Daily Current Affairs May 02
Table of Contents
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May 02 | Daily Current Affairs 2025
Important Days – Daily Current Affairs May 02
1. What significant event did Vietnam commemorate on April 30, 2025?
A) 70th Anniversary of Independence from France
B) 40th Anniversary of Economic Reforms
C) 60th Anniversary of U.S.-Vietnam Relations
D) 50th Anniversary of the End of the Vietnam War
E) 50th Anniversary of U.S. Troop Withdrawal
Answer: D) 50th Anniversary of the End of the Vietnam War
Event and Location:
- Event: 50th Anniversary of the Fall of Saigon
- Date: April 30, 2025
- Location: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Mandates and Objectives:
- Objective: Commemorate the reunification of Vietnam following the fall of Saigon.
- Tribute Aim: Honor the soldiers and civilians who lost their lives in the 20-year-long Vietnam War.
- Showcase Purpose: Display Vietnam’s modern military strength and growing global diplomatic relationships.
Important Terms Explained:
- Vietnam War: A conflict fought from 1955 to 1975 between communist North Vietnam, supported by the USSR and China, and South Vietnam, supported by the U.S. and allies.
- Fall of Saigon: Occurred on April 30, 1975, symbolizing the collapse of South Vietnam and the end of the war.
- Reunification: Official reunification of North and South Vietnam took place in 1976, following the fall of Saigon.
- Communist Party Chief: The most powerful political position in Vietnam; currently held by To Lam as of 2025.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Event | 50th Anniversary of the Fall of Saigon |
Date | April 30, 2025 |
Location | Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam |
Why in the news? | “Victory of Faith”: Vietnam marks 50 years since end of Vietnam War |
Historical Context | Vietnam War lasted from 1955 to 1975 |
War-ending Date | April 30, 1975 |
Reunification Year | 1976 |
Key Leader (2025) | To Lam, Communist Party Chief |
International Participants | China (118 troops), U.S. (Susan Burns, Consul General) |
Military Activities | Parade, Air show with Russian jets and helicopters |
U.S.-Vietnam Relations | Normalized in 1995; upgraded in 2023 |
Vietnam’s Allies and Rivals | Russia (arms supplier), China (investor and rival) |
Ranking – Daily Current Affairs May 02
2. According to Global Firepower’s 2025 data, which country has the highest number of active military personnel?
A) India
B) United States
C) Russia
D) China
E) North Korea
Answer: D) China
Event and Location:
- Event: Release of 2025 Rankings for Countries with the Most Active Military Personnel
- Date: May 2025
- Location: Global (Reported by SIPRI and Global Firepower)
Mandates and Objectives:
- Global Defence Shift: Respond to rising global instability, regional conflicts, and emerging security threats.
- Military Focus: Maintain large active-duty forces to ensure rapid mobilization, disaster response, and national security.
- Strategic Balance: Combine manpower strength with advanced technologies like AI, cyber warfare, and autonomous systems.
- Geopolitical Projection: Display influence and preparedness in a multipolar global landscape.
Important Terms Explained:
- Active Military Personnel: Refers to soldiers currently serving full-time in a country’s armed forces.
- Global Firepower: An analytical platform that ranks countries based on military strength, including manpower, technology, and logistics.
- Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI): A global institute providing data and analysis on military spending and arms transfers.
- Hybrid Defence Model: A strategy combining traditional manpower with cutting-edge technologies to enhance military efficiency and deterrence.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Event | Release of 2025 Active Military Personnel Rankings |
Date | May 2025 |
Location | Global (Reported by SIPRI & Global Firepower) |
Top Country | China – 2,035,000 active personnel |
India’s Rank | 2nd – 1,455,550 active personnel |
U.S. Rank | 3rd – 1,328,000 active personnel |
Significance | Highlights global shifts in defence strategy and preparedness |
Russia & North Korea | Equal active strength – 1,320,000 each |
Vietnam’s Growth | From 470,000 in 2022 to 600,000 in 2025 |
Military Spending (2024) | $2.718 trillion (9.4% increase from 2023) |
Data Sources | SIPRI and Global Firepower |
3. Which state topped the CareEdge State Rankings 2025 based on overall performance across seven key development pillars?
A) Gujarat
B) Goa
C) Karnataka
D) Tamil Nadu
E) Maharashtra
Answer: E) Maharashtra
Event and Location:
- Event: Release of CareEdge State Rankings 2025
- Date: May 2025
- Location: India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Evaluation Purpose: Assess the holistic development and sustainability of Indian states using a comprehensive rating methodology.
