News for 'Central'

Oversupply Looms: India's Cement Sector Braces for Pricing Pressure

Oversupply Looms: India's Cement Sector Braces for Pricing Pressure

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

India's cement industry is on the brink of an oversupply situation as aggressive capacity expansion by major players is set to outpace demand growth over the next two financial years, potentially leading to pricing pressures and moderated utilisation rates.

Arunachal activist booked over foreign funds for anti-dam protests

Arunachal activist booked over foreign funds for anti-dam protests

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The CBI has registered a case against Arunachal Pradesh environmental activist and lawyer Bhanu Tatak for allegedly receiving Rs 20.94 lakh in foreign funds without mandatory FCRA registration or prior permission. The agency claims these funds were used to organise and sustain protests against two hydropower projects in the state. A preliminary enquiry indicated Tatak received foreign contributions directly into her personal account and did not file income tax returns declaring these funds.

Filhaal To Daayra, Meghna Gulzar's Films, Ranked

Filhaal To Daayra, Meghna Gulzar's Films, Ranked

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

From Filhaal to Daayra, we look at Meghna Gulzar's filmmaking journey, including the highs of Talvar and Raazi and the films that fell short.

Indian Equities Tank as Oil Surges, Rate Hike Fears Grip Global Markets

Indian Equities Tank as Oil Surges, Rate Hike Fears Grip Global Markets

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Indian benchmark indices, Sensex and Nifty, experienced a significant downturn, with Sensex tanking 778 points and Nifty closing at a five-month low, driven by surging crude oil prices, geopolitical tensions, and fears of further interest rate hikes by major central banks.

BMW India CEO: Remove EV Road Tax Caps to Boost Adoption

BMW India CEO: Remove EV Road Tax Caps to Boost Adoption

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO of BMW Group India, has urged state governments like Delhi to remove price caps on road tax benefits for electric vehicles (EVs), arguing that such limits deter luxury-car buyers and hinder the transition to cleaner mobility in pollution-affected regions.

Government Forms Task Force To Explore Formula 1 Revival In India By 2028

Government Forms Task Force To Explore Formula 1 Revival In India By 2028

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

India's Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has announced the formation of a 10-member Task Force, chaired by Niti Aayog's Yugal Kishore Joshi, to assess the feasibility and challenges of reviving Formula 1 in the country. The committee aims to develop a roadmap for India to host a Grand Prix by 2028, focusing on sustainable growth, policy interventions, and addressing past issues like taxation. The Adani group, owners of the Buddh International Circuit, will also be involved.

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.

Nepal floods: Where are the nearly 6,000 still untraced?

Nepal floods: Where are the nearly 6,000 still untraced?

Rediff.com20 Sep 2026

Nearly a month after devastating flash floods in Nepal, search operations are ongoing for approximately 6,000 people who remain unaccounted for. The floods, originating near the Nepal-Tibet border, caused widespread destruction, killing over 1,400 in Nepal and 43 in China, and damaging critical infrastructure. Identification of recovered bodies is a major challenge, often requiring DNA testing due to severe damage.

TMC office, ex-MLA's home, CPM memorial attacked in Bengal; BJP denies role

TMC office, ex-MLA's home, CPM memorial attacked in Bengal; BJP denies role

Rediff.com20 Sep 2026

A TMC office, former MLA and councillor residences, and a CPI(M) memorial were allegedly vandalised in Jadavpur, Kolkata. The Trinamool Congress and the Left Front have accused BJP workers of the attacks, while the BJP has denied involvement, attributing the incidents to internal TMC disputes.

'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.

Security Forces Hunt For Terrorists In Srinagar

Security Forces Hunt For Terrorists In Srinagar

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

On Thursday, September 10, Jammu and Kashmir Police along with the Central Reserve Police Force, conducted a cordon and search operation in the Batamaloo area of Srinagar.

How RBI's Tokenisation Push Will Transform India's Financial Ecosystem

How RBI's Tokenisation Push Will Transform India's Financial Ecosystem

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is planning to extend tokenisation to various financial asset classes, building on its successful trials with certificates of deposit (CDs). This move aims to enhance the efficiency of issuance, trading, and settlement of financial assets, leveraging blockchain technology and wholesale Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) for atomic settlements.

