News for 'Country Head'

Indonesia: 3 quakes leave trail of destruction, 47 dead

Indonesia: 3 quakes leave trail of destruction, 47 dead

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

Indonesia's East Nusa Tenggara province has been severely impacted by three earthquakes, including a powerful 7.7-magnitude tremor, resulting in at least 47 fatalities and extensive damage to homes and public infrastructure, with significant relief efforts now underway.

Can India Defend Chess Olympiad Double, End Winner's Curse?

Can India Defend Chess Olympiad Double, End Winner's Curse?

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

'Being the defending champions certainly gives us confidence, but every Olympiad is a new event and starts from scratch.'

Why India Got Freedom At The Stroke of Midnight

Why India Got Freedom At The Stroke of Midnight

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

August 15 was the date of India's Independence, so why did transfer of power happen at the stroke of midnight August 14-15?

14,000 sign petition for action against Priyanka's 'gau mutra expert' remark

14,000 sign petition for action against Priyanka's 'gau mutra expert' remark

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Over 14,000 members of the academic and scientific community have petitioned Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, seeking intervention against Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's "gau mutra expert" remark concerning IIT Madras Director V Kamakoti during parliamentary proceedings. The petition calls for the withdrawal of the derogatory expression, arguing it undermines the dignity of an eminent scientist and the institution he leads, and urges for respectful democratic discourse.

Chandigarh tense as march seeking Beant Singh assassin release turns violent

Chandigarh tense as march seeking Beant Singh assassin release turns violent

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Chandigarh police on Saturday used tear gas shells and water cannons to disperse protesters who tried to breach barricades during a march towards Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria's residence, seeking the release of Sikh prisoners, including Jagtar Singh Hawara, who is serving a life sentence for the assassination of then Punjab chief minister Beant Singh in 1995.

Harmanpreet stars as India win Hockey World Cup opener

Harmanpreet stars as India win Hockey World Cup opener

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Captain Harmanpreet Singh's two goals helped India secure a 3-1 victory over Wales in their first match of the men's Hockey World Cup, with Sanjay also contributing to the scoreline.

Modi video removal: IT panel wants Zuckerberg to apologise

Modi video removal: IT panel wants Zuckerberg to apologise

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

A parliamentary standing committee on Information Technology has demanded a personal apology from Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg for the temporary removal of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's video from Facebook. The committee also discussed potential legal action and the withdrawal of safe harbour protection, while questioning Meta officials on algorithmic bias and accountability.

'I'd be good at it': Stokes eyes England job

'I'd be good at it': Stokes eyes England job

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Former England captain Ben Stokes has expressed his desire to coach the national team one day, believing his experience as a player and captain would make him successful. He is currently pursuing his Level 3 coaching qualification and has an understanding of the responsibilities involved in leadership. Stokes also commented on Harry Brook not being made Test captain despite being vice-captain, questioning the message it sent.

Hayden Panettiere Dies At 36: 7 Roles To Remember Her By

Hayden Panettiere Dies At 36: 7 Roles To Remember Her By

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

From a child star to a superhero icon and horror favourite, Hayden Panettiere left behind a memorable body of work far beyond her years.

CRPF records highest suicides in five years, most deaths occur on duty

CRPF records highest suicides in five years, most deaths occur on duty

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Cases of suicides in the country's largest paramilitary force, Central Reserve Police Force, recorded their highest number at 59 in 2025 over the last five years, with staffers in the constabulary comprising more than 80 percent of those who ended their lives, official sources said on Thursday.

'Real chance': Savita backs India for World Cup medal

'Real chance': Savita backs India for World Cup medal

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Indian women's hockey team captain Savita Punia believes their recent FIH Nations Cup triumph has instilled the confidence needed to challenge top teams and secure a podium finish at the upcoming World Cup.

Pakistani Boxer Qudratullah Vanishes From Team Hotel After Commonwealth Games in Glasgow

Pakistani Boxer Qudratullah Vanishes From Team Hotel After Commonwealth Games in Glasgow

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Pakistani boxer Qudratullah has reportedly disappeared from the team hotel in Glasgow following the Commonwealth Games, marking another incident of a Pakistani athlete vanishing during an international event.

Govt plans to send FCRA Bill to joint Parl panel for scrutiny

Govt plans to send FCRA Bill to joint Parl panel for scrutiny

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

The government is considering sending 'The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026' to a joint committee of both houses of Parliament for further examination, even as the Congress and some other opposition parties have demanded that it be withdrawn, sources said on Tuesday.

P V Sindhu: 'I Am Coming At The Top Of My Game'

P V Sindhu: 'I Am Coming At The Top Of My Game'

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

'Frankly, I'm in that zone for another Olympics.'

