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1. In which country, Yala Glacier was declared ‘dead’ and people and glaciologists from many countries paid tribute in May 2025?
a. Nepal
b. China
c. Bhutan
d. Switzerland
Answer: a. Nepal
– This is the first Nepali glacier to be declared “dead.”
– Located in Langtang, Nepal, the Yala Glacier was once a major center for glaciological training and cryosphere research in the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region.
– On May 12, 2025, scientists, local communities, and monks jointly declared it “dead” in an emotional memorial ceremony.
– Environmentalists, glaciologists, and trekking enthusiasts from several countries including India, Nepal, Bhutan, and China attended the memorial event.
– Yala is the first glacier in Asia and the third in the world to receive a commemorative plaque featuring words by author Andri Snær Magnason. Previously, memorials were established for the Ok Glacier in Iceland (2019) and the Ayoloco Glacier in Mexico (2021).
– The inscription on the plaque reads:
“A message for the future: Yala Glacier is one of the 54,000 glaciers in the Hindu Kush Himalaya, most of which are expected to disappear this century due to global warming. This monument is to acknowledge that we know what is happening and what needs to be done. Only you know what we did.”
Why It Was Declared ‘Dead’
– Situated at an altitude of around 5,100 meters above sea level, the ice on this glacier has been continuously melting.
– As a result, it has shrunk by about 66% since 1970.
– It has retreated nearly 784 meters from its original position.
– Environmental scientists believe it no longer holds enough ice to be considered a glacier and will not return to its former state.
– Scientists estimate that the remaining ice on the glacier will disappear entirely by 2040 or earlier.
Monitored for Decades
– Yala Glacier trained over 100 glaciologists and provided valuable field-based research data.
– It was one of 38 glaciers with detailed measurement records.
– Earlier, Iceland’s Ok Glacier was declared dead in 2019, and Mexico’s Ayoloco Glacier in 2021.
– Environmentalists view this as a grave consequence of climate change.
– The ceremony was coordinated by ICIMOD (International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development).
Himalayan Glaciers Are Shrinking
– The Himalayas are considered the world’s largest reservoir of fresh water due to their glaciers.
– But these glaciers are rapidly retreating.
– Scientists estimate that nearly all of the 54,000 glaciers in the Himalayas could disappear by the end of this century.
– Due to rapidly accelerating global warming, nearly 900 trillion tons of ice have already melted from mountain peaks around the world.
Nepal – Quick Facts
– Capital: Kathmandu
– Prime Minister: Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli
– President: Ram Chandra Paudel
– Population: 29.7 million (2023)
– Currency: Nepali Rupee
– Neighboring Countries: India and China
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2. Name the indigenous submersible vehicle built for mission ‘Samudrayaan’, which will be launched for testing in 2025 and for research in 2026?
a. Matsya 6000
b. Sagar 6000
c. India 8000
d. Dolphin 6000
Answer: a. Matsya 6000
– India has announced its first manned deep ocean mission, called the Deep Ocean Mission (DOM) or ‘Samudrayaan’.
– Under this mission, an indigenously developed submersible vehicle named MATSYA 6000 will be used.
– The ‘Samudrayaan’ Mission marks a significant step toward promoting India’s Blue Economy and ensuring the sustainable use of marine resources.
About MATSYA 6000
– MATSYA 6000 is a fourth-generation manned submersible vehicle.
– It has been developed entirely using indigenous technology.
– It can carry three scientists/passengers at a time.
– The vehicle has a normal operational endurance of 12 hours and an emergency capacity of up to 96 hours.
– It is capable of conducting research up to a depth of 6,000 meters in the ocean.
Deep Ocean Mission (DOM)
– The mission was launched in 2021 by the Ministry of Earth Sciences.
– It is being led by the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), Chennai.
Objectives of the Samudrayaan Mission
– To explore resources such as minerals and polymetallic nodules in the deep sea.
– To pave the way for deep-sea tourism in the future.
