News for 'All Planning Commission'

Defiant Mamata asks sacked teachers to 'continue with work'

Defiant Mamata asks sacked teachers to 'continue with work'

Rediff.com8 Apr 2025

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday pledged to protect the rights of 'eligible candidates' who lost their jobs after a recent Supreme Court verdict, evoking mixed responses from the affected teachers, thousands of whom turned up to hear the leader speak but remained dangling between hope and despair after she finished.

Adani group commits Rs 1.1 trillion capital expenditure for FY26

Adani group commits Rs 1.1 trillion capital expenditure for FY26

Rediff.com24 Mar 2025

The Adani group has said it will have a capital expenditure of Rs 1.1 trillion in 2025-26 as against this financial year's Rs 92,000 crore, with a focus on core energy and infrastructure. Expenditure will be financed through an internal cash generation of Rs 60,000 crore, and the rest will be raised via equity and debt, according to senior officials.

New Pamban bridge built to withstand stronger cyclones than 1964

New Pamban bridge built to withstand stronger cyclones than 1964

Rediff.com6 Apr 2025

The newly inaugurated Pamban Bridge in Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu, is designed to withstand cyclones of greater intensity than the 1964 disaster that significantly damaged the old bridge. The new bridge features a vertical lift spanner and is built to withstand wind speeds of 230 kmph and considerable seismic loading, according to a senior official from the Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL). The bridge's construction incorporated several safety protocols, including a seated lift spanner and girders positioned well above sea level, ensuring minimal risk from high tides and cyclones.

Daggubatti, Deverakonda, booked for promoting betting apps

Daggubatti, Deverakonda, booked for promoting betting apps

Rediff.com20 Mar 2025

Six Telugu film actors, including Rana Daggubati, Prakash Raj, and Vijay Deverkonda, along with 19 social media influencers have been booked for allegedly promoting betting apps. A businessman filed a complaint alleging that the celebrities and influencers were promoting these apps on social media through pop-up ads and other means. The police registered a case under relevant sections of the BNS, Gaming Act, and IT Act based on the complaint and are planning to issue notices to those named in the FIR.

'There Was Something Beautiful About The Two People'

'There Was Something Beautiful About The Two People'

Rediff.com21 May 2025

'In a world which is full of categories, hatred and ideologies, there was this basic decency.'

Khalistani attack on Indian Commission: 1 held in London

Khalistani attack on Indian Commission: 1 held in London

Rediff.com5 Oct 2023

Scotland Yard has arrested a man on suspicion of 'violent disorder' in connection with an attack on the Indian High Commission in London in March this year.

Three firms seek CCI nod to acquire stakes in Akasa Air

Three firms seek CCI nod to acquire stakes in Akasa Air

Rediff.com20 Feb 2025

Tech tycoon Azim Premji's global investment arm, Manipal Group Chief Ranjan Pai's family office and 360 ONE Asset have sought approval from fair trade regulator CCI to acquire stakes in domestic carrier Akasa Air's parent company SNV Aviation. "The proposed transaction involves the acquisition of certain shareholding by each of PIOF, Claypond and 360 Fund (through its various schemes and affiliates) in Akasa Air," said a notice filed with the Competition Commission of India (CCI) on Wednesday.

Top MFs paid 10-18% higher commissions to distributors

Top MFs paid 10-18% higher commissions to distributors

Rediff.com19 Jul 2023

The top three mutual funds (MFs) paid out 10-18 per cent higher commissions to distributors during the financial year 2022-23 (FY23) compared to FY22 as a sustained rise in flows from the systematic investment plan (SIP) route boosted distributors' share in the assets under management (AUM), according to an analysis of the disclosures by the top three fund houses. State Bank of India (SBI) MF saw its commission payout go up 18 per cent year-on-year (YoY) to Rs 1,675 crore. The payouts rose 10 per cent and 15 per cent for ICICI Prudential MF and HDFC MF, respectively.

How Many Lok Sabha Seats Will South India Lose In 2029?

How Many Lok Sabha Seats Will South India Lose In 2029?

