Search results for 'government initiatives'

Former CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Tewolde Gebremariam is new Air India boss

Former CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Tewolde Gebremariam is new Air India boss

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Air India has announced the appointment of Tewolde Gebremariam, former CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group, as its new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, replacing Campbell Wilson. This strategic appointment comes as the airline navigates expansion amidst significant challenges.

Dinesh Trivedi's Dhaka Challenge Has Begun

Dinesh Trivedi's Dhaka Challenge Has Begun

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Dinesh Trivedi's success or failure in this fragile diplomatic equilibrium will have consequences extending well beyond the Indian high commission in Dhaka. It will shape India's eastern strategic environment for years to come.

From borrowed rifle to Asian Games: Vidarsa K Vinod's journey of sacrifice and resilience

From borrowed rifle to Asian Games: Vidarsa K Vinod's journey of sacrifice and resilience

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Vidarsa K Vinod, a 27-year-old shooter from Kerala, has secured a spot in India's Asian Games squad for the 10m Air Rifle and 50m Rifle 3 Positions events, overcoming significant financial hurdles and training setbacks through resilience and family support.

Rs 10, Rs 20 Polymer Notes Approved

Rs 10, Rs 20 Polymer Notes Approved

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

RBI says polymer notes have a significantly longer lifespan, potentially reducing printing costs and replacement frequency.

SC cracks down on cyber fraud, orders RBI SOP on mule accounts

SC cracks down on cyber fraud, orders RBI SOP on mule accounts

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has directed the Reserve Bank of India to prepare a standard operating procedure (SOP) within four weeks to deal with bank accounts linked to cyber frauds, including mule accounts. This directive is part of a broader effort to strengthen responses to cyber-enabled financial frauds, with the court also urging states and UTs to adopt and operationalise grievance redressal and money restoration modules.

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.

17 killed in suicide attack during 'peace rally' in Pakistan

17 killed in suicide attack during 'peace rally' in Pakistan

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

A suicide attack on a police station in Kabal, Swat district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, killed at least 14 people, including five security personnel, and injured over a dozen. The attack occurred during a peace rally, with police intercepting the bomber at the compound gate, preventing a larger tragedy.

Bhiwandi building collapse: 9 dead, illegal repairs on 'dangerous' structure probed

Bhiwandi building collapse: 9 dead, illegal repairs on 'dangerous' structure probed

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

At least nine people have died after a four-storey building, previously declared 'dangerous' by the local civic body, collapsed in Bhiwandi, Maharashtra. The incident occurred during unauthorised repair works, despite eviction notices and disconnection of utilities.

FCRA bill to be taken up for debate in Parl on Aug 12: Mizoram CM

FCRA bill to be taken up for debate in Parl on Aug 12: Mizoram CM

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma met Union Home Minister Amit Shah regarding the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026. Shah assured that the bill would not be retrospective. Various church and minority organisations have expressed concerns about the bill's impact on NGOs, schools, and healthcare units, urging its withdrawal or referral to a joint parliamentary committee.

Birbhum cash haul rises to Rs 28 cr, stone trader at large

Birbhum cash haul rises to Rs 28 cr, stone trader at large

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

West Bengal police have seized a staggering Rs 28.5 crore in cash and 15 kg of gold from the residence of absconding stone trader Tullu Mondal's manager and brother-in-law, Minar Mondal, in Birbhum district, leading to his arrest.

HCLTech to invest Rs 15,000 crore in AI data centre, global tech hub in Odisha

HCLTech to invest Rs 15,000 crore in AI data centre, global tech hub in Odisha

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

HCLTech, India's third-largest IT services company, announced plans to establish a global technology centre and an AI-optimised data centre in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, with a total investment of approximately Rs 15,000 crore, marking its entry into the AI infrastructure business.

Jharkhand student leader begins hunger strike as CJP lends support to protest

Jharkhand student leader begins hunger strike as CJP lends support to protest

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Students in Jharkhand are protesting alleged irregularities in various recruitment examinations, including JPSC and JSSC. A student leader has launched an indefinite hunger strike, demanding a federal probe and cancellation of the 14th JPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination. The Cockroach Janta Party has extended support, and a march to the Assembly is planned for August 7.

Agreed to NEET debate, Rahul 'backtracked': Govt amid Cong protest

Agreed to NEET debate, Rahul 'backtracked': Govt amid Cong protest

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Amidst widespread student protests and allegations of paper leaks, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi's dharna outside the Prime Minister's residence has prompted the government to declare its willingness for a comprehensive parliamentary debate on the contentious NEET examination.

Delhi Government To Address School Infrastructure Gaps

Delhi Government To Address School Infrastructure Gaps

Rediff.com14 May 2026

A digital profiling exercise by the Delhi government has revealed significant infrastructure deficiencies in government schools, including shortages of drinking water taps, lack of facilities for children with special needs, and structurally unsafe buildings.