– To strengthen India’s strategic position in global marine research and diplomacy.
– To collect biological and non-biological samples from the ocean floor, enabling research on marine biodiversity, geology, and chemistry.
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3. When is World Migratory Bird Day celebrated?
a. Second Saturday of May
b. Second Saturday of October
c. Second Saturday of June
d. a and b
Answer: d. a and b (second Saturday of May and October) {10 May and 11 October in 2025}
Theme 2025
– Creating Bird-Friendly Cities & Communities
– Artificial light is increasing globally by at least 2% every year, and it has adverse effects on many bird species.
– Light pollution poses a major threat to migratory birds, as it causes disorientation during night flights, often leading to collisions with buildings.
– It can also disrupt their biological clocks and interfere with their ability to undertake long-distance migrations.
– There are a total of 9 flyways (flyways are the major routes used by migratory birds across continents).
India lies within the Central Asian Flyway.
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4. Using which article of the Constitution did President Draupadi Murmu seek advisory opinion from the Supreme Court on the bill approval powers of governors?
a. Article 161
b. Article 324
c. Article 143 (1)
d. Article 360
Answer: c. Article 143 (1)
– In a rare constitutional move, President Droupadi Murmu, on May 13, 2025, invoked Article 143(1) of the Constitution to seek the opinion of the Supreme Court.
– Broadly, the President has asked whether judicial orders can determine how and within what time frame the President and Governors should act under Article 200 (which deals with the process of granting assent to state bills by the Governor) and Article 201 (which pertains to bills reserved by the Governor for the President’s consideration).
– The reference seeks clarification on:
“In the absence of a constitutionally prescribed time limit or procedure for the exercise of powers by the Governor, can judicial orders impose time limits and define procedures for exercising such powers? Can judicial orders also determine the time frame and manner in which the President exercises powers under Article 201?”
Article 143 of the Indian Constitution
– Article 143 empowers the President of India to seek the opinion of the Supreme Court on legal or constitutional matters.
– This provision helps in resolving complex constitutional questions. It contains two separate clauses for different kinds of references:
– Article 143(1): The President may seek the opinion of the Supreme Court on any question of law or fact, even if it’s not related to an ongoing legal dispute.
– For example, before enacting a new law, the President can seek the Court’s opinion on its constitutional validity.
– Article 143(2): If a dispute relates to any treaty, agreement, or document that existed before the commencement of the Constitution (i.e., before January 26, 1950), the President may refer it to the Supreme Court for an opinion.
What is the Current Case About?
– President Droupadi Murmu invoked Article 143 following a Supreme Court judgment on April 8, 2025, related to delays by the Governor of Tamil Nadu in acting on bills passed by the state legislature.
– The Constitution does not specify how many days the Governor or President has to approve or reject a bill passed by a state assembly.
– It only states that they should act “as soon as possible.”
– In its April 2025 ruling, the Supreme Court interpreted “as soon as possible” as follows:
– If a state government sends a bill for assent, the Governor must act within one month.
– If the Governor reserves the bill for the President, then the President must act within three months.
– If these timeframes are exceeded, valid reasons must be provided.
– If no action is taken within the prescribed time, the state government can approach the Court.
– This ruling raised a critical question:
Can the Supreme Court issue directives to the President as well?
– As a result, President Droupadi Murmu referred 14 specific questions to the Supreme Court for its opinion under Article 143.
Questions Raised Under the Presidential Reference (Article 143):
1. What constitutional options does a Governor have when a Bill is presented to them under Article 200?
2. Is the Governor bound to act on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers?
3. Are the discretionary decisions taken by the Governor under Article 200 subject to judicial review?
4. Does Article 361 (which provides immunity to the President and Governors from legal proceedings during their term) completely bar judicial review?
5. If the Constitution does not prescribe a time frame or procedure for a Governor’s discretionary powers, can the courts set such time limits and procedures?
