News for 'Associate Nations'

'He sacrificed his career, life for Ram temple': Brother defends Champat Rai

'He sacrificed his career, life for Ram temple': Brother defends Champat Rai

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

The brother of Champat Rai, who resigned as the general secretary of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, on Monday defended him against allegations of embezzling donations for the Ram temple, saying his brother had sacrificed both his personal life and career for the Ram temple movement and the service of the nation.

Cong Shifts Strategy, Challenges PM's Authority

Cong Shifts Strategy, Challenges PM's Authority

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

The Congress escalated its campaign against alleged examination irregularities by marching to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence, transforming the issue into a direct challenge to his political authority and demanding the resignations of top government officials.

Doku leaves Belgium World Cup camp, welcomes baby boy

Doku leaves Belgium World Cup camp, welcomes baby boy

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Manchester City and Belgium footballer Jeremy Doku became a father, welcoming a baby boy named Praise with his wife Shireen. He temporarily left the national team's FIFA World Cup camp in the USA to be present for the birth in London, a decision supported by the Belgian Football Association despite some public criticism.

Students still throng Jantar Mantar protest site to click selfies

Students still throng Jantar Mantar protest site to click selfies

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Two days after a 36-day student agitation concluded at Jantar Mantar, the iconic protest site in New Delhi is already witnessing new demonstrations, including calls for Gorkhaland and women's reservation, alongside curious visitors documenting the aftermath.

India's Ice Hockey Championship Aims To Boost Youth Talent

India's Ice Hockey Championship Aims To Boost Youth Talent

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The National Ice Hockey Championship has commenced in Dehradun, introducing Under-12 and Under-15 categories for boys and girls for the first time. The month-long event, organised by IHAI, aims to identify and develop young talent, inspired by the Indian women's team's recent success.

Odisha Gymnastics Body Apologises For Late President's Name On Letterhead

Odisha Gymnastics Body Apologises For Late President's Name On Letterhead

Rediff.com30 May 2026

The Odisha Gymnastics Association secretary has apologised for using the late president's name on official letterheads, attributing it to an unintentional mistake after reports surfaced regarding invoices issued under the deceased president's name.

Wangchuk's health deteriorates as CJP protest at Jantar Mantar enters 11th day

Wangchuk's health deteriorates as CJP protest at Jantar Mantar enters 11th day

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) and activist Sonam Wangchuk's protest at Jantar Mantar has entered its eleventh day, with Wangchuk's health deteriorating due to a hunger strike. Protesters allege heavy police deployment and restrictions, demanding accountability for examination irregularities and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Trump vs UEFA explodes over FIFA Balogun decision

Trump vs UEFA explodes over FIFA Balogun decision

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Former US President Donald Trump personally intervened with FIFA President Gianni Infantino to overturn a red-card ban for US striker Folarin Balogun, a decision UEFA called 'unprecedented, incomprehensible and unjustifiable' and which has sparked widespread criticism over the integrity of the game.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina vs Spain final brings tutor and former ward face to face

FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina vs Spain final brings tutor and former ward face to face

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

It happened in 2017, two years after Scaloni ended his playing career. De la Fuente, then in charge of Spain's youth teams, was among the figures who helped guide a recently retired player taking his first steps towards management.

Ganguly, Anjum Chopra, Pietersen inducted into ICC Hall of Fame

Ganguly, Anjum Chopra, Pietersen inducted into ICC Hall of Fame

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Former Indian captains Sourav Ganguly and Anjum Chopra, along with ex-England skipper Kevin Pietersen, have been inducted into the International Cricket Council's prestigious Hall of Fame during a ceremony in Edinburgh, recognising their significant contributions to the sport.

Messi's Dark Blue Shirt: A World Cup Good Luck Charm?

Messi's Dark Blue Shirt: A World Cup Good Luck Charm?

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Argentina's dark blue away jersey holds significant historical and superstitious value for the team, particularly in World Cup encounters against England. The team will wear this kit in their upcoming semi-final, hoping to replicate past successes from 1986 and 1998, where the blue jersey was worn during famous victories over England. Both coaches acknowledge the role of superstition in high-level sports, though Argentina's coach downplays the specific jersey choice. The jersey also features cultural motifs.

Govt allots 2 million more tonnes of broken rice for E20

Govt allots 2 million more tonnes of broken rice for E20

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The Indian government has allocated an additional 2 million tonnes of surplus broken rice from FCI stocks for its ethanol blending programme, while simultaneously issuing a detailed rebuttal to widespread misinformation regarding the E20 fuel, addressing concerns from water consumption to engine damage and environmental impact.

First Dengue Vaccine Approved for India

First Dengue Vaccine Approved for India

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

The vaccine has been cleared for use in individuals aged 4 to 60 years and can be administered irrespective of whether the taker has had dengue before, eliminating the need for pre-vaccination screening.

