News for 'Central'

How IdeaForge's Rs 500 Crore QIP Fuels India's Drone Technology Future

How IdeaForge's Rs 500 Crore QIP Fuels India's Drone Technology Future

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Drone technology company ideaForge Technology has successfully raised Rs 500 crore through a Qualified Institutional Placement (QIP). The funding, which saw strong interest from domestic and international institutional investors, will be used to accelerate innovation, expand its product portfolio into combat drones and autonomous systems, and strengthen its working capital to meet growing demand in defence, homeland security, and civil sectors.

US hits over 80 targets in Iran after Hormuz attacks

US hits over 80 targets in Iran after Hormuz attacks

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

The United States conducted retaliatory strikes against Iran, targeting over 80 sites, after accusing Tehran of attacking commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, while Iran condemned the US decision to revoke a temporary suspension of sanctions on Iranian oil sales.

Wayanad landslide: Contractor blames heavy rain for tragedy

Wayanad landslide: Contractor blames heavy rain for tragedy

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Dilip Buildcon Ltd, the contractor for the Anakkampoyil-Kalladi-Meppadi road tunnel project in Wayanad, attributed a recent fatal landslide to exceptionally heavy rainfall. The company stated that the project adheres to all safety and environmental protocols, despite allegations from Kerala Ministers of a "man-made disaster."

RBI caps holding period for immovable assets at 7 years, bars sale to borrowers

RBI caps holding period for immovable assets at 7 years, bars sale to borrowers

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has mandated that banks must dispose of immovable assets acquired against bad loans within seven years through public auction, effective October 1, 2026, and has also barred their sale back to the original borrower or related parties.

SC to hear appeals challenging verdict declaring Bhojshala as Saraswati temple

SC to hear appeals challenging verdict declaring Bhojshala as Saraswati temple

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has agreed to hear appeals challenging the Madhya Pradesh High Court's decision to designate the Bhojshala complex as a Goddess Saraswati temple, a ruling that also quashed Muslim prayer rights at the historic site.

Shopian operation to corner 2 LeT terrorists continues on 3rd day

Shopian operation to corner 2 LeT terrorists continues on 3rd day

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

An operation in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district to trace two local Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists, Latif and Zakir, has entered its third day. Security forces, including the Army, J&K Police, and CRPF, have cordoned off a dense orchard area where the terrorists were spotted, with additional personnel deployed to prevent escape.

Net direct tax revenue rises 16.4%

Net direct tax revenue rises 16.4%

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

India's net direct tax collections have surged by 16.4 per cent year-on-year to 6.51 trillion as of July 13, primarily driven by robust growth in corporate tax receipts, according to provisional data from the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT).

VB G RAM G Faces Monsoon Test

VB G RAM G Faces Monsoon Test

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

As MGNREGA comes to a close, both critics and supporters keenly eye VB G RAM G's performance.

Hours after joining BJP, three ex-TMC MPs get RS tickets from Bengal

Hours after joining BJP, three ex-TMC MPs get RS tickets from Bengal

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Three former Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha MPs, including Sushmita Dev and Sukhendu Sekhar Ray, joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday and, within hours, were named the saffron party's candidates for the Rajya Sabha bypolls from West Bengal, underlining both their political rehabilitation and the party's calibrated shift in inducting leaders from the erstwhile ruling dispensation.

Derek O'Brien questions ED action, asks why not freeze temple funds too?

Derek O'Brien questions ED action, asks why not freeze temple funds too?

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Trinamool Congress leader Derek O'Brien questioned the Enforcement Directorate's decision to freeze three of the party's bank accounts, worth Rs 440 crore, under the anti-money laundering law. He controversially asked when the ED would freeze "temple funds," in an apparent reference to alleged financial irregularities at the Ram temple in Ayodhya, amidst opposition demands for a judicial probe into the matter.

New Centre To Boost India-Kyrgyzstan Cultural And Academic Ties

New Centre To Boost India-Kyrgyzstan Cultural And Academic Ties

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

The Centre for Studies of International Relations (CSIR) has established the International Centre for Civilizational Studies "Manas and Mahabharata" in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, in collaboration with the Manas National Academy. The inauguration also saw the release of the first Hindi translation of the Kyrgyz epic "Manas," aiming to foster scientific, educational, and cultural cooperation between India and Kyrgyzstan.

IRS officer's daughter murder: 973-page chargesheet reveals chilling sequence

IRS officer's daughter murder: 973-page chargesheet reveals chilling sequence

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

The Delhi police filed a 973-page chargesheet in a city court against Rahul Meena, the former domestic help accused in the rape and killing of the 22-year-old daughter of a senior IRS officer, officials said on Friday.

Avengers Doomsday Trailer Review: Epic Or Overstuffed?

Avengers Doomsday Trailer Review: Epic Or Overstuffed?

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

The Avengers: Doomsday teaser trailer has dropped, revealing an ambitious, potentially overcrowded multiverse saga featuring Doctor Doom, returning heroes, and universe-colliding stakes that could define the future of the MCU.