- Measurement Basis: Rankings are structured around seven key pillars: economic, fiscal, infrastructure, financial development, social, governance, and environment.
- Investment Guidance: Offer a reliable framework for businesses and policymakers to assess the investment attractiveness and development strengths of Indian states.
- Policy Utility: Encourage state-level reforms by spotlighting underperforming areas and rewarding states that excel in balanced development.
Important Terms Explained:
- CareEdge Ratings: A leading credit rating and research agency in India, known for conducting state-level and sectoral performance analyses.
- Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP): A measure of the economic output of a state, similar to GDP but at the state level.
- Gross Fixed Capital Formation (GFCF): Indicator of investment in physical assets like machinery and infrastructure, used to assess industrial activity.
- FDI Inflows: Foreign Direct Investment received by a state, reflecting its appeal to global investors.
- Seven Pillars Framework: The model used in the ranking includes performance in economic, fiscal, infrastructure, financial, social, governance, and environmental categories.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Event | Release of CareEdge State Rankings 2025 |
Date | May 2025 |
Location | India |
Top Ranked State | Maharashtra |
Rank 2 | Gujarat |
Rank 3 | Karnataka |
Best Small State | Goa |
Ranking Agency | CareEdge Ratings |
Ranking Framework | Seven pillars: economic, fiscal, infrastructure, financial, social, governance, environment |
Maharashtra Performance | Strong across economic, fiscal, financial, and social metrics |
Gujarat Performance | Leading in GSDP, FDI inflow, and industrial investments |
Karnataka Performance | Excels in industrial and environmental indicators |
Goa Performance | Tops among small states in fiscal and infrastructure metrics |
Use of Rankings | Policy-making, investment guidance, and regional development analysis |
4. According to the IMF’s April 2025 World Economic Outlook, what is India’s global rank in terms of GDP size?
A) 5th
B) 3rd
C) 6th
D) 4th
E) 2nd
Answer: D) 4th
Event and Location:
- Event: India Remains 4th Largest Economy in the World
- Date: April 2025 (as per IMF World Economic Outlook)
- Location: Global (India-specific focus)
Mandates and Objectives:
- Global Ranking Insight: Assess current global economic rankings and India’s comparative GDP performance.
- Growth Projection: Highlight India’s role as the fastest-growing major economy despite a slight downward revision.
- Economic Impact: Understand the contribution of private consumption and rural demand to India’s growth momentum.
- Comparative Context: Position India among major global economies like the United States, China, and Germany.
Important Terms Explained:
- GDP (Gross Domestic Product): The total market value of all goods and services produced within a country in a specific time frame.
- GDP Per Capita: A measure of average income per person in a country, used to assess living standards.
- IMF World Economic Outlook: A flagship report published by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), providing global and country-level economic forecasts.
- Projected Growth Rate: The estimated rate at which a country’s GDP is expected to expand in the future. India’s 2025 projection is 6.2%.
- Private Consumption: Household spending on goods and services—one of the key drivers of India’s economic growth.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Event | India Remains 4th Largest Economy in the World |
Date | April 2025 |
Location | Global (India focus) |
India’s Global Rank | 4th (based on nominal GDP) |
India’s GDP | $4.39 trillion |
Projected Growth (2025) | 6.2% |
GDP Per Capita (India) | $4.19 thousand |
Global Largest Economy | United States – $30.34 trillion |
Second Largest Economy | China – $19.53 trillion |
Germany’s Rank | 3rd – $4.92 trillion |
Japan’s GDP | $4.27 trillion |
India’s Economic Drivers | Rural consumption, private demand |
Global Growth Forecast (2025) | 2.8% (revised down due to trade conflicts) |
Data Source | IMF – World Economic Outlook (April 2025) |
5. According to the IMF’s 2025 Fiscal Monitor, which country has the highest debt-to-GDP ratio globally?
A) Japan
B) United States
C) Greece
D) Sudan
E) Italy
Answer: D) Sudan
Event and Location:
- Event: Release of IMF’s Fiscal Monitor Report highlighting top countries by debt-to-GDP ratio
- Date: April 2025
- Location: Global (Report by International Monetary Fund – IMF)
Mandates and Objectives:
- Fiscal Monitoring Goal: Track and assess the debt sustainability and fiscal health of countries worldwide.
- Public Awareness Objective: Highlight nations facing severe fiscal stress to prompt structural reforms.
- Risk Management Aim: Identify vulnerabilities that could lead to economic instability and advise policy measures for debt containment.
- Global Advisory Role: Assist countries in developing medium-term fiscal frameworks and promoting responsible borrowing.
