News for 'Environment Ministry'

Rajasthan to begin e-auction to mine sandstone for Ram temple

Rajasthan to begin e-auction to mine sandstone for Ram temple

Rediff.com14 Jun 2021

The Rajasthan government will soon begin an online auction of a special pink sandstone variety, much sought after by builders including those constructing the Ram temple in Ayodhya, found in the Bansi Paharpur area of Bharatpur.

How Coal India is chasing the monsoon to reduce coal supply disruptions

How Coal India is chasing the monsoon to reduce coal supply disruptions

Rediff.com14 Aug 2022

Way before the rains arrived at Talwandi Sabo Power plant in Punjab, the one check the coal ministry was carrying out was the availability of coal stock with the generator. Talwandi Sabo Power Limited (TSPL), the 1,980-Mw thermal power plant of Sterlite Energy, part of the Vedanta Group, which supplies about 15 per cent of Punjab's power, is one of the most difficult locations to manage coal supplies. It is nearly 1,700 km from the mines of Mahanadi Coalfields in Odisha, the longest coal route in India and possibly the trickiest as it cuts through the traffic heavy rail lines between Delhi and eastern India.

Kerala protests ban on sale of cattle for slaughter, organises beef fests

Kerala protests ban on sale of cattle for slaughter, organises beef fests

Rediff.com27 May 2017

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan dashed off a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking his intervention for repealing the measure. He said the Centre's decision amounts to an "intrusion" to the rights of the states in the country's federal structure.

AK Antony's son quits Cong over Modi documentary

AK Antony's son quits Cong over Modi documentary

Rediff.com25 Jan 2023

Anil Antony announced his resignation via a tweet in which he said that he was getting "intolerant calls" to retract his tweet against the documentary and the "wall of hate/abuses" on Facebook over the same issue have prompted him to take the decision.

Modi lands in Bali for G20 summit, no word on meet with Xi

Modi lands in Bali for G20 summit, no word on meet with Xi

Rediff.com14 Nov 2022

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Bali on Monday for the G20 Summit and bilateral meetings on its sidelines with key leaders attending this annual conference of the world's major economies.

Why is the government reacting in fits and starts to Paris agreement

Why is the government reacting in fits and starts to Paris agreement

Rediff.com16 Mar 2016

The Niti Aayog has finalised the first draft of a new national energy policy.

In RS govt poohpoohs concerns over lack of nuclear safety

In RS govt poohpoohs concerns over lack of nuclear safety

Rediff.com4 Aug 2022

Union minister Jitendra Singh assured the members of the Rajya Sabha on Thursday that there is better nuclear safety in India as compared to many other countries and there are enough safeguards in the Indian nuclear plants.

Want democracy, statehood, 6th Schedule status: Protesting Ladakhis in Delhi

Want democracy, statehood, 6th Schedule status: Protesting Ladakhis in Delhi

Rediff.com15 Feb 2023

Environmental activist and educator Sonam Wangchuk accused the BJP of reneging on its promise of including Ladakh under the sixth schedule.

Exports record flat growth; trade deficit widens in Nov

Exports record flat growth; trade deficit widens in Nov

Rediff.com15 Dec 2022

India's exports recorded a flat growth of 0.59 per cent to $31.99 billion in November, even as trade deficit widened to $23.89 billion during the month, according to the data released by the government on Thursday. Exports stood at $31.8 billion in November last year. Imports rose by 5.37 per cent to $55.88 billion in November as compared to $53.03 billion in the corresponding month a year ago, the data showed. During April-November 2022, exports rose by 11 per cent to $295.26 billion as against $265.77 billion in the same month last year.

SJM warns govt over 'dangerous' GM mustard

SJM warns govt over 'dangerous' GM mustard

Rediff.com28 Oct 2022

The Swadeshi Jagran Manch (SJM) on Friday opposed a regulatory body's recommendation for environmental release of genetically modified mustard, calling it "dangerous" and urged the Centre to ensure that the crop's seed is not allowed to be planted "now or ever". In a letter to Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, the RSS-affiliated organisation accused the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) of functioning in an "irresponsible fashion" and said the claims made in support of genetically modified (GM) mustard were "completely untrue, unsubstantiated and wrongly projected". "Swadeshi Jagran Manch has all along been opposing this dangerous and unneeded GM mustard being brought in through the backdoor as a public sector genetically modified organism (GMO)," organisation co-convenor Ashwani Mahajan said in the letter.

Rise above politics, consider shifting Kuno cheetahs to Raj, SC tells Centre

Rise above politics, consider shifting Kuno cheetahs to Raj, SC tells Centre

Rediff.com18 May 2023

A bench of justices BR Gavai and Sanjay Karol told the Centre that from reports of experts and articles, it appears that KNP does not seem to be sufficient for such large number of cheetahs and the Union government may consider shifting them to other sanctuaries.

