States and Capitals

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States and Capitals – How Many States in India?

India, a vast South Asian nation and the world’s seventh-largest by land area, is divided into 28 states and 8 union territories, each with its own capital. These states and territories are further segmented into districts. New Delhi, situated in the National Capital Territory of Delhi, serves as India’s administrative, political, and cultural hub.

The states and capitals of India weave a rich and diverse tapestry, reflecting the country’s deep cultural heritage, traditions, and innovations. Exploring these regions offers a fascinating journey through time, blending ancient legacies with modern advancements, tradition with contemporary influence, and showcasing India’s remarkable unity in diversity.

In 1956, India reorganized its states according to linguistic demographics. Today, the country consists of 28 states and 8 Union Territories, home to nearly 400 cities. Among these, eight major metropolitan cities—Kolkata, Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, and Pune—are prominent. The Prime Minister has introduced a plan to develop 100 smart cities across the nation, with Indore being recognized as the Smart City for four consecutive years. Discover India’s dynamic urban landscape and its focus on modernization.

How many states in India?

India is the 7th largest country in the world by land area and the 2nd most populated. The country is divided into states and union territories so that the government can function properly. Below is a list of all 28 states, their capitals and the year they were formed.

S.NO	State	Capital	CM	Governor
1	Andhra Pradesh	Amaravati	Sri Nara Chandrababu Naidu	S. Abdul Nazer
2	Arunachal Pradesh	Itanagar	Pema Khandu	Kaiwalya Trivikram Parnaik
3	Assam	Dispur	Himanta Biswa Sarma	Lakshman Prasad Acharya
4	Bihar	Patna	Nitish Kumar	Arif Mohammed Khan
5	Chhattisgarh	Raipur	Vishnu Deo Sai	Ramen Deka
6	Goa	Panaji	Pramod Sawant	P.S. Sreedharan Pillai
7	Gujarat	Gandhinagar	Bhupendra Patel	Acharya Dev Vrat
8	Haryana	Chandigarh	Nayab Singh Saini	Bandaru Dattatraya
9	Himachal Pradesh	Shimla	Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu	Shiv Pratap Shukla
10	Jharkhand	Ranchi	Hemant Soren	Santosh Kumar Gangwar
11	Karnataka	Bengaluru	Siddaramaiah	Thaawarchand Gehlot
12	Kerala	Thiruvananthapuram	Pinarayi Vijayan	Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar
13	Madhya Pradesh	Bhopal	Mohan Yadav	Mangubhai Chhaganbhai Patel
14	Maharashtra	Mumbai	Devendra Fadnavis	C.P. Radhakrishnan
15	Manipur	Imphal	N. Biren Singh	Ajay Kumar Bhalla
16	Meghalaya	Shillong	Conrad Kongkal Sangma	C H Vijayashankar
17	Mizoram	Aizawl	Lalduhoma	General (Dr.) Vijay Kumar Singh, PVSM, AVSM, YSM (Retd.)
18	Nagaland	Kohima	Neiphiu Rio	La. Ganesan
19	Odisha	Bhubaneswar	Mohan Charan Majhi	Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati
20	Punjab	Chandigarh	Bhagwant Singh Mann	Gulab Chand Kataria
21	Rajasthan	Jaipur	Bhajan Lal Sharma	Haribhau Kisanrao Bagde
22	Sikkim	Gangtok	PS Golay	Om Prakash Mathur
23	Tamil Nadu	Chennai	M. K. Stalin	R. N. Ravi
24	Telangana	Hyderabad	Anumula Revanth Reddy	Jishnu Dev Varma
25	Tripura	Agartala	Dr. Manik Saha	Indra Sena Reddy Nallu
26	Uttar Pradesh	Lucknow	Yogi Aditya Nath	Anandiben Patel
27	Uttarakhand	Dehradun	Pushkar Singh Dhami	Lt. Gen. Gurmit Singh
28	West Bengal	Kolkata	Mamata Banerjee	Dr. C.V. Ananda Bose

Union Territories of India and Their Capitals

India has 8 union territories that are managed by the central government. Some of them have their own legislative assemblies. Below is the of these union territories and their capitals:

S.NO	Union Territories	Capital	CM	Lt. Governor
1	Andaman and Nicobar Island	Port Blair	NA	D K Joshi
2	Chandigarh	Chandigarh	NA	Banwarilal Purohit
3	Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu	Daman	NA	Praful Patel
4	Delhi	Delhi	Rekha Gupta	Vinai Kumar Saxena
5	Ladakh	NA	NA	B. D. Mishra
6	Lakshadweep	Kavaratti	NA	Praful Patel
7	Jammu and Kashmir	NA	Omar Abdullah	Manoj Sinha
8	Puducherry	Pondicherry	N. Rangaswamy	C. P. Radhakrishnan

Difference Between States and Union Territories

India is divided into states and Union Territories for administrative purposes. They are in different in how they are governed.

