Search results for 'US Department of State'

How US State Department Is Leveraging UFC For Global Diplomacy

How US State Department Is Leveraging UFC For Global Diplomacy

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

The US Department of State has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) to launch a public-private partnership aimed at advancing sports diplomacy worldwide. This initiative will leverage UFC's extensive global platform and athletes to engage international audiences, promote cultural exchange, and champion American values such as discipline and perseverance.

How US State Department Is Leveraging UFC For Global Diplomacy

How US State Department Is Leveraging UFC For Global Diplomacy

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

The US Department of State has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) to launch a public-private partnership aimed at advancing sports diplomacy worldwide. This initiative will leverage UFC's extensive global platform and athletes to engage international audiences, promote cultural exchange, and champion American values such as discipline and perseverance.

Veteran Physicist Umesh Waghmare To Lead Science And Technology Department

Veteran Physicist Umesh Waghmare To Lead Science And Technology Department

Rediff.com3 days ago

Veteran physicist Professor Umesh V Waghmare has been appointed as the Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology. Currently a professor at JNCASR, Bengaluru, his appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet. He succeeds Professor Abhay Karandikar and brings a distinguished academic background from IIT-Bombay, Yale, and Harvard to the role.

Bengal Minister Promises Action Against Food Department Corruption

Bengal Minister Promises Action Against Food Department Corruption

Rediff.com12 May 2026

West Bengal Food and Supplies Minister Ashok Kirtania has warned of strict action against corruption in the department, echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's slogan 'Na khaunga, na khane dunga'. He promised to act against those involved in irregularities during the previous regime, particularly concerning the public distribution system and ration distribution.

Sports Star Bilquis Mir Pursues Contempt Case Against J-K Sports Department

Sports Star Bilquis Mir Pursues Contempt Case Against J-K Sports Department

Rediff.com30 May 2026

International water sports star Bilquis Mir has filed a contempt case against the Jammu and Kashmir sports department for withholding her salary for over two-and-a-half years, despite a tribunal order to release it.

Trump Departs Beijing After China Visit

Trump Departs Beijing After China Visit

Rediff.com15 May 2026

United States President Donald Trump boards Air Force One for his return home following diplomatic engagements in Beijing.

NIA Investigates Multi-State Extremist Network

NIA Investigates Multi-State Extremist Network

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over a probe from Andhra Pradesh police concerning an alleged extremist network. Twelve suspects were arrested across several states for their links to banned terror organisations like AQIS and ISIS, involved in radicalisation and recruitment through online platforms.

Multi-State Cyber Fraud Suspect Nabbed In Assam

Multi-State Cyber Fraud Suspect Nabbed In Assam

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Assam Police have arrested a cyber fraudster suspected of involvement in multi-state digital crimes. The arrest was made by the Crime Investigation Department's Cyber Police Station, and the suspect is believed to have operated a highly active mule account.

Maharashtra Excise Department Seizes Illicit Liquor Worth 1.43 Crore In Thane

Maharashtra Excise Department Seizes Illicit Liquor Worth 1.43 Crore In Thane

Rediff.com5 May 2026

Maharashtra excise department seized Indian-Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) manufactured in Goa, valued at Rs 1.43 crore, in Thane city and arrested two persons.

Wild Elephant Attacks Injure Three In Kerala; State Forms Special Reserve Force

Wild Elephant Attacks Injure Three In Kerala; State Forms Special Reserve Force

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Three people were injured in two suspected wild elephant attacks in Palakkad, Kerala. These incidents follow two recent fatalities in Wayanad and Idukki. In response, the Kerala government has decided to establish a 500-member Special Reserve Force to mitigate human-wildlife conflict.

DMK MP Kanimozhi Slams State Over Law And Order After Minor Girl Assaulted In Tiruchy

DMK MP Kanimozhi Slams State Over Law And Order After Minor Girl Assaulted In Tiruchy

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

A 43-year-old man has been arrested under the POCSO Act in Tiruchirapalli after a 14-year-old girl was found unconscious following an alleged abduction and sexual assault. The incident has sparked protests and drawn sharp criticism from DMK MP Kanimozhi regarding the state's law and order situation and women's safety.

Odisha forest department buys Mahindra Thars from disaster fund, finds CAG

Odisha forest department buys Mahindra Thars from disaster fund, finds CAG

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

A special audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has revealed that Odisha's forest and environment department sidestepped central guidelines, procuring and customising Mahindra Thar SUVs worth 17 crore from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) for forest protection, despite the funds being earmarked for 'preparedness and capacity building'.

Himachal Pradesh Forest Department Seizes Leopard Skin, Arrests Two

Himachal Pradesh Forest Department Seizes Leopard Skin, Arrests Two

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

The Sirmour Forest Department's rapid response team raided a house in Ghutanpur village, recovering the remains of wild animals, including a leopard skin, leading to two arrests and highlighting ongoing poaching concerns in the region.

After dry June, IMD predicts below-normal rainfall in July

After dry June, IMD predicts below-normal rainfall in July

Rediff.com4 days ago

The monthly average rainfall over India is expected to be below normal during July, the India Meteorological Department said on Tuesday in its monthly forecast.

