News for 'Development Affairs'

India briefs foreign envoys on Pahalgam attack for 2nd straight day

India briefs foreign envoys on Pahalgam attack for 2nd straight day

Rediff.com26 Apr 2025

India briefed envoys of around 45 nations on the Pahalgam terror attack and its link to cross-border terrorism. The envoys were briefed in two batches by senior officials of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). India also announced punitive measures against Pakistan, including expulsion of Pakistani military attaches, suspension of the Indus Water Treaty of 1960 and immediate shutting down of the Attari land-transit post. Pakistan responded by shutting its airspace to all Indian airlines and suspending trade with New Delhi.

No Dhaka-Beijing-Islamabad alliance: Bangladesh on trilateral meet in China

No Dhaka-Beijing-Islamabad alliance: Bangladesh on trilateral meet in China

Rediff.com27 Jun 2025

It was a meeting at the official level, not at the political level, Hossain said, adding that there was no element of formation of any alliance.

Is Modi's 'Mr India' Image Fading?

Is Modi's 'Mr India' Image Fading?

Rediff.com20 Aug 2025

'The Election Commission's involvement in the avoidable SIR controversy has carried a message down to the last voter -- who just does not like it,' observes N Sathiya Moorthy.

India hits back on US gen remarks, says Pak's terror record clear

India hits back on US gen remarks, says Pak's terror record clear

Rediff.com13 Jun 2025

Pakistan's record on terrorism is "very clear" and the Pahalgam attack is only the recent example of cross-border terrorism, the ministry of external affairs said on Thursday.

Iran-Israel war: 110 Indian students evacuated from Tehran to Armenia

Iran-Israel war: 110 Indian students evacuated from Tehran to Armenia

Rediff.com18 Jun 2025

The ministry of external affairs said in a statement that the Indian embassy remains in touch with the community with a view to extend all feasible assistance.

Rajasthan minister blames love affairs for many Kota suicides

Rajasthan minister blames love affairs for many Kota suicides

Rediff.com14 Sep 2023

Rajasthan minister Shanti Dhariwal has said love affair was a reason behind many suicide cases among students, including a 16-year-old girl who died at her hostel recently, provoking her father to ask him for evidence.

Evacuate us, say Indian students in Iran after Israeli strikes

Evacuate us, say Indian students in Iran after Israeli strikes

Rediff.com14 Jun 2025

Zahra said that while the university officials visited the students and advised them to remain calm, they did not offer clarity on which areas might be safer.

CBI repatriation rate doubles, brings back 134 over 5 years

CBI repatriation rate doubles, brings back 134 over 5 years

Rediff.com17 Jul 2025

The CBI has significantly increased the rate of fugitive repatriation, bringing back 134 individuals in the last five years, doubling the number from the previous decade. This success is attributed to enhanced diplomatic efforts, technological advancements, and improved coordination with Interpol.

'Pakistan Could Be Planning Something Against India'

'Pakistan Could Be Planning Something Against India'

Rediff.com11 Aug 2025

'We need to be very vigilant as we are passing through some fraught times.'

Modi-Carney talks: Envoys to return as India, Canada mend ties

Modi-Carney talks: Envoys to return as India, Canada mend ties

Rediff.com18 Jun 2025

India and Canada have agreed to restore High Commissioners to each other's capitals at an early date, the first in 'calibrated steps' to restore stability to the 'very important relationship', Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said.

'Fully agree with you': Modi, Meloni strike a chord at G7

'Fully agree with you': Modi, Meloni strike a chord at G7

Rediff.com18 Jun 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a series of bilateral meetings with his global counterparts on the margins of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, with discussions focusing on a range of issues such as trade, investment, counter-terrorism and global challenges.

Dates set for Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2026

Dates set for Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2026

Rediff.com1 Jun 2025

The flag will be taken down on July 24, 2028, which will mark the conclusion of the Simhastha Kumbh Mela, which is held once in 12 years.

Will never...: Jaishankar on bid to hyphenate India, Pakistan

Will never...: Jaishankar on bid to hyphenate India, Pakistan

Rediff.com7 Jun 2025

India expects partners to understand its policy of 'zero tolerance' against terrorism, and it will never countenance 'perpetrators of evil' being put on par with its victims, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Saturday during extensive talks with his British counterpart David Lammy.

In call with Modi, Putin confirms India visit for summit

In call with Modi, Putin confirms India visit for summit

Rediff.com5 May 2025

Russian President Vladimir Putin has accepted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's invitation to visit India for the annual high-level meeting as the two leaders held a telephone conversation, the Kremlin said on Monday.

