News for 'Central India'

IIIT-H distances itself from Umar Khalid docu screening after CBFC flag

IIIT-H distances itself from Umar Khalid docu screening after CBFC flag

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) flagged the proposed screening of an uncertified documentary on jailed activist Umar Khalid at IIIT-Hyderabad, citing violations of the Cinematograph Act. IIIT-Hyderabad subsequently distanced itself from the event, stating no recognised student bodies had organised it. The screening, titled "Prisoner No. 626710 is Present," was reportedly cancelled by students, following a similar postponement at NLSIU Bengaluru due to opposition.

'12 Years Of Hard Work': Elavenil's Parents Celebrate Historic Silver Medals At Asian Games

'12 Years Of Hard Work': Elavenil's Parents Celebrate Historic Silver Medals At Asian Games

Rediff.com20 Sep 2026

Elavenil Valarivan's family celebrated her historic Asian Games silver medals, saying 12 years of dedication, sacrifice and support from coaches and authorities finally brought her long-awaited success.

'ISRO's Successes Must Not Be Privatised'

'ISRO's Successes Must Not Be Privatised'

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

Their message is blunt: Public scientific wealth should not be transferred at what they describe as 'throwaway prices'.capability, recruitment, promotional avenues and the voice of its employees.

Article 370 to 'vote chori': When Gyanesh Kumar made headlines

Article 370 to 'vote chori': When Gyanesh Kumar made headlines

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar is facing significant scrutiny after an investigation revealed objections from his fellow election commissioners, Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi, regarding decisions made during the Special Intensive Revision of voter lists. The objections, reportedly made at least 14 times, concerned issues like changes to voter registration forms and centralised control over electoral roll databases, intensifying criticism of Kumar's tenure and the EC's impartiality.

Hardik Pandya's Comeback On September 20?

Hardik Pandya's Comeback On September 20?

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Hardik Pandya is reportedly nearing a return to competitive white-ball cricket, subject to medical clearance.

How To Prevent Deaths By Suicide At IITs

How To Prevent Deaths By Suicide At IITs

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

171 IIT student deaths by suicide or other unnatural causes have been recorded between January 2006 and September 2026. Of these, 120 were recorded between 2016 and September 2026, compared with 51 in the preceding decade.

PCB announces significant pay hike for centrally contracted players

PCB announces significant pay hike for centrally contracted players

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to significantly increase match fees and monthly retainers for centrally contracted players, particularly those in the red ball Track A category, for the 2026/27 cycle. The new contracts also introduce format-based categories and substantial bonuses for winning ICC and Asia Cup events.

West Bengal Launches Quantum And Semiconductor Tech Section To Attract Investments

West Bengal Launches Quantum And Semiconductor Tech Section To Attract Investments

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

West Bengal has launched an Emerging Quantum and Semiconductor Technologies (EQST) section at CSIR-CGCRI to attract investments and position the state as a hub for next-generation technology. Minister Kalyan Chakraborti highlighted India's need to invest in these crucial sectors and outlined the state's plans to collaborate with institutions and leverage budget initiatives to foster research and start-ups.

FCNR(B) funds find a runway ahead of festival season-led credit demand

FCNR(B) funds find a runway ahead of festival season-led credit demand

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

RBI Deputy Governor Rohit Jain highlighted that banks are well-positioned to deploy $133 billion mobilised through FCNR(B) deposits, especially with strong credit demand ahead of the festival season, while also stressing the importance of robust technology governance and cyber defences in the financial sector.

Delhi SIR: Bimal Jalan, IAF ex-chief Browne among voters issued notices

Delhi SIR: Bimal Jalan, IAF ex-chief Browne among voters issued notices

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

Former RBI Governor Bimal Jalan, ex-IAF Chief NAK Browne, and other prominent figures in Delhi have received notices regarding discrepancies in their voter details during the ongoing Special Summary Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls. Over 33 lakh electors have been identified for such notices, with a deadline of September 30 for responses.

