News for 'Budget 2026'

Chhattisgarh Declares Naxalism 'Completely Eliminated' Ahead of Deadline

Chhattisgarh Declares Naxalism 'Completely Eliminated' Ahead of Deadline

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma announces the complete elimination of armed Naxals in the state, attributing the success to strategic planning and security operations. He highlights the rehabilitation efforts for remaining cadres and future plans for security camps.

Sensex P/E valuations lowest since May '20 amid FPI selloff

Sensex P/E valuations lowest since May '20 amid FPI selloff

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

The benchmark BSE Sensex's trailing 12-month price-to-earnings (P/E) multiple has declined to 20.2x, its lowest since May 2020, driven by a record $42 billion FPI selloff since September 2024 and concerns over corporate earnings and economic growth.

AI push: Tax break for global cloud firms using Indian data centres

AI push: Tax break for global cloud firms using Indian data centres

Rediff.com1 Feb 2026

The Union Budget on Sunday proposed a tax holiday till 2047 for foreign companies that provide cloud services to customers globally using data centres located in India, signalling the government's push to make the country a major hub for AI and digital infrastructure.

AI push: Tax break for global cloud firms using Indian data centres

AI push: Tax break for global cloud firms using Indian data centres

Rediff.com1 Feb 2026

The Union Budget on Sunday proposed a tax holiday till 2047 for foreign companies that provide cloud services to customers globally using data centres located in India, signalling the government's push to make the country a major hub for AI and digital infrastructure.

How Winter Session Sets Stage For Budget

How Winter Session Sets Stage For Budget

Rediff.com5 Jan 2026

Three laws passed in Parliament could boost central revenues, reshape GST cess flows, shift MGNREGA costs to states and create new budget headroom ahead of the 2026-2027 Union Budget, points out A K Bhattacharya.

AstroSpeak: Your Predictions For 2026

AstroSpeak: Your Predictions For 2026

Rediff.com6 Jan 2026

Astrologer Chirag Daruwalla, who is following in the footsteps of his famed astrologer father, the late Bejan Daruwalla, helps you navigate the Naya Saal.

The US Rescue That Raises More Questions Than It Answers

The US Rescue That Raises More Questions Than It Answers

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

The 'rescue' operation occurred within kilometres of Iran's underground tunnel complex at Isfahan, assessed by the IAEA and US intelligence as holding a substantial portion of the country's 60 per cent enriched uranium stockpile. Retired senior US military officers have highlighted that the mission's footprint -- hundreds of special operators, multiple heavy-lift aircraft deep inside Iran -- appears outsized for recovering a single airman. Prem Panicker continues his must read blog on the Iran War.

Rajnath calls Coast Guard a 'wall of trust' after Operation Sindoor

Rajnath calls Coast Guard a 'wall of trust' after Operation Sindoor

Rediff.com2 Feb 2026

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the Indian Coast Guard's role during Operation Sindoor and highlighted its importance in national security on the occasion of its 50th Raising Day.

Meghalaya council bars non-tribals from polls after unrest, deaths

Meghalaya council bars non-tribals from polls after unrest, deaths

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

The Garo Hills Autonomous District Council in Meghalaya has approved an amendment restricting participation in council elections to only Scheduled Tribe members, following weeks of unrest and ethnic tensions.

Kharge, Rijiju spar in RS over West Asia conflict discussion

Kharge, Rijiju spar in RS over West Asia conflict discussion

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

The Rajya Sabha witnessed a heated debate between the opposition and the government regarding a discussion on the West Asia crisis, with accusations of political maneuvering and failure to uphold the dignity of parliamentary positions.

T20 World Cup 2026: ICC replaces Bangladesh with Scotland

T20 World Cup 2026: ICC replaces Bangladesh with Scotland

Rediff.com24 Jan 2026

The International Cricket Council has officially informed the Bangladesh Cricket Board that it has been replaced by Scotland in T20 World Cup 2026.

Rice exporters seek Budget sops to boost competitiveness

Rice exporters seek Budget sops to boost competitiveness

Rediff.com6 Jan 2026

The Indian Rice Exporter's Federation (IREF) on Tuesday urged the government to provide tax incentives, interest subvention and freight support in the upcoming 2026 Budget to strengthen the sector's competitiveness while addressing sustainability concerns.

House functions by rules, not privilege: LS Speaker Birla

House functions by rules, not privilege: LS Speaker Birla

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla addressed concerns about fairness and speaking privileges in the House, emphasising that all members, including the Prime Minister, must adhere to parliamentary rules and procedures.

