News for 'Council of States'

SOG Busts Medical Registration Fraud In Rajasthan

SOG Busts Medical Registration Fraud In Rajasthan

Rediff.com16 Oct 2026

The Rajasthan Police's Special Operations Group (SOG) has arrested two men for allegedly securing registration with the Rajasthan Medical Council (RMC) using forged educational qualifications. One accused, Pankaj Yadav, failed a foreign medical exam six times and allegedly used fake MBBS degrees, while Nanji Ram Choudhary, who only studied up to Class 8, allegedly used forged degrees to own and operate a hospital. The SOG is investigating potential involvement of RMC officials.

ODI World Cup 2027: Over 1.5 Crore Ticket Applications in 12 Days

ODI World Cup 2027: Over 1.5 Crore Ticket Applications in 12 Days

Rediff.com13 Oct 2026

There is an unprecedented global demand for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027 tickets, with over 1.5 crore applications already received from 142 countries for the tournament set to be hosted in Africa.

Pharma companies can claim GST input tax credit on free samples, expired goods from FY'28

Pharma companies can claim GST input tax credit on free samples, expired goods from FY'28

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

The GST Council has approved a proposal allowing pharmaceutical companies to claim Input Tax Credit (ITC) on free samples and goods destroyed or written off due to expiry, effective from the next fiscal year. This move aims to support manufacturing, liquidity, and exports within the sector.

Payments Council Confirms UPI Will Remain Free For Consumers And Small Merchants

Payments Council Confirms UPI Will Remain Free For Consumers And Small Merchants

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

The Payments Council of India has confirmed that Unified Payments Interface (UPI) services will continue to be free for consumers and small merchants, despite a recent Lok Sabha Bill. This clarification addresses concerns about potential charges, emphasising that while a sustainable financial model for UPI infrastructure is being developed, transaction charges will not be passed on to users or small businesses.

Kuwait To Host First Asian Esports And Mind Sports Games In 2027

Kuwait To Host First Asian Esports And Mind Sports Games In 2027

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

The Olympic Council of Asia has signed a contract with Kuwait to host the inaugural Asian Esports and Mind Sports Games in 2027. This new continental event is expected to feature around 4,000 athletes, with discussions ongoing for the Philippines to host the second edition in 2029. Esports has evolved from a demonstration event to an official medal sport at the Asian Games, and this dedicated event offers Indian players more opportunities.

Noida airport to be renamed after PM Modi

Noida airport to be renamed after PM Modi

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet has officially approved the renaming of the Noida International Airport at Jewar to 'Narendra Modi International Airport, Noida-Jewar', a move Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath described as a "major gift" to the state.

Risk of stampede, impact on businesses: What Delhi cops' no-protest notice says

Risk of stampede, impact on businesses: What Delhi cops' no-protest notice says

Rediff.com16 Oct 2026

Delhi Police have taken stringent measures to prevent the Cockroach Janta Party's 'Lehra Do Tiranga' march in Connaught Place, deploying thousands of personnel and citing prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the BNSS due to risks of traffic disruption, stampede, and threats to public safety.

AI Speeds Up Work But Hinders Deep Learning, Say Indian Students

AI Speeds Up Work But Hinders Deep Learning, Say Indian Students

Rediff.com5 days ago

A new global survey by HP reveals that a majority of Indian students are concerned that while AI helps them work faster, it prevents them from learning material as deeply. Despite these worries, students remain optimistic about AI's role in future job markets and feel confident in using AI tools responsibly. The report calls for policymakers to focus on durable skills and core education.

Nirmala Sitharaman: Next-Gen GST and India's next phase of growth

Nirmala Sitharaman: Next-Gen GST and India's next phase of growth

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

India's Next-Gen GST reforms are proving instrumental in driving robust economic growth, simplifying tax compliance, and fostering a more inclusive business environment across the nation, aligning with the vision of a 'Viksit Bharat', writes Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

'This is why...': India slams UN report on youth protests

'This is why...': India slams UN report on youth protests

Rediff.com17 Oct 2026

India has strongly rejected a report by a UN human rights expert, Gina Romero, which claimed that young people in India face retaliation or stigmatisation for discussing mental health or gender justice. India's First Secretary Anuj Swarup labelled the report as "hearsay" based on "anonymous and unverified claims," asserting that it does a disservice to the expert's mandate. Swarup highlighted India's constitutional freedoms, independent judiciary, and government's proactive engagement with youth, citing examples like the amendment to the Public Examinations Act and the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue.

