News for 'Assistant Secretary of State'

Kerala Minister's Infidelity Allegations Put Ruling LDF on Defensive

Kerala Minister's Infidelity Allegations Put Ruling LDF on Defensive

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

The ruling LDF in Kerala faces criticism after infidelity allegations against Transport Minister K B Ganesh Kumar surfaced, with the opposition UDF questioning the government's response and commitment to women's safety.

Top Maoist commander Devji carrying Rs 1 crore bounty surrenders

Top Maoist commander Devji carrying Rs 1 crore bounty surrenders

Rediff.com22 Feb 2026

Top Maoist commander Thippiri Tirupati alias Devji has surrendered to police, marking a significant blow to the outlawed organisation. His surrender comes ahead of the Union government's deadline to eliminate Naxalism.

SC Orders Special Probe into Haryana Rape Case, Slams Police Handling

SC Orders Special Probe into Haryana Rape Case, Slams Police Handling

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

The Supreme Court has criticised Haryana Police and Gurugram's Child Welfare Committee for their handling of a three-year-old's rape case, ordering a special investigation team and a fair probe.

Exclusive Interview/US Assistant Secretary of State Robert Blake

Exclusive Interview/US Assistant Secretary of State Robert Blake

Rediff.com28 Aug 2009

'This is the first State visit in the Obama administration which is a signal of the importance we attach to our relations with India,' Robert Blake, US Assistant Secretary of South Asian Affairs, tells Aziz Haniffa.

'Direct fertiliser subsidy transfer very much on table'

'Direct fertiliser subsidy transfer very much on table'

Rediff.com17 Feb 2026

On Agri Stack, Expenditure Secy V Vualnam says it's progressing well; using IT, farmers will be able to choose exact fertiliser quantities needed, reducing crowding at fertiliser outlets.

The Clock In Islamabad Is Ticking. And The World Is Watching Anxiously...

The Clock In Islamabad Is Ticking. And The World Is Watching Anxiously...

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

The delegations from the US and Iran head to Islamabad on Friday, carrying a ceasefire that is already fraying, a Strait that is technically open and practically closed, and a negotiating agenda that would challenge even parties actually negotiating in good faith, which these groups are not. Prem Panicker continues his must read blog on the Iran War.

TMC to Connect with Voters in SC/ST-Majority Areas

TMC to Connect with Voters in SC/ST-Majority Areas

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has announced a 60-day mass outreach program targeting Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe-majority assembly constituencies in West Bengal, accusing the BJP of depriving the state of funds and disrespecting marginalized communities.

'Not a case of love-jihad, didn't convert: Viral Kumbh Mela girl

'Not a case of love-jihad, didn't convert: Viral Kumbh Mela girl

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

Actress Monalisa Bhonsle, who gained fame at the Prayagraj Kumbh Mela, has denied reports that she is underage following her marriage in Kerala. She asserts she is 18 and legally married.

India, France seal Hammer missile deal, renew defence ties

India, France seal Hammer missile deal, renew defence ties

Rediff.com18 Feb 2026

India and France have renewed their 10-year defence cooperation agreement and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the joint manufacturing of Hammer missiles in India, marking a significant step in strengthening their strategic partnership.

'First after WWII': US submarine sinks Iranian ship off Sri Lanka

'First after WWII': US submarine sinks Iranian ship off Sri Lanka

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

At least 101 people are missing and 78 are injured after a suspected submarine attack on an Iranian naval ship off Sri Lanka's southern coast on Wednesday, Reuters quoted sources in Sri Lanka's Navy and defence ministry as saying.

PV Sindhu Describes 'Scary' Dubai Airport Experience Amid Gulf Crisis

PV Sindhu Describes 'Scary' Dubai Airport Experience Amid Gulf Crisis

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu recounts a 'tense and scary' experience at Dubai International Airport after an explosion occurred nearby, amidst escalating tensions in the Gulf region.

Karnataka CM Asks Modi to Ensure Safety of Indians in Middle East

Karnataka CM Asks Modi to Ensure Safety of Indians in Middle East

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take measures to protect Indian citizens in the Middle East due to escalating geopolitical tensions, including initiating evacuation plans and enhancing diplomatic efforts.

Sri Lanka Permits Second Iranian Ship Entry After Frigate Incident

Sri Lanka Permits Second Iranian Ship Entry After Frigate Incident

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

Sri Lanka has allowed a second Iranian ship, IRINS Bushehr, to dock at Trincomalee port after it reported engine failure, following the sinking of an Iranian frigate. The move comes amidst heightened regional tensions and a joint US-Israeli attack on Iran.