Basis of Difference	States	Union Territories
Head of Administration	Governor	Administrator or Lieutenant Governor
Government Type	Elected by the People	Managed by the central government
Powers	Shares power with the central government.	Controlled directly by the central government.

Indian States and their Languages

India is a country with a rich and diverse linguistic heritage. There are over 121 languages spoken in India, and each state has its unique linguistic landscape. The Indian Constitution recognizes 22 languages as “scheduled languages,” which are given special status in government and education.

S. No.	States	Language
1	Andhra Pradesh	Telugu and Urdu
2	Arunachal Pradesh	Miji, Apotanji, Merdukpen, Tagin, Adi, Honpa, Banging-Nishi
3	Assam	Assamese
4	Bihar	Hindi
5	Chhattisgarh	Hindi
6	Goa	Marathi Konkani
7	Gujarat	Gujarati
8	Haryana	Hindi
9	Himachal Pradesh	Hindi and Pahari
10	Jharkhand	Hindi
11	Karnataka	Kannada
12	Kerala	Malayalam
13	Madhya Pradesh	Hindi
14	Maharashtra	Marathi
15	Manipur	Manipuri
16	Meghalaya	Khashi, Jaintia, And Garo
17	Mizoram	Mizo and English
18	Nagaland	Ao, Konyak, Angami, Sema, and Lotha
19	Odisha	Oriya
20	Punjab	Punjabi
21	Rajasthan	Rajasthani and Hindi
22	Sikkim	Bhutia, Hindi, Nepali, Lepcha, Limbu
23	Tamil Nadu	Tamil
24	Telangana	Telugu
25	Tripura	Bengali, Tripuri, Manipuri, Kakborak
26	Uttar Pradesh	Hindi
27	Uttarakhand	Hindi
28	West Bengal	Bengali

Some Key Facts About Indian States

Each state in India is unique and has something special. Here are some interesting facts about a few states:

Andhra Pradesh: Famous for spicy food and historical sites like Charminar.
Assam: Know for tea gardens and Kaziranga National Park, home to the one-horned rhinoceros.
Bihar: A place with a rich history, home to Bodh Gaya and the ancient city of Pataliputra.
Goa: Popular for beautiful beaches and a lively nightlife.
Kerala: Famous for its backwaters, Ayurveda treatments and lush green nature.
Maharashtra: Mumbai, the financial capital, is also home to Bollywood.
Himachal Pradesh: Known for stunning hill stations and adventure sports.
Tamil Nadu: Famous for classical dance forms and grand temples.

Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025: Towards a #PeriodFriendlyWorld

Every year, May 28 marks Menstrual Hygiene Day, a global campaign aimed at raising awareness about the importance of menstrual health and hygiene (MHH). In 2025, the day is being observed under the theme “Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld”, calling for inclusive, stigma-free environments where everyone can access menstrual education, products, and hygiene infrastructure. First initiated by the German NGO WASH United in 2013 and officially launched in 2014, this day has evolved into a global movement that uplifts menstruators around the world.

The Origins and Significance of Menstrual Hygiene Day

Menstrual Hygiene Day was conceived by WASH United, a Berlin-based NGO, in 2013. The date—May 28—was symbolically chosen: May is the 5th month, representing the average five-day duration of menstruation, and 28 represents the average cycle length in days.
Since its inception in 2014, MH Day has catalyzed thousands of events, campaigns, and policy discussions across the globe to normalize menstruation and ensure safe menstrual practices.

Theme of 2025: Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld

This year’s theme, “Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld,” emphasizes collective action to create a world where no one is held back due to menstruation.
The focus is on removing the stigma, shame, and taboos still surrounding periods.
Rather than changing themes annually, MH Day now promotes this unified long-term vision that encourages education, access to products, supportive policies, and inclusive infrastructure for everyone, including women, girls, transgender men, and non-binary individuals.

Why Menstrual Hygiene Day Matters

Menstrual Hygiene Day plays a vital role in,

Breaking taboos: Encouraging society to speak openly about menstruation.
Educating youth: Providing scientifically accurate information about menstrual health.
Promoting equality: Empowering menstruators to manage their periods with dignity.
Improving access: Advocating for period products, clean water, and sanitary toilets.

By focusing on these aspects, MH Day supports gender equality, educational continuity, and better health outcomes for menstruators globally.

