News for 'Central and State'

Zomato, Zepto, Swiggy, Urban Company, Porter Challenge Karnataka Gig Workers Act

Zomato, Zepto, Swiggy, Urban Company, Porter Challenge Karnataka Gig Workers Act

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

'If there are different laws governing the same subject, it can increase the compliance burden on platforms. The process would be easier and more transparent if there were a singular national-level law.'

US and Iran agree to de-escalate strikes, reopen Strait of Hormuz

US and Iran agree to de-escalate strikes, reopen Strait of Hormuz

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

US and Iran officials have reportedly agreed to de-escalate tensions and ensure free passage through the Strait of Hormuz, with technical talks scheduled to continue. This development follows months of conflict, rising gas prices, and strained diplomatic relations, marked by recent retaliatory strikes and threats from both sides. Further discussions on Iran's nuclear program are set to take place in Qatar, highlighting ongoing diplomatic efforts despite recent volatility.

Odisha changes English spellings of 64 places to match Odia phonetics

Odisha changes English spellings of 64 places to match Odia phonetics

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

The Odisha government has officially changed the English spellings of 64 places, including major cities like Cuttack (now Kataka) and Balasore (now Baleshwar), to align with Odia phonetics. This move aims to preserve the state's linguistic and cultural identity by correcting colonial-era anglicised names and standardising official records.

As Ram temple trust meets, chairman says 'deeply hurt'

As Ram temple trust meets, chairman says 'deeply hurt'

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust held a crucial meeting in Ayodhya to deliberate on the resignations of general secretary Champat Rai and member Anil Mishra, following allegations of embezzlement of donations. The meeting also reviewed the ongoing SIT probe into the alleged theft.

Inmate's Viral Video From Hoshiarpur Jail Triggers Political Outcry

Inmate's Viral Video From Hoshiarpur Jail Triggers Political Outcry

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

A video of an inmate from Hoshiarpur Central Jail alleging harassment and demanding money from staff has gone viral, leading to an official inquiry and a political backlash against the Punjab government.

'Bro, I'm an artist': Diljit Dosanjh to stay away from CJP protest

'Bro, I'm an artist': Diljit Dosanjh to stay away from CJP protest

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Punjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh has publicly distanced himself from the ongoing protests by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar, which are focused on alleged exam irregularities and the NEET paper-leak controversy. Dosanjh reiterated his identity as an artist, not a politician, despite his past support for the farmers' protest and recent appeals to enter politics.

Monsoon fury brings Mumbai-Pune to a standstill; 'Missing Link' reopens

Monsoon fury brings Mumbai-Pune to a standstill; 'Missing Link' reopens

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Heavy monsoon rains have severely impacted Mumbai and its surrounding areas, leading to landslides, suspension of train services, and at least 13 fatalities over the past few days. The Mumbai-Pune Expressway was also shut due to a concrete pillar collapse and waterlogging.

Mumbai gets brief respite from rain, orange alert remains in place

Mumbai gets brief respite from rain, orange alert remains in place

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Mumbai and Pune are grappling with severe monsoon weather, triggering an 'orange' alert, widespread disruptions, school closures, and tragic fatalities from landslides and wall collapses.

West Bengal Trader Files Complaint Against TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee

West Bengal Trader Files Complaint Against TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

A trader in Siliguri, West Bengal, has lodged a police complaint against Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee for alleged provocative remarks made during the recent Assembly polls, targeting Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

RBI: US-Iran Deal Shifts Risk Balance Favourably, But Oil Price Spikes Could Raise FX Volatility

RBI: US-Iran Deal Shifts Risk Balance Favourably, But Oil Price Spikes Could Raise FX Volatility

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

The Reserve Bank of India's Financial Stability Report indicates that the interim peace deal between the US and Iran has favourably shifted the balance of risks, reducing headwinds from the West Asia conflict. However, it cautions that exchange rate volatility could increase if crude oil prices spike due to delayed normalisation of supply chain disruptions.

New ICAR-CIFT Technology Revolutionises Live Fish Transport

New ICAR-CIFT Technology Revolutionises Live Fish Transport

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

The ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (ICAR-CIFT) has secured an Indian patent for a novel technology designed to make live fish and aquatic animal transport safer and more efficient without the use of chemicals. This innovative system employs controlled hypothermic anaesthetisation, gradually cooling aquatic animals to prevent shock and improve survival rates during transit, offering a practical and affordable solution for the seafood industry.

How Drones Are Revolutionising Power Transmission In Karnataka

How Drones Are Revolutionising Power Transmission In Karnataka

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation Limited (KPTCL) has successfully deployed advanced drone technology for inspecting high voltage transmission corridors, leading to an 85 per cent reduction in power outages. This initiative has improved operational efficiency, workforce safety, and enabled precise fault detection and predictive maintenance across over 11,000 transmission towers and 3,370 km of lines.

