Asiatic Lions  

• The Asiatic lion population in Gujarat increased by 32.2%, reaching 891 in 2025 from 674 in 2020, with over 44% now living outside protected areas.  
• The growth is credited to Project Lion, which improved habitats, prey base, and reduced conflicts in the Gir landscape.  
• The 16^th census used a scientific beat verification method and advanced tech tools like GPS tracking and GIS monitoring for accurate lion conservation.  

Asiatic Lion  

Karni Mata Temple  

• The Karni Mata Temple in Deshnoke, near Bikaner, stands out for its centuries-old tradition where rats, called ‘Kaba’, are considered sacred.   
• Thousands of rats reside in the temple and are believed to be incarnations of Karni Mata's family members.   
• PM Modi inaugurate Deshnok Railway Station, and flag off the Bikaner–Mumbai Express under the Amrit Bharat Yojana.  

Karni Mata Mandir  

Konkan Railway  

• The Maharashtra government has approved the merger of Konkan Railway Corporation Limited (KRCL) with Indian Railways.  
• The Konkan route, known for its scenic landscape, is vital for passenger and goods movement along the western coast.

Keezhadi Excavation Report

• The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) returned the Keezhadi Excavation Report (2014–16) by K Amarnath Ramakrishna, asking for corrections in chronology, terminology, and inclusion of detailed maps.  
• The report dates the Sangam Age to around 800 BCE, indicating an ancient urban Tamil civilisation earlier than previously believed.  
• Scholars and Members of Parliament (MPs) allege the delay is politically motivated and an attempt to undermine Tamil Nadu’s historical legacy.

14^th ESG Meeting

• The 14th India–UK Executive Steering Group (ESG) meeting was held in New Delhi and Hisar from 20–21 May 2025, involving the Indian and British Armies.  
• Discussions focused on the Annual Defence Cooperation Plan, Exercise AJEYA WARRIOR, and strengthening military training and think tank partnerships.  
• Both sides explored deeper collaboration in niche technologies, operational training, and improving interoperability and capability development.

Golden Dome  

• Golden Dome is a space-based missile defence system announced by US President Donald Trump, inspired by Israel’s Iron Dome.  
• It aims to intercept hypersonic and space-launched missiles, requiring a vast network of satellites.  
• The system is planned to be partially operational by 2029, but poses major technical and financial challenges.