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.

Top-10 Cheapest States to Live in the United States in 2025, Check the List

Living in the United States can be expensive, but some states are much cheaper than others. In 2025, many people want to find places where they can live comfortably without spending too much money. This article will tell you about the top-10 cheapest states to live in the United States. These states have low costs for homes, food and other daily needs, making them good choices for saving money.

Top-10 Cheapest States to Live in the United States in 2025

In 2025, some states in the US are much cheaper to live in than others. These states have lower costs for housing, food and everyday needs. Many people choose these places to save money and enjoy a good life without spending too much. Here are the top-10 cheapest states to live in:

Arkansas
Mississippi
Alabama
West Virginia
South Dakota
Oklahoma
Kansas
Kentucky
Missouri
Tennessee

Arkansas

Living in Arkansas costs about 4% less than most of the U.S. Houses are very cheap – about 22% lower than the national average. Cities like Conway and Jonesboro are especially affordable. Bills for electricity and food are also low, making it a great place for families or anymore wanting to save money.

Mississippi

Mississippi is often the cheapest state in the U.S. Living here can cost 10-17% less, depending on the city. Home prices are 26% lower, and the average houses costs about $151,000. Gas is cheap, property taxes are low and retired people may not pay income tax. Tupelo and Gulfport are very budget-friendly.

Alabama

In Alabama, living costs are 12% below the national average. Homes are about 30% cheaper, with prices between $179,400 and $216,600. The state has very low property taxes (only 0.39%), affordable healthcare, and good roads. It is a great state for families and homeowners looking to save money.

West Virginia

West Virginia is one of the most affordable states to live in. Homes are cheap, and daily needs like food and bills don’t cost much. If you want a peaceful life and don’t want to speed a lot, this is a great choice. It’s perfect for nature lovers and retires too.

South Dakota

South Dakota has a low cost of living and cheaper homes. A big plus is that there’s no state income tax, which helps people save more money. It’s good place for families and retires. Overall, it is a quiet, budget-friendly state with clean air and beautiful open spaces.

Oklahoma

Living in Oklahoma costs 14% less than the U.S. average. People spend about $38,650 a year to live here. Homes are very cheap – around $170,500 to $183,733. Rent for a 2-bedroom apartment is just $840. Many cities also offer programs to help you financially. It’s a great place to live affordably.

Kansas

Kansas has a low cost of living – about 12% less than most states. The average home price is $189,300. Food is cheap and there are good job options in fields like tech, healthcare and factories. Kansas is a smart choice for people who want an easy life with stable work.

Kentucky

Kentucky is one of the most affordable states in the U.S. Home prices and utility bills are low, making life easier for both families and single people. You can live comfortably here without spending too much. It’s a peaceful state with a mix of small towns and friendly cities.

Missouri

Missouri offers low living costs and affordable housing. Taxes aren’t very high, which helps keep overall expenses down. Cities like St. Louis and Kansas City give you access to fun things to do without breaking the bank. It’s a good place for both workers and retires who want to save money.

Tennessee

Tennessee is about 11% cheaper than the national average. The average home costs $232,100. One big plus is there’s no state income tax. Housing is affordable and cities like Nashville and Memphis are full of music, food and outdoor fun. It’s perfect for people who want city life and nature too.

Top-10 Countries with the Highest Military Spending as a Share of GDP in 2025

Many countries spend a part of their income on the military to protect their borders, people and national interests. Some countries spend more time than others, especially if they face conflicts or threats. Military spending as a share of GDP shows how much of a country’s total income is used for defense. This article looks at the top-10 countries by this measure and where India stands.

Global Military Spending

Global Military spending has gone up in the last 10 years. From 2015 to 2025, it increased by 37%. According to SIPRI (Stockholm International Peace Research Institute), the world’s average military spending compared to GDP rose from 2.3% in 2023 to 2.5% in 2024. This shows that many countries are spending more money on defence due to wars, tensions and regional conflicts.

What is Military Spending as a Share of GDP?

Military spending as a share of GDP means how much money a country spends on defence compared to its total income (Gross Domestic Product). For example, if a country spends 5% of its GDP on the military, it means 5 out of every 100 rupees or dollars it earns goes to defence.

