Daily Current Affairs: 23 May 2026

India

01
India launches first indigenous hydrogen fuel cell train
Indian Railways flagged off the country's first hydrogen fuel cell train from Jodhpur. This is a major step towards green mobility and reducing carbon emissions. The train emits only water vapor and is part of India's National Hydrogen Mission.
02
Government launches 'Digital India 2.0' initiative
The Union Cabinet approved the 'Digital India 2.0' programme with a focus on AI, cybersecurity, and digital skilling. It aims to bridge the digital divide and boost the digital economy. The initiative includes setting up 5G labs and expanding broadband to villages.
03
Supreme Court upholds validity of Aadhaar for welfare schemes
The Supreme Court ruled that Aadhaar can be mandatory for availing government welfare schemes, but not for private services. The judgment reaffirmed the balance between privacy and state benefits. It also directed the government to strengthen data protection.

01
G7 summit concludes with climate finance pledge
The G7 summit in Japan ended with a commitment to provide $100 billion annually to developing countries for climate action. Leaders also agreed to phase out coal power by 2035. India was invited as a guest nation and participated in discussions on clean energy.
02
WHO declares end of COVID-19 global health emergency
The World Health Organization declared that COVID-19 no longer constitutes a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). This marks a symbolic end to the pandemic phase. However, WHO cautioned that the virus continues to circulate and mutate.
03
Russia and Ukraine sign grain deal extension
Russia and Ukraine agreed to extend the Black Sea Grain Initiative for another 120 days. The deal allows safe export of Ukrainian grain via sea routes, stabilizing global food prices. The UN and Turkey brokered the agreement.

01
India's GDP growth revised to 7.2% for FY 2025-26
The National Statistical Office revised India's GDP growth estimate for 2025-26 to 7.2%, driven by strong manufacturing and services. This makes India the fastest-growing major economy. The revision is based on higher-than-expected Q4 performance.
02
RBI keeps repo rate unchanged at 6.5%
The Reserve Bank of India's Monetary Policy Committee decided to hold the repo rate steady, citing inflation concerns. The stance remains 'withdrawal of accommodation'. This decision aims to balance growth and price stability.

01
ISRO successfully tests crew escape system for Gaganyaan
ISRO conducted a successful test of the crew escape system for its human spaceflight mission Gaganyaan. The test demonstrated the system's ability to safely eject astronauts in an emergency. This is a critical milestone for India's first manned space mission.

01
India wins Thomas Cup for the first time
India's badminton team defeated Indonesia to win the Thomas Cup, the world men's team championship. This is India's first title in the tournament's history. Key players included Lakshya Sen and Kidambi Srikanth.

01
Nobel laureate Amartya Sen awarded Bharat Ratna
The Government of India announced the Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award, to economist Amartya Sen. He is recognized for his contributions to welfare economics and social justice. The award will be conferred posthumously.

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This edition includes 7 practice questions based on the briefing.