Daily Current Affairs Quiz
09 May, 2026
International Affairs
1. Five New Members Joined IUCN
Context:
The expansion of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in May 2026, specifically adding five key organizations from Mesoamerica and the Caribbean, underscores the region’s critical role in global biodiversity. This expansion is not just a numbers game; it integrates grassroots Indigenous knowledge and specialized island ecology into the global conservation framework.
What is IUCN? (The “Global Green Authority”)
Established in 1948, IUCN is unique because it is the only environmental organization with United Nations Observer Status that includes both governments and NGOs.
- The “Red List” Power: IUCN is most famous for the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, the world’s most comprehensive inventory of the global conservation status of biological species.
- A Science-Policy Bridge: It doesn’t just “protest”; it provides the scientific data that governments use to create environmental laws.
- The Membership Model: By including Indigenous Peoples’ organizations as a distinct category, IUCN ensures that traditional ecological knowledge is treated with the same authority as Western science.
The New Members
The five new members from Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and El Salvador bring specialized expertise to the table:
| Organization | Country | Primary Focus |
| U Yich Lu’um | Mexico | Interdisciplinary research and alternative development (likely Indigenous-led). |
| GECI | Mexico | Island Ecology: Specializing in restoring fragile island ecosystems. |
| Belize Fund | Belize | Sustainable finance for marine and coastal conservation (crucial for the Mesoamerican Reef). |
| ACOFOP | Guatemala | Community Forestry: Protecting the Maya Biosphere Reserve through local management. |
| Fundación Segundo Montes | El Salvador | Community-based environmental social development. |
Background Concepts for Exams
What is “Mesoamerica”?
In environmental geography, Mesoamerica is a “Biodiversity Hotspot.” It acts as a land bridge between North and South America, resulting in a high degree of endemism (species found nowhere else).
- Key Feature: It contains the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second-largest coral reef system in the world.
IUCN Categories of Protected Areas
When you study IUCN, you must know their classification system for land, which India also follows:
- Category Ia/Ib: Strict Nature Reserves / Wilderness Areas.
- Category II: National Parks (e.g., Corbett National Park).
- Category III: Natural Monuments.
- Category IV: Habitat/Species Management Areas.
4. Exam Relevance
| Exam | Focus Area |
| UPSC GS-3 | Environment: Conservation, environmental pollution, and degradation. Role of international bodies. |
| UPSC GS-2 | International Relations: Important International institutions and their structure. |
| IFS (Forest Services) | Detailed understanding of IUCN’s role in forest management and the Red List. |
| State PCS | IUCN’s status and the difference between National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries. |
Q1. The IUCN is unique among global environmental organizations because its membership includes:
A) Only sovereign states.
B) Only international NGOs.
C) Both government and civil society organizations.
D) Only scientists and researchers.
Q2. Which of the following is a flagship publication/standard of the IUCN?
A) The Living Planet Report
B) The Red List of Threatened Species
C) The Emissions Gap Report
D) The World Economic Outlook
Q3. Indigenous Peoples’ organizations were granted a separate membership category in IUCN to:
A) Limit their influence on global policy.
B) Ensure traditional knowledge is integrated into conservation strategies.
C) Charge them higher membership fees.
D) Replace the role of national governments.
Answers: Q1: C | Q2: B | Q3: B
National Affairs
1. NITI Aayog Report on the School Education System in India
Context:
NITI Aayog has released a landmark policy report titled ‘School Education System in India: Temporal Analysis and Policy Roadmap for Quality Enhancement’. Analyzing a decade of progress from 2014-15 to 2024-25, the report marks a strategic pivot in India’s developmental journey: moving from the mere expansion of school infrastructure toward the consolidation and optimization of resources to achieve the Viksit Bharat @2047 vision.
Key Highlights of the Report
- Scale of Operation: India manages the world’s largest education network with 24.69 crore students and 1.01 crore teachers.
- Infrastructure Growth: Functional electricity in schools has seen a massive jump, reaching 91.9% in 2024-25 from 55.96% a decade ago.