Important Terms Explained:
- Debt-to-GDP Ratio: A measure comparing a country’s public debt to its gross domestic product. A higher ratio indicates higher debt burden relative to economic output.
- General Government Gross Debt: Includes all liabilities of central, state, and local governments, excluding contingent liabilities.
- Fiscal Deficit: The gap between the government’s total expenditure and total revenue (excluding borrowings).
- IMF Fiscal Monitor: A biannual publication by the International Monetary Fund evaluating global fiscal developments and risks.
- Public Debt Surge Post-COVID: Due to stimulus spending and healthcare needs, public debt peaked globally in 2020 and is again rising.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Event | IMF Report on Highest Debt-to-GDP Countries in 2025 |
Date | April 2025 |
Location | Global |
Top Country | Sudan – 252% debt-to-GDP ratio |
Second | Japan – 234.9% |
Third | Singapore – 174.9% |
United States Rank | 8th – 122.5% |
France Rank | 9th – 116.3% |
Canada Rank | 10th – 112.5% |
India’s Rank | 31st – 80% |
China’s Rank | 21st – 96% |
Source | IMF Fiscal Monitor – April 2025 |
IMF Global Debt Warning | Could reach 117% of global GDP by 2027 without action |
India’s Fiscal Target | Reduce debt-to-GDP to 50±1% by March 2031 |
Banking and Finance – Daily Current Affairs May 02
6. What was the gross GST collection recorded in April 2025, marking a new all-time high?
A) ₹2.10 lakh crore
B) ₹2.37 lakh crore
C) ₹2.01 lakh crore
D) ₹2.09 lakh crore
E) ₹1.81 lakh crore
Answer: B) ₹2.37 lakh crore
Event and Location:
- Event: Record-breaking GST Collection in April 2025
- Date: April 2025
- Location: India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Fiscal Milestone: Reinforce economic resilience and cooperative federalism through tax efficiency.
- Revenue Goal: Strengthen India’s financial position via broad-based tax collection and improved compliance.
- Economic Indicator: Reflect heightened domestic consumption, better tracking via E-way bills, and stabilised refunds.
Important Terms Explained:
- GST (Goods and Services Tax): A comprehensive indirect tax levied on the supply of goods and services in India, replacing multiple indirect taxes.
- Gross GST Collection: Total revenue collected under CGST, SGST, IGST, and cess before refund adjustments.
- Net GST Receipts: Amount retained by the government after processing input tax credit and refunds.
- E-Way Bills: Electronic permits for goods movement used as indicators of supply chain activity.
- Cooperative Federalism: A governance model where central and state governments collaboratively achieve national objectives.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Event | Record GST Collection for April 2025 |
Date | April 2025 |
Location | India |
Gross GST Collection | ₹2.37 lakh crore (up 12.6% YoY) |
Net GST Receipts | ₹2.09 lakh crore (after refunds) |
Domestic Collection Growth | 10.7% – nearly ₹1.90 lakh crore |
Import-based GST Growth | 20.8% – ₹46,913 crore |
Refunds Issued | ₹27,341 crore (up 48.3%) |
High-performing States | Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, UP |
Northeastern Growth Leaders | Arunachal (66%), Meghalaya (50%), Nagaland (42%), Sikkim (17%) |
E-Way Bill Growth (Q4 FY25) | 19.4% YoY increase |
March GST Collection | ₹1.61 lakh crore |
February GST Collection | ₹1.81 lakh crore |
Comment by FM | “Figures show resilience of Indian economy and cooperative federalism.” – Nirmala Sitharaman |
7. What change occurred in April 2025 regarding Foreign Portfolio Investors’ (FPIs) activity in Indian equities?
A) FPIs exited all equity holdings
B) FPIs turned net sellers for the 12th straight month
C) FPIs became net buyers of Indian equities
D) FPIs withdrew from primary markets only
E) FPIs halted investments due to U.S. tariffs
Answer: C) FPIs became net buyers of Indian equities
Event and Location:
- Event: FPIs turn net buyers in Indian equity markets
- Date: April 2025
- Location: India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Capital Market Impact: Reinforce investor confidence and market resilience through renewed foreign interest.
- Economic Indicator: Use FPI trends to assess global investment appetite in Indian equities amidst geopolitical and macroeconomic shifts.
- Liquidity Injection: Boost market depth via FPI inflows into both primary and secondary markets.
- Sentiment Shift Goal: Break the historic trend of FPI selling typically observed in the month of May.
Important Terms Explained:
- FPI (Foreign Portfolio Investor): Foreign entities investing in Indian financial assets like stocks and bonds, often sensitive to global market cues.
