The first World Athletics Day was celebrated on May 15, 1996, with participation from 50 countries.
• Late Primo Nebiolo, the then-president of the International Association of Athletics Federations
started the celebrations of the special day.
World Asthma Day: 7th May
• World Asthma Day is organized by the Global Initiative for Asthma, (GINA), a World Health
Organization collaborative organization founded in 1993.
• Theme 2024 - “Asthma Education Empowers”.
• The first World Asthma Day was observed in the year 1998.
• The day aims to bring together doctors, patients, and organizations to work together to empower
people with Asthma.
International No Diet Day: 6th May
• International No Diet Day was first observed in the United Kingdom.
• The first No Diet Day was held on 5 May 1992.
• It is an annual celebration dedicated to the importance of body acceptance, diversity, and respect
for all body shapes and sizes.
• In 1992, Mary Evans started International No Diet Day to teach people the importance of body
positivity.
Coal Miners Day: 4th May
• Coal Miner's Day started in 1952 when the Mines Act was passed.
• This law aimed to help coal miners by giving them medical care, safety rules, and rescue places.
• Later, in 1974, the Coal Mines Act was made to save coal and keep miners safe.
• The first coal mine in India was opened in 1774 by John Summer and Suetonius Grant Heatly.
• It was by the Damodar River in the Raniganj Coalfield.
International Firefighter’s Day: 4th May
• The history of IFFD can be traced back to a tragic incident in Australia.
• On December 2nd, 1998, five firefighters lost their lives while battling a fierce wildfire in Linton,
Victoria.
• International Firefighters' Day is a day of remembrance and gratitude for the brave men and
women who selflessly put their lives on the line to protect communities around the world.
World Press Freedom Day: 3rd May
• After the recommendation of UNESCO's General Conference in 1991, the United Nations General
Assembly in 1993 established Press Freedom Day to be observed every year on May 3.
• The first Press Freedom Day was observed in 1994.
• The day is established to ensure freedom of the press and also to remember and honor the
journalists who lost their lives in the line of duty.
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Pronunciation: in-kahr-suh-RAY-shuhn
• Synonyms: Confinement, Detention
• Antonyms: Release, Freedom
• Mnemonics: Think of "Incarceration" as "In car (are) - caged - nations." Imagine people being
trapped or caged inside cars, symbolizing being confined or imprisoned.
• Example: He faced two years of incarceration for robbery. (उसे डकैती के लिए दो साि की कैद का
सामना करना पडा।)
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International Current Affairs

Trump Convicted of Felony: Historic First for a Former US President.
• Donald Trump becomes the 1st former US president convicted of a felony, with a New York jury
finding him guilty on 34 counts of falsifying business records.
• The charges relate to a USD 130,000 hush payment to adult film star Stormy Daniels before the
2016 election.
• The unanimous verdict from 12 Manhattan jurors followed approximately a day-and-a-half of
deliberations.
Russia to remove Taliban from its list of banned terror groups.
• Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov announced that Russia is removing the Taliban from the
country’s list of terrorist organizations.
• The Taliban emerged in September 1994 as one of the prominent factions in the Afghan Civil War.
• Founders: Mohammed Omar, Abdul Ghani Baradar
• Headquarters: Kandahar
• Kazakhstan removes Taliban from list of terrorist organizations in Dec 2023.
China's 'One Person, One File': Blueprint for Digital Totalitarianism.
• OPOF program will significantly increase facial recognition cameras and compile detailed
personal data files on every resident.
• The system uses AI to preemptively identify "threats," often misinterpreting benign behavior as
subversive.
• OPOF exacerbates privacy violations and digital discrimination, evidenced by its enforcement of
Uyghurs and religious groups under ideological pretexts.
English translations will be required for visitor visa in New Zealand.
• From 2024, New Zealand requires all guest visa application documents to be in English or
accompanied by certified translations.
• Key documents include proof of funds, travel itineraries, employment verification, and non-ID
identification like the Chinese Hukou.
• Translations must be done by reputable services or qualified individuals not involved with the
applicant, ensuring high accuracy.
New volcanic eruption near Iceland’s town of Grindavik.
• Near Grindavik, on Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula, a volcano erupted for the fifth time since
December, spewing lava and smoke on May 29, 2024.
• The Blue Lagoon, a popular geothermal spa, was evacuated as a precaution.
• The eruption followed intense earthquake activity, with about 400 earthquakes recorded the
previous week and significant magma accumulation under the Svartsengi area.
Sweden's Historic Military Aid Package to Ukraine.
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• Sweden commits $1.25 billion in military assistance to Ukraine, including ASC 890 surveillance
aircraft.
• Ukrainian President Zelensky expressed gratitude, highlighting the significant boost to Ukraine's
air defense capabilities.
• North Atlantic Treaty Organization:
• Founded: 4 April 1949
• Founders: United States, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Canada, MORE
• HQs: Brussels, Belgium
Ram-Sita Marriage Hall will be developed as a Destination Wedding Hub
• The Nepal government has announced a major initiative to develop the Ram-Sita Marriage Hall
(also known as Ram Sita Vivah Mandap) in Janakpur as a destination wedding hub.
• This historic site marks the location where Lord Ram and Goddess Sita were married, according
to Hindu mythology.
• With this, the Nepal government aims to promote tourism and showcase the city's rich cultural
heritage.
Philippines’ lower house passes the historic "Divorce Bill".
• The Philippines' House of Representatives has passed a divorce bill championed by
Representative Edcel Lagman, aiming to provide legal freedom for those in abusive or
dysfunctional marriages.
• The proposed bill allows for "absolute divorce" citing reasons like mental incapacity and abuse,
includes a mandatory 60-day "cooling-off" period, and aims to finalize proceedings within a year.
6 NATO countries are planning to build a 'drone wall' against Russia.
• Six NATO countries are joining forces to create a "drone wall" to defend themselves against
Russia.
• Finland, Norway, Poland, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania convened to discuss a coordinated system
to help defend against Russian provocations and smuggling attempts.
• NATO: Founded: 4 April 1949
• Headquarters: Brussels, Belgium
• Members: 32 member states—30 European and 2 North American
Spain To Give Ukraine 1 Billion Euros Worth Of Military Aid
• Spain has pledged to provide military support to Ukraine worth 1 billion euros ($1.08 billion) this
year under an agreement.
• Ukrainian President: Volodymyr Zelenskiy
• Spanish Prime Minister: Pedro Sanchez
• Spain would commit to sending Ukraine a dozen U.S.-made Patriot anti-aircraft missiles, 19
second-hand German-made Leopard 2A4 tanks, as well as other Spanish-made weapons.
Purnima Shrestha becomes 1st woman to climb Everest thrice in 13 Day
• Nepalese climber Purnima Shrestha has climbed Mount Everest today three times this season.
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• Purnima, who works as a photojournalist, climbed it on May 12, May 19 and on May 25.
• She’s previously climbed 8 other 8,000-metre peaks, including:
o K2 (8,611 m), Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Makalu (8,481 m), Manaslu (8,163 m),
Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) and Annapurna I (8,091 m).
WHO launches new ‘Investment Round’ aiming to raise USD 7 Bn
• WHO is initiating an ‘Investment Round’ to raise $7 billion over four years to address global
challenges like climate change, displacement, poverty, and inequality.
• This initiative follows recommendations from the WHO Working Group on Sustainable Financing
and was approved in January 2024.
• WHO Chief: Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
• Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
France successfully tests ASMPA-R Nuclear Cruise Missile.
• France successfully tested the ASMPA-R nuclear air-launched cruise missile during "Operation
Durandal".
• The ASMPA-R was launched without its military payload from a Rafale B.
• The ASMP, originally developed in 1986, had a range between 80 and 300 km, and used the TN
81 warhead of variable yield, between 100 and 300 kilotons of TNT.
• France: President: Emmanuel Macron
• PM: Gabriel Attal
Nepal celebrates 17th Republic Day: 28th May
• Nepal was declared a Federal Republic Democratic state on May 28, 2008.
• In 2008, Nepal’s Parliament, through a historic declaration, abolished the 240-year-old monarchy
after the successful conclusion of the People’s Movement II.
• Nepal is celebrating Republic Day anniversary with festivities extended over 3 days.
• President : Ramchandra Paudel
• Prime Minister: Pushpakamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’
WHO organises ‘Walk The Talk’ Yoga Session event.
• For the upcoming International Yoga Day, Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations in
Geneva and World Health Organization (WHO) organized a ‘Walk the Talk’ Yoga session at Place
des Nations.
• Union Health Secretary - Apurva Chandra
• Director General of WHO - Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
• Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
China launches AI Model based on Xi Jinping's Philosophy.
• China has developed a large language model (LLM) based on President Xi Jinping’s political
philosophy, emphasizing it as a "secure and reliable" alternative to platforms like ChatGPT.
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• The AI system incorporates "Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a
New Era" and is designed to handle tasks such as answering questions and translating languages.
Israel War Cabinet sets new guidelines for Hostage Talks.
• Negotiation Continuation: Israel's war cabinet has directed Mossad Chief David Barnea and Shin
Bet Director Ronen Bar to continue indirect negotiations with Hamas for the return of hostages.
• The decision followed the release of footage by hostage families, showing the abduction of five
female soldiers from Nahal Oz base on October 7.
• There are still at least 128 hostages in Hamas custody.
UK blood scandal killed 3,000 people and infected 30,000.
• The UK received a long-awaited final report on the infected blood scandal.
• The incident took place in in 1948, resulted in the deaths of over 3,000 people and the infection
of 30,000 others with HIV and hepatitis.
• The inquiry revealed negligence by the UK government, despite warnings about the risks of
contaminated blood products.
• The report follows nearly six years of investigation.
Norway, Ireland, Spain Recognize Palestine as a State.
• Norway, Ireland, and Spain announced formal recognition of Palestine as a state, effective May
28, aiming to support a two-state solution for lasting Middle East peace.
• Ireland’s Simon Harris and Spain’s Pedro Sánchez coordinated the move, emphasizing its historic
significance and intention to facilitate the resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Pakistani climber Sirbaz Khan conquers Mount Everest without Oxygen.
• Sirbaz Khan, a notable mountaineer, scaled Mount Everest without supplementary oxygen,
making him only the 2nd Pakistani to achieve this feat.
• Khan aims to be the 1st Pakistani to climb all 14 peaks above 8,000 meters, having already
climbed 13, two with oxygen support.
• He began his mountaineering career in 2016 and has since become a pioneering figure in Pakistani
high-altitude climbing.
ICC arrest warrant: Can Israeli PM Netanyahu actually be arrested?
• International Criminal Court issued warrants against Netanyahu, Yoav Gallant, and Hamas
leaders for crimes against Gaza and Israel.
• Hamas killed 1200 people in Israel, and over 35,000 people have been killed during Israel's attacks
in Gaza.
• The warrants mean that they would become wanted in 124 countries.
• Once the court passes a verdict, they can be sentenced to up to 30 years in prison.
European Union gives final nod to the first worldwide rules on AI.
• The EU member states have given their final approval to the bloc's artificial intelligence (AI) act.
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• The AI Act has adopted a risk-based approach, subjecting higher-risk AI applications to stricter
regulation.
• The Act bans AI systems involved in cognitive behavioral manipulation and social scoring within
the EU.
• EU Founders: Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg.
Saudi Arabia's first-ever swimsuit fashion show at Fashion Week.
• Saudi Arabia's inaugural swimsuit fashion show, featuring Moroccan designer Yasmina Qanzal,
marked a historic step towards modernization in a traditionally conservative society.
• The event aligns with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 reform plan, showcasing
efforts to liberalize the kingdom's image while fostering its fashion and tourism sectors.
US carries out Subcritical Nuclear test in Nevada
• The US conducted its third subcritical nuclear test under President Biden's tenure in Nevada to
gather crucial data on nuclear warheads.
• Aimed at ensuring safety and efficiency, these tests avoid nuclear explosions, adhering to the 1992
moratorium.
• This latest subcritical test, following one in September 2021, underscores ongoing efforts to
validate the arsenal without breaching test bans.
UAE launched 10-year Blue Residency visa
• The UAE has introduced a new 10-year Blue Residency visa for individuals who have made
outstanding contributions to environmental protection, whether on land or in marine
environments.
• Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, PM and Ruler of Dubai, launched it.
• In 2019, the UAE launched Golden Visas for diverse talents.
• By 2022, Green Visas were introduced for skilled workers, lasting 5 years.
Venezuela became the first country in the world to lose all glaciers
• By 2011, five of Venezuela's glaciers had vanished, leaving only the Humboldt glacier, also known
as La Corona, struggling for survival in the Sierra Nevada National Park. Yet, even this frozen
landmark has diminished.
• Venezuela is a country on the northern coast of South America.
• Capital: Caracas
• Currency: Venezuelan bolívar
• President: Nicolás Maduro
• Continent: South America
Japan, US sign agreement to develop hypersonic missile interceptor.
• Japan and the US have signed a contract to develop interceptors for hypersonic missiles by the
2030s, with the project costing over $3 billion.
• Japan allocated 75 billion yen ($480 million) from its 2024 budget towards the development of
missile interceptors
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• Hypersonic missiles travel over 5 times the speed of sound

• Aims to strengthen capabilities amidst tensions with China and North Korea.
Pakistan conducts successful training launch of Fatah-II rocket system
• Pakistan executed a training launch of the Fatah-II guided multi-launch rocket system, capable
of striking targets up to 400 km away with high precision.
• Fatah-II, equipped with advanced navigation, unique trajectory, and maneuverability features, is
designed to defeat missile defense systems and is being inducted into Pakistan's Artillery
Divisions.
• Prez - Asif Zardari, PM - Shehbaz Sharif
Indonesia’s Mount Ibu erupts
• Mount Ibu in North Maluku, Indonesia, erupted, sending ash 16,400 feet high.
• Volcanic alert level raised to 3; 13000 residents living within danger zone.
• Officials warned of further eruptions; no evacuation order yet.
• Indonesia, an archipelago of 270 million people, has 120 active volcanoes.
• Located along Ring of Fire
• Capital: Jakarta
• Official language: Indonesian
• President: Joko Widodo
Nepal’s ‘Everest Man’ beats own record by climbing summit for 29 times
• Kami Rita Sherpa, a renowned Nepali mountaineer, successfully summits Mount Everest for the
29th time, surpassing his world record.
• He has scaled the 8,849-meter (29,032-foot) peak almost every year since his first successful
ascent in 1994.
• Mount Everest is Earth's highest (8,849 m) mountain above sea level.
• First ascenders: Edmund Hillary, Tenzing Norgay
Dubai has launched a new long-term ‘Dubai Gaming Visa’ for creators.
• This visa initiative is part of the Dubai Program for Gaming 2033, designed to propel Dubai into
the top 10 global gaming cities and enhance its digital economy.
• Aimed at increasing Dubai's GDP by approximately AED 3.6 billion ($1 billion) by 2033.
• It also aims to make Dubai a gaming hub by attracting 30,000 game developers by 2033.
• Dubai Crown: Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
European Union adopts first law to combat violence against women.
• EU adopted the 1st law to tackle violence against women, which includes action against forced
marriages, female genital mutilation, and online harassment.
• These crimes will be punishable by prison sentences ranging from at least 1 to 5 years.
• With the approval of the bloc’s 27 nations, it became a law.
• It allows for harsher punishment if the victim is a child, spouse, or ex-spouse.
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Russia announced Tactical Nuclear Weapons exercise amid tensions

• Russia conducted its first public tactical nuclear drills, highlighting combat readiness of non-
strategic nuclear forces.
• Drills serve as a warning to Ukraine's allies against deeper involvement in the ongoing conflict,
amid NATO-Russia war concerns.
• Tactical nukes, including air bombs and short-range missile warheads, are less powerful than
ICBM warheads but intended for battlefield use.
Nepal's population witnesses lowest growth rate in 8 decades.
• Nepal's population growth rate stood at 0.92% per annum in the past decade, the lowest in the
last 8 decades.
• According to the NSO report, Nepal's population is around 29.2 million.
• The national average life expectancy - 71.3 years.
o Female life expectancy - 73.8 years
o Male life expectancy - 68.2 years
• Nepal has been conducting the national census since 1911 every 10 years.
EU announced $1 billion aid to Lebanon amid Economic Crisis.
• EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced a $1 billion aid package for Lebanon,
intended to boost the country's socio-economic stability until 2027.
• Lebanon grappling with a severe financial crisis and near seven-month-long border clashes
between Hezbollah and Israel.
• Lebanon/Capital - Beirut
• Prime Minister - Najib Mikati
Democratic Republic of Congo battles growing mpox outbreak
• A high-level emergency regional meeting was held in Kinshasa, DRC, regarding mpox outbreak
in Africa.
• Concerns raised over novel Clade I MPXV lineage and lack of access to vaccines or treatments,
highlighting disparities in healthcare access.
• The Democratic Republic of the Congo is a country in Central Africa, the second-largest country
in Africa.
• Capital: Kinshasa.
Zimbabwe released its new currency
• The highest denomination of the new currency, known as "Zimbabwe Gold" or "ZiG", will be the
200 ZiG note, valued at approximately $15.
• Individuals will be permitted to withdraw up to ZiG 3,000 per week, while companies can withdraw
up to ZiG 30,000.
• This move to introduce a new currency comes as the country grapples with escalating inflation.
• Zimbawe capital: Harare.
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Afghanistan received USD 84 Million humanitarian aid from World Bank

• Afghanistan received $84 mn from the World Bank for humanitarian aid amid crisis, targeting
economic stabilization, women's support, climate change.
• Funds to aid livelihood projects, vulnerable groups, migrant reintegration, enhancing rural and
urban community services and institutions.
• It started in 2022 with an initial $265 mn grant from the Afghanistan Reconstruction Trust Fund
(ARTF).
US newspapers sued OpenAI, Microsoft over AI chatbots
• Eight US newspapers sued OpenAI and Microsoft over copyright infringement for training
ChatGPT and Copilot.
• Alden Global Capital-owned newspapers, including The New York Daily News and The Chicago
Tribune, demand compensation.
• Lawsuit claims illegal use of millions of articles to develop AI technologies, seeking reparation for
unauthorized commercialization.
China’s advanced 3rd aircraft carrier "Fujian" begun sea trials
• The Type 003 Fujian, China's 3rd carrier and 1st CATOBAR ship, launched on June 17, 2022,
showcases indigenous design and tech, featuring 3 electromagnetic catapults.
• Built by Jiangnan Shipyard, Fujian represents a significant leap in PLAN capabilities with its
integrated propulsion system.
• Displacement weight: 80,000 tons.
• The ship is named after the Fujian province of China.
In a first, U.K. sent asylum seeker to Rwanda
• The man was relocated under a scheme that pays migrants £3,000 to leave the U.K.
• This new agreement is part of an existing government policy, where asylum seekers are offered
financial assistance to leave Britain for their home country, but under this plan people will get the
money if they agree to live in Rwanda.
• Rwanda is a Central-African country.
• Capital: Kigali.
• President: Paul Kagame
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MoU and Agreements Current Affairs

