Current Affairs: May 13, 2025

India’s dynamic landscape on May 13, 2025, offers a wealth of developments that are crucial for aspirants preparing for UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other government exams. From escalating geopolitical tensions to groundbreaking economic milestones, this article captures the pulse of the nation and its global interactions. Drawing from credible sources like The Hindu, The Indian Express, Times of India, and others, we present a detailed and engaging narrative to help students gain a competitive edge.

Key Points

Geopolitical Tensions: India’s Operation Sindoor targeted terrorist bases in Pakistan, signaling a firm stance against terrorism, followed by a ceasefire agreement.
Economic Growth: India is poised to become the world’s fourth-largest economy in 2025, overtaking Japan, with a projected GDP of $4,187.02 billion.
Judicial Developments: The Pollachi sexual assault case saw all nine accused sentenced to life imprisonment, marking a significant ruling.
Scientific Advancements: Preparations for the Gaganyaan mission tests highlight India’s space ambitions, alongside new astrophysics research facilities.
International Relations: India strengthens ties through the India-UK Free Trade Agreement and active participation in global forums like G20 and BRICS.

India-Pakistan Relations: A Tense Standoff

The nation’s attention is gripped by heightened tensions with Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 civilian lives. In response, India launched Operation Sindoor, a military operation that eliminated 100 terrorists across nine bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Prime Minister Narendra Modi described this as a “new normal” in India’s zero-tolerance policy toward terrorism, emphasizing that future talks with Pakistan would focus solely on terrorism and PoK’s return (The Indian Express). The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) firmly reiterated that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India, urging Pakistan to vacate illegally occupied territories (Livemint). A ceasefire agreement has been reached, but diplomatic measures remain strained, with both nations reducing border troops (BBC News).

Economic Milestone: Fourth-Largest Economy

India stands on the cusp of a historic achievement, set to overtake Japan as the world’s fourth-largest economy in 2025. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) projects India’s nominal GDP at $4,187.02 billion, slightly ahead of Japan’s $4,186.43 billion (DD News). This follows a decade of remarkable growth, with India’s economy expanding by 105%, outpacing global peers (NDTV). The 2025 Union Budget supports this trajectory with personal income tax reductions to boost consumer spending, potentially increasing GDP by 0.6% to 0.7%. However, concerns linger over US tariffs on Indian exports, which could dampen gains, and geopolitical tensions with Pakistan may widen the fiscal deficit (Business Standard).

Judicial Landmark: Justice in Pollachi

The judiciary delivered a significant verdict in the Pollachi sexual assault case, with the Mahila Court in Coimbatore sentencing all nine accused to life imprisonment. This ruling underscores India’s commitment to addressing gender-based violence, offering closure to a case that shocked the nation (The Hindu). Additionally, Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna demitted office, expressing confidence in his successor, Justice B.R. Gavai, to uphold constitutional values, marking a smooth transition in the Supreme Court (The Hindu).

Space and Science: Reaching for the Stars

India’s scientific community is abuzz with preparations for the Gaganyaan mission, the country’s first human spaceflight program. Tests planned for later in 2025 will utilize an indigenously developed parachute system by the Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE) (The Hindu). A new observatory in Purulia, West Bengal, is set to advance astrophysics research, while scientists have detected iron lines in X-rays from a binary black hole system, offering insights into cosmic phenomena (DST).

Comprehensive Current Affairs Report: May 13, 2025

India’s vibrant socio-political, economic, and scientific landscape on May 13, 2025, provides a treasure trove of insights for students preparing for competitive exams like UPSC, SSC, and Banking. This detailed report, sourced from authoritative publications such as The Hindu, The Indian Express, Times of India, Business Standard, Livemint, BBC News, Reuters, and Down To Earth, weaves together the day’s most significant developments. From geopolitical strategies to economic triumphs, judicial milestones, and scientific breakthroughs, we present a narrative that is both engaging and optimized for learning.

Politics and Governance: Navigating Geopolitical Challenges

The spotlight in Indian politics falls on the escalating tensions with Pakistan, triggered by the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the tragic loss of 26 civilians. In a decisive response, India executed Operation Sindoor, a military operation that neutralized 100 terrorists across nine bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at Adampur Air Base in Punjab, declared this operation a cornerstone of India’s zero-tolerance policy toward terrorism, setting a “new normal” in India-Pakistan relations. He emphasized that future dialogues with Pakistan would be limited to addressing terrorism and the return of PoK (The Indian Express).

