Welcome to today’s TNPSC Daily Current Affairs for May 17, 2026.
This comprehensive compilation covers all important events across national politics,
international relations, science & technology, economy, sports, and more.
Sourced from The Hindu, Indian Express, PIB, and other reputed media.
Perfect for TNPSC Group 1, Group 2, Group 2A, and Group 4 exam preparation.

📌 Read in Tamil: தமிழில் படிக்க இங்கே கிளிக் செய்யவும்

🏛️ National Politics & Government

1. Cabinet Approves Rs 37,500 Crore Scheme for Promotion of Surface Coal/Lignite Gasification Projects

• What happened: Cabinet Approves Rs 37,500 Crore Scheme for Promotion of Surface Coal/Lignite Gasification Projects In May 2026, the Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister(PM) Narendra Modiapproved a newScheme for Promotion of Surface Coal/Lignite Gasification Projectswith a total budget outlay of Rs37,500 crore,aimed to boost clean energy production and reduce India’s reliance on imports of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), urea and methanol. AboutScheme for Promotion of Surface Coal/Lignite Gasification Projects:.
• Key points: The newly approved scheme is structured on the National Coal Gasification Mission(NCGM)which was launched in 2021.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Polity & Governance (GS Paper 2). Government policies and administration.

2. Extension of Coal Linkage Tenure:

• What happened: Extension of Coal Linkage Tenure:Also, the GoI has extended coal linkage tenure with a maximum time period of30 yearsunder the ‘Production of Syngas leading to Coal Gasification’ sub-sector in the Non-Regulated Sector (NRS) linkage auction framework. Incentive:The scheme will offer financial incentive up to 20% of the cost of plant and machinery.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Polity & Governance (GS Paper 2). Government policies and administration.

3. Disbursement of Incentive:

• What happened: Disbursement of Incentive:Under the scheme, incentive will be disbursed in four equal instalments, linked to project milestones.
• Key points: The GoI has capped the financial incentive for any single project atRs.5,000 crore; for any single product (excluding SNG and Urea) atRs.9,000 crore; and any single entity group atRs.12,000 croreacross all projects.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Polity & Governance (GS Paper 2). Government policies and administration.

4. Cabinet Approves MSP for Kharif Crops for Marketing Season 2026-27

• What happened: Cabinet Approves MSP for Kharif Crops for Marketing Season 2026-27In May 2026, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by the Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi approved the increase in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for14 Kharif Cropsfor marketing season 2026-27.Key HighlightsHighest Increase:The highest absolute increase in MSP over the previous year has been recommended for: Food grains:Among major food grains, the MSP for common paddy has been increased toRs 2,441per quintal for the 2026-27 season, up by Rs 72 from the previous MSP.
• Key points: Sunflower seeds atRs 622per quintal; Cotton atRs 557per quintal; Sesamum atRs 500per quintal; Grade A paddy has been fixed atRs 2461per quintal.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Polity & Governance (GS Paper 2). Government policies and administration.

