Daily Current Affairs 20 May 2026
Daily current affairs for 20 May 2026 — 22 verified news items across International, National, Defence & more, with exam-angle notes, keywords and practice…
In this digest · 22 items
International
India and Italy Elevate Ties to Special Strategic Partnership
India and Italy have agreed to elevate their bilateral relations to a special strategic partnership. This decision was made during discussions between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian President Sergio Mattarella. The partnership emphasizes shared values of freedom and democracy, and aims to enhance cooperation in various sectors such as trade, investment, technology, energy, and security. This collaboration is intended to foster mutual prosperity and a shared vision for the future, strengthening the Indo-Mediterranean relationship.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 Which two countries have agreed to elevate their ties to a special strategic partnership?
- AIndia and France
- BIndia and ItalyCorrect
- CIndia and Germany
- DIndia and Japan
Explanation India and Italy have agreed to elevate their bilateral relations to a special strategic partnership.
Q2 What are the key areas of cooperation in the India-Italy strategic partnership?
- ATechnology, energy, and securityCorrect
- BAgriculture, healthcare, and education
- CTourism, sports, and culture
- DFinance, real estate, and fashion
Explanation The partnership emphasizes cooperation in technology, energy, and security among other sectors.
Trump Predicts Sharp Decline in Oil Prices Amid Iran Conflict Resolution
President Trump announced at a press conference that oil prices are expected to plummet due to an anticipated end to the conflict with Iran. He mentioned that the global oil prices would decline sharply because of an abundant supply. Trump also warned Iran of a 'big hit' if no deal is reached, setting a deadline for resuming strikes within two or three days, potentially by the weekend or early next week.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 What did President Trump predict about oil prices in relation to the Iran conflict?
- AThey will increase sharply.
- BThey will plummet.Correct
- CThey will remain stable.
- DThey will fluctuate unpredictably.
Explanation President Trump predicted that oil prices would plummet due to an anticipated end to the conflict with Iran.
Q2 What deadline did Trump set for resuming strikes on Iran if no deal is reached?
- AWithin a month
- BBy the end of the year
- CTwo or three daysCorrect
- DNext month
Explanation Trump set a deadline of two or three days for resuming strikes on Iran if no deal is reached.
Iran Responsible for Nearly 80% of Global Executions in 2025: Amnesty Report
A report by Amnesty International reveals that Iran accounted for nearly 80% of the worldwide executions in 2025. Out of the 2,707 executions carried out across 17 countries, Iran was responsible for at least 2,159. This marks a significant increase from the previous year, where Iran executed at least 972 individuals. The total number of executions globally in 2025 saw a 78% rise compared to 2024, which had 1,519 documented executions.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 What percentage of worldwide executions in 2025 was Iran responsible for?
- A50%
- B60%
- C70%
- D80%Correct
Explanation Iran accounted for nearly 80% of worldwide executions in 2025.
Q2 How many executions were carried out globally in 2025 according to Amnesty International?
- A1,519
- B2,159
- C2,707Correct
- D3,000
Explanation Amnesty International reported 2,707 executions globally in 2025.
Q3 Which organization reported on the global execution statistics for 2025?
- AHuman Rights Watch
- BAmnesty InternationalCorrect
- CUnited Nations
- DWorld Health Organization
Explanation Amnesty International reported on the global execution statistics for 2025.
India and Nordic Countries Announce Green Tech Strategic Partnership
India and the Nordic countries have announced a 'Green Tech and Innovation Strategic Partnership' aimed at focusing on sustainable energy and maritime research. This partnership underscores the commitment to democracy shared by India and the Nordic nations, making them natural partners. Additionally, a joint statement was issued condemning the recent terror attack in Pahalgam.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 What is the focus of the 'Green Tech and Innovation Strategic Partnership' announced by India and Nordic countries?
- ASustainable energy and maritime researchCorrect
- BAgricultural development
- CSpace exploration
- DHealthcare advancements
Explanation The partnership focuses on sustainable energy and maritime research.
Q2 Which recent event did India and Nordic countries condemn in their joint statement?
- APahalgam terror attackCorrect
- BClimate change
- CEconomic sanctions
- DCybersecurity threats
Explanation The joint statement condemned the Pahalgam terror attack.
PM Narendra Modi Concludes Five-Nation Tour Focusing on Strategic Partnerships
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has completed a five-nation tour that included visits to the UAE, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Italy. The tour aimed to strengthen strategic partnerships in areas such as energy security, technology, and climate action. During the visits, agreements were signed with each country to enhance bilateral relations, reflecting a commitment to collaborate on key global issues.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 Which countries did PM Narendra Modi visit during his five-nation tour?
