Union Cabinet Approves ₹60,000 Cr Skilling Scheme, IIT Expansion, and Revised SHAKTI Policy for Coal Allocation.

The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a major scheme focused on upgrading Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and establishing five National Centres of Excellence (NCOEs) for Skilling. The objective is to train over 2 million young individuals with practical, industry-relevant skills over the coming five years, addressing the growing demand for a skilled workforce in various sectors.

      - This skilling initiative will be implemented as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS), with a total budgetary outlay of ₹60,000 crore.

      - The financial backing for this scheme has been outlined in the Union Budgets for the years 2024–25 and 2025–26, reflecting the government’s strong commitment to vocational training and youth empowerment.

      - In a parallel move to strengthen India’s higher education ecosystem, the Cabinet has approved the expansion of academic and infrastructure facilities at five newly established Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). These institutions are located in Andhra Pradesh (IIT Tirupati), Kerala (IIT Palakkad), Chhattisgarh (IIT Bhilai), Jammu & Kashmir (IIT Jammu), and Karnataka (IIT Dharwad), and will now be equipped to accommodate greater student intake and advanced research initiatives.

Main Point :-   (i) Additionally, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by the Prime Minister, has approved a revised version of the SHAKTI policy — an initiative aimed at improving the coal allocation process for the power sector.

      (ii) The updated policy focuses on providing both short-term and long-term coal linkages with increased transparency and operational flexibility.

(iii) The SHAKTI scheme, first introduced in 2017, was designed to offer a more structured and fair system for coal distribution through auction-based or tariff-based bidding mechanisms. With the revised guidelines now in place, the government aims to ensure a steady coal supply to power producers, supporting energy stability and sectoral efficiency.

GoI Rolls Out Chip-Enabled E-Passports for Enhanced Traveller Security.

In May 2025, the Government of India (GoI) has officially launched chip-based e-passports nationwide to strengthen travel security and streamline the experience for international passengers. These advanced passports are designed with Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology and an embedded antenna, making them significantly more secure and harder to tamper with.

      - The primary advantage of these e-passports lies in their enhanced capacity to safeguard the passport holder’s personal and biometric data, ensuring that the information remains accurate and tamper-proof throughout international travel.

Main Point :-   (i) The rollout of these e-passports began on a pilot basis on April 1, 2024, under the Passport Seva Programme – Version 2.0 (PSP-V2.0). This phased implementation allowed authorities to test and optimize the system before full-scale deployment.

      (ii) Each e-passport comes with a secure chip that stores the encrypted biometric and personal data of the individual, making it significantly more difficult for fraudsters to duplicate or forge the document.

(iii) In addition to the introduction of e-passports, the GoI has also updated various passport regulations in 2025, focusing on improving security, privacy, and ensuring greater inclusivity in the passport issuance process.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal Highlights India’s Clean Energy Leadership at Columbia India Energy Dialogue in New Delhi.

In May 2025, Union Minister Piyush Goyal of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoC&I) addressed the Columbia India Energy Dialogue in New Delhi, where he underscored India's role as a global leader in the clean energy transition and reiterated the country’s commitment to inclusive and equitable climate action.

      - The dialogue brought together influential stakeholders from both India and the United States of America (USA) to explore collaborative strategies aimed at advancing clean energy solutions and addressing the global challenge of climate change.

      - This event was organized by the India Program at the Center on Global Energy Policy (CGEP), which is part of Columbia University's School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA). It was held in collaboration with the Columbia Global Center in Mumbai, Maharashtra.

Main Point :-   (i) Union Minister Piyush Goyal addressed the Columbia India Energy Dialogue, emphasizing the global urgency of climate change and stressing the need for universal commitment based on the Common But Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR) principle. He also highlighted India’s leadership in clean energy, achieving its 2030 renewable energy target of 200 GW in 2022, 8 years ahead of schedule, with solar capacity growing over 30 times in a decade.