Ikka Review: Overruled By Melodrama

Ikka Review: Overruled By Melodrama

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

By the time Ikka reaches its overblown finale, complete with a redundant trick ending, the verdict becomes clear: Melodrama wins, logic loses, observes Mayur Sanap.

Fresh blow to Mamata: TMC's Rs 675-cr war chest becomes new battleground

Fresh blow to Mamata: TMC's Rs 675-cr war chest becomes new battleground

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

The internecine war within the Trinamool Congress took a new turn on Thursday with "party treasurer" Aroop Biswas writing to a bank seeking restrictions on the operation of the party's accounts, citing uncertainty over its legitimate leadership amid rebellions by MLAs and MPs.

Sekulic Defeats Singh to Win Central Excise & CGST - ITF M25 Kolkata

Sekulic Defeats Singh to Win Central Excise & CGST - ITF M25 Kolkata

Rediff.com15 Mar 2026

Australian Philip Sekulic defeated India's Karan Singh in straight sets to win the men's singles title in the Central Excise & CGST - ITF M25 Kolkata.

How Delhi Police Busted Paharganj Sex Racket

How Delhi Police Busted Paharganj Sex Racket

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Delhi Police have busted an alleged sex racket operating from a building in Paharganj, central Delhi, rescuing four women and arresting one man. Legal action has also been initiated against the premises owner.

'King Kasab': Maha minister's remark fuels fresh KEM Hospital renaming row

'King Kasab': Maha minister's remark fuels fresh KEM Hospital renaming row

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Maharashtra minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha has ignited a controversy by proposing to rename Mumbai's KEM Hospital, referring to King Edward VII as "King Kasab" who "looted India". The proposal faces opposition from other political parties, with the state government stating no final decision has been made.

The H-1 B Visa and the Fading American Dream

The H-1 B Visa and the Fading American Dream

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

The H-1B visa once symbolised the American Dream for Indians, but today's students are increasingly asking whether they need America at all. In 1995, the question was: How do I get to America? In 2026, it may be: Do I need to?

DRI Seizes Rs 2.61 Crore Ganja, Arrests Two In Major Bust

DRI Seizes Rs 2.61 Crore Ganja, Arrests Two In Major Bust

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has dismantled an inter-state drug trafficking syndicate in Nagpur, seizing 522 kg of ganja worth Rs 2.61 crore and arresting two individuals involved in supplying contraband across the Odisha-Central India corridor to Maharashtra.

BJP Leader K Surendran Alleges Organised Networks Help Bangladeshi Nationals Obtain Fake IDs In Kerala

BJP Leader K Surendran Alleges Organised Networks Help Bangladeshi Nationals Obtain Fake IDs In Kerala

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

BJP leader K Surendran has alleged that organised networks are helping Bangladeshi nationals obtain fake identity documents in Kerala, including Aadhaar and ration cards. He warned of a serious challenge if unchecked and called for urgent measures to distinguish genuine migrant workers from illegal infiltrators.

Kerala's PM SHRI Scheme: LDF Accuses UDF Of Misinformation And Double Standards

Kerala's PM SHRI Scheme: LDF Accuses UDF Of Misinformation And Double Standards

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Senior CPI(M) leader V Sivankutty has criticised the Kerala UDF government for allegedly spreading misinformation about the Centre's PM SHRI scheme and attempting to implement it despite earlier opposition. He clarified that the previous LDF government froze the agreement over concerns about the National Education Policy and that funds received were not for PM SHRI. The scheme continues to be a politically contentious issue in the state.

Karnataka Minister Vows Action In Bitcoin Scam, Tightens Pub Rules

Karnataka Minister Vows Action In Bitcoin Scam, Tightens Pub Rules

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge affirmed that all individuals involved in the Bitcoin scam, including Youth Congress leader Mohammed Haris Nalapad, will face legal consequences, emphasising the state government's transparent approach. He also announced a new circular mandating age verification in pubs and bars to curb underage drinking and substance abuse.

Major Heroin Haul: Nine Arrested In Mizoram Drug Bust

Major Heroin Haul: Nine Arrested In Mizoram Drug Bust

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Nine individuals from Manipur were arrested in Mizoram's Aizawl district with 740 gm of heroin, seized during a joint operation by the Excise and Narcotics Department, Assam Rifles, and CYMA. The drugs were found concealed in soap cases, and the accused have been booked under the NDPS Act.

5 diamonds weighing 1.22 carats found during exploration in Chhattisgarh

5 diamonds weighing 1.22 carats found during exploration in Chhattisgarh

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Five diamonds, including two of gem quality, have been discovered during scientific exploration in Chhattisgarh's Mahasamund district. This significant find in the Baloda-Belmundi Diamond Block could establish a new diamond-bearing region, promising future investments, revenue generation, and employment opportunities for the state and strengthening India's domestic diamond resources.