Rediff.com6 Mar 2025

'Kerala will lose 6 seats, Tamil Nadu 9 seats, Telangana and Karnataka 2 seats each, Andhra Pradesh 5 seats.'

'India's Response Will Be Big'

'India's Response Will Be Big'

Rediff.com28 Apr 2025

'Diplomatic and economic responses are first announced and then implemented. A military response is announced only after it is done.'

CEC Rajiv Kumar, a strong critic of exit polls, demits office

CEC Rajiv Kumar, a strong critic of exit polls, demits office

Rediff.com18 Feb 2025

Rajiv Kumar, the 25th chief election commissioner of India, has demitted office after a nearly three-year tenure marked by both electoral successes and allegations of bias from opposition parties. Kumar oversaw the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and the Jammu and Kashmir assembly polls, among other major elections. During his tenure, he implemented reforms across various aspects of the Election Commission's functioning, including structural, technological, capacity development, communication, international cooperation, and administration. However, he faced criticism from opposition parties and activists on several issues, including the efficacy of Electronic Voting Machines, alleged fudging of voter data, and being "lenient" on the ruling BJP. While the Commission responded to the allegations, Kumar often defended himself and the poll authority through poetry. In his farewell address, Kumar expressed concerns about the timing of petitions raising doubts over poll processes and the impact of freebie promises on the fiscal health of the state. He also criticized the practice of showing early trends on counting day by news channels, calling it "nonsense". Kumar's tenure was marked by numerous controversies, with opposition parties and activists alleging bias and irregularities. While the Election Commission defended its actions, the allegations cast a shadow over his time in office.

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.

Modi launches India's first vertical lift sea bridge in TN, Stalin opts out

Modi launches India's first vertical lift sea bridge in TN, Stalin opts out

Rediff.com6 Apr 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Pamban sea bridge, providing rail link between Rameswaram island and the mainland and flagged off the new Rameswaram-Tambaram (Chennai) train service. The bridge is India's first vertical sea-lift bridge, spanning 2.08 kilometers, and includes a 72.5-meter-long vertical lift span that can be raised up to 17 meters, allowing the smooth passage of large ships while ensuring seamless train operations. Built at a cost of over Rs 550 crore, the bridge features stainless steel reinforcement, high-grade paint, and fully welded joints, enhancing durability while reducing maintenance requirements. The bridge is a remarkable blend of tradition and technology.

'Fortis plans to add 700 beds in FY25'

'Fortis plans to add 700 beds in FY25'

Rediff.com12 Jun 2024

'Our priority remains brownfield expansion, and in the next few years, we plan to increase our capacity to around 6,000 beds.'

Judicial panel members may reach Sambhal today to probe violence

Judicial panel members may reach Sambhal today to probe violence

Rediff.com1 Dec 2024

Two members of a three-member judicial commission formed by the Uttar Pradesh government to investigate the November 24 violence in Sambhal arrived in Moradabad on Saturday and are expected to visit the violence-hit town on Sunday. The commission, headed by retired Allahabad High Court judge Devendra Kumar Arora, has been tasked with determining if the clashes were spontaneous or a planned conspiracy and assessing the police and administration's response. The commission will also analyze the events leading to the violence and recommend measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

India's 2036 Games bid: 'It should uplift and deliver benefits'

India's 2036 Games bid: 'It should uplift and deliver benefits'

Rediff.com15 Mar 2025

'...we say that sport is this great phenomenon that is so wonderful and it's healthy and it's good for us all. Let's make sure that it doesn't bring suffering or disadvantage to anybody because of a major event that's come.'

The Diplomat Review: John Abraham Plays It Safe

The Diplomat Review: John Abraham Plays It Safe

Rediff.com14 Mar 2025

The possibilities of this serviceable thriller are immense but the makers prefer to play it safe and hold back the daredevil in the diplomat's clothing, observes Sukanya Verma.

Review: The Waking Of A Nation: Boring!

Review: The Waking Of A Nation: Boring!

Rediff.com7 Mar 2025

Ram Madhvani's series is all over the place and also boring to watch, complains Deepa Gahlot.