6. Are the decisions taken by the President under Article 201 open to judicial scrutiny?
7. Can judicial orders direct the President on how and when to exercise their powers under Article 201?
8. When a Bill is reserved for the President, is it mandatory for the President to seek the advice of the Supreme Court?
9. Can judicial intervention occur regarding the content of a Bill before it becomes law?
10. Can the Supreme Court, under Article 142, override or substitute the constitutional powers of the President or the Governor?
11. Can a Bill passed by a State Legislature be considered “law in force” even without the Governor’s assent?
12. Is it mandatory under Article 145(3) to refer constitutional interpretation matters to a Bench of at least five judges?
13. Is the power under Article 142 limited only to procedural matters, or can it also extend to issuing directions that may conflict with fundamental constitutional provisions?
14. Can disputes between the Centre and States be resolved only through an original suit under Article 131?
Past Cases Under Article 143
– Delhi Laws Act, 1951: This was the first significant case under Article 143. The Supreme Court gave its opinion stating: “The legislature can delegate some of its powers, but such delegation must remain within the bounds of the Constitution and the enabling statute. However, essential legislative functions cannot be delegated.”
– Kerala Education Bill, 1957: In this case, the Supreme Court interpreted the reference and offered its opinion.
The Court found that certain provisions violated the constitutional rights of minority institutions related to recognition and control.
The Court observed: “The state has the power to regulate educational institutions, but such regulation must not infringe upon the fundamental rights of minority communities.”
– Indore Municipal Corporation Case, 2006: In this case, a three-judge bench of the Supreme Court gave its opinion.
The Court stated:
“Judicial interference should not occur in matters of policy decisions made by the Parliament or the Central Government.”
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5. When is World Telecommunication Day celebrated?
a. 15 May
b. 16 May
c. 17 May
d. 18 May
Answer: c. 17 May
Theme for 2025 (released by International Telecommunication Union (ITU))
– Gender Equality in Digital Transformation
Theme for 2025 (issued by the Government of India)
– Empowering Women through Digital Technologies
– This day was known as World Telecommunication Day in memory of the establishment of the International Telecommunication Union on 17 May 1865.
Telephone and Internet in India
– Telephone connections (till October 2024): 118.87 crores
– Internet connections (till June 2024): 96.96 crores
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6. Which of these athletes has been conferred the rank of Honorary Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army in May 2025?
a. Rohit Sharma
b. Tajinder Pal Singh
c. Abhinav Bindra
d. Neeraj Chopra
Answer: d. Neeraj Chopra
Javelin Champion Neeraj Chopra Honored with Honorary Lieutenant Colonel Rank
– Javelin throw champion Neeraj Chopra was honored with the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel on May 13, 2025.
– Neeraj previously served in the Indian Army as a Subedar Major. He resigned from the Territorial Army before receiving the honorary Lieutenant Colonel rank.
– He was awarded this honorary rank in recognition of his contributions to Indian athletics.
– Neeraj, who hails from Khandra village in Panipat district, Haryana, won a Gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 and a Silver medal at the Paris Olympics 2024.
– He was also the world champion at the 2023 World Athletics Championships held in Budapest.
– In 2011, Indian cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni was also appointed as an honorary Lieutenant Colonel.
Territorial Army (TA)
– The Territorial Army is a unit of the Indian Army, where volunteers receive military training for a few days each year, so their services can be called upon for national defense when needed.
– Payment is made only for training days and when called into service.
– The Territorial Army was established in India in October 1941.
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7. When is International Museum Day celebrated?
a. 16 May
b. 17 May
c. 18 May
d. 19 May
Answer: c. 18 May
Theme 2025
– The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities
– This day was declared by the International Council of Museums (ICOM) in 1977.
– This day is celebrated to highlight the importance of museums in any culture.
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8. FIFA lifted the suspension imposed on which country’s football federation in May 2025?
a. Republic of Congo
b. Netherlands
c. Denmark
d. Belgium
Answer: a. Republic of Congo
– FIFA has lifted the suspension imposed on the Football Federation of the Republic of Congo (FECOFOOT) on 15 May 2025.
