Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Keir Starmer announced the successful conclusion of a landmark India–UK Free Trade Agreement and a Double Contribution Convention, marking a major milestone in the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The agreements aim to boost trade, innovation, job creation, and economic cooperation between the two nations. Both leaders emphasized the historic nature of the deal and its potential to elevate bilateral ties. PM Modi invited PM Starmer to visit India, reinforcing their shared commitment to deepening collaboration. PM Starmer highlighted the deal as part of the UK’s broader strategy to build a stronger, more secure economy through global partnerships.(PC: India Today)

For the third consecutive year, Cherthala-based Neytt by Extraweave has crafted the Met Gala carpet, showcasing Kerala's artisanal excellence on a global stage. The 2025 carpet, spanning approximately 6,960 square meters, was meticulously woven from sustainable sisal fibers sourced from Madagascar. Designed under the guidance of Japanese architect Tadao Ando, the carpet features elegant S-shaped curves, paying homage to the "Line of Beauty" aesthetic. After a 60-day weaving process in India, the carpet was hand-painted by artists in New York, seamlessly blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. This collaboration underscores India's growing influence in global fashion events, highlighting the fusion of sustainability and artistry. (PC: Mathrubhumi English & News 18)

The 2025 Met Gala dazzled New York City as celebrities walked the blue carpet in bold and imaginative outfits, embracing the theme “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.” Rihanna stole the spotlight, revealing her baby bump, reportedly expecting her third child with A$AP Rocky. The event celebrated the influence of Black men’s fashion on culture and identity. Stars like Diana Ross, Zendaya, Lewis Hamilton, and Alicia Keys graced the evening in eye-catching ensembles. Held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the gala marked the launch of the Costume Institute's spring exhibition and delivered a powerful blend of style, heritage, and cultural pride. (PC: Sky News)

On April 22, 2025, five militants attacked tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, killing 26, including 25 Hindus and one Christian. The Resistance Front (TRF), linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, initially claimed responsibility but later retracted. India attributed the attack to Pakistan-based groups, leading to the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, expulsion of Pakistani diplomats, and closure of the Wagah-Attari border. Pakistan denied involvement, conducted missile tests, and claimed intelligence of an imminent Indian strike. The UN Security Council urged both nations to de-escalate. Moody's warned of economic repercussions for both countries. The standoff has intensified military activities and diplomatic tensions, with international actors calling for restraint. (PC: Fortune India & The Indian Express)

Pakistan People's Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has shifted tone, urging peace with India just days after threatening "blood in the Indus" over the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty. Speaking in Pakistan’s National Assembly, Bhutto said Pakistan welcomes peaceful dialogue if India approaches with "open hands." His peace overture follows heightened Indo-Pak tensions after the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26. India responded by suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and downgrading diplomatic ties. Bhutto's earlier remarks drew backlash, and social platform X has since suspended his account, citing inflammatory rhetoric. His statement signals a possible softening amid growing regional pressure. (PC: AFP)

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge claimed Prime Minister Narendra Modi canceled a scheduled Kashmir visit after receiving an intelligence alert about a possible terror attack. The alleged intel came three days before the April 22 Pahalgam attack that killed 26 tourists. Kharge criticized the Centre's handling of the alert, questioning the lack of preventive measures despite prior warning. He stated the government admitted to security lapses during an April 24 all-party meeting. Reports also indicate the PM's April 19 Kashmir trip was postponed due to adverse weather. Kharge demanded accountability, highlighting serious gaps in preparedness despite forewarning. (PC: India Today)

India is projected to surpass Japan as the world's fourth-largest economy in 2025, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The IMF forecasts India's nominal GDP will reach $4.187 trillion, slightly ahead of Japan's $4.186 trillion. In 2024, India ranked fifth with a GDP of $3.9 trillion, trailing Japan's $4.1 trillion. India's economy is expected to grow by 6.3% in 2025, maintaining its status as the fastest-growing major economy, while Japan's growth is projected at 0.6%. This anticipated shift underscores India's robust economic trajectory and its increasing influence in the global economic landscape. (PC: Swarajya & Advantour)

At the Met Gala 2025, Diljit Dosanjh captivated attendees by embracing his Punjabi heritage with a regal Maharaja ensemble. Styled by designer Prabal Gurung, Dosanjh donned an all-white outfit comprising a tailored suit, matching drape, and turban, complemented by traditional jewelry and a sword case. This year's Met Gala theme, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," focused on menswear, exploring how Black dandies use fashion to shape identity across the Atlantic diaspora. Dosanjh's appearance, alongside Indian celebrities like Shah Rukh Khan, Kiara Advani, and Priyanka Chopra, highlighted the global influence of Indian culture and fashion. His homage to Punjabi royalty resonated with fans and fashion enthusiasts worldwide. (PC: The New York Times)

The Indian Finance Ministry and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have categorically denied media reports suggesting that Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman requested funding cuts to Pakistan following the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack. The Ministry labeled such claims as "incorrect" and "without basis in fact," clarifying that no discussions regarding halting funds to Pakistan occurred. Similarly, the ADB confirmed that during the bilateral meeting between Sitharaman and ADB President Masato Kanda at the 58th ADB Annual Meeting in Milan, issues related to Pakistan were not discussed. These denials aim to dispel speculations linking India's diplomatic engagements to financial decisions concerning Pakistan amid escalating tensions. (PC: The Tribune)

On May 6, 2025, security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Budgam district arrested two terror associates during a routine checkpoint operation. The suspects were found in possession of a pistol, a grenade, and 15 live rounds. This incident follows the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, where 26 individuals, primarily tourists, were killed by Pakistan-based terrorists. In response, Indian forces have intensified security measures and retaliated against continued cross-border firing by the Pakistani Army along the Line of Control. The United Nations Security Council convened a closed-door meeting at Pakistan's request to discuss the escalating tensions between the two nations. (PC: India Today )