News for 'Department'

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.

India A's pace trio has a point to prove against Australia A

India A's pace trio has a point to prove against Australia A

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Young Indian fast bowlers Gurjapneet Singh, Arshad Khan, and Yash Thakur are set to feature in the India A vs Australia A one-day series, aiming to showcase their talent and address the senior national team's current scarcity in the pace department. The series, initially anticipated for Hardik Pandya's return, now serves as a crucial platform for these emerging pacers to catch the attention of national selectors amidst injuries and inconsistent form among established bowlers.

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.

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.

Cancer drug prices to drop as govt caps trade margin at 30pc

Cancer drug prices to drop as govt caps trade margin at 30pc

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

The Indian government has decided to cap trade margins on all non-scheduled anti-cancer drugs at 30 per cent of their maximum retail price. This move aims to improve affordability and ensure continued availability of these life-saving medicines, potentially saving cancer patients an estimated Rs 2,500 crore annually. The decision, expected to be implemented later this month, will affect 110 anti-cancer drugs, including 35 patented ones.

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.

'Prepare for storm': Delhi top cop urges restraint over CJP stir

'Prepare for storm': Delhi top cop urges restraint over CJP stir

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

Delhi Police is making extensive security arrangements for a massive protest called by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on October 10, urging personnel to exercise restraint. The protest demands the Chief Election Commissioner's resignation. Authorities have denied permission, deployed thousands of central forces, ordered liquor shops closed, and proposed metro station closures and border vigilance.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

1st Test: Renshaw stars as Australia put South Africa on the mat in Durban

1st Test: Renshaw stars as Australia put South Africa on the mat in Durban

Rediff.com6 days ago

Australia need six wickets on final day to win first Test as South Africa were reduced to 102 for 4 at stumps on day four in Durban.

SC: 'Create fear in minds of goons' for women's safety in Delhi-NCR

SC: 'Create fear in minds of goons' for women's safety in Delhi-NCR

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

The Supreme Court has strongly asserted the critical need to instill fear in criminals and enhance women's safety across Delhi-NCR, taking suo motu cognisance of recent alarming rape incidents.

1st T20I: Shreyas blasts maiden ton, Dhir shines on debut as India storm past West Indies

1st T20I: Shreyas blasts maiden ton, Dhir shines on debut as India storm past West Indies

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

India defeated West Indies by eight wickets in the first T20I, powered by Shreyas Iyer's maiden T20I century and a dream debut performance from all-rounder Naman Dhir, who took three wickets. India successfully chased down the target of 172 with ease.

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."

'You Can't Ignore America'

'You Can't Ignore America'

Rediff.com6 days ago

'Indian IT firms must hire and train more Americans while reducing dependence on sending employees from India to the US.'

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.

Dew, a Flat Pitch and a West Indies Blitz: Iyer Explains India's Defeat

Dew, a Flat Pitch and a West Indies Blitz: Iyer Explains India's Defeat

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

India captain Shreyas Iyer attributed his side's stunning six-wicket defeat against the West Indies in the second T20 International to the dew factor and the almost non-existent margin for error on the pitch, despite India posting a formidable 249 for five.

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.

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.

'Suspension Of PERM May Not Immediately Affect Indian IT Companies'

'Suspension Of PERM May Not Immediately Affect Indian IT Companies'

Rediff.com6 days ago

'...but could demotivate employees seeking US residency.'

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.

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.

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.

Why IIT-Bombay Wants UPI MDR Cut To 0.08%

Why IIT-Bombay Wants UPI MDR Cut To 0.08%

Rediff.com7 days ago

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.

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.

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.

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.

Finance Ministry to begin pre-Budget meetings from Oct 12

Finance Ministry to begin pre-Budget meetings from Oct 12

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

The Finance Ministry is set to commence its pre-budget meetings on October 12, initiating preparations for the Union Budget 2027-28, which will be the fourth budget of the Modi 3.0 government and the tenth for Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

Nana Patekar: 'Never Seen Rs 1 lakh In My Life'

Nana Patekar: 'Never Seen Rs 1 lakh In My Life'

Rediff.com6 days ago

'People started fearing Nana Patekar's frankness. Kuchh bhi bol sakta hai yeh. He once pointed to a major respected politician's belly and asked 'Kya hai yeh?''

Walking For 20 Minutes Not Enough To Keep Heart Healthy

Walking For 20 Minutes Not Enough To Keep Heart Healthy

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

In this new series on busting common health concerns, Cardiologist Dr Dipak Patil explains why walking and visiting the gym may not be enough to protect your heart health.

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.

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.

'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.

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.

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.

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.

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.