News for 'Department of Posts'

Farah Khan's Emotional Goodbye To Her Children

Farah Khan's Emotional Goodbye To Her Children

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Farah Khan shared an emotional farewell as her triplets, Czar, Diva, and Anya, embarked on their university journeys across three different cities in the US.

Political Row Erupts Over UPI Fee Decision

Political Row Erupts Over UPI Fee Decision

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Congress party has strongly refuted government claims that its MPs on the Parliament Standing Committee on Finance supported a fee on high-value UPI payments. Congress leaders, including Gaurav Gogoi and Manish Tewari, stated that the "UPI tax" proposal was not specifically discussed by the committee, accusing the Modi government of diverting attention from public backlash and appeasing US companies. The government, however, cited the committee's report which pressed for a tiered Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) framework.

Indian-origin woman arrested for killing 2 friends in US

Indian-origin woman arrested for killing 2 friends in US

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

An Indian-origin woman, Anila Baby, has been arrested in California for allegedly murdering two of her friends, Ann Mary Mathew and Anjana Hari, in separate incidents within 90 minutes. The victims, also of Indian origin from Kerala, were reportedly strangled and stabbed, and run over by a car. The motive remains under investigation, and Baby faces two counts of first-degree murder.

After HC rebuke, Pune Ganesh festival liquor ban cut to 2 days

After HC rebuke, Pune Ganesh festival liquor ban cut to 2 days

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

The Bombay High Court strongly criticised the Pune administration's decision to ban alcohol sales for 10 days during the Ganesh festival, questioning why Pune was singled out for such restrictions while other regions were not. The court deemed the blanket ban arbitrary and stigmatising for Pune residents, urging the administration to withdraw the order or face judicial intervention.

Nepal issues new media rules for flood coverage

Nepal issues new media rules for flood coverage

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

Nepal has introduced a media safety and operational protocol for journalists covering flood-affected regions, particularly for foreign media. The new guidelines, issued after devastating floods on August 26, mandate accreditation, adherence to safety instructions, and restrictions on movement in rescue zones to ensure orderly reporting and prevent interference with relief efforts.

Left London career to join IAS, Divya Mittal quits after 13 years

Left London career to join IAS, Divya Mittal quits after 13 years

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Divya Mittal, a 2013-batch IAS officer and former Deoria district magistrate, has resigned from the Indian Administrative Service after 13 years. An alumna of IIT Delhi and IIM Bangalore, Mittal cited no specific reason but reflected on her journey from working in London to serving India, highlighting her impactful tenures in Mirzapur and Deoria.

Dhoni-Zaheer reunion at CSK: Former pacer named successor to Stephen Fleming

Dhoni-Zaheer reunion at CSK: Former pacer named successor to Stephen Fleming

Rediff.com2 days ago

Five-time IPL champions Chennai Super Kings have announced former India pace bowler Zaheer Khan as their new head coach for the IPL 2027 season, replacing long-serving Stephen Fleming.

Student suicide: IIT-B apologises, suspends dean; director to stay

Student suicide: IIT-B apologises, suspends dean; director to stay

Rediff.com3 days ago

IIT Bombay has removed Suryanarayana Doolla, Dean of Administrative Affairs, from his post and issued a public apology following the death by suicide of 22-year-old student Sahil Wakode, who his parents allege faced caste-based discrimination.

Bengaluru 'Peptide Party' cancelled after food regulator notice

Bengaluru 'Peptide Party' cancelled after food regulator notice

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

Peptide parties are informal, invite-only social gatherings where biohackers, wellness enthusiasts, and fitness influencers meet to discuss, sample, or promote peptide-based products.

Arunachal Pradesh Unveils New Leafless Orchid Species

Arunachal Pradesh Unveils New Leafless Orchid Species

Rediff.com3 days ago

Scientists have discovered a rare leafless orchid species, Gastrodia keyiensis, in a remote gorge along the Keyi River in Arunachal Pradesh. This elusive orchid, which lacks leaves and chlorophyll, relies on soil fungi for nutrients and was found at an altitude of around 1,000 metres. The discovery highlights the rich biodiversity of Arunachal Pradesh and the need for conservation.

Masood Azhar remains on Pakistan's most-wanted list with Rs 7 mn bounty

Masood Azhar remains on Pakistan's most-wanted list with Rs 7 mn bounty

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Pakistan continues to offer a 7 million rupee reward for information leading to the arrest of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar, who remains on the Federal Investigation Agency's "Red Book" of most-wanted terrorists. This development comes ahead of the Financial Action Task Force's plenary meeting, highlighting Pakistan's ongoing efforts against terror financing.

West Indies recall Campbell for India ODIs; Pooran gets maiden T20I call-up

West Indies recall Campbell for India ODIs; Pooran gets maiden T20I call-up

Rediff.com4 days ago

The West Indies have announced their ODI and T20I squads for the upcoming series against India, with John Campbell returning to the ODI side and Kamil Pooran earning his maiden T20I call-up.

