Daily Current Affairs 21 May 2026
Daily current affairs for 21 May 2026 — 19 verified news items across Sports, Tamil Nadu, International & more, with exam-angle notes, keywords and practice…
In this digest · 19 items
Sports
IPL 2026: Gujarat Titans vs Chennai Super Kings in Crucial Match 66
In the IPL 2026, Match 66 features a crucial encounter between Gujarat Titans (GT) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The match is significant as both teams aim to strengthen their positions in the top two of the league standings. The landscape has changed since their last meeting on April 26, when both teams had six points after seven games. CSK faces challenges with a fragile top order and the absence of their key player, MS Dhoni, which could impact their performance against GT.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 Which teams are competing in IPL 2026 Match 66?
- AMumbai Indians vs Delhi Capitals
- BGujarat Titans vs Chennai Super KingsCorrect
- CKolkata Knight Riders vs Sunrisers Hyderabad
- DRajasthan Royals vs Punjab Kings
Explanation Match 66 of IPL 2026 is between Gujarat Titans and Chennai Super Kings.
Q2 What challenge is Chennai Super Kings facing in IPL 2026 Match 66?
- AStrong bowling attack
- BFragile top order and absence of MS DhoniCorrect
- CInjury to key bowler
- DLack of all-rounders
Explanation CSK is facing challenges with a fragile top order and the absence of MS Dhoni.
Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu Cabinet Expands to 33 Ministers Including Congress After 59 Years
The Tamil Nadu Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Vijay, has expanded to include 33 ministers, with the Congress party joining the government for the first time in 59 years. This expansion includes two Congress ministers and marks a significant political development in the state. Additionally, the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) has nominated A.M. Shahjahan to join the Cabinet. The TVK-led government has also extended invitations to the VCK and IUML, both of which were part of the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance, for further expansion.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 How many ministers are now part of the Tamil Nadu Cabinet led by CM Vijay after the latest expansion?
- A30
- B33Correct
- C35
- D40
Explanation The Tamil Nadu Cabinet has expanded to include 33 ministers.
Q2 Which party has joined the Tamil Nadu government after 59 years?
- ABJP
- BCongressCorrect
- CDMK
- DAIADMK
Explanation The Congress party has joined the Tamil Nadu government after 59 years.
Q3 Who has the IUML nominated to join the Tamil Nadu Cabinet?
- AA.M. ShahjahanCorrect
- BVijay
- CA. Raja
- DM.K. Stalin
Explanation The IUML has nominated A.M. Shahjahan to join the Tamil Nadu Cabinet.
IUML Joins TVK-Led Cabinet in Tamil Nadu, Ends Alliance with DMK
The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) has decided to join the Tamil Nadu government led by Chief Minister Vijay of the TVK party, marking the end of its longstanding alliance with the DMK. A.M. Shahjahan will represent the IUML in the expanded cabinet. The swearing-in ceremony for the new ministers, including Shahjahan, was conducted by Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar at the Lok Bhavan in Chennai. Previously, on May 10, 2026, ten members, including the Chief Minister, were sworn in.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 Which party did the IUML end its alliance with to join the TVK-led government in Tamil Nadu?
- ABJP
- BCongress
- CDMKCorrect
- DAIADMK
Explanation The IUML ended its alliance with the DMK to join the TVK-led government.
Q2 Who represents the IUML in the expanded Tamil Nadu cabinet?
- AA.M. ShahjahanCorrect
- BRajendra Vishwanath Arlekar
- CVijay
- DM.K. Stalin
Explanation A.M. Shahjahan represents the IUML in the expanded Tamil Nadu cabinet.
Congress to Join Tamil Nadu's First Coalition Government on May 21
Tamil Nadu is set to witness its first coalition government as the Congress party is poised to join the state government on May 21. Minister Aadhav Arjuna announced an open invitation to VCK leader Thol. Thirumavalavan and the IUML to be part of the Council of Ministers, reflecting the Chief Minister's wishes. This marks a significant political development in the state's governance.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 Which party is set to join Tamil Nadu's first coalition government on May 21?
- ABJP
- BCongressCorrect
- CAIADMK
- DDMK
Explanation The Congress party is set to join Tamil Nadu's first coalition government on May 21.
Q2 Who has been invited to join the Council of Ministers in Tamil Nadu's coalition government?
- AAadhav Arjuna
- BThol. ThirumavalavanCorrect
- CM.K. Stalin
- DEdappadi K. Palaniswami
Explanation VCK leader Thol. Thirumavalavan has been invited to join the Council of Ministers.
International
India-Africa Forum Summit Postponed Due to Ebola Outbreak Concerns
The Fourth India-Africa Forum Summit has been postponed due to the Ebola virus outbreak. This decision is seen as a setback to India-Africa relations, although officials have indicated that it was made in the best interest of all stakeholders involved. The postponement reflects the serious health concerns posed by the Ebola outbreak, prioritizing the safety and well-being of participants.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 Why was the Fourth India-Africa Forum Summit postponed?