Govt's special session aims to influence Bengal, TN polls: Congress

Govt's special session aims to influence Bengal, TN polls: Congress

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

The Congress party has accused the government of scheduling a 'special session' to pass bills related to women's quota and delimitation with the intention of gaining political advantage in the upcoming West Bengal and Tamil Nadu elections, calling it a violation of the model code of conduct.

Census kicks off in Delhi with President, PM leading digital count

Census kicks off in Delhi with President, PM leading digital count

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

This will be India's 16th Census and the eighth since Independence. For the first time, citizens will also have the option of self-enumeration.

From field to politics: How sportspersons fare in Indian politics

From field to politics: How sportspersons fare in Indian politics

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

A look at the careers of Indian sportspersons who have transitioned into politics, highlighting their successes, failures, and party affiliations.

The Gulf War: What's Pakistan Up To?

The Gulf War: What's Pakistan Up To?

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

Egypt, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey met in Islamabad in what analysts say is the formal opening of a new diplomatic formation that could reshape the post-war regional order. Their immediate goal is a ceasefire; their larger ambition is to ensure that neither Iran nor Israel emerges from this war in a dominant position. Pakistan's foreign minister then flew directly to Beijing and mooted a Chinese role as guarantor of any eventual agreement. Prem Panicker continues his must read daily blog on the Gulf War.

Industry confidence hits five-qtr high in Oct-Dec: CII survey

Industry confidence hits five-qtr high in Oct-Dec: CII survey

Rediff.com19 Jan 2026

Business confidence in India Inc rose to a five-quarter high in December quarter of FY26, amid further reform expectations and steady domestic demand, a survey by industry body Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) showed. The CII Business Confidence Index (BCI) rose for the third consecutive quarter to 66.5 in the December quarter from 66 in the preceding September quarter.

'Film Industry Is Waiting For Yami Gautam-Aditya Dhar To Fumble And Fall'

'Film Industry Is Waiting For Yami Gautam-Aditya Dhar To Fumble And Fall'

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

'Aditya Dhar and Yami Gautam will have to move forward with extra caution.'

I-T Department Asks Brokers To Remit Excess STT

I-T Department Asks Brokers To Remit Excess STT

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

The tax is collected by brokers on behalf of the government and forms a key component of the Centre's tax revenues.

India now Maoist-free, declares Amit Shah in Lok Sabha; slams Rahul Gandhi

India now Maoist-free, declares Amit Shah in Lok Sabha; slams Rahul Gandhi

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah criticised the Congress party for its alleged inaction in addressing Maoist violence during its long rule, while highlighting the Modi government's success in nearly eradicating Maoists from Bastar, Chhattisgarh.

Chhoti Si Asha...

Chhoti Si Asha...

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

Shreekant Sambrani tells himself over and over again, don't lose heart in these dire times, there is asha (hope) still, in the divine voice of Asha Bhosle.

TMC manifesto bets on women voters, ramps up welfare push

TMC manifesto bets on women voters, ramps up welfare push

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has released its manifesto for the West Bengal elections, focusing on welfare politics and women's empowerment with pledges to expand existing schemes, improve healthcare, and develop infrastructure.

AI summit in Delhi: Modi welcomes global leaders

AI summit in Delhi: Modi welcomes global leaders

Rediff.com16 Feb 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi champions India as a leader in the artificial intelligence revolution, emphasising the nation's ambition and responsibility at the India AI Impact Expo 2026.

IPL 2026 Auction: Shock Buys Became A Recurring Theme

IPL 2026 Auction: Shock Buys Became A Recurring Theme

Rediff.com17 Dec 2025

IPL Auction 2026 was not just about money; it was a celebration of ambition, opportunity, and the unrelenting belief that the next big star could come from anywhere.

2026 under spotlight: An action-packed year awaits Indian sports

2026 under spotlight: An action-packed year awaits Indian sports

Rediff.com31 Dec 2025

Lots to look forward to in Indian sports as packed 2026 calender awaits

Manager's 'stuff-up': Green to play as all-rounder in IPL 2026

Manager's 'stuff-up': Green to play as all-rounder in IPL 2026

Rediff.com14 Dec 2025

Australia all-rounder Cameron Green has confirmed that he will be fully available to bowl in the Indian Premier League's 2026 season, clarifying that his listing as a batter rather than an all-rounder ahead of Tuesday's auction was due to a "stuff-up" by his manager.

