News for '-central-and-state'

Army deployed as heavy rains cause flood-like situation in MP

Army deployed as heavy rains cause flood-like situation in MP

Rediff.com30 Jul 2025

Heavy rains in Madhya Pradesh's Shivpuri and Guna districts have led to a flood-like situation, stranding people including school children. The Army has been called in for rescue and relief operations. Other districts are also affected, and the IMD has issued a heavy rain alert.

Why BJP Wants JMM To Contest Bihar Polls

Why BJP Wants JMM To Contest Bihar Polls

Rediff.com28 Jul 2025

'It is good for us if the JMM contests. That will divide the Opposition and give us the upper hand.'

Air India, Tata Support Crash Victims' Kin

Air India, Tata Support Crash Victims' Kin

Rediff.com16 Jun 2025

Air India reiterated that its priority remains extending assistance to the families.

HC quashes licence cancellation of drug firm linked to Uzbek deaths

HC quashes licence cancellation of drug firm linked to Uzbek deaths

Rediff.com15 Jun 2025

Justice Dinesh Pathak, allowing a writ petition filed by M/s Marion Biotech Private Limited, observed that he was surprised that Indian authorities are "trying to validate their proceedings" based on the judgement of the Supreme Court of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

Cockpit Voice Recorder found 4 days after AI plane crash

Cockpit Voice Recorder found 4 days after AI plane crash

Rediff.com16 Jun 2025

With the finding of both black boxes of the plane, it would be easy for investigators to ascertain the cause of the crash.

'You Can't Make Children Your Laboratory For Political Experiments'

'You Can't Make Children Your Laboratory For Political Experiments'

Rediff.com25 Jun 2025

'Languages should be introduced when the brain is ready, not when it's most vulnerable.'

Air India crash: Rupani's mortal remains identified, probe intensified

Air India crash: Rupani's mortal remains identified, probe intensified

Rediff.com15 Jun 2025

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel met the family members of Rupani and informed them about the DNA match, state Health Minister Rushikesh Patel said.

India's Gig Workforce Could Touch 91 Million by 2047 if...

India's Gig Workforce Could Touch 91 Million by 2047 if...

Rediff.com12 Jun 2025

However, under several external factors -- such as technological disruption or advancement, regulatory or policy changes, or economic shocks -- the gig workforce may grow only to 32.5 million by 2047, a report points out.

Army to visit homes of Kargil heroes' families ahead of Vijay Diwas

Army to visit homes of Kargil heroes' families ahead of Vijay Diwas

Rediff.com9 Jun 2025

The visiting personnel will also ascertain difficulties, if any, being faced by the "families of our war heroes", he said.

AI plane crash death toll hits 270 as families wait for bodies

AI plane crash death toll hits 270 as families wait for bodies

Rediff.com14 Jun 2025

The process of identification of victims by matching the DNA samples is currently underway, and the bodies will be handed over to their relatives once the process is complete.

Manipur conflict: Two years on, thousands still wait to return home

Manipur conflict: Two years on, thousands still wait to return home

Rediff.com3 May 2025

Two years after ethnic violence erupted in Manipur, thousands of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) continue to live in overcrowded camps, struggling to rebuild their lives and facing an uncertain future. Despite the sacking of the Chief Minister and the imposition of President's rule, peace remains a distant hope. While hill-based Kukis demand a separate administration, Meiteis seek implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and deportation of those they consider illegal immigrants. The IDPs, grappling with severe psychological distress, feel forgotten by the government and are forced to depend on the mercy of others for basic needs.

'Depleted' Maoists calls for ceasefire but with conditions

'Depleted' Maoists calls for ceasefire but with conditions

Rediff.com2 Apr 2025

Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma has reiterated the state government's willingness to engage in unconditional peace talks with Naxalites, following a statement by the Maoist group outlining preconditions for a ceasefire. Sharma, who holds the home portfolio, stated that the government has already made its stance on unconditional talks clear and has implemented a surrender and rehabilitation policy for Naxal cadres. He criticized the Maoists' demands as unreasonable and emphasized the importance of ending violence and joining the national mainstream. Sharma also called on the Naxalites to send a representative if they are serious about peace talks, but ruled out the formation of a separate committee for negotiations. The Maoist statement, released in Telugu, highlighted the group's concerns regarding intensified counter-insurgency operations and alleged human rights violations. They appealed for a positive atmosphere for peace talks, calling for a halt to anti-Naxal operations and the establishment of new security camps.

