Current Affairs 17 May 2025

We are here for you to provide the important Recent and Latest Current Affairs 17 May 2025, which have unique updates of Latest Current Affairs 2025 events from all newspapers such as The Hindu, The Economic Times, PIB, Times of India, PTI, Indian Express, Business Standard and all Government official websites.

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NATIONAL AFFAIRS

IEPFA & SEBI Launched ‘Niveshak Shivir’ to Help Investors Reclaim Unclaimed Dividends & SharesIn May 2025, the New Delhi (Delhi) based Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA), under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), in collaboration with the Mumbai (Maharashtra) based Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), conducted a strategic preparatory meeting in Mumbai to launch ‘Niveshak Shivir’, a nationwide initiative aimed at helping investors reclaim unclaimed shares and dividends.

• The meeting was chaired by Anita Shah Akella, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), IEPFA and Joint Secretary, MoCA, alongside senior SEBI officials, including Ananth Narayan G., Whole-Time Member, and Executive Directors (ED) – Shashi Kumar Valsakumar and Jeevan Sonparote, and other SEBI officials.

Key Features Niveshak Shivir:
i.Investor Helpdesks: Dedicated helpdesks will be set up at Mumbai and Ahmedabad (Gujarat), enabling direct interaction with Registrars and Transfer Agents (RTAs) such as Link Intime India Private Limited and KFin Technologies Limited.
ii.Demat Shareholders: Investors with dematerialised shares due for transfer to IEPFA are advised to contact the respective company for direct assistance.
iii.Physical Shareholders: Investors should verify the status of their shares on the official IEPFA portal. If the shares are already transferred, they can initiate a claim using Form IEPF-5 or consult their company’s RTA.
iv.Search Facility: A digital tool provided by IEPFA allows shareholders to track the status of shares, helping ensure timely claims and avoid unnecessary delays.
v.Integrated Digital Portal (IDP) (to launch by August 2025) for real-time tracking and streamlined claims.
About Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA):
IEPFA was established in 2016 under the provisions of Section 125 of the Companies Act, 2013
Ministry: Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA)
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – Anita Shah Akella (Joint Secretary, MoCA)
Headquarters – New Delhi, Delhi
About Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI):
SEBI was constituted as a non-statutory body on April 12, 1988 through a resolution of the Government of India(GoI) and was established as a statutory body in the year 1992.
Chairperson – Tuhin Kanta Pandey
Headquarters – Mumbai, Maharashtra

DST Launched 1st Cluster of CCU Testbeds in Academia-Industry Collaboration for Cement IndustryIn May 2025, the Department of Science & Technology (DST), which works under the Ministry of Science & Technology (MoS&T) launched 5 Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU) testbeds in the cement industry. This is a 1st–of-its-kind research and innovation cluster to reduce industrial carbon emissions.

• The testbeds have been established across 5 states: Haryana, Uttar Pradesh(UP), Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh(AP), and Goa, with the pilot facility situated in Ballabgarh, Haryana.

Key Points:
i.These 5 CCU testbeds were formally announced by the DST on the occasion of 27th National Technology Day celebrations (observed on May 11, 2025) held at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi (Delhi).
ii.Union Minister of State (MoS) (Independent Charge, IC) Dr. Jitendra Singh, MoST, who attended the event as Chief Guest, handed over the grants to the Test bed teams.
iii.These newly launched CCU testbeds will function under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. They are designed to support translational Research & Development (R&D) in collaboration with premier academic and industrial partners.
About Ministry of Science and Technology (MoS&T):
Minister of State (MoS) (Independent Charge, IC)– Dr. Jitendra Singh (Constituency- Udhampur, Jammu & Kashmir, J&K)
>> Read Full News

Union MoS Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani Addresses ‘Bharat 6G 2025’ in New DelhiOn May 14, 2025, Union Minister of State (MoS) Dr Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, Ministry of Communications (MoC) and Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) addressed the ‘Bharat 6G 2025’ – 3rd International Conference and Exhibition in New Delhi, Delhi.

• The event was a joint initiative backed by a broad coalition of government agencies, leading industry players, academic institutions, and international organizations.

