Most Important GK Topics for CLAT 2027: May–June 2026 Current Affairs

Current affairs preparation for CLAT 2027 can be challenging because important developments span several subjects, including geography, economics, international relations, science, technology and Indian polity. Remembering events and dates alone is not enough; you also need to understand the concepts, organisations and constitutional provisions connected with them. Covering these diverse topics while retaining the key facts can make revision difficult.

The May–June 2026 current affairs cover important national and international developments. These include the Indian monsoon, RBI surplus transfer, G7 Summit, NETRA, examination reforms and the Lipulekh dispute. The following topics explain their key facts and concepts to help you revise important GK updates for CLAT 2027.

GK Most Important Topics for CLAT 2027

May and June 2026 brought several important national and international developments relevant to CLAT 2027, covering areas such as economics, international relations, science, technology, law and governance.

1. Indian Monsoon Crisis, El Niño and La Niña

The Indian monsoon is influenced by seasonal pressure differences, wind circulation, ocean temperatures and the movement of moisture-bearing winds. Understanding these factors helps explain why El Niño and La Niña can affect rainfall in India.

Basic principles behind the Indian monsoon:

• Winds generally move from high-pressure areas towards low-pressure areas.

• Temperature differences contribute to the formation of pressure differences.

• The Coriolis force deflects moving air to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere.

• During summer, the Indian landmass heats up, creating a low-pressure region that attracts moisture-bearing winds from the surrounding oceans.

• The southwest monsoon generally enters India through Kerala.

• During the retreating monsoon, moisture-bearing winds from the Bay of Bengal bring rainfall to Tamil Nadu and parts of southeastern India.

ENSO and its effect on Indian rainfall

ENSO stands for El Niño–Southern Oscillation. It refers to variations in sea surface temperatures and atmospheric circulation over the tropical Pacific Ocean. It has three phases: El Niño, La Niña and neutral conditions.

• El Niño: Trade winds weaken, allowing warmer surface water to spread towards the central and eastern Pacific. This changes atmospheric circulation and is often associated with below-normal rainfall in India.

• La Niña: Trade winds strengthen and push warm surface water towards the western Pacific. Cold-water upwelling near South America also becomes stronger. La Niña is often associated with above-normal rainfall in India.

Super El Niño and the 2026 monsoon

Super El Niño is an informal term used for an unusually strong El Niño event. It is not a separate official ENSO category. The 2026 monsoon received attention because of concerns about strong El Niño conditions and their possible impact on Indian rainfall.

Important June 2026 rainfall figures:

The southwest monsoon reached Kerala on 4 June 2026, approximately three days later than its normal onset date.

Other important climate terms:

• LPA (Long Period Average): The average rainfall recorded over a long reference period. It is used as a baseline for comparing seasonal rainfall.

• IOD (Indian Ocean Dipole): A difference in sea surface temperatures between the western and eastern parts of the tropical Indian Ocean.

• MJO (Madden–Julian Oscillation): A large-scale eastward-moving pattern of clouds, rainfall, winds and pressure over the tropics, generally recurring every 30–60 days.

Why does a weak monsoon matter?

• Lower rainfall can reduce soil moisture and delay kharif sowing.

• Reduced crop production can affect food supply and increase food inflation.

• Agricultural losses can lower rural incomes and spending.

• The India Meteorological Department (IMD) monitors weather and rainfall, while the Food Corporation of India (FCI) manages central foodgrain stocks.

These developments connect with the June 2026 current affairs coverage, particularly its discussion of the monsoon deficit, El Niño and the economic impact of rainfall shortages.

2. RBI Surplus Transfer and Economic Capital Framework

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved a record surplus transfer of ₹2,86,588.46 crore to the Central Government for the accounting year 2025–26. The transfer was approved by the RBI Central Board in May 2026.

How does the RBI generate a surplus?

The RBI earns income through its financial and monetary operations, including:

• Interest earned on government securities and other investments.

• Returns from foreign currency assets and foreign exchange operations.

• Income from lending and other financial activities.

• Earnings from its investment portfolio.

After meeting expenses and making the required provisions, the RBI transfers the eligible surplus to the Central Government.

Economic Capital Framework (ECF)

The Economic Capital Framework determines how much capital and risk provision the RBI should retain and how much surplus it can transfer to the government.

• The framework was revised following the recommendations of the Bimal Jalan Committee, constituted in 2018.

• The committee submitted its recommendations in 2019.

• It considers the RBI's capital reserves, risk provisions and financial requirements.

• It aims to balance the central bank's financial stability with the government's need for revenue.

Important legal and financial provisions:

The RBI maintained its Contingent Risk Buffer at 6.5% of its balance sheet for 2025–26. The revised ECF allows the CRB to remain within a range of 4.5% to 7.5%.

