News for '-photos'

How Premji Invest Built $43 Billion AI Empire

How Premji Invest Built $43 Billion AI Empire

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Azim Premji's private investment firm, Premji Invest, has quietly built a formidable portfolio of 11 AI startups, primarily in the US, with a combined valuation of $43 billion. The firm has participated in 19 funding rounds since 2021, with a notable focus on US-based companies, many of which were founded by Indian entrepreneurs.

Former Australia opener David Warner pleads guilty to drink-driving, faces jail time

Former Australia opener David Warner pleads guilty to drink-driving, faces jail time

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Former Australia batter David Warner has pleaded guilty to a mid-range drink-driving charge in Sydney, facing a potential prison sentence of up to nine months and a minimum six-month driving ban.

'No one will tell me how to bat': Sanju Samson on quitting rat race

'No one will tell me how to bat': Sanju Samson on quitting rat race

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Sanju Samson reveals Virat Kohli's advice on fitness, discipline and lifestyle, while explaining why he quit cricket's 'rat race' before becoming India's T20 World Cup Player of the Tournament.

NEET protests turn violent in Bihar, several hurt; police open fire in air

NEET protests turn violent in Bihar, several hurt; police open fire in air

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Many students and at least 14 police personnel were injured in clashes during protests over NEET paper leak across several districts of Bihar on Thursday, prompting the security forces to fire in the air and baton-charge to disperse the agitators, officers said.

The cockroach who would not leave: How Abhijeet Dipke made the govt bend

The cockroach who would not leave: How Abhijeet Dipke made the govt bend

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), has emerged as a prominent youth leader, transforming a satirical movement into a powerful force that led to the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Dipke views this as just the beginning, advocating for issue-based politics over identity politics and demanding further reforms in the examination system.

Manish Malhotra Surprised Shabana Azmi At Paris With...

Manish Malhotra Surprised Shabana Azmi At Paris With...

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Mijwan Welfare Society, founded by legendary Urdu poet Kaifi Azmi, that works for empowerment of women and the girl child was proud to announce that the exquisite chikankari craftsmanship of its women artisans was showcased at Paris Haute Couture Week Fall/Winter 2026 as part of Manish Malhotra's collection, Maa.

Youth Protest: The Lasting Lessons

Youth Protest: The Lasting Lessons

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

At the end of this journey, no matter now it ends, these youngsters will know something essential about the Indian government, the Indian judiciary, the Indian media, the Indian police, the Indian laws and indeed about Indian society, asserts Aakar Patel.

Filmed inappropriately: Kerala minister shares voyeurism ordeal

Filmed inappropriately: Kerala minister shares voyeurism ordeal

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Kerala Women and Child Development Minister Bindu Krishna revealed she was voyeuristically filmed during a school event in Kollam, prompting her to advocate for a comprehensive state policy to combat digital harassment against women.

'Will monitor everything closely': SC on NEET paper leaks

'Will monitor everything closely': SC on NEET paper leaks

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has informed the Centre that it will closely monitor the steps taken to curb NEET examination paper leaks, emphasising that 'ad hocism has caused trouble for years' and demanding a comprehensive overhaul of the examination process.

PV Sindhu Overcomes Compatriot Unnati Hooda, Ayush Shetty Stuns World No. 11 At China Open

PV Sindhu Overcomes Compatriot Unnati Hooda, Ayush Shetty Stuns World No. 11 At China Open

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Double Olympic medallist PV Sindhu advanced to the second round of the China Open after a tough match against compatriot Unnati Hooda. In a significant upset, Ayush Shetty defeated world No. 11 Alwi Farhan in the men's singles. However, India's men's and mixed doubles pairs were eliminated from the BWF Super 1000 tournament.

Pradhan hits back at Rahul over NEET, says govt ready for Parliament debate

Pradhan hits back at Rahul over NEET, says govt ready for Parliament debate

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan criticised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for staging a protest outside the Prime Minister's residence regarding the NEET paper-leak issue. Pradhan accused Gandhi of using students as "political tools" to disrupt Parliament, while asserting the government's commitment to discussing NEET concerns in the House. The incident involved Gandhi and other opposition leaders being detained after refusing to end their sit-in.

Jantar Mantar protest brings together Boomers and Gen Z

Jantar Mantar protest brings together Boomers and Gen Z

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The protest at Jantar Mantar against alleged paper leaks and irregularities in public examinations, initially led by students, has now entered its seventh week and is increasingly drawing support from senior citizens, who view it as a fight for the nation's future and education reforms.

Commonwealth Games 2026: Lovlina anchors India's medal hopes in boxing

Commonwealth Games 2026: Lovlina anchors India's medal hopes in boxing

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Assured of the only major medal missing from her decorated cabinet without even stepping into the ring, Lovlina Borgohain will now chase Commonwealth Games gold even as a new generation of Indian boxers look to announce themselves on the big stage starting in Glasgow on Friday.

