News for 'Country Head'

The World Cup Is Here, But Where Are the Fans?

The World Cup Is Here, But Where Are the Fans?

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

High costs, visa hurdles, and logistics for the World Cup are deterring fans, leading to a disappointing boost for US hotels, airlines, and the travel industry.

'Will kill you if...': Sena MP Patil threatens scribes; Shinde seeks apology

'Will kill you if...': Sena MP Patil threatens scribes; Shinde seeks apology

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Dina Patil allegedly abused and threatened journalists, prompting Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to ask him to express regret. The incident occurred after journalists questioned Patil about a letter from Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut and his daughter's political stance, leading to a political controversy.

Kylian Mbappe Faces Immense Pressure Ahead Of World Cup Opener

Kylian Mbappe Faces Immense Pressure Ahead Of World Cup Opener

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

Kylian Mbappe is under immense pressure and facing criticism regarding his recent performances and leadership ahead of France's World Cup opener. Despite a trophy-less season with Real Madrid, his teammates Ousmane Dembele and Lucas Hernandez defend him, highlighting his leadership within the French squad and his focus on the tournament. Mbappe has a strong World Cup record and aims to silence critics by performing well in the upcoming matches.

Sri Lanka Court Imposes Travel Ban On Gotabaya Rajapaksa Over Easter Attack Probe

Sri Lanka Court Imposes Travel Ban On Gotabaya Rajapaksa Over Easter Attack Probe

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

A Sri Lankan court has imposed an overseas travel ban on former president Gotabaya Rajapaksa and two former military officers in connection with ongoing investigations into the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks. The ban was issued after the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) raised concerns that their flight could hamper the probe into the coordinated suicide bombings that killed 270 people. The current government reopened the investigation in late 2024, alleging political influence led to an earlier cover-up.

What Modi Govt Plans To Do About Illegal Immigration

What Modi Govt Plans To Do About Illegal Immigration

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

The NDA government has gradually nuanced its position on the issue of demographic challenge.

Blessings of 140 crore Indians my greatest strength: Modi

Blessings of 140 crore Indians my greatest strength: Modi

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has surpassed Jawaharlal Nehru's record to become India's longest-serving democratically elected Prime Minister. He expressed gratitude to President Droupadi Murmu, NDA chief ministers, Vice President C P Radhakrishnan, and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla for their wishes, attributing his achievements to the collective efforts and aspirations of 140 crore Indians and reaffirming his commitment to a 'Viksit Bharat'.

Massive Mahapanchayat In Bihar Against Encounter Killing

Massive Mahapanchayat In Bihar Against Encounter Killing

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Bharat Tiwari, a self-proclaimed social worker, was shot by an STF team after he surrendered near his Bilauti village but succumbed to injuries few hours later on June 17.

FIDE Suspends Russia's Membership For Ukraine Violations

FIDE Suspends Russia's Membership For Ukraine Violations

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The International Chess Federation (FIDE) has suspended Russia's membership for up to three years due to its failure to comply with a ruling to stop holding events in Russian-controlled Ukrainian territories. This decision follows Russia's continued organisation of chess events in annexed regions, violating a Court of Arbitration for Sport order.

HimClimX: New AI Platform For Himalayan Climate Insights

HimClimX: New AI Platform For Himalayan Climate Insights

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

BIT Mesra has launched 'HimClimX', an AI-powered platform designed for Himalayan climate intelligence and visualisation. It integrates over a century of climate data to offer trend analysis, anomaly detection, spatial visualisation, impact assessment, and AI-driven forecasting for the Himalayan region.

Stumper-batter KS Bharat hangs up gloves, thanks Kohli, Rohit

Stumper-batter KS Bharat hangs up gloves, thanks Kohli, Rohit

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

India wicketkeeper-batter Kona Srikar Bharat has announced his retirement from international cricket after playing seven Tests for the country. The 32-year-old debuted in 2023 and played his last Test a year later, scoring 221 runs. He also holds the record for the first triple century by a wicketkeeper-batter in Ranji Trophy.

Redwood Software Inaugurates Global Centre In Hyderabad

Redwood Software Inaugurates Global Centre In Hyderabad

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

US-based Redwood Software has inaugurated its global centre in Hyderabad, designating it as its primary operational location. The centre will focus on AI-powered automation and aims to enhance Redwood's ability to manage operations across hybrid IT environments. Redwood plans to hire over 300 new employees by the end of 2027.

Journalist Attempts Self-Immolation At Police Station

Journalist Attempts Self-Immolation At Police Station

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

A man claiming to be a journalist attempted self-immolation at a police station in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, alleging police inaction after he was allegedly abducted, assaulted, and robbed. Police intervened and stopped the attempt, and an investigation is now underway.

