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Current Affairs: May 26–June 1, 2025 – A Comprehensive Overview for Competitive Exams

The week of May 26 to June 1, 2025, was a dynamic period for India, marked by significant developments across politics, economy, science, technology, environment, defense, and sports. This article provides an in-depth, engaging, and student-friendly analysis of these events, tailored for aspirants preparing for UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other government exams. Drawing from credible sources like The Hindu, The Indian Express, Times of India, and others, the content is structured to enhance readability and retention, with key terms in bold to help students quickly identify critical points. This comprehensive resource aims to give students a competitive edge by covering all major topics relevant to their exams.

Politics and Governance: Driving India’s Development Agenda

The political landscape was abuzz with initiatives aimed at long-term development. On May 24, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the 10th NITI Aayog Meet at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, themed “Viksit Rajya for Viksit Bharat @2047”. The meeting, attended by representatives from 24 states and 7 Union Territories, launched a Rs 60,000 crore skilling scheme to train millions of youth and a Rs 1 lakh crore Urban Challenge Fund to boost urban infrastructure. These initiatives reflect India’s ambition to become a developed nation by 2047, making them crucial for exam aspirants to understand.

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by PM Modi, approved a significant increase in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for 14 Kharif crops for the 2025-26 season, with a financial outlay of Rs 2.07 lakh crore. This decision aims to ensure better returns for farmers, stabilize agricultural incomes, and boost rural economies, a key topic for UPSC questions on agriculture and governance.

Infrastructure development also took center stage, with the CCEA sanctioning two multi-tracking railway projects under the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan on May 28, 2025. These projects will enhance connectivity and support economic growth, aligning with India’s infrastructure push.

The Ministry of Panchayati Raj launched PAI 2.0 during a national writeshop on May 26–27, 2025, to promote data-driven governance at the Gram Panchayat level. This initiative aims to improve local administration through better data utilization, a topic relevant for questions on decentralized governance.

The Department of Posts introduced the ‘Know Your DIGIPIN’ and ‘Know Your PIN Code’ portals under the National Geospatial Policy 2022, enhancing digital service inclusion. These portals simplify access to postal services, reflecting India’s digital transformation efforts.

On May 30, 2025, Goa celebrated its 39th Statehood Day and was declared a fully literate state under the ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram, achieving a 95% literacy rate. This milestone highlights the success of literacy campaigns, a potential exam topic under social development.

Odisha launched the ANKUR initiative for urban transformation, focusing on sustainable urban planning. Similarly, Gujarat introduced the Karmayogi Swasthya Suraksha Yojana, offering cashless medical treatment to All India Service (AIS) officers, state employees, and pensioners, showcasing state-level welfare measures.

A significant legal development came from the Supreme Court in the case of Amol Bhagwan Nehul vs State of Maharashtra on May 26, 2025. The bench, comprising Justices B.V. Nagarathna and Satish Chandra Sharma, quashed a rape case under Sections 376(2)(n) and 506 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), ruling that consent obtained under a false promise of marriage did not justify criminal prosecution in this instance. The court expressed concerns about the misuse of Section 376 IPC in failed relationships, a ruling that could influence future legal interpretations and is vital for UPSC aspirants studying judicial reforms.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) made headlines by arresting a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan on charges of spying for Pakistan, as reported by The Hindu on May 26, 2025 (NIA Arrest). This incident underscores ongoing national security challenges, a critical topic for exams.

Additionally, the Congress party criticized PM Modi over the caste census issue, releasing videos on May 26, 2025, to highlight their stance, as noted by The Hindu (Congress on Caste Census). The Rajya Sabha also announced biennial polls for eight seats on June 19, 2025, covering Assam and Tamil Nadu, a key point for governance-related questions.

Economy: A Global Powerhouse Emerges

India’s economy achieved a historic milestone, with IMF data indicating that it surpassed Japan to become the fourth-largest economy globally, with a GDP of approximately USD 4,187.017 billion in FY26, compared to Japan’s USD 4,186.431 billion. This achievement, reported widely, underscores India’s growing economic clout, a must-know for Banking and UPSC aspirants.