– This will now allow Congo to fully participate in international football activities.
– The ban imposed due to a long-running dispute between FECOFOOT and the Ministry of Sports of Congo had disrupted national football operations.
– The suspension was imposed due to third party interference, mainly the role of the Ministry of Sports of Congo.
Republic of Congo
– Capital – Brazzaville
– President – Denis Sassou Nguesso
– Prime Minister – Anatole Collinet Makosso
– Currency – CFA franc
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9. When is the world hypertension day organized?
a. 16 May
b. 17 May
c. 18 May
d. 19 May
Answer: b. 17 May
Theme 2025
– Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer!
– Hypertension is known as the “silent killer”.
– Maintaining proper blood pressure in the general population through lifestyle modifications such as limiting salt intake in food and increasing intake of fruits and vegetables would be extremely beneficial.
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10. Who has been appointed as the Chairman of Footwear and Leather Industry Development Council by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry?
a. Gopal Gupta
b. Madan Khanna
c. Puran Chand Dawar
d. Ashok Vajpayee
Answer: c. Puran Chand Dawar
– In May 2025, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, reorganized the Development Council for Footwear and Leather Industry.
– Puran Chand Dawar has been appointed as its chairman.
– The council was established in 2020 to promote and implement developmental measures for the extensive labor-based footwear and leather sector in India.
– The council is envisioned to boost domestic production and encourage exports.
– The new chairman, Puran Dawar, is also the president of the Agra Footwear Manufacturing and Exports Chamber.
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11. When is the International Day of Living Together in Peace celebrated?
a. 13 May
b. 14 May
c. 15 May
d. 16 May
Answer: d. 16 May
– This day has been declared by the United Nations.
– The day was established in the year 2018.
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12. The United States (USA) removed several sanctions including the ‘terrorist supporting country’ tag from which country in May 2025?
a. Pakistan
b. Syria
c. Afghanistan
d. Iraq
Answer: b. Syria
– The United States had designated Syria as a state sponsor of terrorism in 1979.
– On May 13, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump ordered the removal of American sanctions imposed on Syria.
– Trump stated that this decision would give Syria a chance to progress again.
– The very next day after the order, Trump met Syrian President Ahmad al-Shara in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia.
– The meeting with al-Shara, who was once among the most wanted terrorists, has become a major topic worldwide.
– The U.S. had placed a reward of $10 million (about ₹84 crore) on him, which was withdrawn in December 2024.
– Trump mentioned that he urged al-Shara to normalize relations with Israel and expel foreign terrorists from Syria.
– Earlier, in 2019, the U.S. Congress had passed strict sanctions against Syria. This was primarily due to the U.S.’s displeasure with Bashar al-Assad’s government.
Five Sanctions Imposed on Syria
– Ban on money transfers and transactions
– Ban on oil and gas
– Banking and investment restrictions
– Ban on military and technical goods
– Strict laws under the Caesar Act
Losses Due to Sanctions
– The U.S. sanctions caused Syria’s economy to shrink by up to 84%.
– About 90% of Syria’s population fell below the poverty line.
– The oil ban caused a loss of approximately ₹9.1 lakh crore to Syria.
– Syrian currency strengthened by 60% in just one day after the sanctions were lifted.
Economy Expected to Grow After Sanctions Removal
– The removal of U.S. sanctions on Syria is expected to have a significant positive impact on the country’s economy.
– After Trump’s announcement to lift the ban, the Syrian pound appreciated by 60% in one day.
– Before the announcement, the black market rate for 1 US dollar was about 15,000 Syrian pounds, which dropped to around 10,000 pounds per dollar.
