News for 'Asia Times'

'No Words Could Normalise Things': Coach on Treesa-Gayatri's Historic World Championships Medal

'No Words Could Normalise Things': Coach on Treesa-Gayatri's Historic World Championships Medal

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Indian doubles coach B Sumeeth Reddy discusses the emotional journey and struggles of Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand, who secured a historic bronze medal at the Badminton World Championships. He highlights their contrasting personalities, improved rotation, and resilience in overcoming injuries to achieve this significant milestone.

Ashish Purti's hat-trick powers India to men's Under-18 Asia Cup hockey crown

Ashish Purti's hat-trick powers India to men's Under-18 Asia Cup hockey crown

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

India's men's Under-18 hockey team defeated hosts Japan 4-1 in the final to win the Asia Cup title, with Ashish Purti scoring a hat-trick. Captain Ketan Kushwaha also scored, while Hockey India announced cash awards for the gold-winning men's team and the bronze-winning women's U-18 team.

L&T's Q1 profit jumps 14% to Rs 3,926 crore, beating estimates

L&T's Q1 profit jumps 14% to Rs 3,926 crore, beating estimates

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Larsen & Toubro (L&T) reported a 14 per cent year-on-year increase in Q1 FY27 profit attributable to owners, reaching Rs 3,926 crore, surpassing analyst estimates, despite facing significant supply-chain disruptions in West Asia.

Wholesale Price Inflation Eases to 9.78% in July, Driven by Fuel and Food Price Moderation

Wholesale Price Inflation Eases to 9.78% in July, Driven by Fuel and Food Price Moderation

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

India's wholesale price index (WPI) inflation marginally eased to 9.78 per cent in July 2026, down from 9.87 per cent in June, primarily due to a cooling in the prices of fuel, power, and food items, marking the first month-on-month drop under the new 2022-23 base year.

'Sheikh Hasina Has Pulled A Political Masterstroke'

'Sheikh Hasina Has Pulled A Political Masterstroke'

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

'After announcing that she will return to Bangladesh, if she does not, her credibility will suffer.'

Lakshya Sen leads India's charge at BWF World Championships in New Delhi

Lakshya Sen leads India's charge at BWF World Championships in New Delhi

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

Indian badminton stars Lakshya Sen, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, Chirag Shetty, and Ayush Shetty are preparing for the BWF World Championships in New Delhi. Sen, a former bronze medallist, aims for a deep run despite an inconsistent year, while the doubles pair focuses on adapting to court conditions. Rising star Ayush Shetty faces a tough opening challenge against world No. 1 Shi Yuqi, with all players expressing excitement about playing in front of a home crowd and noting improved venue conditions.

Iran vows to 'correct' Trump's Hormuz 'delusions'

Iran vows to 'correct' Trump's Hormuz 'delusions'

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Iran has strongly rejected former US President Donald Trump's assertion that the Strait of Hormuz is 'NEW U.S. TERRITORY', with top officials warning that his 'delusions' would be 'corrected' and highlighting the gap between Washington's claims and its actual influence over the strategic waterway.

West Bengal Pledges Full Support For India-Brazil Football Clash

West Bengal Pledges Full Support For India-Brazil Football Clash

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has assured the All India Football Federation of full government support to host India's biggest-ever international football fixture against five-time World Cup champions Brazil in Kolkata on October 3. This historic match will be India's first against a top-five FIFA-ranked nation, offering crucial exposure to the national team despite initial concerns over crowd management.

Will India Extradite Sheikh Hasina?

Will India Extradite Sheikh Hasina?

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

India's position appears to be anchored around three red lines: Hasina's safety and the guarantee of a fair trial; assurances that Bangladeshi territory will not be used for activities hostile to India; and the restoration of an inclusive democratic process in Bangladesh.

'There is no way out': Infantino faces FIFA revolt

'There is no way out': Infantino faces FIFA revolt

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Regional football powerhouses, including UEFA, AFC, and CONCACAF, are reportedly discussing a vote of no confidence against FIFA President Gianni Infantino. This move comes after Infantino angered them with a proposal to sell a stake in the World Cup to private investors. Despite significant opposition, Infantino retains support from some member associations, particularly from Africa, complicating any challenge to his leadership ahead of the 2027 election.

How Air India Fared Under Chandra

How Air India Fared Under Chandra

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Air India Group has accumulated losses of about Rs 47,821 crore since its takeover, leaving its prolonged transformation among the biggest unfinished projects of N Chandrasekaran's tenure.

Why is Bhutia angry over India's Brazil match?

Why is Bhutia angry over India's Brazil match?

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

The All India Football Federation's decision to field two separate teams for the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup and an international friendly against Brazil has sparked controversy.

India's Forex Kitty Swells by $10.5 Billion to $692.87 Billion

India's Forex Kitty Swells by $10.5 Billion to $692.87 Billion

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

India's foreign exchange reserves saw a significant increase of $10.512 billion, reaching $692.866 billion for the week ending July 31, driven by a rise in foreign currency assets and gold reserves.

