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Current Affairs Report: May 14, 2025 – A Comprehensive Guide for Competitive Exams

For students preparing for UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other government exams, staying updated with current affairs is crucial. The events of May 14, 2025, reflect India’s dynamic role in global and domestic spheres, covering politics, economy, science, international relations, environment, defense, and sports. This detailed report synthesizes key developments from credible sources like The Hindu, Indian Express, The Economic Times, Press Information Bureau (PIB), and Down To Earth, offering an engaging and exam-focused narrative to give students a competitive edge.

Politics and Governance

India’s political landscape on May 14, 2025, was shaped by the ripple effects of Operation Sindoor, a landmark military operation launched on May 7, 2025, in response to the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, which killed 26 civilians (Indian Express). The operation targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK), including the headquarters of Lashkar-e-Taiba in Muridke and Jaish-e-Mohammed in Bahawalpur, eliminating over 100 terrorists. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the operation as a “new normal” in India’s counter-terrorism strategy, emphasizing national unity and the use of advanced technologies like drones and precision missiles (Indian Defence News).

The operation led to a ceasefire agreement, facilitated through direct communication between military chiefs, though India clarified it was a bilateral decision despite U.S. involvement (The Hindu). However, diplomatic tensions escalated when India expelled a Pakistan High Commission staffer for espionage, citing leaks of army movements. Pakistan retaliated by declaring an Indian diplomat “persona non grata,” asking them to leave within 24 hours (The Hindu). These events underscore the volatile India-Pakistan relationship, a critical topic for UPSC aspirants studying bilateral relations and security policies.

Additionally, the Election Commission of India resolved issues related to duplicate EPIC (Elector Photo Identity Card) numbers, issuing fresh voter ID cards to ensure electoral integrity (The Hindu). This development is significant for governance-related questions, highlighting efforts to strengthen democratic processes.

Economy

The Indian economy displayed resilience on May 14, 2025, with the Sensex closing at 81,330.56, up 182.34 points (0.22%), and the Nifty 50 at 24,666.90, gaining 88.55 points (0.36%) (The Hindu BusinessLine). The rupee strengthened by 10 paise to 85.26 against the US dollar, driven by gains in domestic equities, positive macroeconomic data, and a weaker US currency amid easing global trade tensions. Forex traders noted a rising appetite for riskier assets, boosting investor sentiment.

Earlier in April 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) cut the repo rate by 25 basis points to 6%, following a similar cut in February, to spur economic growth amid global uncertainties, particularly US tariff hikes (The Hindu BusinessLine). RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra highlighted that the policy shift to an “accommodative” stance aims to balance growth and inflation, with retail inflation at a seven-month low of 3.6% in February 2025. This rate cut is expected to reduce borrowing costs, benefiting sectors like real estate and encouraging investment, a key point for Banking and SSC exam aspirants.

The RBI also issued new guidelines for loan service providers (LSPs), mandating transparency in digital lending platforms by May 13, 2025, to ensure fair comparison of loan offers (The Economic Times). Additionally, the RBI alerted banks about potential cyberattacks from Pakistan, prompting enhanced cybersecurity measures, a topic relevant for questions on financial security.

Economic Indicator	Value on May 14, 2025	Source
Sensex	81,330.56 (+182.34)	The Hindu BusinessLine
Nifty 50	24,666.90 (+88.55)	The Hindu BusinessLine
Rupee vs USD	85.26 (+10 paise)	The Hindu BusinessLine
Repo Rate	6% (post-April cut)	The Hindu BusinessLine

Science and Technology

India’s ambition to become a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI) was evident through ongoing initiatives like AI for India 2030, launched in January 2024 by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Nasscom, and the World Economic Forum (World Economic Forum). This initiative aims to integrate AI across sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and urban planning, potentially adding $500 billion to India’s economy by 2025. The program emphasizes ethical and inclusive AI adoption, aligning with India’s goal of a $5 trillion economy.

A significant development was the collaboration between Citadel Securities and IIT Kanpur to establish the Translational and Transformative Training and Investigations Laboratory, an advanced GPU research facility for AI, machine learning, and data science (Wikipedia). This facility is expected to drive innovation in intelligent systems and high-performance computing, a topic relevant for UPSC questions on technological advancements.

Additionally, Meta unveiled Project Waterworth, a 50,000 km undersea cable linking India with other regions to support high-speed connectivity for AI innovation (Wikipedia). India’s high usage of Meta AI on platforms like WhatsApp and Instagram further underscores its growing AI ecosystem. These developments highlight India’s strategic focus on technology, crucial for exam aspirants.

While no specific ISRO missions were reported for May 14, 2025, the agency’s recent success with the SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment) mission on December 30, 2024, and plans for the Gaganyaan program’s uncrewed test flight in 2025 were notable (ISRO). These achievements position India as a key player in space exploration, a frequent topic in science and technology sections.

