News for 'External Affairs'

In Norway, India rejects allegations of violation of human rights

In Norway, India rejects allegations of violation of human rights

Rediff.com20 May 2026

India has reiterated its commitment to human rights and democracy following criticism from a Norwegian newspaper commentator during Prime Minister Modi's visit to Norway.

'Contact with Iran difficult': Jaishankar outlines India's position on Middle East war

'Contact with Iran difficult': Jaishankar outlines India's position on Middle East war

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar addressed the Rajya Sabha on India's position regarding the escalating conflict in West Asia, emphasising the need for peace, dialogue, and the safety of civilians, while also prioritising India's energy security and trade interests.

Body of UP man killed in Riyadh missile attack brought to native village

Body of UP man killed in Riyadh missile attack brought to native village

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

The mortal remains of a 26-year-old man from Uttar Pradesh, who was killed in a suspected missile attack in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, have been returned to his family in Sitapur. Ravi Gopal, who worked as a driver, died on March 18. The Ministry of External Affairs has expressed condolences and facilitated the repatriation of his body.

India, US chief negotiators to begin three-day trade pact talks in Washington from Apr 20

India, US chief negotiators to begin three-day trade pact talks in Washington from Apr 20

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

Chief negotiators from India and the US are set to begin three-day talks in Washington to recalibrate the bilateral trade agreement (BTA) framework, following significant changes in the US tariff landscape, including a new 10 per cent tariff imposed on all countries.

Russia offers to boost oil, gas supplies to India amidst West Asia turmoil

Russia offers to boost oil, gas supplies to India amidst West Asia turmoil

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

Amidst global energy market volatility driven by the West Asia crisis, Russia has proposed increasing its crude oil and natural gas supplies to India, strengthening bilateral energy ties and aiming for USD 100 billion in annual trade by 2030.

Jaishankar explains why India let Iran warship dock in Kochi

Jaishankar explains why India let Iran warship dock in Kochi

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar affirms India's self-determined and 'unstoppable' rise, emphasising the nation's strategic growth and role in the Indian Ocean region amid evolving global dynamics.

India-bound LPG tanker safely passes through Strait Of Hormuz

India-bound LPG tanker safely passes through Strait Of Hormuz

Rediff.com3 May 2026

A tanker carrying liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) for India has successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz and is en route to Visakhapatnam, India, carrying enough cargo to meet half a day's requirement for the country.

Indian Techies Face Green Card Uncertainty

Indian Techies Face Green Card Uncertainty

Rediff.com25 May 2026

This could come as a setback to thousands of Indian engineers who have waited for years for their work visas to pave the way for the coveted Green Card.

'Why Did US Shoot A Missile Killing Indians?'

'Why Did US Shoot A Missile Killing Indians?'

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

'The US was well aware of the nationality of the seafarers on board the vessels. It was not hidden. The nationality of those aboard a merchant ship is known to all the ports.' 'So, why did US shoot a missile that resulted in the deaths of the Indian mariners?'

'USA-Iran Deal Is Not Enforceable'

'USA-Iran Deal Is Not Enforceable'

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

'Actual implementation of the 14-point agreement is proving hard to achieve let alone striking and sustaining a long-term treaty or deal.'

Two More Stranded Odisha Workers Return from Thailand

Two More Stranded Odisha Workers Return from Thailand

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

Two more workers from Odisha who were stranded in Thailand have returned home after the state government intervened. This follows the return of four other workers last week. The workers had faced hardships including non-payment of wages.

Iran war: Centre announces Rs 497 crore export relief package

Iran war: Centre announces Rs 497 crore export relief package

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

In view of the disruptive situations, the Central government has also announced a financial relief package of Rs 497 crores aimed at helping exporters affected by disruptions in West Asia.

Attack On Indian Sailors: Is India Rewriting Its US Playbook?

Attack On Indian Sailors: Is India Rewriting Its US Playbook?