NEET row: Mumbai cop shunted after drug threat to student protesters

NEET row: Mumbai cop shunted after drug threat to student protesters

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

The Mumbai police on Thursday ordered a probe and removed a police driver from the duty roster after a viral video purportedly showed him threatening student protesters with false narcotics charges if they returned to demonstrate.

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.

How India Plans To Become A Global Sporting Powerhouse

How India Plans To Become A Global Sporting Powerhouse

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Union Minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar announced India's ambitious plan to rank among the top 10 sporting nations by 2036 and top five by 2047. He highlighted the central government's commitment to sports development through initiatives like Khelo India, increased budget allocation, and a special fund for sports equipment and technology, emphasising sports as a tool for nation-building and youth empowerment.

How India Plans To Become A Global Sporting Powerhouse

How India Plans To Become A Global Sporting Powerhouse

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Union Minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar announced India's ambitious plan to rank among the top 10 sporting nations by 2036 and top five by 2047. He highlighted the central government's commitment to sports development through initiatives like Khelo India, increased budget allocation, and a special fund for sports equipment and technology, emphasising sports as a tool for nation-building and youth empowerment.

Hormuz Crisis Exposes India's Energy Risks

Hormuz Crisis Exposes India's Energy Risks

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Despite decades of efforts towards energy transition, oil will remain the critical energy source for all nations for some decades. We can hope for peace opening the Strait of Hormuz, but must prepare for war closing it, points out former foreign secretary Ranjan Mathai.

HC sentences Tarun Tejpal to 10 years in jail for raping colleague

HC sentences Tarun Tejpal to 10 years in jail for raping colleague

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Former Tehelka editor-in-chief Tarun Tejpal has been convicted and sentenced to ten years in jail by the Bombay High Court in a 2013 rape case, overturning a trial court's acquittal and criticising its 'perverse' reasoning.

CJP alleges police brutality during Parl march, vows to continue protest

CJP alleges police brutality during Parl march, vows to continue protest

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on Monday accused the Delhi Police of using excessive force against protesters during its "Sansad Chalo" march, alleging that several students were injured and Sonam Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, was pushed around, as the outfit continued its protest with a sit-in near Kerala House, after police dismantled the stage at Jantar Mantar.

Why AI Agents Can't Go Fully Autonomous Yet

Why AI Agents Can't Go Fully Autonomous Yet

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

The biggest challenge to widespread deployment is no longer AI. It is the financial and commerce infrastructure that was built decades ago for deterministic software and human interactions -- not autonomous AI agents.

FIDE's AICF Nomination Stirs Hornet's Nest

FIDE's AICF Nomination Stirs Hornet's Nest

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

FIDE's decision to shortlist the All India Chess Federation for a prestigious FIDE Excellence Award has ignited a fierce debate within the Indian chess community.

Enemy nations use drugs to weaken India's youths under terror plan: Modi

Enemy nations use drugs to weaken India's youths under terror plan: Modi

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday asked the country's youth to take a pledge against substance abuse, saying drugs can give them a "high" for some time, but would make their entire career and personal life "low".

Caste Census: 'Government Is Scared Of The Numbers

Caste Census: 'Government Is Scared Of The Numbers

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

'Once the numbers come out, they fear that the OBCs would start to demand, and articulate what they are lacking, why they are lacking and what should be done to go forward.'

FIFA advisor quits, calls World Cup stake sale 'bad deal for football'

FIFA advisor quits, calls World Cup stake sale 'bad deal for football'

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Carlos Cordeiro, senior advisor to FIFA president Gianni Infantino, has resigned with immediate effect, protesting a proposal to sell a stake in the World Cup, which he labelled 'a bad deal for football'.

Bharti Airtel's Q1 FY27 profit surges 37.3% driven by premium users

Bharti Airtel's Q1 FY27 profit surges 37.3% driven by premium users

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Bharti Airtel, India's second-largest telecom operator, reported a 37.3 per cent rise in consolidated net profit to 8,167 crore for Q1 FY27, driven by the addition of high-paying premium customers, despite missing Bloomberg consensus estimates.

Govt debunks fake AI videos Union min, blames Pak handles

Govt debunks fake AI videos Union min, blames Pak handles

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Union Minister Piyush Goyal has filed a police complaint after an AI-generated deepfake video, maliciously altering his remarks, surfaced on social media. The video falsely depicted him making threatening statements against students protesting the NEET examination. Government sources confirm many related links have been taken down, and Goyal has warned of strict legal action against those involved in its creation and dissemination.

Will get back to you, says govt as CJP insists on Pradhan's resignation

Will get back to you, says govt as CJP insists on Pradhan's resignation

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Amidst escalating protests over the NEET paper leak, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has declared Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation 'non-negotiable' and is also demanding 1 crore compensation for families affected by suicides linked to the exam cancellation.

