News for 'Development Affairs'

Modi-Takaichi Summit Opens New India-Japan Chapter

Modi-Takaichi Summit Opens New India-Japan Chapter

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Notwithstanding the economic complementarities and the host of agreements for deepening economic relation on a host of areas, both sides share common viewpoints on the foreign policy domain and seek common grounds to serve as a counterweight to China, notes Dr Rajaram Panda.

Trump officials, Iranian FM on way to Switzerland for talks

Trump officials, Iranian FM on way to Switzerland for talks

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi are reportedly heading to Switzerland for a new round of US-Iran negotiations, following a recently announced memorandum of understanding to end hostilities in West Asia and a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah.

July downpour reduces rainfall deficit to 12% as El Nino looms

July downpour reduces rainfall deficit to 12% as El Nino looms

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

The Centre has reviewed the monsoon situation, noting a reduced rainfall deficit and ongoing preparedness for the kharif season amidst El Nino concerns. A high-level meeting chaired by the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister discussed measures across various sectors, emphasising continuous monitoring and coordinated action to mitigate potential impacts on agriculture, water resources, and essential commodities.

This Simple Habit Will Help You Score 99%ile In CAT 2026

This Simple Habit Will Help You Score 99%ile In CAT 2026

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

CAT and MBA expert and rediffGURU Patrick D'Souza explains how a simple daily reading habit can help aspirants clinch 99 percentile in the Common Admission Test this year.

Iran's Supreme Leader to skip father's funeral

Iran's Supreme Leader to skip father's funeral

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei will not attend his father, former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei's, funeral due to security concerns stemming from Israeli threats. This decision follows a sharp warning from Iran's Foreign Minister to the United States, urging it to control Israel after its Defence Minister reportedly marked Khamenei for death. The incident highlights escalating tensions and ongoing diplomatic efforts to de-escalate hostilities in West Asia.

Namo Cities: Delhi's decongestion dream faces the test of execution

Namo Cities: Delhi's decongestion dream faces the test of execution

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

The Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister's announcement of four 'Namo Cities' aims to decentralise development and decongest Delhi, but experts warn that the initiative may face execution challenges similar to previous urbanisation plans due to inadequate coordination among NCR states.

'Europe sells weapons, which are used to attack India': Jaishankar slams Western 'hypocrisy'

'Europe sells weapons, which are used to attack India': Jaishankar slams Western 'hypocrisy'

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has strongly defended India's decision to purchase Russian crude oil, stating that the country's energy choices are based on cost and availability, and highlighting the West's 'hypocrisy' in criticising India while historically supplying weapons used against it.

BJP, Nepal's RSP Discuss Gen Z

BJP, Nepal's RSP Discuss Gen Z

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

'Our discussions focused on the India-Nepal development partnership and people-to-people ties.'

'His parents were watching': Marsch's emotional tribute after Eustaquio's winner

'His parents were watching': Marsch's emotional tribute after Eustaquio's winner

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Stephen Eustaquio's stoppage-time winner sent Canada into the FIFA World Cup Round of 32, with coach Jesse Marsch paying an emotional tribute to the midfielder's late parents after the dramatic 1-0 win over South Africa.

Why Banks Prefers Retired Bureaucrats...

Why Banks Prefers Retired Bureaucrats...

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

It is because dealing with a regulatory system that is largely headed by retired IAS officers then becomes relatively easy, points out A K Bhattacharya.

US, Iran to hold talks in Switzerland; Pak, Qatar to attend

US, Iran to hold talks in Switzerland; Pak, Qatar to attend

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

The United States and Iran are scheduled to hold their initial round of talks in Switzerland on Friday, following a ceasefire agreement virtually signed by US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.

Coach Dragan Mihailovic's Vision For Indian Volleyball's Future

Coach Dragan Mihailovic's Vision For Indian Volleyball's Future

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

India's men's volleyball team achieved an unbeaten run to the AVC Men's Volleyball Cup semi-finals, propelling them to World No. 42. Head coach Dragan Mihailovic attributes this success to discipline and a structured system but stresses the need for consistent international exposure, longer national camps, and a robust development pathway to sustain and build upon this momentum, especially amidst administrative uncertainty in Indian volleyball.

Mandaviya To Review National Games Preparations In Meghalaya

Mandaviya To Review National Games Preparations In Meghalaya

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya will visit Meghalaya to review preparations for the 39th National Games and inaugurate a sports complex in Shillong.

Goodbye, Shastri Bhawan

Goodbye, Shastri Bhawan

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

As Shastri Bhawan nears demolition, one of Delhi's most iconic government buildings leaves behind six decades of stories, power, journalism and public life.