India's young guns ready for BWF World Championships

India's young guns ready for BWF World Championships

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Ayush Shetty, Unnati Hooda, Simran Singhi, and Kavipriya Selvam are set to make their BWF World Championships debut as India hosts the prestigious badminton event after 17 years, offering a significant platform for these rising stars.

'Attack on one is attack on all': Pak, Saudi, Turkiye sign joint defence pact

'Attack on one is attack on all': Pak, Saudi, Turkiye sign joint defence pact

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye on Friday signed a key joint defence agreement under which an attack against one of them will be treated as an attack against all of them, amid increasing security concerns in the wake of escalating tensions in West Asia.

Gambhir's Future On The Line As India Eye Reset Against Spin-Heavy Sri Lanka In Galle

Gambhir's Future On The Line As India Eye Reset Against Spin-Heavy Sri Lanka In Galle

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

India's head coach Gautam Gambhir's standing in red-ball cricket faces a crucial test as the team embarks on a two-Test series against Sri Lanka.

'Crisis In The Economy Started Last Year'

'Crisis In The Economy Started Last Year'

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

'It is not because of the war in West Asia, which began on February 28.' 'Petroleum product prices are already going through the roof. They are bound to have a serious inflationary impact.' 'A country's leadership is tested in trying times. It is here that the current leadership is failing.'

Skoda Bets Big On India With CNG, Diesel and EVs

Skoda Bets Big On India With CNG, Diesel and EVs

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Skoda Auto is strategically navigating the competitive Indian automotive market by prioritising profitable growth, exploring new powertrain options like CNG and a limited diesel return, and gearing up for a locally produced electric SUV, all while expanding its retail footprint.

India's Sangram Singh Battles Pakistan's Abid Ali For MMA Championship

India's Sangram Singh Battles Pakistan's Abid Ali For MMA Championship

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Indian MMA fighter Sangram Singh is set to face Pakistan's Mohammed Abid Ali for the prestigious STRIKE Asia Champion Title in Kuala Lumpur. This highly anticipated fight marks a significant step in Singh's transition from professional wrestling to MMA, where he holds an unbeaten 3-0 record.

Faster than Don Bradman: Virat Kohli's Record-Breaking 18 Years For India

Faster than Don Bradman: Virat Kohli's Record-Breaking 18 Years For India

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Virat Kohli, who debuted 18 years ago, has amassed over 28,000 international runs and 85 centuries, establishing himself as one of cricket's all-time greats with numerous unmatched records across all formats.

Mohun Bagan to face East Bengal in 2026 Durand Cup opener

Mohun Bagan to face East Bengal in 2026 Durand Cup opener

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

The Trophy Tour for the 135th Durand Cup has concluded in Kolkata, marking the final stop before Asia's oldest football tournament begins. Kolkata will host 16 matches, including the highly anticipated Kolkata Derby and the final. The tournament features 24 teams from across five cities, with West Bengal sports minister and the organising committee chairman emphasising the city's deep connection to football and the tournament's legacy.

Davis Cup: India To Battle South Korea On Hard Courts

Davis Cup: India To Battle South Korea On Hard Courts

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

India will face South Korea in the Davis Cup Qualifiers Round 2 on September 18-19 in Seoul. South Korea, ranked 16th, chose hard courts for the tie, a surface they traditionally prefer. India, ranked 19th, secured their spot with a dramatic win over the Netherlands, while Korea upset Argentina. The winner of this tie will advance to the Davis Cup Final 8 in November.

Apple achieves record June quarter revenue, but faces challenges

Apple achieves record June quarter revenue, but faces challenges

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Tech giant Apple reported a record June quarter revenue of USD 109.4 billion, a 16 per cent year-on-year increase, with significant double-digit growth in emerging markets like India. However, the company anticipates business risks in the coming quarters due to rising memory chip prices and ongoing supply constraints.

Iran's supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei critical, hospitalised: Israeli media

Iran's supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei critical, hospitalised: Israeli media

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Reports have surfaced in Israeli media claiming that Iranian supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei is in critical condition and has been rushed to a hospital.

Harmanpreet Singh is India's 'trump card' at Hockey World Cup, says Jugraj Singh

Harmanpreet Singh is India's 'trump card' at Hockey World Cup, says Jugraj Singh

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Former India drag-flicker Jugraj Singh has lauded current captain Harmanpreet Singh as a 'trump card' for the upcoming FIH World Cup, citing his aggressive playing style and consistent performance in crucial moments. Jugraj, who sees his own reflection in Harmanpreet's game, rates him among the world's top three drag-flickers and believes the team is well-prepared to end India's long wait for a World Cup medal.

Microsoft Boosts India's Digital Infrastructure With Fourth Cloud Region

Microsoft Boosts India's Digital Infrastructure With Fourth Cloud Region

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Microsoft has launched its fourth cloud region in India, located in Hyderabad, significantly expanding its hyperscale cloud presence. This move is part of a USD 20.5-billion investment in India's digital and AI infrastructure, aiming to support the country's rapid digital growth and meet increasing demand from major enterprises.

