Daily Current Affairs and GK Updates (25th May, 2026)

State News

Kumbhalgarh Fort Recognized as World’s Second Longest Continuous Wall By UNESCO

• Kumbhalgarh Fort, located in Rajasthan’s Rajsamand district, is a remarkable symbol of Rajput military architecture, built by Rana Kumbha in the 15th century.
• Recognized by UNESCO as part of the Hill Forts of Rajasthan, it is famous for its 36-km-long defensive wall, considered the world’s second longest after the Great Wall of China.
• Designed by architect Mandan, the fort showcases advanced engineering, strategic defense systems, and cultural heritage.
• Housing over 360 temples, Badal Mahal, and being the birthplace of Maharana Pratap, Kumbhalgarh remains a major historical and architectural marvel of India.

International News

Jaishankar-Rubio Talks Strengthen India-US Strategic Partnership Ahead of Quad Meeting

• During his official visit to India, Marco Rubio held high-level talks with S. Jaishankar ahead of the Quad Foreign Ministers Meeting, highlighting the growing strength of the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.
• Discussions covered artificial intelligence, defence cooperation, trade, energy security, critical minerals, and counter-terrorism.
• India also raised concerns over recent US visa and immigration policy changes affecting students and professionals.
• Both nations emphasized cooperation on Indo-Pacific security, maritime stability, and supply chain resilience, reflecting deeper strategic alignment through the Quad partnership involving India, the US, Japan, and Australia.

Economy News

India’s Cold Water Fisheries Emerge as Key Growth Engine for the Blue Economy Vision

• India’s Cold Water Fisheries sector is emerging as a key pillar of the Blue Economy Vision, driving economic growth, employment, and sustainable development in Himalayan and hill regions.
• From trout farming in Jammu & Kashmir to scientific aquaculture in Ladakh and the Northeast, the sector supports food security, biodiversity conservation, and tourism.
• India has identified 278 cold-water fish species, while government support through PM Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and rising trout production are transforming cold water fisheries into a modern, investment-driven aquaculture success story.

Appointments News

Raghav Chadha Appointed Chairman of Rajya Sabha Committee on Petitions

• Raghav Chadha has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Rajya Sabha Committee on Petitions after the panel was reconstituted by C. P. Radhakrishnan.
• The committee plays a vital role in examining citizen petitions, public grievances, and legislative concerns presented before Parliament.
• As chairman, Chadha will oversee recommendations aimed at improving governance, strengthening democratic accountability, and encouraging public participation in parliamentary processes.
• The reconstituted committee, effective from 20 May 2026, includes ten members from different political backgrounds to address important policy and governance matters.

Awards News

Indian Army Officer Major Abhilasha Barak Wins Prestigious UN Military Gender Advocate Award

• Major Abhilasha Barak has been awarded the 2025 United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award for her outstanding contribution to women empowerment, community outreach, and gender sensitization during her deployment with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon.
• Serving as Commander of the Female Engagement Team, she worked closely with women and girls in conflict-affected communities and promoted gender-inclusive peacebuilding.
• A pioneering combat helicopter pilot in the Indian Army, she becomes India’s third recipient of this prestigious UN honour, highlighting India’s growing leadership in gender-inclusive peacekeeping and global humanitarian efforts.

Sansad Ratna Awards 2026 Explained: Full Winners List and Why the Parliamentary Honour Matters

• The Sansad Ratna Awards 2026 have recognized outstanding performances by Members of Parliament and Parliamentary Standing Committees for their legislative contribution and public service.
• This year, 10 Lok Sabha MPs, 2 Rajya Sabha MPs, and 4 Parliamentary Committees were selected for the honour.
• Notable awardees include Medha Kulkarni and Smita Uday Wagh, whose dedication received special appreciation.
• Instituted in 2010 by the Prime Point Foundation and inspired by A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, the awards are based on parliamentary data such as debates, questions, attendance, and committee participation.

Defense News

Rajnath Singh Launches India’s First 300-km Rocket System Suryastra in Major Defence Boost

• India achieved a major defence milestone as Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched Suryastra, the country’s first indigenous 300-km Universal Rocket Launching System, and inaugurated a major private defence manufacturing complex in Shirdi, Maharashtra.
• Developed to enhance long-range precision strike capability, Suryastra strengthens India’s combat readiness and strategic independence.
• The new facility by NIBE Limited will produce advanced artillery, missile, space defence, and autonomous systems.
• Backed by initiatives like Make in India, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, and iDEX, these developments boost defence self-reliance, technological innovation, and India’s growing role in global defence manufacturing.

Schemes News

Government Unveils BHAVYA Scheme Guidelines to Build 100 World-Class Industrial Parks Across India

• The BHAVYA Scheme, launched by the Government of India through the DPIIT, aims to develop 100 world-class industrial parks across the country with a financial outlay of ₹33,660 crore.
• Aligned with initiatives like Make in India and PM Gati Shakti, the scheme focuses on creating plug-and-play industrial ecosystems with modern infrastructure, logistics, renewable energy, worker housing, and skill centres.
• Implemented through Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) and monitored by NICDC, the scheme supports both greenfield and brownfield projects to boost manufacturing, attract global investments, and strengthen India’s industrial competitiveness.

