Key UPSC Current Affairs Highlights: May 11-17, 2026
Top 20 UPSC Current Affairs Pointers of the past week | May 11 to May 17, 2026
Image: The Indian Express
This week's UPSC Current Affairs highlights include the return of the Anaimangalam Chola Copper Plates from the Netherlands, India's consideration to cut withholding tax on foreign bond investments amid a $38 billion drop in forex reserves, and significant advancements in hypersonic missile technology by DRDO. These events reflect India's cultural heritage, economic policy adjustments, and technological progress.
- 01The Anaimangalam Chola Copper Plates, returned by the Netherlands, are significant artifacts from the Chola dynasty, dating back to the reign of Rajaraja I.
- 02India's foreign exchange reserves have decreased by nearly $38 billion since March 2025, prompting a review of the withholding tax on foreign investments.
- 03DRDO achieved a 1,200-second runtime for its scramjet combustor, marking a major milestone in hypersonic missile technology.
- 04The NITI Aayog report indicates an 8% drop in overall school enrollment in India from 2014-15 to 2024-25.
- 05The National Florence Nightingale Awards were presented to 15 nursing professionals in recognition of their exceptional service.
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During the week of May 11-17, 2026, significant events unfolded in India that are crucial for UPSC aspirants. The Dutch government returned the Anaimangalam Chola Copper Plates, which are vital records from the Chola dynasty, marking a 14-year effort for their repatriation. In economic news, India's foreign exchange reserves have dropped by nearly $38 billion since March 2025, leading the government to consider reducing the withholding tax on foreign bond investments from 20% to 5% to attract capital inflows. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) made strides in hypersonic technology, achieving a 1,200-second runtime for its scramjet combustor, a key milestone for future missile systems. Additionally, a report by NITI Aayog highlighted an 8% decline in school enrollment over the past decade, underscoring challenges in the education sector. Lastly, the National Florence Nightingale Awards recognized the contributions of 15 nursing professionals, emphasizing the importance of healthcare workers in society.
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The potential reduction in withholding tax could attract foreign investment, stabilizing India's forex reserves and impacting the overall economy.
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