Daily Current Affairs - Latest

• Respectable Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh and Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary laid the foundation stone for an Integrated Aqua Park at Vanasaur Fish Seed Farm in Bhojpur and inaugurated the NFDB Regional Centre in Patna on 15th June 2026.
• The ₹31.21 crore Aqua Park under PMMSY will feature advanced hatcheries, biofloc and RAS units, fish feed plants, diagnostic labs, and a training hostel. The NFDB centre will strengthen fisheries schemes, technology adoption, and capacity building in eastern India. Bihar, with vast inland water resources, has doubled fish production and become a net fish-exporting state.

• Goa declared fully functionally literate under ULLAS literacy programme.
• Jharkhand to open its first tiger safari in Barwadih forest area.
• Two Rajasthan wetlands added to Ramsar list, taking India’s total to 91 sites.
• Khichan and Menar wetlands in Rajasthan designated as new Ramsar sites.

Two wetlands in Rajasthan — Khichan and Menar — have been added to the Ramsar list, bringing India’s total to 91. These areas are globally recognized for their ecological importance and host diverse bird species, including rare vultures and migratory birds.

• Madhya Pradesh launches Rahveer Scheme to reward those helping accident victims.
• Gujarat's Asiatic lion population rises to 891, marking a 32% growth since 2020.
• Lalu Prasad expels son Tej Pratap Yadav from RJD for six years.
• Kerala government declares Kochi shipwreck a state-level disaster after cargo spill.

• “Olive Green - Going Green” INDIAN ARMY Receives First Hydrogen Bus.
• AICTE introduces AI certificate courses to train engineering faculty members, enhancing their skills in emerging technologies.
• The School Education Department signs an MoU with the National Book Trust to create an institutional framework for the Rashtriya E-Pustakalaya.
• Ruchira Kamboj becomes India's first woman Permanent Representative to the United Nations.
• The National Archives of India launched its first overseas project, "The Oman Collection," in Oman.
• The Supreme Court reconstitutes the committee on gender sensitisation.
• Centre launches new mobile number series for service and transactional calls.
• Air India collaborates with Delhi Airport and Metro for international check-ins.
• The plastic waste management and recycling plant was inaugurated by the Indian Army in Changgu, East Sikkim.
• Indore Lok Sabha seat sets a record for the highest votes secured by NOTA in the 2024 elections.
• Haryana government initiates a Rs 10,000-crore project to combat air pollution.
• Indore sets NOTA record with over 2 lakh opting for 'None of the Above'.

• In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the 'NOTA' (None of the Above) option received a significant 2,18,674 votes in the Indore constituency, following the Congress candidate Akshay Kanti Bam's switch to the BJP and the Congress urging voters to choose NOTA.
• Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate Shankar Lalwani won the Indore seat by a substantial margin of 10,08,077 votes, setting a new record for the highest number of NOTA votes in a constituency.
• Nationally, the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) crossed the majority mark early, leading in around 300 seats, while the opposition INDIA bloc is ahead in over 230 seats, defying many exit poll predictions.

• The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has launched a comprehensive survey to identify and address the challenges faced by Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in adapting to new technologies.
• The survey aims to lay the groundwork for a robust ecosystem that leverage the potential of artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, and the integration of 5G and 6G networks.
• The 60-day survey will cover five sectors each in North and South India. It is designed to reveal sector-specific needs across at least ten industries, acknowledging the diverse nature of India’s MSME landscape.

• The Haryana government has announced a Rs 10,000-crore project funded by the World Bank to address air pollution, aiming to improve air quality starting with NCR districts and expanding state-wide.
• The project includes the establishment of a cutting-edge laboratory and the modernization of four existing laboratories to enhance air quality monitoring and analysis.
• The World Bank, headquartered in Washington, D.C., was founded in July 1944 and is funding this significant environmental initiative in Haryana.

• Following the advice of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Cabinet, President Droupadi Murmu dissolved the 17th Lok Sabha. Prime Minister Modi subsequently tendered his resignation, which was accepted by President Murmu.
• In the 543-member Lok Sabha, the NDA holds a comfortable majority with the BJP securing 240 seats. Other parties include the Congress with 99 seats, the Samajwadi Party with 37 seats, and the Trinamool Congress with 29 seats.

• The Trishakti Corps of the Indian Army celebrated World Environment Day by inaugurating a plastic waste management and recycling plant in Changgu, East Sikkim. 
• This initiative, part of the Army's Sadbhavana initiative, aims to address waste management issues, promote sustainability, and benefit the local economy.
• The plant will convert plastic waste into materials suitable for road construction and bricks, thereby reducing pollution and the burden on landfills. 
• Additionally, the project provides employment opportunities for local villagers, contributing to economic resilience and community welfare.

• The Centre has introduced a new numbering series, 160xxxxxxx, specifically for service and transactional calls to help citizens identify legitimate calls and reduce unsolicited telemarketing calls.
• The new 160xxxxxxx series will be exclusively used by Principal Entities for service and transactional calls, differentiating them from promotional calls, which often use the 140xxxxxxx series.
• This move by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) aims to help citizens manage their communication more effectively by clearly distinguishing legitimate service and transactional calls from promotional telemarketing calls.

Dassault Aviation and Tata Advanced Systems have formalized an agreement to locally produce Rafale fighter aircraft fuselages, establishing a major aerospace manufacturing hub in Hyderabad.

• The Supreme Court has reconstituted its Gender Sensitisation and Internal Complaints Committee.
• The Supreme Court of India has reconstituted its Gender Sensitisation and Internal Complaints Committee, appointing Justice Hima Kohli as Chairperson and Justice BV Nagarathna as a Member.
• The reconstitution, initiated by the Chief Justice of India, aligns with the Gender Sensitisation and Sexual Harassment regulations of 2013, ensuring proper representation and compliance.
• The committee includes members from various legal bodies and professionals nominated by the Chief Justice, such as Shruti Pandey, Jaideep Gupta, Dr. Leni Chaudhuri, and Dr. Menaka Guruswamy, reflecting a comprehensive approach to addressing gender sensitisation and harassment issues.

SpaceX’s Starlink has received a licence to offer satellite broadband in India, more than two years after applying, with trial spectrum expected soon following regulatory clearances.

• India will host the 81st annual general meeting (AGM) of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in Delhi from June 8-10, 2025, after a gap of 42 years, with IndiGo as the host airline.
• The event is one of the most important in the aviation industry's calendar, bringing together chiefs and top executives from global airlines, aircraft manufacturers, and other aviation stakeholders to discuss global aviation issues.
• India, poised to become the world’s third largest aviation market, will showcase its impressive growth, record aircraft orders, and world-class infrastructure developments, highlighting its remarkable rise in the global aviation landscape.

• Bank of Baroda launches first 'Phygital' branch in Kolkata Zone.
• SEBI approves ₹3,668 crore IPO of Hero FinCorp.
• Grammarly raises $1 billion to expand into an AI-based productivity platform.
• Japan to provide $1.063 billion to Bangladesh for budget, railways, and education.
• IBA and IOCL sign MoU to promote bioenergy and bio-hydrogen.
• ADB announces $10 billion plan to improve India’s urban infrastructure.
• Drools becomes India's first pet food unicorn after Nestlé’s minority investment.
• Aditya Birla Capital invests ₹249 crore in ABHFL via rights issue.
• Government issues guidelines to boost electric car manufacturing in India.
• Paytm Cloud incorporates Paytm Singapore as a wholly owned subsidiary.
• HDB Financial Services gets SEBI nod for ₹12,500 crore IPO.
• China may order up to 500 Airbus aircraft during EU leaders’ visit to Beijing.
• India to need 1 million AI professionals by 2026; AI education and tech sector on the rise.
• Government launches ‘Ayush Nivesh Saarthi’ portal to boost investment in traditional medicine.
• Central Bank of India buys stake in Future Generali worth ₹451 crore.
• Flipkart gets RBI nod to lend directly to customers and sellers via NBFC licence.

• The Department of School Education signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Book Trust in New Delhi to establish the Digital Library Platform, Rashtriya e-Pustakalaya.
• Secretary of the Department of Higher Education, K. Sanjay Murthy, highlighted that this platform will be accessible 24/7 from any geographic location, thereby enhancing book accessibility for readers across the country.
• K. Sanjay Murthy also emphasized that Rashtriya e-Pustakalaya will address the issue of limited library presence in many states, ensuring broader access to literature. 
• He expressed optimism that within the next 2-3 years, the platform will host over 10,000 books in more than 100 languages.

Public sector lender Central Bank of India has purchased a 24.91% stake in Future Generali India for ₹451 crore and an additional 25.18% stake in Future Generali India Life Insurance for ₹57 crore. The deal was finalized and completed on June 4, 2025, according to the company’s filings to stock exchanges, reinforcing the bank's presence in the insurance sector.

• 64 Great Indian Bustards discovered in Jaisalmer's National Desert Park.
• DD Kisan Channel to Launch AI Anchor "Agriculture and Land" on May 26th, 2024.
• Delhi Ranks 350th in 2024 Oxford Global Cities Index Report.
• Kolkata Knight Riders clinched their third IPL championship title in a decade by winning the IPL 2024 final, while Punjab Kings' Harshal Patel took the IPL 2024 Purple Cap with 24 wickets.
• Ministry of Education launches the Implementation Manual of Tobacco-Free Educational Institutions (ToFEI) on World No Tobacco Day, 2024.
• India successfully concludes hosting of the 46th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM-46) and the 26th Committee on Environmental Protection (CEP-26).
• NIMHANS bags the Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion for 2024 by the World Health Organization.
• ICMR proposes new guidelines to limit sugar in processed foods.
• Varanasi Ropeway: India's first urban ropeway, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 24, 2022, is scheduled to be completed by August 2024.

Flipkart, owned by Walmart, has secured a Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) licence from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), making it the first large e-commerce platform in India to receive such a license. This move enables Flipkart to directly lend to customers and sellers on its platform, although it cannot accept deposits under this licence. The move marks a significant shift in e-commerce-led financial services in India.

• India's first urban ropeway in Varanasi, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 24, 2022, is set to be ready by August 2024, with phase 1 projected to be completed by 2025 at a cost of Rs 645 crore.
• The 3.7-kilometer ropeway will connect five significant locations in Varanasi: Girja Ghar Godowlia Chowk, Rath Yatra, Kashi Vidyapith (Bharatmala Mandir), Varanasi Railway Station, and Varanasi Cantonment.
• This ropeway project will reduce travel time significantly, cutting the journey from Varanasi Junction to Godowlia to just 16 minutes while providing an aerial view of the city, enhancing both transportation efficiency and tourist experience.

On May 29, 2025, the Government of India launched the ‘Ayush Nivesh Saarthi’ portal during the Ayush Stakeholder and Industry Meet at Vanijya Bhawan, New Delhi. The portal aims to streamline and promote investments in India’s traditional medicine and wellness sector, positioning India as a global hub for Ayurveda, Yoga, and other indigenous health practices. 

• The Sikkim High Court has implemented a first-of-its-kind menstrual leave policy, allowing women employees in its registry to take 2-3 days of menstrual leave each month.
• The menstrual leave will be granted based on the prior recommendation of the Medical Officer of the High Court and will not be deducted from the employee’s overall leave account.
• The Sikkim High Court, which is the smallest in the country, has three judges and nine officers in the registry, including one woman officer.

India is set to witness a boom in the demand for AI professionals, with estimates predicting the need for over 1 million experts by 2026. A government-backed report ties this trend to increased investment in engineering education and technological infrastructure.

• On the occasion of World No Tobacco Day (WNTD) 2024, the Department of School Education & Literacy (DoSEL), Ministry of Education, launched an Implementation Manual of Tobacco Free Educational Institutions (ToFEI) at New Delhi.
• In collaboration with Socio Economic and Educational Development Society (SEEDS). This year's WNTD theme is "Protecting children from tobacco industry interference”. 
• The newly launched manual has been designed in line with the theme.
• The manual aims to assist schools in adhering to the ToFEI guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, thereby creating a healthier, tobacco-free environment for students. 
• This initiative will empower all the stakeholders to adopt and enforce guidelines that protect students from the dangers of tobacco.

China is in talks to purchase up to 500 aircraft from Airbus SE, possibly aligning the announcement with the upcoming visit of EU leaders to Beijing. The potential order, being discussed with Chinese airlines, may include both narrow and widebody planes.

HDB Financial Services, a subsidiary of HDFC Bank, has received Sebi approval for launching an IPO worth ₹12,500 crore, making it the largest ever by a non-banking financial company and among the top five in India’s market history.

Paytm Cloud Technologies has established a new subsidiary, Paytm Singapore, by investing SGD 250,000 for 25,000 equity shares. The move, approved by its board, strengthens Paytm's international presence under its parent company, One97 Communications.

The Indian government has introduced a new policy framework aimed at strengthening domestic production of electric passenger vehicles. The initiative aligns with the country’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 and enhancing India's role as a global automotive innovation hub.

The Indian Biogas Association and Indian Oil Corporation Ltd have signed an MoU to jointly promote development in the bioenergy and bio-hydrogen sectors by leveraging their combined strengths.

Asian Development Bank President Masato Kanda has introduced a five-year plan to mobilize up to $10 billion to enhance urban infrastructure in India, with a focus on metro expansion and sustainable urban transit.

Drools Pet Food Pvt Ltd has achieved unicorn status following a minority stake acquisition by Nestlé S.A., making it the country’s first pet food brand to surpass a $1 billion valuation.

Aditya Birla Capital Limited (ABCL) has infused ₹249 crore into its wholly-owned subsidiary, Aditya Birla Housing Finance Ltd (ABHFL), through a rights issue to support its expansion plans and maintain a 100% stake.

State-run Bank of Baroda has opened its first 'Phygital' branch in Kolkata, combining digital services with in-person customer support. This is the bank’s seventh such branch in India.

Hero FinCorp has secured regulatory approval from SEBI to proceed with its ₹3,668 crore IPO, marking a pivotal step in its public market entry plans.

