News for 'Department of Nationals'

UP assembly Speaker draws ire for leaving dais during national anthem

UP assembly Speaker draws ire for leaving dais during national anthem

Rediff.com23 Aug 2026

Uttar Pradesh assembly Speaker Satish Mahana has found himself at the centre of a controversy after he was seen walking away while the national anthem was played at an event in Unnao, drawing flak from the opposition. Mahana, however, claimed that the anthem was not played where he was given the guard of honour.

J-K government removes 4700 books from colleges for objectionable content

J-K government removes 4700 books from colleges for objectionable content

Rediff.com1 days ago

The Jammu and Kashmir government has removed over 4,700 books, including banned publications, from colleges across the Union Territory after a comprehensive review of nearly 2.2 million publications. This action follows a controversy over objectionable content and aims to uphold constitutional values and national integrity in higher education institutions.

Smriti Irani, Ram Madhav among new BJP state in-charges

Smriti Irani, Ram Madhav among new BJP state in-charges

Rediff.com21 hours ago

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has announced a significant reshuffle of its state in-charges and co-in-charges across all 28 states and eight Union territories, with prominent leaders like Smriti Irani and Ram Madhav assigned to crucial states, as the party gears up for upcoming assembly elections.

National Table Tennis Championships Kicks Off Amidst TTFI Suspension

National Table Tennis Championships Kicks Off Amidst TTFI Suspension

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

The UTT National Ranking Table Tennis Championships has commenced in Kanpur, featuring 1900 players across 12 categories, including top senior athletes. The tournament proceeds despite the Sports Ministry's recent suspension of the Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) over election irregularities, with the TTFI asserting its autonomy.

Jaishankar meets Rubio at UNGA, shares concerns on sanctions bill

Jaishankar meets Rubio at UNGA, shares concerns on sanctions bill

Rediff.com1 days ago

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly session in New York. India raised its concerns regarding the recently signed "Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026," which authorises tariffs on countries buying Russian oil and gas. Both leaders also discussed bilateral relations, regional priorities, and the situations in the Gulf and Ukraine.

MHA issues fresh National Anthem, National Song guidelines

MHA issues fresh National Anthem, National Song guidelines

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued fresh directions to all state governments, Union Territory administrations, and central ministries, reiterating the rules governing the singing and playing of the National Anthem and the National Song, calling for their strict compliance.

West Bengal Launches Quantum And Semiconductor Tech Section To Attract Investments

West Bengal Launches Quantum And Semiconductor Tech Section To Attract Investments

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

West Bengal has launched an Emerging Quantum and Semiconductor Technologies (EQST) section at CSIR-CGCRI to attract investments and position the state as a hub for next-generation technology. Minister Kalyan Chakraborti highlighted India's need to invest in these crucial sectors and outlined the state's plans to collaborate with institutions and leverage budget initiatives to foster research and start-ups.

Haris Rauf: 'I am trying to put my name forward for the Sri Lanka series'

Haris Rauf: 'I am trying to put my name forward for the Sri Lanka series'

Rediff.com7 days ago

Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf has expressed his strong desire to play Test cricket, aiming for a spot in the upcoming series against Sri Lanka, as the team grapples with significant struggles in its pace department.

New Lutetium Atomic Clock Achieves Unprecedented Stability

New Lutetium Atomic Clock Achieves Unprecedented Stability

Rediff.com5 hours ago

Researchers have developed a new atomic clock using the element lutetium, which they claim is the most stable and accurate in the world. This clock can measure a trillionth of a second precisely and is highly resilient to environmental changes like temperature and magnetic fields, making it a significant advancement in timekeeping technology.

Mr Singh, get off our roads: US advt on deportation sparks row

Mr Singh, get off our roads: US advt on deportation sparks row

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

The US Department of Homeland Security faced widespread criticism for an AI-generated advertisement featuring a brown-bearded man identified as "Mr Singh" in a campaign against unlicensed commercial drivers. Advocacy groups, including the Hindu American Foundation and Sikh Coalition, condemned the ad as "racist" and "anti-American" for its perceived targeting and profiling of Sikh and Hindu communities.

