May 2026 Current Affairs PDF (English)

Editorial Note — Updates From Previous Edition

This edition incorporates all five Employment News issues covering May 2026, sourced directly from PIB and Government of India publications. All facts are presented in exam-ready format with GS paper tags, source citations and exam tips. A dedicated Appointments and Resignations section has been added. The Haryana section has been expanded with specific details including university names and rankings. All facts are presented in purely English language for maximum clarity.

Operation Sindoor — 1-Year Analysis

Source: PIB official releases | Indian Army press briefings | ORF Special Report No.299 (March 2026) | Employment News 16-22 May 2026

Note: Military casualty/asset figures below are India's OFFICIAL STATED CLAIMS per Army press briefings. Present them as such in exam answers.

Background & Trigger

• Pahalgam Terror Attack (22 April 2025): 26 civilians killed — all male, mostly Hindu tourists, in targeted point-blank executions in Baisaran meadow. India attributed "cross-border linkages" to Pakistan-based groups (LeT/JeM).
• Operation Launch: Night of 6-7 May 2025. PIB statement released at 1:44 AM IST on 7 May 2025 confirming the operation had commenced.
• Weapons Used: Long-range stand-off weapons, air-launched cruise missiles, loitering munitions (kamikaze-style drones that loiter before striking).
• Targets: Nine sites linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (PoJK).
• Duration: 88 hours (7-10 May 2025) — most significant India-Pakistan military confrontation since Kargil War (1999).

Escalation & Ceasefire

• Pakistan launched Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos as counter-offensive — India claims it was largely thwarted.
• Night of 9-10 May 2025: Pakistan allegedly fired four missiles towards New Delhi — all reportedly intercepted by India's air defence.
• India struck key Pakistan Air Force (PAF) bases including Nur Khan, Rafiqui and Murid airbases — unprecedented depth of cross-border strikes.
• US diplomatic intervention (Secretary of State Marco Rubio + Vice President JD Vance) led to ceasefire on afternoon of 10 May 2025.
• India's S-400 Triumf air defence system (procured from Russia) credited with protecting Indian airspace.
• BrahMos supersonic cruise missile (~$5 million/unit, Indo-Russian co-development) used extensively. New BrahMos integration facility opened post-Sindoor — expanding production for domestic use and exports (Vietnam, Indonesia are buyers).

Pm Modi'S New Response Doctrine — 12 May 2025

1-Year Anniversary — May 7, 2026

Source: Employment News 16-22 May 2026 — "Operation Sindoor Anniversary: Nation Salutes Armed Forces"

• Nation paid tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the Indian Armed Forces on the first anniversary of Operation Sindoor on 7 May 2026.
• President Droupadi Murmu described the operation as "a defining testament to India's unwavering resolve against terrorism."
• Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan said the armed forces' courage and commitment remain a source of national pride.
• PM Narendra Modi said Operation Sindoor reflected the professionalism, preparedness and coordinated strength of the armed forces, and highlighted India's growing self-reliance in the defence sector.
• The anniversary reinforced the new security doctrine — that state-sponsored cross-border terror will invite direct military retaliation.

Exam Tip: Op. Sindoor is live for GS-2 (IR, Internal Security), GS-3 (Defence, Aatmanirbhar Bharat) and Essay. Key terms: Escalation ladder, Nuclear threshold, LoC vs IB, BrahMos, S-400, DGMO hotline, Loitering munitions, Proportionality principle in international law.

National Affairs — Week 9–15 May 2026

Source: Employment News 9-15 May 2026

594-km Ganga Expressway Inaugurated — 12 Districts, UP

GS-3 | Infrastructure | Economy | Defence

Source: PIB, 29 April 2026

• PM Modi inaugurated the 594-km Ganga Expressway in Hardoi district of Uttar Pradesh on 29 April 2026.
• Developed by Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA).
• Longest expressway in Uttar Pradesh — connects western, central and eastern regions through a single high-speed corridor.
• Passes through 12 districts: Meerut, Hapur, Bulandshahr, Amroha, Sambhal, Budaun, Shahjahanpur, Hardoi, Unnao, Rae Bareli, Pratapgarh, Prayagraj.
• Key dual-use feature: 3.5-km airstrip for IAF take-off and landing — civil + military utility.
• Reduces Meerut-Prayagraj travel time from ~12 hours to ~6 hours.
• Expected to boost industrial development, trade, agriculture, tourism and employment along the corridor.

Exam Tip: Infrastructure + dual-use defence readiness + UP development — all three GS papers can ask.

West Bengal — 92.47% Voter Turnout, Highest Since Independence

GS-2 | Polity | Elections | ECI

Source: Employment News 9-15 May 2026

• West Bengal recorded 92.47% turnout in two-phase Assembly elections — highest in WB since Independence.
• Elections for all 294 Assembly seats held on 23 April and 29 April 2026.
• First phase: 93.19%; Second phase: 91.65%. Combined average: 92.47%.
• Women voters marginally outnumbered men: 92.28% (women) vs 91.07% (men) turnout.
• WB electorate: 6.81 crore. Previous WB record: 84.72% in 2011 elections.
• National record: Tripura holds 93.61% (2013 Assembly elections).
• Assam and Puducherry also recorded their highest-ever turnout.
• CEC Gyanesh Kumar saluted every voter in West Bengal for this milestone.

Exam Tip: ECI, FPTP, model code of conduct, voter participation data — GS-2 Polity.

Assembly Election Results — Major Political Shifts

GS-2 | Polity | State Governance | Elections

Source: Employment News 16-22 May 2026

• Elections held across Tamil Nadu, Kerala, West Bengal, Assam and Puducherry — 824 constituencies total.
• BJP: Secured major victory in West Bengal; retained power in Assam.
• Congress-led UDF: Returned to power in Kerala.
• Tamil Nadu: Actor-politician Vijay's party emerged as major political force, reshaping the state's landscape.
• NDA: Retained power in Puducherry.
• Strong voter participation — several states recorded turnout above 80%.

Exam Tip: Coalition dynamics, India's federal structure, multi-party system — GS-2.

Rajnath Singh at SCO Defence Ministers' Meeting — Bishkek

GS-2 | International Relations | Defence Diplomacy | SCO

Source: Employment News 9-15 May 2026

• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh addressed SCO Defence Ministers' Meeting in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan on 28 April 2026.
• Called for a united global front to tackle terrorism, separatism and extremism — eliminating safe havens.
• Stated: State-sponsored cross-border terrorism undermines national sovereignty and must not be ignored.
• Said through Operation Sindoor, India demonstrated that centres of terrorism are no longer beyond reach.
• Emphasised: SCO should take decisive action against those who support or shelter terrorists.
• Highlighted SCO as a platform of ancient civilisations and shared heritage — increasingly relevant as global outlook becomes inward-looking.

Exam Tip: SCO members: India, China, Russia, Pakistan, Iran + Central Asian states. GS-2 IR.

Vande Bharat Express — Jammu Tawi to Srinagar Service

GS-3 | Infrastructure | Connectivity | J&K

Source: Employment News 9-15 May 2026

• Vande Bharat operation from Jammu Tawi Railway Station to Srinagar commenced on 30 April 2026.
• Earlier service ran Srinagar-Katra; now extended to Jammu Tawi with coaches upgraded from 8 to 20 coaches.
• Reduces Jammu-Srinagar travel time to under 5 hours.
• Departs Jammu Tawi 2:00 PM — arrives Srinagar 6:50 PM. Return: departs 2:00 PM.
• Runs in challenging sub-zero terrain; functions in extreme cold conditions.
• Stops: Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, Reasi, Banihal.
• Significance: Boosts tourism (Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Sonmarg); socio-economic development in region post-Sindoor.