SC caps IPS deputation in CAPFs, boosts cadre officers

SC caps IPS deputation in CAPFs, boosts cadre officers

Rediff.com26 May 2025

The Supreme Court of India has ordered a progressive reduction in the deputation of Indian Police Service (IPS) officers to Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) over the next two years, citing concerns over the delayed promotions of cadre officers. The court's decision aims to address the long-standing grievances of CAPF officers who feel their promotional prospects are hampered by the presence of IPS officers in higher ranks. The ruling also mandates a cadre review of the CAPFs to be completed within six months, addressing the issue of stagnation in the service hierarchy. The court's decision acknowledges the valuable contributions of CAPF officers while also recognizing the need to balance their promotional prospects with the operational requirements of the forces.

Operation Sindoor: IPL teams travel plans to Dharamsala hit

Operation Sindoor: IPL teams travel plans to Dharamsala hit

Rediff.com7 May 2025

The venue, which is due to host Thursday's match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals, has one more match left on schedule -- the May 11 game between Punjab and Mumbai Indians.

Improve Customer Service, Banks Told, Or Else!

Improve Customer Service, Banks Told, Or Else!

Rediff.com28 May 2025

In 2023-2024, 95 scheduled commercial banks received over 10 million complaints from their customers. The process of KYC at many banks has become 'HYC' -- harass your customer, points out Tamal Bandyopadhyay.

Presumption of constitutionality in favour of Waqf law, says SC

Presumption of constitutionality in favour of Waqf law, says SC

Rediff.com20 May 2025

Underscoring the 'presumption of constitutionality in favour of law', the Supreme Court on Tuesday said petitioners challenging the waqf law needed a 'strong and glaring' case for interim relief.

Where is Papa?: Pahalgam victim's child inconsolable

"Where is Papa?": Pahalgam victim's child inconsolable

Rediff.com24 Apr 2025

Each time her little boy wakes up from sleep, his voice trembles with the same haunting questions: "Where is Papa? Did he go somewhere?"

RJD flays Nitish as he puts arm around woman's shoulders

RJD flays Nitish as he puts arm around woman's shoulders

Rediff.com30 Mar 2025

The RJD wrote on its X handle, in Hindi, "Just see how Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is pulling towards himself a woman in an objectionable manner with Home Minister Amit Shah looking on".

Trump's Tariff Tsunami: Will India Sink or Reform?

Trump's Tariff Tsunami: Will India Sink or Reform?

Rediff.com21 Apr 2025

The Trump trade shock is a chance to push long-overdue reforms, rather than tinker with tariffs to appease the US, suggests M Govinda Rao.

Lessons For Start Ups From UPI Success Story

Lessons For Start Ups From UPI Success Story

Rediff.com14 Apr 2025

Isn't there something significant in the UPI example for all of us to learn from and execute to enable world-scale success for our startups?, asks Ajit Balakrishnan.

Shah sounds poll bugle in Bihar, targets Lalu

Shah sounds poll bugle in Bihar, targets Lalu

Rediff.com30 Mar 2025

Shah pulled no punches in lambasting the RJD supremo for alleged nepotism, accusing him of making his wife the chief minister, getting his daughter elected to Parliament and "now both his sons want to become the CM".

Muslim law board to challenge Waqf 'black law' in court

Muslim law board to challenge Waqf 'black law' in court

Rediff.com2 Apr 2025

The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has announced its intention to challenge the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in court, labeling it a "black law" that threatens the community's rights. The AIMPLB, a major organization representing Muslims in India, asserts that the Bill, if passed, would lead to the seizure of Muslim properties and undermine the autonomy of Waqf Boards. The organization plans to launch nationwide protests against the Bill, echoing the farmers' agitation, and has urged all citizens to resist the legislation. The Bill has been met with criticism from various quarters, including opposition parties, who claim that the Centre is rushing it through Parliament without adequately addressing concerns raised by the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC).

LS passes Waqf bill by 288-232 votes; Oppn's amendments rejected

LS passes Waqf bill by 288-232 votes; Oppn's amendments rejected

Rediff.com3 Apr 2025

The Lok Sabha passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, with the ruling NDA defending it as beneficial for minorities while the opposition called it "anti-Muslim". All amendments moved by the opposition were rejected and the bill was passed with 288 votes in favor and 232 against. Union Minorities Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju asserted that India is the safest place in the world for minorities, refuting claims of their insecurity.

