Stay updated with the top headlines from 21st May 2025. This GK update covers national, international, economy, awards, defense, schemes, sports, science, and important days — curated for aspirants preparing for UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other competitive exams.
National News
1. Which state became India’s first fully literate state?
Answer: Mizoram, with a literacy rate of 98.20%, achieved full literacy under the ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram, aided by 292 volunteer teachers and the ULLAS mobile app.
2. What legal metrology reforms were announced on World Metrology Day?
Answer: India became the 13th country authorized to issue OIML certificates, mandated 1 mg precision in gold weighing, launched the eMaap portal, and introduced “One Nation, One Time” synchronization.
3. What digital solution was launched to tackle cybercrime?
Answer: The Ministry of Home Affairs launched e-Zero FIR under the I4C platform to auto-register FIRs for cyber financial frauds above ₹10 lakh via NCRP or helpline 1930.
4. What agricultural projection was made for India by 2050?
Answer: India is expected to become the world’s top potato producer, with output rising from 60 to 100 million tonnes, supported by the International Potato Center.
5. Who became the first CISF officer to summit Mount Everest?
Answer: Geeta Samota, a Sub-Inspector from Rajasthan, completed the Seven Summits challenge and became the first CISF officer to summit Everest.
6. What upgrade was made to the OCI portal?
Answer: A revamped OCI portal was launched to simplify registration and enhance digital services for over 5 million Overseas Citizens of India.
International News
7. What global health treaty was adopted by WHO?
Answer: The first-ever Global Pandemic Treaty was adopted by 124 member states, focusing on equitable access to vaccines, pathogen sharing, and One Health strategies.
8. What toll discount was offered by the Suez Canal Authority?
Answer: A 15% transit discount was announced to attract ships back amid Red Sea tensions, following a ceasefire with the US.
Economy News
9. What was India’s core sector growth in April 2025?
Answer: It slowed to 0.5%, the lowest in eight months, with contractions in refinery products, fertilisers, and crude oil.
Awards News
10. Who won the International Booker Prize 2025?
Answer: Banu Mushtaq for her Kannada short story collection Heart Lamp, translated by Deepa Bhasthi, highlighting Muslim women’s resilience.
Defense News
11. What ancient vessel was inducted by the Indian Navy?
Answer: A stitched ship replica inspired by Ajanta cave paintings, built by Kerala artisans and IIT Madras, to retrace historic trade routes to Oman.
Schemes News
12. What apprenticeship scheme was launched for Northeast youth?
Answer: A pilot scheme under NAPS offering ₹1,500 extra stipend, targeting 26,000 youth, especially women, with ₹43.94 crore budget.
Sports News
13. Why was Shivpal Singh banned from athletics?
Answer: He failed a second dope test and faces an 8-year ban under WADA/NADA rules, jeopardizing his career.
14. Which football legend announced retirement?
Answer: Pepe Reina, Spain and Liverpool goalkeeper, will retire at 42 after a 25-year career.
Science & Technology News
15. What barcode innovation was announced by GS1?
Answer: Next-gen QR codes will replace traditional barcodes by 2027, enhancing product transparency and traceability.
Important Days
16. What is the theme of International Tea Day 2025?
Answer: “Tea for Better Lives,” emphasizing sustainability, health, and poverty reduction.
17. Why is National Anti-Terrorism Day observed on May 21?
Answer: To honor Rajiv Gandhi’s legacy and promote unity against terrorism and violence.
18. What is the focus of World Day for Cultural Diversity?
Answer: Promoting intercultural dialogue, peace, and inclusive development through UNESCO’s cultural goals.
Current Affairs Today: 21st May 2025 | Daily GK Update