Cape Verde's World Cup sensation Vozinha signs for Colo-Colo

Cape Verde's World Cup sensation Vozinha signs for Colo-Colo

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Cape Verde's veteran goalkeeper Vozinha, who gained social media fame during the World Cup, has arrived in Chile to join Colo-Colo on a six-month contract, with an option for a one-year extension.

Karnataka To Build Robust AI Ecosystem With Anthropic Partnership

Karnataka To Build Robust AI Ecosystem With Anthropic Partnership

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar met with AI major Anthropic to discuss a long-term partnership aimed at accelerating AI adoption across governance, education, healthcare, research, and the state's startup ecosystem. The collaboration focuses on deploying AI solutions responsibly, ensuring data privacy, and developing AI-focused skilling programmes and an AI University.

Why Is Gautam Gambhir Smiling?

Why Is Gautam Gambhir Smiling?

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Gautam Gambhir, known for his serious demeanour, surprised fans by sharing a series of memes on Instagram featuring a rare smile.

My mother was abused, but we must forgive 'misguided' youth: Modi in new video

My mother was abused, but we must forgive 'misguided' youth: Modi in new video

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for forgiveness and guidance for students involved in NEET irregularity protests at Jantar Mantar, despite facing abusive language, stressing the importance of steering the youth towards the right path.

Will Mourinho return to Real Madrid add spice to La Liga?

Will Mourinho return to Real Madrid add spice to La Liga?

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

The upcoming LaLiga season promises an intense battle as Barcelona defends its title against a revamped Real Madrid, led by returning manager Jose Mourinho, and a turbulent Atletico Madrid. Real Madrid has made significant signings and brought back Mourinho after two trophyless seasons, while Barcelona relies on continuity and its World Cup-winning core. Atletico Madrid faces pressure on manager Diego Simeone and a potential transfer saga involving Julian Alvarez, setting the stage for a dramatic season.

'A Student's Life Can't Be Held Hostage To A 3-Hour Performance'

'A Student's Life Can't Be Held Hostage To A 3-Hour Performance'

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Education sector experts agree that using the "best technology" was essential to ensure students did not have to sit for an examination all over again because of a question paper leak.

Will Sheikh Hasina Be Killed If She Returns To Dhaka?

Will Sheikh Hasina Be Killed If She Returns To Dhaka?

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

'They probably imagine any hue and cry in the event Sheikh Hasina is hanged will be shortlived as it happened when Bhutto was hanged in Pakistan in 1979.'

Pep Guardiola turns down Italy role as search for coach continues

Pep Guardiola turns down Italy role as search for coach continues

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Former Manchester City and Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola has turned down the opportunity to coach the Italy national team, a source familiar with the discussions said on Friday, confirming media reports.

Hasina extradition request under review, Centre tells parliamentary panel

Hasina extradition request under review, Centre tells parliamentary panel

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

A parliamentary committee has noted Bangladesh's extradition request for former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, who faces a death sentence in absentia. The Indian government has confirmed the request is under examination, reiterating its humanitarian approach of offering refuge while ensuring no political activity is conducted from Indian soil. The committee has urged the government to keep it apprised of the matter.

'We will change govt if it doesn't fall in line', warns CJP's Dipke

'We will change govt if it doesn't fall in line', warns CJP's Dipke

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke has criticised the government for allegedly troubling protesting students, asserting they are the nation's future and not terrorists. He warned that if the government fails to address their concerns, the youth are prepared to bring about political change, referencing the recent resignation of Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper leak issue.

Did Mohan Bhagwat Sync With Gen Z?

Did Mohan Bhagwat Sync With Gen Z?

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

All's well with the State; it's the citizens who have to really buck up, was the sum and substance of Mohan Bhagwat's message to Gen Z.

Football bodies accuse FIFA chief of 'deception' over World Cup rights

Football bodies accuse FIFA chief of 'deception' over World Cup rights

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), and CONCACAF have jointly criticised FIFA President Gianni Infantino for his handling of a proposed sale of commercial rights to the World Cup, accusing him of 'deception' and calling for an independent review.

'Fleming is an exceptional leader with a great knowledge of the game': Joe Root

'Fleming is an exceptional leader with a great knowledge of the game': Joe Root

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Former New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming, renowned for his success with Chennai Super Kings, has been appointed England's new Test head coach, with Joe Root returning as captain after a comprehensive recruitment process by the England and Wales Cricket Board.

Vance dials Modi day after Senate clears sanctions bill

Vance dials Modi day after Senate clears sanctions bill

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

US Vice President JD Vance and Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a phone call to discuss expanding the India-US comprehensive global strategic partnership, focusing on trade, defence, energy security, emerging technologies, and critical minerals. The discussion comes amidst rising tensions in West Asia and recent regional realignments, with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to strengthening cooperation.

