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 Countries with the Largest Sovereign Wealth Funds in 2025

As global economies navigate geopolitical tensions, energy transitions, and digital transformation, sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) have emerged as powerful financial vehicles that help nations secure long-term prosperity. These state-owned investment entities manage surplus revenues, often from natural resources or foreign reserves and invest in diversified global assets ranging from real estate to tech startups.

In 2025, the top SWFs collectively manage over $10 trillion in assets, with the largest funds shaping capital markets and long-term financial strategies across the globe. This article explores the top 10 countries with the largest sovereign wealth funds, analyzing their strategic objectives, origins, and global impact.

1. Norway – Government Pension Fund Global (GPFG)

Norway holds the title of managing the world’s largest sovereign wealth fund, the Government Pension Fund Global (GPFG). Established in 1990, the GPFG is funded by the country’s surplus revenues from oil and gas exports.

Strategic Vision and Investments

Managed by Norges Bank Investment Management, the fund’s primary objective is to invest Norway’s energy wealth for the benefit of future generations. With assets exceeding $1.74 trillion, the GPFG holds stakes in over 9,000 companies across more than 70 countries.

Its portfolio includes equities (70%), fixed income (25%), and real estate and renewable infrastructure (5%). The GPFG is also known for its emphasis on ethical investment, sustainability, and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria.

2. China – China Investment Corporation (CIC)

Established in 2007, the China Investment Corporation (CIC) was formed to manage part of the country’s massive foreign exchange reserves and enhance returns through global diversification.

Global Diversification and Innovation

With assets approaching $1.33 trillion, CIC invests in public equities, fixed income securities, private equity, and infrastructure. The fund plays a crucial role in supporting China’s Belt and Road Initiative, financing infrastructure and energy projects across Asia, Africa, and Europe.

The CIC is a core pillar of China’s push to move away from a dollar-dominated reserve portfolio and exert greater financial influence worldwide.

3. China – SAFE Investment Company

Alongside CIC, China also operates the State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) Investment Company, which controls another $1.23 trillion in foreign assets.

Reserve Management Strategy

SAFE is responsible for managing China’s official foreign exchange reserves—the largest in the world. It prioritizes capital preservation, liquidity, and moderate returns, deploying capital in global sovereign bonds, equities, and strategic sectors.

While more conservative than CIC, SAFE’s scale makes it a quiet but influential force in global bond and equity markets.

4. United Arab Emirates – Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA)

The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) is the principal investment arm of the UAE government, with assets totaling around $1.05 trillion in 2025.

Oil Wealth Turned Global Capital

Founded in 1976, ADIA channels the UAE’s oil revenues into a globally diversified portfolio that spans public equities, real estate, private equity, infrastructure, and alternative assets. ADIA maintains a long-term investment horizon, making it a cornerstone of economic resilience for Abu Dhabi.

The fund’s discreet but powerful influence has been felt in major real estate markets from New York to London, and it continues to support green energy transition efforts.

5. Kuwait – Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA)

Established in 1953, the Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA) is the oldest sovereign wealth fund in the world and a critical pillar of Kuwait’s economic planning.

Preserving Wealth for Future Generations

With assets reaching $1.03 trillion, KIA manages both the General Reserve Fund (for budgetary purposes) and the Future Generations Fund (for long-term stability). The fund invests in global equities, bonds, infrastructure projects, and emerging markets.

KIA’s conservative but strategic approach aims to ensure that Kuwait remains economically stable post-oil era.

6. Saudi Arabia – Public Investment Fund (PIF)

The Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia has gained global prominence due to its role in the country’s Vision 2030 economic diversification strategy.

A Catalyst for Transformation

In 2025, PIF manages assets of around $925 billion, investing not only in global blue-chip companies but also in futuristic sectors such as electric vehicles, space tech, NEOM smart city, and tourism.

Through investments in companies like Lucid Motors, Uber, and SoftBank, the PIF is reshaping Saudi Arabia’s economic identity while asserting its role in technology and energy transitions.

7. Singapore – GIC Private Limited

GIC, formerly the Government of Singapore Investment Corporation, manages approximately $800 billion in assets. It is one of the most respected and professionally run sovereign funds in the world.