- ADue to a diplomatic disagreement
- BBecause of the Ebola virus outbreakCorrect
- CFinancial constraints
- DWeather conditions
Explanation The summit was postponed due to the Ebola virus outbreak.
Q2 What is the perceived impact of the summit's postponement on India-Africa relations?
- AStrengthening of ties
- BNo impact
- CA setbackCorrect
- DImproved trade relations
Explanation The postponement is viewed as a setback to India-Africa relations.
Mark Zuckerberg Addresses Meta Layoffs, Acknowledges Challenges Ahead
On May 20, 2026, Mark Zuckerberg sent a memo to Meta employees expressing his gratitude to those who are leaving the company due to layoffs. He acknowledged the emotional impact of the layoffs and sought to reassure the remaining staff. Zuckerberg emphasized that success is not guaranteed, highlighting the challenges the company faces. This communication comes as Meta undergoes significant workforce reductions, affecting many employees.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 What did Mark Zuckerberg emphasize in his memo to Meta employees regarding the company's future?
- ASuccess is guaranteed.
- BSuccess isn't a given.Correct
- CLayoffs will not happen.
- DThe company will expand rapidly.
Explanation Zuckerberg stated that 'success isn’t a given' in his memo.
Q2 When did Mark Zuckerberg send the memo addressing the layoffs at Meta?
- AMay 18, 2026
- BMay 19, 2026
- CMay 20, 2026Correct
- DMay 21, 2026
Explanation The memo was sent on May 20, 2026.
India and Italy Upgrade Ties to Special Strategic Partnership
India and Italy have elevated their bilateral relations to a 'Special Strategic Partnership' during PM Modi's visit to Italy. The two nations have set a target of achieving Euro 20 billion in trade by 2029. Discussions between PM Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni focused on global challenges, including terrorism, and resulted in the establishment of a defence industrial roadmap. This partnership aims to enhance cooperation in various sectors such as education and technology. Additionally, PM Modi was awarded the 'Agricola Medal', the highest honour from the Food and Agriculture Organisation.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 What is the trade target set by India and Italy under their Special Strategic Partnership by 2029?
- AEuro 10 billion
- BEuro 15 billion
- CEuro 20 billionCorrect
- DEuro 25 billion
Explanation India and Italy have set a target of Euro 20 billion in trade by 2029 as part of their upgraded partnership.
Q2 Which medal was awarded to PM Modi during his visit to Italy?
- ANobel Peace Prize
- BAgricola MedalCorrect
- COrder of Merit
- DGolden Lion
Explanation PM Modi received the 'Agricola Medal', the highest honour from the Food and Agriculture Organisation, during his visit to Italy.
US DOJ Indicts Raúl Castro Over 1996 Downing of Two Planes
The US Department of Justice has indicted former Cuban leader Raúl Castro and five others for their involvement in the 1996 downing of two civilian aircraft, which resulted in the deaths of four Americans. This legal action has heightened tensions between the US and Cuba, with discussions ongoing about possible extradition and policy responses. Despite the indictment, former US President Donald Trump has stated that he does not anticipate any escalation in relations with Cuba.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 Who was indicted by the US DOJ over the 1996 downing of two planes?
- AFidel Castro
- BRaúl CastroCorrect
- CMiguel Díaz-Canel
- DBarack Obama
Explanation Raúl Castro was indicted by the US DOJ for the 1996 downing of two planes.
Q2 What was the result of the 1996 downing of two planes by the Cuban military?
- ANo casualties
- BTwo casualties
- CFour casualtiesCorrect
- DTen casualties
Explanation The downing resulted in the deaths of four Americans.
Q3 What is the expected impact on US-Cuba relations following the indictment of Raúl Castro?
- AEscalation
- BNo escalationCorrect
- CImproved relations
- DSevered diplomatic ties
Explanation Donald Trump stated he does not expect escalation with Cuba following the indictment.
Economy
RBI Considers Interest Rate Hike as Rupee Hits Record Low
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is contemplating an interest rate hike as the Indian rupee reached a new low of 96.95 against the US dollar on May 20, 2026. This measure is part of a broader strategy to stabilize the currency, which also includes options like currency swaps and raising dollars from overseas investors. The decision comes amid growing concerns over the rupee's depreciation and its impact on the economy.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 What recent low did the Indian rupee reach against the US dollar on May 20, 2026?
- A95.50
- B96.95Correct
- C97.20
- D98.00
Explanation The rupee touched a new low of 96.95 against the dollar on May 20, 2026.
Q2 Which of the following measures is the RBI considering to stabilize the rupee?