      (ii) India's energy infrastructure has been significantly strengthened, with the establishment of a 500 GW interconnected national grid under the 2014 initiative, ensuring 24/7 affordable energy access across regions. This grid facilitates high levels of clean energy integration and supports India’s transition to greener energy solutions, boosting sustainability, economic growth, and energy security at national and regional levels.

(iii) Minister Goyal also urged Columbia University to collaborate with India’s Institutes of Eminence, proposing the establishment of a campus in India. This collaboration would enhance bilateral research, innovation, and education in clean energy technologies and sustainability. The minister’s call reflects India’s growing role as a global leader in clean energy and its efforts to foster international partnerships for climate action.

India and UK Finalize Free Trade Agreement and Sign Pact on Double Taxation Avoidance.

In May 2025, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer jointly announced the conclusion of a landmark India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), along with the signing of a Double Contribution Convention aimed at promoting bilateral trade, investment, and economic collaboration.

      - This FTA is designed to support India’s vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India) 2047 and is poised to deepen India’s engagement in global supply and value chains.

Main Point :-   (i) The India-UK FTA offers zero-duty market access to 99% of Indian exports to the UK, effectively covering nearly the entire trade volume and providing a major boost to India’s export sector.

      (ii) Currently, the bilateral trade between India and the UK stands at USD 60 billion, and the agreement is projected to double this figure by the year 2030, enhancing economic cooperation and mutual growth.

(iii) The Double Contribution Convention, signed alongside the FTA, seeks to eliminate the risk of double taxation for workers who are temporarily assigned across both nations, promoting smoother labor mobility and cross-border employment.

India Debuts First Mortgage-Backed Pass Through Certificates on National Stock Exchange (NSE).

In May 2025, M. Nagaraju, Secretary of the Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance (MoF), officially listed India’s first-ever mortgage-backed Pass Through Certificates (PTCs) on the National Stock Exchange (NSE) in Mumbai, Maharashtra. These instruments were structured by the Mumbai-based RMBS Development Company Limited. The listing aims to deepen liquidity in the housing finance sector and attract long-term capital from institutional investors.

      - The listed PTCs are supported by a pool of home loans originated by LIC Housing Finance Limited (LIC HFL), also headquartered in Mumbai. The issue consisted of 1,00,000 units with a face value of ₹1,00,000 each, aggregating to ₹1,000 crore. The offering was fully subscribed, reflecting robust demand from investors.

      - This event marks the first time in India that the coupon rate for a PTC issuance was determined via the NSE’s Electronic Book Provider (EBP) platform—enhancing transparency and price discovery in the market.

Main Point :-   (i) The PTCs offer a fixed annual coupon of 7.26% and have an expected maturity of around 20 years, making them suitable for long-term investment portfolios.

      (ii) These securities have been rated AAA(SO) by prominent rating agencies—CRISIL and CARE Ratings—signifying the highest safety regarding the timely repayment of financial obligations under the Structured Obligation (SO) category.

(iii) Issued in dematerialized form, the PTCs are fully transferable and can be traded in the secondary market, thereby ensuring liquidity and ease of exit for investors.

PM Modi Reveals India’s Vision for Space at GLEX 2025.

In May 2025, Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi addressed the 12th Global Conference on Space Exploration (GLEX 2025) through video conference. He underscored India's dedication to collaborative space exploration and emphasized that the nation’s space journey focuses on collective progress rather than rivalry.

      - The event, held from May 7-9, 2025, took place in New Delhi, Delhi, and was organized by the Paris-based International Astronautical Federation (IAF) in association with the Bengaluru-based Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Astronautical Society of India (ASI).

Main Point :-   (i) PM Modi highlighted the significance of the Chandrayaan missions in lunar exploration. Chandrayaan-1 (2008) was pivotal in discovering water on the Moon, Chandrayaan-2 (2019) provided high-resolution images, and Chandrayaan-3 (2023) made India the first country to land near the Moon's south pole.

      (ii) In 2014, India's Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) (Mangalyaan) made India the first Asian country to reach Mars orbit, and the first in the world to do so on its maiden attempt.

