Amid West Asia tensions and fears of global fuel supply disruption, the Centre said India has adequate fuel stocks and strong forex reserves to manage short-term energy shocks.
Key Data
Crude oil reserves: 60 days Natural gas reserves: 60 days LPG rolling stock: 45 days Forex reserves: around $703 billion
India ranks around 4th globally in forex reserves. 1st: China 2nd: Japan 3rd: Switzerland
China is unlikely to join the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA), a global conservation initiative led by India. Saudi Arabia has confirmed membership. India will host the first IBCA summit from June 1–3.
IBCA Basics
Launched: 2023 during 50 years of Project Tiger Headquarters: New Delhi
Aim: Conservation of big cats, habitats and prey base through global cooperation, research, anti-poaching and capacity building
Members: 24 member countries + 3 observer countries ~95 countries expected in first summit No mandatory financial commitments for members
Vietnamese President Tô Lâm’s India visit (May 5–7, 2026) marked a major step in deepening India–Vietnam ties amid evolving Indo-Pacific geopolitics. Both countries upgraded ties to an Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
Strategic Importance of Vietnam for India
Vietnam is central to India’s Act East and Indo-Pacific strategy.
Both countries share concerns over China’s assertiveness in the South China Sea.
Partnership supports rules-based maritime order and strategic autonomy in Indo-Pacific.
Vietnam is an important ASEAN manufacturing hub helping India diversify supply chains away from China.
Defence & Security Cooperation
Defence cooperation remains the backbone of India–Vietnam partnership.
The Centre notified the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026 replacing the 2016 Rules to strengthen scientific waste processing, recycling and circular economy practices amid rising urban and rural waste challenges.
The Supreme Court asked the Union Government to examine whether institutions imparting religious instruction should continue to enjoy protections available to minority educational institutions under Article 30(1) or be treated as religious institutions under Article 26(a).
Core Issue
The petition argued that institutions mainly teaching religion should fall under Article 26(a) dealing with religious and charitable institutions, not under Article 30(1) or Article 19(1)(g).
Why It Matters
Article 30(1) gives minority educational institutions greater autonomy and protection from excessive State interference.
Bringing such institutions under Article 26(a) could allow stronger government regulation, monitoring and supervision.
Supreme Court’s Stand
The Court said the matter falls within the policy domain of the government and Ministry of Education and did not intervene presently.
Minority Educational Institutions
A Platform OF The Students For The Students By The Students
About the UPSC Civil Services Examination (UPSC CSE)
The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is one of the most competitive and esteemed examinations in India, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission to recruit officers for services such as the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), and others. The exam comprises three stages — Prelims, Mains, and the Personality Test (Interview) — designed to test a candidate’s knowledge, aptitude, decision-making, and leadership skills.
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