Search results for ' Agency'

Air pollution damaging Humayun's Tomb, reveals IIT study

Air pollution damaging Humayun's Tomb, reveals IIT study

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

A joint study by IIT Roorkee and IIT Kanpur has found that a black crust formed by air pollution is accelerating the deterioration of Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Delhi. The crust, primarily gypsum, traps pollutants, weakening the sandstone and making the monument vulnerable to long-term damage. The study recommends conservation measures, pollution monitoring, and source reduction to protect the historical site.

10 years in jail, Rs 50 lakh fine: Govt tables new paper leak bill

10 years in jail, Rs 50 lakh fine: Govt tables new paper leak bill

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Amidst widespread student protests over the NEET paper leak, the Indian government has introduced the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, in the Lok Sabha. The bill proposes significantly stricter punishments, including jail terms of up to 10 years and fines of up to Rs 50 lakh for individuals involved in paper leaks, and up to Rs 10 crore for organised crimes, aiming to enhance transparency and fairness in public examinations.

What happened to 2024 exam panel's recommentations, asks Congress

What happened to 2024 exam panel's recommentations, asks Congress

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

The Congress party has criticised the Modi government's announcement of a new committee on exam reforms, alleging it is a tactic to divert public attention. The opposition highlighted that recommendations from a previous committee formed in 2024 remain largely unimplemented, while Prime Minister Modi has now constituted another high-powered task force led by Nandan Nilekani to reform NTA examinations.

6,562 EV Chargers Approved, None Installed Yet

6,562 EV Chargers Approved, None Installed Yet

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

While charger deployment is yet to begin, the scheme has supported the sale of 2.65 million EVs as of July 22.

Ex-IPS officer, injured protesters move SC against pellet guns

Ex-IPS officer, injured protesters move SC against pellet guns

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

A former IPS officer and two individuals injured during a recent protest in Delhi have filed a petition in the Supreme Court seeking a ban on the use of pellet guns by law enforcement agencies for crowd dispersal. The petitioners argue that pellet guns are an arbitrary and dangerous tool, violating the right to freedom of assembly and failing the test of necessary and proportional force. They also seek compensation and medical treatment for victims.

3 Big Lessons From Main Vaapas Aaunga

3 Big Lessons From Main Vaapas Aaunga

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

'Making a film -- good or bad -- is extremely hard work, involving hundreds of people and at least two years from idea to release. When the audience rejects it, it is known to push makers into depression. And then there is the danger of theatres stopping the screenings after week one if footfalls don't improve.'

At least 3 killed, 21 injured in Moscow cafe explosion

At least 3 killed, 21 injured in Moscow cafe explosion

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

At least three people died, and 21 were left injured after a woman carrying an improvised explosive device detonated a bomb near a summer cafe in central Moscow after being stopped by security, according to officials.

Shooting at US restaurant leaves multiple dead, gunman killed

Shooting at US restaurant leaves multiple dead, gunman killed

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

A shooting at a newly opened fast-food outlet in Twin Falls, Idaho, resulted in multiple deaths and injuries. The gunman is confirmed deceased, and authorities are investigating the motive and identity of the suspect. The incident highlights the ongoing issue of public shootings in the United States.

8-year jail for 6 Pakistanis for heroin seizure off Gujarat coast

8-year jail for 6 Pakistanis for heroin seizure off Gujarat coast

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

A special NIA court in Ahmedabad has sentenced six Pakistani nationals to eight years of rigorous imprisonment for their involvement in the 2019 mid-sea seizure of 330 kg of 'brown heroin' off Gujarat's Jakhau coast. An Indian man, allegedly the intended recipient, was acquitted due to benefit of doubt. The National Investigation Agency had probed the case, alleging funds from the smuggling were intended for a terror organisation.

CJP stir foreign funded? Delhi HC to hear PIL on Friday

CJP stir foreign funded? Delhi HC to hear PIL on Friday

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court will hear a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking an investigation into the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)-led protest at Jantar Mantar. The PIL alleges that the protest, initially framed as a student agitation, involved political leaders, foreign-funded organisations, and resulted in public disruption and damage, raising concerns about national security and public order.

