09th May 2025

1. Actor Sonu Sood Honoured for Philanthropic Work During COVID-19
2. Kotak Bank Launches Solitaire Credit Card for Premium Travellers
3. FIFA Announces Host Cities for 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil
4. Ajoy Chawla to Succeed C.K. Venkataraman as Titan’s MD from January 2026
5. Ladakh Now Home to 477 Snow Leopards: A Conservation Milestone
6. Delhi to Conduct Five Cloud-Seeding Trials with IIT-Kanpur’s Expertise
7. Starlink Gets Government Nod: A New Era in Satellite Connectivity
8. INS Kiltan Showcases Indian Naval Prowess at IMDEX Asia 2025
9. Kozhikode Joins WHO’s Global Age-Friendly Cities Network
10. Quad Concludes Simulation to Boost Indo-Pacific Humanitarian Logistics
11. Vietnam Launches 10-Year Golden Visa to Attract IndianIndias and Tourists
12. ECB Bans Transgender Women from Women’s Cricket Following Supreme Court Ruling
13. INS Arnala: India’s First Indigenous Anti-Submarine Shallow Water Craft Delivered
14. Robert Francis Prevost Becomes Elected Next Pope, Takes Name Leo XIV
15. India Celebrates Rabindranath Tagore’s 164th Birth Anniversary: Honouring the Bard of Bengal
16. India-Vietnam Strengthen Buddhist Ties with New MoU
17. BRO Celebrates its Foundation on May 7th
18. Amex and HSBC Top Credit Card Additions Among Foreign Banks in FY25
19. Arunachal Pradesh Drills First Geothermal Production Well
20. SMLME 2025 Kicks Off in Dubai with Major Maritime Announcements
21. ‘Operation Abhyas’: Bengaluru Conducts Civil Defence Mock Drill Amid Rising Tensions
22. VoTAN: A Global Support Network for Victims of Terrorism
23. Maharashtra Government Announces Biopic on Ahilyabai Holkar for 300th Birth Anniversary
24. Maharashtra Launches ‘Adishakti Abhiyan’ for Women’s Empowerment
25. Kerala Launches ‘Jyothi’ Scheme to Educate Migrant Children
26. Union Minister Piyush Goyal Addresses Columbia India Energy Dialogue in New Delhi
27. India & UK Conclude FTA and Double Contribution Convention
28. India Lists First Mortgage-Backed Pass Through Certificates on NSE
29. PM Modi Unveils India’s Space Roadmap at GLEX 2025
30. Kotak Mahindra Bank Launched Solitaire Credit Card for HNIs
31. NIRL Signs PPA with RVUNL for 810 MW Solar Project in Rajasthan
32. Senior INC Leader KC Venugopal Reappointed as PAC Chairperson
33. TPG Acquires 35% Stake in SCHOTT Poonawalla from SII
34. Airtel Africa Partners with SpaceX’s Starlink to Expand Satellite Internet Services in Africa
35. India’s Paras Defence & Israel’s HevenDrones Established JV to Manufacture Hydrogen-Powered Drones
36. China Clinches 14th Title at BWF Sudirman Cup 2025
37. World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day 2025 – May 8
38. Haryana Govt Announces ‘Pandit Lakhmi Chand Kalakar Samajik Samman Yojana’ for Senior Artistes, Art scholars
39. Tamil Nadu CM Officially Declares May 5 as Traders’ Day

National News

1. Rabindranath Tagore Jayanti 2025 Celebrated Across India

• What:
  • Rabindranath Tagore Jayanti 2025 marks the 164th birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore, a legendary figure in Indian literature and culture.
• Why:
  • The day is observed to pay tribute to Tagore’s remarkable legacy in literature, music, art, and education.
• Tell me more:
  • Tagore Jayanti is celebrated every year on the 25th day of the Bengali month of Boishakh, usually in April or May, with cultural programs, recitations, and performances based on his works.
  • Tagore, born on May 7, 1861, in Kolkata, was the first non-European to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913 and composed the national anthems of India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.
  • The celebrations are especially prominent in West Bengal, with processions, prayers, and events at his birthplace, Jorasanko Thakurbari, and by schools and cultural organisations.

