News for 'Daily Times'

Sufiya Sufi targets record in Ladakh Ultra Marathon title defence

Sufiya Sufi targets record in Ladakh Ultra Marathon title defence

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Five-time Guinness World Records holder Sufiya Sufi is preparing to defend her Ladakh Silk Route Ultra Marathon title, aiming for a record-breaking performance. She shares her journey into ultra-running, which began in 2017 as an escape from a monotonous routine, and her ultimate dream of a 30,000-km circumnavigation run.

On Trump's UNGA Agenda: Mamdani, Macron and Zelenskyy

On Trump's UNGA Agenda: Mamdani, Macron and Zelenskyy

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

US President Donald Trump is set to engage in a series of high-profile meetings during the 81st United Nations General Assembly High-Level Week in New York, including discussions with NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Avengers: Endgame Encore: How The 4 New Crucial Scenes Set Up Doomsday

Avengers: Endgame Encore: How The 4 New Crucial Scenes Set Up Doomsday

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Avengers: Endgame Encore adds four crucial scenes that connect the old MCU to Avengers: Doomsday, from Loki's shocking return to Doctor Doom's sinister plans for the multiverse.

'SIR Is Bloodless Political Genocide'

'SIR Is Bloodless Political Genocide'

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

'93 lakhs deletions in Bengal, 96 lakhs in Tamil Nadu, 24 lakhs in Kerala, 77 lakhs in Gujarat, 45 lakhs in Madhya Pradesh, 44 lakhs in Rajasthan. 2.89 crores in Uttar Pradesh. Nearly 3 crores!'

Indian Athletes Face Cramped Rooms, Long Waits At Asian Games

Indian Athletes Face Cramped Rooms, Long Waits At Asian Games

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

Indian athletes at the Asian Games in Nagoya are facing significant accommodation challenges, including cramped rooms on a cruise ship and long waits for check-in. The host nation's athletes are also affected, with complaints about shared rooms and general mismanagement. Organisers have opted against a traditional Athletes Village, leading to athletes travelling long distances for training, further exacerbating the logistical issues ahead of the mega-event.

Flydubai incident: What happened inside the cockpit

Flydubai incident: What happened inside the cockpit

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

An Indian captain on a Flydubai flight heroically prevented a co-pilot from crashing the plane en route to Tel Aviv. The co-pilot, allegedly radicalized, attacked Captain Smit Machchhar, who managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and off-duty aviators to subdue the assailant and make an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. Investigations are ongoing, with Israeli and UAE authorities involved.

'Free Palestine' leaflets found with flydubai co-pilot who stabbed Capt Smit

'Free Palestine' leaflets found with flydubai co-pilot who stabbed Capt Smit

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

As international investigations intensify into the mid-air security scare aboard the Flydubai flight, Israel's i24 News reported that an Emirati source has revealed that among the belongings of the Omani co-pilot were leaflets and publications from "Free Palestine" groups, alongside pro-Palestinian material.

Why are Gen Z investors ditching monthly SIPs for weekly and daily SIPs?

Why are Gen Z investors ditching monthly SIPs for weekly and daily SIPs?

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Gen Z is a generation that has been raised in a digital-first era, where shopping, payment, and monetary transactions are done within seconds via smartphones. Moreover, the new flexibility offered by investing platforms is encouraging young investors to opt for investment frequencies that align with their spending patterns and lifestyle. This change has brought up an interesting debate on whether daily and weekly SIPs are better than monthly investments.

Coal Stocks at 74 Indian Power Plants Plummet to Just 7 Days

Coal Stocks at 74 Indian Power Plants Plummet to Just 7 Days

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

Coal inventories at India's thermal power stations have fallen to 22.9 million tonnes, providing only a seven-day fuel cover and affecting 74 out of 190 plants, a situation last seen in October 2023.

Surgical Strikes@10: When Indian Soldiers Inflicted Death On The Enemy

Surgical Strikes@10: When Indian Soldiers Inflicted Death On The Enemy

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

'This is what we train for: That one chance to deliver a blow so lethal that the enemy will constantly think about it when planning any misadventure.'

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.

Usain Bolt reacts to robot breaking his 100m world record: 'It just made me smile'

Usain Bolt reacts to robot breaking his 100m world record: 'It just made me smile'

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Eight-time Olympic champion Usain Bolt expressed amusement rather than frustration upon learning that a robot in China had broken his 100-metres world record by almost a second, stating, 'It just made me smile.'

Turn 'approver' or face trial: Cong's warning to CEC Gyanesh Kumar

Turn 'approver' or face trial: Cong's warning to CEC Gyanesh Kumar

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

The Congress party staged nationwide protests, demanding the immediate arrest and removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The party accused the Election Commission of an "unprecedented attack" on voter equality through an alleged 'Mark VIP' feature and called for an independent review of decisions made under Kumar, citing objections from other commissioners regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

Amazon Now hits $1 billion annualised gross sales in India, eyes 100 cities by Diwali

Amazon Now hits $1 billion annualised gross sales in India, eyes 100 cities by Diwali

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Amazon's ultra-fast delivery service, Amazon Now, has achieved $1 billion in annualised gross sales in India over the last three months, marking it as the fastest-growing e-commerce business in Amazon India's history, with orders doubling every quarter.

