Top News Today (2 September): India, World, Economy & Odisha

India

1. India Expands S-400 Air Defence Shield

India has reportedly moved to strengthen its air-defence capabilities by expanding its S-400 Triumf acquisition from Russia. The additional systems are expected to reinforce India’s ability to detect, track and counter aerial threats along its strategically sensitive borders.

2. Supreme Court Quashes Cases Against Student Protesters

The Supreme Court has invoked its extraordinary powers under Article 142 to quash FIRs and pending criminal cases against students involved in paper-leak and NEET protests. The court emphasized protecting students’ academic careers and preventing prolonged legal proceedings from damaging their futures.

3. Vijay Backs Rahul Gandhi as PM Candidate

Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam chief and actor Vijay has reportedly extended support to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi as a Prime Ministerial candidate. The development could influence opposition politics and alliances ahead of India’s next general election, while adding a major regional political voice.

World

4. Nepal Seeks Climate Compensation From Major Powers

Following devastating floods and climate-related disasters, Nepal has called on major economic powers including China, the United States and India to provide financial compensation. Kathmandu argues that vulnerable countries increasingly face severe consequences from climate change despite contributing relatively little to global emissions.

5. Nepal Flood Death Toll Surpasses 1,000

Catastrophic rainfall and flash floods across Nepal have caused widespread destruction, severely damaging homes, roads, bridges and other infrastructure. The reported death toll has crossed 1,000, highlighting the scale of the disaster and raising fresh concerns over climate-driven extreme weather.

Economy

6. Modi Urges Indians to Cut Gold Purchases and Foreign Travel

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has appealed to citizens to exercise greater financial restraint by reducing non-essential gold purchases and avoidable foreign travel. The government’s broader objective is to ease pressure on India’s trade balance and conserve valuable foreign-exchange reserves.

7. ₹17 Crore Fake Currency Found in PNB Vault

An internal audit and RBI inspection reportedly uncovered counterfeit currency worth ₹17 crore at a Punjab National Bank currency chest in Saharanpur. Authorities have formed an SIT, while three bank officials and a custodian were suspended amid allegations of note swapping.

Odisha

8. Odisha Farmers Carry Average Debt of ₹32,721 Per Household

Official agricultural and debt data indicate a significant financial burden among Odisha’s farming communities. The reported average outstanding loan stands at around ₹32,721 per agrarian household, highlighting the continuing challenges faced by farmers in managing agricultural costs, income and repayment obligations.