- Primary Market: Where securities are issued for the first time via IPOs or QIPs; FPIs invested ₹1,625 million in April 2025.
- Secondary Market: Where investors trade previously issued securities; FPIs invested ₹3,243 crore here in April 2025.
- NSDL (National Securities Depository Limited): Maintains records of securities held in dematerialised form and tracks FPI data.
- QIP (Qualified Institutional Placement): A method for listed companies to raise capital by issuing shares to qualified institutional buyers.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Event | FPIs became net buyers in April 2025 |
Date | April 2025 |
Location | India |
Total FPI Equity Net Buy | ₹4,223 crore ($510 million) |
Primary Market Inflow | ₹1,625 million ($20 million approx.) |
Secondary Market Inflow | ₹3,243 crore ($395 million) |
Equity Sold in First Half | ₹3,921 million |
Equity Bought in Second Half | ₹8,150 crore ($948 million) |
Yearly Primary Market Inflow (2025 so far) | ₹1,887 crore ($225 million) |
Domestic Mutual Fund Net Buy | ₹27,000 crore in April (secondary market) |
FPI Trend in May (Past 17 Years) | FPIs were net sellers 52% of the time |
8. Why did private banks raise lending rates in March 2025 despite a recent RBI policy rate cut?
A) To pass on higher deposit rates to customers
B) Due to increased liquidity surplus in the system
C) To remain competitive with public banks
D) Due to tight liquidity and higher funding costs
E) In response to RBI guidelines on inflation
Answer: D) Due to tight liquidity and higher funding costs
Event and Location:
- Event: Private banks raised lending rates despite policy rate cut
- Date: March 2025
- Location: India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Market Signal: Reflect tight banking system liquidity and funding cost pressures, despite central rate easing.
- Rate Transmission Concern: Illustrate delays in monetary policy transmission due to market conditions.
- Operational Strategy: Highlight banks’ approach to balance profitability with loan growth under competitive and funding stress conditions.
Important Terms Explained:
- Policy Rate Cut: A reduction in benchmark interest rates (such as repo rate) by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to stimulate borrowing.
- Lending Rates: Interest rates charged by banks on loans; an increase indicates rising cost of funds or risk management.
- Liquidity Deficit: Occurs when demand for funds exceeds supply in the banking system; March 2025 saw a daily deficit of ₹1.23 lakh crore.
- Certificates of Deposit (CDs): Short-term negotiable instruments used by banks to raise funds, often at higher rates.
- Loan Spreads: Difference between the lending rate and the cost of funds, reflecting banks’ earnings from loans.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Event | Lending rate hike by private banks in March 2025 |
Date | March 2025 |
Location | India |
Rate Movement | Average lending rate rose 12 bps to 10.32% |
RBI Policy Action | Repo rate cut by 25 bps in February 2025 |
Liquidity Condition | System deficit at ₹1.23 lakh crore in March |
Reason for Rate Hike | High funding costs, tight liquidity, use of costly CDs |
Private Bank Action | Raised rates on new loans despite policy easing |
ICICI CFO Quote | “We are selective in our approach and conscious of quality” |
Impact on Loan Spreads | Remained compressed; rate hike did not translate to margin gains |
9. What opportunity have gold-loan fintech firms identified in the RBI’s draft rules issued in April 2025?
A) Increased gold import quotas
B) Regulatory approval for crypto lending
C) A harmonised framework encouraging partnerships with banks and NBFCs
D) Reduction in loan interest rates by RBI
E) Permission to accept gold as a direct deposit
Answer: C) A harmonised framework encouraging partnerships with banks and NBFCs
Event and Location:
- Event: Fintech firms respond to RBI’s draft rules on gold loans
- Date: April 9, 2025 (RBI issued draft guidelines)
- Location: India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Regulatory Goal: Harmonise the gold loan regulatory framework to ensure transparency, governance, and responsible lending practices.
- Fintech Strategy: Enable startups and scale-ups to partner with traditional banks and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) or expand independently.
- Sector Vision: Promote financial inclusion and innovation while mitigating compliance risks in the growing digital gold lending segment.
Important Terms Explained:
- Gold Loans: Loans offered by banks, NBFCs, or fintechs secured against physical gold as collateral.
- Draft Guidelines (April 2025): Issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to align operational standards, governance, and compliance for gold loan providers.
- Fintech Firms: Technology-driven companies offering innovative financial services, now expanding into the secured lending space via gold loans.
- NBFC (Non-Banking Financial Company): Financial institutions offering credit and lending services without holding a banking license.