Why are Countries Spending More on Military?

There are many reasons behind the rise in military budgets:

The war between Russia and Ukraine caused both countries to spend a lot more.
Countries like Israel and Saudi Arabia increased their defence budgets because of Middle East conflicts.
Poland and other European countries are spending more because of rising tensions in Europe.

Top-10 Countries with the Highest Military Spending as a Share of GDP

In 2025, many countries increased their military spending due to wars and tensions. Here is the list of top-10 countries that spent the highest share of their GDP on defence, highlighting global security concerns:

Rank	Country	Share of GDP (%)	Spending ($B)
1.	Ukraine	34%	64.7
2.	Israel	8.80%	46.5
3.	Algeria	8%	21.8
4.	Saudi Arabia	7.30%	[80.3]
5.	Russia	[7.1%]	[149]
6.	Kuwait	4.80%	7.8
7.	Poland	4.20%	38
8.	United States	3.40%	997
9.	Colombia	3.40%	15.1
10.	Greece	3.1	8

India’s Spending on Military

In 2024, India, the world’s fifth-largest economy, spent $86.1 billion on its military, which is 2.3% of its GDP. This made India the fifth-biggest military spender globally. In comparison, Pakistan spent $10.2 billion, which is 2.7% of its GDP. The U.S. stayed the top spender with $997 billion (3.4% of GDP), while China, the second-largest spender, used $314 billion (1.7% of GDP) to grow its region power.

India Champions Inclusive Industrial Growth at 9th BRICS Industry Ministers’ Meeting in Brasília

India actively participated in the 9th BRICS Industry Ministers’ Meeting held in Brasília, Brazil, on 21st May 2025, under the theme “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance.” The event highlighted India’s leadership in promoting innovation, startup collaboration, and digital industrial transformation among BRICS nations.

Why in News?

India participated in the 9th BRICS Industry Ministers’ Meeting in Brasília, where it launched a dedicated Startup Knowledge Hub and emphasized the contribution of MSMEs and digital innovation in industrial growth. The event also featured the first participation of newly inducted BRICS members like Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.

Key Highlights of the Meeting

Hosted by Brazil at Itamaraty Palace, Brasília, on 21st May 2025
Attended by BRICS members including Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and new members: Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, UAE
Theme: “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance”
Adoption of a Joint Declaration reaffirming commitment to open, fair, and resilient global economic governance

India’s Key Contributions

Launch of BRICS Startup Knowledge Hub
Launched on 31st January 2025
Platform to foster cross-border collaboration, innovation, and best practices among startups in BRICS nations
Initiative under BRICS Start-Up Forum

Focus on MSMEs

India highlighted the sector’s role in inclusive growth
5.93 crore registered MSMEs
25+ crore employed
Contributed 45.73% of India’s exports in FY 2023–24

Vision for Industry 4.0

India emphasized the integration of digital technologies and innovation in industry
Advocated a future-ready, digitally empowered, and inclusive industrial ecosystem
Echoed alignment with the Fourth Industrial Revolution

Digital India Achievements

Rise in internet users from 251.59 million (2014) to 954.40 million (March 2024)
India described as the world’s largest digitally connected democracy

Core Principles Promoted by India

India called for BRICS industrial cooperation to be guided by

Sahyog (Collaboration)
Samanjasya (Harmony)
Samagrata (Inclusiveness)
Sarvasammati (Consensus)

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	India Champions Inclusive Industrial Growth at 9th BRICS Industry Ministers’ Meeting in Brasília
Event	9th BRICS Industry Ministers’ Meeting
Venue & Date	Itamaraty Palace, Brasília, Brazil – 21st May 2025
Hosted By	Brazil (Chairship)
New BRICS Members Present	Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, UAE
Major Indian Initiative	BRICS Startup Knowledge Hub (launched 31 Jan 2025)
MSME Data	5.93 crore units, 25+ crore employed, 45.73% export contribution
Digital India Impact	954.40 million internet users by March 2024
Core Indian Principles	Sahyog, Samanjasya, Samagrata, Sarvasammati

Arsenal Triumphs Over Barcelona to Win Women’s Champions League 2025

In a historic showdown at the Estadio Jose Alvalade in Lisbon on May 24, 2025, Arsenal stunned defending champions FC Barcelona 1-0 to clinch their second UEFA Women’s Champions League (UWCL) title. The decisive moment came in the 75th minute when substitute Stina Blackstenius scored the only goal of the match, capitalizing on a clever assist from Beth Mead. This victory marked a monumental achievement for Arsenal, breaking Barcelona’s dream of securing a third consecutive title.

