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Science & Technology2 May 2026

NASA Chief Revives Pluto Planet Debate – Astronomers Divided on Reclassification

NASA's chief has stated readiness to 'escalate' the debate over Pluto's planetary status, reviving a contentious scientific discussion. In 2006, the International Astronomical Union (IAU) reclassified Pluto from a planet to a 'dwarf planet' because it hasn't cleared its orbital neighbourhood of other debris. This decision remains controversial among astronomers. The debate centres on the definition of a planet and whether Pluto meets current criteria. NASA's renewed interest highlights how scientific classifications can be revisited when new evidence or perspectives emerge.

PlutoIAUPlanetary Classification
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Geography2 May 2026

Wild-Meat Consumption Doubled in Central Africa Over 20 Years ? Study Finds Urban Demand as Key Driver

A major study analyzing wild-meat consumption across Central Africa examined data from over 12,000 households to understand consumption patterns and trends. The research found that wild-meat consumption has increased significantly over the past two decades. Urban growth and rising demand from towns and cities are the primary drivers of this increase. This trend has important implications for wildlife conservation, food security, and sustainable resource management in Central African regions. The study provides critical data for policymakers to balance human nutritional needs with environmental

Environmental ConservationBiodiversityCentral Africa
Nature NewsRead More →
Science & Technology2 May 2026

Continuously Graded-Doped SnO2 Breakthrough in Perovskite Solar Cell Efficiency

Researchers have developed a continuously graded-doped SnO2 layer for n-i-p perovskite solar cells, a major breakthrough in renewable energy technology. This advancement improves electron transport and reduces defects in perovskite solar cells, increasing their efficiency and stability. Perovskite solar cells are cheaper to manufacture than traditional silicon cells and have potential for large-scale commercial production. This research, published in Nature in April 2026, represents significant progress toward making solar energy more affordable and accessible globally. The innovation could ac

Renewable EnergyPerovskite Solar CellsSnO2 Technology
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Science & Technology2 May 2026

CERN's Large Hadron Collider Discovers 'Penguin' Decays Hinting at Physics Beyond Standard Model

Scientists at CERN's Large Hadron Collider have observed rare 'penguin' decay events in particle experiments. These decays hint at the existence of new physics beyond the Standard Model – the current framework explaining fundamental forces and particles. The findings suggest undiscovered particles or forces may exist. This is significant because the Standard Model has dominated physics for decades. If confirmed, these discoveries could revolutionize our understanding of the universe's basic building blocks and fundamental laws.

CERNLarge Hadron ColliderParticle Physics
Nature NewsRead More →
Polity2 May 2026

NITI Aayog: India's Premier Policy Think Tank – Constitution, Structure and Functions

NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) is India's premier policy think tank established in 2015 to replace the Planning Commission. It serves as the government's advisory body for policy formulation and implementation across sectors. The institution works on cooperative federalism, bringing together union and state governments. NITI Aayog focuses on sustainable development, poverty reduction, and economic growth. It operates under the Prime Minister's chairmanship with a Vice-Chairperson leading operations. The body comprises full-time and part-time members from government, a

NITI AayogPlanning CommissionCooperative Federalism
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International Affairs2 May 2026

Syria Becomes Oil Corridor as Iraqi Crude Routes Around Strait of Hormuz Blockade

Syria is emerging as an alternative energy corridor for Iraqi crude oil heading to Europe. Hundreds of Iraqi oil trucks are transporting crude overland through Syria, bypassing the Strait of Hormuz which faces blockade risks. This route shift reflects geopolitical tensions affecting global energy security. The development has implications for international oil markets and Europe's energy independence. This alternative corridor reduces dependence on the strategic Hormuz passage, one of the world's most critical shipping lanes for global oil trade.

Strait of HormuzEnergy SecurityIraq Oil Exports
Al JazeeraRead More →
Polity2 May 2026

ECI Orders Repolling for Falta Assembly Seat in West Bengal on May 21 Due to Electoral Malpractices

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced repolling for the Falta Assembly constituency in West Bengal on May 21. This decision follows multiple complaints of electoral malpractices received on the original polling day. The repolling was ordered to ensure fair and transparent elections. Votes from the repolling will be counted on May 24. Electoral malpractices can include booth capturing, coercion of voters, and other irregularities that compromise the integrity of the democratic process.

ECIWest Bengal ElectionsElectoral Malpractices
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Culture2 May 2026

Lakkundi Heritage Centre Development Project Launched in Karnataka

Karnataka's government is planning a comprehensive project to develop Lakkundi as a heritage centre. Lakkundi is a historically significant town in Karnataka with ancient temples and architectural structures. The project aims to preserve and promote the cultural and historical importance of the town. H.K. Patil, a senior government official, announced that detailed planning is underway for this heritage development initiative. This project will boost tourism and help protect the town's architectural heritage for future generations.

