Stay updated with the top headlines from 13th May 2025. This GK update covers national, international, state, banking, agreements, awards, books, and reports — curated for aspirants preparing for UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other competitive exams.
National News
1. What directive did CAQM issue to curb stubble burning in North India?
Answer: CAQM mandated Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh to implement strict measures including forming a Parali Protection Force, using paddy straw in brick kilns, and deploying real-time crop residue management platforms, in line with Supreme Court orders.
2. Why is the government reconsidering the ‘Safe Harbour’ clause in the IT Act?
Answer: Due to rising fake news concerns post-Pahalgam terror attack, the government may amend Section 79 of the IT Act to increase accountability of social media intermediaries and grant statutory recognition to the PIB Fact Check Unit.
3. What impact did Trump’s drug pricing policy have on India’s pharma sector?
Answer: The MFN pricing order raised concerns over global price hikes and pressure on India’s low-cost drug market, affecting margins and triggering negative stock market reactions.
State News
4. What expansion was made to Uttar Pradesh’s ODOP scheme?
Answer: 12 new products were added, bringing the total to 74 across 75 districts, supporting artisans and boosting exports under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
5. What tax relief did Andhra Pradesh announce for defense personnel?
Answer: Property tax was waived for homes owned by active defense personnel in gram panchayat areas, honoring martyrs like Agniveer Murali Naik.
International News
6. What tariff agreement was reached between the US and China?
Answer: Both nations agreed to a 115% reciprocal tariff reduction and a 90-day truce, easing trade tensions and stabilizing global markets.
7. What crypto innovation was launched in Bhutan’s tourism sector?
Answer: Bhutan partnered with Binance Pay and DK Bank to enable crypto payments for tourism services, converting over 100 cryptocurrencies into Ngultrum via QR codes.
Banking News
8. What new RBI mandate affects digital lending apps?
Answer: From May 13, regulated entities must report their digital lending apps on the CIMS portal, with a public directory to be released by July 1, 2025.
9. What stake sale did Ant Group announce in Paytm?
Answer: Antfin Netherlands will sell a 4% stake in Paytm worth ₹2,066 crore via bulk deal, marking a major foreign exit from Indian fintech.
10. What acquisition did SMBC make in Yes Bank?
Answer: Japan’s SMBC acquired a 20% stake in Yes Bank for ₹13,482 crore from SBI and seven private banks, marking India’s largest cross-border banking deal.
Agreements News
11. What AI commitment did HCLTech make with the European Commission?
Answer: HCLTech signed the AI Pact to promote responsible AI development, aligning with the upcoming EU AI Act and enhancing governance through its Office of Responsible AI.
12. What quantum tech partnership was formed by C-DOT?
Answer: C-DOT partnered with Synergy Quantum India to develop drone-based Quantum Key Distribution systems using BB84 protocol for secure communications.
Books & Authors
13. What book explores the evolution of India’s PMO?
Answer: “PMO: Prime Minister’s Office Through the Years” by Himanshu Roy, published by Rupa, examines the PMO’s role from Nehru to Modi.
14. Whose autobiography was released by the Vice-President?
Answer: “Janta Ki Kahani – Meri Aatamkatha” by Bandaru Dattatraya, Governor of Haryana, was released on May 9, 2025.
Awards News
15. Who became the first Indian lawyer to receive the World Law Congress Honour?
Answer: Bhuwan Ribhu, recognized for his work in child rights and legal reforms, received the Medal of Honour at the World Law Congress 2025.
Ranks & Reports
16. What does the SRS 2021 Report reveal about India’s fertility rate?
Answer: India’s Total Fertility Rate remains at 2.0, with Bihar highest at 3.0 and Delhi & West Bengal lowest at 1.4, indicating demographic shifts and rising mean age of marriage.