Why in News?

The match is in the spotlight as Arsenal won the Women’s Champions League for the first time since 2007. The Gunners ended Barcelona’s bid for a historic treble of consecutive UWCL titles. It is the first time in 18 years that an English women’s football club has lifted the prestigious trophy.

Match Highlights & Outcome

Final Score: Arsenal 1 – 0 FC Barcelona
Goal Scorer: Stina Blackstenius (75th minute)
Assist: Beth Mead (second-half substitute)
Venue: Estadio Jose Alvalade, Lisbon, Portugal
Date: May 24, 2025

Background & Significance

Arsenal last won the UWCL in 2007, making them the first and only English club to win it before 2025.
Barcelona were favorites to win their fourth title in five years, led by Ballon d’Or winners Aitana Bonmati and Alexia Putellas.
The Spanish giants had an impressive run, defeating Wolfsburg and Chelsea decisively in previous rounds.

Objectives and Importance

Arsenal aimed to reclaim European glory and break the dominance of continental giants like Barcelona and Lyon.
The win reinvigorates English women’s football, showcasing rising strength in club-level competition.
It signifies a strategic success in player development, substitutions, and match-day tactics under pressure.

Wider Impact

Boosts the visibility and status of Women’s Super League (WSL) clubs in Europe.
Encourages greater investment in women’s football in England and globally.
Breaks the monopoly of Spanish and French dominance in European women’s football.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Arsenal Triumphs Over Barcelona to Win Women’s Champions League 2025
Event 2025	UEFA Women’s Champions League Final
Winner	Arsenal (England)
Runner-Up	FC Barcelona (Spain)
Final Score	Arsenal 1 – 0 Barcelona
Winning Goal Scorer	Stina Blackstenius (75th min)
Venue	Estadio Jose Alvalade, Lisbon

UN Observes International Week of Solidarity with Non-Self-Governing Territories (May 25–31)

The United Nations annually observes the International Week of Solidarity with the Peoples of Non-Self-Governing Territories from May 25 to 31, reaffirming its commitment to decolonization and the right to self-determination. This initiative sheds light on the plight of people in territories that are yet to attain full self-governance and mobilizes international support for their political, economic, and social development. The observance promotes dialogue, cooperation, and solidarity to ensure that the principles enshrined in the UN Charter are realized for all.

Why in News?

The United Nations General Assembly is commemorating the 2024 edition of the International Week of Solidarity with the Peoples of Non-Self-Governing Territories from May 25–31, as part of its ongoing global efforts toward decolonization. The week, observed since 1999, calls attention to the rights, needs, and aspirations of people in the 17 remaining Non-Self-Governing Territories.

Background & Historical Context

The week was established by UNGA Resolution A/RES/54/91 on December 6, 1999.
The UN Charter defines a Non-Self-Governing Territory as one “whose people have not yet attained a full measure of self-government.”
In 1946, information about 72 territories was shared with the UN; many have since achieved independence.

Current List of Non-Self-Governing Territories (2024) – 17 in Total

Includes,

Western Sahara
Gibraltar
Bermuda
Guam
American Samoa
Falkland Islands
Cayman Islands
And others

Objectives of the Observance

Raise Awareness: Educate the global public about ongoing struggles faced by these populations.
Advocate for Self-Determination: Reinforce their right to self-rule as per the UN Charter.
Mobilize Global Support: Encourage aid and diplomatic backing for political, economic, and social progress.
Encourage Dialogue & Cooperation: Among nations, UN bodies, civil society, and territory representatives.
Inspire Action: Push for tangible policies and assistance supporting decolonization.
Track Progress: Review efforts, challenges, and achievements related to self-governance.