Sheikh Abdullah's Ouster Began J&K's Long Road To 2019

Sheikh Abdullah's Ouster Began J&K's Long Road To 2019

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah's dismissal and arrest on August 9, 1953 marked a decisive shift in the Centre-J&K power equation. Seven decades later, the erosion of the state's special constitutional position culminated in the August 5, 2019 changes, notes Mohammad Sayeed Malik, the distinguished commentator on Kashmir affairs.

'Why link it to delimitation?': Rahul, Rijiju spar over women's quota

'Why link it to delimitation?': Rahul, Rijiju spar over women's quota

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

The Congress and BJP are engaged in a political spat over the implementation of the Women's Reservation Bill and its proposed link to delimitation, with Rahul Gandhi urging unconditional implementation of the 2023 law and Kiren Rijiju highlighting the constitutional requirement for delimitation based on post-2026 census figures.

The Harsh Reality Of Leaving Home Behind

The Harsh Reality Of Leaving Home Behind

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Families don't really break apart in a single moment, they just quietly stop fitting under one roof, notes Binu Alex.

Rahul hugs Cong leader, calls it Modi's foreign policy. Then comes Meloni jibe

Rahul hugs Cong leader, calls it Modi's foreign policy. Then comes Meloni jibe

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi launched a scathing attack on the BJP-RSS, labelling them a "bunch of jokers" with no understanding of India, and criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's foreign policy as merely "hugging leaders." He also claimed the RSS has become an instrument of large capital, serving Adani and Ambani, and vowed that the Congress would keep pressure on the government until Modi and Shah resign. The BJP hit back, calling Gandhi immature and out of depth.

Air India picks leader who quadrupled Ethiopian Airlines' revenue

Air India picks leader who quadrupled Ethiopian Airlines' revenue

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Tewolde Gebremariam, a seasoned aviation professional with extensive experience at Ethiopian Airlines, has been named the new Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Air India. He is tasked with leading the airline's ambitious five-year transformation plan, Vihaan.AI, aimed at achieving significant growth and profitability, marking him as the second foreign national to helm Air India under Tata Group ownership.

Maharashtra Government Embraces Indigenous AI For Digital Transformation

Maharashtra Government Embraces Indigenous AI For Digital Transformation

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

The Maharashtra government has approved the deployment of sovereign artificial intelligence solutions from Sarvam AI for its departments, with a two-year outlay of Rs 11.26 crore. This initiative includes the Indus AI workspace for 2,500 users, ensuring government data remains within India, along with citizen outreach agents and speech models for the MahaAI platform.

Can FIFA's small nations save Infantino's presidency?

Can FIFA's small nations save Infantino's presidency?

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Gianni Infantino's bid for a fourth term as FIFA president faces challenges from traditional football powers, but his strategy relies heavily on the support of smaller, emerging nations that benefit significantly from FIFA's development grants.

Argentina World Cup winner Otamendi calls time on international career

Argentina World Cup winner Otamendi calls time on international career

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Argentina's veteran defender Nicolas Otamendi has announced his retirement from international football after a 17-year career, which included winning the 2022 World Cup and two Copa America titles.

Is Uddhav's Sena heading for another split? Raut reacts

Is Uddhav's Sena heading for another split? Raut reacts

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Thackeray on Sunday called a meeting of party MPs. Of the nine Lok Sabha members, only four --- Arvind Sawant, Anil Desai, Rajabhau Waze and Sanjay Patil --- attended the meeting in person, while Omprakash Raje Nimbalkar, Bhausaheb Wakchaure, Nagesh Bapurao Patil Ashtikar and Sanjay Deshmukh attended online.

Mohith HS: From Accidental Goalkeeper To India's World Cup Hope

Mohith HS: From Accidental Goalkeeper To India's World Cup Hope

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Karnataka's Mohith HS, an accidental goalkeeper, is set to represent India at the FIH Hockey World Cup in the Netherlands and Belgium. The 24-year-old, who impressed in the FIH Pro League, will join Suraj Karkera as one of the team's custodians. Mohith's journey began by chance in school, evolving into a promising career that saw him play in the Junior World Cup and now the senior national team, driven by a dream to win for India.

Alexandra Eala First Player From Philippines To Win WTA Tour Singles Title

Alexandra Eala First Player From Philippines To Win WTA Tour Singles Title

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Alexandra Eala of the Philippines made history by becoming the first player from her country to win a WTA Tour-level singles title at the Washington Open, defeating top seed Jessica Pegula.

The Magic Of India's Long Train Journeys

The Magic Of India's Long Train Journeys

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Back when India moved slowly, every window seat came with a view, and every rail journey came with excess baggage - food, fears, family drama, points out Ajanta Krishnamurthy.