Pahalgam attack: NIA court issues non-bailable warrant against Hafiz Saeed

Pahalgam attack: NIA court issues non-bailable warrant against Hafiz Saeed

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

A special NIA court in Jammu has issued a non-bailable warrant against Hafiz Saeed, the Pakistan-based chief of Lashkar-e-Taiba, in connection with the ongoing investigation into the Pahalgam terror attack. This action follows a supplementary chargesheet filed by the NIA, which also links Saeed to the 2008 Mumbai attacks.

Pune Gas Agency Under Scrutiny for Illegally Stocking LPG Cylinders Amid Shortage Fears

Pune Gas Agency Under Scrutiny for Illegally Stocking LPG Cylinders Amid Shortage Fears

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

A gas agency in Pimpri Chinchwad, Pune, is under investigation after authorities discovered 57 illegally stocked LPG cylinders, amidst concerns about potential shortages due to the West Asia crisis.

After NEET fiasco, Nilekani to head task force on NTA exam reforms

After NEET fiasco, Nilekani to head task force on NTA exam reforms

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced the formation of a high-powered task force, led by Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani, to recommend reforms for examinations conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). The task force aims to leverage technology for a robust and transparent examination system, following recent public agitation and the resignation of the Education Minister.

Chhattisgarh: BJP man held in BSP iron scrap theft case; 17 arrests so far

Chhattisgarh: BJP man held in BSP iron scrap theft case; 17 arrests so far

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

A ruling Bharatiya Janata Party functionary was held in connection with the alleged theft of iron scrap worth several crore rupees from the public sector Bhilai Steel Plant in Chhattisgarh's Durg district, taking the total number of arrests in the case to 17, the police said on Sunday.

GDN Review: Madhavan Lifts Generic Biopic

GDN Review: Madhavan Lifts Generic Biopic

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

GDN has a fascinating genius at its centre, but Madhavan's terrific performance is let down by a repetitive, overly familiar biopic treatment.

Iranians Want Trump, Netanyahu's Blood At Khamenei Funeral

Iranians Want Trump, Netanyahu's Blood At Khamenei Funeral

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Glimpses of Iran's farewell to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as mourners gathered in huge numbers for his funeral procession in Tehran.

Mahadev betting app founder Sourabh Chandrakar detained in Oman

Mahadev betting app founder Sourabh Chandrakar detained in Oman

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Sourabh Chandrakar, the absconding founder of the Mahadev betting app, has been detained in Oman based on an Interpol Red Notice. Indian agencies are now working to extradite or deport him. The ED's investigation into the syndicate has revealed alleged proceeds of crime worth Rs 6,000 crore and links to high-ranking politicians and bureaucrats.

Iran rejigs leadership after rare meet between Supreme Leader, President

Iran rejigs leadership after rare meet between Supreme Leader, President

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has reshuffled Iran's political and national-security establishment, appointing former SNSC Secretary Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr as his political adviser and veteran IRGC commander Mohsen Rezaei as his representative on the Supreme National Security Council, consolidating power amid the West Asia crisis and Strait of Hormuz tensions.

Free Haircuts Bring Smiles After Assam Floods

Free Haircuts Bring Smiles After Assam Floods

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

It has offered a rare moment of relief, allowing them to sit down, talk, smile and feel human again amid days of uncertainty and hardship.

Ukrainian Drone Strikes Injure Chinese Nationals In Moscow Region

Ukrainian Drone Strikes Injure Chinese Nationals In Moscow Region

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Ukrainian drone attacks in Russia's Moscow region have resulted in injuries to 10 people, including three Chinese nationals. All injured are receiving hospital treatment, and the Chinese Embassy is verifying details of the incident, which occurred from Sunday night into Monday morning.