- AUAE, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, ItalyCorrect
- BUSA, UK, France, Germany, Japan
- CChina, Russia, Brazil, South Africa, Australia
- DCanada, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Peru
Explanation PM Narendra Modi visited the UAE, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Italy during his five-nation tour.
Q2 What were the focus areas of PM Narendra Modi's five-nation tour?
- AEnergy security, technology, climate actionCorrect
- BDefense, agriculture, healthcare
- CTourism, education, sports
- DInfrastructure, finance, transportation
Explanation The tour focused on strategic partnerships in energy security, technology, and climate action.
US Senator Marco Rubio to Visit India for Discussions on Energy and Trade
US Senator Marco Rubio is scheduled to visit India starting May 23, following his participation in the NATO foreign ministers meeting in Sweden. During his visit, Rubio will travel to Kolkata, Agra, Jaipur, and New Delhi. The agenda for his visit includes discussions on energy security, trade, and defence cooperation with senior Indian officials. This visit underscores the importance of bilateral relations between the United States and India, focusing on strategic areas of mutual interest.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 Which US Senator is scheduled to visit India starting May 23?
- ABernie Sanders
- BMarco RubioCorrect
- CTed Cruz
- DElizabeth Warren
Explanation Marco Rubio is the US Senator scheduled to visit India starting May 23.
Q2 What are the main topics of discussion during Marco Rubio's visit to India?
- AHealthcare, Education, Tourism
- BEnergy Security, Trade, Defence CooperationCorrect
- CAgriculture, Technology, Space Exploration
- DClimate Change, Human Rights, Immigration
Explanation The main topics of discussion during Marco Rubio's visit to India are energy security, trade, and defence cooperation.
Punjab Government Restores Pre-Partition Street Names in Lahore
The Punjab government in Pakistan has approved the restoration of original street names in Lahore as part of an initiative to revive the city's pre-Partition heritage. This effort, led by Nawaz Sharif, aims to preserve the cultural identity of the region. Notable changes include the renaming of Babri Masjid Chowk to Jain Mandir Road, Sunnat Nagar to Sant Nagar, and Allama Iqbal Road to Jail Road.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 Which street in Lahore was renamed to Jain Mandir Road by the Punjab government?
- ABabri Masjid ChowkCorrect
- BSunnat Nagar
- CAllama Iqbal Road
- DSant Nagar
Explanation Babri Masjid Chowk was renamed to Jain Mandir Road as part of the initiative to restore pre-Partition street names.
Q2 Who is leading the initiative to restore original street names in Lahore?
- AImran Khan
- BNawaz SharifCorrect
- CAsif Ali Zardari
- DShehbaz Sharif
Explanation Nawaz Sharif is leading the initiative to restore original street names in Lahore.
National
Kerala Cabinet 2026: VD Satheesan and Ministers' Portfolios Announced
The new United Democratic Front (UDF) government in Kerala has announced the allocation of portfolios to its ministers. Chief Minister VD Satheesan retains key departments, while Ramesh Chennithala has been assigned the Home and Vigilance departments. Sunny Joseph will lead the Power Ministry. The detailed portfolios will be submitted to the Governor and published via a gazette notification.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 Who has been assigned the Home and Vigilance departments in the new Kerala cabinet?
- AVD Satheesan
- BRamesh ChennithalaCorrect
- CSunny Joseph
- DPinarayi Vijayan
Explanation Ramesh Chennithala has been assigned the Home and Vigilance departments in the new Kerala cabinet.
Q2 Which ministry is led by Sunny Joseph in the Kerala Cabinet 2026?
- AFinance Ministry
- BPower MinistryCorrect
- CEducation Ministry
- DHealth Ministry
Explanation Sunny Joseph leads the Power Ministry in the Kerala Cabinet 2026.
India Successfully Meets Record Peak Power Demand of 260.45 GW
On May 19, 2026, India successfully met a record peak power demand of 260.45 gigawatts (GW) amid soaring temperatures. Thermal power played a significant role, accounting for approximately 62.5% of the power generated to meet this demand. This achievement highlights India's capability to manage its power supply effectively during periods of high demand, ensuring stability in the power grid.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 What was the record peak power demand met by India on May 19, 2026?
- A250.00 GW
- B260.45 GWCorrect
- C270.00 GW
- D280.50 GW
Explanation India successfully met a record peak power demand of 260.45 GW.
Q2 What percentage of power was generated by thermal power to meet the peak demand?