The Last Trip With My Father

The Last Trip With My Father

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

At Kolga Aabla, the closest beach to her grandmother's home, at the edge of a birch forest, we immersed her balance ashes. It was a sombre, precious day for both of us. But a day that also brought long-needed closure. My mother's spirit, chained for so many years in a Parkinson's-locked body, was free. But my father came back from the beach a visibly older man.

Kerala heads to key polls: 2.71 cr voters to decide LDF-UDF-NDA contest

Kerala heads to key polls: 2.71 cr voters to decide LDF-UDF-NDA contest

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

Kerala is set to hold its Assembly election, with the ruling LDF aiming for a historic third term, the UDF seeking a comeback, and the NDA striving to gain a foothold in the state's political landscape.

'Maybe 21-22%': Iran's missile arsenal reduced to a fraction, claims Trump

'Maybe 21-22%': Iran's missile arsenal reduced to a fraction, claims Trump

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

US President Donald Trump has claimed that Iran's missile capabilities have been severely degraded, saying Tehran now possesses only a fraction of the arsenal it had before recent hostilities.

'Ravi bhai is box office': Ashwin lifts lid on dressing-room drama during Gabba triumph

'Ravi bhai is box office': Ashwin lifts lid on dressing-room drama during Gabba triumph

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

Ravichandran Ashwin recalls the injury that ruled him out of India's historic Gabba Test win, reveals Ravi Shastri's fiery dressing-room reaction and reflects on the unforgettable 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy triumph.

'We Are Buying Russian Oil Even Now'

'We Are Buying Russian Oil Even Now'

Rediff.com27 May 2026

India bought 1.87 million barrels of Russian oil per day in May so far, meeting approximately 40 per cent of its oil imports.

High Spirits: Liquor Brands Bet On Premium Buzz In Hindi Heartland

High Spirits: Liquor Brands Bet On Premium Buzz In Hindi Heartland

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Indian liquor brands are increasingly focusing on Hindi heartland states like Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Haryana as the next major growth engine for premiumisation, driven by expanding luxury portfolios, craft spirit launches, and upgraded retail experiences, as state governments embrace reforms.

First in six decades: Australia pick India-born Nikhil Chaudhary for Bangladesh T20s

First in six decades: Australia pick India-born Nikhil Chaudhary for Bangladesh T20s

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Delhi-born Nikhil Chaudhary, who played for Punjab till 2016-2017, was called up to the Australian T20 squad for a three-match tour to Bangladesh next week.

Putin says Russia will not 'interfere' in India-China border disputes

Putin says Russia will not 'interfere' in India-China border disputes

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Moscow would not interfere in the "delicate" bilateral relations between India and China, expressing confidence in their ability to resolve border disputes amicably. He also discussed Russia's independent partnerships with both nations, touched upon India-Pakistan ties, and highlighted ongoing and proposed defence cooperation with India, including the BrahMos missile and a potential Su-57 fighter jet project.

Ganguly hails East Bengal after historic maiden ISL title triumph

Ganguly hails East Bengal after historic maiden ISL title triumph

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Sourav Ganguly congratulated East Bengal after the Kolkata giants won their first-ever Indian Super League title, ending a 22-year wait for top-tier league glory.

America set to catch 'Lamine Fever' as Spain chase another WC title

America set to catch 'Lamine Fever' as Spain chase another WC title

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Lamine Yamal exploded into view at 16 and became an integral part of Spain's record fourth European Championship triumph in 2024.

Putin: Sanctions threat on India will 'boomerang' under Modi

Putin: Sanctions threat on India will 'boomerang' under Modi

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

Russian President Vladimir Putin asserted that any attempts to undermine India's sovereignty through 'threats of sanctions' would 'boomerang immediately' under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, highlighting India's sovereign decision-making and strong national interests.

Kane Williamson retires at 35, ending a legendary era

Kane Williamson retires at 35, ending a legendary era

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

The 35-year-old finishes as New Zealand's all-time leading international run-scorer with 19,346 runs, including 48 centuries and six double-centuries. Williamson's retirement means he will play no further part in the BlackCaps current Test series in England, with a replacement player to be confirmed in due course.

Govt Clears Cancer Drug Price Hike

Govt Clears Cancer Drug Price Hike

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

'While higher prices may create some financial burden for patients and caregivers in the short term, uninterrupted access to treatment remains the greater priority.'