Global Reach, Strategic Focus

GIC focuses on long-term investments in real estate, infrastructure, equities, and alternative assets. Its portfolio is globally diversified and heavily geared toward risk-adjusted returns, rather than short-term performance.

Singapore also operates Temasek Holdings, a state-owned investment company with a separate mandate and strategy.

8. Qatar – Qatar Investment Authority (QIA)

The Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) holds assets totaling $526 billion in 2025. Established in 2005, it is the investment arm of the State of Qatar, funded by the nation’s natural gas surplus.

Global Prestige and Diversification

QIA is known for its high-profile stakes in Barclays, Volkswagen, Harrods, Credit Suisse, and London real estate. The fund supports Qatar’s ambition to diversify its economy while enhancing the country’s global economic footprint.

9. Hong Kong – HKMA Investment Portfolio

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) manages the Exchange Fund, which acts like a sovereign wealth fund, with assets around $516 billion.

Monetary Stability and Reserve Growth

Its primary role is to support the Hong Kong dollar’s currency peg, manage foreign reserves, and ensure monetary stability. Over time, it has diversified into private equity and real estate to boost returns.

The fund reflects Hong Kong’s strategy of using sovereign assets to maintain financial stability amid regional and global volatility.

10. Saudi Arabia – SAMA Foreign Holdings

The Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority (SAMA) manages another fund alongside PIF, focused on foreign reserves and liquidity management. Known as SAMA Foreign Holdings, it controls around $498 billion in 2025.

Reserve Protection and Market Stability

While SAMA is more conservative and focused on short-term liquidity and capital protection, its size and role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s monetary framework make it a key actor in regional finance.

Largest Sovereign Wealth Funds by Country (2025)

Rank	Country	Fund Name	Assets (USD)	Origin	Strategic Role
1	Norway	Government Pension Fund Global (GPFG)	$1.74 Trillion	Oil & Gas	Intergenerational equity and ESG-focused investments
2	China	China Investment Corporation (CIC)	$1.33 Trillion	Forex Reserves	Global diversification of FX reserves
3	China	SAFE Investment Company	$1.23 Trillion	Forex Reserves	Reserve management and capital preservation
4	United Arab Emirates	Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA)	$1.05 Trillion	Oil Revenues	Long-term global portfolio
5	Kuwait	Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA)	$1.03 Trillion	Oil Revenues	Budget support and future fund
6	Saudi Arabia	Public Investment Fund (PIF)	$925 Billion	Oil Revenues	Vision 2030 and economic diversification
7	Singapore	GIC Private Limited	$800 Billion	Foreign Reserves	Long-term capital appreciation
8	Qatar	Qatar Investment Authority (QIA)	$526 Billion	Oil & Gas	Global brand-building and economic diversity
9	Hong Kong	HKMA Investment Portfolio	$516 Billion	Foreign Reserves	Currency stability and reserve enhancement
10	Saudi Arabia	SAMA Foreign Holdings	$498 Billion	Oil Revenues	Reserve protection and monetary support

iGOT Karmayogi Crosses 1 Crore Users: A Milestone in Digital Civil Services Training

The iGOT Karmayogi platform, India’s premier digital learning portal for civil servants, has achieved a major milestone by crossing the 1 crore registered users mark. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, this initiative reflects the government’s strong commitment to digital governance, capacity building, and a citizen-centric bureaucracy.

Why in News?

On May 21, 2025, the Ministry of Personnel announced that iGOT Karmayogi had surpassed 1 crore registrations, up from just 3 lakh users in January 2023 — a 30-fold growth in just over two years. This growth highlights the increasing adoption of digital learning among India’s central and state civil servants.

Background

iGOT Karmayogi stands for Integrated Government Online Training under Mission Karmayogi.
Launched under the National Programme for Civil Services Capacity Building (NPCSCB).
Aims to build a competent, professional, and future-ready civil service.

Key Achievements

Over 1 crore registered users, with 60% from State/UT governments.
Top 5 States by user count: Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.
More than 3.1 crore learning certificates issued.
Over 3.8 crore learning hours completed.

Platform Features

Offers 2,400+ courses in 16 languages.
Courses are provided by 200+ contributors: Central/State ministries, training institutes, civil society, and academia.
Aligned with the Karmayogi Competency Model (KCM) rooted in Indic wisdom.

