Today’s Top News in India – Breaking Headlines from Politics, Economy, Sports, Bollywood & Technology [May 5, 2025]

Today’s Top News from India: Politics, Economy, Tech, Sports, Entertainment & More

Politics

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The political scene in India is heating up with fresh controversies and court cases1. Tensions soared after Congress leader Ajay Rai’s “nimbu-mirchi” comment was criticized by the BJP, which accused the Congress of demoralizing the armed forces2. The issue was even reportedly picked up by Pakistani media, prompting rebuttals from both sides. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court is set to hear petitions against amendments to the Waqf Act on May 53, keeping legal eyes on key policy changes.

• Congress vs BJP: BJP MP Nishikant Dubey charged Congress with “demoralizing the armed forces” over Ajay Rai’s remarks4.
• Waqf Amendment Hearings: SC scheduled a crucial hearing on petitions challenging recent Waqf Act amendments for May 55.
• Security Update: Joint Army and J&K Police operations continue in Jammu & Kashmir following the Pahalgam attack, with high-alert measures on.

Economy

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Economic indicators show mixed signals but overall stability. The RBI’s April policy update surprised markets by cutting the repo rate by 25 basis points to 6%, while lowering the GDP growth forecast to 6.5% for FY267. Inflation remains near the target, and the Chief Economic Adviser says the economy is “in good shape, growth on track”89. Tax collections are strong: Gujarat reported a 13% jump in GST collections for April 202510, reflecting robust consumption. Trade talks and government reforms continue amid these positive signs.

• RBI Policy Update: Repo rate cut to 6%; GDP growth outlook trimmed to 6.5%11.
• Tax & Trade: Gujarat’s GST collections surged 13% in April 202512; India-UK trade pact talks proceed amid global uncertainty.
• CEA Statement: Chief Economic Adviser V. Anantha Nageswaran says the economy is “in good shape” and urged continued reforms and innovation13.
• Market Watch: Inflation and wages are stable; analysts expect banks to raise deposit rates to manage capital flows.

Technology

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India’s tech sector is buzzing with innovation and growth. Apple has started manufacturing iPhones at Tata Electronics’ plant in Tamil Nadu, with Foxconn’s new Bengaluru unit set to begin in May, as the company shifts more production out of China15. Artificial intelligence and startups are thriving: OpenAI-backed startup Vahan is using GPT-4 to automate blue-collar hiring via voice-AI, placing ~40,000 workers per month16. E-commerce and delivery services are also in the spotlight — for example, Swiggy recently paused its “Genie” delivery service in major cities due to operational constraints17.

• iPhone Assembly: First iPhones roll off the line at a new Tata plant; Foxconn’s Tamil Nadu unit will ramp up India production in 202518.
• AI Startup: Vahan uses OpenAI’s GPT-4 to match informal job-seekers with employers via phone calls19.
• Startup Updates: Beauty-tech startup Kult raised $20M; Zepto, Oyo and other unicorns continue strategic growth amid market shifts.
• Swiggy News: Swiggy temporarily suspended its hyperlocal Genie service in multiple cities, citing operational issues20.

Sports

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The sporting world is dominated by the IPL. In a recent match, Punjab Kings upset Lucknow Super Giants thanks to captain Shreyas Iyer’s bold move to promote Josh Inglis, a tactic praised by coach Ricky Ponting22. Former Australia captain Aaron Finch suggested that struggling LSG skipper Rishabh Pant hand over wicket-keeping to Nicholas Pooran to regain momentum23. Outside cricket, chess grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi remains focused and relaxed as he prepares for this year’s Chess World Cup24. On the domestic front, the Khelo India Youth Games commenced in Bihar (May 4-15), highlighting India’s sports development efforts.

• IPL Highlight: PBKS coach Ricky Ponting praises Shreyas Iyer’s tactic of sending in Josh Inglis early, leading to a big win over LSG25.
• LSG Captain: Aaron Finch advises Lucknow’s Rishabh Pant to hand over wicket-keeping to Nicholas Pooran amid his poor season26.
• Chess News: Vidit Gujrathi visits a school chess event and says he’s “not taking too much pressure” ahead of the World Cup27.
• Youth Games: Khelo India Youth Games started in Bihar, showcasing young talent across sports like athletics, badminton and wrestling.

Entertainment

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Bollywood and entertainment news are in the spotlight. At the WAVES 2025 summit, superstar Allu Arjun said India’s film industry will “make a global mark” soon, highlighting its growing global presence29. Actress Kareena Kapoor Khan, also at WAVES, quipped she’s “very happy” working in Hindi films and has no plans to move to Hollywood30. Fans are excited for May’s film releases: major Hindi films like Raid 2 and The Bhootnii are set to debut, covering genres from thriller to comedy3132. Celebrity buzz also continues with coverage of stars’ upcoming projects and media appearances.

• WAVES Summit: Allu Arjun predicts Indian cinema will soon impact the global box office33; Kareena Kapoor reaffirms she loves Bollywood and has no Hollywood plans34.
• May Releases: Bollywood’s lineup includes Raid 2 (a crime thriller) and The Bhootnii (horror-comedy) premiering May 13536.
• Celebrity Updates: Follow news on stars like Priyanka Chopra and Deepika Padukone, who continue international projects, and watch out for new TV and OTT releases from India.

Health & Environment

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Climate and health updates are front-page news. India’s weather departments forecast an above-normal monsoon for 2025, expecting 105% of average rainfall, which could boost crop yields and ease inflation38. However, an early heatwave is already affecting India: Delhi hit 40°C in late April — about 5°C above the seasonal average — forcing schools to cancel afternoon assemblies and encourage frequent hydration3940. Pollution remains a concern too: studies note that rising ground-level ozone (driven by climate change) has worsened air quality, contributing to over 50,000 deaths in India in 202241. Public health officials also prepare for future outbreaks, discussing global pandemic preparedness agreements.

• Monsoon Forecast: India may receive 105% of normal monsoon rains in 2025, likely benefiting agriculture and lowering food price pressure42.
• Heatwave Alert: Early-season heat saw Delhi past 40°C in April (5°C above avg)43; authorities advised water breaks and salt solutions to prevent heatstroke44.
• Air Pollution: Climate-driven ozone is adding to smog; a recent study linked 50,000+ deaths in 2022 to ozone exposure in India45.
• Healthcare Watch: India engages in global health talks (WHO pandemic treaty) and monitors chronic disease trends; hospital infrastructure and health insurance remain key topics.