News for 'Central Region'

US missile-destroyer intercepts Iranian ship amid naval blockade

US missile-destroyer intercepts Iranian ship amid naval blockade

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

The United States Central Command confirmed that the USS Rafael Peralta intercepted an Iranian-flagged ship, enforcing a maritime blockade against Iran. The US military is prepared to resume major combat operations if ordered by the President.

Political Parties Sees 1,123 Defections In 15 Years

Political Parties Sees 1,123 Defections In 15 Years

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Most defections originated from three major parties -- the Congress, BJP and BSP.

From Kaziranga to Kanha: Wild water buffaloes being translocated 2000 km

From Kaziranga to Kanha: Wild water buffaloes being translocated 2000 km

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

Officials say the move represents the species' return after nearly a century, filling a long-standing ecological void. The animals, transported under strict veterinary supervision in specially designed crates, will initially be kept in soft-release enclosures to help them adapt before being fully released into the wild.

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.

ED Arrests Gameskraft Founders In Money Laundering Probe

ED Arrests Gameskraft Founders In Money Laundering Probe

Rediff.com8 May 2026

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has arrested three founders of online gaming platform Gameskraft in connection with a money laundering case linked to alleged fraud.

Kerala Win, Assam Loss Exposes Congress Crisis

Kerala Win, Assam Loss Exposes Congress Crisis

Rediff.com7 May 2026

If current trends persist, the Congress risks becoming increasingly regionally concentrated, dependent on a handful of states rather than functioning as a truly pan-India political force.

Delhi Police Nab Six Gang Members Linked To Rashid Cablewala

Delhi Police Nab Six Gang Members Linked To Rashid Cablewala

Rediff.com11 May 2026

Delhi Police have arrested six men allegedly linked to the Rashid Cablewala-Hashim Baba gang and seized a cache of illegal firearms and ammunition from their possession.

Bhojshala a Saraswati temple, rules HC; suggests alternate land for mosque

Bhojshala a Saraswati temple, rules HC; suggests alternate land for mosque

Rediff.com16 May 2026

The Madhya Pradesh High Court has declared the disputed Bhojshala complex in Dhar to be a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, suggesting the Muslim community seek land elsewhere for a mosque.

Modi: TMC's 'Jungle Raj' In Bengal To End On May 4

Modi: TMC's 'Jungle Raj' In Bengal To End On May 4

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserted that the TMC's governance in West Bengal is nearing its end, citing corruption and unfulfilled promises. He highlighted the BJP's commitment to development and security, particularly for the fisherfolk and against infiltration.

Hindu party files caveat in SC to be heard in Bhojshala appeal

Hindu party files caveat in SC to be heard in Bhojshala appeal

Rediff.com15 May 2026

A Hindu party has filed a caveat in the Supreme Court regarding the Bhojshala complex dispute, seeking a hearing before any orders are passed on appeals against the Madhya Pradesh High Court's decision.

Pakistan intensifies efforts for US-Iran talks after ceasefire extension

Pakistan intensifies efforts for US-Iran talks after ceasefire extension

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Pakistan has intensified its efforts to bring the US and Iran back to the negotiating table to end the war in West Asia, following President Trump's extension of the ceasefire. Pakistani officials have engaged with Iranian, Turkish, and British counterparts to promote dialogue and diplomacy for a peaceful resolution.

Iran offers 'new proposal' to US to end war, reopen Hormuz

Iran offers 'new proposal' to US to end war, reopen Hormuz

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

In a significant diplomatic manoeuvre aimed at de-escalating regional tensions, Iran has reportedly submitted a "new proposal" to the United States through Pakistani intermediaries.

ED probes Christian group over foreign card cash deals in Maoist areas

ED probes Christian group over foreign card cash deals in Maoist areas

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is investigating the use of foreign debit cards by a global Christian mission to withdraw crores of rupees in Naxal violence-hit regions of India. Searches were conducted in multiple states, and foreign debit cards, cash, and digital devices were seized.

Red Fort blast: NIA chargesheet links all accused to Qaida offshoot

Red Fort blast: NIA chargesheet links all accused to Qaida offshoot

Rediff.com14 May 2026

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a chargesheet against 10 accused in connection with the Red Fort area car bomb explosion case, which resulted in 11 fatalities and extensive property damage.

