News for 'Department of State'

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.

How Forensic Evidence Unravelled A 9-Year-Old Murder Mystery In Kerala

How Forensic Evidence Unravelled A 9-Year-Old Murder Mystery In Kerala

Rediff.com14 Oct 2026

The Kerala Crime Branch has arrested Raveendran Nair, former caretaker of Jayamadhavan Nair, for his murder nine years ago. The investigation, initially treated as an unnatural death, gained momentum through forensic evidence, contradictory statements, and a forged will, leading to the unravelling of a property dispute motive.

After Oppn complaints, EC replaces Nandigram police chief day before bypoll

After Oppn complaints, EC replaces Nandigram police chief day before bypoll

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

The Election Commission replaced the inspector-in-charge of Nandigram police station, Ajay Kumar Mishra, with Debashis Sarkar a day before the bypoll, following complaints from opposition parties alleging Mishra's closeness to the ruling party. This move comes amidst heightened political scrutiny and concerns raised by opposition leaders regarding the fairness of the election process in Nandigram, a constituency with significant political history in West Bengal.

H-1B visa 'completely broken', should be scrapped: Vance

H-1B visa 'completely broken', should be scrapped: Vance

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

US Vice President J D Vance has labelled the H-1B visa programme as "completely broken" and expressed support for its total abolition. He argues that corporations exploit the system to replace American workers with cheaper international staff, rather than bringing in elite talent. Vance also defended the controversial $100,000 levy on certain H-1B petitions, viewing it as a deterrent against cost-cutting exploitation.

Gujarat CID-Crime Registers FIRs Against Three Political Outfits In Rs 314 Crore Poll Donation Scam

Gujarat CID-Crime Registers FIRs Against Three Political Outfits In Rs 314 Crore Poll Donation Scam

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

Gujarat CID-Crime has registered FIRs against three political outfits Swatantrata Abhivyakti Party, Satyavadi Rakshak Party, and Garib Kalyan Party for allegedly orchestrating a 'poll donation scam' amounting to Rs 314 crore in tax evasion. These parties reportedly collected donations, returned money after deducting commissions, and facilitated tax rebates for donors, with chartered accountants also implicated. The scam involved submitting false contribution reports to the Election Commission.

Only some people are heard: Ex-IAS Divya Mittal launches party

Only some people are heard: Ex-IAS Divya Mittal launches party

Rediff.com15 Oct 2026

Former IAS officer Divya Mittal has launched her new political party, Jan Neeti Bharat, with the aim of contesting the 2027 Uttar Pradesh assembly elections and redefining governance by making people central to policymaking and ensuring government accountability.

Punjab CM's OSD Summoned By CBI In Bribery Probe

Punjab CM's OSD Summoned By CBI In Bribery Probe

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

The CBI has issued fresh summons to Rajbir Ghuman, OSD to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, in an alleged corruption case involving pecuniary benefits for managing postings of IAS and IPS officers. Ghuman failed to appear for questioning on Friday, leading CBI teams to paste summons on his premises. The case, registered on Tuesday following Punjab and Haryana High Court orders, also led to raids at eight locations.

CPI(M) Launches Internal Inquiry Into Councillor's Bribery Scandal

CPI(M) Launches Internal Inquiry Into Councillor's Bribery Scandal

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

The CPI(M) has initiated an internal inquiry into allegations that one of its councillors in the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation, Ajin S, demanded a Rs 10 lakh bribe to resolve a land dispute. The complainant, Sanju, provided audio and video clips, while Ajin S denies the claims, calling them fabricated. The party's state secretary confirmed the probe, and the Thiruvananthapuram Mayor also acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations.

How India Is Poised For A Major Tech Transformation

How India Is Poised For A Major Tech Transformation

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

Atomic Energy Commission chairman Ajit Kumar Mohanty stated that India is on the verge of a significant technological transformation, driven by advancements in AI, quantum technologies, and other fields. Speaking at BIT Mesra's convocation, he emphasised the need for strong indigenous capabilities, skilled professionals, and interdisciplinary collaboration to achieve a developed India. Other speakers, including BIT Mesra's Chancellor and Vice Chancellor, echoed the importance of continuous learning and contributing to national progress.