IIT Kanpur establishes DRDO-Industry-Academia Centre of Excellence.
• This initiative aims to foster interdisciplinary research in advanced defense technologies, involving
collaboration between academia, industry, and the DRDO.
• The establishment of DIA CoE at IIT Kanpur started in 2022 through a Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) signed during Def-Expo-2022 at Gandhinagar.
• Dr Samir V Kamat - Chairman, DRDO
• Professor Manindra Agarwal - Director, IIT Kanpur
AFMS and IIT Hyderabad collaborate on Medical Innovations.
• AFMS and IIT Hyderabad signed an MoU to collaborate on developing medical devices and
addressing specific health issues of soldiers
• The collaboration includes innovations in drone-based patient transport, telemedicine, AI
applications, and nanotechnology
• The partnership will also facilitate student exchanges, short-term courses, and faculty exchanges
to enhance medical research and training.
TCS & IIT-Bombay to build India's 1st Quantum Diamond Microchip Imager
• Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay (IIT-Bombay) to
develop India's first Quantum Diamond Microchip Imager.
• This advanced sensing tool aims to unlock new levels of precision in the examination of
semiconductor chips, reduce chip failures, and improve the energy efficiency of electronic devices.
• The project aligns with the National Quantum Mission.
MEA, MeitY, and CSC partnered to Enhance eMigrate Services.
• Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Electronics and IT, and CSC e-Governance Services signed
an MoU to provide eMigrate services via Common Services Centres.
• The MOU aims to assist blue-collar workers by facilitating registration, document processing, and
booking of required services, promoting safe and legal migration.
• More than 5.50 lakh CSCs will offer these services nationwide.
NSDC and ILO Partner for "Skill Development and Lifelong Learning".
• NSDC and ILO have signed an MoU to advance skill development and lifelong learning in India.
• The collaboration will implement Skill India, digital transformation, and facilitate public-private
partnerships to enhance skill delivery and job matching.
• This partnership aims to align Indian skills with global standards, enhance employability, and
support sustainable economic growth
TCS signs deal with Kuwait’s Burgan Bank.
• TCS has signed a deal with Kuwait’s Burgan Bank to modernize its core banking technology using
the TCS BaNCS suite.
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• The TCS BaNCS solution aims to manage higher transaction volumes, boost automation, and
improve staff productivity, serving corporate, retail, and private banking segments.
• Burgan Bank is one of the newest commercial banks in Kuwait.
Tata Motors and Bajaj Finance launched EV Dealer Financing
• Tata Motors collaborated with Bajaj Finance to offer finance solutions to its passenger and
electric vehicle dealers, enhancing access to working capital.
• The MoU between Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility, and Bajaj
Finance aims to facilitate dealer funding with minimal collateral.
• It aims to capitalize on expanding market for passenger and electric vehicles.
DAHD and UNDP signed MoU for Vaccination Digitalization.
• The Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying signed an MoU with UNDP India to digitalize
vaccine cold chain management, enhancing real-time monitoring and addressing supply
inequities.
• The partnership will employ advanced technology, including AI, through the Animal Vaccine
Intelligence Network to ensure vaccines remain within the optimal temperature range of 2-8°C.
Airbus, SIDBI signed MoU for helicopter financing in India
• Airbus Helicopters and SIDBI have signed an MoU to finance the purchase of Airbus helicopters
in India.
• They have identified potential civil helicopter operators in India interested in financing solutions
for Airbus helicopters.
• This partnership has marked SIDBI's entry into helicopter financing, expected to open new
avenues for financing MSMEs in this sector.
Swiggy partners with "SHIELD" for enhanced fraud prevention.
• Swiggy collaborates with SHIELD to bolster its fraud prevention capabilities using SHIELD’s
device-first risk AI platform.
• The partnership aims to minimize promo abuse and fraudulent activities within Swiggy’s Delivery
Partner ecosystem.
• Enhanced fraud detection allows Swiggy to concentrate resources on genuine users, improving
overall platform integrity.
Garuda Aerospace and GSFC University forged strategic MoU
• Garuda Aerospace and Gujarat State Fertilisers and Chemicals (GSFC) University have signed an
MoU to boost aerospace research and educational excellence.
• The partnership aims to combine expertise to advance new technologies and enhance practical
learning experiences.
• The collaboration will bridge the gap between academia and industry, fostering innovation and
research in aerospace.
FICCI, IESA signed contract to foster innovation in semiconductor.
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• The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry and the India Electronics and
Semiconductor Association signed an MoU to foster innovation and support the semiconductor
and electronics industry.
• The MoU aims to create a joint task force, organize technology consultative roundtables, and
encourage business partnerships to strengthen supply chains and new investments in the sectors.
MSDE partnered with Mahindra for Drone Didi Yojana
• The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship has signed an MoU with Mahindra &
Mahindra Ltd for two pilot projects under the Drone Didi Yojana, aiming to train 15,000 women in
drone operations for agriculture.
• The partnership will see the National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) providing infrastructure while
Mahindra will contribute equipment, software, and operational funding.
Coca-Cola India partnered with Hockey India, for Women's Hockey League
• Coca-Cola India's Anandana Foundation partners with Hockey India for the National Women's
Hockey League 2024, marking its 1st involvement in women's hockey at the national level.
• The partnership, aligned with Coke's #SheTheDifference campaign.
• The 1st Phase of the tournament commenced on 30th April and will conclude on 9th May 2024, in
Ranchi, Jharkhand.
• Hockey India President: Dilip Tirkey
DRDO hands over nine defence tech projects to IIT-Bhubaneswar.
• Nine projects sanctioned from the electronics and communication systems (ECS), cluster of DRDO,
were handed over to IIT-Bhubaneswar.
• The collaboration of IIT-Bhubaneswar and DRDO will contribute to emerging research and
development.
• Seven more projects are in the process of being sanctioned from ECS with a funding of Rs 18
crore.
• Director general of ECS - Binay K Das
TPAG and CII launched initiative on Thalassemia awareness
• On World Thalassemia Day, Thalassemia Patients Advocacy Group collaborated with the
Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), launching Safe Blood Campaign and organizing voluntary
blood donation camps for thalassemia patients in India.
• It advocated for nationwide implementation of Nucleic Acid Testing (NAT) to ensure the safety of
blood transfusions, crucial for thalassemia patients.
NTPC and MAHAPREIT signed pact for renewable energy boost
• NTPC Green Energy Limited and MAHAPREIT signed an MoU for developing renewable energy
projects up to 10 GW in Maharashtra, aiming to advance NTPC's renewable portfolio.
• MAHAPREIT is a wholly owned subsidiary company of Mahatma Phule Backward Class
Development Corporation (MPBCDC), a State Public Sector undertaking under Govt. of
Maharashtra.
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• NTPC Green Energy Limited CEO: Rajiv Gupta.

Indian Coast Guard inks MoU with Jindal Steel for Marine Grade Steel.
• The MoU was signed for the supply of indigenous marine-grade steel to enhance the indigenous
content in shipbuilding.
• The MoU was signed by the Deputy Director General (Materiel & Maintenance), ICG IG HK Sharma,
and Chief Marketing Officer, JSP Shri SK Pradhan.
• Indian Coast Guard was formally established on 18 August 1978.
• Director General: Rakesh Pal
• Coast Guard Day: 1 February
CAG Murmu, Nepal's Auditor General sign MoU for auditing collaboration
• Comptroller and Auditor General of India Girish Chandra Murmu and Auditor General of Nepal
Toyam Raya signed a MoU to enhance auditing collaboration.
• The agreement aims to promote the exchange of expertise, capacity development, and mutual
assistance in audits.
• The signing ceremony marks a milestone in fostering closer ties and reaffirms shared values
between the two institutions.
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National Current Affairs

World’s highest booth Tashigang gets model polling station tag.
• The world’s highest polling station in Tashigang, located in the Spiti Valley at an altitude of 15,256
ft has been declared a model polling station.
• There are a total of 62 voters in Tashigang — 37 men and 25 women.
• This polling station was set up for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, when 100% of polling was
recorded.
• There are a total of 8,514 voters in Spiti — 4,366 men and 4,148 women.
India’s Power Sector sets record Demand Milestones of 250 GW.
• Achieved a record 250 GW on 30th May; non-solar demand hit 234.3 GW on 29th May, driven by
weather and increased consumption.
• Northern region's demand peaked at 86.7 GW; Western region at 74.8 GW; all-India thermal
generation reached 176 GW.
• Maximization of imported coal and gas-based plants under Section-11, alongside solar and wind
energy contributions, was crucial in meeting demands.
Sanjay Kumar inaugurates "Summer Fiesta 2024" in New Delhi.
• Shri Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of the Department of School Education & Literacy, Ministry of
Education, inaugurated the month-long "Summer Fiesta 2024" at the National Bal Bhavan, New
Delhi.
• Running from May 29 to June 28, Summer Fiesta offers over 30 activities, including Creative and
Performing Arts, Science, Odissi, Yoga, Calligraphy, Music recitals, and Games, aimed at children
aged 5 to 16
Jagdeep Dhankhar inaugurates Centre For Carbon Fiber And Prepregs.
• The Vice President, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar Laying foundation stone of Centre for Carbon Fiber
and Prepregs (CCFP) at National Aerospace Limited, in Bengaluru.
• He saw the flying display of the Hansa NG, the indigenous flying trainer, and SARAS multipurpose
aircraft designed and developed by NAL.
• National Aerospace is India's first and largest aerospace research company.
• Estab: 1 June 1959
UAPA tribunal upheld ban on Manipur extremist groups
• UAPA tribunal reaffirmed the ban on seven Meitei extremist organizations in Manipur, citing
involvement in 335 violent incidents over five years.
• These groups, which advocate for Manipur’s secession, operate from camps in Myanmar and
Bangladesh and are linked to NSCN.
• Manipur continues to face significant unrest with recent ethnic violence leading to over 50,000
displacements.
Ayush and AIIA drive insurance integration in healthcare
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• The Ministry of Ayush and All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) hosted a sensitization program in
New Delhi to bridge Ayush healthcare providers and the insurance sector.
• The event underscores commitments to make healthcare more accessible, affordable, and
quality-driven through collaborative efforts.
• Minister of Ayush: Shri Sarbananda Sonowal.
WCD ministry 'officially' dissolves Food and Nutrition Board
• A board responsible for providing technical & logistical support for functioning of community
nutrition programs has been "officially dissolved" as part of rationalisation of government bodies.
• The Food and Nutrition Board has been shut down by the Women and Child Development (WCD)
Ministry.
• It was a technical wing of the ministry, headquartered in Delhi.
• Minister of WCD: Smriti Zubin Irani
Wheat procurement crossed last year’s total procurement figure
• Major contribution in the procurement came from five procuring states: Punjab, Haryana, Madhya
Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh.
• Wheat is a Rabi Crop.
• It thrives in cool, moist weather for growth, followed by warm, dry conditions for ripening.
• Optimal germination occurs at 20-25°C but can range from 5 to 35°C.
• Ideal soils for wheat are clay loam or loam with moderate water capacity.
DD Kisan will launch two AI anchors AI Krish and AI Bhoomi
• DD Kisan introduced AI anchors, AI Krish and AI Bhoomi, set to launch on 26th May 2024,
presenting news 24/7 in 50 languages.
• The revamped channel will feature these AI-driven newsreaders, delivering agricultural and
governmental updates nationwide.
• These AI anchors aim to enhance the dissemination of vital agricultural trends, research, and
weather changes across India.
BRO builds road in Kargil with REJUPAVE road construction technology
• BRO's Project Vijayak in Kargil successfully utilized the REJUPAVE technology for road
construction in Drass, among the world's coldest regions.
• REJUPAVE, developed by CSIR-CRRI, enhances bituminous road durability and reduces heat
requirements, lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
• This innovation allows construction at extreme altitudes, improving road lifespan & environmental
sustainability.
India launched "Mission ISHAN" for ‘One Nation, One Airspace’.
• India’s Mission ISHAN aims to centralize air traffic management by unifying four flight information
regions (FIRs) into one, controlled from Nagpur.
• The unified system is expected to reduce congestion, lower travel times, save fuel, and decrease
the carbon footprint.
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• It will also increase the efficiency and safety of air traffic management across the nation.
Kaamya Karthikeyan became youngest Indian to summit Mt Everest at 16
• Kaamya Karthikeyan, aged 16, became the youngest Indian to summit Mt. Everest from Nepal.
• She is a student at Navy Children School in Mumbai and the daughter of naval officer Cdr S
Karthikeyan.
• Both Kaamya and her father reached the summit on May 20, as confirmed by the Indian Navy.
• Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay were the first to climb the Mount Everest on May 29, 1953.
Ilaiyaraaja and IIT Madras establish Music Research Centre.
• Ilaiyaraaja and Tripura Governor Indirasena Reddy Nallu laid the foundation stone of the
Ilaiyaraaja Centre for Music Learning and Research at IIT Madras.
• Ilaiyaraaja hopes the center will help people pursue their passion for music using advanced
technologies like AI.
• Meanwhile, Ilaiyaraaja has been in the news for his fight regarding copyrights.
• IIT-M director V Kamakoti.
IAF Emergency Medical Response System inauguarated in Bengaluru
• Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari inaugurated the Indian Air Force Emergency Medical Response
System (EMRS) at Command Hospital, Bengaluru, providing 24x7 medical helpline for IAF
personnel and dependents.
• The EMRS helpline offers rapid medical evacuation and care, ensuring quick response from
nearby medical facilities.
• Motto of IAF: "Touch The Sky With Glory."
Southern sates in India will conduct Joint Elephant Census.
• A synchronized elephant census will be conducted from May 23-25 in the border areas of
Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh.
• The census aims to understand conflict areas and enhance inter-state coordination for future
planning and policy-making.
• Since 1986, the Asian elephant has been listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
Ministry of DoNER launched Swachhata Pakhwada
• The Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) launched Swachhata Pakhwada
at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.
• Activities include community awareness, waste management, and regular cleanliness inspections
to promote Swachh Bharat Mission goals.
• Secretary MDoNER led the Swachhata Pledge and emphasized sustainable cleanliness initiatives,
urging staff participation all year round.
Plastic Free River Campaign to launch on June 5 on river Ganga banks
• This campaign is targeting Ganga and its tributaries across 7 states.
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• Jointly orchestrated by Wildlife Institute of India, National Clean Ganga Mission and Social
Development for Communities Foundation, it focuses on educating locals about impacts of plastic
on river biodiversity & human health.
• Collected plastic will be processed into biofuel and tiles at a specialized facility in Dehradun.
IndiaSkills 2024: India’s biggest Skill Competition in New Delhi.
• Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary of the Ministry of Skill Development, inaugurated IndiaSkills 2024 in
New Delhi, celebrating skill, innovation, and determination with over 900 participants from across
the country.
• The event, held at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka, featured participation from over 30 states and UT, with
competitions spanning 61 skills from traditional crafts to cutting-edge technologies.
"Nayara Energy" to invest Rs 600 crore in two Ethanol Plants.
• Nayara Energy to set up ethanol manufacturing plants in Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh,
aligning with the government's target of 20% ethanol blending by FY26.
• Each plant will have a production capacity of 200 kiloliters per day (KLPD) which will be expanded
up to approximately 1,000 KLPD shortly.
• The company also aims to expand its retail fuel stations by 50% by 2030
Over 300 people became Indian citizens under CAA
• Union Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla awarded citizenship certificates to over 300 individuals
under Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), 2019.
• The ceremony in Delhi highlighted successful applicants, hinting at a broader distribution across
India.
• The CAA has reduced the naturalization period of application from 11 to 5 years for non-Muslim
migrants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, & Pakistan.
Central Govt. to complete GIS mapping of entire highway network.
• The main objective of this standard operating procedure (SOP) is to streamline GIS-based data
collection for all National Highways in India under the MoRTH.
• Bhaskaracharya National Institute for Space Applications and Geo-informatics in Gandhinagar
has done the GIS mapping for large portions of NHs.
• GIS provides agencies with the tools for building resilient infrastructure for the future
Government will spend ₹2 crore per km of roads along China border
• In the last five months, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has approved 113 roads in Arunachal
Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Sikkim.
• There is a need to connect around 168 villages along the China.
• Vibrant Village Program: Centrally sponsored scheme to boost security grid on the LAC.
• It will cover the border areas of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim and
Ladakh.
DoT, MHA and State Police join hands to combat cyber fraudsters.
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• Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), and State Police have
joined hands to curb the misuse of telecom resources in cybercrime and financial fraud.
• This collaborative effort aims to dismantle networks of fraudsters and protect citizens from digital
threats.
• Analysis has revealed that 28,200 mobile handsets were misused in cybercrimes.
The DNA study of 4,600-year-old woman found from Rakhigarhi.
• DNA analysis of a woman from Rakhigarhi, Haryana, suggests a mix of ancient Iranian and
Southeast Asian hunter-gatherer ancestry, with no evidence of Steppe Pastoral gene.
• This finding reignites debates around 'The Aryan Question', challenging the traditional theories
on the origins of the Harappan and Vedic cultures.
• 56 skeletons were recovered from Mound 7 of the excavation site.
Krishikalpa launched India's First FPO Accelerator Program
• A non-profit organization, Krishikalpa has introduced India's pioneer accelerator program for
Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) in Bengaluru with NABARD's financial backing.
• The program aims to evolve FPOs into sustainable businesses by enhancing market connections,
entrepreneurial skills, supply chain management, and providing market-orientation training.
Department of Pharmaceuticals launches the 'Meditech Stackathon 2024'.
• Department of Pharmaceuticals in collaboration with CII in New Delhi launches the initiative.
• It aims to address critical challenges, foster domestic manufacturing, and reduce import
dependence.
• India's MedTech industry is supposed to grow at a rate of 28% annually, reaching a size of $50
billion by 2030.
• Currently, India is the 4th largest market for medical devices in Asia.
Ajrakh from Kutch received Geographical Indication tag
• The Office of the Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trademarks (CGPDTM) has
bestowed the Geographical Indication (GI) certificate upon the traditional artisans of 'Kutch
Ajrakh,' hailing from the vibrant region of Kutch in Gujarat.
• Ajrakh, a time-honored textile craft, holds deep roots in the cultural tapestry of Gujarat,
particularly in the regions of Sindh, Barmer, and Kutch.
Number of Telecom Subscribers in the country increased to 119.9 Crore.
• The number of telephone subscribers in India has increased from 1,19.77 crore at the end of
February 2024 to 1,19.93 crore at the end of March 2024 which is a 0.13% increase.
• The number of broadband customers has increased to 92.4 crore in March.
• Customer Added:
o Reliance Jio - 21.4 lakh
o Bharti Airtel - 17.5 lakh
• Customer Lost:
o Vodafone-Idea - 6.8 lakh
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o BSNL - 23.5 lakh

23 countries arrive to watch the world’s largest elections unfold.
• The Election Commission of India is hosting the International Election Visitors’ Programme during
the Lok Sabha Elections 2024.
• Delegates will observe electoral preparedness and polling processes in six states from May 4th to
May 9th, 2024.
• Some countries namely: Mongolia, Russia, Australia, Maldives, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal,
Israel, Bhutan, Fiji, Madagascar, Tunisia, and Seychelles.
Centre will train state police forces on new criminal laws
• The Union Government has implemented intensive training strategy for police & prison
department personnel nationwide.
• The training aims to familiarize personnel with new criminal laws, transitioning from colonial
legacies to modern justice system.
• Three new pieces of legislation are: Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha
Sanhita 2023, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam 2023.
SC reserved 33% seats for women in bar association committee
• Supreme Court mandated one-third of executive committee posts in Supreme Court Bar
Association (SCBA) to be reserved for women lawyers.
• Direction ensures at least three out of nine seats and two out of six senior executive members are
reserved for women.
• Additionally, one office-bearer post and the treasurer position for 2024-2025 term to be
exclusively reserved for women on rotation basis.
First true copy of Ravi Varma’s ‘Indulekha’ unveiled
• The first true copy of the painting Indulekha by legendary artist Raja Ravi Varma was unveiled at
the Kilimanoor Palace, where the eminent artist was born in 1848, on the occasion of his 176th
birth anniversary.
• The unreleased painting of Indulekha, the protagonist of the first modern novel in Malayalam
literature by O. Chandu Menon published in 1889, emerged in the public domain in 2022.
Indian Army and Punit Balan group developed Constitution Park in Pune.
• The park was inaugurated by GOC-in-C, Southern Command, Lt Gen Ajai Kumar Singh.
• The inauguration ceremony was attended by Punit Balan, President of Punit Balan Group.
• It is a tribute to the Constitution of India, the foundation of the nation.
• The newly inaugurated Samvidhan Udyan in Pune boasts upgraded landscaping and greenery,
offering a tranquil and visually appealing ambiance.
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Appointments Current Affairs

Anant Yardi took over as the CEO of WeWork.
• Yardi ranks among the wealthiest in the software industry.
• Yardi moved to the United States in 1968 and founded Yardi Systems in 1984, a company
specializing in property management software.
• Today, Yardi Systems generates nearly $3 billion in annual revenue.
• Yardi invested over $200 million in WeWork less than two years ago and recently an additional
$337.5 million.
Muthoot Pappachan names Shah Rukh Khan as brand ambassador.
• Muthoot Pappachan Group, a 137-year-old business conglomerate in India, popularly known as
Muthoot Blue, has announced the appointment of Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan as its
brand ambassador.
• Mr. Thomas John Muthoot - Chairman of the Muthoot Pappachan Group.
• Founded in 1887, MPG has diversified into sectors including Financial Services, Hospitality,
Automotive, IT Services and more.
Emmanuelle Soubeyran elected as DG of Organisation for Animal Health.
• During its 91st General Session, the World Organisation for Animal Health elects its new Director
General, Dr Emmanuelle Soubeyran, for a 5-year mandate (2024-2029).
• She becomes WOAH’s 8th Director General.
• World Organisation for Animal Health:
o Headquarters: Paris, France
o Founded: 1924
o Founder: Emmanuel Leclainche
o The newest Member State - Saint Lucia
P Santhosh appointed as MD & CEO of NARCL
• P Santhosh, former Chief GM at Canara Bank, has been appointed as the MD & CEO of the
National Asset Reconstruction Company Limited (NARCL).
• He succeeded Natarajan Sundar.
• The NARCL is a strategic initiative to clean up legacy stressed assets in the Indian banking system.
• It is empowered by Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of
Security Interest Act, 2002
Apurva Chandra appointed Chairperson of the 77th World Health Assembly
• Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra has been appointed as the Chairperson of Committee
A at the 77th World Health Assembly in Geneva.
• This Committee will facilitate discussions on various program-related themes covering universal
health coverage, public health emergency preparedness and response, antimicrobial resistance,
climate change, sustainable financing for WHO, etc.
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Sony appoints Gaurav Banerjee as new India CEO.