BRICS summit to have unexpected visitor: Rains

BRICS summit to have unexpected visitor: Rains

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Delhi is experiencing heavy rainfall and strong winds, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a red alert, which is impacting ongoing preparations for the crucial BRICS Summit.

Jharkhand minister's daughter among 4 killed as car rams truck

Jharkhand minister's daughter among 4 killed as car rams truck

Rediff.com9 hours ago

Four people, including Trisha Singh, daughter of Jharkhand Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Dipika Pandey Singh, were killed when their car rammed into a stationary truck on Marine Drive Road in Jamshedpur. The truck was reportedly stranded after a breakdown without proper reflector signages.

How Did 3 Air India Passengers Bypass Immigration?

How Did 3 Air India Passengers Bypass Immigration?

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Air India has been issued a show-cause notice by the ministry of civil aviation after three Italian nationals travelled from Amritsar to Delhi and then to Munich without obtaining mandatory departure immigration clearance, highlighting a 'serious security and immigration-related lapse'.

US DHS deletes 'Mr Singh, off our roads' poster, dismisses backlash

US DHS deletes 'Mr Singh, off our roads' poster, dismisses backlash

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The US Department of Homeland Security removed a controversial X post featuring a Transformers-themed cartoon targeting an Indian Sikh man, Harjinder Singh, with racially charged language. The post, which linked Singh to vehicular homicide charges and used phrases like "Self deport or find out," drew fierce condemnation from Indian American organisations and Democratic lawmakers for its discriminatory nature. DHS initially dismissed the outcry but later removed the post without explanation, while continuing its campaign against "illegal aliens" involved in fatal traffic accidents.

Sikh trucker stabbed 17 times days after US govt's hate poster

Sikh trucker stabbed 17 times days after US govt's hate poster

Rediff.com6 days ago

A Sikh truck driver was brutally stabbed multiple times in a Wyoming rest area, an incident occurring amidst a reported rise in anti-South Asian rhetoric in the US. The attacker has been arrested and charged with attempted first-degree murder.

ISRO, IN-SPACe Face Rocket Transfer Row

ISRO, IN-SPACe Face Rocket Transfer Row

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

There is no answer to the question of how IN-SPACe invited EOIs for ISRO's mature rockets and whether it was based on any government policy decision.

Why This CM Is Probing Lionel Messi!

Why This CM Is Probing Lionel Messi!

Rediff.com2 days ago

In 100 days in office, Chief Minister V D Satheesan has ordered five SITs. This would appear to be some kind of a record, points out Aditi Phadnis.

4th coal mine near MP's tiger corridor gets green nod

4th coal mine near MP's tiger corridor gets green nod

Rediff.com1 days ago

The Union environment ministry's expert panel has approved a fourth underground coal mining project in Madhya Pradesh's Umaria district, close to the vital Bandhavgarh-Achanakmar tiger corridor. These clearances, granted since July, raise concerns about biodiversity and tiger movement, despite conditions for wildlife conservation plans and compensatory afforestation. The projects involve significant forest land diversion and pose risks like land subsidence and habitat disturbance for Schedule-I species.

After Commonwealth and Kurash heartbreaks, Suchika Tariyal finds Asian Games redemption

After Commonwealth and Kurash heartbreaks, Suchika Tariyal finds Asian Games redemption

Rediff.com3 days ago

Suchika Tariyal has made history by becoming India's first Asian Games medal winner in Mixed Martial Arts, securing a bronze in the women's traditional 60kg event. The 36-year-old fighter, who hails from Haryana, expressed immense joy and dedicated her medal to her family, acknowledging the financial struggles and personal sacrifices made throughout her career. Despite initially considering retirement, her performance has inspired her to continue her professional fighting journey.

Traders Call For Reversal Of UPI Transaction Fee Decision

Traders Call For Reversal Of UPI Transaction Fee Decision

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

A member of the National Traders' Welfare Board (NTWB) has urged the central government to withdraw its decision to impose a 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions exceeding Rs 2,000, effective from October 15. He warned that the new charge, which will be borne by merchants, could negatively impact business growth and lead to higher prices, contradicting the government's 'ease of doing business' policy.

