News for '2026'

Why India Must Resist US Pressure On UPI Policies

Why India Must Resist US Pressure On UPI Policies

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

A think tank, GTRI, has urged India to resist US pressure regarding its UPI policies, advocating for the defence of competition, policy autonomy, and the long-term sustainability of its payments ecosystem. This comes as the Lok Sabha passed a bill allowing charges on UPI transactions, a move GTRI suggests should not be influenced by foreign trade complaints.

GenZ Protests: 'First Thing Police Should Have Done Was Negotiate'

GenZ Protests: 'First Thing Police Should Have Done Was Negotiate'

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

'But they had nothing to negotiate as the government did not negotiate. It is completely the fault of the government as they dumped it on the police.'

'Gill Will Be Questioned Whatever He Does'

'Gill Will Be Questioned Whatever He Does'

Rediff.com2 days ago

'There's a lot of pressure on him, and there's a lot of pressure on this series as well, because it's crucial for India's chances in the WTC.'

Shah says 'debate', Oppn hits back with 'resign' as protests rock LS

Shah says 'debate', Oppn hits back with 'resign' as protests rock LS

Rediff.com2 days ago

Home Minister Amit Shah has offered to hold a comprehensive debate in Parliament on student protests and other pressing issues, but Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has swiftly rejected the proposal, demanding accountability for actions against students.

Multiple WhatsApp accounts 'under review' globally

Multiple WhatsApp accounts 'under review' globally

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Instant messaging app WhatsApp temporarily put multiple accounts, including those in India, "under review" for 24 hours, blocking all app features. This disruption prompted numerous affected users to voice their concerns on social media, while a WhatsApp spokesperson acknowledged the issue, stating they are working to resolve it quickly.

CPI(M) Slams Proposed UPI Charges As Breach Of Public Trust

CPI(M) Slams Proposed UPI Charges As Breach Of Public Trust

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

The CPI(M) has strongly opposed the Union government's proposal to levy charges on UPI transactions, calling it a "breach of public trust" and demanding the immediate withdrawal of the legislation. The party highlighted that the government had previously promoted UPI as a free public utility, encouraging widespread adoption, and now seeks to monetise this infrastructure. They also linked this move to a broader trend of increasing banking charges.

NEET-PG row: High-powered panel to audit admission system, Centre tells SC

NEET-PG row: High-powered panel to audit admission system, Centre tells SC

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

The Centre on Tuesday told the Supreme Court that it has constituted a high-powered committee headed by the director general of health services (DGHS) to formulate a mechanism for conducting a comprehensive audit of the existing system of admission through the NEET-PG examination.

Vance dials Modi day after Senate clears sanctions bill

Vance dials Modi day after Senate clears sanctions bill

Rediff.com6 days ago

US Vice President JD Vance and Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a phone call to discuss expanding the India-US comprehensive global strategic partnership, focusing on trade, defence, energy security, emerging technologies, and critical minerals. The discussion comes amidst rising tensions in West Asia and recent regional realignments, with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to strengthening cooperation.

Historic Double! Gulveer First Indian To Win 2 Athletics Medals In Single CWG

Historic Double! Gulveer First Indian To Win 2 Athletics Medals In Single CWG

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

Gulveer Singh has made history by becoming the first Indian to win a 5000m medal at the Commonwealth Games, securing a bronze.

Now CJP turns focus to poor rural education infra; campaign from Aug 15

Now CJP turns focus to poor rural education infra; campaign from Aug 15

Rediff.com4 days ago

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke on Monday announced a nationwide campaign to improve government schools in villages, calling on parents to conduct social audits of basic facilities and sarpanches to take up the task of improving the institutions.

Mumbai City FC Secure Manolo Marquez As New Head Coach

Mumbai City FC Secure Manolo Marquez As New Head Coach

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Manolo Marquez, a highly successful coach in Indian football, has been appointed as the new head coach for Mumbai City FC on a one-year contract for the 2026-2027 season. Marquez brings a wealth of experience, including leading Hyderabad FC to an ISL Cup title and coaching the Indian national team.

IPL 2026: 'Relieve Pant Of LSG Captaincy'

IPL 2026: 'Relieve Pant Of LSG Captaincy'

Rediff.com5 May 2026

'The pressure and responsibility of captaincy is slowly making us lose Rishabh Pant, the batter.'

Fitch affirms India's 'BBB-' rating, flags debt and youth unemployment

Fitch affirms India's 'BBB-' rating, flags debt and youth unemployment

Rediff.com3 days ago

Fitch Ratings has affirmed India's sovereign credit rating at 'BBB-' with a stable outlook, acknowledging robust growth prospects and strong external finances. However, the agency highlighted concerns over elevated government debt, lagging structural metrics, and potential fiscal spending pressures due to rising youth unemployment.