Key Points:
i.The event brought together global technology leaders, researchers, and policymakers to align on India’s roadmap to become a pioneer in 6th Generation (6G) communications technology
ii.During the event, Union MoS, Dr Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani announced that India has joined the ranks of the top six countries globally in 6G patent filings.

• India has sanctioned Rs 300 crore (USD 35.14 million) for 111 research projects, marking a significant milestone in pursuing 6G technology.

iii.He emphasized India’s resolve to lead globally in the development of next generation 6G technologies.

• He outlined its potential to revolutionize sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture and smart cities.

About Bharat 6G Vision:
The Bharat 6G Vision, unveiled by Prime Minister(PM) Narendra Modi on March 23, 2023, outlines an ambitious roadmap for India to become a global leader in 6G technology by 2030.

• To actualize this vision, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), MoC, has established the Bharat 6G Alliance (B6GA), a collaborative platform that brings together domestic industry stakeholders, academia, national research institutions, and standards organizations.
• The Bharat 6G Vision also outlines a structured nine-year mission (2022–2031) divided into three phases, aiming to fund 6G research, conduct field trials, and contribute to global standards.

Ministry of Communications (MoC):
Union Minister – Jyotiraditya Madhavrao Scindia (Constituency – Guna, Madhya Pradesh, MP)
Minister of State (MoS) – Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani (Constituency – Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, AP)

UP Government Added 12 New Products to ODOP List; Raising Count to 74In May 2025, the Uttar Pradesh (UP) government has added 12 new district-specific products into One District One Product (ODOP) list. With this, the total number of products in ODOP list has now increased from 62 to 74.

• Some of the newly added products into the list are: agricultural implements and accessories from Baghpat district, hosiery products from Saharanpur, metal products from Ghaziabad, metal and wooden handicrafts from Amroha, among others.

About UP’s ODOP:
i.In January 2018, the government of UP launched its flagship programme named “One District One Product (ODOP)”.
ii.It aimed to identify one unique product from each of the 75 districts of UP and create a product-specific traditional industrial hub. It also aimed to make state a USD 1 trillion economy.
iii.Under the ODOP programme, the state government of UP offers various credit facilities and subsidies through its 4 different categories of schemes:

• Common Facility Centre (CFC) scheme;
• Marketing Development Assistance Scheme;
• Financial Assistance Scheme;
• Skill Development and Toolkit Distribution Scheme.

List of 12 New Products into ODOP:

About Uttar Pradesh (UP):
Chief Minister (CM)- Yogi Adityanath
Governor- Anandiben Patel
Capital- Lucknow
Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)– Katarniaghat WLS, Kachhua WLS

Centre approves additional 2.8 million tonnes of FCI rice for ethanol production
In May 2025, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution(MoCAF&PD) sanctioned an additional 2.8 million tonnes(MT) of rice from the Food Corporation of India (FCI) for ethanol production under the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme.

• The decision to allocate additional FCI rice for ethanol production aligns with the government’s objective to enhance energy security, reduce dependence on fossil fuel imports, and promote cleaner fuel alternatives.

i.This augmentation raises the total allocation for the Ethanol Supply Year (ESY) 2024-25, spanning December 2024 to October 2025, to 5.2 million tonnes, up from the previously approved 2.4 million tonnes.
ii.The reserve price for FCI rice allocated to ethanol distilleries has been reduced by Rs 550, setting it at Rs 2,250 per quintal, down from the earlier Rs 2,800 per quintal.
iii.Procurement Limits:

• Ethanol Distilleries: Permitted to procure up to 24 lakh tonnes of rice at the revised rate.
• State Governments and Corporations: Allowed to purchase up to 12 lakh tonnes without participating in e-auctions.

iv.With a conversion rate of 470 litres per tonne, the total allocation could yield approximately 2.45 billion litres of ethanol.
Note: The EBP Programme was launched in 2003, has witnessed significant acceleration since 2014. India has successfully achieved its target of 20% ethanol blending (E20) in petrol ahead of the 2025 deadline and now aims to attain 30% ethanol blending in petrol by the year 2030.

DFCCIL Launches India’s Longest Rail Flyover Girder at Kalamboli, Maharashtra
In May 2025, the Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited (DFCCIL), headquartered in New Delhi(Delhi), achieved a significant engineering milestone by launching India’s longest Rail Flyover(RFO) girder at Kalamboli,Maharashtra, on the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT)–Nilje section of the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (WDFC).

