News for 'Department of State'

J&K Crime Branch Charges Three Public Servants In Service Record Fraud

J&K Crime Branch Charges Three Public Servants In Service Record Fraud

Rediff.com14 Oct 2026

The Jammu and Kashmir Crime Branch's Special Crime Wing has filed a chargesheet against three public servants, including a retired officer, for alleged fraud and corruption involving the manipulation of service records to obtain undue benefits. The case centres on a forged date-of-birth certificate and the facilitation of its incorporation into official records.

Russian lab worker's death sparks plague fears, hundreds quarantined

Russian lab worker's death sparks plague fears, hundreds quarantined

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

A laboratory technician in Siberia died from 'pneumonia of unknown aetiology' at an Anti-Plague Research Institute, sparking fears of pneumonic plague, with the US now monitoring the situation and urging Russia for transparency.

Two Indians charged with selling fake Ozempic in US

Two Indians charged with selling fake Ozempic in US

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

Two Indian nationals have been charged in a US federal court for their alleged involvement in a transnational scheme to distribute counterfeit Ozempic, a popular diabetes drug. The scheme involved obtaining fake drugs from China, deceptive packaging, and continued even after FDA warnings, with the accused facing significant jail time if convicted.

Arson Attack Destroys Soybean Stocks, Farmers Face Rs 14 Lakh Loss In Latur

Arson Attack Destroys Soybean Stocks, Farmers Face Rs 14 Lakh Loss In Latur

Rediff.com13 Oct 2026

Four farmers in Latur, Maharashtra, suffered an estimated loss of Rs 14 lakh after their harvested soybean stocks were allegedly set on fire by an unidentified person late on Monday night. The incident occurred amidst drought conditions, exacerbating the financial hardship for the farmers who had cultivated the crops with limited water. Police are investigating, and villagers are demanding justice and financial assistance for the affected.

Chhattisgarh Liquor Scam: ED Claims Rs 880 Crore Delivered To Congress Office

Chhattisgarh Liquor Scam: ED Claims Rs 880 Crore Delivered To Congress Office

Rediff.com12 Oct 2026

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has claimed that Rs 860-Rs 880 crore generated from an alleged liquor scam in Chhattisgarh during the previous Congress regime was delivered to the Pradesh Congress Committee office in Raipur. The agency filed a supplementary chargesheet against former PCC treasurer Ramgopal Agrawal and provisionally attached his properties worth Rs 9.06 crore. The ED alleges a liquor syndicate controlled the state excise department, generating over Rs 2,883 crore in illegal proceeds.

Robot-Assisted Surgery Revolutionises Gallbladder Operations At AIIMS

Robot-Assisted Surgery Revolutionises Gallbladder Operations At AIIMS

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

Specialists at AIIMS, Delhi, affirm that robot-assisted procedures significantly improve difficult gallbladder operations by offering enhanced visualisation and instrument control. This technology aids in navigating complex cases involving severe inflammation and unexpected anatomy, and is seen as the next evolutionary step in surgical techniques, potentially phasing out conventional laparoscopy.

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.

Former Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa Moves Supreme Court For Protection

Former Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa Moves Supreme Court For Protection

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

Former Sri Lankan president Gotabaya Rajapaksa has moved the Supreme Court seeking protection from arrest under anti-terrorism laws in connection with the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings. This appeal follows the dismissal of his previous petition by the Court of Appeal and an existing overseas travel ban.

Congress alleges police raid party's Maha HQ, arrest tribal students

Congress alleges police raid party's Maha HQ, arrest tribal students

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

The Congress party in Maharashtra has accused the police of illegally entering its Mumbai headquarters, Tilak Bhawan, and arresting tribal students and NSUI members who were protesting. While the police deny these claims, stating no arrests were made from the building, the Congress has threatened to gherao the Chief Minister's residence if the detained individuals are not released, escalating a political confrontation over student protests.

Is Ambani real boss of India, asks Musk; Rahul replies...

Is Ambani real boss of India, asks Musk; Rahul replies...

