News for 'Department'

Veteran Physicist Umesh Waghmare To Lead Science And Technology Department

Veteran Physicist Umesh Waghmare To Lead Science And Technology Department

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Veteran physicist Professor Umesh V Waghmare has been appointed as the Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology. Currently a professor at JNCASR, Bengaluru, his appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet. He succeeds Professor Abhay Karandikar and brings a distinguished academic background from IIT-Bombay, Yale, and Harvard to the role.

How US State Department Is Leveraging UFC For Global Diplomacy

How US State Department Is Leveraging UFC For Global Diplomacy

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

The US Department of State has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) to launch a public-private partnership aimed at advancing sports diplomacy worldwide. This initiative will leverage UFC's extensive global platform and athletes to engage international audiences, promote cultural exchange, and champion American values such as discipline and perseverance.

How US State Department Is Leveraging UFC For Global Diplomacy

How US State Department Is Leveraging UFC For Global Diplomacy

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

The US Department of State has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) to launch a public-private partnership aimed at advancing sports diplomacy worldwide. This initiative will leverage UFC's extensive global platform and athletes to engage international audiences, promote cultural exchange, and champion American values such as discipline and perseverance.

Bengal Minister Promises Action Against Food Department Corruption

Bengal Minister Promises Action Against Food Department Corruption

Rediff.com12 May 2026

West Bengal Food and Supplies Minister Ashok Kirtania has warned of strict action against corruption in the department, echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's slogan 'Na khaunga, na khane dunga'. He promised to act against those involved in irregularities during the previous regime, particularly concerning the public distribution system and ration distribution.

Sports Star Bilquis Mir Pursues Contempt Case Against J-K Sports Department

Sports Star Bilquis Mir Pursues Contempt Case Against J-K Sports Department

Rediff.com30 May 2026

International water sports star Bilquis Mir has filed a contempt case against the Jammu and Kashmir sports department for withholding her salary for over two-and-a-half years, despite a tribunal order to release it.

Trump Departs Beijing After China Visit

Trump Departs Beijing After China Visit

Rediff.com15 May 2026

United States President Donald Trump boards Air Force One for his return home following diplomatic engagements in Beijing.

West Bengal Government Arranges Public Screenings For FIFA World Cup Final

West Bengal Government Arranges Public Screenings For FIFA World Cup Final

Rediff.com3 days ago

The West Bengal government is organising live public screenings of the FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain at Nandan in Kolkata and other district locations. Each district has been allocated Rs 1 lakh for arrangements, with security and logistics being coordinated for the event.

ISRO Talent Drain Triggers Government Action

ISRO Talent Drain Triggers Government Action

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Department of Space has directed that requests for voluntary retirement or resignation from Group 'A' Scientific and Technical personnel associated with the prestigious Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme and other important missions should not be accepted as a matter of routine.

PWD declares Azam Khan's Jauhar University road open to public

PWD declares Azam Khan's Jauhar University road open to public

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Uttar Pradesh Public Works Department has declared a 3-km road passing through SP leader Azam Khan's Mohammad Ali Jauhar University campus in Rampur as a public road, erecting signboards to ensure unrestricted access. The road, built by the PWD in 2016-17, had its access restricted by the university since 2019, leading to a legal dispute that is still ongoing in the Allahabad High Court.

J-K: Amarnath, Vaishno Devi pilgrimages suspended amid rain forecast

J-K: Amarnath, Vaishno Devi pilgrimages suspended amid rain forecast

Rediff.com1 days ago

Authorities on Sunday temporarily suspended the Amarnath Yatra in Kashmir as well as the pilgrimages to the Mata Vaishno Devi and Shiv Khori shrines in Jammu after the India meteorological department (IMD) forecast of widespread rainfall across the Union Territory over the next few days.