Source: ET

2. Columbia India Energy Dialogue in New Delhi

• What:
  • Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal addressed the Columbia India Energy Dialogue in New Delhi, highlighting India’s leadership in the global energy transition and commitment to inclusive and equitable climate action.
• Why:
  • The purpose was to emphasize the collective responsibility of all nations in tackling climate change and to reiterate India’s commitment to finding unique solutions for a sustainable energy future.
• Tell me more:
  • India achieved its 2030 renewable energy target of 200 GW in 2022, with solar power growing over 30 times in the last decade.
  • India has created a 500-gigawatt interconnected national grid ensuring affordable 24/7 energy access and supports clean energy integration.
  • India accounts for only 3% of global carbon emissions despite having 17% of the world’s population and consistently submits reports to the UNFCCC on time.

Source: PIB

3. Global Conference on Space Exploration 2025

• What:
  • Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the Global Conference on Space Exploration 2025, highlighting India’s major space achievements and future goals.
• Why:
  • The address aimed to showcase India’s progress in space technology and promote the idea of space as a tool for collective global progress and human benefit.
• Tell me more:
  • India became the first country to land near the Moon’s South Pole and completed a successful Mars mission on the first attempt in 2014.
  • Indian rockets have launched over 400 satellites for 34 countries and achieved docking of two satellites in space this year.
  • Chandrayaan missions discovered water on the Moon, delivered high-resolution lunar images, and enhanced understanding of the Moon’s South Pole.
  • The G20 Satellite Mission was introduced during India’s G20 Presidency as a contribution to the Global South.
  • India has opened the space sector to startups and youth, with over 250 space startups innovating in various technologies.

Source: PIB

State News

1. Ladakh Records World’s Highest Snow Leopard Density

• What:
  • A new study published in PLOS ONE shows Ladakh has the world’s highest snow leopard density, with about 68% (477 individuals) of India’s total estimated 709 snow leopards.
• Why:
  • The study aimed to assess snow leopard distribution and population in Ladakh and develop a strong assessment approach for conservation.
• Tell me more:
  • Snow leopards in Ladakh occupy 47,572 km², with Hemis National Park reporting the highest density at 2.07 animals per 100 km².
  • The survey covered 59,150 km² using occupancy surveys, camera traps, and habitat modeling, making it the most intensive snow leopard survey in Ladakh.
  • About 39% of snow leopards live mainly in protected areas, and 57% use these areas for movement.
  • High density is linked to Ladakhi cultural values, prey availability, conservation efforts, rugged landscapes, low human density, and involvement of local communities.
  • The study found more snow leopards where there are more wild prey, livestock, rugged terrain, and fewer human settlements.

Source: DTE

2. Delhi Government Approves Cloud-Seeding Trials to Fight Air Pollution

• What:
  • The Delhi government has approved five cloud-seeding trials with an outlay of three crore 21 lakh rupees to combat air pollution.
• Why:
  • The trials aim to test the effectiveness of cloud seeding as a scientific method to reduce air pollution in Delhi.
• Tell me more:
  • Each cloud-seeding trial will cost 55 lakh rupees, with a total estimated expenditure of two crore 75 lakh rupees for the trials.
  • The first trial is expected between May and June 2025, covering about 100 square kilometres, mainly on the outskirts of Delhi.
  • The project will be implemented by IIT Kanpur, which will handle planning, aircraft deployment, chemical dispersal, scientific modelling, and operational logistics.