India Meets All-Time Highest Peak Power Demand — 256 GW

GS-3 | Energy | Economy

Source: Employment News 9-15 May 2026

• India met all-time highest peak electricity demand of over 256 GW on 25 April 2026 without any shortage.
• Previous all-time high: 250 GW in May 2024.
• India simultaneously maintained electricity exports to neighbouring countries during the peak.
• Met through diverse portfolio: thermal, hydro, nuclear, renewable (solar dominant), flexible resources.
• Significance: Milestone reflecting India's energy security improvements.

India Plans 62 New Vessels — Boost Atmanirbhar Shipping

GS-3 | Economy | Maritime | Aatmanirbhar Bharat

Source: Employment News 9-15 May 2026

• Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal: India advancing roadmap to add 62 vessels in FY 2026-27.
• Investment: Over Rs 51,000 crore.
• Context: Ongoing West Asia crisis + Strait of Hormuz disruptions prompted urgent expansion.
• Proposed joint venture between Shipping Corporation of India and oil PSUs for acquisition of 59 vessels.
• Goal: Strengthen India's shipping resilience against external disruptions.

FIFA Council Allows Afghan Women to Play International Matches

GS-2 | International | Women's Rights

Source: Employment News 9-15 May 2026

• FIFA Council approved amendment to Governance Regulations allowing Afghan female players to compete in official international matches in FIFA competitions.
• Afghanistan women's national team has not played a competitive international match since the Taliban returned to power in 2021.
• Decision aims to ensure players are not excluded due to circumstances beyond their control.
• In line with FIFA's principles of inclusion and non-discrimination.
• FIFA President Gianni Infantino called it a significant step.
• Affected Afghan female players, including those in the FIFA-registered squad, can now represent their country.

National Affairs — Week 16–29 May 2026

Source: Employment News 16-22 May & 23-29 May 2026

JANANI Digital Platform — Maternal & Child Healthcare

GS-2 | Health | Women | Digital Governance | NHM

Source: Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, PIB

• Ministry of Health and Family Welfare launched JANANI — full form: Journey of Antenatal, Natal and Neonatal Integrated Care.
• A digital platform to strengthen maternal and child healthcare services across the country.
• Maintains digital health records of women across their reproductive years.
• Ensures seamless tracking from pregnancy to newborn and child care.
• Covers: Antenatal care, delivery, postnatal care, newborn healthcare, family planning services.
• Provides guidance, information on health concerns, enables consultation with doctors online.
• Significance: Digital health + Women empowerment + Mother & Child welfare.

NITI Aayog — Report on Indian School Education System

GS-2 | Education | Governance | NEP 2020

Source: NITI Aayog Policy Report, May 2026

• NITI Aayog released comprehensive policy report on India's school education system.
• Decade-long analysis covering enrolment, infrastructure, equity, inclusion and learning outcomes.
• 13 major recommendations for quality enhancement in school education.
• Proposes 33 implementation pathways with short-, medium- and long-term goals.
• Involves: Central, State and local authorities.
• Emphasis on holistic education, student wellbeing, foundational learning.
• More than 125 performance indicators suggested for progress monitoring.
• Features case studies of successful education initiatives from across India.

Railways — Shift to New Reservation System in August 2026

GS-3 | Infrastructure | Digital India

Source: Employment News 16-22 May 2026

• Ministry of Railways: Transition to upgraded Passenger Reservation System (PRS) to begin in August 2026.
• Preparation reviewed at Rail Bhavan. Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw directed officials to ensure smooth transition.
• Old PRS introduced in 1986 — now completely modernised with advanced technology and expanded capacity.
• Will improve services for lakhs of passengers across the country.
• RailOne mobile app (launched last year): 3.5 crore+ downloads.
• AI-based waitlist confirmation prediction feature: Improved accuracy to 94%.

West Asia Crisis — Fuel Price Hike & Gold Import Restrictions

GS-3 | Economy | International | Trade

Source: Employment News 23-29 May 2026

• Ongoing West Asia crisis prompted India to reduce import dependence and conserve foreign exchange:
• Import duty on gold and silver raised to 15% (18.4% with IGST).
• Gold imports capped at 100 kg under Advance Authorisation Scheme for jewellery exporters.
• Further import approvals only after exporters fulfil at least 50% of export obligation.
• Oil marketing companies hiked petrol and diesel prices by Rs 3/litre.
• PM Modi's appeal: Use public transport, carpooling, work-from-home; avoid unnecessary purchase of foreign goods and gold.
• Significance: BOP management, import substitution, inflation risk.

Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool (BMIP) Launched

GS-3 | Economy | Maritime | Trade

Source: Employment News 23-29 May 2026

• Government launched Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool (BMIP) amid West Asia crisis and rising global tensions.
• Support: New India Assurance Company + other domestic insurers.
• Launched by: Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance.
• Total coverage capacity: USD 1.5 billion.
• Backed by: Sovereign guarantee of USD 1.4 billion.
• Coverage includes: Protection against war-related risks, cargo damage, other maritime liabilities.
• Benefits: Indian shipping companies, exporters, importers, businesses dependent on overseas trade.

Cabinet Approves MSP Hike, Major Infrastructure & Energy Projects

GS-3 | Agriculture | Economy | Infrastructure

Source: Cabinet Decision, PIB May 2026

• Cabinet approved higher MSP for 14 Kharif crops for 2026-27 marketing season.
• Sunflower seed received highest increase of Rs 622 per quintal.
• MSPs fixed at least 1.5 times the average cost of production (Swaminathan formula).
• Nagpur International Airport: Modernisation cleared — 30-year PPP with GMR Nagpur International Airport Ltd. Expected to handle 30 million passengers annually.
• Ahmedabad-Dholera semi high-speed railway (134 km): Approved at Rs 20,667 crore — completion by 2030-31.
• Energy: Rs 37,500 crore scheme to promote coal and lignite gasification — target 100 million tonnes of coal gasification by 2030.
• All three: Infrastructure expansion + energy security + agricultural income support.

ECI Announces SIR Phase-III in 16 States, 3 UTs

GS-2 | Polity | Elections | ECI

Source: PIB, May 2026

• ECI announced Phase-III of Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls across 16 states and 3 UTs.
• States covered: AP, Haryana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Odisha, Punjab, Telangana, Uttarakhand, among others.
• UTs: Delhi, Chandigarh, Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu.
• CEC Gyanesh Kumar: Appealed to voters to actively participate and submit Enumeration Forms.
• Over 3.94 lakh Booth Level Officers and 3.42 lakh Booth Level Agents to conduct door-to-door verification.
• Covers around 36.73 crore electors during this phase.

CBI Registers Case in NEET-UG 2026 Paper Leak — Re-exam 21 June

GS-2 | Governance | Education | Exam Integrity

Source: Employment News 23-29 May 2026

• NTA (National Testing Agency) scheduled re-examination of NEET (UG) 2026 on 21 June 2026.
• CBI registered case regarding alleged paper leak and irregularities in NEET-UG 2026 (conducted on 3 May 2026).
• Charges: Criminal conspiracy, cheating, criminal breach of trust, theft, destruction of evidence.
• Offences invoked under: Public Examination Prevention of Unfair Means Act, 2024.
• FIR includes charges against officials of the Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education.
• CBI case registered on basis of complaint from the Department of Higher Education.

Exam Tip: Public Examination Prevention of Unfair Means Act 2024 — new legislation; know its key provisions for exam.