(iii) India plans to establish its own space station, the Bharatiya Antariksha Station, by 2035.

Kotak Mahindra Bank Introduces Solitaire Credit Card Tailored for HNIs.

In May 2025, Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited (KMBL), based in Mumbai, Maharashtra, introduced the Kotak Solitaire Credit Card, a premium, invite-only metal credit card designed specifically for High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs). This card is part of the bank’s exclusive Solitaire Program and offers a range of benefits aimed at enhancing the lifestyle of frequent travelers, including extensive travel perks, superior rewards, and no extra charges on foreign transactions.

      - Eligibility for the Kotak Solitaire Credit Card is restricted to customers who are part of the Solitaire Program and have a Total Relationship Value (TRV) of Rs. 75 lakh for savings accounts or Rs. 1 crore for current accounts. This makes it an exclusive offering targeting the upper echelons of the banking clientele.

      - The rewards program associated with the card is generous, offering 10 air miles per Rs. 100 spent on flight and hotel bookings through the Kotak Unbox platform. For other eligible expenses, cardholders earn 3 air miles per Rs. 100 spent. Importantly, the air miles earned are valid for 3 years and can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, or shopping vouchers, providing flexibility to the cardholder.

      - In terms of travel benefits, the Kotak Solitaire Credit Card stands out by offering unlimited lounge access to both primary and add-on cardholders, which includes domestic and international lounges. The card also offers 4 complimentary guest lounge visits annually (split between 2 domestic and 2 international lounges), ensuring that cardholders have a premium experience when traveling.

Main Point :-   (i) Furthermore, the card provides zero forex markup on international transactions, making it an ideal choice for frequent travelers who often make purchases abroad. Additionally, cardholders enjoy a 1% fuel surcharge waiver on transactions ranging from Rs. 400 to Rs. 7,500, with a maximum waiver of Rs. 10,000 per card anniversary year, offering extra savings for regular fuel users.

      (ii) The annual fee for the Kotak Solitaire Credit Card is Rs. 25,000 + taxes, though it is waived for customers who maintain the required eligibility under the Solitaire Program. There is also no joining fee, making it an attractive proposition for HNIs looking for a card with long-term benefits.

(iii) With these exclusive features, the Kotak Solitaire Credit Card is tailored to meet the needs of India's affluent individuals, offering them enhanced travel experiences, valuable rewards, and an array of privileges that align with their lifestyle.

CK Birla Group Rebrands Itself as The CKA Birla Group.

In May 2025, the CK Birla Group, a New Delhi (Delhi)-based conglomerate with a rich legacy of over 170 years, unveiled its rebranding to 'The CKA Birla Group.' This strategic shift reflects the Group's transformation from a manufacturing-focused entity to a future-driven enterprise with an emphasis on technology and services.

      - The rebranding marks a significant step in the Group's evolution, highlighting its commitment to becoming a services-oriented organization with technology at the forefront.

      - This change also underscores the importance of empowering people, recognizing diverse talents, and fostering leadership for continued success.

Main Point :-   The CKA Birla Group operates across multiple sectors with a diverse portfolio, including companies such as Birlasoft Limited, GMMCO Limited, National Engineering Industries Limited (NBC Bearings), BirlaNu Limited (formerly HIL Limited), Orient Electric Limited, CK Birla Healthcare (CK Birla Hospitals and Birla Fertility & IVF), Orient Paper & Industries Limited, AVTEC Limited, and Neosym Industry Limited.

NIRL Enters PPA with RVUNL for 810 MW Solar Power Project in Rajasthan.

In May 2025, Neyveli (Tamil Nadu)-based Neyveli Lignite Corporation (NLC) India Renewables Limited (NIRL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of NLC India Limited, entered into a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Rajasthan Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited (RVUNL) for its 810 Megawatt (MW) solar power project.

      - The project, awarded through competitive tariff-based bidding by RVUNL, will be implemented under Mode 8 of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy's (MNRE) Ultra Mega Renewable Energy Power Park (UMREPP) Scheme.

