Current Affairs Report: May 7, 2025

This detailed report explores the most significant current affairs as of May 7, 2025, tailored for students preparing for UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other government exams. Sourced from reputable outlets like The Hindu, The Indian Express, Times of India, Hindustan Times, Business Standard, Livemint, The Economic Times, PIB, PRS Legislative Research, BBC News, Reuters, and Down To Earth, this article covers critical topics to provide a competitive edge.

Politics and Governance

India-UK Free Trade Agreement

On May 6, 2025, India and the United Kingdom finalized the India-UK Free Trade Agreement, a pivotal step in strengthening economic ties. This agreement ensures that 99% of Indian exports to the UK benefit from zero duties, while India will reduce tariffs on 90% of UK tariff lines, with 85% becoming zero within a decade. Key reductions include tariffs on whisky and gin (from 150% to 40% by year 10) and automotive products (from over 100% to 10% under quota). Indian exports like textiles, marine products, and gems will gain easier market access. The deal aims to double bilateral trade from $60 billion to $120 billion by 2030. Additionally, a Double Contribution Convention exempts Indian workers in the UK from social security contributions for three years, enhancing labor mobility The Hindu.

Anti-Corruption Measures

A CBI special court sentenced four individuals, including BJP MLA Gali Janardan Reddy, to seven years in prison on May 6, 2025, for their involvement in an illegal mining case. This ruling reflects India’s commitment to tackling corruption in resource-heavy sectors, a topic often discussed in governance-related exam questions The Hindu.

Digital Governance and Fake News

To combat misinformation, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting announced plans to revise the safe harbour clause in the Information Technology Act. This revision aims to increase accountability for online platforms, addressing the growing challenge of fake news in the digital age The Hindu.

Judicial Transparency

The Supreme Court of India enhanced transparency by publishing the assets of 21 of its 33 serving judges on May 5, 2025. Additionally, the court made public the process of appointments to High Courts and the Supreme Court, including details of Collegium recommendations, fostering greater public trust in the judiciary The Hindu.

Diplomatic Outreach

Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a phone call with Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani on May 6, 2025, as part of India’s strategic outreach to West Asia. The External Affairs Minister was scheduled to meet the Iranian Foreign Minister on May 7, reinforcing India’s diplomatic efforts in the region The Hindu.

Defense and Security

Operation Sindoor

On May 7, 2025, the Indian armed forces executed Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terror infrastructure sites in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). The Defence Ministry stated that these strikes were in response to planned terror attacks against India. The operation heightened regional tensions, with Pakistan reporting strikes in Bahawalpur, Kotli, and Muzaffarabad The Hindu.

Nationwide Mock Drills

Following Operation Sindoor, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) directed states to conduct mock drills across 244 districts on May 7, 2025. These drills included air-raid warning signs, blackout measures, and evacuation plans, preparing civilians for potential hostile scenarios. This response was partly triggered by the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, which claimed 26 lives The Hindu.

Flight Suspensions

The military operation led to the temporary closure of several airports in northern India, including Srinagar airport, on May 7, 2025, disrupting commercial flights The Hindu.

Investigation into Pahalgam Attack

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) sought an explanation from an officer who was the first responder to the Pahalgam terror attack. The attackers remain at large, highlighting ongoing security challenges in Jammu and Kashmir The Hindu.

Economy

Global Economic Ranking

India is projected to surpass Japan to become the fourth-largest economy in 2025, with a GDP of $4.187 trillion, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This growth is driven by strong private consumption, particularly in rural areas Livemint.

Monetary Policy

In April 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reduced the repo rate by 25 basis points to 6%, marking the second consecutive cut to stimulate economic growth amid global uncertainties, such as US tariffs. The RBI projects GDP growth at 6.5% for 2025-26 The Hindu.

Inflation Trends

Retail inflation dropped to 3.34% in March 2025, a near six-year low, driven by declining prices of vegetables and protein-rich foods. This rate is below the RBI‘s 4% target, potentially paving the way for further rate cuts Times of India.

Stock Market Resilience

Despite the geopolitical tensions from Operation Sindoor, the Nifty closed at 24,409.30 on May 7, 2025, up 0.12% after a volatile session. Sectors like Nifty Auto (up 1.7%) and Nifty Bank (up 0.6%) led gains. However, 10-year bond yields rose by 8 basis points to 6.438%, reflecting a knee-jerk reaction to the military strikes The Economic Times.