National Affairs — 30 May – 12 June 2026

Source: Employment News 30 May-5 Jun 2026 & 6-12 Jun 2026

Padma Awards 2026 — Investiture Ceremony, 66 Awardees

GS-1 | Arts & Culture | Social | Honours

Source: Employment News 6-12 Jun 2026

• President Droupadi Murmu conferred Padma Awards on 66 eminent personalities during First Investiture Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on 25 May 2026.
• Fields: Arts, public affairs, sports, medicine and industry.
• Padma Vibhushan (2 conferred): Late Shri Dharmendra Singh Deol (legendary actor); Dr N. Rajam (renowned violin maestro).
• Padma Bhushan: Former Uttarakhand Chief Minister, former Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari, industrialist Shri Uday Kotak, Dr. Kallipatti Ramasamy Palanisamy (medicine).
• Padma Shri: India women's cricket captain Ms. Harmanpreet Kaur + several distinguished personalities from arts, sports and public service.
• Total 2026 Padma Awards approved: Remaining to be conferred at a later ceremony.

131 — including 5 Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, 113 Padma Shri.

Exam Tip: Padma Vibhushan names are frequently asked. Memorise all 5 for 2026.

Assam — First North-Eastern State to Pass Uniform Civil Code

GS-2 | Polity | Constitutional Law | Governance

Source: Employment News 6-12 Jun 2026

• Assam Legislative Assembly passed the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill.
• First state in the Northeast — third in the country to adopt UCC (after Goa and Uttarakhand).
• Establishes common civil legal framework governing marriage, divorce, succession and live-in relationships.
• Scheduled Tribes excluded from its scope — to preserve constitutional protections and customary practices.
• Monogamy mandatory under the Bill; minimum marriage age = 21 years (grooms), 18 years (brides).
• Marriages may continue to be solemnised through existing religious ceremonies and traditional customs.
• Aims: Legal uniformity, gender justice, replace religion-based personal laws with a common framework.

Exam Tip: UCC = Article 44 (DPSP). Goa: UCC since Portuguese civil code era. Uttarakhand: Passed UCC in February 2024.

Centre Sets Up Panel to Study Demographic Change

GS-1 | Society | GS-2 | Governance | Population

Source: Employment News 6-12 Jun 2026

• Centre constituted high-level committee to study demographic changes caused by infiltration and other factors.
• Chaired by: Former Supreme Court Judge Justice Prakash Prabhakar Naolekar.
• Members: Census Commissioner, former IAS officers Durga Shankar Mishra and Bali Srivastava, economist Dr Shamika Ravi.
• Joint Secretary (Foreigners-I), Home Ministry = Member Secretary.
• Tasks: Assess impact of illegal immigration; study patterns of population shifts across religious and social communities.
• Will examine: Implications for national security, law and order, social structures and tribal communities.
• Will submit planned and time-bound recommendations.

Exam Tip: Connects to: NRC, CAA, illegal migration, national security, census — hot GS-2 topic.

GATE to Become New Gateway for IAF Technical Branch

GS-3 | Defence | Recruitment | Science

Source: Employment News 6-12 Jun 2026

• Indian Air Force introduced new recruitment pathway for Technical Branch in the Officers Cadre through GATE scores.
• Engineering graduates with valid GATE scores can now be directly shortlisted for testing at Air Force Selection Boards.
• Exempted from preliminary written examination including AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test).
• Final selection: Based on merit only.
• Educational qualifications remain same as existing AFCAT-based eligibility criteria for technical branch.
• Significance: Expands career opportunities for engineering graduates; streamlines defence recruitment.

PM Modi Concludes 5-Nation Gulf & Europe Tour

GS-2 | International Relations | Diplomacy | Economy

Source: Employment News 30 May-5 Jun 2026

• PM Modi's five-nation tour from 15 to 20 May 2026: UAE, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Italy.
• UAE: Ties elevated to "Comprehensive Strategic Partnership"; IMEC (India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor) fast-tracked; port, rail and logistics infrastructure linking Gulf to Europe agreed.
• Netherlands: India highlighted as digital public infrastructure hub; "Green and Digital Partnership" signed (climate resilience, hydrogen, water technology, circular economy).
• Norway-Sweden (India-Nordic Summit, Oslo): Discussions on AI, semiconductors, digital governance and defence innovation.
• Sweden: Ties elevated to "Green Strategic Partnership" — space, tunnelling, health tech, advanced materials.
• Italy: India-Europe economic corridor focus; Italy as gateway for India-EU trade; defence, automotive and green tech joint ventures discussed.
• Amplified India's positioning as key global partner in energy, technology and green transition.

WB Begins Deportation of Illegal Bangladeshi Migrants

GS-2 | Polity | Internal Security | Immigration

Source: Employment News 30 May-5 Jun 2026

• West Bengal government announced initiation of deportation proceedings against illegal Bangladeshi migrants under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act framework.
• CM Suvendu Adhikari: Bangladeshi nationals who entered India after 31 December 2014 and do not belong to non-Muslim communities covered under CAA — treated as illegal infiltrators.
• Deportation: Through coordination between BSF and Border Guard Bangladesh.
• Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians who entered before the prescribed cut-off date — protected under CAA.
• State also handing land to BSF for border fencing along India-Bangladesh border.

PM-AJAY Goes Digital — SC Welfare Scheme Delivery

GS-2 | Social Justice | Digital Governance | SC Welfare

Source: Employment News 6-12 Jun 2026

• Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment launched PM-AJAY Portal and AJAY Mobile App.
• PM-AJAY = Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojana.
• Aims to digitise and strengthen implementation of Scheduled Caste welfare schemes.
• Features: Geo-tagging, mobile inspections, photo uploads, dashboard reporting, integration with existing portals.
• Shifts from paper-based to fully digital and real-time system.
• Improves last-mile delivery, field-level monitoring and transparency for lakhs of SC beneficiaries.

PDS Scheme Gets AI Boost — SARTHAK Revamped at Rs 25,530 Crore

GS-3 | Economy | Food Security | Digital Governance | PDS

Source: Employment News 6-12 Jun 2026

• Cabinet approved continuation of revamped SARTHAK-PDS scheme — outlay of Rs 25,530 crore for 16th Finance Commission period.
• Three new AI-enabled modules introduced:
• NIRMAL: Real-time AI-driven beneficiary registry.
• ASHA: Multilingual grievance and citizen engagement platform.
• SAKSHAM: AI-based supply chain tracking and monitoring.
• Aim: Improve transparency, efficiency and service delivery in Public Distribution System.
• Creates opportunities for technology integration and digital management in food security operations.

Economy — All Weeks Consolidated

Annual Health Check-Up for Workers — New Labour Codes

GS-3 | Economy | Labour | Social Security | ESIC

Source: Employment News 16-22 May 2026

• Government launched nationwide Annual Health Check-Up initiative for workers aged 40 years and above under new labour codes.
• Launched at ESIC Medical College and Hospital, New Delhi.
• ESIC coverage has increased from 7 crore to 15 crore people over the past decade.
• Scheme provides: Medical care, maternity benefits, compensation for workplace accidents, financial assistance during unemployment.
• Goal: Strengthen occupational health services; expand healthcare access for the workforce.

India-EU EV Recycling Push — Rs 169 Crore Joint Initiative

GS-3 | Economy | Environment | Energy | EV

Source: Employment News 16-22 May 2026

• India and EU launched joint initiative worth Rs 169 crore to strengthen EV battery recycling capacity.
• Funded jointly by: EU's Horizon Europe programme + India's Ministry of Heavy Industries.
• Aims: Develop advanced battery recycling technologies, pilot projects and industrial deployment in India.
• Principal Scientific Adviser Ajay Kumar Sood: Strong domestic recycling ecosystem is essential as India's EV market expands rapidly.
• Will encourage collaboration among startups, industries, research institutions.
• Creates opportunities for researchers, engineers, technicians and workers in recycling, manufacturing and supply chain sectors.