Mamata Banerjee likely to join CJP protest at Jantar Mantar

Mamata Banerjee likely to join CJP protest at Jantar Mantar

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

Former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee indicated her potential participation in a protest at Jantar Mantar on October 10, demanding the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. She strongly criticised the BJP and the Election Commission over alleged electoral malpractices and "SIR anomalies" in Bengal. Banerjee also expressed solidarity with Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra regarding their treatment during recent protests and plans to approach President Droupadi Murmu.

IIT Delhi Researchers Successfully Transmit Quantum And Classical Data Over Single Fibre

IIT Delhi Researchers Successfully Transmit Quantum And Classical Data Over Single Fibre

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Researchers at IIT Delhi have successfully demonstrated the simultaneous transmission of quantum-entangled photons and classical data over a 50-km optical fibre link. This breakthrough addresses key challenges in integrating fragile quantum signals with existing telecommunications infrastructure, paving the way for more scalable and secure future quantum networks.

'Drunk men all around': Last call by Assam woman found dead in Andhra

'Drunk men all around': Last call by Assam woman found dead in Andhra

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

A tragic incident has unfolded as an Assam woman, Himashree Boro, was found dead near railway tracks in Andhra Pradesh, prompting her family to allege murder and question railway safety and RPF response after she reported feeling unsafe on the train.

Ramlila Maidan: Delhi's costly protest venue with limited dates

Ramlila Maidan: Delhi's costly protest venue with limited dates

Rediff.com13 Oct 2026

Ramlila Maidan, recently designated as one of Delhi's new protest sites, is proving to be a costly and difficult option for demonstrators. With no free dates for the next two and a half months and booking fees exceeding Rs 1 lakh, it contrasts sharply with the previously free Jantar Mantar. The ground, rich in political history, also poses logistical challenges due to its busy commercial location and impact on traffic.

GST Council to focus on process reforms, ease of doing business

GST Council to focus on process reforms, ease of doing business

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council is set to discuss proposals aimed at transforming the complex indirect tax system into a more business-friendly regime, focusing on simplifying compliance, reducing administrative burdens, and potentially raising the prosecution threshold.

Gill: Fielding, Death Bowling Need Fine-Tuning Ahead of World Cup

Gill: Fielding, Death Bowling Need Fine-Tuning Ahead of World Cup

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

India captain Shubman Gill has candidly addressed the team's critical shortcomings following their loss to West Indies in the 3rd ODI in Mullanpur on Saturday.

Rahul Gandhi in Chennai for 'Chhatron Ki Goonj' event, to meet Vijay

Rahul Gandhi in Chennai for 'Chhatron Ki Goonj' event, to meet Vijay

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi arrived in Chennai on Saturday for the sixth edition of 'Chhatron Ki Goonj,' a youth outreach programme. He is scheduled to meet Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, marking their first interaction since the formation of the SSJV alliance and TVK joining the INDIA bloc. The visit includes an unscripted interaction with students at Island Grounds, focusing on critical issues, amidst tight security arrangements.

LIC's top management thins as MD exits, other PSU insurers also face vacancies

LIC's top management thins as MD exits, other PSU insurers also face vacancies

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) is facing a thinning of its top management as Managing Director Dinesh Pant exits to join Irdai, leaving one of four MD posts vacant. This comes amidst broader staffing challenges across several public sector insurers and a headless Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB).

India to probe mid-air attack on Captain Smit Machchhar

India to probe mid-air attack on Captain Smit Machchhar

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

India's anti-terror agency, the National Investigation Agency (NIA), has registered a case to investigate a mid-air attack on Captain Smit Machchhar, an Indian pilot, inside the cockpit of an Israel-bound flydubai flight, citing an "apparent attempt to hijack or cause it to crash."

IIT-B faculty backs professor in student suicide row

IIT-B faculty backs professor in student suicide row

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

The IIT Bombay Faculty Forum has expressed strong solidarity with Professor Suryanarayana Doolla, who was invigilating an exam where a student was found using a smartphone, an incident preceding the student's death by alleged suicide.

