News for 'Better India'

'Sooryavanshi will have to wait for his opportunity': Gambhir

'Sooryavanshi will have to wait for his opportunity': Gambhir

Rediff.com1 days ago

Head coach Gautam Gambhir has clarified that young batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will need to wait for his T20I debut, prioritising consistent performers like Sanju Samson. Gambhir also addressed the impact of the Asian Games on the ODI squad selection for the upcoming West Indies series, highlighting opportunities for new talent.

How India U-20 Prepared For AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers

How India U-20 Prepared For AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

The India U-20 men's football team has concluded its preparations for the AFC U20 Asian Cup China 2027 Qualifiers with an unbeaten run in four friendly matches, securing three wins and a draw without conceding any goals. The team is now heading to Uzbekistan for the crucial qualifiers, aiming for a strong performance.

Build Cities Around Women's Safety

Build Cities Around Women's Safety

Rediff.com2 days ago

'It is not about a place with fewer incidents of violence but a city where women have real agency in planning their daily lives.'

'Individual results do not matter in the Davis Cup': Sumit Nagal

'Individual results do not matter in the Davis Cup': Sumit Nagal

Rediff.com2 days ago

Sumit Nagal, India's top singles player, believes sheer desire will be crucial in the Davis Cup qualifier against Korea, especially on the slow Seoul courts.

Manav Suthar's resilience impresses India spin coach

Manav Suthar's resilience impresses India spin coach

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Indian left-arm spinner Manav Suthar faced a challenging day in the second Test against Sri Lanka, conceding over five runs an over initially, but impressed spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule with his resilience and ability to bounce back with two crucial wickets.

'On the right track': Savita's bold India hockey claim

'On the right track': Savita's bold India hockey claim

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Veteran goalkeeper Savita Punia highlights a significant shift in the Indian women's hockey team's mindset and dressing room atmosphere, attributing their best World Cup finish in over five decades to a newfound belief and openness among players.

Who Derailed Tarique Rahman's India Visit?

Who Derailed Tarique Rahman's India Visit?

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Who is running the show in Dhaka? This kind of flip-flop, culminating in a last-minute decision to skip a maiden visit, can happen only when the remote is in the hands of one of the competing lobbies within the BNP -- one that appears determined to play a game of chess with India.

New military hotlines: India-China talks yield 8-point consensus

New military hotlines: India-China talks yield 8-point consensus

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

India and China have agreed to advance discussions on an "Early and Substantial Harvest" of boundary delimitation and border management during the 25th round of Special Representatives talks between National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing. Both sides reached an eight-point consensus, committing to the 2005 Agreement on Political Parameters and Guiding Principles for Settlement. Key outcomes include enhancing border management, improving understanding of the Line of Actual Control, establishing new meeting points and hotlines, and continuing cooperation on trans-border rivers and pilgrimage.

Gambhir reveals why Samson was dropped for England tour

Gambhir reveals why Samson was dropped for England tour

Rediff.com1 days ago

India head coach Gautam Gambhir revealed that dropping Sanju Samson from the England tour was his toughest decision, despite Samson being the Player of the Tournament in the T20 World Cup. Gambhir explained that while Samson was temporarily replaced by Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, the team prioritised returning to their established World Cup-winning combination. He also addressed the issue of player injuries and the challenge of Shubman Gill not having a full-strength team, emphasising the importance of long-term performance and providing opportunities for new talent.

From Auto Driver's Daughter to Record Holder: Ancy Sojan Eyes Asian Games Gold

From Auto Driver's Daughter to Record Holder: Ancy Sojan Eyes Asian Games Gold

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Kerala's Ancy Sojan clinched the women's long jump title at the Indian Athletics Series Final, expressing strong confidence for the upcoming Asian Games where she aims to win gold and experience the national anthem on the podium.