Current Status of Menstrual Hygiene in India

India has made measurable progress in menstrual hygiene awareness and accessibility, but significant gaps remain. As per NFHS-5 (2019–21),

Only 27.7% of women had access to all four critical MHH resources: proper menstrual products, private improved toilets, water supply on premises, and soap.
About 78% of women aged 15–24 use hygienic methods, but 50% still rely on cloth.
States like Bihar (59%), Madhya Pradesh (61%), and Meghalaya (65%) recorded the lowest usage of hygienic menstrual products.
These numbers show that infrastructure, education, and affordability are still challenges that need targeted intervention.

Common Menstrual Hygiene Products

Various menstrual hygiene products cater to different needs and preferences,

Sanitary pads
Menstrual cups
Tampons (preferably organic cotton)
Period panties
Reusable cloth pads
Each product must be used and disposed of responsibly to maintain hygiene and environmental safety.

Tips for Maintaining Menstrual Hygiene

Good menstrual hygiene is essential to avoid infections and maintain physical and mental well-being. According to the CDC, the following steps are crucial,

Wash hands before and after handling menstrual products.
Change pads every 4–6 hours, even with light flow.
Avoid flushing products; use covered bins for disposal.
Replace tampons every 4–8 hours to prevent Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).
Clean menstrual cups daily and sterilize after the cycle.
Wear clean, breathable cotton underwear.
Practice front-to-back cleaning to prevent infections.
Stay hydrated and eat balanced meals.

Impact of Menstrual Hygiene on Health and Society

Menstrual hygiene is directly linked to multiple areas of well-being,

Physical health: Poor hygiene can lead to UTIs and reproductive infections.
Mental health: Shame and lack of support can cause anxiety and low self-esteem.
Education: Many girls miss school due to inadequate facilities during their periods.
Economic burden: Period-related absenteeism at work or school affects productivity and income.
Creating a #PeriodFriendlyWorld ensures menstruators live with dignity, confidence, and equal opportunity.

Top-5 Pulses Producing States in India in 2025, Know the Names

India is one of the largest producers of pulses in the world. Pulses are very important part of the Indian diet and provide protein to millions of people. Many states in India grow different types of pulses like gram, tur, moong and urad. In 2025, five states stood out as the top producers of pulses, helping to meet the food needs of the country.

Pulses Production in India in 2025

In 2023-24, India produced 244.93 lakh tonnes of pulses, which is a big rise from 163.23 lakh tonnes in 2015-16. This shows strong growth in farming. The main pulse-producing states are Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. These states help feed millions across the country.

Top-5 Pulses Producing States in India in 2025

In 2025, India’s top five pulses-producing states played a key role in feeding the nation. These states grew the highest amounts of pulses like gram, tur, moong and urad. Their efforts helped boost India’s food supply and supported millions of farmers across the country.

Here are the names of top-5 pulses producing states in India in 2025:

Madhya Pradesh
Maharashtra
Rajasthan
Uttar Pradesh
Karnataka

Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh is India’s top pulses producer, contributing over 25% of the total output. The state’s fertile soil and dry climate are ideal for pulses like gram and arhar. Farmers use improved seeds and farming techniques, making the state a leader in the production.

Rajasthan

Rajasthan ranks second in pulses production. Its dry weather and sandy soil suit crops like moong and moth beans. Farmers have adopted better irrigation and drought-resistant seeds. Government programs also help farmers grow more pulses and earn a better income.

Maharashtra

Maharashtra produces a significant share of India’s pulses, including tur and urad. The state’s black soil and moderate rainfall are good for pulse farming. Use of hybrid seeds, mechanization and support from agricultural centers has increased production steadily in recent years.

Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh grows a variety of pulses like gram and lentils, contributing around 8% of India’s total. Fertile land and supporting government policies help boost pulse farming. Farmers also use crop rotation with wheat and rice to maintain soil health and improve yield.

Karnataka

Karnataka is a major pulse-producing state, especially for tur and gram. The state’s climate and land support both rainfed and irrigated farming. Government schemes, improved seed varieties and farmer training programs have helped Karnataka steadily grow its pulse production.

What is the National Flower of United States? Know About It

Every country has a national flower that shows its beauty, culture and natural pride. A national flower is a special symbol that people love and respect. It is often used in important events, celebrations and national ceremonies. In the United States, one beautiful and meaningful flower has been chosen to represent the whole country. Let us learn more about this special flower and why it was selected.

National Flower of US

The national flower of the United States is the rose. It is a symbol of love, beauty, honour and unity. The rose grows in many colors and types across the country. It plays a big role in American gardens, holidays and celebrations.

When was the Rose chosen as the National Flower?

The rose was officially declared as the national flower of the United States on November 20, 1986. President Ronald Reagan made this announcement in the White House Rose Gardens. He said the rose has a special place in American culture, gardens and stories.