Will Trump's 5 Day Pause End The War On Friday?

Will Trump's 5 Day Pause End The War On Friday?

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

'Was the five-day pause ever meant to hold, or was it simply another instrument of signaling, of positioning, of buying time in a war where even the pauses are tactical?' asks Prem Panicker in his must read daily blog on the Gulf War.

'We're safe, but there is a bit of worry': Sindhu's coach Irwansyahh

'We're safe, but there is a bit of worry': Sindhu's coach Irwansyahh

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

Indonesian coach Irwansyah Adi Pratama, who trains P V Sindhu, had a narrow escape after an explosion occurred close to where they were stationed at Dubai Airport while travelling to Birmingham for the All England Championships.

Sindhu's Coach Safe After Dubai Airport Explosion

Sindhu's Coach Safe After Dubai Airport Explosion

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

Indonesian coach Irwansyah Adi Pratama, who trains P V Sindhu, had a narrow escape after an explosion occurred close to where they were stationed at Dubai Airport while travelling to Birmingham for the All England Championships.

Rubio dials Jaishankar, Pak army chief; offers assistance

Rubio dials Jaishankar, Pak army chief; offers assistance

Rediff.com10 May 2025

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke separately with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce said in a statement early Saturday.

Ladki Bahin dole amid civic polls sparks row in Maha; Oppn protests

Ladki Bahin dole amid civic polls sparks row in Maha; Oppn protests

Rediff.com12 Jan 2026

Maharashtra minister's announcement regarding the disbursement of financial aid under the Ladki Bahin Yojana before Makar Sankranti has triggered a controversy, with the Opposition alleging a violation of the Model Code of Conduct ahead of municipal elections. The State Election Commission has sought a report on the matter.

PV Sindhu recounts 'tense' Dubai airport ordeal after explosion

PV Sindhu recounts 'tense' Dubai airport ordeal after explosion

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

Indian badminton star PV Sindhu and her coach were stranded at Dubai International Airport following an explosion near their location, triggered by escalating tensions in the Gulf region.

Suspected Nipah virus cases detected in Bengal; 2 nurses critical

Suspected Nipah virus cases detected in Bengal; 2 nurses critical

Rediff.com12 Jan 2026

Two suspected cases of Nipah virus have been detected in West Bengal, prompting a national outbreak response team to be deployed. The central government is providing full support to the state.

Pak gangster posts video of Gurdaspur cop killing; TTK owns responsibility

Pak gangster posts video of Gurdaspur cop killing; TTK owns responsibility

Rediff.com24 Feb 2026

A Pakistan-based gangster posted a video on social media purportedly showing the killing of a police officer in Gurdaspur, near the Indo-Pak border. A terror outfit has claimed responsibility for the incident, prompting a thorough investigation by Punjab Police.

Govt moves to shield trade as Iran war chokes sea routes

Govt moves to shield trade as Iran war chokes sea routes

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

With the Iran war escalating sharply and crisis deepening in the global energy market, India on Monday unveiled a coordinated plan to support exporters and shippers caught in the fallout.

Iran moves UNSC after Trump's appeal to protesters

Iran moves UNSC after Trump's appeal to protesters

Rediff.com14 Jan 2026

Iran has formally appealed to the United Nations Security Council and the UN Secretary-General, accusing the United States of inciting violence, interfering in Iran's internal affairs, and threatening military action, according to an official letter circulated by Iran's Permanent Mission to the UN.

The Defining News Stories of 2025

The Defining News Stories of 2025

Rediff.com2 Jan 2026

2025 was a period of profound transformation across the globe. From historical leadership changes in the United States and the Vatican to groundbreaking scientific achievements and rising geopolitical tensions, these events reshaped international relations.

New Labour Codes Will Hit MSMEs Harder, Say HR Firms

New Labour Codes Will Hit MSMEs Harder, Say HR Firms

Rediff.com21 Jan 2026

For MSMEs the transition could mean higher wage bills and tougher compliance -- unless strong handholding follows reports Auhona Mukherjee.

Himachal ragging death: Asst prof suspended; NCW, UGC order probe

Himachal ragging death: Asst prof suspended; NCW, UGC order probe

Rediff.com3 Jan 2026

As outrage mounted over the death of a 19-year-old Dalit student, the Himachal Pradesh government on Saturday suspended an assistant professor booked on charges of sexually harassing her and announced an inquiry into allegations, including those of ragging and cast related abuse of the victim, while the University Grants Commission also set up a fact-finding committee.