Deschamps' Golden Era Ends in FIFA World Cup Heartbreak

Deschamps' Golden Era Ends in FIFA World Cup Heartbreak

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Didier Deschamps, who led France to their second world title in 2018 and established them as international football's most consistent major-tournament force, will be remembered for his unprecedented legacy despite recent semi-final defeats.

Vishy Anand Won't Contest FIDE Deputy President Post

Vishy Anand Won't Contest FIDE Deputy President Post

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Viswanathan Anand will not seek re-election for a third term as Deputy President of FIDE.

Volleyball Players Quit National Camp Over Coaching and Facility Concerns

Volleyball Players Quit National Camp Over Coaching and Facility Concerns

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Two senior Indian volleyball players have quit the national camp in Ahmedabad, citing concerns over incompetent coaches, poor facilities, and politics within the Volleyball Federation of India (VFI).

NIA conducts nationwide raids to bust ISIS-backed plot; 12 held

NIA conducts nationwide raids to bust ISIS-backed plot; 12 held

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted nationwide searches across 10 states and one Union Territory, targeting an online terror radicalisation conspiracy linked to ISIS and AQIS. The operation, which led to the seizure of digital devices, is part of an ongoing investigation into a plot to establish an Islamic state in India through violent jihad. So far, 11 individuals and one juvenile have been arrested in connection with the case.

Gurugram Police Cracks Down On Illegal Bangladeshi Residents

Gurugram Police Cracks Down On Illegal Bangladeshi Residents

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Gurugram police have launched a special verification drive to identify and take legal action against Bangladeshi nationals residing unlawfully in the city. The campaign involves checking documents in various residential and commercial areas, with an appeal for public cooperation.

Wangchuk refuses to end fast despite being 'in immense pain'

Wangchuk refuses to end fast despite being 'in immense pain'

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Activist Sonam Wangchuk's health is rapidly deteriorating on his 17th day of hunger strike, prompting widespread appeals from prominent political figures and Bollywood celebrities for him to end his fast and for the government to address the urgent demands for NEET examination reforms.

CJP stir enters Day 19: Wangchuk loses 7 kg, AISA member hospitalised

CJP stir enters Day 19: Wangchuk loses 7 kg, AISA member hospitalised

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's condition deteriorated further on Wednesday, with doctors reporting that he has lost more than seven kilograms since beginning his indefinite fast 11 days ago.

Atlanta Police enhance security for high-stakes England vs. Argentina World Cup semi-final

Atlanta Police enhance security for high-stakes England vs. Argentina World Cup semi-final

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

The Atlanta Police Department has significantly increased security measures for the World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina, two nations with a historically fierce football rivalry, deploying additional personnel and resources across the city and stadium.

Restaurants, Multiplexes Eye World Cup Final Windfall

Restaurants, Multiplexes Eye World Cup Final Windfall

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Businesses across sectors are positioning themselves to capitalise on the expected surge in demand.

AIFF Seeks Ministry, FIFA Nod For Name Change To FFB

AIFF Seeks Ministry, FIFA Nod For Name Change To FFB

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has proposed changing its name to the Football Federation of Bharat (FFB). This significant proposal, accepted during a Special General Body Meeting, now awaits crucial approvals from the sports ministry and FIFA.

India Aims To Be A Top 10 Sporting Nation By 2030

India Aims To Be A Top 10 Sporting Nation By 2030

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has urged Indian shooters to support the country's goal of becoming a top-10 global sporting power within a decade. The NRAI marked its 75th anniversary with a plan to introduce shooting to 7.5 lakh youth through grassroots outreach.

Meghalaya Celebrates Football Stars Sanfida Nongrum And Ribansi Jamu

Meghalaya Celebrates Football Stars Sanfida Nongrum And Ribansi Jamu

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

The Meghalaya Football Association (MFA) felicitated state footballers Sanfida Nongrum and Ribansi Jamu for their pivotal roles in India's victory at the SAFF Women's Championship 2026. The players, who contributed significantly to India reclaiming the title, were honoured with cash rewards and recognition, inspiring young girls in the state to pursue football.

Cross-Border Arms And Hawala Network Busted In Punjab

Cross-Border Arms And Hawala Network Busted In Punjab

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Punjab Police have successfully dismantled a cross-border illegal arms smuggling and hawala network, arresting four individuals, including an Afghan national. Authorities recovered eight sophisticated pistols and seven live cartridges. Investigations suggest the arrested individuals were linked to a foreign-based smuggler using hidden drop locations for weapon consignments.

Odisha Gymnastics Body Accused Of Using Dead President's Name For Funds

Odisha Gymnastics Body Accused Of Using Dead President's Name For Funds

Rediff.com29 May 2026

The Odisha Gymnastics Association is under investigation for allegedly using the name of its deceased president to secure funds from the state government. A complaint questions the association's governance and financial practices, including the sanctioning of funds from multiple agencies for the same event.

