Daily Current Affairs Digest | 4th May 2026

1. India–Nepal Territorial Issue Resurfaces

Nepal has objected to India’s use of the Lipulekh route for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, asserting claims over Lipulekh, Kalapani, and Limpiyadhura based on the Sugauli Treaty. The issue continues to be a sensitive point in bilateral relations.

2. US Launches Maritime Security Initiative

The United States has initiated “Project Freedom” to secure commercial shipping through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. The operation involves deployment of CENTCOM naval, air, unmanned systems, and around 15,000 personnel to ensure uninterrupted global trade flows.

3. India’s Press Freedom Ranking Declines

India has been ranked 157th out of 180 countries in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index, published by Reporters Without Borders. The country has slipped six places from 2025 and is now categorized under the “very serious” press freedom situation.

4. Historic Appointment in NITI Aayog

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the appointment of Dr Joram Aniya as a full-time member of NITI Aayog. She becomes the first representative from Arunachal Pradesh and the Northeast in the apex policy body.

5. Health Ministry Expands Child Healthcare Coverage

The Union Health Ministry has launched revised guidelines under Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram 2.0. The program now covers children from birth to 18 years, focusing on preventive, promotive, and curative healthcare services.

6. India’s Private Space Sector Milestone

Space-tech startup GalaxEye has launched Mission Drishti, the world’s first OptoSAR satellite and India’s largest privately developed Earth observation satellite. It was launched aboard the SpaceX Falcon 9 from California, marking a major leap in indigenous space capabilities.

7. Youngest Swimmer Conquers Palk Strait

Seven-year-old Ishank Singh from Ranchi has become the youngest swimmer to cross the Palk Strait. He completed the 29-km stretch from Talaimannar (Sri Lanka) to Dhanushkodi (India) in 9 hours and 50 minutes, achieving a remarkable milestone in open-water swimming.

8. India Tests Hypersonic Anti-Ship Missile

India has successfully conducted a test of its long-range hypersonic anti-ship missile developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation. The test, carried out off the Odisha coast, significantly enhances India’s maritime strike capability and deep-sea strategic reach.