10-yr-jail, Rs 1 cr fine: Cabinet approves stricter anti-paper leak bill

10-yr-jail, Rs 1 cr fine: Cabinet approves stricter anti-paper leak bill

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The Union Cabinet has approved a draft bill to introduce stricter punishments for examination paper leaks, following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement. This new legislation builds upon the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, aiming to curb cheating in public examinations conducted by various central agencies amidst recent controversies like the NEET and NET paper leaks.

DLTA Denies Land Lease Breaches Amid AITA Election Buzz

DLTA Denies Land Lease Breaches Amid AITA Election Buzz

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

The Delhi Lawn Tennis Association (DLTA) has strongly denied reports of violating land lease conditions for the R K Khanna Tennis Complex, asserting that all facilities comply with government norms. The association suggested that the allegations are "mala fide" and strategically timed to influence the upcoming All India Tennis Association (AITA) elections. DLTA also defended its commercial subletting practices, stating they are approved by the L&DO and are essential for generating revenue as it receives no government funding for maintenance.

Gen Z Protests: What Government Needs To Fix

Gen Z Protests: What Government Needs To Fix

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

The challenge thrown by the youth movement creates the opportunity for a more consequential debate on India's economic trajectory because it must remain centered on India's youth as its driving impulse, asserts former foreign secretary Shyam Saran.

SC grants anticipatory bail to DMK's Senthil Balaji in TASMAC corruption case

SC grants anticipatory bail to DMK's Senthil Balaji in TASMAC corruption case

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has granted anticipatory bail to DMK leader and former minister V Senthil Balaji in a fresh corruption case related to alleged irregularities in the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC), with conditions including cooperation with the investigation and depositing his passport.

DRDO's unclassified data leaked, of 2020-22 vintage: Officials

DRDO's unclassified data leaked, of 2020-22 vintage: Officials

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) has dismissed recent media reports of an alleged cybersecurity incident and data breach as "incorrect and unverified." Officials clarified that investigations found no evidence of an active cyber attack or data exfiltration, stating that any leaked data is unclassified, outdated, and fabricated by threat actors for financial gain.

'We Need To Stop Coaching Classes'

'We Need To Stop Coaching Classes'

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

'We can integrate AI and tech into education, but that is just a means and not an end.' 'Ultimately, we need to control what happens in a classroom and we need to let teachers innovate their teaching style to suit the needs of Gen Z and beyond.'

NIA conducts nationwide raids to bust ISIS-backed plot; 12 held

NIA conducts nationwide raids to bust ISIS-backed plot; 12 held

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted nationwide searches across 10 states and one Union Territory, targeting an online terror radicalisation conspiracy linked to ISIS and AQIS. The operation, which led to the seizure of digital devices, is part of an ongoing investigation into a plot to establish an Islamic state in India through violent jihad. So far, 11 individuals and one juvenile have been arrested in connection with the case.

Mamata apologises for traitors, says Abhishek's flaws forgiven

Mamata apologises for traitors, says Abhishek's flaws forgiven

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Mamata Banerjee strongly defended her nephew Abhishek Banerjee, apologising to the public for "traitors" who left the TMC. She accused the BJP of using investigative agencies to engineer defections and praised Abhishek for his resilience against political attacks, asserting that her family never compromised for political survival.

'A Student's Life Can't Be Held Hostage To A 3-Hour Performance'

'A Student's Life Can't Be Held Hostage To A 3-Hour Performance'

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Education sector experts agree that using the "best technology" was essential to ensure students did not have to sit for an examination all over again because of a question paper leak.

Parliament clears tougher anti-paper leak law amid Oppn walkout

Parliament clears tougher anti-paper leak law amid Oppn walkout

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Parliament on Thursday passed a bill to amend the anti-paper leak law to introduce stricter punishments, with the government expressing its commitment to go the extra mile to safeguard the interests of students, who are the country's future.

