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Current Affairs Report: April 28 – May 4, 2025

This report provides an in-depth analysis of the major events and developments in India from April 28 to May 4, 2025, tailored for students preparing for UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other government exams. Covering politics, economy, science, international relations, environment, defense, and sports, it draws from credible sources 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. The narrative is engaging, reader-friendly, and optimized for quick comprehension, with bolded terms for easy identification.

Politics & Governance

The week was dominated by the political fallout from the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, which killed 28 civilians, including 25 tourists, in Jammu and Kashmir. Described as the deadliest attack since the 2008 Mumbai attacks, it was claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF), believed to be linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba. The incident sparked intense political debates, with the Congress party accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of using the tragedy to gain electoral advantage in the upcoming Bihar elections. Congress leaders argued that the government’s response was politically motivated, a charge the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) vehemently denied, calling for national unity against terrorism. This controversy highlighted the delicate balance between security and politics, with opposition leaders like Rahul Gandhi emphasizing the need for a unified response.

The Supreme Court also made headlines by reprimanding Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy for his remarks on the anti-defection law. The court labeled his comments a “mockery” of the legal framework, questioning why a contempt notice was not issued. This ruling underscored the judiciary’s role in upholding constitutional integrity and sparked discussions on political accountability.

Rahul Gandhi further raised concerns about US President Donald Trump’s proposed 26-27% reciprocal tariffs, warning that they could severely impact India’s automobile, pharmaceutical, and agricultural sectors. He urged the government to clarify its stance on these tariffs and address claims of Chinese occupation of 4,000 square kilometers of Indian territory, adding an international dimension to domestic political discourse.

Despite searches, no new bills or government schemes were explicitly announced during this week. However, the Press Information Bureau (PIB) highlighted ongoing initiatives like the Namami Gange Mission, which saw the reintroduction of 20 Red-Crowned Roofed Turtles into the Haiderpur Wetland Complex on April 26, 2025, as part of ecological conservation efforts. Additionally, the Buddha Relic Exposition involved sending a sacred relic from Sarnath to Vietnam for UN Vesak Day 2025, coordinated by the Ministry of Culture, reflecting India’s cultural diplomacy.

Event	Details	Source
Pahalgam Terror Attack	28 civilians killed; Congress accuses PM of electoral misuse; BJP calls for unity	Business Standard, News18
Supreme Court Ruling	Reprimands Telangana CM over anti-defection law remarks	Economic Times
Rahul Gandhi’s Statement	Warns of US tariffs’ impact on Indian economy	Economic Times
Namami Gange Mission	Turtle reintroduction in Haiderpur Wetland	Legacy IAS

Economy

India’s economy showcased resilience, maintaining its position as the fourth-largest economy globally and the fastest-growing major economy in 2025, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections hit a record Rs 2.37 lakh crore in April 2025, up from Rs 2.1 lakh crore in April 2024, reflecting robust economic activity. The Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) for manufacturing surged to 58.2 in April, a 10-month high, driven by strong demand and production.

International trade talks progressed, with Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal meeting European Commissioner Maros Sefcovic in Brussels to advance the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), targeted for completion by end-2025. This agreement aims to boost bilateral trade and investment, countering global trade uncertainties.

The leather industry reported a 25% export increase to Rs 48,667 crore in FY25, with projections to reach Rs 55,497 crore in FY26, per the Council for Leather Exports (CLE). Apple’s ‘Made in India’ iPhone shipments exceeded three million units in Q1 2025, reinforcing India’s manufacturing prowess. The rupee appreciated by 39 paise, closing at 85.98 against the US dollar, signaling currency stability.

The inflation rate, based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), was 3.34% in March 2025, the lowest since August 2019, driven by lower food prices. The BSE Sensex closed at 80,501.99 on May 2, 2025, gaining 0.32% in a volatile session, reflecting positive market sentiment despite global tariff concerns raised by Rahul Gandhi.