Maharashtra police dogs to spend retirement with their handlers

Maharashtra police dogs to spend retirement with their handlers

Rediff.com23 Aug 2026

Retired police dogs in Maharashtra will now be allowed to stay with the security force for life rather than being sent to adoptive homes, following a directive by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, officials said on Sunday.

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.

AirTag, duplicate key: Stalker kills Indian-origin woman in US

AirTag, duplicate key: Stalker kills Indian-origin woman in US

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

An Indian-origin woman, Shalini Thakur, was shot dead in California by Rohit, an undocumented immigrant from India, who had allegedly stalked her for months. Rohit later died by suicide after a police standoff. Thakur had previously reported the stalking and obtained a restraining order.

India Rejects US Influence Claims Over UPI MDR Policy

India Rejects US Influence Claims Over UPI MDR Policy

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Finance Ministry has dismissed allegations of US pressure influencing the 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on select UPI transactions. It clarified that NPCI guidelines prioritise RuPay credit cards on UPI and do not favour international cards. The ministry also asserted that the MDR, applicable to person-to-merchant transactions above Rs 2,000, is unlikely to increase cash transactions or cause inflation, with measures in place to prevent burdening consumers.

RSS critic Kharge says no rioting cases against outfit, sparks row

RSS critic Kharge says no rioting cases against outfit, sparks row

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge stated in the Legislative Council that no cases of communal riots or other crimes have been registered against the RSS. This statement, made in response to an opposition query, has sparked a political controversy, with the BJP criticising Kharge, a vocal RSS critic, for his alleged "political vendetta." Kharge, in turn, clarified that the RSS is not a registered legal entity, and therefore, cases are registered against individuals, not the organisation itself, calling for its registration for transparency.

New UPI Merchant Fee Ignites Fierce Political Debate

New UPI Merchant Fee Ignites Fierce Political Debate

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% transaction fee on UPI payments above Rs 2,000 for merchants, effective October 15, sparking a political row. The Congress party has labelled it a "Modi tax" and accused the government of succumbing to US pressure, while the BJP has defended the move, clarifying that consumers will not be charged and small vendors are protected. The finance ministry reiterated that the charge is on merchants, not customers.

The Right Screen Time For A Child Is...

The Right Screen Time For A Child Is...

Rediff.com7 days ago

For a child who is six years old, one hour is the limit, says rediffGURU Dr Deepa Suvarna.

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.'

Maternity cannot become a source of ignominy at workplace: HC

Maternity cannot become a source of ignominy at workplace: HC

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

The Delhi High Court has ruled that maternity cannot be a source of ignominy at the workplace, extending statutory protection beyond employment continuity to professional status and career advancement. The court directed a private firm to compensate a woman demoted after maternity leave and urged the Centre to frame comprehensive rules for post-maternity reintegration within six months.

Why 9/11 Still Matters

Why 9/11 Still Matters

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

On the 25th anniversary of that world-changing morning in New York, it is also for the rest of to reflect. Not only on those who were killed but also on why the event happened and what led to it and what came after it, asserts Aakar Patel.

Ex-bureaucrat 'picked up' by Delhi police kept incommunicado for hours

Ex-bureaucrat 'picked up' by Delhi police kept incommunicado for hours

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Former bureaucrat Ashish Joshi has claimed that Delhi Police questioned him for nearly nine hours over social media posts concerning the Election Commission of India, and did not allow him to inform his wife about his whereabouts for several hours, alleging a "blatant violation" of Supreme Court guidelines.

ITR filing for AY27 touches record 7.8 cr

ITR filing for AY27 touches record 7.8 cr

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

The Income Tax Department announced a record 7.8 crore Income Tax Returns (ITRs) filed for Assessment Year (AY) 2026-27 by August 31, 2026, surpassing the previous year's figures.

PM Modi, President Murmu congratulate Indian women's team on Asia Cup triumph

PM Modi, President Murmu congratulate Indian women's team on Asia Cup triumph

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

The Indian women's cricket team secured their eighth Women's Asia Cup title, defeating Sri Lanka by 72 runs in the final, a triumph that has garnered widespread congratulations from top Indian leaders.

Newborn dies after ambulance stuck on damage road for 2 hours

Newborn dies after ambulance stuck on damage road for 2 hours

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

A newborn girl tragically died in Agra after the ambulance transporting her mother got stuck for two hours on a severely damaged road in Gadhwar village. The family has filed a complaint, prompting an investigation, while Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has criticised the incident, blaming corruption.

Congress Labels New UPI Charges As 'Modi Tax', Alleges US Pressure

Congress Labels New UPI Charges As 'Modi Tax', Alleges US Pressure

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The Congress party has criticised the government's new 0.4% charge on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 for merchants, terming it a "Modi tax". Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, allege that this move will ultimately burden consumers through price hikes and accuse the government of succumbing to American pressure to dilute India's zero-MDR policy. The government states the charge will support banks and fintechs.

9 hours of Delhi police questioning: Why was ex-DoT officer taken away?

9 hours of Delhi police questioning: Why was ex-DoT officer taken away?

