News for 'Central Government'

'Goes against India's sovereignty': Govt backs ban on 'Satluj'

'Goes against India's sovereignty': Govt backs ban on 'Satluj'

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

A central government committee has upheld the ban on the Diljit Dosanjh-starrer film Satluj, citing concerns over India's sovereignty and integrity, sparking political debate in Punjab.

'No one even asks about us': Kargil martyr's family alleges broken promises

'No one even asks about us': Kargil martyr's family alleges broken promises

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

More than a quarter of a century after Indian Army soldier Avnish Yadav laid down his life in the Kargil War defending the nation, his family said that several promises made by the authorities in recognition of his sacrifice are yet to be fulfilled.

SC quashes power to grant retrospective green nod, leaves window open

SC quashes power to grant retrospective green nod, leaves window open

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of India has quashed the 2021 Office Memorandum allowing retrospective environmental clearances, reinforcing the importance of prior environmental approval for projects but held that the judgment will apply prospectively, thus saving projects that got retrospective ECs from demolition and other punitive measures.

Mohan Yadav Predicts BJP Government In West Bengal

Mohan Yadav Predicts BJP Government In West Bengal

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has expressed confidence that the BJP will form a government in West Bengal, praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership and citing high voter turnout as a sign of public trust.

Stricter punishment, speedy probe as anti-paper leak law kicks in

Stricter punishment, speedy probe as anti-paper leak law kicks in

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

President Droupadi Murmu has given her assent to the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, which introduces fast-track courts and significantly enhances punishment for those involved in public examination question paper leaks.

Lok Sabha passes bill to allow charges on UPI, digital payments

Lok Sabha passes bill to allow charges on UPI, digital payments

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Lok Sabha has passed a Bill to amend the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007, authorising the government to permit banks and service providers to levy charges on UPI and other electronic payment modes. This move aims to create a sustainable revenue model for the digital payments ecosystem, shifting from the current exemption of UPI transactions from such charges.

'A Student's Life Can't Be Held Hostage To A 3-Hour Performance'

'A Student's Life Can't Be Held Hostage To A 3-Hour Performance'

Rediff.com3 days ago

Education sector experts agree that using the "best technology" was essential to ensure students did not have to sit for an examination all over again because of a question paper leak.

Government's Big Plans For North East Oil Exploration

Government's Big Plans For North East Oil Exploration

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

A tripartite pact -- amid the promise of removing AFSPA from almost all of the North East -- revives hydrocarbon exploration along the Assam-Nagaland border after decades of dormancy.

10 years in jail, Rs 50 lakh fine: Govt tables new paper leak bill

10 years in jail, Rs 50 lakh fine: Govt tables new paper leak bill

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Amidst widespread student protests over the NEET paper leak, the Indian government has introduced the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, in the Lok Sabha. The bill proposes significantly stricter punishments, including jail terms of up to 10 years and fines of up to Rs 50 lakh for individuals involved in paper leaks, and up to Rs 10 crore for organised crimes, aiming to enhance transparency and fairness in public examinations.

Praveen Chithravel's Commonwealth Games Silver Fuels Family Pride, Village Dreams

Praveen Chithravel's Commonwealth Games Silver Fuels Family Pride, Village Dreams

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

Indian athlete Praveen Chithravel secured a silver medal in the men's triple jump at the 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games, bringing immense pride to his agricultural daily wage worker father and their village in Tamil Nadu.

Ram Temple donation case: SC to hear pleas on August 17

Ram Temple donation case: SC to hear pleas on August 17

Rediff.com2 days ago

The Supreme Court will hear petitions on August 17 seeking a court-monitored SIT probe into alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya, after deferring the original hearing due to the Solicitor General's UN engagement.

Chandigarh Pioneers Digital Rupee For Welfare Delivery

Chandigarh Pioneers Digital Rupee For Welfare Delivery

Rediff.com23 hours ago

Chandigarh is set to launch the Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), or digital rupee, for Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) on August 14. This initiative makes Chandigarh the first Union Territory to fully roll out CBDC-based DBT for food subsidy, enhancing transparency and efficiency in welfare delivery. The digital rupee, issued by the RBI, will be purpose-bound for purchasing foodgrains from authorised merchants.

Govt Nods Polymer Banknote Trials for Rs 10 and Rs 20 Denominations

Govt Nods Polymer Banknote Trials for Rs 10 and Rs 20 Denominations

Rediff.com2 days ago

The Indian government has approved the introduction of one billion polymer banknotes in Rs 10 and Rs 20 denominations for field trials, aiming to enhance durability. This move comes as the Finance Minister also addressed Parliament on declining retail inflation, GST reforms, and other fiscal measures taken to support the economy and household consumption.

Ahmedabad to set new benchmarks for accessibility, sustainability at 2030 Commonwealth Games

Ahmedabad to set new benchmarks for accessibility, sustainability at 2030 Commonwealth Games

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi has outlined Ahmedabad's vision for the 2030 Commonwealth Games, emphasising unparalleled accessibility for para athletes and a strong commitment to sustainability through green energy and electric transport.

