In Current Affairs for 20 May 2025, we will see the latest national and international current affairs news. These important current affairs will be beneficial for your upcoming NDA, CDS, CDS OTA, AFCAT, TA, Agniveer Army, Agniveer Navy, Agniveer Air Force, Women Military Police, INET, MNS, ACC exams, SCO, PCSL, CAPF, and SSB interviews, and direct entries for Army, Navy, and Air Force like SSC Tech, TGC, JAG, NCC, TES, 10+2 Cadet. Download a PDF file about current events at the end of this article. Let us now see the Current Affairs.
Current Affairs 21 May 2025
First Of 7 All- Party Delegations On Operation Sindoor
- The first all-party delegation out of the seven set up for India’s diplomatic outreach on Operation Sindoor abroad will depart today for four countries. The delegation led by Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Shinde will embark for UAE, Liberia, Democratic Republic of Congo and Sierra Leone.
- Two delegations led by JD(U) MP Sanjay Jha and DMK MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi will leave tomorrow. While Sanjay Jha led a delegation that will visit Indonesia, Malaysia, the Republic of Korea, Japan and Singapore, Kanimozhi led a delegation that will visit Spain, Greece, Slovenia, Latvia and Russia.
- The multi-party delegations will project the country’s national consensus and resolute approach to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, with India’s strong message of zero tolerance against terrorism. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri yesterday briefed the members of the three delegations at the Parliament House in New Delhi.
Depot Darpan, Anna Mitra, Anna Sahayata Apps
- Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Pralhad Joshi launched the Depot Darpan, Anna Mitra, and Anna Sahayata apps in New Delhi. The apps are aligned with the government’s aim of advancing the country’s food security through digital innovation.
- Speaking on the occasion, Mr Joshi said the apps, as a tool of e-governance, will help in modernising the agricultural infrastructure and Public Distribution System of the country.
- He also said that they will foster increased efficiency, service quality, infrastructure and operational efficiency. Mr Joshi added that the apps will also facilitate transparency and accountability through the latest technology. He also reiterated the government’s commitment to provide every benefit to the individual standing at the end of the line.
- The Depot Darpan mobile app will allow supervisory officials to track warehouse performance anytime, anywhere, supporting better decision making. It is integrated with smart warehousing technologies, CCTV Surveillance and IoT sensors.
- On the other hand, the Anna Sahyata app is a first-of-its-kind voice and message grievance platform which will allow citizens to register complaints in their local languages with real-time tracking and feedback.
- Further, Anna Mitra will act as real real-time command centre for ration distribution for FDS dealers, Food Inspectors, District Officials, among others. It will also provide information on monthly sales, inspection reports and government updates.
WHO Certification For Elimination Of Trachoma
- India has been awarded the Certificate of Elimination of Trachoma as a Public Health Problem by the World Health Organisation (WHO) at the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva.
- This recognition is a testament to India’s sustained efforts in disease elimination, preventive healthcare, and commitment to ensuring health for all. On October 8th last year, the WHO declared that the Government of India had eliminated Trachoma as a public health problem. India also became the third country in the Southeast Asia region to reach this public health milestone.
- Trachoma is a neglected tropical disease (NTD) caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It is a leading infectious cause of blindness worldwide, especially in areas with poor sanitation.
- The government has taken various steps under the National Programme for Control of Blindness and Visual Impairment (NPCBVI) to eliminate Trachoma. Since 2019, the National Programme has developed a continuous surveillance setup for trachoma cases by collecting case reports from all the districts in the country via sa pecific WHO shared format. The National Trachomatous Trichiasis survey was done in 200 endemic districts of the country during 2021-24, which was a mandate set by WHO.
Robotics Education
- Kerala becomes the first state in India to make robotics education mandatory for all 4.3 lakh Class 10 students, starting June 2, 2025, through the ICT textbook chapter “The World of Robots.”
- The curriculum includes hands-on activities like circuit building, sensor integration, and coding using robotic kits (29,000 already distributed) with components like Arduino, IR sensors, and servo motors.
- Students will also develop AI-powered smart home projects, including face-recognition smart doors using Pictoblocks software, webcams, and Arduino kits.
- KITE (Kerala Infrastructure and Technology for Education) is spearheading the initiative, having trained nearly 9,924 teachers and planning more training and support for unaided schools in July.
India Charts New Sea Route For North- East
- Union Cabinet approved a Rs 22,864 crore project for a 166.8-km highway from Mawlyngkhung (Meghalaya) to Panchgram (Assam). This road will become a crucial land segment of a new multi-modal sea route connecting the North-East to Kolkata through Myanmar, thus bypassing the dependence on Bangladesh for maritime access.