- The Digital Surge: Internet access in schools skyrocketed from 8.05% in 2014-15 to 63.5% in 2024-25.
- Resource Optimization: The total number of schools decreased by nearly 87,000 since 2017-18 due to school rationalization—merging under-enrolled schools into efficient “Composite Schools.”
- Transition Challenges: While elementary enrollment is near universal, the Higher Secondary GER stands at 58.4%, highlighting a significant bottleneck in student retention.
About the News: Q&A
Q1: What is the significance of the “Temporal Analysis” mentioned in the report title?
A: It refers to the study of changes over a specific period (2014–2025). The report identifies how the system evolved from focusing on “Access” (enrolling kids) to “Outcomes” (what kids actually learn).
Q2: What percentage of Indian schools are managed by the government?
A: Government schools account for 68.1% of all schools in India and cater to approximately 49.2% of the total student population.
Q3: How does the report define the current status of school infrastructure?
A: The report notes that foundational facilities like electricity and sanitation have reached “high coverage levels,” allowing the policy focus to shift toward advanced needs like digital labs and smart classrooms.
Background Concept
Q1: What are “Composite Schools” and why does NITI Aayog recommend them?
A: Composite schools are institutions that offer Grades 1 through 12 on a single campus. They are recommended to reduce the “pyramidal” gap (many primary schools but few secondary schools), which currently forces students to drop out during transitions.
Q2: What is the “Teaching at the Right Level” (TaRL) pedagogical shift?
A: It is a method where children are grouped by their actual learning level rather than their age or grade. This addresses the “rote learning” crisis where a Grade 5 student might struggle with Grade 2 basic math.
Q3: What role will the State School Standards Authority (SSSA) play?
A: The SSSA is proposed as an independent regulatory body at the state level to ensure that all schools—public and private—adhere to uniform standards regarding safety, infrastructure, and learning quality.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. As per the NITI Aayog report, what is the national Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) for the Primary level (2024-25)?
A) 58.4%
B) 63.5%
C) 90.9%
D) 49.2%
E) 11.5%
2. The decline in the total number of schools in India from 15.58 lakh to 14.71 lakh is primarily attributed to:
A) Massive dropouts due to the pandemic
B) Closure of private unaided schools
C) Lack of funding for rural education
D) School rationalization and merging of under-enrolled units
E) Shift toward 100% digital homeschooling
3. Which of the following bodies is recommended by NITI Aayog to oversee school safety and learning quality?
A) NCVET
B) SSSA (State School Standards Authority)
C) PARAKH
D) NCTE
E) CBSE
4. According to ASER 2024 data cited in the report, approximately what percentage of Grade 5 children in rural India cannot read a Grade 2 level text?
A) 10%
B) 25%
C) 50%
D) 75%
E) 90%
Answers
- C (90.9%)
- D (School rationalization and merging of under-enrolled units)
- B (SSSA)
- C (50%)
Exam Relevance
| Exam Body | Relevance & Application |
| UPSC (CSE) | GS Paper II: Issues relating to the development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Education. GS Paper III: Planning and Resource Mobilization. |
| RBI Grade B | ESI (Economic & Social Issues): Social Structure in India; Education; Demographic Trends and Human Development. |
| NABARD Grade A | ESI (Rural Development): Education in rural India; ASER reports; Status of rural infrastructure and digital divide. |
| SSC (CGL/CHSL) | General Awareness: Current Affairs related to NITI Aayog reports, government schemes (Samagra Shiksha), and education statistics. |
| State PSCs | Mains/Interview: State-specific performance in education, school merging policies, and implementation of NEP 2020. |
2. NCRB “Crime in India 2024” Report
Source: TH
Context:
The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), which functions under the Ministry of Home Affairs, has released its annual “Crime in India 2024” and “Accidental Deaths & Suicides in India (ADSI) 2024” reports. These documents serve as the primary official record for law enforcement and policymakers to track the safety landscape of the country.
Key Highlights of the Report
- Cognizable Crimes: Total registered crimes stood at 58.86 lakh, showing a positive downward trend with a 6% decrease from the previous year.