Chembur tree collapse: Contractor fined, BMC to implement new SOPs

Chembur tree collapse: Contractor fined, BMC to implement new SOPs

Rediff.com7 days ago

A committee investigating the fatal Chembur tree crash has recommended fines of Rs 5 lakh on the roadwork contractor and Rs 2 lakh on the supervising consultant. The panel found no prima facie fault with BMC's garden and roads departments but suggested implementing a Standard Operating Procedure for urban tree safety and appointing tree experts to oversee pruning work to prevent future incidents.

Have Foreign Assets? View Details In AIS

Have Foreign Assets? View Details In AIS

Rediff.com4 days ago

The data may include details of foreign bank accounts, investment accounts, certain financial investments, interest income, dividends and other specified financial income held by Indian tax residents abroad.

Karnataka minister deboarded from state bus for lack of change

Karnataka minister deboarded from state bus for lack of change

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Karnataka Transport Minister Byrathi Suresh was asked to deboard a state-run BMTC bus by its conductor because he did not have exact change for his ticket. The conductor, unaware of the passenger's identity due to his mask, insisted on exact change or UPI payment, which the minister could not provide. This incident occurred during the minister's incognito inspection of the transport department's functioning.

'Tried to get govt job, but...': B Tech gold medallist dies by suicide in UP

'Tried to get govt job, but...': B Tech gold medallist dies by suicide in UP

Rediff.com2 days ago

A 23-year-old B Tech gold medallist in Kanpur died by suicide, leaving a note apologising for his inability to secure a government job despite numerous attempts. His family stated he was under severe stress after failing competitive examinations for various sectors. Police are investigating the incident.

Mizoram Shuts Schools, Offices Half-Day For FIFA Final

Mizoram Shuts Schools, Offices Half-Day For FIFA Final

Rediff.com1 days ago

Mizoram has declared a full holiday for educational institutions and a half-day for government offices to allow residents to watch the FIFA World Cup final. Chief Minister Lalduhoma highlighted the state's passion for football and the importance of the sport to its youth.

Four Indians among 10 killed in Russian attack on ship off Ukraine coast

Four Indians among 10 killed in Russian attack on ship off Ukraine coast

Rediff.com17 hours ago

Four Indian nationals have been killed in an attack on the vessel MV Golden Leo during departure from the port of Odesa in Ukraine on Sunday evening, while one is critically injured.

Income Tax Department Enables Online Filing of ITR-1 and ITR-4 for AY 2026-27

Income Tax Department Enables Online Filing of ITR-1 and ITR-4 for AY 2026-27

Rediff.com15 May 2026

The Income Tax department has enabled online filing for ITR-1 (Sahaj) and ITR-4 (Sugam) for the Assessment Year 2026-27, allowing small and medium taxpayers to file returns for income earned in the 2025-26 fiscal year.

Atlanta Police enhance security for high-stakes England vs. Argentina World Cup semi-final

Atlanta Police enhance security for high-stakes England vs. Argentina World Cup semi-final

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Atlanta Police Department has significantly increased security measures for the World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina, two nations with a historically fierce football rivalry, deploying additional personnel and resources across the city and stadium.

Omicron RF.5 variant detected in Andhra, health minister urges calm

Omicron RF.5 variant detected in Andhra, health minister urges calm

Rediff.com2 days ago

Andhra Pradesh Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav announced the detection of the Omicron RF.5 variant in four COVID-19 samples from Kadapa district, confirmed by genome sequencing in Pune. While the variant is being monitored by WHO and health officials, there is currently no indication it is more dangerous than other Omicron strains, and public vigilance is advised over panic.

Maharashtra Excise Department Seizes Illicit Liquor Worth 1.43 Crore In Thane

Maharashtra Excise Department Seizes Illicit Liquor Worth 1.43 Crore In Thane

Rediff.com5 May 2026

Maharashtra excise department seized Indian-Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) manufactured in Goa, valued at Rs 1.43 crore, in Thane city and arrested two persons.