International Relations

India’s foreign policy on May 14, 2025, was marked by its firm stance on Kashmir, reiterating that it remains a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan, in response to comments by former US President Donald Trump (The Hindu). The Ministry of External Affairs emphasized resolving disputes within the India-Pakistan framework, a critical point for UPSC aspirants studying India’s foreign policy.

India also expressed concern over the ban on Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League in Bangladesh, describing it as a “concerning development” and urging inclusive elections to ensure democratic stability (The Hindu). This reflects India’s role in promoting regional stability, a key exam topic.

Globally, India’s defense ties with the US were highlighted at Aero India 2025 in February, showcasing advanced aircraft and unmanned aerial systems, reinforcing the strategic partnership for Indo-Pacific security (US Embassy). While not directly tied to May 14, this context is relevant for questions on bilateral agreements and global forums like the QUAD.

Environment

The State of India’s Environment 2025 report, released on February 26, 2025, by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) and Down To Earth, provided a sobering analysis of India’s environmental challenges (Down To Earth). The report noted that India experienced extreme weather events on 255 out of 274 days in the first nine months of 2024, driven by climate change. Key issues included air and water pollution, waste management, and biodiversity loss, with special focus on plastic pollution and antimicrobial resistance.

The report also reflected on the 40th anniversary of the Bhopal Gas Tragedy, underscoring the need for robust environmental regulations. India’s renewable energy targets and efforts to combat climate change were highlighted, aligning with global climate treaties like the Paris Agreement. These topics are essential for UPSC aspirants, particularly in environmental policy and sustainable development sections.

The Southwest monsoon advanced to the Andaman Sea on May 14, 2025, covering parts of the Bay of Bengal and Nicobar Islands, as announced by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) (The Hindu). This development is significant for agriculture and water resource management, often tested in geography and economy sections.

Environmental Issue	Key Insight	Source
Extreme Weather	Affected India for 255 days in 2024	Down To Earth
Plastic Pollution	Highlighted as a major challenge	Down To Earth
Monsoon Advance	Reached Andaman Sea on May 14, 2025	The Hindu

Defense

India’s defense sector was in the spotlight due to Operation Sindoor, which showcased the Indian Air Force (IAF)’s capabilities, including the destruction of a Pakistan Air Force (PAF) SAAB 2000 Erieye aircraft and other high-tech assets (Indian Defence Research Wing). The operation, described as a “powerful display of air superiority,” involved advanced air defense systems and fighter jets, reinforcing India’s military modernization efforts.

On May 7, 2025, India conducted civil defense mock drills across 244 districts to enhance preparedness for potential conflicts, particularly amid India-Pakistan tensions (Business Standard). The drills tested air raid sirens, blackout procedures, and emergency response systems, reflecting India’s proactive approach to national security.

The Ministry of Defence declared 2025 as the “year of reforms,” focusing on modernizing the armed forces and establishing integrated theatre commands to enhance jointness and efficiency (Times of India). Defence Minister Rajnath Singh aimed to boost defense exports to ₹50,000 crore by 2029, a key point for questions on defense policy and indigenization.

Sports

While May 14, 2025, did not feature major sports events, India’s sports calendar for 2025 is packed with high-profile tournaments. The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup and World Para Athletics Championships are set to be hosted by India, showcasing the country’s growing prominence in global sports (Olympics.com). The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is scheduled to restart on May 17, with the final on June 3, promising intense cricket action (NDTV Sports).

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) faced challenges with overseas player availability due to scheduling conflicts, a topic relevant for sports governance questions (NDTV Sports). Additionally, legendary cricketers Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma announced their retirement from Test cricket before the England tour, a significant development for Indian cricket (India Today).

Sports Event	Details	Source
ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup	To be hosted by India in 2025	Olympics.com
IPL 2025	Restarts on May 17, 2025	NDTV Sports
Player Retirements	Kohli and Sharma retire from Tests	India Today

Conclusion

The events of May 14, 2025, offer a multifaceted view of India’s progress and challenges, providing rich material for competitive exam preparation. From Operation Sindoor’s strategic implications to economic resilience, technological advancements, and environmental concerns, these developments underscore India’s dynamic role on the global stage. Aspirants should focus on understanding the interplay of these topics, as they are frequently tested in UPSC, SSC, and Banking exams. By mastering these insights, students can gain a knowledge advantage and excel in their examinations.

Key Citations:

Daily quiz on current affairs with answers

Question 1: What was the primary objective of Operation Sindoor launched by India in May 2025?
Option 1: To conduct joint military drills with friendly nations
Option 2: To dismantle terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK
Option 3: To evacuate Indian citizens from war-torn regions
Option 4: To establish buffer zones along the LoC
Option 5: To reclaim disputed territory in Ladakh
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: Operation Sindoor was launched in response to the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. Its goal was to eliminate terror infrastructure across the border, including key bases of Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir. Over 100 terrorists were reportedly neutralized, showcasing India’s evolving doctrine in counter-terrorism.

