India Welcomes UK's Decision on Chagos Islands Handover
In a landmark diplomatic development, the United Kingdom has agreed to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands, including the key military atoll Diego Garcia, to Mauritius.
India has welcomed this decision, reaffirming its long-standing support for Mauritius's legitimate claim based on principles of decolonisation, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
The deal signifies a major step toward the resolution of one of the longest-standing colonial-era territorial disputes.
The UK retains responsibility for security arrangements on Diego Garcia under the terms of the agreement.
The deal marks the culmination of a decolonisation process supported by the United Nations General Assembly and International Court of Justice (ICJ).
The Asiatic lion population in Gujarat has experienced a remarkable increase, reaching an estimated 891 individuals as of May 2025. This is rise from 674 lions recorded in the previous census conducted in 2020.
The 16th Asiatic lion census was conducted from May 10 to 13, 2025. This comprehensive exercise covered approximately 35,000 square kilometres across 58 talukas in 11 districts. The census was performed in two phases, with a preliminary assessment followed by a final count. A total of 3,000 participants, including officers and volunteers, contributed to this effort.
The latest census data reveals the population consists of 196 males, 330 females, 140 sub-adults, and 225 cubs. This distribution indicates a healthy breeding population and successful cub survival rates. The number of lions recorded within Gir National Park was 384, while 507 were found outside its boundaries.
RBI Cancels HCBL Co-operative Bank Licence Over Capital Shortfall
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) cancelled the licence of HCBL Co-operative Bank, a Lucknow-based urban cooperative bank, citing inadequate capital and no earning prospects.
With immediate effect, the bank has ceased all banking operations, and the Uttar Pradesh Registrar of Cooperative Societies has been requested to appoint a liquidator to wind up the bank's operations.
The action was taken under provisions of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949. It is part of RBI's effort to protect depositors and maintain public confidence in the cooperative banking sector.
The Government of India launched digital initiatives to enhance the Public Distribution System (PDS). The initiatives include the Depot Darpan Portal, Anna Mitra, and Anna Sahayata. These platforms aim to improve transparency and efficiency in delivering subsidised food grains to over 81 crore beneficiaries under the National Food Security Act.
Joe Root Becomes Fastest to 13,000 Test Runs: A Historic Milestone in Cricket
England's premier batsman Joe Root etched his name in the annals of cricket history by becoming the fastest player to reach 13,000 runs in Test cricket.
Joe Root reached a historic milestone during England's one-off Test against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge on May 22, 2025.
With a composed innings of 34 runs, Root surpassed the legendary Jacques Kallis to become the fastest player to score 13,000 Test runs. He achieved this feat in just 153 matches, breaking Kallis's long-standing record of 159 Tests.
This feat not only underscores Root's consistency and excellence but also places him among cricket's all-time greats.
Revamped OCI Portal Launched by Home Minister Amit Shah
Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the revamped Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) portal on May 19, 2025, aiming to simplify and digitise the experience of overseas Indians.
The portal, featuring an updated user interface, promises enhanced security, functionality, and accessibility for over 5 million OCI cardholders and prospective applicants.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) launched the new OCI portal in response to growing feedback and the need to modernize the older system developed in 2013.
This move comes amid increasing demand from the Indian diaspora for seamless access to India-related services.
Konkan Railway Set to Merge with Indian Railways
The Maharashtra government has officially approved the long-pending merger of the Konkan Railway Corporation Limited (KRCL) with Indian Railways, paving the way for the complete integration of this vital coastal rail route.
With this, all shareholder states—Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and now Maharashtra—have backed the merger, ensuring that the scenic and strategically crucial Konkan route becomes a full-fledged part of India's national railway network.
The merger comes at a time when KRCL is facing financial difficulties and needs infrastructural and operational support. The Centre has agreed to Maharashtra's conditions, including retaining the name "Konkan Railway" and reimbursing the state's initial investment of Rs. 394 crore.
Trump Unveils $175 Billion 'Golden Dome': A Space-Age Missile Shield for the US
In a bold step toward futuristic defense capabilities, US President Donald Trump has announced the development of a revolutionary missile defense system dubbed the 'Golden Dome'. Estimated at an initial cost of $175 billion, with long-term projections crossing $500 billion, the Golden Dome aims to provide a multi-layered shield against missile threats, including those originating from space. Drawing inspiration from Ronald Reagan's 1980s 'Star Wars' programme, the Golden Dome introduces space-based interceptors and lasers as part of the most comprehensive defense initiative in American history.
Dr. Saroj Ghose, Pioneer of India's Science Museums, Passes Away at 89
India has lost one of its most visionary minds in the field of science communication and education. Dr. Saroj Ghose, widely hailed as the father of India's science museum movement, passed away on May 17, 2025, at the age of 89 in Seattle, USA.
As the founding Director General of the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM), Dr. Ghose revolutionised informal science learning in India, laying the foundation for a robust network of science centres across the country.
World Day for Cultural Diversity: Fostering Unity in Diversity
World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, observed every year on May 21, is a global celebration recognising the richness of the world's cultures and the vital role intercultural dialogue plays in achieving peace and sustainable development. Established by the United Nations following the Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity (2001), the day emphasizes the importance of embracing cultural differences and working together to promote inclusion, understanding, and global cooperation.