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.

What's Behind 70% Of SIR Exclusions?

What's Behind 70% Of SIR Exclusions?

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

The prominence of migration highlights a longstanding problem for India's electoral system.

Three men posing as cops gang-rape girl in Delhi; trio held after encounter

Three men posing as cops gang-rape girl in Delhi; trio held after encounter

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

A man identified as Asif, accused of gang-raping a 17-year-old girl near Kalkaji Mandir, has been arrested following a police encounter in southeast Delhi. Asif, one of three men who allegedly posed as policemen, fired at the police team before being shot in the leg during the exchange. The incident occurred in Astha Kunj Park, and police are now searching for the other two accused.

JD-U softens stand on UCC, says 'will not oppose for no reason'

JD-U softens stand on UCC, says 'will not oppose for no reason'

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Chaudhary stated that the JD(U) will thoroughly study the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill before deciding on its stance, indicating they will not oppose it without valid reasons. This position contrasts with the RJD's strong opposition and highlights the JD(U)'s independent approach within the NDA.

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.

Sooraj Pancholi: 'Never met Disha Salian, Aaditya Thackeray'

Sooraj Pancholi: 'Never met Disha Salian, Aaditya Thackeray'

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Actor Sooraj Pancholi has denied any connection to Disha Salian or Aaditya Thackeray, stating he has 'never met Late Disha Salian in my life, directly or indirectly' and 'never met Aditya Thackeray in my life,' following his name surfacing in the CBI's fresh FIR regarding Salian's death.

TMC rebellion: Mamata faces her own political weapon

TMC rebellion: Mamata faces her own political weapon

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

Mamata Banerjee, who founded the Trinamool Congress through an act of rebellion against the Congress, now faces a similar internal revolt that threatens the very identity of her party. The Election Commission's interim decision to withhold the TMC name and symbol for the upcoming bypolls highlights a deeper struggle for political inheritance. This situation, unprecedented for the party, forces both Mamata's loyalists and rebels to seek electoral recognition without their established identity, marking a significant challenge to her long-standing dominance.

Sridhar Vembu: Why India Needs An Independent AI Strategy

Sridhar Vembu: Why India Needs An Independent AI Strategy

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

Zoho co-founder Sridhar Vembu argues that predictions of AI's catastrophic outcomes are overstated and a global pause in AI development is improbable. He urges India to adopt an independent AI strategy, focusing on extensive foundational R&D across sectors, while remaining wary of market monopolisation attempts by major tech players. Vembu also highlights concerns about AI's impact on human judgment, skill development, and job markets, particularly for junior professionals.

IIIT-Hyderabad warns 8 students over 'unauthorised' campus platform

IIIT-Hyderabad warns 8 students over 'unauthorised' campus platform

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

IIIT-Hyderabad has issued disciplinary warnings to eight students associated with 'No Tyrants, No Silence' (NTNS), an independent campus platform. The institute cited unauthorised use of its name and publication of confidential meeting minutes. NTNS, which discusses caste, merit, and politics, had proposed screening a documentary on Umar Khalid, leading to CBFC objections and the screening's cancellation.

'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.

Row Erupts Over Maharana Pratap Song Use In 'Mirzapur The Movie'

Row Erupts Over Maharana Pratap Song Use In 'Mirzapur The Movie'

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Senior BJP leader Rajendra Rathore has formally objected to the use of a song dedicated to Maharana Pratap in "Mirzapur The Movie", demanding its removal from the Central Board of Film Certification. Rathore argues that using the historical song in a scene with criminal characters disrespects Maharana Pratap and hurts public sentiments. The song's composer, Rapperiya Balam, also claims it was used without his permission and that its placement glorifies villains, insulting Rajasthan and Maharana Pratap.

