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Current Affairs 26 May 2025
1. Shambhavi Clinches Gold In Women’s 10 Mt Air Rifle Event ISSF Junior World Cup
Indian shooter Shambhavi clinched the gold medal in the Women’s
10m Air Rifle event at the ISSF Junior World Cup, showcasing exceptional skill and composure. Competing against top young shooters from around the world, she delivered a stellar performance to secure the top podium spot. Her victory adds to India’s growing dominance in junior shooting competitions. This achievement not only highlights Shambhavi’s rising talent but also reflects the effectiveness of India’s grassroots sports development programs.
10m Air Rifle event at the ISSF Junior World Cup, showcasing exceptional skill and composure. Competing against top young shooters from around the world, she delivered a stellar performance to secure the top podium spot. Her victory adds to India’s growing dominance in junior shooting competitions. This achievement not only highlights Shambhavi’s rising talent but also reflects the effectiveness of India’s grassroots sports development programs.Foot notes:
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Gold Medal in Women's 10m Air Rifle: Shambhavi won the gold medal in this event at the ISSF Junior World Cup 2025.
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Previous Performances: She had previously won a bronze medal in the 10m air rifle women junior competition at the ISSF World Cup in Granada, where her compatriot Isha Anil Taksale took the gold medal.
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ISSF World Cup in Granada: Isha Anil Taksale won gold in the junior women's 10m air rifle, while Umamahesh Maddineni took gold in the men's event.
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ISSF Junior World Championship 2024: India's women's 10m air rifle team, which included Shambhavi Kshirsagar, Gautami Bhanot, and Anushka Thokur, set a new junior world record and won gold. Parth Mane also won gold in the men's 10m air rifle event.
2. India Surpasses Japan to Become the World’s 4th Largest Economy
India has officially surpassed Japan to become the world's fourth-
largest economy, with its nominal GDP reaching $4.187 trillion in 2025, slightly ahead of Japan's $4.186 trillion, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) . This milestone was confirmed by NITI Aayog CEO B.V.R. Subrahmanyam during the 10th Governing Council meeting, highlighting India's rapid economic ascent . The achievement has been widely celebrated across the nation, with prominent figures like industrialist Anand Mahindra expressing pride and optimism about India's economic future .
largest economy, with its nominal GDP reaching $4.187 trillion in 2025, slightly ahead of Japan's $4.186 trillion, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) . This milestone was confirmed by NITI Aayog CEO B.V.R. Subrahmanyam during the 10th Governing Council meeting, highlighting India's rapid economic ascent . The achievement has been widely celebrated across the nation, with prominent figures like industrialist Anand Mahindra expressing pride and optimism about India's economic future .Foot notes:
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India's Economic Ranking: India now ranks fourth in the global economy, behind the United States, China, and Germany.
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GDP Projections: The IMF projects India's nominal GDP to reach $4.187 trillion in FY2026, slightly surpassing Japan's $4.186 trillion.
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Growth Prospects: India is expected to be the fastest-growing major economy globally over the next two years, with GDP growth rates of 6.2% in 2025 and 6.3% in 2026.
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Overtaking Germany: NITI Aayog CEO BVR Subrahmanyam believes India can become the third-largest economy in 2.5-3 years, overtaking Germany.
3. Star tennis player, Novak Djokovic scripted history by clinching 100th ATP singles title
Novak Djokovic achieved a historic milestone by securing his 100th
ATP singles title at the 2025 Geneva Open. In a grueling final, he overcame Poland's Hubert Hurkacz with a scoreline of 5–7, 7–6(2), 7–6(2), marking a significant comeback after previous final losses. At 38 years old, Djokovic became only the third man in the Open Era to reach this century mark, joining legends Jimmy Connors (109 titles) and Roger Federer (103 titles). This victory also extended his remarkable streak of winning at least one ATP title in 20 consecutive seasons, a testament to his enduring excellence. As he prepares for the upcoming French Open, Djokovic continues to solidify his legacy as one of tennis's all-time greats.