Why is the Rose Special?

Roses are loved for many reasons:

They grow well in many parts of the U.S., from New York to California
Roses come in many colours, such as red, pink, yellow and white.
Each colour has a special meaning like love, peace, friendship or memory.

Types of Roses in the USA

Knock Out Roses: These roses are easy to grow and bloom again and again. They are also resistant to diseases, so many people plant them in their gardens.
Peace Roses: These have soft yellow petals with pink edges. They were introduced at the end of World War II and stand for peace and hope.
Mr. Lincoln Roses: These are deep red and fragrant. They are a favourite rose lovers for their classic look.
Double Delight Roses: These roses are white with red edges. They are known for both their beauty and sweet smell.
Cherry Parfait Roses: These have petals with red edges, bringing a cheerful look to any garden.

The Rose in American Life

Roses are used in many American events:

On Valentine’s Day, roses are given to show love.
At weddings, they are used in decorations and bouquets.
They also appear in funerals as a symbol of remembrance and respect.

Fun Facts About the Rose

The rose is the state flower of New York, Georgia, Iowa and North Dakota.
Roses are grown in almost every colour, except true black and blue.
Roses are also popular worldwide and are the national symbol of many countries.
The meaning of a rose can change with its colour:

Red: Love

Yellow: Friendship

White: Purity

Pink: Admiration

5th vs 6th Generation Fighters: What’s Next After the F-35?

States and Capitals - How Many States in India?_8.1

The world of military aviation is on the verge of another technological revolution. As the F-35 Lightning II—a quintessential 5th generation fighter—continues to redefine air combat, global powers are now shifting focus toward the development of 6th generation fighters. These next-gen aircraft promise to push the boundaries of stealth, artificial intelligence, and air dominance. But how do they differ from their predecessors, and what exactly is coming next?

Understanding Fighter Generations

What is a Fighter Generation?

The term “generation” in fighter aircraft refers to a benchmark of technological advancement. Each generation represents a significant leap in capabilities such as speed, avionics, weapons systems, and stealth technology. While there’s no universally accepted definition, consensus has emerged around key characteristics that define each generational leap.

Defining the 5th Generation Fighters

Key Characteristics of 5th Generation Aircraft

5th generation fighters are the current pinnacle of operational combat aircraft. These planes embody stealth, advanced avionics, and network-centric warfare capabilities. Key features include:

Low observable (LO) stealth across all aspects: airframe, heat signature, and radar cross-section.
Sensor fusion: Data from various sources is combined to provide a complete battlefield picture.
Advanced situational awareness: Pilots have real-time information from various platforms.
Supercruise capabilities: Ability to fly at supersonic speeds without using afterburners.
Integrated avionics and C4ISR systems: Seamless communication and data-sharing between platforms.

Examples of 5th Generation Fighters

F-22 Raptor (U.S.): First true 5th gen fighter focused on air superiority.
F-35 Lightning II (U.S.): Multi-role fighter with stealth, ISR, and electronic warfare capabilities.
Chengdu J-20 (China): Designed for long-range strike and air dominance.
Sukhoi Su-57 (Russia): Emphasizes supermaneuverability and stealth.

Limitations of 5th Generation Fighters

Despite their cutting-edge capabilities, 5th gen fighters have limitations that future aircraft aim to overcome. These include:

High development and operational costs.
Reliance on human pilots with limited AI support.
Limited autonomy in high-speed decision-making.
Upgradability constraints due to complex integrated systems.

The Rise of 6th Generation Fighters

What Defines a 6th Generation Fighter?

The emerging 6th generation aircraft aim to surpass the capabilities of 5th gen platforms in every domain—air, cyber, and space. While no operational 6th gen fighter exists yet, several defining features are becoming apparent:

Optional manning (manned or unmanned): Aircraft can be piloted remotely or autonomously.
Advanced AI and machine learning: Enables rapid decision-making and adaptive mission profiles.
Enhanced stealth and electronic warfare capabilities.
Hypersonic weapons compatibility.
Swarming drones integration: Use of loyal wingmen—autonomous drones that support the main aircraft.
Directed-energy weapons: Such as lasers for missile defense and target engagement.
Quantum radar and communications: To reduce jamming and enhance secure transmission.

Global Programs Developing 6th Generation Fighters

United States – NGAD (Next Generation Air Dominance)

The U.S. Air Force’s NGAD program is at the forefront of 6th gen development. This program focuses on building a “system of systems”—a primary fighter accompanied by unmanned support platforms.

Features modular design, enabling rapid technological upgrades.
Incorporates AI-piloted wingmen for collaborative combat missions.
One NGAD prototype is already said to have flown.

