Current Affairs Report: May 28, 2025
This detailed report covers the most significant events and developments from May 28, 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 an in-depth look at politics, governance, economy, science, technology, environment, defense, and sports. Written in simple English with a storytelling approach, it aims to engage students and enhance their knowledge for competitive exams.
Politics and Governance
India’s political scene on May 28, 2025, was marked by significant developments, particularly in Manipur. The state, under President’s Rule since February 13, 2025, saw a potential turning point as 44 Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), including those from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), gathered at Imphal Raj Bhavan to meet Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla. Led by BJP legislator Thokchom Radheshyam Singh, these MLAs expressed their readiness to form a new government, signaling a possible return to democratic governance in the state. This move is crucial for UPSC aspirants, as it highlights the dynamics of state politics and the application of Article 356 of the Indian Constitution, which governs President’s Rule (The Hindu).
Another major political development involves the INDIA bloc, a coalition of opposition parties, which is preparing to request a special session of Parliament to discuss the Pahalgam attack. On April 22, 2025, militants attacked Pahalgam, a popular tourist destination in Indian-administered Kashmir, killing 25 Indians and one Nepali national. Described as the worst attack on civilians in two decades and the first major incident since the revocation of Article 370 in 2019, the attack was allegedly carried out by the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba group, with two attackers identified as Pakistani nationals. In response, India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, 2025, conducting airstrikes on sites in Pakistan. The INDIA bloc is drafting a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address the attack and its aftermath, emphasizing national security and India’s foreign policy stance (The Hindu, BBC News).
On the policy front, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved a 3% hike in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for paddy, setting it at Rs 2,369 per quintal for the 2025-26 kharif season. This decision also included MSP increases for other crops, such as tur (Rs 8,000 per quintal), urad (Rs 7,800 per quintal), and moong (Rs 8,768 per quintal). The MSP is set at least 1.5 times the all-India weighted average cost of production, aligning with the Union Budget 2018-19 commitment to support farmers. This policy is vital for understanding agricultural economics and government interventions in the farm sector (NDTV).
Crop | MSP Hike (Rs/Quintal) | New MSP (Rs/Quintal) | Season |
---|---|---|---|
Paddy (Common) | 69 | 2,369 | 2025-26 Kharif |
Paddy (A-grade) | 69 | 2,389 | 2025-26 Kharif |
Tur | 450 | 8,000 | 2025-26 Kharif |
Urad | 400 | 7,800 | 2025-26 Kharif |
Moong | 86 | 8,768 | 2025-26 Kharif |
Economy
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has been actively shaping India’s economic landscape. In 2025, the RBI cut interest rates by 50 basis points, with market expectations of another 50 basis points reduction soon. Since December 2024, the RBI has infused approximately $100 billion into the economy, lowering borrowing costs. This monetary easing has prompted companies, including three large state-run institutions and five major non-bank finance companies, to issue short-term bonds worth 270 billion rupees ($3.2 billion). For instance, NABARD, IRFC, and LIC Housing Finance were among those issuing bonds on May 28, 2025. This policy reflects the RBI’s efforts to stimulate economic growth amid global and domestic challenges, a key topic for Banking exam aspirants (Reuters).
Companies | Quantum (Billion Rupees) | Bidding Date |
---|---|---|
NABARD | 70 | 28-May |
IRFC | 60 | 28-May |
LIC Housing Finance | 35 | 28-May |
Sundaram Finance | 10 | 28-May |
Can Fin Homes | 10 | 28-May |
In a boost to digital commerce, PayPal secured in-principle approval from the RBI to operate as a Payment Aggregator for cross-border exports. This approval allows PayPal to facilitate outbound payments for Indian merchants, strengthening India’s position in global trade. This development is significant for understanding fintech regulations and India’s digital economy (The Economic Times).
Additionally, the RBI absorbed Rs 2.23 lakh crore in liquidity from the banking system on May 27, 2025, through the Standing Deposit Facility (SDF) and market operations, ensuring financial stability. The RBI also conducted a successful Treasury Bill auction on May 28, 2025, with strong demand for 91-day, 182-day, and 364-day T-Bills totaling Rs 19,000 crore. Furthermore, the RBI is promoting the Indian Rupee as an international currency for trade and loans, enhancing India’s global financial influence (HDFC Sky, Angel One).
Science and Technology
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) faced a setback on May 18, 2025, when the PSLV-C61 mission failed to place the EOS-09 surveillance satellite into orbit due to a fall in chamber pressure during the rocket’s third stage. ISRO chief V Narayanan announced the formation of a Failure Analysis Committee to investigate the issue, marking the third setback in PSLV missions since 1993. Despite this, ISRO is gearing up for the Nasa-Isro Synthetic Aperture Radar (Nisar) mission in June 2025, which will use a GSLV rocket for advanced Earth observation. Additionally, 2025 has been declared the “Gaganyaan year,” with ISRO preparing for India’s first human spaceflight mission, a milestone for India’s space ambitions (Al Jazeera, NDTV).
