Daily Current Affairs 20th May 2025: Your guide for daily General Knowledge Preparation
Dear Readers,
This post contains daily current affairs 20th May 2025. It includes all National, International, Business & Sports related current affairs 20th May 2025. A brief explanation of every current affair is provided to further enhance your general knowledge. Once you have gone through these current affairs we would recommend to you to try 20th May, 2025 Current affairs test.
National News
Indian Coast Guard’s Marine Conservation Achievement – Operation Olivia
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has once again demonstrated its dedication to marine conservation through the successful execution of Operation Olivia in February 2025.
This annual initiative led to the protection of around 6.98 lakh Olive Ridley turtles, which came ashore for nesting at the Rushikulya river mouth in Odisha.
The mission reaffirms India’s commitment to safeguarding marine biodiversity by ensuring that endangered species like the Olive Ridley have safe and secure nesting grounds during their breeding season.
India Achieves Trachoma Elimination Milestone Recognized by WHO
At the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) in Geneva, the World Health Organisation (WHO) awarded India a Certificate of Elimination of Trachoma as a Public Health Problem.
This recognition marks a significant public health achievement, highlighting India’s consistent efforts through strong disease control mechanisms and healthcare strategies.
It showcases India’s enduring commitment to eradicating neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).
Tamil Nadu Strengthens Endangered Species Protection Framework
The Tamil Nadu Forest Department has restructured the administration of its ₹50 crore Endangered Species Conservation Fund.
The fund’s management has now been transferred to the Advanced Institute of Wildlife Conservation (AIWC), Vandalur, owing to delays and lack of activity by the previously assigned body, the State Forest Development Agency (SFDA).
This change is intended to enhance the efficiency and impact of conservation efforts in the state.
Business News
Surge in Global DAP Fertilizer Prices May Affect India’s Subsidy Program
Prices of di-ammonium phosphate (DAP) have witnessed a 13% rise since April 2025, currently standing at $652 per tonne.
As DAP is the second most utilized fertilizer in India after urea, this increase significantly affects the Indian agricultural sector.
Since India primarily imports DAP, the spike in prices could lead to higher costs for importers, potentially increasing the burden on the fertilizer subsidy program.
Government e-Marketplace (GeM) Celebrates 8 Years of Inclusive Procurement
GeM marked its 8th incorporation anniversary, celebrating achievements in inclusive and digital procurement.
The platform has onboarded over 10 lakh micro and small enterprises (MSEs) and facilitated business for 1.84 lakh women entrepreneurs.
It has become a crucial pillar in the nation’s digital economy and procurement ecosystem.
Punjab National Bank (PNB) Divests Stake in ISARC
PNB has decided to exit from its investment in the India SME Asset Reconstruction Company (ISARC) by selling its entire 2.09 crore shares for ₹34.04 crore.
The move aligns with the bank’s strategy to focus on core banking activities and streamline its financial portfolio.
The transaction received RBI approval, and Authum Investment and Infrastructure Ltd is the new investor.
ISARC, known for recovering distressed SME loans, recorded strong performance in FY24, and the market has responded positively to this divestment.
Reliance Industries Secures Largest Offshore Loan Since 2023
Reliance Industries Ltd. (RIL) has obtained a dual-currency syndicated loan valued at $2.98 billion, the biggest such deal by an Indian firm in over a year.
The loan was finalized with participation from 55 banks, making it the largest bank consortium for any Asian syndicated loan in 2025.
This move strengthens RIL’s financial strategy and reinforces investor confidence.
Banking News
RBI to Release New ₹20 Banknotes with Governor Sanjay Malhotra’s Signature
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced that new ₹20 denomination banknotes will be issued soon.
These notes will bear the signature of the newly appointed Governor, Sanjay Malhotra.
They will be part of the Mahatma Gandhi (New) Series and will maintain the existing design and security features.
International News
World’s First Commercial E-Methanol Plant Begins Production in Denmark
A milestone in sustainable energy, the first-ever commercial-scale e-methanol plant has begun operations in Denmark.
Developed by European Energy in collaboration with Mitsui, this €150 million facility produces 42,000 metric tons of carbon-neutral methanol per year.
The plant uses renewable energy and captured CO₂, making it a key player in green shipping.
Shipping giant Maersk will utilize the e-methanol to power its dual-fuel container ships, and other clients include Lego and Novo Nordisk.
Additionally, excess heat from the plant supports heating for nearby homes.
Though currently more expensive than fossil fuels, e-methanol is expected to reach price parity by 2035, paving the way for a cleaner industrial and maritime future.
Science & Technology News
Comparison of ICBMs: RS-28 Sarmat vs. Minuteman III
A detailed analysis highlights the capabilities of two of the most advanced intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs): the Russian RS-28 Sarmat and the American LGM-30G Minuteman III.
These systems represent the nuclear deterrence backbones of their respective nations, symbolizing decades of technological evolution, defense strategy, and geopolitical influence.
The comparison reflects ongoing global dialogues on nuclear deterrence theory and strategic balance.
Environmental and Strategic Industry News
China’s Export Restrictions on Rare Earths Challenge India’s EV Sector
India’s ambitions for electric vehicle (EV) self-sufficiency face hurdles as China tightens control over exports of rare earth elements (REEs).
These elements are critical for EV motors and high-tech components, and India continues to depend heavily on Chinese imports.
The export curbs highlight a major vulnerability in India’s supply chain, threatening the momentum of its green mobility mission.
Important Days
World Metrology Day 2025 – May 20
Celebrated annually on May 20, World Metrology Day emphasizes the importance of measurement science.
This global observance is championed by the Measurements Standards Laboratory (MSL).
The theme for 2025 is “Measurements for all times, for all people,” underlining the universal relevance and impact of precise measurement in various sectors.
Obituaries News
Demise of Astrophysicist Dr. Jayant Vishnu Narlikar
Renowned Indian astrophysicist and Padma Vibhushan awardee, Dr. Jayant Vishnu Narlikar, passed away in Pune at the age of 87.
A pioneer in cosmology and science communication, Dr. Narlikar was celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions and dedication to making science accessible to the masses.
His passing marks the loss of a towering figure in India’s scientific community.