Farmer gets alert for 1-paisa as PM-Kisan payout, govt calls it 'glitch'

Farmer gets alert for 1-paisa as PM-Kisan payout, govt calls it 'glitch'

Rediff.com4 days ago

A farmer in Maharashtra received a message indicating a one-paisa credit instead of the expected Rs 2,000 under the PM-Kisan scheme, causing confusion. The Agriculture Department later clarified it was a technical error and the full instalment had been successfully processed.

Fadnavis halts Maha RTI Rules after Anna Hazare's hunger strike warning

Fadnavis halts Maha RTI Rules after Anna Hazare's hunger strike warning

Rediff.com2 days ago

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has ordered an immediate stay on the controversial Maharashtra Right to Information (RTI) rules following a backlash from transparency advocates and a hunger strike threat by veteran anti-corruption activist Anna Hazare.

Daycare abuse: Karnataka govt seeks explanation from IT firm

Daycare abuse: Karnataka govt seeks explanation from IT firm

Rediff.com1 days ago

Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge has stated the state government's "zero tolerance" policy regarding the alleged abuse of toddlers at a Bengaluru daycare centre. An explanation has been sought from the company, and action will be taken based on the inquiry report. Five nannies have been arrested, and police are investigating the alleged physical and mental abuse.

Karnataka Government Discusses Bringing Global Chess League To Bengaluru

Karnataka Government Discusses Bringing Global Chess League To Bengaluru

Rediff.com1 days ago

A delegation from the Global Chess League met Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara to discuss the possibility of Bengaluru hosting the league's fourth edition. The state government expressed its commitment to supporting prestigious global sporting events to boost its sports ecosystem.

Junior Women's Hockey Squad Embarks On UK Exposure Tour

Junior Women's Hockey Squad Embarks On UK Exposure Tour

Rediff.com1 days ago

A 24-member Indian Junior women's hockey team has travelled to the United Kingdom for an exposure tour, playing matches against junior teams from England, Scotland, the United States, and Belgium, as well as the Scotland senior women's team, to prepare for upcoming international tournaments like the Junior Asia Cup.

Unified Command To Tackle AI Threats

Unified Command To Tackle AI Threats

Rediff.com1 days ago

'The government has to act as one unit since the threat from these newer models will soon scale up.'

Two nannies held for abusing toddlers at creche on Capgemini campus

Two nannies held for abusing toddlers at creche on Capgemini campus

Rediff.com1 days ago

Two nannies at a daycare centre on an IT firm's campus in Bengaluru have been arrested for allegedly abusing toddlers. The arrests followed viral videos showing caregivers threatening and mistreating children, prompting a strong response from Karnataka's Home Minister and the IT firm, Capgemini.

Five killed in shooting at German youth welfare facility; two held

Five killed in shooting at German youth welfare facility; two held

Rediff.com5 days ago

At least five people were killed and several others injured in a shooting at a youth welfare facility in the northern German city of Stade on Monday, CNN reported, citing local police.

Iran invites Kharge, Cong leaders to Khamenei's funeral

Iran invites Kharge, Cong leaders to Khamenei's funeral

Rediff.com3 days ago

Iran has extended an invitation to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and other party leaders, including Salman Khurshid and Pawan Khera, to attend the burial ceremonies of its late supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The ceremonies are scheduled from July 5 to 9 across various Iranian cities. India will also be represented by Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita and Bihar Governor Ata Hasnain.

Odisha's Rising Crime Graph: BJD Alleges 'Disturbed State' Under BJP

Odisha's Rising Crime Graph: BJD Alleges 'Disturbed State' Under BJP

Rediff.com9 May 2026

The BJD alleges that Odisha has become a 'disturbed state' due to rising crime under BJP rule, citing several violent incidents and accusing the government of failing to maintain law and order. The BJP government refutes the allegations, claiming an increased conviction rate and swift arrests.

Suvendu keeps home, power portfolios, Swapan is finance minister

Suvendu keeps home, power portfolios, Swapan is finance minister

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Ten days after the expansion of the BJP government's cabinet in West Bengal, key portfolios have been allocated, with senior leader Tapas Roy taking charge of industries and journalist-turned-politician Swapan Dasgupta appointed finance minister.

US de-lists 4 Indian companies sanctioned over Russia links

US de-lists 4 Indian companies sanctioned over Russia links

Rediff.com3 days ago

The United States has removed four Indian companies from its sanctions list, which had been accused of supplying advanced technology and equipment to Russia's military-industrial complex. The de-listed firms include RRG Engineering Technologies, Lokesh Machines, Galaxy Bearings, and Shaurya Aeronautics, previously sanctioned for exporting dual-use items to Russian entities.

Mehbooba Mufti to travel to Iran for Khamenei's funeral

Mehbooba Mufti to travel to Iran for Khamenei's funeral

Rediff.com2 days ago

PDP president Mehbooba Mufti has received an official invitation to attend the state funeral of Iran's slain supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran. She will travel to Iran as a distinguished guest of India to pay her final respects, highlighting the historical and strategic ties between the two nations.

