News for 'Commons'

'India-China Ties Can't Be Repaired In 1-2 Modi-Xi Meets'

'India-China Ties Can't Be Repaired In 1-2 Modi-Xi Meets'

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

'Eastern Ladakh set the relationship back by about 10 steps. So far, especially since Galwan, we may have taken just 4 steps forward.'

The Real Reason You May Be Feeling Fat, Angry, Tired...

The Real Reason You May Be Feeling Fat, Angry, Tired...

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

Dr Pooja Chaudhary, consultant-obstetrics, gynaecology and laparoscopic surgery at Motherhood Hospitals, explains how you can manage your thyroid-related health problems.

Left to skip Vijay's meet called amid rift in alliance

Left to skip Vijay's meet called amid rift in alliance

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay is set to chair a crucial TVK alliance coordination meeting in Chennai. The meeting aims to formalise the ruling coalition's structure, common minimum programme, and joint steering committee. However, the absence of key Left allies and a public rift between TVK and Congress over national leadership aspirations threaten to destabilise the alliance, highlighting a significant test for CM Vijay's political management.

Why Opposition Calls UPI MDR A Betrayal And US Appeasement

Why Opposition Calls UPI MDR A Betrayal And US Appeasement

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The opposition has strongly criticised the government's decision to introduce a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 for merchants, effective October 15. They allege the move is a result of US pressure and will lead to increased commodity prices, calling it a "betrayal" of the common man. The government, however, clarifies that customers will not be charged, and the MDR applies only to merchants for larger transactions.

Why Tata Trusts Should Let Go Of Tata Sons

Why Tata Trusts Should Let Go Of Tata Sons

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

A stake sale by Tata Trusts will help it to have a larger corpus that could be used to balance the unequal dividends that flow from Tata Sons on an ongoing basis.

Replacing Rice With Rotis Won't Lower Blood Sugar

Replacing Rice With Rotis Won't Lower Blood Sugar

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

'The total carbohydrate intake remains the deciding factor.'

Miss These 10 Days, Lose 55% Of Your Wealth

Miss These 10 Days, Lose 55% Of Your Wealth

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

What happens to my money if the market falls off a cliff tomorrow? Sandipan Roy, CIO, Motilal Oswal Private Wealth has the answer.

5 rescued orangutans undergo extensive health checks in Odisha zoo

5 rescued orangutans undergo extensive health checks in Odisha zoo

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

Five rescued baby orangutans quarantined at Nandankanan Zoological Park in Bhubaneswar underwent extensive health checks, including X-rays and blood sample collection, to assess their condition and facilitate DNA testing. The health check-up was prompted after one primate developed a fever. Officials are identifying a suitable laboratory for DNA analysis, which is crucial for determining their origin and aiding an ongoing international wildlife smuggling investigation.

Congress Labels New UPI Charges As 'Modi Tax', Alleges US Pressure

Congress Labels New UPI Charges As 'Modi Tax', Alleges US Pressure

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The Congress party has criticised the government's new 0.4% charge on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 for merchants, terming it a "Modi tax". Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, allege that this move will ultimately burden consumers through price hikes and accuse the government of succumbing to American pressure to dilute India's zero-MDR policy. The government states the charge will support banks and fintechs.

Chandra Reappointment Sparks Legal Debate

Chandra Reappointment Sparks Legal Debate

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

'On a plain reading of Article 121, it can be said that the chairman's casting vote can be invoked in either of these cases.'

Recipe: Air Fryer Adana-Style Kebabs And Green Yoghurt Chutney

Recipe: Air Fryer Adana-Style Kebabs And Green Yoghurt Chutney

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

A modern, fuss-free take on the traditional Turkish classic. Spicy, juicy, and perfect for entertaining.

Finance Ministry Rejects US Influence Claims On UPI MDR

Finance Ministry Rejects US Influence Claims On UPI MDR

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

The Finance Ministry has refuted allegations that US pressure influenced the decision to levy a 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on select UPI payments. The ministry clarified that the NPCI guidelines prioritise RuPay credit cards on UPI to promote domestic alternatives and ensure a self-sustaining revenue model for smaller domestic companies, countering claims of favouring foreign payment providers.

US DHS deletes 'Mr Singh, off our roads' poster, dismisses backlash

US DHS deletes 'Mr Singh, off our roads' poster, dismisses backlash

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The US Department of Homeland Security removed a controversial X post featuring a Transformers-themed cartoon targeting an Indian Sikh man, Harjinder Singh, with racially charged language. The post, which linked Singh to vehicular homicide charges and used phrases like "Self deport or find out," drew fierce condemnation from Indian American organisations and Democratic lawmakers for its discriminatory nature. DHS initially dismissed the outcry but later removed the post without explanation, while continuing its campaign against "illegal aliens" involved in fatal traffic accidents.

Modi-Xi BRICS meeting: Beginning of a new era for India-China ties?

Modi-Xi BRICS meeting: Beginning of a new era for India-China ties?