SC to hear plea against current practice to appoint CAG

SC to hear plea against current practice to appoint CAG

Rediff.com15 Mar 2025

The Supreme Court will hear a plea seeking an independent selection process for the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) on March 17. The PIL, filed by the Centre for Public Interest Litigation, argues that the current system of appointment solely by the executive and the prime minister violates the Constitution and undermines the CAG's independence. The petition calls for a transparent process involving the prime minister, Leader of the Opposition, and Chief Justice of India. The PIL contends that the CAG's role as a watchdog over government finances requires a fair and non-arbitrary appointment procedure.

'BJP Won't Be Able To Form Government In Bengal in 2026'

'BJP Won't Be Able To Form Government In Bengal in 2026'

Rediff.com21 Apr 2025

'The BJP lacks a credible mass leader who matches Mamata Banerjee's popularity.' 'Given the division of votes among Opposition parties, the West Bengal government's dole-giving strategy, and the consolidation of the poor, significant sections of scheduled caste groups and Muslim minorities behind the ruling party, it will be difficult to dislodge the Trinamool from power.'

Why Kerala Opposes Sand Sea Mining

Why Kerala Opposes Sand Sea Mining

Rediff.com19 Apr 2025

If as critics point out, the environmental impact assessment study was commissioned only after the auction process got underway with not all the stakeholders getting to know of it, then the government has already compromised the trust it could have enjoyed with Kerala's public including its coastal communities, points out Shyam G Menon.

Telangana tunnel collapse: DM rejects reports of finding bodies

Telangana tunnel collapse: DM rejects reports of finding bodies

Rediff.com28 Feb 2025

Rescue efforts to locate eight people trapped in a collapsed tunnel in Telangana continue, with over 500 rescuers working on a war footing. Despite days of intensive search and rescue operations, no breakthrough has been achieved yet. Authorities have dismissed reports of bodies being found in the debris and are working to clear the debris and access the trapped workers. The tunnel collapse occurred on February 22, trapping eight personnel working on the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel project. Among the trapped are two engineers, two operators, and four laborers.

Telangana tunnel collapse: 72 hours on, no contact with 8 trapped workers yet

Telangana tunnel collapse: 72 hours on, no contact with 8 trapped workers yet

Rediff.com25 Feb 2025

Rescue efforts continue in Telangana for eight people trapped in a collapsed tunnel, but hopes for their survival are fading as experts from the Geological Survey of India and the National Geographical Research Institute have been brought in. The tunnel is filled with debris, making the rescue operation extremely difficult. Despite relentless efforts by the Indian Army, Navy, NDRF, and other agencies, no breakthrough has been achieved so far.

Union Carbide waste incineration begins on trial basis in MP

Union Carbide waste incineration begins on trial basis in MP

Rediff.com28 Feb 2025

The trial incineration of 10 tonnes of waste from the Union Carbide plant in Bhopal, responsible for the 1984 gas tragedy, began on Friday afternoon in Pithampur, Madhya Pradesh. The process, ordered by the Madhya Pradesh High Court, is expected to take 72 hours to complete. The waste includes soil, reactor residues, pesticide residues, and other materials. The State Pollution Control Board says the chemicals in the waste have become "almost negligible" and there is no presence of methyl isocyanate gas. The incineration process is being monitored by the Pollution Control Board and broadcast live.

Union Carbide waste burning trial likely from today, 500 cops deployed

Union Carbide waste burning trial likely from today, 500 cops deployed

Rediff.com28 Feb 2025

The first round of trial incineration of 10 tonnes of waste connected to the 1984 Bhopal Gas Tragedy has begun in Pithampur, Madhya Pradesh, amid tight security. The Supreme Court refused to intervene in the MP High Court's order directing the transfer and disposal of waste at a private company-operated plant in Pithampur. The trial incineration is being conducted in the presence of scientists from the central and state pollution control boards. Protesters have expressed apprehensions about harm to the human population and environment due to the disposal of this waste, but the state government has rejected these concerns, saying that solid arrangements are in place for safe disposal.

'No Woman Feels Safe In Maharashtra And India Today'

'No Woman Feels Safe In Maharashtra And India Today'

Rediff.com11 Mar 2025

'Cases of molestation and rape are reaching the doorstep of households irrespective of their socio-economic status. That's the extent to which criminals are feeling emboldened today.'