NIA focuses Rana probe on Lashkar link; may take him to key locations

NIA focuses Rana probe on Lashkar link; may take him to key locations

Rediff.com11 Apr 2025

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has begun questioning Tahawwur Hussain Rana, the mastermind behind the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, to uncover the larger conspiracy behind the deadly strikes. Rana, who was extradited from the US, is being held at the NIA headquarters in New Delhi. The interrogation is focused on his possible connection with the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and his suspected links with the Pakistani spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).

Next Maha Kumbh could be on sand as rivers may dry up: Sonam Wangchuk to Modi

Next Maha Kumbh could be on sand as rivers may dry up: Sonam Wangchuk to Modi

Rediff.com26 Feb 2025

Wangchuk rued that over the years, glacial ice has been receding but action remains delayed.

How Scammers Steal Your Money: 5 Red Flags To Watch Out For

How Scammers Steal Your Money: 5 Red Flags To Watch Out For

Rediff.com24 Mar 2025

Fraudsters read your mind, weave convincing stories, earn your trust and then vanish with people's savings. Ramalingam Kalirajan reveals five simple tricks that cons use to steal money from you.

JSW Steel becomes world's most valuable steelmaker with $30.3 bn mcap

JSW Steel becomes world's most valuable steelmaker with $30.3 bn mcap

Rediff.com26 Mar 2025

JSW Steel, owned by Sajjan Jindal, has emerged as the world's most valuable steelmaker, boasting a market capitalisation (mcap) of nearly $30.31 billion, according to Bloomberg data.

After cement, Adani and Birla are set for a face-off in the wires and cable biz

After cement, Adani and Birla are set for a face-off in the wires and cable biz

Rediff.com30 Mar 2025

After cement, billionaire Gautam Adani's group and Kumar Mangalam Birla's Aditya Birla Group are set for a face-off in the wires and cable business with both conglomerates announcing forays into the high double-digit growth sector.

Consider weather, climate while planning 'one nation, one poll': IMD

Consider weather, climate while planning 'one nation, one poll': IMD

Rediff.com7 Apr 2024

Some India states are likely to record a significantly higher number of heatwave days, according to the national weather body.

Remembering Dr Singh, Finance Minister

Remembering Dr Singh, Finance Minister

Rediff.com31 Jan 2025

'The critical event signalling a new era for India was Dr Singh's 1991 Budget in which he quoted Victor Hugo to say that no power on earth could stop an idea whose time has come,' recalls T N Ninan.

Valuations support ICICI Prudential Life despite margin challenges

Valuations support ICICI Prudential Life despite margin challenges

Rediff.com30 Jan 2025

ICICI Prudential Life Insurance (IPRU) disappointed the market even though some analysts said the Q3FY25 results were in line. Most analysts cut margin estimates. The insurer reported M9FY25 growth of 8.5 per cent year-on-year (Y-o-Y) in value of new business (VNB) premium to Rs 1,575 crore, while total annual premium equivalent (APE) grew 27.2 per cent to Rs 6,910 crore.

Localisation saved Hyundai Rs 5,700 cr in forex since 2019

Localisation saved Hyundai Rs 5,700 cr in forex since 2019

Rediff.com22 Jan 2025

Hyundai Motor India Ltd (HMIL) has since 2019 saved around Rs 5,700 crore in foreign exchange (forex) by locally manufacturing or sourcing more than 1,200 components, including battery packs for electric vehicles, said a senior executive of the automaker. The company's efforts for Aatmanirbhar Bharat, the government's campaign for domestic manufacturing, have resulted in a localisation rate of 92 percent in India, said Gopalakrishnan Chathapuram Sivaramakrishnan, whole-time director and chief manufacturing officer at HMIL.

ASI seeks control of Sambhal mosque post violence, cites heritage status

ASI seeks control of Sambhal mosque post violence, cites heritage status

Rediff.com1 Dec 2024

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has sought control and management of the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, citing its status as a protected heritage structure. The request comes after violence erupted during a court-ordered survey of the mosque, which was linked to a petition claiming that a Harihar temple once stood at the site. The ASI has argued that unauthorized changes to the mosque's structure by the management committee are unlawful and should be restricted. A three-member judicial commission has been formed to probe the violence and is expected to visit Sambhal on Sunday.