Dinesh Hingoo: 'Johnny Lever Considers Me His Mentor'

Dinesh Hingoo: 'Johnny Lever Considers Me His Mentor'

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

'I was very close to Kader Khan. Whenever he wrote dialogues and scenes, he would often write my name next to certain roles. He would personally recommend me to directors. Such was his stature that directors would immediately pay attention to his suggestions.'

Mumbai sees 100 mm rains in 24 hours, several areas flooded

Mumbai sees 100 mm rains in 24 hours, several areas flooded

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Mumbai experienced over 100 mm of rainfall in 24 hours, leading to significant waterlogging in areas like the Andheri subway and causing traffic diversions. Suburban train services faced delays, and a snapped overhead wire disrupted Harbour line operations. Various parts of the city, including eastern and western suburbs and the island city, recorded heavy downpours.

How Mizoram's NHM Boosts India's Biodiversity Conservation Efforts

How Mizoram's NHM Boosts India's Biodiversity Conservation Efforts

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

The Environment Ministry has designated the Natural History Museum (NHM) in Mizoram as India's 21st designated repository, significantly enhancing the country's biodiversity conservation and scientific infrastructure, particularly within the Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot.

FIFA World Cup Favourite Revealed Ahead of Semi-Finals

FIFA World Cup Favourite Revealed Ahead of Semi-Finals

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Legendary German goalkeeper Oliver Kahn offers his expert analysis on the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals, highlighting tactical discipline, mental strength, and fine margins as key determinants. He previews the Spain vs France clash, discusses the evolving role of goalkeepers, and gives France a slight edge as the strongest contender.

Argentina Players Display Political Banner After World Cup Victory, Spark Row

Argentina Players Display Political Banner After World Cup Victory, Spark Row

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Argentina's football players displayed a political banner claiming "The Falklands are Argentine" after their World Cup semi-final win against England, potentially violating FIFA's code of conduct.

Praful Patel pooh-poohs secretary's letter, says no rift in NCP over Sunetra

Praful Patel pooh-poohs secretary's letter, says no rift in NCP over Sunetra

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Nationalist Congress Party national working president Praful Patel has dismissed claims of a rift within the party, specifically addressing a legal challenge to Sunetra Pawar's election as party president. A national secretary, Sachchidanand Singh, alleged the election was unconstitutional, but Patel stated the letter carries no weight and senior leaders support Sunetra Pawar. The dispute highlights internal dynamics following the demise of Ajit Pawar.

How Djed Spence Silenced Critics With Impactful World Cup Performances

How Djed Spence Silenced Critics With Impactful World Cup Performances

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Djed Spence, initially a controversial World Cup squad selection and criticised for his early performance, has emerged as a crucial impact substitute for England. His pace, energy, and passion off the bench have silenced critics, playing a vital role in England's progression to the semi-finals despite a broken jaw.

Pune-Mumbai Expressway, old highway suspended after heavy rains

Pune-Mumbai Expressway, old highway suspended after heavy rains

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

A landslide near Tunnel 2 on the Khopoli-Kusgaon 'Missing Link' has caused significant traffic diversions on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway.

'Happened so fast...': Protesters recall how SOnam Wangchuk was whisked away

'Happened so fast...': Protesters recall how SOnam Wangchuk was whisked away

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Activist Sonam Wangchuk was forcibly removed from his indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar by Delhi Police, sparking outrage and renewed determination among protesters who vowed to continue their demonstration.

SC seeks SIT status report on Ayodhya donation 'theft'

SC seeks SIT status report on Ayodhya donation 'theft'

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has directed the Uttar Pradesh government's Special Investigation Team (SIT) to submit a status report on the alleged embezzlement of donation money at the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The court also issued notice to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust following pleas for a fair and time-bound probe, including demands for a CBI investigation and a CAG audit of the temple trust's finances.

They are not worried of Wangchuk's health...: Oppn slams govt

They are not worried of Wangchuk's health...: Oppn slams govt

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Opposition leaders across party lines have condemned the forced removal of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk from the Jantar Mantar protest site in Delhi, accusing the BJP-led central government of undermining democratic freedoms, curbing dissent, and choosing force over dialogue.

20% too much, we'll be fair: Iran mocks Trump over Hormuz claim

20% too much, we'll be fair: Iran mocks Trump over Hormuz claim

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi mocked US President Donald Trump's claim of the US being the 'guardian' of the Strait of Hormuz, asserting that Iran has always been and will remain the sole guardian, while also suggesting that any entity providing security should be compensated, though Trump's proposed '20 per cent' levy is 'too much'.

India's Forex Reserves Jump by $7.26 Billion to $674.19 Billion

India's Forex Reserves Jump by $7.26 Billion to $674.19 Billion

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

India's foreign exchange reserves increased by USD 7.26 billion to USD 674.193 billion for the week ending July 3, as reported by the Reserve Bank of India. This surge follows a previous week's drop and comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeals to conserve forex.

England's World Cup exit: Tuchel blames 'DNA' not tactics, Messi's magic key

England's World Cup exit: Tuchel blames 'DNA' not tactics, Messi's magic key

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

England's manager Thomas Tuchel has faced heavy criticism following their World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina, but he attributes the loss to fundamental issues like a lack of 'ball possession DNA' rather than just tactical errors, while acknowledging the unstoppable brilliance of Lionel Messi.