'Why Should We Be Okay With 6.5% Growth Rate?'

'Why Should We Be Okay With 6.5% Growth Rate?'

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

'Why not aspire for 8 or 9 or even 10 per cent?'

Why Modi Should Watch Japan's Transformation Under Sanae Takaichi

Why Modi Should Watch Japan's Transformation Under Sanae Takaichi

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

History may remember Takaichi Sanae not as the leader who simply accelerated Japanese rearmament, but as one who governed during Japan's transition from an industrial-age security model to a post-industrial strategic member of the global order, points out Varun Arya.

Private Sector Key To India-US Strategic Tech Outcomes

Private Sector Key To India-US Strategic Tech Outcomes

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Senior Indian officials highlight the indispensable role of the private sector in translating India-US cooperation in AI, semiconductors, quantum technologies, and critical minerals into tangible outcomes. The collaboration aims to build trusted, resilient technology ecosystems and position India as a global electronics and semiconductor hub.

US-Iran peace deal: Tehran gives up nuke bid, wins sanctions relief

US-Iran peace deal: Tehran gives up nuke bid, wins sanctions relief

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

The United States and Iran have reached an agreement in principle to immediately and permanently halt all military operations, lift sanctions, and work towards a comprehensive final agreement within 60 days, including a significant reconstruction package for Iran.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Brazil eye payback as Japan stand in knockout path

FIFA World Cup 2026: Brazil eye payback as Japan stand in knockout path

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Brazil's World Cup Round of 32 meeting with Japan on Monday comes with the chance for revenge for Carlo Ancelotti's squad and a test of how far he has taken his team since a Tokyo collapse early in his tenure.

Derek O'Brien Fact-Checks Modi's Claims on Poverty, Development in India

Derek O'Brien Fact-Checks Modi's Claims on Poverty, Development in India

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

Trinamool Congress leader Derek O'Brien has challenged Prime Minister Narendra Modi's claims about India's progress, citing poverty statistics and West Bengal's economic growth.

Supreme Court declares right to walk on footpaths a fundamental right

Supreme Court declares right to walk on footpaths a fundamental right

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

The Supreme Court has declared the right to walk on demarcated footpaths a fundamental right, prioritising it over motorised vehicle movement, and has called for the establishment of a regulatory body to ensure its enforcement and provide restitutionary remedies for violations.

Mandaviya To Review National Games Preparations In Meghalaya

Mandaviya To Review National Games Preparations In Meghalaya

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya will visit Meghalaya to review preparations for the 39th National Games and inaugurate a sports complex.

Delhi to get first underground nuclear and chemical command centre

Delhi to get first underground nuclear and chemical command centre

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Delhi is set to establish its first underground Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) command centre at the new Delhi Fire Services headquarters, a facility designed to ensure uninterrupted coordination and protection for personnel during nuclear warfare, radiological leaks, or chemical disasters.

Government Boosts Indian Tennis With TAGG Scheme

Government Boosts Indian Tennis With TAGG Scheme

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Four promising Indian tennis players, including Manas Dhamne and Vaishnavi Adkar, have been inducted into the Government of India's Target Asian Games Group (TAGG) scheme, which provides comprehensive support for high-performance athletes. This move, welcomed by AITA, aims to strengthen India's presence in international tennis.

Chinese FM Wang Yi to attend BRICS NSA meet in New Delhi from June 22 to 23

Chinese FM Wang Yi to attend BRICS NSA meet in New Delhi from June 22 to 23

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is set to attend the BRICS National Security Advisors meeting in New Delhi on June 22-23. The high-level gathering will address international security challenges, regional issues, and prepare for the upcoming BRICS Summit in India. Wang Yi is also expected to hold bilateral talks with India's NSA Ajit Doval, focusing on India-China border issues.

Guwahati Misses Out On Hosting India-Japan Summit

Guwahati Misses Out On Hosting India-Japan Summit

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

The visit was expected to project Assam as the gateway to Southeast Asia and reinforce the state's emergence as a preferred investment destination.

All Sikh MLAs, ministers to appear before Akal Takht: Punjab CM

All Sikh MLAs, ministers to appear before Akal Takht: Punjab CM

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced that all Sikh MLAs and cabinet ministers will appear before the Akal Takht on June 29 regarding the anti-sacrilege law. This decision follows a closed-door meeting in Amritsar, where Mann stated that representatives would present their views in writing. The Akal Takht had summoned Sikh legislators and ministers over objections to the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act, 2026, which it claims was enacted without consulting the Sikh Panth. Mann also addressed accusations of challenging the Akal Takht's authority and criticised political appointees for one-sided decisions.

