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.

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

Anil Kumble Appointed Karnataka Forest Department Ambassador

In a significant move toward enhancing environmental awareness and conservation efforts, the Karnataka government has appointed former Indian cricket team captain Anil Kumble as the ambassador of the State Forest Department and for wildlife conservation. Known not only for his achievements in cricket but also for his past involvement in conservation efforts, Kumble’s appointment is expected to boost public engagement in preserving the state’s rich biodiversity.

Why in News?

The Karnataka Forest Department, under the leadership of Environment Minister Eshwar B. Khandre, announced the appointment of Anil Kumble as its official ambassador on May 27, 2025. Kumble has accepted the role without any honorarium, reflecting his commitment to the cause. The announcement also comes amid major forest reclamation efforts and green space development initiatives in Bengaluru.

Highlights of the Appointment

Anil Kumble appointed Ambassador of Karnataka Forest Department.
Will raise awareness about forest conservation, afforestation, tree preservation, and wildlife protection.
Served previously as Vice-Chairman of the Karnataka Wildlife Board.
Volunteered for the role without taking an honorarium.

Government’s Conservation Initiatives

128 acres of encroached forest land cleared in Bengaluru in the last 2 years.
1,205 encroachment cases registered; over 6,251.31 acres of forest reclaimed across Karnataka.
Decision to develop a 153-acre urban park near Yelahanka on land formerly used for eucalyptus plantation.

Significance and Background

Kumble is a respected public figure with a history of environmental advocacy.
Karnataka is home to rich biodiversity, including several national parks and tiger reserves.
His role is expected to bridge the gap between forest authorities and the general public, especially the youth.

Objectives

Promote sustainable environmental practices.
Support development and welfare of Forest Department frontline staff.
Engage citizens through outreach, social media, and campaigns to protect flora and fauna.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Anil Kumble Appointed Karnataka Forest Department Ambassador
Who	Anil Kumble
What	Appointed ambassador of Karnataka Forest Department
Announced By	Minister Eshwar B. Khandre
Purpose	Wildlife conservation and awareness
Honorarium	Voluntary; no payment accepted
Other Measures	Reclaimed forest land, new 153-acre park in Yelahanka

“India Takes Flight with E-Hansa: Indigenous Electric Aircraft Initiative Launched”

India has begun the development of its next-generation electric trainer aircraft, E-Hansa, a two-seater aircraft that represents a major milestone in green aviation and indigenous aerospace technology. Spearheaded by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – National Aerospace Laboratories (CSIR-NAL), this aircraft will cost nearly half of its imported counterparts and is aligned with India’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote self-reliance in aviation. The announcement was made by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, during a high-level review meeting on May 27, 2025.

Why in News?

Dr. Jitendra Singh announced the initiation of the E-Hansa development at a review meeting of India’s major scientific departments. The aircraft is part of a broader vision for green aviation, technology commercialization, and public-private partnerships. ISRO’s successful SPADEX mission, and India’s contribution to Axiom Space Mission, were also highlighted. India aims to transform its science ecosystem using a Whole-of-Government approach with region-wise Chintan Shivirs.

E-Hansa Electric Trainer Aircraft

Developed by: CSIR-NAL, Bengaluru
Type: Two-seater electric trainer aircraft
Cost: Approx. ₹2 crore – 50% cheaper than imported alternatives
Purpose: Affordable, eco-friendly option for flight training
Part of: HANSA-3 (NG) trainer aircraft program
Significance: Reduces dependence on imports, supports green aviation goals

Technology Commercialization and PPP

NRDC directed to adopt BIRAC and IN-SPACe models for tech transfer
Push for hub-and-spoke Public-Private Partnership models
Proposed use of AI-driven tech/IP exchange platforms
Formation of regional NTTOs to improve technology access and innovation outreach

ISRO Achievements

SPADEX mission successfully demonstrated docking/undocking crucial for Gaganyaan
Significant role in Operation Sindoor
Collaboration with 40 Ministries and 28 States
Upcoming space missions and contributions to Axiom Space Mission
Group Captain Subhash Shukla to perform 7 microgravity experiments on ISS

Whole-of-Science, Whole-of-Government Approach

Chintan Shivirs to be held regionally involving,

DST, DBT, CSIR, ISRO, MoES, Atomic Energy departments
Encouragement of integrated planning and inter-agency synergy

Global Collaboration and Science Talent Mobility

Proposed Global Science Talent Bridge to attract top international researchers
Global interest from Switzerland, Italy, and others for Indo-style science centres
PM’s announcement of CSIR labs opening to students welcomed, though currently paused due to security reasons

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	“India Takes Flight with E-Hansa: Indigenous Electric Aircraft Initiative Launched”
Project Name	E-Hansa (Electric Hansa)
Developed by	CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL)
Aircraft Type	Electric two-seater trainer
Cost	₹2 crore (approx. 50% of imported alternatives)
Minister Involved	Dr. Jitendra Singh
Other Highlights	ISRO’s SPADEX, Operation Sindoor, Axiom Mission
Policy Push	Public-Private Partnerships, Chintan Shivirs, Global Talent Bridge
Vision	Green Aviation, Viksit Bharat, Whole-of-Government in Science

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

Maize, also called corn, is one of the important crops grown in India. It is used for food, animal feed and many industries. In 2025, some states in India produce more maize than others because of good weather and farming methods. This article talks about the top-5 states in India that produce the most maize and why they are leading in maize farming.

