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Current Affairs Report: May 22, 2025

This detailed report covers the latest current affairs as of May 22, 2025, tailored for students preparing for UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other government exams. Sourced from credible outlets like The Hindu, The Indian Express, Times of India, Hindustan Times, Business Standard, Livemint, The Economic Times, Press Information Bureau (PIB), PRS Legislative Research, BBC News, Reuters, and Down To Earth, this article provides a comprehensive overview of key developments in politics, international relations, economy, science, environment, defense, and sports. Written in simple English with a storytelling approach, it aims to engage students and enhance their exam preparation.

Politics and Governance: Navigating Tensions and Reforms

The political landscape in India has been dominated by heightened tensions with Pakistan, particularly over water rights. On May 22, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a bold statement, declaring that Pakistan would not receive water from rivers under India’s control (Reuters). This follows India’s decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty, a 1960 agreement brokered by the World Bank that allocates water from three rivers flowing from India to Pakistan, crucial for Pakistan’s agriculture, which supports 80% of its farms. The suspension was a response to a deadly attack in Indian Kashmir on April 22, 2025, which India attributes to Pakistan, though Pakistan denies involvement. India seeks to modify the treaty citing population growth and clean energy needs, while Pakistan insists on adhering to its original terms, highlighting the treaty’s legally binding nature (US News).

Diplomatic relations have further strained, with India declaring a second Pakistani diplomat persona non grata within ten days, as reported by The Hindu (The Hindu). This move underscores the fragile state of bilateral ties, with both nations accusing each other of supporting terrorism. These developments are critical for exam aspirants, as they reflect complex issues in governance and foreign policy.

On the legislative front, the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025, passed by the Lok Sabha on March 27, 2025, marks a significant reform (PRS Legislative Research). Introduced on March 11, 2025, the bill consolidates and modernizes laws related to immigration, repealing older acts like the Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920, Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939, Foreigners Act, 1946, and Immigration (Carriers’ Liability) Act, 2000. Key provisions include requiring valid passports and visas for entry, establishing a Bureau of Immigration to oversee visa issuance and entry regulations, and mandating registration of foreigners upon arrival. The bill also imposes stricter penalties, with up to 5 years imprisonment and a fine of up to ₹5 lakh for entering without valid documents, compared to a previous fine of ₹50,000. Additionally, it expands obligations for carriers, hotels, educational institutions, and medical facilities to report on foreigners, enhancing national security measures (Economic Times).

Another notable legislative update is the Bills of Lading Bill, 2025, passed by the Lok Sabha to replace the colonial-era Indian Bills of Lading Act, 1856. This bill aims to modernize regulations for shipping and trade, facilitating smoother commercial transactions (PIB).

Legislative Update	Details
Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025	Passed on March 27, 2025; modernizes visa rules, establishes Bureau of Immigration, imposes stricter penalties.
Bills of Lading Bill, 2025	Replaces 1856 Act; updates regulations for shipping and trade.

International Relations: Ceasefire and Global Engagement

The India-Pakistan conflict saw a critical turning point with a US-brokered ceasefire announced on May 10, 2025. Tensions escalated after the April 22 Kashmir attack, leading to Indian air strikes on Pakistani “terrorist infrastructure” on May 7, followed by missile barrages on May 10, including an attack on Pakistan’s Nur Khan air base using BrahMos missiles. Pakistan retaliated, targeting 26 locations in India. The proximity of the Nur Khan attack to Pakistan’s nuclear-planning body raised global concerns, prompting Pakistan to convene its National Command Authority. US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Vice President JD Vance, and President Donald Trump, engaged in marathon diplomacy from May 6-10, culminating in Trump’s social media announcement of the ceasefire (Reuters). This intervention highlights the importance of international mediation in preventing further escalation, especially given the nuclear capabilities of both nations.