Why is the RBI surplus transfer important?

• It increases the government's non-tax revenue.

• It can reduce the government's need for additional market borrowing.

• It provides fiscal support for government expenditure.

• It helps the government manage its fiscal position, although it does not eliminate the need for sustainable revenue and expenditure policies.

3. Islamabad MOU and the US–Iran Conflict

The 14-point Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was a proposed framework associated with efforts to reduce tensions between the United States and Iran in June 2026. Pakistan played a mediating role in the negotiations.

The framework focused on security arrangements, the Strait of Hormuz, Iran's nuclear programme and the possible easing of sanctions. It was intended to provide a basis for negotiations towards a longer-term settlement.

Major areas covered by the 14-point framework:

1. Security: Cessation of military operations and respect for sovereignty.

2. Strait of Hormuz: Maritime security and the safe movement of commercial vessels.

3. Nuclear programme and sanctions: Negotiations concerning Iran's nuclear activities, international monitoring and sanctions.

4. Compliance and implementation: Mechanisms to monitor commitments and work towards a permanent settlement.

Background: The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)

The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, commonly called the Iran nuclear deal, was concluded in 2015.

• It involved Iran and the P5+1 countries: China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, the United States and Germany, along with the European Union.

• Iran agreed to restrictions on its nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief.

• The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) was responsible for monitoring and verifying Iran's nuclear-related commitments.

• The United States withdrew from the agreement in 2018.

Important international institutions and agreements:

• UN Charter: Provides the framework for international peace, security and the peaceful settlement of disputes.

• UNCLOS: The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea governs maritime rights and responsibilities.

• UN Security Council: Handles matters concerning international peace and security and can adopt binding resolutions.

• IAEA: Promotes the peaceful use of nuclear energy and verifies compliance with nuclear safeguards.

Why is the Strait of Hormuz important?

The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. It is one of the world's most important maritime routes for energy transportation.

Disruption in the Strait can affect:

• Global crude oil and natural gas supplies.

• International shipping and insurance costs.

• Energy prices and inflation.

• India's energy security, given its dependence on imported crude oil.

4. G7 Summit 2026 at Évian

The 52nd G7 Summit was held in Évian, France, from 15 to 17 June 2026. France hosted the summit under its rotating presidency.

G7 member countries:

• Canada

• France

• Germany

• Italy

• Japan

• United Kingdom

• United States

The European Union also participates in G7 meetings but is not counted among the seven national members.

Evolution of the G7:

The G7 is an informal grouping. It does not have a permanent secretariat or headquarters, and its presidency rotates among member countries.

India's participation in the 2026 Summit

India participated as a partner country invited by France. It was not a formal G7 member.

Other partner countries included Brazil, Egypt, Kenya and South Korea. The European Union was represented by the Presidents of the European Council and the European Commission.

Major areas discussed at the summit:

• Geopolitical developments: The Russia–Ukraine war and conflicts in the Middle East.

• Global economy: Economic imbalances, sustainable growth and international partnerships.

• Critical minerals: Supply-chain resilience and diversification.

• Artificial intelligence: Safe and responsible development of AI and digital technologies.

• Health: International cooperation on cancer prevention, treatment and public health emergencies.

• Human security: Combating drug trafficking, migrant smuggling and other transnational challenges.

The summit adopted several joint declarations and statements, including those on international partnerships, critical mineral supply chains, safer digital spaces for minors and global economic growth.

The discussions on international partnerships and economic cooperation are relevant to the GK and Current Affairs strategy, particularly the international relations and global affairs areas.

5. Venezuela Earthquake: Doublet Earthquake of June 2026

Northern Venezuela experienced two major earthquakes on 24 June 2026, with magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5. The first earthquake was followed by the stronger mainshock approximately 39 seconds later.

This sequence is known as a doublet earthquake, in which two major earthquakes occur close together in time and location.

Important facts about the earthquake:

• The first earthquake had a magnitude of 7.2.

• The second and larger earthquake had a magnitude of 7.5.

• The event occurred in northern Venezuela.

• The earthquakes were associated with the active tectonic boundary between the Caribbean Plate and the South American Plate.

How do earthquakes occur?

Earthquakes generally occur due to the movement of tectonic plates and the release of accumulated stress along faults.

The process can be understood through these stages:

1. Tectonic plates move relative to one another.

2. Stress accumulates along faults.

3. Rocks eventually rupture or slip.

4. Stored energy is released in the form of seismic waves.

5. The waves cause ground shaking.

Important earthquake terminology:

Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction

The Sendai Framework is an international agreement adopted in 2015 for reducing disaster risks and losses.