India's Economy to Grow at 6.6% in FY27 — SBI Report

GS-3 | Economy | GDP | Banking

Source: SBI Research Report, May 2026

• SBI Research (May 2026): India's economy projected to grow at 6.6% in FY 2026-27.
• GDP growth for FY 2025-26 likely: 7.5%.
• India shows resilience despite global uncertainties and regional conflicts.
• Strong credit growth and domestic consumption expected to support economic growth in coming year.
• Caution: Crude oil and commodity price fluctuations; possible El Nino conditions could increase inflationary pressures.
• Report stressed: Need for policy measures to address BOP concerns; AI-driven productivity as key for competitiveness.

UN Projects India as Fastest-Growing Major Economy

GS-3 | Economy | International | Growth

Source: UN World Economic Situation and Prospects, May 2026

• UN projected India's economic growth at 6.4% this year despite global uncertainty from Iran conflict.
• India identified as world's fastest-growing major economy — ahead of China (projected 4.6%).
• Strong consumer demand, public investment and services exports support India.
• India's diversified economy, strong foreign exchange reserves and energy capacity will cushion impact of rising global oil prices.
• UN lowered global growth projection to 2.5% this year.

RBI Transfers Record Rs 2.86 Lakh Crore Surplus to Government

GS-3 | Economy | Banking | Monetary Policy

Source: Employment News 6-12 Jun 2026

• RBI Central Board approved record surplus transfer of Rs 2.86 lakh crore to Government of India for FY 2025-26.
• Decision taken during RBI Board meeting in Mumbai, chaired by the Governor.
• Gross income rose by 26.42% in FY26; net income before provisions and statutory transfers: Rs 3.95 lakh crore.
• RBI transferred Rs 1.09 lakh crore to Contingent Risk Buffer (CRB) maintaining prescribed buffer level under revised Economic Capital Framework.
• Record surplus expected to support government finances and provide fiscal space for expenditure and development priorities.

Exam Tip: RBI surplus transfer, Contingent Risk Buffer, Economic Capital Framework — important banking concepts.

VB-G RAM G Act 2025 — MGNREGA Replacement (Effective 1 July 2026)

GS-2 | Governance | Rural Dev. | Social Justice

Source: PIB, Winter Session 2025, Cabinet

• Full name: Viksit Bharat — Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025.
• Replaces MGNREGA (2005) from 1 July 2026. Presidential assent during Winter Session 2025.
• Guaranteed employment: 125 days per household per year (vs 100 days under MGNREGA — 25 extra days added).
• Funding ratio: 60% Centre : 40% States. Under MGNREGA, Centre bore nearly all costs.
• Centre's budget estimate for FY 2026-27: Rs 95,692.31 crore (Centre share only).
• Total outlay including state contribution: Over Rs 1.51 lakh crore.
• Key changes: Technology-driven monitoring, seasonal agricultural pause (60 days), performance-based fund release.
• Concerns: States with weak fiscal positions face increased burden; Opposition demanded 100% Centre funding.
• Federalism concern: Shift from demand-driven (MGNREGA) to more top-down allocation model.

Exam Tip: One of the biggest rural policy changes since 2005. GS-2 Governance + GS-3 Economy — both papers.

India — Third Largest Renewable Energy Capacity

GS-3 | Energy | Environment

Source: Morgan Stanley / Ministry of Power Report, March 2026

• India ranks 3rd globally in installed renewable energy capacity (behind China and USA).
• Renewable energy capacity: 274.68 GW as of March 2026.
• Total installed power capacity in India: ~612 GW.
• Non-fossil fuel capacity (renewable + nuclear + large hydro) crossed 50% of the total 612 GW.
• Record: India added 55.3 GW of non-fossil capacity in FY 2025-26 — highest ever single-year addition.

Exam Tip: Distinguish: Renewable capacity vs non-fossil fuel capacity vs total installed capacity — three different terms.

International Affairs — All Weeks

US Court Strikes Down Trump's 10% Universal Tariffs

GS-2 | International Relations | Trade | USA

Source: Employment News 16-22 May 2026

• US federal court declared Trump administration's 10% universal tariffs on imports from India and several other countries — illegal.
• US Court of International Trade ruled 2-1: Administration failed to justify tariffs under Section 122 of the 1974 Trade Act (which permits tariffs only during a serious Balance-of-Payments crisis).
• Court directed US government to stop collecting duties and refund tariffs already paid by affected companies.
• However, levies will remain in force for other importers till July.
• Significance: Major setback to White House trade policy; implications for India-US trade relations.

Exam Tip: WTO norms, US Trade Act 1974, BOP provision, WTO Dispute Settlement — GS-2 IR.

BRICS Foreign Ministers' Meeting Ends Without Joint Statement

GS-2 | International Relations | BRICS | Multilateral

Source: Employment News 23-29 May 2026

• Two-day meeting of BRICS foreign ministers held in New Delhi on 14-15 May 2026.
• Concluded without a joint statement — differences among member countries over the West Asia situation.
• India (host): Members shared national positions and exchanged views on sovereignty, maritime security and protection of civilian lives.
• Statement issued after meeting noted: One member had reservations regarding references to Gaza, Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb Strait.
• Iranian FM Abbas Araghchi urged BRICS nations to condemn US and Israel over what he termed "unlawful aggression" — calling for resistance to the politicisation of international institutions.

President Trump Visits China — Push for Stability

GS-2 | International Relations | China | USA

Source: Employment News 23-29 May 2026

• US President Trump visited China — aimed at stabilising ties amid rising geopolitical and economic uncertainty.
• Talks with President Xi Jinping: Both signalled shift towards cooperation on trade, energy and regional stability.
• China agreed to purchase 200 Boeing aircraft; US paused high tariffs on Chinese goods.
• China agreed not to restrict exports of rare earth minerals — critical for global technology and manufacturing industries.
• Both sides stressed keeping the Strait of Hormuz open for uninterrupted global energy supplies.
• China expressed interest in increasing imports of American oil to reduce dependence on conflict-affected regions.
• Taiwan: US Secretary of State Rubio warned China against use of force; Xi cautioned mishandling could trigger confrontation.

Ladakh — 5 New Districts Created

GS-2 | Polity | Administrative Reorganisation | Ladakh

Source: PIB, 27 April 2026

• LG Vinai Kumar Saxena (LG of Ladakh since 13 March 2026, transferred from Delhi) approved creation of 5 new districts on 27 April 2026.
• Previous structure: 2 districts only (Leh + Kargil). New total: 7 districts.
• From Leh district: Nubra, Sham, Changthang carved out.
• From Kargil district: Zanskar and Drass carved out.
• Rationale: Decentralised governance — some residents previously had to travel over 300 km for basic services.
• Vinai Kumar Saxena was previously LG of Delhi (May 2022 – March 2026). Since 13 March 2026 he is LG of Ladakh.

Note:

Exam Tip: Article 239 (governance of UTs), Ladakh as UT without legislature, LG appointments — GS-2 Polity.

India Expands Defence Cooperation — Vietnam & South Korea

GS-2 | International Relations | Defence | Indo-Pacific

Source: Employment News 30 May-5 Jun 2026

• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh completed four-day two-nation visit to Vietnam and South Korea (18-21 May 2026).
• Vietnam (18-19 May): Bilateral talks with Vietnam's Minister of National Defence Gen. Phan Van Giang — defence cooperation, joint exercises, training and maritime security.
• Visit coincided with 136th birth anniversary of Ho Chi Minh — symbolic significance.
• Both sides discussed expanding India's defence exports and intensifying maritime collaboration in South China Sea-adjacent region.
• South Korea: Explored "third phase" of cooperation — anti-aircraft systems, drones, sensors, ship-borne technologies under Make in India.
• Aim: Co-development, technology transfer and production of advanced platforms; building on existing K9 Vajra howitzer project.