- A50%
- B62.5%Correct
- C70%
- D80%
Explanation Thermal power accounted for about 62.5% of the power generated to meet the peak demand.
Defence
Indian Navy Awards ADITI 3.0 Contract to Tonbo Imaging for HPM System
The Indian Navy has awarded the ADITI 3.0 contract to Tonbo Imaging for the development of High Power Microwave (HPM) systems. These systems are a strategically significant directed-energy capability, considered a strategic asset owned by only a limited number of countries. Tonbo Imaging highlighted the importance of this technology in enhancing national defense capabilities.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 Which company was awarded the ADITI 3.0 contract by the Indian Navy?
- ABharat Electronics
- BTonbo ImagingCorrect
- CLarsen & Toubro
- DHindustan Aeronautics
Explanation Tonbo Imaging was awarded the ADITI 3.0 contract by the Indian Navy for HPM systems.
Q2 What type of system is the ADITI 3.0 contract related to?
- AHigh Power MicrowaveCorrect
- BRadar
- CSonar
- DCommunication
Explanation The ADITI 3.0 contract is related to High Power Microwave (HPM) systems.
India and Vietnam Enhance Defence Ties with Maritime Security Focus
India and Vietnam have agreed to deepen their defence cooperation, with a particular emphasis on maritime security. This agreement includes expanding cooperation through regular dialogues, joint military exercises, and exchange programmes between their armed forces. The collaboration aims to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries and enhance regional security.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 What is the focus of the recent defence cooperation agreement between India and Vietnam?
- ACybersecurity
- BMaritime securityCorrect
- CSpace exploration
- DNuclear disarmament
Explanation The agreement between India and Vietnam focuses on maritime security.
Q2 Which activities are included in the India-Vietnam defence cooperation agreement?
- ARegular dialogues and joint military exercisesCorrect
- BSpace missions and cybersecurity initiatives
- CTrade agreements and economic forums
- DCultural exchange programmes and tourism
Explanation The cooperation includes regular dialogues, joint military exercises, and exchange programmes between their armed forces.
Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu Class 10 Board Exam Results: 94.3% Overall Pass Rate
Tamil Nadu has announced the results for the Class 10 board exams, recording an impressive overall pass rate of 94.3%. Pudukottai district led the state with a pass percentage of 97.57%, followed closely by Sivaganga at 97.54% and Thanjavur at 97.41%. Meanwhile, Chennai Corporation schools reported an 89% pass percentage, with 6,271 out of 7,081 students successfully clearing the exams. These results highlight the academic achievements across various districts in Tamil Nadu.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 What was the overall pass percentage for Tamil Nadu's Class 10 board exams?
- A94.3%Correct
- B97.57%
- C89%
- D97.54%
Explanation The overall pass percentage for Tamil Nadu's Class 10 board exams was 94.3%.
Q2 Which district topped the Tamil Nadu Class 10 board exams with the highest pass percentage?
- ASivaganga
- BThanjavur
- CPudukottaiCorrect
- DChennai
Explanation Pudukottai district topped the exams with a pass percentage of 97.57%.
Q3 What was the pass percentage for Chennai Corporation schools in the Tamil Nadu Class 10 exams?
- A94.3%
- B97.57%
- C89%Correct
- D97.54%
Explanation Chennai Corporation schools recorded an 89% pass percentage.
Economy
Indian Oil Diversifies LNG Procurement and Maintains Crude Oil Inventories
Indian Oil has announced that it is maintaining crude oil inventories for more than a month. Additionally, the company has diversified its Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) procurement through spot purchases from countries such as Indonesia, Nigeria, Angola, and Oman. This strategic move is aimed at ensuring a stable supply of energy resources and mitigating risks associated with supply disruptions.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 Which countries are involved in Indian Oil's diversified LNG procurement?
- AIndonesia, Nigeria, Angola, OmanCorrect
- BSaudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait
- CRussia, Iran, Iraq, Venezuela
- DUSA, Canada, Mexico, Brazil
Explanation Indian Oil has diversified its LNG procurement through spot purchases from Indonesia, Nigeria, Angola, and Oman.
Q2 For how long is Indian Oil maintaining its crude oil inventories?
- ALess than a week
- BMore than a monthCorrect
- CThree months
- DSix months
Explanation Indian Oil is maintaining crude oil inventories for more than a month.
