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NEW Barandbench Fri 07 Aug 2026 06:40:07 PM

You only appoint judges with your ideology: Menaka Guruswamy in Rajya Sabha debate on Supreme Court judges bill

SUMMARY

Senior advocate Menaka Guruswamy, speaking during the Rajya Sabha debate on the Supreme Court judges bill, criticized the government for attempting to appoint judges aligned with its ideology. She argued that the bill undermines judicial independence by giving the executive greater control over judicial appointments. Guruswamy emphasized that an independent judiciary is essential for democracy and warned against political interference in the collegium system. The bill sparked heated debate, with opposition members echoing concerns about threats to the separation of powers.

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NEW The Hindu Fri 07 Aug 2026 04:30:12 PM

Thailand shooting incident: Eight dead, including teen suspect’s grandparents

SUMMARY

In Thailand, a 14-year-old boy opened fire at a shopping mall in Nakhon Ratchasima, killing eight people, including his own grandparents. The teen used a firearm reportedly obtained from a family member. After the rampage, the suspect was apprehended by authorities. The motive remains under investigation, though reports suggest possible personal and family disputes. The incident reignited debates on gun control and youth mental health in Thailand. Officials expressed condolences and vowed to strengthen safety measures nationwide.

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NEW The Hindu Fri 07 Aug 2026 04:25:11 PM

North Korea fires ballistic missile: South Korea military

SUMMARY

North Korea fired a ballistic missile toward the East Sea (Sea of Japan), prompting alerts from South Korea's military. The launch was closely monitored by South Korean and U.S. intelligence agencies. Japan also issued warnings, assessing potential threats to its territory. The launch violates multiple UN Security Council resolutions banning North Korea's ballistic missile program. The U.S., South Korea, and Japan condemned the provocation, calling for diplomatic accountability. Tensions remain high on the Korean Peninsula amid stalled denuclearization talks.

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NEW The Hindu Thu 06 Aug 2026 08:45:17 PM

India invites Bangladesh PM Rahman to attend BRICS summit

SUMMARY

India has invited Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Rahman to attend the upcoming BRICS summit, signaling strengthened bilateral ties between the neighboring nations. The invitation reflects India's effort to expand BRICS engagement beyond its core members—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Bangladesh's participation as a guest highlights its growing geopolitical significance in South Asia. The move aims to boost economic cooperation, regional connectivity, and diplomatic collaboration, reinforcing India's role as a key regional leader fostering inclusive multilateral dialogue.

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Relevant For: International Relations

MCQs Mains Question Basic Concepts

NEW The Hindu Thu 06 Aug 2026 07:10:18 PM

China announces ‘countermeasures’ after U.S. trade sanctions

SUMMARY

China has announced retaliatory countermeasures following the latest round of U.S. trade sanctions targeting Chinese technology and economic sectors. Beijing condemned the sanctions as violations of international trade rules and vowed to impose tariffs and restrictions on American goods and companies. The escalating trade tensions have rattled global markets and raised fears of a broader economic decoupling between the world's two largest economies. China urged the U.S. to resolve disputes through dialogue rather than unilateral actions, warning of consequences for global supply chains.

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Relevant For: International Relations

MCQs Mains Question Basic Concepts

NEW Hindustan Times Thu 06 Aug 2026 04:40:03 PM

UPSC Success Story: How a farmer's son from Rajasthan landed 12 government jobs before becoming IPS officer

SUMMARY

A farmer's son from Rajasthan achieved remarkable success by clearing 12 government exams before finally cracking the UPSC Civil Services Examination to become an IPS officer. Despite humble beginnings and financial struggles, his relentless dedication and perseverance set him apart. He worked in various government positions, gaining experience while continuing to prepare for UPSC. His inspiring journey highlights that consistent hard work, unwavering determination, and never giving up can overcome any socioeconomic barrier, motivating countless aspirants from rural backgrounds across India.

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NEW The Hindu Thu 06 Aug 2026 11:30:03 AM

What are the key issues of the BRICS Summit to be held in New Delhi in September? | Explained

SUMMARY

India is set to host the BRICS Summit in New Delhi in September 2025, as current chair of the bloc comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and newer members like Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the UAE. Key issues include reforming global governance institutions, expanding multilateral cooperation, de-dollarization and alternative payment systems, counterterrorism, climate change, and digital transformation. India aims to balance geopolitical tensions, especially between Russia-China and the West, while promoting the Global South's interests. The summit's theme centers on strengthening economic collaboration and equitable development among emerging economies.

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Relevant For: Prelims + Mains International Relations

MCQs Mains Question Basic Concepts

NEW News 18 Hindi Thu 06 Aug 2026 03:35:17 AM

'Clear Attack On Christians': US Lawmaker Warns India's FCRA Changes Could Affect Bilateral Ties

SUMMARY

A US lawmaker has criticized India's amendments to the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), calling them a "clear attack on Christians." The stricter FCRA rules have tightened regulations on foreign funding to NGOs and religious organizations, impacting many Christian charities operating in India. The lawmaker warned these changes could strain US-India bilateral relations, as several American-funded organizations have been affected. Critics argue India is using FCRA to suppress minority religious groups and civil society, while India maintains the rules ensure transparency and prevent foreign interference.