- Cybercrime Surge: Digital offenses crossed the 1-lakh mark for the first time, reaching 1,01,928 cases, a significant 17% increase.
- Cyber Fraud: Online financial fraud remains the biggest threat, accounting for 72.6% of all cyber-related FIRs.
- Drug Overdose Crisis: A worrying 50% spike in fatalities due to drug overdoses was recorded, indicating a growing public health and narcotics challenge.
- Vulnerable Groups: Daily wage earners and the unemployed continue to be the most affected demographic in the annual suicide statistics.
About the News
Q1: What is the significance of the 6% decline in cognizable crimes?
A: It indicates a reduction in traditional crimes (like theft or physical assault) registered under the Indian Penal Code (IPC/BNS) and Special & Local Laws. However, experts often caution that this can also be influenced by reporting habits and police registration patterns.
Q2: Which specific category dominates the cybercrime landscape in India?
A: Financial Fraud is the primary driver, making up nearly three-fourths of all cases. Other significant categories include cyber-extortion and sexual exploitation (including non-consensual sharing of private images).
Q3: How many suicides were recorded in India in 2024 according to the ADSI report?
A: A total of 1,70,746 suicides were recorded. The report highlights that socio-economic pressures on daily wage workers and farmers remain a critical factor in these figures.
Background Concept
Q1: What is the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB)?
A: Established in 1986, the NCRB is the nodal agency responsible for collecting and analyzing crime data as defined by the Indian Penal Code and special laws. It helps in evolving law enforcement strategies and is headquartered in New Delhi.
Q2: What is the difference between “Crime Rate” and “Crime Volume”?
A: Crime Volume refers to the total number of crimes committed (e.g., 58.86 lakh). Crime Rate is the number of crimes per lakh (100,000) of the population, which provides a more accurate measure of safety by accounting for population growth.
Q3: Why is cybercrime rising while traditional crime is falling?
A: This “digital shift” is attributed to increased internet penetration and the anonymity provided by the web. Criminals are moving from physical “street crimes” to “screen crimes” where they can target thousands of victims simultaneously with lower risk of immediate physical capture.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. According to the 2024 NCRB report, what was the percentage increase in cybercrime cases compared to the previous year?
A) 6%
B) 10%
C) 17%
D) 50%
E) 72.6%
2. Fatalities due to drug overdose in India saw a sharp increase of ________ in 2024.
A) 10%
B) 25%
C) 40%
D) 50%
E) 60%
3. Which of the following groups accounted for a major share of the 1.70 lakh suicides recorded in 2024?
A) Corporate Executives
B) Daily wage workers and Farmers
C) Government Employees
D) High-school Students
E) Healthcare Professionals
4. The NCRB functions under the administrative control of which Union Ministry?
A) Ministry of Law and Justice
B) Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
C) Ministry of Home Affairs
D) Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
E) Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
Answers
- C (17%)
- D (50%)
- B (Daily wage workers and Farmers)
- C (Ministry of Home Affairs)
Exam Relevance
| Exam Body | Relevance & Application |
| UPSC (CSE) | GS Paper II & III: Law and order, Internal Security (Cybersecurity), and Social Justice (Suicides/Drug Abuse). |
| SSC (CGL/CHSL) | General Awareness: Current statistics on crime, headquarters of NCRB, and nodal ministries for national reports. |
| State PSCs | General Studies: State-specific crime trends and the implementation of digital safety measures by state police. |
3. JANANI (Journey of Antenatal, Natal and Neonatal Integrated Care) Platform
Context:
The launch of the JANANI (Journey of Antenatal, Natal and Neonatal Integrated Care) platform by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) in 2026 marks a major technological leap in India’s public health infrastructure. It shifts maternal and child healthcare from a “fragmented” paper-based system to a “longitudinal” digital-first model.
What is JANANI? (The “Software” Upgrade)
JANANI is an upgraded, more intelligent version of the older Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) portal. Think of it as a dedicated “Digital Health Passport” for women and infants.
