Current Affairs Quiz - May 2026

Notes:
Scientists discovered new fossils of an ancient platypus species in South Australia showing it had teeth, unlike modern platypuses. The Platypus is a semi-aquatic, egg-laying mammal endemic to eastern Australia. It belongs to a rare group of mammals called monotremes (egg-laying mammals). It inhabits freshwater systems ranging from tropical Queensland to Tasmania and the Australian Alps. It spends much of its time in burrows along riverbanks. Its conservation status is Near Threatened (IUCN).

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Preah Vihear Temple is a historic Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Preah Vihear Province of Cambodia. It stands atop a cliff in the Dangrek Mountains along the Cambodia–Thailand border, giving it strategic importance. It was built during the Khmer Empire (11th–12th century), it was developed by kings Suryavarman I and Suryavarman II. The temple was used for over 800 years by Angkor rulers. Later, it gradually transformed into a Buddhist site with added decorations. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008. Recently, tensions and clashes have again emerged between both countries over control of the temple.

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The National Security Summit 2.0 held in New Delhi aimed to discuss evolving national security challenges and strategies in the changing global order. The summit focused on strengthening India’s security preparedness, governance adaptation, and strategic response mechanisms. It highlighted that Operation Sindoor reflects India’s firm commitment to a zero-tolerance policy toward terrorism. It emphasised that India will make no distinction between terrorists and their sponsors in its security approach. The summit stressed the importance of adapting to the New World Order, especially in the context of global conflicts like West Asia.

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India has recorded a 250% increase in Doppler Weather Radars (DWRs) under Mission Mausam to strengthen weather monitoring. DWR works on the Doppler Effect, which measures changes in frequency due to motion of objects like raindrops. Mission Mausam was launched in 2024 by the Ministry of Earth Sciences. It is implemented by India Meteorological Department, National Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting, and Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology. The mission has a budget of ₹2,000 crore for two years. Its aim is to make India “Weather Ready” and “Climate Smart.”

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Dr Bhaskar Jyoti Sonowal from Assam has been elected President of the BRICS Entrepreneurs Alliance (BEA) Global Forum for the 2026–27 term. This marks a significant step in strengthening India’s role within the BRICS+ economic framework. He currently serves as CEO and Executive Director of BEA India. His leadership comes as India prepares to host the BEA Global Summit in November 2026. The appointment aims to boost cross-border trade, global partnerships, and MSME opportunities. It is expected to enhance market access for Indian entrepreneurs and promote inclusive global trade.

Notes:
Narendra Modi addressed the 11th Heads of Mission Conference in New Delhi. The conference was organised by the Ministry of External Affairs from April 28 to 30. The theme of the conference was “Reforming Indian Diplomacy for 2047.” Discussions covered geopolitical developments, emerging technologies, and future-ready diplomacy. The event aimed to strengthen India’s global diplomatic strategy and national interests.

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A scientific survey has started in Nagarjunasagar Srisailam Tiger Reserve, Andhra Pradesh to assess the Peacock Tarantula population. Peacock Tarantula, also called Gooty Sapphire Ornamental Tarantula, is known for its bright metallic blue colour. It is endemic to India and mainly found in Andhra Pradesh forests. It actively hunts prey using speed and venom instead of webs. International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists it as Critically Endangered. It helps maintain ecological balance by controlling insect populations.

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Sikkim has been declared India’s first paperless judiciary state. The initiative aims to create a faster, transparent, and technology-driven judiciary. It emphasises the use of e-filing and digital case management systems. These digital tools are expected to improve efficiency and accessibility of justice delivery. The move will also make the judicial system more inclusive and user-friendly. The initiative aligns with India’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. A technology-driven judiciary will help ensure fairness and build public trust. It will also contribute to sustainable development by strengthening governance systems.

Notes:
The Chitra Pournami is primarily celebrated in Tamil Nadu with notable observances at the Mangaladevi Temple. The festival occurs on the full moon day in the Tamil month of Chithirai (April–May). In 2026, it was celebrated on 1 May. It is dedicated to Chitragupta and also associated with Goddess Mangaladevi (Kannagi). Large-scale celebrations take place in Thiruvannamalai, where devotees perform Girivalam around the sacred hill. The festival reflects spiritual purification, devotion, and the belief in karmic accountability.

Notes:
Mizoram has launched the “Khuarel” mobile application to strengthen disaster response mechanisms. The app is a real-time disaster incident reporting and management system. The application enables citizens to quickly report disaster-related incidents. It improves coordination and information flow during emergencies. The system enhances timely decision-making and disaster management effectiveness. Mizoram is among the first states in Northeast India to adopt such an advanced digital solution. The initiative reflects the growing use of technology in disaster preparedness and response.