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

Elon Musk questioned if Mukesh Ambani is India's "real boss" amidst Starlink's licensing issues, drawing a cryptic response from Rahul Gandhi. The Indian government clarified that security assessments are pending for all satcom licensees, not just Starlink, and the delay is due to the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Chhattisgarh Coal Levy Scam: Congress MLA, IAS Officer Among 12 Named In New Charge Sheet

Chhattisgarh Coal Levy Scam: Congress MLA, IAS Officer Among 12 Named In New Charge Sheet

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

The Chhattisgarh Economic Offence Wing/Anti-Corruption Bureau (EOW/ACB) has filed its sixth supplementary charge sheet in the alleged coal levy scam, naming 12 individuals including Congress MLA Devendra Singh Yadav, former state Congress treasurer Ramgopal Agrawal, and IAS officer Jai Prakash Maurya. The scam involves an alleged illegal levy of Rs 25 per tonne collected from coal transporters by a syndicate of bureaucrats, businessmen, and politicians, with handwritten diaries indicating collections of around Rs 540 crore.

How Lovlina Borgohain Rediscovered Her Passion For Boxing

How Lovlina Borgohain Rediscovered Her Passion For Boxing

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

Indian ace boxer Lovlina Borgohain, after facing disappointment at the 2024 Olympics, rediscovered her passion for boxing, leading to a gold medal victory at the recent Asian Games in Japan. She aims for direct Olympic qualification through the World Championships and hopes to upgrade her Olympic bronze to gold.

Indian Oil To Invest Rs 40 Crore In Boxing Development

Indian Oil To Invest Rs 40 Crore In Boxing Development

Rediff.com13 Oct 2026

The Sports Authority of India (SAI) and Indian Oil Corporation have signed an MoU for Rs 40 crore over two years to bolster boxing in India. This partnership, leveraging CSR funds and SAI's expertise, aims to enhance talent identification, athlete development, coaching, and international exposure for boxers, aligning with the revamped Khelo India Scheme.

Illegal Liquor Seized From Train Attendant In Thane

Illegal Liquor Seized From Train Attendant In Thane

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

A train attendant was arrested at Thane railway station for allegedly possessing 61 bottles of Goa-manufactured Indian-Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) worth Rs 71,560. The seizure was made by the state excise department based on a tip-off, and the attendant has been charged under the Maharashtra Prohibition Act.

NIT Rourkela Develops Jackfruit Peel Filter For Fluoride Removal

NIT Rourkela Develops Jackfruit Peel Filter For Fluoride Removal

Rediff.com14 Oct 2026

Researchers at NIT Rourkela have developed a novel material from discarded jackfruit peels, capable of removing over 90% of fluoride from contaminated water in about 10 minutes under laboratory conditions. This patented technology, which uses activated carbon modified with zirconium, offers a promising, cost-effective, and sustainable solution for decentralised water treatment, particularly in fluoride-affected regions of India.

Singer Amrit Prabha Mahanta Gets Bail In Zubeen Garg Death Case

Singer Amrit Prabha Mahanta Gets Bail In Zubeen Garg Death Case

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

The Gauhati High Court has granted bail to singer Amrit Prabha Mahanta, an accused in the Zubeen Garg death case, against a bond of Rs 50,000. Special Public Prosecutor Ziaul Kamar stated that the grounds for bail are not yet known, but the court deemed it a fit case. The prosecution, which presented arguments for several days, cannot challenge the order but will inform the government. Mahanta is currently lodged in Haflong jail, while other accused are in Tamulpur jail. The case involves the mysterious death of singer Zubeen Garg in Singapore last year, with conflicting findings from Singapore Police and Assam authorities, who maintain it was a murder.

'70% Of Bollywood Stars Have Paid Extortion Money To Bishnoi'

'70% Of Bollywood Stars Have Paid Extortion Money To Bishnoi'

Rediff.com20 Oct 2026

'The remaining 30% are scared they will be shot at and they too will shell out the money soon.'

13 of 18 suspects in Vizag's Pak spy ring are navy personnel

13 of 18 suspects in Vizag's Pak spy ring are navy personnel

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Andhra Pradesh Police have arrested a naval staffer and a civilian driver in connection with an alleged espionage conspiracy involving Pakistan Intelligence Operatives, raising serious national security concerns.

'We Don't Want To Prevent Anyone From Celebrating Any Religious Festival, But...'

'We Don't Want To Prevent Anyone From Celebrating Any Religious Festival, But...'

Rediff.com17 Oct 2026

'Many devout religious people have told me categorically that they like celebrating festivals, but they are vehemently against the noise pollution and traffic obstruction that are being imposed under the pretext of celebrations.'

'Join Modi play or face marks cut': Kolkata college students allege pressure

'Join Modi play or face marks cut': Kolkata college students allege pressure

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

Students at Scottish Church College in Kolkata allege they were threatened with academic repercussions for refusing to participate in a play titled 'Namo Seva -- Untold Stories', a charge denied by the principal who states participation is voluntary and follows state directives.