Strategic Objectives

Empower every civil servant with personalized, lifelong learning.
Improve governance through continuous competency enhancement.
Promote a “Digital Public Infrastructure” approach.
Foster international partnerships, with interest from Caribbean nations and beyond.

Future Roadmap

Expand courses in regional languages.
Enhance course quality and user experience using AI and emerging tech.
Onboard new content partners and improve platform reach.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	iGOT Karmayogi Crosses 1 Crore Users: A Milestone in Digital Civil Services Training
Launched Under	Mission Karmayogi, NPCSCB
Total Users (May 2025)	Over 1 crore
Growth	Since Jan 2023 30-fold (from 3 lakh to 1 crore)
Top 5 Participating States	Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, MP, Rajasthan, UP
Total Courses	2,400+ in 16 languages
Learning Certificates Issued	Over 3.1 crore
Aligned With	Karmayogi Competency Model (KCM)
Global Collaboration	Interest shown by Caribbean and other nations

India Welcomes UK’s Decision on Chagos Islands Handover

In a landmark diplomatic development, the United Kingdom has agreed to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands, including the key military atoll Diego Garcia, to Mauritius. India has welcomed this decision, reaffirming its long-standing support for Mauritius’s legitimate claim based on principles of decolonisation, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. The deal signifies a major step toward the resolution of one of the longest-standing colonial-era territorial disputes.

Why in News?

On May 22, 2025, the UK signed a historic agreement with Mauritius, agreeing to hand over the sovereignty of the Chagos Archipelago. India responded by endorsing the move, calling it a significant milestone in the global decolonisation process. The decision aligns with international legal rulings and longstanding diplomatic efforts.

Key Features of the Deal

The UK will cede sovereignty over the Chagos Islands, including Diego Garcia, to Mauritius.
The UK retains responsibility for security arrangements on Diego Garcia under the terms of the agreement.
The deal marks the culmination of a decolonisation process supported by the United Nations General Assembly and International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Background & International Context

The Chagos Archipelago was separated from Mauritius by the UK in 1965, three years before Mauritian independence.
The UK established a military base on Diego Garcia, which is also leased to the United States.
The ICJ advisory opinion in 2019 declared that the UK’s administration of the Chagos Islands is unlawful and called for the completion of Mauritius’s decolonisation.

India’s Stand

India has consistently supported Mauritius’s claim, calling it a rightful and legitimate pursuit of sovereignty.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) praised the move as a positive regional development in line with international law and rules-based order.
India reiterated its commitment to maritime security and regional cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	India Welcomes UK’s Decision on Chagos Islands Handover
Agreement Signed	May 22, 2025, between UK and Mauritius
Island Involved	Chagos Archipelago, including Diego Garcia
India’s Reaction	Welcomed the move, citing support for decolonisation and territorial rights
UK Security Role	Will retain control over Diego Garcia’s military operations
Global Significance	Aligns with ICJ ruling and decolonisation principles

Top-10 Most Popular Programming Languages in 2025

In today’s digital world, programming languages are very important. They help us create websites, mobile apps, computer games and even smart machines. In 2025, some programming languages are more popular because they are easy to use, powerful and work well for new technology. This article, shares the top-10 most popular programming languages in 2025.

What are Programming Languages?

Programming languages are special languages used to tell computers what to do. Just like people speak English or Hindi, computers understand programming languages like Python, Java or C++. These languages give instructions to create websites, games, apps and more. Each language has its own rules. Programmers use them to build software and solve problems using code.

Top-10 Most Popular Programming Languages in 2025

In 2025, the most popular programming languages are the ones most used by developers to build apps, websites and software. These languages are easy to learn, powerful and widely used around the world.

Here the names of top-10 most popular programming languages in 2025:

Python
JavaScript
Java
C++
C# (C-Sharp)
Go (Golang)
Rust
TypeScript
Swift
Kotlin

Python

Python is a very popular language because it’s easy to learn and use. It is used for websites, automation, data analysis and artificial intelligence. Many big companies use it for their work. Python has a large community to help beginners. It’s a great first language and will stay in demand for many years due to its many users.

JavaScript

JavaScript is the main language for building websites. It helps websites become interactive. All major websites use JavaScript. It works well with HTML and CSS. Developers also use it for making mobile and server apps. It’s very important for front-end jobs. Learning JavaScript opens many job opportunities in web development and technology companies.

