News for '-free'

Ten-man England edge out Mexico to enter World Cup last 8

Ten-man England edge out Mexico to enter World Cup last 8

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

England defeated Mexico 3-2 in a hard-fought World Cup match to secure their place in the quarter-finals. Despite playing with ten men after Jarell Quansah's red card, goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane ensured England's victory.

India-UK Trade Deal to Kick Off July 15, PM Modi Confirms

India-UK Trade Deal to Kick Off July 15, PM Modi Confirms

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) will come into effect on July 15, 2026, anticipating a significant boost to bilateral trade and investment.

Neck Pain? Poor Sleep? Your Mobile May Be The Culprit

Neck Pain? Poor Sleep? Your Mobile May Be The Culprit

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

'It is recommended to avoid screens for at least two hours before bedtime,' says Dr Manjusha Agarwal, senior consultant, internal medicine, at Mumbai's Gleneagles Hospital. 'Ideally, avoid taking your phone into the bedroom.'

Rai And Bhatia Make Strong Start At PGA Tour's Final Signature Event

Rai And Bhatia Make Strong Start At PGA Tour's Final Signature Event

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Indian-origin golfers Aaron Rai and Akshay Bhatia have made an encouraging start at the Travelers Championship, a PGA Tour Signature Event. Rai fired a flawless five-under 65 to share eighth place, while Bhatia posted a four-under 66, placing him in a tie for 14th. Sahith Theegala, however, struggled with a four-over 74. Eric Cole leads the tournament with a seven-under 63.

Balogun distances himself from Trump-linked FIFA decision

Balogun distances himself from Trump-linked FIFA decision

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

FIFA has dismissed Belgium's challenge regarding the eligibility of US striker Folarin Balogun, upholding the controversial decision to suspend his one-match ban ahead of the World Cup Round of 16 clash, despite the US ultimately losing 4-1 to Belgium and being eliminated.

Sebi to reintroduce open market share buybacks, capping execution at 66 days

Sebi to reintroduce open market share buybacks, capping execution at 66 days

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

India's markets regulator, Sebi, has reintroduced rules allowing companies to repurchase their own shares through stock exchanges in the open market, effective August 1, 2026. The new framework caps the execution period at 66 working days and aims to enhance flexibility and efficiency for capital allocation.

Oracle And UPSDM Join Forces To Upskill 3 Lakh In AI, Cloud

Oracle And UPSDM Join Forces To Upskill 3 Lakh In AI, Cloud

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Oracle has partnered with the Uttar Pradesh State Skill Development Mission (UPSDM) to provide free digital skills training in AI, cloud, cybersecurity, and data science to 300,000 students and professionals by 2029, aiming to enhance employability and build a future-ready workforce.

Magic Mortal Messi Scripts Argentina's Miracle Rescue

Magic Mortal Messi Scripts Argentina's Miracle Rescue

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Lionel Messi experienced an emotional rollercoaster in Argentina's World Cup last-16 tie against Egypt, missing a penalty but ultimately scoring a vital late equaliser to save his team's World Cup dream after being two goals down.

Diksha Dagar Leads Indian Charge At Hulencourt Women's Open

Diksha Dagar Leads Indian Charge At Hulencourt Women's Open

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Indian golfers Diksha Dagar, Aditi Ashok, Avani Prashanth, and Pranavi Urs have all successfully made the cut at the Hulencourt Women's Open in Belgium. Diksha Dagar is in a strong position, tied for third, while Aditi Ashok is also within the top 10.

They made me better: Prabhsimran credits Yuvraj, Ponting for India breakthrough

They made me better: Prabhsimran credits Yuvraj, Ponting for India breakthrough

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Prabhsimran Singh credited mentor Yuvraj Singh's tactical guidance and Punjab Kings head coach Ricky Ponting's unwavering faith for his growth, saying both played a pivotal role in earning his maiden India T20I call-up.

'There's a few scars against India, so it's nice to get one up on them'

'There's a few scars against India, so it's nice to get one up on them'

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

England batter Jacob Bethell scored an unbeaten 76 against India in the second T20I, leading his team to a four-wicket victory while chasing 191.

'We Don't Give Him Space': How Brazil Plan To Stop Haaland

'We Don't Give Him Space': How Brazil Plan To Stop Haaland

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Norway pose a formidable threat through Erling Haaland, whose pace and power have made him one of the World Cup's most feared forwards.

This Simple Habit Will Help You Score 99%ile In CAT 2026

This Simple Habit Will Help You Score 99%ile In CAT 2026

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

CAT and MBA expert and rediffGURU Patrick D'Souza explains how a simple daily reading habit can help aspirants clinch 99 percentile in the Common Admission Test this year.