- Digital Lending Platforms: Tech-based services (like PhonePe, BankBazaar) sourcing or disbursing loans via apps, now targeting the gold loan sector.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Event | RBI’s draft rules spark fintech interest in gold loan sector |
Date | April 9, 2025 (draft guidelines issued) |
Location | India |
Opportunity Identified | Harmonised regulatory framework for gold loans |
New Entrants | L&T Finance, Poonawalla Fincorp, Moneyview |
Partnership Trends | PhonePe, BankBazaar tying up with Muthoot and other NBFCs |
Key Focus Area | Governance, transparency, and expansion via tech platforms |
PhonePe Activity | Acquiring gold loan customers via app from NBFCs |
BankBazaar Activity | Acquired stake in gold loan NBFC; partnered with Muthoot Fincorp |
Consumer Lending Interest | Moneyview and others planning secured loan expansion |
RBI’s Vision | Level-playing field, strong governance for tech-based lenders |
Business and Economy – Daily Current Affairs May 02
10. What was the total coal dispatch recorded by India in April 2025 as per the Ministry of Coal data?
A) 81.57 MT
B) 125.76 MT
C) 105 MT
D) 86.64 MT
E) 78.71 MT
Answer: D) 86.64 MT
Event and Location:
- Event: India’s Coal Sector Records Growth in April 2025
- Date: April 2025
- Location: India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Objective: Enhance domestic coal availability and reduce dependence on coal imports.
- Goal: Ensure sufficient fuel supply for power generation and industrial operations.
- Policy Aim: Promote Atmanirbhar Bharat and strengthen India’s energy self-reliance.
- Reform Target: Empower captive coal mining and improve coal stock management.
Important Terms Explained:
- Captive Coal Mines: Mines allocated to companies for their exclusive use in sectors like power, steel, and cement, enabled after reforms post-2015.
- Coal Dispatch: Total coal sent to consumers such as power plants and industries; a metric of coal logistics efficiency.
- Coal India Limited (CIL): The largest government-owned coal-producing company in India, accounting for a significant share of national coal stocks.
- Atmanirbhar Bharat: A flagship mission of the Indian government aimed at making the country self-reliant in key sectors, including energy.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Event | India’s Coal Sector Records Growth in April 2025 |
Date | April 2025 |
Location | India |
Coal Production | 81.57 MT (3.63% YoY growth from 78.71 MT) |
Captive Mines Output | 14.51 MT (26.6% increase from April 2024) |
Coal Dispatch | 86.64 MT (up from 85.11 MT in April 2024) |
Total Coal Stock (30 April) | 125.76 MT (from 102.41 MT in April 2024) |
CIL Stock | 105 MT (22.10% growth from April 2024) |
Ministry | Ministry of Coal |
Minister | Pralhad Joshi |
Major Producer | Coal India Limited (CIL) |
Key Coal States | Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh |
11. Which group has overtaken foreign investors in equity ownership of NSE-listed firms in India for the first time in over two decades?
A) Public Sector Banks
B) High Net-Worth Individuals
C) Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs)
D) Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs)
E) Sovereign Wealth Funds
Answer: D) Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs)
Event and Location:
- Event: DIIs surpass FIIs in equity ownership of NSE-listed companies
- Date: March 31, 2025 (as per latest data)
- Location: India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Ownership Shift Goal: Reflect the growing influence and confidence of domestic investors in Indian capital markets.
- Capital Market Strengthening: Create a more resilient and self-reliant financial ecosystem driven by local investors.
- Retail Participation Focus: Leverage rising Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs), insurance, and pension fund inflows to build long-term equity support.
- Investor Base Diversification: Reduce overdependence on volatile foreign institutional flows by expanding domestic institutional investment.
Important Terms Explained:
- DIIs (Domestic Institutional Investors): Financial institutions like mutual funds, insurance companies, pension funds, and banks that invest primarily in domestic markets.
- FIIs/FPIs (Foreign Institutional/Portfolio Investors): Overseas entities investing in Indian equities, often with short- to medium-term horizons.
- Systematic Investment Plan (SIP): A disciplined mode of investing in mutual funds by making periodic contributions.
- Net Purchases: The difference between total buy and sell trades, showing the true direction of investor activity.