NIA charges Shabir Ahmad Shah among 6 separatists in Srinagar violence case

NIA charges Shabir Ahmad Shah among 6 separatists in Srinagar violence case

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday filed a charge sheet against six Kashmiri separatist leaders, including Shabir Ahmad Shah, for allegedly instigating large-scale mob violence against police personnel during the funeral procession of a slain terrorist in Srinagar nearly three decades ago.

CAQM Mandates Drone Surveillance To Tackle Stubble Burning In Northern States

CAQM Mandates Drone Surveillance To Tackle Stubble Burning In Northern States

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has directed Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan to implement drone-based surveillance to monitor and prevent stubble burning. This initiative aims to counter late-evening burning incidents that evade satellite detection, leveraging drone technology for real-time monitoring, accurate detection, and evidence collection to ensure effective enforcement against agricultural residue burning.

SC to review Nandan Nilekani panel's suggestions on NEET

SC to review Nandan Nilekani panel's suggestions on NEET

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has stated it will consider the recommendations of the Nandan Nilekani-led task force regarding the online conduct of the NEET examination, emphasising the need for additional safeguards in cybersecurity and database protection. This follows the cancellation of the NEET-UG exam due to an alleged paper leak and subsequent re-test.

US Court Dismisses Adani Criminal Case; Gautam Adani Says 'Truth Prevailed'

US Court Dismisses Adani Criminal Case; Gautam Adani Says 'Truth Prevailed'

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

A US federal judge has permanently dismissed the criminal securities-fraud case against Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani and his nephew Sagar, closing nearly two years of prosecution without a trial. Gautam Adani stated, "Truth has prevailed," in response to the ruling.

Rajasthan HC flags unchecked construction on Udaipur hills

Rajasthan HC flags unchecked construction on Udaipur hills

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

The Rajasthan High Court has expressed serious concern over rampant construction on Udaipur's ecologically sensitive hills, questioning the state's hill policies and demanding records of commercial project permissions. The court's observations stem from a petition challenging a hotel project and an interim report highlighting extensive hill cutting and inadequate policy formulation, potentially leading to a suo motu Public Interest Litigation.

SC judge recuses from DMK leader's bail hearing

SC judge recuses from DMK leader's bail hearing

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Supreme Court Justice V Mohana has recused herself from hearing the anticipatory bail plea of DMK leader V Senthil Balaji in a new corruption case related to alleged irregularities in the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC). The plea, seeking pre-arrest bail, was filed after the Madras High Court dismissed Balaji's petition. The case involves a systematic cash-kickback scheme and overcharging at TASMAC retail shops.

Cricket Club of India, MIG Cricket Club lose food licences after FDA action

Cricket Club of India, MIG Cricket Club lose food licences after FDA action

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the food business licences of the Cricket Club of India (CCI), MIG Cricket Club in Bandra East, and three other clubs in the city for alleged violations of food safety and hygiene norms, officials said on Tuesday.

Iran Bids Final Farewell to Khamenei

Iran Bids Final Farewell to Khamenei

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Thousands of mourners and international delegates gathered as Iran paid its final respects to its late supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in an Israeli strike on February 28, in Tehran.

70-year-old man falls into manhole in Hyderabad after heavy rain

70-year-old man falls into manhole in Hyderabad after heavy rain

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

A 70-year-old man, Balaiah, was washed away after allegedly falling into an open manhole in Hyderabad following heavy rainfall. Rescue operations are underway to trace him. This incident follows another recent drowning tragedy in Telangana where four youths drowned in the Sri Ram Sagar Project.

Indian-American army surgeon removes brain tumour through patient's nose

Indian-American army surgeon removes brain tumour through patient's nose

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

An Indian-American US Army surgeon in an innovative procedure removed a golf ball-sized tumour developed at the base of the brain by sending an endoscopic device through the patient's nose. Major Jagatkumar Patel, an anterior surgeon at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre near Washington, DC, along with neurosurgeon Army Lt Col Charles Miller, carried out the surgical procedure on Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Andy Archer, who lived with the tumour for 15 years.