No nuclear signalling by Pak during conflict, Misri tells Parl panel

No nuclear signalling by Pak during conflict, Misri tells Parl panel

Rediff.com19 May 2025

The sources said Misri reiterated the government's stand that the decision to stop military actions was taken at a bilateral level, as some opposition members questioned US President Donald Trump's repeated assertions about his administration's role in stopping the conflict.

For How Long Will Nitish Hold The Fort?

For How Long Will Nitish Hold The Fort?

Rediff.com1 Jul 2025

Now it's all jibes about his chameleon-like politics and fading grip on the administration. But there was a time Nitish had the BJP trembling in the state, points out Aditi Phadnis.

At G7 Summit, Modi urges global action against terrorism

At G7 Summit, Modi urges global action against terrorism

Rediff.com18 Jun 2025

Reaffirming India's stand against terrorism, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged leaders of the G7 to galvanise global action against terrorism and underscored the need for strict action against those who 'promote and support' it.

Tribals Fear New Threats As Naxalism Fades

Tribals Fear New Threats As Naxalism Fades

Rediff.com27 Jun 2025

If the threat from the 'Maovadis' (Maoists) is fading, the danger now lies with the 'MoUvadis' -- those who might exploit the resource-rich Abujhmad region through corporate or State-backed projects.

Op Sindoor: Diplomatic missions push for decisive anti-terror action

Op Sindoor: Diplomatic missions push for decisive anti-terror action

Rediff.com30 May 2025

All-party parliamentary delegations on Friday met leaders and diplomats from several countries to galvanise international action against terrorists and decisively counter the tactics of those who perpetrate, support and sponsor cross-border terror activities against India.

USAID funded 7 projects in India not related to voter turnout: Govt

USAID funded 7 projects in India not related to voter turnout: Govt

Rediff.com23 Feb 2025

The Finance Ministry's annual report has revealed that the US Agency for International Development (USAID) funded seven projects worth USD 750 million in India during the 2023-24 fiscal year. The projects, implemented in partnership with the Indian government, cover areas like agriculture and food security, water and sanitation, renewable energy, disaster management, health, sustainable forests, and climate adaptation. This disclosure comes amidst controversy over USAID's alleged role in influencing Indian elections, with claims that the agency allocated USD 21 million to India for 'voter turnout'. However, the report clarifies that no funds were dedicated to enhancing voter turnout.

Only 1 of 4 named: Cong slams govt over skewed delegation picks

Only 1 of 4 named: Cong slams govt over skewed delegation picks

Rediff.com18 May 2025

The opposition party, however, said the four eminent Congress MPs and leaders who have been included at the instance of the Modi government will, of course, go with the delegations and make their contributions.

India Wants Pakistan Back On FATF 'Grey List'

India Wants Pakistan Back On FATF 'Grey List'

Rediff.com26 May 2025

Re-entry into the list could have far-reaching consequences for Pakistan, including diminished foreign investment, increased borrowing costs, and tighter scrutiny from global financial institutions.

China calls for 'lasting ceasefire', backs Pakistan

China calls for 'lasting ceasefire', backs Pakistan

Rediff.com21 May 2025

China on Tuesday called for a 'comprehensive and lasting ceasefire' between India and Pakistan, urging both countries to properly handle their differences through dialogue.

Pak gets $1 bn IMF loan despite India's strong objection

Pak gets $1 bn IMF loan despite India's strong objection

Rediff.com10 May 2025

India registered its protest at the board of IMF, which met on Friday to review the EFF lending programme for Pakistan.

UK condemns security breach during Jaishankar's visit

UK condemns security breach during Jaishankar's visit

Rediff.com6 Mar 2025

The UK has strongly condemned a security breach involving a pro-Khalistan extremist rushing towards External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's convoy in London. The incident took place as Jaishankar was leaving the Chatham House think tank on Wednesday evening. The protester was swiftly taken aside by officers of the Metropolitan Police, with no arrests being confirmed so far. The UK said such attempts to "intimidate, threaten, or disrupt" public events are "completely unacceptable". The incident comes after Jaishankar's talks with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, during which both leaders covered the entire gamut of bilateral ties, including the relaunched Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations, regional and global issues. The MEA has condemned the security breach and the provocative activities of the "small group of separatists and extremists", calling on the UK to "live up to their diplomatic obligations".

'I've No Desire To Be Prime Minister'

'I've No Desire To Be Prime Minister'

Rediff.com4 Jul 2025

'I am not an aspiration-oriented politician.' 'This is the time to redefine politics.' 'Politics of power is not real politics.'