      - The 810 MW solar project will be developed at the Pugal Solar Park in the Bikaner district of Rajasthan, an area characterized by barren land and abundant solar radiation, ideal for solar power generation.

Main Point :-   (i) Once operational, the solar power project is expected to generate around 2 Billion Units (BU) of green electricity annually, contributing to India’s renewable energy targets.

      (ii) The project will also help in reducing carbon emissions, with an estimated offset of 1.5 Million Metric Tonnes (MMT) of CO2 every year.

(iii) NLC India Limited was the first Central Public Sector Undertaking (CPSU) in India to set up 1 GW of renewable energy projects.

Senior INC Leader KC Venugopal Reappointed as Chairperson of Public Accounts Committee (PAC).

In May 2025, senior Indian National Congress (INC) leader KC Venugopal was recently reappointed as Chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the Parliament of India by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. His tenure will last until April 2026.

      - This reappointment follows the 1967 convention of selecting the PAC Chairperson from the principal opposition party in the Lok Sabha, ensuring non-partisan oversight of public finances.

      - KC Venugopal presently serves as the Chairperson of PAC and as General Secretary (Organisation) of the All India Congress Committee (AICC).

      - His political experience includes serving as Rajya Sabha MP (2020–2024), Union MoS for Civil Aviation (2012–2014), MoS for Power (2011–2012), and as a Kerala MLA (1996–2009).

Main Point :-   (i) The Public Accounts Committee was established in 1921 (pre-independence) and reconstituted in 1950. It plays a vital role in ensuring accountability in public expenditure through audit reports by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG).

      (ii) The PAC comprises 22 members — 15 from Lok Sabha and 7 from Rajya Sabha — and is responsible for reviewing government expenditures, ensuring they align with Parliament’s approvals.

TPG Buys 35% Stake in SCHOTT Poonawalla from SII in Strategic Investment Deal.

In May 2025, Germany-based SCHOTT Pharma AG & Co. announced that United States (USA)-based global investment firm TPG Inc. has signed a binding agreement to acquire a 35% stake in its Indian joint venture (JV), SCHOTT Poonawalla Private Limited, from Pune (Maharashtra)-based Serum Institute of India Private Limited (SII), a key part of the Cyrus Poonawalla Group.

      - This strategic acquisition aims to scale pharmaceutical packaging innovations and further strengthen the JV’s position in the global healthcare ecosystem.

      - The transaction is routed through TPG Growth, TPG’s middle-market and growth equity platform. Novo Holdings A/S, based in Denmark, has joined as a co-investor, showcasing a strong global interest in India’s pharma packaging sector.

Main Point :-   (i) After the deal, SCHOTT Pharma will retain its 50% stake in the joint venture, while SII will hold a minority stake, ensuring continued collaboration across the entities.

      (ii) The partnership is set to enhance SCHOTT Poonawalla’s capacity to deliver high-quality pharmaceutical packaging solutions that meet international standards, reinforcing its role in supporting the global healthcare value chain.

(iii) Serum Institute of India (SII), part of the Cyrus Poonawalla Group, is the world’s largest vaccine manufacturer by volume. It was founded in 1966 by Dr. Cyrus Poonawalla.

Airtel Africa Collaborates with SpaceX’s Starlink to Boost Satellite Internet Connectivity Across Africa.

In May 2025, New Delhi (Delhi)-based Bharti Airtel’s subsidiary, Airtel Africa, partnered with Space Exploration Technologies Corporation (SpaceX) of the United States, led by Elon Musk, to deploy Starlink’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite internet services across the African continent.

      - As of May 2025, SpaceX has received operating licenses in 9 out of the 14 countries where Airtel Africa operates. The remaining 5 countries are in the regulatory clearance phase.

      - This strategic partnership aims to strengthen digital connectivity for enterprises, small businesses, schools, and health centers, particularly in remote and underserved areas of Africa.

      - By leveraging Starlink’s LEO satellite technology, Airtel Africa plans to offer broader internet coverage and greater network resilience across its markets.