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Former bureaucrat Ashish Joshi was questioned for nearly nine hours by the Delhi Police Special Cell in connection with an old case. He was later released without arrest. The questioning followed claims by Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit about Joshi being taken away by police.

K'taka suspends two govt teachers for taking part in RSS route march

K'taka suspends two govt teachers for taking part in RSS route march

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Two government school teachers in Yadgir, Karnataka, have been suspended pending inquiry for participating in an RSS Patha Sanchalana. The Education Department cited violations of the Karnataka Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 2021, which prohibit government employees from associating with political organisations or participating in agitations. The teachers argued their participation was outside working hours and cultural, but their explanations were rejected.

UPI MDR: Ministry Addresses Concerns Over Cash Transactions And Inflation

UPI MDR: Ministry Addresses Concerns Over Cash Transactions And Inflation

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Finance Ministry has clarified that the 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000, effective October 15, is not expected to increase cash transactions or cause inflation. The ministry also dismissed allegations of US pressure influencing the decision, asserting that the policy aims to promote RuPay credit cards within the UPI ecosystem, and a monitoring mechanism will ensure the MDR burden is not passed on to consumers.

Tiger mauls woman sanitation worker to death in Jaipur as guard opens gate

Tiger mauls woman sanitation worker to death in Jaipur as guard opens gate

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

A woman sanitation worker, Sugna Devi, was mauled to death by a tiger named Shivaji in Nahargarh Biological Park, Jaipur, after a forest guard allegedly opened the enclosure gate while workers were inside. The forest department has suspended the guard and ordered an inquiry. The victim's family protested, leading to an agreement for Rs 10 lakh compensation, a dairy booth, and contractual jobs for two family members.

Finance Ministry Clarifies UPI MDR Policy Amid US Pressure Allegations

Finance Ministry Clarifies UPI MDR Policy Amid US Pressure Allegations

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Finance Ministry has refuted allegations that US pressure influenced the decision to levy a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on select UPI payments. It clarified that NPCI guidelines prioritise RuPay credit cards on UPI to foster a domestic payment ecosystem and that the MDR introduction aims to create a sustainable revenue model for smaller domestic companies, thereby protecting India's sovereignty in digital payments.

Sikkim has 16 highly-dangerous glacial lakes, shows govt data

Sikkim has 16 highly-dangerous glacial lakes, shows govt data

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

Sikkim has identified 40 high-hazard glacial lakes, with 16 at the highest risk of catastrophic outbursts. Following a devastating GLOF in 2023, the state is developing India's first dedicated GLOF Risk Mitigation Protocol, using advanced monitoring and interdisciplinary approaches to protect downstream settlements and serve as a model for other Himalayan regions.

Should You Buy Dengue Insurance?

Should You Buy Dengue Insurance?

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Buyers should check their scope and triggers and whether they need such policies alongside their regular health insurance.

Sonia Gandhi's memoir gets new publisher after Penguin backs out

Sonia Gandhi's memoir gets new publisher after Penguin backs out

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

HarperCollins India has announced the publication of Congress leader Sonia Gandhi's memoir, "Belonging: A Journey of Love," in India on November 10. The highly anticipated book will offer insights into her personal life and India's political journey, covering her childhood, marriage into the Nehru-Gandhi family, and entry into politics.

Finance Ministry Rejects US Influence Claims On UPI MDR

Finance Ministry Rejects US Influence Claims On UPI MDR

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Finance Ministry has refuted allegations that US pressure influenced the decision to levy a 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on select UPI payments. The ministry clarified that the NPCI guidelines prioritise RuPay credit cards on UPI to promote domestic alternatives and ensure a self-sustaining revenue model for smaller domestic companies, countering claims of favouring foreign payment providers.

Amsterdam Flames chase down 177 with ease, defeat Rotterdam Dockers by eight wickets

Amsterdam Flames chase down 177 with ease, defeat Rotterdam Dockers by eight wickets

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Amsterdam Flames successfully chased down a challenging target of 177 runs, defeating Rotterdam Dockers by eight wickets in Match 17 of the European T20 Premier League. Bas de Leede and Tim David led the charge with unbeaten half-centuries.

Govt forms quick response teams to combat fake news on social media

Govt forms quick response teams to combat fake news on social media

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

Government departments are establishing Quick Response Teams (QRTs) to promptly address and counter misleading or fake content circulating on social media. These teams will monitor digital platforms, verify information, and coordinate with fact-checking units to ensure timely and accurate responses to misinformation, with some ministries already having formed their QRTs.

Supreme Court Intervenes For Water Sports Coach Bilquis Mir

Supreme Court Intervenes For Water Sports Coach Bilquis Mir

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has directed the Jammu and Kashmir administration to issue a no-objection certificate and relieving order to international water sports coach Bilquis Mir, enabling her to join the Indian National Kayaking and Canoeing Team as chief coach for the Asian Games. This ruling came after PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti criticised the bureaucratic hurdles faced by Mir, highlighting systemic issues within the administration.

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.