Its major priorities include:

• Understanding disaster risks.

• Strengthening disaster-risk governance.

• Investing in disaster-risk reduction and resilience.

• Improving preparedness and promoting the principle of building back better during recovery.

6. NETRA Airborne Early Warning and Control System

NETRA is India's indigenous Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) system. It has been developed through collaboration between the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Indian Air Force (IAF) and associated industries.

On 25 June 2026, DRDO handed over the Final Operational Clearance (FOC) certificate for the system to the IAF.

What is an AEW&C system?

An Airborne Early Warning and Control system is an aircraft equipped with radar, surveillance and communication systems. It acts as an airborne monitoring platform, helping defence forces detect and track potential threats over large areas.

Major functions of NETRA:

• Detecting and tracking aircraft near India's borders and maritime areas.

• Identifying friendly and potentially hostile aircraft.

• Monitoring airborne activity and sharing information with ground stations.

• Supporting battle management and coordination.

• Providing situational awareness to military commanders.

Important technologies used in NETRA:

• AESA radar: Active Electronically Scanned Array radar electronically directs its radar beam without mechanically rotating the antenna.

• IFF: Identification Friend or Foe helps distinguish friendly aircraft from potentially hostile aircraft.

• Secure data links: Enable the transfer of surveillance information between the aircraft and other defence platforms.

NETRA and Falcon: Key Differences

Initial Operational Clearance and Final Operational Clearance

• IOC (Initial Operational Clearance): Indicates that a system has met the initial requirements for operational use.

• FOC (Final Operational Clearance): Indicates that the system has completed the required development and evaluation stages and meets the specified operational requirements.

NETRA received its Initial Operational Clearance in 2017. The handover of its Final Operational Clearance in June 2026 marked an important milestone in India's indigenous airborne surveillance capabilities.

7. Telegram Blocking and Information Technology Act, 2000

In June 2026, the Indian government temporarily restricted access to Telegram ahead of the NEET UG re-examination scheduled for 21 June. The action followed concerns about channels allegedly offering fraudulent access to examination papers and misleading candidates.

The restriction was imposed for a limited period, with a separate direction concerning the disabling of Telegram's message-editing feature in India.

Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000

Section 69A empowers the Central Government or an authorised officer to direct the blocking of public access to online information on specified grounds.

These grounds include:

• Sovereignty and integrity of India.

• Defence of India.

• Security of the State.

• Friendly relations with foreign States.

• Public order.

• Preventing incitement to the commission of a cognisable offence relating to the above grounds.

Important IT Act provisions:

Section 66A and the Shreya Singhal judgment

In Shreya Singhal v. Union of India (2015), the Supreme Court struck down Section 66A of the IT Act.

• Section 66A dealt with punishment for sending certain information through communication services.

• The Court held that the provision violated Article 19(1)(a), which protects freedom of speech and expression.

• The judgment reinforced the importance of protecting online expression against vague and unreasonable restrictions.

Principle of proportionality

Restrictions on online communication must satisfy constitutional requirements. The principle of proportionality requires authorities to consider whether a restriction:

• Serves a legitimate objective.

• Is suitable for achieving that objective.

• Is necessary, with less restrictive alternatives considered.

• Maintains a reasonable balance between public interest and individual rights.

8. OPEC, OPEC+ and the UAE's Withdrawal

OPEC stands for the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries. It is an intergovernmental organisation established to coordinate petroleum policies among its member countries.

Important facts about OPEC:

• Founded in 1960 in Baghdad, Iraq.

• Its headquarters is located in Vienna, Austria.

• Five founding members: Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Venezuela.

• Its primary role is to coordinate petroleum policies and promote stability in oil markets.

OPEC and OPEC+:

UAE's withdrawal from OPEC and OPEC+

The United Arab Emirates announced its decision to withdraw from OPEC and OPEC+, effective 1 May 2026.

The decision was linked to its long-term economic and energy strategy, including increased domestic production capacity and a preference for greater flexibility in production decisions.

Why does this development matter for India?

• OPEC and OPEC+ production decisions can influence global crude oil supply.

• Changes in oil supply can affect international prices and India's import expenditure.

• Higher crude oil prices can increase fuel costs and inflationary pressure.

• Changes in producer policies can influence India's energy security and import diversification.

9. Supreme Court Strength and Ordinance-Making Powers

The sanctioned strength of the Supreme Court of India was 38 judges, including the Chief Justice of India, as reflected in official government data for June 2026. The sanctioned strength should not be confused with the number of judges actually serving at a particular time.

Important constitutional provisions related to the Supreme Court:

• Article 124: Provides for the establishment and constitution of the Supreme Court of India.

• Article 145(3): Requires a minimum of five judges for deciding a case involving a substantial question of law as to the interpretation of the Constitution.