Indicator	Value	Source
GST Collections	Rs 2.37 lakh crore (April 2025)	Moneycontrol
Manufacturing PMI	58.2 (April 2025)	Moneycontrol
Inflation Rate	3.34% (March 2025)	Moneycontrol
BSE Sensex	80,501.99 (May 2, 2025)	Yahoo Finance

Science & Technology

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) continued to make strides, preparing for the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) satellite launch in June 2025. This mission will use advanced radar to monitor Earth’s changes, such as deforestation and natural disasters. On April 29, 2025, ISRO organized a NISAR Awareness Workshop in Ahmedabad for Indian non-governmental entities, highlighting its commitment to public-private collaboration.

ISRO is also gearing up for the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) in May 2025, focusing on microgravity research. This mission includes Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla as a pilot, marking a milestone in India’s human spaceflight program. ISRO’s Cartosat-3 provided critical imagery for assessing damage from a 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar on March 28, 2025, aiding relief efforts.

In AI, OpenAI introduced its o3 and o4-mini reasoning models, aiming for human-like reasoning but facing challenges with inaccuracies. At the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), researchers partnered with Wipro to develop AI-driven health behavior innovations, potentially transforming healthcare delivery. Other IISc advancements included a venom mapping study for snakebites and a bacteria-based method for repairing lunar bricks, showcasing India’s research diversity.

Development	Details	Source
NISAR Workshop	Held on April 29, 2025, in Ahmedabad	ISRO
Axiom-4 Mission	Scheduled for May 2025, includes Shubhanshu Shukla	GKToday
IISc AI Research	Collaboration with Wipro on health innovations	J.R.D. Tata Library

International Relations

The Pahalgam terror attack significantly strained India-Pakistan relations. Pakistan closed its airspace to Indian airlines and rejected India’s suspension of the Indus Water Treaty in retaliation for the attack. Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif warned of an imminent Indian military incursion on April 28, 2025, prompting Islamabad to seek support from Gulf states, China, and others. The US urged both sides to find a “responsible solution,” while China called for restraint.

Despite these tensions, India strengthened other international ties. The India-EU trade talks progressed, with both sides aiming for a Free Trade Agreement by end-2025, as discussed by Piyush Goyal and Maros Sefcovic. The Buddha Relic Exposition to Vietnam for UN Vesak Day 2025 underscored India’s cultural diplomacy, enhancing ties with Southeast Asia.

Event	Details	Source
India-Pakistan Tensions	Airspace closure, treaty suspension post-attack	Reuters
India-EU FTA Talks	Progress toward 2025 agreement	Business Standard
Buddha Relic Exposition	Relic sent to Vietnam for Vesak Day	Legacy IAS

Environment

Environmental developments included a Down To Earth forecast of isolated heavy rainfall in Gujarat from May 4-8, 2025, with very heavy rainfall on May 7-8, potentially affecting agriculture and infrastructure. The Supreme Court stayed the destruction of 400 acres of the Kancha Gachibowli forest until April 7, 2025, protecting eight scheduled animal species and reinforcing conservation efforts.

Public discourse highlighted the environmental impact of fast fashion, with low-quality clothing contributing to waste and pollution. Most parts of India were expected to face higher-than-normal temperatures, increasing risks of heat-related illnesses, particularly for vulnerable groups. Seismologists warned of an overdue Great Himalayan Earthquake with a magnitude of 8+, urging preparedness for a potentially catastrophic event.

Issue	Details	Source
Gujarat Rainfall	Heavy rainfall forecast for May 4-8, 2025	Down To Earth
Kancha Gachibowli Forest	Supreme Court stay until April 7, 2025	India Today
Himalayan Earthquake	Magnitude 8+ overdue, catastrophic potential	India Today

Defense

The Pahalgam terror attack prompted significant defense responses. Units under Munitions India Limited (MIL) and Ordnance Factory Chanda canceled employee leaves to accelerate production, citing “national security and operational urgency.” Reports indicated India’s interest in acquiring Russia’s Voronezh Over-the-Horizon radar system, which would place India among elite nations like the US, Russia, and China in advanced surveillance capabilities.