Oppn wants CEC sacked, jailed; seeks repoll in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Bengal

Oppn wants CEC sacked, jailed; seeks repoll in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Bengal

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Opposition parties in India are demanding the impeachment and arrest of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, alleging he is running the poll panel as a 'one-man autocracy' following revelations that two Election Commissioners red-flagged issues related to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

Tata Trusts Propose Merger to Keep Tata Sons Unlisted, Shed NBFC Tag

Tata Trusts Propose Merger to Keep Tata Sons Unlisted, Shed NBFC Tag

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Tata Trusts, the majority shareholders of Tata Sons, have proposed merging two operating companies, Tata Electronics Systems Solutions Pvt Ltd (TESS) and Tata Consulting Engineers (TCE), with Tata Sons. This restructuring aims to shed Tata Sons' classification as a non-banking financial company (NBFC) and a core investment company (CIC), thereby allowing it to retain its status as an unlisted private company and resolve ongoing disputes regarding its future ownership.

Udta Teer: Pakistani Comedy Version Of Dhurandhar?

Udta Teer: Pakistani Comedy Version Of Dhurandhar?

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

'Yeh ek spy comedy hai, patriotic comedy hai, genre bender hai.'

F-35 stealth fighters set for first tactical drills with IAF

F-35 stealth fighters set for first tactical drills with IAF

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

In a major operational milestone, US fifth-generation F-35 stealth fighter jets are set to participate in joint combat drills alongside the Indian Air Force (IAF) for the first time during the upcoming multinational air exercise Tarang Shakti 2026.

'All SIR orders had unanimous nod': EC clarifies amid row over differences

'All SIR orders had unanimous nod': EC clarifies amid row over differences

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

The Election Commission of India has addressed reports of internal dissent among its commissioners and clarified that all Special Intensive Revision (SIR) orders and Form 6 updates for voter enrolment received unanimous consent and were upheld by the Supreme Court. The EC also announced measures to ease the process for voters issued notices, including doorstep document collection and extended deadlines in Delhi and Maharashtra, while affirming its commitment to transparent decision-making and meticulous compliance with directives.

'Misleading and unfair': Govt bans advance tipping on ride-hailing apps

'Misleading and unfair': Govt bans advance tipping on ride-hailing apps

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

India's Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare announced that cab aggregators have been ordered to cease advance tipping options, deeming the practice misleading and unfair. This follows the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) imposing a Rs 10 lakh penalty on Rapido for unfair business practices, including advance tipping and "dark patterns" that pressure users to pay more. Investigations into Uber and Ola are ongoing, with the government emphasizing that tipping should be voluntary and post-ride.

SAI Bhopal Coaches Face Counselling Over Conduct Issues

SAI Bhopal Coaches Face Counselling Over Conduct Issues

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The Sports Authority of India's National Centre of Excellence in Bhopal has mandated two judo coaches, Ruchi Audichya and Gitanjali Pawar, to attend counselling sessions with a sports psychologist due to concerns regarding their professional conduct, attitude, and impact on athlete discipline and performance.

Xi arrives in Delhi for BRICS summit, talks with Modi at 6 pm

Xi arrives in Delhi for BRICS summit, talks with Modi at 6 pm

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Chinese President Xi Jinping's first visit to India in seven years for the BRICS Summit and bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to address crucial aspects of India-China relations, including trade, investment, and persistent border tensions.

What's Special About Thirukkural Which Modi Gifted Putin?

What's Special About Thirukkural Which Modi Gifted Putin?

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented Russian President Vladimir Putin with a Russian translation of the Thirukkural, the classical Tamil work by poet-philosopher Thiruvalluvar, ahead of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi.

'CEC Gyanesh Kumar will go to jail': Oppn on report of difference in EC over SIR

'CEC Gyanesh Kumar will go to jail': Oppn on report of difference in EC over SIR

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

A political storm has erupted with the Opposition demanding the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, following reports that two Election Commissioners raised 'expansive red flags' over the Special Intensive Revision of voters' lists, citing issues like name deletions and decisions made without their knowledge.