While no specific updates on India’s participation in global forums like the G20, UN, BRICS, or QUAD were reported for May 22, 2025, India’s active role in international diplomacy is evident. For instance, India led discussions on inclusive energy governance at a BRICS ministers’ meet earlier in 2025, as noted by PIB (india.gov.in). The upcoming G20 Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, scheduled later in 2025, is expected to see India play a significant role, building on its successful 2023 G20 Presidency in New Delhi (g20.in).

Economy: Growth and Strategic Investments

India’s economy continues to show resilience, with Fitch Ratings raising the medium-term growth forecast to 6.4% until 2028, up from 6.2% in November 2023 (Business Standard). This optimistic outlook is driven by strong domestic demand, increased labor force participation, and sustained policy support in infrastructure and digitalization. Despite a slowdown in the second quarter of FY25 to 5.4%, attributed to weakened urban consumption, India’s growth remains robust compared to global peers (Economic Times).

In a strategic move, Reliance Industries partnered with Germany’s Rheinmetall AG to establish a major ammunition complex in Maharashtra, aiming to support India’s defense forces and achieve ₹50,000 crore in defense exports by 2029 (Business Standard). This collaboration strengthens India’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing and boosts its global market presence.

The India Bioeconomy Report 2025 highlights the bioeconomy sector’s growth from $10 billion in 2014 to $165.7 billion in 2024, a 16-fold expansion, underscoring India’s advancements in biotechnology (Business Standard). Additionally, NRI deposits rose by nearly 10% in FY25 to $16.16 billion, reflecting confidence in India’s economic stability (Business Standard).

Economic Indicator	Details
GDP Growth Forecast	6.4% until 2028, per Fitch Ratings.
Bioeconomy Growth	From $10 billion (2014) to $165.7 billion (2024).
NRI Deposits	Increased by 10% to $16.16 billion in FY25.

Science and Technology: Challenges in Space Exploration

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) faced a significant setback with the failure of the PSLV-C61 mission on May 18, 2025, intended to launch the EOS-09 surveillance satellite (Al Jazeera). The mission failed due to a fall in chamber pressure during the third stage, as stated by ISRO chief V Narayanan. This marks the third failure in the PSLV’s history, with the first in 1993, raising concerns about national security due to the satellite’s surveillance role (NDTV). ISRO has formed a Failure Analysis Committee to investigate and ensure future mission success.

Despite this, ISRO’s achievements, such as the 2023 moon landing, position India as a global leader in space exploration. The organization is also preparing for the Global Space Exploration Conference (GLEX) 2025, scheduled for May 7-9, 2025, to showcase its advancements (ISRO).

Environment: Strides Toward Sustainability

India is making significant progress toward its climate goals, with projections indicating it will exceed its 2030 target of reducing emissions intensity of GDP by 45% compared to 2005 levels. A report suggests a potential reduction of 48-57% by 2030, driven by advancements in renewable energy and energy efficiency (New Indian Express). The Mission LiFE framework is expected to contribute up to 10% in emissions reductions by 2050 through behavioral changes. India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) for 2035 aim for a 55-66% reduction in emissions intensity and a 60-68% share of non-fossil fuel in power capacity. Achieving net zero by 2070 will require policies like carbon pricing and power pricing reforms.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted an early southwest monsoon arrival in Kerala by late May 2025, with above-normal rainfall expected, which could impact agriculture positively (CNBC TV18). However, climate challenges like severe heat waves (experienced by 71% of Indians) and water stress remain concerns (Yale Climate Communication).

Environmental Target	Details
2030 Emissions Target	Reduce GDP emissions intensity by 45%; projected 48-57%.
2035 NDC Goals	55-66% emissions intensity reduction; 60-68% non-fossil fuel power.
Net Zero	Targeted for 2070 with policy interventions.

Defense: Strengthening National Security

The Reliance-Rheinmetall AG partnership to build an ammunition complex in Maharashtra is a landmark development for India’s defense sector. This initiative supports India’s goal of ₹50,000 crore in defense exports by 2029 and enhances self-reliance in manufacturing explosives and propellants (Business Standard). The recent India-Pakistan military engagements, including air strikes and missile attacks, underscore the importance of a robust defense posture. India’s use of BrahMos missiles in retaliatory strikes demonstrated its advanced military capabilities.