United Kingdom – Tempest Fighter Program

Led by BAE Systems, the Tempest project is part of the Future Combat Air System (FCAS), involving the UK, Italy, and Japan.

Envisions deep integration of AI and cyber warfare.
Focus on electromagnetic weapons, stealth, and interoperability.
Expected to enter service in the 2030s.

Europe – SCAF/FCAS (France, Germany, Spain)

A parallel program to Tempest, this initiative is spearheaded by Dassault Aviation and Airbus.

Emphasizes shared European defense capabilities.
Focused on next-gen sensors, stealth, and a combat cloud for networked warfare.

Russia – MiG-41 and Sukhoi Projects

Russia’s MiG-41 interceptor, dubbed a 6th generation “spaceplane”, aims to replace the MiG-31 with hypersonic and anti-satellite capabilities. Details remain limited, but Russia claims a prototype may be unveiled by the late 2020s.

China – Next-Gen Stealth Fighters

China is developing a 6th gen aircraft under tight secrecy. It is expected to enhance its J-20 design with hypersonic, AI, and drone swarm technologies, possibly in collaboration with state-owned AVIC.

Technological Innovations Driving 6th Gen Fighters

Artificial Intelligence & Autonomy

AI will be mission-critical, acting not only as a decision-support tool but also as a co-pilot in many scenarios. Expect cognitive electronic warfare systems, adaptive mission planning, and autonomous combat algorithms.

Loyal Wingmen & Swarming Drones

6th gen fighters will not fly alone. They will operate alongside unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) capable of performing ISR, EW, and kinetic missions. Programs like Skyborg (US) and Ghost Bat (Australia) are pioneering this concept.

Energy Weapons

Laser systems, microwave weapons, and high-powered directed energy tools will be used for intercepting missiles or disabling enemy systems, providing a non-kinetic edge on the battlefield.

Operational Shift: From Platform to Ecosystem

Unlike earlier generations focused on a single high-performance platform, 6th gen fighters represent an ecosystem approach. This includes:

Manned and unmanned teaming (MUM-T)
Data-centric combat cloud for real-time battlefield awareness
Interoperability with land, sea, space, and cyber units

Challenges in 6th Generation Development

Cost and Complexity

Creating such advanced systems comes with skyrocketing costs. The technology is expensive to develop, test, and maintain, with a full system potentially exceeding hundreds of billions of dollars.

International Coordination

For multi-national projects like Tempest and SCAF/FCAS, political disagreements, industrial competition, and differing military doctrines pose significant hurdles.

Global Military Comparison 2025: Jets, Warships, Missiles & Tanks

The global defense landscape in 2025 is shaped by rapid technological advancements, rising geopolitical tensions, and increasing defense spending. Nations are racing to modernize their fighter jets, naval fleets, missile systems, and armored forces to secure strategic dominance. This article compares major military assets across four key nations: India, the United States, China, and Russia — all of whom are major stakeholders in modern warfare.

1. Fighter Jet Comparison: Speed, Stealth & Superiority

Feature	F-35 Lightning II (USA)	J-20 Mighty Dragon (China)	Su-57 Felon (Russia)	Tejas Mk2 & Rafale (India)
Generation	5th Gen Stealth	5th Gen Stealth	5th Gen	4.5+ Gen (Tejas Mk2), 4.5 Gen (Rafale)
Max Speed	Mach 1.6	Mach 2.0	Mach 2.0	Mach 1.8 (Rafale)
Radar	AESA	AESA	AESA	AESA (Both)
Stealth	High	Moderate	Moderate	Low
Weapons	Internal bays, JDAM, AIM-120	PL-15, PL-10	R-77, K-77M	Meteor, SCALP, Astra
Edge	Stealth, Networking, EW	Long-range missiles	Agility, speed	Multirole, Western tech

Analysis:

The F-35 leads in network-centric warfare and stealth.
China’s J-20 has made strides in missile technology, though its stealth is debated.
Russia’s Su-57 is fast and agile, but lacks mass production.
India’s Rafale and Tejas Mk2 provide a strong multirole mix with indigenous development gains.

