News for 'Council of States'

Projectile hits near Iran's Bushehr nuclear facility; 1 killed

Projectile hits near Iran's Bushehr nuclear facility; 1 killed

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

A projectile struck near Iran's Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, resulting in one security personnel casualty and damage to an auxiliary building. The incident has raised concerns about nuclear safety and potential regional consequences, drawing criticism from Iranian officials and prompting calls for restraint from the IAEA.

Why Afghanistan's Anti-Doping Efforts Are Failing

Why Afghanistan's Anti-Doping Efforts Are Failing

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

Afghanistan's anti-doping programme has collapsed since the Taliban's return to power, with no tests conducted for three years and the country's exiled anti-doping chief admitting there is currently 'no hope'. The programme faces numerous challenges, including a lack of Doping Control Officers, logistical issues, and political instability.

Khelo India Tribal Games to Kick Off in Chhattisgarh

Khelo India Tribal Games to Kick Off in Chhattisgarh

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

The inaugural Khelo India Tribal Games are set to begin in Chhattisgarh, featuring around 3,800 athletes competing in nine sports. The event aims to boost the state's sports infrastructure and provide exposure to national-level competition.

IPL 2026 Opener Delayed by Two Days, RCB Venue Under Discussion

IPL 2026 Opener Delayed by Two Days, RCB Venue Under Discussion

Rediff.com27 Feb 2026

The IPL Governing Council will finalise the schedule amid election-related uncertainties and venue discussions around RCB's home matches.

Unrest in Meghalaya: Convoy of BSF DIG attacked

Unrest in Meghalaya: Convoy of BSF DIG attacked

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

A Border Security Force (BSF) convoy, including a vehicle carrying a DIG, was attacked in the Garo Hills region of Meghalaya, resulting in injuries and the burning of a vehicle. The incident occurred amidst ongoing unrest and clashes related to local elections, leading to the suspension of internet services and imposition of curfews.

Athletics Federation of India to conduct SRY Gene Test at national-level events

Athletics Federation of India to conduct SRY Gene Test at national-level events

Rediff.com27 Feb 2026

The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) will conduct SRY Gene Tests in national-level competitions to ensure fair competition in the women's category. They will also conduct DNA testing of upcoming athletes for research and development purposes.

Iran yet to elect successor to Khamenei as process still underway

Iran yet to elect successor to Khamenei as process still underway

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

A senior Iranian official has stated that Iran has not yet elected a successor to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Syed Ali Khamenei, following his assassination. The process to elect a new leader is underway, with several candidates being considered.

Israel warns Iran's next supreme leader will be targeted

Israel warns Iran's next supreme leader will be targeted

Rediff.com8 Mar 2026

This threat comes as the assembly of experts in Iran has reportedly reached a majority consensus regarding the successor to the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, according to the Tehran-based Mehr News Agency (MNA).

Goa BJP Accuses Congress of Protecting Councillor's Son in Sex Scandal

Goa BJP Accuses Congress of Protecting Councillor's Son in Sex Scandal

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

The Goa BJP has accused the Congress party of attempting to downplay the involvement of a councillor's son in a sex scandal, citing photographs of the councillor with Congress leaders.

Volleyball Players Quit National Camp Over Coaching and Facility Concerns

Volleyball Players Quit National Camp Over Coaching and Facility Concerns

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Two senior Indian volleyball players have quit the national camp in Ahmedabad, citing concerns over incompetent coaches, poor facilities, and politics within the Volleyball Federation of India (VFI).

Why FIVB Revoked Recognition Of Indian Volleyball Federation

Why FIVB Revoked Recognition Of Indian Volleyball Federation

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

The world volleyball body FIVB has revoked the Volleyball Federation of India's recognition due to breaches of legal and administrative requirements, following complaints from players about poor facilities and selection politics.

Israel backs Iran ceasefire, refuses to halt ops against Hezbollah

Israel backs Iran ceasefire, refuses to halt ops against Hezbollah

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

Israel will continue its offensive in South Lebanon aimed at neutralising the threat from Hezbollah, which is backed by Iran.

'Need GST Council-like bodies to boost infra growth'

'Need GST Council-like bodies to boost infra growth'

Rediff.com22 Aug 2025

India needs Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council-like common platforms between states and the Centre in areas such as land clearances, power, and water to fast-track infrastructure projects to achieve double-digit growth going ahead, said Praveer Sinha, chief executive officer and managing director of The Tata Power Company.