- Continuous Care: Unlike previous systems that often lost data between pregnancy and birth, JANANI tracks the “Continuum of Care”—from the first pregnancy check-up (Antenatal) to the birth (Natal), the first weeks of the baby’s life (Neonatal), and finally Family Planning.
- The Lifetime Record: It creates a permanent health history, ensuring that a woman’s health data follows her even if she migrates to a different state or city.
Key Features
JANANI isn’t just a database; it is a proactive medical tool.
- High-Risk Pregnancy (HRP) Alerts: This is perhaps the most critical feature. The system automatically flags “High-Risk” cases (e.g., severe anemia or hypertension) to health workers. This ensures that the most vulnerable mothers receive priority medical attention.
- QR-Enabled Digital MCH Cards: Mothers no longer need to carry bulky paper booklets. A simple QR code scan at any health center across India pulls up their entire medical history.
- Interoperability: It “talks” to other major health systems:
- U-WIN: For tracking the baby’s vaccinations.
- POSHAN: For monitoring nutritional support.
- ABHA: Linked to the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission for a unified health identity.
Background Concepts for Exams
The “Continuum of Care” Model
In public health, the “Continuum of Care” refers to a seamless delivery of services through two dimensions:
- Time: From pregnancy through childhood.
- Place: From the household/community level up to the hospital level.
Maternal & Infant Mortality (MMR & IMR)
The ultimate goal of JANANI is to bring down these two critical Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) metrics:
- MMR (Maternal Mortality Ratio): Number of maternal deaths per 1,00,000 live births.
- IMR (Infant Mortality Rate): Number of deaths of infants under one year of age per 1,000 live births.
Conceptual MCQs
Q1. The JANANI platform, launched in 2026, is an upgraded version of which existing portal?
A) Co-WIN
B) RCH (Reproductive and Child Health)
C) e-Sanjeevani
D) PM-Kisan
Q2. What does the “Longitudinal” nature of the JANANI health record imply?
A) It only tracks the height and weight of the child.
B) It follows the health events of a beneficiary over a long period (across the entire lifecycle).
C) It is only accessible to doctors in large metropolitan cities.
D) It tracks the latitude and longitude of the health center.
Q3. Which feature of JANANI is specifically designed to reduce maternal mortality by identifying complications early?
A) QR-enabled cards
B) Self-registration
C) Automated High-Risk Alerts
D) Real-time Dashboards
Answers: Q1: B | Q2: B | Q3: C
4. Tactical Advanced Range Augmentation (TARA)
Context:
The successful maiden flight-trial of the Tactical Advanced Range Augmentation (TARA) weapon off the coast of Odisha in May 2026 marks a transformative moment for India’s aerial combat capabilities. Developed by the Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in Hyderabad, TARA represents a shift toward “smart” ammunition through indigenous innovation.
What is TARA?
TARA is not a standalone bomb; it is a Modular Range Extension Kit. In military terms, this is often called a “Bolt-on” kit.
- The Conversion: It is designed to be fitted onto existing unguided warheads (often called “dumb bombs”).
- The Transformation: Once fitted with the TARA kit, a standard gravity bomb is converted into a Precision-Guided Glide Weapon.
- Analogy: If a traditional bomb is a “thrown stone,” TARA gives that stone “wings and a GPS,” turning it into a guided glider.
Advantages
The development of TARA solves two major problems for the Indian Air Force (IAF): Cost and Safety.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Purchasing brand-new precision missiles is extremely expensive. TARA allows the IAF to use its massive existing stockpile of older, unguided bombs and make them as accurate as modern missiles for a fraction of the cost.
- Standoff Range: Because TARA is a “glide” weapon, it uses aerodynamic wings to fly toward its target after being released. This allows IAF pilots to release the weapon from a safer distance (standoff range), staying outside the reach of the enemy’s short-range air defense systems.
- Lethality & Collateral Damage: High precision means fewer bombs are needed to destroy a target, and there is a significantly lower risk of hitting unintended civilian structures.