Budget Highlights

The Union Budget 2025 introduced tax exemptions to boost consumer spending, potentially increasing GDP by 0.6% to 0.7%. However, uncertainties around US tariffs could offset these gains by 0.1% to 0.3% Deloitte.

Economic Indicator	Details
GDP Projection	$4.187 trillion, 4th largest globally
Repo Rate	6% (cut by 25 bps in April 2025)
Inflation Rate	3.34% (March 2025, six-year low)
Nifty Performance	Closed at 24,409.30, up 0.12%
Bond Yields	6.438%, up 8 bps

Science and Technology

Space Exploration

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, an Indian Air Force pilot, is set to become the second Indian in space, joining the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) on May 29, 2025. He will conduct experiments in space agriculture and microbe survival, collaborating with ISRO, NASA, and ESA Axiom Space. The Gaganyaan mission, India’s first human spaceflight program, is preparing for an uncrewed test flight in Q2 2025, with a budget of $2.32 billion Wikipedia.

AI Advancements

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is making strides in India. Dreame India is integrating AI into home cleaning appliances with features like stain recognition and SLAM navigation. Globally, Apple is developing an AI-enhanced Xcode with Anthropic The Indian Express. The Indian government and startups are working to create a foundational AI model, though challenges in data availability and cost persist The Hindu.

International Relations

India-UK FTA

The India-UK Free Trade Agreement not only boosts trade but also strengthens diplomatic ties, with both nations committing to equitable and ambitious trade policies The Hindu.

West Asia Outreach

PM Modi‘s call to the Qatari Emir and the planned meeting with Iran‘s Foreign Minister underscore India’s efforts to enhance relations with West Asian countries, crucial for energy security and regional stability The Hindu.

Environment

Monsoon Forecast

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts the southwest monsoon will advance by May 13, 2025, over the Nicobar Islands, a week earlier than usual. The 2025 monsoon is expected to be above normal at 105% of the long-period average, benefiting agriculture and the economy The Hindu India Today.

Climate Factors

The absence of El Niño and below-normal Eurasian snow cover in early 2025 are positive indicators for a robust monsoon, as these factors have an inverse relationship with rainfall The Hindu.

Sports

IPL 2025

On May 7, 2025, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) defeated Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in a thrilling IPL 2025 match at Eden Gardens. Noor and Brevis starred in CSK’s first successful chase of 180 or more runs since 2019, boosting their playoff chances Cricbuzz.

International Events

The French Open 2025, scheduled from May 25 to June 8, is approaching, with a ceremony planned to honor Rafael Nadal on the opening day The Athletic. Additionally, the Women’s Cricket World Cup is set to be hosted in India later in 2025, a significant event for sports enthusiasts Wikipedia.

Conclusion

This report provides a comprehensive overview of current affairs on May 7, 2025, covering critical areas relevant to government exam aspirants. From the India-UK FTA to Operation Sindoor, economic milestones, space exploration, environmental forecasts, and sports achievements, these developments offer valuable insights for exam preparation. Staying informed about such topics ensures students are well-equipped to tackle questions on contemporary issues, giving them a competitive advantage.

Key Citations

Daily quiz on current affairs with answers

Question 1: Which key feature is part of the finalized India-UK Free Trade Agreement announced on May 6, 2025?
Option 1: UK exports will enjoy 100% tariff exemptions immediately
Option 2: Indian exports will benefit from zero duties on 99% of products
Option 3: All UK tariff lines will be duty-free by 2025
Option 4: Tariffs on Indian automotive imports will remain above 100%
Option 5: Indian textile imports into the UK will continue to face tariffs
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: The India-UK Free Trade Agreement finalized on May 6, 2025, allows 99% of Indian exports to the UK to benefit from zero duties. In contrast, India will gradually reduce tariffs on 90% of UK tariff lines over a decade. Key sectors such as textiles, marine products, and gems will see improved market access. This move is expected to double bilateral trade by 2030.

Question 2: Who among the following was sentenced by a CBI special court for involvement in an illegal mining case?
Option 1: Gali Janardhan Reddy
Option 2: Gali Janardan Reddy
Option 3: B.S. Yediyurappa
Option 4: D.K. Shivakumar
Option 5: Pramod Sawant
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: BJP MLA Gali Janardan Reddy was sentenced to seven years in prison by a CBI special court on May 6, 2025, for his role in an illegal mining case. This is a significant development in India’s anti-corruption efforts, especially in sectors like mining that are prone to regulatory violations.