• This feat is part of the WDFC project, aimed at enhancing freight transportation efficiency.
• This marks one of the most complex railway engineering projects in India, showcasing advanced construction technology and precision planning.

i.Installation of a 110.5-metre(m)-long open web steel girder, weighing approximately 1,500 tonnes(t), marking the longest rail flyover girder in India.
ii.The girder was launched with a 34-m radial shift over active Indian Railways tracks, without disrupting regular train services, showcasing advanced engineering and coordination.
Note: DFCCIL is a Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) under the Ministry of Railways(MoR), established in 2006, responsible for planning and development of dedicated freight corridors in India.

INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

TCS, HDFC, Airtel and Infosys ranked among the world’s top 100 most valuable brands in the Kantar BrandZ 2025 Report.According to the Kantar BrandZ, “2025 World’s Most Valuable Global Brands ” report, 4 Indian companies namely, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), HDFC Bank, Airtel and Infosys were featured among the top 100 most valuable brands.  

• Apple retains its top position for the 4th year with a brand value of USD 1.3 trillion, followed by Google with a valuation of USD 944 billion and Microsoft with a valuation of USD 884 billion at 2nd and 3rd position respectively.
• Overall, the Global Top 100 has reached a record total brand value of USD 10.7 trillion, a year-on-year (YoY) increase of 29%.

Top 5 Most Valuable Global Brands:

>> Read Full News

India & EU Launch Rs. 391 Crore Research Initiatives on MPL and W2GHOn May 15, 2025, India and the European Union (EU) launched two major research initiatives under the India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC), to enhance bilateral cooperation in trade, technology, and sustainability.

• The initiatives, backed by a joint investment of Rs.391 crores (41 million euro), focus on tackling Marine Plastic Litter (MPL) and advancing Waste-to-Green Hydrogen (W2GH) technologies.
• The newly launched initiatives will receive joint funding from Horizon Europe, the EU’s flagship research and innovation programme, and the Government of India(GoI).

About Launched Initiatives:
1.Marine Plastic Litter (MPL):
i.Objective: Develop solutions to monitor and mitigate pollutants like microplastics, heavy metals, and organic waste in oceans.
ii.Funding:

• EU Contribution: 12 million euro (Approximately Rs.115 crore) under Horizon Europe (EU’s research framework).
• India’s Contribution: Rs.90 crores (Approximately 9.3 million euro) by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), Government of India (GoI).

iii.Alignment: Supports the United Nation (UN) Decade of Ocean Science, the EU’s Zero Pollution Action Plan, and India’s National Marine Litter Policy.
iv.Call Opened on: 6th May 2025
2.Waste to Green Hydrogen (W2GH):
i.Objective: Innovate cost-effective methods to convert biogenic waste into green hydrogen.
ii.Funding:

• EU Contribution: 10 million euro (Approximately Rs.96 crore).
• India’s Contribution: Rs.90 crores (Approximately 9.3 million euro) by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), GoI.

iii.Alignment: Complements the EU’s Hydrogen Strategy and India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM).
iv.Call Opened on: 15th May 2025
About India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC):
i.The India-EU TTC established in 2022 by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to strengthen the bilateral partnership on trade and technology.
ii.The council was officially launched in February 2023, marking the EU’s second such initiative after the European Union-United States TTC (EU-US TTC) and India’s first with any country.
iii.The India-EU TTC holds annual ministerial meetings to review progress and set future agendas.
iv.The first ministerial meeting took place in Brussels on 16 May 2023, and the second was held on 28 February 2025 in New Delhi (Delhi).

UNESCO & G20 Partner to Empower Civil Servants for Ethical AI Governance in Public Sector
In May 2025, Paris (France) based the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the Group of Twenty (G20), under the 2025 Presidency of South Africa, advanced their strategic partnership to promote ethical Artificial Intelligence (AI) governance by empowering public services with both technical capabilities and ethical awareness.

• The initiative followed a global workshop organized on 11th April 2025 in Gqeberha, South Africa, as part of a broader campaign to build human rights-based digital governance.
• The workshop assembled participants from G20 member states, invited guest nations, and international organizations to discuss inclusive, transparent, and accountable use of AI in public service delivery.