Additional Information:
– Capital of Syria: Damascus
– Population: 23.6 million (2023)
– Currency: Syrian Pound
– Neighboring Countries: Turkey, Iraq, Jordan, Israel, and Lebanon
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13. When is World Bee Day celebrated?
a. 17 May
b. 18 May
c. 19 May
d. 20 May
Answer: d. 20 May
Theme 2025
– Bee inspired by nature to nourish us all
– This day is celebrated to commemorate the birth (1734) of Anton Jansa. He is considered a pioneer in beekeeping.
Honey Production in India
– Beekeeping is a traditional Indian practice that has gained more popularity due to market demand.
– Besides honey, bees also produce royal jelly and wax, providing additional benefits to farmers.
– India is a major exporter of honey.
– In 2021-2022, India produced approximately 133,200 metric tons of honey.
– More than half of this production was exported to other countries.
– India’s major honey export markets include the United States, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bangladesh, and Canada.
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14. Which country’s team won the title of SAFF Under-19 Championship 2025?
a. India
b. bangladesh
c. Nepal
d. Sri Lanka
Answer: a. India
– India defeated Bangladesh 4-3 on penalties in the final of the SAFF U-19 Championship 2025.
– This is India’s second SAFF U-19 title—the first was won in 2023 by defeating Pakistan.
– Venue of the final match: Golden Jubilee Stadium, Yupia (Arunachal Pradesh)
About SAFF
– The SAFF (South Asian Football Federation) organizes this tournament to promote football among youth in South Asia.
– The 2025 edition featured teams from India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives.
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15. Which day was declared by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) as World Football Day?
a. 22 May
b. 23 May
c. 24 May
d. 25 May
Answer: d. 25 May
– This resolution was passed by the United Nations General Assembly on 7 May 2024.
– Football is the world’s most popular sport, with 4 billion fans worldwide.
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16. Who will become the first Prime Minister in Sudan after the civil war in 2023?
a. Abdullah Hamdok
b. Idris Khan
c. Kamil al-Tayyib Idris
d. None of these
Answer: c. Kamil al-Tayyib Idris
– Sudan’s army chief General Abdel-Fattah al-Burhan appointed Kamil al-Tayeb Idris as the country’s new Prime Minister on May 19, 2025.
– This is the first appointment of a Prime Minister since the civil war began in April 2023.
– Kamil al-Tayeb Idris has been tasked with forming the country’s transitional government.
– The previous Prime Minister, Abdalla Hamdok, resigned in 2022 amid political deadlock and widespread pro-democracy protests.
Civil War in Sudan
– The war in Sudan started in April 2023 when the army and the paramilitary force (RSF) clashed with each other. Their fight spread from Khartoum to the entire country.
– Later, the army took control of power.
– At least 20,000 people have been killed, though the actual number is likely much higher.
– Over 13 million people have been displaced, including more than 4 million refugees who fled to neighboring countries.
– Around 25 million people (half of Sudan’s population) are facing hunger and food insecurity.
About Kamil al-Tayeb Idris
– He is a former legal advisor to the Sudan mission at the United Nations.
– He is a member of the UN International Law Commission.
– He is considered politically neutral and impartial.
– He is accepted by both the army and the paramilitary force (RSF).
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17. When is the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia observed?
a. 17 May
b. 18 May
c. 19 May
d. 20 May
Answer: a. 17 May
– Celebrated with the goal of coordinating international events to raise awareness of LGBT rights and inspire interest in LGBT rights work around the world.
LGBT – Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender
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18. Famous nuclear scientist M R Srinivasan passed away on 20 May 2025, he was the former chairman of which commission?
a. Planning Commission
b. Space Energy Commission
c. Atomic Energy Commission
d. None of these
Answer: c. Atomic Energy Commission
– He was 95 years old.
– He is considered one of the key architects of India’s peaceful nuclear program.
– In 1987, he became the Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) and Secretary of the Department of Atomic Energy.
– He founded the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL).
– He played a significant role in the development of India’s nuclear energy program and the Pressurized Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR).
Awards
– Padma Vibhushan in 2015
– Padma Bhushan in 1990
– Padma Shri in 1984
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