San Francisco-based Grammarly has raised $1 billion in non-dilutive financing from General Catalyst to transition from an AI writing tool into a broader productivity platform, without giving up equity.

Bangladesh will receive $1.063 billion from Japan for budgetary assistance, railway modernization, and education, as interim leader Muhammad Yunus visits Tokyo to enhance bilateral ties. The aid includes a $418 million policy loan aimed at economic reform and climate adaptation.

• Adani Group records highest-ever ₹90,000 crore EBITDA in FY25 with strong liquidity.
• Net FDI in India drops 96% to $353 million in FY25 due to high repatriation.
• World Bank warns 80% of Indian districts at risk due to climate change.
• RBI board approves record ₹2.69 trillion surplus transfer to government.
• US becomes India’s 4th largest crude oil supplier, surpasses UAE.
• First cherry cargo train to run from J&K to Mumbai from June 3.
• Getepay becomes Rajasthan's first fintech to get final RBI nod as online payment aggregator.
• Market cap of six top firms drops ₹78,166 crore; Reliance, TCS among major losers.
• India's industrial production grows 2.7% in April 2025.
• NIRL and MAHAPREIT team up to develop 2000 MW green energy projects in Maharashtra.

• The All-India Institute of Medical Sciences, Nagpur has become the country's first AIIMS to receive the National Accreditation Board of Hospitals and Healthcare Providers (NABH) accreditation.
• NABH's recognition for the hospital makes it at par with the world’s leading hospital standards and is proof of the hospital’s commitment to providing high-quality patient care and safety. 
• NABH is globally recognized for healthcare grade and service.
• Hospitals are assessed on over 600 parameters with the standards divided between patient-centered facilities and organization-centered standards, and to comply with these elements, the hospital needs to have a process-driven approach.

• Union Government launched Nyaya Vikas Portal to Monitor Implementation of Centrally Sponsored Schemes.
• The Nyaya Vikas Portal has been established to monitor the implementation of Centrally Sponsored Schemes, Nyay Vikas.
• The portal offers stakeholders seamless access to information related to funding, documentation, project monitoring, and approval.
• The Department of Justice (under the Ministry of Law & Justice) has been implementing the Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) for the Development of Infrastructure Facilities for Districts and Subordinate Judiciary since 1993-94. 
• Under the Scheme, central assistance is provided to the State Government / UT Administrations for the construction of court halls and residential units for Judicial Officers / Judges of District and Subordinate Courts.

• Kerala has topped the Food Safety Index 2022-23, replacing Tamil Nadu at the number one slot.
• Tamil Nadu slipped to third position in the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)’s 5th State Food Safety Index (SFSI), which was released by Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on the occasion of World Food Day.
• This time, Punjab stood in the second position.
• Among smaller states, Goa stood first for the fourth time in a row. It was followed by Manipur and Sikkim.
• Among Union territories, Jammu and Kashmir, Delhi, and Chandigarh secured first, second and third ranks.
• Last year, Tamil Nadu was in the top position among 20 larger states, followed by Gujarat and Maharashtra. In 2020-21, Gujarat was in top position, followed by Kerala and then Tamil Nadu in the third position.
• The Food Safety Index evaluates the performance of states and union territories across different aspects of food safety. 
• These parameters include food safety: human resources and institutional data, compliance, food testing facility, training and capacity building, and consumer empowerment.
• The index started in 2018-19 and was meant to create a competitive and positive change in the food safety ecosystem in the country.

• Union Minister Smriti Irani has launched the Amrit Generation Movement - Naye Bharat Ke Sapne to fulfill the dreams of the youth of the country.
• Union Minister for Women and Child Welfare Smriti Subin Irani launched the Amrita Generation Movement in association with META to empower and engage the youth of India to express their future aspirations and dreams.
• The Amrit Generation campaign invites young people from across the country to showcase their creativity and share their aspirations by creating Reels on Instagram and Facebook.

• Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Parshottam Rupala has started the seventh phase of the “Sagar Parikrama" initiative on 8 June.
• The journey of first phase of “Sagar Parikrama” has started from Mandvi, Gujarat on 5th March 2022 and so far in the Six Phases of Sagar Parikrama, coastal areas of Gujarat, Daman & Diu, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka and Andaman & Nicobar have been visited.
• Sagar Parikrama Phase-VII shall cover the coastal areas of Keralaand UT Administration of Lakshadweep including visits of locations like Mangalore, Kasargode, Madakkara, Pallikkara, Chalium, Kanhangadu, Kozhikode, Mahe (Puducherry), Beypore, Thrissur, Ernakulam, Kochi and Islands of Lakshadweep namely, Kavaratti, Bangaramand Agatti etc.
• Kerala fisheries sector contributes around 1.58% to the total GDP and the export of marine products has set ever time record of Rs 5919.02 Crores during the year 2017-18.
• During the Sagar Parikrama events, certificates and sanctions related to the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and Kisan Credit Card (KCC) will be awarded to progressive fishermen, fish farmers, and young fishery entrepreneurs.

• On World Environment Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched two schemes, namely Amrit Dharohar and MISHTI (Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats and Tangible Incomes). 
• These schemes are aimed at reviving and conserving India’s wetlands and mangroves, contributing to the campaign for a green future and green economy.
• Conserving Ramsar Sites The Amrit Dharohar Yojana focuses on the conservation of existing Ramsar sites in India through active public participation. 
• Ramsar sites are wetlands of international importance designated under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.
• The scheme aims to achieve sustainable ecosystem development and will be implemented over the next three years.
• The scheme targets the restoration of mangrove cover across nine states in the country. Over the next five years, nearly 540 square kilometers of mangrove area will be comprehensively developed across 11 states and two union territories, starting from the fiscal year 2024.

• Union Minister Jitendra Singh on June 4 inaugurated the two-day "Lavender Festival" in Jammu and Kashmir's Bhaderwah Valley and said the Union Territory has emerged as the lavender capital of India and a prominent agri-startup destination.
• Dr. Jitendra Singh described Bhaderwah as the birthplace of India’s Purple Revolution and the destination of Agri-StartUps.
• The CSIR-Aroma Mission is a flagship project of CSIR under which Lavender cultivation is being promoted in the temperate regions of J&K.
• The aim of the project is to increase the income of small and marginal farmers and develop agriculture-based Startups.
• Under CSIR-Aroma Mission, CSIR-IIIM introduced Lavender and provided more than 30 Lakh free Lavender plants to the farmers of different districts of J&K.
• Farmers of the Bhaderwah, Doda district, produced 300, 500, 800, and 1500 Litres of Lavender oil in 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022, respectively.

• The National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), under the Union Ministry of Education, announced the India Rankings 2023 of higher education institutions in New Delhi.
• The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Madras in Chennai remained the best educational institution in overall rankings for the fifth consecutive term. 
• The Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru ranked as the best university in the country for eight years in a row.
• Miranda House, Delhi is ranked the best college. Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Ahmedabad is the top management institute. National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad is ranked number one for pharmaceutical studies.
• The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi is ranked the best medical college, and Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai is the top dental college. National Law School of India University, Bengaluru is ranked the best law college in the country.
• IIT-M has also been ranked the best engineering college for the eighth consecutive year (from 2016 to 2023).
• This is the eighth consecutive edition of India Rankings of HEIs in India.

• Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal flagged off India's first international cruise vessel - MV Empress, from Chennai to Sri Lanka on June 5.
• The MV Empress cruise has a capacity to accommodate 3,000 passengers, was flagged off from Chennai port that will connect three ports--- Triconmalle, Hambantota and Jaffna---in Sri Lanka.
• The launch of the first cruise service between Chennai and Sri Lanka has opened a new chapter in the cruise tourism sector in the country.
• It is a renowned and luxurious cruise ship that operates globally.
• It offers passengers a unique and unforgettable experience on the open seas, combining comfort, entertainment, and leisure.
• The vessel is equipped with state-of-the-art navigation systems and safety features, ensuring a secure and smooth journey for all on board.
• Its elegant design and modern amenities make it a preferred choice for travelers seeking a premium cruising experience.

• Reliance Industries is set to commence construction on India’s inaugural multimodal logistics park near Chennai, aiming to revolutionize the region's logistics landscape.
• IRDAI approves Sandeep Batra's post as Chairman of ICICI Prudential Board.
• Smartphones become India's fourth largest export item with 42% growth.
• Zupee partners with Gurugram Cyber Police to enhance cyber security awareness.
• State Bank of India (SBI) achieves Rs 8 lakh crore market capitalisation, becoming the seventh Indian listed company to do so.
• DoT launches initiative to assist MSMEs and startups in embracing new technologies.
• SEBI launches 'Saarthi 2.0' mobile app to assist investors.
• RBI greenlights Zurich's acquisition of 70% stake in Kotak Bank’s insurance arm.
• Muthoot Microfin forms co-lending pact with State Bank of India (SBI).

• Tamil Nadu Minister for Sports Development and Youth Welfare Udhayanidhi Stalin felicitated N Muthamizh Selvi, the first woman from Tamil Nadu to scale Mount Everest.
• The 34-year-old woman from Johilpatti, Virudhunagar, reached the summit of Mount Everest on May 23, after 56 days of strenuous journey.
• Muthamizh Selvi hails from Johilpatti near Kariapatti in the Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu.
• In 2021 she set a new world record by rappelling down blindfolded from a 155-foot mountain in less than a minute. The record was registered in the UNICO Book of World Records.
• Tamil Nadu sports department and Sports Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin arranged Rs 25 lakh for her, out of which Rs 10 lakh was from a government fund and Rs 15 lakh was from sponsors.

• From June 2023 to May 2024, 1.16 lakh farmers, mainly from Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan, voluntarily gave up their Rs 6,000 annual benefits from the PM-Kisan scheme, facilitated by a new module on the PM-Kisan app and website.
• The PM-Kisan scheme, launched in 2019, initially supported small and marginal farmers with up to 2 hectares of land, but now includes all farmer families across India, irrespective of landholding size, with 100% funding from the Government of India.
• Under the PM-Kisan scheme, Rs 6,000 per year is transferred in three installments of Rs 2,000 directly into farmers' bank accounts, aiming to augment their income, with certain exclusions for higher income groups.

• According to the recently published ‘Global Slavery Index 2023’ by the Walk Free Foundation, there has been a significant rise in the global prevalence of modern slavery. 
• Walk Free’s flagship report, the Global Slavery Index (GSI) provides national estimates of modern slavery for 160 countries.
• The report reveals that the number of individuals living in these exploitative conditions has reached 50 million, marking a concerning increase of 25% over the past five years.
• The report highlights the notable contribution of G20 nations in intensifying the crisis of modern slavery, primarily through their trade activities and global supply chains.
• Among the G20 countries, India, China, Russia, Indonesia, Turkey, and the U.S. stand out as having the highest number of individuals subjected to forced labor.
• It ranks 160 countries based on their estimated prevalence of modern slavery per 1,000 people.
• The countries with the highest prevalence are North Korea (104.6), Eritrea (90.3), and Mauritania (32.0), where modern slavery is widespread and often state-sponsored.
• The countries with the lowest prevalence are Switzerland (0.5), Norway (0.5), and Germany (0.6), where strong governance and effective responses to modern slavery are evident.
• India has the prevalence of 8. (Estimated proportion of population living in modern slavery per thousand people).

• Muthoot Microfin has announced a strategic co-lending partnership with the State Bank of India (SBI) to provide financial services to women entrepreneurs in rural and semi-urban regions across India.
• Under this partnership, Muthoot Microfin and SBI will co-lend to members of Joint Liability Groups (JLGs) engaged in agricultural, allied activities, and other income-generating enterprises, with loan amounts ranging from Rs 10,000 to Rs 3,00,000.

• The 3rd meeting of the Employment Working Group (EWG) was held at the Headquarters of the International Labour Organization (ILO) in Geneva, Switzerland
• The meeting was attended by 78 delegates from 20 G-20 member countries, nine guest countries and four international organizations
• The proposed significant outcomes of the key priority areas under Indian Presidency  include development of an international reference classification of occupations by skill and qualification requirements to facilitate cross-country comparability and mutual recognition of skills and qualifications, and extension of coverage of ILO and OECD's Skills for Jobs Database to G20 countries through comparable indicators to map skill gaps globally
• They also include commitments by the G20 countries to work towards providing adequate social protection for all including gig and platform workers and ensure sustainable financing of social protection.

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved Zurich Insurance Company's acquisition of a 70% stake in Kotak Mahindra General Insurance for ₹5,560 crore, marking a key milestone in the transaction process.
• Kotak Mahindra Bank confirmed in an exchange filing on June 5, 2024, that with the RBI's approval received on June 4, all necessary regulatory approvals for the acquisition have been obtained, and the deal will proceed upon meeting other required conditions.

• The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has decided to omit the chapter on the periodic table from Class 10 Science textbooks as part of the “rationalisation” exercise
• The chapter however has been retained in Class 11 textbook
• This comes after NCERT also removed Charles Darwin's Theory of Evolution as part of dropping the theory of biological evolution from the science syllabus in Class X curriculum of the CBSE

• NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) and the Central Reserve Bank of Peru (BCRP) have partnered to deploy a UPI-like real-time payments system in Peru, marking the first adoption of this technology in South America.
• The partnership aims to establish a reliable and efficient real-time payments platform in Peru, enabling instant payments between individuals and businesses, and reducing reliance on cash transactions.

• The Vande Bharat Express will cover the journey between Mumbai and Goa in about seven and a half hours
• The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today flagged off Goa's first Vande Bharat Express from Margao Railway Station, via video conferencing
• This will be the 19th Vande Bharat train in the country

• The market regulator SEBI launched 'Saa ₹thi 2.0', a mobile app designed to help investors manage their personal finances with features like financial calculators, educational modules, and investor support tools.
• Amid a surge in trading scams, India registered approximately 7,000 cyber-related complaints daily, with over 100,000 investment scam cases reported in 2023 and significant financial losses in 2024.
• In the first four months of 2024, Indians lost Rs 1,760 crore to cybercriminals, including Rs 1,420 crore from trading scams, Rs 222 crore from investment scams, and Rs 13.23 crore from dating app frauds.

