Current Affairs Quiz - May 2026

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Scientists discovered two new firefly species named Diaphanes meghalayanus and Diaphanes mawlynnong. They were found in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya. This marks the first formal documentation of firefly species from the state. The name meghalayanus reflects its regional distribution, while mawlynnong is named after Mawlynnong. The naming also acknowledges the local Khasi community. Both species thrive in dark, humid environments with minimal human disturbance. The discovery highlights the rich biodiversity of Northeast India.

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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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India’s first commercial seaplane service has been approved by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation. The operator is SkyHop Aviation. The initial launch of services will be in Lakshadweep. It will connect five islands internally and link them to the mainland. Trial water take-offs and landings were conducted in Rishikesh. The service will use a 19-seater aircraft and improve connectivity to remote regions. It is expected to boost tourism and reduce travel time in island areas.

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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.

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The World Health Organization (WHO) released the Global Hepatitis Report 2026, which highlights that India is among the countries with the highest burden of hepatitis-related deaths globally. Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver caused mainly by viral infections. It can also result from autoimmune conditions, alcohol consumption, drugs, toxins, or certain medications. Autoimmune hepatitis occurs when the body’s immune system attacks liver tissues. The disease affects liver function and can lead to serious health complications. The report highlights the need for improved prevention, early detection, and treatment strategies in India.

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The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board has permitted major equipment erection at Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project Units 5 and 6. The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board is India’s premier authority for nuclear and radiation safety. It was established on November 15, 1983, under the Atomic Energy Act, 1962. Its regulatory powers are derived from the Atomic Energy Act and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. The main objective of the Board is to ensure safe use of nuclear energy and ionising radiation without risk to people and the environment. Its headquarters is located in Mumbai.

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The Bureau of Indian Standards has published standards for medical assistive technologies under the National List of Essential Assistive Products (NLEAP) initiative. BIS is the national standards body of India established under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016. It aims to ensure standardization, marking, and quality certification of goods in India. It represents India in the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). BIS functions under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and is headquartered in New Delhi.

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“Startup Kadapa” is an ambitious project in Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh, aimed at nurturing entrepreneurial talent and providing a platform for youth to explore new opportunities. The initiative is designed to support approximately 15,000 tech professionals in Kadapa who are currently working from home and seeking entrepreneurial platforms. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu, the government aims to align with the shift from traditional employment to a focus on innovation and problem-solving.

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Delhi launched the “Catch the Rain 2026” campaign to promote rainwater harvesting and water conservation. The campaign mascot, ‘Neera’, was unveiled to spread awareness about sustainable water management among citizens. The initiative aims to improve groundwater recharge and encourage storage of rainwater where it falls. The Delhi Jal Board will provide financial assistance up to ₹50,000 along with technical guidance for rainwater harvesting systems.

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World Athletics Day is celebrated on 7 May to promote athletics and fitness among youth. The day encourages young students to participate in sports and develop discipline, confidence, and healthy lifestyles. The celebration mainly promotes Track and Field athletics as an important sport for youth development. The day is observed annually to commemorate the founding of the International Association of Athletics Federations, now known as World Athletics.