Main Point :-   (i) Airtel Africa is also exploring rural expansion using cellular backhaul solutions powered by satellite infrastructure, enabling better access in areas lacking fiber connectivity.

      (ii) Airtel Africa currently operates in 14 countries: Chad, DRC, Gabon, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Niger, Nigeria, Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Seychelles, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia.

(iii) As of May 2025, Starlink’s satellite internet service is available in over 125 countries and territories globally, covering all seven continents.

Paras Defence and Israel’s HevenDrones Form Joint Venture to Produce Hydrogen-Powered Drones in India.

In May 2025, Navi Mumbai (Maharashtra)-based Paras Defence & Space Technologies Limited, a prominent Indian defence engineering company, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Israel-based HevenDrones Limited, a subsidiary of the United States of America (USA)-based Heven, to form a Joint Venture (JV). The partnership aims to design, manufacture, and supply hydrogen-powered drones, marking a first-of-its-kind initiative in India.

      - The JV is aligned with the Government of India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative, intending to indigenously develop next-generation Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) with cutting-edge hydrogen fuel cell technology.

      - The hydrogen-powered drones will offer extended flight endurance, modular payload capability, and ready-to-fly configurations, making them suitable for a range of commercial and defence applications.

      - These drones are designed to support operations in remote and border logistics, tactical surveillance, high-altitude missions, and defence supply chains, addressing India’s growing strategic and logistic needs.

Main Point :-   (i) HevenDrones will contribute the core technology, working prototypes, and production manuals to the JV, bringing advanced drone development expertise from Israel.

      (ii) Paras Defence will oversee the manufacturing, regulatory compliance, sales, and operational execution of the JV within India, ensuring seamless integration and scaling.

(iii) The JV’s board will include members from both Paras Defence and HevenDrones. A Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Chief Financial Officer (CFO), and Chief Operating Officer (COO) will be jointly appointed to manage the company’s operations.

Rohit Sharma Announces His Retirement from Test Cricket.

Rohit Gurunath Sharma, one of India’s most celebrated cricketers, officially announced his retirement from Test cricket on May 7, 2025. The decision, effective immediately, came after a string of lackluster performances. Despite stepping away from red-ball cricket, Rohit confirmed he would continue playing in One Day Internationals (ODIs) for India.

      - Rohit made a memorable Test debut in 2013 against the West Indies at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, scoring 177 runs—then the second-highest score on Test debut by an Indian. His calm temperament and stroke-making ability made him a valuable middle-order batsman initially, before transitioning into an opener later in his career.

      - Over a span of 12 years, Rohit played 67 Test matches, scoring 4,301 runs at an average of 40.57. His record includes 12 centuries and 18 half-centuries, with a personal best of 212 runs against South Africa in Ranchi in 2019. He was especially dominant on home soil and known for converting starts into big scores.

      - Rohit sharma took over India’s Test captaincy in February 2022 and led the team in 24 matches, securing 12 wins, mostly at home. His leadership style was marked by composure, strategic field placements, and efficient use of bowlers, although overseas success was limited.

Main Point :-   (i) Rohit Sharma holds the world record for the highest individual score in ODI cricket — a stunning 264 runs against Sri Lanka in 2014. He is also the only cricketer to have scored three ODI double centuries, showcasing his dominance in the 50-over format. As of May 2025, he continues to be a crucial part of India’s ODI setup.

      (ii) Under his captaincy, India won the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup and the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, cementing his status as a successful white-ball captain. Post the T20 World Cup 2024 win, he retired from T20 Internationals. As of May 2025, Rohit ranks 3rd in the ICC Men’s ODI Batting Rankings, following Shubman Gill and Babar Azam.

(iii) Rohit was conferred the Arjuna Award in 2015 and Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in 2020, recognizing his excellence in Indian sports. Beyond cricket, since 2018, he has served as the brand ambassador of WWF India’s Rhino Conservation Initiative, reflecting his commitment to wildlife preservation.