Maharashtra SIR deadline extended by 10 days, draft rolls on Aug 17

Maharashtra SIR deadline extended by 10 days, draft rolls on Aug 17

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

The Election Commission has extended the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Maharashtra by 10 days, moving the deadline to August 8. This extension also shifts the draft electoral roll publication to August 18, as part of ongoing efforts to update and verify voter information through house-to-house checks and document submissions.

Hazare writes to Modi; says minister's exit won't weaken govt, favours talks

Hazare writes to Modi; says minister's exit won't weaken govt, favours talks

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Social activist Anna Hazare on Wednesday wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying violence and police action during the students' ongoing protest in Delhi were "deeply distressing", and asserted that "dialogue" was always preferable to confrontation in a democracy.

Rajya Sabha MPs' expenses soar to Rs 262 cr in two yrs, reveals RTI

Rajya Sabha MPs' expenses soar to Rs 262 cr in two yrs, reveals RTI

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

An RTI reply has revealed that over Rs 262 crore was spent on salaries, allowances, and facilities for Rajya Sabha MPs in the financial years 2024-25 and 2025-26. This includes more than Rs 151 crore specifically for allowances and travel, with a significant increase in expenditure from the first to the second year.

Delhi Capitals all-rounder Ashutosh Sharma joins Hampshire for One-Day Cup

Delhi Capitals all-rounder Ashutosh Sharma joins Hampshire for One-Day Cup

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Delhi Capitals all-rounder Ashutosh Sharma has been signed by English county Hampshire for the upcoming One-Day Cup. The move was facilitated by the GMR Group, which co-owns both teams. Sharma, known for his explosive batting and record-breaking T20 fifty, will bring his power-hitting skills to the 50-over domestic tournament in England.

BJP sending people to disrupt protest, pelt stones, alleges Dipke

BJP sending people to disrupt protest, pelt stones, alleges Dipke

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) representatives Abhijeet Dipke and Saurav Das have accused Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers of disrupting ongoing student protests, pelting stones, and attempting to defame protesters. They also reiterated the 'non-negotiable' demand for Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation amidst the NEET-UG paper leak controversy, while Union Health Minister JP Nadda urged against politicising the issue.

Pune court rules criticism of government is not 'waging war'

Pune court rules criticism of government is not 'waging war'

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

A Pune court has granted bail to NCP (SP) office-bearer Mahadev Balgude, ruling that criticism of the government or chief minister does not constitute "waging war" against the nation. The court emphasised every citizen's right to comment on and criticise government actions, noting that the charges under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Section 152 were debatable.

Protests demanding Pradhan's resignation sweep India

Protests demanding Pradhan's resignation sweep India

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Nationwide protests against the NEET paper leak have intensified across several Indian states, with demonstrators condemning the Delhi Police crackdown and demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The Congress party has called for further demonstrations, while various student and political groups have organised marches and sit-ins, some leading to clashes with police.

Wangchuk to continue hunger strike after police action on CJP protesters

Wangchuk to continue hunger strike after police action on CJP protesters

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Activist Sonam Wangchuk has extended his indefinite hunger strike, stating he will continue until youth leaders meet parliamentarians or he is allowed to do so from the hospital. This decision follows police action against protesters during the Cockroach Janta Party's "Sansad Chalo" march, where thousands were detained while demanding accountability for alleged irregularities in competitive examinations and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

9 Facts About The Puri Rath Yatra

9 Facts About The Puri Rath Yatra

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

July 16 will be the biggest and happiest day of the year in Puri, home to the magnificent Jagannath Temple.

Govt softens stand, changes course on CJP protests

Govt softens stand, changes course on CJP protests

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The Indian government has significantly altered its approach to the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP)-led agitation over the NEET paper leak, moving from dismissal to calibrated political engagement, including promises of fast-track courts, a new anti-paper leak law, and negotiations with key protest leaders.

India's Para Athletes Eye Record Medal Haul At Glasgow CWG

India's Para Athletes Eye Record Medal Haul At Glasgow CWG

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Paralympic Committee of India President Devendra Jhajharia predicts India will win a record-breaking half a dozen medals in para sports at the upcoming Glasgow Commonwealth Games, despite some exclusions. The 28-member contingent is confident of a strong performance across five disciplines.

Cop on Amarnath security duty killed in Anantnag terrorist attack

Cop on Amarnath security duty killed in Anantnag terrorist attack

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

A head constable on Amarnath Yatra security duty was killed in a terror attack in Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir. The Resistance Front (TRF) has claimed responsibility for the attack, prompting security forces to launch a search operation.

No police nod for CJP's Parl march; security tightened in Delhi

No police nod for CJP's Parl march; security tightened in Delhi

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

Delhi Police has significantly increased security across New Delhi ahead of the Monsoon session of Parliament and a proposed "Chalo Sansad" march by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). Additional personnel, barricades, and vehicle checks are in place, with authorities stating no permission has been granted for the march. The heightened vigil follows CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke's hunger strike and activist Sonam Wangchuk's call for the July 20 march from the hospital.