2. Naval Warship Comparison: Carrier & Destroyer Dominance

Ship Class	USS Gerald R. Ford (USA)	INS Vikrant (India)	Type 003 Fujian (China)	Admiral Kuznetsov (Russia)
Type	Supercarrier	Carrier (STOBAR)	Carrier (CATOBAR)	Carrier (STOBAR)
Displacement	100,000 tons	45,000 tons	~80,000 tons	~58,000 tons
Aircraft Capacity	75+	30+	40+	30+
Launch System	EMALS	Ski-jump	EMALS (experimental)	Ski-jump
Air Wing	F-35, F/A-18	MiG-29K, future TEDBF	J-15, future stealth jets	Su-33

Analysis:

The USS Gerald R. Ford is the world’s most advanced carrier with EMALS and high sortie rate.
INS Vikrant marks a major indigenous milestone for India, backed by naval LCA and TEDBF development.
China’s Type 003 represents a leap in carrier tech with EMALS, rivaling the US in form.
Russia’s carrier is outdated and undergoing repairs; limited operational capacity.

3. Missile Systems Comparison: Strategic Reach and Lethality

Missile	AGM-183 ARRW (USA)	DF-21D / DF-17 (China)	BrahMos & Agni V (India)	Avangard & Iskander (Russia)
Type	Hypersonic Glide	Anti-ship / Hypersonic	Cruise & ICBM	Hypersonic Glide / Ballistic
Speed	Mach 20+ (ARRW)	Mach 5-10	Mach 2.8–Agni V > Mach 20	Mach 27+ (Avangard)
Range	~1,600 km (ARRW)	~1,500–2,000 km	BrahMos ~500 km, Agni V ~5,000 km	Avangard ~11,000 km
Targeting	GPS/INS/Networked	Precision AShM / Ballistic	Dual-role, nuclear capable	Advanced maneuverable reentry

Analysis:

The US ARRW and Russian Avangard represent cutting-edge hypersonic warfare.
China’s DF-21D is dubbed a “carrier killer”, enhancing anti-access strategies.
India’s BrahMos remains one of the fastest cruise missiles, with air, sea, and land variants; Agni-V ensures strategic deterrence.
Russia’s missile systems prioritize speed and nuclear survivability.

4. Main Battle Tank Comparison: Power and Protection

Tank	M1A2 Abrams (USA)	T-90M Proryv (Russia)	VT-4 / Type 99A (China)	Arjun Mk1A / T-90 Bhishma (India)
Weight	67 tons	~48 tons	~55 tons	Arjun – 68 tons; T-90 Bhishma – 48 tons
Engine	1,500 hp gas turbine	1,130 hp diesel	1,200 hp diesel	1,400 hp (Arjun)
Armor	Composite + DU	Reactive + ERA	Composite + ERA	Arjun: Kanchan + ERA
Gun	120mm smoothbore	125mm smoothbore	125mm	120mm (Arjun)
Tech	Advanced thermal sights, battle network	Autoloader, advanced fire control	Remote weapon stations	Indigenous fire control, thermal sights

Analysis:

M1A2 Abrams excels in tech integration and survivability.
Russia’s T-90M balances mobility with real-world combat experience.
China’s Type 99A and VT-4 emphasize export potential with modular protection.
India’s Arjun Mk1A, though heavy, boasts excellent armor and indigenous systems; T-90 Bhishma remains India’s frontline tank.

World Hunger Day 2025: Empowering Communities for Sustainable Food Security

Every year on May 28, World Hunger Day reminds the global community of the urgent need to address hunger and food insecurity, affecting over 800 million people worldwide. Founded in 2011 by The Hunger Project, this day goes beyond raising awareness—it calls for long-term, sustainable solutions that empower individuals and communities to break the cycle of poverty and hunger. World Hunger Day 2025 continues this legacy by urging collective action through education, advocacy, and support for local development initiatives that promote food sovereignty and resilience.

Why in News?

World Hunger Day 2025 is observed globally on Wednesday, May 28, with campaigns aimed at highlighting the root causes of hunger and advocating for policies and practices that empower vulnerable communities. This year’s focus underscores the importance of locally led development, climate-resilient agriculture, and gender equality in achieving Zero Hunger, a key UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 2).

Understanding World Hunger Day

Initiated in 2011 by the Hunger Project, World Hunger Day brings global attention to chronic hunger, not as a short-term crisis but as a systemic issue linked to poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation.
It challenges the traditional model of food aid by shifting the focus toward empowerment and sustainability, especially for smallholder farmers and women, who are often at the frontline of food production but remain marginalized in decision-making and economic access.

Theme and Goals for 2025

While the official theme for 2025 may vary, the underlying mission remains constant: to build resilient food systems through investment in education, healthcare, climate action, and economic opportunity.
World Hunger Day encourages people to think globally and act locally, promoting sustainable agricultural practices and supporting grassroots movements that foster food sovereignty.

