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India and Italy Become Special Strategic Partners in Rome

May 21, 2026

Overview

On 20 May 2026, India and Italy raised their relationship to a Special Strategic Partnership. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni made the announcement in Rome. The partnership covers many areas: defence, trade, technology, artificial intelligence, space, and nuclear energy. This was PM Modi’s first bilateral visit to Italy in 26 years. Both countries are now closer friends than ever before.

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International Tea Day 2026: Celebrating the World’s Favourite Drink

May 21, 2026

Overview

International Tea Day 2026 is being celebrated on 21 May. The themes this year are “Fostering Growth and Inclusion” and “Sustaining Tea, Supporting Communities.” The day highlights sustainable tea farming, fair wages, and tea’s deep cultural roots. In India, chai is not just a drink. It is a part of daily life, hospitality, and social bonding. Tea is the second most consumed beverage in the world after water. This day reminds us to protect tea growers and the environment.

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Two Indian-Origin Scientists Get South Africa’s Highest Civilian Honour

May 21, 2026

Overview

On 20 May 2026, two Indian-origin public health scientists received South Africa’s highest civilian honour. Professor Salim Abdool Karim got the Order of Mapungubwe in Gold. Professor Keertan Dheda received the same award in Silver. President Cyril Ramaphosa gave them the awards at a ceremony in Pretoria. Both scientists have done outstanding work in HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and COVID-19 research. This is a proud moment for the global Indian community.

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RBI’s $5 Billion Swap Auction: A Simple Guide to India’s New Liquidity Move

May 21, 2026

Overview

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced a $5 billion USD-INR buy/sell swap auction on May 26. This move aims to inject long-term liquidity into the banking system. The decision comes at a time when the rupee is weak and global markets are uncertain. The three-year swap operation will help banks get more rupees while supporting financial stability.

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Vande Mataram Made Compulsory in West Bengal Madrasas: What You Need to Know

May 21, 2026

Overview

On 21 May 2026, the West Bengal government made the singing of Vande Mataram compulsory in all recognised madrasas across the state. The song must be sung during morning assemblies before classes begin. The order applies to government model madrasas, government-aided madrasas, and unaided madrasas under the Directorate of Madrasa. This is a significant step linking patriotic expression with religious educational institutions.

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