Cyclone Ditwah: India steps up relief ops in Sri Lanka; toll rises to 212

Cyclone Ditwah: India steps up relief ops in Sri Lanka; toll rises to 212

Rediff.com30 Nov 2025

Sri Lanka continues relief and rescue efforts with India's assistance after Cyclone Ditwah caused widespread devastation, killing over 190 people and affecting nearly a million.

SC directs public display of voter discrepancies in Bengal

SC directs public display of voter discrepancies in Bengal

Rediff.com19 Jan 2026

The Supreme Court has directed the Election Commission to display the names of those on the 'logical discrepancies' list at various public offices in West Bengal, addressing concerns about irregularities in the voter rolls.

Why China's Claim On Shaksgam Valley Is Baseless

Why China's Claim On Shaksgam Valley Is Baseless

Rediff.com19 Jan 2026

Today's situation in the Shaksgam Valley is the consequence of what happened in Gilgit in 1947. But is India ready to militarily get back its territories? asks Claude Arpi.

Iran's FM dials Jaishankar, both leaders discuss Tehran situation

Iran's FM dials Jaishankar, both leaders discuss Tehran situation

Rediff.com14 Jan 2026

Earlier in the day, the ministry of external affairs "strongly advised" Indians to avoid travel to Iran until further notice, amid rising tensions and protests in the Islamic Republic.

'Keep protesting, help is on its way', Trump tells Iranians amid unrest

'Keep protesting, help is on its way', Trump tells Iranians amid unrest

Rediff.com13 Jan 2026

Trump's remarks came amid heightened US messaging about the Iran situation and a series of White House statements indicating that multiple options remain under review.

UK unveils stricter road safety norms named after Indian-origin boy

UK unveils stricter road safety norms named after Indian-origin boy

Rediff.com8 Jan 2026

The UK government has announced a new road safety strategy, including 'Dev's Law' named after an Indian-origin boy killed in a road accident, to reduce deaths and serious injuries on British roads.

Internet services restored in violence-hit Karbi Anglong in Assam

Internet services restored in violence-hit Karbi Anglong in Assam

Rediff.com28 Dec 2025

Mobile internet services have been restored in Assam's Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong districts following an improvement in the law and order situation after recent violence between the Karbi and Bihari communities.

Custodial violence/death a blot, won't allow it: SC

Custodial violence/death a blot, won't allow it: SC

Rediff.com25 Nov 2025

The Supreme Court expressed serious concern over custodial deaths, calling it a 'blot' on the system. The court is pushing for compliance with orders to install CCTV cameras in police stations and central investigation agencies to curb human rights abuses.

Trump loyalist confirmed as US envoy to India

Trump loyalist confirmed as US envoy to India

Rediff.com9 Oct 2025

Gor, 38, was among 107 nominees confirmed by the Senate in a single en bloc vote on Tuesday, with 51 senators voting in favour and 47 against.

Why Freebies May Not Save Stalin's DMK

Why Freebies May Not Save Stalin's DMK

Rediff.com16 Jan 2026

While the DMK depends on a 'silver sieve' of welfare schemes to stay in power, its support is slowly draining away under the weight of poor governance, corruption, and voters who are no longer satisfied with benefits alone and now want basic administration to work, observes N Sathiya Moorthy.

EC likely to hold special SIR camps for sex workers in Kolkata

EC likely to hold special SIR camps for sex workers in Kolkata

Rediff.com30 Nov 2025

The decision came amid rising concerns in the city's red-light districts over difficulties in completing SIR enumeration forms.

India invokes treaty with Singapore in Zubeen death probe

India invokes treaty with Singapore in Zubeen death probe

Rediff.com30 Sep 2025

India has formally invoked the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT) with Singapore to investigate the death of singer Zubeen Garg. The Assam government seeks cooperation from Singaporean authorities in the case.

Tenure of 16th Finance Commission extended till Nov 30

Tenure of 16th Finance Commission extended till Nov 30

Rediff.com14 Oct 2025

The government has extended the tenure of the 16th Finance Commission by one month till November 30. The 16th Finance Commission was constituted by the government on December 31, 2023, with former Niti Aayog vice-chairman Arvind Panagariya as its Chairman.

Indian man beheaded in US: Trump blames Biden's policy

Indian man beheaded in US: Trump blames Biden's policy

Rediff.com15 Sep 2025

US President Donald Trump has condemned the murder of an Indian-origin motel manager in Dallas, allegedly by an undocumented Cuban immigrant, blaming the Biden administration's immigration policies.