Current Affairs Report: May 31, 2025

India and the world witnessed a flurry of significant events on May 31, 2025, spanning politics, economy, science, environment, defense, international relations, and sports. This comprehensive report, tailored for aspirants of UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other government exams, draws from credible sources like The Hindu, The Indian Express, and others to provide an in-depth analysis of the day’s key developments. Each section is crafted to be engaging, reader-friendly, and optimized for quick comprehension, with important terms and facts in bold to aid exam preparation.

Politics and Governance

Tensions in Manipur Prompt High-Level Visit

The northeastern state of Manipur remained in the spotlight due to ongoing protests and a call for civil disobedience by Meitei groups. The unrest stemmed from an incident on May 20, 2025, in Gwaltabi, where security forces allegedly attempted to cover the word ‘Manipur’ on a state transport bus ferrying journalists to the Shirui Lily festival in Ukhrul. This act sparked outrage, reigniting ethnic tensions in a state already grappling with conflict since May 2023. In response, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan is scheduled to visit Manipur on June 2 and 3, 2025, to address these concerns and engage with local stakeholders. Earlier, Union Home Minister Amit Shah had emphasized dialogue as the path forward, noting that the President’s Rule imposed since February 13, 2025, is not a long-term solution (The Hindu).

This development is critical for exam aspirants, as Manipur’s ethnic conflicts and the central government’s response are likely topics in questions related to internal security and governance. The visit underscores the government’s efforts to restore stability in a region marked by complex socio-political dynamics.

Operation Sindoor: A Bold Response to Terrorism

Another major event was the ongoing discussion around Operation Sindoor, a military operation launched in retaliation to the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, which claimed 26 lives, including tourists and a local resident. The operation targeted nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), destroying hideouts and showcasing India’s military prowess. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while paying tribute to Shubham Dwivedi, a victim from Kanpur, highlighted that Operation Sindoor not only avenged the attack but also demonstrated India’s indigenous defense capabilities. The operation, named symbolically after the vermilion powder worn by married Hindu women, was a tribute to the victims, particularly women who lost their husbands (The Hindu).

The Indian Express reported that the operation, executed on May 7, 2025, was the most expansive since the Balakot airstrikes in 2019 and the Uri surgical strikes in 2016. It involved high-precision missile strikes on terror sites in Bahawalpur, Muridke, Muzaffarabad, and Kotli, with no Pakistani military facilities targeted to avoid escalation. The operation’s success was attributed to India’s multi-layered air defense system, which neutralized incoming threats (Indian Express). For exam purposes, Operation Sindoor is a key topic under national security and defense policy, reflecting India’s zero-tolerance stance on terrorism.

Economy

Boosting States with Tax Devolution

On the economic front, the Finance Ministry announced an additional ₹81,735 crore in tax devolution to states, set for release on June 2, 2025, alongside the regular monthly devolution of the same amount on June 10, 2025. This move, representing 41% of the taxes collected, aims to empower states to accelerate capital spending, fund development and welfare programs, and support priority projects. The decision aligns with the principle of cooperative federalism and the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047, emphasizing equitable growth across states (The Hindu).

This policy is significant for exams, as fiscal federalism and tax devolution are recurring themes in UPSC and Banking syllabi. It highlights the government’s strategy to strengthen state economies while pursuing national development goals.

Stable Inflation Trends

India’s inflation rate continued its downward trend, reaching 3.16% in April 2025, the lowest since July 2019. This decline, reported by Moneycontrol, was driven by a significant drop in food prices, which rose by only 1.78%, the least since October 2021. Housing inflation remained stable at 3.00%, while fuel and light prices saw a sharp increase to 2.92% due to base effects. This low inflation rate, below the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) target of 4%, strengthens the case for potential interest rate cuts, which could further stimulate economic growth (Trading Economics).

For aspirants, understanding inflation trends and RBI’s monetary policy is crucial for questions on macroeconomics and banking operations. The stable price environment reflects effective monetary management amidst global economic challenges.

Science and Technology

Advancing Defense Manufacturing

In defense technology, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) announced a significant increase in the production of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk1A to ensure timely deliveries to the Indian Air Force (IAF). A new fourth production line was established in Hyderabad by VEM Technologies, complementing existing lines in Bengaluru and Nashik. The first Central Fuselage (CF) Assembly, weighing 478 kg and comprising 1,595 composite metal components, was handed over to HAL, with plans to deliver one assembly per month by the end of 2025. VEM Technologies is also working on fuel drop tanks, pylon assemblies, and components for aircraft with Infra Red Search and Track System (IRST), bolstering India’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing (The Hindu).

This development is a key topic for UPSC aspirants under science and technology and defense, highlighting India’s push towards Atmanirbhar Bharat in critical sectors.

ISRO’s Upcoming Space Missions

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is preparing for the Axiom-4 mission, scheduled for June 9, 2025, which will send Indian astronauts, including Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, to the International Space Station (ISS). This joint mission with NASA and Axiom Space focuses on microgravity experiments and STEM education, marking a milestone in India’s space exploration journey (Times of India). Additionally, ISRO is gearing up for the Gaganyaan mission, with an uncrewed launch featuring the Vyommitra robot planned for December 2025, paving the way for a manned mission in 2027 (Indian Express).

