NEWS 20-05-2026. News For 23rd-May (Saturday) International News 1. Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping held strategic talks in Beijing focused on expanding economic, defense, and geopolitical cooperation amid rising tensions with Western nations. 2. United States naval forces reportedly intercepted and boarded an Iranian-linked oil tanker near the Gulf of Oman, escalating tensions around key global shipping routes and energy supplies. 3. Global crude oil prices and shipping markets remain volatile as continued Middle East tensions near the Strait of Hormuz raise fears of disruptions to international trade and energy exports. 4. United Arab Emirates officially left OPEC after nearly 60 years, a move that could change global oil market dynamics and influence fuel prices worldwide. 5. Open AI is reportedly preparing for a possible IPO filing, a move that could become one of the most closely watched technology market events globally this year. National News 1. Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the India–Nordic Summit on May 19 happened in Norway where they discussed cooperation in green technology, clean energy, 6G research, and defense partnerships. 2. PM concluded a five-country tour covering UAE, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway and Italy to strengthen India’s ties in trade, technology, clean energy, defense, and global strategic cooperation. 3.India launched its first weather-based futures trading system through NCDEX, allowing businesses to manage risks related to Mumbai monsoon rainfall. Defence News 1. Indian Army began the multinational military exercise “PRAGATI” in Meghalaya with participation from 12 countries to improve joint operations, counter-terror coordination, and regional defense cooperation. 2. Indian Navy launched the first Next-Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel “Sanghamitra” on 20 May 2026 at Kolkata to strengthen maritime surveillance and coastal security. 3. DRDO recently completed the successful trials of the indigenous VSHORADS missile system in May 2026, moving it closer to induction into the armed forces. 4. India’s 4th S-400 air defence squadron is expected to be inducted during May 2026, with deployment likely along the western sector for stronger air defence coverage. Sports News 1. The Sports Ministry increased the overall sports budget by around 18% this year to about ?4,480 crore, with higher funding for Khelo India, TOPS(Target Olympic Podium Scheme) focusing on athlete training, sports science, and Olympic preparations. < < Back