16 May: National Dengue Day
The day is observed with the recommendation of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. Dengue is prevalent across the country.
Current Affairs Based on The Assam Tribune and Indian Express
1. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh urged that Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal be placed under the supervision of which international body?
A. United Nations Security Council
B. International Atomic Energy Agency
C. Nuclear Suppliers Group
D. Conference on Disarmament
Answer: B. International Atomic Energy Agency
Explanation:
Rajnath Singh warned that Pakistan’s nuclear weapons are unsafe in what he called a rogue nation and proposed IAEA oversight to ensure transparency and non-proliferation. His comments came shortly after Prime Minister Modi’s vow to counter nuclear blackmail. Pakistan reacted sharply, accusing him of misunderstanding the IAEA’s mandate.
Related Info:
The IAEA’s safeguards system verifies that nuclear material is used only for peaceful purposes. India has a separate safeguards agreement covering its civilian nuclear facilities.
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2. Which satellite is India set to launch as its 101st spacecraft aboard PSLV-C61?
A. GSAT-30
B. Cartosat-3
C. RISAT-18
D. Chandrayaan-3
Answer: C. RISAT-18
Explanation:
ISRO Chairman Narayanan announced that RISAT-18, an Earth-observation satellite, will lift off on May 18 to boost India’s surveillance and disaster-management capabilities. He emphasized ISRO’s commitment to missions that advance national safety and security. The PSLV-C61 mission marks a continuation of India’s robust remote-sensing programme.
Related Info:
The PSLV is India’s most reliable launcher, operational since 1993. RISAT satellites employ radar imaging to see through clouds and darkness.
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3. The Indigenous Cultural Centre of Seng Khasi Kmie in Meghalaya will cost approximately:
A. ₹5 crore
B. ₹10 crore
C. ₹15 crore
D. ₹20 crore
Answer: C. ₹15 crore
Explanation:
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma laid the foundation stone for the new centre at Mawkhyr, describing it as the start of a cultural movement to safeguard Khasi identity, rituals and language. He highlighted that the ₹15 crore project will preserve indigenous heritage for generations. The centre is envisioned as a hub for learning and community engagement.
Related Info:
The Seng Khasi movement dates back to 1899 and strives to protect Khasi customs. Cultural centres like this one often host workshops, performances and archival exhibitions.
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4. What is the primary goal of NABARD’s JIVA project in Nagaon district?
A. Promote organic fertilizer production
B. Introduce hybrid seed varieties
C. Revitalise soil health and encourage sustainable practices
D. Expand mechanised irrigation
Answer: C. Revitalise soil health and encourage sustainable practices
Explanation:
The JIVA project aims to restore soil organic matter and biodiversity through agro-ecology principles, shifting farmers from monoculture to mixed cropping of cereals, pulses, oilseeds and vegetables. Local farmers attended orientation sessions led by experts, where they shared experiences and learned about integrating natural inputs. NABARD sees this as a step toward cost-effective, eco-friendly agriculture.
Related Info:
NABARD frequently supports rural initiatives by partnering with grassroots organisations. Natural farming reduces reliance on chemical inputs and can improve long-term soil fertility.
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5. Who is appointed Series Editor for the new ‘Queer Directions’ imprint?
A. Karthika V.K.
B. Unmana
C. Santanu Bhattacharya
D. Parmesh Shahani
Answer: D. Parmesh Shahani
Explanation:
Parmesh Shahani, author of *Queeristan*, will curate and edit six titles this year under the imprint, which is dedicated to uplifting LGBTQIA+ voices across non-fiction, poetry and future fiction releases. The partnership between Godrej DEI Lab and Westland Books aims to bridge queer creators with a wider readership. The imprint reflects a shared commitment to inclusive storytelling.
Related Info:
Westland Books has a growing list of diverse voices, including critically acclaimed fiction by Santanu Bhattacharya. Specialized imprints help publishers focus on niche audiences and themes.
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6. Which country provided radiation and chemical detection equipment to the Sri Lanka Navy?
A. India
B. United States
C. United Kingdom
D. Japan
Answer: B. United States
Explanation:
The US Embassy in Colombo announced delivery of advanced detection gear that will enhance the Sri Lanka Navy’s ability to identify nuclear, radiological and chemical threats in its maritime domain. Ambassador Julie Chung described the equipment as vital for protecting the island’s borders and regional security. This assistance forms part of broader US support for maritime domain awareness.
Related Info:
The Sri Lanka Navy regularly collaborates with international partners on security and training exercises. Detection equipment helps with interdiction of illicit materials at sea.
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7. What is the purpose of “flushing” Salal and Baglihar reservoirs?
A. Increase water storage capacity
B. Generate extra electricity
C. Remove sediment build-up
D. Divert water to canals
Answer: C. Remove sediment build-up
Explanation:
Flushing involves releasing stored water to carry away accumulated sand, silt and clay, thus restoring reservoir capacity and improving turbine efficiency. The Central Water Commission has proposed making this a monthly practice after pilot exercises in early May. Pakistan has objected, claiming that forced releases could temporarily alter downstream flows.
Related Info:
Baglihar Dam (900 MW) and Salal Dam (690 MW) on the Chenab River face significant siltation challenges. Regular sediment management extends the operational life of hydroelectric projects.
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8. The Pushkar Kumbh at Keshav Prayag is held when Jupiter enters which zodiac sign?
A. Aries
B. Gemini
C. Leo
D. Sagittarius
Answer: B. Gemini
Explanation:
According to Hindu tradition, the Pushkar Kumbh returns to Keshav Prayag every 12 years when Jupiter transits into Gemini. For this event, authorities upgraded the pedestrian route to Mana village and installed multilingual signboards to accommodate growing pilgrim numbers. Devotees, especially from South India, gather at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Saraswati rivers for ritual baths.
Related Info:
The larger Kumbh Mela cycle rotates among four sacred river sites in India. These festivals are among the world’s largest peaceful gatherings.
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9. At which event did Srihari LR secure his third GM norm to become India’s 86th Grandmaster?
A. 2024 Chennai GM Open
B. 2023 Qatar Masters
C. Asian Individual Men’s Championship
D. World Junior Championship
Answer: C. Asian Individual Men’s Championship
Explanation:
Srihari LR drew his final round game against GM Iniyan Paneerselvam at the Asian Individual Men’s Championship in Al‑Ain, UAE, which gave him his third GM norm. Crossing the 2500 rating threshold in that event formally clinched his Grandmaster title. Prior to this, he had earned norms at the Qatar Masters (2023) and the Chennai GM Open (2024).
Related Info:
– He trains under GM Shyamsundar at Chess Thulir, and went undefeated in eight games at Al‑Ain.
– India’s GM count rose from 85 to 86 with Srihari’s title, its first new GM since May 2024.
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10. What major financial commitment did Steve Simon’s WTA leadership announce for player compensation?
A. $100 million over 5 years
B. $200 million over 8 years
C. $400 million over 10 years
D. $500 million over 12 years
Answer: C. $400 million over 10 years
Explanation:
Under Simon’s tenure as CEO and then chairman, the WTA committed to increasing player compensation by $400 million over the next decade. This initiative aimed to narrow the pay gap and ensure greater financial security for women’s tennis professionals. It demonstrates Simon’s focus on both competitive equity and long‑term investment in the sport.
Related Info:
– Before joining the WTA in 2015, Simon was tournament director at Indian Wells for 13 years.
– In 2024 the WTA restructured, naming Portia Archer as CEO while Simon remained chairman until his planned December retirement.
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Daily Current Affairs 16 May 2025 | Based on The Assam Tribune & Indian Express | Download PDF