Key Objectives of the Workshop:
i.Role-Specific AI Training: Emphasized the need for tailored AI training programs for civil servants, ensuring that policymakers and frontline staff acquire skills pertinent to their roles.
ii.Ethical AI Implementation: Highlighted the importance of embedding human rights and ethical considerations into AI deployment to build public trust and ensure transparency.
iii.Public-Private Partnerships: Showcased initiatives like Singapore’s “AI Wednesdays,” promoting collaboration between government, industry, and civil society to foster innovation and shared learning.
iv.Since 2021, UNESCO’s AI for the Public Sector Programme has supported over 50 countries by promoting the AI and Digital Transformation Competency Framework and guiding the development of ethical, inclusive, and people-centric AI-powered governance.

Fiji signs MoU with India to source Medicines, Medical Equipment
In May 2025, the Government of Fiji has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of India (GoI) to strengthen cooperation in the health sector.

• The MoU was signed between Penioni Ravunawa, Assistant Minister for Health, GoF and Pabitra Margherita, Union Minister of State (MoS), Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), GoI, in Suva, Fiji.

i.Under the MoU, Fiji government will source its medicines and medical equipment directly from the Indian manufacturers.
ii.The MoU includes provisions for training and capacity-building programs for Fiji’s healthcare workforce. These initiatives aim to strengthen Fiji’s healthcare system and improve service delivery.
iii.All medicines and medical supplies will henceforth be regulated through the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC), an autonomous agency operating under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare(MoHFW), GoI.

BANKING & FINANCE

Indian Bank Launched 2 New FD Schemes ‘IND SECURE’ & ‘IND GREEN’In May 2025, Chennai (Tamil Nadu)-based Indian Bank, a Public Sector Bank (PSB), launched two new fixed deposit (FD) schemes, ‘IND SECURE’ and ‘IND GREEN’, to offer secure investment options and promote environmentally sustainable initiatives among its customers.

• This move comes alongside the discontinuation of its earlier retail FD schemes, IND SUPER 400 Days and IND SUPREME 300 Days, effective 8th May 2025.
• These schemes are available in the form of Fixed Deposit(FD) or money multiplier deposit with callable options.

IND SECURE Fixed Deposit Scheme:
i.Investment Amount: Minimum Rs 1,000 and less than Rs 3 crore
ii.Form: Fixed Deposit (FD)/Monthly Maturity Deposit (MMD)
iii.Maturity Tenure: 444 days
iv.Validity: Till 30th September 2025
v.Interest Rates: 

• General Public: 7.15% per annum (p.a.)
• Senior Citizens (60 years & above): 7.65% p.a.
• Super Senior Citizens (80 years & above): 7.90% p.a.

IND GREEN Fixed Deposit Scheme:
IND GREEN is designed to promote sustainable development while providing guaranteed returns.
i.Investment Amount: Minimum Rs 1,000 and less than Rs 3 crore
ii.Form: FD/MMD
iii.Maturity Tenure: 555 days
iv.Interest Rates:

• General Public: 6.80% p.a.
• Senior Citizens: 7.30% p.a.
• Super Senior Citizens: 7.55% p.a.

v.Validity: Open for investment until September 30, 2025
Discontinued FD Schemes:
Indian Bank discontinued two earlier FD schemes  from 8th May 2025:
i.IND SUPER 400 Days: Offered 7.30% to 8.05%
ii.IND SUPREME 300 Days: Offered 7.05% to 7.80%
iii.No new deposits will be accepted under these schemes. Existing deposits will continue to earn interest as per the agreed terms until maturity.
About Indian Bank:
Managing Director (MD) & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – Binod Kumar
Headquarters – Chennai, Tamil Nadu(TN)
Established – 1907
Tagline – Your Own Bank

ECONOMY & BUSINESS

UN Lowers India’s GDP Growth Forecast to 6.3% for CY25In May 2025, United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN-DESA) released its latest report titled ‘The World Economic Situation and Prospects as of mid-2025’. The report has revised down India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth forecast for Calendar Year 2025 (CY25) to 6.3%, down from 7.1% in CY24.