Java

Java is a strong and widely-used programming language. It’s mostly used in big companies to make apps, especially for Android phones. It runs on all types of devices. Java is a little harder to learn but is very useful for jobs in large software companies. It’s been around for many years and still has a bright future.

C++

C++ is a powerful language that gives full control over computer hardware. It’s used in making games, software systems and real-time apps. It’s harder to learn than others, but it’s perfect for building fast and complex programs. C++ is still used in banking, engineering and gaming industries because of its speed and reliability.

C# (C-Sharp)

C# is used to create Windows software and games. It works with the .NET framework, which helps build safe and fast apps. It’s often used in business software and video games creation (like Unity Games). It’s easy for those who know Java or C++. C# is growing as more companies use it for different projects.

Go (GOlang)

Go, also called Golang, is a fast and simple language created by Google. It’s used to build websites, cloud tools and microservices. It is easy to learn and helps make powerful apps with fewer bugs. Go is becoming popular in DevOps andclous computing because it can handle many tasks at the same time without slowing down.

Rust

Rust is a newer language known for safety and speed. It’s used in system software, games and blockchain projects. Rust avoids common errors and makes strong programs. It is harder to learn but very powerful. Developers love it because it keeps programs safe from crashing. Many tech companies are starting to use Rust for secure and fast apps.

TypeScript

TypeScript is like JavaScript but better for large projects. It adds rules that help find mistakes early. It is used with JavaScript to build big websites and apps. Developers like it because it makes code easier to read and fix. TypeScript is growing fast, especially in teams that build large web apps and want cleaner, safer code.

Swift

Swift is the main language for building iPhone, iPad and Mac apps. It is created by Apple and is fast, safe and modern. Swift is easy to read and good for beginners. Many app developers use it to build mobile apps. It’s getting more popular for server apps too. If you want to make IOS apps, Swift is the best choice.

Kotlin

Kotlin is a modern language used mostly for Android apps. It works well with Java and is now Google’s top choice for Android development. It’s easier and safer than Java. Many developers use Kotlin to make mobile apps and also for web or server apps. It’s a great choice if you want to build Android or cross-platform apps.

President Murmu Confers 39 Gallantry Awards for Bravery and Valour

On May 22, 2025, President Droupadi Murmu, the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces, honoured brave personnel with gallantry awards during a Defence Investiture Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan. A total of 39 awards, including 6 Kirti Chakras and 33 Shaurya Chakras, were conferred on individuals from the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), and Jammu and Kashmir Police for exceptional acts of courage in anti-terror and counter-insurgency operations across various theatres.

Why in News?

This event is in the news as it marks the conferral of India’s prestigious peacetime gallantry awards, recognising personnel who have demonstrated extraordinary courage and commitment in the face of danger. The recognition is especially significant amidst continued anti-terror operations in sensitive regions such as Jammu & Kashmir and the North-East.

Key Points

Total Awards Conferred: 6 Kirti Chakras (4 posthumous), 33 Shaurya Chakras (7 posthumous)
Awardees: Indian Army, Indian Air Force, Indian Navy, CRPF, Assam Rifles, J&K Police, BRO

Award Categories

Kirti Chakra: 2 living, 4 posthumous
Shaurya Chakra: 26 living, 7 posthumous

Kirti Chakra

Second-highest peacetime gallantry award
Awarded for conspicuous gallantry away from the battlefield

Recipients (Examples)

Living: Major Malla Rama Gopal Naidu, Major Manjit (Indian Army)
Posthumous: Colonel Manpreet Singh, DSP Himayun Muzzammil Bhat, Rifleman Ravi Kumar

Shaurya Chakra

Third-highest peacetime gallantry award
Conferred for acts of valor during internal security and counter-terror operations

Recipients (Examples)

Living: Squadron Leader Deepak Kumar (IAF), Wing Commander Vernon D. Keane, Major Vijay Verma, Inspector Jeffrey Hmingchullo (CRPF)
Posthumous: Major Aashish Dhonchak, Sepoy Pardeep Singh, Constable Devan C

Operational Background

Jammu & Kashmir & North-East: Anti-terror operations, neutralisation of militants, arms recovery
Navy: Anti-piracy missions, rescue operations
Air Force: Emergency landings, asset protection
CAPFs: Maoist area operations, hostage rescues

