News for 'Down India'

Why Modi Gave More Powers To The Enforcement Directorate

Why Modi Gave More Powers To The Enforcement Directorate

Rediff.com1 May 2026

Union Minister Pankaj Chaudhary stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi strengthened the Enforcement Directorate to combat financial crimes like money laundering and corruption, dismissing allegations of it being used to target political opponents.

How Sourav Kothari Overcame Grief To Win Billiards Title

How Sourav Kothari Overcame Grief To Win Billiards Title

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

Sourav Kothari discusses his emotional journey to winning the IBSF World Billiards Championship, highlighting the impact of his father's death and his aspirations for cue sports in the Commonwealth Games.

GST collections soar to record Rs 2.43 lakh crore in April

GST collections soar to record Rs 2.43 lakh crore in April

Rediff.com1 May 2026

India's gross Goods and Services Tax (GST) collection reached an unprecedented Rs 2.43 lakh crore in April, marking an 8.7 per cent increase and surpassing the previous record set last year.

Mumbai-Pune E-way 'missing link' operational, travel time cut by up to 30 min

Mumbai-Pune E-way 'missing link' operational, travel time cut by up to 30 min

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Mumbai-Pune Expressway missing link is now fully operational, reducing travel time between the two cities. The Mumbai-bound carriageway opened after a delay due to dismantling of inauguration infrastructure and cleaning work. The project, dubbed an 'engineering marvel', includes tunnels, viaducts and a cable-stayed bridge.

Industrial Production Growth Slows to 5-Month Low in March Amid West Asia Crisis

Industrial Production Growth Slows to 5-Month Low in March Amid West Asia Crisis

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

India's industrial production growth decelerated to a five-month low of 4.1 per cent in March, primarily due to the subdued performance of the manufacturing and power sectors, exacerbated by the West Asia crisis.

Interstate Arms Syndicate With Pakistan Links Busted In Delhi

Interstate Arms Syndicate With Pakistan Links Busted In Delhi

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

Delhi Police have dismantled an interstate arms trafficking syndicate with alleged links to Pakistan, arresting nine individuals and seizing a cache of sophisticated firearms and ammunition.

BJP storms to power in Bengal, ends Mamata's 15-year rule

BJP storms to power in Bengal, ends Mamata's 15-year rule

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Bharatiya Janata Party has surged past the halfway mark in the West Bengal assembly elections, leading in 185 seats against the Trinamool Congress's 91, signalling a potential political shift in the state. Early trends suggest a geographically split mandate, with the BJP gaining in border, tribal, and industrial regions, while the TMC holds ground in parts of Kolkata and select rural strongholds.

Andhra Pradesh CM Lays Foundation for Google's $15 Bn AI Data Centre, Heralding Digital Future

Andhra Pradesh CM Lays Foundation for Google's $15 Bn AI Data Centre, Heralding Digital Future

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu laid the foundation for a USD 15 billion Google Artificial Intelligence data centre near Visakhapatnam, calling it a 'growth engine for India' and Asia's biggest such facility.

India's Stillbirth Rates: A Deep Dive into National Data Analysis

India's Stillbirth Rates: A Deep Dive into National Data Analysis

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

A new analysis of national data reveals significant stillbirth rates in India and highlights the need for improved data collection and standardised reporting.

Yuvraj Sandhu In Top 10 At Turkish Airlines Open

Yuvraj Sandhu In Top 10 At Turkish Airlines Open

Rediff.com7 days ago

Yuvraj Sandhu of India is in the Top-10 at the halfway stage of the Turkish Airlines Open on the DP World Tour after a steady round of 1-under 71. Shubhankar Sharma also made the cut despite a difficult finish.

Indian Equities Rebound as FMCG, Auto Shares Advance Amid Earnings Optimism

Indian Equities Rebound as FMCG, Auto Shares Advance Amid Earnings Optimism

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

Indian equity benchmarks Sensex and Nifty surged nearly 1 per cent, driven by strong earnings reports from FMCG and auto sectors, alongside a rally in Asian markets and signs of de-escalation in geopolitical tensions.

'We are targeting a combined ratio of around 107% in FY27,': SBI General CEO

'We are targeting a combined ratio of around 107% in FY27,': SBI General CEO

Rediff.com5 days ago

SBI General Insurance aims to achieve a 10 per cent market share among private and standalone health insurers within approximately five years, up from its current 7.17 per cent, said Naveen Chandra Jha, managing director and chief executive officer, SBI General Insurance.

Technocrat-politician Ashok Lahiri to steer NITI Aayog with reform mandate

Technocrat-politician Ashok Lahiri to steer NITI Aayog with reform mandate

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

Ashok Lahiri, a distinguished economist with experience in government, the private sector, and electoral politics, has been appointed as the new Vice-Chairman of NITI Aayog, tasked with strengthening India's reform trajectory and policy-making.