Bomb Threat at Maharashtra Vidhan Bhavan Triggers Security Alert

Bomb Threat at Maharashtra Vidhan Bhavan Triggers Security Alert

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

The Maharashtra Vidhan Bhavan in Mumbai received a bomb threat via email during the budget session, leading to a thorough search and evacuation. Authorities have deemed the threat a hoax and are investigating the source.

West Asia Conflict Can Create Havoc With Budget Numbers

West Asia Conflict Can Create Havoc With Budget Numbers

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

The conflict may disrupt Budget 2026-2027 projections, squeezing revenues and raising subsidies, prompting fiscal adjustments and potential reforms, echoing lessons from the Covid-era shock, points out A K Bhattacharya.

Infantino: World Cup 2026 on track despite Iran uncertainty

Infantino: World Cup 2026 on track despite Iran uncertainty

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino says the 2026 World Cup will proceed as scheduled despite uncertainty over Iran's participation due to security and geopolitical tensions.

Harivansh poised for re-election as RS deputy Chairman amid Oppn boycott

Harivansh poised for re-election as RS deputy Chairman amid Oppn boycott

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

Harivansh is likely to be elected as the Rajya Sabha deputy chairman for a third term as the opposition has decided to boycott the election in protest.

Trump Has Forced The World Into New Reality

Trump Has Forced The World Into New Reality

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

America's population and its media and its democratic structures seem fine with this, which is why Trump continues as he does, asserts Aakar Patel.

Tamil Nadu Elections: 'Vijay Has Been Campaigning Very Intensely As A Christian'

Tamil Nadu Elections: 'Vijay Has Been Campaigning Very Intensely As A Christian'

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

'Remember Vijay had never spoke of himself as a Christian when he was a film star.' 'The BJP strategy is they want the Christian minority constituency to move away from the DMK.' 'That is what the BJP wants so that it will be very easy to mobilise Hindu votes.' 'This strategy is to weaken the Dravidian ideology and bring in religion based politics into Tamil Nadu.'

How Research and Applied Sciences Can Drive India's Sustainability Goals

How Research and Applied Sciences Can Drive India's Sustainability Goals

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

CSIR Director General N Kalaiselvi emphasised the importance of research and applied sciences in developing sustainable solutions for India's energy security and environmental challenges at an international conference on Sustainability Through Fundamental and Applied Sciences (STFAS), 2026.

Meghalaya CM Defiant: Stays Put Despite Threat to Residence

Meghalaya CM Defiant: Stays Put Despite Threat to Residence

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma has refused to relocate despite receiving information about a possible attack on his residence amid ongoing unrest in the Garo Hills region, appealing for peace and dialogue.

Vishwaguru stands exposed: Cong mocks Modi over Pak-brokered Iran truce

Vishwaguru stands exposed: Cong mocks Modi over Pak-brokered Iran truce

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

The Congress party has criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's diplomatic efforts following the ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran, facilitated in part by Pakistan. The party claims this development undermines Modi's strategy and exposes his perceived failures in foreign policy.

Rajnath Singh: India Shedding 'Cricket and Hockey Only' Image on Global Stage

Rajnath Singh: India Shedding 'Cricket and Hockey Only' Image on Global Stage

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlights India's transformation in sports, moving beyond cricket and hockey to achieve global recognition, driven by government investment and initiatives like the Khelo India programme.

Meghalaya CM Refuses to Relocate Despite Threat to Residence

Meghalaya CM Refuses to Relocate Despite Threat to Residence

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma addresses security concerns and appeals for peace amid unrest in the Garo Hills region following clashes during local elections.

Ambdas Danve, Maharashtra Politician, Targeted with Death Threats

Ambdas Danve, Maharashtra Politician, Targeted with Death Threats

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

Former leader of opposition in Maharashtra legislative council, Ambdas Danve, has received multiple threat calls in the last four days, leading to a police investigation.

MEA reveals how India is responding to West Asia crisis

MEA reveals how India is responding to West Asia crisis

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar are actively engaged with world leaders to promote dialogue and diplomacy for peace in West Asia, while also ensuring the safety and well-being of the Indian community in the region.

India Sporting Goods Fair Aims to Propel Manufacturing Sector

India Sporting Goods Fair Aims to Propel Manufacturing Sector

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

The 4th India Sporting Goods Fair (ISGF) showcases athletic gear and equipment from 75 exhibitors, highlighting the government's commitment to promoting sports goods manufacturing in India.

