News for 'Centre for Public Interest'

Tharoor admits to differences with Congress leadership

Tharoor admits to differences with Congress leadership

Rediff.com19 Jun 2025

Congress Working Committee (CWC) member Shashi Tharoor on Thursday said he has differences of opinion with some in the party leadership, but he is not going to speak about them in light of the bypoll in the Nilambur constituency.

'No provocative slogans, display of weapons': Yogi on Kanwar Yatra, Muharram

'No provocative slogans, display of weapons': Yogi on Kanwar Yatra, Muharram

Rediff.com26 Jun 2025

"This entire period is highly sensitive in terms of law and order, healthcare, sanitation, education, and disaster management. Hence, all related departments and district administrations must work with coordination and accountability," Adityanath said, according to an official statement.

'Competition in India is Absolutely Fierce': Uber GM

'Competition in India is Absolutely Fierce': Uber GM

Rediff.com17 Jul 2025

'Unless we consistently show up with the right cars, at the right time, priced fairly, we risk becoming irrelevant very quickly.'

SC upholds states' power to regulate industrial alcohol

SC upholds states' power to regulate industrial alcohol

Rediff.com23 Oct 2024

In 1997, the seven-judge bench ruled that the Centre had the regulatory power over the production of industrial alcohol. The case was referred to the nine-judge bench in 2010.

'China, Pakistan Will Try To Turn Bangladesh Against India'

'China, Pakistan Will Try To Turn Bangladesh Against India'

Rediff.com7 Aug 2025

'Pakistan will also try to turn Bangladesh into a base for terrorist attacks on India.'

Digipin: Mapping Addresses Digitally

Digipin: Mapping Addresses Digitally

Rediff.com16 Jun 2025

Digipin promises to revolutionise location-based services in India with safeguards.

EV Sales Surge on Back of Government Push; Hybrids Lag

EV Sales Surge on Back of Government Push; Hybrids Lag

Rediff.com8 Jul 2025

Despite the benefits of hybrid technology, a lack of government backing and few launches have kept the segment from gaining ground.

2G spectrum: Centre moves SC for modification of 2012 verdict, here is why

2G spectrum: Centre moves SC for modification of 2012 verdict, here is why

Rediff.com23 Apr 2024

On Monday, Attorney General R Venkataramani, appearing for the Centre, mentioned an interim application before a bench of Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justice J B Pardiwala.

SC to hear plea against current practice to appoint CAG

SC to hear plea against current practice to appoint CAG

Rediff.com15 Mar 2025

The Supreme Court will hear a plea seeking an independent selection process for the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) on March 17. The PIL, filed by the Centre for Public Interest Litigation, argues that the current system of appointment solely by the executive and the prime minister violates the Constitution and undermines the CAG's independence. The petition calls for a transparent process involving the prime minister, Leader of the Opposition, and Chief Justice of India. The PIL contends that the CAG's role as a watchdog over government finances requires a fair and non-arbitrary appointment procedure.

What's The Solution To India's Pakistan Problem?

What's The Solution To India's Pakistan Problem?

Rediff.com8 Jul 2025

China and Pakistan are in a tight strategic alliance. India must deal with them one at a time, but be prepared in case they decide to collude, points out Shekhar Gupta.

Why I Will Be Going Back To Vietnam

Why I Will Be Going Back To Vietnam

Rediff.com4 Aug 2025

Vietnam was wonderful and the people warm and hospitable, Radhika Mittal discovered over a 11-day stay.

2 Covid variants, causing fresh cases in Asia, found in India

2 Covid variants, causing fresh cases in Asia, found in India

Rediff.com24 May 2025

As of May 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) classifies LF.7 and NB.1.8 subvariants as Variants Under Monitoring, not as Variants of Concern or Variants of Interest. But these are the variants that are reportedly driving the rise in Covid cases in China and parts of Asia.

Only 18 Muslim women made it to Lok Sabha since Independence

Only 18 Muslim women made it to Lok Sabha since Independence

Rediff.com20 Jul 2025

From royalty to a tea vendor-turned-politician's wife and from a first lady to a Bengali actress, the 18 Muslim women who treaded the hallowed corridors of power in the Lok Sabha are an eclectic mix, with each of them having an interesting backstory, but one common thread -- their path to power was always strewn with struggle and hurdles.

RBI considers fresh guidelines to curb mis-selling

RBI considers fresh guidelines to curb mis-selling

Rediff.com10 Jun 2025

Concerned over the rise in mis-selling of products by banks and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is examining whether to come up with norms to curb such practices. Observing that pushing financial products, such as insurance, indiscriminately to unaware consumers may be detrimental to their well-being, RBI Deputy Governor M Rajeshwar Rao said, "We are examining whether it necessitates framing of guidelines to address mis-selling of financial products and services by REs (regulated entities)."

