News for 'Aspirational India'

Government Coaching Plan May Pressure Coaching Centres

Government Coaching Plan May Pressure Coaching Centres

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

'If a student can get a good teacher, quality content and mock tests at no cost, it becomes very hard for a mid-tier coaching centre to keep charging for the same lecture.'

Tripura's Asmita Dey Secures India's First Women's Judo Gold

Tripura's Asmita Dey Secures India's First Women's Judo Gold

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

Judoka Asmita Dey from Tripura has won a gold medal in the women's 48 kg category at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, marking a historic first for an Indian woman judoka. Chief Minister Manik Saha and Sports Minister Tinku Roy congratulated Dey, highlighting her achievement as an inspiration for the nation.

'Setbacks are part of the journey': Neeraj Chopra

'Setbacks are part of the journey': Neeraj Chopra

Rediff.com7 days ago

Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra has announced he will miss the remainder of the 2026 season, including the Asian Games, after sustaining a ligament tear in his ankle during training. This injury is a significant setback for India's athletics campaign.

'Dream come true': India's hockey debutants open up

'Dream come true': India's hockey debutants open up

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Five young Indian women's hockey players - Ishika, Lalthantluangi, Sakshi Rana, Shilpi Dabas, and Sunelita Toppo - are set to make their World Cup debut, having overcome various challenges and long waits to reach this significant milestone.

Should Sarfaraz Khan Make India's Playing XI at Galle?

Should Sarfaraz Khan Make India's Playing XI at Galle?

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

As India prepares for their two-match Test series against Sri Lanka starting August 15, the team management faces critical decisions regarding their playing XI to bolster their World Test Championship 2027 final aspirations.

Why Test Cricket Remains The Mother Of All Formats

Why Test Cricket Remains The Mother Of All Formats

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

Former India fast bowler Javagal Srinath has underscored the critical role of Test cricket in developing depth within the game, despite the growing popularity of the T20 format. Speaking at an awards ceremony, Srinath advised young players to prioritise Test cricket, noting the difficulty for T20 specialists to transition to the longer format. He also stressed the responsibility of cricket associations, parents, and coaches in guiding emerging talent.

Why India Has No Hockey Umpire or Official at 2026 World Cup

Why India Has No Hockey Umpire or Official at 2026 World Cup

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

For the first time since 1998, no Indian umpire or technical official will be present at the FIH Men's Hockey World Cup, a situation that has left former international officials disappointed and calling for a structured pathway to develop and support Indian officiating talent.

British parentage, Indian ownership: The Royal Enfield Story

British parentage, Indian ownership: The Royal Enfield Story

Rediff.com1 days ago

"When Royal Enfield turned 100, we were struggling for survival"

Yohaan Benjamin's European Dream Takes Shape With Guarda FC Signing

Yohaan Benjamin's European Dream Takes Shape With Guarda FC Signing

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Mumbai-born Indian youth international Yohaan Benjamin has signed a two-year deal with Portuguese club Guarda FC, marking a significant step in his European football career. This move aligns with Guarda FC's strategy to develop talent from emerging football markets like India. Benjamin, a midfielder, previously played for Shillong Lajong, where he achieved success in the Shillong Premier League.

Modi urges people to take 'developed India' pledge on I-Day

Modi urges people to take 'developed India' pledge on I-Day

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called upon citizens to celebrate Independence Day with honour and pride, urging them to take a pledge for a developed India. This appeal comes amidst parliamentary sessions marked by protests from both ruling and opposition alliances.

KSLTA World Tennis Junior J30 Bengaluru: Young Indian Talent Gears Up For Qualifying Rounds

KSLTA World Tennis Junior J30 Bengaluru: Young Indian Talent Gears Up For Qualifying Rounds

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

The KSLTA World Tennis Junior J30 Bengaluru is set to begin with qualifying rounds, offering promising young Indian tennis players a chance to compete for main draw berths. The event, hosted by the Karnataka State Lawn Tennis Association, will feature both boys' and girls' qualifying draws, with wildcards providing local talent an opportunity to gain international experience and ITF Junior ranking points.

From accidental shooter to Asian Games: Army man Kedarling's incredible journey

From accidental shooter to Asian Games: Army man Kedarling's incredible journey

Rediff.com5 days ago

Naib Subedar Kedarling Balakrishna Uchaganve, a 27-year-old from a farming village in Karnataka, is set to represent India at the Asian Games in shooting, a sport he discovered only after joining the Indian Army in 2018 with no prior sporting ambition.

'China's Biggest Threat Is Not America, But The Dalai Lama'

'China's Biggest Threat Is Not America, But The Dalai Lama'

Rediff.com2 days ago

'I know China will implode. It is scientifically impossible for China to control a nation through the barrel of a gun.'