• The Ministry of Minority Affairs has approved a grant of Rs 45.34 crore to develop Unani system of medicine under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karykram (PMJVK)
• India has signed a $141.12 million loan with ADB for the development of industrial corridors in Andhra Pradesh 
• The Ministry of Minority Affairs has approved a grant of Rs 45.34 crore to develop Unani system of medicine under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karykram (PMJVK)
• SEBI (Securities and Exchange Board of India) has recently approved the merger of HDFC Asset Management Company Limited entity with HDFC Bank
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new Parliament building in Delhi
• Union Minister Parshottam Rupala launched the 6th phase of 'Sagar Parikrama' in Andaman and Nicobar Islands on 29 May 2023
• In the fourth quarter of FY 2022-23, MOIL has produced 4.02 lakh tonnes of manganese ore
• Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman chaired the second meeting of the National Industrial Corridor Development and Implementation Trust (NICDIT) in May 2023
• The Maharashtra state government launched the Shetkari Mahasanman Yojana in May 2023
• Narendra Modi chairs 22nd Summit of SCO Council 
• RINL receives Greentech Safety Award 2023
• The Government of India has exempted offshore wind projects from inter-state transmission charges (ISTS) charges till 2025
• Union Cabinet approves setting up of Regional Office of Universal Postal Union in New Delhi
• The India-EU Connectivity Summit Meghalaya was held on 1 June 2023 
• Hardeep Singh Puri has launched a mobile app named “PM SVANidhi” for street vendors in June 2023

• State Bank of India (SBI), the largest commercial bank in India, has reached Rs 8 lakh crore in market capitalisation, becoming the seventh listed company in India to do so. 
• On June 3, 2024, SBI shares hit a record high of Rs 899.55 on the BSE.
• With this achievement, SBI joins an exclusive group of companies, including Reliance Industries, Tata Consultancy Services, HDFC Bank, Bharti Airtel, Infosys, and ICICI Bank. 
• As the most profitable and largest bank in India, SBI boasts the most extensive network of branches and ATMs, as well as the highest number of foreign branches among Indian banks.

• The state of Telangana was officially formed on 2 June 2014. 
• The day marks the significance in the history of the state for the continuous Telangana movement over the years.
• The day marks the contribution of the people to create a separate state outside Andhra Pradesh.

• Goldman Sachs has revised India's GDP forecast for 2024 by 10 basis points (bps) to 6.7%.
• Goldman Sachs has raised its gross domestic product (GDP) growth forecast due to a bumper dividend by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and also pushed back its expectations of an interest rate cut by the central bank.
• Analysts at Goldman Sachs have revised India's GDP forecast for 2024 by 10 basis points (bps) to 6.7%.

• Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri launches PM SVANidhi mobile app to ease loan process and provide information for street vendors
• The Svanidhi mobile app will simplify the loan application process and provide them with various information about the scheme
• The Svanidhi scheme is one of the fastest roll-outs of government schemes. 
• This has brought a unique wave of financial inclusion and digital literacy in cities and towns

• The Indian government has raised the maximum limit of retirement and death gratuity from Rs 20 lakh to Rs 25 lakh for Central government employees, effective January 1, 2024. 
• This enhancement aims to improve the benefits for these employees.
• EPFO Suspends Gratuity Hike: Despite expectations, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has put on hold a previously announced 25% increase in retirement and death gratuity. This decision was influenced by considerations related to the recent hike in Dearness Allowance (DA).
• Following the 7th Pay Commission rules, the recent increase in DA to 50% for Central government employees automatically triggers revisions in gratuity limits and other allowances. However, the EPFO’s suspension of the gratuity hike indicates that there are no immediate government plans to implement these revisions.

• The government has exempted offshore wind projects from inter-state transmission charges (ISTS) charges and exempted green hydrogen and green ammonia
• The Ministry of Power, a complete waiver of ISTS charges has been given for off-shore wind power projects commissioned on or before 31st December, 2032 for a period of 25 years from the date of commissioning of the Project.
• It objective to promote offshore wind power, expand green hydrogen and green ammonia projects, and encourage renewable energy from energy storage system projects
• THE ISTS exemption for green hydrogen and green ammonia projects has been extended from June 30, 2025 to December 31, 2030

• Reliance Industries will commence construction in June on India’s first Multimodal Logistics Park at Mappedu near Chennai, valued at Rs 1,424 crore. 
• Spanning 184.27 acres in Tiruvallur district, this project, initially conceptualized 12 years ago, aims to deliver efficient logistics services. Strategically located 52 km from Chennai Port, 80 km from Ennore Port, and 87 km from Kattupalli Port, it is set to become a central logistics hub in southern India, handling an estimated 7.17 million tonnes of cargo over 45 years.
• Connectivity and Industrial Impact: The park’s success hinges on ensuring rail connectivity from Mappedu to nearby ports. 
• Positioned near the Sriperumbudur-Oragadam industrial belt and the Chennai Peripheral Ring Road, it is also close to major automobile and electronics manufacturing clusters. 
• This multimodal logistics park aims to enhance cargo aggregation, distribution, intermodal transfer, sorting, and repacking, thereby revolutionizing the logistics landscape of the southern region.

• The Ministry of External Affairs, EU Delegation to India and the Asian Confluence are jointly organizing the India-EU Connectivity Conference in Meghalaya from1 June
• The objective of the two-day conference is to explore possibilities of boosting connectivity investments in India’s North Eastern States and with India’s neighbours -- Nepal, Bhutan and Bangladesh
• It will be inaugurated by Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, and Minister of State fir External Affairs Dr. Rajkumar Ranjan Singh

• L&T Technologies has inaugurated the Centre of Excellence for Airbus.
• Swiggy partners with SHIELD to enhance fraud prevention.
• GAIL commissions its first green hydrogen plant under the National Green Hydrogen Mission.
• RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das launches PRAVAAH, Retail Direct mobile app, and FinTech Repository.
• RBI imposes a ₹1-crore penalty on ICICI Bank and fines YES Bank ₹91 lakh.
• ADB commits USD 2.6 billion in sovereign lending to India.

• The government has acknowledged Kari Ishad mango as one of the finest quality mangoes due to its unique aroma, delicious taste, high volume of pulp, and size
• These fruits are large and oblique in oval shape
• The production of this fruit is about 600 tons in a season.

• The Union Cabinet approved the constitution and empowerment of an Inter Ministerial Committee (IMC) for facilitation of the “World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan in Cooperative Sector”
• It would be possible by converging various schemes of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and Ministry of Food Processing Industries
• Ministry of Cooperation will implement a pilot project in at least 10 selected districts of different states in the country in order to ensure time bound and uniform implementation of the Plan in a professional manner.

• The meeting, which saw participation from 16 states, was also attended by Union minister Piyush Goyal and Sarbananda Sonowal besides senior officials from various ministries
• NICDIT is within the overall framework of the PMGatiShakti National Master Plan
• National Master Plan is an approach that enables integrated and synchronised implementation of projects
• The National Industrial Corridor Development Program aims to establish a network of industrial corridors that will serve as engines of economic growth, promote industrialization, and create employment opportunities across India
• The program focuses on developing world-class infrastructure, attracting investments, and fostering sustainable industrial development

• The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind has inaugurated Sant Kabir Academy and Research Centre and Swadesh Darshan Yojana at Kabir Chaura Dham, Maghar, (Uttar Pradesh).
• Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of the Sant Kabir Academy and Research Centre four years ago.
• Sant Kabir was born in a poor and deprived family and was deprived of bookish knowledge, yet he gained empirical knowledge through the association of saints.

• Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the National Tribal Research Institute in the national capital as part of the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ celebration by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
• The NTRI will be a premier national level institute and become the nerve centre of tribal concerns, issues and matters in academic, executive and legislative fields.
• It will collaborate and network with reputed research institutes, universities, and organizations as well as academic bodies and resource Centres.

• National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), Chairman Dr GR Chintala has launched “My Pad My Right programme”, in Leh. 
• The programme launched by Nabard’s NabFoundation with machinery and materials of a cost of seven and half Lakh rupees. 
• Dr GR Chintala announced to sanction one more lakh to upgrade the machinery to make sanitary pads suitable to the demands of women of different age groups.

• Union Minister Shri Bhagwant Khuba has launched NSEFI’s Pan-India Rooftop Solar Awareness Campaign
• The campaign was launched in an event at Bidar, Karnataka. 
• The campaign is titled “GHAR KE UPAR SOLAR IS SUPER” and aims at mobilizing local government, citizens, Residential Welfare Associations (RWAs), and Municipalities to spread awareness of Solar Rooftop.

• Inverted Rifle, Helmet transferred to War Memorial at Delhi's India Gate
• North India's first Industrial Biotech Park inaugurated at Kathua in J&K
• Indian Railways announces launch of India's first semi-high speed freight train 'Gati Shakti'
• PM Modi announces 'PM CARES for Children' to support kids who lost their parents to the pandemic
• IIM Ahmedabad presents country's first agricultural land price index
• India's first Liquid Mirror Telescope made of a thin film of mercury installed in Uttarakhand

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi released benefits of the PM CARES for Children scheme, for those who lost both their parents due to Covid pandemic.
• The scheme promises ₹4,000 a month for basic needs, financial support for schooling, and scholarship for higher education and free treatment up to ₹5 lakh.
• PM CARES for Children Scheme was launched by the Prime Minister on 29 May 2021.
• The aim was to support children who have lost both their parents or legal guardian or adoptive parents or surviving parents to the Covid-19 pandemic, during the period from 11 March 2020 to 28 February 2022.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a telephonic conversation with his Canadian counterpart Mark Carney, during which he congratulated Mr. Carney on his election victory and expressed gratitude for the G7 Summit invitation in Kananaskis.

• India is the 4th largest contributor to UN Peacekeeping forces with over 5,300 personnel.
• Bangladesh tribunal indicts Sheikh Hasina, calls her to court on June 16.
• Lee Jae-myung elected as 21st President of South Korea.
• India wins presidency of the International Institute of Administrative Sciences for 2025–2028.
• Vietnam ends two-child policy to combat aging population and low birth rates.
• India elected to UN Economic and Social Council for 2026–2028 term.
• Karol Nawrocki wins Polish presidential election with 50.9% votes, defeating pro-EU candidate.
• June observed as Men's Health Month to raise awareness about men's well-being.
• Geneva to host second session of global plastic pollution treaty talks from August 5 to 14, 2025.

Nations are moving ahead in forming a legally binding global agreement to combat plastic pollution. The next round of talks will be held in Geneva from August 5 to 14, 2025, under the fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee. Regional consultations will occur on August 4.

India has been elected to the UN’s Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) for a two-year term starting in 2026. The council is central to promoting sustainable development through economic, social, and environmental strategies.

Karol Nawrocki, a nationalist historian and admirer of Donald Trump, won Poland's presidential runoff with 50.9% of the vote. His win is considered a setback for the pro-European Union leadership in the politically divided country.

June is designated as Men’s Health Month to raise awareness about physical and mental health challenges specific to men. It aims to encourage regular health checkups and open conversations around health concerns often overlooked by men themselves.

India has been chosen to head the International Institute of Administrative Sciences (IIAS) for the 2025–2028 term. This marks the first time India will hold the presidency in the 100-year history of the organization. V. Srinivas secured the role with over 61% of the vote, defeating Austria's candidate.

Lee Jae-myung of the Liberal Democratic Party has officially become South Korea’s President following his electoral win on June 3, 2025. The country’s election commission confirmed his victory over People Power Party candidate Kim Moon-soo.

Vietnam has lifted its decades-old two-child rule to address its falling birth rate and challenges posed by an aging population. Amendments passed by the National Assembly officially nullify the population control policy, according to Vietnam News Agency.

The International Crimes Tribunal of Bangladesh has indicted former PM Sheikh Hasina for allegedly directing police action against demonstrators last year and ordered her to appear before the court on June 16.

India ranks as the 4th highest contributor of uniformed personnel to UN Peacekeeping operations, currently deploying over 5,300 military and police personnel across missions in Abyei, CAR, DRC, Lebanon, Somalia, South Sudan, and Western Sahara.

• Georgia imprisons opposition leader Japaridze amid crackdown on dissent.
• BRICS bank NDB adds Algeria as a new member country.
• Mass shooting in South Carolina injures 11, police call it isolated incident.
• 46th ASEAN Summit begins in Kuala Lumpur to discuss Myanmar crisis and US tariffs.
• Pakistan and Turkey reaffirm commitment to strengthen strategic ties during PM Sharif's visit.
• Saudi Arabia launches ‘TOURISE’ platform for global tourism roadmap.
• US court restricts Trump’s power to impose tariffs, affirms Congress' authority.
• US cancels visas of Chinese students in critical fields, citing security concerns.

• Nepal government's big initiative, Ram-Sita Vivah Mandap to be developed as a destination wedding hub.
• India shines at the NAFSA global education conference in New Orleans.
• Sweden pledges $1.25 billion in military aid to Ukraine.
• India and Libya aim to boost energy sector cooperation, with a focus on enhancing crude oil trade and restarting exploration and production projects.
• Indian-American astronaut Sunita Williams becomes the first woman to pilot a new spacecraft on its maiden crewed test flight.
• India, the US, Japan, South Korea, and the EU jointly launch the Biopharmaceutical Alliance.
• India attends Ministerial Meeting on Indo-Pacific Prosperity Economic Framework in Singapore.

• University of Tokyo Inaugurates World’s Highest Observatory in Chile
• The world's first 100% biodegradable pen launches in India.
• A 90-year-old makes history as the oldest and first Black American to go to space.
• WHO launches new 'Investment Round' aiming to raise USD 7 billion to tackle global challenges. 
• UAE President confers the First-Class Medal of Independence on the Ambassador of Paraguay.
• Indonesian President Joko Widodo officially opened the 10th World Water Forum.
• Nepal's Purnima Shrestha became the first woman in the world to climb Mount Everest three times in 13 days.
• Philippine Court Revokes Biosafety Permits for GM Golden Rice and Bt Eggplant.
• Japan Develops World's First Satellite Made from Wood.

