News for 'Central Government'

India to run 35 hydrogen-powered trains in first phase

India to run 35 hydrogen-powered trains in first phase

Rediff.com29 May 2026

Hydrogen fuel cell technology generates electricity through a chemical reaction using hydrogen, with water vapour as the only emission, making it a cleaner alternative to conventional fossil fuel-based traction systems.

Palghar Rape Case Sparks Outrage; Official Assures Support

Palghar Rape Case Sparks Outrage; Official Assures Support

Rediff.com6 May 2026

A 13-year-old rape survivor in Palghar district was visited by an official, sparking outrage and calls for stricter laws and swift justice in the case.

BJP names Amit Shah as observer for election of Bengal CM

BJP names Amit Shah as observer for election of Bengal CM

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The BJP has appointed Amit Shah and JP Nadda as central observers for the election of legislative party leaders in West Bengal and Assam, respectively, following recent assembly poll victories.

Centre notifies changes to Citizenship Rules, 2009

Centre notifies changes to Citizenship Rules, 2009

Rediff.com1 May 2026

The Union Home Ministry has announced changes to the Citizenship Rules, 2009, introducing a digital shift for Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders and citizenship applications, including online applications and renunciation processes.

Why Satheesan's Leadership Is Crucial For Kerala's Future

Why Satheesan's Leadership Is Crucial For Kerala's Future

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Senior Congress leader Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan expressed confidence in V D Satheesan's ability to lead Kerala as Chief Minister, emphasising the need for a strong team to meet public expectations. He highlighted the importance of unity within the party and the focus on public welfare.

Enforcement Directorate Raids Dawood Gang's Drug Trafficker's Assets

Enforcement Directorate Raids Dawood Gang's Drug Trafficker's Assets

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

The Enforcement Directorate conducted raids across Maharashtra and Gujarat as part of a money laundering investigation against Mohammad Salim Dola, an alleged drug trafficker associated with the Dawood Ibrahim gang.

Why Mamata Banerjee Accuses BJP Of 'Breaking India'

Why Mamata Banerjee Accuses BJP Of 'Breaking India'

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the BJP-led central government of using the proposed amendment to the women's quota law as a front for the Delimitation Bill, which she claims will divide the country. She asserted that her party will fight this move at every step.

NCERT book row: SC modifies order banning academics

NCERT book row: SC modifies order banning academics

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The Supreme Court has modified its previous order regarding three academics involved in a controversial NCERT textbook chapter on corruption in the judiciary, allowing government bodies to make independent decisions about their association with the academics.

'SIR breathes life into fair polls': SC upholds EC exercise

'SIR breathes life into fair polls': SC upholds EC exercise

Rediff.com27 May 2026

The pleas challenging SIR claimed that the Election Commission does not have powers under Article 326 of the Constitution, the Representation of the People Act, 1950 and the Rules made under it to carry out SIR in a larger form.

Did an electrical disturbance trigger Air India Dreamliner crash?

Did an electrical disturbance trigger Air India Dreamliner crash?

Rediff.com5 May 2026

Pilots' grouping FIP has suggested that the AAIB should investigate whether a 'pre-lift off electrical disturbance' could have led to the Air India Dreamliner crash in June last year, which resulted in 260 fatalities.

Fresh plea in SC against HC order over Bhojshala verdict

Fresh plea in SC against HC order over Bhojshala verdict

Rediff.com28 May 2026

A fresh plea has been filed before the Supreme Court challenging a Madhya Pradesh High Court order, which said that the disputed Bhojshala complex in Dhar district was a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati.

NEET probe reaches Maha's Latur coaching centre; Nashik man in CBI custody

NEET probe reaches Maha's Latur coaching centre; Nashik man in CBI custody

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Nashik Police have detained a man in connection with the NEET paper leak following a request from Rajasthan Police. The National Testing Agency has cancelled the NEET (UG) 2024 exam and the CBI has been asked to investigate.

Punjab CM Accuses Centre of 'VIP Treatment' to Gangster Lawrence Bishnoi

Punjab CM Accuses Centre of 'VIP Treatment' to Gangster Lawrence Bishnoi

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has accused the central government of providing 'VIP treatment' to gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, criticising perceived double standards in dealing with crime.

BJP rigged vote counting in 177 seats, alleges Mamata

BJP rigged vote counting in 177 seats, alleges Mamata

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Mamata Banerjee alleges BJP rigged the West Bengal elections and announces plans for a nationwide anti-BJP alliance. She also protests against post-poll violence and arrests of TMC workers.