KarnatakaHeritage ConservationLakkundi
The HinduRead More →
Culture2 May 2026

India at Venice Biennale 2026: Expanding Pavilion Presence with Art on Home and Identity

India is expanding its presence at the Venice Biennale 2026 beyond the traditional pavilion space. The exhibition features diverse artistic mediums including soil, thread, immersive mythological installations, and monumental sculptures. The curatorial approach emphasizes layered meditations on themes of home and identity, reflecting India's contemporary artistic voice on the global stage. Venice Biennale is one of the world's oldest and most prestigious contemporary art exhibitions, held every two years in Venice, Italy. This expanded presence demonstrates India's growing engagement with inter

Venice BiennaleContemporary ArtCultural Diplomacy
The HinduRead More →
Economy2 May 2026

Parliamentary Panels Flag Budget Gaps in Multiple Ministries ? Government Spending Review

Parliamentary panels have identified significant budget gaps across multiple government ministries. These gaps indicate that some departments are not receiving adequate funds to execute their planned programs and schemes effectively. The panels have flagged these discrepancies during their budget review process, raising concerns about whether ministries can meet their annual targets. This review is important for ensuring efficient use of public money and accountability in government spending. Budget gaps can delay implementation of key schemes and affect service delivery to citizens.

BudgetParliamentary CommitteesGovernment Finance
Economic TimesRead More →
Polity2 May 2026

Punjab CM Mann Government Wins Trust Vote in Assembly

The Mann government in Punjab successfully won the trust vote in the state assembly. This was a key procedural test for the government to prove its majority and stability. Trust votes are crucial parliamentary procedures where a government must demonstrate it has the support of a majority of assembly members. The successful passage of the trust vote strengthens the government's position and allows it to continue with its legislative agenda. Such votes are often called when there are questions about a government's majority or stability in the assembly.

Punjab GovernmentTrust VoteState Assembly
Economic TimesRead More →
Sports2 May 2026

Yastika, Nandani, Radha Selected for Women's T20 World Cup Squad

Three Indian players—Yastika, Nandani, and Radha—have been selected for the Women's T20 World Cup squad. Amanjot Kaur misses the squad due to injury, having also been unavailable for the recent South Africa series. This selection reflects the team management's assessment of player fitness and form for the upcoming World Cup. The Indian team is preparing with a balanced mix of experienced and emerging players for the tournament.

Women's CricketT20 World CupIndia Squad Selection
ESPN CricinfoRead More →
International Affairs2 May 2026

US Troop Withdrawal from Germany: NATO Seeks Clarification as Trump Pulls 5,000 Soldiers

President Trump has decided to withdraw 5,000 US troops from Germany, a move Germany says is 'foreseeable.' NATO is seeking clarification on the decision. Two senior Republicans in the US have expressed concern about the withdrawal. Germany, a key NATO ally, hosts the largest US military presence in Europe. This withdrawal could impact European security arrangements and NATO's eastern flank defense against potential Russian threats. The troop presence has been crucial for NATO operations and European stability since the Cold War.

NATOUS MilitaryGermany
BBC WorldRead More →
International Affairs2 May 2026

Trump Claims Ceasefire Eliminates Need for Congressional Approval on Iran Military Action

US President Trump stated that a ceasefire means hostilities have "terminated", therefore he does not need congressional authorization for military action against Iran. This challenges the War Powers Resolution of 1973, which requires presidents to notify Congress within 48 hours of committing armed forces. Trump's argument suggests that ceasefire conditions can override the constitutional requirement for congressional approval of war. This raises important questions about presidential powers versus legislative oversight in military matters.

US Presidential PowersWar PowersCongressional Authorization
BBC WorldRead More →
International Affairs2 May 2026

US Threatens Shipping Firms with Sanctions Over Iran Toll Payments

The United States has warned shipping companies they face sanctions if they pay tolls or fees to Iran. This warning relates to ships passing through Iranian waters or using Iranian services. The threat comes as President Donald Trump stated he is not satisfied with Iran's recent peace proposal. The US is using economic pressure through sanctions to influence Iran's behavior and negotiations. This is part of broader US-Iran tensions over nuclear agreements and regional security.

Iran sanctionsUS foreign policyShipping industry
BBC WorldRead More →
Science & Technology2 May 2026

Sox9 Protein Activation Helps Brain Combat Alzheimer's Plaques in Mice Studies

Scientists discovered that increasing Sox9 protein levels activates astrocytes (star-shaped brain support cells) to help clear harmful Alzheimer's plaques. In mice with existing memory problems, this approach reduced plaque buildup and preserved cognitive function over time. Astrocytes are crucial cells that maintain brain health and support neurons. This breakthrough suggests a potential therapeutic strategy to fight Alzheimer's disease by enhancing the brain's natural cleaning mechanisms. The research demonstrates that activating the brain's own support system may be more effective than othe

Alzheimer's DiseaseNeuroscienceSox9 Protein
Science DailyRead More →
International Affairs2 May 2026

US Warns Iran Against Imposing Transit Fees on Strait of Hormuz Shipping

The United States has warned Iran against imposing transit fees on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route. Approximately 21% of the world's petroleum passes through this strategic waterway between Iran and Oman. Iran's potential fee system could increase global oil prices and disrupt international trade. The US views this as a violation of international maritime law and freedom of navigation principles. This warning reflects growing tensions over Iran's control of a vital chokepoint in global energy supplies.

Strait of HormuzIran-US relationsInternational Trade
Economic TimesRead More →
Economy2 May 2026

India's Trade Dynamics: New Zealand FTA, Steel Exports & Gender Diversity in Boardrooms

This weekly economic analysis presents data-driven insights on three key areas: India's Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with New Zealand, steel export trends, and gender representation in corporate boardrooms. The report uses charts and statistics to highlight recent developments in India's trade policy and domestic economic performance. Understanding these metrics is crucial for competitive exams as they reflect India's economic positioning, industrial output, and governance standards in the global marketplace.

India TradeFTASteel Exports
Livemint EconomyRead More →