5. MoPSW Signed Tripartite MoU for First Mega Greenfield Shipyard at Thoothukudi, TN

• What happened: MoPSW Signed Tripartite MoU for First Mega Greenfield Shipyard at Thoothukudi, TNIn May 2026, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways(MoPSW)under Government of India (GoI), signed atripartiteMemorandum of Understanding(MoU)with HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering Co., Limited(HD KSOE),National Shipbuilding & Heavy Industries Park Tamil Nadu Limited(NSHIP-TN)and Sagarmala Finance Corporation Limited(SMFCL), MoPSW, for the development ofIndia’s first Mega Greenfield ShipyardatThoothukudi, Tamil Nadu (TN). About Thoothukudi Greenfield Shipyard:Shipyard:The Greenfield shipyard is being developed from scratch as the anchor facility of the Thoothukudi Shipbuilding Cluster under NSHIP-TN, integrating Industry 4.0 technologies, smart manufacturing, and sustainable shipbuilding systems.Capacity:The proposed shipyard will have an annual shipbuilding capacity of 2.5 Million Gross Tonnage (MGT), contributing more than half of India’s 4.5 MGT target under Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047(MAKV 2047).Infrastructure:The Techno-Economic Feasibility Report (TEFR) has been completed, the Detailed Project Report (DPR) is under preparation, and the project has received in-principle approval from the National Shipbuilding Mission (NSbM).
• Key details: Union MinisterPiyushGoyalReleases LEADS 2025 Report; TN & UP Emerge as Top Logistics PerformersIn May 2026,Union MinisterPiyushGoyal,Ministry of Commerce & Industry (MoC&I), released the7thedition of Logistics Ease Across Different States(LEADS) 2025 reportat the Logistics Excellence, Advancement and Performance Shield(LEAPS) Awards 2025 ceremony, organised by Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), MoC&I, in New Delhi, Delhi. About LEADS 2025 Report:New Performance Categories:The latest LEADS framework has transitioned from its previous three-tier classification (Achievers, Fast Movers, and Aspirers)to four-tier performance framework (Exemplars, High Performers, Accelerators and Growth-Seekers). LEAPS 2025 Awards:During the event,Union Minister of Piyush Goyal felicitated the winners of LEAPS Awards 2025 across 13 categories.
• Key points: The MoU was exchanged in the presence of Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, MoPSW, during the State Visit of President of the Republic of Korea (ROK) Lee Jae Myung to India in April 2026, under the India-ROK Comprehensive Framework‘VOYAGES’(Shared Vision for Operation of Yard Assisted Growth with Efficiency and Scale).; As per the report, Tamil Nadu(TN), Uttar Pradesh(UP), MizoramandDelhihave been categorized as ‘Exemplars’ for their exceptional logistics performance.; The latest edition of the LEADS report has categorised11 states and UTssuch as Gujarat, Kerala, Maharashtra, Puducherry, Jammu & Kashmir (J&K), among others, as high performers.; 18 states and UTssuch as: Punjab, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh (AP), Ladakh, Lakshadweep, among others, have been categorised asAccelerators.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Polity & Governance (GS Paper 2). Government policies and administration.

6. Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia Launches Rs.189.79 Crore Mizoram Ginger Mission

• What happened: Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia Launches Rs.189.79 Crore Mizoram Ginger MissionIn May 2026, Union MinisterJyotiraditya Madhavrao (M.) Scindia, Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) and Ministry of Communications, and Chief Minister (CM) of MizoramLalduhoma, launched theRs 189.79 crore Mizoram Ginger Mission, a convergence-led initiative for ginger cultivation and value chain development in Mizoram.About Mizoram Ginger Mission:Objective:The Mission aims to promote Geographical Indication (GI)-certified pharma-grade Mizo Ginger in international markets, enhance farmer income through processing, branding and exports, reduce post-harvest losses, and strengthen farmer participation across the agricultural value chain.Convergence:The Mission is anchored byMDoNERin convergence with Schemes of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (MoAFW), Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD), Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) and the Government of Mizoram.Processing:The initiative will establish one integrated processing hub and three spoke centres supported by over 30 strategic interventions focused on traceability, quality assurance and farmer-led value creation.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Polity & Governance (GS Paper 2). Government policies and administration.

7. DBN, AP sign pact for BharatNet expansion with Rs.2,432 cr financial aid

• What happened: DBN, AP sign pact for BharatNet expansion with Rs.2,432 cr financial aidIn May 2026, Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN), under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Government of Andhra Pradesh (AP), signed an Agreement for the implementation of theAmended BharatNet Programme(ABP) in the state under the State-led model at Sanchar Bhawan, New Delhi, Delhi. About Amended BharatNet Programme:Objective:The programme aims to upgrade, expand, and strengthen the BharatNet network to provide reliable, future-ready broadband connectivity to all Gram Panchayats (GPs) and villages on a demand basis.Implementation:The Government of India has allocatedRs.
• Key details: 2,432 crorefor its implementation in Andhra Pradesh. It will be implemented through APBIL. The project covers13,426 Gram Panchayats(GPs) through phases.
• Key points: The Agreement was signed between Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN), DoT, Government of Andhra Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh BharatNet Infrastructure Limited (APBIL), Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), and Andhra Pradesh State FiberNet Limited (APSFL).
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Polity & Governance (GS Paper 2). Government policies and administration.

8. IEPFA–Prasar Bharati Signs MoU to Strengthen Investor Education Initiatives

• What happened: IEPFA–Prasar Bharati Signs MoU to Strengthen Investor Education InitiativesIn May 2026, the Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA), under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MoCA), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) withPrasar Bharati(PB), a public service broadcaster under the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB), to strengthen investor awareness initiatives across the country through informativescroll messages on Doordarshan’snational and regional channels. AboutIEPFA–Prasar Bharati MoU:Awareness Outreach: The collaboration will use PB’s broadcasting network to spread awareness about investor rights and reclaiming unclaimed dividends and shares transferred to the IEPFA through Doordarshan channels, including in remote regions.Investor Services:The initiative will encourage investors to use facilities such as the Search Facility and claim filing through FormIEPF-5,while also promoting awareness about fraud prevention and safe investing practices.Financial Inclusion:The MoU reflects IEPFA’s commitment to strengthening investor awareness and promoting financial inclusion through collaboration with public institutions.
• Key points: The MoU was signed by Lieutenant Colonel(Lt. Col.) Aditya Sinha, General Manager(GM), IEPFA and Sanjay Prasad, Deputy Director General, PB(Sales) in the presence of Anita Shah Akella, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), IEPFA and Joint Secretary, MoCA, in New Delhi, Delhi.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Polity & Governance (GS Paper 2). Government policies and administration.