• Despite this downward projection, India remains one of the world’s fastest-growing large economies, supported by strong consumption and government spending.
• Also, Indian economy is projected to grow marginally in CY 26 to 6.4%.

i.The report is prepared by the Global Economic Monitoring Branch in the Economic Analysis and Policy Division of UN-DESA.
ii.The report has projected that global economic growth rate will be at 2.4% (in 2025) and 2.5% (in 2026). These projections are 40 basis points (bps) lower compared to previous estimates made in January 2025.
About United Nations Department of Economic & Social Affairs (UN-DESA):
Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs – Li Junhua
Headquarters-New York, the United States of America (USA)
Establishment-1948
>> Read Full News

Cochin Shipyard Collaborates with Drydocks World to Develop Ship Repair Clusters in India
In May 2025, Kochi (Kerala)-based Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), a Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) as entered into a strategic collaboration with Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE)-based Drydocks World, a wholly owned subsidiary of the DP World, to develop world-class ship repair clusters across India.

•  The collaboration is built on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in April 2025 during the visit of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, to India.

Key Points:
i.A high-level delegation from Drydocks World, led by Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Captain Rado Antolovic visited CSL’s Main Yard, the newly Commissioned 310 metre (m) Dry Dock, International Ship Repair Facility (ISRF) in Kochi, Kerala.
ii.The team also visited the Marine Engineering Training Institute in Kochi.
iii.This partnership aims to enhance India’s ship repair and offshore fabrication capabilities, aligning with the government’s Maritime India Vision 2030 and Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.
About Drydock World:
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – Rado Antolovic
Headquarters – Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Founded – 1983

APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

Arunabha Ghosh Appointed as South Asia Envoy to COP-30 in BrazilIn May 2025, Arunabha Gosh, founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of New Delhi(Delhi)-based Council of Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW), a climate and energy think tank of India, has been appointed as the South Asia envoy for the 30th Conference of Parties (COP-30), a United Nations(UN) climate conference, which will be held in November 2025 in Belém, Brazil.

• He is currently the Vice-Chair of the United Nations Committee for Development Policy (UNCDP)
• He is one of the ten international envoys for strategic regions.

i.Arunabha Gosh will play a key role in facilitating dialogue and ensuring that South Asian voices are strongly represented and supported at the global climate conference.
ii.The appointed envoys will serve on a voluntary and personal basis, will serve as a key person for the flow of information and perspectives from the area they represent, enabling faster and more effective communication.
About the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW):
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – Arunabha Gosh
Headquarters -New Delhi, Delhi
Established – 2010
>> Read Full News

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

IA Conducted Successful ‘Teesta Prahar’ Exercise in West BengalIn May 2025, the Indian Army (IA) successfully conducted a large-scale integrated field training exercise named ‘Teesta Prahar’ at the Teesta field firing range in West Bengal (WB).

• The exercise demonstrated operational preparedness and the seamless coordination between combat and support units of IA in challenging riverine terrain.

About Teesta Prahar Exercise:
i.Key combat and support arms, including the Infantry, Artillery, Armoured Corps, Mechanised Infantry, Para Special Forces, Army Aviation, Engineers, and Signals, had actively participated in the exercise.
ii.The main highlight of the exercise was the deployment and assessment of newly inducted next-generation weapon systems, military platforms, and advanced battlefield technologies, which is in alignment with the IA’s modernization initiatives.
iii.The exercise focused on jointness, synergy, and seamless coordination, showing IA’s ability to function quickly and effectively across diverse terrain and adverse weather conditions.
iv.The exercise featured tactical drills, battle rehearsals, and adaptive manoeuvres aimed to enhance responses to evolving battle situations.
DRDO’s DMSRDE Developed High-Pressure Polymeric Membrane :
In May 2025, Kanpur (Uttar Pradesh, UP)-based Defence Materials Stores and Research & Development Establishment (DMSRDE), a laboratory of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has developed an indigenous nanoporous multi-layered polymeric membrane for high-pressure seawater desalination technology for Indian Coast Guard (ICG) vessel desalination plants.