How India's Fencing Team Secured Asian Games Qualification

How India's Fencing Team Secured Asian Games Qualification

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Despite not winning a medal at the recently-concluded Asian Senior Fencing Championships, India's men's foil team secured direct qualification for the upcoming Asian Games, marking a significant step forward for the sport in the country. The event, hosted in India for the first time, provided valuable experience and highlighted the growing competitiveness of Indian fencers against top Asian nations.

SJFI National Convention Returns to Delhi After 23 Years

SJFI National Convention Returns to Delhi After 23 Years

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

The Sports Journalists Federation of India (SJFI) National Convention will be held in Delhi from March 13 to 16, marking its return to the city after 23 years and celebrating the Golden Jubilee of SJFI.

Zomato, Zepto, Swiggy, Urban Company, Porter Challenge Karnataka Gig Workers Act

Zomato, Zepto, Swiggy, Urban Company, Porter Challenge Karnataka Gig Workers Act

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

'If there are different laws governing the same subject, it can increase the compliance burden on platforms. The process would be easier and more transparent if there were a singular national-level law.'

Wayanad landslide: Missing construction manager's body recovered, toll rises to 8

Wayanad landslide: Missing construction manager's body recovered, toll rises to 8

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

The body of Vikram Rana, the last person missing after the July 7 landslide at the Anakkampoyil-Meppadi tunnel project site in Kalladi, Wayanad, Kerala, has been recovered. This brings the death toll to eight. A massive search operation involving multiple agencies led to the discovery of the construction manager's body, concluding the search efforts.

How FIVB Recognition Elevates Prime Volleyball League's Global Stature

How FIVB Recognition Elevates Prime Volleyball League's Global Stature

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

The Prime Volleyball League (PVL) has been officially recognised by the FIVB as India's first division professional volleyball league, marking a significant milestone for the sport in the country. This recognition allows PVL clubs to compete in international tournaments and aligns the league with global standards. The fifth season of PVL is scheduled to begin on November 30, with a players' auction on August 17 in Goa. This development is expected to further strengthen Indian volleyball's performance on the international stage.

Wangchuk vows to 'stay alive' for July 20 march as hunger strike enters Day 20

Wangchuk vows to 'stay alive' for July 20 march as hunger strike enters Day 20

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's indefinite hunger strike has entered its 20th day, with doctors warning of his critical health condition. Despite this, Wangchuk is resolute in his call for a peaceful march to Parliament on July 20, coinciding with the Monsoon Session's opening, to protest alleged examination irregularities and demand the Union education minister's resignation.

Punjab Police Bust Major Cross-Border Arms, Drugs, Hawala Network

Punjab Police Bust Major Cross-Border Arms, Drugs, Hawala Network

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

Punjab Police have dismantled a significant cross-border illegal arms, drugs, and hawala network, apprehending four individuals and two juveniles, including an Afghan national. The operation led to the recovery of heroin, pistols, cartridges, and drug money, with investigations ongoing to identify further links.

'India call-up fulfilment of his dream': Yash Thakur's emotional tribute to late father

'India call-up fulfilment of his dream': Yash Thakur's emotional tribute to late father

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Vidarbha pacer Yash Thakur, 27, has received his maiden India call-up for the upcoming T20 International tour of Zimbabwe, a dream he shared with his late father.

UK court orders Nirav Modi to pay over $11.5 million to Bank of India

UK court orders Nirav Modi to pay over $11.5 million to Bank of India

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Fugitive diamond merchant Nirav Modi has been ordered by a UK High Court to pay Bank of India over USD 11.5 million, including accruing interest, for a personal loan guarantee related to his Dubai-incorporated firm, Firestar Diamond FZE.

10 Black Comedies You Must Watch

10 Black Comedies You Must Watch

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

From Mollywood Times to Mohiniyattam, these black comedies from South Cinema prove that the darkest humour can also deliver the sharpest entertainment.

UN Women warns AI amplifies gender bias, digital violence

UN Women warns AI amplifies gender bias, digital violence

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

UN Women has issued a stark warning that the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is placing women at a higher risk of discrimination and digital violence, citing studies that reveal significant gender bias in AI systems and large language models.

India's Badminton Future: BAI Seeks Partners For New League

India's Badminton Future: BAI Seeks Partners For New League

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

The Badminton Association of India (BAI) has invited Expressions of Interest (EOI) from various organisations to conceptualise, develop, and manage a new professional badminton league in India. The initiative aims to create a sustainable league structure focused on commercialisation, fan engagement, and long-term growth of the sport. Interested parties must demonstrate strong financial capability and experience in managing sports leagues, with proposals due by June 30.

EV sales in India hit record high, with 63% YoY increase in June

EV sales in India hit record high, with 63% YoY increase in June

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

India's electric vehicle market achieved a significant milestone in June 2026, accounting for over 12% of total vehicle retail sales for the first time. This growth, driven by strong demand across electric two-wheelers, passenger vehicles, and commercial vehicles, saw overall EV retail sales surge by 63% year-on-year to a record 306,220 units, indicating a mainstream shift in mobility.