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Relevant For: Prelims + Mains Polity & Governance

MCQs Mains Question Basic Concepts

NEW The Times Of India Thu 06 Aug 2026 02:10:07 AM

Navigation sat NVS-03 ready for launch, 3 more to follow: Space min Jitendra Singh

SUMMARY

India's Navigation satellite NVS-03 is ready for launch, with three more satellites to follow, announced Union Space Minister Jitendra Singh. NVS-03 is part of India's NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation) system, which provides accurate position, navigation, and timing services. NavIC serves both civilian and strategic purposes. The upcoming launches aim to strengthen and expand India's indigenous navigation network, reducing dependence on foreign systems like GPS, enhancing coverage and reliability for users across the region.

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Relevant For: Prelims + Mains Science & Technology

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NEW News 18 Hindi Wed 05 Aug 2026 09:30:02 PM

Sheikh Hasina Hails PM Modi, Says 'India Has Always Stood By Bangladesh, Treated Me Like Head Of State'

SUMMARY

Former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina praised Indian PM Narendra Modi, expressing gratitude for India's unwavering support to Bangladesh. During her stay in India after fleeing Bangladesh amid political unrest in August 2024, Hasina acknowledged that India treated her with full dignity as a head of state. She highlighted the strong bilateral ties between the two nations, emphasizing India's role during Bangladesh's liberation and continued cooperation. Her comments came amid political turmoil in Bangladesh following her ouster.

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Relevant For: Prelims + Mains International Relations

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NEW The Hindu Wed 05 Aug 2026 08:00:08 PM

Dissanayake holds talks with leaders of ethnic minorities, underscores need for ‘national consensus’ on new Constitution

SUMMARY

Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake held discussions with leaders of ethnic minority parties, emphasizing the importance of building a "national consensus" for drafting a new Constitution. The talks aimed to address long-standing ethnic grievances, particularly of Tamil and Muslim communities, and promote inclusivity in governance. Dissanayake stressed that constitutional reform must reflect the aspirations of all communities, ensuring unity and reconciliation. The move signals his commitment to resolving ethnic tensions through dialogue and participatory democratic processes.

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Relevant For: Mains GS - II International Relations

MCQs Mains Question Basic Concepts

NEW The Hindu Wed 05 Aug 2026 07:55:22 PM

India invites Bangladesh PM Rahman to attend BRICS summit

SUMMARY

India has invited Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Rahman to attend the upcoming BRICS summit, signaling strengthened bilateral ties and South Asian diplomacy. The invitation reflects India's efforts to enhance regional cooperation and integrate neighboring nations into broader multilateral platforms. BRICS, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, recently expanded its membership. Bangladesh's participation as a guest could boost its global standing and economic partnerships. The move underscores India's strategic outreach in South Asia amid growing geopolitical competition.

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Relevant For: Prelims + Mains GS - II International Relations

MCQs Mains Question Basic Concepts

NEW News 18 Hindi Wed 05 Aug 2026 05:05:16 PM

US Congressman Riley Moore Criticises India's FCRA Bill | Centre Rejects Allegations | News18

SUMMARY

US Congressman Riley Moore criticised India's proposed Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) amendments, raising concerns about restrictions on foreign-funded NGOs and their impact on civil liberties and religious freedoms in India. He urged the US government to address this issue with Indian authorities. However, India's Centre firmly rejected these allegations, calling them interference in internal affairs. The government defended FCRA regulations as necessary to ensure transparency and prevent misuse of foreign funds by organisations operating within India.

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NEW Hindustan Times Wed 05 Aug 2026 04:50:02 PM

UPSC Success Story: How a farmer's son from Rajasthan landed 12 government jobs before becoming IPS officer

SUMMARY

A farmer's son from Rajasthan achieved remarkable success by securing 12 government jobs before finally cracking the UPSC Civil Services Examination to become an IPS officer. Despite humble beginnings and financial struggles, his relentless determination drove him to keep attempting competitive exams. He cleared multiple state and central level exams, joining various posts, but his ultimate dream was UPSC. After years of persistent hard work and self-study, he achieved his goal, inspiring millions of aspirants from rural backgrounds to never give up on their dreams.

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NEW The Times Of India Tue 04 Aug 2026 09:25:13 PM

Iran war depletes US missile stocks, raises concerns over readiness against China

SUMMARY

The US military's extensive missile strikes against Iranian targets have significantly depleted critical weapons stockpiles, sparking alarm among defense officials and analysts about America's readiness for a potential conflict with China. Key precision-guided munitions, including Tomahawk cruise missiles and air-launched weapons, have been consumed at rates exceeding production capacity. Defense experts warn replenishment could take years, leaving the US vulnerable in the Indo-Pacific. Congress is pressing for accelerated production, but supply chain bottlenecks persist, raising strategic concerns.

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Relevant For: Mains GS - II International Relations

MCQs Mains Question Basic Concepts