Search results for ' A Current Affair'

Why West Bengal Is Ending Religious Leader Payments

Why West Bengal Is Ending Religious Leader Payments

Rediff.com18 May 2026

The West Bengal cabinet has decided to discontinue assistance-oriented schemes based on religious categorisation for Imams, muezzins and purohits from June. The cabinet also approved the 'Annapurna' scheme of Rs 3,000 monthly support to women from June 1, and granted in-principle consent for their free travel in state-run buses.

BRICS meet in India from Thursday on West Asia; Iran to attend, China skips

BRICS meet in India from Thursday on West Asia; Iran to attend, China skips

Rediff.com12 May 2026

The escalating crisis in West Asia and its impact on the global energy supply chain are expected to dominate deliberations at a two-day meeting of BRICS foreign ministers to be hosted by India.

Territorial integrity to be part of BSF's new mandate: Amit Shah

Territorial integrity to be part of BSF's new mandate: Amit Shah

Rediff.com29 May 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced a new 'territorial security' paradigm to complement conventional border security, involving public participation and advanced technology. He also highlighted progress in securing vulnerable areas along the Pakistan border and plans to expand the BSF's operational mandate.

Shashi Tharoor Moves Delhi HC Against AI-Generated Deepfake Videos

Shashi Tharoor Moves Delhi HC Against AI-Generated Deepfake Videos

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has approached the Delhi High Court seeking a ban on AI-generated deepfake videos that purportedly show him praising Pakistan. The court has issued summons to social media platforms and the Centre, indicating it may pass an interim order in Tharoor's favour.

Indian Techies Face Green Card Uncertainty

Indian Techies Face Green Card Uncertainty

Rediff.com25 May 2026

This could come as a setback to thousands of Indian engineers who have waited for years for their work visas to pave the way for the coveted Green Card.

Iran blames UAE after BRICS ministers fail to agree on joint declaration

Iran blames UAE after BRICS ministers fail to agree on joint declaration

Rediff.com16 May 2026

The BRICS foreign ministers' meeting in New Delhi concluded without a joint statement due to disagreements over the West Asia conflict, with Iran blaming the UAE for the lack of consensus. India, as the host, issued a chair's statement highlighting the differing views.

No double standards in fight against terror: Ajit Doval

No double standards in fight against terror: Ajit Doval

Rediff.com29 May 2026

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval called for decisive action against terrorism and said there cannot be 'double standards' in the fight against it, while addressing an international security forum in Russia.

Unified Training Camps Key To India's Thomas Cup Bronze

Unified Training Camps Key To India's Thomas Cup Bronze

Rediff.com6 May 2026

Unified high-performance training camps in Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Guwahati played a crucial role in India's bronze medal win at the Thomas Cup, with top shuttlers benefiting from the focused preparation.

India raises visa concerns with US over immigration policy changes

India raises visa concerns with US over immigration policy changes

Rediff.com24 May 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar raised India's concerns with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding changes to US visa and immigration policies, emphasising that legal mobility should not be negatively affected. Rubio acknowledged potential 'bumps' during the transition as the US aims to improve its immigration system.

Governor dissolves Bengal assembly amid Mamata's refusal to resign

Governor dissolves Bengal assembly amid Mamata's refusal to resign

Rediff.com8 May 2026

The West Bengal State Legislative Assembly has been dissolved by Governor R N Ravi, marking the end of its term after the recent elections where the Trinamool Congress was defeated by the BJP.

Sri Lanka government takes over Cricket Board after resignations

Sri Lanka government takes over Cricket Board after resignations

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

The Sri Lankan government has taken over the administration of the country's cricket board following the resignation of its president and executive committee amid allegations of financial irregularities and poor team performance.

Man held for posting 'misleading' video in J-K; curbs on online news

Man held for posting 'misleading' video in J-K; curbs on online news

Rediff.com29 Dec 2025

Police in Kishtwar detained a person for allegedly uploading a misleading video related to a clash between two communities. The district magistrate also issued an order regulating unregistered online news portals and social media pages to prevent misinformation and maintain public order.

Trump backtracks on Taiwan independence after China visit

Trump backtracks on Taiwan independence after China visit

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Following his visit to China, US President Donald Trump has suggested a potential shift in Washington's approach to Taiwan, expressing reluctance to engage in military conflict over Taiwan's independence and cautioning against unilateral moves.

Etawah Man Kills Baby Daughter In Domestic Dispute

Etawah Man Kills Baby Daughter In Domestic Dispute

Rediff.com12 May 2026

A five-month-old girl died after her father allegedly threw her during a domestic dispute in Uttar Pradesh's Etawah district.