Fadnavis orders forensic probe as Jarange audio clip rocks Mahayuti

Fadnavis orders forensic probe as Jarange audio clip rocks Mahayuti

Rediff.com2 days ago

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has ordered a forensic investigation into a controversial audio clip released by activist Manoj Jarange, which purportedly claims Rs 500 crore was delivered to him through Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Shinde, amid escalating political accusations.

India, West Indies fined for slow over rate in 3rd ODI

India, West Indies fined for slow over rate in 3rd ODI

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Both the Indian and West Indies cricket teams were fined by the International Cricket Council for maintaining slow over rates during their third and final One-Day International match in Mullanpur, New Chandigarh.

SC orders SIT probe into lawyers' assault complaint against police

SC orders SIT probe into lawyers' assault complaint against police

Rediff.com12 Oct 2026

The Supreme Court has directed the Delhi police commissioner to form a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe a complaint filed by lawyers who were allegedly assaulted during a protest demanding the resignation of Bar Council of India (BCI) chairman Manan Kumar Mishra. This directive comes after the Delhi High Court had dismissed a similar plea, stating it was not maintainable.

Rahul Gandhi Urges President To Reconsider Governor Appointment Amid Murder Probe

Rahul Gandhi Urges President To Reconsider Governor Appointment Amid Murder Probe

Rediff.com15 Oct 2026

Rahul Gandhi has written to President Droupadi Murmu, urging her to ask the government to reconsider the appointment of Dushyant Gautam as Governor of Sikkim. Gandhi argues that Gautam's appointment, while a CBI probe into the Ankita Bhandari murder case is ongoing, places him beyond the reach of investigation due to gubernatorial immunity. Ankita's parents allege Gautam's involvement and have protested the appointment.

Dhaka sends babu to attend BIMSTEC home ministers' meet

Dhaka sends babu to attend BIMSTEC home ministers' meet

Rediff.com12 Oct 2026

Bangladesh's Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed will skip the first-ever BIMSTEC home ministers' meeting in New Delhi, with a senior bureaucrat leading the delegation. This absence underscores strained India-Bangladesh ties, particularly following the ouster of the Sheikh Hasina government in August 2024 and Dhaka's request for her extradition from India.

Coming Up, Southern CMs' Dasara Conclave

Coming Up, Southern CMs' Dasara Conclave

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

Five southern states are stepping up coordination on delimitation, tax devolution and language issues, reviving calls for a stronger collective South platform.

'Act Before Lawrence Bishnoi Becomes A Dawood Ibrahim'

'Act Before Lawrence Bishnoi Becomes A Dawood Ibrahim'

Rediff.com2 days ago

'You want the main man, and you cannot even bring him to Mumbai, where he has allegedly carried out a high-profile shootout.'

Vande Mataram stops after 2 stanzas in Karnataka assembly; BJP members protest

Vande Mataram stops after 2 stanzas in Karnataka assembly; BJP members protest

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

BJP legislators in Karnataka protested during a special legislative session by reciting the full version of Vande Mataram after the official recording played in the Assembly and Council ended after only two stanzas. The Congress government in the state has a standing order to play only the first two stanzas at its programmes, except for high-profile events.

China won't support India's permanent UNSC seat bid: Former US NSA

China won't support India's permanent UNSC seat bid: Former US NSA

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Former US National Security Adviser John Bolton has stated that China is not prepared to back India's bid for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council. He highlighted that any expansion of permanent membership would require a UN Charter amendment, which China could veto. Bolton also discussed the broader institutional challenges facing the UN and suggested that regime change in Iran is crucial for long-term stability in West Asia, linking Houthi attacks to Iran's "ring of fire" strategy.