Source: NOA

3. Northeast India’s First Geothermal Well Drilled in Arunachal

• What:
  • The Centre for Earth Sciences and Himalayan Studies (CESHS) has successfully drilled Northeast India’s first geothermal production well at Dirang in Arunachal Pradesh’s West Kameng district.
• Why:
  • The project aims to provide sustainable, eco-friendly energy solutions for the region’s high-altitude terrain.
• Tell me more:
  • The project is a result of collaboration between CESHS, Norwegian Geotechnical Institute, Icelandic firm Geotropy ehf, and Guwahati Boring Service, and is supported by the Government of Arunachal Pradesh and the Ministry of Earth Sciences.
  • CESHS plans to scale up operations with deeper drilling, aiming to make Dirang India’s first geothermal-powered city for space heating.

Source: ET

4. Maharashtra to Produce Grand Biopic on Ahilyabai Holkar

• What:
  • The Maharashtra government has announced the production of a grand biopic on Maratha queen Ahilyabai Holkar to mark her 300th birth anniversary.
• Why:
  • The film aims to celebrate and honour the legacy of Ahilyabai Holkar, known for her progressive rule and contributions to society.
• Tell me more:
  • The biopic will be made in Marathi and other regional languages and released on Doordarshan and major OTT platforms.
  • The project will be executed by the Maharashtra Film, Theatre and Cultural Development Corporation, with Film City in Goregaon overseeing production.
  • The Maharashtra Cabinet has also announced the Adishakti Abhiyan campaign to strengthen grassroots women’s empowerment and promote women’s participation in the Panchayati Raj system.
    • Adishakti Awards will be introduced to reward outstanding work, with Gram Panchayats evaluated annually and award ceremonies held in March.

Source: IT N18

5. Kerala Launches ‘Jyothi’ Programme for Migrant Children’s Education

• What:
  • The Kerala government has launched the “Jyothi” initiative to ensure access to education for children of migrant workers.
• Why:
  • The programme aims to bring all children of migrant workers aged 3 to 6 into anganwadis and integrate those aged 6 and above into public schools, promoting educational and cultural inclusion.
• Tell me more:
  • Kerala has over 35 lakh migrant workers, many living with their families, making it important to extend the state’s legacy of universal and free public education to their children.
  • The initiative focuses on advancing the welfare and empowerment of migrant workers and their families.
  • “Jyothi” also seeks to foster cultural inclusion for migrant children in Kerala.
  • The programme reaffirms the Kerala Government’s commitment to inclusive development and the welfare of all communities in the state.

Source: ET

6. NIRL Signs PPA with RVUNL for 810 MW Solar Power

• What:
  • NLC India Renewables Ltd (NIRL) has signed a Power Purchase Agreement with Rajasthan Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Ltd (RVUNL) to supply 810 MW of solar power from the upcoming Pugal Solar Park in Bikaner, Rajasthan.
• Why:
  • The agreement aims to help Rajasthan meet its renewable energy targets and support India’s national goals for clean energy and decarbonisation.
• Tell me more:
  • RVUNL will get solar power at a fixed tariff for a set period, supporting stable and large-scale renewable energy procurement.
  • The Pugal Solar Park is expected to become a major solar generation hub in western Rajasthan due to high solar irradiation and available land.
  • NIRL is also developing rooftop solar, floating solar, and wind power projects in several states.
  • The agreement reflects a trend of state utilities moving towards long-term renewable contracts instead of relying on spot markets.

Source: APAC

7. Pandit Lakhmi Chand Kalakar Samajik Samman Yojana Launched in Haryana

• What:
  • Haryana Government has launched the Pandit Lakhmi Chand Kalakar Samajik Samman Yojana to support senior artists and art scholars with financial assistance.
• Why:
  • The scheme aims to improve the financial and social-economic conditions of artists who have contributed significantly to art but are unable to work due to old age.
• Tell me more:
  • Eligible artists will get a monthly honorarium of Rs 10,000 if annual income is up to Rs 1.80 lakh, and Rs 7,000 if income is between Rs 1.80 lakh and Rs 3 lakh.
  • Applicants must be Haryana residents, at least 60 years old, and have contributed to art for at least 20 years in fields like singing, acting, dance, drama, or painting.
  • Applications must be submitted online with supporting documents and will be verified and evaluated by a special committee before final selection based on merit.