Sanju Samson's Mindset Is His Invisible Muscle

Sanju Samson's Mindset Is His Invisible Muscle

Rediff.com2 days ago

A cricketer or sportsman must accept that there is no guarantee in sport -- only opportunities, preparation and perseverance, points out K R Nayar.

NSE IPO size likely to shrink to Rs 25,000-27,000 crore as shareholders pull back from OFS

NSE IPO size likely to shrink to Rs 25,000-27,000 crore as shareholders pull back from OFS

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

The National Stock Exchange's (NSE) initial public offering (IPO) is expected to shrink in size to Rs 25,000-27,000 crore, down from an earlier estimate of Rs 30,000 crore, as some shareholders are reducing their offer for sale (OFS) stake.

'Fully focused on defeating Germany': India eye fifth place at World Cup

'Fully focused on defeating Germany': India eye fifth place at World Cup

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

India's Women's Hockey team will compete against higher-ranked Germany in the fifth-place playoff at the Women's Hockey World Cup, aiming to conclude their impressive campaign with a victory and build momentum for the upcoming Asian Games.

What Yuvraj Told Abhishek Before Record Ton

What Yuvraj Told Abhishek Before Record Ton

Rediff.com1 days ago

Abhishek Sharma's record 30-ball century against Afghanistan had a little help from mentor Yuvraj Singh.

Finance Ministry Clarifies UPI MDR Policy, Denies Foreign Pressure

Finance Ministry Clarifies UPI MDR Policy, Denies Foreign Pressure

Rediff.com2 days ago

The Finance Ministry has clarified that the decision to impose a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 was made independently, refuting claims of foreign influence. The ministry stated the policy aims to build a self-sustaining digital payments ecosystem, with MDR funding infrastructure and supporting small merchants.

India face uphill battle for Hockey World Cup semi-finals, need big win vs Argentina

India face uphill battle for Hockey World Cup semi-finals, need big win vs Argentina

Rediff.com23 Aug 2026

India's chances of reaching the Hockey World Cup semi-finals are slim, requiring a significant victory against Argentina and favourable results from the Netherlands-England match. The team must overcome their finishing struggles and defensive concerns to keep their hopes alive.

Nepal Floods: 'Himalayas At Risk Of Cascading Disasters'

Nepal Floods: 'Himalayas At Risk Of Cascading Disasters'

Rediff.com6 days ago

A senior Geological Survey of India official warns that the Himalayas are vulnerable to cascading disasters, where one high-altitude event can trigger a chain of destructive events downstream, as evidenced by Nepal's recent floods. He stresses the need for integrated monitoring using satellite data and ground investigations to identify high-risk areas and improve preparedness in the Indian Himalayas.

Asian Games Participants Face Strict Safeguarding Code Of Conduct

Asian Games Participants Face Strict Safeguarding Code Of Conduct

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) has implemented a stringent Safeguarding Code of Conduct for athletes and officials participating in the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. The code prohibits inappropriate relationships, degrading language, and harassment, with violations leading to severe penalties including suspension. It also addresses social media use and places special emphasis on protecting minor athletes.

Why Is Colombo Still Biased Against Jaffna?

Why Is Colombo Still Biased Against Jaffna?

Rediff.com2 days ago

'The way the government behaves, sometimes I ask myself: Are not Tamils Sri Lankans too? Why do you discriminate so much?'

Anahat Singh Eyes Asian Games Gold, Olympic Berth

Anahat Singh Eyes Asian Games Gold, Olympic Berth

Rediff.com22 hours ago

World junior champion Anahat Singh, now 18, is returning to the Asian Games with significantly higher stakes, as the women's singles gold medal offers direct Olympic qualification. Ranked world number 20, she is a strong medal contender and is embracing the pressure of competing for her country. Anahat faces formidable opponents like Satomi Watanbe and Sivasangari Subramaniam but is focused on refining her game and physical strength to achieve her goals.