2 MLAs defy Vaiko's order to resign, to function as DMK legislators

2 MLAs defy Vaiko's order to resign, to function as DMK legislators

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Two MDMK MLAs, T M Rajendran and R Senthil Selvan, have refused to resign from their Assembly seats despite demands from MDMK General Secretary Vaiko. They assert their status as DMK legislators, having won on the DMK's 'Rising Sun' symbol, and have pledged loyalty to DMK leadership, including M K Stalin and Udhayanidhi Stalin.

Spain's World Cup party turns tragic, 13-YO boy dies

Spain's World Cup party turns tragic, 13-YO boy dies

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

A 13-year-old boy was killed and two others injured in Ciudad Rodrigo, Spain, when a fountain collapsed during celebrations for Spain's FIFA World Cup 2026 victory. The tragic incident cast a shadow over nationwide festivities after Spain secured its second World Cup title with a 1-0 win over Argentina.

Assam Minister Faces Heat Over Daughter's Participation In CJP Protest

Assam Minister Faces Heat Over Daughter's Participation In CJP Protest

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

The controversy has embarrassed the ruling coalition because Keshab Mahanta is one of the senior-most leaders of the Asom Gana Parishad, an NDA constituent.

Sushmita Dev's 'lungiwala' slur against CPM MP Brittas rocks Rajya Sabha

Sushmita Dev's 'lungiwala' slur against CPM MP Brittas rocks Rajya Sabha

Rediff.com2 days ago

Rajya Sabha proceedings were adjourned following an uproar over an alleged derogatory 'lungiwala' remark made by BJP MP Sushmita Dev against CPI(M)'s John Brittas, who had moved a privilege motion. Dev denied the accusation, stating she had not cast aspersions on any state's attire.

SC allows Abhishek Banerjee to travel abroad for eye treatment

SC allows Abhishek Banerjee to travel abroad for eye treatment

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Supreme Court has granted Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee permission to travel abroad for three weeks for eye treatment, dismissing the West Bengal government's concerns about his return due to 16 pending cases.

Brazil Football Team Likely To Play Friendly In Kolkata In October

Brazil Football Team Likely To Play Friendly In Kolkata In October

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) is in advanced negotiations to bring its national football team to Kolkata, India, for a friendly match in early October, marking a significant event for the region's large Brazilian fan base.

IPL 2026: Rajasthan Royals keep 200+ chase record alive

IPL 2026: Rajasthan Royals keep 200+ chase record alive

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

Rajasthan Royals (RR) demonstrated their strength in chasing big totals in the ongoing IPL 2026 season with a victory over Punjab Kings (PBKS).

CM Adhikari announces fresh probe into RG Kar rape-murder case

CM Adhikari announces fresh probe into RG Kar rape-murder case

Rediff.com5 days ago

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has announced a fresh investigation into the 2024 rape and murder of a doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The decision follows a request from the victim's mother, now a BJP MLA, and includes a separate probe into alleged cremation irregularities. Adhikari criticised previous police handling and vowed to ensure justice, despite a CBI investigation having already led to a conviction.

Retired IAF officer moves SC against Sansad Chalo march organisers

Retired IAF officer moves SC against Sansad Chalo march organisers

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

A retired Air Force officer has approached the Supreme Court, seeking urgent action against the organisers of the July 20 'Sansad Chalo' march, alleging incitement to violence and continued inflammatory statements.

Vedanta targets $10 billion Ebitda by FY27, plans to cut debt by over Rs 20,000 crore

Vedanta targets $10 billion Ebitda by FY27, plans to cut debt by over Rs 20,000 crore

Rediff.com5 days ago

Metals and mining conglomerate Vedanta aims to achieve $10 billion in group Ebitda by FY27, a significant increase from $6 billion in FY26, and plans to reduce its overall debt by more than 20,000 crore during the same period, according to CFO Ajay Goel.

Confused Selections; Inconsistent Strategies: Why LSG Flopped In IPL 2026

Confused Selections; Inconsistent Strategies: Why LSG Flopped In IPL 2026

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Lucknow Super Giants' IPL season was marked by inconsistent selections, questionable combinations, and a lack of clarity in their strongest XI, leading to a disappointing campaign.

Arpita, Kunal May Be Husband And Wife But...

Arpita, Kunal May Be Husband And Wife But...

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

While Arpita Mehta reimagined Indian celebration wear for the modern woman, Kunal Rawal presented his biggest menswear collection yet, proving that the husband and wife have design languages that are distinctly their own.

IPL 2026: Chennai Super Kings replace injured Overton with Forrester

IPL 2026: Chennai Super Kings replace injured Overton with Forrester

Rediff.com14 May 2026

Chennai Super Kings have signed South African all-rounder Dian Forrester as a replacement for the injured Jamie Overton for the remainder of the Indian Premier League.