Why Foreign Students Don't Come To India

Why Foreign Students Don't Come To India

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

90 per cent of institutions recorded no improvement in international student metrics, despite government initiatives such as the Study in India programme, UGC regulations on internationalisation, and efforts to attract foreign students.

Sena-UBT remains strong, Aaditya capable of leading it: Raut

Sena-UBT remains strong, Aaditya capable of leading it: Raut

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Sanjay Raut defended the strength of Shiv Sena-UBT, backing Aaditya Thackeray as a capable next-generation leader while claiming the party cadre remains loyal to Uddhav Thackeray despite recent MP defections driven by money and central agency pressure.

Does Trouble Follow Dharmendra Pradhan?

Does Trouble Follow Dharmendra Pradhan?

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Mr Pradhan is not an especially charismatic leader or a brilliant orator, but his understanding of realpolitik and organisational dynamics makes him the ultimate party man, points out Aditi Phadnis.

Pharma distributor's licence cancelled over Kota C-section deaths

Pharma distributor's licence cancelled over Kota C-section deaths

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

The World Health Organization has requested information from the Indian government regarding the alleged supply of spurious oxytocin injections linked to the deaths of five women in Kota hospitals. This comes after regulatory action, including the cancellation of manufacturing licenses for Jackson Laboratories units, following joint inspections by drug control bodies. The government is investigating the matter, emphasising a zero-tolerance approach to quality violations.

India to supply BrahMos, Astra missiles to Indonesia; backs Indo-Pacific peace

India to supply BrahMos, Astra missiles to Indonesia; backs Indo-Pacific peace

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto have significantly advanced the India-Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, securing crucial agreements on defence, critical minerals, and maritime security, including BrahMos missile supply and Sabang port development.

Suvendu govt to toughen laws against vandalism, attacks on officials

Suvendu govt to toughen laws against vandalism, attacks on officials

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

The West Bengal government plans to introduce two new bills in the Assembly to address public disorder, vandalism, and attacks on police and public servants. One bill will amend the existing Public Order Act, 1972, while the other, titled the Public Safety Control and Anti-Social Activity Bill, will comprehensively strengthen public safety measures. These legislative changes aim to curb incidents of violence and allow for compensation recovery from offenders.

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.

Trump says Iran 'agrees to never have nukes', denies $300mn fund claim

Trump says Iran 'agrees to never have nukes', denies $300mn fund claim

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Earlier, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also declared that Iran would never be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons, regardless of any agreement.

Diljit Dosanjh's 'Satluj' removed from OTT 2 days after release

Diljit Dosanjh's 'Satluj' removed from OTT 2 days after release

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Diljit Dosanjh's film 'Satluj', based on human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, has been made unavailable on ZEE5 in India just two days after its release, following a prolonged censorship battle.

Satluj Writer: 'If A Region Has A Violent History, Will We Bury That?'

Satluj Writer: 'If A Region Has A Violent History, Will We Bury That?'

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

'...Or will we take a positive approach and learn from those mistakes so that it is not repeated in future?'

Exodus continues from AIADMK, 3 former ministers join Vijay's TVK

Exodus continues from AIADMK, 3 former ministers join Vijay's TVK

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Three former AIADMK ministers, Dr C Vijayabaskar, M R Vijayabaskar, and M S M Anandan, along with their supporters, have joined the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), prompting the DMK to label the move as 'washing machine' politics, referencing allegations of corruption against the defectors.

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.

Made-in-India drone swarms pass battlefield trial

Made-in-India drone swarms pass battlefield trial

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

The autonomous, edge-native drone swarms are capable of continuing operations even when some lose connectivity, run low on battery, or return to base.

Why Taiwan Is At The Heart Of US-China Rivalry

Why Taiwan Is At The Heart Of US-China Rivalry

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

For the foreseeable future, the most likely outcome remains continuation of the status quo. Taiwan will remain self-governing without formally declaring independence, while China continues to apply sustained pressure short of war, predict Krishnan Srinivasan and Manoj Mohanka.

US confirms firing 2 Hellfire missiles at Indian vessel

US confirms firing 2 Hellfire missiles at Indian vessel

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed striking the Guinea-Bissau-flagged oil tanker MT Jalveer, carrying 20 Indian seafarers, in the Gulf of Oman for allegedly violating the US blockade against Iran. This incident marks the third commercial vessel attacked by US forces in the region this week, with three Indian seafarers previously losing their lives in an attack on the MT Settebello.

Banking system liquidity in deficit after 3 months

Banking system liquidity in deficit after 3 months

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

India's banking system liquidity has fallen into a deficit for the first time in nearly three months, prompting the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to inject 1.41 trillion through a seven-day variable rate repo (VRR) auction to ease the temporary tightness.