India deplores attacks on ships in Strait of Hormuz at UNSC

India deplores attacks on ships in Strait of Hormuz at UNSC

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

India has expressed strong concerns over attacks on commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz, citing its importance to India's energy and economic security. Ambassador Yojna Patel highlighted the need to respect international law and ensure the safety of seafarers, while also addressing broader Middle East issues including the situation in Gaza and Lebanon.

Why China's new county near PoK raises security concerns

Why China's new county near PoK raises security concerns

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

China has established a new county in Xinjiang province near Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and the Afghanistan border, a move seen as strengthening security along the Wakhan Corridor and addressing concerns about Uyghur separatist militants.

US redirects 48 vessels in Persian Gulf amid blockade on Iran

US redirects 48 vessels in Persian Gulf amid blockade on Iran

Rediff.com2 May 2026

The United States has redirected 48 vessels in the Persian Gulf, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz, over the past 20 days amid ongoing enforcement actions related to restrictions on Iranian maritime assets by the US Navy.

North 24 Parganas tense after Suvendu aide's murder

North 24 Parganas tense after Suvendu aide's murder

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Tension prevailed in parts of West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district after a BJP leader's close aide was shot dead, prompting increased security measures and protests.

Why The Energy Crisis Will Get Worse

Why The Energy Crisis Will Get Worse

Rediff.com11 May 2026

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted some 20 per cent of the global flows but even if it opens, damages to production facilities in the region will take time to repair, points out Sunita Narain.

Government To Expand Digital Food Subsidy Programme

Government To Expand Digital Food Subsidy Programme

Rediff.com3 May 2026

The government plans to expand its central bank digital currency (CBDC)-based food subsidy programme to Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, and Daman and Diu by June, following its implementation on a pilot basis in Gujarat and Puducherry, official sources said.

38 ships turned back as US tightens Iran blockade; Tehran rushes to Moscow

38 ships turned back as US tightens Iran blockade; Tehran rushes to Moscow

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has announced that American forces are maintaining a strict maritime restrictive operation in the region, continuing to enforce a blockade against Iranian ports.

Suvendu Adhikari's PA Murdered: What We Know

Suvendu Adhikari's PA Murdered: What We Know

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Suvendu Adhikari's personal assistant, Chandranath Rath, was shot dead in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district. The incident has heightened political tensions in the state.

Brain Networks Become More Refined With Age: Study

Brain Networks Become More Refined With Age: Study

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

A new study reveals that neuron networks in the brain's hippocampus, the memory centre, become sparser but more structured and refined as animals mature.

The Only Pollster Who Predicted Vijay's Victory

The Only Pollster Who Predicted Vijay's Victory

Rediff.com5 May 2026

'Tamil Nadu has 42% of its population in the 18 to 39 age group. The bulk of the population in this age group voted for Vijay and women voters too voted for him in big numbers.'

Kerala CM Deadlock Exposes Congress Weakness

Kerala CM Deadlock Exposes Congress Weakness

Rediff.com13 May 2026

In a state known for high political literacy and ideological mobilisation, the Congress' inability to quickly settle on a leader after securing a massive mandate has fed a narrative that the party remains excessively dependent on Delhi, deeply faction-ridden and vulnerable to internal sabotage

US releases video of Marines boarding Iranian vessel

US releases video of Marines boarding Iranian vessel

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

US Central Command (CENTCOM) released footage of a maritime operation where Marines boarded an Iranian-flagged vessel, the Touska, in the Gulf of Oman, leading to heightened tensions and threats of retaliation from Iran.

'US was aware Israel would attack Iran'

'US was aware Israel would attack Iran'

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Former Central Command chief David H Petraeus suggests the US and Iran are likely to extend their ceasefire beyond the initial two-week period, citing willingness from both sides to continue negotiations.

Modi: TMC's 'Syndicate Raj' In Bengal To End On May 4

Modi: TMC's 'Syndicate Raj' In Bengal To End On May 4

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserted that the TMC's rule in West Bengal is nearing its end, citing corruption and unfulfilled promises. He also pledged support for the fisherfolk and a zero-tolerance policy for infiltrators.