How Dr Manmohan Singh became India's 'reforms' man

How Dr Manmohan Singh became India's 'reforms' man

Rediff.com27 Dec 2024

He drew the roadmap of India's economic reform, unshackled it from the licence raj and pulled it back from the brink when even its gold reserve was pledged.

Ready for another language war, warns Stalin

Ready for another language war, warns Stalin

Rediff.com25 Feb 2025

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin on Tuesday warned of "another language war" amid the ongoing Hindi imposition row, stating that the state is "ready" for it. He also expressed concerns about the potential loss of Lok Sabha seats due to the proposed delimitation process, which he believes will disadvantage states that have successfully implemented population control measures. Stalin has called for an all-party meeting on March 5 to discuss the issue, urging unity across political lines to address the perceived threat to Tamil Nadu's representation in Parliament.

Kho Kho at the Olympics?

Kho Kho at the Olympics?

Rediff.com22 Jan 2025

Mansukh Mandaviya pitches for kho kho's inclusion in Asian Games, 2036 Olympics

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.

'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.'

Speeches brainwashing youth serious, says HC; rejects terror accused's plea

Speeches brainwashing youth serious, says HC; rejects terror accused's plea

Rediff.com30 Dec 2024

The appellant argued though he was held guilty of indulging in preparatory acts for the commission of a terrorist act and recruiting persons for terrorist act, there was no evidence to show he committed such acts.

Is Kunal Kamra obsessed with controversies?

Is Kunal Kamra obsessed with controversies?

Rediff.com24 Mar 2025

Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has once again found himself at the center of a controversy, this time for his comments about Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Kamra has been a controversial figure for years, with his comedy often targeting politicians and other public figures. This latest incident has led to a backlash from Shinde's supporters, who have vandalized the venue of Kamra's show. Kamra has a history of making controversial remarks, including heckling a TV anchor on a flight and making comments about the judiciary.

Why are we giving $21 million to India?: Trump on DOGE cut

Why are we giving $21 million to India?: Trump on DOGE cut

Rediff.com19 Feb 2025

Trump made these remarks after Elon Musk-led DOGE's (Department of Government Efficiency) disclosed that USAID contributed USD 21 million to Election Commission for boosting voter turnout.

Punjab: Grenade attack on BJP leader's home, 2 held; ISI link suspected

Punjab: Grenade attack on BJP leader's home, 2 held; ISI link suspected

Rediff.com8 Apr 2025

A loud sound was heard at around 1 am outside Kalia's residence near Shastri Market in Jalandhar, police said, adding that no one was hurt in the incident.

Punjab govt cracks down on farmer leaders ahead of protest

Punjab govt cracks down on farmer leaders ahead of protest

Rediff.com4 Mar 2025

Ahead of their planned protest in Chandigarh on March 5, several Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) leaders were detained in early morning raids at their residences on Tuesday and Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann denounced the agitating farmer unions, saying they have turned Punjab into a 'state of dharnas' and caused huge losses to it.

British MP moves motion on 'Kashmiri Pandit genocide'

British MP moves motion on 'Kashmiri Pandit genocide'

Rediff.com18 Jan 2025

A British MP has tabled a parliamentary motion in the House of Commons to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the "genocide of Kashmiri Pandit Hindus from Jammu and Kashmir in India." The motion, which calls for recognition and justice for the events of January 1990, has been met with support from other MPs. The motion condemns the attacks on the Hindu population of Kashmir Valley and calls for the Indian government to enact a bill to punish the perpetrators.

'We Will Have A Mutually Beneficial Trade Agreement'

'We Will Have A Mutually Beneficial Trade Agreement'

Rediff.com18 Feb 2025

'The US has agreed to negotiate with us a mutually beneficial bilateral trade agreement, which will go for reduction of tariffs on both sides so that our trade can grow.'