Sports: Celebrating Achievements

India’s sports scene is vibrant, with significant achievements in May 2025. The Khelo India Youth Games 2025 concluded with Maharashtra topping the medal tally, securing 158 medals, including 58 golds, followed by Haryana with 39 golds (Olympics.com). In boxing, India clinched 15 gold medals at the Asian U-15 & U-17 Boxing Championships, finishing second overall (Sportstar). The ISSF World Cup in Lima saw India win 7 medals (2 gold, 4 silver, 1 bronze), showcasing its shooting prowess (The Junior Age).

In cricket, the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is in its playoff stage, with Mumbai Indians securing a spot after a 59-run victory over Delhi Capitals on May 21, 2025 (NDTV). Despite a brief suspension due to India-Pakistan tensions, the league resumed after the ceasefire, reflecting India’s passion for cricket (The Hindu).

Sports Event	Achievement
Khelo India Youth Games 2025	Maharashtra: 158 medals (58 gold); Haryana: 39 golds.
Asian U-15 & U-17 Boxing	India: 15 gold medals, second overall.
ISSF World Cup Lima	India: 7 medals (2 gold, 4 silver, 1 bronze).
IPL 2025	Mumbai Indians reach playoffs.

Conclusion

As of May 22, 2025, India is navigating a dynamic landscape of geopolitical challenges, economic growth, technological setbacks, and environmental progress. The India-Pakistan tensions, economic optimism, ISRO’s challenges, climate achievements, defense advancements, and sports successes provide a rich tapestry of current affairs. For students, understanding these developments is crucial for excelling in competitive exams, offering insights into India’s role on the global stage and its domestic priorities.

Key Citations:

Daily quiz on current affairs with answers

Question 1:
Which new legislation passed by the Lok Sabha in 2025 aims to overhaul India’s visa and entry rules for foreigners?
Option 1: Foreigners Regulation Act, 2025
Option 2: Indian Visa and Migration Act, 2025
Option 3: National Immigration and Visa Code, 2025
Option 4: Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025
Option 5: Indian Border Control Bill, 2025
Answer: Option 4
Explanation:
The Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025, was passed by the Lok Sabha on March 27, 2025. It consolidates and modernizes India’s immigration laws by repealing outdated acts like the Foreigners Act, 1946, and Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920. It mandates valid passports and visas, introduces a Bureau of Immigration, and enforces stricter penalties (up to 5 years imprisonment and ₹5 lakh fine) for illegal entry. The bill enhances national security and oversight of foreign nationals in India.

Question 2:
Which Indian state topped the medal tally in the Khelo India Youth Games 2025?
Option 1: Haryana
Option 2: Tamil Nadu
Option 3: Maharashtra
Option 4: Punjab
Option 5: Karnataka
Answer: Option 3
Explanation:
Maharashtra secured the top position in the Khelo India Youth Games 2025 with a total of 158 medals, including 58 golds. Haryana came second in gold medals with 39. Maharashtra’s performance reflects its consistent investment in sports infrastructure and youth training programs, making it a dominant force in national sporting events.

Question 3:
Fitch Ratings revised India’s medium-term GDP growth forecast to which of the following figures until 2028?
Option 1: 6.2%
Option 2: 6.3%
Option 3: 6.4%
Option 4: 6.5%
Option 5: 6.6%
Answer: Option 2
Explanation:
Fitch Ratings upgraded India’s GDP growth forecast to 6.4% for the medium term until 2028. This upward revision from the earlier 6.2% forecast is based on factors such as strong domestic demand, rising labor participation, and ongoing infrastructure and digital investments, indicating India’s resilience amid global economic slowdowns.