- This project is seen as a strategic response to recent diplomatic tensions and regional assertions made by Bangladeshi leadership.
- Strategic Importance
- Bypasses Bangladesh for sea access to Kolkata and Vizag.
- Connects to the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project via Zorinpui in Mizoram.
- Reduces dependency on the vulnerable Siliguri Corridor (Chicken’s Neck).
- Serves as an eastern link for the Act East Policy, strengthening trade and defense logistics.
e-Zero FIR Initiative
- India took step in combating cybercrime with the launch of the e-Zero FIR initiative. This initiative was announced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah as part of the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C). The primary aim is to expedite the process of registering First Information Reports (FIRs) for high-value cyber financial fraud cases. The pilot project commenced in Delhi and is set to expand nationwide.
- The e-Zero FIR initiative allows victims of cyber financial crimes to report incidents without visiting a police station. If the financial fraud exceeds Rs 10 lakh, the complaint filed through the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP) or the helpline 1930 is automatically converted into an FIR. This innovation is designed to reduce the response time for law enforcement agencies.
- The automated FIR registration process aims to streamline legal procedures. It eliminates the need for victims to navigate lengthy complaint processes. This efficiency is crucial for freezing fraudulent transactions and apprehending criminals swiftly. The initiative enhances the overall effectiveness of cybercrime investigations.
- The launch of e-Zero FIR reflects the Government of India’s commitment to boosting cybersecurity. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to create a cyber-secure environment across the nation.
- Established by the Ministry of Home Affairs, I4C serves as the central agency for tackling cybercrime in India. It provides law enforcement agencies with essential tools, training, and resources. The e-Zero FIR initiative is one of several measures aimed at strengthening the national cybersecurity infrastructure.
Astrophysicist Jayant Narlikar Passes Away
- Renowned astrophysicist, visionary science communicator, and Padma Vibhushan awardee, Dr. Jayant Vishnu Narlikar passed away in Pune on Tuesday morning, marking the end of an era in Indian science and cosmology. He was 87.
- Early Life and Academic Brilliance : Born on July 19, 1938, in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, Jayant Narlikar was immersed in an academic environment from a young age. He spent his formative years on the campus of Banaras Hindu University (BHU), where his father, Prof. Vishnu Vasudeva Narlikar, was a renowned mathematician and Head of the Mathematics Department.
- A Star at Cambridge : Dr. Narlikar pursued higher education at the prestigious University of Cambridge, where he quickly gained recognition for his mathematical talent. He was a Wrangler and was awarded the Tyson Medal for excellence in Mathematical Tripos. His time at Cambridge laid the groundwork for what would become a globally influential career in astrophysics.
- TIFR and the Rise of Theoretical Astrophysics in India : Upon returning to India in 1972, Dr. Narlikar joined the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR). Over the next 17 years, he played a transformative role in expanding the Theoretical Astrophysics Group, helping it achieve international recognition.
- Founding IUCAA – A Legacy Institution : In 1988, at the invitation of the University Grants Commission (UGC), Dr. Narlikar took on a historic mission: to establish the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) in Pune. As Founding Director, he shaped IUCAA into a world-class research and teaching institution. He remained Director until his retirement in 2003, and later served as Emeritus Professor.
- IUCAA became a beacon of academic collaboration, drawing scientists and scholars from across the globe, thanks to Narlikar’s vision of inclusive, interdisciplinary science.
- Theoretical Innovation in Cosmology : Dr. Narlikar was a pioneer in cosmology. He is particularly known for his work on conformal gravity and alternative models to the Big Bang theory, notably the Steady State Theory, which he developed with the legendary Fred Hoyle.
- Global Awards and Honors
- Dr. Narlikar received numerous accolades during his illustrious career:
- Padma Bhushan in 1965 — at the young age of 26, making him one of the youngest recipients of the award.
- Padma Vibhushan in 2004 — one of India’s highest civilian honors.
- Maharashtra Bhushan Award in 2011 — the state’s top civilian honor.
- Kalinga Prize by UNESCO in 1996 for his outstanding work in the popularization of science.
- TWAS Prize in 2012 from the Third World Academy of Sciences for establishing a world-class scientific institution.
Dr M. R. Srinivasan
- Dr M. R. Srinivasan, a pioneering Indian nuclear scientist and mechanical engineer, passed away on 20 May 2025 in Udhagamandalam, Tamil Nadu, at the age of 95. Renowned for his instrumental role in India’s nuclear energy programme, he served as the former Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission and was the founding Chairman of the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL).
- In 1959, he was appointed Principal Project Engineer for India’s first atomic power station. By 1967, he became the Chief Project Engineer at the Madras Atomic Power Station, contributing significantly to India’s self-reliant nuclear power capabilities.