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated that President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached a crucial consensus during the BRICS summit, agreeing that China and India should be partners, not rivals. The leaders pledged to maintain peace and tranquility in border areas, deepen cooperation, and support each other in multilateral forums, aiming to strengthen the Global South and promote a multipolar world order.

'Very heavy tariffs': Trump fumes as Canada moves closer to EU

'Very heavy tariffs': Trump fumes as Canada moves closer to EU

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

US President Donald Trump has threatened the European Union with "very heavy tariffs" if he perceives their actions as hostile, specifically in response to Canada's efforts to deepen economic and strategic ties with the EU. This comes as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen invited Canada to become the EU's first "associate member" to strengthen resilience amid global trade uncertainties and US trade policies.

BMC demolishes unauthorised constructions at posh Mumbai high-rise

BMC demolishes unauthorised constructions at posh Mumbai high-rise

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

The Mumbai civic body has initiated demolition of unauthorised constructions in a posh Prabhadevi high-rise, Rustomjee Crown, following complaints from an RTI activist. The action targets illegal alterations, amalgamation of flats, and conversion of common spaces into habitable areas, with the drive expected to continue over several days.

Mamata-Congress tie-up in Nandigram: Has Bengal Oppn politics changed?

Mamata-Congress tie-up in Nandigram: Has Bengal Oppn politics changed?

Rediff.com20 Sep 2026

Former West Bengal Chief Minister's faction has announced support for the Congress candidate in the Nandigram assembly bypoll, marking a significant shift in state politics. This move comes amidst an internal party dispute within the Trinamool Congress and is seen as an attempt to consolidate anti-BJP votes and strengthen the INDIA bloc, despite a history of acrimonious rivalry between the two parties.

CPI(ML) Slams New UPI MDR Framework As 'UPI Tax'

CPI(ML) Slams New UPI MDR Framework As 'UPI Tax'

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

CPI(ML) Liberation general secretary Dipankar Bhattacharya has strongly criticised the newly introduced Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on select UPI transactions, labelling it a "UPI tax" and demanding its immediate rollback. He drew parallels with demonetisation, arguing that the new framework would negatively impact small shopkeepers, MSMEs, and ordinary citizens by increasing prices.

Buy A Mature Rocket Or Design A New One?

Buy A Mature Rocket Or Design A New One?

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

Buying a mature rocket technology gives companies the designs and hardware know-how, but not necessarily the decades of engineering wisdom needed to make it work.

Should You Buy Dengue Insurance?

Should You Buy Dengue Insurance?

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Buyers should check their scope and triggers and whether they need such policies alongside their regular health insurance.

BRICS finance chiefs push for greater emerging market representation in IMF, World Bank

BRICS finance chiefs push for greater emerging market representation in IMF, World Bank

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

BRICS finance ministers and central bank governors have called for increased representation of emerging-market and developing economies in the IMF and World Bank, while also criticising unilateral tariffs and trade measures, as the expanded bloc aims to bolster financial cooperation amidst global fragmentation.

GMCK Student Dr Komal Saluja Honoured With Researcher Of The Year Award

GMCK Student Dr Komal Saluja Honoured With Researcher Of The Year Award

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Dr Komal Verma Saluja, a final-year student at Government Medical College Kota (GMCK), has been awarded the "Researcher of the Year Award 2026" by the India chapter of the American College of Physicians (ACP). She is the youngest and first medical student to receive this prestigious accolade. Saluja's research includes identifying an imaging biomarker for early cognitive decline in type 2 diabetes and developing a diagnostic method for fatty liver disease using echocardiography. Her achievements have brought pride to GMCK and highlight the need for more novel diagnostic and therapeutic research in India.

The Right Screen Time For A Child Is...

The Right Screen Time For A Child Is...

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

For a child who is six years old, one hour is the limit, says rediffGURU Dr Deepa Suvarna.

Asian Games: Indian Shooters Face Logistical Hurdles In Nagoya

Asian Games: Indian Shooters Face Logistical Hurdles In Nagoya

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

A senior coach from India's shooting contingent for the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games has voiced disappointment over the logistical arrangements, particularly the long travel times to the training venue.

Kerala: Needle found in infant's body, medical negligence alleged

Kerala: Needle found in infant's body, medical negligence alleged

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

Parents of a one-year-old girl have alleged medical negligence after a needle was found lodged near her ribs, suspected to have been left during treatment at Kottayam Medical College Hospital in June 2025. The needle was surgically removed in July 2026 at Kozhikode Medical College Hospital, prompting the family to file a complaint and seek action from the State Health Minister. Hospital authorities have initiated an inquiry into the matter.

Tirumala Tirupati temple to insure devotees for Rs 2 lakh

Tirumala Tirupati temple to insure devotees for Rs 2 lakh

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu announced several new initiatives for Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), including Aadhaar-based devotee insurance for Rs 2 lakh, the establishment of an SV Museum by TCS Trust, and the introduction of electric buses donated by Reliance Foundation and Bharat Biotech. The plans also include global expansion of Srivari temples, improved Annadanam, integrated hospital services, and significant infrastructure development in Tirupati to make it a services and wedding destination with a Net Zero concept.