• Japan's Sony has appointed a Walt Disney executive, Gaurav Banerjee, as its new India chief
executive.
• Sony runs 26 channels in India, from general entertainment to sports and movies, and also a
streaming service.
• This year, it scrapped a planned merger with India's Zee Entertainment that would have created
a $10-billion enterprise.
• Founders: Akio Morita, Masaru Ibuka
• HQs: Tokyo
DRDO chief Samir V Kamat gets one-year extension.
• The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved an extension in service of Kamat as
secretary, DDR&D, and chairman, DRDO for one year from June 1, 2024, till May 31, 2025, or until
further orders.
• Samir Kamat was, on August 25, 2022, appointed as secretary of the Department of Defence
Research and Development (DDR&D) and the DRDO chairman.
• Headquarters: New Delhi
• Formed: 1958
China's Hua Chunying appointed as Vice Foreign Minister.
• China's outspoken and longstanding Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying has been
appointed as the Vice Foreign Minister.
• The 54-year-old Hua Chunying will be the youngest among the current lot of five Vice Foreign
Ministers and the only woman official of the Ministry.
• Capital: Beijing
• Premier: Li Qiang
• President: Xi Jinping
• Official languages: Mandarin, Uyghur
Gitanas Nauseda re-elected as Lithuanian president
• Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda has won re-election, securing about 75% of the vote
against PM Ingrida Simonyte.
• This marks the second presidential victory over Simonyte, having previously defeated her in 2019
with 66% of the votes.
• Lithuania is a country in the Baltic region of Europe.
• It borders Latvia, Belarus, Poland, Russia & Sweden.
• Capital: Vilnius.
• PM: Ingrida Šimonytė.
Vice Admiral Gurcharan Singh takes Command of NDA
• Vice Admiral Gurcharan Singh assumed the appointment of Commandant, National Defence
Academy from Vice Admiral Ajay Kocchar in Pune
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• An alumnus of the National Defence Academy (Khadakwasla), he was commissioned into the
Indian Navy on 1st July 1990.
• As a specialist in Gunnery and Missiles, he has served onboard Indian Naval Ships Ranjit and
Prahar.
Jetha Ahir appointed as new chairman of NAFED
• Shehra BJP MLA Jetha Ahir, who has served as the deputy speaker of the Gujarat Assembly, has
been elected uncontested as the chairman of the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing
Federation of India (NAFED).
• It is an apex organization of marketing cooperatives for agricultural produce in India,
• Founded on the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi on October 2, 1958.
• Chairman: Bijender Singh.
Justice Najmi Waziri will head the Equestrian Federation of India
• The Delhi High Court has appointed an ad-hoc administrative committee, headed by retired
judge Najmi Waziri, to oversee the operations of Equestrian Federation of India due to allegations
of "impropriety" in its management.
• The committee includes former CEC SY Quraishi & advocate Rohini Musa as members.
• The Equestrian Federation of India is the governing body for equestrian sports in India.
Allamaye Halina appointed as new Prime Minister of Chad
• President Idriss Deby has appointed Chad’s former ambassador, Allamaye Halina as the new PM
of the Republic of Chad.
• The opposition leader & former PM Succes Masra announced his resignation.
• Chad is a landlockked African country, bordered by Libya, Sudan, Central African Republic,
Cameroon, Nigeria and Niger.
• Capital: N'Djamena.
• Currency: Central African CFA franc.
NP Singh to step down as MD & CEO of Sony Pictures Networks Ltd.
• NP Singh announced his decision to step down as MD and CEO of Sony Pictures Networks India
after a 25-year tenure; he will focus on social change and advisory roles.
• Singh, who joined Sony in 1999 as CFO and became CEO in 2014, emphasized his commitment to
a smooth transition and continued success for the company.
• Headquarters: Minato City, Tokyo, Japan
• CEO: Kenichiro Yoshida
Centre appoints Acting Chief Justices for Madhya Pradesh, Madras HCs.
• Justice R. Mahadevan appointed as Acting Chief Justice of Madras High Court effective May 24,
2024, following Justice V. Gangapurwala's retirement.
• Justice Sheel Nagu appointed as Acting Chief Justice of Madhya Pradesh High Court on May 25,
2024, succeeding Justice Ravi Kumar Malimath.
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• Both appointments were notified by the Ministry of Law and Justice under Article 223 of the
Constitution.
Klaus Schwab to step down from WEF Executive Role by 2025.
• Klaus Schwab, founder and executive chairman of the World Economic Forum (WEF), will
transition to a non-executive role as Chairman of the Board of Trustees by January 2025.
• The World Economic Forum (WEF) is an independent international organization committed to
improving the state of the world.
• President: Børge Brende
• Headquarters: Cologny, Switzerland
• Founded: 24 January 1971
YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki stepped down after nine years
• Susan Wojcicki announced departure as YouTube CEO to focus on personal projects, with Neal
Mohan set to succeed her.
• Wojcicki will assist in the transition and will take on an advisory role across Google and Alphabet,
leveraging her 25 years of experience.
• She started Google's journey as its first marketing manager, growing alongside founders in her
Silicon Valley garage in 1998.
Indian-American Jaya Badiga appointed Judge in Sacramento County.
• Jaya Badiga, an Indian-American attorney and certified family law specialist, has been appointed
as a Judge in the Sacramento County Superior Court by California Governor Gavin Newsom.
• Before this appointment, Badiga has served as a Commissioner at the Sacramento County
Superior Court since 2022, proving her capability in the judicial system.
• She was born in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh.
GoI appointed Ramesh Babu V as CERC member
• Shri Ramesh Babu V. has been appointed as a member of the Central Electricity Regulatory
Commission (CERC).
• He was administered the oath by Union Minister for Power, Shri R. K. Singh, on May 21, 2024.
• Ramesh Babu, previously Director (Operations) at NTPC, holds significant expertise with M.Tech
in Thermal Engineering and a B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering.
Salim G Purushothaman Selected for RINL Operations Director
• Salim G Purushothaman, currently Executive Director at Braithwaite & Co. Ltd., has been selected
by the Public Enterprise Selection Board (PESB) for the role of Director (Operations) at Rashtriya
Ispat Nigam Limited (RINL).
• His appointment is pending final court decision from the High Court of Andhra Pradesh and
necessary approvals, following a previous selection meeting .
BARC appointed Dr Bikramjit Chaudhuri as chief of measurement science
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• Dr. Bikramjit Chaudhuri assumed the role of Chief of Measurement Science and Analytics at
Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC) India, succeeding Dr. Derrick Grey, who served for
6 years.
• With extensive experience in data science from Datamatics Group, KPMG, ZS Associates, Bikram
aims to enhance BARC's audience measurement system.
• BARC CEO: Nakul Chopra.
• Headquarters: Mumbai.
Mahindra Finance appointed Mahesh Rajaraman as CRO
• Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services has appointed Mahesh Rajaraman as Chief Risk Officer
(CRO), effective from August 1, 2024.
• Mallika Mittal has tendered her resignation as CRO, effective from May 17, and will cease to be
an employee on Nov. 16, 2024.
• Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services is an Indian rural non-banking financial company.
• Headquarteres: Mumbai.
• President: Ramesh Iyer.
John Slaven appointed Vice-Chairman of Aluminium Institute.
• John Slaven, CEO of Vedanta Aluminium, is appointed Vice-Chairman of the International
Aluminium Institute (IAI).
• Slaven aims to lead global initiatives promoting aluminum's critical role in the transition to zero
carbon.
• The IAI was established in 1972.
• Largest Aluminum Producing Countries in the World: 1. China · 3. Russia · 3. India · 4. Canada · 5.
UAE
ITC's Sanjiv Puri becomes CII President for 2024-25.
• Sanjiv Puri, Chairman and MD of ITC, has taken over as Confederation of Indian Industry President
for the 2024-25 term, succeeding R Dinesh of TVS Supply Chain Solutions.
• Rajiv Memani, Chairman of Ernst & Young – India, is named President-Designate of CII for 2024-
25.
• Puri was reappointed as ITC's Chairman and MD in July 2023 and previously served as CII Vice-
President in 2022.
Mohammad Mokhber appointed as interim president of Iran.
• Ebrahim Raisi died in a helicopter crash, leading to 1st Vice President Mohammad Mokhber's
appointment as interim president, confirmed by Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
• Mokhber, born on September 1, 1955, has close ties with Khamenei and has held the vice
presidency since 2021.
• He was previously involved in high-profile negotiations with Russia and led Setad, facing US and
EU sanctions.
Pradeep Natarajan appointed as IDFC FIRST Bank Director.
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• The RBI has approved Pradeep Natarajan's appointment as the Whole Time Director of IDFC
FIRST Bank for a three-year term, subject to shareholder approval.
• IDFC FIRST Bank is an Indian private-sector bank.
• CEO: V. Vaidyanathan
• Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra
• IDFC Limited was set up in 1997.
• 2014 - RBI grants a banking license to IDFC Bank.
Vietnam nominates "To Lam" as New President amid reform.
• Vietnam's Public Security Minister, "To Lam", has been nominated as the country's new president
following his predecessor's resignation amid an anti-corruption campaign.
• The Communist Party's Central Committee supports To Lam's nomination, a key step before
formal approval by National Assembly scheduled for May 21.
• Vietnam/Capital: Hanoi
• Currency: Vietnamese dong
• PM: Pham Minh Chinh
New Permanent Judges for Gauhati HC Appointed by Supreme Court.
• The Supreme Court Collegium has endorsed Justice Susmita Phukan Khaund and Justice Mitali
Thakuria as permanent Judges of the Gauhati High Court.
• Additionally, Justice Rajesh Sekhri's appointment as an Additional Judge in the High Court of
Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh has been extended for another year from 29 July 2024.
• The decision was made by Chief Justice of India Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud.
"Lai Ching-te" is set for appointment as Taiwan’s President.
• President-elect Lai Ching-te of Taiwan, the current Vice President, will take oath tomorrow after
winning the presidential election in January.
• Lai, aged 64, has pledged to work towards national prosperity and to maintain the status quo
across the Taiwan Strait, emphasizing diplomacy and stability.
• Taiwan/Capital: Taipei City
• Currency: New Taiwan dollar
Croatian Parliament approved Andrej Plenkovic's third term as PM
• The Croatian Parliament confirmed Andrej Plenkovic's third term as Prime Minister, leading a
coalition government with the conservative HDZ party and the far-right Homeland Movement.
• The new government will see the Homeland Movement control three of the 18 ministerial
positions.
• Croatia shares its coastline with the Adriatic Sea.
• Croatia's capital: Zagreb.
• Currency: Euro.
NASA appointed its first-ever chief AI officer, David Salvagnini
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• NASA appoints David Salvagnini as its first Chief AI Officer, expanding his role from Chief Data
Officer.
• Salvagnini’s task is to lead the integration of AI across NASA for global benefit, ensuring cutting-
edge AI utilization in space and on Earth.
• His role involves fostering AI innovation, managing risk to enhance NASA's AI capabilities.
• NASA founder: Dwight D. Eisenhower.
Kapil Sibal elected as Supreme Court Bar Association president
• Senior advocate Kapil Sibal has been elected as the president of the Supreme Court Bar
Association (SCBA) for the fourth time.
• Sibal has previously held the position during the late 1990s and in 2001.
• Alongside Sibal, Vikrant Yadav has been elected as the SCBA secretary.
• Rachna Srivastava is the Vice-President and Vikrant Yadav is the Secretary of Supreme Court Bar
Association.
Dileep Sanghani elected as the Chairman of IFFCO.
• Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative (IFFCO) in its elections for Chairman elected Shri Dileep
Sanghani as the 17th Chairman of IFFCO.
• He was earlier serving as Vice Chairman, of IFFCO.
• He is a former minister of Agriculture, cooperation Animal Husbandry, Fisheries, Cow-Breeding,
Prison, Excise Law & Justice, and Legislative & Parliamentary Affairs in the cabinet of the Gujrat
Government.
Andrei Belousou appointed as the new Defense Minister of Russia.
• Russian President Vladimir Putin replaced Sergei Shoigu from the post of Defense Minister with
Andrei Belousau.
• It is noteworthy that 65-year-old Andrei Belousou has been a former Deputy Prime Minister.
• He has served as Assistant to President Putin on Economic Issues.
• He has been the charge of the Defense Ministry since 2012 without any military experience.
N Chandrasekaran to chair Tata Electronics
• Tata Sons chairman N Chandrasekaran will also assume the role of chairman, Tata Electronics.
• The Tata group company has recently earmarked about $14 billion in investments to spearhead
its entry into the semiconductor business.
• Tata Electronics is positioning itself at the forefront of India's electronics manufacturing sector.
• He will take over from Banmali Agrawala.
Idashisha Nongrang appointed first woman police DGP of Meghalaya.
• Idashisha Nongrang breaks barriers as the first woman and tribal lady to become the Director
General of Police (DGP) in Meghalaya, taking office on May 20, 2024.
• Appointed from a UPSC-recommended list, Nongrang, with a stellar background in civil defence
and as SP, East Khasi Hills, assumes the role for two years.
• She is set to take charge after retirement of the incumbent LR Bishnoi.
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Vivek Bipindada Kolhe elected as a Director of IFFCO.

• Vivek Bipindada Kolhe, the Chairman of Sahkar Maharshi Shankarao Kolhe Co-operative Sugar
Factory, has been elected as a Director of Indian Farmers Fertilizers Co-op Ltd (IFFCO) New Delhi.
• IFFCO:
• Headquarters: New Delhi
• CEO: Dr. Udai Shanker Awasthi
• Founded: 3 November 1967, New Delhi
• Founder: Udaybhansinhji Natwarsinhji Jethwa
Vice Adm. Sanjay Bhalla appointed as Chief of Personnel of Indian Navy
• Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla, AVSM, NM was commissioned in the Indian Navy in 1989.
• He had previously been the Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet and Chief of Staff of the
Western Naval Command.
• He was the Officer in Tactical Command for President’s Fleet Review (PFR – 22) and the Sea Phase
of Indian Navy’s multinational ex. MILAN – 22.
• He received Ati Vishisht Seva Medal & Nao Sena Medal.
RBI appointed R Lakshmi Kanth Rao as executive director
• R Lakshmi Kanth Rao has been appointed as RBI Executive Director effective May 10, 2024,
overseeing Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation, FAA, and Dept. of
Communication.
• Rao, with 30+ years at RBI, has expertise in bank/NBFC regulation, supervision, and consumer
protection.
• Holds MBA (Finance), a diploma in TIRM, and is an associate of the IIBF.
• RBI Governor: Shaktikanta Das.
SBI General Insurance appointed Jaya Tripathi as head
• Ms. Jaya Tripathi appointed as Head of Key Relations Group at SBI General Insurance, focusing
on expanding new business and partnerships.
• She brings diverse experience from general insurance, fashion retail, and tourism, with leadership
roles in Mahindra Holidays, ICICI Lombard, and more.
• She holds a PG Diploma in Business Management (Marketing) from Symbiosis International
University.
Chad's military ruler Idriss Déby won disputed presidential vote
• Chad's interim President Mahamat Idriss Déby has been declared the official winner of the 6 May
presidential elections with over 61% of the vote.
• His closest rival, PM Succès Masra won just 18.53 percent.
• Republic of Chad is a landlocked country, bordered by Libya, Sudan, the Central African Republic,
Cameroon, Nigeria, and Niger.
• Capital: N'Djamena.
• Currency: Central African CFA franc.
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New Zealand player Colin Munro retires from International Cricket.

