Current Affairs - May 15, 2025 Current Affairs

The Inclusive India Summit 2025, organized by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), is scheduled to take place at the India International Centre in New Delhi. This summit coincides with Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) and will be conducted in a hybrid format, allowing both physical and virtual participation. The event focuses on promoting digital accessibility and inclusion for persons with disabilities. It is supported by key partners, including the SBI Foundation, National Association for the Blind (NAB), Association of People with Disability (APD), and Mission Accessibility, making New Delhi a central hub for this important national initiative.

Denmark became the first country to commission a commercial-scale e-methanol production plant, located in Kasso, on May 13, 2025. Developed by European Energy in collaboration with Japan’s Mitsui, the facility produces 42,000 metric tons (or 53 million litres) of carbon-neutral e-methanol annually. This renewable fuel is generated using captured CO₂ and green electricity, significantly reducing carbon emissions, especially in the maritime sector. With global shipping giant Maersk as a major customer, the project marks a critical step toward meeting the International Maritime Organisation’s carbon neutrality goal by 2050 and advancing the global transition away from fossil fuels in industrial sectors.

The Government of India has taken a step to support ethanol production by allocating 2.8 million tonnes of rice at subsidized rates. This initiative not only helps in utilising the excess stock of the Food Corporation of India (FCI) but also aligns with the country's broader energy goals. Specifically, it contributes to the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) programme, which aims to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels by increasing ethanol content in fuel. The targeted ethanol blending is set to reach 20% by 2025-26, making this rice allocation a significant move in supporting energy security and sustainable resource management.

The AI anchor Ankita was launched in the state of Assam by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. This initiative is part of the state’s broader push toward digital transformation and improving citizen engagement through innovative technologies. Ankita serves as a virtual anchor providing updates on significant state decisions, such as the renaming of Dibrugarh Airport after Bhupen Hazarika. The move demonstrates Assam’s commitment to integrating artificial intelligence into governance and public communication. Such advancements follow earlier tech adoptions like AI teacher ‘Iris’ in schools and AI anchors like Krish and Bhoomi on Doordarshan Kisan.

Canara Bank reported a significant 33.19% increase in its net profit for Q4 FY25, reaching ₹5,004 crore compared to ₹3,757.23 crore in the previous year. This growth was driven by higher interest income and strong operational performance, despite a slight dip in net interest margins. The bank also saw improvements in asset quality, with a reduction in gross and net non-performing assets (NPAs). Canara Bank’s global business, advances, and deposits showed double-digit growth, reflecting its solid position in the public sector banking space and its contribution to economic growth.

Neeraj Chopra, India’s Olympic gold-winning javelin thrower, was honoured with the rank of honorary Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army. This prestigious recognition was conferred to celebrate his exceptional achievements in athletics and his role in inspiring the nation. Having won gold at the Tokyo Olympics (2020), silver at the Paris Olympics (2024), and a world championship title in 2023, Neeraj has become a symbol of national pride. Formerly serving as a Subedar Major in the Indian Army, this honorary title reflects the government's initiative to acknowledge civilians who bring glory to the nation. His award became effective from April 16, 2025.

The United States is actively exploring advanced military aviation initiatives, including the potential development of a new twin-engined fighter jet designated as the F-55. This aircraft is being considered as both a standalone development and a possible evolution of the existing F-35 program. Additionally, the U.S. is looking into a major upgrade of its existing F-22 Raptor fleet, with the enhanced model referred to as the F-22 Super. These advancements signify the country's continued investment in maintaining technological superiority in air combat capabilities and reflect strategic moves in modernizing its aerial defence infrastructure amid growing global military competition.

Gujarat has taken a significant step toward strengthening digital governance and law enforcement by launching two new portals under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel. The Cyber Crime Refund Portal, named "Tera Tujhko Arpan," aims to expedite the refund process for victims of cybercrime, ensuring quicker financial recovery. The i-PRAGATI portal enhances transparency by providing real-time SMS updates to complainants on key developments such as FIR filings and arrests. These tools collectively empower citizens and improve efficiency within the Gujarat Police, reinforcing the state’s commitment to tech-driven public safety and responsive governance.

Operation Nader was launched in the Nader area of Tral, located in Awantipora, as part of India’s continued counter-terrorism efforts. The joint operation involved the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), highlighting inter-agency coordination. Tral has been a sensitive region in Jammu and Kashmir, often witnessing security operations against militant activity. This operation was based on specific intelligence input and follows previous successes such as Operation Sindoor, demonstrating a sustained and focused approach by Indian forces in combating terrorism and maintaining regional stability in Kashmir.

India took a significant step toward industrial decarbonization by launching its first cluster of five Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU) testbeds focused on the cement sector, one of the most carbon-intensive industries. Initiated by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) on National Technology Day 2025, this project aligns with India’s broader climate goals, including achieving Net Zero emissions by 2070. By integrating academia and industry through a Public-Private Partnership model, the initiative aims to develop scalable, indigenous solutions for capturing and repurposing CO₂. This bold move highlights India’s proactive approach in leveraging technology to meet its climate commitments and foster sustainable growth.

The International Day of Families is celebrated annually on May 15. Established by the United Nations in 1994, this observance aims to recognise the vital role that families play as the cornerstone of society. It highlights the social, economic, and cultural challenges families face globally and promotes initiatives that support their well-being and development. By drawing international attention to family-related issues, the day encourages collaborative efforts among policymakers, organisations, and communities to create supportive environments for families, ultimately fostering stronger and more resilient societies. May 15 serves as a global reminder of the importance of nurturing and protecting the family unit.