- TINA Effect: “There Is No Alternative” — a term used to describe the appeal of equities when other asset classes like bonds or deposits offer lower returns.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Event | DIIs surpass FIIs in equity ownership of NSE-listed firms |
Date | March 31, 2025 |
Location | India |
DII Ownership | 17.62% (up 35 bps) |
FII Ownership | 17.22% (down 2 bps) |
First Time in 22 Years | DIIs surpassed FIIs in ownership |
Biggest January Exit | FIIs sold ₹77,000 crore in Jan 2025 |
FII Exit in 2008 (for comparison) | ₹16,000 crore (global crisis period) |
DII Net Purchase (Q4 FY25) | ₹1.36 lakh crore |
Insurance Contribution | Net purchases of ₹47,538 crore in Q4 FY25 |
Mutual Fund SIP Flows | Helped sustain regular DII inflows |
Top Gainers (Nifty Index) | Nifty Midcap150, Smallcap250 rose 10%–15% |
Appointments – Daily Current Affairs May 02
12. Who recently returned as the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago following a snap election in 2025?
A) Keith Rowley
B) Paula-Mae Weekes
C) Kamla Persad-Bissessar
D) Patrick Manning
E) Winston Dookeran
Answer: C) Kamla Persad-Bissessar
Event and Location:
- Event: Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s Historic Return as Prime Minister
- Date: May 2025
- Location: Trinidad and Tobago
Mandates and Objectives:
- Political Goal: Replace the ruling People’s National Movement (PNM) with the United National Congress (UNC) to reform governance.
- Economic Focus: Tackle economic instability and rising cost of living through public service salary reforms and job creation.
- Social Welfare Commitment: Reinforce social programs like pensions, healthcare, and education through initiatives such as reopening children’s hospitals and providing laptops to students.
- Public Confidence: Restore trust in governance after political dissatisfaction and a three-month emergency due to gang violence.
Important Terms Explained:
- Snap Election: An election called earlier than expected, often triggered by a political crisis—in this case, the resignation of former Prime Minister Keith Rowley.
- United National Congress (UNC): A major political party in Trinidad and Tobago, now in power under the leadership of Kamla Persad-Bissessar.
- People’s National Movement (PNM): The long-standing ruling party that was defeated in the 2025 election.
- Kamla Persad-Bissessar: The first female Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, originally elected in 2010 and now returned to office in 2025 at the age of 73.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Event | Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s Historic Return as Prime Minister |
Date | May 2025 |
Location | Trinidad and Tobago |
Why in the news? | Kamla Persad-Bissessar returns to power after snap election |
Election Trigger | Keith Rowley’s resignation amid public dissatisfaction |
Winning Party | United National Congress (UNC) |
Defeated Party | People’s National Movement (PNM) |
Age of New PM | 73 |
Key Promises | 50,000 jobs, pension schemes, reopening hospitals, laptops for schoolchildren |
Current Challenges | Economic instability, high crime rates, political rifts |
Capital | Port of Spain |
Currency | Trinidad and Tobago Dollar (TTD) |
President (2025) | Paula-Mae Weekes |
Population | Approximately 1.5 million |
13. Who was appointed as a Member of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) on May 1, 2025?
A) Raj Shukla
B) Sujata Chaturvedi
C) Sanjeev Chopra
D) Alka Upadhyaya
E) Anita Karwal
Answer: B) Sujata Chaturvedi
Event and Location:
- Event: Appointment of Sujata Chaturvedi as a Member of UPSC
- Date: May 1, 2025
- Location: New Delhi, India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Appointment Purpose: Strengthen the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) with experienced administrative leadership.
- Governance Aim: Utilize her extensive state and central service record to improve recruitment and examination frameworks.
- Strategic Role: Enhance civil service reform, youth development, and institutional transparency through her multi-sector expertise.
Important Terms Explained:
- Union Public Service Commission (UPSC): India’s central recruitment agency responsible for conducting exams for appointments to the All India Services and Central Civil Services.
- IAS (Indian Administrative Service): The premier civil service of India; Sujata Chaturvedi belongs to the 1989 batch, Bihar cadre.
- Khelo India Games: A national initiative under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports to promote grassroots sports.
- Anti-Doping Bill: A landmark legislation aimed at strengthening India’s legal framework against doping in sports.
- National Sports Repository System: A centralized digital system to monitor and manage India’s sports infrastructure and athlete data.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Event | Appointment of Sujata Chaturvedi as UPSC Member |
Date | May 1, 2025 |
Location | New Delhi, India |
Name | Ms. Sujata Chaturvedi |
Batch & Cadre | 1989 IAS Batch, Bihar Cadre |
New Role | Member, Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
Oath Administered By | Lt. Gen. Raj Shukla (Retd.), Senior-most UPSC Member |
Education | English Graduate, PG in History, M.Phil (Public Admin), Diploma in Russian |
Key Roles Held (Centre) | Secretary (Sports), Additional Secretary (DoPT), DDG at UIDAI |
Key Roles Held (State) | Principal Secretary (Finance), Commercial Tax Commissioner, Vice Chairman (Urban Development) |
Major Contributions | Khelo India Games, Anti-Doping Bill, Sports Repository System |
Languages Known | Hindi, English, Urdu, Russian, Marathi |
International Affairs – Daily Current Affairs May 02
14. At which international conference in 2025 did India champion global chemical and waste governance under the theme “Make visible the invisible”?
