News for 'Essential Services'

The Insurance Add-On Every Car Owner Needs This Monsoon

The Insurance Add-On Every Car Owner Needs This Monsoon

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Protect your vehicle from the unpredictable monsoon season by understanding essential motor insurance add-ons like Engine Protect and Zero Depreciation, crucial for covering damages from floods, waterlogging, and preventing costly out-of-pocket expenses.

Land, business reforms key to India's next phase of growth, say economists

Land, business reforms key to India's next phase of growth, say economists

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Economists highlight that resolving domestic policy bottlenecks, particularly through land reforms and improving the ease of doing business, will be critical for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'next-generation reforms' and India's economic transformation towards its 'Viksit Bharat' vision for 2047.

Beware! Are You Using Your Phone In The Dark?

Beware! Are You Using Your Phone In The Dark?

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Ophthalmologist Dr Ravindra Mohan explains the potential risks of prolonged screen exposure and how excessive screen use in the dark can affect your eyes.

8 Foods To Boost Your Immunity This Monsoon

8 Foods To Boost Your Immunity This Monsoon

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Consultant-Clinical Dietitian Sabah Ghare recommends why you must include seasonal fruits like jamun along with colourful veggies in your monsoon diet.

'A Student's Life Can't Be Held Hostage To A 3-Hour Performance'

'A Student's Life Can't Be Held Hostage To A 3-Hour Performance'

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Education sector experts agree that using the "best technology" was essential to ensure students did not have to sit for an examination all over again because of a question paper leak.

'Not in NDA': NCPI MP Taher clarifies why he joined Modi for breakfast

'Not in NDA': NCPI MP Taher clarifies why he joined Modi for breakfast

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Nationalist Citizens Party of India leader Abu Taher attended a breakfast meeting hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for NDA allies but asserted that his party is not part of the ruling alliance. He stated his attendance was solely to raise public issues directly with the Prime Minister.

How Drones Are Revolutionising Flood Rescue In Gujarat

How Drones Are Revolutionising Flood Rescue In Gujarat

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

A Mehsana-based startup, Prime UAV, deployed drones to assist in the evacuation of people stranded due to floods in Dholka, Ahmedabad district. The drones provided surveillance, delivered essential supplies, and supported rescue operations in inaccessible areas, complementing efforts by local administration and the Army.

Pune Gas Agency Under Scrutiny for Illegally Stocking LPG Cylinders Amid Shortage Fears

Pune Gas Agency Under Scrutiny for Illegally Stocking LPG Cylinders Amid Shortage Fears

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

A gas agency in Pimpri Chinchwad, Pune, is under investigation after authorities discovered 57 illegally stocked LPG cylinders, amidst concerns about potential shortages due to the West Asia crisis.

Retail inflation climbs to 4.45% in July, driven by soaring food prices

Retail inflation climbs to 4.45% in July, driven by soaring food prices

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

India's retail inflation, measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), rose to 4.45 per cent in July, up from 4.38 per cent in June, primarily due to higher food prices, particularly onions and ginger. This marks the second consecutive month the inflation rate has remained above the Reserve Bank's median target.

India Launches AI Champions Programme For Digital Governance

India Launches AI Champions Programme For Digital Governance

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

A three-day 'AI Champions for Digital Governance' programme has commenced in New Delhi, hosted by ITDC, SCOPE, and LBSNAA. The initiative aims to train senior leadership and operational teams in applying artificial intelligence within public sector organisations, aligning with the IndiaAI Mission. Experts highlighted AI's role in improving efficiency, productivity, and public service delivery, while also emphasising responsible adoption and data quality. The programme seeks to build an AI-ready nation and contribute to India's vision of future-ready governance systems.

India Launches AI Champions Programme For Digital Governance

India Launches AI Champions Programme For Digital Governance

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

A three-day 'AI Champions for Digital Governance' programme has commenced in New Delhi, hosted by ITDC, SCOPE, and LBSNAA. The initiative aims to train senior leadership and operational teams in applying artificial intelligence within public sector organisations, aligning with the IndiaAI Mission. Experts highlighted AI's role in improving efficiency, productivity, and public service delivery, while also emphasising responsible adoption and data quality. The programme seeks to build an AI-ready nation and contribute to India's vision of future-ready governance systems.