Banks to remain open this Sunday ahead of strike

Banks to remain open this Sunday ahead of strike

Rediff.com1 days ago

The finance ministry has announced that all banks, including Regional Rural Banks, will remain open on Sunday, September 27, 2026, to ensure public convenience amidst a proposed three-day strike by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) starting September 28, 2026. The strike, if it materialises, seeks a 5-day banking week and pension reforms.

SC's unusual move on NEET leaks: Judges may visit NTA to inspect facilities

SC's unusual move on NEET leaks: Judges may visit NTA to inspect facilities

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Supreme Court has indicated that its judges may personally visit the National Testing Agency (NTA) to examine its upgraded facilities aimed at preventing recurring NEET paper leaks. This unusual move underscores the court's emphasis on institutional strengthening and permanent solutions. The NTA informed the bench that it has overhauled its system, while a high-powered panel is also working on structural reforms to ensure foolproof examination processes.

UK Boosts Maritime Ties With US Torpedo Test

UK Boosts Maritime Ties With US Torpedo Test

Rediff.com2 days ago

The UK has successfully test-fired a US torpedo from an undersea drone, marking a significant advancement in submarine technology for the AUKUS partners (UK, US, Australia). This development coincides with Prime Minister Andy Burnham's visit to the UN General Assembly, where he is discussing global challenges like AI, the Ukraine conflict, and West Asia security with international leaders, and announced the UK will host the G20 Leaders' Summit in Manchester next November.

US to end 60-day grace period for H-1B holders losing jobs

US to end 60-day grace period for H-1B holders losing jobs

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed a new rule to eliminate the 60-day grace period for H-1B visa holders and other nonimmigrants after job loss, a move expected to significantly impact Indian technology workers.

Govt Amends E-commerce Rules to Boost Transparency, Curb Manipulation

Govt Amends E-commerce Rules to Boost Transparency, Curb Manipulation

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

The Indian government has amended its e-commerce rules to enhance price transparency, prevent manipulation of search results, mandate clear disclosure of sponsored listings, and combat 'dark patterns' to protect consumers.

Buy A Mature Rocket Or Design A New One?

Buy A Mature Rocket Or Design A New One?

Rediff.com2 days ago

Buying a mature rocket technology gives companies the designs and hardware know-how, but not necessarily the decades of engineering wisdom needed to make it work.

India's Asian Games kit drama: Cricketers await right sizes

India's Asian Games kit drama: Cricketers await right sizes

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Indian men's cricket team is facing kit sizing issues and accommodation concerns ahead of their departure for the Asian Games. While most kit problems are being resolved, the BCCI has proactively arranged its own hotel for the team in Nagoya, Japan, due to reported delays and inadequate facilities for other athletes.

Bihar floods: More than 49 lakh hit in 15 districts as rivers swell

Bihar floods: More than 49 lakh hit in 15 districts as rivers swell

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Heavy rainfall and swollen rivers have led to severe flooding in 15 districts of Bihar, affecting over 49 lakh people. Major rivers like the Ganga and Kosi are flowing above danger levels, prompting the deployment of disaster response teams and the establishment of relief camps and community kitchens for those displaced.

Mirabai Chanu fills the only gap in her medal cabinet with Asian Games silver

Mirabai Chanu fills the only gap in her medal cabinet with Asian Games silver

Rediff.com1 days ago

Mirabai Chanu completed her glittering medal collection by winning Asian Games silver, adding the missing continental medal to Olympic, World, Commonwealth and Asian Championship honours.

Dressing room leaks: Pakistan's Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq to miss domestic tournament

Dressing room leaks: Pakistan's Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq to miss domestic tournament

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Senior Pakistan cricketers Mohammad Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq will miss the upcoming domestic first-class tournament. While the official reason cites missed fitness tests, sources indicate they are under investigation by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) for alleged dressing-room leaks, leading to their exclusion from domestic matches.