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows reached USD 81.04 billion in FY 2024-25, a 14% increase, with the services sector seeing a 40.77% rise. Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Delhi were top destinations, with Singapore, Mauritius, and the US as key investors, highlighting India’s attractiveness as an investment hub.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) proposed measures to simplify access to inoperative bank accounts, including easier KYC updates and video KYC, with public feedback open until June 6, 2025, as reported by Angel One (RBI Proposal). The RBI also imposed a monetary penalty on Murshidabad District Central Co-operative Bank Ltd. in West Bengal on May 26, 2025, reflecting its regulatory oversight.

Anticipation built around the RBI’s monetary policy decision on June 6, 2025, with expectations of a 25-basis-point rate cut to lower the repo rate to 5.75%, as per Reuters (RBI Rate Cut). This would mark the third consecutive cut, following reductions in February and April, signaling a focus on stimulating growth.

Inflation trends showed improvement, with retail inflation easing to 2.92% in April 2025 from 3.25% in March, and food inflation at 1.78%, according to PIB (CPI Inflation). This decline, marking six straight months of cooling inflation, supports economic stability.

The stock market performed robustly, with the Nifty 50 surpassing 25,000 in late May 2025 and the Sensex gaining 455.3 points to close at 82,176.45 on May 26, as reported by The Hindu BusinessLine (Stock Market). Despite a weekly dip of 0.4%, the Nifty 50 closed May with a 1.7% gain, driven by strong economic growth data, as noted by Economic Times (Nifty Gains).

The Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) set a Guinness World Record by selling 588,107 life insurance policies on January 20, 2025, during its “Mad Million Day” campaign, a feat recognized on May 25, 2025. The Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) interest rate was retained at 8.25% for FY2024-25, impacting over 7 crore subscribers, a key point for Banking exams.

In the energy sector, India’s pumped storage hydropower capacity is set to expand from under 5 GW to 51.24 GW by 2032, led by companies like Greenko, Adani Green, and JSW Energy, with a focus on Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra. Coal imports declined by 7.9% in FY 2024-25 to 243.62 million tonnes, saving $7.93 billion, supported by initiatives like Commercial Coal Mining and Mission Coking Coal.

The Supreme Court ordered a status quo on Bhushan Steel liquidation proceedings on May 26, 2025, allowing JSW Steel to file a review, as reported by The Hindu (Bhushan Steel), impacting the steel industry.

Economic Indicator	Details	Source
GDP	India’s GDP at USD 4,187.017 billion, surpassing Japan	IMF Data
FDI Inflows	USD 81.04 billion in FY 2024-25, up 14%	BankersAdda
Inflation	Retail inflation at 2.92% in April 2025	PIB
Stock Market	Nifty 50 at 25,001.15 on May 26, 2025	The Hindu BusinessLine
RBI Rate Cut	Expected 25 bps cut to 5.75% on June 6, 2025	Reuters

Science and Technology: Pioneering Innovation

India made significant strides in science and technology. On May 26, 2025, a 9000 HP electric locomotive was inaugurated in Dahod, Gujarat, a first-of-its-kind single-unit locomotive developed in collaboration with Siemens and equipped with the Kavach anti-collision system. This advancement strengthens India’s railway technology, a potential topic for SSC exams.

IIT Kharagpur signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Singapore’s Institute of Microelectronics (IME) for collaboration in semiconductor technology, marking a step toward global technological partnerships.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) advanced its Gaganyaan mission, entering the final phase with preparations for India’s first human spaceflight, as reported by VIF India (Gaganyaan Update). This mission is a landmark for India’s space ambitions, crucial for UPSC science and technology questions.

The government launched the Bharat Forecasting System on May 26, 2025, to enhance weather prediction capabilities, as noted by The Hindu (Bharat Forecasting). This system will aid agriculture and disaster management, a key point for exams.

The IndiaAI mission received a boost with increased compute capacity, advancing artificial intelligence research, as reported by DD News (IndiaAI). This development positions India as a leader in AI innovation.

International Relations: Strengthening Global Ties

India played a prominent role on the global stage. It endorsed the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025–2034 and established the Global Traditional Medicine Centre in Jamnagar, signing a donor agreement for the Traditional Medicine module in the International Classification of Health Interventions (ICHI). This move highlights India’s leadership in traditional medicine, a potential topic for UPSC international relations.

Six East African nations signed an MoU to eliminate kala-azar, supported by the World Health Organization (WHO), African Union, and DNDi, with India’s expertise in combating the disease playing a key role.