Badminton Star Saina Nehwal Open to Future in Electoral Politics

Badminton Star Saina Nehwal Open to Future in Electoral Politics

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

Badminton legend Saina Nehwal has expressed her openness to entering electoral politics in the future, stating her desire to contribute to India's development and continue serving the nation beyond her sporting career.

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.

Ravindra Jadeja Shares Crucial Advice With Test Debutant Saransh Jain

Ravindra Jadeja Shares Crucial Advice With Test Debutant Saransh Jain

Rediff.com23 Aug 2026

Veteran Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja advised debutant Saransh Jain to treat his maiden Test match as another First-Class game, urging him to enjoy the moment without pressure. Saransh, the 320th player to represent India in Tests, expressed his happiness at receiving his cap from an all-rounder like Jadeja and dedicated his cricketing journey to his father.

NEET UG Counselling 2026: Govt Vs Private MBBS College: Which Is Better?

NEET UG Counselling 2026: Govt Vs Private MBBS College: Which Is Better?

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

High fees do not automatically translate into better teaching or stronger clinical exposure, points out Nayagam PP, career counsellor and founder of EduJob360.

Luxury Cars Get Costlier, Used Demand Surges

Luxury Cars Get Costlier, Used Demand Surges

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Repeated increases in new luxury-car prices, driven partly by the rupee's depreciation against the euro, are expanding the market for certified pre-owned vehicles.

Shehbaz present as Modi warns SCO: No double standards on terror

Shehbaz present as Modi warns SCO: No double standards on terror

Rediff.com3 days ago

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the SCO summit in Bishkek, called for a united front against terrorism and its financing, rejecting double standards. He emphasised resolving conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy, not battlefields. Modi also highlighted that connectivity projects must respect national sovereignty and territorial integrity, a veiled reference to China's Belt and Road Initiative. India's vision for SCO rests on security, connectivity, and opportunity.

I'm Game Review: Squanders Killer Premise

I'm Game Review: Squanders Killer Premise

Rediff.com1 days ago

I'm Game starts with a wickedly fun possessed-hand premise and plenty of style, only to lose its grip in a predictable second half.

'The ultimate goal is the Olympics': Arundhati after CWG gold

'The ultimate goal is the Olympics': Arundhati after CWG gold

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

Indian pugilists Arundhati Choudhary and Jaismine Lamboria, both Commonwealth Games 2026 gold medallists, shared their experiences and overwhelming reception following their historic victories in Glasgow, with Choudhary setting her sights on an Olympic medal.

Why Ravindra Jadeja Could Be India's Key Weapon In Sri Lanka Tests

Why Ravindra Jadeja Could Be India's Key Weapon In Sri Lanka Tests

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Batting great Cheteshwar Pujara believes veteran spinner Ravindra Jadeja's recent shift to a more aggressive, wicket-taking mindset in red-ball cricket will make him a vital player for India during the upcoming two-Test series in Sri Lanka.

How Ariha Pangambam Conquered Challenges To Win Historic Gold

How Ariha Pangambam Conquered Challenges To Win Historic Gold

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Ariha Pangambam from Manipur has made history by becoming the first Indian to win a gold medal in the senior women's individual event at the Aerobic Gymnastics Asian Championships. The 22-year-old gymnast expressed pride in her achievement, hoping to inspire young athletes, and shared insights into the challenges faced during the competition, including adapting to a wooden floor, and her journey from artistic to aerobic gymnastics.

Pak summons US envoy, lodges strong protest over Sergio Gor's J-K remarks

Pak summons US envoy, lodges strong protest over Sergio Gor's J-K remarks

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Pakistan summoned US Charge d'Affaires Natalie Baker to lodge a "strong demarche" following remarks by US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, who stated that Jammu and Kashmir is an important part of India. Pakistan's Foreign Office condemned Gor's characterisation, asserting that Jammu and Kashmir is an internationally recognised disputed territory and that the US ambassador's statement contradicted the US's long-standing position and commitment to international law.

Major Roster Changes For Indian Athletics Team At Asian Games

Major Roster Changes For Indian Athletics Team At Asian Games

Rediff.com2 days ago

The Indian athletics team for the upcoming Asian Games in Japan has undergone significant changes. Commonwealth Games medallist Yashvir Singh replaces an injured Neeraj Chopra, while long-distance runner Abhishek Pal has been dropped due to an alleged doping offence. Tejas Shirse is also out due to injury. The final team comprises 77 members, with six new additions. The Athletics Federation of India is aiming for 25-30 medals.

How AI And A Smartphone Could Change Cricket Coaching

How AI And A Smartphone Could Change Cricket Coaching

Rediff.com1 days ago

Can AI transform grassroots 'If technology can help develop players a little quicker and make coaching more informed, then it has done its job.'