💰 Economy & Banking

9. RBI Removes Prior Approval Requirement for Banks’ Outward Remittance Tie-ups with Fintechs

• What happened: RBI Removes Prior Approval Requirement for Banks’ Outward Remittance Tie-ups with FintechsIn May 2026, the Reserve Bank of India(RBI)removed the prior approvalrequirement for non-bank entities(fintechs) to form tie-up arrangements enabling outward remittance services through banks in India. Key Details:Previous Arrangement:Under the previous 2016 framework, non-bank entities were mandated to obtain RBI approval before entering into tie-up arrangements with AD banks in India, for outward remittance services.Applicability:The updated framework will be applicable to cross-border outward remittance of funds for non trade current account transactions facilitated via websites, online platforms, software applications (apps), and mobile apps operated by 3rd-party entities.Compliance:As per RBI directions, AD banks have been mandated to adhere to the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999(FEMA)and perform due diligence through Know Your Customer(KYC).Other Key Directions:In addition, banks have been directed to inform customers about the exact foreign exchange amount to be credited and the maximum time required for the beneficiary to receive funds.
• Key points: This direction is part of the operating framework issued by RBI to facilitate outward remittance services by non-bank entities through Authorised Dealer(AD) Category-Ibanks in India.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Economy (GS Paper 3). Banking, monetary policy, fiscal developments.

10. CTBC Bank Becomes 1st Taiwanese Bank to Open Branch at GIFT City, Gujarat

• What happened: CTBC Bank Becomes 1st Taiwanese Bank to Open Branch at GIFT City, GujaratIn May 2026,CTBC Bank Co. Ltd.,announced the opening of its new branch at Gujarat International Finance Tec-City(GIFT) City in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, becoming the1st Taiwanese bankto establish its presence in India’s premier International Financial Services Centre (IFSC).Key Details:Regulatory Approval:The branch was established after obtaining the required approvals from the International Financial Services Centres Authority(IFSCA).The development marks a key milestone in enhancing financial and economic cooperation between India and Taiwan.Significance:The key focus of CTBC bank’s new branch in GIFT City is to support cross-border financing, trade, and investment flows and financial connectivity between India, Taiwan, and the wider Asia region.Commitment:With 30 years of presence in India, CTBC bank with its existing branches in New Delhi (Delhi) and Kattupakkam, Chennai (Tamil Nadu, TN), has continued to support its customers through evolving economic conditions and regional integration.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Economy (GS Paper 3). Banking, monetary policy, fiscal developments.

11. APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

• What happened: APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS AINRCLeader N. RangasamyTakes Oath as CM of PuducherryOn May 13 2026,N.
• Key details: Rangasamy, the leader of the All India N.R. Congress (AINRC) from Thattanchavady and Mangalam constituencies, was sworn in as the Chief Minister(CM)of Puducherryfor a fifth term, after the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) secured a majority in 2026 Assembly polls. With this, he became the first leader in the history of the Union Territory of Puducherry to serve as CM for a fifth term.
• Key points: The oath of office and secrecy was administered by the Lieutenant Governor(LG),Kuniyil Kailashnathan, at Lok Nivas, Puducherry.; Along with CM N. Rangasamy, two cabinet members: Malladi Krishna Raofrom the regional party andA. Namassivayamof the Bharatiya Janata Party(BJP), also took oath as ministers in the AINRC-led NDA government.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Economy (GS Paper 3). Banking, monetary policy, fiscal developments.

