News for 'Central'

PM bats for self-reliance to counter resource weaponisation

PM bats for self-reliance to counter resource weaponisation

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has highlighted the risks posed by the 'weaponisation' of resources and strategic sea routes, urging India to achieve greater self-reliance in energy to mitigate vulnerabilities to overseas supplies and geopolitical tensions.

BJP plans action against rebels after Datia bypoll loss

BJP plans action against rebels after Datia bypoll loss

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

The Bharatiya Janata Party's decision to replace six-time MLA Narottam Mishra with a rookie candidate in the Datia Assembly bypoll in Madhya Pradesh led to a significant defeat, with the Congress retaining the seat. This loss is seen as a major setback for the BJP's image of discipline, with the party indicating possible disciplinary action against those who defied the central leadership's choice.

Jharkhand protestors to continue stir till demands met

Jharkhand protestors to continue stir till demands met

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Students in Ranchi, under the JPSC-JSSC Reforms Manch, are intensifying their protests against alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations. Despite a large protest involving over 50,000 students, the government has not responded positively, leading to a decision to continue the agitation. The students are demanding transparency, reforms in JPSC and JSSC, cancellation of exams, and an independent investigation, with some even on hunger strike.

'Rate cards' to poems: Jharkhand protesters get creative

'Rate cards' to poems: Jharkhand protesters get creative

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

Jharkhand students are protesting alleged recruitment exam irregularities with creative and non-violent methods, including mock job "rate cards," satirical posters, and recitations from the Mahabharata. Their agitation, spearheaded by the JPSC-JSSC Reforms Manch, focuses on demanding reforms, cancellation of the 14th JPSC Civil Services Examination, and an independent probe, while adhering to a strict code of conduct against abusive language.

WhatsApp, Telegram, PDFs: How accused circulated NEET papers

WhatsApp, Telegram, PDFs: How accused circulated NEET papers

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has alleged that the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak was orchestrated through an extensive digital network, with confidential question papers circulated via WhatsApp, Telegram, and electronic files among conspirators days before the examination.

Key Arab Football Federations Reaffirm Support For FIFA President Infantino

Key Arab Football Federations Reaffirm Support For FIFA President Infantino

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Six Arab football federations, including 2030 World Cup co-host Morocco and Qatar, have publicly declared their "full support" and "confidence" in FIFA President Gianni Infantino. This backing comes as Infantino faces significant backlash and withdrawals of support from European and Oceania federations over his failed $20 billion private investment plan for the World Cup, highlighting a growing schism within global football governance.

BCCI To Consider Relocating Duleep Trophy Final From CoE To Stadium

BCCI To Consider Relocating Duleep Trophy Final From CoE To Stadium

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia announced that the board is considering relocating the Duleep Trophy final from the Centre of Excellence to a stadium due to spectator restrictions.

8 CRPF officers face action for skipping senior's lunch

8 CRPF officers face action for skipping senior's lunch

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Eight Assistant Commandant-rank officers of the CRPF have been issued show-cause notices for allegedly declining an official lunch hosted by a senior IPS officer during a training course in Madhya Pradesh. The force views this as insubordination, and further disciplinary action is expected after their explanations are reviewed.

Surrender illegal arms in 15 days or face action, warns Manipur CM

Surrender illegal arms in 15 days or face action, warns Manipur CM

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Manipur Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh has issued a 15-day ultimatum for the voluntary surrender of illegal firearms, warning of strict legal action against non-compliance. The appeal comes as part of ongoing efforts to restore normalcy and peace in the state, which has been affected by ethnic violence since May 2023. Security forces have already seized a significant cache of weapons, and the government is also targeting extortionists and miscreants.

Google tells HC it has withheld Dhruv Rathee's 'defamatory' video in India

Google tells HC it has withheld Dhruv Rathee's 'defamatory' video in India

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Google has informed the Delhi High Court that it has withheld a "defamatory" YouTube video by social media influencer Dhruv Rathee in India. The video, which allegedly hurt religious sentiments by insulting Hindu deities, was withheld following an order from the Centre's Grievance Appellate Committee. The petitioner, Amita Sachdeva, seeks global blocking, but Google states the issue of global injunction is pending before a division bench.

CJP launches 'School Thik Karo' campaign, demands private school fee cap

CJP launches 'School Thik Karo' campaign, demands private school fee cap

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Abhijeet Dipke, convenor of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), has initiated the 'School Thik Karo' campaign from his native village in Hingoli, Maharashtra, to address the alleged neglect of government schools and advocate for a fee cap on private educational institutions.

Our endeavour is to bring inflation in line with target over the medium term

"Our endeavour is to bring inflation in line with target over the medium term"

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

"Our endeavour is to bring headline inflation in line with the target over the medium term," said RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra, addressing concerns about the central bank's policy stance and economic outlook.

Bihar alcohol ban failed, govt should revoke it: Study

Bihar alcohol ban failed, govt should revoke it: Study

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

A research paper by the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) recommends that Bihar revoke its alcohol ban, citing its failure to reduce violence against women and a rise in illicit drug and alcohol consumption. The report suggests that reinstating the liquor excise tax would significantly increase state revenues and decrease enforcement costs.