- AReducing interest rates
- BCurrency swapsCorrect
- CIncreasing import duties
- DIssuing more bonds
Explanation The RBI is considering currency swaps among other measures to stabilize the rupee.
Rupee Hits Record Low of 96.90 Against US Dollar in Early Trade
On May 20, 2026, the Indian Rupee fell to a record low of 96.90 against the US dollar in early trade at the interbank foreign exchange market. The Rupee opened at 96.89 before slipping further by 20 paise from its previous close. This depreciation in the Rupee coincided with a decline in the stock market, where the Sensex fell by 517 points and the Nifty slipped below 23,500 points.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 What was the record low value of the Rupee against the US dollar on May 20, 2026?
- A96.70
- B96.80
- C96.90Correct
- D97.00
Explanation The Rupee fell to a record low of 96.90 against the US dollar.
Q2 By how many points did the Sensex fall in early trade on May 20, 2026?
- A517Correct
- B450
- C600
- D400
Explanation The Sensex fell by 517 points in early trade.
India's Core Sector Growth Increases to 1.7% in April 2026
India's core sector growth increased to 1.7% in April 2026, driven by higher activity in the steel and cement sectors. Steel production rose by 6.2% year-on-year, while cement output increased by 9.4%. Additionally, electricity generation expanded by 4.1%, contributing to the overall growth of the core industries. The government also revised upwards the growth figures for the eight core industries in March 2026 compared to the preliminary data released earlier.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 What was the growth rate of India's core sector in April 2026?
- A1.7%Correct
- B2.5%
- C3.1%
- D4.0%
Explanation The core sector growth in April 2026 was reported to be 1.7%.
Q2 Which sector saw a 9.4% increase in output in April 2026?
- ASteel
- BCementCorrect
- CElectricity
- DCoal
Explanation Cement output increased by 9.4% in April 2026.
Bharat Petroleum Increases Russian Crude Oil Share to 41%
Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) has raised the proportion of Russian crude oil in its purchases to 41%, up from 31% in the fourth quarter of the previous financial year. This strategic move aims to address supply gaps in crude oil. The increase in Russian crude oil purchases reflects BPCL's efforts to diversify its sources and ensure a steady supply of oil.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 What percentage of Bharat Petroleum's crude oil purchases is now sourced from Russia?
- A31%
- B41%Correct
- C51%
- D61%
Explanation BPCL has increased the share of Russian crude oil in its purchases to 41%.
Q2 Why has Bharat Petroleum increased its share of Russian crude oil purchases?
- ATo reduce costs
- BTo fill supply gapsCorrect
- CTo increase exports
- DTo comply with government policy
Explanation The increase in Russian crude oil purchases is aimed at filling supply gaps.
NCDEX Launches RAINMUMBAI Weather Future Contracts
The National Commodity and Derivatives Exchange (NCDEX) has introduced a new financial instrument called RAINMUMBAI weather future contracts. This monthly futures contract is designed to benefit farmers, construction companies, and power utility firms by allowing them to hedge against weather-related risks. The introduction of this contract aims to provide a financial tool to manage the uncertainties associated with weather conditions, particularly in the Mumbai region.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 What is the primary aim of the RAINMUMBAI weather future contracts introduced by NCDEX?
- ATo provide a new investment opportunity for stock traders
- BTo hedge against weather-related risks for farmers and companiesCorrect
- CTo promote tourism in Mumbai
- DTo regulate the prices of agricultural commodities
Explanation The RAINMUMBAI weather future contracts are designed to help farmers, construction companies, and power utility firms hedge against weather-related risks.
Q2 Which sector is NOT directly mentioned as a beneficiary of the RAINMUMBAI weather future contracts?
- AFarmers
- BConstruction companies
- CPower utility firms
- DTourism industryCorrect
Explanation The tourism industry is not mentioned as a beneficiary of the RAINMUMBAI weather future contracts.
National
Air India Flight Suffers Tail Strike During Landing at Bengaluru
An Air India flight from Delhi to Bengaluru experienced a 'tail strike' while landing at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA). Despite the incident, the aircraft landed safely, and all passengers and crew disembarked without any injuries. Following the event, the aircraft was grounded, and the return flight was cancelled. Airline officials confirmed the safe landing and subsequent disembarkation of all individuals on board.
Source Livemint
Practice MCQs
Q1 Which airport was involved in the Air India tail strike incident?
- AIndira Gandhi International Airport
- BKempegowda International AirportCorrect
- CChhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport
- DRajiv Gandhi International Airport
Explanation The incident occurred at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru.
Q2 What was the outcome for passengers and crew after the Air India tail strike incident?
- AThey were injured
- BThey were evacuated via emergency slides
- CThey disembarked safelyCorrect
- DThey were transferred to another flight immediately
Explanation All passengers and crew disembarked safely following the tail strike incident.
