Daily Current Affairs May 12

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May 12 | Daily Current Affairs 2025

Important Days – Daily Current Affairs May 12

1. When will Buddha Purnima be observed in 2025 according to the Gregorian calendar?
A) May 10
B) May 11
C) May 12
D) May 13
E) May 14
Answer: C) May 12

Event and Location:

  • Event: Buddha Purnima 2025, also known as Buddha Jayanti or Vesak, is a globally observed festival commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Gautama Buddha.
  • Date: In 2025, Buddha Purnima will be celebrated on Monday, May 12, aligning with the full moon (Purnima) in the Hindu month of Vaishakha.
  • Time: The Purnima Tithi will begin at 8:01 PM on May 11, 2025, and end at 10:25 PM on May 12, 2025.
  • Location: The event is observed worldwide by Buddhist communities, with key celebrations in India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Southeast Asia, especially at sacred sites like Bodh Gaya and Lumbini.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Spiritual Significance: Buddha Purnima celebrates the three key events of Lord Buddha’s life—his birth, enlightenment, and Mahaparinirvana (death)—believed to have occurred on the same date.
  • Moral and Ethical Goals: The day serves to reinforce Buddha’s teachings on dharma, non-violence, compassion, and the pursuit of nirvana through meditation and righteous living.
  • Cultural Unity: It provides an opportunity for people to come together in prayer, reflection, and peaceful celebration, transcending geographic and cultural boundaries.
  • Religious Traditions: Observances include visiting temples, chanting sutras, offering flowers, lighting lamps, and meditation, all aimed at fostering inner peace and social harmony.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Buddha Purnima (Buddha Jayanti / Vesak): A holy festival in the Buddhist calendar celebrating the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Lord Gautama Buddha. It is observed on the full moon day of Vaishakha.
  • Gautama Buddha: Born as Siddhartha Gautama around 2,500 years ago in Lumbini (present-day Nepal), he attained enlightenment in Bodh Gaya and became the founder of Buddhism.
  • Nirvana: The ultimate goal in Buddhism, representing liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara), achieved through wisdom, meditation, and ethical conduct.
  • Dharma: The teachings and doctrines of Buddha that guide individuals towards truth, righteousness, and spiritual awakening.
  • Bodh Gaya: A sacred pilgrimage site in Bihar, India, where Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree.
  • Mayadevi Temple: Located in Lumbini, it marks the birthplace of Lord Buddha, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event Buddha Purnima 2025
Also Known As Buddha Jayanti, Vesak
Date May 12, 2025 (Monday)
Purnima Tithi Begins May 11 at 8:01 PM, ends May 12 at 10:25 PM
Celebrates Birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Gautama Buddha
Main Sites Bodh Gaya (India), Lumbini (Nepal), Kushinagar (India)
Significance Spiritual reflection, honoring Buddha’s life and teachings
Observed In India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Southeast Asia, global diaspora

2. When is International Nurses Day observed each year to honour Florence Nightingale’s legacy?
A) May 1
B) May 5
C) May 12
D) May 20
E) May 25
Answer: C) May 12

Event and Location:

  • Event: International Nurses Day (IND) is celebrated globally each year to honour the contribution of nurses and commemorate the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing.
  • Date: The day is observed annually on May 12, which marks the birth of Florence Nightingale in 1820.
  • Location: Celebrated worldwide by healthcare institutions, governments, and nursing associations, coordinated by the International Council of Nurses (ICN).
  • Occasion: In 2025, the celebration was held under the theme “Our Nurses. Our Future. Caring for nurses strengthens economies.”

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Well-being Focus: The 2025 celebration emphasizes the physical, mental, and occupational well-being of nurses across the globe.
  • Policy Advocacy: It advocates for increased investment, fair compensation, and safer work environments for nursing professionals.
  • Economic Link: The theme highlights the interconnection between nurse welfare and national economic strength, stressing that caring for nurses is critical to building resilient health systems.
  • Acknowledging Service: The day honours the dedication, compassion, and essential service provided by nurses in every aspect of healthcare delivery.