Science & Technology News

China Launches Shenzhou 23 Mission with Three Astronauts for Major Tiangong Space Station Mission

• China successfully launched the Shenzhou 23 spacecraft on 25 May 2026 from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, sending three astronauts to the Tiangong Space Station.
• The crew includes Zhu Yangzhu, Zhang Zhiyuan, and Lai Ka-ying, with Lai becoming the first astronaut from Hong Kong to travel to space.
• A major highlight of the mission is the planned one-year stay in orbit by one astronaut to study long-duration human survival in space, supporting China’s ambitions for future Moon and deep-space missions.
• The mission will also conduct experiments in space biology, medicine, and materials science.

Sports News

Lionel Messi Becomes Billionaire, Joining Cristiano Ronaldo in Historic Football Milestone

• Lionel Messi has officially joined the billionaire club, becoming only the second footballer after Cristiano Ronaldo to cross the $1 billion net worth mark, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.
• Messi built his fortune through massive football salaries, bonuses, endorsements, investments, and business ventures during his careers with FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Inter Miami CF.
• His move to the United States has significantly boosted Major League Soccer’s popularity ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while his legendary career includes 8 Ballon d’Or awards, a 2022 FIFA World Cup victory, and multiple European titles.

IPL 2026 Playoffs Explained: Qualified Teams, Final Standings, and Rajasthan Royals Qualification

• The IPL 2026 Playoffs lineup is officially confirmed with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Gujarat Titans, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Rajasthan Royals securing the final four spots.
• Rajasthan Royals sealed qualification after defeating Mumbai Indians, eliminating Punjab Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders. RCB finished top of the table on superior Net Run Rate, setting up Qualifier 1 against Gujarat Titans in Dharamshala. Sunrisers Hyderabad will face Rajasthan Royals in the Eliminator, while the IPL 2026 Final will be played at Narendra Modi Stadium on 31 May 2026.

Gurindervir Singh Becomes Fastest Indian Sprinter with Historic 10.09-Second 100m Run

• Gurindervir Singh created history at the Federation Cup 2026 in Ranchi by clocking 10.09 seconds in the men’s 100m final, becoming the fastest Indian sprinter ever.
• His remarkable performance at the Birsa Munda Athletics Stadium broke the national record and brought India closer to the prestigious sub-10 second sprint barrier.
• The event also highlighted a growing rivalry with fellow sprinter Animesh Kujur, who had briefly held the record with 10.15 seconds.
• Gurindervir’s achievement marks a major breakthrough for Indian athletics, showcasing the impact of improved coaching, sports science, and competitive training on India’s sprinting future.

Kimi Antonelli Wins Dramatic Canadian Grand Prix 2026

• Kimi Antonelli continued his sensational 2026 season by winning the Canadian Grand Prix 2026 after teammate George Russell retired from the lead due to a power unit failure.
• Racing for Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team, Antonelli capitalized on a crucial Virtual Safety Car phase and secured his fourth consecutive Formula 1 victory, extending his championship lead to 43 points.
• Lewis Hamilton delivered a strong drive for Scuderia Ferrari to finish second after overtaking Max Verstappen, who claimed third place.
• The chaotic race at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve also featured multiple retirements and a disappointing no-points finish for McLaren Formula 1 Team.

Important Days News

World Thyroid Day 2026 Highlights Rising Global Burden of Thyroid Disorders

• Every year on 25 May, the world observes World Thyroid Day to raise awareness about thyroid health, early diagnosis, and treatment of thyroid disorders affecting millions globally.
• The thyroid gland regulates metabolism, energy, growth, heart rate, and hormone balance, making it vital for overall health.
• In India, nearly 4.2 crore people are estimated to suffer from thyroid disorders, with women being more vulnerable.
• Common conditions include hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, goitre, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and thyroid cancer.
• Experts emphasize the importance of iodine intake, healthy lifestyle habits, regular screening, and early detection to prevent serious health complications.

Rash Behari Bose Birth Anniversary 2026: History, Contributions, and Role in India’s Freedom Struggle

• On the birth anniversary of Rash Behari Bose, India remembers one of the foremost architects of the country’s revolutionary freedom struggle against British rule.
• Born on 25 May 1886 in present-day West Bengal, he played a major role in the Ghadar Movement, the Delhi Conspiracy Case, and later founded the Indian Independence League in Japan.
• Rash Behari Bose also laid the foundation for the Indian National Army before handing leadership to Subhas Chandra Bose.
• His efforts transformed India’s freedom movement from domestic resistance into a global anti-colonial campaign, making him a pivotal figure in India’s independence history.

World Football Day 2026 Highlights Football’s Role in Peace, Inclusion, and Youth Empowerment

• On 25 May 2026, the world observed World Football Day, celebrating football’s power to unite people across cultures, generations, and borders.
• Established by the United Nations through Resolution A/RES/78/281 in 2024, the day marks the centenary of the first global football tournament at the 1924 Summer Olympics.
• The observance highlights football’s role in promoting peace, gender equality, youth empowerment, public health, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• Supported by FIFA and global football institutions, the sport is recognized as a powerful tool for social inclusion, diplomacy, and international cooperation worldwide.

Current Affairs Today | 24th-25th May 2026 Current Affairs | Daily Current Affairs By Ashish Gautam