July downpour reduces rainfall deficit to 12% as El Nino looms

July downpour reduces rainfall deficit to 12% as El Nino looms

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

The Centre has reviewed the monsoon situation, noting a reduced rainfall deficit and ongoing preparedness for the kharif season amidst El Nino concerns. A high-level meeting chaired by the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister discussed measures across various sectors, emphasising continuous monitoring and coordinated action to mitigate potential impacts on agriculture, water resources, and essential commodities.

Manipur Students Get Holiday To Watch FIFA World Cup 2026 Final

Manipur Students Get Holiday To Watch FIFA World Cup 2026 Final

Rediff.com2 days ago

The Manipur government has announced a holiday for all educational institutions on July 20, 2026, allowing students to watch the FIFA World Cup 2026 final. The order covers schools, colleges, and universities across the state.

Nijjar killing: US to seek extradition of Lawrence Bishnoi

Nijjar killing: US to seek extradition of Lawrence Bishnoi

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The United States Department of Justice plans to seek the extradition of Lawrence Bishnoi, accused of orchestrating the killing of Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada and involvement in other crimes in the US. Extradition is also sought for Gurinderjit Singh Nagra in an extortion case. These actions are part of a larger international operation targeting India-based transnational organised crime groups.

US launches major probe into H-1B visa fraud, names Indian IT firm

US launches major probe into H-1B visa fraud, names Indian IT firm

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

The US Department of Labour's Office of the Inspector General has initiated an investigation into alleged fraud in H-1B and PERM work visa programmes. Indian IT firm Cognizant is among the companies under scrutiny for widespread schemes involving fraudulent applications, exploitation of foreign workers, and undercutting American labour. The probe aims to dismantle networks exploiting the guest worker visa system.

CAG flags Rs 3,541 crore excess spend in Ladki Bahin scheme

CAG flags Rs 3,541 crore excess spend in Ladki Bahin scheme

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has identified significant financial irregularities in the Maharashtra government's flagship Ladki Bahin scheme, including an excess expenditure of Rs 3,541.16 crore and the parking of Rs 15,586 crore in Virtual Personal Deposit Accounts (VPDAs) without immediate need. The report highlights deficiencies in budget estimation and financial management, recommending realistic fund assessments and strict adherence to expenditure needs.

Heavy rains, landslides disrupt Kedarnath, Mansarovar pilgrimages

Heavy rains, landslides disrupt Kedarnath, Mansarovar pilgrimages

Rediff.com2 days ago

Heavy rainfall has disrupted major pilgrimages in Uttarakhand, including the Kedarnath route and the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra, prompting the IMD to issue red and orange alerts for extremely heavy rainfall across several districts.

Tripura top cop found dead in office, probe ordered

Tripura top cop found dead in office, probe ordered

Rediff.com1 days ago

Tripura's Director General of Police, Anurag Dhankar, was found dead in his office. While the cause of death is yet to be determined pending a post-mortem, opposition leaders have called for a judicial inquiry amidst reports suggesting suicide. A magisterial probe has been ordered into the incident.

Deschamps On Why He Stepped Down As France Coach After FIFA World Cup

Deschamps On Why He Stepped Down As France Coach After FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com2 days ago

Didier Deschamps has revealed that a "stifling atmosphere" around him led to his decision to step down as France coach after 14 years.

'Humiliated' by teachers, Class 8 girl ends life in Bengaluru

'Humiliated' by teachers, Class 8 girl ends life in Bengaluru

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

A Class 8 student in Bengaluru died by suicide, with her parents alleging harassment and humiliation by school staff. The education department has launched an inquiry into the incident, which occurred after the girl and classmates complained about a teacher's harsh behaviour.

Actor Mohanlal discloses 10 elephant tusks, 13 idols amid legal battle

Actor Mohanlal discloses 10 elephant tusks, 13 idols amid legal battle

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Actor Mohanlal has declared possession of 10 elephant tusks and 13 ivory idols to the Kerala Forest Department under an amnesty scheme. This new disclosure comes as he continues to face trial for alleged illegal possession of wildlife articles, a case that originated in 2011 and has seen the Kerala High Court direct the continuation of legal proceedings against him.

