News for 'Development Alternatives'

BJP Faces West Bengal Investment Test

BJP Faces West Bengal Investment Test

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

West Bengal could be the Bharatiya Janata Party's real test case of its business-friendly policies, points out Kanika Datta.

How Poetry Is Making Physics Easier To Understand

How Poetry Is Making Physics Easier To Understand

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

A retired physics professor from Rajasthan University, Rishi Kumar Singhal, is making complex physics concepts accessible and engaging by teaching them through Hindi poetry and songs. His initiative, "Physics Through Poetry," involves four books containing around 250 poems that explain topics like rocket propulsion, black holes, and the Raman Effect, making learning easier for students from Class 12 to MSc level.

Google Asked To Urgently Remove Fake Bank Web Sites

Google Asked To Urgently Remove Fake Bank Web Sites

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

Phishing sites mimicked SBI, ICICI Bank and Axis Bank to steal card details and OTPs.

Breakthrough: IIT Indore's Non-Invasive Oral Cancer Detection

Breakthrough: IIT Indore's Non-Invasive Oral Cancer Detection

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Researchers at IIT Indore have developed a non-invasive technique to detect early signs of oral cancer using saliva and a swab sample. This method is economical, quick, and aims to make early screening more accessible, especially in rural areas, offering an alternative to painful biopsies. The findings, published in the British Journal of Cancer, show distinctive molecular changes before the disease becomes clinically obvious.

'West Bengal Doesn't Need To Experiment With The Bulldozer'

'West Bengal Doesn't Need To Experiment With The Bulldozer'

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

'We have a very demanding electorate which expects us to do something. So we will have to do something which is a bit out of the ordinary while at the same time keeping in mind the risk factors.'

For Rs 2, E-Eye Can Check If Water Is Safe

For Rs 2, E-Eye Can Check If Water Is Safe

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

E-Eye, which cost about Rs 3,500 to develop, can test a sample for around Rs 2, making it particularly suitable for field-level water quality monitoring in areas where access to sophisticated laboratories is limited.

PM promises Rs 1 lakh crore Innovation Fund for start-ups

PM promises Rs 1 lakh crore Innovation Fund for start-ups

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called upon India's youth to dream big, assuring them of government support and resources, including a Rs 1 lakh crore Innovation Fund, to bolster the country's burgeoning startup ecosystem and drive its journey towards becoming a developed nation.

Breakthrough Catalyst For Green Hydrogen Production Unveiled By IIT-Guwahati

Breakthrough Catalyst For Green Hydrogen Production Unveiled By IIT-Guwahati

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Researchers at IIT-Guwahati have developed an inexpensive and efficient catalyst for producing hydrogen from water, a crucial step for the National Green Hydrogen Mission and the transition to sustainable energy. The catalyst uses nickel salt and an anthracene-based organic molecule, offering a cleaner alternative to fossil fuel-derived hydrogen.

Lost Your Job? Protect Your Finances

Lost Your Job? Protect Your Finances

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

List all unavoidable expenses such as rent, groceries, transportation, education and medical bills.

Bengal BJP battles to prevent 'Trinamoolisation' of party

Bengal BJP battles to prevent 'Trinamoolisation' of party

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Three months after winning power in West Bengal, the BJP is confronting a significant political challenge: how to expand and consolidate its presence without adopting the very political culture it campaigned against, particularly concerning the integration of former TMC leaders and the need to curb practices like extortion and intimidation among its own cadres.

High-level panel set up to tackle road woes in Maha's Chakan industrial belt

High-level panel set up to tackle road woes in Maha's Chakan industrial belt

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

The Maharashtra government has constituted a high-level committee to address road repairs, traffic congestion and management issues in the rapidly expanding Chakan industrial belt in Pune district, and set up a mechanism for time-bound redressal of industrial grievances.

AI cannot substitute judicial conscience: CJI Surya Kant

AI cannot substitute judicial conscience: CJI Surya Kant

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant stated that while artificial intelligence (AI) can augment judicial reasoning, it cannot substitute judicial conscience, and a permanent apex body is proposed to supervise AI adoption and accountability within the judiciary.

Government Coaching Plan May Pressure Coaching Centres

Government Coaching Plan May Pressure Coaching Centres

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

'If a student can get a good teacher, quality content and mock tests at no cost, it becomes very hard for a mid-tier coaching centre to keep charging for the same lecture.'

Delhi Lakshmi Yojana: Ineligibility Leads To Fund Recovery

Delhi Lakshmi Yojana: Ineligibility Leads To Fund Recovery

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

The Delhi government has notified detailed guidelines for the Delhi Lakshmi Yojana, outlining strict provisions for beneficiaries found ineligible, including discontinuation of financial assistance, recovery of disbursed funds, and potential fraud charges. The scheme provides Rs 2,500 monthly to eligible women, with specific rules for fund disbursement via RD/FD accounts and CBDC wallets, along with clear eligibility and exclusion criteria.