Question 2: What step did the Election Commission of India take to resolve issues of duplicate voter IDs in May 2025?
Option 1: Introduced biometric verification at polling booths
Option 2: Issued fresh EPIC numbers to affected voters
Option 3: Cancelled elections in disputed constituencies
Option 4: Used blockchain technology to secure voter data
Option 5: Partnered with UIDAI for real-time Aadhaar verification
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: The Election Commission resolved duplicate Elector Photo Identity Card (EPIC) number issues by issuing new voter ID cards to affected citizens. This was a governance initiative to strengthen the credibility and integrity of the electoral process, especially ahead of upcoming elections.

Question 3: What is the significance of the RBI’s repo rate cut to 6% in April 2025?
Option 1: It signaled a shift toward aggressive inflation control
Option 2: It indicated tightening of monetary policy
Option 3: It aimed to stimulate economic growth amid global uncertainties
Option 4: It was done to curb excess liquidity in the market
Option 5: It marked the end of the accommodative stance
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: The RBI reduced the repo rate to 6%, aiming to spur economic growth as global trade faced disruptions, including U.S. tariff hikes. RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra emphasized balancing growth and inflation. Lower interest rates are expected to encourage investment and reduce borrowing costs.

Question 4: Which of the following actions was taken by Pakistan in response to India expelling a High Commission staffer in May 2025?
Option 1: Imposed trade restrictions on Indian goods
Option 2: Mobilized troops along the border
Option 3: Filed a complaint with the United Nations
Option 4: Declared an Indian diplomat persona non grata
Option 5: Recalled its ambassador from New Delhi
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: In retaliation to India expelling a Pakistani High Commission official for espionage, Pakistan declared an Indian diplomat “persona non grata,” asking them to leave within 24 hours. This reflects the diplomatic tit-for-tat measures commonly seen in strained bilateral relations.

Question 5: What environmental phenomenon was reported by the IMD on May 14, 2025?
Option 1: Record heatwave across North India
Option 2: Cyclone formation near the Arabian Sea
Option 3: Onset of El Niño affecting rainfall patterns
Option 4: Advance of Southwest Monsoon to the Andaman Sea
Option 5: Forest fires in Central India
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced that the Southwest Monsoon had reached the Andaman Sea on May 14, 2025. This is a crucial meteorological event impacting agriculture and water resource planning, particularly in monsoon-dependent regions.

Question 6: Which AI-related collaboration was highlighted as a major technological initiative in India?
Option 1: Citadel Securities and IIT Kanpur GPU lab for AI and ML
Option 2: AI India Hub by DRDO and ISRO
Option 3: IBM and NITI Aayog Smart Bharat project
Option 4: Microsoft-AICTE national coding program
Option 5: Google’s AI accelerator initiative in Hyderabad
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: Citadel Securities partnered with IIT Kanpur to set up a high-end GPU-based research lab focused on AI, machine learning, and data science. This facility is intended to drive innovation in high-performance computing, aligning with India’s AI for India 2030 vision.

Question 7: Which financial reform by the RBI came into effect on May 13, 2025?
Option 1: Ban on third-party loan aggregators
Option 2: Mandatory transparency norms for digital Loan Service Providers (LSPs)
Option 3: Introduction of digital rupee in retail banking
Option 4: Revision of CRR and SLR rates
Option 5: Merger of NBFCs into scheduled banks
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: The RBI enforced new transparency guidelines for digital lending platforms and loan service providers (LSPs), effective May 13, 2025. The aim is to empower consumers with clear comparisons of loan terms and prevent exploitative practices in digital lending.

Question 8: Which former Indian cricketer announced retirement from Test cricket prior to the England tour in 2025?
Option 1: Ravindra Jadeja
Option 2: KL Rahul
Option 3: Shubman Gill
Option 4: Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli
Option 5: Jasprit Bumrah
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: Cricket legends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli announced their retirement from Test cricket ahead of the England tour. This marks the end of an era in Indian cricket and has implications for the team’s leadership and performance in the longest format.

Question 9: What diplomatic stance did India take regarding former US President Trump’s comments on Kashmir?
Option 1: Welcomed US mediation
Option 2: Requested a UNSC resolution
Option 3: Filed an official protest through the embassy
Option 4: Reiterated Kashmir as a bilateral issue with Pakistan
Option 5: Offered to host peace talks in New Delhi
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: India firmly reiterated its longstanding policy that Kashmir is a bilateral matter to be resolved between India and Pakistan, rejecting any third-party involvement, including suggestions by former US President Donald Trump. This reflects India’s consistent foreign policy approach.

Question 10: According to the “State of India’s Environment 2025” report, what major issue plagued India for 255 days in 2024?
Option 1: Plastic waste dump overflow
Option 2: Forest fires in tribal areas
Option 3: Extreme weather events
Option 4: Drought due to failed monsoons
Option 5: Toxic smog in urban centers
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: The report noted that India experienced extreme weather events on 255 out of 274 days in the first nine months of 2024. These included floods, droughts, and storms, underscoring the urgent need for climate adaptation strategies and environmental policy reforms.