PM Modi said UP will be divided into 4 states: Minister

PM Modi said UP will be divided into 4 states: Minister

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

SBSP chief Om Prakash Rajbhar has revived the long-standing discussion about dividing Uttar Pradesh, claiming Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured him the state could be split into four parts after a caste census. Rajbhar's statement, made at a rally in Deoria, links the division to the 27% reservation issue and suggests a Rajbhar could become chief minister of a new Purvanchal state. The demand for UP's division has historical precedents, notably from former Chief Minister Mayawati.

Probe Into Granite Baron POCSO Case Uncovers More Victims

Probe Into Granite Baron POCSO Case Uncovers More Victims

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

The ongoing police investigation into the POCSO case against granite baron R Veeramani has led to the identification of multiple survivors, many of whom were minors and from economically underprivileged backgrounds when allegedly assaulted. Charges under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act have been added, and Veeramani has been granted three days police custody for questioning within the prison due to his age and health.

Blind Children Celebrate Dahi Handi

Blind Children Celebrate Dahi Handi

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

Blind students at the Kamla Mehta Blind School in Dadar, north Mumbai, celebrated Janmashtami with a traditional Dahi Handi event.

Mumbai's Olympia Coffee House, where Christopher Nolan stopped for chai, loses licence

Mumbai's Olympia Coffee House, where Christopher Nolan stopped for chai, loses licence

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the licences of several food establishments in Mumbai, including the Nair Hospital canteen and Olympia Coffee House, due to serious violations of food safety and hygiene standards. Inspections revealed issues like unsanitary conditions, improper food handling, pest infestations, and lack of trained staff. The FDA also cancelled licences of other businesses and seized unhygienic milk products as part of a festive season campaign.

Tax Defaulters Won't Be Arrested

Tax Defaulters Won't Be Arrested

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

'Tax recovery will continue through attachment and sale of assets and other recovery mechanisms, but personal arrest will no longer form part of the prescribed recovery process.'

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.

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.

Dog walking row: SC stays reinstatement of IAS officer

Dog walking row: SC stays reinstatement of IAS officer

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has stayed the reinstatement of IAS officer Rinku Dhugga, who was compulsorily retired by the Centre following a controversy involving the Thyagaraj Stadium. The Centre challenged the Delhi High Court's decision to set aside her compulsory retirement, which was initially ordered after allegations of misusing the stadium for dog walking and unauthorised absence.

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.

Microsoft India President On AI's Future And Investment In The Nation

Microsoft India President On AI's Future And Investment In The Nation

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

Microsoft India and South Asia President, Puneet Chandok, discusses the company's strong belief in human-centric AI development, significant investments in India's cloud and AI infrastructure, and the country's pivotal role as an AI market, talent hub, and technology builder. He highlights AI's impact on jobs and the need for responsible innovation.

Rejected Dara Singh's remission plea: Odisha govt tells SC

Rejected Dara Singh's remission plea: Odisha govt tells SC

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

The Odisha government has rejected the remission plea of Ravindra Pal alias Dara Singh, who is serving a life sentence for the 1999 murder of Australian missionary Graham Stuart Staines and his two minor sons. The Supreme Court has granted Singh's counsel two weeks to challenge this decision. Singh, 63, has been in jail for over 25 years and sought premature release, claiming repentance for his actions.

Air India Crash: Pilots' Body Demands Thorough Electrical System Review For Boeing 787

Air India Crash: Pilots' Body Demands Thorough Electrical System Review For Boeing 787

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

The Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) has urged India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the Boeing 787's electrical systems during its probe into the fatal Air India crash of June 2025. This call follows concerns raised by the Foundation of Aviation Safety regarding chronic system failures and the central role of electrical architecture in the B787 design. The crash, involving a Dreamliner VT-ANB, killed 260 people, and FIP emphasizes the need for detailed examination of all electrical and electronically controlled systems.

Uddhav denies links to Disha Salian case, warns of legal action

Uddhav denies links to Disha Salian case, warns of legal action

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

Shiv Sena (UBT) president Uddhav Thackeray has threatened legal action if the "character assassination" campaign targeting his family over the 2020 Disha Salian death case does not cease. His son, Aaditya Thackeray, also denied any connection to Salian, whose death is now under CBI investigation following a Bombay High Court order.

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.

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.

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.