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

India's foreign policy establishment is adjusting with alacrity in real time -- an extraordinary spectacle in itself, considering the manifest reluctance to indulge in public diplomacy critical of American moves, observes Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

External Affairs Minister Swaraj in Lanka ahead of Modi visit

External Affairs Minister Swaraj in Lanka ahead of Modi visit

Rediff.com6 Mar 2015

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj arrived in Colombo on Friday on a two-day trip to set the stage for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Sri Lanka next week, the first bilateral visit to the country by an Indian premier in over 25 years.

Vijay orders closure of 717 liquor outlets; DMK mocks, PMK welcomes move

Vijay orders closure of 717 liquor outlets; DMK mocks, PMK welcomes move

Rediff.com12 May 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has ordered the closure of 717 retail liquor outlets across the state, responding to public demand, particularly from women and political parties.

Subhash Kashyap: A Titan Passes Into The Ages

Subhash Kashyap: A Titan Passes Into The Ages

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Dr Subhash Kashyap not only enhanced Parliament's image in India and abroad, but also the position of Lok Sabha secretary-general which succeeding secretary-generals have upheld thorough neutrality, objectivity and high degree of professionalism, notes Rup Narayan Das.

India, US in talks for mutually beneficial trade agreement

India, US in talks for mutually beneficial trade agreement

Rediff.com30 Jan 2026

The Indian government informed Parliament that India and the US are engaged in negotiations for a mutually beneficial multi-sectoral bilateral trade agreement. The two countries also cooperate on strategic, economic, and defense matters, managing divergences through high-level dialogues.

Nigerian Man Dies After Being Apprehended by Delhi Police: What We Know

Nigerian Man Dies After Being Apprehended by Delhi Police: What We Know

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

A 32-year-old Nigerian national died after being apprehended by Delhi Police during an operation. An investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding his death.

India 'deplores' attack on Gujarat-bound ship in Strait of Hormuz

India 'deplores' attack on Gujarat-bound ship in Strait of Hormuz

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

India has condemned the escalating attacks on commercial shipping in West Asia, particularly after a Thai-flagged vessel en route to India's Kandla Port was targeted in the Strait of Hormuz. The attacks have disrupted global oil and gas supplies, impacting India's energy imports.

Now, North, South Blocks to showcase 5,000 years of Indian history

Now, North, South Blocks to showcase 5,000 years of Indian history

Rediff.com31 May 2026

Work has commenced on restoring the North and South Blocks to their original design, paving the way for the Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum project, with a target completion date for the first phase set for 2028.

Stop fuelling terror next door, Jaishankar tells Poland

Stop fuelling terror next door, Jaishankar tells Poland

Rediff.com20 Jan 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar conveyed a strong message to his Polish counterpart Radoslaw Sikorski regarding terrorism and the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing the need for zero-tolerance towards terrorism and criticizing the selective targeting of India.

India rejects reference to PM Modi in Epstein files

India rejects reference to PM Modi in Epstein files

Rediff.com31 Jan 2026

India has strongly rejected a reference to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the investigative files related to Jeffrey Epstein, dismissing it as baseless and contemptible.

West Asia crisis: MEA sets up control room for Indians

West Asia crisis: MEA sets up control room for Indians

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

Amid escalating tensions in West Asia, the Indian government has established a control room to provide crucial support and assistance to the nearly one crore Indian citizens residing in the region.

Why Taiwan Is At The Heart Of US-China Rivalry

Why Taiwan Is At The Heart Of US-China Rivalry

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

For the foreseeable future, the most likely outcome remains continuation of the status quo. Taiwan will remain self-governing without formally declaring independence, while China continues to apply sustained pressure short of war, predict Krishnan Srinivasan and Manoj Mohanka.