China Wins 14th Title at BWF Sudirman Cup 2025.

In May 2025, China claimed its 14th BWF Sudirman Cup title, marking a historic fourth consecutive victory. The team defeated South Korea 3-1 in the final, held in Xiamen, Fujian Province, China.

      - The 19th edition of the BWF Sudirman Cup took place from April 27 to May 4, 2025, at the Fenghuang Gymnasium. The competition featured the world’s top badminton players competing in mixed-team events, with China emerging victorious once again.

      - In the mixed doubles, Feng Yanzhe and Huang Dongping of China defeated South Korea’s Seo Seung-jae and Chae Yu-jung. South Korea’s An Se-young beat China’s Wang Zhiyi in the women’s singles, while China’s Shi Yuqi dominated the men’s singles, defeating Jeon Hyeok-jin of South Korea 21-5, 21-5. In women’s doubles, Liu Shengshu and Tan Ning from China sealed the victory with a 21-14, 21-18 win.

Main Point :-   (i) India participated in the tournament but did not advance past the group stage. Despite securing a 3-2 win against England, India faced defeats against Denmark and Indonesia, finishing 9th among the 16 competing nations.

      (ii) Sudirman Cup History: Established in 1989 and named after Dick Sudirman, the founder of the Badminton Association of Indonesia, the Sudirman Cup is a biennial event that features mixed-team badminton competitions. It is considered one of the sport’s premier tournaments, alongside the Thomas Cup and Uber Cup.

(iii) China has been the most successful nation in the Sudirman Cup, winning a total of 14 titles. South Korea has won the tournament four times, while Indonesia has claimed one title.

World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day Observed on 8 May 2025.

World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day is observed every year on May 8 to recognize and honor the humanitarian efforts and principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. The day also raises awareness of the importance of humanitarian aid and community support during crises.

      - The 2025 theme is "Keeping Humanity Alive", emphasizing the commitment to compassion, relief work, and solidarity in times of need.

Main Point :-   (i) The movement is guided by seven fundamental principles: Humanity, Impartiality, Neutrality, Independence, Voluntary Service, Unity, and Universality.

      (ii) This day also marks the birth anniversary of Henry Dunant, the founder of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the first Nobel Peace Prize laureate.

(iii) The first International Red Cross Day was celebrated on May 8, 1948, and it has since evolved into a global observance under the name World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day.

World Thalassaemia Day Observed on 8 May 2025.

World Thalassaemia Day, also known as International Thalassaemia Day (ITD), is observed annually on May 8 across the globe. The day aims to raise awareness about thalassaemia, an inherited blood disorder that results in lower levels of haemoglobin, affecting the oxygen-carrying capacity of red blood cells. It also celebrates the global thalassaemia community and advocates for improved care and rights for those living with the condition.

      - The theme of World Thalassaemia Day 2025 is “Together for Thalassaemia: Uniting Communities, Prioritizing Patients”. It emphasizes a shift toward a more patient-centered and inclusive approach to healthcare. The slogans for ITD 2025 are "WeAre1" and "PatientsFirst", which underline unity and the importance of placing patients at the core of medical efforts and policy-making.

      - The observance is led by the Thalassaemia International Federation (TIF), a key organization working toward the prevention and management of thalassaemia. The day also serves as a platform to acknowledge the challenges, healthcare needs, and social issues faced by individuals affected by the disorder.

      - World Thalassaemia Day was established in 1994 by Panos Englezos, the president and founder of TIF. It was created in memory of his son, George Englezos, who passed away due to complications from thalassaemia. The initiative seeks to unite people globally to fight this condition through education, prevention, and treatment awareness.

Main Point :-   (i) Thalassaemia is a genetic blood disorder that impairs haemoglobin production. It is passed from parents to children through mutated haemoglobin genes. Symptoms commonly include chronic anemia, fatigue, pale skin, and breathlessness. Over time, if untreated, it can result in serious organ damage.