Trump lands in Beijing to rare VIP welcome amid trade and Iran talks

Trump lands in Beijing to rare VIP welcome amid trade and Iran talks

Rediff.com13 May 2026

US President Donald Trump received a red carpet welcome in Beijing for talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping on trade, the Iran war, and other key issues. The visit underscores the importance both nations place on their relationship amid ongoing tensions.

BJP storms to power in Bengal, ends Mamata's 15-year rule

BJP storms to power in Bengal, ends Mamata's 15-year rule

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The Bharatiya Janata Party has surged past the halfway mark in the West Bengal assembly elections, leading in 185 seats against the Trinamool Congress's 91, signalling a potential political shift in the state. Early trends suggest a geographically split mandate, with the BJP gaining in border, tribal, and industrial regions, while the TMC holds ground in parts of Kolkata and select rural strongholds.

Is Pakistan's mediation stalling US-Iran peace deal?

Is Pakistan's mediation stalling US-Iran peace deal?

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

Doubts are emerging about Pakistan's role in mediating peace negotiations between the US and Iran, with suggestions that Islamabad's efforts are stalling and failing to secure a definitive response from the United States.

Technocrat-politician Ashok Lahiri to steer NITI Aayog with reform mandate

Technocrat-politician Ashok Lahiri to steer NITI Aayog with reform mandate

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

Ashok Lahiri, a distinguished economist with experience in government, the private sector, and electoral politics, has been appointed as the new Vice-Chairman of NITI Aayog, tasked with strengthening India's reform trajectory and policy-making.

France, UK to take lead in Hormuz navigation mission: Macron

France, UK to take lead in Hormuz navigation mission: Macron

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday announced that France and the United Kingdom will jointly lead a multinational initiative to restore free and secure navigation in the Strait of Hormuz amid uncertainty over the virtual control of the strategic waterway between the US and Iran.

Israel strikes 200 targets, Iran warns of retaliation

Israel strikes 200 targets, Iran warns of retaliation

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

The Israeli Air Force (IAF) said it struck several targets in Tehran, Shiraz and Ahvaz simultaneously over the past 24 hours, targeting sites linked to Iran's ballistic missile programme, air defence systems and military headquarters.

'Force Americans to withdraw': Iran warns of crushing strikes on US assets

'Force Americans to withdraw': Iran warns of crushing strikes on US assets

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

The central headquarters of the Iranian armed forces has issued a stark warning to the United States and its regional partners following recent threats made by President Donald Trump, state broadcaster Press TV reported.

Why TMC Leader Calls Modi Bengal Government's 'Brand Ambassador'

Why TMC Leader Calls Modi Bengal Government's 'Brand Ambassador'

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee has described Narendra Modi as the 'biggest brand ambassador' of the incumbent government in West Bengal, citing the prime minister's recent visit to Jhargram as proof of the TMC's success in restoring peace to the region.

Will CBSE's New Curriculum Benefit Students?

Will CBSE's New Curriculum Benefit Students?

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

The new approach emphasises practical understanding and contemporary skills, encouraging students to think critically and apply concepts in real-world contexts, says Srividya Sridhar, principal of Lotus Petal Senior Secondary School.

TMC Alleges BJP Conspiracy Before West Bengal Elections

TMC Alleges BJP Conspiracy Before West Bengal Elections

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

The TMC has intensified its attack on the BJP, alleging a 'larger conspiracy' involving central agencies ahead of the second phase of West Bengal polls on April 29, while also questioning the credibility of the Election Commission.

'Tamil Nadu Has Produced Most Dramatic Political Debut'

'Tamil Nadu Has Produced Most Dramatic Political Debut'

Rediff.com6 May 2026

'This is a major rupture in Tamil Nadu's political order.' 'For the Dravidian parties, the message is clear: The old DMK-AIADMK binary is no longer guaranteed a future.'

Man Arrested Over Fake Vehicle Fitness Certificates

Man Arrested Over Fake Vehicle Fitness Certificates

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Faridabad police have arrested a suspect involved in a gang allegedly providing forged vehicle fitness certificates. The accused is in police custody, and efforts are underway to apprehend other members of the gang.