In artificial intelligence, Microsoft and Yotta Data Services have partnered to advance the IndiaAI Mission, which has received over 500 proposals for developing indigenous AI models. By integrating Azure AI services into Yotta’s Shakti Cloud, this collaboration aims to provide cutting-edge AI capabilities to Indian businesses. Meanwhile, Sarvam AI unveiled a multilingual Large Language Model (LLM) using Supervised Fine-Tuning (SFT), supporting India’s goal to become a global AI leader. These developments are critical for understanding India’s technological advancements (Microsoft News, Elets News).
Environment
Climate change remains a pressing concern, with the India Heat Summit 2025 addressing rising temperatures, unseasonal rainfall, and frequent heavy rainfall in western India. Held recently, the summit is advising the government on long-term measures to mitigate climate change impacts, such as extended heatwaves and floods forecasted for 2025 by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). These discussions are vital for understanding India’s climate policies and their implications for sustainable development (India Today).
On the policy front, new construction waste recycling rules are set to take effect on April 1, 2026. These rules will impose greater responsibility on waste producers and mandate recycling targets, addressing the growing challenge of urban waste management. This initiative reflects India’s commitment to sustainable urban development (Mongabay).
India’s broader climate agenda includes a pledge to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070 and install 500 GW of non-fossil energy capacity. Blended finance is being explored to fund these ambitious goals, highlighting innovative approaches to environmental financing (Mongabay).
Defense
Amid heightened tensions with Pakistan following the Pahalgam attack, India approved the framework for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) on May 27, 2025. This twin-engine 5th-generation stealth fighter, developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency, aims to strengthen the Indian Air Force, which currently operates 31 squadrons against an approved strength of 42. The approval opens bidding for prototype development to both private and state-owned firms, reflecting efforts to involve the private sector in defense production. This move is critical in the context of regional rivalries, particularly with Pakistan’s access to China’s J-10 warplane and the ongoing drone arms race (Reuters).
The Pahalgam attack led to a four-day conflict from May 7 to May 10, 2025, involving airstrikes, missiles, and drones. A ceasefire, announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, halted the escalation, but the incident underscored the need for advanced defense capabilities (Stimson).
Sports
The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is captivating cricket fans, with Virat Kohli leading Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to a notable victory against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). However, controversies arose, with Rishabh Pant and LSG facing heavy fines after a match against RCB. The IPL was briefly suspended due to India-Pakistan tensions but resumed on May 17, 2025, under the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)’s oversight (NDTV Sports, Newsonair).
Beyond cricket, Virat Kohli has invested in the World Bowling League, a new sporting venture gaining traction. In football, Mohun Bagan, the Indian Super League champions, faced a national ban on registering new players due to a technical error, impacting their season preparations. Looking ahead, the inaugural Hockey India Masters Cup 2025 is scheduled for next month in Chennai, promising to showcase veteran hockey talent (Reuters, Newsonair).
Conclusion
The events of May 28, 2025, reflect India’s dynamic and multifaceted landscape, from political shifts in Manipur and responses to the Pahalgam attack to economic stimulus by the RBI and advancements in AI and space technology. Environmental challenges, defense modernization, and sporting achievements further highlight India’s progress and priorities. For students preparing for competitive exams, understanding these developments provides a comprehensive view of India’s current affairs, equipping them with the knowledge to excel.
Key Citations:
- The Hindu: Top News of May 28, 2025
- The Hindu: Morning Digest May 28, 2025
- BBC News: India’s Strikes on Pakistan
- NDTV: Paddy MSP Hike for 2025-26
- Reuters: RBI Monetary Boost Lowers Rates
- The Economic Times: PayPal RBI Approval
- Al Jazeera: ISRO PSLV-C61 Failure
- Microsoft News: AI Innovation in India
- Elets News: Sarvam AI Multilingual LLM
- India Today: India Heat Summit 2025
- Mongabay: Construction Waste Recycling Rules
- Mongabay: Blended Finance for Climate Goals
- Reuters: AMCA Stealth Fighter Programme
- Stimson: India-Pakistan Crisis 2025
- NDTV Sports: IPL 2025 Updates
- Reuters: Kohli’s World Bowling League Investment
- Newsonair: IPL Resumption and Hockey Cup
- HDFC Sky: RBI Liquidity Absorption
- Angel One: RBI Promotes Rupee Internationally
Daily quiz on current affairs with answers
Question 1: Who led the group of 44 MLAs in Manipur that met the Governor to express readiness to form a new government?
Option 1: Ajay Kumar Bhalla
Option 2: N. Biren Singh
Option 3: Nongthombam Ratan Kumar
Option 4: Biswajit Singh
Option 5: Thokchom Radheshyam Singh
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: On May 28, 2025, Manipur witnessed a crucial political development when 44 MLAs, including members of the BJP, gathered at the Raj Bhavan in Imphal to express their willingness to form a new government. The delegation was led by BJP legislator Thokchom Radheshyam Singh. This move may end the President’s Rule imposed in the state since February 2025 and is significant under Article 356 of the Constitution, which permits central rule in states under exceptional circumstances.
Question 2: What was the primary reason behind the RBI cutting interest rates by 50 basis points in 2025?