Uncertainty looms over key bills as monsoon session heads for washout

Uncertainty looms over key bills as monsoon session heads for washout

Rediff.com3 days ago

Major bills, including those on women's reservation, delimitation, and the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), face an uncertain future in the ongoing Monsoon session of Parliament due to persistent opposition protests and a lack of consensus.

BJP launches extortion culture clean-up in Bengal; suspends 22 leaders

BJP launches extortion culture clean-up in Bengal; suspends 22 leaders

Rediff.com7 days ago

The ruling BJP in West Bengal has suspended 22 functionaries, including several mandal presidents, over allegations of extortion and indiscipline. This action follows public warnings from the party leadership against adopting an 'extortion culture' and comes ahead of a visit by BJP's central in-charge for West Bengal, Sunil Bansal, to review the party's organisation and the new government's functioning.

Centre Keeps FY27 Fiscal Deficit Tight

Centre Keeps FY27 Fiscal Deficit Tight

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

The government maintained a strong pace of capital expenditure, which jumped nearly 24 per cent to Rs 3.40 trillion in April-June.

Jharkhand protestors to continue stir till demands met

Jharkhand protestors to continue stir till demands met

Rediff.com1 days ago

Students in Ranchi, under the JPSC-JSSC Reforms Manch, are intensifying their protests against alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations. Despite a large protest involving over 50,000 students, the government has not responded positively, leading to a decision to continue the agitation. The students are demanding transparency, reforms in JPSC and JSSC, cancellation of exams, and an independent investigation, with some even on hunger strike.

4 bills introduced in Lok Sabha amid opposition protests

4 bills introduced in Lok Sabha amid opposition protests

Rediff.com3 days ago

The Lok Sabha introduced four significant bills on Monday, including amendments to mines and minerals regulations, the establishment of a National Tribunals Commission, and the renaming of Kerala to Keralam, all while facing continuous protests from opposition members demanding a discussion on the July 20 police crackdown on students.

Delhi HC allows Wangchuk's transfer to private hospital; Centre says...

Delhi HC allows Wangchuk's transfer to private hospital; Centre says...

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court has proposed transferring activist Sonam Wangchuk, currently on an indefinite fast since June 28 over alleged examination irregularities, from Safdarjung Hospital to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram. This development follows a plea by Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali Angmo, challenging a previous court order that refused to interfere with his ongoing treatment at the central government hospital. The government has indicated no objection to the transfer, provided Wangchuk does not seek discharge against medical advice.

FPIs Invest 55,518 Crore In June

FPIs Invest 55,518 Crore In June

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

...exceeding their 49,340 crore equity selloff.

CONCACAF Rejects FIFA's World Cup Stake Sale Plan

CONCACAF Rejects FIFA's World Cup Stake Sale Plan

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

CONCACAF, the regional football bloc for North America, Central America, and the Caribbean, has rejected FIFA's proposal to sell a stake in the World Cup, citing deep concerns over a lack of due process and transparency.

Compensation politics: RG Kar doc's mother rejects TMC MLA's comparison

Compensation politics: RG Kar doc's mother rejects TMC MLA's comparison

Rediff.com2 days ago

The mother of the RG Kar hospital rape-murder victim on Monday rejected Trinamool Congres MLA Kunal Ghosh's comparison between the Rs 10 lakh given to the family of a party worker who died in police custody in Halisahar, and the same amount of compensation announced after her daughter's death.

Why Bank Frauds Keep Rising

Why Bank Frauds Keep Rising

Rediff.com6 days ago

'It's not about individuals operating the mule accounts being more or less skilled. Instead, 'lower-level' refers to the role the individual account plays in the broader mule network.'

Why Messi's Kerala Visit Never Happened: Report Submitted To Govt

Why Messi's Kerala Visit Never Happened: Report Submitted To Govt

Rediff.com1 days ago

The Kerala Sports Department has submitted its confidential inquiry report regarding the controversy surrounding the proposed visit of football legend Lionel Messi and the Argentina team to the state during the previous government's tenure.

Football bodies accuse FIFA chief of 'deception' over World Cup rights

Football bodies accuse FIFA chief of 'deception' over World Cup rights

Rediff.com2 days ago

UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), and CONCACAF have jointly criticised FIFA President Gianni Infantino for his handling of a proposed sale of commercial rights to the World Cup, accusing him of 'deception' and calling for an independent review.

RBI Governor Discusses Future Of Digital Payment Merchant Discount Rate

RBI Governor Discusses Future Of Digital Payment Merchant Discount Rate

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra stated it is "premature" to discuss the implementation of Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) for digital payments, advising a "wait-and-watch" approach. He emphasised that investment in public payment infrastructure is necessary and someone must bear the cost, whether through taxes or MDR. The government is currently working on amendments to relevant statutes, and the RBI is focused on strengthening this infrastructure.

