Current Affairs

News & Analysis · 04 July 2026

Syllabus-mapped editorials, PIB updates, reports, judgments, and policy news for prelims and mains revision.

04 July 2026

GS-2News & Analysis04 Jul 2026thehindu.com

Two jailed for stabbing Iranian journalist in London in attack blamed on Tehran

Two Romanian men were sentenced in London for the stabbing of Iranian journalist Pouria Zeraati, a presenter at London-based Iran International. The judge and UK security officials attributed the attack to the Iranian state, citing overwhelming evidence. This incident is part of a pattern of alleged Iranian state-backed plots on British soil targeting opposition media and the Jewish community. The attackers were arrested in Romania and extradited to the UK.

International Relations

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GS-3News & Analysis04 Jul 2026thehindu.com

Centre orders blocking of battery management apps used to turn off e-rickshaws

The Union government has ordered the blocking of certain battery management apps, primarily developed by Chinese firms, after they were found to be exploited to remotely shut down e-rickshaw batteries, even while transporting passengers. This vulnerability, which does not require internet access, has led to incidents of extortion and public safety concerns. The article highlights the lack of cybersecurity requirements in e-rickshaw testing standards and mentions that such acts are punishable under IPC/BNS sections for criminal mischief.

Science & Technology

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GS-3News & Analysis04 Jul 2026thehindu.com

Govt. says ethanol blending backed by extensive trials and best practices as concerns linger despite clarifications

The article discusses the Indian government's defense of its ethanol blending program (EBP) amidst public concerns regarding engine corrosion and reduced mileage. The Petroleum Ministry clarified that extensive field trials by bodies like ARAI, IIP, SIAM, and Indian Oil in 2014 found no significant negative effects with 20% ethanol blend (E20), which was formally launched in Feb 2023 and achieved 19.99% blending by Dec 2025. The Ministry highlighted ethanol's high octane number and superior anti-knock characteristics, citing international best practices (e.g., Brazil's 27% blending). It also emphasized the program's economic benefits, including substituting crude oil, expediting farmer payments, and saving foreign exchange. Political figures like Arvind Kejriwal and Tehseen Poonawalla have raised concerns and called for a review of the mandatory blending policy.

Indian Economy

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