• Algeria, Guyana, the Republic of Korea, Sierra Leone and Slovenia were elected non-permanent members of the UN Security Council on 6 June for a two-year term.
• The five newly elected countries will join Ecuador, Japan, Malta, Mozambique and Switzerland as non-permanent members of the Council.
• The newly elected members will take up their new responsibilities on January 1, 2024 and serve till December 31, 2025.
• The Security Council is composed of 15 countries, five of which - China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States – are permanent members, granting them the right to veto any resolution or decision.
• The 10 non-permanent members are elected by the General Assembly, which comprises all 193 UN Member States, and in line with geographical distribution by region.  
• Voting is conducted by secret ballot and candidates must receive a two-thirds majority, or 128 votes, even if they run uncontested.
• United Nations Security Council (UNSC) was established in 1945 by the United Nations Charter.
• It is one of the six major organs of the United Nations.

• The Tata Group has retained its title of India’s most valuable brand at $26.4 billion in 2023, growing at 10.3% over last year as per brand valuation firm Brand Finance in its latest ranking of the country’s leading brands.
• This is the first time that an Indian brand has breached the brand value mark of $25 billion to feature in the top 100 of the Brand Finance Global 500 2023 list.
• Infosys and LIC also retained their positions as the second and third most-valuable brands at $13 billion and $9.8 billion each.
• While Infosys’ brand value grew 2% versus over year, LIC’s brand value declined 12% in comparison to last year.
• Airtel swapped positions with Reliance Industries (RIL) to emerge as the fourth most-valued brand at $7.5 billion in 2023 (it was fifth last year).

• Israel has begun conducting initial tests of autonomous drones capable of carrying passengers and cargo.
• The government-led pilot project, also known as the Israel National Drone Initiative (INDI), aims to create a national drone network and prepare the sky for drone deliveries. 
• The project, a joint collaboration between the Transportation Ministry, the Israel Innovation Authority, Ayalon Highways Limited, and the Civil Aviation Authority of Israel (CAAI), marks the first use of such technology in the Jewish state.
• 11 drone operating and delivery companies were involved in tests and experimental flights throughout Israel last week.
• This is the second phase of the experiment, which began in January and involved an investment of around $60 million to develop drone infrastructure over the next two years.
• Among the drones tested over the past week was AIR ZERO, manufactured in Israel, which can accommodate up to two passengers and a total payload of up to 220 kilograms for a distance of up to 160 kilometers. 

• Sri Lanka is set to achieve regional energy integration with grid connectivity with India by 2030.
• The World Bank has been assisting the Ceylon Electricity Board to understand the technical requirements & business models to implement the project.
• World Bank's Director of Regional Integration and Engagement in the South Asia Region Cecile Fruman and World Bank's Country Manager for Maldives and Sri Lanka Chiyo Kanda discussed the matter with Sri Lankan authorities.
• The plan aligns with the vision articulated by the External Affairs Minister earlier this year, highlighting Sri Lanka's vast renewable energy potential and the capability of Trincomalee to become an energy hub. 
• Both countries had also agreed in principle on a renewable energy framework to foster further cooperation. 
• This integration is expected to pave the way for enhanced energy security, sustainability, and economic development in the region.

• Indian-origin Ajay Banga started his five-year term as the 14th President of the World Bank today, replacing David Malpass On June 2.
• Banga has become the first-ever Indian-American to head the World Bank.
• The 63-year-old is the first-ever Indian-American to head the global financial institution. 
• He was nominated for the role by US President Joe Biden.
• An alumnus of St Stephen's College and IIM Ahmedabad, Banga was previously the CEO of Mastercard.
• Banga most recently served as Vice Chairman at General Atlantic.
• While Banga is a US citizen and was President Joe Biden’s pick for the job, he was until 2007 an Indian national, and was in 2016 conferred the Padma Shri.
• He was the Honorary Chairman of the International Chamber of Commerce, serving as Chairman from 2020-2022.

• India signed seven MoUs with Nepal in June 2023 on various sectors including trade and commerce, cross-border petroleum pipeline, development of integrated check posts and hydropower project
• Turkey's current President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has been re-elected as president once again.
• Nepal on 28 May 2023 decided to allow India's Sutlej Hydro Power Corporation (SJVN) Limited to develop a second hydropower project in the country
• The Indian Army celebrated the 75th International Day of UN Peacekeepers on May 29
• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will also attend the swearing-in ceremony of newly elected Nigerian President Bolo Ahmed Tinubu
• India extended a $1 billion line of credit to Sri Lanka in May 2023
• 7th round of Foreign Office Consultations between India, Austria held in Delhi
• The India-EU Connectivity Summit Meghalaya was held on 1 June 2023

• India and Nepal sign seven agreements in various fields including trade and commerce, cross - border petroleum pipeline, development of Integrated Check Posts and hydroelectric project
• One of these agreements is the revised Indo-Nepal Treaty of Transit
• Through this, a provision has been made for the people of Nepal to use the inland waterway facility of India along with new rail routes. 
•  Both countries have decided to increase physical connectivity by establishing new rail links.
• Apart from this, it has also been agreed to provide training to Nepalese railway personnel in Indian Railway Institutes. 
• Two more bridges will be built at Shirsha and Julaghat to boost connectivity to Nepal's far western region.

• It was co-chaired by Sanjay Verma, Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs and Gregor Kosler, Political Director in the Federal Ministry of European and International Affairs of Austria. 
• The Foreign Office Consultations have provided an opportunity to review and exchange views on bilateral relations on regional and global issues of mutual interest.
• The two countries have signed a Comprehensive Migration and Mobility Agreement 
• Which aims to facilitate the legal movement of people between India and Austria

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair the 22nd Summit of the SCO Council of Heads of State on 4th July
• It will be held in the virtual format
• India assumed the rotating Chairmanship of SCO at the Samarkand Summit on 16 September last year. 
• All the SCO Member States, China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan have been invited to attend the Summit

• India has been placed at the bottom on a list of 180 countries judged for their environmental performances by US-based institutions.
• Denmark topped the 2022 Environmental Performance Index (EPI).
• The EPI provides a data-driven summary of the state of sustainability around the world.
• India, with increasingly dangerous air quality and rapidly rising greenhouse gas emissions, falls to the bottom of rankings for the first time
• China is placed 161st, with an overall EPI score of 28.4.

• The launch of the third train between India and Bangladesh announced
• Russia successfully test-fired Sircon hypersonic cruise missile with a range of 1000 km

• India and Sweden hosted the Industry Transition Dialogue today in Stockholm, as a part of their joint initiative i.e. Leadership for Industry Transition (LeadIT).
• The LeadIT initiative lays specific focus on hard to abate sectors that are key stakeholders in the global climate action and require specific interventions.
• The event was opened by address from Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, India, Shri Bhupender Yadav and Minister for Climate and the Environment, Sweden, Ms. Annika Strandhäll.

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju launched the UMEED Central Portal, a step aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiency in the administration of Waqf properties, especially benefitting Muslim women and children.

• Second phase of NAKSHA training to start from June 2 at 5 centres.
• Gujarat achieves 100% rail electrification with launch of 9,000 HP locomotive.
• Census 2027 to include caste data, will be held in two phases across India.

The Indian government has decided to conduct the Population Census 2027 in two phases, along with a caste enumeration exercise. The official reference date for most regions will be 00:00 hours on March 1, 2027. However, in snow-bound areas of Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and the Union Territory of Ladakh, the reference date will be October 1, 2026. This census will be carried out under the provisions of the Census Act, 1948, and Census Rules, 1990.

With the launch of a 9,000-horsepower electric engine in Dahod, Gujarat has achieved full electrification of its railway network. The initiative, inaugurated by PM Modi on June 4, marks a significant milestone under the "Mission 100% Electrification" goal.

Starting June 2, the Ministry of Rural Development will initiate Phase 2 of the NAKSHA capacity-building programme at five Centres of Excellence, following the completion of the first training phase for 160 master trainers.

• India Mobile Congress 2025 to focus on ‘Innovate to Transform’.
• PM Modi launches ₹5,500 crore development projects in Gujarat.
• Lokpal gives clean chit to Madhabi Buch in Hindenburg case.
• PM Modi launches ₹1010 crore City Gas project in Alipurduar for clean energy supply.

• Myanmar President U Min Aung Hlaing will undertake his first official visit to India from 30 May to 3 June 2026 at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit is expected to strengthen bilateral ties in trade, connectivity, regional security, and cultural cooperation.
• The President will be accompanied by a high-level delegation of ministers, officials, and business leaders. A key highlight will be his bilateral meeting with PM Modi on 1 June in New Delhi, where they will discuss diplomatic relations, trade and investment, connectivity projects, cultural exchanges, and security cooperation.
• President Hlaing will visit Bodh Gaya on 30 May, a major Buddhist pilgrimage site, and Mumbai on 2 June for business engagements and investment-related site visits. A business forum will also be held to promote commercial ties in infrastructure, manufacturing, energy, agriculture, and digital connectivity.
• Myanmar holds strategic importance for India as a gateway to Southeast Asia under the Neighbourhood First, Act East, and MAHASAGAR initiatives.

• India and Canada have agreed to accelerate negotiations and conclude the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) by the end of 2026. The announcement was made during the 2026 Canada-India Trade and Investment Forum by Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and Canadian Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu.
• Both leaders described the agreement as ambitious and mutually beneficial. To strengthen long-term economic ties, the two countries officially launched the Canada-India Trade and Investment Forum, which aims to promote business-to-business partnerships, investment opportunities, innovation, entrepreneurship, and enhanced trade linkages.
• The proposed CEPA is expected to improve market access, reduce trade barriers, and boost investment flows. Key sectors likely to benefit include energy, agri-food, technology, education, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and services.
• Current bilateral trade is significant. India exports pharmaceuticals, iron and steel, seafood, cotton garments, chemicals, and electronic goods to Canada. Canada exports pulses, coal, fertilisers, petroleum crude, pearls, semi-precious stones, and paper products to India. The agreement offers strategic diversification for both economies amid evolving global trade dynamics.

• 21-year-old Indian shooter Esha Singh created history by winning the gold medal and breaking the world record in the women’s 25m pistol event at the ISSF World Cup in Munich. She scored a remarkable 43 points, surpassing the previous record of 42 set by South Korea’s Kim Yeji in 2024.
• Esha dominated the final from the start, registering perfect scores in the first three series. Despite minor misses later, she recovered strongly with a flawless eighth series. She outperformed elite competitors including Paris Olympic champion Yang Jinn (who finished fifth) and Germany’s Doreen Vennekamp (silver medalist with 38 points).
• Her victory margin of five points highlighted her exceptional consistency and pressure-handling ability. This achievement marks one of the biggest recent successes in Indian shooting sports. Esha’s performance has brought immense pride to the nation and established her as a rising star on the global stage.

• Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh has been given additional charge as Secretary, Department of Defence Research and Development, and Chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) effective 31 May 2026. He will hold the post till a regular incumbent is appointed.
• The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet issued the order on 29 May 2026 following the completion of Dr. Samir V. Kamat’s tenure.
• A 1989-batch IAS officer of the Kerala cadre, Rajesh Kumar Singh has been serving as Defence Secretary since 1 November 2024. DRDO is India’s premier defence research body under the Ministry of Defence, responsible for developing military technologies and weapons systems for the armed forces.
• This additional charge arrangement is common in government service until a full-time appointment is made.

• Vice Admiral Ajay Kochhar took charge as the 48th Vice Chief of the Naval Staff (VCNS) on 29 May 2026. With over 37 years of distinguished service, he brings rich operational, command, and strategic experience to the role. Prior to this appointment, he served as Commander-in-Chief of the Andaman and Nicobar Command.
• Commissioned into the Indian Navy on 1 July 1988 after graduating from the National Defence Academy (NDA), Pune, Vice Admiral Kochhar is a Gunnery and Missile Systems specialist. He has commanded several key warships including INS Nashak, INS Vibhuti, INS Kirpan, INS Trikand (as Commissioning Commanding Officer), INS Vikramaditya, and the Western Fleet.
• He has held important staff appointments at Naval Headquarters such as Joint Director of Naval Plans and Director of Staff Requirements. After promotion to Flag Rank in 2018, he served as Assistant Controller of Carrier Projects, Assistant Controller of Warship Production and Acquisition, and Commandant of the National Defence Academy.
• He played a crucial role during Operation Sindoor as Chief of Staff, Western Naval Command. Vice Admiral Kochhar has been awarded the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (2026), Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (2022), and Nau Sena Medal.

• On the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, the UN will posthumously award the Dag Hammarskjold Medal to two Indian peacekeepers — Lance Havildar Harbhajan Singh (MONUSCO, DRC) and Naib Subedar Sujit Kumar Pradhan (UNMISS, South Sudan) — for their supreme sacrifice.
• UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres will present the medals during the ceremony.
• Additionally, Major Abhilasha Barak, currently serving with UNIFIL in Lebanon as commander of the Female Engagement Team, will receive the 2025 Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award. She is the first woman combat helicopter pilot in the Indian Army and the third Indian officer to win this honour after Major Suman Gawani and Major Radhika Sen.
• India remains the second-largest contributor to UN peacekeeping with over 4,200 personnel, including 155 women, deployed across missions in Abyei, Cyprus, DRC, Lebanon, Somalia, South Sudan, and Western Sahara.