RBI proposes 60-day debit hold on suspected money mule accounts to combat cyber fraud

RBI proposes 60-day debit hold on suspected money mule accounts to combat cyber fraud

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has proposed a standard operating procedure (SOP) for banks to implement temporary debit holds on accounts or transactions suspected of being involved in money-mule activity and cyber-enabled financial fraud, with a maximum duration of 60 days.

Banks Brace for 3-Day Strike

Banks Brace for 3-Day Strike

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

Bankers said the impact could become more visible from September 29 as customers could withdraw larger amounts of cash, although ATM operations are increasingly managed through third-party cash-loading arrangements.

'Mindset must change': SC tells TN to provide land for Navodaya in 3 months

'Mindset must change': SC tells TN to provide land for Navodaya in 3 months

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has directed the Tamil Nadu government to comply with its previous order to identify land for establishing Navodaya Vidyalayas in each district of the state, emphasising cooperative federalism and urging a change in mindset regarding the central government's education policy.

CBI Registers Case Against RCAP, Anil Ambani In Rs 2,684 Crore LIC Fraud

CBI Registers Case Against RCAP, Anil Ambani In Rs 2,684 Crore LIC Fraud

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

The CBI has registered a case against Reliance Capital Limited (RCAP), its former chairman Anil Ambani, and others for an alleged Rs 2,684.57-crore fraud involving investments made by the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC). Anil Ambani has denied any wrongdoing. The LIC alleges criminal conspiracy, misrepresentation, and fraudulent diversion of funds.

Direct Tax Collection Jumps 13% to Rs 12.12 Lakh Crore on Strong Advance Tax

Direct Tax Collection Jumps 13% to Rs 12.12 Lakh Crore on Strong Advance Tax

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

India's net direct tax collection has surged by 13 per cent to over Rs 12.12 lakh crore by September 17 in the current fiscal year, driven by a significant increase in advance tax payments from corporates, according to CBDT data.

How Rahi Sarnobat Overcame Debilitating Illness For A Second Shot At Glory

How Rahi Sarnobat Overcame Debilitating Illness For A Second Shot At Glory

Rediff.com27 Sep 2026

Indian sports pistol shooter Rahi Sarnobat discusses her challenging journey back to elite competition after battling a debilitating neuropathic pain syndrome. She shares how the illness forced her to redefine her training, mindset, and priorities, leading to a "second life" in the sport as she prepares for her fourth Asian Games.

Mamata faction protests EC order, submits choices for names, symbols

Mamata faction protests EC order, submits choices for names, symbols

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

The Trinamool Congress has submitted new names and symbols to the Election Commission for the upcoming West Bengal bypolls, following an interim order that temporarily barred the party from using its original name and "flowers and grass" symbol due to an ongoing internal dispute and split. The party submitted its choices under protest.

Suspected Drones Disrupt Operations At Amritsar Airport

Suspected Drones Disrupt Operations At Amritsar Airport

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Multiple suspected drones were detected near the operational area of Amritsar's international airport, leading to the diversion of seven flights, including two international ones. The incident prompted a security alert and suspended flight operations for 90 minutes.

'You're Not Welcome Xi': Tibetans Protest In Delhi

'You're Not Welcome Xi': Tibetans Protest In Delhi

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Members of the Tibetan community in exile held a symbolic protest march in Delhi's Majnu Ka Tila ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to India for the BRICS 2026 Summit, voicing opposition to Beijing's policies in Tibet.

Why Japan Is Expanding Defence Ties Beyond India

Why Japan Is Expanding Defence Ties Beyond India

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Japan is deepening its defence relationship with India while simultaneously expanding its economic, infrastructure and security engagement with countries around India -- particularly Bangladesh. The result is an emerging Japanese conception of South Asia in which India remains the strategic anchor, but the geography surrounding India is becoming increasingly important, points out Varun Arya.