• Article 123: Gives the President the power to promulgate ordinances when Parliament is not in session.

• Article 213: Gives the Governor the power to promulgate ordinances when the State Legislature is not in session, subject to constitutional conditions.

What is an ordinance?

An ordinance is a temporary law promulgated by the President or a Governor when the legislature is not in session and immediate action is considered necessary.

Important points to remember:

• A Presidential ordinance has the same force and effect as an Act of Parliament while it remains in operation.

• It must be laid before both Houses of Parliament when they reassemble.

• It ceases to operate six weeks after Parliament reassembles unless approved earlier through legislation.

• A Governor's ordinance is subject to corresponding provisions under Article 213.

• Ordinance-making powers are subject to constitutional limitations and judicial review.

Memory Tip: Article 123 concerns the President's ordinance-making power, while Article 213 concerns the Governor's ordinance-making power.

10. NEET Paper-Leak Issue and Examination Reforms

The NEET UG 2026 paper-leak controversy and subsequent re-examination brought attention to examination security, unfair practices and the responsibilities of public examination authorities.

Important institutions involved:

• National Testing Agency (NTA): Conducts national-level entrance examinations, including NEET UG.

• National Medical Commission (NMC): Regulates medical education and medical institutions in India.

• Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI): Investigates cases referred to it, including examination-related criminal offences.

Important laws and provisions:

• National Medical Commission Act, 2019: Provides the legal framework for the regulation of medical education and the National Medical Commission.

• Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024: Addresses unfair means and organised malpractices in specified public examinations.

• Information Technology Act, 2000: Contains provisions relevant to online content, electronic information and intermediary responsibilities.

Important considerations in examination-related cases

The Supreme Court's approach to examination irregularities involves examining the evidence and the extent of the alleged malpractice.

• Extent of irregularity: Whether the malpractice was localised or widespread.

• Contamination: Whether the integrity of the examination was compromised on a large scale.

• Evidence: Whether there is sufficient material to establish the allegations.

• Separability: Whether affected candidates or examination centres can be identified separately.

• Proportionality: Whether cancellation of the entire examination is justified or a narrower remedy is possible.

A localised irregularity does not automatically require cancellation of an examination across the country. The appropriate remedy depends on the evidence, scale of malpractice and impact on examination integrity.

11. Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura Dispute

The India–Nepal boundary dispute over Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura concerns the interpretation of the historical boundary and the origin of the Kali or Mahakali River.

The disagreement is linked to the Treaty of Sugauli, 1816, signed between the East India Company and the Kingdom of Nepal. The treaty identified the Kali River as part of the boundary between the territories.

India and Nepal's positions:

• India's position: The Kali River originates near Kalapani.

• Nepal's position: The river originates further northwest, near Limpiyadhura, which affects its interpretation of the boundary.

The disagreement over the river's source has implications for the territorial claims of both countries.

Important geographical facts:

• Lipulekh Pass: Located in Uttarakhand and used as a route towards the Kailash Mansarovar region.

• Kalapani: A disputed area near the India–Nepal–China tri-junction.

• Limpiyadhura: A region claimed by Nepal as the source area of the Kali River.

• Nathu La: A mountain pass located in Sikkim and another route associated with travel to the Kailash Mansarovar region.

Memory Tip: Lipulekh is in Uttarakhand, while Nathu La is in Sikkim. The origin of the Kali River is central to the India–Nepal boundary dispute.

How to Prepare GK and Current Affairs for CLAT 2027

Current affairs preparation requires regular reading, revision and practice. Along with remembering important events, focus on the static concepts and legal or constitutional provisions connected with them.

Follow these preparation practices:

1. Prioritise important developments: Focus on major national and international events, government decisions, court judgments and significant reports.

2. Revise regularly: Set aside time each week to revisit previously covered current affairs instead of preparing only new topics.

3. Practise passage-based questions: Solve CLAT previous year question papers to improve reading comprehension and the application of information.

4. Follow a consistent study routine: Use a CLAT 2027 study plan to divide time between current affairs, Legal Reasoning, English, Logical Reasoning and Quantitative Techniques.

5. Cover the prescribed syllabus: Review the CLAT syllabus to identify relevant areas, including contemporary events, national and international developments and legal awareness.

6. Take regular mock tests: Practise with the PW CLAT Power Prep 2027 batch to assess your preparation and identify topics that need further revision.

May and June 2026 witnessed several developments relevant to CLAT 2027, spanning geography, economics, international relations, science, technology and Indian polity. Pay attention to the key concepts, important dates, organisations and constitutional provisions linked to each event. Regular revision and passage-based practice can help strengthen your GK and current affairs preparation for the examination.