Tue Sep 02 06:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Top News: Ethanol Ruling Upheld, Rupee Plummets, and Global Peace Efforts

**New Delhi/Tianjin -** Today’s news cycle is dominated by a mix of domestic policy debates, economic pressures, and international diplomacy. Here’s a snapshot of the key developments:

**Supreme Court Backs Ethanol Blending:** In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court of India dismissed a petition challenging the nationwide rollout of 20% ethanol-blended petrol. The court cited the initiative’s alignment with India’s energy transition and climate goals, rejecting claims of potential engine damage. The ruling effectively greenlights the government’s policy, aimed at reducing pollution and crude oil imports.

**Rupee Hits Record Low Amid Global Uncertainty:** The Indian rupee has experienced a sharp decline, hitting a historic low due to a confluence of factors including speculative market bets, hedging demand, and global economic uncertainties. Renewed tariff threats from Donald Trump and rising crude oil prices have further fueled investor caution. Analysts anticipate RBI intervention to stabilize the currency, while Prime Minister Modi is expected to address the economic impact, particularly fears of imported inflation.

**Gadkari’s Comment Sparks Political Row:** A controversial statement by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, suggesting that “the one who can fool people is the best leader,” has ignited a political firestorm. While supporters claim the comment was ironic, opposition parties have condemned it as disrespectful to citizens and a mockery of democracy. Gadkari has since clarified his remarks, claiming they were taken out of context.

**Karnataka Leaders Clash Ahead of Elections:** In Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has criticized the BJP’s “Dharmasthala Chalo” rally as hypocritical and politically motivated. The rally, aimed at highlighting corruption and governance issues, has been met with strong resistance from the state government, escalating tensions ahead of upcoming local body elections.

**Bihar Electoral Roll Revisions Raise Concerns:** A special intensive revision of electoral rolls in Bihar has revealed that approximately 65 lakh voters’ names have been excluded. While authorities attribute this to efforts to cleanse the rolls before elections, opposition parties allege that genuine voters are being unfairly removed, sparking a political debate.

**Putin Praises India’s Peace Efforts in Ukraine:** Russian President Vladimir Putin has commended India’s consistent efforts to promote peace in the Ukraine conflict, stating that India has played a constructive role in advocating for dialogue and diplomacy. His remarks, made during a bilateral meeting with PM Modi, underscore India’s growing diplomatic influence in mediating international crises.

**Modi Reaffirms Call for Peace in Ukraine:** Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated his call for lasting peace in Ukraine during a bilateral meeting with President Putin in Tianjin, stating that it is “the call of the entire humanity.” Modi emphasized the importance of dialogue, diplomacy, and collective responsibility. Putin further dismissed claims that Modi supported a war narrative, reinforcing India’s role as a peace broker.

**Earthquake Devastates Afghanistan:** A powerful 6.0 magnitude earthquake has struck Afghanistan, resulting in at least 250 deaths and over 400 injuries. Rescue operations are underway, but the situation is compounded by poor infrastructure and ongoing humanitarian crises. The international community is mobilizing aid to assist the affected areas.

**Xi Jinping Criticizes “Hegemonism” Amid Global Tensions:** Chinese President Xi Jinping has criticized “hegemonism and bullying” in global politics, in an apparent reference to the US amid Trump’s tariff offensive. Speaking at the SCO summit in Tianjin, Xi called for stronger multilateralism and cooperation amongst member states.

Read More