12. Yoweri Museveni Sworn in as President of Uganda for Seventh Term

• What happened: Yoweri Museveni Sworn in as President of Uganda for Seventh TermOn May 13 2026,Yoweri Museveni, the leader of the National Resistance Movement(NRM), was sworn in as thePresident of Ugandafor seventh term, following his victory in the country’s presidential election held in January 2026.Key Highlights:Oath Ceremony:Yoweri Museveni took the oath of office at Kololo Independence Grounds in Kampala, Uganda, during a ceremony marked by fly-pasts of Russian-made Sukhoi fighter jets.Long Tenure:Museveni first came to power as a rebel leader in 1986 and has since won seven elections, making him one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders.Election Result:Museveni secured over 71% of the vote, while opposition leader Bobi Wine received nearly 25% amid reports of internet blackout and opposition intimidation during the January election.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Economy (GS Paper 3). Banking, monetary policy, fiscal developments.

13. Jio Platforms Appoints Akash Ambani as MD for Five-Year Term

• What happened: Jio Platforms Appoints Akash Ambani as MD for Five-Year TermIn May 2026, Jio Platforms Limited(JPL),the digital services arm of Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), appointedAkash Ambanias its first Managing Director(MD)for afive-year termeffective from April 9, 2026.AboutAkash Ambani:Background:Akash Ambani, the eldest son of Mukesh Ambani, Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of Reliance Industries, joined the Board of Reliance Jio Infocomm Limited (RJIL) in October 2014, currently serves as its Chairman since June 2022.Retail:He also serves as Director on the board of Reliance Retail Ventures Limited (RRVL) and contributed to India’s data and digital connectivity revolution.Sports:He is the co-owner of Mumbai Indians, a five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champion franchise, and promotes football through the Indian Super League (ISL).Recognition:He was included in the TIME100 Next 2022 list by TIME as one of the world’s rising leaders for shaping the future through extraordinary contributions.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Economy (GS Paper 3). Banking, monetary policy, fiscal developments.

🌿 Environment & Geography

14. ZSI Discovers Two New Spider Species in Nagaland;

• What happened: ZSI Discovers Two New Spider Species in Nagaland;Revises Indian Whip Scorpions After a CenturyIn May 2026, Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) discovered two new spider species,PsechrusntuandPsechrusphenshunyu, in Nagaland and completed the first comprehensive taxonomic revision ofIndian whip scorpions ‘Thelyphonids’in over 100 years. About the Findings:Spider:The newly discovered spider species were named after Ntu and Phenshunyu villages in Nagaland, highlighting Northeast India as a biodiversity hotspot.Species:Both species belong to the genusPsechrusunder the familyPsechridaeandPsechrushimalayanuswas recorded in the region for the first time.Whip Scorpions:Whip Scorpions, or Vinegaroons, are non-venomous arachnids distinct from true scorpions, characterised by whip-like tails (flagella), enlarged pedipalps for catching prey, and acetic acid-like defensive spray mechanisms.
• Key points: The findings were published in the International JournalZootaxa.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: Environment & Ecology (GS Paper 3). Conservation and geography.

📘 General Knowledge & Miscellaneous

15. International Day of Families 2026 – May 15

• What happened: International Day of Families 2026 – May 15The United Nations(UN’s) International Day of Families(IDF)is observed annually on15 Mayto highlight the role of families in societal development and address global social, economic, and demographic challenges. Background:Declaration:In1989, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) proclaimed 1994 as the International Year of the Family through Resolution 44/82.IDF Designation:In1993,the UNGA adopted Resolution A/RES/47/237, declaring 15 May as the annual International Day of Families.
• Key details: The observance is coordinated by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) through its Division for Inclusive Social Development (DISD).First Observance:The first IDF was observed on15 May 1994.Symbol:The International Day of Families is represented by a green circle enclosing a red heart beneath a roof, symbolising home and family. *******.
• Key points: 2026 Theme:“Families, Inequalities and Child Wellbeing”
• Why it matters for TNPSC: General Knowledge. Important for TNPSC prelims.

16. Current Affairs Today (AffairsCloud Today)

• What happened: Current Affairs Today (AffairsCloud Today).
• Why it matters for TNPSC: General Knowledge. Important for TNPSC prelims.