Gujarat, And Its Strange, Thirsty Prohibition

Gujarat, And Its Strange, Thirsty Prohibition

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Prohibition never stopped anyone from drinking in Gujarat. It only made the stories that come after a lot more interesting, recounts Binu Alex.

Did 10,057 free tickets cost Bengaluru the IPL final?

Did 10,057 free tickets cost Bengaluru the IPL final?

Rediff.com8 May 2026

The Karnataka State Cricket Association's request for additional complimentary tickets led to the shifting of IPL final and playoff matches from the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, according to a BCCI source.

Champat Rai's resignation accepted, interim general secretary appointed

Champat Rai's resignation accepted, interim general secretary appointed

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

The Ram temple trust on Monday accepted the resignations of Champat Rai as its general secretary and member Anil Mishra in the wake of embezzlement of donations. Trustee Krishna Mohan has been named as interim general secretary. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust also announced the formation of a three-member committee to identify a chief executive officer (CEO) for the temple trust.

Defiant Cape Verde hold Uruguay to 2-2 draw in Miami thriller

Defiant Cape Verde hold Uruguay to 2-2 draw in Miami thriller

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Cape Verde pulled off a stunning 2-2 draw against two-time World Cup winners Uruguay in Miami on Sunday.

Why Croatia's late equaliser was ruled out: Martinez backs VAR decision

Why Croatia's late equaliser was ruled out: Martinez backs VAR decision

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Portugal coach Roberto Martinez defended the VAR decisions that helped his side beat Croatia 2-1, while FIFA explained how Connected Ball Technology confirmed the stoppage-time offside call that ended Croatia's World Cup campaign.

Hours after joining BJP, three ex-TMC MPs get RS tickets from Bengal

Hours after joining BJP, three ex-TMC MPs get RS tickets from Bengal

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Three former Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha MPs, including Sushmita Dev and Sukhendu Sekhar Ray, joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday and, within hours, were named the saffron party's candidates for the Rajya Sabha bypolls from West Bengal, underlining both their political rehabilitation and the party's calibrated shift in inducting leaders from the erstwhile ruling dispensation.

Cristiano Ronaldo Cements Lasting Legacy Despite World Cup Exit

Cristiano Ronaldo Cements Lasting Legacy Despite World Cup Exit

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo's illustrious World Cup career concluded with tears after Portugal's 1-0 defeat by Spain in the round of 16, marking the end of his sixth attempt to win the coveted trophy.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina stage stunning fightback to storm into quarterfinals

FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina stage stunning fightback to storm into quarterfinals

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Argentina produced a stunning comeback after falling two goals behind, scoring twice in four minutes through Cristian Romero and Lionel Messi to beat Egypt 3-2 in their last 16 clash of the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Atlanta on Tuesday.

CAF Constable Dies By Suicide In Chhattisgarh's Bastar Region

CAF Constable Dies By Suicide In Chhattisgarh's Bastar Region

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

A Chhattisgarh Armed Force (CAF) constable allegedly shot himself dead in Kondagaon district, marking the first such incident among security personnel in the Bastar region since it was declared Maoist-free on March 31.

'Why Should We Be Okay With 6.5% Growth Rate?'

'Why Should We Be Okay With 6.5% Growth Rate?'

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

'Why not aspire for 8 or 9 or even 10 per cent?'

Veer Ahlawat's Impressive Comeback Secures Top 10 At Swiss Challenge

Veer Ahlawat's Impressive Comeback Secures Top 10 At Swiss Challenge

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Indian golfer Veer Ahlawat achieved his first top 10 finish of the season on the Hotel Planner Tour, ending tied 9th at the Swiss Challenge with a final bogey-free round of 67.

Oyarzabal double powers Spain past Austria to World Cup last 16

Oyarzabal double powers Spain past Austria to World Cup last 16

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Spain secured their spot in the World Cup Round of 16 with a convincing 3-0 win over Austria, featuring two goals from Mikel Oyarzabal. The dominant performance saw Spain maintain their perfect defensive record, setting up a clash with either Portugal or Croatia in the next stage.

Kerala Intensifies Anti-Drug Campaigns In Schools

Kerala Intensifies Anti-Drug Campaigns In Schools

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala announced new anti-narcotic campaigns in schools, coinciding with International Day Against Drug Abuse on June 26. The initiative, part of 'Operation Toofaan', aims to make Kerala drug-free, with police actively targeting drug networks and reporting significant seizures and arrests.