Cockroach Janta Party's New X Handle Gains Rapid Follower Growth
The Cockroach Janta Party, an internet sensation, had its original X handle withheld, prompting the founder to create a new account. This new handle quickly gained traction, amassing 23.8 thousand followers within the first 90 minutes of its launch. The movement is notable for its significant online presence, with over 14.5 million followers on Instagram, surpassing the BJP's 8.8 million followers.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 How many followers did the new Cockroach Janta Party X handle gain in the first 90 minutes?
- A14.5 million
- B8.8 million
- C23.8 thousandCorrect
- D90 thousand
Explanation The new X handle gained 23.8 thousand followers in the first 90 minutes.
Q2 Which party's Instagram follower count was surpassed by the Cockroach Janta Party?
- ACongress
- BBJPCorrect
- CAAP
- DShiv Sena
Explanation The Cockroach Janta Party surpassed BJP's Instagram follower count.
Madhya Pradesh Government Seeks CBI Probe in Twisha Sharma Death Case
The Madhya Pradesh government is seeking a CBI probe into the death of Twisha Sharma. The National Commission for Women (NCW) has requested a detailed report from the state government, including information on the FIR provisions, the status of the accused persons' arrest, and efforts to apprehend the absconding husband. The NCW also seeks details on the impoundment of the husband's passport, CCTV footage, call records, electronic and forensic evidence, and the post-mortem report. Twisha's family met with Mohan Yadav, a state official, to demand a fair investigation into her death.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 Which organization has sought a report from the Madhya Pradesh government regarding Twisha Sharma's death?
- ACBI
- BNCWCorrect
- CNIA
- DNHRC
Explanation The National Commission for Women (NCW) has sought a report from the Madhya Pradesh government.
Q2 What action is the Madhya Pradesh government seeking in the Twisha Sharma death case?
- AJudicial inquiry
- BCBI probeCorrect
- CState police investigation
- DNHRC intervention
Explanation The Madhya Pradesh government is seeking a CBI probe into the Twisha Sharma death case.
BJP Criticizes Rahul Gandhi for 'Traitor' Remark on PM Modi
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his 'traitor' remark directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi. BJP chief Nabin stated that Gandhi's comment reflects an 'anarchic mindset' and warned that he 'will definitely pay a heavy price for such an unfortunate remark'. This statement was made in a video message released by the BJP. The incident has sparked a political controversy, highlighting the ongoing tensions between the BJP and the Congress party.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 Who criticized Rahul Gandhi for his 'traitor' remark on PM Modi?
- AAmit Shah
- BNabinCorrect
- CArvind Kejriwal
- DMamata Banerjee
Explanation BJP chief Nabin criticized Rahul Gandhi for his remark.
Q2 What did the BJP claim Rahul Gandhi's remark on PM Modi reflects?
- AA democratic mindset
- BAn anarchic mindsetCorrect
- CA progressive mindset
- DA conservative mindset
Explanation The BJP claimed that Rahul Gandhi's remark reflects an 'anarchic mindset'.
Environment
Centre Opposes New Hydroelectric Projects in Upper Ganga Region
The Indian government has informed the Supreme Court that it opposes the development of new hydroelectric projects in the upper Ganga region, specifically in the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi river basins in Uttarakhand. This stance was communicated through a common affidavit submitted by three Union Ministries. The government has clarified that no new projects should be permitted beyond the seven that have already been commissioned in these river basins.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 Which river basins in Uttarakhand are mentioned in the Centre's affidavit regarding hydroelectric projects?
- AYamuna and Saraswati
- BAlaknanda and BhagirathiCorrect
- CGanga and Yamuna
- DSutlej and Beas
Explanation The Centre's affidavit specifically mentions the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi river basins.
Q2 How many hydroelectric projects have already been commissioned in the upper Ganga region according to the Centre?
- AFive
- BSevenCorrect
- CTen
- DTwelve
Explanation The government stated that seven hydroelectric projects have already been commissioned.
Science & Tech
Samsung Faces Major Strike After Pay Talks with Union Collapse
Samsung is set to face a significant strike after negotiations with union leaders over employee compensation fell apart. The union has demanded that Samsung allocate 15% of its annual operating profit towards employee bonuses and remove the current bonus cap, which is set at 50% of annual salaries. The breakdown in talks has led to the announcement of a major strike scheduled for Thursday.
Source The Hindu
Practice MCQs
Q1 What percentage of its annual operating profit has the union demanded Samsung to spend on employee bonuses?
- A10%
- B15%Correct
- C20%
- D25%
Explanation The union has demanded that Samsung spend 15% of its annual operating profit on employee bonuses.
Q2 What is the current cap on employee bonuses at Samsung?
- A25% of annual salaries
- B50% of annual salariesCorrect
- C75% of annual salaries
- D100% of annual salaries
Explanation The current bonus cap at Samsung is set at 50% of annual salaries.
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