- In 1974, Dr Srinivasan was appointed Director of the Power Projects Engineering Division at the DAE. A decade later, he became Chairman of the Nuclear Power Board. His leadership culminated in 1987 when he was appointed Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission and Secretary of the Department of Atomic Energy. That same year, he became the founding Chairman of NPCIL. Under his stewardship, India developed 18 nuclear power units, with seven operational, seven under construction, and four in the planning stages.
- Dr Srinivasan’s expertise extended beyond nuclear science. From 1990 to 1992, he served as a senior advisor at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna. He was a member of India’s Planning Commission from 1996 to 1998, overseeing Energy and Science & Technology portfolios. Additionally, he served on India’s National Security Advisory Board during 2002–2004 and 2006–2008 and chaired the Task Force on Higher Education in Karnataka from 2002 to 2004.
Current Affairs 21 May 2025 Question
- Which State Has Become The First In India To Make Robotics Education
Mandatory For All Class 10 Students
A. Maharashtra
B. Tamil Nadu
C. Karnataka
D. Kerala
ANSWER: D - Name of first nuclear reactor that Dr Srinivasan worked on
A. DHRUVA
B. APSARA
C. ARJUN
D. KAMINI
ANSWER: B - On Its 8th Incorporation Day, What Innovative Feature Did The Gem Launch To
Enhance User Support
A. GeM Assist
B. GeMAI
C. ChatGeM
D. eSahayata
ANSWER: B - What Is The Name Of The Initiative Launched By Government To Promote
Gender Equity In India’s Maritime Sector
A. Nari Shakti
B. Sagar Mein Samman
C. Sagar Shakti
D. None of the Above
ANSWER: B - RS-24 Yars Is An Intercontinental Ballistic Missile Developed By Which Country
A. France
B. United States
C. Russia
D. China
ANSWER: C - Indrayani River, Is Located In Which State
A. Maharashtra
B. Karnataka
C. Madhya Pradesh
D. Gujarat
ANSWER: A - Which Organization Released The Global Electric Vehicle (EV) Outlook 2025?
A. United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
B. International Energy Agency (IEA)
C. World Economic Forum (WEF)
D. World Bank
ANSWER: B - What Is The Theme Of World Hypertension Day 2025?
A. Healthy Heart, Healthy Life
B. Control Hypertension, Save Lives
C. Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer
D. No Pressure, No Problem
ANSWER: C - Kirkuk Which Was Seen In The News, Is Located In Which Country
A. Israel
B. Iraq
C. Australia
D. Greece
ANSWER: B - What Was The Theme Of World Bee Day 2025
A. Bee Engaged with Youth
B. Bees for Biodiversity
C. Pollinators and the Planet
D. Bee inspired by nature to nourish us all
ANSWER: D - Which Country Officially Inaugurated Its Embassy In New Delhi In May 2025
A. Honduras
B. Guatemala
C. Panama
D. Costa Rica
ANSWER: A - Which State Government Launched India’s First Vistadome Jungle Safari Train
A. Maharashtra
B. Karnataka
C. Uttar Pradesh
D. Madhya Pradesh
ANSWER: C - Which Institution Launched The ‘Manasvi’ Mentorship Initiative To Inspire
High-school Girls Towards STEM Careers?
A. IISc Bangalore
B. IIT Delhi
C. IIT Bombay
D. IIT Kanpur
ANSWER: C - In Which City Was The Miss World 2025 Sports Challenge Held
A. Mumbai
B. Bengaluru
C. Chennai
D. Hyderabad
ANSWER: D - Which Country Won The SAFF U-19 Championship 2025
A. India
B. Bangladesh
C. Nepal
D. Sri Lanka
ANSWER: A - Which ISRO Mission Faced A Setback Due To A Third-stage Glitch On May 18,
2025
A. PSLV-C60
B. PSLV-C62
C. PSLV-C58
D. PSLV-C61
ANSWER: D - On Which Date Was International Museum Day 2025 Celebrated Across India
A. May 18
B. May 12
C. May 20
D. May 25
ANSWER: A - Which Organization Organized “Sundays On Cycle” Nationwide Cyclothon To
Celebrate Eight Years Of GST In Collaboration With The FIT INDIA Movement
A. CBIC
B. NITI Aayog
C. Ministry of Finance
D. Income Tax Department
ANSWER: A - Who Won The 2025 Italian Open
A. Carlos Alcaraz
B. Novak Djokovic
C. Rafael Nadal
D. Jannik Sinner
ANSWER: A - In Which Year, The First Winter Olympic Games Was Held
A. 1920
B. 1924
C. 1928
D. 1932
ANSWER: B