Source: ANI

8. May 5 to be Officially Declared as Traders’ Day in Tamil Nadu

• What:
  • Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin announced that May 5 will soon be officially declared as Traders’ Day in the state, along with several new welfare measures for traders.
• Why:
  • The decision aims to recognise the contribution of traders and improve their welfare and ease of doing business in Tamil Nadu.
• Tell me more:
  • Welfare assistance for registered permanent members of the Traders’ Welfare Board will be increased from Rs 3 lakh to Rs 5 lakh.
  • Free membership period for traders will be extended by six months.
  • Businesses under 500 sq ft (excluding food sales) will get licenses based on self-certification, and shop name boards up to 9 sq meters will not be charged.
  • Steering Committees will be set up to resolve issues related to shops and commercial premises in municipal corporations.
  • A new website will be created for traders, and the government order allowing shops to remain open round the clock will be extended by three years.
  • The announcements were made at the 42nd annual meeting of the Traders’ Association in Maduranthakam.

Source: TW

International News

1. Vietnam Launches 10-Year Golden Visa to Attract Investors

• What:
  • Vietnam is introducing a 10-year golden visa program to attract long-term tourists, investors, and foreign professionals.
• Why:
  • The initiative aims to transform Vietnam from a short-term tourist destination to a center for sustainable travel, international collaboration, and economic growth.
• Tell me more:
  • The golden visa will provide long-term, renewable residency to those contributing to tourism, innovation, or the economy, with a digital-friendly application process expected.
  • Improved flight connectivity from Indian cities has led to a significant rise in Indian tourists, making India a key source market for Vietnam.
  • The program targets professionals, startups, and investors, especially in sectors like IT, textiles, renewable energy, and tourism infrastructure, offering a mix of traditional charm and modern amenities in cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang.

Source: TOI

2. Indian Register of Shipping Opens Office in Saudi Arabia

• What:
  • The Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) announced the opening of its new office in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, during the 11th Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East conference in Dubai.
• Why:
  • The new office aims to support Saudi Arabia’s transformation into a major logistics and shipping hub and strengthen IRS’s global presence.
• Tell me more:
  • The Dammam office will provide ship classification, statutory surveys, technical inspections, and international compliance audits across all major Saudi ports.
  • This expansion marks 25 years of IRS operations in the UAE and its 50th anniversary globally.

Source: NOA

3. UN Launches Victims of Terrorism Associations Network

• What:
  • The United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) launched the Victims of Terrorism Associations Network (VoTAN), a global community uniting victims, victims’ associations, and civil society organizations.
• Why:
  • The network aims to strengthen victim-centric policies, support victims’ rights, and enhance advocacy and peer support for those affected by terrorism.
• Tell me more:
  • VoTAN was launched at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on April 28, 2025, as a key outcome of the first UN Global Congress of Victims of Terrorism held in September 2022.
  • The launch event brought together victims, associations, civil society, Member States, and UN representatives, and was supported by a financial contribution from Spain.
  • VoTAN will provide a forum for victims to access decision-makers, promote collective action, and deepen engagement in UN policy and programming related to victims of terrorism.
  • UNOCT conducted a year of consultations with victims and associations globally to ensure the network meets their priorities and needs.