Nashik: 20 electric scooters of Jitendra EV loaded in container catch fire

Nashik: 20 electric scooters of Jitendra EV loaded in container catch fire

Rediff.com12 Apr 2022

In light of the recent incidents involving scooters from prominent electric mobility brands bursting into flames, the subject of electric vehicle (EV) safety has come under the spotlight. As many as 20 electric scooters of Nashik-based Jitendra EV Tech caught fire after being loaded on a transport container. While no one has been reported injured, the company said it is conducting an investigation to find the 'root cause' of the fire.

How dangerous is plastic packaging?

How dangerous is plastic packaging?

Rediff.com7 Jun 2016

After recognising its adverse health effects, the govt has now dismissed its own lab reports to conclude that the evidence against plastic is insufficient.

When Santa Wore A Red Sari

When Santa Wore A Red Sari

Rediff.com1 Feb 2023

The Budget oration of the finance minister and the confidence with which she delivered it, along with the measures and the recent upsurge in the economy would all contribute to unleashing the storied 'animal spirits' and help the economy run on the growth path quite smoothly. Or so the government hopes, notes Shreekant Sambrani.

Encroaching on others' rights, HC tells Jains seeking ban on meat ads

Encroaching on others' rights, HC tells Jains seeking ban on meat ads

Rediff.com26 Sep 2022

The Bombay high court on Monday asked three Jain religious charitable trusts and a city resident practising Jainism why they were seeking to encroach on the rights of others by appealing for restrictions or ban on advertisements for meat and meat products in print and electronic media.

Pak, India can resolve Kashmir issue through dialogue: Imran

Pak, India can resolve Kashmir issue through dialogue: Imran

Rediff.com26 Feb 2021

India has said that the onus is on Pakistan to create an environment free of terror and hostility.

'Dissatisfied' Pak seeks joint probe into missile firing incident

'Dissatisfied' Pak seeks joint probe into missile firing incident

Rediff.com12 Mar 2022

Pakistan on Saturday said it was not satisfied with India's 'simplistic explanation' on the 'accidental firing' of a missile that landed in Pakistan's Punjab province and demanded a joint probe to accurately establish the facts surrounding the incident.

Exclusive: 'The age of indecision has come to an end'

Exclusive: 'The age of indecision has come to an end'

Rediff.com28 Aug 2014

Prakash Javadekar enjoys being information and broadcasting and parliamentary affairs minister, but heading the green ministry is turning out to be thornier than he had expected.

Bhupendra Patel takes oath as Gujarat CM, allots portfolios

Bhupendra Patel takes oath as Gujarat CM, allots portfolios

Rediff.com13 Dec 2022

Patel was administered the oath as the 18th chief minister by Governor Acharya Devvrat at a function held at the Helipad Ground near the new Secretariat.

Modi to discuss 'key issues' with G20 leaders in Bali

Modi to discuss 'key issues' with G20 leaders in Bali

Rediff.com14 Nov 2022

In a statement ahead of his visit to the Indonesian city for the G20 leaders' summit, Modi said he will also highlight India's achievements and its 'unwavering commitment' to collectively address key global issues.

With eyes on China, India, Japan agree to bolster defence ties

With eyes on China, India, Japan agree to bolster defence ties

Rediff.com8 Sep 2022

India and Japan on Thursday agreed to enhance military exercises and defence cooperation as the two countries emphasised that the bilateral special strategic and global partnership plays a crucial role in ensuring a free, open and rules-based Indo-Pacific, amidst China's aggressive behaviour in the region.

Prakash Javadekar tests positive for COVID-19

Prakash Javadekar tests positive for COVID-19

Rediff.com16 Apr 2021

Several top political leaders, including Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa, have also tested positive for COVID-19 recently.

'Still optimistic about the long-term India growth story'

'Still optimistic about the long-term India growth story'

Rediff.com16 Sep 2013

We dance on every small achievement and forget the long-term objectives: Ajit Gulabchand, MD, Hindustan Construction Company.

Himanta inducts 2 cabinet ministers, rejigs several seniors' portfolios

Himanta inducts 2 cabinet ministers, rejigs several seniors' portfolios

Rediff.com9 Jun 2022

The expansion was the first by Sarma since he assumed chief ministership of the state about 13 months ago.

Modi is following the Gujarat model of governance

Modi is following the Gujarat model of governance

Rediff.com11 Jul 2016

'He selects certain portfolios that he has personal interest in, and he does not give them to a senior leader. The responsibility is given to a junior minister who then directly reports to Modi or to the small team of bureaucrats working with Modi.' 'I noticed this first in Gujarat where Modi worked mainly with two ministers, Saurabh Patel and Amit Shah,' says Aakar Patel.

Will L'affaire Adani Affect Modi's Image?

Will L'affaire Adani Affect Modi's Image?

Rediff.com21 Feb 2023

Gautam Adani's alleged proximity to Narendra Modi may dent the latter's self-styled image of incorruptibility, points out Kanika Datta.