• Colin Munro is best known for his prowess in white-ball cricket, he played over 100 matches,
featuring in the 2014 and 2016 T20 World Cups and the 2019 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
• Munro has 3 T20I centuries to his name, making him one of seven male players to achieve this
feat.
• He expressed pride in representing New Zealand in 123 international games with 3 centuries and
19 half-centuries
Omkar Salvi appointed as head coach of Mumbai Cricket Team.
• Omkar Salvi was retained as the head coach of the Ranji Trophy-winning Mumbai team.
• Sanjay Patil was named the chairman of selectors in place of Raju Kulkarni, who will now head
the Mumbai Cricket Association’s Committee.
• Former Mumbai and Baroda player Rajesh Pawar will be the head coach for Mumbai’s men’s U-
23 team.
• Dinesh Lad was named as the head coach of the men’s U-19 team.
Russian President Vladimir Putin reappointed Mikhail Mishustin as PM
• Mikhail Mishustin has been reappointed as Russia's PM by President Putin.
• Mishustin's reappointment reflects Putin's appreciation for his managerial skills & non-political
ambition.
• As head of government since 2020 and former tax service leader, Mishustin faces Western
sanctions amid the Ukraine conflict.
• Russia is the largest country in the world by area.
• Capital: Moscow
• Currency: Ruble
HDFC Life appointed Keki Mistry as its Chairman.
• Keki Mistry has been appointed as the Chairman of HDFC Life Insurance following IRDAI approval
on May 7, 2024, succeeding Deepak Parekh.
• Mistry, a seasoned professional, has a rich background as the former Vice Chairman and CEO of
HDFC Limited and holds various strategic positions, including being a Non-Executive Director on
the board of HDFC Bank.
• HDFC Bank Limited/Headquarters - Mumbai
Amul appointed as ‘Official Sponsor’ of Sri Lanka for T20 World Cup.
• Indian dairy giant Amul has been appointed the official sponsor of the Sri Lanka Men's Team for
the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.
• Sri Lanka is set to begin their T20 World Cup campaign against South Africa in New York on June
3, 2024, with the tournament hosted by the West Indies and the USA.
• Previously Amul sponsored both the USA and South African cricket teams for the upcoming World
Cup
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China appointed Xu Feihong as its new envoy to India

• Mr. Xu will succeed Sun Weidong who completed his tenure in India in October 2022.
• Chinese President Xi Jinping has appointed senior diplomat Xu Feihong to this post after a long
delay of 18 months amid frozen relations between the two countries over the eastern Ladakh
military standoff.
• Capital of China: Beijing.
• Premier: Li Qiang.
• Official language: Mandarin.
Visa appointed Sujai Raina as India Country Manager
• Visa appointed Sujai Raina as Country Manager for India, tasked with leading the company's
strategic initiatives and partnerships within the payments ecosystem.
• Sandeep Ghosh remains Group Country Manager for India and South Asia, overseeing operations
across the subcontinent.
• Since joining Visa in 2020, Raina has made significant contributions as VP & Head of Business
Development in India.
José Raúl Mulino has won Panama's presidential election
• The former security minister Mulino secured more than a third of the votes cast in the country of
4.4 million people.
• He was a late entrant to the race after his mentor President Ricardo Martinelli was removed from
power after being convicted of corruption.
• Panama is a country on the isthmus linking Central and South America.
• Capital: Panama City.
• Official language: Spanish.
Ujjivan Small Finance Bank appointed Sanjeev Nautiyal as MD and CEO
• Ujjivan Small Finance Bank said that Reserve bank of India (RBI) has approved the appointment
of Sanjeev Nautiyal as the managing director (MD) & chief executive officer (CEO) of the bank.
• He will hold the post for the period of 3 years with effect from 1 July 2024.
• Ujjivan Small Finance Bank Limited is an Indian small finance bank based in Bangalore.
• Founder: Samit Ghosh.
Paytm president and COO Bhavesh Gupta resigns.
• The Company has accepted his resignation and he will be relieved from the services of the
Company w.e.f. close of business hours on May 31, 2024
• Varun Sridhar has been appointed as CEO of Paytm Services Pvt Limited.
• The firm also welcomed Rakesh Singh as CEO of Paytm Money.
• Vijay Shekhar Sharma - Founder & CEO, of Paytm
• Parent organization: One97 Communications
• Founded: August 2010
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Kareena Kapoor Khan appointed UNICEF Ambassador

• In its 75th year of partnership with India, UNICEF India announced the appointment of Kareena
Kapoor Khan as the organization’s National Ambassador.
• In her role, Kareena Kapoor Khan will support UNICEF India in furthering every child’s right to
early childhood development, health, education and gender equality.
• UNICEF's Executive Director: Catherine M. Russell.
• Headquarters: New York, U.S.
Prof Mohammad Rihan appointed DG of National Institute of Solar Energy
• Prof. Mohammad Rihan, from Aligarh Muslim University's electrical engineering department,
named Director General of the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE).
• He will be on deputation for three years with a possible two-year extension.
• Rihan's expertise in smart grid and solar energy aligns with NISE's goals in R&D, testing,
certification, and skill development in solar technology.
Sanjaya Kumar Mishra to head GST Appellate Tribunal.
• GST Appellate Tribunal is envisioned as a specialized body to handle disputes related to GST,
providing a timely and efficient resolution mechanism.
• Sanjaya Kumar Mishra is the former Chief Justice of High Court of Jharkhand.
• Term - 4 years/age of 70 years.
• UP has 3 Benches of GSTAT, the highest in country.
• Gujarat, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra, have 2 benches each.
Sanjay Singh takes over as VC of Shakuntala Misra University.
• Professor Sanjay Singh succeeds Prof. Himanshu Shekhar Jha as the Vice Chancellor of Dr.
Shakuntala Misra National Rehabilitation University, Lucknow, with a tenure of 5 years, as
appointed by Chancellor-governor Anandiben Patel.
• Before his new role, Prof. Singh was serving as the Vice Chancellor of Baba Saheb Bhimrao
Ambedkar University, transferring his responsibilities to Prof. NMP Verma.
Subodh Kumar (IAS) appointed as Director in Ministry of Ayush.
• Kumar has been selected for the appointment to the post with effect from the date of taking over
charge of the post for a period up to October 8.
• Kumar is a 2010-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the Tamil Nadu cadre.
• Presently, he is on 'Compulsory wait' in the Ministry of Food Processing Industries.
Saniyaa Kadree appointed Chairperson of Grappling Committee for J&K.
• He was appointed on the recommendation of Subham Choudhary, Chairman Grappling
Committee of India.
• Her appointment aims to nurture and expand the grappling sports community, ensuring
development at the grassroots level and creating avenues for athletes to shine nationally and
internationally.
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• It is a significant development for the grappling sports community in the state of J&K
Lalithambigai K (IAS) appointed as DS in Ministry of Tourism.
• The Central Government has approved the appointment of Lalithambigai K for the post of Deputy
Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism.
• She has been appointed to the post under the Central Staffing Scheme for a period of four years
from the date of taking over charge of the post.
• Lalithambigai is a 2015 batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the Manipur cadre.
John Swinney set to become first minister of Scotland
• John Swinney is poised to become head of the Scottish National Party and the next first minister
of Scotland.
• Main challenger Kate Forbes withdrew from the leadership race, likely avoiding a repeat of last
year's contentious contest.
• Swinney, the sole formal candidate for leader, rejected suggestions of a temporary term.
• Scotland is a province of the United Kingdom.
• Capital: Edinburgh.
Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor assumed charge of Air Force Training Command
• Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor assumed role as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief Training
Command.
• Commissioned into the Fighter stream of Indian Air Force in 1986, he boasts over 3400 hours of
flying experience.
• Recognized for meritorious service, he has bagged Vayu Sena Medal and Ati Vishisht Seva Medal.
• Motto of IAF: "Touch the sky with Glory."
• Chief: Air Chief Marshall V. R. Chaudhari.
Solomon Islands elected Jeremiah Manele as new prime minister
• Former Foreign Minister Jeremiah Manele has been elected as the new prime minister of Solomon
Islands with 31 votes.
• Manele pledged to continue China-friendly foreign policy, winning amidst heightened security in
Honiara.
• Solomon Islands is a country consisting of six major islands and over 900 smaller islands in
Melanesia, part of Oceania, to the northeast of Australia.
• Capital: Honiara.
Bhushan Singh (IRTS) appointed as Secretary of National Jute Board.
• The Central Government has approved the appointment of Bhushan Singh (IRTS) as Secretary (at
Director level) of the National Jute Board, Kolkata under the Ministry of Textiles.
• Singh has been appointed to the post for five years or until further orders, whichever is earlier.
• Singh is an Indian Railway Traffic Service (IRTS) of the 2010 batch.
Hitesh Sethia appointed as Jio Financial Services’ MD and CEO.
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• Corporate Affairs Ministry has given its nod for the appointment of Hitesh Kumar Sethia as
Managing Director and CEO of Jio Financial Services for three years.
• Jio Financial Services was listed on the Indian stock exchanges in August 2023.
• The company provides financial services, including payment services and insurance broking.
• Founder: Mukesh Ambani
• Headquarters: Mumbai
Dinesh Kumar chosen Presiding Officer of Securities Appellate Tribunal
• The Finance Ministry has appointed P S Dinesh Kumar, a retired judge, as the presiding officer of
the Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT) for four years.
• SAT hears appeals against the orders of the Securities and Exchange Board of India, Insurance
Regulatory Development Authority of India , and Pension Fund Regulatory & Development
Authority along with appeals against the stock exchanges.
Pratima Singh (IRS) appointed as Director in DPIIT.
• Pratima Singh, a 2009-batch IRS officer, has been appointed as Director of the Department of
Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).
• Her appointment, effective for a five-year term or until further notice, falls under the Central
Staffing Scheme as per the DoPT order.
• The DPIIT is a central government department under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in
India.
• Founded: 1995
Maushumi Chakravarty assumed charge of DG of Akashvani News
• Maushumi Chakravarty, a 1991 batch Indian Information Service officer, has become the Director
General of Akashvani News, succeeding the superannuated Principal DG Vasudha Gupta.
• With over three decades of experience, she has contributed to various I&B Ministry media outlets,
including the Press Information Bureau and Central Bureau of Communication.
Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan became Vice Chief of Naval Staff
• Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, AVSM, VSM, appointed Vice Chief of Naval Staff on 01 May
2024.
• He is a decorated officer with key roles across operational, staff, and training segments.
• He commanded INS Vikramaditya among notable ships.
• Alumni of prestigious military academies; instrumental in naval training and safety, previously led
Western Fleet and Offshore Defence Advisory Group.
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Obituaries Current Affairs

Bette Nash, world's longest-serving flight attendant passed away at 88
• Bette Nash, the world's longest-tenured flight attendant, died at 88 after a battle with breast
cancer.
• Nash, who began her career in 1957 with Eastern Airlines, served for nearly 67 years without
officially retiring.
• Honored with a Guinness World Record in 2022, Nash was celebrated for her dedication and
impact on the aviation industry.
Richard Sherman, songwriter behind Disney hits passed away at 95
• Richard M. Sherman, iconic Disney composer, died at 95 due to age-related illness at Cedars-
Sinai Medical Center.
• Alongside his brother Robert, Sherman won two Oscars in 1965 for their music in "Mary Poppins."
• Known for catchy, upbeat songs like "Feed the Birds" and "Wanna Be Like You," the Sherman
brothers embodied a positive, Disney-like musical style.
Veteran Pakistani actor Talat Hussain dies at 83.
• Talat Hussain, an acclaimed actor in radio, TV, theatre, and cinema, passed away at 83 in Karachi
after a prolonged illness.
• Known for his work in notable TV serials such as "Bandish," "Karwaan," "Hawain," and "Parchaiyan,"
and films including "Chiragh Jalta Raha," "Gumnaam," "Actor in Law," and Indian film "Souten Ki
Beti."
Oscar-winning Composer "Jan A.P. Kaczmarek" dies at 71.
• Jan A.P. Kaczmarek, Oscar-winning composer for "Finding Neverland," passed away at age 71; he
suffered from MSA, a degenerative neurological disorder.
• Kaczmarek, born in Poland, also composed for films like "Total Eclipse" and "Unfaithful."
• He won global acclaim with his Oscar for Best Original Score in 2005 and lived his final years in
Krakow, Poland
'Godfather Part II' producer "Fred Roos" dies at 89.
• Fred Roos, Oscar-winning producer of "The Godfather Part II," famed casting director, and
collaborator with Francis Ford Coppola, passed away at 89.
• Roos, regarded for his casting acumen, was instrumental in launching the careers of stars like Tom
Cruise, Jack Nicholson, and Harrison Ford.
• Roos's latest work "Megalopolis," premiered at Cannes just a few days before his death.
Iran President Ebrahim Raisi dies in helicopter crash.
• Ebrahim Raisi along with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollhian and other senior
officials have all died in the incident.
• The chopper crashed in Jolfa in the mountainous northwestern region of the country on Sunday
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• The incident happened as Raisi and others were traveling back from their visit to Iran's border
with Azerbaijan.
Renowned Hindi writer Malti Joshi passed away at 90.
• Malti Joshi, a distinguished Hindi and Marathi writer, passed away due to esophagus cancer at
the age of 90.
• Padma Shri - 2018
• Her storytelling technique was notable for its oral delivery, akin to traditional epic narrators, which
added a unique dimension to her works.
• Her stories, including "Kokh Ka Darp" and "Outsider," were widely appreciated, with one adapted
by Gulzar for television.
Media veteran Naresh Mohan passed away
• Naresh Mohan, former President of the Indian Newspaper Society (INS) and notable media figure,
passed away at 82 due to multi-organ failure after being admitted to ICU in Delhi.
• His career spanned prominent organizations like Hindustan Times and The Tribune, and he led
INS in 1990-91.
• Mohan's last rites were conducted at the Lodhi crematorium following his death.
IAS-turned-IT veteran Vineet Nayyar passed away at 85
• Vineet Nayyar, former vice-chairman of Tech Mahindra, passed away at 85.
• An IAS officer, he led Tech Mahindra to $3 billion revenue and 90,000 employees in FY14.
• Anand Mahindra praised his transition from public to private sector.
• Nayyar was the founding chairman and managing director of the Gas Authority of India and was
CEO of HCL Perot Systems, with a decade-long tenure at World Bank.
Veteran Congress leader Kamla Beniwal passed away
• Kamla Beniwal (1927-2024), Indian independence activist and politician, was the first woman
minister in Rajasthan (1954) and the first northeastern State Governor.
• A Congress member, she served various roles including Rajasthan's Deputy CM in 2003, and as
Gujarat Governor (2009-2014), then Mizoram Governor.
• She was honored with the Tamra Patra Award for her freedom struggle contributions.
Alice Munro, Nobel-winning Canadian author, passed away at 92
• Alice Munro, Nobel Prize-winning Canadian author, known for her mastery of the short story, died
at 92.
• Munro's stories focused on rural Ontario life, exploring human frailties.
• Despite suffering from dementia in recent years, Munro leaves behind a profound literary legacy.
• He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2013 and the International Booker Prize for her
body of work in 2009.
Former Bihar deputy CM Sushil Modi passed away at 72
• Sushil Modi, the former Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar, died at age 72 due to renal cancer.
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• Modi, a key BJP leader and significant figure in Bihar politics, had served as Dy CM for over 11
years across different tenures.
• He emerged into political limelight during the 1974 JP Movement.
• In his three-decade career, he was an MLA, an MLC, a member of the Lok Sabha, and a Rajya
Sabha MP.
Padma Shri Birubala Rabha, anti-witch hunting activist passed away
• Renowned activist and Padma Shri awardee Birubala Rabha passed away at a hospital in
Guwahati after a long battle with cancer.
• Rabha dedicated her life to fight against superstition, and social evils like witch-hunting.
• After her prolonged efforts, in 2015, the Assam Legislative Assembly unanimously passed the
Assam Witch Hunting (Prohibition, Prevention and Protection) Act, 2015.
Noted Punjabi poet Surjit Patar passes away at 79.
• Surjit Patar, eminent Punjabi poet, and Padma Shri (2012) awardee died at 79, causing a stir in the
literary and political spheres with Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann hailing him as a "proud son of
Punjabi language".
• Patar was honored with awards such as the Sahitya Akademi Award and Saraswati Samman.
• He retired as a professor of Punjabi from the Punjab Agricultural University in Ludhiana.
Former bureaucrat and educationist Moosa Raza passed away at 87
• Moosa Raza, former Chief Secretary of J&K and educationist, died at 87 in Chennai, leaving
behind a legacy in public administration and education.
• Raza was known for his role as a key negotiator during the 1990 J&K crisis and authored several
books on Kashmir and social issues.
• His contributions were honored with Padma Bhushan, and tributes pour in from PM Modi,
politicians across parties.
Varugeese Koshy, chess International Master and renowned trainer, died
• International Master Varugeese Koshy, celebrated chess trainer and player, passed away at 66
due to terminal lung cancer.
• Known for his self-taught, hyper-modern chess strategies, Koshy became India's number two in
the 1990s.
• His students and peers recall his warmth, wisdom, and dedication to the game, marking a
significant loss to Indian chess.
Director Sangeeth Sivan passed away at 61
• Renowned filmmaker Sangeeth Sivan, known for his work in both Malayalam and Hindi cinema,
passed away at 61 in Mumbai.
• He directed notable films like 'Yodha' and 'Kyaa Kool Hai Hum'.
• Coming from a family of cinematic talents, with father Sivan and brothers Santosh and Sanjeev,
Sangeeth Sivan leaves a lasting legacy in the Indian film industry with his diverse directorial
ventures.
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Sahitya Akademi winner Urdu litterateur Salam Bin Razzaq passes at 83.
• Over 4 dozen of his stories graced All India Radio
• He penned 3 major short story collections in Urdu and Hindi
• He won the Sahitya Akademi for Urdu literature for his short stories collection, ‘Shikasta Buton Ke
Darmiyan’ in 2004.
• Awards: Sahitya Akademi Award, Ghalib Award, Maharashtra Urdu Sahitya Akademi Award.
• His Works: ‘Nangi Dopahar Ka Sipahi’, ‘Muabbir’, and ‘Zindagi Afsana Nahin’
'Game of Thrones' actor Ian Gelder passed away at 74
• Ian Gelder, acclaimed for his role as Kevan Lannister in 'Game of Thrones', died at 74.
• His spouse Ben Daniels announced Gelder's death, attributing it to a swift battle with bile duct
cancer.
• Gelder remembered for his significant contribution to acting, leaving behind a legacy in film and
TV.
'Titanic' actor Bernard Hill dies at 79.
• Veteran English actor Bernard Hill, best known for his powerful performances in 'The Lord of the
Rings' trilogy and 'Titanic,' has died at the age of 79.
• Hill's career spanned over five decades, encompassing a wide range of stage, television, and film
roles.
• His first major role came in The Ghost and the Darkness (1996) starring Val Kilmer and Michael
Douglas.
General Secretary of CPI Atul Kumar Anjaan passed away
• The General Secretary of the Communist Party of India, Atul Kumar Anjaan passed away after
prolonged illness in Lucknow at the age of 69.
• He was battling advanced-stage cancer and was admitted in a private hospital last month.
• His last rights was performed at Bhaisa Kund in Lucknow.
• He had also been the General Secretary of the All India Kisan Sabha.
Noted journalist Vinay Vir passed away
• Renowned journalist Vinay Vir, Editor of Daily Hindi Milap, passed away at 72.
• Known for promoting Hindi in the South, he elevated the language's status.
• Born into a family of freedom fighters, his legacy includes enriching Hindi journalism.
• He was the son of freedom fighters Yudhvir and Sita Yudhvir.
• His father was a journalist, while his mother was a two-time Rajya Sabha member.
Tamil playback singer Uma Ramanan, 72, passes away in Chennai.
• Ramanan was a trained classical singer and appeared in more than 6,000 concerts in 35 years.
• Some of her famous songs are 'Bhoopalam Isaikkum', 'Aanandha Raagam', 'Kanmani Nee Vara',
'Ponn Maanae', and more.
• Her last song was 'Kannum Kannumthan Kalandaachu' for Vijay's 'Thirupaachi'.
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• Her musical journey began with song Mohanan Kannan Murali, which was composed by SV
Venkatraman, in 1977.
Paul Auster, US author of The New York Trilogy, passed away at 77
• U.S. novelist and screenwriter Paul Auster died of complications from lung cancer at his home in
Brooklyn.
• He was 77 years of age.
• The New Jersey-born writer was known for a string of acclaimed works including "The New York
Trilogy" and "The Book of Illusions".
President of Sri Sarada Math Pravrajika Anandaprana passed away at 98
• PM Modi and West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee mourned the passing of Pravrajika
Anandaprana Mataji, the revered president of Sri Sarada Math and Ramakrishna Sarada Mission.
• Mataji is remembered for her exceptional service to society, her dedication to spiritual values,
healthcare, education, and empowerment of women.
• She passed away at 98 after suffering from age-related ailments.
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Science and Technology Current Affairs