Source: UN

Banking and Economy

1. Kotak Mahindra Bank Launches Solitaire Credit Card for Travellers

• What:
  • Kotak Mahindra Bank has introduced the Solitaire credit card, offering unlimited complimentary airport lounge access for both primary and add-on cardholders, along with their guests.
• Why:
  • The card is designed to benefit travellers by providing extensive lounge access and travel-related rewards.
• Tell me more:
  • Solitaire credit card provides unlimited free domestic and international lounge access, with 4 free guest lounge accesses per year (2 domestic, 2 international).
  • The card features zero forex mark-up on international transactions, accelerated Air Miles benefits, and allows conversion of reward points to airline miles for partners like Etihad Airways, Air India, Cathay Pacific, and Qatar Airways.
  • The card is free for Kotak Solitaire bank account holders; for others, it has an annual fee of ₹25,000, and downgrading from the Solitaire Program incurs a ₹25,000 charge.
  • The base Air Miles benefit is 3 Air Miles for every ₹100 spent, except on certain excluded categories.

Source: ET

2. Starlink Gets Approval to Offer Satellite Internet in India

• What:
  • Starlink, operated by SpaceX, has received a Letter of Intent from the Department of Telecommunications to provide satellite internet services in India after agreeing to new national security guidelines.
• Why:
  • The approval aims to expand high-speed internet access, especially in remote areas, while ensuring compliance with India’s security and data localization rules.
• Tell me more:
  • Starlink operates about 7,000 low Earth orbit satellites with plans to expand to over 40,000 and must ensure 20% indigenization of its ground segment.
  • The company agreed to India’s FDI norms allowing 100% foreign ownership, and border monitoring was excluded from final conditions.
  • Starlink may become the first to offer mobile satellite internet in India, unlike others cleared only for fixed services, pending IN-SPACe approval and spectrum allocation.
  • Starlink has partnerships with Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel, which control over 70% of India’s telecom market, and Elon Musk is expected to visit India for further collaborations.

Source: ET

3. HSBC, American Express Lead Credit Card Additions in FY25

• What:
  • HSBC and American Express led foreign banks in net credit card additions in FY25, with HSBC adding 216,997 cards and American Express adding 107,086 cards.
• Why:
  • The increase reflects a strong demand for credit cards and expansion strategies by these banks.
• Tell me more:
  • RBI data was used to report the credit card additions and declines for these foreign banks.
  • Net additions and declines in outstanding credit cards indicate changing trends in the credit card market for foreign banks in India.

Source: BS

4. India and UK Sign Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement

• What:
  • India and the United Kingdom have signed a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA), announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
• Why:
  • The agreement aims to deepen strategic partnership, boost trade, investment, job creation, growth, and innovation in both countries.
• Tell me more:
  • The FTA is India’s most comprehensive, covering trade valued at around USD 60 billion and aiming to double it by 2030.
  • The agreement removes tariffs on 99% of tariff lines, giving wide market access for Indian goods and services, and includes ambitious commitments in sectors like IT, finance, and education.
  • Indian workers temporarily in the UK and their employers are exempted from UK social security contributions for three years under the Double Contribution Convention.
  • The FTA supports resilient supply chains, high-quality job creation, and promotes sustainable, inclusive economic growth.
  • Mobility for Indian professionals, business visitors, and independent professionals is eased, opening new opportunities in the UK.
  • Export sectors like textiles, marine products, leather, sports goods, gems and jewellery, engineering goods, auto parts, and chemicals are expected to benefit.

Source: PIB

5. India Lists First Mortgage Backed Pass Through Certificates

• What:
  • India’s first Mortgage backed Pass Through Certificates (PTC) structured by RMBS Development Company Limited were listed on the National Stock Exchange on 5 May 2025.
• Why:
  • The listing aims to strengthen the housing finance sector and support overall economic growth by integrating housing finance with the debt market.
• Tell me more:
  • The PTCs are backed by a pool of housing loans from LIC Housing Finance Limited, with a total issue size of Rs. 1,000 crores, fully subscribed.
  • The coupon rate is 7.26% per annum, maturity is nearly twenty years, and the instrument is rated AAA(SO) by CRISIL and CARE Ratings.
  • The PTCs are issued in demat form, are transferable, and can be traded in the secondary market as they are listed on the stock exchange.
  • The coupon was discovered through the Electronic Book Provider (EBP) platform of the National Stock Exchange.