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reinforced India’s stance, with spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal asserting that Jammu and Kashmir is an inalienable part of India and calling for Pakistan to vacate its illegally occupied territories (Livemint). The operation led to significant disruptions, with airlines like IndiGo and Air India canceling flights to border cities such as Jammu, Amritsar, and Srinagar, and schools in Punjab’s border districts closing amid security concerns (The Hindu).

By May 13, 2025, India and Pakistan reached a ceasefire agreement, with their Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMOs) agreeing to reduce troop deployments along the borders. However, diplomatic tensions persist, with both nations maintaining retaliatory measures (BBC News). The Congress party urged PM Modi to convene an all-party meeting and proposed a special Parliament session to discuss the crisis, drawing parallels to Indira Gandhi’s leadership during the 1971 war (Business Standard). Internationally, the US Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged with Pakistan’s Army Chief Asif Munir, prompting India to rebut claims by US President Donald Trump that trade sanctions were used to enforce the ceasefire, clarifying that trade was never discussed (The Hindu).

India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty on April 23, 2025, following the Pahalgam attack, further underscores the strained bilateral relations, highlighting the strategic use of water resources in geopolitical conflicts (Livemint). These developments are critical for exam aspirants, as they reflect India’s foreign policy, national security strategies, and the role of opposition parties in shaping discourse.

Judiciary: Delivering Justice and Transitioning Leadership

The judiciary marked a significant milestone with the Mahila Court in Coimbatore sentencing all nine accused in the Pollachi sexual assault case to life imprisonment. This high-profile case, which garnered national attention for its brutality, reinforces India’s judicial commitment to addressing gender-based violence and ensuring accountability (The Hindu). The verdict serves as a landmark for discussions on women’s safety and legal reforms, a key topic for UPSC and SSC exams.

In another notable development, Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna demitted office on May 13, 2025, expressing confidence in his successor, Justice B.R. Gavai, to uphold the Supreme Court’s constitutional values. This transition highlights the judiciary’s role in maintaining continuity and integrity, a vital aspect for aspirants studying constitutional law and governance (The Hindu).

While no major Supreme Court judgments were reported on May 13, recent rulings provide context. For instance, the Supreme Court upheld the constitutional validity of Section 5A of the Kerala General Sales Tax Act, 1963, and Section 7A of the Tamil Nadu General Sales Tax Act, 1959, reinforcing state taxation powers (LiveLaw). Additionally, the court allowed candidates with disabilities to change their scribe for the Civil Service Examination 2025 until May 18, enhancing accessibility in competitive exams (LiveLaw). These rulings, though not dated exactly on May 13, are relevant for understanding judicial trends.

Economy and Finance: A Global Economic Powerhouse

India’s economic narrative is one of triumph and cautious optimism. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) projects India to become the fourth-largest economy in 2025, overtaking Japan with a nominal GDP of $4,187.02 billion compared to Japan’s $4,186.43 billion (DD News). This milestone follows a decade of exceptional growth, with India’s economy expanding by 105%, surpassing major economies like China (76%) and the USA (66%) (NDTV).

The 2025 Union Budget plays a pivotal role, introducing personal income tax reductions to stimulate consumer spending, projected to boost GDP by 0.6% to 0.7% (Deloitte). However, challenges loom, including US tariffs on Indian exports, which could reduce gains by 0.1% to 0.3%, and the potential widening of the fiscal deficit due to India-Pakistan tensions (Business Standard). The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) intervened to support the rupee, which closed at 85.37 against the US dollar after hitting a one-month low (Moneycontrol).

The India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is a game-changer, slashing tariffs on Indian exports and enhancing access to the UK market, particularly for labour-intensive sectors. This agreement is expected to boost bilateral trade by £25.5 billion and contribute £4.8 billion to the UK’s GDP (Business Today). These economic developments are essential for Banking and UPSC aspirants, covering topics like GDP growth, fiscal policy, and international trade.