India-Cyprus Sign Key Agreements — Investment Focus

GS-2 | International Relations | Europe

Source: Employment News 30 May-5 Jun 2026

• India and Cyprus exchanged agreements during talks between PM Modi and Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides in New Delhi on 22 May 2026.
• Areas: Counter-terrorism, innovation, higher education, research and cultural cooperation.
• Both leaders reviewed bilateral ties and discussed cooperation in multilateral forums.
• PM Modi: India and Cyprus aim to double bilateral investment flows over the next five years.
• Significance: Growing economic ties and new opportunities under India-EU partnership framework.
• Cyprus: EU member; key geopolitical node at intersection of Europe, Asia and Africa.

India Sends Emergency Pharma Supplies to Congo — Ebola Outbreak

GS-2 | International Relations | Health | Humanitarian

Source: Employment News 6-12 Jun 2026

• India sent first tranche of emergency pharmaceutical supplies to Democratic Republic of Congo to support Ebola containment.
• Supplies: Diagnostics, therapeutics, infection prevention and control materials, case management support.
• Ebola strain: Bundibugyo strain — first identified in Uganda in 2007; one of six known Ebola virus species.
• No approved drugs or vaccines currently exist for the Bundibugyo strain (WHO statement).
• India also issued health advisory for travellers arriving from Ebola-affected countries (DRC, Uganda, South Sudan).
• India postponed: 4th India-Africa Forum Summit + 1st International Big Cat Alliance Summit — both scheduled for New Delhi — due to evolving health situation.
• WHO declared: Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).

Exam Tip: PHEIC declaration, Bundibugyo strain, India's humanitarian outreach capability — GS-2.

India-US Deepen Critical Minerals Partnership

GS-3 | Economy | Science | International

Source: Employment News 6-12 Jun 2026

• India and US signed bilateral framework to strengthen cooperation in supply, mining and processing of critical minerals and rare earth elements.
• Agreement exchanged in New Delhi between EAM Dr S. Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
• Enhances strategic cooperation; opens opportunities in mining, processing, technology and investment in critical mineral value chains.
• Critical minerals: Increasingly vital for clean energy, electronics and advanced manufacturing sectors.

10th India-Kenya Joint Trade Committee Meeting

GS-2 | International Relations | Africa | Trade

Source: Employment News 9-15 May 2026

• 10th India-Kenya Joint Trade Committee (JTC) meeting held in Nairobi, Kenya on 27 April 2026.
• Co-chaired by: Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal and Kenya's Principal Secretary Regina Akoth Ombam.
• Total bilateral trade: $4.31 billion in last financial year — growth of 24.91% over 2024-25.
• Focus: Engineering goods, pharmaceuticals, agriculture and electronics.
• Several MoUs signed — including Bureau of Indian Standards and Kenya Revenue Authority.
• Both sides agreed to promote trade settlement in local currencies.
• India is among Kenya's top emerging key trading partners.

Science, Technology & Defence

DRDO Tests ULPGM-V3 — Drone-Launched Precision Missile

GS-3 | Science | Defence | Aatmanirbhar Bharat

Source: Employment News 30 May-5 Jun 2026

• DRDO successfully completed final development trials of indigenous Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3.
• Tested in both air-to-ground and air-to-air modes.
• Demonstrates precision strike capability against tanks, drones, helicopters and other airborne targets.
• Developed under Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative; designed by DRDO's Research Centre Imarat.
• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh: Termed successful trials a major strategic milestone for India's indigenous defence capabilities.

Gaganyaan — ECLSS Development by ISRO

GS-3 | Science | Space | ISRO

Source: ISRO / PIB, May 2026

• ISRO advanced development of Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) for Gaganyaan mission.
• ECLSS maintains: Cabin temperature, pressure, air quality and waste management for the crew module.
• Gaganyaan: India's first crewed spaceflight mission — target orbit 400 km Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Crew: 3 Gaganauts.
• ECLSS does NOT cover rocket propulsion — it covers only crew life support systems inside the module.

INS Sanghmitra — Indigenous Naval Vessel Launched

GS-3 | Defence | Navy | Aatmanirbhar Bharat

Source: PIB, May 2026

• India launched indigenous naval vessel INS Sanghmitra.
• Part of India's Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence manufacturing.
• Significance: Navy expansion in post-Sindoor strategic context. India positioned as Preferred Security Partner in Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Exercise PRAGATI 2026 — 13 IOR Nations

GS-2 | Defence Diplomacy | Indian Ocean Region

Source: PIB, May 2026

• India hosted Exercise PRAGATI 2026 — multilateral naval exercise.
• Participants: 13 nations from Indian Ocean Region.
• Aim: Build practical crisis-response coordination capacity among IOR nations.
• Reflects India's SAGAR doctrine (Security and Growth for All in the Region) and Neighbourhood-First policy.

Sq. Ldr. Saanya — First Woman Cat-A QFI in IAF

GS-2 | Women Empowerment | Defence

Source: PIB / IAF, 18 May 2026

• Squadron Leader Saanya became the first woman in IAF to earn Cat-A Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI) qualification.
• Announced by IAF on 18 May 2026.
• Significance: Growing role of women in India's defence forces.

India — Third Largest Renewable Energy Globally

GS-3 | Energy | Environment

Source: Morgan Stanley / MoP Report, March 2026

• India ranks 3rd globally in renewable energy capacity (behind China and USA).
• Renewable energy capacity: 274.68 GW.
• Total installed power capacity: ~612 GW.
• Non-fossil fuel capacity crossed 50% of total installed capacity.
• Record addition: 55.3 GW non-fossil capacity in FY 2025-26 — highest ever single-year addition.

Sports & Awards — All Weeks

India Retains No. 1 in ICC Men's T20I Rankings

Sports | Cricket | ICC

Source: Employment News 16-22 May 2026

• India retained No. 1 position in ICC Men's T20I rankings with 275 rating points.
• England: 2nd (262 pts); Australia: 3rd (258 pts).
• India became first team to successfully defend the T20 World Cup title and win the tournament a record third time in March 2026.
• ICC methodology: Full value to matches played since May 2025; previous two years weighted at 50%.

India Returns to AFC U-17 Women's Asian Cup After 21 Years

Sports | Football | Women | AFC

Source: Employment News 16-22 May 2026

• India qualified for AFC U-17 Women's Asian Cup after a 21-year gap — first appearance since 2005.
• The Young Tigresses' Group B campaign: 0-2 loss to Australia (2 May), 0-3 to Japan (5 May), Group B match vs Lebanon (8 May).
• Tournament return: Major milestone for Indian women's football.

Three Indian Journalists Win Pulitzer Prize 2026

Awards | Journalism | International

Source: Employment News 16-22 May 2026

• Shri Anand RK and Ms Suparna Sharma: Won Pulitzer Prize in Illustrated Reporting and Commentary category for project exposing cybercrime in India. Shared award with Ms Natalie Obiko Pearson.
• Shri Aniruddha Ghose: Won in International Reporting category for investigation into US Border Patrol's secret use of mass-surveillance tools developed in Silicon Valley and later expanded to China.
• Pulitzer Prize: Highest honour in American journalism. Administered by Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.

Exam Tip: Pulitzer categories, Columbia University connection — awards questions in GS-1.

India Wins 4 Gold Medals — Commonwealth Youth Weightlifting

Sports | Weightlifting | Commonwealth

Source: Employment News 9-15 May 2026

• India won four gold medals at Commonwealth Youth and Junior Weightlifting Championships in Apia, Samoa.
• Sunil Singh: Gold, men's 65 kg (271 kg total lift).
• Aisangla Gogoi: Gold, women's 58 kg (185 kg total).
• Abhinob Gogoi: Gold, men's 71 kg (284 kg total).
• Charu Pesi (Arunachal Pradesh): Gold, men's 65 kg (269 kg total).