ATP singles title at the 2025 Geneva Open. In a grueling final, he overcame Poland's Hubert Hurkacz with a scoreline of 5–7, 7–6(2), 7–6(2), marking a significant comeback after previous final losses. At 38 years old, Djokovic became only the third man in the Open Era to reach this century mark, joining legends Jimmy Connors (109 titles) and Roger Federer (103 titles). This victory also extended his remarkable streak of winning at least one ATP title in 20 consecutive seasons, a testament to his enduring excellence. As he prepares for the upcoming French Open, Djokovic continues to solidify his legacy as one of tennis's all-time greats.Foot notes:
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Comeback Victory: Djokovic trailed 4-2 in the deciding set but managed to pull a break back in the eighth game, converting one of five break points.
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Tiebreaker Mastery: In the second set tiebreaker, Djokovic dominated 7-2, forcing the match into a decider.
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Crucial Break: Hurkacz initially broke Djokovic's serve in the final set, but the Serbian tennis star broke back to level the set at 4-4, eventually winning the tiebreaker 7-2.
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Third Man to Reach 100 Titles: Djokovic joins Jimmy Connors (109 titles) and Roger Federer (103 titles) as the only men to have won 100 ATP titles in the Open era.
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First Man to Win Titles in 20 Different Seasons: This achievement showcases Djokovic's enduring talent and dedication to the sport.
4. Indian Junior Women's Hockey Team Triumphs at Four Nations Tournament
The Indian Junior Women's Hockey Team secured a thrilling 3-2
victory over Uruguay in their second match of the Four Nations Tournament held in Rosario, Argentina, on May 26, 2025. Uruguay took an early lead in the 3rd minute through a penalty corner converted by Milagros Seigal. India equalized in the 21st minute with a penalty corner goal from Sonam, but Uruguay regained the lead shortly after with Agustina Mari's goal in the 24th minute. In the final quarter, Kanika Siwach turned the game around for India by scoring twice—first from a penalty corner in the 46th minute and then a decisive field goal in the 50th minute—securing the win for her team.
victory over Uruguay in their second match of the Four Nations Tournament held in Rosario, Argentina, on May 26, 2025. Uruguay took an early lead in the 3rd minute through a penalty corner converted by Milagros Seigal. India equalized in the 21st minute with a penalty corner goal from Sonam, but Uruguay regained the lead shortly after with Agustina Mari's goal in the 24th minute. In the final quarter, Kanika Siwach turned the game around for India by scoring twice—first from a penalty corner in the 46th minute and then a decisive field goal in the 50th minute—securing the win for her team. Foot notes:
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Match against Uruguay: In their second match, India edged out Uruguay 3-2. Sonam equalized with a penalty corner goal in the 21st minute, while Kanika Siwach scored twice in the final stretch - once through a penalty corner in the 46th minute and again with a decisive field goal in the 50th minute.
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Upcoming Match: India is set to face host Argentina on May 28 (Wednesday as per IST) in their next match.
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Tournament Objective: According to the team's coach, Tushar Khandker, the objective of participating in this tournament is to gain experience and assess the team's performance ahead of the Junior World Cup later this year.
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Key Players: Kanika Siwach has been instrumental in India's success, scoring crucial goals in both matches. Sonam and Sukhveer Kaur have also made significant contributions to the team's victories.
5. Shubman Gill Becomes Team India’s New Test Captain
Shubman Gill has been appointed as the new captain of India's Test
cricket team, succeeding Rohit Sharma following his retirement from the format. At 25, Gill becomes India's 37th Test captain and will lead the team in the upcoming five-match series against England, starting June 20 at Headingley, Leeds . Expressing his sentiments, Gill described the role as the "ultimate honour," emphasizing the significant responsibility that comes with leading the national side . He aims to lead by example, drawing inspiration from the leadership styles of his predecessors, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma .
cricket team, succeeding Rohit Sharma following his retirement from the format. At 25, Gill becomes India's 37th Test captain and will lead the team in the upcoming five-match series against England, starting June 20 at Headingley, Leeds . Expressing his sentiments, Gill described the role as the "ultimate honour," emphasizing the significant responsibility that comes with leading the national side . He aims to lead by example, drawing inspiration from the leadership styles of his predecessors, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma .Foot notes:
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Leadership Role: Gill will lead India in the upcoming five-match Test series against England, starting June 20, and the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle.
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Appointment: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced Gill's appointment along with a 15-member squad for the England tour. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar made the announcement.
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Deputy Captain: Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been named as Gill's deputy in the Test team.