Economic Indicator	Details
Nominal GDP (2025)	$4,187.02 billion (India), $4,186.43 billion (Japan)
Growth Rate	105% over the past decade
Budget Impact	Tax reductions to boost GDP by 0.6%-0.7%
Challenges	US tariffs, geopolitical tensions affecting fiscal deficit
Rupee Performance	Closed at 85.37 against USD

Science and Technology: Pioneering the Future

India’s scientific endeavors are reaching new heights, with the Gaganyaan mission at the forefront. This ambitious human spaceflight program, led by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), is preparing for tests later in 2025, utilizing a sequential parachute system developed by the Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE) (The Hindu). These tests are a critical step toward India’s goal of sending astronauts into space, a topic of interest for UPSC aspirants studying space technology.

In astrophysics, a new observatory in Purulia, West Bengal, is poised to make significant contributions, enhancing India’s research capabilities (DST). Scientists have also detected iron lines in X-rays from a binary black hole system, providing valuable data on cosmic phenomena (DST). These advancements underscore India’s growing prowess in science and technology, relevant for exam sections on innovation and research.

International Relations: Strengthening Global Ties

India’s global engagement is robust, with active participation in forums like G20, UN, BRICS, and QUAD. The India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), finalized recently, is a landmark achievement, reducing tariffs and granting Indian exporters zero-duty access to the UK market. This deal is expected to enhance trade in sectors like meat, shrimp, and spirits, benefiting India’s South-East Asian diaspora (Business Standard).

India’s opposition to an IMF proposal to extend $2.3 billion in loans to Pakistan, citing potential misuse for terrorism, reflects its strategic foreign policy (Business Standard). These developments are crucial for understanding India’s role in international relations and global economics, key areas for competitive exams.

Environment and Wildlife: Addressing Global Challenges

Environmental issues remain a priority, with India committed to wildlife conservation and global climate treaties like the Paris Agreement. The country faces challenges such as air pollution, water scarcity, and climate change impacts on agriculture. Initiatives to promote sustainable development and reduce carbon emissions are ongoing, supported by international collaborations (Down To Earth). These topics are vital for UPSC aspirants, particularly in sections on environmental science and sustainable development.

Defense and Security: Bolstering National Strength

India’s defense sector is advancing with new defense deals and military technologies, strengthening its regional position. The Pahalgam attack and subsequent Operation Sindoor highlight the importance of a robust defense strategy. Cybersecurity is also a focus, with banks monitoring phishing attempts amid geopolitical tensions (Moneycontrol). These developments are relevant for questions on national security and defense policies.

Sports: Celebrating Achievements

In sports, Virat Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket on May 12, 2025, after a 14-year career, marks a significant moment. His contributions have elevated Indian cricket, and his departure leaves a void (BBC News). Indian athletes continue to excel in international tournaments, inspiring aspirants and relevant for current affairs sections on sports achievements.

Conclusion

The events of May 13, 2025, paint a vivid picture of India’s multifaceted progress and challenges. From navigating geopolitical tensions with Operation Sindoor to achieving economic milestones as the fourth-largest economy, India is at a pivotal juncture. Judicial verdicts like the Pollachi case, scientific strides in the Gaganyaan mission, and robust international engagements through the India-UK FTA further enrich this narrative. For students, this comprehensive report offers a detailed and engaging resource to master current affairs, ensuring a competitive edge in UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other exams.

Key Citations

Daily quiz on current affairs with answers

Question 1: What is the name of the Indian military operation launched in response to the Pahalgam terror attack in May 2025?
Option 1: Operation Shakti
Option 2: Operation Trinetra
Option 3: Operation Vijay
Option 4: Operation Sindoor
Option 5: Operation Rakshak
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: Following the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which killed 26 civilians, India launched Operation Sindoor in May 2025. This military operation neutralized 100 terrorists across nine bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). It marked a new phase in India’s zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism and reshaped diplomatic discourse with Pakistan.

Question 2: According to the IMF projection for 2025, which country’s economy is India expected to surpass to become the fourth-largest in the world?
Option 1: Germany
Option 2: Japan
Option 3: United Kingdom
Option 4: France
Option 5: South Korea
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) projected that in 2025, India would overtake Japan to become the fourth-largest economy globally. India’s nominal GDP is estimated at $4,187.02 billion, slightly ahead of Japan’s $4,186.43 billion. This growth is the result of strong domestic reforms, increased consumer spending, and a decade of robust economic expansion.