Question 4:
Which of the following accurately describes the reason behind the failure of ISRO’s PSLV-C61 mission?
Option 1: Faulty satellite deployment system
Option 2: Navigation software glitch
Option 3: Incorrect fuel mix ratio
Option 4: Fall in chamber pressure during the third stage
Option 5: Heat shield malfunction
Answer: Option 4
Explanation:
The PSLV-C61 mission failed on May 18, 2025, due to a fall in chamber pressure during its third stage, as confirmed by ISRO. This mission was critical for launching the EOS-09 surveillance satellite. The failure triggered national security concerns and ISRO has formed a Failure Analysis Committee to investigate and prevent future setbacks.

Question 5:
India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty in 2025 was primarily triggered by which event?
Option 1: India’s increasing population and clean energy demands
Option 2: Pakistan’s water diversion in Sindh
Option 3: A deadly terror attack in Indian Kashmir
Option 4: Diplomatic fallout over trade issues
Option 5: Border skirmishes in Punjab
Answer: Option 1
Explanation:
While the terror attack on April 22, 2025, in Kashmir was the immediate trigger, India justified the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty citing population growth and clean energy needs. The treaty, established in 1960, is vital for Pakistan’s agriculture. India’s stance reflects both strategic retaliation and long-term developmental priorities.

Question 6:
Which foreign company partnered with Reliance Industries to build a major ammunition complex in India?
Option 1: Lockheed Martin
Option 2: Rheinmetall AG
Option 3: Thales Group
Option 4: BAE Systems
Option 5: Saab AB
Answer: Option 2
Explanation:
Reliance Industries entered a strategic partnership with Rheinmetall AG, a German defense manufacturer, to establish an ammunition complex in Maharashtra. This move boosts India’s defense manufacturing capabilities and supports the country’s ambition to achieve ₹50,000 crore in defense exports by 2029, under the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative.

Question 7:
India’s bioeconomy sector grew from $10 billion in 2014 to how much by 2024?
Option 1: $120 billion
Option 2: $145 billion
Option 3: $155.6 billion
Option 4: $160.2 billion
Option 5: $165.7 billion
Answer: Option 5
Explanation:
As per the India Bioeconomy Report 2025, India’s bioeconomy expanded from $10 billion in 2014 to $165.7 billion in 2024, marking a 16-fold increase. This growth was driven by advances in biotechnology, healthcare, and green energy, placing India as a significant player in the global bioeconomy landscape.

Question 8:
Which Indian missile was reportedly used in the strike on Pakistan’s Nur Khan air base during the May 2025 conflict escalation?
Option 1: Agni-V
Option 2: Prithvi-II
Option 3: BrahMos
Option 4: Nirbhay
Option 5: Akash
Answer: Option 3
Explanation:
During the May 2025 escalation between India and Pakistan, India used BrahMos missiles to strike Pakistan’s Nur Khan air base. This marked a significant moment as the base is located near Pakistan’s nuclear planning facility. The use of such precision missiles emphasized India’s advanced strike capabilities and raised global security concerns.

Question 9:
According to recent climate projections, India is expected to reduce its GDP emissions intensity by how much by 2030?
Option 1: 45%
Option 2: 50-55%
Option 3: 55-60%
Option 4: 48-57%
Option 5: 60-68%
Answer: Option 1
Explanation:
India had committed to reducing its GDP emissions intensity by 45% by 2030, compared to 2005 levels. Recent projections, however, suggest India may exceed this target with a potential reduction of 48-57%, driven by renewable energy use and efficiency gains under programs like Mission LiFE.

Question 10:
Which team qualified for the IPL 2025 playoffs after defeating Delhi Capitals by 59 runs?
Option 1: Royal Challengers Bangalore
Option 2: Rajasthan Royals
Option 3: Chennai Super Kings
Option 4: Mumbai Indians
Option 5: Kolkata Knight Riders
Answer: Option 4
Explanation:
Mumbai Indians secured a spot in the IPL 2025 playoffs after defeating Delhi Capitals by 59 runs on May 21, 2025. This match was notable as it followed the temporary suspension of the IPL due to India-Pakistan tensions. The resumption and performance reaffirmed cricket’s cultural and commercial significance in India.