Rishikesh's Glass Bridge Draws Tourists

Rishikesh's Glass Bridge Draws Tourists

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Bajrang Setu, India's first glass-floor cable suspension bridge, a new landmark in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand. It is a modern replacement for the iconic Lakshman Jhula, which was shut down due to safety concerns.

Why Bank Frauds Keep Rising

Why Bank Frauds Keep Rising

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

'It's not about individuals operating the mule accounts being more or less skilled. Instead, 'lower-level' refers to the role the individual account plays in the broader mule network.'

Stock Markets Today: Sensex, Nifty gain as RBI holds rates, crude oil dips

Stock Markets Today: Sensex, Nifty gain as RBI holds rates, crude oil dips

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Indian benchmark indices, Sensex and Nifty, saw early gains driven by lower crude oil prices and buying in Reliance Industries, even as the Reserve Bank of India maintained its benchmark policy rate for the fourth consecutive meeting, reinforcing confidence in the domestic economy.

China's Hydropower Plants: Why India Must Be Concerned

China's Hydropower Plants: Why India Must Be Concerned

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

It is very unfortunate that China has decided to proceed with the controversial mega hydropower plants(despite the apparent opposition of many scientists in China). Why is Delhi silent about the development? asks Claude Arpi.

Rajasthan HC grants 20-day parole to self-styled 'godman' Asaram

Rajasthan HC grants 20-day parole to self-styled 'godman' Asaram

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

The Rajasthan high court has granted 20-day parole to self-styled "godman" Asaram, who is serving a life sentence in a 2013 case of sexually assaulting a minor, saying the state government failed to justify its decision to reject his parole application.

17 Delhi metro stations remain shut for third day amid CJP protests

17 Delhi metro stations remain shut for third day amid CJP protests

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Seventeen metro stations in central Delhi have been closed for the third consecutive day due to security concerns stemming from an ongoing protest by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) near Jantar Mantar. The closures have significantly inconvenienced daily commuters, including office-goers and students, prompting the Supreme Court Bar Association to file a plea regarding access to the court.

Mahindra Racing Poised For Best-Ever Formula E Teams' Championship Result

Mahindra Racing Poised For Best-Ever Formula E Teams' Championship Result

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Mahindra Racing is on the verge of achieving its best-ever Teams' championship finish in Formula E as the GEN3 era concludes in London. Propelled by Nyck de Vries' recent victories and Edoardo Mortara's consistent performance, the Indian manufacturer is just one point behind Andretti, aiming for a top-three spot in the season finale.

RBI extends loan recovery norms implementation to 2027, eases some rules

RBI extends loan recovery norms implementation to 2027, eases some rules

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has extended the implementation date for its revised loan recovery and agent engagement directions to January 1, 2027, from the previously proposed October 1, 2026, following stakeholder feedback.

Retail inflation climbs to 4.45% in July, driven by soaring food prices

Retail inflation climbs to 4.45% in July, driven by soaring food prices

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

India's retail inflation, measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), rose to 4.45 per cent in July, up from 4.38 per cent in June, primarily due to higher food prices, particularly onions and ginger. This marks the second consecutive month the inflation rate has remained above the Reserve Bank's median target.

'A Student's Life Can't Be Held Hostage To A 3-Hour Performance'

'A Student's Life Can't Be Held Hostage To A 3-Hour Performance'

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Education sector experts agree that using the "best technology" was essential to ensure students did not have to sit for an examination all over again because of a question paper leak.

'We should not fight': Sarma urges Arunachal CM Khandu to probe border firing

'We should not fight': Sarma urges Arunachal CM Khandu to probe border firing

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has urged his Arunachal Pradesh counterpart, Pema Khandu, to order an inquiry into a recent firing incident along the inter-state border that injured 12 people from Assam. The incident occurred amidst ongoing efforts to resolve long-standing boundary disputes between the two northeastern states, with Sarma emphasising the need for cooperation despite the setback.

SC to hear plea against Dera chief's acquittal in scribe murder case

SC to hear plea against Dera chief's acquittal in scribe murder case

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court on Monday agreed to hear a plea against the Punjab and Haryana high court order acquitting Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh in the 2002 murder case of a journalist.

'70 per cent watch club games': Is bilateral cricket in danger?

'70 per cent watch club games': Is bilateral cricket in danger?

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Former India cricketer Harbhajan Singh believes the exploding popularity of T20 leagues, particularly the IPL, poses a significant threat to the future of bilateral international cricket, stating that '70 per cent (people are watching club cricket instead of international cricket)'.

Digital Banking Records Now Admissible As Evidence

Digital Banking Records Now Admissible As Evidence

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

The Rajya Sabha has passed The Bankers' Books Evidence Bill, 2026, which aims to replace a British-era law and allow digital and virtual records to be admissible as evidence in courts. This legislation aligns with contemporary digital banking practices and extends a uniform evidential framework to various financial entities, including NBFCs and fintech companies. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted the bill's role in strengthening public confidence and safeguarding customer privacy. The bill's passage, however, saw an Opposition walkout over unrelated issues.