Question 3: What was the verdict delivered by the Mahila Court in Coimbatore in the Pollachi sexual assault case?
Option 1: Death penalty for all accused
Option 2: Acquittal due to lack of evidence
Option 3: 20 years imprisonment for main accused
Option 4: Case referred to High Court
Option 5: Life imprisonment for all nine accused
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: The Mahila Court in Coimbatore sentenced all nine accused in the high-profile Pollachi sexual assault case to life imprisonment. This landmark judgment reflects India’s continued legal efforts to ensure justice in cases involving gender-based violence and reaffirms the judicial system’s commitment to protecting women’s rights.

Question 4: Who assumed the position of Chief Justice of India after Sanjiv Khanna demitted office in May 2025?
Option 1: Justice B.R. Gavai
Option 2: Justice N.V. Ramana
Option 3: Justice D.Y. Chandrachud
Option 4: Justice U.U. Lalit
Option 5: Justice Arun Mishra
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: In May 2025, Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna stepped down from his post, and Justice B.R. Gavai was appointed as the new Chief Justice of India. This smooth transition highlights the institutional continuity of the Supreme Court and its leadership in upholding constitutional values and judicial independence.

Question 5: What is the projected impact of personal income tax reductions in the 2025 Union Budget on India’s GDP growth?
Option 1: Increase of 0.2%
Option 2: Decrease of 0.5%
Option 3: Increase of 0.6% to 0.7%
Option 4: No measurable impact
Option 5: Increase of 1.5%
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: The 2025 Union Budget included personal income tax reductions aimed at boosting consumer demand. According to economic forecasts, these tax cuts are expected to increase India’s GDP growth by approximately 0.6% to 0.7%, contributing to the country’s upward economic trajectory amid global uncertainties.

Question 6: Which Indian scientific mission is scheduled for critical testing later in 2025, focusing on a parachute system for human spaceflight?
Option 1: Chandrayaan-4
Option 2: Mangalyaan-2
Option 3: Aditya-L2
Option 4: Shukrayaan
Option 5: Gaganyaan
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: The Gaganyaan mission, India’s first human spaceflight program, is preparing for key tests in late 2025. These tests involve a domestically developed parachute system by ADRDE (Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment). This marks a significant step towards India’s goal of sending astronauts into space.

Question 7: Which recently established facility in West Bengal is expected to advance India’s astrophysics research?
Option 1: Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre
Option 2: Bhaskaracharya Institute of Space Science
Option 3: Purulia Observatory
Option 4: Indian Institute of Astrophysics
Option 5: Saha Neutrino Lab
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: A new observatory in Purulia, West Bengal, was inaugurated to strengthen India’s capabilities in astrophysics research. It is expected to contribute significantly to the study of cosmic phenomena, including X-ray emissions and black hole systems, enhancing India’s presence in the global scientific community.

Question 8: Which agreement is expected to increase bilateral trade between India and the UK by £25.5 billion?
Option 1: India-EU Climate Partnership
Option 2: India-UK Free Trade Agreement
Option 3: India-Australia Strategic Pact
Option 4: Comprehensive Economic Partnership with Canada
Option 5: India-US Trade Expansion Deal
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: The India-UK Free Trade Agreement, finalized recently, is projected to boost bilateral trade by £25.5 billion. This deal eliminates tariffs on various Indian goods and enhances market access, benefiting sectors such as agriculture, textiles, and spirits, and reinforcing India’s trade footprint in Europe.

Question 9: Who announced the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty following the Pahalgam terror attack?
Option 1: Government of India
Option 2: Supreme Court of India
Option 3: NITI Aayog
Option 4: United Nations
Option 5: BRICS Secretariat
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: In a strategic move following the Pahalgam terror attack, the Government of India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty on April 23, 2025. This action signals India’s use of water diplomacy as a geopolitical tool and reflects a broader shift in its foreign policy posture amid rising tensions with Pakistan.

Question 10: Which Indian cricketer announced retirement from Test cricket on May 12, 2025?
Option 1: Rohit Sharma
Option 2: KL Rahul
Option 3: Rishabh Pant
Option 4: Virat Kohli
Option 5: Jasprit Bumrah
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: Virat Kohli, one of India’s most successful Test cricketers, retired from the format on May 12, 2025, after a 14-year illustrious career. His departure marks the end of an era in Indian cricket, during which he played a pivotal role in strengthening the team’s performance in overseas tours and ICC tournaments.