In today’s report, we cover the important current affairs for 19 May 2026. These insights are designed to be highly beneficial for candidates preparing for various government job exams in West Bengal.
Table of Contents
International News
Netherlands Returns Historical ‘Anaimangalam Copper Plates’
After more than 160 years, Leiden University in the Netherlands has decided to return the 11th-century Anaimangalam Copper Plates to India. These historical artifacts will soon be handed over to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
Engraved in Tamil and Sanskrit, these 21 large and 3 small plates provide deep insights into the relationship between the Chola Dynasty and the Srivijaya Empire. They specifically contain detailed records regarding the grant of the Anaimangalam village for Buddhist monasteries.
Related Static GK
- The Chola Dynasty was founded by Vijayalaya, and their capital was Thanjavur.
- These plates weigh approximately 30 kg and feature the royal seal of Rajendra Chola I.
PM Narendra Modi Honored with Sweden’s Highest Award
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been conferred with Sweden’s highest honor, the ‘Royal Order of the Polar Star (Degree Commander Grand Cross)’. Sweden’s Crown Princess Victoria personally presented the award to him.
He received this recognition for his contributions to strengthening defense, green hydrogen, and trade ties between India and Sweden. Notably, Modi is the first Asian leader to receive this prestigious award.
Related Static GK
- The capital of Sweden is Stockholm, and the currency is the Swedish Krona.
- The Royal Order of the Polar Star was established in 1748 by King Frederick I.
3rd India-Nordic Summit Held in Oslo
On 19 May, the 3rd India-Nordic Summit took place in Oslo, the capital of Norway. The summit was attended by the heads of state from Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland.
The discussions primarily focused on the Blue Economy, Arctic cooperation, and technological partnerships. Additionally, India pledged to collaborate with these nations to combat climate change.
Related Static GK
- The Nordic countries include Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland.
- Oslo is globally renowned as the host city for the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony.
National News
India-Netherlands Collaboration for the Kalpasar Project in Gujarat
The water ministries of India and the Netherlands have signed a technical agreement to implement the ‘Kalpasar Project’ in Gujarat. The goal is to create the world’s largest freshwater reservoir by building a 30-km-long dam in the Gulf of Khambhat.
By preventing excess water from the Narmada, Tapi, Mahi, and Sabarmati rivers from flowing into the sea, this reservoir will store vital water resources. This will help mitigate drinking water and irrigation issues in the drought-prone Saurashtra region.
Related Static GK
- The Gulf of Khambhat is part of the Arabian Sea, located west of the Gujarat coast.
- The Netherlands will provide its advanced ‘Delta Works’ marine engineering technology for this project.
India’s First AI-Powered ‘Phygital’ Banking Branch
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has inaugurated India’s first AI-powered ‘Phygital’ banking branch in Guwahati. The branch has been established by Slice Small Finance Bank.
Customers here get the benefit of physical banking combined with a seamless, paperless digital experience. Artificial Intelligence will be used to expedite credit scoring and loan-related decision-making for customers.
Related Static GK
- The current Governor of Assam is Gulab Chand Kataria.
- The term ‘Phygital’ refers to the synergy between physical and digital systems.
India Assumes Presidency of the CCDB
India has assumed the presidency of the ‘Common Criteria Development Board’ (CCDB) for the next two years (April 2026 to April 2028). The decision was made during a meeting held in Tokyo, Japan.
This board sets global standards for IT security and cybersecurity. India’s presidency will further strengthen the country’s technological influence in the field of cyber security.
Related Static GK
- The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) is the Indian nodal agency for this board.
- The CCDB oversees the technical management of ISO/IEC 15408 standards.
State News
V.D. Satheesan Sworn in as the 13th CM of Kerala
Senior Congress leader V.D. Satheesan has taken the oath as the 13th Chief Minister of Kerala. Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar administered the oath at a ceremony held at the Raj Bhavan.
Satheesan has been elected as an MLA from the Paravur constituency for six consecutive terms. He previously served as the Leader of the Opposition, where he played a very active role.
Related Static GK
- Kerala is known as the ‘Spice Garden’ of India.
- Kathakali and Mohiniyattam are the famous classical dances of Kerala.
Karnataka Launches Drug Monitoring Portal
The Karnataka government has launched India’s first tech-based integrated Drug Monitoring Portal. This system will enable the identification and rapid removal of Not of Standard Quality (NSQ) drugs from the market.
This digital system will also work to curb the illegal black marketing of drugs and ensure strict implementation of the NDPS Act. It is India’s first digital drug recall system.
Related Static GK
- The current Chief Minister of Karnataka is Siddaramaiah.
- The NDPS Act was enacted in 1985 to control the sale and abuse of drugs.
Health and Important Days
International Museum Day: 18 May
International Museum Day is observed worldwide on 18 May. The theme for 2026 is “Museums Uniting a Divided World.”
The purpose of this day is to promote the importance of museums and the need for cultural exchange among the general public. Notably, World AIDS Vaccine Day is also observed on 18 May.
Related Static GK
- The International Council of Museums (ICOM) was established in 1946, with its headquarters in Paris.
- The Indian Museum in Kolkata is the largest and oldest museum in India (established in 1814).
79th World Health Assembly in Geneva
The 79th World Health Assembly, organized by the World Health Organization (WHO), is currently being held in Geneva, Switzerland. The session, running from 18 to 23 May, is often referred to as the “World Health Parliament.”
Representatives from over 165 countries are participating to discuss universal health coverage and strategies for preventing future pandemics.
Related Static GK
- The World Health Organization (WHO) was established on 7 April 1948.
- The current Director-General of WHO is Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
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