The US Department of Homeland Security revoked Harvard’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification due to campus protests, affecting over 7,000 students, including 800 Indians, creating visa uncertainties, as reported by BankersAdda. This development is significant for students studying international migration policies.

Saudi Arabia and Kuwait announced an oil discovery in the North Wafra Wara-Burgan field, with output exceeding 500 barrels per day, the first since 2020, impacting global energy markets.

Environment: Balancing Growth and Sustainability

The southwest monsoon arrived early in 2025, hitting Kerala and Tamil Nadu ahead of schedule, as reported by India Today (Early Monsoon). The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasted above-average monsoon rains for the second consecutive year, beneficial for agriculture but causing floods and landslides in the northeast, resulting in at least 30 deaths, as noted by Al Jazeera (Floods). Experts attribute the early monsoon to climate change, projecting a 10–14% increase in rainfall by the century’s end, per Times of India (Climate Patterns).

The Bharat Forecasting System, launched on May 26, 2025, aims to improve weather prediction accuracy, aiding disaster preparedness. The India Heat Summit 2025 discussed rising temperatures and climate solutions, advising the government on long-term strategies, as per India Today (Heat Summit).

The Nagshankar Temple in Biswanath, Assam, was recognized as a model for turtle conservation on World Turtle Day, May 23, 2025, promoting biodiversity efforts. The Vistadome Jungle Safari Train, launched in Uttar Pradesh, connects Dudhwa Tiger Reserve and Katarniaghat, boosting eco-tourism and wildlife conservation awareness.

Environmental Event	Details	Source
Monsoon Onset	Early arrival in Kerala, Tamil Nadu	India Today
Floods	30 deaths in northeast due to heavy rains	Al Jazeera
Bharat Forecasting	Launched to enhance weather predictions	The Hindu

Defense: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities

India faced significant defense developments following a conflict with Pakistan in early May 2025. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan acknowledged losses of nine fighter jets due to tactical mistakes, though he denied claims of six planes being downed, as reported by Al Jazeera (Jet Losses) and Reuters (Tactical Changes). India launched a diplomatic offensive, deploying lawmakers and former ambassadors to over 20 global capitals, as noted by Washington Post (Diplomatic Offensive), to manage the narrative post-conflict.

On a positive note, Reliance Defence signed an MoU with Germany’s Rheinmetall for large-scale ammunition production, as reported by The Defense Post (Ammo Production), enhancing India’s defense manufacturing capabilities.

Sports: IPL Fever Grips the Nation

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 was a major highlight, with Punjab Kings, led by Shreyas Iyer, defeating Mumbai Indians by five wickets to reach the final, as reported by Times of India (IPL Qualifier). Iyer’s unbeaten 87 off 41 balls in a rain-delayed Qualifier 2 was a standout performance, setting up a final on June 3, 2025, as per The Indian Express (IPL Schedule). This achievement is a key point for sports-related questions in SSC exams.

Other events, such as the French Open and India’s cricket tour of England, were ongoing, but the IPL remained the focal point for Indian sports enthusiasts.

Conclusion: A Week of Transformation

The week of May 26 to June 1, 2025, showcased India’s progress across multiple domains. From achieving economic milestones to advancing in space and technology, addressing environmental challenges, and excelling in sports, these events provide a wealth of knowledge for students. Understanding these developments not only prepares aspirants for competitive exams but also fosters a deeper appreciation of India’s dynamic role on the global stage. Stay updated with such current affairs to gain a competitive edge in your preparations.

Key Citations

Daily quiz on current affairs with answers

Question 1: Which Indian state recently launched the ‘Sashakt Mahila Yojana’ to empower rural women through skill development and micro-enterprise support?
Option 1: Uttar Pradesh
Option 2: Madhya Pradesh
Option 3: West Bengal
Option 4: Himachal Pradesh
Option 5: Odisha
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: Himachal Pradesh launched the ‘Sashakt Mahila Yojana’ during this week to enhance women empowerment in rural areas. The scheme aims to promote self-reliance among women through vocational training, financial literacy, and startup support for micro-enterprises. This move aligns with the government’s broader focus on grassroots economic empowerment.

