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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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RAINMUMBAI: India First Weather Derivative Contract to Fight Monsoon Losses

May 21, 2026

Overview

RAINMUMBAI is India’s first exchange-traded weather derivatives contract. It was launched by the National Commodity and Derivatives Exchange (NCDEX) with SEBI’s approval. This contract helps farmers, power companies, and other businesses protect themselves from financial losses caused by unexpected rainfall. Unlike insurance, it pays out quickly based on actual rain data, not damage assessment.

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Velimalai Pumped Storage Hydro Electric Project: Tamil Nadu’s First PPP Energy Storage Plant

May 21, 2026

Overview

The Velimalai Pumped Storage Hydro Electric Project is a 1,100 MW power plant planned in Kanniyakumari district, Tamil Nadu. It recently received Terms of Reference (ToR) clearance from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. This is Tamil Nadu’s first such project under a public-private partnership model. It will help manage peak electricity demand and support renewable energy.

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PM Narendra Modi’s Five-Nation Tour Brings Nearly US$40 Billion Investment Commitments

May 21, 2026

Overview

Narendra Modi visited the United Arab Emirates, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Italy from 15 May to 20 May 2026. The six-day diplomatic tour resulted in investment commitments worth nearly US$40 billion for India. The agreements covered sectors such as energy, semiconductors, defence, shipping, artificial intelligence, manufacturing, and green hydrogen.

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Kerala Creates India First Cabinet‑Level AI Portfolio

May 21, 2026

Overview

Kerala has become the first Indian state to create a dedicated Artificial Intelligence (AI) portfolio at the cabinet level. The new UDF government announced this major decision. Senior leader PK Kunhalikutty has been given charge of the AI portfolio. The AI department will work under the Industries and Commerce Department. This move shows that Kerala wants to use AI for economic growth, public services, and startup development. Other key portfolios have also been assigned to senior leaders.

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