Current Affairs - National

Chandigarh University secured government research grants worth ₹1.16 crore from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) in May 2026. The funding supports two important research projects related to agriculture and healthcare. One project focuses on improving mustard and Brassica crop yields through beneficial soil microbes to reduce dependence on chemical fertilisers. The second project aims at early detection of diabetic kidney disease using advanced metagenomic and bioinformatic analysis of gut microbiota. These initiatives highlight the growing importance of interdisciplinary scientific research in addressing agricultural sustainability and public health challenges in India.

The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) conducted India’s first-ever seizure of the psychotropic drug Captagon under Operation RAGEPILL. Announced on May 16, 2026, the operation led to the recovery of 227.7 kg of Captagon tablets and powder valued at approximately ₹182 crore in the illegal market. The drugs were seized from locations in New Delhi and Mundra, Gujarat, where they were concealed in machinery and imported cargo from Syria. Captagon, commonly known as the “Jihadi Drug,” contains substances such as Fenetylline and Amphetamine. The operation exposed an international trafficking network attempting to use India as a transit hub for smuggling narcotics to Gulf countries, especially Saudi Arabia.

The National Conclave on Minorities Welfare organized by the Ministry of Minority Affairs (MoMA) in May 2026, was conducted under the theme “Bhagidari Se Bhagyoday,” which means “Prosperity through Participation.” The conclave focused on improving minority welfare through participative governance and the integration of artificial intelligence in public service delivery. Discussions included the use of AI-powered conversational bots for grievance redressal and welfare scheme implementation, as well as AI applications for Hajj 2027 management. Several technology partners, such as Generation India, EkStep Foundation, Gnani, and Sarvam, showcased innovative AI-enabled governance solutions to improve citizen-centric services and inclusive development initiatives.

India and Trinidad and Tobago strengthened their bilateral relationship by signing eight MoUs covering sectors such as infrastructure, security, healthcare, tourism, and capacity building. The agreements were signed during External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar’s official visit in May 2026. A significant part of the visit included paying tribute at Nelson Island, the historic site where the first Indian indentured labourers, known as Girmitiyas, arrived in Trinidad and Tobago during British colonial rule. The visit highlighted the deep cultural and historical connections between the two nations, while also promoting stronger diplomatic, economic, and people-to-people ties for future cooperation.

O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU), located in Sonipat, Haryana, became the first Institution of Eminence in India to receive accreditation from the Data Science Council of America (DASCA). The accreditation was granted under the World Data Science & AI Initiative (WDSAI) to align academic programs with international industry standards. The certification remains valid until 2031 and covers residential, non-residential, and online learning formats. Several AI and Data Science-related programs, including MBA, M.Sc., and undergraduate courses, received recognition under this framework. The achievement highlights the university’s growing focus on advanced technology education, ethical AI practices, and globally benchmarked academic excellence.