Tensions with Pakistan escalated, with Pakistan’s Minister Tarar claiming credible intelligence of an Indian military strike within 24-36 hours on April 30, 2025. India’s defense analysts, like Abhijit Iyer-Mitra, discussed strategic military options, reflecting heightened alertness.

The MQ-9B drone acquisition, though in early stages, promises to enhance India’s strike and surveillance capabilities. The Indian Navy also advanced indigenization, with successful night landings of Mig-29 K on INS Vikrant.

Development	Details	Source
Production Surge	Defense units cancel leaves post-attack	Economic Times
Voronezh Radar	Potential acquisition from Russia	Defence.in
MQ-9B Drones	Early-stage acquisition for surveillance	India Today

Sports

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 was a highlight, with Rajasthan Royals’ stand-in skipper Riyan Parag making history by hitting six consecutive sixes, a first in IPL history. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) secured a thrilling one-run victory over Rajasthan Royals, with Andre Russell becoming the first overseas batter to score 1000 IPL runs at Eden Gardens. Punjab Kings posted a record powerplay total against Lucknow Super Giants, driven by Prabhsimran Singh.

In badminton, PV Sindhu and Lakshya Sen led India’s challenge at the Sudirman Cup 2025 in Xiamen, China, facing Denmark in their opening Group D match. The Indian 4x100m relay team, including Gurindervir, Animesh, Manikanta, and Amlan, set a national record, showcasing India’s growing athletics prowess.

In football, Barcelona defeated Real Madrid 3-2 to win the Copa del Rey final, with Jules Kounde’s late strike securing the title. In table tennis, Manush Shah and Diya Chitale clinched the mixed doubles title at the WTT Contender Tunis 2025.

Event	Details	Source
IPL 2025	Riyan Parag’s six sixes, KKR’s win	NDTV Sports
Sudirman Cup	PV Sindhu, Lakshya Sen lead India	NewsOnAir
4x100m Relay	National record set	Indian Express

Conclusion

The week of April 28 to May 4, 2025, was eventful, with the Pahalgam terror attack shaping political, defense, and international narratives. India’s economic strength, scientific advancements, and sporting achievements underscored its global prominence, while environmental challenges highlighted the need for sustainable policies. This report equips students with a comprehensive understanding of these developments, optimized for exam preparation.

Key Citations

Daily quiz on current affairs with answers

Question 1: Which political controversy followed the Pahalgam terror attack of April 2025?
Option 1: The appointment of a new Home Minister
Option 2: Allegations of political misuse by PM Modi during Bihar elections
Option 3: Suspension of state governments under Article 356
Option 4: Demand for scrapping the UAPA Act
Option 5: Withdrawal of the Citizenship Amendment Act
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: The Pahalgam terror attack that killed 28 civilians led to intense political debates. Congress accused PM Modi of using the tragedy to gain leverage in the Bihar elections. The BJP rejected the allegations, calling for unity, making this a significant political controversy during the week.

Question 2: What action did the Supreme Court take against Telangana CM Revanth Reddy recently?
Option 1: Reprimanded him for remarks on the anti-defection law
Option 2: Summoned him for a corruption probe
Option 3: Ordered disqualification under the Tenth Schedule
Option 4: Stayed a state ordinance
Option 5: Directed the Governor to remove him
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: The Supreme Court reprimanded CM Revanth Reddy for his public remarks on the anti-defection law, calling them a “mockery” of the legal framework. This judicial intervention highlighted the court’s role in maintaining political accountability.

Question 3: Which Indian scientific initiative was highlighted through a workshop in Ahmedabad on April 29, 2025?
Option 1: Chandrayaan-4
Option 2: Gaganyaan-II
Option 3: Cartosat Disaster Response Program
Option 4: Mangalyaan-2 Preparations
Option 5: NISAR Satellite Mission
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: ISRO conducted a NISAR Awareness Workshop in Ahmedabad on April 29, 2025. The NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar mission aims to monitor Earth changes like deforestation and disasters, showcasing Indo-US collaboration in space tech.