Important Terms Explained:

  • International Nurses Day (IND): A global observance led by the International Council of Nurses (ICN) to celebrate the nursing profession and raise awareness of nurses’ roles in health, economic, and social systems.
  • Florence Nightingale: Born on May 12, 1820, she revolutionized nursing during the Crimean War and became a symbol of care and medical reform. The lamp is a key symbol of her legacy, used in ceremonial tributes like the Lamp Lighting Ceremony.
  • ICN (International Council of Nurses): A federation of more than 130 national nurses associations working to ensure quality nursing care worldwide and to advocate for nursing policies and leadership.
  • Burnout: A critical issue affecting nurses globally, caused by prolonged stress, overwork, and insufficient staffing, leading to emotional and physical exhaustion.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event International Nurses Day 2025
Date May 12, 2025
Theme “Our Nurses. Our Future. Caring for nurses strengthens economies”
Organiser International Council of Nurses (ICN)
Honours Birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale
First Proposed 1953 by Dorothy Sutherland
Officially Established 1965 by ICN; May 12 fixed in 1974
Key Objective Promote nurse welfare and healthcare system resilience
Symbol Lamp (used in Lamp Lighting Ceremonies)

3. When is National Technology Day observed annually to commemorate India’s Pokhran-II nuclear tests?
A) May 1
B) May 5
C) May 11
D) May 15
E) May 18
Answer: C) May 11

Event and Location:

  • Event: National Technology Day 2025 was observed across India to commemorate scientific excellence and strategic achievements, particularly the Pokhran-II nuclear tests conducted in 1998.
  • Date: The event is celebrated annually on May 11, marking one of the most significant days in India’s scientific history.
  • Location: Celebrations were held nationwide, involving scientific institutions, educational establishments, and government organizations.
  • Occasion: The 2025 observance marked 27 years since the 1998 nuclear tests, with activities focusing on innovation, sustainability, and technology-driven development.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Core Purpose: The day is meant to honour India’s scientific community and celebrate milestones that signify national progress in science, defence, and innovation.
  • Strategic Remembrance: It commemorates the successful Pokhran-II nuclear tests conducted under Operation Shakti, which established India as a nuclear-capable state.
  • Scientific Focus: It aims to promote eco-friendly innovation, motivate the youth to pursue STEM careers, and encourage indigenous technological development.
  • Policy Goals: The occasion urges policymakers to invest in research and development, foster public-private partnerships, and drive sustainable tech growth across sectors such as defence, environment, and healthcare.

Important Terms Explained:

  • National Technology Day: Celebrated annually on May 11, it marks India’s technological achievements, especially the 1998 Pokhran nuclear tests and advancements in defence and aviation.
  • Pokhran-II Nuclear Tests: A series of five nuclear tests conducted in May 1998 at the Pokhran Test Range in Rajasthan, under the leadership of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, elevating India to nuclear power status.
  • Operation Shakti: Codename for the Pokhran-II tests, involving the detonation of three nuclear devices on May 11 and two more on May 13, 1998.
  • Hansa-3: India’s first indigenous light aircraft, test-flown on May 11, 1998, in Bengaluru, showcasing the nation’s aerospace capabilities.
  • Trishul Missile: A short-range surface-to-air missile successfully test-launched by DRDO on May 11, 1998, as part of the same day’s technological milestones.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event National Technology Day 2025
Date May 11, 2025
Theme “Empowering a Sustainable Tomorrow Through Innovation”
Key Events Remembered Pokhran-II tests, Hansa-3 aircraft flight, Trishul missile launch
First Observed 1999
Led By Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam during Pokhran-II
Operation Name Operation Shakti
Purpose Celebrate India’s scientific and strategic progress
Significance Boosts awareness on R&D, innovation, and sustainable technology

Sports – Daily Current Affairs May 12

4. Who recently announced retirement from Test cricket, marking the end of a 14-year-long legendary career?
A) Rohit Sharma
B) MS Dhoni
C) Virat Kohli
D) KL Rahul
E) Cheteshwar Pujara
Answer: C) Virat Kohli

Event and Location:

  • Event: Indian cricket superstar Virat Kohli has officially announced his retirement from Test cricket, drawing curtains on one of the most illustrious careers in the format.
  • Date: The announcement was made in May 2025, shortly after the conclusion of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia.
  • Location: Kohli’s final Test appearance was at the Sydney Cricket Ground, during the fourth Test of the India–Australia series.
  • Occasion: His retirement marks the end of an era in Indian Test cricket, particularly coming soon after Rohit Sharma’s exit from the format.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Legacy as a Batsman: Over 14 years, Kohli played 123 Test matches, scoring 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, with 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries, placing him fourth among India’s highest Test run-scorers.
  • Leadership Record: Appointed Test captain in 2014, Kohli led India in 68 Tests, winning 40 of them—the most wins by an Indian captain, with a win percentage of 58.82%.
  • Historic Milestones: Under his leadership, India achieved its first-ever Test series win in Australia (2018–19) and consistently ranked No. 1 in ICC Test rankings, defining a golden era in Indian cricket.
  • Decline and Decision: At 36 years of age, Kohli’s decision was influenced by a visible decline in form, scoring just 190 runs in 9 innings during his final series and facing scrutiny over his consistency.
  • Team Transition: His retirement, alongside Rohit Sharma’s, opens the path for a new generation, with Shubman Gill being a top contender for India’s next Test captain.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Test Cricket: The longest and most traditional form of international cricket, played over five days, regarded as the ultimate test of a player’s skill and endurance.
  • Border-Gavaskar Trophy: A prestigious Test series contested between India and Australia, named after cricket legends Allan Border and Sunil Gavaskar.
  • Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG): One of Australia’s iconic cricket venues where Kohli played his final Test match.
  • Shubman Gill: A promising Indian batsman seen as a future leader following the retirement of senior players.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event Virat Kohli announces retirement from Test cricket
Retirement Date May 2025
Test Career Span 2011–2025 (14 years)
Total Matches Played 123
Total Runs Scored 9,230
Centuries/Half-Centuries 30/31
Highest Score 254* vs South Africa (2019)
Captaincy Record 68 matches (40 wins, 17 losses, 11 draws)
Final Match Sydney, Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2025
Post-Retirement Impact Leadership vacuum; Shubman Gill likely next Test captain

Ranking – Daily Current Affairs May 12

5. Which Indian air defence system, jointly developed with Israel, is deployed in Ladakh and used across all three military services?
A) SPYDER
B) Akash-NG
C) Barak 8
D) Prithvi
E) QRSAM
Answer: C) Barak 8

Event and Location:

  • Event: India has significantly expanded its air defence capabilities through the integration of advanced indigenous and foreign systems, now being recognized among the top five global air defence powers.
  • Date: As of 2025, India’s defence strategy includes several operational layers of missile defence systems ranging from long-range to very short-range.
  • Location: These systems are deployed across strategic zones, especially near sensitive borders like Ladakh, Jammu, Punjab, and Northeast India, enhancing India’s ability to counter threats from adversaries such as Pakistan and China.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Primary Aim: The objective of India’s comprehensive air defence strategy is to detect, intercept, and neutralize aerial threats, including enemy fighter jets, ballistic missiles, drones, and cruise missiles.
  • Layered Defence Structure: India operates a multi-tiered air defence network, consisting of long-range, medium-range, short-range, and very short-range systems for dynamic protection in different combat environments.
  • Indigenous Development: The country is pushing for self-reliance in defence under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, with advanced systems like Akash, QRSAM, and the Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) programme developed by DRDO.
  • Strategic Cooperation: India has also strengthened its air defence through joint ventures such as Barak 8 with Israel, and imports like SPYDER and legacy Soviet systems.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD): A two-tiered missile shield system developed by DRDO, comprising the Prithvi Air Defence (PAD) for high-altitude interception and Advanced Air Defence (AAD) for lower-altitude targets.
  • Akash Missile System: India’s first successful medium-range surface-to-air missile developed by DRDO, BEL, and BDL, capable of neutralizing multiple aerial targets with precision and ease of mobility.
  • Barak 8: A joint India-Israel air defence system with a range of up to 100 km, capable of targeting aircraft, UAVs, and cruise missiles; deployed in areas like Ladakh.
  • QRSAM (Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile): A short-range mobile defence system designed to protect mechanized troops during rapid movements.
  • VSHORAD Systems: Very Short-Range Air Defence systems used to protect field units from low-flying threats using guns and heat-seeking missiles.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event India among top 5 air defence powers
Key Long-Range Systems Prithvi Air Defence (PAD), Advanced Air Defence (AAD)
Key Medium-Range Akash, Barak 8, SPYDER, QRSAM
Short-Range/Legacy 2K12 Kub, Pechora, 9K33 Osa-AK
VSHORAD Systems Strela-10, Tunguska, Shilka, ZU-23-2, Bofors, KPV
Most Deployed Akash – with mobility and coordination with S-400, Barak 8
Exports Akash export to Armenia worth $720 million
Production Rate 50–60 Akash missiles per month
Strategic Deployment Jammu, Ladakh, Punjab, and Northeast borders
Indigenous Boost Saved ₹34,000 crore in imports via local production

Banking and Finance – Daily Current Affairs May 12

6. Which public sector bank has announced a ₹50,000–55,000 crore corporate loan pipeline for FY26?
A) Bank of Baroda
B) Indian Bank
C) Canara Bank
D) Punjab National Bank
E) Bank of Maharashtra
Answer: C) Canara Bank