How K L Rahul's advice helped this UP batter overcome tough times

How K L Rahul's advice helped this UP batter overcome tough times

Rediff.com4 days ago

Kashi Rudras captain Karan Sharma revealed that a conversation with KL Rahul during his Lucknow Super Giants stint profoundly influenced his cricketing philosophy, with Rahul's advice to prioritise the process over results helping him navigate challenging phases and slumps.

Jantar Mantar protests reflect 'systemic failures': RSS

Jantar Mantar protests reflect 'systemic failures': RSS

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) recently held a three-day coordination meeting in Visakhapatnam, where senior leader C R Mukunda highlighted discussions on demographic imbalance, its impact on social harmony, recent youth protests, and underlying systemic failures. The Sangh believes these issues, including exam irregularities like NEET, point to broader administrative and institutional shortcomings that require constructive efforts from both government and society.

How Indian Army Athletes Secured 16 Medals At Commonwealth Games

How Indian Army Athletes Secured 16 Medals At Commonwealth Games

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

The Indian Army celebrated the exceptional performance of its athletes at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026, where a contingent of 20 Army athletes secured 16 medals, including eight gold. This achievement highlights the Army's dedication to fostering world-class sporting talent and advancing India's athletic ambitions, particularly through initiatives like Mission Olympics 2036.

Jharkhand protests: 3 FIRs filed against 39 named, 900 unnamed people

Jharkhand protests: 3 FIRs filed against 39 named, 900 unnamed people

Rediff.com23 Aug 2026

Three FIRs have been lodged against 39 named and more than 900 unnamed people in connection with clashes that broke out between the police and protesting job aspirants in Jharkhand's Giridih and Hazaribag, officials said on Sunday.

Virat Kohli's Independence Day Message Has One Big Wish

Virat Kohli's Independence Day Message Has One Big Wish

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli, along with other prominent sports personalities like VVS Laxman, Mithali Raj, and Suresh Raina, extended heartfelt wishes to the nation on its 80th Independence Day, celebrating India's freedom, diversity, and the spirit that unites its people.

Ladakh sets precedent with 4 percent job reservation for outstanding sportspersons

Ladakh sets precedent with 4 percent job reservation for outstanding sportspersons

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Ladakh has approved a four per cent reservation for outstanding sportspersons in Group 'C' government jobs, becoming the first Union Territory in India to implement such a fixed quota. This initiative aims to provide financial security and career opportunities for talented athletes, fostering an ecosystem where sporting excellence is recognised and rewarded.

Cricket Fraternity Extends Independence Day Greetings

Cricket Fraternity Extends Independence Day Greetings

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Indian men's cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir, the BCCI, and former cricketer Irfan Pathan led tributes on India's 80th Independence Day, honouring freedom fighters and extending greetings to all Indians.

US Visa Pause Clouds Travel Plans

US Visa Pause Clouds Travel Plans

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

'One important clarification is that the reported US action is not a blanket cancellation of all US tourist visas.'

Protest vs Protest: NDA, Oppn MPs face-off outside Parl

Protest vs Protest: NDA, Oppn MPs face-off outside Parl

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

A heated parliamentary showdown unfolded as NDA and INDIA bloc MPs clashed at Parliament's main gate.

Govt forms panel for 'permanent political solution' to Gorkha issue

Govt forms panel for 'permanent political solution' to Gorkha issue

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

The Centre has established a committee to draft an agreement and finalise modalities for a 'permanent political solution' to the Gorkha identity issue in the Darjeeling hills and adjoining areas, following a tripartite meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Gorkha leaders, and the West Bengal government.

CJP to hold protest march in Delhi on Sep 5; NEET victims' kin to join

CJP to hold protest march in Delhi on Sep 5; NEET victims' kin to join

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on Monday called for a protest march in Delhi on September 5, accusing the Centre of failing to honour the promises made on July 25 to convince the outfit to withdraw its 36-day agitation against examination irregularities.

Duleep Trophy: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's Big Chance To Prove Red Ball Credentials

Duleep Trophy: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's Big Chance To Prove Red Ball Credentials

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will get a golden chance to improve upon his none too impressive first class numbers when East Zone take on the severely inexperienced North East Zone in the quarter-final of the Duleep Trophy.

Sumit Sarkar: The Historian Who Transformed Indian History

Sumit Sarkar: The Historian Who Transformed Indian History

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Sumit Sarkar was never intellectually dismissive of the Hindutva project. He took it with deadly seriousness for he grasped the challenge it posed to the aspirations and ideals of the anti-imperialist movement that generated multiple imaginings of freedom and ways to attain it, recalls Pradeep Kumar Dutta.

How Zeeshan Ansari rebuilt his career after IPL stint

How Zeeshan Ansari rebuilt his career after IPL stint

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

Indian cricketer Zeeshan Ansari attributes his red-ball cricket resurgence to the invaluable lessons learned from spin legends Muttiah Muralitharan and Daniel Vettori during his stint with Sunrisers Hyderabad.