Aparna Dahiya Wins India's First Sanda World Cup Gold

Sports | Wushu | International

Source: Employment News 23-29 May 2026

• Aparna Dahiya won gold in women's 52 kg Sanda category at 11th Sanda World Cup in Macau.
• First Indian to win gold at this tournament.
• Defeated reigning world champion Thi Phuong Nga Ngo (Vietnam) in straight sets in the final (14 May 2026).
• Earlier lost to the same opponent in the World Wushu Championships final in Brazil (September 2025) — avenged defeat.

India Shines in Weightlifting, Badminton & Tennis

Sports | Multiple

Source: Employment News 30 May-5 Jun 2026

• Asian Weightlifting Championships 2026 (Gandhinagar): India secured 10 medals — 1 silver and 9 bronze.
• Gyaneshwari Yadav: Silver in women's 53 kg snatch event.
• Lovepreet Singh: Best overall finish — 5th in men's 110 kg+ with a personal-best lift.
• Badminton — Baoji China Masters: Shriyanshi Valishetty clinched silver in women's singles.
• Tennis — Oeiras 4 ATP Challenger (Portugal): Siddhant Banthia and Bulgaria's Alexander Donski won the doubles title.

National Sports Governance Board Rules 2026

GS-2 | Governance | Sports Administration

Source: Employment News 6-12 Jun 2026

• Government notified National Sports Governance Board Rules and National Sports Tribunal Rules, 2026.
• National Sports Governance Board: Central authority for recognising National Sports Bodies and monitoring compliance with governance, financial and ethical standards.
• Board: Chairperson + two Members appointed by Central Government through a selection process.
• National Sports Tribunal: Specialised body for resolving sports-related disputes — reduces dependence on civil courts.
• Provides single-window mechanism for quicker, cost-effective dispute resolution.

Opportunities for Skilled IT Personnel as Sports Ecosystem Gets

GS-3 | Science & Technology | Sports

Source: Employment News 6-12 Jun 2026

• Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports announced plans to engage IT Consultants in National Sports Federations (NSFs) under National Sports Digital Ecosystem (NSDE).
• Aims to strengthen digital governance across sports federations.
• Supports India's preparations for 2030 Commonwealth Games and long-term Olympic ambitions.
• Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya: Move will help build federation-specific digital systems for competitions, coaching camps, athlete participation and governance.

Haryana Special — State GK & HCS Updates

Haryana-specific content carries 20-25% weight in HCS Prelims and Mains. This section is critical.

HCS 2026 — Critical Exam Schedule

HCS EXAM | Must Know

Source: HPSC official notifications

• HCS Prelims 2026: Conducted on 26 April 2026.
• Prelims Result: Declared 4 May 2026 on hpsc.gov.in.
• Scorecard: Released 2 May 2026.
• Revised results: Published 13 May and 20 May 2026 by HPSC.
• HCS Mains 2026: held on 27-29 June 2026 (completed).
• Vacancies: 114 posts — Haryana Civil Services (Ex. Br.) and Allied Services.
• ECI SIR Phase-III applies to Haryana — electoral rolls revision ongoing.

Exam Tip: HCS Mains 2026 was held on 27-29 June 2026.

Haryana in Assembly Elections Context

Haryana GK | Polity | Current Context

Source: State records

• Haryana did NOT hold elections in May 2026. Last state elections: October 2024 — BJP won.
• Current CM: Nayab Singh Saini (BJP). Governor:

Ashim Kumar Ghosh.

• ECI SIR Phase-III applies to Haryana for electoral roll revision.
• Haryana in ECI SIR Phase-III list — significant for state governance questions.

Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari — Haryana

GS-3 | Water Conservation | Haryana

Source: PIB, May 2026

• Target: 1 crore (10 million) recharge structures by May 2026.
• Achieved: 60 lakh+ recharge structures already created.
• Theme: Water conservation as a mass movement (Jan Andolan).
• Aligns with India International Water Week 2026 (IIWW-2026) theme: Climate-Resilient Water Management.
• IIWW-2026 (9th edition) launched by Union Minister C.R. Patil at Shram Shakti Bhavan, New Delhi.

Haryana: Digital Kavach, Animal Husbandry & Education

Haryana GK | Multiple

Source: State Government announcements

• Haryana Digital Kavach: State to establish Cyber Security Excellence Centre — state-level cyber infrastructure initiative.
• Multi-Purpose Animal Husbandry Training Centre: Haryana to establish — farmer income, livestock economy focus.
• ODF Plus Villages: Significant number of Haryana villages achieved ODF Plus status by April 2026 (Swachh Bharat Mission Grameen Phase II).
• Education World Rankings 2026: Kurukshetra University (KU) ranked 19th nationally and 1st in Haryana in the Government Multidisciplinary University category. KU holds A++ NAAC accreditation (score 3.56) and is a UGC Category-I University. Recognition conferred in New Delhi on 25 April 2026.
• Haryana: Major contributor to India's dairy economy and wheat production (part of north India's "wheat belt").

Environment & Social Issues

India International Water Week 2026 (IIWW-2026)

GS-3 | Environment | Water Governance

Source: PIB, May 2026

• 9th edition launched by Union Minister C.R. Patil (Jal Shakti) at Shram Shakti Bhavan, New Delhi.
• Theme: Climate-Resilient Water Management.
• Focus: Digital tools, smart systems, real-time monitoring for water governance.
• Policy alignment: Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari — 60 lakh+ recharge structures; target 1 crore by May 2026.

Solid Waste Management Rules 2026

GS-3 | Environment | Urban Governance

Source: MoEFCC / PIB, 2026

• New SWM Rules 2026 notified — replacing SWM Rules 2016.
• Critics argue for decentralised waste governance through Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) rather than centralised rules.
• Context: Ghazipur landfill (Delhi) remains symbol of urban waste management failure.
• Bengaluru 2025 monsoon flooding directly linked to plastic-clogged drains — inadequate SWM.

Supreme Court — "One Case One Data" & Su Sahay

GS-2 | Judiciary | Digital Governance

Source: Supreme Court of India, 2026

• One Case One Data: Digital database integration — eliminates mismatches where identical cases show conflicting data across state court databases.
• Su Sahay: Technology-driven reforms for improving access to justice.
• Aim: Judicial efficiency, transparency, reduced procedural delays.

SEHAT Mission — Agriculture Linked to Health

GS-2 | Social | Health | Agriculture

Source: PIB, 2026

• SEHAT Mission links agricultural produce quality with public health outcomes.
• Approach: Nutritional security through farm-to-fork quality assurance.
• Significance: Intersection of food security, health and farmer income — cross-cutting GS topic.

Appointments & Resignations — May 2026

Source: PIB | Official Government Gazette | Employment News | Rajya Sabha TV announcements

Exam Tip: CJI succession is frequently asked. B.R. Gavai became 52nd CJI in May 2025. Also know: RBI Governor (Sanjay

Malhotra), CEC (Gyanesh Kumar), LG of Ladakh (Vinai Kumar Saxena).

HCS/PCS MCQ Practice — 60 Questions

All 60 questions are framed in HCS Prelims style. Every question is traceable to verified content in this PDF. Attempt before checking answers.

Q1. The Pahalgam terror attack that triggered Operation Sindoor occurred on:

(a) 15 March 2025

(b) 22 April 2025

(c) 7 May 2025

(d) 10 May 2025

Ans: (b) 22 April 2025. 26 civilians killed, targeted on religious grounds in Baisaran meadow.