After donation theft, 250 Ayodhya seers meet to rebuild devotee trust

After donation theft, 250 Ayodhya seers meet to rebuild devotee trust

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

A crucial meeting of around 250 seers and VHP functionaries in Ayodhya will address issues concerning the Ram temple, including ensuring adherence to Vaishnav-Ramanandi traditions, restoring devotee confidence after an alleged donation theft, and deliberating on the Trust's management. The meeting follows deferred decisions by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust on key appointments.

Bhaker, Kusale Spearhead India's Challenge At ISSF World Cup In China

Bhaker, Kusale Spearhead India's Challenge At ISSF World Cup In China

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

India has dispatched a formidable contingent, including Olympic medallists Manu Bhaker and Swapnil Kusale, to the ISSF World Cup in Hangzhou, China.

Youth divert birthday savings to Jantar Mantar protests

Youth divert birthday savings to Jantar Mantar protests

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Young students are diverting their personal savings, originally intended for gadgets or college expenses, to fund their participation in the ongoing protests at Jantar Mantar, highlighting their commitment to issues affecting their future.

Next agitation to be 10 times bigger: Rahul's warning to BJP-RSS

Next agitation to be 10 times bigger: Rahul's warning to BJP-RSS

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Following Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation amidst widespread student protests over the NEET paper leak, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi congratulated the youth, calling it a crucial step for education reform, and urged broader public action to hold the government accountable, demanding an apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Why Congress Is Suspicious About CJP

Why Congress Is Suspicious About CJP

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

A Congress spokesperson, quoted in media reports, summed up the party's thinking by saying, 'Whenever BJP is in trouble on the ground, a new 'apolitical' or 'alternative' party appears with the same ideology and the same backers.'

Rahul, Priyanka, Akhilesh detained after protest outside PM's residence

Rahul, Priyanka, Akhilesh detained after protest outside PM's residence

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, along with Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, were forcibly removed and detained by Delhi Police during a protest outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence, demanding justice for students protesting the NEET paper leak and condemning alleged police brutalities.

CJP ends 36-day protest after govt accepts all demands

CJP ends 36-day protest after govt accepts all demands

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has called off its 36-day agitation following the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who stepped down amidst widespread protests over irregularities in the exam system and the NEET paper leak. The government also agreed to the CJP's demands for 1 crore compensation to families of students who died by suicide and no action against protesters.

Kejriwal says CJP protesters forced Modi to yield, assures legal aid

Kejriwal says CJP protesters forced Modi to yield, assures legal aid

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Aam Aadmi Party convenor Arvind Kejriwal has strongly criticised the Central government's crackdown on Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protesters, comparing the police brutality to that of the British Raj. He announced the launch of a helpline to provide medical and legal aid to injured protesters and their families.

Connaught Place turns flashpoint during CJP march; vehicles damaged

Connaught Place turns flashpoint during CJP march; vehicles damaged

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

A protest by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) in New Delhi's Connaught Place and Janpath areas turned violent, with demonstrators allegedly pelting stones at security personnel and damaging vehicles. The 'Chalo Sansad' march led to significant disruption, traffic snarls, and the deployment of additional security forces.

Can Cong Stop BJP's Constitutional Push?

Can Cong Stop BJP's Constitutional Push?

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

'Our leaders, including Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, are in touch with all Opposition parties, including the DMK and the AAP.'

'Right mix of experience and youth': India's Squad For Hockey World Cup

'Right mix of experience and youth': India's Squad For Hockey World Cup

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

India has announced a 20-member squad for the upcoming FIH Men's Hockey World Cup, with Harmanpreet Singh leading the team.

PV Sindhu advances to Japan Open semifinals after Okuhara withdrawal

PV Sindhu advances to Japan Open semifinals after Okuhara withdrawal

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Two-time Olympic medallist P V Sindhu has reached her first Super 750 semifinal in nearly three years at the Japan Open after Nozomi Okuhara withdrew. She will now face Tokyo Olympic champion Chen Yufei in the semifinals.

Harsh Dubey steps in for injured Washington Sundar ahead of ODI series decider vs England

Harsh Dubey steps in for injured Washington Sundar ahead of ODI series decider vs England

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Left-arm spinner Harsh Dubey has been named as the replacement for the injured Washington Sundar in India's squad for the third and final One Day International against England. Sundar sustained a right hamstring injury during the second ODI and will undergo recuperation. The series is currently level at 1-1, with India aiming for a victory.

Delhi police use CCTV, drone footage to identify 'outsiders' in CJP protest violence

Delhi police use CCTV, drone footage to identify 'outsiders' in CJP protest violence

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Delhi Police are intensifying their investigation into the alleged violence during the ongoing CJP protest, analysing CCTV footage, drone videos, mobile phone recordings, and other digital evidence to identify those involved in attacks on security personnel and damage to public property, with a focus on whether 'outsiders' and 'habitual offenders' infiltrated the demonstrations.