Daily Current Affairs – May 19, 2026

Economists estimate the surplus transfer-often referred to as the central bank's dividend to the government-in the range of Rs 2.7 lakh crore to Rs 3 lakh crore. In the FY27 Union Budget, the government has estimated Rs 3.16 lakh crore in dividends from state-owned companies and surplus transfers from the central bank. Last year, the RBI transferred Rs 2.68 lakh crore, 27% higher than the previous year.

The India-EU Free Trade Agreement will be signed by the end of 2026. It will be made operational quickly. This deal will cut tariffs on over 90 percent of goods. European companies will gain access to India's economy. A bilateral investment agreement is also being fast-tracked. This partnership aims to build resilient supply chains.

Despite the predictability of weather events, India remains vulnerable

India and Norway upgrade ties to a “Green Strategic Partnership”; Norway PM Støre says both countries have “differences”, calls for them to unite against weaponization of diplomacy, trade and technology

Oil marketing companies like HPCL, BPCL, and IOC are in focus after the government announced a second petrol and diesel price hike in less than a week, increasing rates by around 90 paise per litre. This move aims to alleviate financial pressure on OMCs facing elevated global crude prices due to geopolitical disruptions.

Tata Steel CEO TV Narendran flags multi-point cost pressure from the West Asia crisis but says the company has so far recovered most input cost increases from the market. Narendran eyes a stronger Q1 FY27 with better prices in India, the UK, and the Netherlands. India's volume growth and UK policy support are key drivers.

The ongoing conflict in West Asia and soaring jet fuel prices are affecting Air India’s international operations, leading to more than 100 flight cancellations every week. Here’s what you need to know to manage your booking and avoid last‑minute surprises.

A planned shutdown by 1.2 million chemists has been compromised after 12 states and union territories withdrew support following government assurances to review the 'unregulated' growth of e-pharmacies.

While the men’s compound squad features significant changes, the women’s category continues to be led by V. Jyothi Surekha