US ready to boost energy sales to India: Rubio ahead of New Delhi visit

US ready to boost energy sales to India: Rubio ahead of New Delhi visit

Rediff.com22 May 2026

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said that the US is ready to sell as much energy as India is willing to buy. He described India as a 'great partner' ahead of his visit to New Delhi.

If not weaponised, everything today is being...: Jaishankar

If not weaponised, everything today is being...: Jaishankar

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar stated that India has demonstrated resilience in the face of recent global shocks, including the conflict in West Asia, while speaking at the convocation ceremony of IIM Raipur. He emphasised the importance of building national capabilities to de-risk and develop leverage in a changing global order.

UN cuts India's 2026 GDP forecast to 6.4%, cites global uncertainties

UN cuts India's 2026 GDP forecast to 6.4%, cites global uncertainties

Rediff.com20 May 2026

The United Nations has revised downward India's economic growth forecast for 2026 to 6.4 per cent from an earlier 6.6 per cent, attributing the change to global uncertainties and economic shocks stemming from the ongoing West Asia crisis.

Supreme Court to address Parsi woman's plea on religious identity after inter-faith marriage

Supreme Court to address Parsi woman's plea on religious identity after inter-faith marriage

Rediff.com25 May 2026

The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a plea on May 29 seeking a direction to the Nagpur Parsi Panchayat to treat a Parsi woman equally with her male counterparts, even after she marries a person of another faith, challenging a rule that allegedly strips Parsi women of their religious identity upon inter-faith marriage.

Iran offers 'new proposal' to US to end war, reopen Hormuz

Iran offers 'new proposal' to US to end war, reopen Hormuz

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

In a significant diplomatic manoeuvre aimed at de-escalating regional tensions, Iran has reportedly submitted a "new proposal" to the United States through Pakistani intermediaries.

'I'm an honorary cockroach': Wangchuk hits back at Ladakh LG

'I'm an honorary cockroach': Wangchuk hits back at Ladakh LG

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Activist Sonam Wangchuk has rejected Ladakh Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena's claim that he was 'unsure' of the online movement's origins, asserting he considers himself an 'honorary cockroach'.

Babar Azam Likely To Replace Shan Masood As Pakistan's Test Captain

Babar Azam Likely To Replace Shan Masood As Pakistan's Test Captain

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Pakistan is reportedly considering replacing Shan Masood with Babar Azam as Test captain following a heavy defeat to Bangladesh. The Pakistan Cricket Board is under pressure to reinstate Azam.

India appoints new Chief of Defence Staff, Naval Chief

India appoints new Chief of Defence Staff, Naval Chief

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Lt Gen NS Raja Subramani (retd) has been appointed as India's next Chief of Defence Staff, succeeding Gen Anil Chauhan. Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan has been named the next Chief of the Naval Staff, succeeding Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi. Lt Gen Subramani's primary mandate will be to implement the military theaterisation plan and bolster tri-services synergy.

Jharkhand Authorities Investigate Jail Sex Abuse Allegations

Jharkhand Authorities Investigate Jail Sex Abuse Allegations

Rediff.com19 May 2026

A team from the Jharkhand State Legal Services Authority (JHALSA) is investigating allegations of sexual exploitation of a woman inmate at Birsa Munda Central Jail. The investigation was prompted by claims of abuse, pregnancy, and forced abortion, leading to calls for strict action and a high-level probe.

Uninformed, in poor taste: India on Trump's 'hellhole' remark

Uninformed, in poor taste: India on Trump's 'hellhole' remark

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

India has criticised US President Donald Trump's social media repost referring to India and other countries as 'hellholes' in the context of immigration, deeming the remarks 'uninformed' and 'inappropriate'.

CPI(M) Condemns ED Raids On Kerala CM As Political Attack

CPI(M) Condemns ED Raids On Kerala CM As Political Attack

Rediff.com27 May 2026

CPI(M) leaders have strongly criticised the ED raids on former Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan and others, alleging political motivation and a conspiracy by the BJP and Congress. They claim the raids are an attempt to intimidate the party and its leaders, and have vowed to fight back against what they see as a politically fabricated case.

Trump is not going to make a 'bad deal': Marco Rubio

Trump is not going to make a 'bad deal': Marco Rubio

Rediff.com25 May 2026

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that significant progress has been made in negotiations with Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping lane. However, President Donald Trump remains cautious, vowing not to accept a 'bad deal' regarding Iran's nuclear programme and regional stability.