India To Unveil AI Regulation Paper Soon

India To Unveil AI Regulation Paper Soon

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that the Indian government will release a consultation paper on AI regulations within a month. This framework will address critical aspects like AI safety, deepfakes, and a human-first approach, emphasising the industry's primary responsibility in ensuring safe AI deployment. The move comes amidst growing global concerns over AI risks and the need for robust safeguards.

Experts Urge Caution: AI Must Not Replace Human Judgement In Tourism

Experts Urge Caution: AI Must Not Replace Human Judgement In Tourism

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Experts at a national symposium in Shillong discussed the role of Artificial Intelligence in tourism, emphasising that AI should support human judgment, local knowledge, and cultural values rather than replace them. Discussions highlighted the need for robust policies to address ethical concerns, safeguard livelihoods, and preserve cultural heritage while leveraging AI for innovation and sustainability in the tourism sector, particularly in Meghalaya.

MP's third cheetah habitat opens; CM Mohan Yadav releases two felines

MP's third cheetah habitat opens; CM Mohan Yadav releases two felines

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav released two cheetahs, Vyom and Neera, into the Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve, making it the state's third cheetah habitat. This expansion is part of India's Cheetah Project, which has seen the big cat population grow to 60. The initiative aims to boost wildlife tourism and local economies, with the government also supporting villagers through revenue sharing and homestay schemes.

Jaishankar meets Rubio at UNGA, shares concerns on sanctions bill

Jaishankar meets Rubio at UNGA, shares concerns on sanctions bill

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

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.

CEC Gyanesh Kumar in fresh trouble as Keralam orders probe into 2006 case

CEC Gyanesh Kumar in fresh trouble as Keralam orders probe into 2006 case

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala has ordered a Vigilance probe into corruption allegations related to the 2006 KSTP road project, implicating incumbent Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, who was then the PWD secretary. The investigation also concerns the death by suicide of a Malaysian engineer involved in the project, who reportedly named Kumar in his suicide notes. The probe revives a case that was allegedly "hushed up" after a change in government.

Uttarakhand Professor Faces Molestation Charges After Internal Inquiry

Uttarakhand Professor Faces Molestation Charges After Internal Inquiry

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

Police in Uttarakhand's Tehri district have registered a case against an assistant professor for alleged molestation of two female students, including a minor, following an internal inquiry at a government college. The case has been filed under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and POCSO Act, with authorities initiating a thorough investigation.

Assam CM Unveils NESFIC To Transform Northeast Into Innovation Hub

Assam CM Unveils NESFIC To Transform Northeast Into Innovation Hub

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched the North East Seva Innovation Challenge (NESFIC), envisioning the region as India's 'living laboratory' for technology and problem-solving. The initiative aims to empower young innovators to address real-world challenges faced by government, industries, and citizens, with a focus on practical implementation and government procurement.

Nature-Based System From IIT Guwahati Tackles Piggery Pollution

Nature-Based System From IIT Guwahati Tackles Piggery Pollution

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Guwahati, have developed an innovative nature-based wastewater treatment system utilising taro plants and an engineered "zig-zag flow" design. This low-energy, compact technology offers a promising solution for treating highly polluted swine wastewater in decentralised livestock farms, particularly in rural and resource-limited regions.

Asian Games Medallist Vidarsa K Vinod Speaks Out Against Cyberbullying

Asian Games Medallist Vidarsa K Vinod Speaks Out Against Cyberbullying

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

Asian Games double silver medallist Vidarsa K Vinod has condemned the cyberattacks faced by fellow medallist Ancy Sojan, advocating for support for athletes and respect for their individuality. Returning to her hometown, Vidarsa also shared her journey into shooting and highlighted the improved support for athletes from the state government.

Odisha Doctor Suspended For Allegedly Aiding Prisoner's Threat Call To Witness

Odisha Doctor Suspended For Allegedly Aiding Prisoner's Threat Call To Witness

Rediff.com20 Sep 2026

A doctor at Berhampur circle jail in Odisha has been suspended for allegedly facilitating a murder-accused BJD leader, Bikram Kumar Panda, to threaten a witness over the phone from inside the prison. The incident led to a fresh case against the doctor, the BJD leader, and his aide.