Zoos on alert as avian flu kills 3 tigers, 1 leopard in Maha

Zoos on alert as avian flu kills 3 tigers, 1 leopard in Maha

Rediff.com6 Jan 2025

Three tigers and a leopard died of avian influenza at an animal rescue center in Maharashtra's Nagpur, prompting authorities to put zoos on alert. The animals had been relocated to the Gorewada Rescue Centre from Chandrapur following incidents of man-animal conflict. The big cats died at the end of December after showing symptoms including limping and fever.

What fintechs must do to scale up presence of e

What fintechs must do to scale up presence of e

Rediff.com24 Feb 2025

Non-banking entities such as fintech firms will have to tap into use cases beyond peer-to-peer (P2P) and peer-to-merchant (P2M) transactions to scale up the presence of the retail version of the central bank digital currency (CBDC), which is also known as the e, said industry players. These use cases will enable programmable transactions across domains, including the government's direct benefit transfer (DBT) schemes, with subsidies restricted to specific purposes such as food coupons, hospital bills, fertilisers, pesticides, and cross-border remittances.

Banks Struggle to Regain Deposits

Banks Struggle to Regain Deposits

Rediff.com13 Mar 2025

Privately, many bankers admit their immediate goal is not growth but slowing the erosion of Casa deposits, reveals Tamal Bandyopadhyay.

Exodus Rocks Uddhav's Sena

Exodus Rocks Uddhav's Sena

Rediff.com24 Feb 2025

'Those seeking short-term benefits are joining the Shinde-led Sena and the ones looking at long-term benefits are joining the BJP.'

Telangana tunnel rescue op in full swing amid fading hope

Telangana tunnel rescue op in full swing amid fading hope

Rediff.com24 Feb 2025

The chances of survival for eight people trapped in a collapsed tunnel in Telangana are "very remote," according to a minister. Rescue efforts are ongoing but the minister says it could take three to four days to reach the trapped individuals due to the debris and muck. The minister also mentioned a team of rat miners, who had rescued construction workers in Uttarakhand in 2023, are now assisting with the rescue efforts.

Republic Day: CRPF awarded highest number of 21 gallantry medals

Republic Day: CRPF awarded highest number of 21 gallantry medals

Rediff.com25 Jan 2025

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has been awarded the highest number of police gallantry medals, 21, including two Shaurya Chakras, on the eve of Republic Day. A total of 95 bravery medals were awarded to personnel from state and central police forces, fire service, home guard, civil defence, and correctional services. The CRPF's medals included 11 for operations in Jammu and Kashmir, seven for anti-Maoist operations, and one for an operation in the northeast. The second-highest number of medals went to Uttar Pradesh (17), followed by Jammu and Kashmir (15), Chhattisgarh (11), and the Border Security Force (5).

Delhi stampede: Oppn slams govt, seeks Vaishnaw's resignation

Delhi stampede: Oppn slams govt, seeks Vaishnaw's resignation

Rediff.com16 Feb 2025

Opposition parties in India have demanded the resignation of Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw after a stampede at New Delhi railway station killed 18 people. They blamed the government for "gross mismanagement" and accused them of "covering up" the death toll. The stampede occurred on Saturday night as passengers rushed to board trains for the Maha Kumbh festival in Prayagraj. The Congress, the Left, Trinamool Congress, and the Rashtriya Janata Dal have all criticized the government's handling of the situation, while BJP leaders have defended the government. The incident has highlighted the failure of the Railways and the government to make adequate arrangements for the large number of devotees travelling to Prayagraj.

India's GDP growth seen at 6.5% in FY25, FY26: EY report

India's GDP growth seen at 6.5% in FY25, FY26: EY report

Rediff.com25 Dec 2024

India's economy is likely to grow by 6.5 per cent in the current and the next financial year, an EY report said, attributing lower than anticipated expansion in the September quarter to fall in private consumption expenditure and gross fixed capital formation. Real GDP growth eased to a seven-quarter low of 5.4 per cent in July-September -- the second quarter of the current 2024-25 fiscal year.

Will Sitharaman's Debt-GDP vs Fiscal Deficit Gamble Pay Off?

Will Sitharaman's Debt-GDP vs Fiscal Deficit Gamble Pay Off?

Rediff.com21 Feb 2025

Using the debt-to-GDP ratio as a fiscal anchor aligns with efforts to promote fiscal transparency through proper disclosure of off-budget borrowings.