Maharashtra Deputy CM Shinde Concludes UK Visit, Pitches For Global Investment

Maharashtra Deputy CM Shinde Concludes UK Visit, Pitches For Global Investment

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde concluded a two-day visit to the UK, focusing on attracting foreign direct investment and promoting the state's economic potential. His engagements included receiving leadership awards, meeting with sports figures like Virat Kohli to discuss Olympic aspirations, and appealing to British investors to bring technology and capital to Maharashtra, leveraging the India-UK FTA.

Scored 97% In MHT-CET. Which Colleges Can I Get?

Scored 97% In MHT-CET. Which Colleges Can I Get?

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

rediffGURU Nagarajan JSK, a career counsellor with over 30 years of experience, addressed readers' queries and offered practical advice on how to make the right decision.

Masood Azhar remains on Pakistan's most-wanted list with Rs 7 mn bounty

Masood Azhar remains on Pakistan's most-wanted list with Rs 7 mn bounty

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Pakistan continues to offer a 7 million rupee reward for information leading to the arrest of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar, who remains on the Federal Investigation Agency's "Red Book" of most-wanted terrorists. This development comes ahead of the Financial Action Task Force's plenary meeting, highlighting Pakistan's ongoing efforts against terror financing.

MBA Or MCA: Which Is Better For Your Career?

MBA Or MCA: Which Is Better For Your Career?

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

Whether to choose MBA or MCA will depend on your interest and aptitude, counsels rediffGURU Patrick Dsouza.

Make HIV Tests Compulsory Before A Wedding

Make HIV Tests Compulsory Before A Wedding

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

We check horoscopes. We check family background. We check whether the boy has a 'government job' or the girl 'knows how to cook'. Somewhere in this elaborate audit, nobody thought to ask: Hey, are you both healthy?

BRICS Summit Pushes For Safe And Inclusive AI Development

BRICS Summit Pushes For Safe And Inclusive AI Development

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

BRICS leaders, in their New Delhi Declaration 2026, have called for wider access to Artificial Intelligence resources and stronger international cooperation to ensure the technology is safe, secure, inclusive, and reliable. The declaration outlines a broad technology agenda covering AI, cybersecurity, digital public infrastructure, telecom, quantum technologies, and advanced manufacturing, committing to implement the grouping's statement on 'Global Governance of Artificial Intelligence'.

Asia Cup Trophy Shouldn't Be Political Casualty

Asia Cup Trophy Shouldn't Be Political Casualty

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The trophy is supposed to be the full stop to a tournament, not another comma in an India-Pakistan controversy, points out K R Nayar.

Where Our Freedom Fighters Were Born

Where Our Freedom Fighters Were Born

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru to Rani Lakshmibai and Subhas Chandra Bose, their journeys began in remarkably different corners of our great homeland.

New Study Reveals Asymmetric Expansion Of Extreme Heat Seasons Globally

New Study Reveals Asymmetric Expansion Of Extreme Heat Seasons Globally

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

A new study published in AGU Advances reveals that extreme heat events are becoming more frequent and expanding beyond traditional summer months globally. This expansion is asymmetric, occurring earlier in spring in regions like western Europe and northwestern India, and later into autumn in areas such as the western US and eastern China. Researchers highlight the challenges this poses for human acclimatisation and community preparedness, as existing infrastructure like cooling centres are built around historical summer calendars.

How New UPI MDR Will Boost Digital Payments Ecosystem

How New UPI MDR Will Boost Digital Payments Ecosystem

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Experts laud the decision to impose a 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions exceeding Rs 2,000, effective October 15. This move, along with a dedicated fund for small merchants, is seen as crucial for creating a sustainable digital payments ecosystem, incentivising expansion in rural areas, and funding innovation while keeping most transactions free for users.

10 States, 10 Delicious Coconut Recipes

10 States, 10 Delicious Coconut Recipes

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

10 states, 10 delicious coconut recipes for World Coconut Day

Oracle Layoffs: 'He worked through Holi and Diwali... then locked out'

Oracle Layoffs: 'He worked through Holi and Diwali... then locked out'

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

A LinkedIn post by Pooja Sahu, detailing her husband Sourabh's sudden layoff from Oracle after 12 years of dedicated service, including working through holidays and even from a hospital, has gone viral, capturing the emotional toll of the tech giant's latest job cuts.

7 Mansa Devi Temples In India

7 Mansa Devi Temples In India

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Maa Mansa Devi, revered as the Hindu goddess of serpents, is worshipped for protection from snakebites, fertility and prosperity. She is also popularly known as the wish-fulfilling goddess. In Hindu mythology, Mansa is associated with sage Kashyapa and is regarded as the sister of Vasuki, the serpent king.

All about UPI charges: Will merchants pass on MDR to customers?

All about UPI charges: Will merchants pass on MDR to customers?

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Indian government has introduced a 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI payments exceeding Rs 2,000 made to merchants, effective from October 15, with a comprehensive framework set to take full effect by October 15, 2026. This policy aims to regulate transaction fees while protecting small merchants and person-to-person transactions.