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New Era in Indian Cricket: Gill's appointment marks the beginning of a new era in Indian cricket, following the retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from Test cricket.
6. Iranian Director Jafar Panahi Takes Top Honour at Cannes Film Festival
Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi achieved a significant milestone by
winning the Palme d'Or at the 78th Cannes Film Festival for his film It Was Just an Accident. This marks his return to the international stage after a 15-year travel ban was lifted in 2023. The film, a satirical drama inspired by stories Panahi heard in Evin Prison, critiques the Iranian regime and centers on a group seeking justice for past torture . Panahi, known for his defiance of government censorship, has faced travel bans, prior arrests, and imprisonment due to his critical stance. In his acceptance speech, he urged national unity and emphasized freedom of expression in Iran .
winning the Palme d'Or at the 78th Cannes Film Festival for his film It Was Just an Accident. This marks his return to the international stage after a 15-year travel ban was lifted in 2023. The film, a satirical drama inspired by stories Panahi heard in Evin Prison, critiques the Iranian regime and centers on a group seeking justice for past torture . Panahi, known for his defiance of government censorship, has faced travel bans, prior arrests, and imprisonment due to his critical stance. In his acceptance speech, he urged national unity and emphasized freedom of expression in Iran .Foot notes:
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Jury President's Praise: Juliette Binoche, the jury president, praised Panahi's work, saying, "Art mobilizes the creative energy of the most precious, most alive part of us. A force that transforms darkness into forgiveness, hope, and new life."
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Panahi's Background: Despite facing a 15-year ban from filmmaking and being imprisoned multiple times, Panahi continued to create films clandestinely in Iran. He plans to return to his country after the festival, undeterred by challenges.
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Other Winners: The Grand Prix went to Joachim Trier's "Sentimental Value", while the Jury Prize was jointly awarded to Oliver Laxe's "Sirat" and Mascha Schilinski's "Sound of Falling".
7. Ashok Kalladka honoured with Karnataka Media Ratna award
Ashok Kalladka, Editor-in-Chief of Reporter Karnataka, has been
honored with the prestigious Karnataka Media Ratna Award, a state-level recognition presented by the Karnataka Working Journalists’ Voice Organisation. The award ceremony took place at Ravindra Kalakshetra in Bengaluru, where Justice Santosh Hegde, retired Supreme Court judge and former Karnataka Lokayukta, presented the accolade. Kalladka was recognized for his outstanding contributions to journalism and his unwavering commitment to ethical media practices.
honored with the prestigious Karnataka Media Ratna Award, a state-level recognition presented by the Karnataka Working Journalists’ Voice Organisation. The award ceremony took place at Ravindra Kalakshetra in Bengaluru, where Justice Santosh Hegde, retired Supreme Court judge and former Karnataka Lokayukta, presented the accolade. Kalladka was recognized for his outstanding contributions to journalism and his unwavering commitment to ethical media practices. Foot notes:
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Contribution to Journalism: Ashok Kalladka was recognized for his outstanding contribution to journalism and his commitment to ethical media practices.
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Justice Hegde's Address: During the ceremony, Justice Hegde expressed concerns about the erosion of public accountability in contemporary society, highlighting the importance of personal integrity and contentment.
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Importance of Values: Justice Hegde emphasized the need to maintain two essential values: contentment and humanity, stating that a lack of contentment is the root of corruption.
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Other Attendees: The ceremony was attended by notable figures, including actor Chetan Ahimsa, former minister Ramachandra Gowda, and Bangale M Mallikarjun, the state president of Karnataka Working Journalists Voice.
8. Neeraj Chopra becomes Audi India's new brand ambassador
Olympic gold medalist and world champion javelin thrower Neeraj
Chopra has been appointed as the new brand ambassador for Audi India, marking a collaboration that brings together two entities driven by performance, precision, and a progressive mindset. Announced on May 26, 2025, this partnership celebrates shared values such as world-class performance, explosive speed, and iconic stature. Balbir Singh Dhillon, Head of Audi India, praised Chopra as the embodiment of the brand's spirit, highlighting his determination and iconic journey from ambition to achievement. Chopra expressed his excitement about joining the Audi family, stating that the brand's commitment to excellence resonates deeply with him.