Instead of...: India slams B'desh's 'minority' remark on Bengal violence

Instead of...: India slams B'desh's 'minority' remark on Bengal violence

Rediff.com18 Apr 2025

India has rejected remarks by Bangladeshi officials on violence in West Bengal, asking Dhaka to focus on protecting the rights of its minorities instead of indulging in "virtue signaling." The statement comes in response to comments made by Bangladeshi officials regarding the developments in West Bengal. India's spokesperson pointed out that Bangladesh has failed to contain attacks on minorities, especially Hindus, in the country and urged Bangladesh to focus on protecting the rights of its own minorities.

Yet to firm up modalities on Kailash Mansarovar Yatra: MEA

Yet to firm up modalities on Kailash Mansarovar Yatra: MEA

Rediff.com21 Mar 2025

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has announced that India and China have reached an understanding to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in 2025. While an understanding has been reached, the modalities of the pilgrimage are yet to be firmed up. The Yatra has been suspended since 2020 due to the COVID-19 outbreak and non-renewal of Yatra arrangements by the Chinese side.

Kanimozhi's Mission Possible In Russia

Kanimozhi's Mission Possible In Russia

Rediff.com27 May 2025

The Kanimozhi Karunanidhi-led delegation is visiting five European nations to garner support for India's campaign against cross-border terrorism.

MEA Pushes For Quick Resolution To China's Rare Earth Curbs

MEA Pushes For Quick Resolution To China's Rare Earth Curbs

Rediff.com13 Jun 2025

'We remain in touch with the Chinese side, in Beijing as well as in Delhi, to bring predictability in the supply chain.'

Death of Pope Francis: India declares 3-day State mourning

Death of Pope Francis: India declares 3-day State mourning

Rediff.com22 Apr 2025

The mourning will be observed across the country on April 22 and 23, and again on the day of the Pope's funeral.

Fraud detection framework: Quant MF affair triggers rush to apply new rules

Fraud detection framework: Quant MF affair triggers rush to apply new rules

Rediff.com17 Jul 2024

The possible instances of front running at Quant Mutual Fund have likely pushed the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) to expedite the implementation of an institutional mechanism framework designed to curb such market abuses. This framework, approved by the Sebi board in April, was slated to take effect six months after its notification. But, recent developments have set the wheels of regulation turning faster.

What's New for Indian Sports in This Year's Budget?

What's New for Indian Sports in This Year's Budget?

Rediff.com1 Feb 2025

Sports budget raised by over Rs 350 crore, Khelo India gets biggest share

Centre announces caste census; BJP, allies hail move

Centre announces caste census; BJP, allies hail move

Rediff.com1 May 2025

In a significant move, the Centre on Wednesday announced that caste enumeration will be part of the next population census, with the inclusion of caste details for the first time since independence hailed by the Bharatiya Janata Party and its allies as a historic step to help design truly equitable and focused policies.

Gensol promoters likely to come under SFIO glare

Gensol promoters likely to come under SFIO glare

Rediff.com28 Apr 2025

The government is considering initiating a probe by the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) against Gensol Engineering and its promoters, according to sources familiar with the matter. "It is under consideration at this stage. A final decision will be taken soon," a government official said.

We saw a very different China during Indo-Pak conflict: Tharoor

We saw a very different China during Indo-Pak conflict: Tharoor

Rediff.com6 Jun 2025

"China is an absolutely impossible factor to ignore in what has been our confrontation with Pakistan," Tharoor said.

Putin to visit India, dates being worked out

Putin to visit India, dates being worked out

Rediff.com27 Mar 2025

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has confirmed that President Vladimir Putin has accepted an invitation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit India. The visit is currently being prepared, though the dates have not yet been revealed. This visit follows Prime Minister Modi's trip to Russia in July 2024, his first since 2019. The two leaders have maintained regular contact and have emphasized the strength of the Russian-Indian strategic partnership.

Not boycotting diplomatic mission, Mamata clarifies amid Yusuf Pathan row

Not boycotting diplomatic mission, Mamata clarifies amid Yusuf Pathan row

Rediff.com19 May 2025

Her statement came after a controversy broke out that TMC MP Yusuf Pathan was forced to opt out of the multi-party diplomatic delegation.

Will money in hand from tax breaks spur housing demand?

Will money in hand from tax breaks spur housing demand?

Rediff.com21 Apr 2025

Real estate developers are hoping that the slew of tax concessions announced in Union Budget 2025, set to take effect this financial year, will spur demand for affordable and mid-segment housing, even as the broader housing market shows signs of fatigue.

Listen to your conscience: Cong to party MPs picked by govt

Listen to your conscience: Cong to party MPs picked by govt

Rediff.com18 May 2025

The Congress on Sunday said it was not stopping anyone from being part of diplomatic delegations to be sent to various countries following Operation Sindoor and that its leaders who have been named at the instance of the government must listen to their conscience and contribute to the exercise.