AC failure on Mumbai local train during peak hour; 1 hospitalised

AC failure on Mumbai local train during peak hour; 1 hospitalised

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Three passengers on a Mumbai suburban AC local train complained of uneasiness due to a malfunctioning air-conditioning system. One passenger required hospital treatment and the train was subsequently withdrawn from service for inspection.

Kerala police's internal app down, cyber attack suspected

Kerala police's internal app down, cyber attack suspected

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Kerala Police has launched a probe after an internal application, crucial for handling files, became dysfunctional, with officials suspecting a cyber attack. The system, maintained by Keltron through a private firm, has been non-functional for four days, affecting internal file movement. Police have confirmed no data breach, and public-facing services remain operational.

Himachal Pradesh Forest Department Seizes Leopard Skin, Arrests Two

Himachal Pradesh Forest Department Seizes Leopard Skin, Arrests Two

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

The Sirmour Forest Department's rapid response team raided a house in Ghutanpur village, recovering the remains of wild animals, including a leopard skin, leading to two arrests and highlighting ongoing poaching concerns in the region.

Iyer Reflects On India's T20I Defeat, Calls It A Learning Curve

Iyer Reflects On India's T20I Defeat, Calls It A Learning Curve

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

India's new T20I captain Shreyas Iyer reflected on the team's disastrous series losses to Ireland and England, admitting they failed to adapt to English conditions. Despite the setbacks, Iyer views the experience as a crucial learning opportunity for himself as a leader and for the team, especially concerning future overseas tours and World Cup preparations. He highlighted the need for better adaptation, improved fielding, and strategic team combinations.

UP doctor suspended over solitary march in support of Wangchuk

UP doctor suspended over solitary march in support of Wangchuk

Rediff.com1 days ago

Dr. Roopak Ikhe, an anaesthesiology diploma student, undertook the protest alone.

India lodges strong protest with Russia over 4 seafarers' killing

India lodges strong protest with Russia over 4 seafarers' killing

Rediff.com7 hours ago

India has lodged a strong protest with Russia following the killing of four Indian seafarers aboard a Guinea Bissau-flagged merchant vessel off the coast of Ukraine. The Ministry of External Affairs condemned the attack on the civilian ship, MV Golden Leo, which also left one Indian national critically injured.

India's first hydrogen train set for commercial debut soon

India's first hydrogen train set for commercial debut soon

Rediff.com3 days ago

The Northern Railway is expected to soon announce the date for the commencement of commercial operations of the country's first hydrogen-powered train after Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated it on the Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana on Friday.

Teacher suspended after child locked inside classroom in UP

Teacher suspended after child locked inside classroom in UP

Rediff.com1 days ago

An assistant teacher in Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh, has been suspended after a Class 2 student was inadvertently locked inside a primary school classroom. The incident, which occurred on Friday, came to light through a viral video showing the distressed child. Villagers intervened, contacting school staff who returned to release the student after about 90 minutes. An inquiry held the teacher responsible, leading to her immediate suspension and a further probe.

FIR quashed, HC orders man's details deleted over right to be forgotten

FIR quashed, HC orders man's details deleted over right to be forgotten

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Bombay High Court has ruled that the fundamental right to privacy includes the right to be forgotten. This decision came after a man sought to have his name and details removed from court records following the quashing of an FIR against him, arguing that public access to such information prejudiced his career and caused personal stigma. The court emphasised balancing public access to information with an individual's right to privacy.

India name strong squad for Hockey World Cup; Harmanpreet Singh to lead

India name strong squad for Hockey World Cup; Harmanpreet Singh to lead

Rediff.com7 hours ago

India has announced a 20-member squad for the upcoming FIH Men's Hockey World Cup, with Harmanpreet Singh leading the team.