Overview

Every year on 12 May, the world celebrates the International Day of Plant Health. This day reminds us why healthy plants are important. Plants give us food and oxygen. But pests and diseases harm them. The theme for 2026 is "Plant Biosecurity for Food Security." The United Nations and the Food and Agriculture Organization support this day. This topic is very useful for competitive exams like UPSC, SSC, Banking, and NABARD.

Overview

India has activated a large surveillance network of 165 laboratories to monitor hantavirus infections. The move came after reports of hantavirus cases linked to the MV Hondius cruise ship. The Union Health Ministry started precautionary monitoring to protect public health and strengthen early virus detection across the country.

Overview

On 11 May 2026, the Tamil Nadu government ordered the formation of the Singappen Special Task Force. This force is for women’s safety and preventive protection. It works under the direct supervision of Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay. This is one of his first initiatives after taking oath on 10 May 2026. The first phase has 36 sanctioned posts and is headed by an Inspector General of Police.

Overview

India’s women’s recurve archery team made history at the Archery World Cup Stage 2 in Shanghai. The trio of Deepika Kumari, Ankita Bhakat, and Kumkum Mohod defeated host China in a dramatic shoot-off final. India won 5-4 after a 28-26 shoot-off. This is India’s first recurve World Cup gold medal since 2021.

Overview

Himanta Biswa Sarma will take oath as the Chief Minister of Assam on 12 May 2026. This will be his second consecutive term. The BJP-led NDA won 102 seats in the 126-member Assam Legislative Assembly. The oath ceremony will take place at the Veterinary College Field in Khanapara, Guwahati, at 11:40 AM.