• 14-year-old Shrey Parikh from California emerged as the champion of the 2026 Scripps National Spelling Bee. He defeated Ishaan Gupta from New Jersey in a dramatic 90-second spell-off round by correctly spelling 32 words compared to Ishaan’s 25.
• Shrey, who had also reached the finals in 2024, displayed remarkable consistency and composure under pressure. 12-year-old Sarv Dharavane from Georgia secured third place. The competition featured 247 contestants from all 50 US states, various US territories, and several countries including Canada, Bahamas, Ghana, Nigeria, and UAE.
• The spell-off format tested not only spelling accuracy but also speed and mental strength. As champion, Shrey received a $50,000 cash prize, the Scripps Cup, a commemorative medal, $2,500 from Merriam-Webster, Delta Air Lines flight credits, and Encyclopaedia Britannica materials.
• Started in 1925, the Scripps National Spelling Bee promotes literacy, vocabulary, and academic excellence among school students. Shrey’s victory highlights the strong performance of Indian-origin students in the prestigious contest.

• Senior Congress leader and former Member of Parliament K.P. Dhanapalan passed away on 30 May 2026 at a private hospital in Paravur, Kochi, Kerala. He was 76 and was being treated for age-related ailments.
• Dhanapalan represented the Chalakudy Lok Sabha constituency in the 15th Lok Sabha (2009–2014). He served as President of the Ernakulam District Congress Committee and was a prominent Congress face in central Kerala, closely associated with senior leader A.K. Antony.
• His political journey began in 1979 when he was elected as a councillor of the Paravur municipality. He remained active in local politics till his last days. His final public appearance was at a reception for Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan in Paravur.
• Dhanapalan’s long service to the Indian National Congress and his contributions to Kerala politics will be remembered.

• Dhanendra Kumar, the first Chairman of the Competition Commission of India (CCI) and a distinguished retired IAS officer of the 1968 batch (Haryana cadre), passed away following a fire at his Hauz Khas residence in Delhi. He was 80 years old.
• The fire is suspected to have been caused by an explosion in the indoor unit of an air conditioner in his son’s room. Firefighting teams and police responded promptly to control the blaze.
• Kumar had an illustrious career spanning governance, infrastructure, and economic regulation. He served as Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister of Haryana, held senior positions in the Ministries of Defence, Road Transport and Highways, and Culture, and was Executive Director at the World Bank.
• As the first Chairman of CCI (from 2009), he played a pivotal role in establishing India’s modern competition law framework under the Competition Act, 2002. His leadership helped prevent anti-competitive practices, regulate mergers, and promote fair market competition. His demise is a significant loss to India’s administrative fraternity.

• Kerala-based fabless semiconductor startup Netrasemi launched its flagship AI system-on-chip, the A2000, in May 2026 after successful silicon bring-up. Designed in India, the chip is fabricated on TSMC’s 12nm process node and targets edge AI devices such as smart cameras, edge AI boxes, and intelligent video gateways.
• Founded in 2020 by CEO Jyothis Indirabhai, Netrasemi has raised ₹125 crore from investors including Zoho and Unicorn India Ventures. The A2000 integrates neural processing, vision processing, image signal processing, and crypto engines for compact, power-efficient edge computing.
• The company was among the first four startups to receive ₹15 crore under MeitY’s Design Linked Incentive scheme. It is also developing the R1000 AI/ML MCU for IoT sensors in collaboration with the College of Engineering Trivandrum.
• Netrasemi plans commercial production of the A2000 by mid-2027 at TSMC’s Taiwan facility and is developing the A4000 edge AI server chip for 2027.

The Department of Financial Services launched the Common Landing Portal for Unclaimed Financial Assets in collaboration with the PSB Alliance. The portal serves as a single gateway to search unclaimed bank deposits, insurance claims, shares, dividends, mutual funds, and other assets. It supports the “आपकी पूँजी, आपका अधिकार” campaign, aiming to simplify the process of tracing and recovering forgotten funds. The initiative enhances transparency, reduces effort, and improves financial awareness among citizens.

The Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal launched the Logistics Port Performance Index (LPPI) during the 37th Foundation Day of Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority in Mumbai. Developed under the Sagar Aankalan Framework, LPPI evaluates Indian ports on parameters like vessel turnaround time, cargo handling, berth idle time, and container dwell time across dry bulk, liquid bulk, and container cargo. It aligns with PM Gati Shakti, Maritime India Vision 2030, and Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 to boost port efficiency.

From 1 June 2026, Malaysia enforced a new rule barring children under 16 from owning social media accounts on platforms with over 8 million users, including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission mandates age verification using official documents. Non-compliant platforms face fines of up to 10 million Malaysian ringgit. The measure is part of the Online Safety Act 2025 to protect children from cyber risks.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV) signed an MoU to strengthen cooperation in digital payments, financial innovation, and cross-border transactions. The agreement focuses on QR code-based payments, regulatory collaboration, and fintech development. It aims to facilitate seamless payments for travelers and businesses, reduce costs, and enhance payment system connectivity between the two countries. The MoU was approved by the Union Cabinet.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) defended their IPL 2026 title by defeating Gujarat Titans by 5 wickets in the final at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. RCB restricted GT to 155/8, with Washington Sundar scoring an unbeaten 50. Rasikh Salam Dar took 3/27 for RCB, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood claimed two wickets each. Chasing 156, RCB reached the target comfortably. Rajat Patidar led RCB to back-to-back championships.

India signed a deal worth approximately Rs 60 billion (USD 629 million) to supply BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to Vietnam. The agreement, confirmed at the Shangri-La Dialogue on 30 May 2026, includes missiles, training, and logistical support. Negotiations with Indonesia for the naval version are in final stages. The Philippines was the first buyer of BrahMos in 2022. The deal strengthens India’s defence exports in Southeast Asia.

Y. Balaji Kiran, an Indian Railway Traffic Service (2013 batch) officer, assumed additional charge as Chief Public Relations Officer of South Coast Railway on 30 May 2026. He also serves as Deputy General Manager-cum-Secretary to the General Manager. The South Coast Railway, India’s 18th zone headquartered in Visakhapatnam, becomes fully operational from 1 June 2026. Kiran has extensive experience in traffic and commercial operations.

The 25th Laureus World Sports Awards were held in Madrid, honoring top athletes of 2024. Swedish-American pole vaulter Mondo Duplantis was named Laureus World Sportsman of the Year for his Olympic gold, second World Indoor title, and ninth world record. Simone Biles won the Sportswoman of the Year award for her stellar Olympic comeback, securing three golds and one silver. This marked Biles’ fourth win, equaling Serena Williams’ record. The ceremony celebrated excellence, resilience, and remarkable sporting achievements across disciplines.

Goa celebrated its 39th Statehood Day on 30th May 2026, marking the day it became India’s 25th state in 1987. Formerly a Portuguese colony until its liberation in 1961, Goa was granted full statehood after years as a Union Territory. The day commemorates Goa’s unique cultural identity, democratic aspirations, and development journey. Cultural programs, folk performances, and tributes to freedom fighters were held across the state. Goa remains India’s smallest state by area (3,702 sq km).

World No Tobacco Day was observed on 31st May 2026 with the theme ‘Unmasking the Appeal: Countering Nicotine and Tobacco Addiction’. Led by WHO, the campaign exposes tobacco industry tactics like flavoured products, attractive packaging, and misleading “smoke-free” claims targeting youth. It highlights rising nicotine use among adolescents, especially e-cigarettes. The day raises awareness about health risks and urges stronger tobacco control measures to protect young people from addiction.

The Central Government has approved the Chenab–Beas Link Tunnel project in Himachal Pradesh in May 2026 at an estimated cost of ₹2,352 crore. The 8.7-km tunnel will divert surplus water from the Chandra river (Chenab basin) to the Beas river system. To be implemented by NHPC, the project is expected to generate nearly 4,000 MW of additional hydropower. It is part of India’s river-linking initiative.

• The Ministry of Jal Shakti and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 1 June 2026 in New Delhi to leverage satellite technology and space-based applications for water resource management.
• The agreement, signed during a national workshop at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, will focus on 24 research areas, including reservoir monitoring, river flow analysis, satellite-based water quality assessment, and macroplastic detection in water bodies.
• It also launched the MAHA on Water programme and the Bharat Water Innovation Network for startups and MSMEs.

Scientists have described a new lizard species, Mesalina bishnoi, from Rajasthan — the first confirmed record of the genus Mesalina in India. The specimen was collected in August 2025 from an open semi-desert habitat near Gajner in Bikaner district. Named after the Bishnoi community known for wildlife conservation, this small lizard (SVL 39.2 mm) was confirmed through morphology and genetic analysis. It belongs to the Mesalina watsonana species complex.

Indian badminton duo Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty won the Singapore Open 2026 men’s doubles title on 1 June 2026. They defeated the Indonesian pair Fajar Alfian and Muhammad Shohibul Fikri 18-21, 21-17, 21-16 in a thrilling 73-minute final. This was their first Singapore Open title and ninth BWF World Tour title overall. It ended their two-year wait for a BWF title since the 2024 Thailand Open and marked India’s first-ever victory in this event.

The Indian Army successfully demonstrated the indigenous Divyastra Mk-1 tactical loitering munition in Jodhpur on 1 June 2026. Developed by Lucknow-based startup Hoverit with 95% indigenous content, the AI-powered drone has a 500 km range, 5-hour endurance, and 15 kg payload. It was tested in extreme desert conditions above 50°C for ISR and precision strike roles. It is significantly cheaper than foreign equivalents.

Vice Admiral Vineet McCarty, AVSM, assumed charge as the 20th Commander-in-Chief of the Andaman & Nicobar Command (ANC) on 1 June 2026 at Sri Vijaya Puram. He succeeded Vice Admiral Ajay Kochhar. Commissioned in 1989, he is a gunnery and missile specialist with over 36 years of experience. He has served as Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet, Commandant of Indian Naval Academy, and Assistant Chief of Naval Staff.

Air Marshal Tarun Chaudhry assumed charge as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Indian Air Force’s Central Air Command on 1 June 2026. He succeeded Air Marshal Balakrishnan Manikantan. Commissioned in 1989 in the fighter stream, he previously served as Senior Air Staff Officer at Southern Air Command. An alumnus of NDA, DSSC, and NDC, he also served as Defence Attaché in Sweden with accreditation to Norway, Finland, and Denmark.

Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan took charge as Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (FOC-in-C) of the Western Naval Command on 30 May 2026 in Mumbai. Commissioned in 1988, he is a gunnery and missile specialist with over three decades of service. He previously served as Vice Chief of Naval Staff. He has commanded key ships including INS Sahyadri, INS Vibhuti, and INS Nashak, and held important staff roles in policy and operations.

General NS Raja Subramani assumed charge as India’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) on 31 May 2026, succeeding General Anil Chauhan. As the senior-most military officer, he will serve as the principal military advisor to the government and focus on tri-service coordination and strategic reforms. Prior to this, he served as Military Advisor in the National Security Council Secretariat, Vice Chief of Army Staff, and GOC-in-C Central Command.

Veteran playback singer Suman Kalyanpur passed away on 31 May 2026 at her Lokhandwala residence in Mumbai at the age of 89 due to age-related health issues. Known for her melodious voice, she was a leading singer of the 1960s and 1970s. She sang iconic songs like Aajkal Tere Mere Pyar Ke Charche and Na Na Karte Pyar Tumhin Se in Hindi, Marathi, Bengali, Kannada, and Assamese films. Her final rites were held at Pawan Hans Crematorium. She received the Padma Bhushan in 2023.

India will introduce a new Producer Price Index (PPI) series and a revised Wholesale Price Index (WPI) with base year 2022-23 on June 15, 2026. The PPI will have three indices — Output, Input, and Service. Both indices will run parallel for five years before WPI is phased out. The revised WPI basket will expand to 957 items, including renewable energy sources.

58-year-old Valluvan from Pollachi, Tamil Nadu, transformed his loss-making coconut farm into a profitable multi-crop enterprise. Adopting agroforestry under the Cauvery Calling initiative, he now grows over 14 crops, including nutmeg, pepper, turmeric, and bananas. His income rose from ₹30,000 to ₹2.5–3 lakh per acre annually. Soil organic carbon increased from 0.5% to 1.56% in seven years. He was honoured as a UN FAO Soil Farmer Hero.

Meesho has partnered with the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) to launch Project Shikhar, aimed at helping high-performing e-commerce sellers and MSMEs access capital markets. Through an MoU, the initiative will guide selected businesses in entity restructuring, compliance, governance, and listing procedures on the BSE SME Platform. The program seeks to transform successful private enterprises into publicly listed companies, addressing funding challenges faced by growing digital-first businesses.

Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi climbed to World No. 8 in the June 2026 FIDE ratings with 2761 Elo points. He is currently the only Indian in the Top 10. He gained 10 rating points recently, with strong performances in Romania, TePe Sigeman 2026 (runner-up to Magnus Carlsen), and Sardinia. D Gukesh is ranked 19th and Viswanathan Anand 13th.

On June 2, 2026, DRDO and the Indian Air Force successfully tested the indigenous RudraM-II air-to-surface missile from a Su-30MKI fighter jet at the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur. The solid-propelled missile demonstrated precision strike capability under extreme conditions. Developed by Research Centre Imarat, Hyderabad, it strengthens India’s air-to-surface strike capabilities against enemy assets.

Justice V. Mohana was sworn in as a Supreme Court judge on June 2, 2026. She became the 12th woman judge in the apex court’s history and the second woman lawyer directly elevated from the Bar after Justice Indu Malhotra (2018). Her elevation, recommended by the Collegium, increases the working strength of the Supreme Court to 37. She is expected to retire in June 2031.

On June 2, 2026, Pope Leo XIV appointed Maria Montserrat Alvarado as Prefect of the Dicastery for Communication of the Holy See. She will be the first laywoman to head a Vatican dicastery and will assume office on November 1, 2026. The Mexican-American media executive currently serves as President and COO of EWTN News.

Indian teenagers Vivaan Chhawchharia, Ariana Agarwal, and Avyana Mehta won the Global Winners title at The Earth Prize 2026 for their innovation, Plas-Stick — a biodegradable powder made from tamarind seed waste that removes microplastics from water using magnets. The electricity-free, low-cost solution targets rural communities. The team received a US$12,500 grant and worked with IIT Guwahati.