Conceptual MCQs
Q1. The TARA weapon system, recently tested by the DRDO, is primarily categorized as a:
A) Submarine-launched ballistic missile.
B) Modular range extension kit for unguided bombs.
C) Long-range surface-to-air missile.
D) Anti-satellite weapon.
Q2. What is the primary operational advantage of a “Glide Weapon” like TARA?
A) It can travel faster than the speed of light.
B) It allows the aircraft to release the weapon from a safer “standoff” distance.
C) It can only be used in underwater warfare.
D) It eliminates the need for any explosive warhead.
Q3. Which DRDO laboratory is the lead developer of the TARA system?
A) DRDL, Hyderabad
B) CAIR, Bengaluru
C) Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad
D) ADE, Bengaluru
Answers: Q1: B | Q2: B | Q3: C
Banking/Finance
1. RBI Eases Rules for Banks to Include Quarterly Profits in Regulatory Capital
Context:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued a circular on May 8, 2026, simplifying the way banks calculate their capital strength. By removing a restrictive link to bad loan (NPA) provisions, the RBI has made it easier for banks to show a higher Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) throughout the year.
What is the Change?
Previously, the process of adding quarterly profits to a bank’s capital was conditional. Now, it is a straightforward accounting entry.
| Feature | Old Rule (Prescriptive) | New Rule (Simplified) |
| Current Year Profit | Could be added to capital only if NPA provisions stayed within a 25% deviation of the 4-quarter average. | Can be added to capital on a quarterly basis without any additional conditions. |
| Frequency | Often delayed due to the “deviation check.” | Seamless quarterly inclusion. |
What is Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR)?
The Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR), also known as the Capital-to-Risk Weighted Assets Ratio (CRAR), is a vital measure of a bank’s financial health. It compares a bank’s available capital against its risk-weighted credit exposures to ensure it can absorb a reasonable amount of loss before becoming insolvent.
As of May 2026, this topic is highly relevant due to new RBI amendments aimed at simplifying how banks calculate their strength.
Components of Capital
- Tier 1 Capital (Core Capital): The primary strength of a bank. It includes Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) (like paid-up equity and retained earnings) and Additional Tier 1 (AT1) (like perpetual bonds). This capital can absorb losses without the bank having to stop trading.
- Tier 2 Capital (Supplementary Capital): Secondary reserves including subordinated debt, revaluation reserves, and general provisions. It is less liquid than Tier 1.
- Risk-Weighted Assets (RWA): Not all assets are equal. Cash has $0\%$ risk, while a personal loan might have $100\%$ risk. CAR weights these assets based on their risk level to show the “true” exposure.
Why this Move?
The Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR), also known as the CRAR, is the measure of a bank’s capital to its risk-weighted assets. It acts as a safety cushion.
- Higher CAR = More Lending: For every ₹100 a bank lends, it must keep a certain amount of capital as a “buffer.” By allowing banks to add their current profits to this buffer every quarter, the RBI is effectively giving them more “room” to lend more money to the public.
- Operational Ease: Banks no longer have to worry that a sudden spike in NPA provisions (due to a one-off bad loan) will prevent them from counting their healthy profits toward their capital strength.
Background Concept
This move is part of the broader Basel III regulatory framework, which aims to ensure that banks have enough “High-Quality Capital” to survive economic shocks.
- Tier 1 Capital: This is the core capital (Equity + Retained Earnings). The quarterly profits being discussed here fall under Tier 1.
- The Cushion: By strengthening the “Cushion” (Capital) faster, the “Risk” (Assets) can be managed more efficiently.
Exam Relevance
| Exam | Focus Area |
| RBI Grade B | Finance: Detailed understanding of CRAR, Basel III implementation, and Tier 1 capital components. |
| UPSC GS-3 | Economy: Banking reforms, NPA management, and the role of the RBI in maintaining financial stability. |
| Banking Exams | Definition of CRAR and the specific 25% deviation rule that was recently removed. |
Conceptual MCQs
Q1. What is the primary benefit to banks from the RBI’s removal of the “NPA deviation condition” for capital calculation?