Japan builds World's first Wooden made Satellite.
• Japanese researchers have developed LignoSat, a wooden satellite crafted from magnolia wood.
• LignoSat is a collaborative effort between Kyoto University and the logging company Sumitomo
Forestry.
• LignoSat is scheduled to launch on a SpaceX rocket from the Kennedy Space Center in
September.
• It aims to reduce space debris by burning up completely upon re-entry into Earth's atmosphere.
Korean scientists develop superfast method for producing diamonds.
• Scientists at the Ulsan National Institute of Technology have created a new method to produce
diamonds in just 15 minutes at ambient pressure without using seed particles.
• The method involves a mix of gallium, iron, nickel, and silicon placed in a graphite crucible, then
methane is pumped in at 1,175°C.
• This innovation drastically reduces production time compared to the traditional method.
SpaceX launches first satellites for New US Spy Constellation.
• SpaceX successfully launched the inaugural batch of operational spy satellites as part of a new
U.S. intelligence network.
• The launch took place at 4 a.m. EDT from Vandenberg Space Force Base in Southern California.
• The satellites are part of a project for the U.S. National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), aimed at
significantly enhancing the country’s space-based surveillance.
Agnibaan Rocket's launch with 1st Single-Piece 3D Printed Engine
• Agnibaan, a suborbital technological demonstrator, was successfully launched into space by
Agnikul Cosmos, a private aerospace company.
• It featured the world's first single-piece 3D printed semi-cryogenic engine.
• This engine is capable of carrying a payload of 100 kg to an altitude of 700 km.
• It is 18 meters long, weighs 14,000 kg.
• It has a launch pedestal called 'Dhanush' for mobility.
New Algal Species "Oedocladium Sahyadricum" found in Western Ghats.
• "Oedocladium Sahyadricum" was discovered in the natural forests of Kumbhavurutty region in
Kollam.
• This is the first time a species in the Oedocladium category has been recorded in Kerala.
• The name ‘Sahyadricum’ refers to the Western Ghats, also known as Sahyadri, which is rich in
plant diversity and provides ideal conditions for the growth of terrestrial microalgae.
CET and IIT Madras patent Non-Intrusive Voltage Measuring Device.
• College of Engineering Trivandrum (CET) and IIT Madras received a patent for a contactless
voltage measurement device.
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• The device, invented by Boby George and P.S. Shenil, measures voltage variations accurately
without removing insulation.
• It can integrate with IoT devices and smart systems, enhancing the maintenance of electrical
appliances and industrial machinery.
India’s first research testbed to study Nor’westers.
• Jointly developed by IMD, IITM Pune, and NCMRWF Delhi, the testbed will track nor’westers using
drones, mobile vans, and high-end meteorological instruments in Bengal, Odisha, and Jharkhand.
• It aims to improve thunderstorm predictions and issue timely warnings to save lives.
• The testbed will house a 100-meter flux tower, automatic weather stations, rain gauges, and other
vital instruments.
NASA launches Small Climate Satellite to study Earth's Poles.
• The agency’s PREFIRE (Polar Radiant Energy in the Far-InfraRed Experiment) mission will gather
data on how much heat the Arctic and Antarctica radiate into space and how this influences
global climate.
• Data from the PREFIRE mission will help researchers better predict how Earth’s ice, seas, and
weather will change in a warming world.
• NASA: Founded: 29 July 1958
• HQs: Washington, D.C
Sun’s magnetic field may originate close to surface: Research
• An international team of mathematicians and scientists discovered the magnetic field appears to
generate about 32,200 km beneath the sun's surface.
• Previous theories had suggested this happened more than 209,000 km below the surface.
• They made the finding by running calculations on a NASA supercomputer and published their
study in the journal Nature.
On this day two monkeys on NASA Mission returned alive from space.
• In 1958, America sent a monkey named Gordo to space but it died.
• A year later, in 1959, monkeys named Miss Baker and Able were sent and both returned safely.
• In 1957, the Soviet Union sent a dog, Laika, into space but Laika died a few hours after the rocket
launch.
• In 1960, dogs named Strelka and Belka were sent back into space and both returned safely.
• NASA Founded: 1958
• HQs: Washington
New plant species discovered from Edamalayar forest range.
• Scientists discovered a new gooseberry species, "Emblica Chakrabartyi", in Kerala's Edamalayar
forest range.
• Named after botanist Tapas Chakrabarty, the species was identified during a UGC-sponsored
research project, with around 55 plants found.
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• The discovery has been published in the Nordic Journal of Botany, highlighting significant
contributions to the study of the Phyllanthaceae family.
World’s first 100% biodegradable pen launched in India.
• Saurabh H Mehta from New Delhi has introduced the world’s first fully biodegradable pen, named
the NOTE pen.
• The pen features a recycled paper refill, and non-toxic ink, and comes in options of metal, paper,
or bamboo exteriors.
• This innovation aims to reduce plastic waste, a significant issue as over 50 billion ballpoint pens
are discarded annually.
JNU Scientist develops Promising New Malaria Vaccine Candidate.
• Scientists led by Shailja Singh and Anand Ranganathan at JNU identified the parasite's Prohibitin
protein (PfPHB2) as a novel vaccine target.
• Research published in iScience reveals the PfPHB2 protein interacts with the human red blood
cell protein Hsp70A1A, crucial for parasite infection.
• Antibody treatment against PfPHB2 disrupted parasite growth and combating malaria's drug
resistance
Ancient viral genomes discovered in Neanderthal bones.
• Researchers identified genetic sequences of 3 viruses from 50,000-year-old Neanderthal bones,
which are related to modern human pathogens.
• Marcelo Briones from the Federal University of São Paulo suggests these ancient viruses could
potentially be synthesized and studied in modern human cells.
• This discovery indicates Neanderthals were affected by viruses similar to plague humans today.
University of Tokyo inaugurates world’s highest observatory in Chile.
• Tokyo University inaugurated the Atacama Observatory in Chile's Antofagasta Region, 5,640
meters above sea level.
• It has been awarded a Guinness World Record for being the highest observatory in the world.
• Led by Professor Yuzuru Yoshii, TAO aims to explore cosmic mysteries like dark energy and
primordial stars with unmatched clarity due to its high-altitude location and advanced
technology.
Zydus gets USFDA nod for generic medication to treat asthma.
• USFDA Approval: Zydus Lifesciences has received final approval from the US Food and Drug
Administration to market Theophylline extended-release tablets (300 mg and 450 mg).
• Treatment Use: Theophylline is prescribed for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD).
• Market Entry: With this approval, Zydus can now introduce this generic asthma medication to the
US market.
Startek launched Generative AI Platform to enhance customer experience
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• Startek® launched Generative AI suite to boost business process efficiency, enhancing agent
productivity and customer journey personalization.
• It utilizes generative AI to optimize HR, training, and operations, improving response times with
empathy, automating tasks, and personalizing experiences.
• Startek® is a global customer experience (CX) solutions provider.
• CEO of Startek: Bharat Rao.
Microsoft debuts ‘Copilot+’ PCs with AI features
• Microsoft launched "Copilot+" PCs with built-in AI, featuring enhanced local AI processing for
tasks like the "Recall" function.
• Copilot+ aims to boost PC sales, with Microsoft projecting 50 million AI PCs to be sold within a
year amid a 15% global drop in PC shipments last year.
• The PCs integrate GPT-4o from OpenAI, enhancing capabilities like real-time virtual coaching in
games.
AI Global Forum opened in South Korea during Second AI Summit
• South Korean PM emphasized AI safety at the AI Global Forum in Seoul, highlighting collaboration
with leading global companies & nations.
• Sixteen leading companies, including Google, Meta, and Microsoft committed for safe AI
development amid growing regulatory challenges.
• G7, EU, Singapore, Australia, and South Korea endorsed a declaration prioritizing AI safety,
innovation, and inclusivity.
AstroSat make breakthrough discovery about black hole.
• Indian scientists observed unique aperiodic modulation of high-energy X-ray photons in the black
hole binary system 'Swift J1727.8-1613' using AstroSat.
• The frequency of quasi-periodic oscillations near the black hole increased from 1.4Hz to 2.6Hz
over 7 days during an unusual outburst.
• This study provides new insights into the extreme environments around accreting black holes.
Serum Institute shipped first set of malaria vaccine doses to Africa
• Serum Institute of India has shipped the first R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccines to several African
countries.
• The vaccine, aimed at preventing malaria, has been developed with University of Oxford and uses
Novavax’s adjuvant.
• Malaria is an infection caused by a plasmodium parasite transmitted by the bite of infected
female Anopheles mosquitoes.
• The parasites mature and reproduce in the liver.
Clinical trials of an mRNA vaccine against influenza have begun.
• Influensa kills up to 650,000 people around each year.
• Existing influenza vaccines protect against specific strains only, requiring yearly updates due to
virus mutations.
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• New mRNA vaccines offer broader, longer-lasting immunity by targeting multiple virus regions
and triggering T-cell responses.
• These vaccines use mRNA created in a laboratory to teach our cells how to make a protein
World's first 6G device launched in Japan.
• A Japanese consortium has unveiled a 6G prototype capable of transferring data at 100 Gbps,
20 times faster than current 5G technology, and covering distances over 300 feet.
• The device uses 100 GHz and 300 GHz bands for indoor and outdoor speeds respectively, but
higher frequencies may limit signal penetration through obstacles like walls and rain.
Pasqal to deploy 1st Quantum Computer in Saudi Arabia by 2025.
• Paris-based startup Pasqal will install a 200-qubit quantum computer in Saudi Arabia through a
partnership with Aramco, marking the first installation of its kind in the country.
• Co-founded by Alain Aspect, Pasqal previously sold quantum computers to France and Germany.
• Alain Aspect won the 2022 Nobel Prize in Physics for experiments in quantum mechanics.
AstraZeneca to build $1.5 Billion cancer drug plant in Singapore.
• AstraZeneca will invest $1.5 billion to establish its first end-to-end antibody-drug conjugate (ADC)
production facility in Singapore, supported by the Singapore Economic Development Board.
• The plant will focus on manufacturing advanced cancer treatments and is expected to be
operational by 2029, achieving zero carbon emissions from its first day.
• CEO of AstraZeneca: Pascal Soriot.
First black Astronaut candidate "Ed Dwight" in space at age of 90.
• Ed Dwight, America’s 1st Black astronaut candidate, traveled to space aboard a Blue Origin rocket
60 years after he was initially considered for NASA’s astronaut corps.
• At 90, Dwight experienced weightlessness with five others on a historic flight that marked a
significant moment in space and racial history.
• NASA/Founded: 29 July 1958
• HQs: Washington, D.C
• NASA administrator: Bill Nelson
Zoho plans $700 mn foray into chipmaking, seeks incentives from govt
• Indian software firm Zoho is planning a $700 million investment in chipmaking and is seeking
incentives from the Government of India.
• Zoho, established in 1996 and headquartered in Tamil Nadu, offers software and services to
businesses in 150 countries.
• Zoho plans to manufacture compound semiconductors with specialized commercial applications,
using alternatives to silicon.
1.5 billion years old giant viruses found in Yellowstone's hot springs
• Researchers found 3,700 potential viruses in DNA from Yellowstone's Lemonade Creek, two-thirds
being giant viruses.
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• Yellowstone National Park is located in the western USA.

• In 1978, it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Yellowstone Lake is one of the largest high-elevation lakes in North America and is centered over
the Yellowstone Caldera, the largest super volcano on the continent.
IIPE develops Eco-Friendly Water Treatment Solution.
• The Indian Institute of Petroleum & Energy (IIPE), Visakhapatnam, developed the "Surface
Modification Technique of Membrane" for treating muddy river water efficiently.
• The technology uses non-toxic gases instead of harsh chemicals and has applications in
pharmaceuticals, food preparation, and textiles, promoting environmental protection by
mitigating pollutant damage to water bodies.
Rare Tree Species re-discovered after 140 years in Western Ghats.
• Uniyala multibracteata, a rare tree species not seen for 140 years, has been rediscovered in the
Wagamon hills of the Western Ghats.
• Known locally as Kattupoovamkurunnila, this tree blooms cotton hairs and flowers from October
to January, thriving in evergreen forests and rocky grasslands at altitudes of 1,200 meters.
• It belongs to the genus Uniyala, named after taxonomist B.P. Uniyal.
ISRO begins preparation for India's 2nd mission to Mars: Mangalyaan-2.
• ISRO plans to utilize a sky crane, for a controlled and precise landing, and a helicopter to fly in
the thin Martian atmosphere.
• ISRO is also developing a rover as part of the mission.
• ISRO plans to deploy a relay communication satellite, that acts as a bridge between Mars and
Earth.
• India will become the 3rd nation in the world, after US and China, to successfully land spacecraft
on Mars.
OpenAI released new GPT-4o, a faster and free AI model for all users
• The new model GPT-4o -- the "O" stands for omni -- will be rolled out in OpenAI's products over
the next few weeks, with paid customers having unlimited access to the tool.
• GPT-4o has the same powers as the previous version when it came to text, reasoning, and coding
intelligence, but it has set new industry standards for multilingual conversations, audio, and vision.
• OpenAI CEO: Sam Altman.
Schneider Electric powered India's Largest Wastewater Treatment Plant
• Schneider Electric collaborated with SUEZ for automating India's Largest Single Stage
Wastewater Treatment Plant in Delhi, supporting the Namami Gange initiative.
• The plant, managed by Delhi Jal Board, can sustainably treat 564 million liters of sewage daily,
benefiting approximately 30 million residents.
• It is designed to enhance water quality and reduce pollution in the Yamuna river.
NASA plans to develop first railway systems on moon.
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• NASA is developing the first lunar railway system, named FLOAT, to ensure efficient material
transportation on the Moon, crucial for the 2030s projected sustainable lunar base operations.
• Designed for autonomy and flexibility in the challenging lunar environment, FLOAT can transport
up to 100 tons daily, aiding in the construction and operation of NASA's future moon base.
Hanooman launched: India's AI Revolution in 98 Languages.
• Hanooman, a GenAI platform that supports 98 languages, focusing on expanding to 200M users
in its first year, was launched by 3AI Holding and SML India.
• Partnerships were established with HP, NASSCOM, Yotta, and the Telangana government to
bolster AI startups and facilitate tech translations.
• Hanooman is designed for healthcare, governance, finance, and education.
Microsoft will invest 4 Billion Euros in France for AI
• Microsoft announced €4 billion investment in France to boost AI, data center, and cloud
infrastructure.
• The investment will include 25,000 advanced GPUs, enhancing computing capacity in France.
• Microsoft Corporation is an American multinational technology company headquartered in
Redmond, Washington.
• Founders: Bill Gates, Paul Allen.
• Chairman & CEO: Satya Nadella.
TCS launched Human-centric AI Excellence Center in Paris
• TCS announced the creation of a pioneering AI Center of Excellence in Paris, focusing on human-
centric AI, with France's 2030 National Strategy for AI.
• The center will be located at TCS PacePort™ in Paris, aiming to advance brain-machine interfaces,
empathy in machines, and AI in the arts.
• This initiative will help expanding the AI ecosystem, creating jobs, making AI-skilled workforce.
ISRO’s Chandrayaan 4 mission will land near Chandrayaan 3
• ISRO's Chandrayaan 4, a sample return mission, will target the area near Chandrayaan 3's landing
site - Statio Shiv Shakti.
• The mission will include five spacecraft modules launched by two vehicles, focusing on samples
from a region influenced by Tycho crater's formation.
• Scheduled for a lunar day operation, it will avoid lunar night challenges by not using radioactive
heating.
Astronomers detect a rocky planet with an atmosphere.
• The planet is a "super-Earth" - a rocky world significantly larger than Earth but smaller than
Neptune
• The planet called 55 Cancri e or Janssen, is about 8.8 times more massive than Earth, with a
diameter about twice.
• It orbits its star at one-25th the distance between our solar system's innermost planet Mercury
and the sun.
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• As a result, its surface temperature is about 3,140 Fahrenheit

ISRO successfully tests 3D-printed Rocket Engine.
• ISRO successfully conducts a long-duration hot test of a PS4 rocket engine produced using 3D
printing.
• The engine, made in a single piece through additive manufacturing, results in 97% raw material
savings and 60% reduced production time.
• The engine was successfully tested for the full qualification duration of 665 seconds.
• It was developed by ISRO's Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre.
India's first utility-scale battery energy storage system got approval
• The Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) has granted regulatory approval for India’s
first commercial standalone Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project.
• This project is supported by The Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet.
• The project, a 20 MW/40 MWh BESS, is set to be installed at BSES Rajdhani Power Limited’s
(BRPL) 33/11 kV Kilokari substation.
World's largest plant to extract CO2 from air opened in Iceland
• Climeworks has opened the world’s largest operational direct air capture (DAC) plant to suck
carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere, with its Mammoth plant in Iceland almost ten times larger
than the current record holder.
• The Mammoth DAC plant has a capacity to capture 36,000 metric tons of CO2 a year and will be
fully completed by the end of 2024.
Innovative Drone Spraying in AP & Telangana by Marut & IFFCO
• Marut Drones has partnered with IFFCO for drone-based spray operations on 500,000 acres in
Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
• The initiative aims at enhancing crop yields and promoting sustainable farming practices while
addressing labor shortages.
• This collaboration not only empowers local farming communities by providing drones as a service
but also opens up self-employment avenues.
Google Wallet launches in India, expanding Digital Storage.
• Google Wallet is now available in India, allowing Android users to store digital documents like
loyalty cards, boarding passes, and more from 20 Indian brands including Flipkart, Air India, and
PVR.
• Different from Google Pay, Google Wallet focuses on storing and accessing digital documents
and cards, with Google Pay serving as a more payment-centric platform.
• Google/Founders: Larry Page
India will formally develop a new research station in Antarctica.
• India to reveal plans for a new research station, Maitri-2, in Antarctica, aiming to replace the old
Maitri station, at the 46th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting in Kochi.
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• India has two active research stations—Maitri and Bharti—in Antarctica.

• The first research station, Dakshin Gangotri, was set up in 1983.
• Bharati Research Station was established in the year 2015.
Zomato unveiled weather services infrastructure
• Zomato CEO Deepinder Goyal launched India's first crowd-supported weather network with over
650 weather stations, the largest private setup in India, for real-time local weather data.
• It covers weather metrics like temperature, humidity, wind speed, viewable at weatherunion.com,
enhancing localized weather forecasting.
• Initially available in 45 major cities, plans are underway for expansion.
CUSAT researchers discover new marine tardigrade species.
• CUSAT researchers discovered a new marine tardigrade species, "Batillipes Chandrayaani", on
Tamil Nadu's Mandapam coast, and named it after the Chandrayaan mission.
• The new species was discovered by Vishnudattan N.K. and senior Prof Dr S Bijoy Nandan.
• Earlier found Species:
o Stygarctus keralensis - 2021 - South West Coast
o Batillipes kalami - 2023 - South East Coast
Indian-American Astronaut Sunita Williams to fly to space again
• Indian-American astronaut Sunita Williams will return to space on Boeing's Starliner’s first crewed
mission alongside Barry Butch Wilmore.
• The launch scheduled from Cape Canaveral, marks a key milestone in Starliner’s certification for
ISS crew rotations.
• The mission will enhance NASA's crew transport options to ISS, positioning Boeing alongside
SpaceX’s Crew Dragon for astronaut missions.
German company tested rocket powered by candle wax
• German company HyImpulse successfully launched a candle wax-powered rocket, "SR75," in
Australia.
• SR75, fueled by paraffin and liquid oxygen, can carry up to 250kg satellites to 250km altitude,
showcasing a cheaper satellite launch method.
• HyImpulse's innovation halves satellite transport costs, boosting Germany's space industry and
Europe's access to space with environmentally safer fuel.
New Covid variant FLiRT discovered
• FLiRT and KP.2, new Omicron lineage variants, are rapidly spreading in several countries, with
KP.2 accounting for 25% of new US cases.
• Despite low hospitalizations, the rise in FLiRT variant cases is expected with increasing
temperatures; concerns over higher contagion remain.
• The FLiRT's mutation, especially in the spike protein, raises fears of reinfection.
BSNL to launch indigenous 4G services across India in August
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• State-owned BSNL will start rolling out 4G services across the country from August, using
completely indigenous technology.
• BSNL officials claimed to have recorded peak speed of 40-45 megabit per second on the 4G
network.
• TCS, Tejas Networks and government-owned ITI have bagged orders worth about Rs 19,000 crore
from BSNL for deploying 4G network which is upgradable to 5G.
World's first person to receive newly approved sickle cell therapy.
• Kendric Cromer, a 12-year-old kid, from Washington, has become the first person in the world to
receive licensed gene therapy for sickle cell disease.
• From cell collection to product shipment, the entire process takes between 70 and 105 days.
• The FDA authorized two companies to sell gene therapy to people with sickle cell disease, a
genetic disorder that affects roughly 100,000 people.
Mindgrove company launches India’s 1st commercial MCU Chip.
• Mindgrove launched India's first commercial high-performance SoC, Secure IoT, targeting IoT
devices likely costing 30% less.
• The chip aims to empower local businesses with Indian SoC, fostering innovation and production
scalability within the country.
• With the chip’s wide application spectrum, Mindgrove anticipates replacing millions of chips
annually and attracting global interest.
ISRO achieves milestone in Semi-Cryogenic Engine Test.
• ISRO's LPSC leads the development of a 2000 kN thrust semi-cryogenic engine with LOX
Kerosene as propellant, aimed at enhancing LVM3 payload capabilities.
• The first successful ignition trial of the semi-cryo pre burner took place on May 2, 2024, at IPRC,
Mahendragiri, demonstrating smooth and sustained ignition.
• Headquarters: Bengaluru
• Founded: 15 August 1969
• Founder: Vikram Sarabhai
Victoria Shi, the world’s 1st AI diplomat representing Ukraine
• Ukraine introduced AI-generated spokesperson Victoria Shi to provide official statements.
• Each statement includes a QR code for verification.
• Shi's visuals are AI-generated, not a spokesperson substitute.
• Victoria Shi is based on a real person - Ukrainian singer and influencer Rosalie Nombre, who
agreed to participate in the project.
World's deepest blue hole discovered in Mexico
• Researchers have discovered the world's deepest blue hole located in Mexico's Chetumal Bay,
named Taam Ja' Blue Hole (TJBH).
• Recent measurements have recorded it at depths exceeding 420 meters below sea level (mbsl).
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• A blue hole is a large marine cavern or sinkhole, which is open to the surface and has developed
in a bank or island composed of a carbonate bedrock.
NewSpace India will handle all IRS satellite data and products
• NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) took charge of all Indian Remote Sensing satellite data and
products from May 1, 2024.
• "Bhoonidhi" remains the platform for data dissemination, ensuring accessibility to users.
• India's Space Policy 2023 mandates free access to satellite data of 5m resolution or coarser, with
finer data accessible for government entities and priced for non-government entities.
China set to launch Chang'e-6 lunar probe.
• China is set to launch the Chang'e-6 lunar probe on a round trip to the Moon.
• It aims to gather soil and rock samples from the far side of the Moon.
• This will be the first-ever attempt to retrieve lunar samples from the far side.
• Pakistan is set to make history as it launches its first-ever lunar mission, ICUBE-Q, aboard China's
Chang'e-6 lunar probe.
New study finds more water ice on Moon within exploitable depths.
• The research, published in the ISPRS Journal of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing, is vital for
future lunar missions.
• The ice found a few meters below the surface, is 5-8 times greater than surface levels, promising
for human sustainability on the Moon.
• This discovery, aided by data from India's Chandrayaan-2 and NASA's LRO, paves the way for
targeted landings and in-situ lunar exploration.
IIT-Patna awarded patent for its cost-effective inverter.
• IIT Patna has been awarded a patent for a pioneering lightweight, compact inverter, aiming for
self-reliance in portable power.
• The patented product, developed under the 'Portable Power Technology' startup scheme,
integrates battery and inverter in one unit, emphasizing clean energy and improved durability.
• IIT-Patna’s academic dean : A K Thakur
IIT Madras's ePlane's Electric Air Taxi set to 2025 launch:
• The ePlane Company, incubated at IIT Madras, aims to debut an electric air taxi prototype by
March 2025, focusing on reducing urban congestion.
• Satya Chakravarthy, the CEO, announced plans for initial drone commercialization and a
certifiable eVTOL aircraft prototype, pending DGCA certification.
• InterGlobe and Archer Aviation's partnership will start an electric air taxi service by 2026.
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Sports Current Affairs