Yogesh Patel, an eight-time BJP MLA from Gujarat, died on June 2, 2026, at age 79 in Vadodara after a prolonged illness. He represented Raopura and Manjalpur constituencies for 36 years. He served as Minister of State for Narmada and Urban Housing under CM Vijay Rupani. Popularly known as “Kaka”, his death has left the Manjalpur Assembly seat vacant.

Telangana celebrates its 12th Formation Day on June 2, 2026. Formed on June 2, 2014, as India’s 29th state after a long statehood movement, it marks the realization of regional identity and self-governance. The day honours the sacrifices of activists and commemorates the democratic struggle. Celebrations include flag hoisting, tributes to martyrs, cultural programmes, folk performances, and state awards across the state.

The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has imposed penalties on PhysicsWallah (₹5 lakh) and McAfee (₹1 lakh) for using dark patterns on their platforms. Violations included automatic donation selection (basket sneaking), emotional confirmation shaming, and forcing users to share personal data for “free” courses. Both companies have been directed to discontinue these practices and ensure transparent consumer consent as per the 2023 Dark Patterns Guidelines.

The Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) and SEBI will organise a ‘Niveshak Shivir’ in Bhopal on June 5, 2026. The one-day camp aims to help investors recover unclaimed dividends and shares, update KYC, and resolve grievances. The event will feature direct interaction with companies and RTAs through dedicated kiosks. Investors can register at www.iepf.gov.in. This initiative is part of IEPFA’s nationwide investor awareness and protection programme.

MY Bharat has launched the Viksit Vibrant Village Program (VVVP) 2026 to engage youth in border villages of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Ladakh. 500 selected volunteers will participate in a week-long immersion across 93 border villages in two phases. The programme focuses on border awareness, community development, and the Nation First Challenge covering Swadeshi, natural farming, and local tourism. It aims to strengthen national integration and youth participation in border area development.

The Department of Higher Education has launched applications for the Prime Minister Research Chair (PMRC) Scheme 2026. The scheme aims to attract accomplished Indian-origin researchers, scientists, and industry experts from global institutions to work in India’s premier institutions. It focuses on 13 priority areas including AI, Quantum Computing, Semiconductors, Energy, Biotechnology, Space & Defence, and Atomic Energy. The initiative is built on three pillars — Lead Institutions, Host Institutions, and PMRC Fellows — to boost India’s research ecosystem and support Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Senior IAS officer Lokhande Prashant Sitaram (2001-batch) has been appointed Chairperson of CBSE, while Varun Bhardwaj (2008-batch IIS) has been named Secretary. The appointments come amid scrutiny over the On-Screen Marking (OSM) system due to complaints regarding technical glitches and evaluation discrepancies. Lokhande succeeds Rahul Singh, while Bhardwaj replaces Himanshu Gupta. The leadership change is expected to bring improvements in CBSE’s examination and evaluation processes.

In exercise of the powers conferred by the Constitution of India, the President has appointed Smt. Justice Meenakshi Madan Rai, currently a Judge of the Sikkim High Court, as the Chief Justice of the Patna High Court. The appointment will take effect from June 5, 2026, following the retirement of Justice Sangam Kumar Sahoo on June 4, 2026. The decision was taken in consultation with the Chief Justice of India.

The National Panchayat Awards 2025 will be given to 42 outstanding Panchayats on June 3, 2026, in New Delhi. Organized by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, the awards recognize excellence in governance, sustainable development, and citizen participation. 34 Gram Panchayats will receive Deen Dayal Upadhyay Panchayat Satat Vikas Puraskar across nine LSDG themes, while 8 will get Nanaji Deshmukh Sarvottam Panchayat Satat Vikas Puraskar. The awards promote grassroots democracy and SDG implementation.

World Bicycle Day will be observed on June 3, 2026, with the theme ‘Cycling for a Greener Future’. Recognized by the United Nations, the day promotes bicycles as a sustainable, affordable, and healthy mode of transport. It highlights benefits like reduced carbon emissions, improved public health, and lower traffic congestion. The observance encourages governments and individuals to support cycling infrastructure and eco-friendly urban mobility for a cleaner environment.

Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia launched Mission Senehjori to transform Assam’s Muga silk into a global luxury brand. The ₹396–411 crore project focuses on strengthening the entire value chain — from host plant cultivation and reeling to weaving, branding, and exports. Key districts covered include Jorhat, Sivasagar, and Sualkuchi. The mission aims to create FPOs, modern reeling units, digital traceability, and silk tourism, aligning with the vision of Atmanirbhar North East.

• Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the First World Yogasana Championship 2026 in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, on 4th June 2026 via video message. This historic event brings together athletes from various countries and marks a major step towards recognizing Yogasana as a competitive international sport.
• Held just ahead of International Yoga Day, the championship highlights India’s efforts to promote yoga globally. PM Modi called it a historic addition to the world’s sporting legacy and praised Ahmedabad as the ideal host city due to its UNESCO World Heritage status.

Global football icon Sir David Beckham will receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on 12th June 2026 in Los Angeles. The honor, in the Sports Entertainment category, recognizes his exceptional football career and contributions to global sports culture. The ceremony coincides with the opening phase of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Beckham, former England captain and multiple club title winner, was knighted in 2025. This adds to his legacy as a cultural ambassador.

Economist Neelkanth Mishra was appointed as India’s Executive Director at the World Bank headquarters in Washington D.C. on 4 June 2026 for a three-year term. He succeeds Parameswaran Iyer. Before this, Mishra served as Chief Economist at Axis Bank and is a part-time member of the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council, Chairperson of UIDAI, and member of TRAI. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approved his appointment. Executive Directors oversee the World Bank’s operations and policies.

The Government of India has appointed senior IFS officer Vipul as the next Ambassador to Saudi Arabia. Currently serving as Ambassador to Qatar, he is a 1998-batch officer with nearly three decades of experience in Gulf affairs. A Mechanical Engineering graduate from IIT Delhi and MBA holder from ISB, Vipul’s appointment strengthens India-Saudi cooperation in energy, trade, investment, defence, and regional security. He is expected to assume charge soon.

Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman was elected President of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly. He defeated Cyprus’s Andreas Kakouris with 99 votes to 91. A veteran diplomat with over four decades of experience, Rahman will assume office on 8 September 2026. His priorities include peace and security, accelerating SDGs, climate action, human rights, governance of emerging technologies, and UN reforms. The session will also oversee the selection of the next UN Secretary-General.

• Lionel Messi became the first individual footballer to receive the prestigious 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports. The jury, led by Teresa Perales, recognized his extraordinary football achievements, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup and multiple Ballon d’Or wins, along with his humanitarian efforts in education and healthcare.
• Lionel Messi received the news while training with Argentina ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The award honors excellence and positive societal contributions across fields like sports, arts, and science.

• Iranian-French artist, director, and author Marjane Satrapi, best known for her graphic novel Persepolis, died at the age of 56 on 4 June 2026 in Paris. Born in Rasht, Iran, in 1969, she became a French citizen in 2006. Persepolis, which depicts her childhood in Iran, was adapted into an acclaimed animated film.
• French President Emmanuel Macron paid tribute, calling her “a great artist who transformed an Iranian childhood into a universal fable.” Her husband Mattias Ripa had passed away in April 2025.

• Renowned Odia poet, playwright, and art historian Jagannath Prasad Das (J.P. Das) passed away on 3 June 2026 at his residence in Bhubaneswar at the age of 90. Born on 26 April 1936 in Puri, he joined the IAS in 1958 and served as Collector of Kalahandi during the 1965-66 famine.
• He authored notable works like Prathama Purusha, Ahnika, and Desha Kala Patra. He received the Saraswati Samman in 2006 and declined the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1990. His body will be donated to AIIMS Bhubaneswar for medical research.

Chandigarh University has become the first private university in India to establish the IndiaAI Data Lab in collaboration with Intel India. Inaugurated at the University Institute of Computing, the state-of-the-art facility aims to bridge the gap between academia and industry. Students will gain practical exposure to Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Machine Learning, and emerging technologies through real-world projects, hackathons, and research. The lab will enhance industry readiness and foster innovation among students and faculty.

• World Environment Day will be celebrated on 5th June 2026 under the theme “Inspired by Nature: For Climate. For Our Future.” Hosted by Azerbaijan in Baku, the event organized by UNEP focuses on climate action, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable lifestyles.
• It promotes nature-based solutions like forest restoration and mangrove protection to combat climate change. The day, established in 1972 after the Stockholm Conference, serves as a global platform for environmental awareness and urges immediate action through the campaign #NowForClimate.

• Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal launched the LPPI under the Sagar Aankalan Framework to evaluate and improve efficiency across Indian ports.
• The Department of Financial Services launched a single portal to help citizens trace and recover unclaimed bank deposits, insurance claims, shares, and other financial assets.
• Scientists discovered a new lizard species, Mesalina bishnoi, in Rajasthan, marking the first confirmed Mesalina record in India.
• The Ministry of Jal Shakti and ISRO signed an MoU to use satellite technology for better water resource management.
• The Centre approved the ₹2,352 crore Chenab–Beas Link Tunnel Project in Himachal Pradesh to boost hydropower generation.
• India will introduce a new Producer Price Index (PPI) series and a revised Wholesale Price Index (WPI) with the base year 2022-23 on June 15, 2026.
• The Government launched the PMRC Scheme 2026 to attract global Indian-origin experts for research in 13 priority sectors.
• CCPA fined PhysicsWallah ₹5 lakh and McAfee ₹1 lakh for using dark patterns on their platforms.
• IEPFA and SEBI will organise a Niveshak Shivir in Bhopal on June 5, 2026, to assist investors with unclaimed assets and grievances.
• MY Bharat launched VVVP 2026 to engage youth in the development of border villages across Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Ladakh.
• PM Narendra Modi inaugurated the First World Yogasana Championship 2026 in Ahmedabad via video message to promote yoga as a competitive global sport.

• India and Canada have agreed to accelerate trade talks and conclude the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) by the end of 2026.
• Myanmar President U Min Aung Hlaing is undertaking an official visit to India from May 30 to June 3, 2026, to strengthen bilateral ties.
• Malaysia from June 1 banned children under 16 from owning social media accounts on major platforms, with non-compliant companies facing fines up to 10 million ringgit under the Online Safety Act 2025.
• Venezuela’s Acting President Delcy Rodríguez will visit India from June 3–7, 2026, to strengthen cooperation in energy, trade, technology, and investment.

• The Reserve Bank of India and the State Bank of Vietnam signed an MoU to boost cooperation in digital payments, fintech, and cross-border transactions including QR code-based payments.
• Meesho has partnered with the BSE to launch Project Shikhar to help high-performing e-commerce sellers and MSMEs list on the BSE SME Platform.
• 58-year-old coconut farmer Valluvan from Tamil Nadu was honored as a UN FAO Soil Farmer Hero for successfully transitioning to a highly profitable multi-crop enterprise.

• 21-year-old Indian shooter Esha Singh won gold and broke the world record in the women's 25m pistol event at the ISSF World Cup in Munich.
• Royal Challengers Bengaluru defended their IPL title by defeating Gujarat Titans by 5 wickets in the final at Ahmedabad, clinching back-to-back championships under Rajat Patidar.
• Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty won the Singapore Open 2026 men's doubles title, creating history for India.
• Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi has climbed to World No. 8 in the June 2026 FIDE ratings, becoming the only Indian currently in the Top 10.
• Football legend Sir David Beckham will be honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on 12th June 2026 in Los Angeles.

• India signed a Rs 60 billion deal to supply BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to Vietnam, further strengthening its defence export footprint in Southeast Asia.
• The Indian Army successfully demonstrated the indigenous AI-powered Divyastra Mk-1 loitering munition in Jodhpur.
• DRDO and the Indian Air Force successfully test-fired the indigenous RudraM-II air-to-surface missile from a Su-30MKI fighter jet at Chandipur.

• Vice Admiral Ajay Kochhar took charge as the 48th Vice Chief of the Naval Staff on May 29, 2026.
• Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh has been given additional charge as the Secretary of DDR&D and Chairman of DRDO effective May 31, 2026.
• Y. Balaji Kiran took charge as Chief PRO of South Coast Railway, India's 18th railway zone headquartered in Visakhapatnam, which became fully operational from June 1, 2026.
• General NS Raja Subramani assumed charge as India’s new Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) on 31 May 2026.
• Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan took charge as the Chief of the Western Naval Command on 30 May 2026.
• Air Marshal Tarun Chaudhry became the new Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Central Air Command on 1 June 2026.
• Vice Admiral Vineet McCarty assumed charge as the 20th Commander-in-Chief of the Andaman & Nicobar Command.
• Pope Leo XIV has appointed media executive Maria Montserrat Alvarado as the Prefect of the Dicastery for Communication, making her the first lay woman to head a Vatican dicastery.
• Justice V. Mohana was sworn in as a Supreme Court judge, becoming the 12th woman judge in the apex court's history and the second woman lawyer to be directly elevated from the Bar.
• Lokhande Prashant Sitaram was appointed CBSE Chairperson and Varun Bhardwaj as Secretary.
• Justice Meenakshi Madan Rai was appointed as the Chief Justice of the Patna High Court with effect from June 5, 2026.
• Bangladesh's Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman was elected President of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly.
• Senior IFS officer Vipul has been appointed as India’s next Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, moving from his current role in Qatar.
• Economist Neelkanth Mishra has been appointed as India’s Executive Director at the World Bank headquarters in Washington D.C. for a three-year term.

• 14-year-old Shrey Parikh from California won the 2026 Scripps National Spelling Bee by defeating Ishaan Gupta in a dramatic spell-off round.
• The UN will posthumously award the Dag Hammarskjold Medal to two Indian peacekeepers and honour Major Abhilasha Barak with the Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award.
• Mondo Duplantis and Simone Biles won Laureus Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year at the 25th ceremony in Madrid, with Biles equaling Serena Williams' record of four wins.
• Indian teenagers Vivaan Chhawchharia, Ariana Agarwal, and Avyana Mehta won The Earth Prize 2026 for their microplastic-removing innovation, "Plas-Stick."
• National Panchayat Awards 2025 will honour 42 Panchayats for excellence in governance and sustainable development.
• Lionel Messi became the first individual footballer to win the prestigious 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports for his historic achievements and humanitarian work.