RBI likely to hike rates by 50 bps as inflation breaches tolerance band

RBI likely to hike rates by 50 bps as inflation breaches tolerance band

Rediff.com3 days ago

Economists widely anticipate the Reserve Bank of India's Monetary Policy Committee will increase the repo rate by 50 basis points, likely split between the October and December meetings, as retail inflation is projected to peak at 6.1 per cent in the third quarter, exceeding the RBI's tolerance limit.

Filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani Predicts AI Will Revolutionise Cinema Production

Filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani Predicts AI Will Revolutionise Cinema Production

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Renowned filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani believes artificial intelligence will entirely transform the film industry, making production more cost-effective and efficient. He highlights AI's potential as a "game changer" while also cautioning that its effective use requires extensive research and adaptation.

Gold Medalist Anush Agarwalla 'Deeply Hurt' By Asian Games Exclusion

Gold Medalist Anush Agarwalla 'Deeply Hurt' By Asian Games Exclusion

Rediff.com4 days ago

Indian dressage rider Anush Agarwalla has voiced profound disappointment and hurt after being excluded from the upcoming Asian Games, despite being a gold medalist in the previous edition. He criticised the selection process as "unfair" and a "betrayal," stating he was never given a chance to compete, and called for a more transparent system in Indian sports.

Nehra weighs in on Gill's leadership and Rohit-Kohli's 2027 World Cup chances

Nehra weighs in on Gill's leadership and Rohit-Kohli's 2027 World Cup chances

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Gujarat Titans head coach Ashish Nehra has offered insights into Shubman Gill's captaincy style, comparing him to Hardik Pandya and noting Gill's reserved yet keen approach to leadership. Nehra also discussed the uncertain future of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for the 2027 ODI World Cup, stating it's too early to predict. He also touched upon his own coaching ambitions and reflected on past World Cup losses.

Harmanpreet calls for tunnel vision as India prepare for tougher Women's T20 Asia Cup

Harmanpreet calls for tunnel vision as India prepare for tougher Women's T20 Asia Cup

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Harmanpreet Kaur said India will not single out Pakistan or any opponent at the Women's T20 Asia Cup, focusing instead on consistent cricket and handling pressure.

Sebi Reviews UPI Charges For Brokers

Sebi Reviews UPI Charges For Brokers

Rediff.com1 days ago

'Treating stock brokers as merchants for MDR is fundamentally misplaced.'

How Tendenthoi Devi Haobijam Is Primed For Asian Games Success

How Tendenthoi Devi Haobijam Is Primed For Asian Games Success

Rediff.com4 days ago

Manipuri rower Tendenthoi Devi Haobijam expresses newfound confidence ahead of her second Asian Games appearance, attributing it to consistent team training, international exposure in Australia and Europe, and mentorship from her coach. She will lead India's challenge in the women's coxless four, aiming for a significant performance.

Asian Games: Quimcy blows 1-set lead, still has bronze to chase

Asian Games: Quimcy blows 1-set lead, still has bronze to chase

Rediff.com6 hours ago

Indian Teqball player Quimcy Dsouza lost her Asian Games women's singles semifinal to Indonesia's Sumaya in a gruelling three-game match. Despite a strong start, Dsouza, a former state-level footballer, was overcome by Sumaya's sepak takraw background. Dsouza will now compete in the bronze medal playoff, aiming for a podium finish in Teqball's debut at the Asian Games.

14 months out, Avinash Sable eyes Asian Games comeback

14 months out, Avinash Sable eyes Asian Games comeback

Rediff.com3 days ago

Indian steeplechase champion Avinash Sable faced a career-threatening knee injury and subsequent psychological struggles, leading to 14 months on the sidelines. Despite a tough upbringing, the physical and mental toll of inactivity and a second injury pushed him to the brink of retirement. With renewed determination and support, Sable has overcome his fears and is now back in competitive shape, aiming to defend his Asian Games title.