Petrol and Diesel Prices Increase by 90 Paise Amidst Global Supply Shocks
On May 19, 2026, petrol and diesel prices in India were raised by 90 paise per litre, marking the second increase within a week. This follows a previous hike of ₹3 per litre, attributed to global supply shocks and the ongoing crisis in West Asia. The price increase was most pronounced in Kolkata, where petrol rose by 96 paise to ₹109.70 per litre and diesel by 94 paise to ₹96.07 per litre. These hikes are expected to contribute to inflationary pressures, potentially affecting economic growth forecasts.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 By how much were petrol and diesel prices increased in India on May 19, 2026?
- A50 paise
- B90 paiseCorrect
- C₹3
- D₹5
Explanation Petrol and diesel prices were increased by 90 paise per litre on May 19, 2026.
Q2 Which city experienced the steepest hike in fuel prices?
- ADelhi
- BMumbai
- CKolkataCorrect
- DChennai
Explanation Kolkata experienced the steepest hike, with petrol prices rising by 96 paise.
Liberty Mutual Increases Stake in Liberty General Insurance to 74%
Liberty Mutual has increased its stake in Liberty General Insurance to 74%, reflecting its commitment to the fast-growing Indian insurance market. This strategic move allows Liberty Mutual to further develop its business in India and leverage its global capabilities more effectively. Matthew Jackson, the President of Liberty International Insurance APAC, emphasized the importance of the Indian market in their growth strategy. This increase in shareholding is seen as a significant step in strengthening their presence and expanding operations in India.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 What percentage stake does Liberty Mutual now hold in Liberty General Insurance?
- A51%
- B60%
- C74%Correct
- D100%
Explanation Liberty Mutual has increased its stake in Liberty General Insurance to 74%.
Q2 Who is the President of Liberty International Insurance APAC?
- AMatthew JacksonCorrect
- BJohn Doe
- CJane Smith
- DRobert Brown
Explanation Matthew Jackson is the President of Liberty International Insurance APAC.
Adani Enterprises Settles $275 Million with US Treasury Over Iranian Gas
Adani Enterprises has agreed to pay a $275 million settlement to the US Treasury. This settlement is related to the company's purchase of Iranian gas, which had been under investigation by US authorities. The resolution of this case, along with recent developments involving the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Department of Justice (DOJ), concludes all ongoing investigations by the US into the Adani Group.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 How much did Adani Enterprises agree to pay in settlement to the US Treasury?
- A$200 million
- B$250 million
- C$275 millionCorrect
- D$300 million
Explanation Adani Enterprises agreed to pay $275 million to settle the case with the US Treasury.
Q2 Which US authorities were involved in the investigations of Adani Enterprises?
- AFBI and CIA
- BSEC and DOJCorrect
- CIRS and DHS
- DNSA and FCC
Explanation The investigations involved the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Department of Justice (DOJ).
Vodafone Idea Plans ₹1 Trillion Strategy to Address Financial Obligations
Vodafone Idea has developed a ₹1 trillion cash strategy to address its financial obligations, including spectrum dues and capital expenditure. The company aims to secure funding from a consortium led by the State Bank of India. This move comes amid analysts' concerns regarding Vodafone Idea's ability to meet its future payment obligations.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 What is the amount of the cash strategy Vodafone Idea has planned to address its financial obligations?
- A₹500 billion
- B₹1 trillionCorrect
- C₹2 trillion
- D₹750 billion
Explanation Vodafone Idea has planned a ₹1 trillion cash strategy to manage its financial obligations.
Q2 Which bank is leading the consortium to provide funding to Vodafone Idea?
- AHDFC Bank
- BICICI Bank
- CState Bank of IndiaCorrect
- DAxis Bank
Explanation The State Bank of India is leading the consortium to provide funding to Vodafone Idea.
Advent International Invests $150 Million in Iscon Balaji Foods
Advent International has announced an investment of $150 million in Iscon Balaji Foods. This investment is part of a larger $215 million funding round. The move highlights the increasing interest of private equity firms in India's frozen foods and quick service restaurant (QSR) supply chain ecosystem.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 How much has Advent International invested in Iscon Balaji Foods?
- A$100 million
- B$150 millionCorrect
- C$200 million
- D$250 million
Explanation Advent International invested $150 million in Iscon Balaji Foods.
Q2 What sector is seeing rising private equity interest according to the investment in Iscon Balaji Foods?
- ARenewable Energy
- BFrozen Foods and QSR Supply ChainCorrect
- CReal Estate
- DAutomobile
Explanation The investment highlights rising private equity interest in India's frozen foods and QSR supply chain ecosystem.