US Visa Pause Clouds Travel Plans

US Visa Pause Clouds Travel Plans

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

'One important clarification is that the reported US action is not a blanket cancellation of all US tourist visas.'

Are These 7 Dangerous Food Items In Your Kitchen?

Are These 7 Dangerous Food Items In Your Kitchen?

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Many of us consume genetically modified (GMO) foods without even realising it. Which leads to an important question -- how can we protect ourselves from food adulteration and misleading claims? asks Nikita Garg, nutritionist and founder of Entech Wellness.

Trump announces 'Economic D-Day' against Iran, warns countries helping Tehran

Trump announces 'Economic D-Day' against Iran, warns countries helping Tehran

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

US President Donald Trump has declared an 'economic D-Day' against Iran, unveiling what he terms the 'most crushing economic operation ever taken' and warning global entities against providing any support to Tehran.

Chhetri's Anguish: Jamshedpur FC's ISL Exit A 'Punch In The Gut'

Chhetri's Anguish: Jamshedpur FC's ISL Exit A 'Punch In The Gut'

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri has voiced his deep disappointment over Jamshedpur FC's decision to withdraw from the upcoming Indian Super League season. Describing the move as "a punch in the gut," Chhetri urged the Tata Group, owners of the club, to reconsider, highlighting their crucial role in Indian football development. The club's withdrawal, influenced by a new AIFF administrative fee, means the ISL will proceed with 13 teams.

When A Flight Fails, Airlines Must Respond

When A Flight Fails, Airlines Must Respond

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

A flight may be cancelled for reasons beyond an airline's control. The chaos that follows need not be, points out Air Commodore Nitin Sathe (retd).

Indian drugmakers in no rush to shift to US despite tariff threat

Indian drugmakers in no rush to shift to US despite tariff threat

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Indian pharmaceutical companies are not rushing to relocate manufacturing to the United States despite former President Donald Trump's renewed threat of tariffs up to 200 per cent on imported generic drugs. Instead, they are leveraging existing US plants, contract manufacturers, and making selective investments in complex products while maintaining India as their primary production hub.

Why Japan Is Expanding Defence Ties Beyond India

Why Japan Is Expanding Defence Ties Beyond India

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Japan is deepening its defence relationship with India while simultaneously expanding its economic, infrastructure and security engagement with countries around India -- particularly Bangladesh. The result is an emerging Japanese conception of South Asia in which India remains the strategic anchor, but the geography surrounding India is becoming increasingly important, points out Varun Arya.

Realty developers roll out flexible payment plans amid slow sales

Realty developers roll out flexible payment plans amid slow sales

Rediff.com4 May 2026

Real estate developers are increasingly offering flexible payment plans, such as low booking amounts and deferred payments, to stimulate housing sales and manage affordability concerns without resorting to price cuts, as sales volumes declined by 14 per cent in 2025.

L&T to invest Rs 5,000 crore in EV components, targeting Tier-I supplier status

L&T to invest Rs 5,000 crore in EV components, targeting Tier-I supplier status

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Larsen & Toubro (L&T) is investing Rs 5,000 crore over five years to enter the automotive components sector, focusing on electric vehicle (EV) motors, safety systems, and connected-vehicle technologies, aiming to become a Tier-I auto supplier.

No more guesswork: How are traders planning every move in advance?

No more guesswork: How are traders planning every move in advance?

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

From identifying an entry and invalidation level to deciding position size and exit conditions, traders can map out much of the decision-making process before placing an order. Here is how that works in practice.

IIT Indore Pioneers Rapid Waste-To-Chemical Conversion

IIT Indore Pioneers Rapid Waste-To-Chemical Conversion

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Researchers at IIT Indore have developed a groundbreaking method to convert carbon dioxide and glycerol, two common waste materials, into valuable green chemicals like lactic acid and formic acid in just seven minutes. This low-energy process uses a specially designed ruthenium-based catalyst and microwave heating, offering a sustainable solution for waste management and green manufacturing.

Bhojshala a Saraswati temple, rules HC; suggests alternate land for mosque

Bhojshala a Saraswati temple, rules HC; suggests alternate land for mosque

Rediff.com16 May 2026

The Madhya Pradesh High Court has declared the disputed Bhojshala complex in Dhar to be a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, suggesting the Muslim community seek land elsewhere for a mosque.

BARC developing alternative fuel

BARC developing alternative fuel

Rediff.com20 Jun 2007

The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre said on Tuesday the agency is developing a prototype compact high temperature reactor to produce hydrogen as substitute for fossil fuels.