Photos: Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrates India's Asian Games heroes

Photos: Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrates India's Asian Games heroes

Rediff.com15 Oct 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met India's Asian Games medal-winners, including the gold-winning cricket teams, on Thursday. He praised their achievements, highlighting India's growing strength in sports and its ambition to become a credible host for major international events, including a bid for the 2036 Olympics. Modi also emphasised the government's support for athletes and urged medallists to mentor the next generation.

Anthropic's prospectus warns of AI's 'existential risks to humanity'

Anthropic's prospectus warns of AI's 'existential risks to humanity'

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Anthropic has formally warned investors that its technology may pose "existential risks to humanity" in a long-awaited initial public offering prospectus circulated with a small group of partners in recent days.

Pak PM Sharif dodges questions on Hafiz Saeed, terror at UN

Pak PM Sharif dodges questions on Hafiz Saeed, terror at UN

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif repeatedly refused to answer reporters' questions regarding Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) chief Hafiz Saeed during his visit to the United Nations headquarters for the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

Dipke, Neha among 150 detained; flash protests continue in Delhi

Dipke, Neha among 150 detained; flash protests continue in Delhi

Rediff.com17 Oct 2026

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) leader Abhijeet Dipke and AISA chief Neha Bora were preventively detained by Delhi Police on Friday, preventing their participation in the 'Lehra Do Tiranga' protests amidst heightened security in the national capital.

Amit Shah's warning to Rahul Gandhi: 'Be prepared for...'

Amit Shah's warning to Rahul Gandhi: 'Be prepared for...'

Rediff.com13 Oct 2026

Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday criticised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and the opposition amidst ongoing protests for the resignation of CEC Gyanesh Kumar and scrapping of SIR. Shah predicted a "crushing defeat" for the Congress in the 2029 general elections, citing the BJP's and NDA's strong public support and the Congress's dismal performance in recent bypolls and local body elections across several states, including West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Tripura. He urged the Congress to introspect instead of engaging in "negative politics" and "fabricated media events."

DP World To Ensure Consistency For Rory McIlroy's Global Training

DP World To Ensure Consistency For Rory McIlroy's Global Training

Rediff.com13 Oct 2026

Golf superstar Rory McIlroy has announced a multi-year partnership with global logistics company DP World. The collaboration will see DP World transport McIlroy's personalised fitness and recovery facilities across his PGA Tour and DP World Tour schedules, ensuring consistent training environments worldwide. This initiative highlights DP World's expertise in complex logistics and makes McIlroy a global ambassador for the company.

What Modi's Chintan Shivir Is About

What Modi's Chintan Shivir Is About

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

The Chintan Shivir is expected to discuss the progress of government schemes, policy implementation, time management, inter-ministerial coordination, and public service delivery, among others.

UPI MDR: 75% Of Merchants May Be Unaffected

UPI MDR: 75% Of Merchants May Be Unaffected

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

75% of India's 60 million digital-payment merchants have never recorded a transaction above 2,000.

Russian lab worker's death sparks plague fears, hundreds quarantined

Russian lab worker's death sparks plague fears, hundreds quarantined

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

A laboratory technician in Siberia died from 'pneumonia of unknown aetiology' at an Anti-Plague Research Institute, sparking fears of pneumonic plague, with the US now monitoring the situation and urging Russia for transparency.

Indian-Origin Jurist Navi Pillay Wins Nobel Peace Prize

Indian-Origin Jurist Navi Pillay Wins Nobel Peace Prize

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

South African jurist Navanethem 'Navi' Pillay, of Indian origin, has been awarded the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize for her lifelong dedication to advancing human rights, peace, and international law, including her significant contributions to shaping international law on genocide and sexual violence.

Asian Games Organisers Face Accommodation Crunch, Limit Contingent Sizes

Asian Games Organisers Face Accommodation Crunch, Limit Contingent Sizes

Rediff.com27 Sep 2026

The Olympic Council of Asia has advised national bodies, including India, to limit their contingent sizes for the upcoming Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, due to the host nation's inability to accommodate more than 15,000 participants. This impacts support staff numbers, with India's contingent of 492 athletes requiring strict adherence to the 33% support staff cap. Organisers are implementing innovative accommodation solutions like container huts and a cruise ship.