Tata Steel Opts for Solo Expansion, Avoids Joint Ventures in India
Tata Steel has announced its decision to avoid joint ventures in India, focusing instead on solo expansion to maintain better control over its operations. The company plans to buy out its existing joint venture partners wherever possible, aiming to consolidate all steelmaking operations under a single entity. This strategic move is intended to streamline operations and enhance efficiency within the company.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 What strategic decision has Tata Steel made regarding its operations in India?
- ATo enter into more joint ventures
- BTo focus on solo expansionCorrect
- CTo exit the Indian market
- DTo diversify into non-steel sectors
Explanation Tata Steel has decided to focus on solo expansion in India to maintain better control over its operations.
Q2 What is Tata Steel's plan regarding its existing joint venture partners?
- ATo form new joint ventures
- BTo buy out existing partnersCorrect
- CTo increase joint venture stakes
- DTo reduce operations with partners
Explanation Tata Steel plans to buy out its existing joint venture partners to consolidate operations.
Sports
Arsenal Wins Premier League Title After 22-Year Wait
Arsenal has won the Premier League title for the first time in 22 years. The team was crowned champion after Manchester City was held to a draw at Bournemouth. Arsenal's players are set to lift the trophy at Crystal Palace on May 24. This victory marks a significant achievement for the club, ending a long title drought. Manchester City needed to defeat Bournemouth to keep their title hopes alive, but the draw confirmed Arsenal's championship.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 Which football club won the Premier League title for the first time in 22 years in 2026?
- AManchester City
- BLiverpool
- CArsenalCorrect
- DChelsea
Explanation Arsenal won the Premier League title for the first time in 22 years.
Q2 Against which team was Manchester City held, confirming Arsenal's Premier League title win?
- ABurnley
- BCrystal Palace
- CBournemouthCorrect
- DChelsea
Explanation Manchester City was held at Bournemouth, confirming Arsenal's title win.
Delhi High Court Denies Interim Relief to Vinesh Phogat for Asian Games Trials
The Delhi High Court has denied interim relief to wrestler Vinesh Phogat, impacting her chances to participate in the Asian Games. Phogat sought permission to compete in the selection trials scheduled for May 30-31, 2026. However, the Wrestling Federation of India has declared her ineligible to participate in domestic events until June 26, 2026. This decision effectively bars her from the trials, thereby affecting her prospects for the Asian Games.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 What was the Delhi High Court's decision regarding Vinesh Phogat's participation in the Asian Games trials?
- AGranted interim relief
- BDenied interim reliefCorrect
- CPostponed the decision
- DReferred the case to a higher court
Explanation The Delhi High Court denied interim relief to Vinesh Phogat, affecting her participation in the Asian Games trials.
Q2 Until when has the Wrestling Federation of India declared Vinesh Phogat ineligible to participate in domestic events?
- AMay 30, 2026
- BJune 26, 2026Correct
- CJuly 15, 2026
- DAugust 1, 2026
Explanation Vinesh Phogat has been declared ineligible to participate in domestic events until June 26, 2026.
Science & Tech
Bharti Airtel Introduces India's First 5G Slicing Priority Postpaid Service
Bharti Airtel has launched India's first Priority Postpaid service utilizing 5G slicing technology. This service marks a significant advancement in the telecommunications sector in India, as it is the first of its kind in the country. Prior to this, 5G slicing services have been introduced in countries such as the USA, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and Malaysia. The introduction of this service by Airtel is expected to enhance the user experience by providing prioritized network access and improved connectivity.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 Which company launched India's first Priority Postpaid service with 5G slicing?
- AReliance Jio
- BVodafone Idea
- CBharti AirtelCorrect
- DBSNL
Explanation Bharti Airtel is the first company to launch a Priority Postpaid service with 5G slicing in India.
Q2 Which countries had already launched 5G slicing services before India?
- AUSA, Singapore, UK, MalaysiaCorrect
- BChina, Japan, South Korea, Australia
- CGermany, France, Italy, Spain
- DBrazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru
Explanation 5G slicing services were launched in the USA, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and Malaysia before India.
Frequently asked questions
What are the key current affairs of May 20, 2026?
Which exams is this digest tailored for?
Is Tamil Nadu news covered in this digest?
Plan your prep with Lighthouse Prep
An AI study planner that builds your daily plan and tracks real study time.
Open the appMore current affairs
- Daily Current Affairs 20 June 2026
- Daily Current Affairs 19 June 2026
- Daily Current Affairs 18 June 2026
- Daily Current Affairs 17 June 2026
- Daily Current Affairs 16 June 2026
- Daily Current Affairs 15 June 2026