Event and Location:

  • Event: Canara Bank has announced the creation of a ₹50,000–55,000 crore corporate loan pipeline to be disbursed in the coming months as part of its effort to increase corporate lending and expand its wholesale book.
  • Date: The announcement was made in May 2025, with disbursals expected over the next few months.
  • Location: The update was shared from Kolkata and involves nationwide implementation across Canara Bank’s network.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Lending Growth Target: The bank aims to increase corporate lending by 10% in FY26. The overall credit growth guidance for FY26 is 10–11%.
  • Sectoral Focus: A major share of the sanctioned corporate loans will go to the manufacturing, infrastructure, real estate, and green energy sectors.
  • Loan Disbursal Plan: Of the total ₹50,000–55,000 crore, ₹25,000–28,000 crore was sanctioned before April, with about ₹600 crore disbursed already. The rest will follow soon.
  • Recurring Demand: There is a consistent demand for recurring credit, with a specific pipeline already under evaluation.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Corporate Loan Pipeline: A planned and approved set of loan disbursements that banks expect to issue to corporate clients over a defined period.
  • CASA (Current Account Savings Account) Ratio: Indicates the share of low-cost deposits in a bank’s total deposits. Higher CASA ratios generally reflect stronger financial health.
  • Bulk Deposits: Deposits over ₹3 crore in a single account. These typically carry higher interest than retail deposits but are less stable.
  • Credit Growth Guidance: The projected or targeted growth rate in the bank’s overall lending portfolio for a financial year.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event Canara Bank announces ₹50k–55k crore corporate loan pipeline
Location Kolkata (announcement); nationwide implementation
Target Growth (FY26) 10% corporate lending; 10–11% credit growth
Corporate Book Size ₹4.63 lakh crore (as of March), 43% of total loan portfolio
Loan Disbursal Plan ₹25,000–28,000 crore sanctioned; ₹600 crore already disbursed
Focus Sectors Manufacturing, infrastructure, real estate, green energy
CASA Ratio (Mar 2025) 31.17% vs guidance of 33%; revised to 32% for FY26
Bulk Deposit Limit Deposits over ₹3 crore considered bulk
Branch Expansion 250 new branches planned; current network: 9,849 branches

Appointments – Daily Current Affairs May 12

7. Who has been appointed as the new Executive Chairman of NALSA effective from May 14, 2025?
A) DY Chandrachud
B) BR Gavai
C) Surya Kant
D) Hima Kohli
E) UU Lalit
Answer: C) Surya Kant

Event and Location:

  • Event: Justice Surya Kant, a senior Supreme Court judge, has been appointed as the Executive Chairman of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) by the President of India.
  • Date: The appointment will take effect from May 14, 2025.
  • Location: The announcement was made from New Delhi and follows the judicial convention of appointing the second senior-most judge of the Supreme Court to this post.
  • Occasion: This decision comes at a significant time in India’s ongoing mission to ensure equitable access to justice for all sections of society.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Primary Role: As the Executive Chairman of NALSA, Justice Surya Kant will lead efforts to provide free and competent legal services to the underprivileged and marginalized populations across the country.
  • Judicial Tradition: The appointment aligns with the tradition of selecting the second most senior judge of the Supreme Court for this position, reflecting continuity and legal leadership.
  • Statutory Provision: The appointment is made under Clause (b) of sub-section (2) of Section 3 of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, which governs NALSA’s constitution and functioning.
  • Strategic Goal: His leadership is expected to enhance NALSA’s initiatives like legal literacy camps, Lok Adalats, and outreach efforts under the constitutional mandate of Article 39-A.
  • Organisational Link: Justice Surya Kant is also the current Chairman of the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee (SCLSC), which complements his new responsibilities at NALSA.

Important Terms Explained:

  • NALSA (National Legal Services Authority): A statutory body constituted under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, responsible for providing free legal aid, conducting Lok Adalats, and promoting legal awareness. It fulfills India’s constitutional directive under Article 39-A for ensuring equal justice.
  • Article 39-A: A directive principle in the Indian Constitution mandating the state to ensure that the legal system promotes justice on a basis of equal opportunity and provides free legal aid to those in need.
  • Supreme Court Legal Services Committee (SCLSC): A body under the Supreme Court that provides legal services at the apex court level, closely working with NALSA in matters of access to justice.
  • Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987: The law that governs legal aid and services across India through a structured hierarchy of legal services authorities at the national, state, district, and taluk levels.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event Appointment of NALSA Executive Chairman
Appointed Person Justice Surya Kant
Effective Date May 14, 2025
Appointed By President of India
Predecessor Justice BR Gavai
Legal Provision Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987
Current Role Chairman, Supreme Court Legal Services Committee (SCLSC)
Associated Article Article 39-A of the Indian Constitution
Institution National Legal Services Authority (NALSA)
Headquarters New Delhi
Significance Strengthens access to justice and legal aid for the needy