'CEC Gyanesh Kumar will go to jail': Oppn on report of difference in EC over SIR

'CEC Gyanesh Kumar will go to jail': Oppn on report of difference in EC over SIR

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

A political storm has erupted with the Opposition demanding the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, following reports that two Election Commissioners raised 'expansive red flags' over the Special Intensive Revision of voters' lists, citing issues like name deletions and decisions made without their knowledge.

Gujarat Police To Dedicate Two Hours Daily For Public Grievances

Gujarat Police To Dedicate Two Hours Daily For Public Grievances

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Gujarat's Director General of Police, G S Malik, has issued a state-wide order requiring police officers to dedicate two hours daily to public grievance redressal. The directive also sets strict timelines for resolving complaints, aiming to make policing more citizen-centric and accessible.

Asian Games: Where Art Meets Sport In Nagoya

Asian Games: Where Art Meets Sport In Nagoya

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

An art display at the Asian Games Main Media Centre in Nagoya features drawings by artists from across the subcontinent, offering a unique perspective on the Games. The collection includes tributes to athletes like Neeraj Chopra and calls for cricket's global expansion, all while incorporating the mascot Honohon. It highlights the emotion and colour of sport beyond competition.

It's treason, says Rahul Gandhi; Sack Gyanesh Kumar: Congress

It's treason, says Rahul Gandhi; Sack Gyanesh Kumar: Congress

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

The Congress party has demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, alleging "vote chori" and treason, following a media report revealing that two other Election Commissioners had formally objected to decisions regarding the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge have accused the BJP, RSS, and EC of undermining democracy, citing concerns over voter list tampering and lack of transparency.

'I didn't have any support': Steve Smith Opens Up On 2018 Ball-Tampering Scandal In South Africa

'I didn't have any support': Steve Smith Opens Up On 2018 Ball-Tampering Scandal In South Africa

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

Former Australia captain Steve Smith has revealed he felt 'thrown to the wolves' following the 2018 ball-tampering scandal, admitting he still experiences flashbacks to the media frenzy upon his return home.

'I Just Want to Express Myself': How Virat Kohli Reinvented His Batting

'I Just Want to Express Myself': How Virat Kohli Reinvented His Batting

Rediff.com27 Sep 2026

Virat Kohli, after becoming the second batter to reach 15,000 ODI runs and scoring his 55th ton, stated that personal milestones are not his primary focus.

Probe Into Granite Baron POCSO Case Uncovers More Victims

Probe Into Granite Baron POCSO Case Uncovers More Victims

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

The ongoing police investigation into the POCSO case against granite baron R Veeramani has led to the identification of multiple survivors, many of whom were minors and from economically underprivileged backgrounds when allegedly assaulted. Charges under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act have been added, and Veeramani has been granted three days police custody for questioning within the prison due to his age and health.

Industry Leaders Advocate AI And Agility For Business Growth

Industry Leaders Advocate AI And Agility For Business Growth

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

Industry leaders at an AIMA panel discussion emphasised the need for businesses to quickly adapt to changing market conditions and invest in technologies like artificial intelligence to build resilience and achieve long-term growth. They highlighted the current era of uncertainty driven by geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and rapid regulatory changes, stressing that tactical responses are as crucial as long-term strategy.

Understanding The New UPI Transaction Fees For Merchants

Understanding The New UPI Transaction Fees For Merchants

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% transaction fee on Unified Payments Interface (UPI) payments exceeding Rs 2,000 for merchants, effective October 15, marking the end of nearly six years of free service. Person-to-person transfers and small-value transactions below Rs 2,000 remain free. The new Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) is capped at Rs 300 for transactions above Rs 75,000, with differentiated rates for essential sectors and investments, and safeguards to prevent costs from being passed to consumers.

7 Hidden Credit Card Settings To Avoid Scams

7 Hidden Credit Card Settings To Avoid Scams

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Your credit card may have security controls you rarely use. Here are seven settings that can help prevent unwanted or fraudulent transactions.

SEE: Delhi airport flooded after heavy rain, flights diverted

SEE: Delhi airport flooded after heavy rain, flights diverted

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport experienced waterlogging at its Terminal 2 and 3 approach roads and forecourts due to heavy rainfall. While the accumulated water was cleared, the severe weather conditions led to the diversion of at least nine flights to other cities like Jaipur, Lucknow, and Ahmedabad. The India Meteorological Department had issued a red alert for intense rainfall in the national capital.

How UPI Rewired India's Money Story

How UPI Rewired India's Money Story

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

Digital money is gradually starting to behave like software. It's no longer inert -- sitting passively in accounts. In the not-so-distant future, your money could become 'smart' and 'active,' understanding your preferences, paying your bills automatically, optimising your returns, and managing your risks -- all without you having to manage the details.