Mumbai reels under torrential rains, IMD issues 'extremely heavy rainfall' alert

Mumbai reels under torrential rains, IMD issues 'extremely heavy rainfall' alert

Rediff.com2 hours ago

Mumbai and its metropolitan region are experiencing severe monsoon rains, leading to widespread waterlogging, transport disruptions, and the closure of schools and colleges. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an 'extremely heavy rainfall' alert, with some areas receiving nearly 200 mm of rain in 12 hours, prompting Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to urge residents to avoid non-essential travel.

Delhi Excise Department Busts Illegal Liquor Godown in Samaypur Badli

Delhi Excise Department Busts Illegal Liquor Godown in Samaypur Badli

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

An excise department team seized a container in northwest Delhi's Samaypur Badli area that was being used as a godown of illicit liquor, recovering 187 cartons worth over Rs 5 lakh.

Israel, Lebanon sign US-led framework pact in 'first step' towards peace

Israel, Lebanon sign US-led framework pact in 'first step' towards peace

Rediff.com7 days ago

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Friday (local time) announced a US-mediated framework agreement between Israel and Lebanon aimed at achieving "lasting peace and security".

Allahabad HC: State, Police Responsible For Justice Delays

Allahabad HC: State, Police Responsible For Justice Delays

Rediff.com11 May 2026

The Allahabad High Court has criticised the Uttar Pradesh government and police for the massive pendency of criminal cases in district courts, citing insufficient staff, lack of police cooperation, and delays in forensic reports.

IISc Study Reveals Ultrasound Can Selectively Attack Oral Cancer

IISc Study Reveals Ultrasound Can Selectively Attack Oral Cancer

Rediff.com1 days ago

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru have discovered that oral cancer cells are vulnerable to low-frequency ultrasound, a technique that can selectively destroy them while leaving healthy cells unharmed. This vulnerability is linked to reduced levels of the mechanosensory protein Tropomyosin 2.1. The study suggests ultrasound mechanostimulation could offer a safer, more targeted treatment for oral and other accessible cancers.

Tender Scam Blows Lid Off Bihar Corruption

Tender Scam Blows Lid Off Bihar Corruption

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

'As the Bihar government's focus is on development and infrastructure projects worth thousands of crores, Rishu Sinha created a network to pay a decent commission to government officials for securing tenders.'

Monsoon fury: Several dead across country, red alert in Palghar

Monsoon fury: Several dead across country, red alert in Palghar

Rediff.com3 days ago

Monsoon rains have unleashed widespread destruction across India, claiming seven lives in Himachal Pradesh and Karnataka due to landslides and floods, while heavy downpours have disrupted normal life and triggered red alerts in Maharashtra and other regions.

Southwest monsoon likely to hit Kerala in next two-three days: IMD

Southwest monsoon likely to hit Kerala in next two-three days: IMD

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

The India Meteorological Department forecasts the southwest monsoon to arrive in Kerala in the next two to three days, slightly delayed from the typical June 1 start. The department also predicts below-normal rainfall for the season due to emerging El Nino conditions.

Kerala 'anti-drug activist' nabbed after MDMA found in home

Kerala 'anti-drug activist' nabbed after MDMA found in home

Rediff.com4 days ago

A 25-year-old man, Sharfin Sebastian, who allegedly posed as the state president of an anti-drug organisation, has been arrested in Pathanamthitta, Kerala, after police seized 1.590 grams of MDMA and drug paraphernalia from his residence. The arrest highlights a shocking case of hypocrisy, as the accused was actively campaigning against narcotics while allegedly possessing banned synthetic drugs.

Monsoon advances across North India; 3 killed in Himachal

Monsoon advances across North India; 3 killed in Himachal

Rediff.com23 hours ago

The southwest monsoon has advanced across northern Indian states, leading to widespread rainfall, waterlogging, road blockages, and rain-related deaths, particularly in Himachal Pradesh and Rajasthan. The Centre is monitoring the situation, especially concerning potential drought conditions in some areas due to the El Nino effect.

Private Sector Key To India-US Strategic Tech Outcomes

Private Sector Key To India-US Strategic Tech Outcomes

Rediff.com6 days ago

Senior Indian officials highlight the indispensable role of the private sector in translating India-US cooperation in AI, semiconductors, quantum technologies, and critical minerals into tangible outcomes. The collaboration aims to build trusted, resilient technology ecosystems and position India as a global electronics and semiconductor hub.

US proposes steep hike in citizenship application fees

US proposes steep hike in citizenship application fees

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

The US Department of Homeland Security has proposed a nearly 75 per cent increase in the filing fee for Form N-400, the application for US citizenship through naturalisation, raising it from $760 to $1,330. The proposal also seeks to eliminate reduced-fee options and fee waivers, potentially impacting thousands of immigrants, including Indians.

'Restoring legacy': US drops 'Indo' from Indo-Pacific Command

'Restoring legacy': US drops 'Indo' from Indo-Pacific Command

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

The US Department of Defence has restored the name of the US Indo-Pacific Command to the US Pacific Command, reversing an eight-year-old decision. This change honours the command's deep historical roots, established in 1947, while its vast area of responsibility, extending to India's western border, and its mission remain unchanged.