No respite for Mumbaikars from rains, but 2 lakes starts overflowing

No respite for Mumbaikars from rains, but 2 lakes starts overflowing

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Heavy rains and thunder returned to Mumbai, causing significant delays in local and long-distance train services, particularly affecting routes towards Gujarat and Pune. Two key reservoirs, Tulsi and Vihar lakes, have begun overflowing, though the city's overall water stock remains at 41.43 per cent.

The silence after the storm: Azteca mourns Mexico's exit

The silence after the storm: Azteca mourns Mexico's exit

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Mexico's World Cup aspirations were shattered after a 3-2 defeat by England at their home ground, Azteca Stadium, leaving fans heartbroken despite 'El Tri' reaching the round of 16 without conceding a goal.

Who Will Lord Ram Bestow His Blessings On In UP Polls?

Who Will Lord Ram Bestow His Blessings On In UP Polls?

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

The monsoon session of Parliament will set the tone for how the Hindu community feels about what happened at the Ram Mandir. Whether emotions will be stirred within the voters of India lies solely at the oratory skills of the Congressis and Samajwadis, notes Zainab Sikander.

FPIs Reverse Selling Trend, Pump Rs 15,157 Cr into Indian Equities in July

FPIs Reverse Selling Trend, Pump Rs 15,157 Cr into Indian Equities in July

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

After four consecutive months of outflows, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) have turned net buyers in Indian equities in July, investing over Rs 15,157 crore, driven by improving domestic macroeconomic indicators, a stable rupee, and better global risk sentiment.

Political row erupts over heightened security at Mamata's residence

Political row erupts over heightened security at Mamata's residence

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Heavy police and central forces deployment outside Mamata Banerjee's Kolkata residence has sparked a political row. The TMC alleges it's to prevent her from visiting the family of an 11-year-old rape and murder victim in Baruipur, while the BJP claims it's routine security. This comes amidst public outrage and violence following the girl's death.

CBDT Targets Rs 26.97 Trillion Direct Tax Collection

CBDT Targets Rs 26.97 Trillion Direct Tax Collection

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Tax collection so far has been encouraging, with net direct tax receipts reaching Rs 5.21 trillion by June 17, nearly a 15 per cent increase compared to the same period last year.

Trump to reinstate Hormuz blockade, announces 20% toll on ships

Trump to reinstate Hormuz blockade, announces 20% toll on ships

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

US President Donald Trump announced the 'reinstatement' of an 'Iranian Blockade' in the Strait of Hormuz, stating the US would charge a 20 per cent levy on transiting cargo for providing security, while Iran warned against any US interference, reaffirming its authority over the critical waterway.

El Nino effect severely impacts India's hydropower generation, pushing up power demand and coal reliance

El Nino effect severely impacts India's hydropower generation, pushing up power demand and coal reliance

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

India's hydropower generation has been significantly constrained in July due to the El Nio effect, which has weakened the southwest monsoon and reduced reservoir levels. This decline, following a 21 per cent year-on-year drop in June 2026, is forcing greater reliance on coal generation and straining grid flexibility amidst rising power demand.

TMC leader's son's cafe demolished for encroachment

TMC leader's son's cafe demolished for encroachment

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

An allegedly illegal cafe, Aranayer Kule, owned by Imran Molla, son of TMC leader Saokat Molla, was demolished in West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district. The demolition followed repeated notices from the district administration regarding the structure's encroachment on Matla river's sandbank, which the family failed to remove.

'Paani Waali Train': 'This Is The Future Of Railway Mobility'

'Paani Waali Train': 'This Is The Future Of Railway Mobility'

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

India has launched its first hydrogen-powered train, the 'Namo Green Rail', from Jind, Haryana, marking a significant step towards sustainable railway mobility. The 10-coach train, which emits only water vapour, is currently operating on the Jind-Sonipat route and represents a major technological advancement for the country's transport sector.

Antibiotic Resistance Threatens Safe Surgery

Antibiotic Resistance Threatens Safe Surgery

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

'As bacteria become increasingly resistant, preserving the effectiveness of existing antibiotics is everyone's responsibility.'

Ram temple trust begins search for CEO. Check the criteria

Ram temple trust begins search for CEO. Check the criteria

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has invited applications for the first Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. This new position aims to strengthen administrative and financial management following alleged embezzlement concerns. The CEO will be appointed for a three-year term, overseeing various aspects from finance to pilgrim facilities, and must be an actively practising Hindu with specific managerial experience.

Ladakh to get autonomous hill councils in all 7 districts under Art 371

Ladakh to get autonomous hill councils in all 7 districts under Art 371

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The Union Territory administration in Ladakh has announced the establishment of an Autonomous Hill Development Council (AHDC) for each of its seven districts, significantly expanding democratic decentralisation. This move extends elected local self-governance beyond Leh and Kargil, with a proposed Union Territory-level body under a customised Article 371 framework to oversee these councils.