A) It reduces the actual number of bad loans.
B) It allows banks to include quarterly profits in their capital buffer more easily, boosting their lending capacity.
C) It exempts banks from paying corporate tax on quarterly profits.
D) It allows banks to stop making provisions for NPAs altogether.
Q2. The Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) is calculated by dividing a bank’s capital by its:
A) Total number of employees.
B) Total market capitalization.
C) Risk-Weighted Assets (RWA).
D) Total Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR).
Q3. Under the Basel III norms, “Retained Earnings” and “Common Equity” are part of which type of capital?
A) Tier 1 Capital
B) Tier 2 Capital
C) Tier 3 Capital
D) Statutory Liquidity Ratio
Answers: Q1: B | Q2: C | Q3: A
Facts To Remember
1. Overview of Vietnam President To Lam’s Visit to India
Vietnam President To Lam visited India from May 5 to 7, 2026, at the invitation of Narendra Modi to strengthen bilateral cooperation in defence, trade, critical technologies, and strategic sectors. During the visit, both countries reviewed cooperation in maritime affairs, renewable energy, space, science and technology, and people-to-people ties. India and Vietnam signed 13 MoUs covering digital technologies, culture, tourism, education, and healthcare. Both sides also announced plans to elevate bilateral ties to an Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and expand trade to USD 25 billion by 2030.
2. NCRB Releases Crime in India 2024 Report
National Crime Records Bureau released the “Crime in India 2024” report showing that overall cognisable crimes in India declined by 6% in 2024 compared to the previous year. India recorded 58.86 lakh cognisable crimes, with the national crime rate declining to 418.9 per lakh population. Delhi reported the highest number of cognisable offences among metropolitan cities. The report also highlighted rising suicide cases, with Bengaluru continuing to record high suicide numbers over the last three years.
3. MoSPI Updates State GDP Calculation Base Year to 2022-23
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation updated the base year for Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) and Gross State Value Added (GSVA) calculations to 2022-23. The revision aims to reflect the current structure of the economy through improved data sources and updated estimation methods. States and Union Territories have been directed to adopt the new base year for better comparability and standardisation of economic performance data.
4. NITI Aayog Releases Report on School Education System in India
NITI Aayog released a policy report titled “School Education System in India: Temporal Analysis and Policy Roadmap for Quality Enhancement.” The report reviewed India’s school education system between 2014 and 2025, covering enrolment, infrastructure, learning outcomes, and inclusion. India currently has 14.71 lakh schools serving over 24.69 crore students. The report highlighted concerns such as low higher secondary enrolment, high dropout rates, and the existence of nearly 8,000 zero-enrolment schools across the country.
5. Maritime India Foundation Signs MoUs with IITs and IMU
The Maritime India Foundation signed MoUs with Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, and Indian Maritime University to establish Maritime Innovation Hubs. The initiative aims to support startups working on advanced maritime technologies under the Sagarmala Startup Innovation Initiative. The programme will encourage indigenous innovation, maritime modernisation, and technology-driven solutions under Atmanirbhar Bharat.
6. Office of PSA and FICCI Sign MoU to Strengthen R&D Ecosystem
The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry signed an MoU to strengthen India’s research and development ecosystem. The partnership aims to improve industry-academia collaboration, promote technology sharing, and accelerate innovation in sectors such as energy, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and green technologies. The initiative also focuses on expanding solar energy research and indigenous technology development.
7. MBDA and Indian Air Force Sign Pact for MICA Missile MRO Facility
European missile manufacturer MBDA signed an agreement with the Indian Air Force to establish a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility for MICA air-to-air missiles in India. The facility will support long-term sustainment and lifecycle management of missiles used in Rafale and Mirage-2000 fighter aircraft. The initiative strengthens indigenous defence maintenance capabilities under Atmanirbhar Bharat and improves operational readiness of the IAF.