Yuvraj Singh Named Delhi Capitals' Batting Coach

Yuvraj Singh Named Delhi Capitals' Batting Coach

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh is slated to become the batting coach for Delhi Capitals for the 2027 IPL season. This marks his first coaching assignment in the league, joining a revamped support staff under Sourav Ganguly, who will serve as Director of Cricket.

CRPF suspends DIG for sharing messages opposing CAPF Bill

CRPF suspends DIG for sharing messages opposing CAPF Bill

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

The Central Reserve Police Force has suspended a senior DIG-rank officer for sharing content allegedly "against" the government during the recent passage of the Central Armed Police Force bill, which the cadre officers of these forces had called discriminatory.

Delhi Gymkhana seeks alternate land amid takeover row

Delhi Gymkhana seeks alternate land amid takeover row

Rediff.com26 May 2026

Delhi Gymkhana Club members call takeover "illegal" and highlight heritage and social value.

Indian LNG carrier safely crosses Hormuz, first since US-Iran ceasefire

Indian LNG carrier safely crosses Hormuz, first since US-Iran ceasefire

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

A Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) carrier, chartered by an Indian firm, safely transited through the Strait of Hormuz -- the first Indian LNG tanker to cross the war-hit narrow shipping lane since the war in West Asia broke out more than three and a half months back.

Why Taiwan Is At The Heart Of US-China Rivalry

Why Taiwan Is At The Heart Of US-China Rivalry

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

For the foreseeable future, the most likely outcome remains continuation of the status quo. Taiwan will remain self-governing without formally declaring independence, while China continues to apply sustained pressure short of war, predict Krishnan Srinivasan and Manoj Mohanka.

India bags first-ever vice presidency of Paris-based financial watchdog FATF

India bags first-ever vice presidency of Paris-based financial watchdog FATF

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

India was on Friday accorded the vice presidency of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the global body that sets standards for combating money laundering and terrorist financing, for the first time.

MY Bharat Youth Convention: Empowering India's Future Leaders

MY Bharat Youth Convention: Empowering India's Future Leaders

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

The MY Bharat Youth Convention in New Delhi will host over 6,000 youngsters, featuring interactions with prominent personalities and felicitating emerging talents. Organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the event aims to empower youth towards the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047. It also celebrates MY Bharat's recent Guinness World Record for youth engagement.

India-Nepal Boundary Dispute Needs Solution

India-Nepal Boundary Dispute Needs Solution

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

The boundary mess between India and Nepal needs a solution in a manner as mentioned by Nepal's Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal: 'On evidence not emotions', counsels Lieutenant General Shakti Gurung (retd).

Gulf nations welcome Iran-US deal, urge protection of maritime routes

Gulf nations welcome Iran-US deal, urge protection of maritime routes

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

The Gulf countries on Monday welcomed a peace deal reached between the US and Iran to end their conflict and called for protection of maritime routes and freedom of international navigation, including the uninterrupted flow of traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump: US-Iran peace deal to be signed Sunday, Strait of Hormuz 'open to all'

Trump: US-Iran peace deal to be signed Sunday, Strait of Hormuz 'open to all'

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

US President Donald Trump announced that a deal to end the war with Iran would be signed on Sunday, with the strategic Strait of Hormuz immediately becoming 'open to all'. This follows indications from Pakistan that negotiations were in their final stages, though Iran has yet to comment on the timeline.

Omar Abdullah's Kashmir Challenge Revives July 2, 1984 Memories

Omar Abdullah's Kashmir Challenge Revives July 2, 1984 Memories

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Omar Abdullah has so far laboured hard to make best of a bad bargain. Even so, the ground reality is anything but reassuring. The Opposition parties, including notably the PDP, appear to be gaining ground, though more by default. Public patience with Omar's government has nearly run out, notes Mohammad Sayeed Malik, the distinguished commentator on Kashmir affairs.

Call records reveal how fiancee planned Ketan Agarwal's murder

Call records reveal how fiancee planned Ketan Agarwal's murder

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Pune police have revealed that Ketan Agarwal's fiancee, Siya Goyal, and her lover, Chetan Chaudhary, exchanged 2,004 calls and spent 238 hours on the phone in the six months leading up to Agarwal's alleged murder at Lohagad Fort, suggesting extensive planning for the crime.

Delhi High Court Affirms AITA General Body's Primacy In Constitutional Amendments

Delhi High Court Affirms AITA General Body's Primacy In Constitutional Amendments

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

The Delhi High Court has reaffirmed the All India Tennis Association's (AITA) General Body's authority in amending its constitution, directing that proposed changes be put to a clause-by-clause vote by members. This interim order modifies a single judge's ruling, ensuring the federation's democratic processes are maintained while complying with new sports governance laws, with fresh elections mandated by September 30.