Static Facts

Kirti Chakra: Second only to Ashoka Chakra in peacetime awards
Shaurya Chakra: Often awarded for counter-insurgency missions and non-combat operations of valour
Defence Investiture Ceremony: Biannual event held at Rashtrapati Bhavan

Significance

Upholds national values of bravery, integrity, and service
A morale booster for armed forces and internal security personnel
Public recognition encourages future acts of courage and commitment

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	President Murmu Confers 39 Gallantry Awards for Bravery and Valour
Event	Defence Investiture Ceremony, May 22, 2025
Presided by	President Droupadi Murmu
Kirti Chakras	6 total (2 living, 4 posthumous)
Shaurya Chakras	33 total (26 living, 7 posthumous)
Awardees From	Army, Navy, Air Force, CRPF, J&K Police, Assam Rifles, BRO
Main Operational Regions	Jammu & Kashmir, North-East, Maritime Zones, Left-Wing Extremist areas
Award Purpose	Recognition of exceptional bravery during peacetime operations

International Day to End Obstetric Fistula 2025

The International Day to End Obstetric Fistula, observed every year on 23 May, serves as a global call to action to eliminate one of the most severe and preventable childbirth-related injuries—obstetric fistula. Marked by this year’s theme, “Her Health, Her Right: Shaping a Future without Fistula,” the observance emphasizes the urgent need to provide all women and girls with access to quality, comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services. The persistence of obstetric fistula reflects deep-rooted gender and healthcare inequalities that disproportionately affect the world’s poorest and most vulnerable populations.

Understanding Obstetric Fistula: A Silent Tragedy

Obstetric fistula is a devastating childbirth injury caused primarily by prolonged, obstructed labor in the absence of timely medical intervention.
This condition results in a hole between the birth canal and bladder and/or rectum, leading to continuous leakage of urine or feces.
The consequences are not only physical—often including chronic infection and infertility—but also social and emotional, frequently resulting in isolation, shame, and extreme poverty.

The Global Burden

Despite being almost entirely preventable and treatable, obstetric fistula continues to affect approximately half a million women and girls, mainly in sub-Saharan Africa, Asia, the Arab States region, and Latin America and the Caribbean.
Its persistence is a stark indicator of inadequate healthcare infrastructure, poverty, and gender inequality. New cases continue to emerge every year, underscoring the need for sustained and focused global efforts.

UNFPA and the Campaign to End Fistula

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) leads the Global Campaign to End Fistula, launched in 2003, aiming to prevent and treat fistula through surgical repair, psychosocial support, and rehabilitation.
Over the last two decades, this campaign has mobilized strategic partnerships, improved medical care, supported community outreach, and elevated the voices of survivors. However, to meet the 2030 elimination goal, efforts must now be accelerated.

Theme 2025: Her Health, Her Right

This year’s theme highlights that sexual and reproductive health is a fundamental human right. To eliminate fistula, the world must address its root causes, such as early marriage, poor maternal care, and gender-based discrimination. Survivors must be central to policy formation, and investments in inclusive, culturally sensitive, and rights-based healthcare systems must increase. Community health workers, women leaders, and youth advocates are key in driving change.

Call to Action

Eliminating obstetric fistula aligns with the goals of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Governments, civil society, and international organizations must collaborate to ensure no woman or girl is left behind in receiving timely and quality maternal healthcare. Empowering women to make informed decisions about their bodies is not only a health priority—it is a moral and social imperative.

“The Diary of a Cricketer’s Wife: Puja Pujara’s Honest Take on Life Beyond the Pitch”

In a rare and heartfelt memoir titled The Diary of a Cricketer’s Wife, Puja Pujara, wife of veteran Indian cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara, delves into the personal side of being married to a national sports icon. The book offers an intimate portrayal of the emotional turbulence and behind-the-scenes challenges that come with being part of India’s cricketing fabric — not from the pitch, but from the stands and the home front.

Why in News?

The memoir, published by HarperCollins India, was released recently and has been drawing attention for its candid tone and rare viewpoint. This comes nearly two years after Cheteshwar Pujara was dropped from India’s Test squad post the 2023 World Test Championship Final loss to Australia — a turning point that sparked Puja’s decision to pen her reflections.