A) UNFCCC COP 30
B) World Economic Forum
C) G20 Environment Ministers’ Meet
D) BRS COPs 2025
E) UNEP Plastic Treaty Summit
Answer: D) BRS COPs 2025
Event and Location:
- Event: BRS COPs 2025 – Conference of the Parties to the Basel, Rotterdam, and Stockholm Conventions
- Date: April 30 – May 1, 2025
- Location: Geneva, Switzerland
Mandates and Objectives:
- Global Aim: Strengthen international governance on chemical and waste management, especially persistent and hazardous pollutants.
- India’s Objective: Showcase India’s regulatory framework, promote technology transfer, and push for equity in environmental responsibility.
- Plastic Focus: Emphasize legally binding action against plastic pollution, backed by India’s domestic laws and UNEA contributions.
Important Terms Explained:
- BRS Conventions:
- Basel Convention (1989): Regulates transboundary movement of hazardous wastes and their disposal.
- Rotterdam Convention (1998): Ensures prior informed consent before hazardous chemicals are traded.
- Stockholm Convention (2001): Targets persistent organic pollutants (POPs) for elimination or restriction.
- UNEA-4 Resolution: Proposed by India to globally address single-use plastics, this resolution played a pivotal role in shaping plastic negotiations.
- Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): Policy that places responsibility on producers for post-consumer plastic waste management.
- Single-use Plastic Ban: A nationwide ban implemented in India to reduce plastic waste, effective since July 2022.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Event | BRS COPs 2025 (Basel, Rotterdam, Stockholm Conventions) |
Date | April 30 – May 1, 2025 |
Location | Geneva, Switzerland |
Why in the news? | India led global dialogue on chemical and waste governance |
Indian Leader | Bhupender Yadav, Union Environment Minister |
Theme of COPs 2025 | “Make visible the invisible” |
India’s Key Contributions | UNEA-4 Resolution, EPR policy, plastic ban, institutional reforms |
Global Focus Areas | Plastic pollution, equity, tech transfer, chemical risk management |
Domestic Actions | Environment (Protection) Act, EPR, Waste Management Rules |
Bilateral Partners at COPs | Norway and Switzerland |
Basel Convention Year | 1989 |
Rotterdam Convention Year | 1998 |
Stockholm Convention Year | 2001 |
National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs May 02
15. Which Indian state launched the country’s first AI-powered real-time forest alert system in 2025?
A) Kerala
B) Uttarakhand
C) Madhya Pradesh
D) Himachal Pradesh
E) Arunachal Pradesh
Answer: C) Madhya Pradesh
Event and Location:
- Event: Launch of India’s First AI-Powered Real-Time Forest Alert System
- Date: May 2025
- Location: Madhya Pradesh, India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Conservation Goal: Enhance forest protection by detecting illegal logging, land encroachment, and vegetation loss.
- Monitoring Objective: Use satellite data, AI algorithms, and mobile app-based reporting to issue real-time alerts.
- Response Efficiency: Equip forest staff with instant, data-rich alerts for timely intervention and environmental preservation.
Important Terms Explained:
- AI-Powered Forest Alert System: A technology-driven initiative that integrates machine learning, satellite imagery, and mobile feedback to track and report forest changes in real time.
- Google Earth Engine: A cloud-based platform for planetary-scale environmental data analysis, used here for monitoring land use changes.
- Machine Learning Models: Algorithms that adapt and improve with data inputs, helping increase the accuracy of forest alerts over time.
- Pilot Forest Divisions: Initial test areas in Shivpuri, Guna, Vidisha, Burhanpur, and Khandwa, known for forest vulnerability.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Event | Launch of India’s First AI-Powered Real-Time Forest Alert System |
Date | May 2025 |
Location | Madhya Pradesh |
Why in the news? | Madhya Pradesh launched India’s first AI-driven forest alert system |
System Type | AI-based real-time forest monitoring tool |
Technology Used | Google Earth Engine, AI algorithms, mobile-based field reporting |
Primary Goal | Detect land encroachment, illegal logging, deforestation |
Pilot Locations | Shivpuri, Guna, Vidisha, Burhanpur, Khandwa |
Key Features | Alerts with GPS data, photos, voice notes, and vegetation indices |
Data Points per Alert | 20+ inputs including GPS-tagged images and field comments |
Forest Rank (Area-wise) | Largest forest cover among Indian states |
Chief Minister (2025) | Mohan Yadav |
Governor (2025) | Mangubhai C. Patel |
16. On May 1, 2025, whose statue was unveiled by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi to honor tribal identity and peaceful leadership?