• This newly developed technology will help ICG’s ships to address the serious challenge of stability when exposed to chloride ions in saline water and was completed within a time period of 8 months.

i.As per Ministry of Defence (MoD), DMSRDE and ICG successfully conducted the existing desalination plant of ICG’s Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV).
ii.The ICG will give final operational approval following 500 hours (hrs) of operational testing.
About Indian Army (IA):
Chief of the Army Staff (CoAS) – General Upendra Dwivedi
Headquarters- New Delhi, Delhi
Established- 1895
Motto- Seva Paramo Dharma (Service Before Self)

India Successfully Test-Fires Indigenous ‘Bhargavastra’ Counter-Drone System in OdishaIn May 2025, India successfully conducted trials of its indigenously developed low-cost counter-drone system, Bhargavastra, at the Seaward Firing Range in Gopalpur, Odisha. The system has been developed by Nagpur (Maharashtra)-based Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited (SDAL), a subsidiary of Solar Industries India Limited (SIIL).

• It is designed to neutralize drone swarms through a two-layered defence system comprising unguided micro-rockets for wide-area impact and guided micro-missiles for precision targeting.

Test Details:
i.Three trials were performed: two involved firing a single micro-rocket each, and the third demonstrated the system’s salvo capability by firing two micro-rockets within two seconds.
ii.All rockets met the required launch parameters, validating Bhargavastra’s effectiveness in counter-drone operations.
Key Features of Bhargavastra:
i.Hard Kill Mode Operation: Bhargavastra operates in a hard kill mode, employing unguided micro-rockets as the first layer of defense to neutralize drone swarms within a lethal radius of 20 meters (m).
ii.Guided Micro-Missiles: The second layer comprises guided micro-missiles, previously tested, providing pinpoint accuracy for targeted neutralization of drones.
iii.Detection Range: The system can detect small and incoming drones at distances up to 2.5 kilometers (km), while its radar can identify small aerial threats within a range of 6 to 10 km.

• It is equipped with an Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) sensor suite that enables accurate detection and tracking of Low Radar Cross-Section (LRCS) targets.
• It is also equipped with a state-of-the-art Command-and-Control Centre, the system integrates advanced C4I (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence) technologies to enhance operational effectiveness.

iv.Modular Architecture: The system’s modular design allows integration of additional soft-kill measures, such as jamming and spoofing, providing a comprehensive shield against Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs).
v.Adaptability: Designed for deployment across diverse terrains, including high-altitude regions above 5,000 m, Bhargavastra addresses the unique operational demands of India’s armed forces.
About Solar Industries India Limited (SIIL):
Managing Director (MD) & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – Manish Satyanarayan Nuwal
Headquarters – Nagpur, Maharashtra
Founded – 1983

Spanish Firm GMV Launched GPS-Navigation System “LUPIN” for the Moon
In May 2025, Spanish technology company Grupo Mecanica del Vuelo (GMV) has launched a Global Positioning System (GPS)-like navigation system named ‘LUPIN’ for the moon that aims to revolutionalise lunar missions with real-time navigation with applications (apps) such as Google Maps or Waze.

• The newly launched LUPIN, short for ‘Enabling High Performance PNT in the Lunar Environment’ was developed as part of the European Space Agency (ESA) programme, focused on testing advanced Positioning, Navigation, and Timing(PNT) techniques.

i.The system, combines real-time mapping with existing lunar cartography, provides real-time positioning for astronauts and rovers using signals from satellites orbiting the Moon.
ii.GVM conducted the field testing of LUPIN from April 27 to May 08, 2025, in La Oliva, Fuerteventura, one of Spain’s Canary Islands, a site selected for its rocky, barren landscape similar to that of the Moon.
iii.LUPIN represents a significant step toward Europe’s goal of establishing a sustained human presence on the Moon and serves as a precursor to future Mars exploration missions.