Significance

Addresses historical colonial injustices.
Encourages sustainable development, political empowerment, and cultural preservation.
Reflects the UN’s ongoing role as a global peace and rights enabler.

Which City is Called the Pharma Capital of India?

India has emerged as a global pharmaceutical hub, often referred to as the “Pharmacy of the World” due to its high-volume, low-cost production of medicines. Within the country, one city stands out as the epicenter of pharmaceutical innovation, manufacturing, and exports — Hyderabad, the capital of Telangana. Over the decades, Hyderabad has earned the prestigious title of the “Pharma Capital of India”, owing to its robust infrastructure, strategic policies, and a thriving ecosystem of pharmaceutical companies.

The Rise of Hyderabad as a Pharmaceutical Powerhouse

Hyderabad’s transformation into the pharmaceutical capital began in the 1970s and 1980s, when public sector units like Indian Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Limited (IDPL) laid the foundation for large-scale drug manufacturing. With time, the city attracted private enterprises and multinational corporations due to its favorable policies, abundant talent, and scientific research institutions.

Today, Hyderabad is home to over 800 pharmaceutical companies, making it a central player in India’s pharmaceutical production and export landscape.

Genome Valley: The Heart of Biotech and Pharma

One of the most significant contributors to Hyderabad’s pharmaceutical identity is the development of Genome Valley, India’s first and largest biotechnology cluster. Spread over 600 square kilometers, Genome Valley hosts a wide range of research labs, pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, and academic institutions.

Companies located here are involved in everything from drug discovery and clinical trials to biotechnology research and vaccine development. The ecosystem has attracted global giants like Novartis, GlaxoSmithKline, Johnson & Johnson, and domestic leaders like Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, Aurobindo Pharma, and Biological E.

COVID-19 and Hyderabad’s Global Role

Hyderabad’s role as the Pharma Capital of India became even more evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. The city emerged as a vaccine manufacturing hub, producing millions of doses not only for India but for countries across the world. Companies like Bharat Biotech, which developed Covaxin, and Biological E., which contributed significantly to vaccine supply, are headquartered in Hyderabad.

This response reinforced Hyderabad’s image as a life sciences hub with global capabilities.

Research, Talent, and Infrastructure

Hyderabad’s pharmaceutical strength is not limited to manufacturing. The city is a hub for scientific research and drug innovation. Institutions like the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT), and National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER) provide critical support to the industry.

Moreover, Hyderabad boasts a skilled workforce, with a strong pipeline of pharmacists, biotechnologists, and chemists graduating from universities every year. The city’s infrastructure, logistics connectivity, and policy support have made it attractive for pharmaceutical exports and R&D investments.

Economic Impact

Hyderabad contributes significantly to India’s pharmaceutical export earnings. Telangana accounts for a major share of India’s bulk drug and formulation exports, and Hyderabad is at the core of this activity. The pharmaceutical sector also generates thousands of jobs, ranging from lab technicians to regulatory experts.

The Telangana government continues to support the industry through policy frameworks like the Life Sciences Policy, with a vision to make Hyderabad the “Life Sciences Capital of the World” by 2030.

Future Outlook

With continued investment in infrastructure, innovation, and workforce development, Hyderabad is poised to maintain and expand its dominance in the pharma and biotech sectors. The proposed Pharma City, a massive 19,000-acre industrial park, aims to further strengthen Hyderabad’s position as the leading center for pharmaceutical production and research.

This futuristic industrial cluster is expected to attract both domestic and foreign investors, providing a sustainable and integrated ecosystem for pharma manufacturing.

World Thyroid Day 2025: Theme, Importance, and Prevention Tips

World Thyroid Day, observed annually on 25 May, is a significant global health awareness day dedicated to highlighting the burden of thyroid disorders, acknowledging the experiences of patients, and supporting research and treatment of thyroid diseases. With more than 4.2 crore Indians affected and over 100 crore people living in iodine-deficient regions globally, this day draws vital attention to thyroid health, prevention, and care.

Why in News?