'We Are Adjusting': Indian Athletes Face Cramped Rooms at Asian Games

'We Are Adjusting': Indian Athletes Face Cramped Rooms at Asian Games

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

India's Asian Games contingent faces accommodation issues at Costa Serena, as athletes report cramped rooms and long delays amid organisational chaos.

When Bhagat Singh Wrote About Love

When Bhagat Singh Wrote About Love

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Did love make Bhagat Singh a weaker revolutionary? In a heated argument once, Sukhdev accused him of allowing his fascination with a woman to come in the way of revolutionary duty. Bhagat Singh's answer, in a letter days later, was a defence of love as a revolutionary's strength, not a weakness. On Bhagat Singh's 119th birth anniversary, Utkarsh Mishra looks at the friendship, arguments and ideas that bound him and Sukhdev together.

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.

Government Firm On UPI MDR Charges Above Rs 2,000

Government Firm On UPI MDR Charges Above Rs 2,000

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Indian government has confirmed there will be no rollback of the 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) charges on Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions exceeding Rs 2,000, effective from October 15. Despite opposition, officials state the decision aims to make the UPI ecosystem self-sustainable and secure, with charges applying only to merchant payments, not person-to-person transactions.

Supreme Court Halts Death Sentence For Man In POCSO Case

Supreme Court Halts Death Sentence For Man In POCSO Case

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has stayed the execution of a man sentenced to death for the repeated sexual assault of three minor girls. The apex court's decision comes after the Madras High Court confirmed his conviction and death penalty. The Supreme Court has sought reports from probation officers, jail authorities, and a psychological evaluation of the appellant, posting the matter for hearing after 20 weeks.

Aadhaar: 'Fraudsters Get Smarter, But We're Also Getting Smarter'

Aadhaar: 'Fraudsters Get Smarter, But We're Also Getting Smarter'

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

'It's A Cat And Mouse Game.'

'Being a Sportsman Helped Me Fight Cancer': Muhammad Saqlain

'Being a Sportsman Helped Me Fight Cancer': Muhammad Saqlain

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Former Pakistan defensive hockey player Muhammad Saqlain has revealed his battle with stage four B oral cancer, stating that his sports background provided him with the fighting spirit needed to overcome the dreaded disease. He underwent an eight-hour surgery and is now undergoing immunotherapy for a full recovery, having kept his health issues private until now.

Paytm shares jump over 7% as UPI fee introduced; other fintechs volatile

Paytm shares jump over 7% as UPI fee introduced; other fintechs volatile

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Shares of fintech firms, particularly Paytm, saw significant movement after the Indian government introduced a 0.4 per cent fee on UPI transfers exceeding Rs 2,000 made to merchants, effective October 15.

New UPI Merchant Fee Sparks Volatility In Fintech Shares

New UPI Merchant Fee Sparks Volatility In Fintech Shares

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% fee on UPI transfers above Rs 2,000 made to merchants, effective October 15, ending nearly six years of free merchant payments. This move led to initial rallies in fintech stocks like Paytm and Mobikwik, though some later pared gains. Person-to-person transactions and small payments remain free for customers, with the fee being a Merchant Discount Rate (MDR).

Anil Kapoor Vs Rohit Sharma: Who's More Entertaining?

Anil Kapoor Vs Rohit Sharma: Who's More Entertaining?

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

Hosts Anil Kapoor and Rohit Sharma bring their own brand of charm and humour to two new game shows that promise to make your weekends more entertaining, observes Divya Nair.

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.

How A Peculiar Symbol On A Tempo Cracked A Delhi Murder Case

How A Peculiar Symbol On A Tempo Cracked A Delhi Murder Case

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

Delhi Police faced significant challenges in investigating the alleged gang rape and murder of a teenage girl whose decomposed body was found with no missing complaint filed. A peculiar symbol on a tempo, identified through extensive CCTV footage analysis, proved crucial in tracing the suspects and apprehending four individuals, including three minors, linked to the crime.

UPI payments above Rs 2,000 to merchants to attract 0.4% MDR from Oct 15

UPI payments above Rs 2,000 to merchants to attract 0.4% MDR from Oct 15

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI person-to-merchant (P2M) transactions exceeding Rs 2,000, effective October 15. This move ends nearly six years of fully free UPI payments, though person-to-person (P2P) transfers and small P2M payments remain free. The charges aim to bolster investment in UPI infrastructure, with specific exemptions and caps for essential sectors.

Congress Accuses Modi Government Of US Appeasement On UPI MDR

Congress Accuses Modi Government Of US Appeasement On UPI MDR

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Congress party has strongly criticised the Modi government's decision to introduce a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions over Rs 2,000, alleging it is a result of US pressure to benefit American card companies. The party also linked this move to broader US actions against India, including tariffs and H-1B visa issues, coining the term "Narendra's Ongoing Trump Appeasement." The government, however, clarified that consumers will not bear the charge, which applies only to merchants.