SPORTS

KIYG 2025: Maharashtra Tops with 158 Medals; 7th Edition Hosted by BiharThe 7th edition of the Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) 2025, organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports (MYAS) and Sports Authority of India (SAI), Government of India (GoI), was held from May 4 to May 15 2025 across five cities in Bihar (Patna, Rajgir, Gaya, Bhagalpur, and Begusarai) and New Delhi (Delhi).
i.Maharashtra leads the medal tally with 58 gold, 47 silver, and 53 bronze medals, totaling 158 medals followed by Haryana with 117 medals (39 gold, 27 silver and 51 bronze) and Rajasthan in third place with 60 medals (24 gold, 12 silver and 24 bronze).
ii.28 sports disciplines in Khelo India Youth Games 2025. Sepak takraw has been included for the first time. E-sports have been included as a demonstration sport
iii.KIYG is an integral part of the Khelo India Programme, which was launched by GoI on 14th October 2017 to promote sports culture at the grassroots level.
>> Read Full News

IMPORTANT DAYS

International Day of Living Together in Peace 2025 – May 16The United Nations (UN’s) International Day of Living Together in Peace, observed annually on 16 May, emphasizes global efforts to foster peace, tolerance, and solidarity.
Significance:
i.The Day serves as a reminder of the global commitment to promote reconciliation, ensure sustainable development, and foster coexistence among diverse cultures and communities.
ii.It encourages people to accept differences, and to listen to, recognize, respect, and appreciate others, thereby living together in a peaceful and united way.
Background:
i.Established by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) through Resolution 72/130 in 2017, this day highlights the importance of unity in diversity, mutual respect, and sustainable development.
ii.The inaugural International Day of Living Together in Peace was celebrated on May 16, 2018.
UN Initiatives for Peace:
i.After the Second World War(WW-II), the United Nations (UN) was established in 1945 to prevent future conflicts and promote peace.
ii.In 1997, the UNGA declared the year 2000 as the “International Year for a Culture of Peace” through Resolution 52/15.
iii. In 1998, the decade 2001–2010 was proclaimed as the “International Decade for a Culture of Peace and Non-Violence for Children of the World”.
iv.In 1999, the UNGA adopted Resolution 53/243, endorsing the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace, based on the UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) principle: “Since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defences of peace must be constructed.”
About the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA):
Secretary General –  António Guterres
Headquarters –  New York, the United States of America(USA)
Established –  1945

International Day of Light 2025 – May 16The International Day of Light (IDL), observed annually on May 16, is a United Nations (UN) initiative to highlight the crucial role of light-based technologies in science, culture, and sustainable development.

• The day also marks the anniversary of Theodore Maiman’s first successful laser operation in 1960.
• The 2025 observance marks the 8th edition of IDL, highlighting the pivotal role of light-based technologies in various facets of life.

Theme for 2025:
The theme for IDL 2025 is “Light, Innovation, Society”, emphasizing the integral role of light in driving innovation and its impact on societal development.
Note: The IDL celebration was led by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) under its International Basic Science Programme (IBSP).
Background:
i.The IDL traces its origins to the International Year of Light and Light-based Technologies (IYL 2015), proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on December 20, 2013.
ii.Following its success, UNESCO’s Executive Board adopted a resolution on September 19, 2016, during its 200th session in Paris, France, to establish an annual observance.
iii.The proposal, introduced by Ghana, Mexico, New Zealand, and the Russian Federation, was supported by 15 additional countries.
iv.The first IDL was officially celebrated on May 16, 2018, with an inauguration ceremony at UNESCO’s headquarters in Paris(France), featuring Nobel laureates, scientists, and industry leaders.
About Light:
Light possesses properties such as amplitude, wavelength, frequency, and wave speed. It travels at approximately 186,282.4 miles per second(mi/s) in a vacuum and takes about eight minutes and seventeen seconds to reach Earth from the Sun.
Key Milestones:

• 1802: Invention of the electric arc lamp by Humphry Davy.
• 1879: Patent of the first commercially successful light bulb by Thomas Edison and Joseph Swan.
• 2014: Development of the blue LED by Isamu Akasaki, Hiroshi Amano, and Shuji Nakamura.
• 21st Century: Advancements in wireless lighting, enabling control via AI voice commands and smartphones.

2025 Events:
i.In alignment with the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology 2025(IYQ 2025), UNESCO is launching a global initiative titled “Quantum Light: A Visual Odyssey”, inviting visual works inspired by the intersection of light and quantum science.
ii.Additionally, the EU GREEN Light Festival is organizing events across Europe, including exhibitions, workshops, and seminars, to showcase the transformative power of light in promoting sustainability and innovation.

National Dengue Day 2025 – May 16National Dengue Day is observed every year on May 16 across India to raise awareness about dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral disease, and to promote its prevention and control measures.