Question 4: What was a key focus in the India-EU bilateral talks held in Brussels recently?
Option 1: Climate technology transfer agreement
Option 2: Joint naval exercises in the Indo-Pacific
Option 3: Formation of a political council
Option 4: Progress on the Free Trade Agreement
Option 5: Expansion of the Schengen visa waiver
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and European Commissioner Maros Sefcovic met in Brussels to advance the India-EU Free Trade Agreement. They targeted completion by end-2025 to bolster trade amid global uncertainties.

Question 5: What record did India’s economy achieve according to April 2025 data?
Option 1: Highest FDI inflow in a quarter
Option 2: Record foreign exchange reserves
Option 3: Highest ever GST collections
Option 4: Fastest disbursal of MUDRA loans
Option 5: Strongest rupee-dollar exchange rate in 5 years
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: India collected Rs 2.37 lakh crore in GST during April 2025, the highest ever. This indicates robust economic activity and strengthens the fiscal position, important for budgetary planning and revenue forecasting.

Question 6: Who became the first overseas batter to reach 1000 IPL runs at Eden Gardens?
Option 1: Faf du Plessis
Option 2: Glenn Maxwell
Option 3: Quinton de Kock
Option 4: Jos Buttler
Option 5: Andre Russell
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: During IPL 2025, Andre Russell of Kolkata Knight Riders became the first overseas player to score 1000 runs at Eden Gardens, a notable achievement in the league’s history and his consistent performance at home ground.

Question 7: What is the significance of India’s potential acquisition of Russia’s Voronezh radar system?
Option 1: It is a weather forecasting radar
Option 2: It will be India’s first radar for maritime surveillance
Option 3: It will enhance India’s over-the-horizon surveillance capabilities
Option 4: It is intended for lunar surface mapping
Option 5: It is part of India’s solar observation program
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: India is exploring the acquisition of Russia’s Voronezh Over-the-Horizon radar system. This would significantly improve India’s ability to detect threats over long distances, placing it alongside the US, Russia, and China in advanced surveillance.

Question 8: What was one of the key environmental conservation efforts under the Namami Gange Mission this week?
Option 1: Establishment of new sewage treatment plants
Option 2: Reintroduction of Red-Crowned Roofed Turtles
Option 3: Ban on industrial discharge in Ganga tributaries
Option 4: River interlinking pilot project in UP
Option 5: Launch of Ganga Eco-park near Haridwar
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: As part of the Namami Gange Mission, 20 Red-Crowned Roofed Turtles were reintroduced into the Haiderpur Wetland on April 26, 2025. This action supports biodiversity and habitat restoration in the Ganga basin.

Question 9: What statement did Rahul Gandhi make regarding India’s international trade concerns?
Option 1: Criticized lack of clarity on reciprocal tariffs by the US
Option 2: Requested trade sanctions on Chinese imports
Option 3: Announced India’s withdrawal from RCEP
Option 4: Accused EU of delaying FTA intentionally
Option 5: Claimed IMF manipulated India’s GDP ranking
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: Rahul Gandhi raised alarm about the proposed US reciprocal tariffs (26-27%) and their potential negative impact on India’s automobile, pharma, and agriculture sectors. He urged the government to clarify its position and protect national interests.

Question 10: Who made history by hitting six consecutive sixes in IPL 2025?
Option 1: Rinku Singh
Option 2: Prabhsimran Singh
Option 3: Sanju Samson
Option 4: Riyan Parag
Option 5: Tilak Varma
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: Riyan Parag, playing as Rajasthan Royals’ stand-in skipper, hit six consecutive sixes in a single IPL 2025 match, marking the first instance of this feat in IPL history. It demonstrated his explosive batting form and drew widespread acclaim.

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