Stay updated with the top headlines from 8th 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 tribute was paid to Biju Patnaik by Russia?
Answer: A memorial plaque was unveiled at the Russian Embassy in Delhi, honoring Biju Patnaik’s role as a WWII pilot during the Battle of Stalingrad.
2. What expansion plan was approved for five IITs?
Answer: ₹11,828.79 crore was sanctioned for IITs in Tirupati, Palakkad, Bhilai, Jammu, and Dharwad to boost faculty, research parks, and student intake.
3. What new passport initiative was launched by India?
Answer: Chip-based e-passports with RFID and biometric data were rolled out under Passport Seva Programme 2.0, enhancing travel security.
4. What portal was launched for metal recycling?
Answer: A Non-Ferrous Metal Recycling Portal was launched to support circular economy goals and improve industrial transparency.
5. What was Operation Abhyas in Bengaluru?
Answer: A civil defence mock drill involving rescue simulations and fire control, conducted in response to rising national security threats.
State News
6. What biopic was announced by Maharashtra government?
Answer: A biopic on Ahilyabai Holkar will be produced in multiple languages and released on Doordarshan and OTT platforms for her 300th birth anniversary.
7. What is the Adishakti Abhiyan launched in Maharashtra?
Answer: A ₹10.50 crore women-centric campaign addressing malnutrition, domestic violence, and child marriage, with annual awards for implementation.
8. What geothermal milestone was achieved in Arunachal Pradesh?
Answer: CESHS drilled Northeast India’s first geothermal production well in Dirang, aiming to make it India’s first geothermal-powered city.
Banking News
9. Which foreign banks led credit card additions in FY25?
Answer: HSBC added 216,997 cards and Amex added 107,086, marking a revival in foreign banks’ retail banking performance.
Agreements News
10. What MoU was signed between India and Vietnam?
Answer: A Buddhist cooperation MoU was signed during UN Day of Vesak 2025, launching the Vietnam Chapter of the International Buddhist Confederation.
Schemes News
11. What is the new ITI Upgradation Scheme?
Answer: ₹60,000 crore was approved to upgrade 1,000 ITIs and train 20 lakh youth over 5 years, supported by ADB and World Bank.
12. What reforms were introduced under the Revised SHAKTI Policy?
Answer: A two-window coal allocation system was launched to enhance autonomy, market pricing, and reduce dependency on PPAs.
13. What is Kerala’s Jyothi Scheme?
Answer: A program to enroll migrant children in anganwadis and schools, offering health and social support for inclusive education.
Summits & Conferences
14. What announcement was made at SMLME 2025 in Dubai?
Answer: Indian Register of Shipping opened a new office in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, expanding India’s maritime footprint in the Gulf region.
Sports News
15. Who announced retirement from Test cricket on 7 May 2025?
Answer: Rohit Sharma retired from Tests ahead of the India vs England series, ending a decade-long red-ball career.
Important Days
16. What is the significance of BRO Foundation Day?
Answer: Celebrated on 7 May, BRO marked 64 years of strategic infrastructure development in India’s border areas.
17. What is the theme of World Thalassaemia Day 2025?
Answer: “Together for Thalassaemia: Uniting Communities, Prioritizing Patients” — promoting awareness and equitable care.
18. What is the theme of World Red Cross Day 2025?
Answer: “Keeping Humanity Alive” — honoring Henry Dunant and global humanitarian efforts.