ISKCON event at JNU cancelled after students' protest

ISKCON event at JNU cancelled after students' protest

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union (JNUSU) successfully protested an event featuring an ISKCON representative at the university's central library, leading to its cancellation. The JNUSU cited university rules prohibiting religious organisations from holding events on campus, a concern they had previously raised regarding ISKCON's activities.

Pradhan's resignation non-negotiable, stir to continue: CJP

Pradhan's resignation non-negotiable, stir to continue: CJP

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) chief spokesperson Saurav Das has termed Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation 'non-negotiable' amidst ongoing protests over the NEET-UG paper leak, while Union Health Minister JP Nadda has called for an in-depth discussion on the issue in Parliament.

Surrender illegal arms in 15 days or face action, warns Manipur CM

Surrender illegal arms in 15 days or face action, warns Manipur CM

Rediff.com1 days ago

Manipur Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh has issued a 15-day ultimatum for the voluntary surrender of illegal firearms, warning of strict legal action against non-compliance. The appeal comes as part of ongoing efforts to restore normalcy and peace in the state, which has been affected by ethnic violence since May 2023. Security forces have already seized a significant cache of weapons, and the government is also targeting extortionists and miscreants.

8 Heroes Of The Quit India Movement

8 Heroes Of The Quit India Movement

Rediff.com5 days ago

On August 8, 1942, Mahatma Gandhi gave India a simple but powerful call: 'Do or Die'. What followed was the Quit India Movement, one of the largest mass uprisings against British rule.

Bihar man posing as Ajit Doval's 'covert agent' arrested

Bihar man posing as Ajit Doval's 'covert agent' arrested

Rediff.com2 days ago

A man identified as Manish Gupta was arrested in Bihar's Khagaria district for allegedly impersonating an IAS officer and falsely claiming ties to National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Police recovered a Tesla car, an SUV, imported liquor, and other luxury items from his residence, indicating extensive fraudulent operations. An investigation into his assets and alleged fraud is underway.

What made SIAM do a U-turn on E20 fuel within a week?

What made SIAM do a U-turn on E20 fuel within a week?

Rediff.com5 days ago

Why the industry's public position changed is difficult to say. What the developments did establish, though, is that ethanol-blended petrol has become one of the country's most politically and commercially sensitive policy issues.

Since he is 'forgiving'...: Sonia takes dig at Modi, hails Manmohan

Since he is 'forgiving'...: Sonia takes dig at Modi, hails Manmohan

Rediff.com2 days ago

Following the Supreme Court's clean chit in the coal block allocation case, Congress leader Sonia Gandhi has lauded former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's integrity and accountability, drawing a sharp contrast with the Narendra Modi government's operational style and alleged misuse of investigative agencies.

Maharashtra Government Vows Action After Gutkha Mafia Attack

Maharashtra Government Vows Action After Gutkha Mafia Attack

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

A woman Food Safety Officer was targeted by suspected gutkha mafia operatives during a raid in Maharashtra's Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district. The incident, where a vehicle attempted to run her over, has led the state government to order strict action against those responsible. FDA Minister Narhari Zirwal condemned the attack and assured full support to the officer, vowing no leniency for assailants of government officials.

Agitating J'khand job seekers form 11-member delegation for talks with govt

Agitating J'khand job seekers form 11-member delegation for talks with govt

Rediff.com6 days ago

Students and job aspirants in Jharkhand, protesting alleged irregularities in recruitment exams, have formed an 11-member delegation to engage in talks with the state government. This decision follows Chief Minister Hemant Soren's offer for dialogue to resolve the ongoing impasse, which includes demands for exam cancellation, an independent probe, and comprehensive reforms in the JPSC and JSSC.

Why RBI Asked EPFO To Upgrade Its Investment System

Why RBI Asked EPFO To Upgrade Its Investment System

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

India's largest retirement fund manager, the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), is enhancing its investment governance and fund management practices, following the Reserve Bank of India's recommendations.

24,000 Manipur violence-hit families yet to get aid? SC seeks verification

24,000 Manipur violence-hit families yet to get aid? SC seeks verification

Rediff.com3 days ago

The Supreme Court on Monday asked an apex court-appointed committee to verify claims that around 24,000 families affected by the 2023 Manipur ethnic violence are yet to receive benefits under government rehabilitation and welfare schemes.

Father-Daughter Duo Busted In Rs 5.3 Crore Government Job Scam

Father-Daughter Duo Busted In Rs 5.3 Crore Government Job Scam

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

A father and daughter have been arrested in Bengaluru for allegedly defrauding over 40 job seekers of more than Rs 5.30 crore by promising them government jobs through fake connections and training centres.

Ex-BJP leader Annamalai criticises Centre over 'no accountability' for NEET paper leaks

Ex-BJP leader Annamalai criticises Centre over 'no accountability' for NEET paper leaks

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Former BJP leader K Annamalai has criticised the Centre for its handling of the NEET issue, alleging a lack of accountability despite three question paper leaks and questioning the delay in engaging with student protesters.