Why Expanding Early Warning Systems Is Crucial For Disaster Mitigation

Why Expanding Early Warning Systems Is Crucial For Disaster Mitigation

Rediff.com20 Sep 2026

Climate scientist Tapio Schneider advocates for expanding early warning systems beyond rainfall events to include other disaster triggers like flash floods, citing the recent Nepal floods. He highlights the inevitability of 1.5 degrees Celsius global warming and discusses the role of advanced climate modelling and AI in improving predictions and research, particularly for regions like India.

7 Mansa Devi Temples In India

7 Mansa Devi Temples In India

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Maa Mansa Devi, revered as the Hindu goddess of serpents, is worshipped for protection from snakebites, fertility and prosperity. She is also popularly known as the wish-fulfilling goddess. In Hindu mythology, Mansa is associated with sage Kashyapa and is regarded as the sister of Vasuki, the serpent king.

Nirmala Sitharaman Calls For Faster CBDC Progress And Stronger Cybersecurity Measures

Nirmala Sitharaman Calls For Faster CBDC Progress And Stronger Cybersecurity Measures

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has urged the Reserve Bank of India to accelerate its central bank digital currency initiatives, emphasising the need to sharpen capabilities with the digital rupee amidst rapid advancements in tokenisation, agentic AI, and quantum computing. She also highlighted critical concerns regarding cybersecurity, warning that autonomous AI systems are evolving rapidly and require robust safeguards. Sitharaman proposed a federated industry platform to give India's technology ecosystem a collective international voice.

Delhi gears up for BRICS summit with extensive makeover

Delhi gears up for BRICS summit with extensive makeover

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Central Delhi has undergone a significant beautification drive, including extensive lighting, floral displays, and BRICS-themed signages, in preparation for the upcoming BRICS Leaders' Summit. The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) and other civic bodies have focused on sprucing up key routes, hotels, and the summit venue, Bharat Mandapam, to welcome delegates and visitors.

Will follow Centre's Vande Mataram Protocol: Kerala CM

Will follow Centre's Vande Mataram Protocol: Kerala CM

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan stated that the state government adheres to Central protocol for Vande Mataram recitation when the President, Vice-President, or Prime Minister attend official functions, despite his party's internal policy. This clarification follows a controversy and protests from the CPI(M) and SFI regarding the full rendition of the national song at a recent state event.

Has Trump Chosen Pakistan Over India?

Has Trump Chosen Pakistan Over India?

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

We are back to the 1971 moment with both China and the US supporting Pakistan, asserts Colonel Anil A Athale (retd).

The Importance Of Veer Guardian

The Importance Of Veer Guardian

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

The political confidence required to place high-end Japanese aircraft and personnel on Indian soil is itself a data point.
It indicates a level of trust that would have been difficult to imagine when India-Japan defence ties were largely symbolic, explains Varun Arya.

Mamata faction gets 'football player' as symbol for bypolls

Mamata faction gets 'football player' as symbol for bypolls

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

The Election Commission has allotted the 'Football Player' symbol to the Mamata Banerjee-led faction of the Trinamool Congress for the upcoming West Bengal bypolls, while the rival Arup Roy-led group will contest with the 'Envelope' symbol.

India works with Nepal on repatriating flood victims' remains

India works with Nepal on repatriating flood victims' remains

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

The Indian Embassy in Nepal has released a detailed procedure for identifying and repatriating the mortal remains of foreign nationals, including Indians, who perished in the recent devastating flash floods. The process involves a nine-step protocol by Nepali authorities, DNA matching for unidentified remains, and assistance from the Indian Embassy for coordination and repatriation.

RBI Deputy Governor: UPI MDR won't trigger shift back to cash

RBI Deputy Governor: UPI MDR won't trigger shift back to cash

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

RBI Deputy Governor S C Murmu stated that the introduction of merchant discount rate (MDR) on UPI transactions is unlikely to cause a shift back to cash, despite some concerns, emphasising that MDR will help the payments ecosystem recover costs.