Chopra has been appointed as the new brand ambassador for Audi India, marking a collaboration that brings together two entities driven by performance, precision, and a progressive mindset. Announced on May 26, 2025, this partnership celebrates shared values such as world-class performance, explosive speed, and iconic stature. Balbir Singh Dhillon, Head of Audi India, praised Chopra as the embodiment of the brand's spirit, highlighting his determination and iconic journey from ambition to achievement. Chopra expressed his excitement about joining the Audi family, stating that the brand's commitment to excellence resonates deeply with him.Foot notes:
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Brand Ambassador Role: Chopra's appointment as Audi India's brand ambassador reflects his dedication to excellence, both on and off the field, and Audi's commitment to performance, precision, and passion.
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Shared Values: Both Neeraj Chopra and Audi India share values of high performance, precision, and forward-thinking, making this partnership a strategic and symbolic alignment.
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Chopra's Achievements: Neeraj Chopra's impressive track record includes winning gold at the Tokyo Olympics and a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Games, showcasing his consistency and world-class performance.
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Audi India's Growth: This partnership comes as Audi India reported a 17% rise in Q1 sales, driven by a robust product lineup and models like the Q7 and Q8, demonstrating the brand's momentum in the Indian market.
9. National Memorial Day is observed on 26th May
National Memorial Day is solemnly observed on 26th May each year
to honor and remember the brave soldiers who have sacrificed their lives in service to the nation. The day serves as a tribute to the valiant men and women of the armed forces who laid down their lives to protect the country's freedom and sovereignty. Various commemorative events, including wreath-laying ceremonies, parades, and moments of silence, are held across the country to mark the occasion. Citizens, leaders, and military personnel come together to pay their respects and reflect on the legacy of the fallen heroes.
to honor and remember the brave soldiers who have sacrificed their lives in service to the nation. The day serves as a tribute to the valiant men and women of the armed forces who laid down their lives to protect the country's freedom and sovereignty. Various commemorative events, including wreath-laying ceremonies, parades, and moments of silence, are held across the country to mark the occasion. Citizens, leaders, and military personnel come together to pay their respects and reflect on the legacy of the fallen heroes.Foot notes:
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Evolution: Over time, the holiday has evolved to honor all Americans who have died in military service, not just those from the Civil War.
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Traditions: Many people visit cemeteries and memorials, participate in parades, and hold family gatherings to honor the fallen.
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Significance: Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer in the United States and is often seen as a time for reflection, gratitude, and remembrance.
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Observance: Many businesses and institutions close on Memorial Day, and it is a federal holiday in the United States.
10. Actor Mukul Dev passed away
Veteran actor Mukul Dev passed away at the age of 54, leaving the
entertainment industry and his fans in deep shock. Known for his versatile roles in Hindi, Punjabi, and South Indian films, as well as television, Dev had been battling health complications and was undergoing treatment in the Intensive Care Unit for over a week prior to his demise . His brother, actor Rahul Dev, confirmed the news and expressed gratitude for the support from well-wishers during this difficult time . Dev's passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and fans, reflecting on his contributions to the entertainment industry and the impact he had on those who knew him.
entertainment industry and his fans in deep shock. Known for his versatile roles in Hindi, Punjabi, and South Indian films, as well as television, Dev had been battling health complications and was undergoing treatment in the Intensive Care Unit for over a week prior to his demise . His brother, actor Rahul Dev, confirmed the news and expressed gratitude for the support from well-wishers during this difficult time . Dev's passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and fans, reflecting on his contributions to the entertainment industry and the impact he had on those who knew him.Foot notes:
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Tributes: Industry colleagues and friends, including actors Manoj Bajpayee, Vindu Dara Singh, and Neil Nitin Mukesh, paid heartfelt tributes to Mukul Dev, remembering him for his warmth, artistry, and kindness.
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Career Highlights: Mukul Dev made his Bollywood debut opposite Sushmita Sen in the 1996 film "Dastak" and went on to work with prominent stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, and Ajay Devgn in films such as "Kohram", "Jai Ho", and "Son of Sardaar".
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Television Work: He also had notable roles in TV serials like "Gharwali Uparwali", "Kumkum – Ek Pyara Sa Bandhan", and "K. Street Pali Hill", and hosted the first season of "Fear Factor India" in 2006.
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Legacy: Mukul Dev's sudden demise has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, with many mourning the loss of a talented and beloved actor.
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