News for 'Engaged'

FULL TEXT: President Murmu's address to the nation on eve of 80th I-Day

FULL TEXT: President Murmu's address to the nation on eve of 80th I-Day

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

In her address to the nation on the eve of the country's 80th Independence Day, the president stressed that just as government and society remain united to ensure national security, everyone must contribute through joint and concerted efforts to safeguard the present and future of students.

JNU cancels nod for discussion on Umar Khalid's book

JNU cancels nod for discussion on Umar Khalid's book

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) cancelled permission for a discussion on a book authored by its former student Umar Khalid, currently jailed in the 2020 northeast Delhi riots conspiracy case, citing 'non-disclosure of full facts' about the event. The JNUSU condemned the decision as 'arbitrary and authoritarian', vowing to proceed with the discussion at an alternative venue.

CJP to launch nationwide 'Kya bolti public' campaign to map citizens' issues

CJP to launch nationwide 'Kya bolti public' campaign to map citizens' issues

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) announced a 'kya bolti public' campaign to connect with citizens across India, understand their issues, and gather public opinion on the country's current situation. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke highlighted unemployment, education reforms, and media credibility as key focus areas, also claiming credit for Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation following protests.

Maharashtra bans books, magazines glorifying terror outfits

Maharashtra bans books, magazines glorifying terror outfits

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

The Maharashtra government has banned 114 items of literature from terrorist organisations like Islamic State and Al Qaeda, citing their role in glorifying extremism, promoting radicalisation, and threatening India's sovereignty and public order. The ban, issued via a gazette notification, follows intelligence inputs and ATS investigations into the circulation of such propaganda material.

Assam floods toll goes up to 80, over 2.12 lakh affected

Assam floods toll goes up to 80, over 2.12 lakh affected

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Assam's flood death toll has risen to 80, with two new fatalities reported from Sivasagar district, as eight districts and over 2.12 lakh people remain affected. The state government has announced a six-month moratorium on loan repayments for flood-affected individuals and is seeking a special support package from the Centre.

Congress on Tharoor's remark: Leaders must avoid 'appeasing BJP'

Congress on Tharoor's remark: Leaders must avoid 'appeasing BJP'

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

AICC general secretary KC Venugopal has urged Congress leaders to exercise caution and avoid making statements that could 'please the BJP', in response to remarks attributed to Shashi Tharoor regarding Rahul Gandhi's student outreach programme.

Why Bangladesh Matters For India's Future

Why Bangladesh Matters For India's Future

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

For India, the guiding principle should remain clear: Engage Bangladesh as a sovereign nation and society rather than through the prism of any individual leader or political party, suggests Manoj Mohanka.

Finance Minister Explains MDR Impact On Digital Payments

Finance Minister Explains MDR Impact On Digital Payments

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman clarified that the Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on digital transactions applies to merchants, not customers, and aims to support banks and fintech in infrastructure investment. She countered Congress leader Jairam Ramesh's claims, stating that a committee will decide on MDR only after Parliament passes the Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, a process currently stalled by parliamentary disruptions.

How Young Stars, Global Audiences Drive F1's Popularity Surge

How Young Stars, Global Audiences Drive F1's Popularity Surge

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Formula One boss Stefano Domenicali heaped praise on teenager Kimi Antonelli on Wednesday as the sport gave itself a glowing half-term report, with sold-out races and booming viewing figures in key markets.

Who's Rahul Gandhi's favourite BJP politician? He reveals

Who's Rahul Gandhi's favourite BJP politician? He reveals

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Rahul Gandhi recently connected with Gen Z through an engaging 'Ask Me Anything' session on Instagram, offering candid responses on student protests, his views on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and even his philosophy on pet ownership.

Parliament Panel Pushes OTT Content Review

Parliament Panel Pushes OTT Content Review

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

The Parliamentary Standing Committee said the proposed comprehensive statutory framework for regulating OTT content should include robust technology-enabled age-verification mechanisms, effective parental controls and suitable penalties for non-compliance.

Phuket flight incident: Air India pilot tests positive for marijuana

Phuket flight incident: Air India pilot tests positive for marijuana

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

The pilot-in-command of an Air India Phuket-Delhi flight that experienced a sudden 300-foot altitude drop last week has tested positive for a psychoactive substance, identified by sources as marijuana, in a confirmatory test. This development comes as Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu met with Air India executives to discuss the serious incident, which left 24 people injured.

SC backs creativity, okays animated Lord Jagannath film

SC backs creativity, okays animated Lord Jagannath film

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court dismissed the Odisha government's plea to modify an order allowing the release of the animated film "Mahaprabhu Jagannath". The court emphasised that creativity, art, and culture should not be curtailed due to sensitivities regarding deity depictions, especially for children's animation.

