News for 'Central'

National Awards: 'Article 370' best film; Mammootty, Yami, Kartik best actor

National Awards: 'Article 370' best film; Mammootty, Yami, Kartik best actor

Rediff.com3 days ago

The political drama 'Article 370' was the biggest winner at the 72nd National Film Awards, securing the best feature film honour, with its lead star Yami Gautam named best actress. Mammootty and Kartik Aaryan shared the best actor award for 'Bramayugam' and 'Chandu Champion' respectively.

Indian crew member missing after Iran attacks container ship in Strait of Hormuz

Indian crew member missing after Iran attacks container ship in Strait of Hormuz

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

India has condemned the attack on the Cyprus-flagged container ship M/V GFS Galaxy in the Strait of Hormuz, which resulted in one Indian crew member going missing. The United States responded with a third round of retaliatory strikes against Iranian targets, further escalating tensions in the Gulf.

Viral Kumbh Mela girl 'untraceable', HC vacates security order

Viral Kumbh Mela girl 'untraceable', HC vacates security order

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

The Kerala High Court has vacated its order for police protection to a young woman, who gained fame during the Prayagraj Kumbh Mela, after police reported they could not trace her. Her husband faces kidnapping charges, as her family claims she is a minor and opposed their marriage. The court stated protection would be provided if she approaches them.

'We flipped over in 3 minutes': Vietnam boat tragedy survivor

'We flipped over in 3 minutes': Vietnam boat tragedy survivor

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Nirmal Kumar, an Indian survivor of the recent speedboat tragedy near Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam, has recounted the horrific moments when a sudden, violent wave capsized their boat, trapping 15 passengers underwater. The accident, which occurred on July 11, claimed the lives of 15 Indian tourists, with 10 from Tamil Nadu. Kumar, who lost a childhood friend, highlighted the lack of immediate medical supplies and appealed for government assistance for the grieving families.

NITI Aayog Index Reveals No State Achieves 'Top Performer' Status in Investment Friendliness

NITI Aayog Index Reveals No State Achieves 'Top Performer' Status in Investment Friendliness

Rediff.com4 days ago

NITI Aayog's inaugural Investment Friendliness Index, scoring 36 states and Union Territories on 84 indicators across eight pillars, revealed that no state or UT reached a score of 60 out of 100, indicating significant room for improvement in attracting investment.

'India Has Only 15 More Years Left...'

'India Has Only 15 More Years Left...'

Rediff.com2 days ago

'After that the burdens of an ageing population will be upon us, and the share of working age population will shrink.'

MEA condemns attack on Indian crew in Strait of Hormuz

MEA condemns attack on Indian crew in Strait of Hormuz

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

India has condemned an attack on a Cyprus-flagged commercial vessel off the coast of Oman, which resulted in one Indian crew member going missing. The incident occurred amidst escalating hostilities between Iran and the US in West Asia, prompting India to call for immediate de-escalation and an end to targeting commercial shipping in the region.

India Launches AI Champions Programme For Digital Governance

India Launches AI Champions Programme For Digital Governance

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

A three-day 'AI Champions for Digital Governance' programme has commenced in New Delhi, hosted by ITDC, SCOPE, and LBSNAA. The initiative aims to train senior leadership and operational teams in applying artificial intelligence within public sector organisations, aligning with the IndiaAI Mission. Experts highlighted AI's role in improving efficiency, productivity, and public service delivery, while also emphasising responsible adoption and data quality. The programme seeks to build an AI-ready nation and contribute to India's vision of future-ready governance systems.

India Launches AI Champions Programme For Digital Governance

India Launches AI Champions Programme For Digital Governance

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

A three-day 'AI Champions for Digital Governance' programme has commenced in New Delhi, hosted by ITDC, SCOPE, and LBSNAA. The initiative aims to train senior leadership and operational teams in applying artificial intelligence within public sector organisations, aligning with the IndiaAI Mission. Experts highlighted AI's role in improving efficiency, productivity, and public service delivery, while also emphasising responsible adoption and data quality. The programme seeks to build an AI-ready nation and contribute to India's vision of future-ready governance systems.

Trump scraps 20% Hormuz toll for 'massive' Gulf investment deals

Trump scraps 20% Hormuz toll for 'massive' Gulf investment deals

Rediff.com7 days ago

Donald Trump announced he is replacing the 20% reimbursement fee for securing the Strait of Hormuz with massive trade and investment deals from Gulf States into the United States, while maintaining a full blockade on Iranian ship traffic.

Geopolitical tensions, inflation data to dictate gold and silver prices

Geopolitical tensions, inflation data to dictate gold and silver prices

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Gold and silver are expected to remain volatile with a corrective bias as investors assess the latest flare-up in the US-Iran conflict, movements in crude oil prices, and inflation data, which could reshape expectations for global interest rates, according to analysts.

8 Weird Football Terms

8 Weird Football Terms

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

As the sport's popularity spread across the world, it developed its own colourful language/expressions. From clever slang to bizarre nicknames, the game's changing culture has thrown up some rather unusual turn of phrase. Here are 8 of the strangest football terms ever used.

Does India Want To Repair Iran Relationship?

Does India Want To Repair Iran Relationship?

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

India is navigating a complex diplomatic landscape, attempting to balance its 'forever honeymoon' with the Israel-UAE-Bahrain axis against its historical ties with Iran, as evidenced by recent high-level visits and evolving geopolitical realignments in the Middle East, observes Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

J-K's Doda tense after SOG firing kills man; 3 cops hurt, internet suspended

J-K's Doda tense after SOG firing kills man; 3 cops hurt, internet suspended

Rediff.com4 days ago

A 30-year-old man was killed and three Special Operations Group (SOG) personnel were injured during a firing incident following an alleged attempt to snatch a service rifle in the Jaie area of Jammu and Kashmir's Doda district, officials said.