'An Earthquake Is Coming In Maharashtra Politics'

'An Earthquake Is Coming In Maharashtra Politics'

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

'Delimitation is scheduled for 2028. No matter how much the BJP currently depends on the Shinde Sena or NCP factions, it may not need them after delimitation.'

Modi's Austerity Push Faces Reality Test

Modi's Austerity Push Faces Reality Test

Rediff.com25 May 2026

Following through announcements with enforcement of measures is key, as a run through recent Indian economic history shows, points out A K Bhattacharya.

The Bihar I Have Begun To Believe In

The Bihar I Have Begun To Believe In

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Bihar's greatest resource is not beneath its soil but above it -- its people. With a population approaching 140 million and one of India's youngest demographic profiles, Bihar possesses an asset many societies would envy, explains Bihar Governor Lieutenant General Syed Ata Hasnain (retd).

West Asia Conflict to Push India's Fiscal Deficit to 4.5% of GDP

West Asia Conflict to Push India's Fiscal Deficit to 4.5% of GDP

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

India's fiscal deficit is projected to reach 4.5 per cent of GDP for the current fiscal year, exceeding the budgeted target, as the government's policy responses to the West Asia conflict are expected to strain public finances, according to research firm BMI.

NEET paper leak: Beautician among two held in Maha; handed over to CBI

NEET paper leak: Beautician among two held in Maha; handed over to CBI

Rediff.com14 May 2026

The police detained two persons, including a female beautician, from parts of Maharashtra on Wednesday for their alleged connection to the NEET paper leak case, officials said.

Meet The New CBSE Chief

Meet The New CBSE Chief

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Sarthak Sidhant, a 17-year-old student from Jharkhand affected by CBSE's online marking system, made a presentation before the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Tuesday on alleged irregularities in the tendering process for the selection of vendors for online marking of Class 12 answer scripts.

BJP MLA's Phone Snatched During Morning Walk

BJP MLA's Phone Snatched During Morning Walk

Rediff.com18 May 2026

A 19-year-old man allegedly snatched the mobile phone of BJP MLA Dharamlal Kaushik during his morning walk in Raipur. The accused was arrested within eight hours, but the incident has sparked political controversy.

Suvendu issues 'final' warning, vows zero tolerance on attacks against police

Suvendu issues 'final' warning, vows zero tolerance on attacks against police

Rediff.com18 May 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has declared a zero-tolerance policy towards vandalism and attacks on police personnel following violent protests in Kolkata. He warned of strict legal action and promised full government support for law enforcement.

Why Modi Empowered ED To Tackle Financial Crimes

Why Modi Empowered ED To Tackle Financial Crimes

Rediff.com1 May 2026

Union Minister Pankaj Chaudhary stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi strengthened the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to combat financial crimes like money laundering and corruption, dismissing allegations of it being used to target political opponents.

CBI Raids Punjab Vigilance Office, Arrests Middlemen In Bribery Case

CBI Raids Punjab Vigilance Office, Arrests Middlemen In Bribery Case

Rediff.com12 May 2026

The CBI conducted a late-night raid at the Punjab Vigilance office in Mohali, arresting several middlemen allegedly involved in collecting bribes for a senior officer. The raid was part of an investigation into a bribery allegation of around 20 lakh. Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia criticised the AAP government over the incident.

CPI(M) Condemns ED Raids On Kerala CM As Political Attack

CPI(M) Condemns ED Raids On Kerala CM As Political Attack

Rediff.com27 May 2026

CPI(M) leaders have strongly criticised the ED raids on former Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan and others, alleging political motivation and a conspiracy by the BJP and Congress. They claim the raids are an attempt to intimidate the party and its leaders, and have vowed to fight back against what they see as a politically fabricated case.

NEET-UG re-exam on June 21; computer-based test from next year: Pradhan

NEET-UG re-exam on June 21; computer-based test from next year: Pradhan

Rediff.com16 May 2026

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has announced that the NEET-UG medical entrance exam, which was cancelled due to alleged irregularities, will be re-conducted on June 21.

India Remembers Pahalgam Terror Attack, Pledges Zero Tolerance

India Remembers Pahalgam Terror Attack, Pledges Zero Tolerance

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

India observed the first anniversary of the Pahalgam terror attack, with leaders paying homage to the victims and asserting the country's commitment to fighting terrorism.