Source: PIB

6. Kotak Bank Launches Solitaire Travel Credit Card

• What:
  • Kotak Bank has launched the Kotak Solitaire Credit Card, an invite-only, travel-centric metal credit card.
• Why:
  • The card is designed to cater to the growing number of Indians traveling within and outside India by offering travel-focused benefits.
• Tell me more:
  • The card offers 10 airmiles for every Rs. 100 spent on flight and hotel bookings through the Kotak Unbox platform, and 3 airmiles for every Rs. 100 spent on other eligible purchases.
  • A maximum of 1,00,000 airmiles can be earned per statement cycle on the Unbox platform, after which the base rate applies.
  • Benefits include unlimited lounge access, ITC Hotels booking offers, zero forex mark-up, 1% fuel surcharge waiver, and airmile transfers to travel partners.
  • Airmiles have a three-year validity and can be redeemed at Rs. 1 per airmile for travel bookings on Kotak Unbox, or at Rs. 0.50 per airmile for vouchers and merchandise, with up to 80% of transaction value payable by airmiles.
  • The Kotak Solitaire Credit Card is available only by invitation.

Source: LM

7. TPG Acquires 35% Stake in SCHOTT Poonawalla

• What:
  • Global investment firm TPG has acquired a 35% stake in SCHOTT Poonawalla, the Indian joint venture of SCHOTT Pharma, from the Serum Institute of India (SII).
• Why:
  • The investment aims to drive SCHOTT Poonawalla’s next phase of growth and strengthen its position in the global pharmaceutical supply chain.
• Tell me more:
  • The investment was made through TPG Growth, with Novo Holdings as a co-investor, and the transaction is expected to be completed in the first half of 2025.
  • After the transaction, SCHOTT Pharma will hold 50% of the joint venture, SII will retain a minority stake, and TPG will bring capital and expertise to the company.
  • SCHOTT Poonawalla manufactures advanced drug containment systems like cartridges for auto-injector pens, prefillable syringes, vials, and ampoules, and provides regulatory services to pharma and biotech clients.

Source: BS

8. Airtel Africa Partners with SpaceX for Starlink Internet

• What:
  • Airtel Africa has partnered with SpaceX to bring Starlink high-speed satellite internet service to customers across Africa.
• Why:
  • The partnership aims to enhance digital connectivity for enterprises, businesses, and communities, especially in remote and underserved areas of Africa.
• Tell me more:
  • SpaceX has received licenses to operate Starlink in 9 out of 14 Airtel Africa countries, with licenses for the remaining 5 countries under process.
  • The agreement will help provide reliable and affordable voice and data connectivity, and support rural coverage through cellular backhauling.
  • Airtel Africa and SpaceX will explore further collaboration to promote digital inclusion and use Airtel’s ground network infrastructure.
  • Starlink is already available in more than 20 African markets.

Source: ET

Defence News

1. INS Kiltan Joins IMDEX Asia 2025 in Singapore

• What:
  • Indian Naval Ship INS Kiltan arrived in Singapore to participate in IMDEX Asia 2025 at the Changi Exhibition Centre.
• Why:
  • The visit aims to strengthen naval cooperation, enhance interoperability, and promote mutual understanding between India and Singapore.
• Tell me more:
  • The crew will take part in bilateral and multilateral activities, including professional exchanges with the Republic of Singapore Navy and other participating navies.
  • Events include guided tours for school children, cross deck visits, and curated visits for defence industries to raise awareness of maritime security and India’s naval heritage.