Question 3: What is the key benefit of the Double Contribution Convention under the India-UK FTA?
Option 1: Indian companies can avoid UK corporate taxes
Option 2: UK workers in India will receive tax refunds
Option 3: All Indian exports get automatic green certification
Option 4: UK tourists receive free insurance in India
Option 5: Indian workers in the UK are exempt from social security contributions for 3 years
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: The Double Contribution Convention signed as part of the India-UK FTA allows Indian workers in the UK to be exempt from social security contributions for a period of three years. This provision enhances labor mobility and reduces the financial burden on Indian professionals working abroad.

Question 4: Which location was NOT mentioned as a target in Operation Sindoor conducted by the Indian Armed Forces?
Option 1: Bahawalpur
Option 2: Kotli
Option 3: Muzaffarabad
Option 4: Gilgit
Option 5: None of the above
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: Operation Sindoor targeted nine terror infrastructure sites, including locations in Bahawalpur, Kotli, and Muzaffarabad in Pakistan and PoK. Gilgit was not named among the strike locations, making it the correct answer. The operation aimed to preempt terror threats and showcased India’s strategic military capabilities.

Question 5: What factor contributed positively to the IMD’s forecast of an above-normal monsoon in 2025?
Option 1: High Arctic snow cover
Option 2: Strong El Niño presence
Option 3: Below-normal Eurasian snow cover
Option 4: Pacific Ocean warming
Option 5: Heavy pre-monsoon rainfall in Rajasthan
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted an above-normal monsoon for 2025, partly due to the absence of El Niño and below-normal Eurasian snow cover. These climatic factors historically correlate with better monsoon performance in India, benefiting agriculture and the rural economy.

Question 6: Who is set to become the second Indian in space as part of the Axiom-4 mission?
Option 1: Rakesh Sharma
Option 2: Abhinandan Varthaman
Option 3: G. Satheesh Reddy
Option 4: Rajeev Chandrasekhar
Option 5: Shubhanshu Shukla
Answer: Option 5
Explanation: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is set to become the second Indian in space through his participation in the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station on May 29, 2025. He will perform experiments on space agriculture and microbial survival, contributing to scientific advancements in collaboration with ISRO and international agencies.

Question 7: Which Nifty sector led the gains on May 7, 2025, following Operation Sindoor?
Option 1: Nifty IT
Option 2: Nifty FMCG
Option 3: Nifty Auto
Option 4: Nifty Realty
Option 5: Nifty Energy
Answer: Option 3
Explanation: Despite geopolitical tensions following Operation Sindoor, Nifty Auto led sectoral gains on May 7, 2025, with a 1.7% rise. This was followed by Nifty Bank with a 0.6% gain. The resilience in the stock market indicated investor confidence despite heightened military activity.

Question 8: What action did the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting take to combat misinformation?
Option 1: Banned all social media platforms
Option 2: Proposed revision of the IT Act’s safe harbour clause
Option 3: Launched a national fact-checking website
Option 4: Mandated real-time content moderation
Option 5: Appointed digital ethics officers in ministries
Answer: Option 2
Explanation: The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting proposed revising the safe harbour clause in the Information Technology Act. This clause currently offers protection to online platforms from liability for third-party content. The revision aims to increase accountability in tackling fake news and misinformation.

Question 9: According to the IMF, which country is India projected to surpass to become the fourth-largest economy in 2025?
Option 1: Japan
Option 2: Germany
Option 3: China
Option 4: UK
Option 5: France
Answer: Option 1
Explanation: As per IMF projections, India is expected to surpass Japan to become the world’s fourth-largest economy in 2025 with a GDP of $4.187 trillion. This economic ascent is driven by robust domestic consumption, especially in rural areas, and favorable policy measures.

Question 10: Which cricket team successfully chased 180+ runs for the first time since 2019 in IPL 2025?
Option 1: Kolkata Knight Riders
Option 2: Royal Challengers Bangalore
Option 3: Mumbai Indians
Option 4: Chennai Super Kings
Option 5: Rajasthan Royals
Answer: Option 4
Explanation: On May 7, 2025, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) achieved a successful run chase of 180+ runs against Kolkata Knight Riders for the first time since 2019. Noor and Brevis played pivotal roles in this victory, which boosted CSK’s chances of qualifying for the playoffs in IPL 2025.