• Dhanendra Kumar, a retired IAS officer and the first Chairman of the Competition Commission of India (CCI), passed away at the age of 80.
• Senior Congress leader and former Member of Parliament K.P. Dhanapalan passed away at the age of 76 in Kochi, Kerala.
• Veteran playback singer Suman Kalyanpur passed away at the age of 89 in Mumbai on 31 May 2026.
• Eight-time BJP MLA and former Gujarat minister Yogesh Patel, popularly known as "Kaka", passed away at the age of 79 in Vadodara.
• Renowned Odia poet, playwright, and former IAS officer Jagannath Prasad Das (J.P. Das) passed away in Bhubaneswar at the age of 90.
• Acclaimed Iranian-French graphic novelist and director Marjane Satrapi, famous for Persepolis, passed away in Paris at 56.

• Kerala-based startup Netrasemi has launched its flagship edge AI system-on-chip, the A2000, fabricated on TSMC’s 12nm process.
• Chandigarh University partnered with Intel India to establish India’s first private university-led IndiaAI Data Lab to boost practical AI education.

• World No Tobacco Day was observed on May 31 with the theme of countering nicotine and tobacco addiction, with WHO highlighting the industry's tactics targeting youth through flavoured products and e-cigarettes.
• Goa celebrated its 39th Statehood Day on May 30, marking 39 years since it became India's 25th and smallest state by area in 1987.
• Telangana celebrated its 12th Formation Day on June 2, 2026, commemorating its creation as India’s 29th state in 2014 and honoring the sacrifices of statehood activists.
• World Bicycle Day 2026 will be observed on June 3 with the theme “Cycling for a Greener Future.”
• World Environment Day is celebrated on 5th June 2026 under the theme "Inspired by Nature: For Climate. For Our Future." hosted by Azerbaijan.

Mission Senehjori was launched to develop Assam’s Muga silk into a global luxury brand.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has introduced a standardised vegan logo for certified vegan food products. The green square-framed logo featuring a stylized “V” and sprouting leaf will become mandatory from 1 July 2027. It aims to enhance transparency, prevent misleading claims, and help consumers easily identify vegan products free from animal-derived ingredients. The move supports growing vegan demand, promotes sustainable choices, and aligns with international labelling practices. Food businesses must update packaging accordingly.

The 14th meeting of the India-Philippines Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment (JWGTI) was held in Manila on 5 June 2026. Co-chaired by Amit Verma and Allan B. Gepty, both sides noted bilateral trade reaching USD 3.9 billion in FY 2025-26. Discussions focused on infrastructure, digital technologies, pharmaceuticals, film, energy, and customs cooperation. They agreed to expedite the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement review and pursue a bilateral Preferential Trade Agreement. An interaction with Indian businesses in the Philippines was also held.

India’s Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) platform set a Guinness World Record for the “Most Users to Take an Online Quiz in One Week” with 390,812 participants completing the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue (VBYLD) Quiz. Over 50.42 lakh youth from all states and UTs participated. The record was verified for the period 25-31 October 2025. The initiative aims to engage youth in nation-building, promote Viksit Bharat@2047, and foster leadership. The certificate was presented in New Delhi in the presence of Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya.

India and the United Kingdom launched the Critical Minerals Global Supply Chain Observatory (GSCO) in New Delhi. Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy and UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper formally inaugurated the initiative. The observatory will monitor global critical mineral supply chains, identify risks, and support data-driven decisions for clean energy, EVs, and advanced manufacturing. It is a collaboration between TEXMiN, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad, and University of Cambridge. The move strengthens India-UK ties and aligns with India’s National Critical Mineral Mission.

The UN General Assembly elected Austria, Kyrgyzstan, Portugal, Trinidad and Tobago, and Zimbabwe as non-permanent members of the UN Security Council for the 2027-2028 term, starting 1 January 2027. Germany, despite strong lobbying, failed to secure a seat in the Western European and Others Group. Kyrgyzstan won its first-ever seat after a competitive contest against the Philippines. The new members will join discussions on global peace, sanctions, and peacekeeping. The Security Council has five permanent members with veto power and ten elected non-permanent members.

India’s GDP grew 7.8% in Q4 FY26, surpassing RBI (7.0%) and other forecasts. Full-year FY26 growth was revised upward to 7.7%. Strong services (12.5% in trade/hotels/transport), financial services (10.4%), construction (8.4%), and investment (GFCF 10.8%) drove the performance. Agriculture grew 3.6% and manufacturing 7.3%. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman credited structural reforms and resilience. The robust numbers reflect strong domestic demand and limited impact from global uncertainties.

India’s Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa became the first Indian to win the prestigious Norway Chess tournament 2026. The 20-year-old Chennai player defeated Germany’s Vincent Keymer in the final round, securing 18 points and the title. Starting from third place with 15 points, he delivered a brilliant comeback with four consecutive wins in the later stages. He also defeated Magnus Carlsen twice in classical games. Wesley So finished second with 17 points. This landmark victory highlights Praggnanandhaa’s rising stature and India’s growing chess dominance.

Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit has been appointed as the next Vice Chief of the Air Staff (VCAS) of the Indian Air Force, effective 1 July 2026. Currently serving as Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (CISC), the experienced fighter pilot, test pilot, and strategist will assist the Chief of Air Staff in operational readiness and modernization. Commissioned in 1986, he has over 3,300 flying hours on 20+ aircraft types and has commanded a Mirage-2000 squadron. He has significantly contributed to indigenous defence projects and theatre command initiatives.

Jammu & Kashmir Bank won the Gold Award at the Finacle Innovation Awards 2026 for its advanced Data Insights and Analytics Platform in the “Modern Technologies-led Innovation” category. The award was received by MD & CEO Amitava Chatterjee and GM Mohammad Muzaffar Wani. The platform integrates Business Intelligence, AI, Machine Learning, and analytics to improve customer analytics, risk management, forecasting, and operational efficiency. The recognition underscores the bank’s successful adoption of technology for better decision-making and customer experience.

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated India’s seventh Regional Meteorological Centre in Jammu on 5 June 2026. It will serve Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh with district-level forecasts, mountain weather warnings, and disaster alerts for flash floods, cloudbursts, and avalanches. The centre will benefit pilgrims, farmers, and security forces. The Minister highlighted expanded radar and observatory networks under Mission Mausam. A similar centre is planned for Lucknow. This restructuring improves specialised weather services for the Himalayan region.

• The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation launched a ₹1 crore Grand Challenge on 13 June 2026 in New Delhi to develop iron-rich food products for combating anemia. Targeting adolescent girls and women of reproductive age (where nearly 50% suffer from anaemia), the initiative seeks affordable, scalable prototypes delivering 4-5 mg iron per serving using regional ingredients.
• Formats include snacks, bars, beverages, and gummies. Open to researchers, startups, and NGOs, applications close on 3 July 2026. The challenge builds on a 2024 research agreement.

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron inaugurated "Bharat Innovates 2026" in Nice, France, on June 14. Part of the India-France Year of Innovation, the three-day event showcases India’s deep-tech capabilities, featuring 120 startups and over 20 Institutes of Excellence across 13 critical technology pillars, including AI, quantum computing, and semiconductors.
• Attended by over 350 global investors, PM Modi emphasized that technological revolution must remain trusted, inclusive, and human-centric, urging innovators to prioritize solving real-world societal challenges over market valuations.

Elon Musk became the world’s first trillionaire following SpaceX’s historic IPO in June 2026. The stock debuted at $135 per share, opened at $150, and closed at around $161.11 on the first day, pushing the company’s valuation above $2 trillion. The IPO raised nearly $75 billion, the largest public offering in history, surpassing Saudi Aramco’s 2019 record. As the largest shareholder, Musk’s fortune crossed $1 trillion. Founded in 2002, SpaceX revolutionized space travel with reusable rockets. Musk also leads Tesla, xAI, X, and Starlink.

Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth was appointed as the next Chief of the Army Staff on 13 June 2026. He assumed office on 30 June 2026 after General Upendra Dwivedi’s retirement and served until 31 August 2028. Commissioned into the Armoured Corps in 1986 from the National Defence Academy, Lt Gen Seth previously served as Vice Chief of the Army Staff. He has commanded the South Western and Southern Commands, an armoured regiment, and a counter-insurgency force in Jammu and Kashmir. He has been decorated with several prestigious military honours.

• Indian sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik won the Russia Grand Sand Master Cup 2026 at the II International Festival of Sand Sculpture in Kaliningrad Region on 12-13 June. He became the first Indian to receive the prestigious award. His winning three-metre-tall sculpture highlighted climate change and global warming, depicting two faces of the Earth—one showing environmental degradation and the other afforestation and sustainable living.
• The festival featured 12 international sand sculptors. Pattnaik, a Padma Shri recipient, was unanimously selected by an international jury for his work on social and environmental themes.

• British artist David Hockney, born on 9 July 1937 in Bradford, West Yorkshire, died at the age of 88 on 11 June 2026 at his home in London. A towering figure in contemporary art for seven decades, Hockney was renowned for his vibrant swimming pool paintings, colourful landscapes, collages, photography, and innovative iPad drawings.
• At the time of his death, he had an ongoing exhibition at the Serpentine Gallery in London, with future shows planned at Tate London and the Munch Museum in Oslo. He is survived by his partner Jean-Pierre Gonçalves de Lima, brothers, and nieces/nephews.

India celebrated Global Wind Day 2026 on June 15 with the theme "Wind Energy: From Ambition to Acceleration." Hosting the central conference in Goa, the nation highlighted its massive potential of 1,163.9 GW at a 150-meter hub height. Ranking fourth globally, India's capacity reached 56.09 GW in March 2026, driven by a record 6.05 GW annual addition. With 24 GW domestic manufacturing capacity and 70-80% component indigenization, India is expanding into offshore wind via alliances with the UK, Belgium, and Denmark to achieve its 100 GW milestone.

The Gujarat government will launch the Industrial Policy-2026 on 15 June 2026 at Mahatma Mandir, Gandhinagar. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Deputy CM Harsh Sanghavi will unveil the policy, which focuses on investment, employment, innovation, and sector-specific incentives. It introduces an ultra-mega industrial unit category (minimum ₹10,000 crore investment and 3,000 jobs) offering up to 40% capital incentives. Thrust sectors will expand from 9 to 16, including semiconductors, textile recycling, nuclear equipment, and drones. Project THRIVE will support relocation of industries from urban areas.

• The Maharashtra Women Farmers Empowerment Bill, 2026, will be introduced in the Monsoon Session of the Legislative Assembly starting 22 June. It aims to grant independent legal recognition to women farmers and improve access to welfare schemes. Over 81% of Maharashtra’s agricultural workforce comprises women, yet many lack benefits due to land ownership norms.
• The Bill proposes a broader definition of ‘farmer’ covering landless farmers, tenant cultivators, labourers, and those in animal husbandry, fisheries, and horticulture. It includes a digital access system, a dedicated Women Farmers Fund, and a monitoring committee.

• On 12 June 2026, the Odisha government announced free education from Kindergarten to Postgraduate level in all government institutions. Building on existing free education up to Class 10, the new policy will extend to higher secondary, undergraduate, and postgraduate levels, benefiting over 10 lakh students.
• The higher education component is estimated to cost ₹30 crore annually. The scheme applies only to government institutions. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi made the announcement during a press conference marking two years of the BJP government. Modalities are being prepared for cabinet approval.

The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) will hold the first meeting of SARTHI (Strategic Advisory and Reforms Taskforce for Holistic ITI Transformation) on June 12, 2026, at Vigyan Bhavan, chaired by Minister Shri Jayant Chaudhary. It aims to reform the network of 13,888 ITIs under the Craftsmen Training Scheme. Discussions will cover curriculum, assessment, industry linkages, women’s participation, instructor development, and quality frameworks. SARTHI seeks better Centre-State coordination and alignment with evolving industry needs.

Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated DST-funded Central Instrumentation Facility and three research clusters (Advanced Materials, Energy, and Healthcare & MedTech) at IIT Gandhinagar. Nearly 70 industries joined as founding partners. The Minister stressed translational research, industry-academia collaboration, and moving beyond publications to societal solutions. He highlighted ANRF, National Quantum Mission, and ₹1 lakh crore RDI initiative. The facilities will support national priorities like semiconductors. He also released a booklet on top research achievements.

• The Income Tax Department and PwC India hosted a webinar on June 9, 2026, titled “Decoding the new Income-tax Act, 2025: International Tax and Transfer Pricing Aspects.” Over 1,100 participants from 16 countries attended.
• Officials including Ms. Monica Bhatia, discussed transition to the new Act and Rules 2026, Advance Pricing Agreements, Safe Harbour provisions, and cross-border cooperation. Presentations covered key reforms compared to the 1961 Act. The interactive session received positive feedback, with participants seeking more such engagements for clarity on international taxation.

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved Ancat Holding GmbH’s acquisition of 29.06% shareholding in PUMA SE through a secondary purchase. Ancat is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of ANTA Sports. ANTA engages in sports footwear, apparel, and accessories. PUMA is a global sportswear company involved in design, marketing, and sales of athletic products. The approval clears the combination with no significant competition concerns in India.

Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw virtually inaugurated a 20 kW Akashvani FM Transmitter at Ramgarh, Jaisalmer, increasing Rajasthan’s FM transmitters to 39. It will provide coverage to border areas spanning 20,000 sq km. The Minister called for a “Digital First” and “Hyper-Local” approach in broadcasting, integrating local talent. He also mentioned the upcoming AI Data Centre in Jaipur. Prasar Bharati Chairman Prasoon Joshi emphasised Akashvani’s societal role in information dissemination.