Brendon McCullum to continue as head coach in all three formats, confirms ECB

Brendon McCullum to continue as head coach in all three formats, confirms ECB

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

Brendon McCullum will continue as England's head coach in all three formats, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said on Monday, despite the team's lacklustre performances and lingering questions about their dressing-room culture.

The Bad Brit From Lagaan Returns!

The Bad Brit From Lagaan Returns!

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

''With Aamir, I have maintained a friendship, and I'm so grateful for that. He's been so kind and generous throughout these years, whether it's in Los Angeles, London or here.'

US Yoga Team To Participate In World Yogasana Championship

US Yoga Team To Participate In World Yogasana Championship

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

A team of yoga athletes from the United States is heading to India to participate in the maiden World Yogasana Championship to be held in Ahmedabad from June 4 to 8.

Ahmed Khan: 'Akshay Kumar-Suniel Shetty Did Disturb Us But...'

Ahmed Khan: 'Akshay Kumar-Suniel Shetty Did Disturb Us But...'

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

'Without sugar coating things, I could tell Akshay (Kumar) and Rajpal (Yadav) aisa mat kar (don't do that), remind Anna (Suniel Shetty) that it was a just a 'back' shot and point out to Paresh (Rawal) bhai that since he was not in focus, so he didn't have to give too many expressions.'

Massive fleet heading towards Iran, warns Trump

Massive fleet heading towards Iran, warns Trump

Rediff.com23 Jan 2026

United States President Donald Trump has said that Iran is under close watch and a 'massive fleet' is heading towards the Gulf region.

Modi meets Trump in France, discusses seafarers' safety, Iran deal

Modi meets Trump in France, discusses seafarers' safety, Iran deal

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged US President Donald Trump to prioritise the safety of Indian seafarers in the Strait of Hormuz during the implementation of Washington's proposed Iran peace deal, as both leaders focused on repairing strained bilateral relations at the G7 summit.

From Rajasthan to record books: Suthar shines on Test debut

From Rajasthan to record books: Suthar shines on Test debut

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Manav Suthar starred on Test debut with figures of 6 for 33 as India bowled out Afghanistan for 152 and enforced the follow-on. The Rajasthan spinner registered the second-best bowling figures by an Indian on Test debut.

East Bengal clinch Indian Super League title after 22-year wait

East Bengal clinch Indian Super League title after 22-year wait

Rediff.com22 May 2026

East Bengal FC secured their first Indian Super League title, ending a 22-year drought with a 2-1 victory over Inter Kashi, sparking jubilant celebrations among fans.

'We were too naive' against India: Afghanistan coach

'We were too naive' against India: Afghanistan coach

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

This was Afghanistan's 12th Test in last eight years and the defeat by an innings and 300 runs against India was a humbling experience for the team.

Ultimate Table Tennis Season 7 Heads to Goa

Ultimate Table Tennis Season 7 Heads to Goa

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

Goa will host the seventh season of the Ultimate Table Tennis (UTT) event in July, marking a significant milestone for the franchise-based league and Indian table tennis.

Iran to commute to FIFA World Cup games from Mexico after US refusal

Iran to commute to FIFA World Cup games from Mexico after US refusal

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Iran's national soccer team will sleep in Mexico and travel to the US on the days of its three FIFA World Cup matches after Washington declined to host the squad for the tournament.

BJP eyeing 2/3rd majority to end reservations: Jairam Ramesh

BJP eyeing 2/3rd majority to end reservations: Jairam Ramesh

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh has alleged that the BJP's "real and ultimate target" in seeking a two-thirds majority in the Lok Sabha is to amend the Constitution to end reservation, rather than genuinely implement women's reservation.

Assess Mythos Threat By June 30: RBI To Banks

Assess Mythos Threat By June 30: RBI To Banks

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

'...A new challenge has emerged in the form of Mythos.'

Shun arrogance, follow law: Priyank Kharge fires fresh salvo at RSS

Shun arrogance, follow law: Priyank Kharge fires fresh salvo at RSS

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge has intensified his demand for the RSS to register itself and disclose its financial dealings, arguing that the organisation cannot wield significant social and political influence while simultaneously claiming no political agenda and evading public accountability. Kharge's remarks follow RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's rejection of such calls, with Bhagwat asserting the organisation is neither secretive nor operating outside public scrutiny.

NIMS Reaches 2,000 Kidney Transplants Milestone

NIMS Reaches 2,000 Kidney Transplants Milestone

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS) in Hyderabad has achieved a significant milestone by completing 2,000 kidney transplants, making it one of the leading institutions in India for this procedure. The majority of these transplants were performed free of cost under government schemes.