'I Will Always Be Remembered For Don'

'I Will Always Be Remembered For Don'

Rediff.com21 Jul 2025

'Don was declared a flop because not many people turned up.' 'Luckily, Khaike Paan Banaraswala became a big hit.' 'Word of mouth publicity led to the film becoming a big hit from the second week on.'

What Led Dhankhar To QUIT

What Led Dhankhar To QUIT

Rediff.com23 Jul 2025

The BJP had no option but to get Jagdeep Dhankhar out of its way for the sake of the Modi government's stability, reveals Sheela Bhatt, the legendary political journalist.

SC seeks govt reply on plea against CAG appointment process

SC seeks govt reply on plea against CAG appointment process

Rediff.com17 Mar 2025

The Supreme Court of India has sought the government's response on a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that challenges the appointment process of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG), arguing it's unconstitutional. The PIL, filed by the Centre for Public Interest Litigation, claims the current process, solely through executive appointment by the Prime Minister, undermines the CAG's independence and violates constitutional principles. The court, while acknowledging the importance of institutional trust, questioned the extent to which it should intervene in the appointment process and whether this would constitute rewriting constitutional provisions. The PIL suggests the CAG's appointment should be similar to other independent bodies, with a selection committee comprising the Prime Minister, Leader of the Opposition, and Chief Justice of India. The case has implications for the independence and transparency of India's audit system.

Bharat Mata Dispute Rocks Kerala Academia

Bharat Mata Dispute Rocks Kerala Academia

Rediff.com25 Jul 2025

The Bharat Mata controversy in Kerala shows how political and symbolic fights between the state and the Centre have taken attention away from education, throwing the state's oldest university into confusion and disorder, observes Shyam G Menon.

Trump's drug price cut plan may put pressure on India

Trump's drug price cut plan may put pressure on India

Rediff.com12 May 2025

US President Donald Trump's plan to sign an executive order to cut prescription drug prices by 30-80 per cent could lead to a global price adjustment with pharma firms pushing lower-cost countries like India to raise prices, according to the economic think tank GTRI. The US move could push prices in lower-cost countries like India as manufacturers would seek to recover losses and R&D costs from these nations.

SC to examine if verdict on TN governor covers Kerala

SC to examine if verdict on TN governor covers Kerala

Rediff.com22 Apr 2025

The Supreme Court of India has agreed to hear on May 6 the pleas of the Kerala government against the governor over the delay in approving bills passed by the state assembly. The court will consider whether the issues raised in the Kerala petition are covered by a recent judgment on a similar plea by Tamil Nadu, which set timelines for governors and the President on granting assent to bills.

The Man Who Said No To The Big Bang

The Man Who Said No To The Big Bang

Rediff.com7 Jun 2025

Jayant Narlikar wrote alternative what-if histories, explained difficult scientific theories with funny analogies, and leavened his lectures with jokes and humorous asides.

Gillespie exposes PCB's broken promises

Gillespie exposes PCB's broken promises

Rediff.com20 Apr 2025

Former Pakistan red-ball head coach Jason Gillespie has claimed that he is still waiting on some remuneration from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

10 Medical Streams After Class 12

10 Medical Streams After Class 12

Rediff.com15 May 2025

While MBBS continues to be the most sought-after stream for medical aspirants, post pandemic, the demand for skilled nurses and physiotherapists are on the rise, notes Nayagam PP, career counsellor and founder of EduJob360.

Consecutive ISRO Mission Failure Raises National Security Concerns

Consecutive ISRO Mission Failure Raises National Security Concerns

Rediff.com19 May 2025

'There's too much coincidence in back-to-back failures of missions critical to national security.'

Rahul Gandhi defies ban, addresses students in Darbhanga

Rahul Gandhi defies ban, addresses students in Darbhanga

Rediff.com15 May 2025

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had agreed to hold a caste census 'out of fear' of the country's deprived population, to which the opposition was lending its voice.

'Auto industry has resilience to tackle rare earth issue'

'Auto industry has resilience to tackle rare earth issue'

Rediff.com27 Jun 2025

'The government is actively engaging with EU to ensure that concerns of Indian companies and hard-to-abate sectors are adequately addressed under CBAM'

SC refuses to hear PIL on Maha Kumbh stampede

SC refuses to hear PIL on Maha Kumbh stampede

Rediff.com3 Feb 2025

Terming as 'unfortunate' the January 29 stampede at Maha Kumbh where at least 30 people were killed, the Supreme Court on Monday refused to hear a public interest litigation (PIL) for guidelines over safety of devotees and asked the petitioner to move the Allahabad high court instead.