BCCI invites applications for men's selection committee role

BCCI invites applications for men's selection committee role

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has invited applications for a position on the men's selection committee. This follows the departure of former chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar, whose tenure ended on October 4. Pragyan Ojha is currently serving as the interim chairman.

Athletics Federation Of India To Implement SRY Gene Testing

Athletics Federation Of India To Implement SRY Gene Testing

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) has announced that the SRY gene test will be mandatory for all athletes participating in its approved competitions across all age categories, effective from 2027. This decision, subject to legal formalities, aligns with new World Athletics regulations for female category eligibility.

Why India Is Wooing Sri Lanka's JVP

Why India Is Wooing Sri Lanka's JVP

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is actively courting Sri Lanka's Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), a Marxist party with strong Sinhalese nationalist roots, marking a significant shift in bilateral relations despite ideological differences. This engagement, highlighted by a recent high-profile visit by JVP leader Tilvin Silva, aims to foster cooperation on economic projects and address New Delhi's concerns over slow progress in India-aided initiatives in the island nation.

Envoy reveals why US rejected Iran's Hormuz offer

Envoy reveals why US rejected Iran's Hormuz offer

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

The US rejected Iran's proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, citing Tehran's demands for sanctions relief and access to frozen assets before nuclear program negotiations. US Ambassador Mike Waltz called the offer a "cynical attempt," while Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi disputed Waltz's account and reiterated Iran's readiness for both diplomacy and renewed hostilities. President Trump expressed confidence in winning the conflict soon and keeping all options, including military strikes, on the table, with denying Iran a nuclear weapon as the primary objective.

Nitish-Nishant share stage amid cheers: Is JD-U signalling succession?

Nitish-Nishant share stage amid cheers: Is JD-U signalling succession?

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

JD(U) president Nitish Kumar and his son Nishant Kumar made a joint appearance at a party orientation programme, sparking speculation about Nishant's political future and potential leadership roles within the party. The event, aimed at training parliamentarians and legislators, also saw Nishant urging attendees to uphold his father's principles of "zero tolerance for crime, corruption and communalism."

FIFA slams UEFA's 'misinformation campaign' over investment proposal, alleges election interference

FIFA slams UEFA's 'misinformation campaign' over investment proposal, alleges election interference

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

FIFA has accused UEFA of waging a 'misinformation campaign' and attempting to influence its upcoming presidential election, urging a US court to reject a discovery request related to a controversial, now-abandoned investment proposal for World Cup commercial rights.

Pink ball for India-Australia Test in Guwahati? ICC rule opens door

Pink ball for India-Australia Test in Guwahati? ICC rule opens door

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has approved the use of pink balls in day-time Test matches on a trial basis, aiming to mitigate the frequent loss of overs due to fading light in the final session. This decision, applicable to series starting from October 1, allows for mutual agreement between teams to use the pink ball for the entire duration of a Test.

US tariff blitz on Russian oil: How will China strike back?

US tariff blitz on Russian oil: How will China strike back?

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

China has strongly rejected a US bill that would impose tariffs on countries, including India, for purchasing Russian oil and gas. Beijing views the "Lindsey O Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act 2026" as an act of "long-arm jurisdiction" and interference in its sovereign trade relations, asserting that its economic cooperation with other nations is based on equality and mutual benefit.

Miscommunication Blamed For Asian Games Flag-Hoisting Ceremony Delay

Miscommunication Blamed For Asian Games Flag-Hoisting Ceremony Delay

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

The flag-hoisting ceremony for the Asian Games, involving India and five other contingents, was significantly delayed due to "miscommunication" between the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and the local organising committee (ANAGOC). The disruption, which lasted over an hour, initially caused confusion and speculation about political issues, but organisers later clarified it was a communication breakdown, adding to existing organisational challenges for the event.

Punch Boxing Set For 14th Edition In November, Boosting Indian Fighters

Punch Boxing Set For 14th Edition In November, Boosting Indian Fighters

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Professional Punch Boxing is set to host its 14th edition in November, aiming to provide Indian fighters with competitive bouts and international exposure. The series, launched in 2017 and sanctioned by the Indian Boxing Council, has previously featured boxers from over 12 countries, offering a platform for domestic talent to build their careers.