No extension in AGM deadline beyond June 30, 2022

No extension in AGM deadline beyond June 30, 2022

Rediff.com10 Dec 2021

The ministry of corporate affairs has clarified that companies whose annual general meetings are due in 2021 have to conduct them within the specified time limit and video conferencing is allowed till June 30,2022. MCA has said that its circular should not be construed as conferring any extension of time for holding annual general meetings by the companies under the Companies Act, 2013. "Companies which have not adhered to the timelines shall be liable to legal action under the appropriate provisions of the Act," MCA said. In September, MCA had allowed a two-month extension to the deadline for companies to hold their annual general meeting for the financial year ending March 31, 2021.

Philippines in talks with India to procure advanced light helicopters

Philippines in talks with India to procure advanced light helicopters

Rediff.com17 Jul 2022

The Southeast Asian nation has been focusing on modernising its military in the face of myriad security challenges as well as decades-long territorial disputes with China in the South China Sea.

SC allows double lane for Chardham over security concerns

SC allows double lane for Chardham over security concerns

Rediff.com14 Dec 2021

The strategic 900-km-long Chardham project worth Rs 12,000 crore aims to provide all-weather connectivity to four holy towns -- Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath -- in Uttarakhand.

'Absolutely unacceptable': US condemns attack on Indian consulate

'Absolutely unacceptable': US condemns attack on Indian consulate

Rediff.com21 Mar 2023

Raising pro-Khalistan slogans, the protesters on Sunday broke open the makeshift security barriers raised by the city police and installed two so-called Khalistan flags inside the Consulate premises. Two consulate personnel soon removed these flags.

Ahead of Diwali, Delhi government again bans firecrackers till January 1

Ahead of Diwali, Delhi government again bans firecrackers till January 1

Rediff.com7 Sep 2022

There will be a blanket ban on the production, sale and use of all types of firecrackers in the national capital, including on Diwali, till January 1, 2023, Environment Minister Gopal Rai said on Wednesday.

483 infra projects show cost overruns of Rs 4.43 lakh cr

483 infra projects show cost overruns of Rs 4.43 lakh cr

Rediff.com22 Aug 2021

As many as 483 infrastructure projects, each worth Rs 150 crore or more, have been hit by cost overruns totalling more than Rs 4.43 lakh crore, according to a report. The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation monitors infrastructure projects worth Rs 150 crore and above. Of the 1,781 such projects, 483 reported cost overruns and 504 were delayed.

Pay fine by tomorrow or face action: NGT to Sri Sri

Pay fine by tomorrow or face action: NGT to Sri Sri

Rediff.com10 Mar 2016

The tribunal also refused to give an urgent hearing on a fresh plea seeking stay on the three-day event on the banks of river Yamuna from Friday, alleging that AOL has not taken permissions from the competent authority as directed by the tribunal.

Modi's dream: Of drones and technology

Modi's dream: Of drones and technology

Rediff.com27 May 2022

There was an environment of "indifference" towards the use of technology in governance before 2014 due to which the poor and the middle class suffered the most, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday. He asserted the current government has ensured last-mile delivery of services with the help of technology, including drones. Addressing a gathering after inaugurating India's biggest drone festival in Delhi, he said, "At a time when we are celebrating Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, it is my dream that everyone in India should have a smartphone in his or her hand, every farm should have a drone and every house should have prosperity." The enthusiasm being seen in India about drone technology is amazing and indicates possibilities of an emerging sector of employment generation, the prime minister said.

NBCC defends decision to fell 14,000 trees, to compensate by planting 2 lakh

NBCC defends decision to fell 14,000 trees, to compensate by planting 2 lakh

Rediff.com25 Jun 2018

At a press conference, the NBCC CMD defended the move, saying it is a sacrifice that one has to make for development and they would be compensating by increasing the green cover 15 times.

Dry run for Covid vaccination in all states, UTs on Jan 2

Dry run for Covid vaccination in all states, UTs on Jan 2

Rediff.com31 Dec 2020

A dry run for COVID-19 vaccination will be conducted by all state and union territory administrations on January 2 to test the linkages between planning and implementation and to identify the challenges, the Centre said on Thursday.

SC raises ceiling for iron ore mining in 3 K'taka districts including Ballari

SC raises ceiling for iron ore mining in 3 K'taka districts including Ballari

Rediff.com26 Aug 2022

The apex court raised the ceiling limit of iron ore mining from 28 MMT to 35 MMT for Ballari district, and from 7 MMT to 15 MMT for Chitradurga and Tumkur districts.

No plans to shift ATC tower, says Mumbai airport

No plans to shift ATC tower, says Mumbai airport

Rediff.com21 Apr 2016

Officials also denied that security concern regarding construction of multi-level parking lot near the ATC tower was behind the idea to build control tower in Kalina

Won't pay fine, ready to go to jail, says Sri Sri on Yamuna event

Won't pay fine, ready to go to jail, says Sri Sri on Yamuna event

Rediff.com10 Mar 2016

The guru described the Central government and the Aam Aadmi Party government in Delhi as "intelligent" for supporting the event.