Q2. Operation Sindoor was launched on the night of:

(a) 5-6 May 2025

(b) 6-7 May 2025

(c) 9-10 May 2025

(d) 10-11 May 2025

Ans: (b) 6-7 May 2025. PIB statement at 1:44 AM IST on 7 May 2025.

Q3. India officially stated that Operation Sindoor struck how many terror sites?

(a) 6

(b) 7

(c) 9

(d) 11

Ans: (c) 9 sites in Pakistan and PoJK.

Q4. Pakistan's counter-offensive operation was named:

(a) Operation Zarb-e-Azb

(b) Operation Ghazwa-e-Hind

(c) Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos

(d) Operation Azm-e-Istehkam

Ans: (c) Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos.

Q5. The air defence system India used to protect its airspace during Operation Sindoor was:

(a) THAAD from USA

(b) Iron Dome from Israel

(c) S-400 Triumf from Russia

(d) Barak-8 from Israel

Ans: (c) S-400 Triumf from Russia.

Q6. Which principle of international law is most directly relevant to India's stated "proportionate retaliation" doctrine?

(a) Principle of Non-Intervention

(b) Proportionality in use of force

(c) Pacta sunt servanda

(d) Uti possidetis

Ans: (b) Proportionality principle in use of force (law of armed conflict).

Q7. The 594-km Ganga Expressway passes through how many districts of UP?

(a) 8

(b) 10

(c) 12

(d) 14

Ans: (c) 12 districts.

Q8. The IAF airstrip on the Ganga Expressway is:

(a) 2.5 km

(b) 3.5 km

(c) 5 km

(d) 7 km

Ans: (b) 3.5 km.

Q9. West Bengal recorded what voter turnout in the 2026 Assembly elections?

(a) 88.32%

(b) 90.14%

(c) 92.47%

(d) 95.02%

Ans: (c) 92.47% — highest since Independence in WB.

Q10. The SCO Defence Ministers' Meeting 2026 was held in:

(a) Shanghai

(b) Moscow

(c) Bishkek

(d) Islamabad

Ans: (c) Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan — 28 April 2026.

Q11. JANANI platform launched by Ministry of Health stands for:

(a) Jan Arogya National Nutrition Index

(b) Journey of Antenatal, Natal and Neonatal Integrated Care

(c) Joint Antenatal National Neonatal Integration

(d) None of the above

Ans: (b) Journey of Antenatal, Natal and Neonatal Integrated Care.

Q12. ECI's SIR Phase-III covers how many states and UTs?

(a) 12 states, 2 UTs

(b) 14 states, 3 UTs

(c) 16 states, 3 UTs

(d) 18 states, 4 UTs

Ans: (c) 16 states and 3 Union Territories.

Q13. Assam becomes which numbered state in India to adopt Uniform Civil Code?

(a) First

(b) Second

(c) Third

(d) Fourth

Ans: (c) Third — after Goa (colonial Portuguese era) and Uttarakhand (February 2024).

Q14. Minimum marriage age for grooms under Assam's UCC Bill:

(a) 18 years

(b) 21 years

(c) 23 years

(d) 25 years

Ans: (b) 21 years for grooms, 18 years for brides.

Q15. The High-Level Demographic Change Committee is chaired by:

(a) NSA Ajit Doval

(b) Former SC Judge Justice Prakash Prabhakar Naolekar

(c) Former Census Commissioner

(d) Union Home Secretary

Ans: (b) Former Supreme Court Judge Justice Prakash Prabhakar Naolekar.

Q16. VB-G RAM G Act guarantees how many days of employment per rural household per year?

(a) 100 days

(b) 110 days

(c) 120 days

(d) 125 days

Ans: (d) 125 days (vs 100 days under MGNREGA — increase of 25 days).

Q17. Funding ratio under VB-G RAM G (Centre : State):

(a) 80:20

(b) 75:25

(c) 70:30

(d) 60:40

Ans: (d) 60:40 — Centre 60%, States 40%.

Q18. Centre's budget estimate for VB-G RAM G for FY 2026-27:

(a) Rs 72,000 crore

(b) Rs 85,000 crore

(c) Rs 95,692 crore

(d) Rs 1.51 lakh crore

Ans: (c) Rs 95,692 crore (Centre share). Total outlay including states exceeds Rs 1.51 lakh crore.

Q19. Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool (BMIP) total coverage capacity:

(a) USD 500 million

(b) USD 1 billion

(c) USD 1.5 billion

(d) USD 2 billion

Ans: (c) USD 1.5 billion, backed by sovereign guarantee of USD 1.4 billion.

Q20. SBI Research projected India's GDP growth for FY 2025-26 at:

(a) 6.4%

(b) 6.6%

(c) 7.0%

(d) 7.5%

Ans: (d) 7.5% for FY 2025-26. FY 2026-27 projected at 6.6%.

Q21. RBI transferred a record surplus to Government for FY 2025-26 of:

(a) Rs 1.86 lakh crore

(b) Rs 2.11 lakh crore

(c) Rs 2.86 lakh crore

(d) Rs 3.50 lakh crore

Ans: (c) Rs 2.86 lakh crore — record surplus transfer.

Q22. Under SARTHAK-PDS revamp, which AI module serves as real-time beneficiary registry?

(a) ASHA

(b) NIRMAL

(c) SAKSHAM

(d) JANANI

Ans: (b) NIRMAL — real-time AI-driven beneficiary registry.

Q23. SARTHAK-PDS revamped scheme outlay for 16th Finance Commission period:

(a) Rs 18,000 crore

(b) Rs 21,500 crore

(c) Rs 25,530 crore

(d) Rs 30,000 crore

Ans: (c) Rs 25,530 crore.

Q24. Highest MSP increase among Kharif crops for 2026-27 marketing season was given to:

(a) Paddy

(b) Cotton

(c) Sunflower seed

(d) Arhar Dal

Ans: (c) Sunflower seed — Rs 622 per quintal increase.

Q25. US court that struck down Trump's universal tariffs was:

(a) US Supreme Court

(b) US Court of International Trade

(c) US District Court

(d) US Court of Appeals

Ans: (b) US Court of International Trade — ruled 2-1.

Q26. Trump's tariffs were challenged under which section of the 1974 US Trade Act?

(a) Section 101

(b) Section 122

(c) Section 201

(d) Section 301

Ans: (b) Section 122 — permits tariffs only during a serious Balance-of-Payments crisis.

Q27. BRICS FM Meeting (May 2026) concluded without joint statement due to differences on:

(a) India-Pakistan conflict

(b) West Asia/Gaza situation

(c) Ukraine-Russia war

(d) Taiwan Strait tensions

Ans: (b) West Asia situation — one member had reservations on Gaza and Red Sea references.

Q28. How many new districts were created in Ladakh in April 2026?

(a) 3

(b) 4

(c) 5

(d) 6

Ans: (c) 5 new districts — Nubra, Sham, Changthang (from Leh) + Zanskar, Drass (from Kargil).

Q29. Who approved the 5 new Ladakh districts on 27 April 2026?

(a) Kavinder Gupta (LG of Ladakh)

(b) Vinai Kumar Saxena (LG of Ladakh)

(c) LG of J&K

(d) Home Minister Amit Shah

Ans: (b) Vinai Kumar Saxena — LG of Ladakh since 13 March 2026.

Q30. China agreed to purchase how many Boeing aircraft during Trump's visit?

(a) 100

(b) 150

(c) 200

(d) 250

Ans: (c) 200 Boeing aircraft.

Q31. India's bilateral trade with Kenya in the last financial year:

(a) $2.1 billion

(b) $3.5 billion

(c) $4.31 billion

(d) $5.8 billion

Ans: (c) $4.31 billion — grew 24.91% over 2024-25.