A) Rani Gaidinliu
B) Jadav Payeng
C) Bodofa Upendranath Brahma
D) Birsa Munda
E) Gopinath Bordoloi
Answer: C) Bodofa Upendranath Brahma
Event and Location:
- Event: Unveiling of Bodofa Upendranath Brahma’s statue and naming of road/rotary
- Date: May 1, 2025
- Location: New Delhi, India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Tribute Goal: Recognize the contributions of Bodofa Upendranath Brahma to tribal rights, identity, and peaceful activism.
- Empowerment Vision: Promote tribal leadership in national discourse and support regional peacebuilding through public honors.
- Cultural Integration: Reinforce India’s commitment to North East inclusion by celebrating leaders from marginalized communities.
Important Terms Explained:
- Bodofa Upendranath Brahma: Revered as the “Father of the Bodos”, he was President of the All Bodo Students’ Union (ABSU) and led a non-violent movement for tribal rights and Bodoland.
- Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR): An autonomous region in Assam established for Bodo self-governance under the Bodo Accord 2020.
- Bodo Accord 2020: A peace agreement between the Indian government and Bodo groups, aiming to end insurgency and promote development in Bodo areas.
- Bathou Religion: The indigenous religion of the Bodo people centered on the Sijou plant, symbolizing peace and nature.
- Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas: A national development policy promoting inclusive growth, including for tribal and North East communities.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Event | Unveiling of Bodofa statue and renaming of road/rotary |
Date | May 1, 2025 |
Location | New Delhi, India |
Honoree | Bodofa Upendranath Brahma |
Reason for Tribute | Recognition of peaceful tribal leadership and cultural identity |
Title of Leader | “Father of the Bodos” |
Historical Role | President of ABSU, advocate for Bodoland, non-violent leader |
Territorial Region | Bodoland in Assam, governed under BTR |
Key Agreement Referenced | Bodo Accord 2020 (96% provisions implemented) |
Bathou Religion | Traditional Bodo faith based on worship of Sijou plant |
Government Official Present | Amit Shah (Union Home Minister) |
North East Integration Stats | 78% of peace accord provisions implemented in last 3–4 years |
17. According to April 2025 data, what was the reason cited for the 9.5% decline in demand under the MGNREGS scheme?
A) Fund shortages
B) Climate-related disruptions
C) Improved economic activity and better work opportunities
D) Delays in wage payments
E) Change in eligibility rules
Answer: C) Improved economic activity and better work opportunities
Event and Location:
- Event: Decline in demand for MGNREGS work in April 2025
- Date: April 2025
- Location: India
Mandates and Objectives:
- Scheme Goal: Provide guaranteed wage employment to rural households through the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS).
- Current Outcome: Drop in demand signals better alternative employment and improved economic conditions in rural areas.
- Fiscal Aim: Monitor and manage job demand for optimal budget allocation and ensure timely support where economic activity remains low.
Important Terms Explained:
- MGNREGS: A central government scheme that guarantees 100 days of wage employment annually to rural households.
- Work Demand: The number of individuals or households that seek jobs under the scheme, often used as a proxy for rural economic distress.
- NREGS Data Reporting: Monthly work demand data compiled by the Ministry of Rural Development to track economic conditions.
- Households Involved: Represents the total number of rural families registering for employment under the scheme.
- Consumer Confidence Survey (RBI): A tool used by the Reserve Bank of India to measure economic sentiment, which currently reflects positive expectations.
Tabular Summary:
Parameter | Details |
Event | April 2025 MGNREGS demand sees 9.5% YoY decline |
Date | April 2025 |
Location | India |
Total Workers Seeking Work | 27.31 million |
Households Involved | 20.17 million (down 6.3% YoY) |
Main Reason for Decline | Improved job availability and economic recovery |
Top States (Demand-wise) | Andhra Pradesh (5.08M), Telangana (2.75M), Bihar (2.59M) |
Budget for FY 2025–26 | ₹86,000 crore |
Previous Year Total Demand | Over 332.7 million work seekers in FY24 |
Latest Rural Survey (RBI) | Shows improved confidence; economic growth expected at 6.8% |
Earnings Generated (April) | ₹2.86 billion through demand-driven updates |
Over All Review
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