Youth probably thinks freedom is doing whatever it feels, but...: Doval

Youth probably thinks freedom is doing whatever it feels, but...: Doval

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has urged India's youth to dedicate themselves entirely to national interest, rising above personal gains to capitalise on the current 'window of opportunity' for building a stronger nation. He emphasised that true freedom is not merely doing what one wants, but involves commitment and sacrifice for the country's progress.

Free Haircuts Bring Smiles After Assam Floods

Free Haircuts Bring Smiles After Assam Floods

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

It has offered a rare moment of relief, allowing them to sit down, talk, smile and feel human again amid days of uncertainty and hardship.

Financial Sector Can't Wait for AI Risks to Emerge, Says CEA

Financial Sector Can't Wait for AI Risks to Emerge, Says CEA

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Chief Economic Advisor V Anantha Nageswaran has stressed the urgent need for India's financial sector to proactively address the safety and security risks of artificial intelligence, stating that waiting for problems to materialise is not an option.

How Ricky Ponting helped Punjab Kings' Wadhera during tough times in IPL 2026

How Ricky Ponting helped Punjab Kings' Wadhera during tough times in IPL 2026

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Punjab Kings' Nehal Wadhera said head coach Ricky Ponting personally approached him and offered reassurance at a time when his confidence was affected by his lack of runs during IPL 2026.

RBI Governor Discusses Future Of Digital Payment Merchant Discount Rate

RBI Governor Discusses Future Of Digital Payment Merchant Discount Rate

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra stated it is "premature" to discuss the implementation of Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) for digital payments, advising a "wait-and-watch" approach. He emphasised that investment in public payment infrastructure is necessary and someone must bear the cost, whether through taxes or MDR. The government is currently working on amendments to relevant statutes, and the RBI is focused on strengthening this infrastructure.

Instamart Debuts On-Demand LPG Delivery

Instamart Debuts On-Demand LPG Delivery

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

The launch also marks the debut of HPCL's newly launched HP Navya, its next-generation 10 kg composite LPG cylinder, on Instamart.

Infection risk looms large as CJP protesters fall ill

Infection risk looms large as CJP protesters fall ill

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Protesters at Jantar Mantar are facing significant health challenges due to scorching heat, high humidity, and overcrowding, leading to widespread viral infections, dehydration, and injuries. Volunteer doctors are providing essential medical care amidst these difficult conditions.

How Gen Z Can Build Wealth With 20% Rule

How Gen Z Can Build Wealth With 20% Rule

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

'Users should protect their savings goals before allocating money to discretionary expenditure.'

Youth Protests: Political Parties Must Absorb An Important Lesson

Youth Protests: Political Parties Must Absorb An Important Lesson

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Voters who exercise their franchise in favour of a particular political dispensation do not do so unconditionally. Their loyalty is subject to maintaining trust and living up to their expectations. It is subject to allowing the freedoms guaranteed under the Constitution, points out Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta (retd).

Why Bank Frauds Keep Rising

Why Bank Frauds Keep Rising

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

'It's not about individuals operating the mule accounts being more or less skilled. Instead, 'lower-level' refers to the role the individual account plays in the broader mule network.'

Easy Loans: 5 Rules Every Borrower Should Follow

Easy Loans: 5 Rules Every Borrower Should Follow

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

The most financially successful borrowers will not necessarily be those who have the easiest access to credit. They will be the ones who understand how to manage it wisely

What Is Analogue Paneer? Why Have The Maharashtra, Gujarat Governments Banned It For A Year?

What Is Analogue Paneer? Why Have The Maharashtra, Gujarat Governments Banned It For A Year?

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

After Maharashtra's crackdown on analogue paneer, here's what dietitians say about its nutritional value, health concerns and how to choose fresh paneer.

Why Have Flipkart, Netflix Tied Up?

Why Have Flipkart, Netflix Tied Up?

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

'GenZ today is close to 45 to 50 per cent of the overall shopping journeys in the country. They are also very content-first in terms of entertainment or otherwise, general gratification of content and discovery.'

EPFO to credit 8.25% PF interest by July 15 to 34 crore members

EPFO to credit 8.25% PF interest by July 15 to 34 crore members

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is set to credit the 8.25 per cent interest on provident funds for FY26 to 34 crore member accounts by July 15, enabled by its new centralised IT system (CITES). This upgrade promises enhanced operational efficiency, transparent services, and easier access to PF details and claims for members.

60-day prohibitory orders in Dharmatala ahead of TMC's July 21 rally

60-day prohibitory orders in Dharmatala ahead of TMC's July 21 rally

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

The Kolkata police on Tuesday imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) in the Dharmatala area, including the traditional venue of Trinamool Congress' annual July 21 Martyrs' Day rally, for 60 days, citing intelligence inputs about possible violent demonstrations that could disrupt public order and traffic.