How to Participate

Participation in World Hunger Day goes beyond social media posts. Individuals and communities can:
Support sustainable agriculture by buying from local farmers or donating to organizations that provide tools and training.
Educate and advocate by hosting community discussions on the link between hunger and systemic issues like climate change and gender inequality.
Donate or fundraise for initiatives that help communities gain long-term food security through education, skill-building, and infrastructure.
Promote policy change by urging governments to adopt long-term development strategies and international aid that prioritize empowerment over dependency.

Why It Matters

Hunger is not just a result of a lack of food—it’s tied to social injustice, economic disparity, and climate vulnerability. World Hunger Day is a reminder that addressing hunger requires transformational change in how we support development.
It is an opportunity to amplify successful local models, hold leaders accountable, and work together toward a world where everyone has the right to nutritious food and dignity.

GK Quiz on Hindi Journalism Day, Questions and Answers

Hindi Journalism Day is celebrated every year on May 30th. It marks the beginning of journalism in the Hindi language. On this day, people remember the first Hindi newspaper called ”Udant Martand,” started by Jugal Kishore Shukla in 1826. This day is important because it shows how Hindi news and journalism have grown to help millions of people get information in their own language.

GK Quiz on Hindi Journalism Day

Hindi Journalism Day celebrates the start of journalism in the Hindi language in India. It honors the first Hindi newspaper, Udant Martand, and the hardworking journalists who made news available to the common people. This quiz will help you learn important facts about Hindi journalism and its history.

Q1.When is Hindi Journalism Day celebrated every year?

(a) June 5

(b) May 30

(d) April 10

S1. Ans. (b)

Q2. What was the name of the first Hindi newspaper in India?

(a) Bharat Darpan

(b) Dainik Jagran

(d) Udant Martand

S2. Ans. (d)

Q3. Who founded Udant Martand?

(a) Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi

(b) Mahatma Gandhi

(d) Ramnath Goenka

S3. Ans. (c)

Q4. Where was Udanta Martand first published?

(a) Kanpur

(b) Patna

(d) Calcutta

S4. Ans. (d)

Q5. What does ”Udant Martand” mean?

(a) True Voice

(b) Morning Ligth

(d) Voice of the People

S5. Ans. (c)

Q6. In which year was Udant Martand first published?

(a) 1947

(b) 1857

(d) 1885

S6. Ans. (c)

Q7. Who received the Ramon Magsaysay Award for the ethical journalism in India?

(a) Vinod Dua

(b) Ravish Kumar

(d) Punya Prasun Bajpai

S7. Ans. (b)

Q8. Why is Hindi Journalism Day celebrated?

(a) Fore new Hindi newspapers

(b) To mark India’s independence

(d) To celebrate language day

S8. Ans. (c)

Q9. Which script was used in Udant Martand?

(a) Roman

(b) Devanagari

(d) Bengali

S9. Ans. (b)

Q10. Which famous freedom fighter supported Hindi Journalism?

(a) Subhas Chandra Bose

(b) Mahatma Gandhi

(d) Rajendra Prasad

S10. Ans. (b)

Lando Norris Clinches Thrilling Victory at 2025 Monaco Grand Prix

British Formula 1 driver Lando Norris claimed an impressive victory at the 2025 Monaco Grand Prix on May 25, expertly converting his pole position into a win. Racing through one of the most prestigious circuits in the sport, Norris managed tight corners, high-pressure phases, and a fierce challenge from Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and teammate Oscar Piastri, to seal his second win of the season and move within striking distance in the championship standings.

Why in News?

The 2025 Monaco Grand Prix, held on May 25, gained attention as Lando Norris outpaced leading drivers and navigated intense race dynamics to win in Monte Carlo, a historic and technically demanding street circuit. The victory reshapes the F1 championship landscape, narrowing the gap between Norris and current leader Oscar Piastri.

Key Highlights

Race Winner: Lando Norris (McLaren) – Time: 1:40:33.843
2nd Place: Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) – +3.131s
3rd Place: Oscar Piastri (McLaren) – +3.658s
4th Place: Max Verstappen (Red Bull) – +20.572s
Track: Circuit de Monaco – Monte Carlo
Date: May 25, 2025

Race Strategy and Drama

Norris started on pole and survived a first-corner lock-up.
Navigated through Virtual Safety Car (VSC) periods and two mandatory pit stops.
Verstappen attempted an alternate tyre strategy, leading late into the race.
Dropped to P4 after pitting on the penultimate lap.

Championship Implications

Norris’s win cuts Oscar Piastri’s lead to just 3 points.
Leclerc delivered a home podium but couldn’t overtake Norris.
McLaren’s double podium reflects their strong car performance in tight street circuits.

