National News
1. NITI Aayog Proposes Sector-Wise Roadmap to Boost MSME Competitiveness
NITI Aayog released a comprehensive report addressing policy gaps and proposing strategies to enhance the global competitiveness of India’s Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The report emphasizes skill development, technology adoption, and access to credit.
2. India and EU Set 2025 Deadline to Finalize Free Trade Agreement
India and the European Union (EU) accelerated negotiations to finalize a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) by the end of 2025. The agreement aims to eliminate tariff barriers, expand bilateral trade, and strengthen economic ties.
3. PM Modi Inaugurates Projects Worth ₹58,000 Crore in Andhra Pradesh
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated infrastructure projects in Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh, including the Navdurga Missile Testing Range and PM Ekta Mall. These initiatives aim to bolster defense capabilities, promote indigenous products, and generate employment.
4. U.S. Reaffirms Counterterrorism Support After Pahalgam Attack
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth condemned the Pahalgam terror attack and assured India of full support in combating cross-border terrorism. The U.S. State Department reiterated its commitment to strengthening Indo-U.S. strategic ties.
International News
1. Pakistan Opens Wagah Border for Stranded Nationals
Pakistan temporarily opened the Wagah border to facilitate the return of its citizens stranded in India after visa cancellations following the Pahalgam attack.
2. U.S.-Ukraine Sign Historic Minerals Partnership
The U.S. and Ukraine finalized a minerals agreement to boost Kyiv’s industrial recovery and long-term economic stability. President Zelenskyy termed the pact a “balanced partnership” for post-war reconstruction.
3. China Open to Talks on Trump-Era Tariffs
China’s Commerce Ministry expressed willingness to discuss the removal of Trump-era tariffs, signaling a potential thaw in U.S.-China trade relations.
Sports News
1. India Wins 43 Medals at Asian U-15 & U-17 Boxing Championships
India secured 43 medals, including 15 gold, at the inaugural Asian U-15 & U-17 Boxing Championships in Jordan. Under-17 boxers Sahil Duhan and Samiksha Singh led the medal tally.
2. RCB Edges CSK by 2 Runs in IPL Thriller
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) defeated Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by 2 runs in a high-octane IPL match. Romario Shepherd’s 14-ball 53 propelled RCB to 213/5, while Ravindra Jadeja’s 77* went in vain for CSK.
3. Kentucky Derby 2025 Held at Churchill Downs
The 151st Kentucky Derby, one of the world’s most prestigious horse racing events, took place at Churchill Downs, Louisville, USA.
Business & Economy
1. Indian Bank Approves ₹7,000 Crore Capital Raising Plan
Indian Bank’s board approved raising ₹5,000 crore via equity (QIP/FPO) and ₹2,000 crore through Basel-III-compliant bonds to strengthen its capital adequacy ratio.
2. India’s Manufacturing PMI Hits 58.2 in April
The HSBC Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) surged to 58.2, reflecting the fastest growth in factory activity in 10 months. Strong domestic demand and export orders drove the expansion.
Environmental Events
1. 2025 BRS COPs Begin in Geneva
The Conferences of the Parties to the Basel, Rotterdam, and Stockholm Conventions (BRS COPs) commenced in Geneva. The theme, “Make visible the invisible: sound management of chemicals and wastes,” focuses on reducing plastic waste and pesticide impacts.
Important Days & Bank Holidays
1. Bank Holidays in May 2025
May 1: Labour Day (nationwide)
May 9: Rabindranath Tagore Jayanti (West Bengal)
May 12: Buddha Purnima (multiple states)
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams
NITI Aayog MSME Report: Focus on skill development and credit access.
India-EU FTA: Aims to boost bilateral trade to $300 billion by 2030.
BRS COPs 2025: Critical for global chemical and waste management policies.
This update equips aspirants with concise, exam-focused insights. For deeper analysis, explore our Daily Current Affairs Quiz.