Sophie Ecclestone: Fastest Woman Cricketer to complete 100 ODI Wickets
• Ecclestone, who is just 25 years old, broke the previous record held by former Australian cricketer
Ajla McLauchlan.
• She reached the milestone in her 47th ODI, while McLauchlan had taken 50 matches to complete
100 wickets.
• She achieved this feat during England's second ODI against Pakistan.
• She is a left-arm spinner, belongs to England.
Indian Arm Wrestlers wins 7 Medals at Asian Championship 2024.
• In Arm Wrestling, the Indian contingent has clinched seven medals including one gold and six
bronze at the Asian Championship 2024 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
• Shrimant Jha won the gold medal in the left-hand para category and a bronze medal in the right-
hand para category.
• Laxman Singh Bhandari - two bronze medals
• Sachin Goyal - bronze
• Ibi Lollen - two bronze medals.
India’s R Vaishali beat compatriot Koneru Humpy at Norway tournament.
• India’s R Vaishali defeated Koneru Humpy, claiming the sole lead in the women’s section of the
Norway Chess tournament.
• Vaishali has four points after the second round, despite an earlier loss to Wenjun Ju of China.
• She leads the tournament ahead of China's Tingjie Lei and Ju, Ukraine's Anna Muzychuk, and
Sweden's Pia Cramling, with Humpy at the bottom with 1.5 points.
Charles Leclerc creates F1 history with win in Monaco.
• Charles Leclerc achieved a historic victory at the Monaco Grand Prix, becoming the first
Monegasque driver to win his home race since Louis Chiron in 1931.
• McLaren’s Oscar Piastri finished second, just 7.1 seconds behind Leclerc, while Ferrari teammate
Carlos Sainz secured third place.
• Reigning champion Max Verstappen, who had dominated the season so far, finished in sixth
place.
Divya Deshmukh wins Sharjah Challengers 2024
• Four players finished the Sharjah Masters atop the standings with 6½ points.
• IM Divya Deshmukh drew against IM Leya Garifullina to win the Sharjah Challengers 2024.
• Bardiya Daneshvar, aged 17, claimed tournament victory at the Sharjah Masters 2024
• Safin, Vivaan Rana, and Jayaraj Gowrishankar are 3 more Indians to make a top-10 finish in the
Futures.
• Masters - US$ 12000, Challengers - $2000
ICC grants List-A status to Major League Cricket in the US.
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• The ICC has granted official List-A status to Major League Cricket matches in the US in only its
second season.
• The ICC’s move makes MLC as the official T20 league and America’s first world-class domestic
tournament.
• Now, every century, half-century, ‘ﬁve-for’, run-out, win, loss, and championship will be
documented as official career statistics.
• MLC CEO: Vijay Srinivasan.
Classic Football Academy won AIFF U17 Title
• Classic Football Academy retained the All India Football Federation Under-17 Elite Youth League
2023-24 title, beating Sudeva Delhi FC 2-1 in at the Nagoa Panchayat Ground, Goa.
• The team utilized set pieces effectively, with goals from Ningthoukhongjam Rishi and
Ahongshangbam Samson both off corner kicks.
• AIFF is the governing body of football in India.
• AIFF President: Kalyan Chaubey.
Dipa Karmakar won India's first-ever gold medal at Asian Championships
• Dipa bagged historic Gold in women's vault at the Asian Championships with an average score
of 13.566, marking India's first gold in the event.
• South Korea's Kim Son Hyang and Jo Kyong-byol took silver and bronze with scores of 13.466 and
12.966 respectively.
• This victory follows Dipa's 16th place finish in the all-round category, where she scored 46.16 but
missed Paris 2024 Olympics quota.
Babar Azam became second leading run scorer in T20Is
• Babar Azam surpassed Rohit Sharma to become the second highest run-scorer in T20Is, amassing
3987 runs in 111 innings.
• Babar scored 32 off 26 balls in Pakistan's recent T20I against England, though his team did not
secure a win.
• Virat Kohli remains the top run-scorer in T20Is with 4037 runs, leading ahead of Babar and Rohit.
Important updates on 17th Indian Premier League 2024:
• Most valuable player: Sunil Narine (Kolkata Knight Riders)
• Most runs (Orange cap): Virat Kohli (Royal Challengers Bengaluru) (741)
• Most wickets (Purple cap): Harshal Patel (Punjab Kings) (24)
• Emerging Player of the Season: Nitish Reddy
• Uncapped players with most runs in an IPL season 2024 - Riyan Parag
• Uncapped players with most wickets in an IPL season 2024 - Harshit Rana
Kolkata Knight Riders won the IPL 2024 T20 Championship
• Kolkata Knight Riders bowled out Sunrisers Hyderabad for a paltry total of 113 in the final of IPL
2024 in Chennai.
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• Venkatesh Iyer's half-century and Andre Russell's 3-wicket haul led the KKR to win its third IPL
title in 2024.
• KKR won the title in 2012, 2014, and now 2024.
• Most Valuable Player of the Season - Sunil Narayan
• Highest run-scorer for KKR in 2024 IPL Season: Sunil Narine
Jos Buttler becomes first England player to make 3,000 T20I runs.
• Buttler reached this milestone during his side's second T20I against West Indies.
• In 115 T20Is, Buttler has scored 3,011 runs at an average of 35.42 and a strike rate of 145.10.
• He is the ninth-highest run-scorer in T20I cricket.
• After Buttler Eoin Morgan - 2,458 runs in 115 matches.
• The highest-run-scorer in T20I cricket - Virat Kohli (4,037 runs)
Ravi Shastri joins Cricket Australia's Multicultural Initiative.
• Cricket Australia launched its Multicultural Ambassador Program, naming 53 representatives,
including Ravi Shastri, and Usman Khawaja.
• The program aims to enhance inclusivity in cricket, supporting the Multicultural Action Plan across
participation, representation, and community engagement
• Ambassadors will provide leadership and insights to foster a welcoming, diverse, cricketing
environment
Simran Sharma wins Gold Medal at World Para Athletics Championship.
• Simran clinched the gold in the women’s 200m T12 event, achieving a personal best time of 24.95
seconds.
• India concluded their World Para Athletics Championships journey with remarkable
achievements, securing a total of 17 medals, including six golds.
• The World Para Athletics Championship was organized in Kobe, Japan.
Dinesh Kartik announced retirement from IPL
• Royal Challengers Bengaluru wicket-keeper batter Dinesh Karthik played his final IPL game in the
eliminator loss against Rajasthan Royals.
• Dinesh Karthik, an accomplished Indian cricketer, debuted internationally in 2004 and has played
over 300 T20 matches.
• Karthik served as captain of the Kolkata Knight Riders between 2018 & 2020 and has also been a
commentator for Sky Sports.
Mariyappan Thangavelu wins Gold at World Para Athletics Championships.
• In the men's T63 high jump, Mariyappan set a championship record at 1.88 meters to secure gold,
adding to his accolades from the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2021 Paralympics.
• Sumit Antil successfully defended his F64 javelin throw world title with a top throw of 69.50 meters
at the World Para Athletics Championships in Kobe, Japan.
• Compatriot Sandeep earned bronze with a throw of 60.41 meters.
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Toni Kroos to retire from Football after Euro 2024

• Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos, 34, will retire after playing for Germany at Euro 2024, closing
a distinguished career with 22 trophies at Madrid, including four Champions League titles.
• Kroos joined Real Madrid in 2014, forming an iconic midfield trio with Luka Modric and Casemiro,
and won multiple domestic and international titles.
Preetismita Bhoi won Gold, set record at IWF World Youth Championship
• Preetismita Bhoi set a new clean and jerk world record in the women's 40kg category at the
International Weightlifting Federation World Youth Championships.
• The Indian weightlifter surpassed the previous record by 1kg with a lift of 76kg.
• Bhoi's total lift of 133kg was 2kg short of the youth world standard, securing a gold medal on the
competition's first day.
• IWF Hq: Lausanne, Switzerland.
Australia and Uzbekistan to host AFC Women's Asian Cups.
• Australia and Uzbekistan have been confirmed as hosts for the 2026 and 2029 AFC Women’s
Asian Cups, respectively, highlighting the growing importance of women's football in Asia.
• This marks Australia’s second time hosting after 2006 and makes Uzbekistan the first Central
Asian nation to host the event.
• AFC President - Shaikh Salman.
• AFC Current champions: China
Manchester City wins historic fourth in row title at Premier League.
• On May 19, 2024, Manchester City won its fourth straight Premier League title by defeating West
Ham United, making it the first team to achieve this feat.
• This victory follows their emulation of Manchester United's record of three consecutive Premier
League titles last season and their historic treble.
• 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024: Manchester City
• 2010: Liverpool
• 2018, 2019: Manchester City
Ekta Wins Gold Medal at World Para Athletic Championships.
• India's Ekta Bhayan won the gold medal in the women's F51 club throw event at the World Para
Athletic Championships with a season's best of 20.12m.
• Haryana Civil Services (HCS) officer Ekta won a bronze medal in the Asian Para Games in China.
• She also won a gold medal in the club throw event at the 2018 Asian Para Games in Jakarta.
• Kashish Lakra won the silver with an effort of 14.56m.
Indian Mixed Team wins Gold at Asian Relay Championship.
• India won the gold medal with a new national record in the mixed 4x400m team event at the
inaugural Asian Relay Championships 2024 in Bangkok.
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• The Indian relay team:- Muhammad Ajmal, Jyothika Sri Dandi, Amoj Jacob, and Subha
Venkatesan.
• The Sri Lankan team won the silver medal with a timing of 3:17.00, while Vietnam won the bronze
medal with a timing of 3:18.45.
Xander Schauffele won PGA Championship, first major title
• Xander Schauffele won his first major championship at the PGA Championship at Valhalla Golf
Club.
• With a final-round 65, Schauffele set a record with a 21-under-par 263, edging Bryson
DeChambeau by one stroke.
• The PGA Championship is an annual golf tournament conducted by the Professional Golfers'
Association of America.
Nelly Korda sealed sixth victory in seven LPGA Tour events
• Nelly Korda has won her sixth LPGA Tour event in seven starts at the Mizuho Americas Open,
holding a season record.
• Korda has maintained the lead despite a challenge from Hannah Green, winning without a playoff
after Green's bunker trouble.
• The Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) is an American organization for female
professional golfers, known for running the LPGA Tour.
Magnus Carlsen triumphs in inaugural Casablanca Chess
• Magnus Carlsen bagged the Casablanca Chess 2024, outplaying Hikaru Nakamura in the final
round.
• Nakamura secured second place
• Viswanathan Anand took third with a strong finish.
• Game of the Day featured Carlsen’s victory over Bassem Amin in a pivotal match.
Iga Swiatek wins third Italian Open Title.
• Victory: Iga Swiatek defeated Aryna Sabalenka 6-2, 6-3, winning her third Italian Open title.
• Career Milestone: This win extends her career titles to 21 and her unbeaten run on clay to 12
matches.
• Location: Foro Italico, Rome, Italy
• French Open: The victory sets a strong precedent as Swiatek heads into the French Open, where
she is the defending champion.
Brazil set to host FIFA Women's World Cup 2027.
• Brazil will host the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup, marking the first time this event will be held in
South America.
• The tournament has expanded from 12 teams in 1991 to 32 teams in 2023, with past winners
including the USA, Norway, Germany, Japan, and Spain.
• 5 countries have won FIFA Women's World Cup: US, Norway, Germany, Japan, and Spain.
• US has the most 4 titles in 1991, 1999, 2015, 2019.
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Deepthi Jeevanji won Gold in 400m T20 class at Para Championships.

• Deepthi Jeevanji of India won gold in the women's 400m T20 at the World Para Athletics
Championships in Kobe, Japan, with a world record time of 55.07 seconds, surpassing the previous
record by Breanna Clark.
• Aysel Onder of Turkey secured silver with a time of 55.19 seconds, while Lizanshela Angulo of
Ecuador took bronze with 56.68 seconds.
Nishad Kumar and Preethi Pal secured Medals at World Para Athletics.
• Nishad Kumar and Preethi Pal clinch silver and bronze at the World Para Athletics Championships
in Kobe, Japan.
• Kumar, a Paralympic silver medalist, secures India’s first medal with a 1.99m high jump in the T47
category, finishing second.
• Preethi Pal then added a bronze to India's tally after finishing third in the women's T35 200m final
with a time of 30.49 seconds.
Satwik-Chirag clinched Thailand Open title again.
• Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty win the Thailand Open Men’s Doubles, defeating Chen
Bo Yang and Liu Yi 21-15, 21-15.
• The Indian duo’s victory marks their second title at this tournament since 2019 for their first
Superseries or Super 500 level victory.
• Ranked third in the world, Satwik and Chirag were the top seeds, demonstrating their dominance
leading up to the final.
Nikhat Zareen and Minakshi win Gold at Elorda Cup.
• Nikhat Zareen and Minakshi win gold medals in their categories at the Elorda Cup 2024 in
Kazakhstan.
• Anamika and Manisha secured silver after competing against tough opponents in the 50kg and
60kg categories, respectively.
• Team India finishes with an impressive tally of 12 medals, including two gold, two silver, and eight
bronze, showcasing their talent and determination.
Ronaldo topped Forbes’ list of the world’s highest-paid athlete
• Ronaldo topped Forbes' list with $260 million in earnings, including $200 million from Al-Nassr
and $60 million off-field.
• Golfer Jon Rahm ranked second with $218 million, mostly from LIV Golf Tour wages.
• Lionel Messi earned $135 million, with $70 million from off-field activities, placing him third.
• For the first time, the top 10 highest paid athletes have each earned more than $100 mn.
Binit Roy clinched Bronze at CITI Para Swimming World Series
• Tripura CM Manik Saha congratulated para-swimmer Binit Roy for winning a bronze medal at the
CITI Para Swimming World Series in Singapore.
• Binit Roy excelled in the 100-meter freestyle event.
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• The event also launched the "Swim Together" workshop to enhance global paralympic swimming
coaches' skills, and served as a qualifier for the Paris Paralympics 2024.
Athletics Federation of India signed deal with sports wear brand Puma
• Being the official kit sponsor, Puma’s accessories will be used by top Indian athletes including
Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra, long jumper Murali Sreeshankar and steeplechaser Parul
Chaudhary.
• Puma will now provide apparel, footwear and accessories to around 400 Indian athletes during
domestic and international tournaments.
• Puma is a German sports footwear and apparel manufacturer company.
Nandini Dairy will sponsor Scotland for T20 World Cup 2024.
• Cricket Scotland has announced India's Karnataka-based Nandini dairy as the official sponsor of
the T20 World Cup.
• The 2024 Men's T20 World Cup will be played in the United States and the West Indies.
• MK Jagadish - MD of Karnataka Milk Federation.
• Earlier Amul was appointed as the ‘Official Sponsor’ of the Sri Lanka Men’s Team, and the USA
men's cricket and South African teams.
World's tallest competitive swimming pool opens in Bhutan.
• World Aquatics inaugurated the highest competitive swimming pool at 2,400 meters in Bhutan,.
• The Global body of Swimming launched a program in 2019 that aims to ensure accessible aquatic
facilities for more countries and regions.
• HRH Prince Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck - President of the Bhutan Olympic Committee
• World Aquatics President - Hussein Al-Musallam
Animesh Kujur won Gold at 200m sprint event in Federation Cup
• Animesh Kujur bagged 200m gold at the Federation Cup.
• The Federation Cup took place in Bhubaneshwar, Odisha.
• Kujur, 20, has scorched the track by clocking an impressive 20.62 seconds to win the 200 metres
gold, the second-best time ever by an Indian after Amalan Borgohain’s national record of 20.52
seconds.
• He also qualified for the 100 metre final.
IPL 2024 broke record with most sixes ever
• IPL 2024 has set a new record for the most sixes in a season with 1,125 hits, surpassing previous
years.
• Sunrisers Hyderabad leads with 146 sixes in 12 matches, followed closely by Royal Challengers
Bengaluru and Delhi Capitals.
• The record-breaking season still has 10 matches left, suggesting the final tally of sixes could rise
even further.
Joshna, Abhay, Velavan bagged Gold in National Doubles Squash C'ship
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• Joshna Chinappa, Abhay Singh and Velavan Senthilkumar won gold in their respective categories
during the National Doubles Squash Championship.
• In mixed doubles category, Abhay & Chinappa defeated Harinder Sandhu, Rathika Seelan.
• Abhay with Velavan, beat Rahul Baitha, Suraj Chand in another Men's Doubles.
• They will next represent India in Asian Squash Doubles Championship in Johor, Malaysia.
Neeraj Chopra triumphs at Federation Cup 2024
• Neeraj Chopra won gold in the men's javelin with 82.27m throw.
• DP Manu led until round 3 but finished second with 82.06m.
• Chopra's win marks a successful return after a 3-year hiatus.
• Subedar Neeraj Chopra PVSM VSM is the first Asian athlete to win an Olympic gold medal in
javelin.
• He is serving in the 4 Rajputana Rifles of the Indian Army, holding the rank of Subedar (JCO).
Top Indian athletes secured Gold at National Championships
• Shot putter Tajinderpal Singh Toor and long jumper Jeswin Aldrin won Gold medals at National
Federation Cup Senior Athletics Championships.
• This championship was conducted by Athletics Federation of India.
• The Athletics Federation of India is the apex body for running and managing athletics in India
and affiliated to the World Athletics, AAA and Indian Olympic Association.
Manika Batra became first Indian singles player to break into top 25
• Manika Batra achieved a career-high world ranking of 24 in the latest International Table Tennis
Federation (ITTF) rankings, marking the first time an Indian paddler has entered the top 25 in
singles.
• She has reclaimed the top spot among women paddlers in India, surpassing Sreeja Akula, while
Sreeja dropped to number 41 in the global rankings.
• ITTF Hq: Lausanne, Switzerland
• Founded in 1926
Shyam Nikhil becomes India’s 85th GrandMaster.
• In 2012, Shyam Nikhil was one final norm away from becoming India’s 28th grandmaster.
• 31-year-old Shyam from Tamil Nadu earned that third norm which will make him India’s 85th
grandmaster.
• The Tamil Nadu chess player became an International Master (IM) at the age of 18 way back in
2010.
• 84th GM - R Vaishali
• 83rd - Aditya Samant
• 82nd - Prraneeth Vuppala
Prithvi Shekhar won the title in Slovenia Deaf Tennis Open.
• Prithvi Shekhar won the title in the Slovenia Deaf Tennis Open by winning the title in the men's
singles category.
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• Earlier he claimed a singles title at the Australian Open Deaf Championship.