'Sheikh Hasina Has Pulled A Political Masterstroke'

'Sheikh Hasina Has Pulled A Political Masterstroke'

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

'After announcing that she will return to Bangladesh, if she does not, her credibility will suffer.'

US missile reserves dwindle as Iran conflict drags on: Report

US missile reserves dwindle as Iran conflict drags on: Report

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

The American military's air-defence missile inventories, including Patriot and THAAD interceptors, are significantly depleted due to the ongoing five-month confrontation with Iran. A CSIS assessment reveals a steep drop in reserve stocks, raising concerns about the US's capacity to maintain Middle East operations and address other global security challenges. This depletion could force the US and its allies to take higher operational risks.

L Subramaniam: 'Honours Are A Passing Cloud'

L Subramaniam: 'Honours Are A Passing Cloud'

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

'Ultimately, everything has to be shared. That's why you have that talent. To share it. Unless you share, it won't continue.'

Fresh talks 'last chance' for Iran: Trump as Tehran denies talks

Fresh talks 'last chance' for Iran: Trump as Tehran denies talks

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Donald Trump stated that Iran has been given a "last chance" to reach an agreement, revealing that the US paused a planned military strike after receiving requests from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Iran to pursue diplomacy instead.

In a first, 92 Maoist-free Bastar villages to celebrate I-Day

In a first, 92 Maoist-free Bastar villages to celebrate I-Day

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Ninety-two remote villages in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region, once a Maoist stronghold, will hoist the national flag for the first time since Independence on August 15. This historic event signifies the end of left-wing extremism in these areas, with the state government leading an extensive campaign to foster national pride.

Maharashtra bans books, magazines glorifying terror outfits

Maharashtra bans books, magazines glorifying terror outfits

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

The Maharashtra government has banned the literature of terrorist organisations such as Islamic State, Hizb-ul-Mujahideen Pir Panjal Regiment, and Al Qaeda (AQIS), citing its content glorifying violent extremism, promoting radicalisation, and providing information on bomb-making and lone-wolf attacks.

Vijay Must Demonstrate His Government Doesn't Engage In Theft

Vijay Must Demonstrate His Government Doesn't Engage In Theft

Rediff.com27 May 2026

If TVK MLAs and ministers are perceived as clean, or demonstrably cleaner than their predecessors, the credibility dividend will be enormous. The voter will feel rewarded, points out Ramesh Menon.

Delhi's Indira Gandhi Stadium Undergoes Major Renovation for Badminton World Championships

Delhi's Indira Gandhi Stadium Undergoes Major Renovation for Badminton World Championships

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Organisers of the upcoming BWF World Championships have undertaken extensive upgrades at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in Delhi, including anti-bird measures, non-toxic gels, and even 'monkey whisperers', to prevent a repeat of the hygiene and disruption issues experienced during the India Open earlier this year.

After Modi post row, Meta adds extra safeguards for top accounts

After Modi post row, Meta adds extra safeguards for top accounts

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Meta wrote to the government on Wednesday outlining the specifics of enhanced and rigorous safeguards it has now implemented for content posted by the Prime Minister and other prominent accounts, according to sources.

How Paytm's AI And App Simplification Are Fueling UPI Growth And Attracting Gen Z

How Paytm's AI And App Simplification Are Fueling UPI Growth And Attracting Gen Z

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Mobile payments pioneer Paytm reported significant growth in its UPI payments business for Q1 FY27, driven by app simplification, AI investments, and a focus on attracting Gen Z customers. The company saw a 45% year-on-year increase in Consumer UPI Gross Transaction Value and a rise of 60 lakh in Monthly Transacting Users, outpacing the industry. Paytm's strategy prioritises customer retention and product innovation, leading to a profitable quarter with strong revenue and EBITDA growth, further supported by AI-led operational efficiencies and an India-focused language model.

6 Couple Lessons: Why Zendaya And Tom Holland Are So Amazing

6 Couple Lessons: Why Zendaya And Tom Holland Are So Amazing

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

In a world where celebrity relationships often play out on social media, Tom Holland and Zendaya have quietly built one of Hollywood's most-loved romances.

Alia Bhatt's Sister Shaheen Gets Engaged to Ishaan Mehra

Alia Bhatt's Sister Shaheen Gets Engaged to Ishaan Mehra

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

Shaheen Bhatt, the elder sister of Alia Bhatt, has officially announced her engagement to her long-time boyfriend, former international swimmer and fitness trainer Ishaan Mehra.

J-K on high alert after spotting Pak drone, terrorists; search launched

J-K on high alert after spotting Pak drone, terrorists; search launched

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir launched extensive search operations in Kathua and Poonch districts following the sighting of a Pakistani drone near the International Border and inputs about suspected terrorist movement. An old mortar shell was also recovered in Kathua.