Pahalgam attack didn't stall talks of J-K statehood: Abdullah

Pahalgam attack didn't stall talks of J-K statehood: Abdullah

Rediff.com28 May 2025

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has stated that the conversation regarding the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir has not been stalled. He claims the issue was raised at the recent NITI Aayog governing council meeting, and the formal speech distributed at the meeting includes a mention of the return of statehood. Abdullah also addressed concerns about the impact of the Pahalgam terror attack on tourism, emphasizing the importance of local Kashmiris visiting tourist spots first to revive the industry and ensure a sense of security.

Manipur BJP MLAs propose roadmap to end conflict, call for popular govt

Manipur BJP MLAs propose roadmap to end conflict, call for popular govt

Rediff.com31 May 2025

They said that such a solution must rest on the pillars of political will, inclusive dialogue, constitutional safeguards and impartial endorsement of law and order.

Going local for global: Bharat Global Ports to test waters at home first

Going local for global: Bharat Global Ports to test waters at home first

Rediff.com31 Mar 2025

The government is looking to give Bharat Global Ports a certain amount of domestic exposure after it set up the state-owned consortium to increase India's global maritime heft, officials aware of the development said. The intended domestic exposure is meant to give the consortium experience and build its credentials for international projects.

'Media Frenzy Has Ruined Justice Varma's Reputation'

'Media Frenzy Has Ruined Justice Varma's Reputation'

Rediff.com16 Apr 2025

'Presumption of innocence must guide all formal actions, but transparency must not be mistaken for pre-judgment.' 'The cruel irony, however, is that Justice Varma is a fine judge who enjoys a reputation for writing well-reasoned judgments.'

Which PSU Stocks Should You Invest In?

Which PSU Stocks Should You Invest In?

Rediff.com17 May 2025

'The universe of PSU stocks is huge and diverse.' 'Investors should bet on specific sectors and stocks from the basket as most of them may continue to consolidate after years of outperformance.'

Govt picks Tharoor to lead Op Sindoor delegation to US; Cong fumes

Govt picks Tharoor to lead Op Sindoor delegation to US; Cong fumes

Rediff.com17 May 2025

The government will send seven all-party delegations to key partner countries, including members of the United Nations Security Council, later this month to convey India's message of zero tolerance against terrorism following the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor.

Sunita not interested in politics, won't contest polls: Kejriwal clarifies

Sunita not interested in politics, won't contest polls: Kejriwal clarifies

Rediff.com22 May 2024

Asked if she will continue her political role, Kejriwal replied, "When I was arrested, she was a bridge between me and Delhi's residents. It was a temporary phase.

Why This Banker Didn't Get Promoted!

Why This Banker Didn't Get Promoted!

Rediff.com2 May 2025

The bank made a Rs 67 crore net profit, up 21% from the previous year. Its deposits grew 8%, the loan book 10%. Net bad loans dropped from 7.53% to 6.07%. So why was the banker, who headed the bank, not promoted?

SC notice to Centre, governors on pleas by Kerala, Bengal

SC notice to Centre, governors on pleas by Kerala, Bengal

Rediff.com26 Jul 2024

In a significant development, the Supreme Court on Friday agreed to consider the separate pleas of opposition-ruled Kerala and West Bengal, alleging the denial of assent to bills passed by the respective legislative assemblies.

'Second Coming' For TN's Autonomy Panel, But...

'Second Coming' For TN's Autonomy Panel, But...

Rediff.com18 Apr 2025

Given the possibilities that next year's assembly elections could throw up, Stalin told the state assembly that an interim report had to be submitted by January 2026. The outcomes may well find its way into the DMK's poll manifesto, thus seeking to keep the electoral focus still on the BJP-ruled Centre and Prime Minister Modi, observes N Sathiya Moorthy.

'This Year, We Will Commence Full Refit Of B787s'

'This Year, We Will Commence Full Refit Of B787s'

Rediff.com16 Jun 2025

'That refresh programme -- because they are big aircraft and we cannot ground them all at the same time -- will last well into 2027.'

Remember Smart Cities? What Happened?

Remember Smart Cities? What Happened?

Rediff.com8 Apr 2025

Among the cities that have fully implemented their projects are Agra, Varanasi, Madurai, Coimbatore, Udaipur, Pune, Surat, and Vadodara

Scrapping NEET-UG counterproductive, honest students to be hit: Govt, NTA to SC

Scrapping NEET-UG counterproductive, honest students to be hit: Govt, NTA to SC

Rediff.com5 Jul 2024

It added that in any examination, there are competing rights that are created whereby the interests of a large number of students who have taken the examination without adopting any unfair means must not also be jeopardised.