Ended fast fearing...: Sonam Wangchuk rejects 'deal' charge

Ended fast fearing...: Sonam Wangchuk rejects 'deal' charge

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Sonam Wangchuk has strongly denied allegations of a 'deal' with the Centre, clarifying that he concluded his 26-day hunger strike only after receiving a crucial written assurance.

Late-night meeting of NCP, NCP-SP leaders at CM's house sparks buzz

Late-night meeting of NCP, NCP-SP leaders at CM's house sparks buzz

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

A late-night meeting between leaders of the ruling NCP and Opposition NCP (SP) at the Maharashtra Chief Minister's residence has sparked intense speculation about shifting political dynamics in the state. This comes as the BJP reportedly seeks support for the 131st Constitution Amendment Bill, which proposes to increase Lok Sabha seats and initiate delimitation, a move criticised by Congress leader P Chidambaram for potentially disadvantaging states that controlled population growth.

Cauvery issue escalates as TN minister rejects all-party meet; targets Oppn

Cauvery issue escalates as TN minister rejects all-party meet; targets Oppn

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

Tamil Nadu Minister C T R Nirmal Kumar has rejected calls for an all-party meeting to discuss the ongoing Cauvery water dispute with Karnataka, citing a previously passed unanimous resolution in the Assembly. He accused DMK and Karnataka CM D K Shivakumar of working against Tamil Nadu's interests and criticised the DMK's "hasty" Supreme Court petition.

Who ordered pellet guns on students? Rahul Gandhi asks Amit Shah

Who ordered pellet guns on students? Rahul Gandhi asks Amit Shah

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition, has written to Home Minister Amit Shah, demanding accountability for the "barbaric assault" on students protesting in Delhi. Gandhi questioned the use of "lethal force," including pellet guns, and sought clarification on who authorised the violence against students, many of whom suffered serious injuries. The protests, spearheaded by the CJP movement, gained national momentum following the NEET paper leak and subsequent police crackdown.

DKS appeals to Vijay to put off Bengaluru visit

DKS appeals to Vijay to put off Bengaluru visit

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has appealed to his Tamil Nadu counterpart C Vijay Joseph to defer his proposed August 3 visit to Bengaluru. The request comes amidst widespread protests in Karnataka following a decision by the CWMA upholding a direction for Karnataka to release 3,500 cusecs of water to Tamil Nadu.

Govt Unveils Rs 1.9 Lakh Cr Push for Semiconductor, Mobile Manufacturing

Govt Unveils Rs 1.9 Lakh Cr Push for Semiconductor, Mobile Manufacturing

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

The Indian government has approved two major manufacturing initiatives worth nearly Rs 1.9 lakh crore (USD 22 billion) to expand the country's semiconductor ecosystem and scale up mobile phone production, aiming to strengthen its position as a global electronics manufacturing hub.

Delhi High Court Ruling Paves Way For YFI Recognition

Delhi High Court Ruling Paves Way For YFI Recognition

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

The Yoga Federation of India (YFI) announced its intention to seek recognition from the Sports Ministry and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) following a Delhi High Court decision. The court set aside Yogasana Bharat's national federation status, mandating a fresh affiliation process. YFI plans to meet with IOA President P T Usha and Union Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya to present its vision for Yogasana development.

Allahabad HC delivers split verdict on 'bulldozer justice'

Allahabad HC delivers split verdict on 'bulldozer justice'

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

The Allahabad high court has delivered a split verdict on the controversial practice of "bulldozer justice," involving the punitive demolition of properties linked to accused persons. Two judges, Justice Atul Sreedharan and Justice Siddharth Nandan, expressed differing views on whether a stay on demolitions can be issued, leading the matter to be referred to the Chief Justice for a third judge's opinion.

'Propensity to lie': Tejpal defence questions survivor's credibility in HC

'Propensity to lie': Tejpal defence questions survivor's credibility in HC

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Tarun Tejpal's defence team argued before the Bombay High Court that the victim in the 2013 sexual assault case had a "propensity to lie," citing her post-incident conduct, which they claimed contradicted her assertions of being in deep shock. The defence highlighted her social activities and alleged discrepancies in her initial complaints regarding rape charges.

The Kishore Kumar Song That Has Become Gen Z's Voice

The Kishore Kumar Song That Has Become Gen Z's Voice

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

How did a melancholic Kishore Kumar classic from 1964, remixed decades later, become the unlikely soundtrack to a Gen Z protest?

Russia issues arrest warrant for Telegram CEO Pavel Durov

Russia issues arrest warrant for Telegram CEO Pavel Durov

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) has charged Telegram co-founder Pavel Durov with facilitating terrorist activities and initiated procedures to place him on the international wanted list, according to Russian state-run news agency TASS.