Commercial LPG, 5-kg cylinders see steepest-ever hike in prices

Commercial LPG, 5-kg cylinders see steepest-ever hike in prices

Rediff.com1 May 2026

Aviation fuel prices for domestic airlines remain unchanged, providing stability for local carriers, while commercial LPG and 5-kg cylinders see a significant rate hike due to rising international energy costs.

Today's Chanakya exit poll: BJP to win Bengal, DMK to retain TN, mega debut for Vijay

Today's Chanakya exit poll: BJP to win Bengal, DMK to retain TN, mega debut for Vijay

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

Exit polls suggest significant shifts in Indian state assembly elections, forecasting BJP gains in West Bengal and Assam, a DMK comeback in Tamil Nadu, and a tight race in Kerala.

Vinesh Phogat Voices Concerns Over Fair Play At Gonda Event

Vinesh Phogat Voices Concerns Over Fair Play At Gonda Event

Rediff.com6 days ago

Vinesh Phogat has voiced concerns about potential biased officiating at the upcoming National Open Ranking Tournament in Gonda, citing the influence of Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and the mental pressure of competing in a hostile environment.

No regrets: Ashwin stands firm on Buttler incident during IPL 2019

No regrets: Ashwin stands firm on Buttler incident during IPL 2019

Rediff.com6 days ago

Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin spoke on running out Rajasthan Royals (RR) batter Jos Buttler from the non-strikers' end, saying that amid all the talks about it, questioning his character, he felt like "doing it even more" and added that other bowlers should also do it.

Why Ashwin rates Dhoni as the best 'keeper to spinners...

Why Ashwin rates Dhoni as the best 'keeper to spinners...

Rediff.com6 days ago

Ravichandran Ashwin has lauded MS Dhoni's wicketkeeping skills, highlighting his glovework and clarity of thought. Ashwin also reflected on his IPL career, expressing regret over not winning a title with Rajasthan Royals.

India Dismisses US Religious Freedom Concerns as 'Distorted'

India Dismisses US Religious Freedom Concerns as 'Distorted'

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

The Indian government has dismissed the US Commission on International Religious Freedom's (USCIRF) report on religious freedom in India, stating that it does not recognise the commission's authority to comment on the rights of Indian citizens.

India Concedes to Indonesia in Billie Jean King Cup After Close Matches

India Concedes to Indonesia in Billie Jean King Cup After Close Matches

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

India faced a defeat against Indonesia in the Billie Jean King Cup Asia/Oceania Group I tie, with Vaishnavi Adkar and Sahaja Yamalapalli losing their respective singles matches.

The Rediff Podcast: Ajit Balakrishnan: The Man Who Put India On The Web

The Rediff Podcast: Ajit Balakrishnan: The Man Who Put India On The Web

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

'Technology doesn't decide its destiny-humans do. We choose whether it becomes a weapon or a tool for progress.' 'Every breakthrough looks like a miracle at first, a disappointment later -- and finally, just another useful tool.'

India's Defence Sector Set for 'Super Cycle' Driven by Geopolitics, Indigenous Push

India's Defence Sector Set for 'Super Cycle' Driven by Geopolitics, Indigenous Push

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

India's defence sector is on the cusp of a 'super cycle' of growth, driven by escalating geopolitical conflicts and a strong policy push towards indigenous manufacturing, with major players like BEL, HAL, and BDL poised for significant order inflows and technological advancements.

Nat Sciver-Brunt to captain England at T20 World Cup

Nat Sciver-Brunt to captain England at T20 World Cup

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Nat Sciver-Brunt will captain the 15-member England squad for the upcoming 2026 ICC Women's T20 World Cup, the ECB announced. The same squad will also participate in the preceding series against India and New Zealand in May-June.

Rayudu decodes KL Rahul's aggressive shift after DC's record chase

Rayudu decodes KL Rahul's aggressive shift after DC's record chase

Rediff.com7 days ago

Ambati Rayudu praises KL Rahul's aggressive mindset and improved strike rate in IPL 2026 as Delhi Capitals complete a record 226-run chase against Rajasthan Royals.

India bears brunt of global equity outflows as geopolitical tensions rise

India bears brunt of global equity outflows as geopolitical tensions rise

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

India has emerged as the most impacted market within emerging economies, experiencing $3.7 billion in outflows over the past three weeks, matching the total outflows from the entire emerging market basket, as global equity funds turn negative for the first time since January 2026 due to escalating geopolitical tensions.

How India Cycles... Slice of Indian Life

How India Cycles... Slice of Indian Life

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

From bustling cities to quiet villages, bicycles in India are much than transport. They are a way of life, carrying good, dreams and traditions.