Maize Production in India

India is one of the top maize producers in the world, ranking fifth and making about 3% of the world’s total maize. Every year, India produces around 35 million tonnes of maize. Karnataka is the leading producer in maize farming. Since 1999-2000, maize production in India has more than tripled, and farmers are now getting much better yields than before.

Top-5 Maize Producing States in India in 2025

In 2025, India’s top-5 maize producing states are leading the way in corn farming due to good climate, better seeds and modern farming methods. These states grow the most maize and help meet the country’s food, animal feed and industrial needs.

Here are the top-5 maize producing states in India in 2025:

Karnataka
Madhya Pradesh
Maharashtra
Uttar Pradesh
Bihar

Karnataka

Karnataka is the number one maize-producing state in India, giving about 15% of the country’s total. The state’s good weather and rich soil help grow more maize. Farmers use high-quality seeds and modern irrigation methods, which has increased maize production a lot over the years.

Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh is the second-largest maize producer, also growing about 15% of India’s maize. The state has different types of weather and a strong farming system. With help from the government, farmers now use hybrid seeds and modern tools, which has made maize farming more successful.

Maharashtra

Maharashtra grows around 12% of India’s maize. The state has large fields and a suitable climate for maize farming. Farmers here use better seeds and get help from the government, which makes Maharashtra an important state for maize production in the country.

Rajasthan

Rajasthan gives about 9% of India’s total maize. Even though the state faces water problems, farmers use smart methods like drip and sprinkler irrigation to save water and grow more maize. These new techniques have helped Rajasthan become a strong maize-producing state.

Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh grows nearly 8% of India’s maize. It has rich soil and good weather, which are helpful for maize farming. As the most populated state, more farmers are turning to maize with support from the government, improving overall production in the region.

INS Tarini Completes World Voyage: A Triumph of Nari Shakti and Seamanship

In a landmark achievement for India’s maritime history and a powerful testimony to women empowerment, two Indian Navy officers, Lieutenant Commander Roopa A and Lieutenant Commander Dilna K, have successfully completed a double-handed circumnavigation of the globe aboard INS Tarini under the mission Navika Sagar Parikrama II. This epic voyage spanning 25,400 nautical miles across treacherous oceans and continents will culminate with a flag-in ceremony on May 29, 2025, at Mormugao Port, Goa, in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

Why in News?

The successful conclusion of Navika Sagar Parikrama II is being hailed as a significant milestone. It represents the first double-handed female circumnavigation of the globe by Indian Navy officers. The expedition promotes Nari Shakti, maritime diplomacy, and the spirit of exploration and endurance. The flag-in ceremony, led by India’s Defence Minister, marks the formal return of the crew after eight months at sea.

Background and Mission Overview

The mission was flagged off on October 2, 2024, from the Naval Ocean Sailing Node, Goa.
Part of the Indian Navy’s push to develop ocean sailing skills and promote gender inclusion.
Sailed around the world in double-handed mode, using only wind power.

Voyage Details

Distance: 25,400 nautical miles (approx. 50,000 km).
Duration: 8 months.
Oceans Crossed: Indian, Pacific, and Atlantic.
Continents Touched: Asia, Australia, South America, Africa.

Key Stops

Fremantle, Australia
Lyttelton, New Zealand
Port Stanley, Falkland Islands
Cape Town, South Africa

Challenges Faced

Survived cyclones, freezing temperatures, and winds of up to 50 knots (93 km/h).
Most difficult leg: Lyttelton to Port Stanley – included crossing the Drake Passage and rounding Cape Horn.

Significance and Symbolism

Showcases Indian Navy’s strength in seamanship, training, and endurance.
Reaffirms commitment to inclusivity in defence forces.
Promotes India’s stature in global maritime diplomacy.
Motto of the expedition: “Courageous Hearts, Boundless Seas.”

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	INS Tarini Completes World Voyage: A Triumph of Nari Shakti and Seamanship
Mission Name	Navika Sagar Parikrama II
Vessel	INS Tarini
Crew	Lt Cdr Roopa A & Lt Cdr Dilna K
Distance Covered	25,400 nautical miles (~50,000 km)
Duration	8 months
Oceans/Continents	3 Oceans, 4 Continents
Flag-off Date	October 2, 2024
Flag-in Ceremony	May 29, 2025, at Mormugao Port, Goa
Guest of Honour	Defence Minister Rajnath Singh
Expedition Motto	“Courageous Hearts, Boundless Seas”
Key Stops	Fremantle, Lyttelton, Port Stanley, Cape Town