Book Overview

Title: The Diary of a Cricketer’s Wife
Author: Puja Pujara
Publisher: HarperCollins India
Pages: 318
Price: ₹425
Availability: amazon.in

Aim & Objective of the Memoir

To present the emotional journey of being the partner of a national cricket star.
To humanize the struggles and sacrifices made by cricketers’ families.
To highlight how public scrutiny impacts the private lives of sports personalities and their spouses.

Key Themes Covered

Emotional fallout after Cheteshwar’s exclusion post-WTC Final 2023.
Daily struggles of handling expectations, media pressure, and public reactions.
Incidents reflecting personal sacrifices, such as Puja withholding news of Cheteshwar’s father’s health emergency during a critical series.

Background on Cheteshwar Pujara

Test Career: 103 Tests, 7,195 Runs and Key role in India’s first-ever Test series win in Australia (2018-19).
Known for patience, temperament, and textbook technique.
Dropped from Indian team after WTC 2023 at age 35.

Public & Cricketer’s Perspective

Puja openly shared feelings of anger and disappointment over Cheteshwar’s omission.
Cheteshwar responded with calmness, saying: “I am at peace, whether I’m selected or not.”

Significance of the Book

Offers rare insight into the lives of cricket WAGs (wives and girlfriends), who often remain in the background.
Encourages empathy towards athletes’ families and the silent support system they provide.
Adds to Indian cricket literature from a fresh, female perspective.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	“The Diary of a Cricketer’s Wife: Puja Pujara’s Honest Take on Life Beyond the Pitch”
Book Title	The Diary of a Cricketer’s Wife
Author	Puja Pujara
Subject	Life as wife of Cheteshwar Pujara
Publisher	HarperCollins India
Trigger for Memoir	Post-WTC 2023 omission of Cheteshwar Pujara

Assam Introduces ‘Ankita’: India’s First AI News Anchor in Regional Language

Assam has stepped into a new era of digital governance with the launch of ‘Ankita’, an Artificial Intelligence-powered news anchor introduced by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. Designed to present cabinet meeting highlights in Assamese, Ankita marks a first-of-its-kind initiative in the state, drawing attention to the growing role of AI in Indian public communication.

Why in News?

On May 15, 2025, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma unveiled India’s first regional language AI news anchor, Ankita, to deliver Cabinet meeting highlights in Assamese via social media. This innovation reflects the increasing use of AI tools in governance and media while sparking debate over its implications for human employment.

Key Highlights

Ankita is an AI-powered virtual anchor capable of delivering updates in Assamese.
She made her debut by presenting highlights of the latest Assam Cabinet meeting.

Covered decisions included

Renaming Dibrugarh Airport after Bhupen Hazarika.
Approval of time grant for tea garden workers.
Introduced via a video on CM Sarma’s official X (formerly Twitter) account.

Objectives and Aim

Promote e-governance by making public communication more efficient and consistent.
Enhance transparency by delivering official updates in regional language.
Showcase Assam’s digital transformation and innovation in governance.

Background

AI anchors are gaining popularity in global media for their efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
China, South Korea, and several other countries have used AI anchors before, but this is a first in India for regional language governance communication.

Public Reaction

Support: Many praised the state for embracing technology and innovation.
Criticism: Concerns over job losses and lack of human empathy in AI presentation.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Assam Introduces ‘Ankita’: India’s First AI News Anchor in Regional Language
Name of AI Anchor	Ankita
Launched by	Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma
Purpose	To present Assam Cabinet meeting updates in Assamese
Notable Announcements	Presented Dibrugarh Airport renamed, tea worker grant
Public Response	Mixed – praised for innovation, criticized for job concerns

Which Indian State is Known as the Tea Basket of India?

India is one of the biggest tea-producing countries in the world. Tea is not just a drink here – it is a part of daily life. Many Indian states grow tea, but one special state produces the most and is known for its wide tea gardens and tasty flavor. Because of its high tea production, this state is often called the ”Basket of Tea” in India.

An Overview of India

India is a country in South Asia. It is the 7th largest country by area and became the most populated country in the world in 2023. India is the world’s biggest democracy since 1947. It is surrounded by the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal and shares borders with Pakistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Myanmar. It is also close to Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

Indian States and Union Territories

India has 28 states and 8 union territories. States have their own governance, while union territories are run by the central government. This system helps in better rule and administration across the country.