Option 1: To control inflation
Option 2: To manage exchange rate volatility
Option 3: To stimulate economic growth
Option 4: To curb capital outflows
Option 5: To raise banking sector profitability
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: In 2025, the Reserve Bank of India cut interest rates by 50 basis points to boost economic activity. This was a response to global and domestic economic challenges. A lower interest rate reduces the cost of borrowing for businesses and consumers, thereby encouraging spending and investment. The RBI’s move aligns with a broader monetary easing strategy to inject liquidity and support growth.
Question 3: Which satellite mission by ISRO failed on May 18, 2025, due to a drop in chamber pressure during the third stage of the rocket?
Option 1: NISAR
Option 2: EOS-07
Option 3: EOS-09
Option 4: RISAT-2BR1
Option 5: Cartosat-3
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: On May 18, 2025, the PSLV-C61 mission by ISRO failed to place the EOS-09 satellite into orbit due to a fall in chamber pressure in the rocket’s third stage. This was a significant setback for ISRO, marking its third PSLV failure since 1993. The failure led to the formation of a Failure Analysis Committee to investigate the issue. EOS-09 was a surveillance satellite aimed at enhancing India’s earth observation capabilities.
Question 4: What has the Indian government proposed as the effective date for the new construction waste recycling rules?
Option 1: January 1, 2025
Option 2: April 1, 2026
Option 3: March 31, 2025
Option 4: October 2, 2025
Option 5: December 31, 2026
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: The Indian government has announced that the new construction waste recycling rules will come into effect on April 1, 2026. These rules are designed to address urban waste challenges by mandating recycling targets and placing greater responsibility on waste producers. The initiative is part of India’s broader commitment to sustainable development and efficient urban waste management.
Question 5: Which article of the Indian Constitution is invoked to impose President’s Rule in a state?
Option 1: Article 356
Option 2: Article 352
Option 3: Article 360
Option 4: Article 365
Option 5: Article 370
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: President’s Rule in a state is imposed under Article 356 of the Indian Constitution. This provision allows the President to take control of a state’s governance if the state machinery fails to function according to constitutional provisions. In the case of Manipur, Article 356 was invoked in February 2025 due to political instability.
Question 6: Which major financial institution issued bonds worth ₹70 billion on May 28, 2025, as part of the RBI’s monetary easing measures?
Option 1: LIC Housing Finance
Option 2: NABARD
Option 3: Sundaram Finance
Option 4: PayPal
Option 5: Can Fin Homes
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development) issued bonds worth ₹70 billion on May 28, 2025. This was part of a broader trend, with several institutions leveraging the RBI’s interest rate cuts to raise funds through short-term bonds. The RBI’s monetary policy aimed to increase liquidity and spur economic activity through such capital market instruments.
Question 7: What is the name of the operation launched by India in response to the Pahalgam attack?
Option 1: Operation Surya
Option 2: Operation Raksha
Option 3: Operation Bandhan
Option 4: Operation Trinetra
Option 5: Operation Sindoor
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: Operation Sindoor was launched by India in response to the Pahalgam attack, which occurred on April 22, 2025. The operation included airstrikes on sites in Pakistan and was a part of India’s counter-terrorism response after militants, allegedly from Lashkar-e-Taiba, killed 26 civilians in the attack. The operation underscored India’s aggressive stance on cross-border terrorism.
Question 8: Which Indian company partnered with Microsoft to support the IndiaAI Mission by integrating Azure AI services?
Option 1: Infosys
Option 2: Zoho
Option 3: Yotta Data Services
Option 4: Tech Mahindra
Option 5: TCS
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: Yotta Data Services partnered with Microsoft to contribute to the IndiaAI Mission. The collaboration involves integrating Microsoft’s Azure AI services into Yotta’s Shakti Cloud platform. This initiative supports the development of indigenous AI models and aims to boost India’s AI capabilities across sectors, marking a significant step in India’s technological self-reliance.
Question 9: Which Indian cricketer recently invested in the World Bowling League, a new sports venture?
Option 1: Virat Kohli
Option 2: MS Dhoni
Option 3: Rohit Sharma
Option 4: Rishabh Pant
Option 5: Hardik Pandya
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: Virat Kohli has recently invested in the World Bowling League, a growing sporting venture. Apart from leading Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2025, Kohli’s investment indicates his interest in diversifying his sports portfolio and supporting new athletic ventures in India.
Question 10: What is the main objective of the AMCA project approved by the Indian government on May 27, 2025?
Option 1: To build an unmanned aerial combat vehicle
Option 2: To develop a ballistic missile shield
Option 3: To strengthen the Indian Air Force with a 5th-generation fighter
Option 4: To develop a high-altitude surveillance drone
Option 5: To upgrade existing MiG-29 squadrons
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: The Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project, approved by the Indian government, aims to develop a 5th-generation twin-engine stealth fighter jet. Designed by the Aeronautical Development Agency, AMCA is intended to modernize the Indian Air Force, which currently operates below its sanctioned squadron strength. The project is critical in the context of regional security dynamics and technological self-reliance in defense manufacturing.