Science and Technology – Daily Current Affairs May 12

8. Which AI voice model was launched by Sarvam AI to reflect India’s multilingual diversity?
A) SvarVoice
B) Bulbul-v1
C) Bulbul-v2
D) BhashaTone
E) VaniX
Answer: C) Bulbul-v2

Event and Location:

  • Event: Bengaluru-based AI startup Sarvam AI has launched Bulbul-v2, a next-generation text-to-speech (TTS) model tailored to represent India’s linguistic and cultural diversity.
  • Date: The model was launched in May 2025 as part of Sarvam AI’s broader commitment to inclusive speech technologies.
  • Location: The launch took place in Bengaluru, Karnataka, the home base of Sarvam AI, a leading player in India’s emerging AI innovation space.
  • Occasion: The release aligns with Sarvam AI’s ongoing contribution to the IndiaAI mission, focused on building India’s sovereign AI capabilities.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Main Objective: The purpose of Bulbul-v2 is to democratise high-quality AI voice technology for Indian users by providing realistic, customisable, and human-like voices across multiple Indian languages.
  • Linguistic Reach: The model supports 11 Indian languages, incorporating accurate regional accents and enabling multi-language and code-mixed input processing.
  • Technical Capabilities: It offers fine control over pitch, pace, and loudness, supports multiple audio sample rates (from 8kHz to 24kHz), and features intelligent text preprocessing for elements like numbers and dates.
  • Business Utility: The tool is designed to help developers, brands, and businesses deliver natural voice experiences for Indian audiences, including customer support bots, content creators, and public information systems.
  • Digital Inclusivity: The model enhances accessibility and linguistic representation in India’s digital space, helping bridge language gaps in AI communication.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Bulbul-v2: A state-of-the-art text-to-speech (TTS) model developed by Sarvam AI, designed to offer lifelike voice outputs in 11 Indian languages with natural regional accents and real-time audio generation capabilities.
  • Sarvam AI: A Bengaluru-based artificial intelligence startup focused on building language-centric and voice-first AI solutions, including India’s sovereign LLM under the IndiaAI mission.
  • IndiaAI Mission: A Government of India initiative aimed at fostering technological sovereignty through indigenous development of large language models, AI infrastructure, and responsible AI tools.
  • Text-to-Speech (TTS): A technology that converts written text into spoken voice output. Bulbul-v2 offers customisable, multilingual, real-time speech generation using AI.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event Launch of Bulbul-v2 by Sarvam AI
Developer Sarvam AI, Bengaluru
Model Type Text-to-Speech (TTS) AI voice model
Languages Supported 11 Indian languages
Key Capabilities Natural accents, pitch/pace/loudness control, multi-rate audio
Launch Date May 2025
Previous Version Bulbul-v1 (launched August 2024)
Strategic Purpose Supports IndiaAI mission and digital linguistic inclusivity
Target Use Cases Branding, customer support, education, digital inclusion

9. What recent breakthrough in rice genetics involved mapping 144 wild and cultivated varieties to build a full genome profile?
A) Rice Booster Project
B) Golden Rice Genome
C) Asian Rice Pangenome
D) Paddy DNA Matrix
E) RiceMap 144
Answer: C) Asian Rice Pangenome

Event and Location:

  • Event: Scientists have developed the first-ever pangenome of Asian rice, marking a transformative achievement in agricultural genomics.
  • Date: The research was published in May 2025 and is regarded as a landmark step in modern rice breeding and food security.
  • Location: The core research was led by scientists from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, involving the sequencing of diverse rice varieties across Asia.
  • Occasion: The announcement comes amid increasing threats to global rice production due to climate change, particularly affecting major producers like India.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Research Goal: The objective was to create a comprehensive genetic map of Asian cultivated rice (Oryza sativa L.) by sequencing both wild and cultivated varieties.
  • Scope of Study: A total of 144 rice genomes were analyzed to uncover previously unknown genetic traits that could benefit breeding strategies.
  • Application Goal: The resulting pangenome aims to support the development of climate-resilient, high-yield, and disease-resistant rice varieties.
  • Scientific Utility: This study helps to bridge the genetic gap between wild and cultivated rice, enabling breeders to integrate valuable traits into modern crops.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Pangenome: A genomic dataset that includes both core genes (common to all varieties) and accessory genes (unique to specific strains), offering a fuller genetic picture than traditional reference genomes.
  • Oryza sativa L.: The scientific name for Asian cultivated rice, one of the most important food crops globally.
  • PacBio HiFi Sequencing: A high-fidelity sequencing technology used to accurately map long DNA sequences, enabling detailed genomic analysis.
  • Or-IIIa Wild Rice Group: A group of wild rice strains believed to be the original ancestor of all Asian cultivated rice, supported by the study’s findings.
  • Genome Editing: A precise technique for altering DNA sequences to improve traits like disease resistance and yield without introducing foreign DNA.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event Development of the first pangenome of Asian rice
Published May 2025
Leading Institution Chinese Academy of Sciences
Varieties Studied 144 (wild and cultivated)
Genes Identified 69,531 (28,907 core; 13,728 wild-specific)
Sequencing Method PacBio HiFi Technology
New Genetic Material 3.87 billion base pairs not in previous reference genome
Significance Promotes resilience, yield, and disease resistance
India Relevance Climate stress, genome-edited rice under trial, record output

International Affairs – Daily Current Affairs May 12

10. Where did the 11th round of India-EU Free Trade Agreement negotiations begin in May 2025?
A) Paris
B) Berlin
C) Brussels
D) Rome
E) Vienna
Answer: C) Brussels

Event and Location:

  • Event: India and the European Union (EU) resumed negotiations for a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA), marking the 11th official round of talks.
  • Date: The 11th round of talks began on May 12, 2025, and will continue until May 16, 2025.
  • Location: The discussions are being held in Brussels, the de facto capital of the European Union and a key diplomatic hub.
  • Occasion: This renewed phase of talks is part of a fast-track, two-stage strategy to conclude an interim agreement quickly and finalise the full FTA by the end of 2025.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Interim Target: The primary goal is to finalise an interim trade agreement swiftly, covering low-conflict sectors to establish early benefits for both sides.
  • Full FTA Aim: India and the EU aim to conclude a comprehensive FTA by the end of 2025, covering a wide array of trade and investment areas.
  • Strategic Purpose: The agreement is intended to enhance market access, reduce non-tariff barriers (NTBs), and promote trade liberalisation across key export sectors such as textiles, IT, pharma, and automobiles.
  • Trade Diplomacy: The FTA talks are part of India’s broader trade diplomacy in 2025, with ongoing or near-final trade negotiations with the UK, US, and Australia.
  • Economic Impact: Successful completion of the deal would support mutual investment, technology transfer, and deeper integration between India and the 27-member EU bloc.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Free Trade Agreement (FTA): A treaty between two or more countries to reduce tariffs, import quotas, and other trade barriers, promoting increased trade and economic cooperation.
  • Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs): Regulations and policies other than tariffs that restrict international trade, such as licensing, quotas, and product standards.
  • Two-Stage Negotiation: A phased approach to trade talks where an interim agreement is signed to unlock early benefits while working toward a broader, more complex final deal.
  • India-EU FTA: A long-standing proposed trade pact aimed at increasing bilateral trade, investment, and regulatory cooperation between India and the European Union.
  • ECTA (Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement): A limited trade deal signed between India and Australia in 2022 to boost bilateral trade through tariff reduction and sectoral collaboration.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event 11th Round of India-EU Free Trade Agreement Talks
Start Date May 12, 2025
End Date May 16, 2025
Location Brussels, European Union Headquarters
Key Indian Official Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce and Industry
EU Trade Official Maros Sefcovic, EU Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security
Negotiation Strategy Two-stage approach: interim + full FTA
Objective Trade liberalisation, reduce NTBs, boost exports
Related Talks India-UK FTA, India-US BTA, India-Australia ECTA
Significance Strengthens India’s trade positioning and economic ties with EU

National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs May 12

11. Which state-level water project is tagged as the world’s largest recharge initiative with 90% Central funding?
A) Ganga Link
B) Narmada Boost
C) Tapti Recharge
D) Krishna Plan
E) Kosi Revival
Answer: C) Tapti Recharge

Event and Location:

  • Event: A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the governments of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra to launch the Tapti Basin Mega Recharge Project, aiming at long-term inter-state water collaboration and sustainable resource sharing.
  • Date: The MoU was officially signed on May 10, 2025.
  • Location: The agreement was signed during the Inter-State Control Board meeting held in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh.
  • Occasion: This meeting marked the first Inter-State Control Board session in 25 years, the last one having taken place in 2000.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Objective: The primary objective of the project is to address chronic water scarcity by enhancing groundwater recharge, securing drinking water supplies, and improving irrigation facilities across both states.
  • States Involved: Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra have jointly committed to the project, showing a strong model of cooperative federalism in water resource management.
  • Water Share and Utilisation: The total water proposed to be utilized under this project is 31.13 TMC, with Maharashtra allocated 19.36 TMC and Madhya Pradesh receiving 11.76 TMC.
  • Irrigation and Coverage: The project is designed to provide permanent irrigation benefits to 3,57,788 hectares of land, covering 2,34,706 hectares in Maharashtra and 1,23,082 hectares in Madhya Pradesh.
  • Land and Social Impact: The recharge project will use approximately 3,362 hectares in Madhya Pradesh, and importantly, it will not involve any displacement or rehabilitation of local populations.
  • Strategic Importance: By reducing dependency on groundwater and enhancing surface water availability, the project aims to improve regional climate resilience and support sustainable agriculture.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Tapti Basin Mega Recharge Project: This is a pioneering inter-state water recharge initiative proposed initially in the 1990s. It aims to recharge groundwater, ensure water security for agriculture and drinking purposes, and support climate adaptation efforts in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh.
  • TMC (Thousand Million Cubic Feet): A measurement unit used for water volumes in large-scale water projects. One TMC equals approximately 28.3 billion liters of water.
  • MoU (Memorandum of Understanding): A formal document outlining the mutual intent of parties—in this case, two state governments—to collaborate on the planning and execution of a joint project.
  • Inter-State Control Board: A statutory coordination platform that facilitates discussions and decisions among states sharing a river basin, enabling better water-sharing frameworks and collaborative planning.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event Signing of Tapti Basin Mega Recharge Project MoU.
Date May 10, 2025.
Location Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh.
States Involved Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.
Project Cost ₹19,244 crore (2022–23 estimates).
Water Utilisation 31.13 TMC (MH: 19.36 TMC, MP: 11.76 TMC).
Irrigation Coverage 3,57,788 hectares (MH: 2,34,706 ha; MP: 1,23,082 ha).
Land Requirement (MP) 3,362 hectares with no displacement or rehabilitation.
Funding Support 90% Central Government funding expected.
Districts (Madhya Pradesh) Burhanpur, Khandwa.
Districts (Maharashtra) Jalgaon, Akola, Buldhana, Amravati.
Unique Feature World’s largest groundwater recharge project.
Next Control Board Meet Scheduled for October 2025.

12. Which missile production facility was inaugurated in Lucknow to enhance India’s defence manufacturing?
A) Agni Hub
B) Astra Unit
C) BrahMos Plant
D) Trishul Base
E) Akash Zone
Answer: C) BrahMos Plant

Event and Location:

  • Event: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh virtually inaugurated the BrahMos Missile Production Unit as a major milestone in India’s indigenous defence manufacturing efforts under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
  • Date: The inauguration took place on May 11, 2025.
  • Location: The facility is located at the Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor in the Lucknow node, spread across 80 hectares of land provided free of cost by the Uttar Pradesh government.
  • Occasion: The launch ceremony was held virtually and also witnessed the presence of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Strategic Aim: The unit aims to strengthen India’s defence capabilities by manufacturing the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile and its next-generation variants, thereby boosting self-reliance in defence production.
  • Production Goal: The facility is designed to produce 80–100 standard BrahMos missiles and 100–150 next-generation BrahMos missiles annually.
  • Employment Impact: The plant is expected to generate approximately 500 direct jobs for skilled professionals and thousands of indirect jobs through allied industries and support services.
  • Technological Growth: The project brings advanced aerospace and missile production technologies to Uttar Pradesh, helping the region evolve into a defence manufacturing hub.
  • National Security: This step enhances India’s preparedness amid rising regional tensions, especially with Pakistan and other neighboring adversaries.