      (ii) There are primarily two types: Alpha thalassaemia, which results from mutations affecting alpha-globin production, and Beta thalassaemia, caused by beta-globin gene mutations. Beta thalassaemia is the more severe form and often requires regular blood transfusions and ongoing medical care.

(iii) Individuals with thalassaemia may suffer from complications such as heart, liver, lung, and endocrine gland damage, largely due to iron overload and anemia. In addition to physical health issues, patients may also experience mental health challenges and societal stigma, making access to holistic care even more crucial.

Haryana Govt Launches 'Pandit Lakhmi Chand Kalakar Samajik Samman Yojana' to Support Senior Artistes and Art Scholars.

In May 2025, the Haryana Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, approved the implementation of a new welfare scheme titled "Pandit Lakhmi Chand Kalakar Samajik Samman Yojana". This initiative is aimed at supporting senior artistes and art scholars across the state who have made notable contributions to the cultural and artistic heritage of Haryana.

      - As part of the scheme, eligible senior artistes will be provided with a monthly honorarium of ₹10,000 to offer financial stability and recognize their lifetime dedication to the field of art.

      - The initiative seeks to enhance the socio-economic well-being of these individuals by acknowledging their valuable roles in preserving and promoting artistic traditions.

      - The scheme not only honors their legacy but also reinforces the Haryana government's commitment to cultural preservation and the upliftment of the artistic community.

Main Point :-   (i) Under the Pandit Lakhmi Chand Kalakar Samajik Samman Yojana, any resident of Haryana who has contributed to the field of art for at least 20 years is eligible. This includes artists involved in singing, acting, drama, painting, or other visual art forms. Additionally, the applicant must be 60 years or older, as verified through the Parivar Pehchan Patra (PPP), Haryana's family identification document.

      (ii) The scheme offers a monthly honorarium based on the applicant's annual income. Those with an income up to ₹1.80 lakh per year will receive ₹10,000 per month. If the annual income falls between ₹1.80 lakh and ₹3 lakh, the beneficiary will receive ₹7,000 per month. This tiered support aims to provide financial relief tailored to the economic conditions of senior artistes.

(iii) Applications for the scheme will be accepted through an online platform. After an initial verification by the concerned department, a dedicated committee will evaluate the applications. The committee will then finalize a merit list of eligible beneficiaries, ensuring transparency and fairness in the selection process.

Question : What is the total outlay for the recently approved Centrally Sponsored Scheme to upgrade ITIs and skill over 2 million youth?

Question : The Government of India (GoI) recently introduced which type of passports for enhanced security of travellers?

Question : Who recently highlighted India’s leadership in clean energy transition at the Columbia India Energy Dialogue in New Delhi?

Question : What significant financial instrument did India recently list for the first time on the National Stock Exchange (NSE)?

Question : At which international event did PM Modi discuss India’s space exploration vision and commitment to collaborative advancement?

Question : In which state will the 810 MW solar power project, signed under the PPA between NIRL and RVUNL, be developed?

Question : Which bank recently launched the Solitaire Credit Card tailored for High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs)?

Question : In May 2025, which Indian conglomerate rebranded itself as 'The CKA Birla Group'?

Question : Which global investment firm recently signed a binding agreement to acquire a 35% stake in SCHOTT Poonawalla Private Limited?

Question : Which telecom company recently partnered with SpaceX to deliver Starlink's satellite internet services across Africa?

Question : Which Israel-based company recently signed an MoU with Paras Defence to manufacture hydrogen-powered drones in India?

Question : Who recently announced his retirement from Test cricket in May 2025?

Question : Which country recently won its 14th title at the BWF Sudirman Cup 2025?

Question : Recently, when was World Thalassaemia Day 2025 observed globally?

Question : Recently, which state government launched the 'Pandit Lakhmi Chand Kalakar Samajik Samman Yojana' to support senior artists and art scholars?

Question : With which country did India recently conclude a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and a Double Contribution Convention in May 2025?

Question : Who has recently been reappointed as the Chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the Indian Parliament?

Question : Recently, on which date was World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day 2025 observed?