• He also represented India at the Deaflympics in 2013 and 2017.
• He won a bronze medal in the mixed doubles at the 2017 Summer Deaflympics partnering with
Jafreen Shaik.
Japan beat Pakistan in penalty shootout to lift Sultan Azlan Shah Cup
• Japan defeated Pakistan 4-1 in the penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw in the Sultan Azlan Shah
Hockey Cup 2024 final in Ipoh, Malaysia.
• Japan's precision secured their victory, highlighting Ryoma Ooka's lead in the shootout.
• Both teams showed strong performances throughout the hockey tournament, with Japan topping
the points table and Pakistan making its first final appearance in 13 years.
Aman Sehrawat becomes 1st Indian Male Wrestler to qualify for olympics
• Aman Sehrawat has become the first Indian male wrestler to secure a quota place for the 2024
Paris Olympics.
• Asian champion Sehrawat secured a Paris quota in the men’s 57kg freestyle category at the World
Wrestling Olympic Qualifiers in Istanbul, Turkiye.
• Sehrawat beat Chongsong Han of Korea 12-2 in the semi-final for India’s sixth quota in wrestling
for the 2024 Olympics.
England cricketer James Anderson announced retirement.
• Anderson, having surpassed the 700 Test wickets mark, now stands as the third-highest wicket-
taker in test Cricket.
• The first Test of the summer at Lord's will be Anderson's final game, which will be against West
Indies.
• The list of all-time highest wicket-takers in Test cricket:
• Shane Warne - 708
• Muttiah Muralitharan - 800
Urwashi Joshi and Suraj Kumar secured singles titles at Poona Club.
• Indian squash players Urwashi Joshi and Suraj Kumar Chand secured the men's and women's
titles at the Poona Club Open tournament held in Pune, Maharashtra.
• Urvashi defeated USA's young sensation Diya Yadav.
• This is the first-ever edition of the Poona Club Open squash tournament.
• Suraj defeated Sri Lanka's top-seeded Ravindu Laksiri.
• This is Suraj's second title in the PSA Challenger Tour.
Carlsen triumphs, Praggnanandhaa 3rd in Chess Tournament
• Magnus Carlsen won Superbet Rapid and Blitz with 8/9 final day performance.
• R Praggnanandhaa secured third place in the Grand Chess Tour, Warsaw.
• Wei Yi of China led earlier, but ended second after last-day games.
• The Superbet rapid and blitz tournament is a part of the Grand Chess Tour, held in Warsaw,
Poland.
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Martin won thrilling French MotoGP

• Jorge Martin extended his lead in the championship with a thrilling victory in the French MotoGP
at Le Mans, France.
• Pramac Ducati rider Martin headed the standings with 129 points, 38 ahead of Bagnaia who
moved into second spot.
• Gresini Ducati’s Marc Marquez finished second with a final-lap overtake of Francesco Bagnaia in
a thrilling battle.
Lomachenko triumphs for IBF Lightweight title
• Vasiliy Lomachenko secured IBF lightweight championship with a TKO against George Kambosos
Jr in the 11th round.
• Dominating the fight, Lomachenko showcased technical superiority and control, finishing strong
in latter rounds.
• The victory was claimed in Perth, cheered by over 14,000 fans, marking a significant win in
Lomachenko's late-career stage.
Nitten Kirrtane bagged Mixed Doubles Silver & Men’s Doubles Bronze
• Nitten Kirrtane bagged mixed doubles silver and men’s doubles bronze at the ITF Masters World
Championship in Mexico City.
• Kirrtane reached the mixed doubles final with Isabelle Gemmel, ultimately losing to Bart Beks and
Barbara Mulej.
• The ITF World Championships is the pinnacle of the International Tennis Federation World Tennis
Masters Tournament.
Mallala Anusha won Triple Jump at Federation Cup
• Mallala Anusha secured the triple jump title at the Federation Cup with a personal best of 13.53m,
narrowly missing the meet record.
• Overcoming challenges and a strong contest from Sheena NV, Anusha exhibited consistent
performance culminating in victory.
• The event witnessed Santhosh Kumar T. winning the men’s 400m hurdles after training in the
Bahamas and competing in Dubai.
Parvej Khan, son of farmer, won Gold at US collegiate race
• Parvej Khan displayed a dominant run in both Heats and Final of the SEC championships in
Louisiana to win the Gold medal. He won the yellow metal in the 1500m race and also a Bronze
in 800m race.
• He is a son of a farmer from Haryana.
• He is also a Gold medalist in the National Games and holds the record for being the first Indian
to qualify for a track event's final in the NCAA Championships.
Tripura’s first international cricket stadium set to be ready by 2025
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• Tripura Cricket Association announced the inauguration of Tripura's first international cricket
stadium in Narsingarh, located in the West Tripura district by February 2025.
• The northeastern state’s first stadium, a collaboration between BCCI and TCA with a budget of
Rs 200 crore, will have a seating capacity for 25,000 spectators, marking a milestone in Tripura’s
sporting infrastructure.
India set to get first-ever professional pickleball league with WPBL.
• India debuts its 1st professional pickleball league, WPBL, initiated by Natekar Sports & Gaming
and SETVI to boost the sport.
• Pickleball has been one of the fastest-growing sports in India since 2008.
• With over 30,000 amateurs and 8,000 registered players, pickleball's growth targets 1 million
players in India within five years.
• Arvind Prabhoo: President of All India Pickleball Federation
Diksha Dagar 1st female to reach landmark 100th Events on LET.
• Diksha Dagar will become the first Indian woman golfer to play 100 events on the Ladies
European Tour.
• Diksha Dagar is ranked 147th in the world and the 2nd best Indian after Aditi Ashok (53rd).
• Diksha, a gold medallist at the 2021 Deaflympics, also received the Arjuna Award in 2023.
• Diksha won 2 LET:
• 1st: South African Women’s Open in 2019
• 2nd: Czech Ladies Open in 2023.
Norris beat Verstappen in Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix
• Lando Norris claimed his first Formula 1 victory at the 2024 Miami Grand Prix, outperforming Red
Bull's Max Verstappen.
• Verstappen faced balance issues, enabling Norris to extend his lead after an initial challenge at
the restart.
• Charles Leclerc from Ferrari secured third place, finishing closely behind Verstappen.
• Sergio Perez secured 4th Spot.
• Carlos Sainz secured 5th Spot.
India clinches 3 Gold, and 2 Bronze Medals at Asian Open Pickleball.
• Gold Medal:
o Sachin Pahwa and Priyanka Chabbra defeated Ruben Hellberg and Chitlada Hemasee in
the mixed doubles category.
o Isha Lakhani and Pei Chuan Kao won against Dang Kim Ngan and Tyak K.
o Aniket Patel and Rohit Patil defeated Nik Alessandro Isagan and Lester Ga.
• Bronze Medal:
o Vijay Menon defeated Yu Hsuan Cher.
o Priyanka Chhabra defeated Marissa Phongsirikul
India bags 43 Medals at ASBC Asian U-22 and Youth Boxing Championships
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• Indian contingent wrapped up their journey with a remarkable haul of 43 medals in Astana,
Kazakhstan.
• The Indian U-22 Team: 21 medals (7 Gold, 5 Silver, and 9 Bronze medals).
• The Youth Boxing Team: 22 medals (5 Gold, 9 Silver, and 8 Bronze medals).
• India finished the tournament with the 2nd Spot with 43 medals.
• 1st Spot - Kazakhstan (48 medals)
ICC announced Women’s T20 World Cup Schedule.
• The 9th Women's T20 World Cup 2024 will be held in Bangladesh from October 3-20
• CEO of the ICC - Geoff Allardice
• Group A: Australia, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, Sri Lanka
• Group B: Bangladesh, England, South Africa, West Indies, Scotland
• 2023 World Cup Winner - Australia
• 1st edition - 2009, Host - England, Winner - England
• 10th Women's T20 World Cup 2026 - Host - England
Kyren Wilson won maiden snooker world title
• Kyren Wilson won his first World Snooker Championship, beating Jak Jones, elevating him to a
career-high of World No. 3 after clinching his 6th ranking title and 1st Triple Crown.
• Wilson's triumph at the Crucible marks him as the 23rd player to win the championship, securing
a £500,000 prize and his first title since the 2022 European Masters.
• He is an English professional snooker player.
Scott Flemming appointed as head coach of Indian Men’s Basketball Team
• Scott Flemming, returned as Head Coach of the Indian Senior Men's Basketball team.
• He is an American college professional basketball coach.
• He has 38 years of coaching experience.
• Prior to this he served as the Senior Director of Basketball Operations, NBA India.
• He had previously been the head coach of India’s national basketball team, which he coached
from 2012 to 2015.
Jeffrey and Jeetesh won titles at AITA Junior Championship Series
• Jeffrey Kushwin and Jeetesh Kumari clinched the boys' and girls' titles at the AITA Junior
Championship Series tennis, dominating at MM Public School, Pitampura.
• In intense finals, Kushwin triumphed over Anmol Saini in a three-set match, while Kumari secured
her victory against Neelakshi Lather in straight sets.
• Despite a singles semifinal loss, Lakshay Dahiya won the doubles title.
Andrey Rublev won Madrid Open
• The 26-year-old Russian, who has struggled with health issues throughout the tournament,
recovered from the illness and an opening set wobble to clinch his second Masters 1000 title in
just under three hours.
• He defeated Felix Auger-Aliassime in the finals.
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• He previously eliminated Carlos Alcaraz and American Taylor Fritz to reach the final.
• He is a Russian professional tennis player.
Yuzvendra Chahal - first Indian player to reach 350-wicket mark in T20
• Yuzvendra Chahal became the first Indian to reach 350 T20 wickets, achieving the milestone
during IPL 2024 against Delhi Capitals.
• Chahal's historic wicket came from dismissing DC captain Rishabh Pant, marking his 350th victim
in his 301st T20 match.
• He joined elite spinners like Rashid Khan, Sunil Narine, Imran Tahir, Shakib Al Hasan in the 350
T20 wicket club, sitting fifth in the list.
Tejaswin Shankar won Men’s High Jump Event At USATF Festival
• India’s Tejaswin Shankar clinched victory in the men’s High Jump event at the USATF Festival in
Tucson, Arizona, USA.
• He cleared 2.23 metres in his first attempt to secure the top spot at the World Athletics
Continental Tour – Silver event.
• Earnie Sears of USA finished second, while Roberto Vilches of Mexico was third.
• Another Indian athlete, Sarvesh Kushare cleared 2.13m to finish fifth.
Thomas & Uber Cup 2024: China won both Men's & Women's titles
• China clinched top badminton nation, winning men’s & women’s titles at 2024 BWF Thomas &
Uber Cup in Chengdu.
• First Men’s Singles Winner: Shi Yuqi
• First Men’s Doubles Winners: Liang Weikeng & Wang Chang
• First Women's Singles Winner: Chen Yufei
• First Women's Doubles Winners: Chen Qingchen & Jia Yifan
Real Madrid won its record-extending 36th Spanish league title
• Real Madrid claimed its 36th LaLiga title with a 3-0 win over Cadiz & Barca's 4-2 loss at Girona,
securing the championship 4 games early.
• Barcelona's defeat and Madrid's victory created an insurmountable 13-point gap with only 12
points available, confirming Madrid's title win.
• La Liga is the top men's professional football division of the Spanish football league system.
• Founded in 1929.
5 Indian youth boxers strike gold in Asian U-22 & Youth Boxing C'sh.
• Brijesh (48 kg) won India's 1st gold medal over Tajikistan’s Muminov Muinkhodzha.
• Aryan (51 kg) won against Kyrgyzstan's Kamilov Zafarbek.
• Yashwardhan Singh (63.5 kg) won against Gafurov Ruslan of Tajikistan.
• Nisha (52 kg) outperformed Kazakhstan’s Otynbay Bagzhan.
• Laxmi (50kg) won India’s 5th gold medal against Enkh Nomundari of Mongolia.
• Meanwhile, 9 youth boxers won silver medals.
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Piyush Chawla becomes the 2nd highest wicket taker in the IPL history.
• Mumbai Indians' spinner Piyush Chawla achieved this feat against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at
Wankhede Stadium.
• Piyush Chawla is ahead of Dwayne Bravo (183) and has become the second-highest wicket-taker
with 184 wickets.
• Rajasthan Royals' star spinner Yuzvendra Chahal is the highest wicket-taker in the history of this
league with 200 wickets.
• Bhuvnesh Kumar - 179
• Sunil Narine - 177
ICC T20 WC: Srinath, N Menon, Madanagopal named among match officials
• ICC announced the list of 26 match officials set to be in charge of the event to be held in the USA
and the West Indies, starting June 1.
• Umpires Nitin Menon and Jayaraman Madanagopal, along with ICC match referee Javagal
Srinath will be the Indian representatives at the upcoming T20 World Cup in the Americas.
• ICC Hq: Dubai, UAE.
• CEO: Geoff Allardice.
• Chairman: Greg Barclay.
Dhoni set historic IPL wicketkeeping record with 150 catches
• MS Dhoni became the first cricketer to take 150 catches in the IPL, marking a historic record for
the Chennai Super Kings legend.
• He achieved the milestone during a match against Punjab Kings, showcasing his remarkable
wicketkeeping abilities.
• His exceptional skill and enduring presence in cricket highlight his significant impact and
inspirational role in the sport.
Iga Swiatek defeated Aryna Sabalenka in Madrid Open final
• Iga Swiatek clinched the Madrid Open title by defeating Aryna Sabalenka in a thrilling three-set
tiebreaker, avenging her loss in last year's final.
• Despite facing two match points, Swiatek battled back, forcing a tiebreaker.
• The 22-year-old Polish player secured her third title of the season and became the youngest
player to reach 20 titles since Caroline Wozniacki in 2012.
Mumbai City FC defeated Mohun Bagan to win ISL 2023-24.
• Mumbai City FC grabbed the ISL title for a second time in front of a partisan Salt Lake Stadium.
• Award winners from the ISL 2023-24 season:
• Golden Glove - Phurba Lachenpa (Mumbai City FC)
• Golden Boot - Dimitrios Diamantakos (Kerala Blasters FC)
• Emerging Player of the League - Vikram Partap Singh (Mumbai City FC)
• Player of the League - Dimitrios Petratos (Mohun Bagan Super Giant)
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West Indies player banned for five years under anti-corruption code.
• Devon Thomas was banned for 5 years by ICC for breaching the anti-corruption codes of Sri
Lanka Cricket, Emirates Cricket Board, and Caribbean Premier League, with the last 18 months
suspended.
• Thomas accepted 7 counts of anti-corruption breaches, including fixing and influencing matches
in the Lanka Premier League 2021.
• This period of ineligibility has been backdated to May 23, 2023.
Gulf Youth Games: UAE secured top spot with 296 medals
• The Gulf Youth Games Emirates 2024 concluded after two weeks, awarding 792 medals across 24
sports disciplines.
• UAE dominated with 296 medals (96 gold, 103 silver, 97 bronze), securing the top position with
37% of the total medals.
• Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, and Bahrain also showcased commendable performances, securing
second to fifth positions respectively.
• Host country: UAE.
T20 World Cup 2024: Amul to sponsor USA, South Africa cricket teams
• Amul sponsored both the USA and South African cricket teams for the upcoming T20 World Cup,
starting in June.
• USA, one of the co-hosts, will make its tournament debut; matches will begin on June 1, with a
portion to be held in the Caribbean.
• Amul named Lead Arm sponsor for the USA team; tournament opener between USA and Canada
is on June 1, while South Africa will face Sri Lanka on June 3.
International Chess Federation awarded Grandmaster Title to Vaishali
• Vaishali Ramesh Babu, the newly minted Grandmaster by FIDE, hails India's rising prominence in
chess.
• She expressed optimism for India's performance at the upcoming World Championship.
• Vaishali is the third Indian female Grandmaster, joining Koneru Humpy and Harika Dronavalli.
• She and her brother Praggnanandhaa are the first-ever brother-sister duo to both earn the GM
title.
National Women’s Hockey League 2024 commenced in Ranchi
• The National Women’s Hockey League 2024 kicked off in Jharkhand, featuring eight teams.
• Jharkhand faced Mizoram at Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Stadium in Ranchi.
• Hockey India officials, including Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh and Treasurer Sekar J
Manoharan, welcomed Sports Authority of India’s Director General Sandeep Pradhan to the
inaugural day.
Gloucestershire cricketer Ben Wells announces retirement from cricket.
• Ben Wells has announced retirement from professional cricket at the age of 23.
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• The English youngster made his Gloucestershire debut in 2021.