'Save this league': India women make passionate plea for Women's HIL

'Save this league': India women make passionate plea for Women's HIL

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

India women's hockey players urge the Sports Ministry and corporates to save the Women's HIL, saying the league is vital for developing future talent.

India coach's 'free-hit' idea to solve no-ball crisis

India coach's 'free-hit' idea to solve no-ball crisis

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Indian spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule has suggested introducing free-hits in Test cricket to curb the increasing problem of no-balls, a concern highlighted by Indian spinners overstepping 10 times in the ongoing Test against Sri Lanka. He acknowledged the issue and the efforts being made to rectify it.

I'm done being negative, playing the victim: Sumit Nagal

I'm done being negative, playing the victim: Sumit Nagal

Rediff.com2 days ago

Indian tennis player Sumit Nagal reflects on his challenging 2026 season, marked by injuries and mental toll. He discusses his decision to stop "playing the victim" and focus on enjoying the game rather than solely chasing results, a mental shift that has improved his performance in recent months.

Ramanand Sagar's Grandson: 'Cannot Accept Ranbir Kapoor As Ram'

Ramanand Sagar's Grandson: 'Cannot Accept Ranbir Kapoor As Ram'

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

'After Ramayan, will Ranbir Kapoor be accepted again in a film like Animal?'

EPFO wage ceiling hiked to Rs 25,000, to benefit 51 lakh workers

EPFO wage ceiling hiked to Rs 25,000, to benefit 51 lakh workers

Rediff.com2 days ago

The Union Cabinet has approved a significant increase in the mandatory EPFO wage ceiling from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000 per month, a move expected to bring over 51 lakh additional employees under mandatory social security coverage.

Sri Lanka Cricket pushes for more Test matches against India, England, Australia

Sri Lanka Cricket pushes for more Test matches against India, England, Australia

Rediff.com23 Aug 2026

Eran Wickramaratne, chairman of Sri Lanka Cricket's interim committee, has called for a revision of the ICC's Future Tours Programme to allow Sri Lanka to play more Test matches against cricketing powerhouses like India, England, and Australia, citing the financial dependence on India and the desire to excel in the format.

How India Overcame Late-Game Vulnerability Against Pakistan

How India Overcame Late-Game Vulnerability Against Pakistan

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh states that the Indian hockey team has overcome its past late-game vulnerabilities against Pakistan, attributing this to significant improvements in fitness, game awareness, and decision-making. He notes that matches against Pakistan are no longer as challenging as they once were, though he stresses the need for defensive discipline against stronger European teams in the upcoming World Cup.

Jai Jai Ram: A R Rahman's Next Devotional Hit?

Jai Jai Ram: A R Rahman's Next Devotional Hit?

Rediff.com4 days ago

Jai Jai Ram may not have the lyrical punch of A R Rahman's earlier devotional tracks, but Shreya Ghoshal and Arijit Singh's vocals give this Ramayana anthem the spiritual grandeur it needs.

AI Effect: 'Nearly 3 Million Jobs Are At Risk In India'

AI Effect: 'Nearly 3 Million Jobs Are At Risk In India'

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

In the next 36 months nearly 25 to 40 per cent of jobs will be under threat from AI and job losses are inevitable.

India, China push LAC peace as Doval-Wang hold key talks

India, China push LAC peace as Doval-Wang hold key talks

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

India on Tuesday conveyed to China the importance of maintaining peace and tranquility along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) for overall bilateral ties as national security advisor Ajit Doval held talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi focusing on delimitation of the frontier and sustaining work on trans-boundary cooperation.

Ishan Kishan's 2027 World Cup Push Spells Trouble For Pant

Ishan Kishan's 2027 World Cup Push Spells Trouble For Pant

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Ishan Kishan's stunning 2026 has thrown him into India's 2027 ODI World Cup plans -- and Rishabh Pant could be the biggest casualty. With the selectors already looking ahead to South Africa, Kishan's red-hot form has turned the wicket-keeper debate on its head.