Ex-IAS officer and IIT-IIM alumna Divya Mittal enters UP politics

Ex-IAS officer and IIT-IIM alumna Divya Mittal enters UP politics

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Former IAS officer Divya Mittal has announced her independent entry into politics, starting her journey in Uttar Pradesh. She aims to create a platform to voice public grievances and challenge systemic issues, focusing on intent and justice rather than party politics.

Why IIT-Bombay Wants UPI MDR Cut To 0.08%

Why IIT-Bombay Wants UPI MDR Cut To 0.08%

Rediff.com11 Oct 2026

A report by IIT-Bombay professors recommends reducing the Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions from 0.40 per cent to 0.08 per cent. It suggests that banks should fund the UPI ecosystem using their net interest margins from CASA deposits, rather than relying on MDR. The report also addresses transaction costs, credit card MDR, and ATM withdrawal allowances, aiming to ensure UPI's long-term sustainability and public trust by proposing remuneration only from large merchants.

Mithi desilting scam: Actor Dino Morea grilled for over six hours

Mithi desilting scam: Actor Dino Morea grilled for over six hours

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

Bollywood actor Dino Morea was questioned by Mumbai police's Economic Offences Wing (EOW) for six hours regarding the alleged Rs 65 crore Mithi river desilting scam. The investigation focuses on financial irregularities in a Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) sanitation contract, where key accused allegedly siphoned off funds. Morea's name emerged due to communications and suspected financial transactions with one of the accused. Federal agencies, including the ED, are also probing the case for money laundering.

'Election Commission Is Shameless'

'Election Commission Is Shameless'

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

'Their functioning is flawed, they are not accountable, they are opaque, they are non-transparent, they have lost credibility.'

Can top professionals fall for cyber fraud? IIT Madras study says...

Can top professionals fall for cyber fraud? IIT Madras study says...

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

An IIT Madras study reveals that financial cybercrime victims in India are often highly educated professionals, challenging the notion that only careless or financially unaware individuals are targeted. The research highlights that digital literacy doesn't guarantee protection, as fraudsters exploit stress and emotional vulnerabilities.

Deep depression brings heavy rains to Odisha, Andhra; thousands evacuated

Deep depression brings heavy rains to Odisha, Andhra; thousands evacuated

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

A deep depression over the Bay of Bengal has brought heavy rainfall to parts of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha, leading to the evacuation of at least 3,500 people and prompting authorities to issue red and orange alerts for several districts.

Tirurangadi Municipality Health Inspector Caught Red-Handed In Bribery Case

Tirurangadi Municipality Health Inspector Caught Red-Handed In Bribery Case

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

A Health Inspector from Tirurangadi Municipality in Kerala was arrested by the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau for allegedly accepting a Rs 10,000 bribe. The official, Sreeji S, was caught red-handed while demanding money to issue a licence for a newly opened hotel and juice shop. The complainant, an NRI, reported the incident after facing delays and demands for illegal gratification.

Work With The US, With Or Without Trump

Work With The US, With Or Without Trump

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

India-US ties may be strained, but abandoning the relationship is not the answer; India must deal with Washington firmly without becoming either servile or hostile, asserts Ambassador T P Sreenivasan.

Three Get Death, One Life Imprisonment For Policeman's Family Murder

Three Get Death, One Life Imprisonment For Policeman's Family Murder

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

A Fast Track Court in Surajpur, Chhattisgarh, has sentenced three men to death and one to life imprisonment for the brutal murder of a policeman's wife and their 11-year-old daughter in 2024, a case that also involved sexual assault.

Found using mobile during exam, IIT-B student ends life; mother alleges murder

Found using mobile during exam, IIT-B student ends life; mother alleges murder

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

The mother of Sahil Ravindra Wakode, a 22-year-old IIT Bombay student found dead in his hostel room, has alleged her son was "tortured" and "killed," demanding justice, while the institute stated no disciplinary action was initiated against him after he was found using a mobile phone during an exam.

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.