China's young guns face Japan test at Asian Games

China's young guns face Japan test at Asian Games

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

China's dominant table tennis team is preparing for the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, bringing a mix of Olympic champions and young debutants. They are wary of the host nation Japan, particularly in the women's game, while also focusing on developing talent for the 2028 Olympics.

Accept 7 conditions or face 'decisive war': Iran tells Trump

Accept 7 conditions or face 'decisive war': Iran tells Trump

Rediff.com4 days ago

Iran has conveyed seven conditions to the United States through Qatari mediators for starting negotiations to end the ongoing war, while warning that Tehran is prepared for a "decisive war" if Washington rejects its demands.

Eve-teasing at 12, Asian Games medal at 36 for Suchika

Eve-teasing at 12, Asian Games medal at 36 for Suchika

Rediff.com4 days ago

Suchika Tariyal, a 36-year-old Indian athlete, has secured India's first medal at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games by reaching the semifinals of the women's Traditional Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) 60kg event. Her journey began at age 12, driven by a desire for self-defence, leading her through successful careers in judo and jiu-jitsu before transitioning to MMA. She aims to convert her assured bronze into a gold medal.

ISRO staring at privatisation? Employee associations seek clarity

ISRO staring at privatisation? Employee associations seek clarity

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

Nine employee associations at ISRO have written to Chairperson V Narayanan, seeking official clarification on the proposed transfer of manufacturing and operational functions to private entities. They raised concerns about ISRO's future role, employee consequences, and recruitment, following comments by IN-SPACe chairperson Pawan Goenka regarding ISRO's eventual exit from launch vehicle manufacturing.

Article 370 to 'vote chori': When Gyanesh Kumar made headlines

Article 370 to 'vote chori': When Gyanesh Kumar made headlines

Rediff.com1 days ago

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar is facing significant scrutiny after an investigation revealed objections from his fellow election commissioners, Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi, regarding decisions made during the Special Intensive Revision of voter lists. The objections, reportedly made at least 14 times, concerned issues like changes to voter registration forms and centralised control over electoral roll databases, intensifying criticism of Kumar's tenure and the EC's impartiality.

Indian Women's Hockey Team Targets Asian Games Gold For Olympic Berth

Indian Women's Hockey Team Targets Asian Games Gold For Olympic Berth

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

The Indian women's hockey team has departed for the Asian Games in Japan, aiming to win the gold medal and secure a direct qualification spot for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

Family feud erupts over Hanuman Ansh saint's ancestral home

Family feud erupts over Hanuman Ansh saint's ancestral home

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

A dispute has emerged over the ancestral home of 20th-century Hindu saint Baba Neem Karoli Maharaj in Akbarpur village, Uttar Pradesh. Six granddaughters have filed a complaint alleging illegal occupation by a Trust headed by their aunt, prompting the district administration to form an inquiry committee. The property, also a tourist attraction, is at the centre of a family feud following a recent incident where the granddaughters were allegedly denied lodging.

Cyber attack behind disruptions at UK's airports?

Cyber attack behind disruptions at UK's airports?

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

The UK's National Air Traffic Services (NATS) has ruled out a cyberattack as the cause of the recent massive disruption across UK airports, which led to thousands of flight cancellations and affected tens of thousands of passengers, including those on flights to and from India. An investigation is underway, and the incident marks the third major air traffic collapse under the current CEO's tenure.

Build Cities Around Women's Safety

Build Cities Around Women's Safety

Rediff.com7 days ago

'It is not about a place with fewer incidents of violence but a city where women have real agency in planning their daily lives.'

Orangutans found in Odisha forest: Hunt on for black SUV

Orangutans found in Odisha forest: Hunt on for black SUV

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Odisha Police's STF and the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau are investigating the rescue of five baby orangutans in Balasore, suspecting an international wildlife trafficking network. The probe focuses on a black SUV seen near the rescue site and potential routes from West Bengal, with officials believing the animals were trafficked from Southeast Asia. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has called for stringent action against those involved.