• Wells disclosed that he has been diagnosed with Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular
Cardiomyopathy (ARVC) due to which he has to retire from professional cricket.
Paris Saint-Germain secured 12th Ligue 1 Title after Monaco's defeat
• The French football club, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has won their record 12th Ligue 1 title as AS
Monaco lost 3-2 against Olympique Lyonnais.
• The defeat provided PSG a 12-point lead over Monaco, ensuring an unassailable position.
• Ligue 1 is a French professional league for men's association football clubs.
• It is at the top of the French football league system.
• Founded: 1932, France.
India won Men’s and Women’s Doubles Title at Asian Carrom Championship
• In the 6th Asian Carrom championship, Indian players captured both the Men’s and Women’s
doubles titles at Male in Maldives.
• In Men’s doubles final, Indian duo K Srinivas and Mohammed Ghufran took down Ismail Azmeen
and Hassan Nazim of the host country.
• In women’s doubles, India’s Aakanksha Kadam and Shainy Sebastian defeated compatriots,
Rashmi Kumari and K Nagajothi in the final.
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Summits and Conferences Current Affairs

India and Japan Collaborate to Combat Terrorism
• India and Japan's Joint Working Group discussed regional and cross-border terrorism threats
during their 6th meeting.
• Emphasis on information sharing, capacity building, and training programs to combat terrorism,
and cooperation via multilateral forums such as UN, FATF, and Quad.
• Agreement to hold the 7th meeting of the JWG in Tokyo.
International Conference started in Ranchi to Promote Steel Industry.
• MECON Limited and SAIL are organizing a two-day International Conference on Steel focusing
on Capital Goods on 30th and 31st May at Ranchi.
• The conference aims to foster partnerships, innovation, and timely execution in India's steel
industry.
• India has emerged as the 2nd Largest Producer of Crude Steel globally with 125.32 MT of Crude
Steel and 121.29 MT of Steel Production.
• 1st: China
Sourav Ganguly became chief guest at 2024 SCM Conference in Mumbai
• Sourav Ganguly, ex-BCCI President, has been named the Chief Guest for the International
Procurement and Supply Chain Conference in Mumbai, 2024.
• The conference will host 400+ delegates, focusing on "India Tomorrow: Economic Supremacy" to
enhance India's economy.
• The prestigious IPSC Awards 2024 will be presented, recognizing excellence in supply chain
management.
India assumed Chair of Colombo Process for 2024-2026
• India has assumed the Chair of the Colombo Process for 2024-2026, marking the 1st time it has
taken on this role since the Process's inception in 2003.
• It is a Regional Consultative Process involving migrant worker origin countries from South and S-
E Asia.
• This forum, consisting of 12 Member States, serves as a platform for sharing best practices on
overseas employment and contractual labor.
44th CISO Training Programme under Cyber Surakshit Bharat Initiative.
• The 44th Deep-Dive Training Programme for Chief Information Security Officers was organized
by NeGD in New Delhi
• The training aims to educate CISOs on cyber-attacks, safeguard technologies, legal provisions,
and policy formulation for cyber security.
• Since its launch in 2018, the initiative has trained over 1,637 CISOs, enhancing government cyber
resilience and supporting the Digital India.
Kazakhstan Co-Chairs Int’l Conference on Nuclear Security in Vienna.
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• Kazakhstan co-chairs the International Conference on Nuclear Security: Shaping the Future
(ICONS 2024) in Vienna on May 20-24 with Australia.
• International Atomic Energy Agency Director General - Rafael Mariano Grossi.
• Kazakhstan's commitment to nuclear disarmament since 1991 and the peaceful use of nuclear
energy was reiterated.
• IAEA: HQ: Vienna, Austria
• Founded: 29 July 1957
Cyber Security Conclave is organized in New Delhi.
• A cyber security conclave focused on strategies to combat increasing cyber threats.
• It was organized with joint efforts by CSC and United Service Institution.
• During this, an MoU was signed between CSC and USI to strengthen cyber security.
• Discussions included enhancing cybersecurity resilience, cost-effective solutions, and Cyber
Rakshak program, which trains women in cyber security skills
10th World Water Forum opens in Indonesia's Bali, Indonesia.
• The 10th World Water Forum under the "Water for Shared Prosperity" theme officially opened in
Indonesia.
• The Forum focused on four topics:
o Water Conservation
o Clean Water and Sanitation
o Food and Energy Security
o Mitigation of Natural Disasters
• Indonesian President: Joko Widodo
• The Forum will feature 350 sessions and is set to host 100,000 participants.
India hosted 46th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meet in Kochi
• Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting, also known as "Antarctic Parliament," was attended by 56
member countries to discuss global Antarctic governance.
• India presented its proposal for constructing Maitri II station in Antarctica, requiring approval
from the ATCM.
• The agenda has included sustainable management of Antarctica, regulating tourism, and
addressing climate change impacts.
World Hydrogen Summit 2024: India showcases Green Hydrogen Mission.
• Ministry of New and Renewable Energy set up its pavilion at the World Hydrogen Summit 2024 in
Netherlands.
• National Green Hydrogen Mission, launched in January 2023 with 19,744 crore budget, aims for a
5 MMT green hydrogen production capacity by 2030.
• India has awarded tenders for setting up 412,000 tonnes of green hydrogen production capacity
and 1,500 MW electrolyzer manufacturing capacity
India debuts at World Hydrogen Summit 2024
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• India inaugurated its first-ever pavilion at the World Hydrogen Summit in Rotterdam, highlighting
advancements under the National Green Hydrogen Mission.
• The mission, aimed at a 5 MMT green hydrogen production by 2030, has already seen tenders for
412,000 tons of production and 1,500 MW of electrolyzer capacity.
• The initiative also includes launch of a dedicated portal & innovation clusters.
India showcases tourism potential at Arabian Travel Mart 2024.
• India participates in Arabian Travel Mart 2024 in Dubai, led by Counsul General Satish Kumar
Sivan.
• Arabian Travel Mart 2024 will be held in Dubai from May 6th to 9th May, 2024.
• Launches 'Cool Summers of India’ campaign to promote year-round travel, highlighting hill
resorts.
• Aimed at strengthening market presence in MENA, fostering industry alliances, and boosting the
tourism economy.
UN's first international conference on Digital Public Infra held
• The United Nation's First International Conference on Digital Public Infrastructure was held under
India's leadership to harness technology to propel Sustainable Development Goals and foster
inclusivity.
• The session hosted by the Permanent Mission of India and the Ministry of Electronics and
Information Technology, along with iSPIRT.
• Permanent representative of India to UN: Ruchira Kamboj.
India to host 46th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting in Kochi.
• The Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India, through the National Centre for Polar and
Ocean Research, will host the 46th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting and the 26th Meeting
of the Committee for Environmental Protection from May 20 to 30, 2024, in Kochi, Kerala.
• The Antarctic Treaty was signed in 1959 and entered into force in 1961.
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Reports and Indices Current Affairs

UN predicts global unemployment to fall in 2024
• The International Labour Organisation (ILO), which once predicted that unemployment would
increase to 5.2% this year from 5% in 2023, now projects a global unemployment rate of 4.9% in
2024.
• Before this, the UN in another report had said that India’s GDP would grow by 6.8% in 2023.
• However, 402 million individuals were unemployed and wanted employment.
Delhi's airport among top 10 busiest airports in the world.
• The global passenger count reached around 8.5 billion in 2023, according to the latest report from
Airports Council International.
• Five of the top 10 busiest airports are located in the United States (US).
• The top ten busiest airports in the world accounted for 10% of global traffic (806 million
passengers).
• 1st - Hartsfield-Jackson USA
• 2nd - Dubai Airport
• 10th - Indira Gandhi Airport
Goldman Sachs raises India’s GDP Growth forecast to 6.7% for 2024.
• Goldman Sachs revised upwards its forecast for India's gross domestic product (GDP) growth for
calendar year 2024 (CY24) by 10 basis points (bps) to 6.7 percent.
• The IMF now estimates India's GDP to grow 6.8%, higher than the earlier estimate of 6.5%.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) expects the economy to grow by 7% in the current fiscal year.
Delhi ranks At 350, highest among Indian Cities in Global Index.
• Delhi is the highest-ranked Indian city at 350th in Oxford Economics’ Global Cities Index.
• New York ranks 1st, followed by London, San Jose, Tokyo, and Paris.
• Other Indian Cities:
• Bengaluru (411), Mumbai (427), and Chennai (472)
• The index provides a holistic evaluation of the largest cities globally, covering 163 countries.
• South Indian cities appear to be ranked higher on the list.
Cybercrime surge in India: Over 7,000 daily complaints in 2024
• Cybercrime in India has surged, with over 740,957 complaints filed from May 2023 to April 2024,
showing an increase of up to 60.9% annually.
• The most common types of fraud involve fake trading, loans, gaming, and dating apps.
• The Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) has responded by freezing nearly 325,000 mule
bank accounts, blocking 530,000 SIM cards and 3,401 social media accounts.
WNS released fourth annual Corporate Sustainability Report
• WNS (Holdings) Limited released its fourth annual corporate sustainability report, focusing on
environmental, social, and governance initiatives.
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• The report, titled ‘Empowering Growth, Inspiring Change,’ emphasizes sustainability aligned with
economic growth and value creation for stakeholders.
• WNS is a leading business process management (BPM) company.
Metabolic health worsens, sugar increased by 50% between 2000-21
• Metabolic issues related to blood pressure, sugar, and BMI have escalated, impacting health and
increasing disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) by 50% from 2000 to 2021.
• The research, published in The Lancet, links these health declines to an aging population and
lifestyle changes globally.
• Young adults (15-49 years) are particularly at risk, facing heightened vulnerabilities.
80% + Indians want green policies, climate action: Yale-CVoter survey
• The study, titled "Climate Change In The Indian Mind 2023" based on a survey conducted by Yale
Program on Climate Change Communication and CVoter, a Delhi-based polling agency, revealed
strong Indian support for 2070 net zero emissions goal, with over 80% in favor.
• Participants identified environmental hazards such as air pollution and extreme weather as key
impacts of global warming in India
World Economic Forum's "Travel & Tourism Development Index 2024".
• India has climbed to the 39th position in the latest index released by WEF.
• Spain, Japan, France, and Australia feature are the top four countries in the 2024 list.
• India was in 54th position in the 2021 rankings.
• The country's overall Travel and Tourism Development Index score is 2.1% lower than its 2019
level.
• Germany - 6th, UK - 7th, China - 8th, Italy - 9th, Switzerland - 10th
SC student enrollment sees 44% increase from 2014 to 2022: NCBC
• Student enrollment under the Scheduled Caste category has increased by 44%, from 4.61 million
in 2014-15 to 6.62 million in 2021-22.
• Minority female student enrollment has risen by 42.3%, from 1.07 million to 1.52 million over the
same period.
• The National Commission For Backward Classes has highlighted the government's efforts to
safeguard and enhance the rights of Other Backward Classes.
India GDP to Grow at 6.2% in Q4 and 7% for FY24: India Ratings.
• India Ratings and Research expects the country's GDP growth rate for the March quarter at 6.2%
and around 6.9-7% for the 2023-24 fiscal.
• The Indian economy grew 8.2% in the June quarter, 8.1% in the September quarter and 8.4% in
the December quarter of 2023-24.
• The RBI projected GDP growth for 2023-24 at 7%.
• 1st quarter, the GVA and GDP - 8.2%,
• 2nd quarter, the GVA - 7.7% and GDP - 8.1%.
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Global life expectancy to increase by almost five years by 2050.

• Life expectancy is expected to rise by 4.9 years for men and 4.2 years for women globally by 2050,
as per a new study published in The Lancet.
• A study conducted by the Global Burden of Disease Study (2021), the research considers factors
like income, education, and health risks across 204 countries and territories.
• The main reason for this increase is because of improving health facilities.
United Nations revises India’s 2024 growth forecast to 6.9%
• The UN upgraded India's 2024 GDP growth estimate from 6.2% to 6.9%, citing strong public
investment and private consumption.
• The Indian economy is projected to grow at a rate of 7% in 2024, benefiting from robust domestic
demand and growth in manufacturing and services.
• Globally, the economy is expected to grow at 2.7% in 2024.
• Moody's also revised India's 2024-25 growth estimate to 6.6%.
Global economy to grow 2.7% in 2024, 2.8% in 2025: UN report
• Major economies are averting severe downturns and managing inflation without hiking
unemployment.
• Challenges to growth include high interest rates, debt issues, geopolitical tensions & climate risks,
posing threats particularly to less developed states.
• Upward revisions in growth forecasts for the U.S., Brazil, India, Russia, and a modest increase for
China, anticipating 4.8% growth in 2024.
After Covishield, new study 'finds' side effects in Covaxin recipients
• A third of participants in a Bharat Biotech's Covaxin study reported adverse events of special
interest (AESI), as per The Economic Times.
• The SpringerLink-published study highlighted that female adolescents & those with allergy
histories are more susceptible to AESI after receiving Covaxin.
• Covaxin, developed by Bharat Biotech & ICMR-NIV, is a whole inactivated virus-based COVID-19
vaccine.
2024 World Wildlife Crime Report
• 2024 World Wildlife Crime Report was released by the United Nations.
• Animal Species Impacted: The rhino horn market is the largest (29%), followed by pangolin scales
(28%), and elephant ivory (15%).
• Plant Species Impacted: Corals (16%), crocodilians (9%), elephants, and bivalve mollusks (each
6%).
• Commodity Seizures: Coral pieces (16%), live specimens (15%), animal product medicines (10%).
Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2024.
• This year the ranking included over 670 universities from across the globe.
• The 2 Indian universities have ranked in the top 100 list.
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o Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala - 81st

o Anna University, Chennai - 96th
• Nanyang Technological University, Singapore tops the league table for the 2nd year in a row.
• The rankings list the world’s best universities that are 50 years old or younger.
Summer 2023: hottest in 2,000 years, studies reveal.
• The heat was 2.2°C higher than pre-industrial averages, exacerbated by the El Nino climate
pattern, and linked to over 150,000 deaths annually from 1990 to 2019.
• Asia saw the highest number of heat-related deaths, while Europe, particularly Greece, Malta, and
Italy, had the highest per capita toll.
• The study reveals both global temperatures and climate-warming emissions continue to climb.
India topped Global Internet Shutdowns in 2023
• India recorded 116 internet shutdowns in 2023, leading the world for the sixth consecutive year
per Access Now.
• Manipur faced the longest shutdown, lasting 212 days, affecting 3.2 million people.
• 65 shutdowns were in response to communal violence across 13 states/UTs, with a significant rise
in prolonged shutdowns.
• In 2023, India's long shutdowns (5 days or more) rose from 15% to over 41%.
Moody’s expects India to grow 6.6% in 2024-25 fiscal.
• The Indian economy is expected to grow at 6.6 percent in the current financial year 2024-25.
• The global rating agency for the next financial year 2025-26 pegged India’s growth at 6.2 percent.
• The size of India’s GDP is currently ranked 5th, after the US, China, Germany, and Japan.
• RBI retained the GDP growth forecast of 7 percent for the 2024-25 financial year.
IIM Ahmedabad tops India's higher education institution space.
• IIM Ahmedabad (410th) emerged as the top-performing institute in India as per a report by the
Center for World University Rankings.
• 64 other universities from India were listed in the 2024 edition of the Global 2000 ranking.
• IIT Bombay - 568th
• IIT Madras - 582nd
• IISc Bengaluru - 501st
• Harvard University maintains its global dominance for the 13th consecutive year at the 1st
position.
Investments of $260 billion required to halve agrifood emissions.
• The World Bank report highlights the need for an annual $260 billion investment to halve agrifood
emissions by 2030 and achieve Net Zero by 2050.
• The top 10 emitters are responsible for 55% of global agrifood emissions, while the top 20 emitters
are responsible for 67%
• The top ten agrifood system emitters:
• China, Brazil, India, USA, Indonesia, Congo, Russia, Canada, Pakistan, and Argentina.
111 | P a g e
World Migration Report 2024

• The World Migration Report 2024 released by the United Nations.
• More than 216 million people across 6 continents will be on the move within their countries by
2050 in large part due to climate change.
• In 2022 alone, disasters triggered over 1.5 million displacements in Bangladesh.
• In 2022, floods in Brazil displaced over 700,000 people, while 8 million displaced in Pakistan.
Global Wealth Report: Mumbai and Delhi among top 50 wealthiest cities.
• The 2024 World’s Wealthiest Cities Report released by Henley & Partners and New World Wealth.
• Mumbai, ranked 24th, and Delhi, secured the 37th Spot, on the list out of 50. Bengaluru Ranked
9th among the "cities to watch".
• Millionaires List:
• Mumbai - 58,800 millionaires, 29 billionaires.
• Delhi - 30,700 millionaires, 16 billionaires
• Bengaluru - 13,200 millionaires, and 8 billionaires
Number of Hindus decreased in India by about 8 percent: EAC Report
• The report released by the Economic Advisory Council.
• Hindu population in India has decreased by about 8% since 1951, whereas Muslim population has
increased by about 43%.
• Hindus are becoming extinct in Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.
o Pakistan - 18% in 1951 to 1.18% in 2024
o Bangladesh - 24% in 1951 to 8.2% in 2024
• 2011 census: Hindu (79.8%), Islam (14.2%), Christian (2.3%)
India surpasses Japan as world's third-largest solar power generator
• India ascended to the world's third-largest solar power producer in 2023, overtaking Japan, as
reported by Ember.
• India showcased its rapid growth from ninth place in 2015 to third place in 2024.
• The Global Electricity Review 2024 highlighted India's significant contribution to solar power, with
solar energy representing 5.5% of global and 5.8% of India's electricity production.
IIIT Delhi survey finds UPI users overspending
• A new IIIT Delhi study has found that Indians are overspending because of the UPI.
• 74% of 276 individuals surveyed claimed they were spending more since adopting UPI.
• Unified Payments Interface is an Indian instant payment system & protocol developed by the
National Payments Corporation of India in 2016.
• The interface facilitates inter-bank peer-to-peer and person-to-merchant transactions.
India ranks at 159 among 180 countries in World Press Index.
• India ranked 159 among 180 countries in the latest annual World Press Freedom Index released
by Reporters Without Borders.
112 | P a g e
• India had ranked 161 in the 2023 list.

• Norway topped the ranking, while Denmark was in the second rank and Sweden ranked third on
the list.
• The Reporters Without Borders's analysis mentioned that India’s media has fallen into an
“unofficial state of emergency" .
97.76 Percent of Rs 2,000 notes returned: RBI.
• The Reserve Bank of India report shows 97.76% of the Rs 2,000 denomination notes have returned
to the banking system.
• The Reserve Bank said that only notes worth Rs 7,961 crore are currently with the public.
• On May 19, 2023, the value of Rs 2000 notes present in the market was Rs 3.56 lakh crore.
• However, the Rs 2000 denomination note is still valid.
RBI estimates show 5% growth in jobs in FY23 in post-covid recovery.
• The number of people in jobs grew nearly 5% to 580 million in the financial year 2022-23.
• Pronab Sen - Economist and former country director for the India Programme of the International
Growth Centre.
• Number of people employed in India.
o 2017-18 : 471 million
o 2018-19 : 483 million
o 2019-20 : 522 million
o 2020-21 : 544 million
o 2021-22 : 553 million
o 2022-23 : 580 million
Kathmandu topped the list of cities with unhealthy air in the world
• According to IQAir's World Air Quality Index-Ranking, in terms of pollution, Kathmandu, New
Delhi, Chiang Mai in Thailand, Hanoi in Vietnam, Bangkok in Thailand and Dhaka in Bangladesh
are ranked first, second, third, fourth and fifth respectively.
• The Ministry of Health and Population of Nepal has urged people to wear masks given the
increase in air pollution in Kathmandu valley.
Above-Normal Monsoon Rainfall Predicted In South Asia: Report
• Above-normal rainfall is expected during 2024 southwest monsoon season over most parts of
south Asia, the South Asian Climate Outlook Forum (SASCOF) said.
• The forecast follows the prediction of above-normal rain in the monsoon season in India on the
back of favourable La Nina conditions.
• The report has been developed by all nine National Meteorological and Hydrological Services of
south Asia
Climate change - main driver of biodiversity decline by mid-century
• New research predicts that climate change could lead to a global biodiversity decline of 2-11%
by mid-century.
113 | P a g e
• Henrique Pereira, research group head at the German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity
Research, and others utilized world data to track land-use impacts.
• Published in 'Science' journal, the findings underscore the urgent need for addressing climate
change to conserve biodiversity.
114 | P a g e

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Current Affairs Monthly Capsule | May 2024

Awards and Honours Current Affairs

Chandrakant Satija won Global Excellence Award

Bhavi Mehta bagged Oxford Bookstore Book Cover Prize 2024

Banking Business and Economy Current Affairs

China became India's largest trading partner with $118.4 billion.

• Foreign currency is the largest component, followed by gold.

YES Bank launched YES Grandeur for elite customers

• It is India's largest private sector bank by assets.

• Exports, particularly in IT and consulting services, to grow supported by foreign investment.

Books and Authors Current Affairs

Defence Current Affairs

Sela Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh recognised as India's highest tunnel.

Government Schemes and Policies Current Affairs

Days and Events Current Affairs

• First president: Robert Guérin.

International Families Day: 15th May

International Current Affairs

• Hypersonic missiles travel over 5 times the speed of sound

Russia announced Tactical Nuclear Weapons exercise amid tensions

Afghanistan received USD 84 Million humanitarian aid from World Bank

MoU and Agreements Current Affairs

• NTPC Green Energy Limited CEO: Rajiv Gupta.

National Current Affairs

o BSNL - 23.5 lakh

Appointments Current Affairs

Sony appoints Gaurav Banerjee as new India CEO.

Vivek Bipindada Kolhe elected as a Director of IFFCO.

New Zealand player Colin Munro retires from International Cricket.

China appointed Xu Feihong as its new envoy to India

Kareena Kapoor Khan appointed UNICEF Ambassador

Obituaries Current Affairs

Science and Technology Current Affairs

• Yellowstone National Park is located in the western USA.

• As a result, its surface temperature is about 3,140 Fahrenheit

• India has two active research stations—Maitri and Bharti—in Antarctica.

Sports Current Affairs

Toni Kroos to retire from Football after Euro 2024

Deepthi Jeevanji won Gold in 400m T20 class at Para Championships.

• Earlier he claimed a singles title at the Australian Open Deaf Championship.

Martin won thrilling French MotoGP

• The English youngster made his Gloucestershire debut in 2021.

Summits and Conferences Current Affairs

Reports and Indices Current Affairs

Global life expectancy to increase by almost five years by 2050.

o Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala - 81st

World Migration Report 2024

• India had ranked 161 in the 2023 list.

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