'I am also a Shabari': Indira Jaising tells SC in Sabarimala hearing

'I am also a Shabari': Indira Jaising tells SC in Sabarimala hearing

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

The Shabari story in the Ramayana found mention before a nine-judge constitution bench of the Supreme Court on Wednesday while hearing petitions related to discrimination against women at religious places, including the Sabarimala temple in Kerala.

J'khand boy, 7, sets record, crosses 29-km Palk Strait in under 10 hrs

J'khand boy, 7, sets record, crosses 29-km Palk Strait in under 10 hrs

Rediff.com7 days ago

Seven-year-old Ishank Singh has become the youngest swimmer to cross the Palk Strait between India and Sri Lanka, completing the 29-km stretch in 9 hours and 50 minutes after months of rigorous training.

Puri Jagannath Temple Plans New Dress Code: No jeans, shirt

Puri Jagannath Temple Plans New Dress Code: No jeans, shirt

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

According to the recommendations, reviewed by Business Standard, any dress code shall always be akin to Hindu culture.

Dawood Ibrahim Aide Dola In NCB Custody Till May 8

Dawood Ibrahim Aide Dola In NCB Custody Till May 8

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

Notorious drug trafficker Mohammad Salim Dola, a close aide of fugitive gangster Dawood Ibrahim, has been remanded in the Narcotics Control Bureau's custody until May 8 in connection with a 2023 drugs seizure case.

India Loses to Thailand in Billie Jean King Cup Despite Doubles Victory

India Loses to Thailand in Billie Jean King Cup Despite Doubles Victory

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

India lost to Thailand 1-2 in the opening Asia/Oceania Group I tie of the Billie Jean King Cup, with Rutuja Bhosale and Ankita Raina securing a consolation win in the doubles after Sahaja Yamalapalli's defeat in the singles.

J&K Governor Accuses Pakistan Of Pushing Drugs

J&K Governor Accuses Pakistan Of Pushing Drugs

Rediff.com6 days ago

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has accused Pakistan of targeting the region's youth by flooding the streets with drugs, vowing to combat the menace and protect the younger generation.

Vijay Is The New Chennai Super King!

Vijay Is The New Chennai Super King!

Rediff.com5 days ago

Unlike films that end with the underdog becoming winner and being sworn in at a public ceremony, Vijay's trial by fire is only about to begin, predicts Saisuresh Sivaswamy.

NEET MDS 2026 Admit Card Released Today: How to Download, Key Documents Needed, Exam Day Rules

NEET MDS 2026 Admit Card Released Today: How to Download, Key Documents Needed, Exam Day Rules

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

The National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) is releasing the NEET MDS 2026 admit card today, April 29, on its official websites -- National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences portals natboard.edu.in and nbe.edu.in.

Why Indian Banks Are Boosting IT Security Investments

Why Indian Banks Are Boosting IT Security Investments

Rediff.com6 days ago

Public sector banks in India are increasing their IT spending to bolster cybersecurity measures in response to concerns about Anthropic's Claude Mythos AI tool and its potential to exploit vulnerabilities in financial systems.

Karnataka Congress MLA Disqualified Following Murder Conviction

Karnataka Congress MLA Disqualified Following Murder Conviction

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Karnataka Legislative Assembly has officially disqualified Congress MLA Vinay Kulkarni after his conviction in the murder case of BJP leader Yogeshgouda Goudar. Kulkarni is currently serving a life sentence.

MSMEs flag 'ambiguity' in labour ministry's wage calculation rules

MSMEs flag 'ambiguity' in labour ministry's wage calculation rules

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) have expressed significant concerns regarding the labour ministry's recent clarifications on labour codes, citing ambiguity in wage calculation and implementation, which they argue creates interpretational and operational challenges for employers.

Modi slams TMC over Messi Kolkata visit chaos, cites 'jungle raj'

Modi slams TMC over Messi Kolkata visit chaos, cites 'jungle raj'

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

Narendra Modi hits out at Trinamool Congress over chaos during Lionel Messi's Kolkata visit, promises boost to Bengal sports ecosystem.

Amend law to let rape survivors terminate pregnancy: SC to govt

Amend law to let rape survivors terminate pregnancy: SC to govt

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

The Supreme Court has taken exception to AIIMS' plea to set aside its order allowing a 15-year-old rape survivor to terminate her 30-week pregnancy, urging the Centre to amend the law to permit abortion beyond 20 weeks in such cases.

Judge Withdraws From Karti Chidambaram CBI Case Hearing

Judge Withdraws From Karti Chidambaram CBI Case Hearing

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Delhi High Court judge Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma has recused herself from hearing a plea by Congress MP Karti Chidambaram seeking to quash a CBI FIR against him. The FIR alleges that Chidambaram helped an alcoholic beverage company over the ban on the duty-free sale of its whisky.