Inside Kolkata's FIFA Gully, India's unique tribute to the FIFA World Cup

Inside Kolkata's FIFA Gully, India's unique tribute to the FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Kolkata's iconic 'FIFA Gully' has transformed a small neighbourhood lane into a colourful World Cup attraction, with murals and giant cut-outs of Messi, Ronaldo, Neymar and other football stars celebrating the city's enduring love for the beautiful game.

India-Oman Trade Pact: Unlocking Export Potential for Labour-Intensive Sectors

India-Oman Trade Pact: Unlocking Export Potential for Labour-Intensive Sectors

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

The India-Oman free trade agreement, operationalised on June 1, is set to create significant export opportunities for India's labour-intensive and value-added sectors, including textiles, gems and jewellery, and marine products, while also strengthening energy security.

'We Prevented President's Rule in Tamil Nadu'

'We Prevented President's Rule in Tamil Nadu'

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

'The Dravidian parties wanted to prevent the TVK from forming a government.'

FIFA World Cup: The Billion-Dollar Secret Behind Morocco's Football Boom

FIFA World Cup: The Billion-Dollar Secret Behind Morocco's Football Boom

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Morocco's impressive rise in global football is uniquely funded by its vast phosphate reserves, with the state-owned OCP Group investing heavily in national team development. This strategic investment, driven by a royal directive, supports training academies and infrastructure, contributing to the nation's recent successes like reaching the 2022 World Cup semi-finals and hosting the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. The country's abundant phosphate resources provide a stable economic base for these ambitious sporting endeavours.

India's First OptoSAR Mission Ends in Failure

India's First OptoSAR Mission Ends in Failure

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

While recovery efforts are ongoing, the likelihood of recovery currently appears low.

Eye on China, Modi seals uranium deal with Australia

Eye on China, Modi seals uranium deal with Australia

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

India and Australia have signed significant agreements covering civil nuclear energy, maritime security, and critical minerals, reinforcing their partnership's role in ensuring a peaceful Indo-Pacific. The pacts facilitate uranium supply from Australia to India and enhance cooperation in defence, cyber, and critical technologies.

Alan Greenspan, former US Federal Reserve chair, passes away at 100

Alan Greenspan, former US Federal Reserve chair, passes away at 100

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Legendary economist and former Federal Reserve chairman Alan Greenspan has died at the age of 100 due to complications related to Parkinson's disease, his wife Andrea Mitchell confirmed.

Cape Verde... and Messi magic to Argentina's rescue again

Cape Verde... and Messi magic to Argentina's rescue again

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

The noise at the Miami Stadium belonged to one nation, but the occasion belonged to one man as Lionel Messi scooped up another Man of the Match trophy.

FIFA World Cup: Remember the name 'Cabo Verde'

FIFA World Cup: Remember the name 'Cabo Verde'

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Ravichandran Ashwin praised Cabo Verde on X, urging fans to "Remember the name" after their spirited performances.

The moment Lionel Messi's World Cup legend began

The moment Lionel Messi's World Cup legend began

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Former Argentina coach Jose Pekerman reflects on Lionel Messi's 2006 World Cup debut, stating he always believed the then 18-year-old would become one of the game's defining figures and that every minute on the pitch was crucial for his development.

Lightning scare shuts FIFA World Cup party before opener

Lightning scare shuts FIFA World Cup party before opener

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

The FIFA Fan Festival in Toronto was cancelled due to lightning risk, disappointing fans on the eve of Canada's first World Cup game.

Stanford students walk out during Sundar Pichai's address over deal with Israel

Stanford students walk out during Sundar Pichai's address over deal with Israel

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Students at Stanford University staged a walkout during Google CEO Sundar Pichai's commencement address, protesting the company's ties with the Israeli government, particularly its Project Nimbus cloud-computing deal.

What Makes Obsession Such A Horrifying Tale

What Makes Obsession Such A Horrifying Tale

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

As Curry Barker's Obsession arrives on OTT this week, Sreeju Sudhakaran revisits the chilling psychological horror film about the terrifying implications of a man's desire to control a woman's affections.

Wimbledon 2026: Muchova topples defending champion, joins Pegula in quarterfinals

Wimbledon 2026: Muchova topples defending champion, joins Pegula in quarterfinals

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Tenth seed Karolina Muchova snuffed out the Wimbledon hopes of friend and 2024 champion Barbora Krejcikova on Sunday, winning 7-5, 5-7, 6-3 in a tight battle for Czech supremacy and a place in the quarterfinals. The 32-year-old Pegula said beforehand she had expected the 18-year-old Jovic to come at her hard and so it proved, but after a scrappy first set, she won 4-6, 6-3, 6-1 to reach the quarterfinal and equal her best Wimbledon run.