Current Affairs Based on The Assam Tribune
Q1. What is the expected peak power demand of Assam during the summer, as reported recently?
A. 2,000 MW
B. 2,850 MW
C. 3,000 MW
D. 4,000 MW
See: Daily Current Affairs 16 May 2026
Answer: C. 3,000 MW
Explanation: Assam’s power demand is expected to touch around 3,000 MW during the summer due to rising heat and increasing electricity usage. The State currently generates only around 400 MW and meets most of its demand through power purchase from outside sources. APDCL has long-term power purchase agreements of around 3,200 MW, ensuring that the State does not face a shortage at present.
Related Info: Assam plans to receive around 4,000 MW from its own plants from 2030 onwards. This includes 1,000 MW from pumped hydro storage plants and 3,000 MW from thermal power plants.
Q2. World Telecommunication and Information Society Day 2026 will be celebrated in Assam under which theme?
A. Digital India for All
B. Digital Lifelines – strengthening resilience in a connected world
C. Technology for Sustainable Growth
D. Connecting Rural India
Answer: B. Digital Lifelines – strengthening resilience in a connected world
Explanation: The Institution of Engineers (India), Assam State Centre, will celebrate World Telecommunication and Information Society Day 2026 in Guwahati. The programme will focus on the theme “Digital Lifelines – strengthening resilience in a connected world.” Hawa Singh Jakhar, Chief General Manager of Core Network Transmission, BSNL, will deliver the keynote lecture.
Related Info: World Telecommunication and Information Society Day is observed on May 17 every year. It highlights the role of communication technology in development, connectivity and digital inclusion.
Q3. What major academic change has CBSE announced for Class IX students from July 1, 2026?
A. Compulsory coding subject
B. Three-language study system
C. Removal of board exams
D. Compulsory vocational training
Answer: B. Three-language study system
Explanation: CBSE has made the study of three languages compulsory for Class IX students from July 1, 2026. At least two of these languages must be native Indian languages. Students choosing a foreign language may study it as a fourth language, ensuring wider exposure while also strengthening Indian language learning.
Related Info: The decision is linked to the National Education Policy 2020 and National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023. CBSE has asked schools to update their Class VI to IX language offerings on the OASIS portal by June 30.
Q4. The High Commissioner of Seychelles to India recently met the Assam Governor to discuss cooperation in which areas?
A. Space technology and defence production
B. Cultural exchange, education, tourism and skill development
C. Oil exploration and coal mining
D. Border security and trade tariffs
Answer: B. Cultural exchange, education, tourism and skill development
Explanation: Harisoa Lalatiana Accouche, High Commissioner of Seychelles to India, met Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya at Lok Bhavan. The meeting focused on cooperation between Assam and Seychelles in cultural exchange, education, tourism and skill development. The Governor also highlighted academic opportunities in Assam for students from Seychelles.
Related Info: Seychelles is known for its natural beauty, ecological richness and unique biodiversity. The discussion also covered sectors like infrastructure, connectivity, economy and people-to-people ties.
Q5. The satellite-tagging programme of Amur falcons by Tamenglong Forest Division has been hailed by which Union Minister?
A. Amit Shah
B. Bhupender Yadav
C. Kiren Rijiju
D. Sarbananda Sonowal
Answer: B. Bhupender Yadav
Explanation: Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav praised the satellite-tagging programme of Amur falcons carried out by the Tamenglong Forest Division in Manipur. He said the initiative has generated valuable information for conservation planning and community-led conservation. The tagged birds help track long-distance migratory routes across continents.
Related Info: Three Amur falcons named Apapang, Ahu and Alang were satellite-tagged in November 2025. Apapang reached Central India after a long journey from Somalia, while Ahu and Alang were also tracked on their migration routes.
Q6. India’s first-ever satellite tagging of which turtle species was carried out at Kaziranga National Park?
A. Olive Ridley turtle
B. Indian flapshell turtle
C. Ganges softshell turtle
D. Green sea turtle
Answer: C. Ganges softshell turtle
Explanation: India’s first satellite-tagging of the Ganges softshell turtle was carried out at Kaziranga National Park on the occasion of Endangered Species Day. The initiative aims to study the turtle’s seasonal movement, home range and critical habitat. The tagged adult turtle was released back into its natural habitat along the Brahmaputra.
Related Info: The Ganges softshell turtle is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Kaziranga is home to eight softshell turtle species, of which five are reported from the park.
Q7. A rare black panther was recently spotted in which tea estate of Assam?
A. Mancotta Tea Estate
B. Raidang Tea Estate
C. Halmari Tea Estate
D. Monabarie Tea Estate
Answer: B. Raidang Tea Estate
Explanation: A rare black panther was spotted in Raidang Tea Estate near Doomdooma in Tinsukia district. The animal is locally known as a “ghong” and is a melanistic form of leopard. Its black appearance is due to a genetic condition that results in excess dark pigmentation, though its rosette patterns may still be visible under certain light.
Related Info: Earlier confirmed sightings of black panthers in the Northeast were mainly recorded in areas such as Pakke Tiger Reserve and Manas National Park. Wildlife experts say habitat disturbance and reduced forest cover can push such animals closer to human settlements.
Q8. Which country has formed a separate Ministry for Gender and Sexual Minorities for the first time?
A. Bhutan
B. Nepal
C. Sri Lanka
D. Bangladesh
Answer: B. Nepal
Explanation: Nepal has formed a separate Ministry for Gender and Sexual Minorities for the first time. The new ministry has been created to recognize and address the rights, protection and development of the LGBTQ community and other marginalized groups. The move follows recommendations of a committee led by Govinda Bahadur Karki.
Related Info: Nepal has been considered relatively progressive in South Asia on LGBTQ rights. The ministry is expected to work for the upliftment, empowerment and inclusion of gender and sexual minority communities.
Daily Current Affairs 17 May 2026 | Based on The Assam Tribune | Download PDF