India's Sports Startup Ecosystem: Report Unveils Growth Pathways

India's Sports Startup Ecosystem: Report Unveils Growth Pathways

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

A new report, 'India's Sports Startup Ecosystem: Current Status and Emerging Pathways,' was unveiled, offering insights into the sports industry's growth potential, innovation, and opportunities for stakeholders as India prepares to host major international sporting events.

Sinner makes history, wins 5th straight Masters

Sinner makes history, wins 5th straight Masters

Rediff.com3 May 2026

Jannik Sinner, the world number one, showcased his dominance by defeating Alexander Zverev in straight sets to win the Madrid Open, marking his fifth successive ATP Masters 1000 title.

Why Paytm Is Steering Clear Of An NBFC Licence

Why Paytm Is Steering Clear Of An NBFC Licence

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Paytm, operated by One97 Communications, is not actively seeking a non-banking financial company (NBFC) licence, preferring partnership models for lending operations, according to its Group CFO.

Why Paytm Is Not Pursuing An NBFC Licence

Why Paytm Is Not Pursuing An NBFC Licence

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Fintech giant One97 Communications, which operates Paytm, has decided against applying for a Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) licence, favouring its existing partnership model.

India examines Bangladesh plea to extradite Sheikh Hasina

India examines Bangladesh plea to extradite Sheikh Hasina

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

India has acknowledged that it is currently reviewing the Bangladesh government's request for the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, as part of ongoing judicial and legal processes.

217 Indians joined Russian forces during Ukraine war, 49 dead: Govt to SC

217 Indians joined Russian forces during Ukraine war, 49 dead: Govt to SC

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The Centre has informed the Supreme Court that 217 Indian nationals reportedly joined the Russian armed forces, with 49 fatalities amid the Russia-Ukraine war, and efforts are underway to repatriate those who were misled.

Amid West Asia tensions, Iran FM Araghchi dials Jaishankar to discuss crisis

Amid West Asia tensions, Iran FM Araghchi dials Jaishankar to discuss crisis

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi spoke with Indian counterpart S Jaishankar to discuss the West Asia crisis, following discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Iran seeks India's help on West Asia, flags UAE hurdle in BRICS

Iran seeks India's help on West Asia, flags UAE hurdle in BRICS

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi has urged India to take the lead in bringing peace to West Asia, highlighting the UAE's role in stalling BRICS consensus on the conflict. Gharibabadi also discussed a new framework with Oman for merchant vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

Rubio meets Modi, discusses West Asia, extends Trump's invitation to visit US

Rubio meets Modi, discusses West Asia, extends Trump's invitation to visit US

Rediff.com23 May 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed various aspects of India-US bilateral ties, focusing on defence, trade, energy, and technology. Rubio extended an invitation from President Donald Trump for PM Modi to visit the US.

West Bengal Approves Ayushman Bharat, Land Transfer For Border Fencing

West Bengal Approves Ayushman Bharat, Land Transfer For Border Fencing

Rediff.com11 May 2026

West Bengal's new government, led by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, has approved several key policy changes, including the implementation of the Ayushman Bharat health scheme, land transfer for border fencing, and the adoption of new criminal laws.

New TN cabinet vows break from Dravidian-era governance

New TN cabinet vows break from Dravidian-era governance

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Following the swearing-in of C Joseph Vijay as Tamil Nadu's chief minister, the new cabinet has pledged a 'white paper' audit of all state departments and a 'zero-interference' policy in administration, signalling a significant shift in governance.

Iranian FM Araghchi arrives in India for BRICS summit; to meet Jaishankar

Iranian FM Araghchi arrives in India for BRICS summit; to meet Jaishankar

Rediff.com14 May 2026

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is in India for a BRICS foreign ministers' meeting, where discussions will focus on the escalating crisis in West Asia and its impact on global energy supply chains.

In UAE, Modi offers help to end West Asia crisis

In UAE, Modi offers help to end West Asia crisis

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has offered India's support to bring peace to West Asia during talks with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Both countries signed agreements to strengthen strategic collaborations in energy and defence.

Bengal govt approves land transfer to BSF, joins Ayushman Bharat

Bengal govt approves land transfer to BSF, joins Ayushman Bharat

Rediff.com11 May 2026

The West Bengal government, led by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, has announced the implementation of several key administrative and policy measures, including the adoption of the Ayushman Bharat health scheme, land transfer to the BSF for border fencing, and the implementation of the BNS criminal law.