Stay updated with the top headlines from 7th May 2025. This GK update covers national, international, economy, banking, defense, appointments, awards, schemes, summits, science, and important days — tailored for UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other competitive exams.
National News
1. What was Operation Sindoor and why was it launched?
Answer: India launched Operation Sindoor, a series of precision strikes on nine terror camps in Pakistan and PoJK, in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians.
2. What new campus has IIFT been approved to open?
Answer: IIFT received approval to open an off-campus centre at GIFT City, Gujarat, offering MBA (International Business) and trade research programs under NEP 2020.
3. What projects were approved by NMCG for Ganga rejuvenation?
Answer: Wetland conservation in Bihar and wastewater reuse initiatives in Agra and Prayagraj were approved during NMCG’s 62nd Executive Committee meeting.
State News
4. What new observance was announced by Tamil Nadu government?
Answer: May 5 will be celebrated as Traders Day, with reforms including financial aid, simplified regulations, and Tamil signage promotion.
International News
5. What is the significance of the India–UK Free Trade Agreement signed on 6 May 2025?
Answer: The FTA eliminates duties on 99% of Indian exports, introduces the Double Contribution Convention, and aims to double bilateral trade by 2030.
6. Who became the new Chancellor of Germany?
Answer: Friedrich Merz secured the position after a second Bundestag vote, forming a coalition with SPD to address economic and migration challenges.
Banking News
7. What major workforce initiative was launched by SBI?
Answer: SBI launched ‘Next LEAP’ and ‘SuPer SBI: Great to Greater’, training 1.75 lakh employees and introducing succession planning for leadership roles.
8. What acquisition talks are underway involving Yes Bank?
Answer: Japan’s Sumitomo Mitsui is reportedly exploring a 51% stake in Yes Bank, though the bank has denied formal negotiations.
Economy News
9. What is Moody’s revised GDP forecast for India in 2025?
Answer: Moody’s cut India’s GDP growth forecast to 6.3% due to global trade uncertainty and policy risks.
10. What is India’s projected economic rank in 2025 according to IMF?
Answer: India is set to become the 4th largest economy, overtaking Japan, with a projected GDP of $5 trillion by 2027.
Appointments News
11. Who was recommended as CMD of Oriental Insurance?
Answer: Sanjay Joshi, GM at United India Insurance, was recommended by FSIB to succeed R.R. Singh.
Agreements News
12. What MoU was signed between IWAI and Rhenus Logistics?
Answer: The MoU aims to boost inland waterways cargo movement via deployment of barges and tugs on NW-1, NW-2, NW-16, and IBP routes.
Ranks & Reports
13. What is India’s rank in the 2025 Human Development Report?
Answer: India advanced to 130th rank, with gains in health and education, though inequality still lowers its HDI by over 30%.
Science & Technology
14. What is the latest update on India’s Gaganyaan mission?
Answer: Gaganyaan entered its final phase, with a crewed flight planned for 2027 and long-term goals including a space station by 2035.
Important Days
15. What is the theme of World Athletics Day 2025?
Answer: Promotes youth fitness, gender inclusivity, and sports culture through global track and field participation.
16. What does International No Diet Day 2025 advocate?
Answer: Celebrates body positivity and mental wellness, rejecting harmful diet culture and promoting sustainable health habits.
Obituaries
17. Who was Luis Galván and why is he remembered?
Answer: Luis Galván, Argentina’s 1978 World Cup-winning defender, passed away at 77, marking the end of a golden football era.