For exam preparation, ISRO’s missions are critical under science and technology, reflecting India’s growing stature in global space research.

Environment

Black Carbon Threatens Himalayan Ecosystems

A study by Climate Trends, analyzing data from 2000 to 2023, revealed that rising black carbon levels are heating Himalayan snow, posing significant environmental challenges. Black carbon, emitted from vehicles, stoves, biomass combustion, and fossil fuel use, absorbs sunlight, reducing snow albedo and accelerating melting. The study found that the average snow surface temperature in the Himalayas increased from -11.27°C (2000–2009) to -7.13°C (2020–2023), with the Eastern Himalayas being the warmest. This warming shortens the snow season, advances melting, and threatens hydrological systems, impacting freshwater availability for approximately 2 billion people downstream. The study also noted an increase in snow depth from 0.059 m to 0.117 m over the same period, influenced by seasonal precipitation and wind redistribution (The Hindu).

This issue is vital for UPSC aspirants under environment and climate change, as it underscores the need for policies to address pollution and protect critical ecosystems.

Defense

Operation Sindoor: A Technological Triumph

Operation Sindoor not only delivered justice for the Pahalgam terror attack but also highlighted India’s advanced defense technologies. The operation utilized the Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS), which integrated data from radar, fighter jets, and missile systems to neutralize incoming threats from Pakistan. The Indian Express noted that the operation’s success showcased India’s multi-layered air defense system, with home-grown technologies providing a decisive edge (Indian Express). External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar reiterated India’s stance against nuclear blackmail, reinforcing the operation’s strategic significance (The Hindu).

For exams, Operation Sindoor is a key case study under defense and national security, illustrating India’s military and diplomatic resolve.

International Relations

Pakistan-Afghanistan Diplomatic Upgrade

On May 30, 2025, Pakistan announced plans to upgrade its diplomatic ties with Afghanistan by appointing an ambassador to Kabul, a move facilitated by China through trilateral talks in Beijing. This follows Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar’s visit to Kabul on April 19, 2025, and precedes an upcoming visit by Afghan interim foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to Islamabad. The upgrade aims to enhance economic, security, and counterterrorism cooperation, with Pakistan and China offering support to Afghanistan (The Hindu).

This development is significant for UPSC aspirants under international relations, as it affects South Asian geopolitics and India’s regional strategy.

Sports

IPL and French Open Highlights

In sports, the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 saw Mumbai Indians defeating Gujarat Titans by 20 runs in the eliminator, setting up a Qualifier 2 clash with Punjab Kings on June 1, 2025 (The Hindu). Internationally, Carlos Alcaraz, the defending champion, advanced to the fourth round of the French Open with a victory over Damir Dzumhur (6-1, 6-3, 4-6, 6-4). While sports may be less critical for UPSC, they are relevant for SSC and general knowledge sections, reflecting India’s sporting culture.

Conclusion

The events of May 31, 2025, offer a snapshot of India’s dynamic socio-political, economic, and technological landscape. From addressing regional tensions in Manipur to showcasing military strength through Operation Sindoor, and from economic initiatives like tax devolution to environmental concerns in the Himalayas, these developments are crucial for exam aspirants. By staying informed through credible sources, students can gain a competitive edge in their preparation.

Key Data Table

Category	Key Event	Details
Politics	Manipur Protests	Union Home Secretary to visit on June 2–3, 2025 due to Gwaltabi incident.
Defense	Operation Sindoor	Targeted 9 terror camps in Pakistan/PoK on May 7, 2025.
Economy	Tax Devolution	₹81,735 crore additional release on June 2, 2025.
Economy	Inflation Rate	3.16% in April 2025, lowest since July 2019.
Science & Tech	LCA Mk1A Production	New Hyderabad line by VEM Technologies for IAF deliveries.
Science & Tech	Axiom-4 Mission	ISRO-NASA mission to ISS on June 9, 2025.
Environment	Black Carbon Study	Himalayan snow warming, -7.13°C average in 2020–2023.
International Relations	Pakistan-Afghanistan Ties	Ambassador appointment in Kabul, facilitated by China.
Sports	IPL 2025	Mumbai Indians beat Gujarat Titans by 20 runs.

Key Citations

Daily quiz on current affairs with answers

Question 1: Which Indian aerospace company recently began delivering the Central Fuselage Assembly for LCA Mk1A from a new production line in Hyderabad?
Option 1: Bharat Electronics Limited
Option 2: DRDO
Option 3: VEM Technologies
Option 4: Larsen & Toubro
Option 5: Tata Advanced Systems
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: VEM Technologies has established a new fourth production line in Hyderabad for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk1A, aimed at meeting the growing demand of the Indian Air Force. This expansion supports India’s self-reliance goal in defense under Atmanirbhar Bharat. The company handed over the first Central Fuselage (CF) Assembly weighing 478 kg, marking a significant step in indigenous defense manufacturing.

