National News
First Round of India–New Zealand FTA Negotiations Successfully Concludes in New Delhi
- The first round of negotiations for the India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) concluded in New Delhi in May 2025. Both countries are committed to enhancing bilateral trade and economic cooperation, with total merchandise trade having grown significantly in the past year. The FTA will focus on trade in goods and services, trade facilitation, and boosting mutual economic cooperation. The agreement is expected to improve market access and integrate global supply chains, with a goal to conclude the FTA by the end of 2025. The next round of negotiations is scheduled for July 2025. Key terms include the 48.6% growth in trade and the growing importance of both nations in each other’s economic agendas.
India’s Maternal Mortality Ratio Declines: A Step Towards Better Maternal Health
- India’s maternal mortality rate (MMR) has shown a promising decline, with the latest data revealing a reduction to 93 per lakh live births in 2019-21 from 97 in 2018-20. Although progress is evident, some states still struggle with high MMRs, which points to the need for continued improvements in maternal healthcare. The global target set by the UN to reduce MMR to below 70 by 2030 aligns with India’s efforts to improve reproductive health through better healthcare services and skilled birth attendance. The reduction in maternal mortality is a significant step toward achieving better health outcomes for women across the country.
India Prohibits Use of Key Antimicrobials in Aquaculture to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance
- In a significant move to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR), the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry in India has imposed a ban on the use of several medically important antimicrobials in the aquaculture industry. This decision, made in May 2025, aims to protect public health by eliminating the use of certain antibiotics and other antimicrobials in the culture of seafood such as shrimp, prawns, and fish.
State News
BrahMos Missile Production to Begin in Lucknow
Banking News
RBI Slaps Penalties on SBI and Jana Small Finance Bank for Regulatory Lapses
- The RBI has imposed monetary penalties on SBI (₹1.72 crore) and Jana Small Finance Bank (₹1 crore) for non-compliance with key regulations related to loan restrictions, customer liability in electronic fraud, and account opening norms. The central bank clarified that the action stems from compliance deficiencies, not the legality of transactions. This development emphasizes the RBI’s regulatory vigilance and its commitment to customer protection and banking discipline.
Public Sector Banks Clock Record ₹1.78 Lakh Crore Profit in FY25
- In FY25, Public Sector Banks (PSBs) in India achieved a record cumulative profit of ₹1.78 lakh crore, driven largely by the State Bank of India (SBI) which alone contributed over 40% of the total. The profit growth of 26% over FY24 underscores the success of the government’s 4R reform strategy—Recognising NPAs, Resolution, Recapitalisation, and Reforms. This financial turnaround, from a loss of ₹85,390 crore in FY18 to current historic profits, highlights the impact of policy changes including recapitalisation, bank mergers, and emphasis on credit discipline and technology adoption.
Economy News
India Secures ‘BBB’ Rating with Stable Outlook from Morningstar DBRS
- India’s sovereign credit profile received a notable boost from Morningstar DBRS on May 9, 2025, with both long-term and short-term ratings being upgraded. This reflects India’s successful navigation through structural reforms, digital transformation, and fiscal consolidation, all while maintaining high growth and macroeconomic stability. The report also suggests that with further reforms and reduced debt, India’s rating could climb even higher.
Awards News
Schemes News
Uttar Pradesh Partners with World Bank to Launch UP AGREES & AI Pragya Initiatives
- Uttar Pradesh has launched two World Bank-backed initiatives, UP AGREES and AI Pragya, focusing on agricultural reform and digital skill training respectively. With a goal to train 10 lakh youth in AI technologies and promote modern farming across 28 districts, these efforts are aligned with UP’s vision of becoming a $1 trillion economy and ensuring inclusive growth through rural development and technology-driven empowerment.
10 Years of Jan Suraksha Schemes (2015–2025)
- The Jan Suraksha Schemes (PMJJBY, PMSBY, APY) were launched a decade ago with the objective of securing financial protection for India’s underserved sections. With over 82 crore enrollments and Rs. 21,518 crore paid out as of April 2025, these schemes have achieved tremendous success in providing affordable life insurance, accidental cover, and pension benefits to millions. The digitalization of the enrollment and claims process has further streamlined these efforts, ensuring greater accessibility and faster disbursement of benefits.
“Government Expands Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups to Boost Innovation and Capital Mobilization”
- The expansion of the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS) aims to boost innovation and financial access for startups in India. The increased guarantee cover, reduced fees for Champion Sectors, and operational reforms will encourage more lenders to support early-stage startups, particularly in emerging and self-reliant sectors. This initiative aligns with India’s vision of becoming an innovation-driven economy, offering greater financial stability and opportunities for growth in the startup sector.
Summits & Conferences News
Important Days News
World Migratory Bird Day Revealed Theme For 2025
- The 2025 World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) campaign, themed “Creating Bird-Friendly Cities and Communities,” focuses on mitigating the impact of urbanization on migratory birds. It emphasizes the need for sustainable urban planning, bird-safe infrastructure, and green spaces to combat threats like habitat loss, light pollution, and building collisions. The initiative calls for joint efforts by governments, NGOs, and citizens to ensure safe and bird-friendly environments during migration seasons.
Current Affairs Today | 10 May Current Affairs 2025 | Daily Current Affairs By Ashish Gautam