World Thyroid Day 2025 was observed globally on 25 May. The 2025 theme continues the tradition of advocating thyroid awareness, with a focus on early detection, proper nutrition, and treatment accessibility. India remains a country with a high thyroid disease burden, making awareness critical.

Aim & Objective

Raise awareness about thyroid disorders, their diagnosis, prevention, and treatment.
Promote screening programs in high-risk regions like India.
Educate the public on the importance of iodine, thyroid hormone balance, and routine testing.

Background

First observed in 2008 by the Thyroid Federation International (TFI).
Coincides with European Thyroid Day, initiated by the European Thyroid Association.

Static & Epidemiological Facts

Thyroid disorders are second most common endocrine disorders after diabetes.

Types include,

Hypothyroidism
Hyperthyroidism
Goitre / Iodine Deficiency Disorders
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
Thyroid cancer
1 in 2640 neonates in India is affected by congenital hypothyroidism.
7.5% of girls with goitre have autoimmune thyroiditis (Indian study).
Iodine deficiency common in Himalayan regions; addressed by salt iodisation programs.

Prevention Tips

Balanced diet rich in iodine, selenium, and iron
Avoid smoking and excess alcohol
Manage stress, get adequate sleep
Ensure vitamin D via sun exposure
Schedule routine checkups for thyroid function

Year-wise Themes (Selected)

2023: Thyroid Health: Nurturing Well-being
2022: It’s not you. It’s your thyroid
2021: Mother-Baby-Iodine
2019: Find It and Treat It Early
2018: Lifestyle and Diet Change for Better Thyroid Management

UN Declares 25th May as World Football Day

In a historic and celebratory move, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has declared 25th May as World Football Day. The decision, adopted unanimously on 7 May 2024, commemorates the centenary of football’s global representation during the 1924 Paris Summer Olympics. The resolution, introduced by Libya’s ambassador Taher El-Sonni, acknowledges the cultural, social, and unifying power of the world’s most popular sport — football.

Why in News?

On 7 May 2024, the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution to observe 25 May every year as World Football Day. The declaration aligns with the 100th anniversary of football’s inclusive global representation at the 1924 Summer Olympics in Paris. The resolution was co-sponsored by over 160 UN member nations, showing broad global support.

Libyan-Led UN Resolution

Proposed by Libya’s UN ambassador Taher El-Sonni.
Supported by more than 160 countries.
Recognized football’s power to promote peace, development, health, and education.

Why 25 May?

On 25 May 1924, football was played at the Paris Summer Olympics, marking the first time all world regions were represented in Olympic football.
The year 2024 marks the 100th anniversary of this landmark event.
Also coincides with Paris hosting the Summer Olympics again in 2024.

Game of Football – Quick Facts

Originated in medieval England; modern football rules developed in the 19th century.
The Football Association (FA) was formed in 1863 in England.
FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association) founded in 1902, now with 211 member countries — more than the UN (193).

Football and the Olympics

Football debuted in 1900 Paris Olympics (men only).
Women’s football introduced in 1996 (Atlanta Olympics).
Football has been played in every Summer Olympics except 1932.
Men’s Olympic football is age-restricted (U-23), with 3 over-age players allowed.
Women’s football has no age restrictions.

Miao Lijie Named Ambassador for FIBA Women’s Asia Cup 2025

Chinese basketball icon and FIBA Hall of Famer Miao Lijie has been appointed the ambassador for the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup 2025, which will be hosted in Shenzhen, China from July 13 to 20, 2025. Her appointment marks a symbolic return to the tournament that helped shape her legendary career and celebrates her enduring influence on women’s basketball in Asia.

Why in News?

Miao Lijie has recently been announced as the official ambassador for the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup 2025. This international basketball event will return to China after a decade, making it a significant moment in both sporting and national contexts. Miao’s association adds legacy, visibility, and excitement for the event.

Who is Miao Lijie?