Prashant Kishore claims aides detained ahead of Bankipur bypoll

Prashant Kishore claims aides detained ahead of Bankipur bypoll

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Jan Suraaj founder Prashant Kishore has accused the ruling BJP and the state government of using police to harass his party workers, alleging that over 16 leaders were detained ahead of the Bankipur Assembly by-election. Despite the alleged intimidation, Kishore expressed "200 per cent" confidence in his victory.

Hormuz Crisis Exposes India's Energy Risks

Hormuz Crisis Exposes India's Energy Risks

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Despite decades of efforts towards energy transition, oil will remain the critical energy source for all nations for some decades. We can hope for peace opening the Strait of Hormuz, but must prepare for war closing it, points out former foreign secretary Ranjan Mathai.

Pep Guardiola turns down Italy role as search for coach continues

Pep Guardiola turns down Italy role as search for coach continues

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Former Manchester City and Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola has turned down the opportunity to coach the Italy national team, a source familiar with the discussions said on Friday, confirming media reports.

Honda to add 3,800 jobs, expand capacity to 80 lakh units by 2028

Honda to add 3,800 jobs, expand capacity to 80 lakh units by 2028

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) plans to create over 3,800 jobs and expand its annual two-wheeler production capacity to 80 lakh units by 2028, reinforcing India's role as a global manufacturing and export hub for Honda.

AI surveillance, CCTV coverage: Kanwar Yatra goes hi-tech

AI surveillance, CCTV coverage: Kanwar Yatra goes hi-tech

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Uttar Pradesh authorities have implemented extensive security and logistical measures for the annual Kanwar Yatra, which began on Thursday and concludes on August 11. These include AI-enabled surveillance, additional security personnel, medical camps, dedicated control rooms, and traffic diversions, all aimed at ensuring a "zero incidents and zero accidents" pilgrimage for lakhs of devotees.

Italy approached Ancelotti before Guardiola for national coach role

Italy approached Ancelotti before Guardiola for national coach role

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Italy's technical director Paolo Maldini revealed that the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) first approached Carlo Ancelotti for the national team coaching job before engaging with Pep Guardiola, as they seek to rebuild the Azzurri after failing to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup.

Mumbai's first desalination plant on course, to add 200 MLD a day

Mumbai's first desalination plant on course, to add 200 MLD a day

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

The Maharashtra government has confirmed that Mumbai's first desalination project is moving forward, with a work order issued and key clearances secured. This 200 MLD project, undertaken by the BMC, aims to address the city's growing water demand and will result in a minor tariff hike of 15-17 paise per litre.

Claude AI Now More Accessible With Rupee Pricing In India

Claude AI Now More Accessible With Rupee Pricing In India

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Anthropic has introduced Rupee-denominated pricing for its Claude AI assistant in India, making its Pro and Max plans more accessible to one of its largest user communities. This move, alongside the opening of its Bengaluru office and increased revenue, highlights Anthropic's growing focus on the Indian market, a sentiment echoed by rival OpenAI.

Pressure builds on developers to hike prices as costs rise

Pressure builds on developers to hike prices as costs rise

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Indian realty developers are contemplating price increases for ongoing and upcoming projects to offset margin pressures caused by rising input costs and supply chain disruptions, exacerbated by the West Asia conflict. Input and labour costs have surged by 5-12%, directly impacting developer margins, especially for under-construction projects.

SBI Funds Management IPO: Why the 'moderate' valuation and what's next?

SBI Funds Management IPO: Why the 'moderate' valuation and what's next?

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

SBI Funds Management, India's largest asset management company, has set its IPO price band between 545 and Rs 574 per share, valuing the company at 1.2 trillion. The management explained the 'moderate' valuation aims to instil investor confidence amidst market uncertainty, while also highlighting plans for AI integration, expansion into GIFT City, and new alternative investment funds.

L&T's Q1 profit jumps 14% to Rs 3,926 crore, beating estimates

L&T's Q1 profit jumps 14% to Rs 3,926 crore, beating estimates

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Larsen & Toubro (L&T) reported a 14 per cent year-on-year increase in Q1 FY27 profit attributable to owners, reaching Rs 3,926 crore, surpassing analyst estimates, despite facing significant supply-chain disruptions in West Asia.

The Hotspot For Indian Weddings In 2025 Was...

The Hotspot For Indian Weddings In 2025 Was...

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Indian wedding bookings to Sri Lanka are projected to grow 20-25 per cent annually over the next few years.

Breakthrough: Indian Researchers Create Placenta-On-Chip For Pregnancy Study

Breakthrough: Indian Researchers Create Placenta-On-Chip For Pregnancy Study

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Indian researchers from ICMR-National Institute for Research on Women's Health and IIT Bombay have developed an indigenous "placenta-on-chip" platform. This microphysiological system mimics the human placental barrier, reproducing essential functions like hormone production and nutrient transfer. It offers a simple, scalable tool for studying placental biology, pregnancy complications, and drug effects, aiming to reduce reliance on animal experimentation.