Current Affairs - May 9, 2025 Current Affairs

The Delhi government has partnered with IIT-Kanpur to carry out five cloud-seeding trials intended to tackle the region's severe air pollution. With a sanctioned budget of ₹3.21 crore, the project is designed to generate artificial rainfall that can help clear airborne pollutants. IIT-Kanpur is the implementing agency responsible for technical execution, including aircraft calibration and chemical deployment. Covering 100 sq km of the NCR, this pilot program will utilize AI-based monitoring systems to assess effectiveness. This initiative represents a proactive strategy by the Delhi government to incorporate science-led interventions as emergency responses during high pollution periods.

Bhutan recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Adani Group to jointly develop hydropower projects with a total capacity of 5,000 MW. This agreement marks a significant step in strengthening Bhutan-India energy cooperation and builds upon the earlier Wangchhu Project, in which Bhutan’s Druk Green Power Corporation holds a majority stake. The initiative aligns with Bhutan’s long-term Renewable Energy Roadmap, which aims for 20,000 MW capacity by 2040. The deal is also expected to boost Bhutan’s green energy exports to India, contributing to regional clean energy goals.

Hafele India has entered into a strategic partnership with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) to support India’s manufacturing and innovation efforts. As part of this collaboration, Hafele India has committed over USD 2.5 million to assist Indian startups and MSMEs, providing crucial support in terms of infrastructure and access to markets. DPIIT, in turn, will help facilitate connections between Hafele India and promising startups through the Startup India initiative. This partnership aims to create a thriving ecosystem for innovation and local manufacturing, ultimately contributing to the country’s economic growth.

INS Arnala, delivered to the Indian Navy on May 8, 2025, is India’s first indigenously developed Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC). Built through a public-private collaboration between Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) and L&T Shipyard, this 77-meter-long vessel is equipped with a diesel engine-waterjet propulsion system—the largest Indian warship with such a configuration. It is designed for underwater surveillance in shallow coastal waters, mine laying, low-intensity maritime operations, and search and rescue missions. Named after the historic Arnala Fort in Maharashtra, this ship significantly boosts India's coastal defence capabilities and marks a major step in self-reliant naval manufacturing.

On May 8, 2025, India and Chile officially signed the Terms of Reference to initiate negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), marking a significant upgrade from their existing Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA). This agreement aims to deepen bilateral economic ties by expanding into new areas such as digital services, MSME cooperation, critical minerals, and investment facilitation. The CEPA seeks to ensure sustainable and inclusive growth while enhancing access to strategic resources. By engaging with Chile—a key Latin American economy—India is strengthening South-South cooperation and diversifying its trade and investment relationships in a rapidly evolving global economic landscape.

Uttarakhand has secured ₹1,910 crore funding from the European Investment Bank (EIB) for urban infrastructure projects. The funds will be utilized for drinking water and sewerage projects in key towns, including Pithoragarh, Sitarganj, Rudrapur, and Kashipur. This investment aims to enhance urban living conditions and infrastructure in these areas. The project is set to move forward with the signing of records in June 2025, followed by the tender process for implementation, marking a significant step in urban development for the state.

On May 8, 2025, American Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected as the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. His election is historically significant as he became the first pope from the United States. Chosen during a conclave held in the Sistine Chapel with participation from 133 cardinal electors representing 70 nations, his swift election marked a new chapter in global Catholic leadership. Closely aligned with Pope Francis’s moderate and socially conscious views, Pope Leo XIV's selection comes at a time of considerable change and uncertainty for the Church and the world.

Kotak Mahindra Bank unveiled the Kotak Solitaire Credit Card in May 2025, aiming to capture the elite segment of Indian travellers. This exclusive, invite-only metal card offers premium benefits such as zero foreign transaction fees, unlimited airport lounge access, and airmile conversion options with major airlines and hotels. With its focus on high-value users and frequent flyers, the card is designed to elevate the travel experience while fostering brand loyalty. Kotak Bank’s strategic move reflects the broader trend in financial services towards curated, lifestyle-based offerings for affluent clientele in the evolving travel economy.

The SAFF U-19 Football Championship 2025 is being hosted in Arunachal Pradesh, specifically at Yupia in the Papum Pare District. This marks a significant moment for the northeastern state, showcasing its growing role in national and international sports events. The championship includes participation from six South Asian countries, divided into two groups. The opening match, set to be held at the Golden Jubilee Stadium in Yupia, will feature India facing Sri Lanka. Hosting such a prestigious tournament reflects the region's development in sports infrastructure and its increasing prominence on the football map of South Asia.

Vietnam has introduced a groundbreaking 10-year renewable Golden Visa aimed at attracting long-term Indian investors, tourists, and skilled professionals. This strategic initiative is part of the country’s broader vision to transform itself into a regional hub for business, innovation, and sustainable tourism. The visa is expected to deepen India-Vietnam relations by encouraging long-term economic, cultural, and professional engagement. With features such as renewable residency, a digital-first application process, and a focus on meaningful economic contributions, the Golden Visa marks a significant policy shift to attract foreign talent and capital, positioning Vietnam as a key player in Southeast Asia’s evolving economic landscape.

The “Pandit Lakhmi Chand Kalakar Samajik Samman Yojana” was launched by the Haryana government to offer monthly financial assistance to senior artistes who have significantly contributed to the state's cultural and artistic heritage. This welfare initiative, approved by the Haryana Cabinet on May 5, 2025, seeks to recognize and support elderly artistes—aged 60 and above—who have dedicated at least 20 years to traditional forms such as music, dance, painting, and theatre. By providing a stable financial aid system, the scheme underscores Haryana’s commitment to preserving its rich artistic traditions and ensuring dignity and sustenance for its ageing cultural custodians.

The 24th edition of the Airport Show and the 12th Global Airport Leaders Forum (GALF) concluded successfully at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Dubai has maintained its global reputation as a leading aviation hub, with Dubai International Airport holding the title of the world’s busiest airport for international passengers for the 11th year in a row. The event also highlighted the contributions of women in the aviation sector through the Women in Aviation Middle East Conference. This large-scale gathering underscored Dubai’s continued leadership in global aviation innovation and infrastructure.