Bhumi Pednekkar: 'Assam Really Needs Our Support'

Bhumi Pednekkar: 'Assam Really Needs Our Support'

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Entire villages have been washed away, animals have been washed away. Whatever they had, everything is finished.'

Meghalaya 'Bans' Quick Commerce

Meghalaya 'Bans' Quick Commerce

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

At the heart of the decision is concern over the survival of Meghalaya's neighbourhood retailers.

Govt restricts bulk petrol, diesel purchases from retail pumps

Govt restricts bulk petrol, diesel purchases from retail pumps

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

The Indian government has restricted industrial, commercial, and institutional users from purchasing petrol and diesel from retail petrol pumps, directing them to bulk sale points instead. This move, which can last up to 90 days, aims to address abnormal demand growth and prevent localised shortages caused by a significant price difference between retail and bulk fuel prices.

Education Loans: What You Must Know

Education Loans: What You Must Know

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Education loan defaults carry serious consequences. Credit bureaus record missed payments against both the student and the co-borrower, usually a parent.

Awarapan 2 Review: Emraan Hashmi Goes Massy

Awarapan 2 Review: Emraan Hashmi Goes Massy

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Awarapan 2 may give Emraan Hashmi the massy comeback his fans have been waiting for, but nostalgia can only do so much, notes Sreeju Sudhakaran.

Nifty Recovery Faces 200-DMA Hurdle

Nifty Recovery Faces 200-DMA Hurdle

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Nearly 50 per cent of the stocks that comprise the Nifty 50 are trading below their respective 200-DMAs.

Assam floods worsen, 41 killed so far, over 6.5 lakh affected

Assam floods worsen, 41 killed so far, over 6.5 lakh affected

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Assam faces a severe flood crisis with 41 deaths and over 6.5 lakh people displaced, prompting intensified rescue operations and a critical alert for continued heavy rainfall.

Why EPFO Mandated 25% PF Balance

Why EPFO Mandated 25% PF Balance

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

EPFO said the measure could substantially improve retirement outcomes with nearly half its members expected to see an increase of up to 35 times in their old-age savings.

Enemy nations use drugs to weaken India's youths under terror plan: Modi

Enemy nations use drugs to weaken India's youths under terror plan: Modi

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday asked the country's youth to take a pledge against substance abuse, saying drugs can give them a "high" for some time, but would make their entire career and personal life "low".

US troops set to leave Iraq after 23 years

US troops set to leave Iraq after 23 years

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

The United States military is scheduled to complete its withdrawal from Iraq by September 30, marking the end of a 23-year deployment that began with the 2003 invasion and later focused on combating the Islamic State group.

BRICS Nations Strengthen Health Cooperation Through Digital Innovation

BRICS Nations Strengthen Health Cooperation Through Digital Innovation

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava highlighted the strong health cooperation within BRICS, emphasising the critical role of digital health and artificial intelligence in ensuring continuity of care. Speaking at the 16th BRICS Health Ministers' meeting, she noted shared challenges among member nations and showcased India's advancements in digital health infrastructure and AI strategy.

World IVF Day: 10 Habits That Lower Sperm Count

World IVF Day: 10 Habits That Lower Sperm Count

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

From what goes on your plate to how long someone sits with a laptop on their lap, seemingly harmless habits can make a big difference, warns says Dr Aakil Khan, consultant and urologist at KIMS Hospitals, Thane.

Mizoram Shuts Schools, Offices Half-Day For FIFA Final

Mizoram Shuts Schools, Offices Half-Day For FIFA Final

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

Mizoram has declared a full holiday for educational institutions and a half-day for government offices to allow residents to watch the FIFA World Cup final. Chief Minister Lalduhoma highlighted the state's passion for football and the importance of the sport to its youth.

AMD Unveils New AI Products, Forecasts $2 Trillion Compute Market By 2030

AMD Unveils New AI Products, Forecasts $2 Trillion Compute Market By 2030

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Global semiconductor giant AMD projects the overall market for compute infrastructure, driven by artificial intelligence, to reach USD 2 trillion by 2030 from USD 365 billion in 2025. The company unveiled new products and its Helios AI infrastructure, emphasising an open ecosystem and significant performance gains over competitors, with India playing a key role in its global rollout.