Important Terms Explained:

  • BrahMos Missile: A supersonic cruise missile developed by BrahMos Aerospace, a joint venture between India’s DRDO and Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyenia. Known for its speed (Mach 2.8), precision, and multi-platform launch capability (land, sea, air).
  • Next-Generation BrahMos: A lighter, more advanced version weighing 1,290 kg with a strike range of over 300 km. Enhanced for air platforms like Sukhoi jets, enabling them to carry three missiles instead of one.
  • Atmanirbhar Bharat: A national mission promoting self-sufficiency in various sectors including defence, aimed at reducing imports and increasing indigenous production.
  • Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor: A government initiative to boost defence manufacturing in the state by attracting investments and allocating land to major defence firms, including BrahMos Aerospace.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event Inauguration of BrahMos Missile Production Unit
Date May 11, 2025
Location Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor, Lucknow node
Investment ₹300 crore
Land Area 80 hectares (provided free by UP government)
Inaugurated By Defence Minister Rajnath Singh (virtually)
Annual Production 80–100 BrahMos missiles; 100–150 next-gen variants
Key Product BrahMos supersonic cruise missile
Direct Jobs Expected Around 500
Indirect Jobs Expected Over 3,000
Project Partners DRDO (India), NPO Mashinostroyenia (Russia)
Strategic Importance Boosts indigenous defence capabilities amid regional tensions

13. Which initiative was launched by Delhi Police to bring school dropouts back into education?
A) Shiksha Setu
B) Nayi Disha
C) Vidya Daan
D) School Sakhi
E) Shiksha Udaan
Answer: B) Nayi Disha

Event and Location:

  • Event: The Delhi Police launched a community-based initiative called ‘Nayi Disha – A Path Back to Learning’ to tackle the issue of school dropouts in the city.
  • Date: The initiative was introduced in May 2025 as a proactive outreach effort by the police force.
  • Location: The programme was launched across multiple districts of Delhi with plans for broader implementation.
  • Occasion: The programme marks a shift in the role of police from being law enforcers to acting as social mentors and facilitators of education.

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Primary Objective: The key goal of the ‘Nayi Disha’ initiative is to reintegrate children who have dropped out of school back into the formal education system.
  • Community Outreach: Delhi Police officers are conducting door-to-door visits to identify dropouts and understand the underlying reasons for school abandonment.
  • Holistic Support: The initiative provides academic assistance, emotional counselling, and admission facilitation in collaboration with schools and NGOs.
  • Stakeholder Involvement: Schools, social workers, and non-governmental organizations are brought in to support the children through funding, tutoring, and mentorship.
  • Social Mission: The programme serves as a social development model, tackling issues like poverty and domestic instability that often lead to educational dropouts.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Nayi Disha – A Path Back to Learning: A flagship outreach programme by the Delhi Police that focuses on restoring the right to education for disadvantaged children through collaborative intervention and community involvement.
  • School Dropout: Refers to children who have left school prematurely due to various socio-economic or domestic reasons and are not part of any formal education setup.
  • Counselling and Reintegration Support: Emotional and academic support mechanisms such as therapy, mentorship, and simplified re-enrollment procedures offered to dropout children under this programme.
  • NGOs and Social Workers: Non-governmental and civil society partners who play a key role in mobilizing resources and ensuring continuity in education for rejoining students.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event Launch of ‘Nayi Disha’ initiative by Delhi Police
Initiative Name Nayi Disha – A Path Back to Learning
Launched By Delhi Police
Date May 2025
Objective Reintegration of school dropouts into the education system
Key Activities Door-to-door outreach, counselling, admission assistance
Stakeholders Involved Schools, NGOs, social workers
Support Provided Tuition help, emotional support, academic counselling
Expected Impact Students returning to school; planned district-wide rollout
Quote by DCP (East) “We are not just knocking on doors, we are opening them.”


Over All Review

Important Days

  • Buddha Purnima 2025 will be celebrated on May 12, a Monday.
  • International Nurses Day is celebrated globally on May 12 each year.
  • National Technology Day is observed every year on May 11.

Sports 

  • Virat Kohli has retired from Test cricket after a 14-year-long career.

Ranking 

  • India is now among the top five air defence powers globally.

Banking and Finance 

  • Canara Bank announced a ₹50,000–55,000 crore corporate loan pipeline for FY26.

Appointments

  • Justice Surya Kant has been appointed as the new Executive Chairman of NALSA.

Science and Technology

  • Sarvam AI has launched Bulbul-v2, a multilingual AI voice model.
  • Scientists have created the first pangenome of Asian rice using 144 rice varieties.

International Affairs

  • India and the EU began their 11th round of FTA talks in Brussels on May 12, 2025.

National Affairs

  • Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra signed an MoU for a joint mega water recharge project.
  • Rajnath Singh virtually launched the BrahMos missile production unit in Lucknow.
  • Delhi Police has launched ‘Nayi Disha’ to tackle the school dropout crisis.

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