Question 2: Who is scheduled to visit Manipur on June 2–3, 2025, to address the recent unrest and ongoing civil disobedience movement?
Option 1: Govind Mohan
Option 2: Amit Shah
Option 3: Anurag Thakur
Option 4: Piyush Goyal
Option 5: Nirmala Sitharaman
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan is set to visit Manipur to engage with stakeholders regarding the tensions sparked by a controversial incident during the Shirui Lily festival. This high-level visit reflects the central government’s efforts to address ethnic tensions and restore peace in the state, which has been under President’s Rule since February 13, 2025.

Question 3: What was the primary target of Operation Sindoor, launched by India in response to the Pahalgam terror attack?
Option 1: Pakistani military installations
Option 2: Chinese surveillance drones
Option 3: Terrorist camps in Pakistan and PoK
Option 4: Cyber warfare bases in Balochistan
Option 5: Weapon factories in Muzaffarabad
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: Operation Sindoor targeted nine terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, including locations like Bahawalpur, Muridke, Muzaffarabad, and Kotli. These were precision airstrikes that carefully avoided Pakistani military sites to prevent escalation. The aim was to dismantle terror infrastructure without provoking a conventional military conflict.

Question 4: In the context of South Asian diplomacy, which country recently decided to appoint an ambassador to Afghanistan after trilateral talks mediated by China?
Option 1: India
Option 2: Pakistan
Option 3: Iran
Option 4: Uzbekistan
Option 5: Turkey
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: Pakistan announced its decision to upgrade diplomatic relations with Afghanistan by appointing an ambassador to Kabul. This move, facilitated by trilateral discussions involving China, aims to enhance regional cooperation on economic, security, and counterterrorism matters. It reflects Pakistan’s evolving strategy toward Afghanistan post-U.S. withdrawal.

Question 5: According to a new study, what is the average snow surface temperature in the Himalayas during 2020–2023 due to rising black carbon levels?
Option 1: -9.45°C
Option 2: -5.81°C
Option 3: -8.36°C
Option 4: -7.13°C
Option 5: -11.27°C
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: The study revealed that the average snow surface temperature in the Himalayas rose to -7.13°C between 2020 and 2023 due to increased black carbon emissions. Black carbon, a pollutant from combustion sources, reduces snow reflectivity and accelerates melting, posing a threat to Himalayan ecosystems and downstream water supplies.

Question 6: What was India’s inflation rate in April 2025, as reported recently?
Option 1: 4.11%
Option 2: 3.16%
Option 3: 2.78%
Option 4: 3.78%
Option 5: 2.92%
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: India’s retail inflation rate dropped to 3.16% in April 2025, the lowest since July 2019. This decline was primarily driven by slower food price growth and steady housing costs. The figure being below the RBI’s 4% target strengthens the case for potential interest rate cuts, which could support further economic growth.

Question 7: Who among the following will represent India in the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS)?
Option 1: Rakesh Sharma
Option 2: Anil Menon
Option 3: Gagandeep Singh
Option 4: Rajeev Shukla
Option 5: Shubhanshu Shukla
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will participate in the Axiom-4 mission to the ISS, scheduled for June 9, 2025. This ISRO-NASA-Axiom collaboration marks a significant milestone in India’s space exploration efforts and includes microgravity experiments and STEM engagement, furthering India’s global scientific credentials.

Question 8: Which IPL team defeated Gujarat Titans in the eliminator match on May 31, 2025?
Option 1: Kolkata Knight Riders
Option 2: Chennai Super Kings
Option 3: Mumbai Indians
Option 4: Lucknow Super Giants
Option 5: Delhi Capitals
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: Mumbai Indians won the IPL 2025 eliminator by defeating Gujarat Titans by 20 runs. This victory advanced them to Qualifier 2, where they are scheduled to face Punjab Kings. Such updates are important for general awareness, especially in exams with sports sections.

Question 9: On what date is the Finance Ministry scheduled to release ₹81,735 crore as additional tax devolution to states?
Option 1: June 2, 2025
Option 2: May 31, 2025
Option 3: June 10, 2025
Option 4: June 5, 2025
Option 5: June 1, 2025
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: The Finance Ministry announced that ₹81,735 crore will be released to states on June 2, 2025, as additional tax devolution. This is separate from the regular monthly transfer scheduled for June 10. The move aims to enhance states’ financial capacity for development and welfare projects under cooperative federalism.

Question 10: What advanced system did India deploy during Operation Sindoor to integrate air defense data?
Option 1: BrahMos-NG
Option 2: Prithvi Defense Matrix
Option 3: Skywatch Integrated Radar System
Option 4: Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS)
Option 5: Akash Prime Coordination Net
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: The Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) was deployed during Operation Sindoor to coordinate data from radars, fighter jets, and missile systems. This sophisticated system enabled real-time threat assessment and response, showcasing India’s technological edge in multi-layered air defense and strengthening deterrence against cross-border threats.

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