'Disastrous If US Halts War Leaving Iran Hardliners In Power'

'Disastrous If US Halts War Leaving Iran Hardliners In Power'

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

'In such a scenario, Iran could proclaim itself victor, rebuild, re-enforce its diminished regional proxies to further destabilise neighbouring nations and take control of the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz.'

Public Cloud Service Drives Oracle India's Double-Digit Run

Public Cloud Service Drives Oracle India's Double-Digit Run

Rediff.com18 Feb 2026

'India is often skipping legacy cycles and moving directly to advanced AI-driven operations.'

Maharashtra to Establish Sports Centres for 2036 Olympics Bid

Maharashtra to Establish Sports Centres for 2036 Olympics Bid

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the establishment of 25 centres of excellence and 96 sports development hubs to increase athlete participation from the state in the 2036 Olympic Games.

'Raghav Chadha Will Join BJP Before 2027 Punjab Elections'

'Raghav Chadha Will Join BJP Before 2027 Punjab Elections'

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

'Who among Opposition party MPs has so much power that they raise some issue and the government implements it? The answer is no one except Raghav Chadha.'

10 patients killed, 11 staff injured after massive fire at Odisha hospital

10 patients killed, 11 staff injured after massive fire at Odisha hospital

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

A major fire at the SCB Medical College and Hospital in Odisha resulted in the deaths of ten patients in the ICU. The Chief Minister has ordered a judicial probe and announced compensation for the victims' families.

Abraham & Thakore Make The Sari Fuss-Free!

Abraham & Thakore Make The Sari Fuss-Free!

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

"The most exciting part was creating something that looks like a sari but has the ease of a dress," says Designer David Abraham.

US visa curbs, AI surge will shape Indian IT in 2026

US visa curbs, AI surge will shape Indian IT in 2026

Rediff.com23 Dec 2025

India's $280-billion IT industry heads into 2026, balancing visa-related headwinds and global trade uncertainty against its biggest-ever push into artificial intelligence and the rapid expansion of global capability centres (GCCs). Heightened scrutiny of the US H-1B visa programme - including a proposed $100,000 fee for new visas and concerns over a potential 25 per cent outsourcing tax - has complicated cross-border delivery for Indian firms, even as companies accelerate efforts to reduce reliance on onsite staffing.

Govt urged not to hike I-T surcharge on super-rich in Budget

Govt urged not to hike I-T surcharge on super-rich in Budget

Rediff.com11 Jan 2026

The government should refrain from raising income tax surcharge on the super-rich and reintroducing wealth tax in the upcoming 2026-27 Budget, as the move could prompt persons in high-income brackets to leave the country for low-tax jurisdictions, according to tax experts.

Iran's Consul-General: 'We Hold The Upper Hand'

Iran's Consul-General: 'We Hold The Upper Hand'

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

'Despite the large number of missiles and drones we have already launched, we still possess reserves and missile cities whose doors have not yet been opened,' says Iran's Consul-General Saeid Reza Mosayeb Motlagh.

LS fails to take up resolution against Speaker Birla amid Oppn protests

LS fails to take up resolution against Speaker Birla amid Oppn protests

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

The Lok Sabha faced repeated adjournments due to opposition demands for a debate on the West Asia situation, preventing a resolution seeking the removal of Speaker Om Birla from being taken up. The government and the Chair criticised the opposition for disrupting House proceedings.

GIFT IFSC captures 65% of ECBs in FY26 on lower taxes, lighter rules

GIFT IFSC captures 65% of ECBs in FY26 on lower taxes, lighter rules

Rediff.com13 Feb 2026

Nearly two-thirds of external commercial borrowings (ECBs) raised so far in the ongoing financial year (2025-26/FY26) have been routed through Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City), a sharp jump from the 36 per cent recorded in 2024-25.

Ramping up domestic LPG production to ensure supply: Sitharaman

Ramping up domestic LPG production to ensure supply: Sitharaman

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announces increased domestic LPG production to offset import disruptions caused by Middle East tensions, alongside assurances of fertiliser availability and the clearing of UPA-era oil bonds.

Nirmala Sitharaman: 'Prime Minister Modi Does Not Tolerate Gaming Of The System'

Nirmala Sitharaman: 'Prime Minister Modi Does Not Tolerate Gaming Of The System'

Rediff.com9 Feb 2026

'Grassroots-level corruption, which disrupts the last-mile work, cannot be ignored in your enthusiasm and drive to get going to complete the project.' 'Like it was in MGNREGA, in some states, it is the case with the Jal Jeevan mission.' 'The last minute levels of corruption can ruin the intent of the project itself.' 'When you see that people can game a particular well-intended and well-crafted project, you need to correct that.'