📚 Daily Current Affairs
22 May 2026

India's crude oil import volume declined by 4.3% in April, but the import bill surged by nearly 50% due to elevated international crude oil prices amid geopolitical tensions in West Asia.

• Despite importing less quantity, high global prices increased total expenditure significantly.
• Tensions around key maritime routes contributed to higher energy costs.
• Rising costs put pressure on domestic inflation, transport, and current account balance.

The Supreme Court clarified that pending sedition trials and appeals may proceed if the accused voluntarily agrees to continue the proceedings.

• No legal bar on continuing trial when accused has no objection.
• Judgment balances national security concerns with civil liberties and due process.
• Government is currently reconsidering the colonial-era provision.

India and the African Union decided to postpone the Fourth India–Africa Forum Summit due to the evolving Ebola outbreak situation in parts of Africa.

• New dates to be announced after further consultations.
• Reflects priority given to public health over diplomatic scheduling.
• Highlights close partnership between India and Africa.

An explainer detailed the functioning of Gaganyaan's Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS), designed to create Earth-like living conditions for astronauts.

• Maintains breathable air, safe oxygen levels, cabin pressure, temperature, humidity.
• CO2 removal uses lithium hydroxide canisters.
• Waste generated onboard treated chemically, stored safely, returned to Earth.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the Indian War Memorial in Seoul, commemorating contributions of Indian soldiers during and after the Korean War.

• Honours service of 60 Para Field Ambulance and Custodian Force of India (CFI).
• Happened coinciding with 75th anniversary of Korean War.
• Includes medical assistance and prisoner-of-war repatriation efforts.

Patna High Court questioned whether an NGO supplying midday meals should continue operations while an inquiry into alleged food contamination in Saharsa district is underway.

• Concern over pace of investigation.
• Reignited concerns regarding food safety standards and quality control.
• Emphasized transparency and safety in welfare schemes.

Editorial argues that Ladakh requires stronger democratic representation through an elected legislative institution rather than relying solely on administrative decentralisation measures.

• Creation of additional districts cannot replace legislative role.
• Delays in fulfilling promises regarding constitutional safeguards.
• Demands include Sixth Schedule protections and greater autonomy.

India strongly criticised Pakistan at the United Nations Security Council, highlighting civilian casualties caused by cross-border terrorism and accusing Pakistan of a historical record of genocidal acts.

• Rejected Pakistan's criticism on J&K; countered citing terrorism support.
• Referenced civilian deaths in Afghanistan from Pakistani territory.
• Highlighted atrocities in 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War.

The Supreme Court emphasised the need for a more victim-centric criminal justice system while hearing a plea related to the ₹100-crore chit fund scam involving Micro Finance Limited.

• Court observed victims pushed to margins in favor of accused rights.
• Highlighted hardships faced by small investors pursuing remedies.
• Shift in jurisprudence towards balancing accused rights with victim rights.

Prime Minister Petteri Orpo expressed hope that PM Narendra Modi could utilise India's channels with both Russia and Ukraine to encourage negotiations and end the conflict.

• Acknowledged India's unique diplomatic position (engagement with both sides).
• Discussed strengthening India–Finland relations in digital tech and sustainability.
• Emphasised early ratification of India-EU FTA.