Why Argentina are the FIFA World Cup's favourite villains

Why Argentina are the FIFA World Cup's favourite villains

Rediff.com4 days ago

Argentina, one of football's most successful teams, is also one of its most polarising, inspiring both devotion and irritation due to its history, iconic players like Maradona and Messi, and a national identity often perceived as arrogant by rivals.

Can Cong Stop BJP's Constitutional Push?

Can Cong Stop BJP's Constitutional Push?

Rediff.com5 days ago

'Our leaders, including Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, are in touch with all Opposition parties, including the DMK and the AAP.'

Avengers Doomsday Trailer Review: Epic Or Overstuffed?

Avengers Doomsday Trailer Review: Epic Or Overstuffed?

Rediff.com1 days ago

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.

Should You Buy 30-Year Government Bonds?

Should You Buy 30-Year Government Bonds?

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Long-duration bonds allow investors to match investment tenure with long-term liabilities and also stabilise their long-duration portfolios.

Dinesh Hingoo: 'Johnny Lever Considers Me His Mentor'

Dinesh Hingoo: 'Johnny Lever Considers Me His Mentor'

Rediff.com1 days ago

'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.'

Mamata Banerjee Alleges Car Search Attempt by Central Forces

Mamata Banerjee Alleges Car Search Attempt by Central Forces

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused central forces of attempting to search her car while en route to Kolkata airport, alleging misuse of central machinery by the BJP ahead of state elections.

Iran retaliates, strikes US bases in Kuwait, Bahrain

Iran retaliates, strikes US bases in Kuwait, Bahrain

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has launched missile and drone strikes on four US military bases in Kuwait and Bahrain. This action is in retaliation for recent American strikes against targets in Iran, which the IRGC condemned as a "violation of commitments" and an "anti-civilian act." The IRGC has warned of an expanded "crushing response" if US aggression continues.

Sort of crazy, 'badly' wants deal: Trump on Iran

Sort of crazy, 'badly' wants deal: Trump on Iran

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

United States President Donald Trump claimed Iran 'badly' wants to strike a deal with Washington, DC, but expressed uncertainty over Tehran's willingness to honour any agreement, following US strikes aimed at degrading Iran's ability to threaten navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

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.com5 days ago

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.

Nijjar killing: US to seek extradition of Lawrence Bishnoi

Nijjar killing: US to seek extradition of Lawrence Bishnoi

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The United States Department of Justice plans to seek the extradition of Lawrence Bishnoi, accused of orchestrating the killing of Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada and involvement in other crimes in the US. Extradition is also sought for Gurinderjit Singh Nagra in an extortion case. These actions are part of a larger international operation targeting India-based transnational organised crime groups.

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

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

Rediff.com4 days ago

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.

Thieves cut, steal 100 mtr overhead wire in Bihar; train services hit

Thieves cut, steal 100 mtr overhead wire in Bihar; train services hit

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Train services in the Gaya-Patna section of Bihar were disrupted for nearly three hours after thieves allegedly cut and stole an overhead electrical wire between Tehta and Jehanabad railway stations. The Railway Protection Force has since recovered the stolen material, and an investigation is underway to apprehend the culprits responsible for the 25,000-volt OHE wire theft.

Monsoon Completes India Coverage On July 9

Monsoon Completes India Coverage On July 9

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

After a subdued start, the southwest monsoon has gathered pace since the beginning of July, narrowing the cumulative rainfall deficit from nearly 30 per cent on June 30 to around 15 per cent as of July 8.

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.

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.

Net direct tax revenue rises 16.4%

Net direct tax revenue rises 16.4%

Rediff.com7 days ago

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).

Twisha Sharma death: AIIMS report confirms belt matched neck injuries

Twisha Sharma death: AIIMS report confirms belt matched neck injuries

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

The AIIMS Delhi medical board has submitted a critical forensic report to the CBI, confirming that the alleged ligature material in the Twisha Sharma death case matched injury patterns, providing crucial evidence for the ongoing investigation.

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

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

Rediff.com3 days ago

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.

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

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

Rediff.com5 days ago

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.

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

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

Rediff.com4 days ago

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.

AC blast caused deadly fire in Delhi, central locking system proved fatal

AC blast caused deadly fire in Delhi, central locking system proved fatal

Rediff.com3 May 2026

A fire in a Delhi residential building resulted in nine deaths, with central locking systems and iron grills hindering escape efforts. The fire, suspected to have been triggered by an air-conditioner blast, trapped residents and complicated rescue operations.

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.

IRGC says it hit US air base in Jordan with 10 missiles after Tehran attack

IRGC says it hit US air base in Jordan with 10 missiles after Tehran attack

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Thursday claimed it had struck the US Al-Azraq air base in northern Jordan with 10 ballistic missiles on what it described as an "enemy command and control centre in West Asia" in retaliatory strikes in response to a recent attack on Tehran by Washington.

Shri Ram Bhoomi Movie Gets Rolling

Shri Ram Bhoomi Movie Gets Rolling

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

'Our new film, Shri Ram Bhoomi, begins shooting today in Ayodhya. How can any new work begin without the blessings of Ram Lalla and Lord Hanuman?'

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.com5 days ago

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.

After dry June, IMD predicts below-normal rainfall in July

After dry June, IMD predicts below-normal rainfall in July

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

The monthly average rainfall over India is expected to be below normal during July, the India Meteorological Department said on Tuesday in its monthly forecast.