Q32. The Bundibugyo strain of Ebola was first identified in:

(a) DRC

(b) Uganda

(c) South Sudan

(d) Nigeria

Ans: (b) Uganda — in 2007.

Q33. Which Indian diplomatic events were postponed due to the Ebola outbreak?

(a) G20 Sherpa meeting

(b) 4th India-Africa Forum Summit + 1st International Big Cat Alliance Summit

(c) BRICS FM Meeting

(d) SCO Defence Ministers Meeting

Ans: (b) Both the India-Africa Forum Summit and International Big Cat Alliance Summit.

Q34. ULPGM-V3 is a missile developed by DRDO for launch from:

(a) Ships

(b) Submarines

(c) Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (drones)

(d) Tanks

Ans: (c) UAV-Launched Precision Guided Missile — DRDO.

Q35. ECLSS in Gaganyaan stands for:

(a) Ecological Circulation and Life Support System

(b) Environmental Control and Life Support System

(c) Emergency Crew Launch Safety System

(d) Extended Cabin Life Support Subsystem

Ans: (b) Environmental Control and Life Support System.

Q36. India's renewable energy capacity as of March 2026:

(a) 200 GW

(b) 240 GW

(c) 274.68 GW

(d) 310 GW

Ans: (c) 274.68 GW.

Q37. India added ___ GW of non-fossil capacity in FY 2025-26 — a record:

(a) 40.2 GW

(b) 47.5 GW

(c) 55.3 GW

(d) 63.1 GW

Ans: (c) 55.3 GW — highest ever in a single year.

Q38. Exercise PRAGATI 2026 was hosted by India for how many nations?

(a) 8

(b) 10

(c) 13

(d) 16

Ans: (c) 13 nations from the Indian Ocean Region.

Q39. Aparna Dahiya won India's first Sanda World Cup gold in which category?

(a) 48 kg

(b) 52 kg

(c) 60 kg

(d) 65 kg

Ans: (b) Women's 52 kg Sanda category, 11th Sanda World Cup, Macau.

Q40. The Pulitzer Prize is administered by:

(a) US State Department

(b) Harvard University

(c) Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism

(d) Reuters Institute, Oxford

Ans: (c) Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.

Q41. India retained No. 1 in ICC Men's T20I rankings with how many points?

(a) 255

(b) 268

(c) 275

(d) 290

Ans: (c) 275 rating points.

Q42. India returned to AFC U-17 Women's Asian Cup after a gap of:

(a) 10 years

(b) 15 years

(c) 21 years

(d) 25 years

Ans: (c) 21 years — first appearance since 2005.

Q43. HCS Mains 2026 is scheduled on:

(a) 15-17 June 2026

(b) 20-22 June 2026

(c) 27-29 June 2026

(d) 5-7 July 2026

Ans: (c) 27-29 June 2026.

Q44. NEET-UG 2026 re-examination was scheduled for:

(a) 10 June 2026

(b) 15 June 2026

(c) 21 June 2026

(d) 30 June 2026

Ans: (c) 21 June 2026.

Q45. India-EU EV Recycling initiative is worth:

(a) Rs 100 crore

(b) Rs 169 crore

(c) Rs 250 crore

(d) Rs 350 crore

Ans: (b) Rs 169 crore.

Q46. VB-G RAM G Act funding structure — Centre bears __% and States bear __% of wage costs:

(a) 80% / 20%

(b) 70% / 30%

(c) 60% / 40%

(d) 50% / 50%

Ans: (c) 60% Centre, 40% States. Key policy change from MGNREGA (Centre bore nearly all costs).

Q47. Which is NOT a feature of VB-G RAM G compared to MGNREGA?

(a) 125-day employment guarantee

(b) 60:40 Centre-State funding

(c) Demand-driven scheme maintained unchanged

(d) Technology-driven monitoring

Ans: (c) VB-G RAM G shifts AWAY from demand-driven to more supply-driven/top-down allocation.

Q48. UCC relates to which article of the Constitution?

(a) Article 40

(b) Article 44

(c) Article 51A

(d) Article 21A

Ans: (b) Article 44 — Directive Principle of State Policy (DPSP).

Q49. The Public Examination Prevention of Unfair Means Act was enacted in:

(a) 2022

(b) 2023

(c) 2024

(d) 2025

Ans: (c) 2024 — invoked in NEET-UG 2026 CBI case.

Q50. SAGAR doctrine stands for:

(a) Strategic Advancement of Global and Arabian Region

(b) Security and Growth for All in the Region

(c) South Asian Growth and Resilience Plan

(d) Safety and Governance for Arabian Region

Ans: (b) Security and Growth for All in the Region — India's IOR policy.

Q51. BMIP was launched by which ministry?

(a) Ministry of Shipping

(b) Ministry of Commerce

(c) Ministry of Finance (Dept. of Financial Services)

(d) Ministry of Defence

Ans: (c) Ministry of Finance, Department of Financial Services.

Q52. RBI's Contingent Risk Buffer (CRB) is part of which framework?

(a) Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code

(b) Basel III

(c) Economic Capital Framework

(d) Prompt Corrective Action

Ans: (c) RBI's Economic Capital Framework.

Q53. PM-AJAY scheme specifically targets welfare of:

(a) OBCs

(b) Scheduled Castes

(c) Scheduled Tribes

(d) EWS

Ans: (b) Scheduled Castes — Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojana.

Q54. Which is CORRECT about Ladakh district reorganisation (April 2026)?

(a) LG Kavinder Gupta approved the new districts

(b) Nubra and Drass were carved from Kargil

(c) Zanskar and Drass from Kargil; Nubra, Sham, Changthang from Leh

(d) Ladakh now has 10 districts total

Ans: (c) Correct. Total = 7 districts. LG is Vinai Kumar Saxena, NOT Kavinder Gupta.

Q55. Who became the 52nd Chief Justice of India in May 2025?

(a) Justice D.Y. Chandrachud

(b) Justice Sanjiv Khanna

(c) Justice B.R. Gavai

(d) Justice Surya Kant

Ans: (c) Justice B.R. Gavai — became 52nd CJI on 14 May 2025.

Q56. Current RBI Governor (as of May 2026):

(a) Shaktikanta Das

(b) Urjit Patel

(c) Sanjay Malhotra

(d) T. Rabi Sankar

Ans: (c) Sanjay Malhotra — took charge December 2024.

Q57. India's all-time peak electricity demand record set on 25 April 2026 was:

(a) 230 GW

(b) 243 GW

(c) 250 GW

(d) Over 256 GW

Ans: (d) Over 256 GW. Previous record 250 GW (May 2024).

Q58. Which Indian journalist won the Pulitzer Prize for International Reporting 2026?

(a) Shri Anand RK

(b) Ms Suparna Sharma

(c) Shri Aniruddha Ghose

(d) Natalie Obiko Pearson

Ans: (c) Shri Aniruddha Ghose — International Reporting category, for investigation into US Border Patrol surveillance tools.

Q59. India-US Critical Minerals pact was signed between:

(a) NSA Ajit Doval and Jake Sullivan

(b) EAM Jaishankar and Secretary Rubio

(c) PM Modi and President Trump

(d) Commerce Minister Goyal and USTR

Ans: (b) EAM Dr S. Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Q60. India's 5-nation Europe-Gulf tour (May 2026) — which country was NOT included?

(a) UAE

(b) Netherlands

(c) Germany

(d) Norway

Ans: (c) Germany. The five nations were: UAE, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Italy.

Quick Revision — 55 One-Liners

Key Dates Calendar — May / June 2026

HCS Mains 2026 was held on 27 to 29 June 2026