Question 2: Which international financial body approved a $500 million loan to India for the Green Urban Transport Program?
Option 1: IMF
Option 2: Asian Development Bank
Option 3: World Bank
Option 4: New Development Bank
Option 5: European Investment Bank
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) approved a $500 million loan to India as part of the Green Urban Transport Program. This initiative supports India’s transition to clean energy by funding electric mobility, improved public transportation, and sustainable urban transport planning in select cities.

Question 3: Who won the prestigious Best Director award at the 77th Cannes Film Festival held recently?
Option 1: Ryusuke Hamaguchi
Option 2: Greta Gerwig
Option 3: Yorgos Lanthimos
Option 4: Christopher Nolan
Option 5: Miguel Gomes
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: Portuguese filmmaker Miguel Gomes won the Best Director award at the 77th Cannes Film Festival. His film received acclaim for its unique storytelling and visual approach. This highlights global cinematic trends and is important from the cultural and awards perspective.

Question 4: Which country did India recently sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with to enhance cooperation in digital infrastructure and cybersecurity?
Option 1: Japan
Option 2: Israel
Option 3: UAE
Option 4: France
Option 5: South Korea
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: India and Japan signed an MoU this week focusing on collaboration in digital infrastructure and cybersecurity. The agreement includes sharing of best practices in 5G, AI, and digital public infrastructure, reflecting India’s increasing tech diplomacy in the Indo-Pacific.

Question 5: What is the name of the ISRO initiative launched to promote AI and space-tech innovation among Indian startups and academic institutions?
Option 1: Viksit Bharat AI
Option 2: Nav-ISRO
Option 3: Antriksh Gyaan
Option 4: Pushpak Incubator
Option 5: SPRINT
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: ISRO launched the “Antriksh Gyaan” initiative to create a collaborative ecosystem for AI, robotics, and space technology. It seeks to engage Indian startups, universities, and research institutions to contribute to India’s space exploration goals and boost indigenous innovation.

Question 6: Which Indian para-athlete set a new world record in javelin throw in the F46 category this week?
Option 1: Sundar Singh Gurjar
Option 2: Ajeet Singh
Option 3: Devendra Jhajharia
Option 4: Sandeep Chaudhary
Option 5: Sumit Antil
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: Sumit Antil broke his own previous world record in the men’s javelin throw F46 category. His performance solidified India’s rising profile in para-sports globally and serves as a motivational benchmark ahead of the Paris 2024 Paralympics.

Question 7: Which Indian PSU signed an agreement to supply green hydrogen to the Indian Navy for its pilot decarbonization project?
Option 1: NTPC Limited
Option 2: ONGC
Option 3: Indian Oil Corporation
Option 4: Bharat Petroleum
Option 5: GAIL
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: Indian Oil Corporation signed an MoU with the Indian Navy to supply green hydrogen for its pilot project aimed at reducing dependence on fossil fuels. The project supports India’s goals of sustainable defense operations and energy transition.

Question 8: According to the latest RBI data, what was the GDP growth rate of India for Q4 of FY 2024-25?
Option 1: 6.2%
Option 2: 7.3%
Option 3: 5.8%
Option 4: 6.7%
Option 5: 8.1%
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: RBI’s latest quarterly estimates placed India’s GDP growth rate at 7.3% for Q4 of FY 2024–25. The strong performance was driven by robust manufacturing, construction, and services sector outputs, reinforcing India’s position as one of the fastest-growing economies.

Question 9: Who has been appointed as the new Chief of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)?
Option 1: Dr. Samir V. Kamat
Option 2: Dr. Tessy Thomas
Option 3: Lt Gen Raj Shukla (Retd)
Option 4: Dr. G Satheesh Reddy
Option 5: Air Marshal Sandeep Singh (Retd)
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: Dr. Samir V. Kamat was reappointed as the Chief of DRDO, given his extensive experience in missile systems and defense R&D. His leadership is expected to steer DRDO through key indigenous defense technology developments.

Question 10: Which Indian city was recently declared the winner of the ‘Clean Air City of the Year’ award under the NCAP framework?
Option 1: Surat
Option 2: Pune
Option 3: Varanasi
Option 4: Indore
Option 5: Hyderabad
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: Indore was awarded the ‘Clean Air City of the Year’ under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP). The city achieved substantial reduction in PM2.5 and PM10 levels through sustained urban planning, cleaner public transport, and citizen engagement initiatives.

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