Retail inflation climbs to 4.45% in July, driven by soaring food prices

Retail inflation climbs to 4.45% in July, driven by soaring food prices

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

India's retail inflation, measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), rose to 4.45 per cent in July, up from 4.38 per cent in June, primarily due to higher food prices, particularly onions and ginger. This marks the second consecutive month the inflation rate has remained above the Reserve Bank's median target.

PSBs' Profit Nearly Trebles in Five Years to Record Rs 1.98 Trillion

PSBs' Profit Nearly Trebles in Five Years to Record Rs 1.98 Trillion

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

India's public sector banks (PSBs) have seen their net profit nearly treble over the past five years, reaching a record Rs 1.98 trillion in FY26, driven by significant improvements in asset quality and sustained lending growth across key economic sectors.

32 dead as as 7.8 magnitude earthquake hits Philippines; triggers tsunami warnings across Southeast Asia

32 dead as as 7.8 magnitude earthquake hits Philippines; triggers tsunami warnings across Southeast Asia

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

A powerful 7.8-magnitude offshore earthquake struck the southern Philippines, killing at least four people, injuring over 200, damaging buildings, and triggering tsunami warnings across parts of Southeast Asia.

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

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

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

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.

India's Forex Reserves Jump by $6.12 Billion to $682.35 Billion

India's Forex Reserves Jump by $6.12 Billion to $682.35 Billion

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

India's foreign exchange reserves increased by USD 6.118 billion, reaching USD 682.354 billion for the week ending July 24, according to the Reserve Bank of India.

Tilak Varma: 'My play is based on conditions and match situations'

Tilak Varma: 'My play is based on conditions and match situations'

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

India T20 vice-captain Tilak Varma stated that his batting approach is dictated by conditions and match situations, especially after the team's struggles with early wickets in the UK and Ireland. He emphasised the responsibility of playing for the country and adapting to overseas conditions after extensive play in Asia.

BWF Worlds: Ayush Shetty reveals his plan to take on Shi Yuqi

BWF Worlds: Ayush Shetty reveals his plan to take on Shi Yuqi

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Young Indian shuttler Ayush Shetty is actively working to transform his 'natural laid-back approach' into a more aggressive playing style as he prepares for his World Championship debut, where he faces current world No. 1 Shi Yuqi of China in his opening match.

Microsoft's Hyderabad Data Centre Goes Live, Bolstering India's AI Ambitions

Microsoft's Hyderabad Data Centre Goes Live, Bolstering India's AI Ambitions

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Microsoft has announced the activation of its latest data centre in Hyderabad, significantly expanding its Cloud infrastructure in India and enabling organisations to leverage AI-era services with enhanced local choice and security.

Can India Become New Power Centre Of Global Chess?

Can India Become New Power Centre Of Global Chess?

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

'India should hold several high-level chess tournaments that would attract the world's top players so that the country will have a say in the game.'

Indian nationals urged to put off Iran travel amid tensions

Indian nationals urged to put off Iran travel amid tensions

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

India has advised its nationals to postpone travel to Iran and urged those already there to consider leaving due to increasing instability and conflict in the region. The advisory from the Indian Embassy in Tehran highlights heightened caution and the need to monitor the security situation.

Shipping firms asked to avoid sending Indian sailors on vessels through Hormuz

Shipping firms asked to avoid sending Indian sailors on vessels through Hormuz

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

The Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) has instructed shipping companies to avoid deploying Indian sailors on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz due to the ongoing West Asia crisis, following recent attacks on two vessels carrying Indian seafarers.

West Asia crisis fuels EV boom, Tatas ramp up output by 50%

West Asia crisis fuels EV boom, Tatas ramp up output by 50%

Rediff.com29 May 2026

"There is a sharp jump that we have seen in bookings of EVs... The jump, at least in our case, in just two months, it is about 2 to 2.5 times of what it used to be"

Shakib Al Hasan's Home Attacked After Sheikh Hasina Vows Return to Bangladesh

Shakib Al Hasan's Home Attacked After Sheikh Hasina Vows Return to Bangladesh

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Former Bangladesh cricket captain Shakib Al Hasan's ancestral home was attacked with petrol bombs and smashed windows after he participated in an online media interaction where ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina vowed to return to Bangladesh despite facing a death sentence.

Lodha Developers targets Rs 10,000 crore from Palava data centre park land sales

Lodha Developers targets Rs 10,000 crore from Palava data centre park land sales

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Lodha Developers plans to generate approximately 10,000 crore in sales over the next three to four years by monetising about 150 acres of land at its data centre park in Palava, part of the Mumbai metropolitan region (MMR). This strategy is a planned recurring pillar of their business, funding the build-out of 1 gigawatt of powered shell capacity and aiming for over 2,000 crore in annual rental income by FY32.