India News May 3, 2025 – India-Pak Tensions, UK-India Deal, Heatwave, Banking, Goa Stampede

India News – May 3, 2025: Key Developments

0In national news, tensions between India and Pakistan have surged after the tragic Pahalgam attack left 26 tourists dead. Armed skirmishes were reported along the Line of Control, and both sides have exchanged warnings. Meanwhile, New Delhi is pursuing diplomatic and financial measures in response to perceived threats. These include pushing to re-list Pakistan on global terror-financing watchlists and questioning aid to its neighbor12. Other top stories today cover a pending UK–India trade and investment pact, an unfolding heatwave across India, a banking holiday update, and incidents like a Goa temple stampede and flight delays.34

Political & National: India-Pakistan Tensions Escalate

Pakistan’s military activity near the border has intensified in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack. Islamabad reportedly moved advanced radar systems and electronic-warfare units to forward positions, signaling fears of an Indian counterstrike56. Pakistan’s defense minister publicly warned that an Indian strike was “imminent” and vowed to deploy its nuclear arsenal if directly threatened7. Along the Line of Control, ceasefire violations continued for the fifth day as Pakistani troops opened fire in sectors like Kupwara and Baramulla – actions that were met with matching Indian Army retaliation8. India, in turn, has taken diplomatic steps: sources say New Delhi plans to press for Pakistan’s re-entry on the FATF grey list and to object to a $7-billion IMF aid package to Pakistan over terror-financing concerns9. Domestic leaders and analysts have called for unity and vigilance, even as India’s top court looked into related security matters. The situation remains volatile, with international partners urging restraint. (Keywords: India Pakistan news May 2025, Pahalgam attack)

Economy: UK–India Investment Treaty Debated

10A new investment treaty being negotiated between the UK and India has sparked debate due to its inclusion of an investor–state dispute settlement (ISDS) clause. Media reports indicate the pact – to accompany a free trade deal – would let companies sue either government if policies harm their investments11. Critics worry this could undermine public-interest policies; Britain itself had previously dropped ISDS from most recent trade agreements. Reuters notes that London pressed for the clause because UK businesses wanted legal safeguards in India12. Environmental and legal experts have pointed out that ISDS has historically been used by fossil-fuel firms to challenge climate or land-use regulations13. UK officials say any agreement will ensure fair treatment for investors, while India remains cautious. The negotiations continue, with Indian lawmakers and civil-society groups urging transparency. (Keywords: UK India trade deal 2025, investment treaty ISDS)

Weather: Severe Heatwave and Forecasts

14India is facing an early and severe heatwave as summer sets in. Meteorologists warn that much of northwest, central and eastern India may see above-normal heatwave days this month15. In recent weeks, cities like Delhi recorded April temperatures 4–5°C above average, and experts say the trend reflects a new normal of hotter springs1617. Heat alerts are in effect across multiple states; officials have advised schools to suspend afternoon classes and urged people to stay hydrated. The India Meteorological Department expects May to bring prolonged heat, raising fears of drought and power shortages. Agricultural and health departments are preparing emergency measures. Urban residents are coping with sweltering mornings and evenings. The heatwave story underscores concerns about climate change and strain on resources. (Keywords: heatwave in India, extreme heat May 2025)

Banking: Banks Open on First Saturday as Per RBI Rules

18In banking news, most Indian banks will remain open on Saturday, May 3, following the Reserve Bank of India’s calendar. Because this is the first Saturday of the month, branches will operate as usual — only the second and fourth Saturdays are bank holidays19. The RBI regularly publishes a schedule of working days; customers are reminded that only specified Saturdays or special local holidays lead to closures. Notably, the schedule also lists regional and festival holidays for different states. The issue drew some public attention on social media, but experts say the rule is well-known to avoid confusion. Apart from this exception, banks will observe all Sundays and listed public holidays in May. Citizens are advised to plan transactions accordingly. (Keywords: RBI rules first Saturday, banks open India)

Other News: Goa Temple Stampede and Air India Delays

Two major incidents made headlines. In Goa, a stampede broke out during the annual Lairai Devi temple procession in Shirgaon. At least seven pilgrims were killed and dozens injured when panic ensued in the dense crowd20. The exact cause is under investigation, but local media report the injured were rushed to nearby hospitals. Goa’s Chief Minister flew to the site and tweeted that he was “deeply saddened” by the tragedy, assuring full support to victims’ families21. Authorities have launched inquiries to improve safety at mass events.

Also on Friday, Nationalist Congress Party MP Supriya Sule slammed Air India on social media after her Delhi-bound flight was delayed over an hour during heavy rains. Sule tweeted that passengers were “stranded and visibly distressed” as the plane sat on the tarmac past its scheduled departure time22. She demanded intervention from civil aviation officials, calling the recurring delays a “troubling norm.” Air India and airport authorities cited bad weather and one-runway operations for the holdup. Commuters reported long waits and last-minute gate changes. The incident adds to ongoing concerns about flight punctuality and infrastructure at Delhi airport. (Keywords: Goa stampede news, Air India delays 2025)