Daily Current Affairs — 21 May 2025
6 articles • UPSC Prelims & Mains
MR Srinivasan: A Key Architect of India’s Nuclear Programme
Context Recently, Dr. Srinivasan, renowned nuclear scientist and former Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) chairman passed away. Recent Advancements Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR): India has entered Stage II of its nuclear programme with the core-loading of the PFBR at Kalpakkam.
The New Oil Conflict
Context A new oil war is unfolding through production and pricing strategies rather than armed conflict, with far-reaching global economic implications. Background Recently OPEC+ decided to increase crude oil output by 411,000 barrels per day (bpd) from June 2025. This marks the third consecutive month of production increase, reversing part of the 2.2 million bpd voluntary cuts taken in 2023.
GeM Celebrates 8th Incorporation Day
Context Government e Marketplace (GeM), India’s national public procurement portal, marked its 8th Incorporation Day. Government e-Marketplace GeM is a one stop portal to facilitate online procurement of common use Goods Services required by various Government Departments / Organizations / PSUs. It was launched in 2016, and is operated by the GeM SPV (Special Purpose Vehicle), a 100% government-owned company under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
Disinformation Concerns in India
Context During the recent India-Pakistan crisis, misinformation was spread in social media platforms. India’s Disinformation Challenge: Growing Internet Penetration: India is on track to surpass 900 million internet users, making it highly vulnerable to disinformation without appropriate regulations. Diverse Landscape, High Risk: Indias political, social, and linguistic diversity creates fertile ground for manipulated narratives, voter influence, and social unrest.
WHO Adopts Pandemic Agreement
In News WHO Member States approved a historic resolution calling for adoption of the WHO Pandemic Agreement, aimed at making the world safer from future pandemics. Key Provisions Establishment of a Pathogen Access and Benefit Sharing (PABS) system, to be negotiated and presented at next year’s World Health Assembly. Creation of a Coordinating Financial Mechanism and a Global Supply Chain and Logistics Network (GSCL) to ensure equitable and timely access to pandemic-related health products.
SC Mandates 3-Year Practice to Appear in Judicial Services Examinations
Context The Supreme Court restored the condition that a minimum of three years practice as an advocate is required for candidates applying to entry-level judicial service examinations. Background The issue dates back to the 14th Law Commission Report, 1958, which proposed 3–5 years of experience as a requirement for lower subordinate judges in every State. For higher judiciary, an All India Judicial Services (AIJS), a centralised recruitment system for judges, was proposed.