RBI Governor Discusses Future Of Digital Payment Merchant Discount Rate

RBI Governor Discusses Future Of Digital Payment Merchant Discount Rate

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra stated it is "premature" to discuss the implementation of Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) for digital payments, advising a "wait-and-watch" approach. He emphasised that investment in public payment infrastructure is necessary and someone must bear the cost, whether through taxes or MDR. The government is currently working on amendments to relevant statutes, and the RBI is focused on strengthening this infrastructure.

N-plants save blushes for India's Q1 investment outlay

N-plants save blushes for India's Q1 investment outlay

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

India's fresh investment plans in Q1FY27 surged 71 per cent to 14.77 trillion, primarily driven by four large nuclear power projects worth 6.5 trillion, according to investment monitoring firm Projects Today. Excluding these nuclear projects, fresh investment plans actually declined 4.27 per cent quarter-on-quarter.

What Makes Crypto Rise Or Fall?

What Makes Crypto Rise Or Fall?

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Crypto can rise or fall for many reasons. Here's a simple guide to what gives digital assets value and drives their prices.

RBI's Concessional Forex Swap Facility Mobilises $40.82 Billion

RBI's Concessional Forex Swap Facility Mobilises $40.82 Billion

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

The Reserve Bank of India's concessional swap facility, designed to boost foreign currency inflows, has successfully attracted USD 40.82 billion by July 31, 2026, with a significant portion coming from Foreign Currency Non-Resident (Bank) deposits.

Fresh clash erupts along Assam-Arunachal border, police fires in air

Fresh clash erupts along Assam-Arunachal border, police fires in air

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

A fresh clash erupted between protesters from Assam and Arunachal Pradesh in Dhemaji district, leading to police firing in the air, as an indefinite economic blockade against Arunachal Pradesh entered its second day over land encroachment issues and an earlier firing incident.

Colombia earthquake kills 132, injures 570; over 1500 buildings damaged

Colombia earthquake kills 132, injures 570; over 1500 buildings damaged

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

A powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake has devastated parts of Colombia, claiming at least 132 lives and injuring 570 others, with the city of Pereira reporting 60 deaths alone. The quake caused widespread destruction, including collapsed buildings and suspended airport operations, prompting emergency response efforts led by President Abelardo de la Espriella.

CBI chargesheet reveals how 3 NTA subject experts pulled off NEET leak

CBI chargesheet reveals how 3 NTA subject experts pulled off NEET leak

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Three National Testing Agency (NTA) subject experts, P V Kulkarni for chemistry, Manisha Sanjay Havaldar for physics and Manisha Gurunath Mandhare for botany and zoology, were the primary sources of the NEET paper leak, according to the Central Bureau of Investigation's chargesheet.

'The Next Chairman Does Not Need To Build Tata'

'The Next Chairman Does Not Need To Build Tata'

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

'... that work is done. The task is to reallocate what has been built, with the courage of a founder and the discipline of an owner.'

CONCACAF Rejects FIFA's World Cup Stake Sale Plan

CONCACAF Rejects FIFA's World Cup Stake Sale Plan

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

CONCACAF, the regional football bloc for North America, Central America, and the Caribbean, has rejected FIFA's proposal to sell a stake in the World Cup, citing deep concerns over a lack of due process and transparency.

Will Mourinho return to Real Madrid add spice to La Liga?

Will Mourinho return to Real Madrid add spice to La Liga?

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

The upcoming LaLiga season promises an intense battle as Barcelona defends its title against a revamped Real Madrid, led by returning manager Jose Mourinho, and a turbulent Atletico Madrid. Real Madrid has made significant signings and brought back Mourinho after two trophyless seasons, while Barcelona relies on continuity and its World Cup-winning core. Atletico Madrid faces pressure on manager Diego Simeone and a potential transfer saga involving Julian Alvarez, setting the stage for a dramatic season.

HC quashes FCRA orders against two NGOs over funding Vizhinjam protests

HC quashes FCRA orders against two NGOs over funding Vizhinjam protests

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

The Kerala high court has set aside the Centre's decision not to renew the FCRA certificate of two NGOs, accused by central agencies of funding agitations against the Vizhinjam sea port, saying that financial support to a protest cannot be seen as diversion of foreign funds.

Will show my scholarship letter if PM shows his degree: Dipke

Will show my scholarship letter if PM shows his degree: Dipke

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke has publicly challenged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to disclose his educational degree. Dipke stated he is ready to make his US scholarship and loan documents public if PM Modi reveals his degree, amidst ongoing demands for verification of the Prime Minister's academic qualifications. Dipke also criticised the current political climate, citing concerns about party defections and the use of central agencies.

Vande Bharat's first live heart transport helps save patient in Ahmedabad

Vande Bharat's first live heart transport helps save patient in Ahmedabad

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

In a highly sensitive and time-bound mission, a live donor heart was successfully transported aboard a Vande Bharat train from Surat to Ahmedabad on Friday for transplantation at a prominent cardiac teaching hospital in Gujarat's commercial capital.