Tea Basket of India

The Indian state known as the ”Basket of Tea” is Assam. It is located in the northeastern part of India and is famous all over the world for its tea gardens. Assam is also called the ”Tea Garden of India” because of its huge tea production.

Why is Assam Called the Basket of India?

Assam is the largest tea-producing state in India. It grows the most tea in the country and is also the world’s largest tea-growing region. Assam alone produces about half of India’s total area.

The state has perfect conditions for growing tea:

Heavy rainfall
Warm and humid weather
Rich soil near the Brahmaputra River

These natural features help the tea plants grow well and make Assam tea famous for its strong flavor and bright color.

Because of this, Assam has earned the nickname ”Basket of Tea,” and some even call it the ”Tea Estate of the World.”

An Overview of Assam

Assam is a beautiful state in Northeast India. It is known for:

Tea and oil production
Lush green hills and forests
Colorful culture and traditions

Assam has a tropical monsoon climate, which means it gets a lot of rain. This weather is very good for growing tea.

The people of Assam are friendly and have a rich culture with traditional dance, music and festivals. It is also home to the famous Kaziranga National Park, known for one-horned rhinoceroses.

Top 10 Nations Leading in Space Technology in 2025

In 2025, the race for space supremacy is no longer confined to Cold War rivals. A new era of multi-polar space leadership is being shaped by countries investing heavily in launch systems, satellite infrastructure, deep space exploration, and commercial space ecosystems. Space is no longer just a frontier—it’s a platform for strategic dominance, economic growth, and technological prestige.

This article ranks the top 10 countries leading in space technology in 2025, highlighting their unique contributions, missions, and emerging space industries.

Top 10 Spacefaring Nations in 2025

Rank	Country	Key Strengths	Notable Achievements
1	United States	Human spaceflight, reusability, deep space missions	Artemis, Starlink, Mars rovers
2	China	Moon & Mars exploration, space station, ASAT tech	Tiangong, Tianwen-1, Chang’e series
3	Russia	Heritage systems, heavy launch, lunar ambitions	Soyuz, GLONASS, Oryol
4	India	Affordable launch, lunar missions, private sector growth	Chandrayaan-3, Gaganyaan, Aditya-L1
5	European Union (ESA)	Earth observation, deep-space science, launch collaboration	Ariane 6, JUICE, Copernicus
6	Japan	Planetary probes, ISS partner, lunar plans	Hayabusa2, Martian moons mission
7	UAE	Mars mission, Moon rover, regional diplomacy	Hope Probe, Rashid, MBRSC
8	South Korea	Launch vehicles, lunar orbiters, satellite tech	KPLO, Nuri rocket, 6G satellites
9	Iran	Military satellites, domestic launch capability	Noor-2, Qased, Simorgh
10	Brazil	Satellite applications, equatorial launch site	Amazon monitoring, Alcântara Launch Center

1. United States: Unmatched Leader in Space Exploration and Innovation

The United States remains the global leader in space technology in 2025, with unmatched capabilities across government, military, and commercial sectors.

Government and Civil Space Leadership

NASA continues to lead in planetary science, Mars exploration, and Artemis Moon missions, with Artemis III preparing for the first human landing since Apollo. The James Webb Space Telescope has revolutionized astrophysics.

Commercial Space Dominance

The U.S. dominates commercial space through SpaceX, Blue Origin, Rocket Lab, and Sierra Space. Reusable launch vehicles, mega-constellations (Starlink), and plans for private space stations give the U.S. a unique edge.

Defense Space Capabilities

The U.S. Space Force continues to expand its role in satellite defense, space-based ISR, and anti-satellite resilience, making the country the most space-capable nation by far.

2. China: Rapid Expansion and Strategic Ambitions

China has emerged as the United States’ closest space competitor, executing an ambitious space program with increasing autonomy and global ambition.

National Space Strategy

Led by CNSA (China National Space Administration), China has launched its own modular space station—Tiangong, successfully landed rovers on the Moon (Chang’e missions) and Mars (Tianwen-1), and is planning a Moon base with Russia.

Military and Commercial Integration

China integrates civil, military, and commercial efforts under state direction. It has developed its own GNSS system (BeiDou), and state-backed firms like CASIC and i-Space are advancing in launch and satellite services.