Static Facts

Monaco GP is one of the oldest and most prestigious races in F1, dating back to 1929.
Held on a narrow, twisty street circuit with minimal overtaking opportunities.
Known for race strategy, driver skill, and qualifying position being crucial.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Lando Norris Clinches Thrilling Victory at 2025 Monaco Grand Prix
Race Name	Monaco Grand Prix 2025
Winner	Lando Norris (McLaren)
Pole Position	Lando Norris
Fastest Lap	Not specified
Runner-ups	Leclerc (2nd), Piastri (3rd)
Championship Impact	Norris 3 points behind leader Piastri

Kami Rita Sherpa Scales Mount Everest for Unprecedented 31st Time

Renowned Nepali mountaineer Kami Rita Sherpa has once again etched his name in the record books by summiting Mount Everest for the 31st time. On May 27, 2025, he led a team of climbers, including a 22-member Indian Army expedition, to the top of the world’s highest peak via the traditional southeast ridge route. This achievement further solidifies his legacy as the most accomplished Everest climber in history.

Why in News?

Kami Rita Sherpa’s recent ascent on May 27, 2025, marks his 31st successful summit of Mount Everest, breaking his own previous world record of 30 climbs set in 2023. This feat is noteworthy not only for its historical significance but also for highlighting the critical role Sherpas play in Himalayan expeditions.

Key Highlights of the Achievement

Date of Ascent: May 27, 2025
Route: Traditional Southeast Ridge from Nepal
Team Led: 22-member Indian Army team
Sherpas Accompanying: 27 additional Sherpa climbers
Current Age: 55 years

Background and Profile of Kami Rita Sherpa

Born in Thame village, Solukhumbu district of Nepal, near Everest Base Camp.
Began his mountaineering career in 1994.
Works as a senior guide for Seven Summit Treks, one of Nepal’s top expedition companies.
Has also summited other major peaks, including K2, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Manaslu.

Objective and Role

Kami Rita was leading and guiding the Indian Army expedition safely to the summit.
His efforts underscore the Sherpas’ unmatched expertise in high-altitude mountaineering and expedition logistics.

Static and Geographic Facts

Mount Everest (Nepali: Sagarmatha; Tibetan: Chomolungma):
Height: 8,849 metres (29,032 feet)
Location: On the border of Nepal and China (Tibet)
First summited in 1953 by Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay

Significance

Kami Rita’s achievements reflect decades of resilience, endurance, and leadership.
Helps promote Nepal’s mountain tourism sector, drawing global attention.
Inspires young mountaineers and highlights Sherpa contributions to global mountaineering.

Philippines Offers Visa-Free Entry to Indian Tourists under New Categories

In a significant move to boost tourism and strengthen bilateral ties, the Philippines has introduced visa-free entry options for Indian nationals under two specific categories. As of May 2025, eligible Indian travellers can now visit the archipelagic country without a visa for 14 or 30 days depending on their travel credentials. This development is expected to encourage more Indian tourists to explore the scenic islands, beaches, and cultural sites of the Philippines.

Why in News?

The Philippines Embassy in New Delhi officially announced two new visa-free entry options for Indian citizens, effective May 2025. These relaxed visa norms are part of the Philippines’ broader initiative to enhance tourism, especially from key markets like India, which has shown rising outbound travel trends post-pandemic.

Key Highlights

14-Day Visa-Free Entry for Indian Nationals
Available for tourism purposes only
Non-extendable and non-convertible to other visa types
Entry allowed via major airports, seaports, and cruise terminals

Eligibility

Valid Indian passport (min. 6-month validity)
Proof of accommodation and return/onward travel
Sufficient financial means (bank statement or job proof)
No previous immigration violations in the Philippines
30-Day Visa-Free Entry for AJACSSUK Visa/PR Holders
AJACSSUK: Australia, Japan, America (USA), Canada, Schengen countries, Singapore, and United Kingdom
Indian citizens with valid visa or PR from these countries are eligible
Non-extendable, for tourism use only
Requires clean immigration record and confirmed return ticket

E-Visa Option Still Available

Indian nationals not covered under the new visa-free schemes can still apply for a 9(a) Temporary Visitor E-Visa.
This allows a 30-day single-entry visit.

Documents Needed for E-Visa

Passport and government-issued ID
Return or onward ticket
Accommodation proof
Financial documents

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Philippines Offers Visa-Free Entry to Indian Tourists under New Categories
Effective From	May 2025
Countries	Covered under AJACSSUK Australia, Japan, America, Canada, Schengen, Singapore, United Kingdom
14-Day Visa-Free Criteria	Indian passport holders for tourism with valid documents
30-Day Visa-Free Criteria	Indian nationals with valid AJACSSUK visa or PR
E-Visa Option	Still available for other Indian tourists via official portal
Purpose of Visa-Free	Travel Tourism only; non-extendable and non-convertible