India eyes 30 GW private nuclear capacity by 2047, Rs 7.5 lakh cr investment

India eyes 30 GW private nuclear capacity by 2047, Rs 7.5 lakh cr investment

Rediff.com11 Oct 2026

Atomic Energy Commission Chairman Ajit Kumar Mohanty announced that India's private sector is projected to invest Rs 7.5 lakh crore and contribute 30 GW towards the nation's goal of achieving 100 GW nuclear power capacity by 2047. This marks a significant policy shift, facilitated by the SHANTI Act, encouraging private participation in nuclear energy beyond the traditional public sector model. The country is also exploring Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) for industrial needs and advancing its three-stage nuclear power programme, leveraging its substantial thorium reserves.

Four Senior India Hockey Players Set For Farewell At Asian Champions Trophy

Four Senior India Hockey Players Set For Farewell At Asian Champions Trophy

Rediff.com13 Oct 2026

Four senior Indian hockey players Mandeep Singh, Jarmanpreet Singh, Amit Rohidas, and Nilakanta Sharma are reportedly set to play their final matches for the country at the upcoming Asian Champions Trophy. This decision by Hockey India aims to bring in fresh talent and groom younger players for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, ensuring a smooth transition for the national team.

Police Probe Murder Of Retired IAS Officer In Bhopal, Househelp Suspected

Police Probe Murder Of Retired IAS Officer In Bhopal, Househelp Suspected

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

A 70-year-old retired IAS officer, Rakesh Agarwal, was found dead with his throat slit at his home in Bhopal. Police suspect his househelp, who has been missing since the incident. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has condemned the killing and assured swift action, while the opposition has criticised the state's law and order situation.

Trump strikes surprise deal with Putin, Zelenskyy says...

Trump strikes surprise deal with Putin, Zelenskyy says...

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

Former President Donald Trump's recent deal with Russia to supply diesel to the US and global markets has ignited a political firestorm, drawing sharp criticism from Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Democratic leaders, and a segment of Republicans, despite the US Treasury lifting sanctions on Russian diesel supplies.

Househelp Suspected In Retired IAS Officer's Brutal Murder

Househelp Suspected In Retired IAS Officer's Brutal Murder

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

A retired 70-year-old IAS officer, Rakesh Agarwal, was found dead with his throat slit at his Bhopal residence. Police suspect his househelp, Varun, who joined two days prior and is now missing. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has assured strict action, while the Congress party has criticised the state's law and order situation following the incident.

Househelp Suspected In Retired IAS Officer's Brutal Murder

Househelp Suspected In Retired IAS Officer's Brutal Murder

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

A retired 70-year-old IAS officer, Rakesh Agarwal, was found dead with his throat slit at his Bhopal residence. Police suspect his househelp, Varun, who joined two days prior and is now missing. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has assured strict action, while the Congress party has criticised the state's law and order situation following the incident.

Househelp Suspected In Retired IAS Officer's Brutal Murder

Househelp Suspected In Retired IAS Officer's Brutal Murder

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

A retired 70-year-old IAS officer, Rakesh Agarwal, was found dead with his throat slit at his Bhopal residence. Police suspect his househelp, Varun, who joined two days prior and is now missing. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has assured strict action, while the Congress party has criticised the state's law and order situation following the incident.

Karnataka Unveils Major Incentives For Asian Games Medallists

Karnataka Unveils Major Incentives For Asian Games Medallists

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

The Karnataka government has significantly increased cash awards for Asian Games medallists, with gold winners now receiving Rs 1 crore. Additionally, all 20 participating athletes received a Rs 5 lakh incentive. The state also announced direct recruitment opportunities for Group-B posts and a 2% reservation in government jobs for accomplished sportspersons, alongside financial support for Olympic preparation under the 'Guri: Olympics' scheme.

Five Arrested After Man Dies In Delhi Nightclub Assault

Five Arrested After Man Dies In Delhi Nightclub Assault

Rediff.com13 Oct 2026

Five individuals, including bouncers and a club manager, have been arrested in New Delhi following the death of a man who was allegedly assaulted at a nightclub. The incident occurred after the victim reportedly spilled beer on the manager's wife, leading to a brutal attack with sticks and glass bottles. The victim, Daljeet, later succumbed to his injuries after being taken home by friends. Police are investigating allegations of a firearm, theft, and inadequate police response, while also examining the nightclub's operating permissions.