• The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) organised a Scientific Conclave in Haridwar on IP 2026 to strengthen pharmaceutical quality and compliance. In collaboration with Uttarakhand industry associations, the event promoted awareness of updated standards, reference substances, and quality systems.
• Dr. V. Kalaiselvan highlighted IP’s role in global leadership. Discussions covered microbiological requirements, analytical methods, and regulatory aspects. The conclave provided handholding support to manufacturers, fostering collaboration between regulators, industry, and scientists for quality-assured medicines.

A detailed study of Type IIP supernova SN 2023zcu, discovered in 2023 in galaxy NGC 2139 (90.7 million light-years away), enhances understanding of cosmic distance scales. Using the Expanding Photospheric Method, researchers from ARIES estimated its distance at 27 Mpc. The progenitor star was about 12 solar masses with typical explosion energy. Observations across rise, plateau, and nebular phases reveal minimal pre-explosion mass loss and element formation. The research, published in The Astrophysical Journal, improves knowledge of core-collapse supernovae dynamics.

• Avtaar.ai, supported by the IndiaAI Mission, launched Varya, a distilled video generation model that reduces creation steps from 50 to 4, making it up to 10x more cost-efficient. Priced at ₹0.48 per second, it generates culturally relevant videos for education, e-commerce, and storytelling across India’s diverse contexts.
• The model enables simple text-to-video conversion and supports population-scale accessibility. Union Secretary S. Krishnan and Avtaar CEO Sravanth Aluru highlighted its role in building indigenous, affordable AI capabilities for inclusive innovation in India.

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy will host the Global Wind Day 2026 Conference on June 15 in Goa, themed “Wind Energy: From Ambition to Acceleration.” Union Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi will lead discussions on achieving 100 GW by 2030 and 155 GW by 2035. Focus areas include grid readiness, domestic manufacturing, exports, and capacity addition. India, the fourth-largest wind market, added a record 6.1 GW in 2025-26. Industry reports on turbine exports will be released during plenary sessions with government and industry stakeholders.

• The World Day Against Child Labour is observed annually on June 12 to raise awareness and accelerate global efforts against child exploitation. The 2026 theme, “Red Card to Child Labour: Fair Play for Children, Decent Work for Adults,” draws from sports symbolism to reject child labour.
• It emphasises quality education, universal social protection, decent adult employment, strong labour laws, and tackling poverty. Despite progress, 138 million children remain in child labour globally, including 54 million in hazardous work. The observance builds on the Marrakech Global Framework following the Sixth Global Conference.

• The UNGA elected Austria, Kyrgyzstan, Portugal, Trinidad and Tobago, and Zimbabwe as non-permanent UNSC members for the 2027-2028 term, while Germany failed to secure a seat.
• India and the United Kingdom launched the Critical Minerals Global Supply Chain Observatory in New Delhi to monitor clean energy supply chains.
• India’s MY Bharat platform set a Guinness World Record for the “Most Users to Take an Online Quiz in One Week” with 390,812 participants.
• The 14th India-Philippines Joint Working Group meeting on Trade and Investment was held in Manila to boost bilateral trade and economic cooperation.
• Scientists identified 14,000-year-old footprints and handprints of five hunter-gatherers in an Italian cave, providing the first fossil evidence of human crawling.
• A new 120-million-year-old four-winged feathered gliding dinosaur species, named Jian changmaensis, was discovered in northwestern China's Changma Basin.
• APEDA facilitates the first export of GI-tagged Tezpur Litchi from Assam to Dubai.
• Indore to host BRICS Agriculture Meeting under India’s presidency from June 9, 2026.
• Saudi Arabia lifted its five-year ban on all imports from Lebanon on 10 June 2026.
• India participated in the 114th International Labour Conference in Geneva, reaffirming commitment to inclusive growth, gender equality, and skill development.

• India’s GDP grew by 7.8% in Q4 FY26, driving the full-year FY26 economic growth revision upward to 7.7% due to strong performance in services and construction.
• West Bengal signed an MoU to join Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY scheme, becoming the 36th State/UT, with rollout beginning in July 2026 benefiting around 6 crore families.
• Union Minister Piyush Goyal launched the BHAVYA Portal to implement a flagship scheme for developing 100 world-class industrial parks across India with an outlay of ₹33,660 crore.
• India ranked fifth globally in military spending for 2025 with an expenditure of $92.1 billion and remained the world's second-largest arms importer during 2021–25.
• Assam, Nagaland, and Centre signed a tripartite MoU for oil and gas exploration in disputed border fields with 50:50 revenue sharing.
• India announced a $2.5 million contribution to UNRWA for Palestine refugees.

• India’s R Praggnanandhaa became the first Indian to win the Norway Chess tournament 2026, defeating Vincent Keymer and beating Magnus Carlsen twice.
• The Indian women's football team defeated defending champions Bangladesh 3-1 in Goa to lift their record sixth SAFF Women's Championship title.
• Mercedes' Italian driver Kimi Antonelli won the Monaco Grand Prix 2026, securing his fifth consecutive victory of the Formula One season.
• India wins inaugural World Yogasana Championship 2026 with 114 medals.

• Defence Ministry approves 250 MW Solar Power Project with BESS in Sitapur, Uttar Pradesh.
• The Ministry of Defence signs ₹449 crore contract for 20 ECGNSS Jammers for the Indian Navy.

• Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit has been appointed as the next Vice Chief of the Air Staff of the Indian Air Force, effective 1 July 2026.
• Saurabh Vijay, CEO of UIDAI and 1998-batch IAS officer, assumed charge as Chief Executive Officer of the IndiaAI Mission, with Sudeep Shrivastava as Chief Operating Officer.
• Swaminathan Janakiraman was reappointed as RBI Deputy Governor for another two years effective from 26 June 2026.
• Kumar Shanker assumes charge as Managing Director of Indraprastha Gas Limited (IGL).
• Banwarilal Purohit elected as President of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan.
• Rudra Gaurav Shresth appointed as India’s next Ambassador to Türkiye.
• Sanjay Lohiya nominated as a director on the RBI Central Board.

• Jammu & Kashmir Bank won the Gold Award at the Finacle Innovation Awards 2026 for its advanced Data Insights and Analytics Platform.
• Uttar Pradesh Sangeet Natak Akademi honoured 51 distinguished artistes at the SNA Samman Ceremony 2026 in Lucknow for their contributions to music, dance, theatre, and folk arts.
• The Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI) developed by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj won the Gold Award at the National e-Governance Awards 2026.
• The Department of Consumer Affairs’ e-Jagriti platform won the Silver Award at National e-Governance Awards 2026 for improving consumer dispute resolution.
• Lt Commander Suraj Prashar awarded Shaurya Chakra for bravery in Jammu & Kashmir.
• JSW Infrastructure has secured a ₹832.25 crore project for integrated development of Outer Container Terminal and Berths 1-5 at Kolkata Port under DBFOT model.

• Acclaimed Australian cancer researcher and '2024 Australian of the Year' co-recipient, Professor Richard Scolyer, passed away at the age of 59.
• Veteran Tamil filmmaker Bharathiraja passes away at 84 in Chennai.
• Thai Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol passed away at the age of 47 on June 12, 2026.

• World Oceans Day 2026 was observed on June 8 under the theme “Reimagine: Beyond the World We Know, a New Relationship with Our Ocean” to promote marine conservation.

• Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated India’s seventh Regional Meteorological Centre in Jammu to provide specialized weather forecasts for the Himalayan region.
• Kerala Agricultural University released a new green chilli variety ‘KAU Thejaswini’ suitable for year-round cultivation with high yield and disease tolerance.
• Kerala Forest Department launched HAWK, India’s first digital judiciary-integrated system for faster wildlife crime prosecution and tracking.
• Kerala launched the Priyadarshini scheme offering free bus travel for women and transgender persons on KSRTC ordinary services from 15 June 2026.
• Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation launches QR-code feedback system for over 3,500 street food vendors.
• Madhya Pradesh government withdraws two-child norm for government jobs and employees.
• Gujarat Police traced 1,470 missing persons under ‘Operation Milap’, with 852 women and 234 minor girls among those recovered.

• The FSSAI has introduced a standardised vegan logo featuring a stylized “V” and leaf, which will become mandatory from 1 July 2027.
• India is set to launch E85 fuel (85% ethanol blend) to boost energy security, reduce imports, and promote sustainable mobility, starting from select stations in Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur.
• Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated India’s seventh Regional Meteorological Centre in Jammu on 5 June 2026 to provide specialized weather services for Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh.
• The National Zoological Park in New Delhi launched the "NZP Saathi App" and self-ticketing kiosks to provide interactive digital navigation and hassle-free cashless transactions for visitors.
• PM Narendra Modi becomes India’s longest-serving continuously elected Prime Minister on June 10, 2026.
• Amit Shah launches VINIMAY – Land Port Management System in New Delhi.
• Major breakthrough achieved in Zojila Tunnel Project in Ladakh on 9 June 2026.
• India’s indigenous Truenat HR-HPV-Plus test validated for cervical cancer screening, set to boost affordable early detection.
• India and Nepal launched UPI-NPI cross-border remittance service for instant, low-cost transfers.

• Researchers from AIIMS New Delhi, ICMR, and WHO’s IARC have validated India’s indigenous Truenat HR-HPV-Plus test, meeting international standards for cervical cancer screening. Developed by Molbio Diagnostics, it detects eight high-risk HPV types responsible for nearly 95% of cervical cancers.
• The test is affordable, point-of-care, and suitable for district-level facilities. While vaccination prevents future infections, screening remains crucial for women above 30. This breakthrough reduces dependence on expensive imports and supports India’s cervical cancer elimination goals through accessible early detection.

• Union Minister of State for Labour and Employment and MSME, Shobha Karandlaje, led the Indian delegation at the 114th International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva on June 9, 2026. The ILC, the highest decision-making body of the ILO, is known as the “World Parliament of Labour.”
• India reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive growth, gender equality, social dialogue, and workforce welfare. Key focus areas included skill development, digital transformation in employment services, and international cooperation. India also held bilateral meetings with Nepal, Angola, Mauritius, France, UK, South Korea, US, and Canada to enhance labour mobility and skill recognition.

India announced a $2.5 million contribution to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) on June 11, 2026 — the first tranche of its annual $5 million assistance. UNRWA, established in 1949, provides education, healthcare, and relief to Palestine refugees. India supports a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict and has also provided humanitarian aid, including medicines and 135 metric tonnes of supplies since October 2023.

On June 11, 2026, India, Assam, and Nagaland signed a tripartite MoU for joint exploration and production of crude oil and natural gas in six disputed fields along their border, covering over 1,000 sq km. Signed in the presence of Amit Shah, Hardeep Singh Puri, Himanta Biswa Sarma, and Neiphiu Rio, the agreement includes 50:50 revenue sharing. It aims to resolve long-pending territorial issues and boost production significantly, potentially generating over Rs 15,000 crore from one field alone.

On June 11, 2026, the Central Government nominated Sanjay Lohiya, Secretary of the Department of Financial Services (Ministry of Finance), as a director on the RBI Central Board. He replaced Nagaraju Maddirala. The RBI Central Board is the apex governing body under the RBI Act, 1934. The Department of Financial Services oversees banking, insurance, and pension sectors. This nomination strengthens government representation in the central bank’s decision-making process.

Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol, eldest daughter of Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn, passed away on June 12, 2026, at age 47. She had been in a coma since collapsing in December 2022 while training dogs and was treated at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital in Bangkok. A member of the Chakri dynasty, she previously served as Thailand’s Ambassador to Austria and UNODC goodwill ambassador, actively working on women’s rights in prisons. Her death has saddened the Thai royal family and public.

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the establishment of an Advanced Quantum Computing and Quantum Communications Lab at MNIT Jaipur under MeitY’s Electronics and ICT programme. The lab will focus on Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), quantum computing simulation, and sensing for national security and post-quantum cryptography. Students will also access Lam Research’s Semiverse platform for semiconductor training. The Minister highlighted India’s growing semiconductor design ecosystem and encouraged use of EDA tools under the Chips to Startup programme.

Gujarat State Police traced 1,470 missing persons during ‘Operation Milap’, a month-long statewide campaign launched on May 7, 2026. The drive combined technical intelligence, digital data analysis, field investigations, and interstate coordination to resolve old and new cases. Of those traced, 852 were women, 342 men, 234 minor girls, and 42 minor boys. Surat City Police led with 341 recoveries. The operation focused on family reunification, women and child safety, and strengthening public trust in policing. Many missing persons were traced from neighbouring states.

India and Nepal launched a cross-border peer-to-peer remittance service on June 6, 2026, by integrating India’s UPI with Nepal’s NPI. The system, implemented by NPCI International and Nepal Clearing House, enables instant transfers using mobile numbers or VPAs. Nepal is the second country after Singapore to achieve such connectivity. The corridor supports faster, cheaper remittances between the two nations. Select Nepali banks are live on the platform. This expands UPI’s international footprint to nine countries.

• India achieved a major breakthrough in the main tunnel of the Zojila Tunnel Project on 9 June 2026 at Minamarg, Kargil district, Ladakh. The 14-km tunnel on NH-1 between Baltal and Minamarg, built at 2,900-3,310 metres elevation at ₹6,800 crore, will provide year-round connectivity between Kashmir Valley and Ladakh.
• Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, LG Manoj Sinha, and CM Omar Abdullah attended the event. Features include advanced ventilation, fire detection, CCTV, avalanche protection, and snow galleries. Travel time from Sonamarg to Minamarg will drop from two hours to 30 minutes, boosting tourism, trade, and strategic mobility.

• Saudi Arabia lifted its five-year ban on imports from Lebanon on 10 June 2026. The ban, initially imposed on fruits and vegetables in April 2021 and later extended to all products due to drug smuggling concerns (especially Captagon), has now been removed.
• The decision by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman followed requests from Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and PM Nawaf Salam. It reflects improved diplomatic ties and Lebanon’s efforts to strengthen state institutions and curb smuggling. The move is expected to boost Lebanese agricultural exports to Gulf markets.