8. DRDO Inaugurates CBRN Training and Demonstration Centre in Delhi
Defence Research and Development Organisation inaugurated a Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) Field Training and Demonstration Centre in New Delhi. The centre aims to strengthen preparedness for radiological and nuclear emergencies through advanced research, emergency response systems, and multi-agency training programmes. It will support disaster preparedness, hazard detection, and nuclear safety research.
9. JGU Becomes First Indian IoE to Receive DASCA Accreditation
O.P. Jindal Global University became India’s first Institute of Eminence to receive accreditation from the Data Science Council of America. The accreditation recognises the university’s AI and Data Science programmes under international standards. The recognition strengthens India’s higher education ecosystem in artificial intelligence, analytics, and emerging technologies.
10. Government Appoints Shashi Shekhar Vempati as CBFC Chairperson
The Government of India appointed Shashi Shekhar Vempati as Chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification for a three-year term. He previously served as CEO of Prasar Bharati and played a major role in digital transformation initiatives in public broadcasting.
11. FICCI Nominates Priyanka Mittal as Co-Chair of Saudi-India Business Council
Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry nominated Priyanka Mittal as Co-Chair of the Saudi-India Business Council. The council promotes trade, investment, and economic cooperation between India and Saudi Arabia. The appointment is expected to strengthen bilateral business engagement and export opportunities.
12. Kotak Mahindra Bank Gets RBI Nod to Acquire Stakes in AU SFB and Federal Bank
Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited received approval from the Reserve Bank of India to acquire up to 9.99% stakes in AU Small Finance Bank and Federal Bank Limited. The approval is subject to regulatory norms and investment limits under banking regulations and FEMA guidelines.
13. DRDO and IAF Conduct Maiden Trial of Indigenous TARA Glide Weapon
Defence Research and Development Organisation and the Indian Air Force successfully conducted the maiden flight-trial of the Tactical Advanced Range Augmentation (TARA) glide weapon off the coast of Odisha. TARA is India’s first indigenous glide weapon system capable of converting conventional bombs into precision-guided munitions using INS, GPS, and electro-optical guidance technologies.
14. Pixxel Secures US NRO Contract for Hyperspectral Imaging
Pixxel secured a contract from the National Reconnaissance Office under the Commercial Systems Program Office to develop advanced hyperspectral remote sensing capabilities. The project will use Pixxel’s Firefly satellite constellation to support Earth observation, intelligence, environmental monitoring, and defence applications through hyperspectral imaging technologies.
15. Former India Footballer Mohan Singh Passes Away
Former Indian football midfielder Mohan Singh passed away at the age of 78 in Kolkata. He represented India during the 1972 Pre-Olympic campaign and played for leading football clubs including East Bengal, Mohun Bagan, and Mohammedan Sporting Club. He was known for his major contributions to Indian football during the 1970s.
16. Border Roads Organisation Raising Day Observed on May 7, 2026
Border Roads Organisation celebrated its 66th Raising Day on May 7, 2026. The organisation was established in 1960 to develop and maintain strategic road and bridge infrastructure in India’s border regions. BRO plays a key role in strengthening connectivity and national security in remote and high-altitude areas.
17. World Athletics Day Observed on May 7, 2026
World Athletics Day was observed globally on May 7, 2026, to promote fitness and encourage youth participation in athletics. The initiative is led by World Athletics and focuses on using sports for social development and healthy lifestyles.
18. World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day Observed on May 8, 2026
World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day was observed on May 8, 2026, with the theme “United in Humanity.” The observance honours humanitarian efforts and commemorates the birth anniversary of Henry Dunant. The day highlights global humanitarian service, disaster relief, and healthcare support initiatives.
19. Suvendu Adhikari becomes first BJP CM of West Bengal
BJP legislature party leader Suvendu Adhikari took oath as the Chief Minister of West Bengal today, heading the first BJP government in the state.
20. Railways to move to upgraded Passenger Reservation System in August
The Ministry of Railways today announced that the shifting of trains to the upgraded Passenger Reservation System will begin in August.
21. India to host 1st IBCA Summit in June this year
Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav launched the website and logo for the 1st International Big Cat Alliance IBCA Summit 2026 in New Delhi.