Two children among 9 killed in Pennsylvania mass shooting

Two children among 9 killed in Pennsylvania mass shooting

Rediff.com11 Oct 2026

A mass shooting and hours-long standoff in Erie, Pennsylvania, left nine people dead, including two children. CBS News, citing local media reports, indicated that law enforcement was dispatched to Perry Street around 5 PM on Friday following witness accounts of an armed man firing shots before entering a residence.

West Bengal CM To Witness Historic India-Brazil Football Clash

West Bengal CM To Witness Historic India-Brazil Football Clash

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari will attend the India-Brazil international football friendly in Kolkata on October 3. The city is preparing for the historic match, with Brazil's five-time world champions having arrived and security measures stepped up.

My Twin Won Gold, Silver, Bronze And Broke A Record

My Twin Won Gold, Silver, Bronze And Broke A Record

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

Vithya Ramraj won three medals at the Asian Games and broke P T Usha's 42-year-old record. Her twin Nithya, an international athlete herself, ruled out of the Games by an injury, looks back at their journey from a rented home to a podium finish.

Amit Kumar Takes Helm As Google Cloud India MD Steps Down

Amit Kumar Takes Helm As Google Cloud India MD Steps Down

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

Google Cloud India's Managing Director, Sashikumar Sreedharan, has resigned to pursue a new opportunity. Amit Kumar, previously MD for Digital Natives, has been appointed as the interim head of India operations. The transition was announced by Karan Bajwa, President of Google Cloud Asia Pacific, who highlighted the company's strong momentum in India.

Manhunt Intensifies For Caretaker Accused Of Murdering Retired IAS Officer

Manhunt Intensifies For Caretaker Accused Of Murdering Retired IAS Officer

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Bhopal police have announced a Rs 30,000 reward for Varun Kumar, the caretaker suspected of murdering retired IAS officer Rakesh Agarwal. Kumar allegedly slit Agarwal's throat and attempted to set the house on fire before fleeing. A four-state manhunt is underway to apprehend the suspect.

Breaking Bad Actor RJ Mitte Dies At 34

Breaking Bad Actor RJ Mitte Dies At 34

Rediff.com13 Oct 2026

RJ Mitte, the beloved Breaking Bad actor has passed away at 34, with his representative confirming the death by suicide.

TMC stripped of key parliamentary panel chairpersonships

TMC stripped of key parliamentary panel chairpersonships

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

The Trinamool Congress has lost the chairpersonship of two significant Parliamentary panels following a reconstitution by Rajya Sabha Chairman C P Radhakrishnan and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. This development comes after a split in the TMC, with rebel MPs joining the Nationalist Citizen Party and supporting the NDA. The TMC has strongly criticised the move, alleging that Parliament is being turned into a 'deep, dark chamber' due to their exclusion from committee leadership.

Gauhati Student Death Accused Injured In Police Firing

Gauhati Student Death Accused Injured In Police Firing

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

A man accused in the death of Gauhati University student Nimisha Thakuria was injured in police firing in Guwahati after allegedly attempting to escape custody. Asif Ali, who was on police remand, sustained gunshot wounds to his leg and is currently hospitalised. The incident occurred as he was being taken to court, and further investigation is underway.

India's Medical Isotope Mission Needs Faster Corridors

India's Medical Isotope Mission Needs Faster Corridors

Rediff.com17 Oct 2026

A country that makes the isotope sets the timetable for everyone who needs it.

'Disastrous effect': SC orders halt to riverbed sand mining, seeks report

'Disastrous effect': SC orders halt to riverbed sand mining, seeks report

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

The Supreme Court has directed the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) to submit a report on sand mining from riverbeds, highlighting its disastrous impact on river ecosystems. The court also ordered Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh to file compliance affidavits regarding measures against illegal sand mining in and around the National Chambal Gharial Sanctuary, following concerns over environmental damage and a forest ranger's death.

Punjab FC Announces 27-Member Squad For ISL 2026-27 Season

Punjab FC Announces 27-Member Squad For ISL 2026-27 Season

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

Punjab FC has announced a 27-member squad for the upcoming Indian Super League (ISL) 2026-27 season, featuring a mix of retained players, national team members, foreign talents, and 10 academy graduates. Head Coach Pavlos Dermitzakis expressed confidence in the balanced squad, which is set to kick off its campaign on October 14 against Odisha FC.