RBI Governor Signals Action If Iran War Leads To Entrenched Inflation

RBI Governor Signals Action If Iran War Leads To Entrenched Inflation

Rediff.com14 May 2026

'If the war continue for a longer period of time, it is just a matter of time before the government will pass on some of the price increases.'

Second-round effects of supply shocks a real concern, says RBI governor

Second-round effects of supply shocks a real concern, says RBI governor

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Sanjay Malhotra stated that preventing second-round effects of supply shocks, where inflation expectations rise due to prolonged disruptions, is the primary role of monetary policy. He also defended the RBI's foreign exchange market interventions, asserting it did not commit to an 'indefensible peg'.

Centre forms high-level panel on demographic change

Centre forms high-level panel on demographic change

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said infiltration and other reasons are causing 'unnatural' demographic change, which poses a significant challenge to the present and future of any nation.

How Punjab Police Recovered Over 12,000 Lost Mobile Phones

How Punjab Police Recovered Over 12,000 Lost Mobile Phones

Rediff.com23 May 2026

Punjab Police have successfully traced and returned over 12,000 lost mobile phones to their owners in the past year, utilising technical and data analysis. The recoveries, estimated to be worth between Rs 15 to Rs 20 crore, were made possible through initiatives like the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR).

Himanta set for second term as CM; Modi, Shah, Rajnath to attend oath

Himanta set for second term as CM; Modi, Shah, Rajnath to attend oath

Rediff.com10 May 2026

BJP leader Himanta Biswa Sarma has been appointed as the Chief Minister of Assam, marking the NDA's third consecutive government in the state. Sarma's swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for May 12, with key political figures expected to attend.

Assam Governor invites Himanta Biswa Sarma to form govt

Assam Governor invites Himanta Biswa Sarma to form govt

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Himanta Biswa Sarma has been elected as the leader of the BJP-led NDA in the Assam assembly, paving the way for his second consecutive term as chief minister. The NDA secured a two-thirds majority in the recent assembly polls, with the BJP winning 82 seats and its allies AGP and BPF securing 10 seats each.

How EPFO's UPI Integration Will Benefit Subscribers

How EPFO's UPI Integration Will Benefit Subscribers

Rediff.com19 May 2026

The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) will soon allow subscribers to withdraw their EPF and transfer it directly to their bank accounts through the UPI payment gateway. Testing of the facility has been completed, according to Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya.

Man Posing As Politician's Son Cheats Mumbai Businessman

Man Posing As Politician's Son Cheats Mumbai Businessman

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

Mumbai Police have registered a case against a man for allegedly posing as the son of a former Gujarat MP and cheating a businessman of lakhs of rupees on the promise of good returns on share market investments.

Bengal Jail Officials Suspended Amid Mobile Phone Allegations

Bengal Jail Officials Suspended Amid Mobile Phone Allegations

Rediff.com15 May 2026

The West Bengal government has suspended two senior officials at Presidency Correctional Home following allegations that inmates were using mobile phones within the facility. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari stated that a network of organised crime was being operated from within the state's prisons.

Parl panel grills NTA officials over NEET-UG paper leak

Parl panel grills NTA officials over NEET-UG paper leak

Rediff.com21 May 2026

Members of Parliament questioned top National Testing Agency (NTA) officials about the NEET-UG paper leak, with the NTA stating the CBI is investigating the matter. The parliamentary panel also discussed measures to prevent future leaks and reforms within the NTA.

Mamata Banerjee Declares Mission To Oust BJP

Mamata Banerjee Declares Mission To Oust BJP

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Trinamool Congress leader Mamata Banerjee has declared that removing the BJP from power is her life's mission, alleging election rigging and vowing to support TMC workers. She announced a nationwide anti-BJP programme and protested against post-poll violence and government actions.

India's peak power demand reaches record high amidst heatwave

India's peak power demand reaches record high amidst heatwave

Rediff.com19 May 2026

India's peak power demand reached an all-time high of 257.37 GW on Monday, driven by increased use of cooling appliances during an intense heatwave, according to power ministry data. The Indian Meteorological Department has forecast continued heatwave conditions in northwest and central India.

CBI Takes Custody In NEET Paper Leak Case

CBI Takes Custody In NEET Paper Leak Case

Rediff.com12 May 2026

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken into custody a person from Nashik, Maharashtra, in connection with the alleged NEET paper leak. The individual was initially detained by Nashik Police following a request from Rajasthan Police.