India Sporting Goods Fair Aims to Propel Manufacturing Sector

India Sporting Goods Fair Aims to Propel Manufacturing Sector

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

The 4th India Sporting Goods Fair (ISGF) is set to take place, showcasing athletic gear and equipment from across the country, as the government pushes to establish India as a global hub for sports goods manufacturing.

CBI Files Chargesheet in Rs 23 Crore Digital Arrest Scam

CBI Files Chargesheet in Rs 23 Crore Digital Arrest Scam

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

The CBI has filed a chargesheet against a man accused of defrauding a retired banker of Rs 23 crore in a sophisticated digital arrest scam involving impersonation of law enforcement and judicial authorities.

T20 WC: Zimbabwe finally head home after travel chaos

T20 WC: Zimbabwe finally head home after travel chaos

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

The members of the Zimbabwe cricket team, who were stranded in India after the T20 World Cup due to international airspace closures amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East, headed home on Wednesday after the International Cricket Council (ICC) made alternative travel arrangements for their safe journey.

Odisha Secures Hosting Rights for 2028 World Athletics Indoor Championships

Odisha Secures Hosting Rights for 2028 World Athletics Indoor Championships

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

Odisha, India, will host the World Athletics Indoor Championships in 2028, marking a significant milestone for the state and the nation in becoming a global sporting hub.

A War With No Exit Strategy, No Victory To Declare

A War With No Exit Strategy, No Victory To Declare

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

Both sides have now revealed a preference for escalation over strategic defeat, and each new provocation narrows the space for the next pause. The Touska seizure, Iran's refusal to negotiate under blockade, Israel's strikes on Iranian oil infrastructure -- all of these add up to an increasingly untenable situation. This makes the wild card -- Trump and his motormouth -- more consequential than ever, notes Prem Panicker in his must read blog on the Iran War.

Iran reassures neighbours, rejects US call for 'surrender'

Iran reassures neighbours, rejects US call for 'surrender'

Rediff.com8 Mar 2026

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian maintained a stance of defensive necessity, noting that Tehran is "forced to retaliate to attacks" but clarified that this does not imply a dispute with neighbouring countries

JD-U MLAs Want Nishant Kumar As Bihar CM, Not BJP Leader

JD-U MLAs Want Nishant Kumar As Bihar CM, Not BJP Leader

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

'Nearly 80 of 85 JD-U MLAs are not in favour of a CM from the BJP.'

India Missed Diplomatic Edge Against Pakistan

India Missed Diplomatic Edge Against Pakistan

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

Iran was the chance to arrange a concert of nations, to actually be a Vishwaguru. Instead, we are watching from the sidelines as Pakistan, the same country that is apparently still at war with Afghanistan, hosts talks between US-Israel and Iran. The irony is hard to miss, points out Amberish K Diwanji.

Eminent historian K N Panikkar passes away at 90

Eminent historian K N Panikkar passes away at 90

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

Eminent historian and academic K.N. Panikkar, known for his Marxist interpretation of history and advocacy for secularism, has passed away at the age of 90. His contributions to historical research and defence of secular values are widely recognised.

J&K Wrestler Hamam Hussain Wins Gold at Khelo India Tribal Games After Years of Struggle

J&K Wrestler Hamam Hussain Wins Gold at Khelo India Tribal Games After Years of Struggle

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

Jammu and Kashmir wrestler Hamam Hussain overcame years of hardship, including selling milk to support his family, to win a gold medal at the Khelo India Tribal Games.

Putin intervenes as crisis in West Asia escalates

Putin intervenes as crisis in West Asia escalates

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

Russian President Vladimir Putin is actively working to de-escalate the escalating crisis in the Gulf, engaging with regional leaders following Iran's retaliatory strikes on US facilities after joint US-Israeli strikes against Iran.

Chapter on judiciary: NCERT issues 'unconditional apology'

Chapter on judiciary: NCERT issues 'unconditional apology'

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

The NCERT has issued a public apology and withdrawn a social science textbook for Class 8 after the Supreme Court objected to a chapter on judicial corruption. The court imposed a ban on further publication of the book.

'Trump faces impeachment risks if Iran conflict continues'

'Trump faces impeachment risks if Iran conflict continues'

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

The popularity of US President Donald Trump is waning with approval ratings at its lowest, according to former diplomat Mahesh Sachdev, who notes that with two-thirds of Americans not approving of a continuation of the war on Iran, Trump faces the risk of being impeached.