Former captain and top scorer for China’s national women’s basketball team.
FIBA Hall of Fame inductee (2024) – the third Chinese player to achieve this honor.
Played in 3 Olympics (2004, 2008, 2012) and 3 FIBA World Cups.
Led China to 6 Women’s Asia Cup medals, including 5 golds.
Won 3 Asian Games gold medals (2002, 2006, 2010).
Played professionally for WNBA’s Sacramento Monarchs, part of their 2005 championship team.
First player to score 6,000 points in the WCBA (China’s professional league).

About FIBA Women’s Asia Cup 2025

Dates: July 13–20, 2025.
Venue: Shenzhen, China – known as the “City of the Future”.
Returns to China after 10 years, last held in the country in 2015.
Features top national women’s teams from Asia and Oceania.

Significance of Miao Lijie as Ambassador

Symbolizes China’s rich basketball legacy.
Aims to inspire younger generations, especially girls, to pursue basketball.
Reinforces China’s status as a powerhouse in women’s basketball.

FIBA Women’s Asia Cup – Historical Highlights

Miao made her debut in 1999, averaging 15 points per game.
Led China to three consecutive titles in 2001, 2003, 2005.
Returned to lead the team to victories in 2009 and 2011.
Known for never letting China miss the podium after 1999.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Miao Lijie Named Ambassador for FIBA Women’s Asia Cup 2025
Event	FIBA Women’s Asia Cup 2025
Venue	Shenzhen, China
Ambassador	Miao Lijie
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Which City is Called the Coffee Capital of India?

India’s love for coffee stretches across centuries, rooted in tradition and elevated by innovation. While various regions in India contribute to its thriving coffee culture, one city stands out as the undisputed “Coffee Capital of India” — Chikkamagaluru, located in the southern state of Karnataka.

The Birthplace of Indian Coffee

Chikkamagaluru (also spelled Chikmagalur) is historically known as the place where coffee was first introduced in India. The legend dates back to the 17th century when a Sufi saint named Baba Budan brought seven coffee beans from Yemen and planted them in the hills of Chikkamagaluru, giving rise to India’s coffee cultivation.

This region has since evolved into the largest producer of coffee in India, playing a vital role in both domestic consumption and international exports.

Ideal Climate and Geography for Coffee Cultivation

The Western Ghats that run through Chikkamagaluru create the perfect ecological conditions for coffee plantations. The area enjoys a cool climate, ample rainfall, and rich, fertile soil, all of which are essential for high-quality Arabica and Robusta beans.

The elevation, ranging from 1,000 to 1,500 meters above sea level, allows for slow ripening of coffee cherries, which enhances the flavor and aroma of the beans.

A Hub of Coffee Estates and Plantations

Chikkamagaluru is home to hundreds of coffee estates, many of which are family-owned and date back several generations. Estates like Mylemoney, Kalledevarapura, and Baba Budangiri Hills are well known for producing specialty coffee that meets international standards.

These plantations often practice shade-grown coffee cultivation, which preserves biodiversity and enhances bean quality — making the region a favorite among coffee connoisseurs and global buyers.

Coffee Tourism and Cultural Significance

The identity of Chikkamagaluru is deeply tied to its coffee culture. In recent years, the region has become a popular tourist destination for those interested in coffee tours, tastings, and plantation stays. Tourists can explore coffee estates, learn about bean processing, and even roast their own coffee.

Local festivals and events celebrate coffee as a symbol of pride and heritage, reinforcing Chikkamagaluru’s nickname as the “Coffee Capital of India.”

Economic Impact and Exports

Chikkamagaluru plays a critical role in the Indian economy through coffee exports. India is one of the top 10 coffee-producing countries in the world, and Chikkamagaluru contributes significantly to this standing. The region supports thousands of workers and provides livelihoods to entire communities centered around the coffee trade.

From local cafés to international roasters, beans from this region are in high demand due to their distinct flavor profiles, which include fruity, floral, and chocolatey notes.

Emerging Coffee Culture

In addition to plantations, Chikkamagaluru has seen the rise of artisanal cafés, roasteries, and coffee labs. These modern establishments blend traditional practices with global coffee trends, offering cold brews, pour-overs, and single-origin blends sourced directly from nearby estates.

This cultural evolution has cemented Chikkamagaluru’s status not just as a coffee producer, but as a vibrant center of India’s coffee innovation and appreciation.