Source: PIB

2. BRO Celebrates 65th Raising Day, Focuses on Future Projects

• What:
  • The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) celebrated its 65th Raising Day, with Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane urging adoption of new technology and announcing the upcoming construction of the world’s highest tunnel, the Shinkun La Tunnel.
• Why:
  • The event aimed to recognise BRO’s achievements in national security and development and to encourage faster, more efficient project completion through automation and mechanization.
• Tell me more:
  • BRO will soon start building the 4.10-km Shinkun La Tunnel at 15,800 ft, surpassing China’s Mila Tunnel as the world’s highest tunnel.
  • In 2023-24, BRO completed 125 projects worth Rs 3,611 crore, including the Sela Tunnel, and has constructed over 62,214 km of roads, 1,005 bridges, seven tunnels, and 21 airfields since its establishment in 1960.

Source: ET

3. Paras Defence Forms JV with HevenDrones for Advanced Hydrogen-Powered Drones

• What:
  • Paras Defence & Space Technologies has formed a joint venture with Israel’s HevenDrones to design, manufacture, and supply next-generation drones in India for defence and homeland security, with future plans for global markets.
• Why:
  • The joint venture aims to deliver advanced drone systems for real-time intelligence and rapid response, supporting India’s defence needs and enhancing security at the borders.
• Tell me more:
  • The JV will introduce hydrogen-powered drones with five times longer endurance than conventional drones, near-silent operation, and advanced surveillance features like thermal imaging and wide-area coverage.
  • These drones can hover at 500 metres, operate in challenging weather and night conditions, and are designed for early threat detection and rapid response.
  • Initial deployment in India is expected within weeks, with priority for military use along western and northern borders, and potential for civilian uses such as surveillance of ports, power stations, and disaster response.
  • Paras Defence’s strong financial performance, including a 97% surge in Q4 profit and nearly 50% annual growth, supports investment in manufacturing, R&D, and UAV expansion.

Source: HBL

Awards

1. Sonu Sood to Receive Humanitarian Award at Miss World

• What:
  • Actor Sonu Sood will be honoured with the Humanitarian Award at the 72nd Miss World Festival for his relief work during the Covid-19 pandemic.
• Why:
  • The award recognises Sonu Sood’s extraordinary service to humanity, reflecting the Miss World Organisation’s motto, ‘Beauty With A Purpose’.
• Tell me more:
  • The event will take place on May 31 at HITEX Arena in Hyderabad.
  • Sonu Sood helped thousands during the lockdown by arranging transport for stranded workers, providing medical aid, and launching free education and job training through the Sood Charity Foundation.
  • He will also serve as a judge at the Miss World 2025 grand finale.
  • The award was announced by Julia Morley, Chairperson of the Miss World Organisation, and Sonu Sood expressed gratitude, sharing the honour with volunteers and beneficiaries.

Source: IT

Important Days

1. World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day – May 8

• Theme: “Keeping Humanity Alive”

Source: BS

Sports

1. FIFA Announces 2027 Women’s World Cup Venues in Brazil

• What:
  • FIFA has announced that the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro will be one of eight venues across Brazil to host matches at the 2027 Women’s World Cup, the first edition to be held in Latin America.
• Why:
  • The tournament aims to mark a historic milestone by bringing the Women’s World Cup to South America for the first time and to inspire a new generation across the continent.
• Tell me more:
  • The 2027 Women’s World Cup will take place from June 24 to July 25, 2027, featuring 32 teams and 64 matches.
  • Other host cities and stadiums include Belo Horizonte (Mineirao Stadium), Brasilia (National Stadium), Fortaleza (Castelao Arena), Porto Alegre (Beira-Rio Stadium), Recife (Pernambuco Arena), Salvador (Fonte Nova Arena), and Sao Paulo (Itaquera Arena).
  • The announcement was made by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who highlighted Brazil’s unique energy and culture, and FIFA General Secretary Mattias Grafstrom, who emphasised the rapid growth of women’s football.