When Nifty Jumped 200 Points In ONE MINUTE

When Nifty Jumped 200 Points In ONE MINUTE

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

The Nifty's stunning 200-point jump in the final minute of trading wasn't a glitch. It marked India's shift to a new, globally accepted system of end-of-day price discovery.

'75-25': Nakamura makes shock call on Gukesh's title defence

'75-25': Nakamura makes shock call on Gukesh's title defence

Rediff.com2 days ago

World champion D Gukesh is 'crumbling under the weight of expectations' and needs to 'shut out the noise' to regain his form ahead of his title defence, said American Grandmaster Hikaru Nakamura. Nakamura also revealed that the 2028 Chess Olympiad could potentially be his last tournament featuring 'true classical' chess.

Fashion Week: From International Inspiration To Desi Love

Fashion Week: From International Inspiration To Desi Love

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Hyundai India Couture Week 2026 served up two very different visions of couture this weekend. While Falguni Shane Peacock looked beyond India's borders for inspiration, Rohit Bal turned the spotlight firmly onto the artisans who shaped his legacy.

TN House demands 543-seat LS formula, 33% women quota from 2029

TN House demands 543-seat LS formula, 33% women quota from 2029

Rediff.com3 days ago

The Tamil Nadu Assembly has adopted a resolution, moved by Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, urging the Union government to permanently fix the Lok Sabha strength at 543 and implement 33 per cent women's reservation by 2029. The resolution also opposes delimitation that could disadvantage states successful in population control.

Congress on Tharoor's remark: Leaders must avoid 'appeasing BJP'

Congress on Tharoor's remark: Leaders must avoid 'appeasing BJP'

Rediff.com5 days ago

AICC general secretary KC Venugopal has urged Congress leaders to exercise caution and avoid making statements that could 'please the BJP', in response to remarks attributed to Shashi Tharoor regarding Rahul Gandhi's student outreach programme.

Supreme Court rejects plea for NEET-UG 2026 re-test in CBT mode

Supreme Court rejects plea for NEET-UG 2026 re-test in CBT mode

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

The Supreme Court has refused a plea seeking the NEET-UG 2026 re-test to be conducted in computer-based test mode, citing the National Testing Agency's existing challenges. The court has scheduled the hearing for July 27.

IPL 2026: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: A Kid Out Of Control

IPL 2026: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: A Kid Out Of Control

Rediff.com21 May 2026

He upsets bowlers, unsettles the opponent captain's plans, and destroys their hopes of winning the match.

Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem reveals why he struggled in Glasgow

Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem reveals why he struggled in Glasgow

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Olympic gold medallist Arshad Nadeem has expressed his disappointment over social media criticism following his poor performance at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. He attributed his ninth-place finish to the extremely cold weather affecting his javelin throws and affirmed his commitment to return to winning form, stressing his grounded nature despite fame.

IPL 2026: When The Going Gets Tough, Shreyas Iyer Shows His Class

IPL 2026: When The Going Gets Tough, Shreyas Iyer Shows His Class

Rediff.com24 May 2026

When wickets fall and required rates climb, Shreyas Iyer rarely loses control. His ability to remain calm under pressure has become one of Punjab's biggest strengths this season.

Ticket controversy casts shadow on Bengaluru hosting IPL 2026 final

Ticket controversy casts shadow on Bengaluru hosting IPL 2026 final

Rediff.com5 May 2026

IPL 2026 final venue remains uncertain as political issues in Bengaluru force BCCI to consider alternative cities, with playoffs likely split between Punjab and Karnataka.

J'khand recruitment exam scam: Student leader on hunger strike hospitalised

J'khand recruitment exam scam: Student leader on hunger strike hospitalised

Rediff.com7 days ago

A student leader, Rahul Kranti, on a hunger strike against alleged irregularities in Jharkhand's recruitment examinations, was admitted to Ranchi Sadar Hospital after his health deteriorated. The protest, now in its 14th day, has drawn attention from political leaders, including Leader of Opposition Babulal Marandi and Health Minister Irfan Ansari, who visited the hospitalised students. Protesters are demanding cancellation of the 14th Jharkhand PSC Civil Services Examination and comprehensive reforms in state recruitment bodies.

'Students India's future': Prez Murmu promises fair exams in I-Day eve address

'Students India's future': Prez Murmu promises fair exams in I-Day eve address

Rediff.com22 hours ago

Underlining that students are the "architects of India's future," President Droupadi Murmu on Friday said the government is taking comprehensive steps to reform public examinations to completely curb paper leaks and unfair means, making the system transparent, secure, and trustworthy.

'A Stone Can't Be Answered With An AK-47'

'A Stone Can't Be Answered With An AK-47'

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

'Instead of choosing dialogue, the government chose repression... Force ought to be the last resort, not the first.'

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.