3. Russia: Legacy Power with Deep-Space Focus

Despite economic challenges, Russia remains a major space power due to its extensive heritage in launch vehicles, ISS operations, and deep-space missions.

Technological Backbone

Russia’s Soyuz, Proton, and Angara rockets continue to serve global markets. New efforts include the Oryol crewed spacecraft, Moon missions, and future participation in a BRICS-led space station.

Strategic Influence

Roscosmos maintains strong cooperation with countries like India, Iran, Venezuela, and China, leveraging its heritage and GLONASS satellite system to maintain global relevance.

4. India: Precision, Pragmatism, and Progress

In 2025, India stands out as a rising force in space through ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) and its expanding private space sector.

Scientific and Operational Excellence

India launched its Chandrayaan-3 Moon lander and Aditya-L1 solar observatory successfully, and has planned the Gaganyaan crewed mission. It maintains an efficient and cost-effective launch program with PSLV and GSLV rockets.

Commercial Growth

With the rise of Skyroot Aerospace, Agnikul Cosmos, and Dhruva Space, India’s NewSpace ecosystem is growing rapidly, contributing to satellite manufacturing, launch services, and space analytics.

5. European Union (ESA Members): Collaborative Technological Leadership

While not a single country, the European Space Agency (ESA) represents the combined capabilities of major European nations like France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, making Europe a formidable space force.

Multi-national Coordination

ESA continues to develop and operate Ariane 6 launchers, Copernicus Earth observation satellites, and deep-space probes like JUICE to study Jupiter’s moons.

Member Nation Strength

France’s CNES leads in satellite technology; Germany excels in scientific instruments and rover development; Italy contributes to ISS modules and robotics.

6. Japan: Deep-Space and Asteroid Exploration Pioneer

Japan is known for its high-impact contributions to space science and planetary exploration. The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) focuses on sample-return missions, deep-space research, and ISS collaboration.

Asteroid Missions and Innovation

Japan’s Hayabusa2 was the first to retrieve and return asteroid samples, and future missions will study Martian moons and interplanetary particles. It also plays a crucial role in the Artemis lunar program.

Commercial Launch Progress

Japanese companies like Interstellar Technologies and IHI Aerospace are growing in the small satellite launch market.

7. United Arab Emirates (UAE): Ambitious and Accelerating

The UAE has emerged as the Arab world’s space pioneer, demonstrating strong achievements in Mars exploration, satellite development, and space diplomacy.

Key Missions

The UAE’s Hope Probe became the first Arab spacecraft to orbit Mars. The nation has also launched the Rashid Moon rover and is working toward a crew mission by the 2030s.

Long-Term Vision

Backed by the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), the UAE is investing in STEM education, Mars colonization plans, and regional cooperation.

8. South Korea: Emerging Commercial and Government Space Force

South Korea has made major strides in space launch systems, satellite technology, and lunar research. It has developed its own Nuri rocket, successfully launched in 2022 and upgraded since.

Satellite and Moon Ambitions

With the Korea Pathfinder Lunar Orbiter (KPLO), South Korea joined elite lunar exploration nations. The country also excels in defense satellites, space weather monitoring, and precision navigation.

Private Sector Growth

Companies like Hanwha Aerospace and INNOSPACE are investing in reusable rockets and nanosatellite services.

9. Iran: Regional Military and Civilian Space Aspirations

Despite sanctions, Iran continues to develop indigenous launch vehicles, reconnaissance satellites, and military space programs.

Strategic Assets

Iran has successfully launched satellites like Noor-2, and its military space command oversees operations linked to intelligence gathering and deterrence. The Qased and Simorgh rockets form the backbone of its orbital ambitions.

Self-Reliance Focus

Iran’s space program emphasizes indigenous development, often linked to its ballistic missile and aerospace industries.

10. Brazil: Latin America’s Space Leader

Brazil leads Latin America in space technology, with operational satellite programs and a growing interest in launch services from the Alcântara Launch Center.

Civilian and Commercial Growth

Brazil operates under AEB (Brazilian Space Agency) and partners with nations like the U.S., Israel, and India. Its satellite programs support agriculture, Amazon monitoring, and communications.

Future Potential

Brazil is poised to become a regional hub for small satellite launches, with international companies eyeing equatorial launch advantages.