Source: TH

2. ECB Bans Transgender Players from Women’s Cricket

• What:
  • The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has banned transgender women and girls from competing in women’s and girls’ cricket matches with immediate effect, following a Supreme Court ruling.
• Why:
  • The decision was made to comply with the Supreme Court’s updated legal position that excludes transgender women from the legal definition of women.
• Tell me more:
  • Only individuals whose biological sex is female can now play in women’s and girls’ cricket, while transgender women and girls can participate in open and mixed cricket.
  • The ECB stated it aims for inclusivity in sports but found the change necessary after legal advice, and will support those affected by the new regulations.
  • The ECB will review guidance from the Equality and Human Rights Commission and reaffirmed that abuse or discrimination is not tolerated in cricket.

Source: CNBC

3. China Wins Fourth Consecutive BWF Sudirman Cup Title

• What:
  • China won its fourth consecutive BWF Sudirman Cup title and 14th overall by defeating Republic of Korea 3-1 in the final held in Xiamen.
• Tell me more:
  • The Sudirman Cup is the world championship for mixed team badminton.
  • China has now won a total of 14 Sudirman Cup titles, the most by any country.
  • The event was hosted in Xiamen, China, on 4 May.

Source: OC

Memorandum of Understanding

1. India, Vietnam Buddhist Bodies Sign MoU to Deepen Ties

• What:
  • The International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) and Vietnam Buddhist Sangha (VBS) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation and promote Buddhist teachings.
• Why:
  • The agreement aims to advance shared ideals of compassion, wisdom, and peace as taught by the Buddha.
• Tell me more:
  • The MoU was signed during the exposition of the Holy Relics of the Buddha in Vietnam, coinciding with the UN Day of Vesak 2025, in the presence of Union Minister Kiren Rijiju and senior Buddhist leaders.
  • The launch of the Vietnam Chapter of the IBC was also announced, which will serve as a platform for promoting Buddha Dhamma, supporting cultural, educational, and humanitarian exchanges, and enhancing research and events related to Buddhist teachings.
  • The agreement allows Vietnam’s Buddhist community to be represented in regional and international forums coordinated by the IBC and will facilitate cooperation on various programs and initiatives.

Source: TI

Appointments

1. Ajoy Chawla to Become Managing Director of Titan

• Ajoy Chawla, CEO of Titan’s jewellery division, will succeed C K Venkataraman as Managing Director of Titan from January 1, 2026.

Source: IE

2. Pope Leo XIV Becomes First American Pope

• What:
  • Robert Francis Prevost has become the 267th Pope, taking the name Leo XIV, and is the first American to hold the position.
• Why:
  • The appointment marks a historic moment for the Catholic Church, reflecting the global nature of its leadership.
• Tell me more:
  • Pope Leo XIV was born in Chicago in 1955, ordained in 1982, and spent many years as a missionary and teacher in Peru, where he holds Peruvian nationality.
  • He is remembered for working with marginalised communities and building bridges, serving as a parish pastor and seminary teacher in Trujillo, Peru.
  • In his first address, Pope Leo XIV spoke fondly of his predecessor Francis and called the Church “a beacon to illuminate dark nights.”

Source: BBC

3. KC Venugopal Re-appointed Chairperson of Public Accounts Committee

• What:
  • Congress leader KC Venugopal has been re-appointed as chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), which was constituted on May 1.
• Why:
  • The appointment aims to ensure the examination of government expenditure and accounts, maintaining accountability and transparency in public spending.
• Tell me more:
  • The PAC is the oldest and most prestigious committee of Parliament, formed every year to examine accounts showing appropriation of funds and other government accounts.
  • The committee reviews reports of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (C&AG) on various sectors such as Civil, Defence, Posts, Railways, Taxation, and performance appraisals of centrally sponsored schemes.
  • The PAC scrutinizes instances of financial irregularities, losses, delays, extravagance, and tax administration issues found in C&AG reports.
  • During the first year of the 18th Lok Sabha (2024-25), the committee thoroughly examined a wide range of performance appraisal subjects and audit paragraphs.

Source: ANI

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