17. Current Affairs 15 May 2026

• What happened: Current Affairs 15 May 2026Cabinet Approves Rs 37,500 Crore Scheme for Promotion of Surface Coal/Lignite Gasification ProjectsCabinet Approves MSP for Kharif Crops for Marketing Season 2026-27MoPSW Signed Tripartite MoU for First Mega Greenfield Shipyard at Thoothukudi, TNUnion Minister Piyush Goyal Releases LEADS 2025 Report; TN & UP Emerge as Top Logistics PerformersMeitY Launches IP Catalyst and Digital Platform to Transform Patents into ProductsMHI Unveils Unified Bharat e-Charge; Approves 1,243 EV Chargers for KarnatakaUnion Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia Launches Rs.189.79 Crore Mizoram Ginger MissionDBN, AP sign pact for BharatNet expansion with Rs.2,432 cr financial aidIndiaAI Mission Signs MoU with Karya to Strengthen Inclusive AI EcosystemIEPFA–Prasar Bharati Signs MoU to Strengthen Investor Education InitiativesRBI Removes Prior Approval Requirement for Banks’ Outward Remittance Tie-ups with FintechsCTBC Bank Becomes 1st Taiwanese Bank to Open Branch at GIFT City, GujaratAINRC Leader N.
• Key details: Rangasamy Takes Oath as CM of PuducherryYoweri Museveni Sworn in as President of Uganda for Seventh TermJio Platforms Appoints Akash Ambani as MD for Five-Year TermZSI Discovers Two New Spider Species in Nagaland; Revises Indian Whip Scorpions After a CenturyInternational Day of Families 2026 – May 15 Aspirant:Does Affairscloud covers all the Current affairs topics related to examinations?Affairscloud:We Guaranteed All the Important topics related to examination are covered in Our Daily CA content and Daily CA Quizzes.Aspirant:Why is there a delayal in news?Affairscloud:As some of the major news sites doesn’t provide the required data on the exact day, we take extra time for important data to be presented to the aspirants on the examination basis to ensure nothing is missed.Example:In ‘Important Days’ topics the International Organisations publish their reports and Rankings in the evenings, to make sure every data is covered, we delay the topics to the next day.Candidates appearing for Competitive Exams. Kindly Share the General Awareness questions,which asked in their respective exams to“[email protected]”Dear Aspirants,We would like to inform you that, startingJanuary 2025,all Current Affairs Hindi Contentwill be accessible only through theCareersCloud app and CareersCloud.in website. Make sure to download the app or visit the website to continue accessing the content seamlessly.Thank you for your understanding and continued support! AffairsCloud Recommends Oliveboard Mock TestIBPS RRB Officer – Free Mock TestIBPS RRB Assistant – Free Mock TestSBI Clerk – Free Mock TestSBI PO – Free Mock TestIBPS Clerk – Free Mock TestRBI Grade B – Free Mock Test AffairsCloud Ebook – Support Us to GrowDownload Current Affairs APPWe are Hiring: Subject Matter Expert (English/Reasoning/Aptitude) – Freelancer/Full Time Govt Jobs by CategoryBank Jobs 2026- Various VacanciesGovernment Jobs 2026- Various VacanciesRailway Jobs 2026- Various VacanciesSSC Recruitment 2026- Various VacanciesSarkari Result 2026 Bank Jobs NotificationNIACL AO Recruitment 2024 – 170 Vacancies | Check Eligibility & Vacancy NowIOB Apprentice Recruitment 2024 – 550 Posts | Apply NowUnion Bank of India Apprentice Recruitment 2024 – 500 Posts | Apply NowIBPS SO 2024 Online Registration Last Date Extended – Check NowIBPS PO 2024 Online Registration Last Date Extended – Check Now.
• Why it matters for TNPSC: General Knowledge. Important for TNPSC prelims.

📝 Practice Questions (MCQs)

Test your knowledge with these questions based on today’s current affairs:

Q1. Which of the following is related to: Cabinet Approves Rs 37,500 Crore Scheme for Promotion of Surface Coal/Lignite Gasification Projects?

(a) Option A – to be filled with specific details
(b) Option B – to be filled with specific details
(c) Correct answer from the news item
(d) Option D – to be filled with specific details

Q2. Which of the following is related to: Extension of Coal Linkage Tenure:?

(a) Option A – to be filled with specific details
(b) Option B – to be filled with specific details
(c) Correct answer from the news item
(d) Option D – to be filled with specific details

Q3. Which of the following is related to: Disbursement of Incentive:?

(a) Option A – to be filled with specific details
(b) Option B – to be filled with specific details
(c) Correct answer from the news item
(d) Option D – to be filled with specific details

Q4. Which of the following is related to: Cabinet Approves MSP for Kharif Crops for Marketing Season 2026-27?

(a) Option A – to be filled with specific details
(b) Option B – to be filled with specific details
(c) Correct answer from the news item
(d) Option D – to be filled with specific details

Q5. Which of the following is related to: MoPSW Signed Tripartite MoU for First Mega Greenfield Shipyard at Thoothukudi, TN?

(a) Option A – to be filled with specific details
(b) Option B – to be filled with specific details
(c) Correct answer from the news item
(d) Option D – to be filled with specific details