BCCI CoE still seeking Head of Sports Science amid injury concerns, says V V S Laxman

BCCI CoE still seeking Head of Sports Science amid injury concerns, says V V S Laxman

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

VVS Laxman, chief of the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE), confirmed that the search for a permanent Head of Sports Science and Medicine is ongoing, nearly 18 months after Nitin Patel's departure, despite mounting injury cases among Indian cricketers.

WATCH: Indian Idol 16 Winner Jyotirmayee Nayak Sings For Rediff

WATCH: Indian Idol 16 Winner Jyotirmayee Nayak Sings For Rediff

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Melodies from Jyotirmayee Nayak, the Indian Idol 16 winner.

BIS to scale up silver hallmarking, expand lab network amid rising demand

BIS to scale up silver hallmarking, expand lab network amid rising demand

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is preparing to significantly increase its silver jewellery testing capabilities and expand its national laboratory network, driven by a shift in consumer demand from gold to silver and a broader push for enhanced product certification and surveillance.

Before Awarapan 2, Emraan Hashmi's 10 Best Films, Ranked

Before Awarapan 2, Emraan Hashmi's 10 Best Films, Ranked

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Before Awarapan 2 tests his comeback, we revisit the 10 films that made Emraan Hashmi the ultimate frontbencher favourite.

Archer Jadhav finds Shane Watson's winning formula

Archer Jadhav finds Shane Watson's winning formula

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Indian archer Sahil Jadhav, preparing for the Asian Games, has found valuable insights into managing pressure and staying focused from former Australian cricketer Shane Watson's self-help book, 'The Winner's Mindset'.

Why Pakistan's Hangors Submarines Face India's ASW Shield

Why Pakistan's Hangors Submarines Face India's ASW Shield

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Hangors are effectively 'dead-on-arrival' with Pakistanis saddled with deadweights that displace around 3,000 tons. Last time it was near Vishakhapatnam. This time, barnacles will clog the Hangors in Karachi port itself, points out Dr Abhishek Puri.

Will India Extradite Sheikh Hasina?

Will India Extradite Sheikh Hasina?

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

India's position appears to be anchored around three red lines: Hasina's safety and the guarantee of a fair trial; assurances that Bangladeshi territory will not be used for activities hostile to India; and the restoration of an inclusive democratic process in Bangladesh.

Centre revives women's quota Bill, reaches out to Congress, DMK

Centre revives women's quota Bill, reaches out to Congress, DMK

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju met Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi to discuss resolving the persistent deadlock in the Lok Sabha's monsoon session, focusing on the Delimitation Bill and FCRA Bill, though no immediate commitment was secured from the Congress leader.

'A lot of progress made': Trump signals possible talks with Iran

'A lot of progress made': Trump signals possible talks with Iran

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

US President Donald Trump has indicated that 'a lot of progress' has been made regarding Iran, suggesting that Tehran has reached out for talks and that developments could become clearer within 48 hours.

Arrested JeM operative was tasked with tracking WB CM Adhikari's movements

Arrested JeM operative was tasked with tracking WB CM Adhikari's movements

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

A suspected Jaish-e-Mohammed operative, Hamim Mondal, was arrested for allegedly reconnoitering West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari's residence in Kolkata. The plot, directed by Pakistan-based handlers, involved tracking the CM's movements and identifying security vulnerabilities, with investigators probing potential links to ISI and a larger conspiracy for sabotage.

Rashmika Mandanna On Her Injury: 'It Hurts But...'

Rashmika Mandanna On Her Injury: 'It Hurts But...'

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Rashmika Mandanna sustained a severe hip injury during a strenuous dance shoot for her film Mysaa.

Cong, GFP begin alliance talks for 2027 Goa polls; AAP keen to join

Cong, GFP begin alliance talks for 2027 Goa polls; AAP keen to join

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

Opposition parties Congress and Goa Forward Party have commenced preliminary discussions for an alliance ahead of the 2027 state assembly polls, with the Aam Aadmi Party also indicating its willingness to join. The primary goal of these potential alliances is to challenge and defeat the ruling BJP government in Goa, which aims for a fourth consecutive term.

NEET-UG paper leak chargesheet cites accused's gate control app, digital trail

NEET-UG paper leak chargesheet cites accused's gate control app, digital trail

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

The CBI has filed a charge sheet in the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case, relying heavily on digital forensic evidence including an access control app and call data records. The investigation revealed that three NTA subject experts allegedly exploited procedural gaps to leak confidential questions for money, involving a beautician and a coaching centre owner in the distribution of the leaked material to aspirants.

After Modi post row, govt grills Meta on adherence to Indian laws

After Modi post row, govt grills Meta on adherence to Indian laws

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

The government is questioning the visiting Meta team on whether the company is adhering to the law of the land, following summons to the social media giant over temporary restriction of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Facebook post recently, sources said on Thursday.