• This annual initiative is led by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), aiming to mitigate the impact of dengue, especially during the monsoon season.
• The 2025 theme for National Dengue Day is “Act Early, Prevent Dengue: Clean Surroundings, Healthy Living.”

Background:
i.National Dengue Day was initiated in 2010 by MoHFW, in response to the increasing threat of dengue fever across India.
ii.Anti-Dengue Month is observed in July to reinforce community efforts to eliminate mosquito breeding sites.
About National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC):
Director – Dr. Tanu Jain
Headquarters – New Delhi (Delhi)
>> Read Full News

Endangered Species Day 2025 – May 16Endangered Species Day(ESD) is observed annually across the globe on the third Friday of May to raise awareness about the threats faced by vulnerable species and promote global conservation efforts.

• In 2025, it falls on May 16, with the theme “celebrate saving species”. The day emphasizes education, advocacy, and collective action to protect biodiversity and restore ecosystems.
• ESD 2025 marks the 20th annual observance of the day.
• ESD 2024 was observed on 17 May 2024 and ESD 2026 will be observed on 15 May 2026.

Background:

• Established in 2006 by David Robinson and the Endangered Species Coalition to highlight the plight of endangered species. The United States America(USA) Senate later endorsed it as a national observance
• The Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973 in the USA remains a cornerstone for species protection, credited with saving species like the gray wolf and bald eagle
• Since 2013, the day has been celebrated internationally, with events in countries such as Australia, Canada, and Kenya

Key facts:

• Endangered Species is a plant or animal that could disappear from the wildlife ecosystem. It is due to various factors like loss of habitat, invasive species and climate change.
• Most Endangered species: As per the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Lion, Snow Leopard, One-Horned Rhinoceros, Indian Bison are some of the endangered species in India.
• The IUCN Red List is a globally recognized report that assesses the extinction risk of various species. As of 2025, the Red List includes 169,420 species, with over 47,000 facing extinction, according to the IUCN. This list is a crucial tool for conservation efforts, helping identify species in need of protection and informing conservation policies.

About International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN):
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – Bruno Oberle
Headquarters – Gland, Switzerland
Founded – 1948

STATE NEWS

UP Govt Launched ‘Mukhyamantri Suposhan Abhiyan‘ to Combat Child Malnutrition 
In May 2025, the Government of Uttar Pradesh (UP) launched the ‘Mukhyamantri Suposhan Abhiyan’, a targeted nutrition campaign across 8 aspirational districts of UP to combat child malnutrition among children aged 3 to 6 years.

• The scheme covers the following 8 districts of UP such as Chitrakoot, Fatehpur, Bahraich, Shravasti, Balrampur, Siddharthnagar, Chandauli, and Sonebhadra.
• The initiative follows the success of the ‘Sambhav Abhiyan’, reinforcing the government’s commitment to child welfare and nutritional security.

i.The campaign aims to benefit 11,13,783 children by offering a nutritious morning snack delivering 400 calories and 15–20 grams of protein per child per day through items like flavored milk, seasonal fruits, and a millet-chikki nutribar.
ii.The meals will be provided under the Take-Home Ration (THR) model, ensuring accessibility and consistency through Bal Vikas Sewa Evam Pushtahar Vibhag centres (Child Development Services and Nutrition Department).
iii.A budget of Rs 254.83 crore has been allocated for the scheme, which equates to Rs 44 per child per day.
iv.Monitoring will involve regular health assessments to track progress in reducing anaemia, stunting, and underweight cases among children.

Delhi Police Launched ‘Nayi Disha’ initiative to Reintegrate School Dropouts
In May 2025, Delhi’s East district Police has launched a community outreach initiative named ‘Nayi Disha- A Path Back to Learning’, aimed to bring school dropouts back into the education system.

• This initiative reflects the commitment of Delhi Police(DP) to ensuring that every child is given a second chance at education.

i.Under this new initiative, DP personnel are visiting the homes of school dropouts, engaging directly with children and their families to identify the reasons behind their drop out and convince them to resume their education.
ii.DP is also coordinating with various local schools, Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) and social workers to provide various support services like from providing admissions to offering emotional counseling and academic assistance.

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