Modi speaks to France, Oman, Malaysia leaders amid Gulf energy hub strikes

Modi speaks to France, Oman, Malaysia leaders amid Gulf energy hub strikes

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Amidst escalating tensions in West Asia, India strongly condemns the recent attacks on energy infrastructure, warning of further destabilisation to the already uncertain global energy market.

Karnataka CM Asks Modi to Ensure Safety of Indians in Middle East

Karnataka CM Asks Modi to Ensure Safety of Indians in Middle East

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take measures to protect Indian citizens in the Middle East due to escalating geopolitical tensions, including initiating evacuation plans and enhancing diplomatic efforts.

Trump is not going to make a 'bad deal': Marco Rubio

Trump is not going to make a 'bad deal': Marco Rubio

Rediff.com25 May 2026

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that significant progress has been made in negotiations with Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping lane. However, President Donald Trump remains cautious, vowing not to accept a 'bad deal' regarding Iran's nuclear programme and regional stability.

Iran attack: PV Sindhu among hundreds of Indians stranded in Dubai

Iran attack: PV Sindhu among hundreds of Indians stranded in Dubai

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

Following attacks in West Asia, hundreds of Indians, including prominent personalities, are stranded in Dubai and other key hub airports due to flight disruptions, prompting appeals for government assistance.

Illegal migration impact spreads beyond border areas: Govt

Illegal migration impact spreads beyond border areas: Govt

Rediff.com27 May 2026

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs has formed a High-Level Committee on Demographic Changes to study the impact of illegal immigration and other factors on India's demographic landscape.

'Distorted': India slams US body's call for sanctions on R&AW, RSS

'Distorted': India slams US body's call for sanctions on R&AW, RSS

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

India has rejected a report by the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) that criticised India's record on religious freedom and called for linking US security assistance and trade to improvements in this area.

217 Indians joined Russian forces during Ukraine war, 49 dead: Govt to SC

217 Indians joined Russian forces during Ukraine war, 49 dead: Govt to SC

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The Centre has informed the Supreme Court that 217 Indian nationals reportedly joined the Russian armed forces, with 49 fatalities amid the Russia-Ukraine war, and efforts are underway to repatriate those who were misled.

HC closes Celina Jaitly plea on brother's UAE detention

HC closes Celina Jaitly plea on brother's UAE detention

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

The Delhi High Court has closed proceedings on Celina Jaitly's petition regarding her brother Vikrant Jaitly's detention in the UAE, directing the Centre to continue providing legal assistance.

Indian Man Dies in Suspected Missile Strike in Riyadh, Family Appeals for Help

Indian Man Dies in Suspected Missile Strike in Riyadh, Family Appeals for Help

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

A 26-year-old Indian man working in Riyadh has reportedly been killed in a suspected missile attack, according to his family. They are seeking official confirmation and assistance from the Indian government to repatriate his body.

Jaishankar hands over Modi's letter to Zia's family

Jaishankar hands over Modi's letter to Zia's family

Rediff.com31 Dec 2025

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar handed over a letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to BNP leader Tarique Rahman, conveying condolences after the death of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. Jaishankar's visit comes amid existing tensions between India and Bangladesh.

West Asia conflict: 170 Indians cross into Armenia from Iran, says govt

West Asia conflict: 170 Indians cross into Armenia from Iran, says govt

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

The Indian embassy in Tehran has earlier stated that it is facilitating the safe movement of nationals who wish to leave Iran.

Iranian FM Araghchi arrives in India for BRICS summit; to meet Jaishankar

Iranian FM Araghchi arrives in India for BRICS summit; to meet Jaishankar

Rediff.com14 May 2026

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is in India for a BRICS foreign ministers' meeting, where discussions will focus on the escalating crisis in West Asia and its impact on global energy supply chains.

Iran blames UAE after BRICS ministers fail to agree on joint declaration

Iran blames UAE after BRICS ministers fail to agree on joint declaration

Rediff.com16 May 2026

The BRICS foreign ministers' meeting in New Delhi concluded without a joint statement due to disagreements over the West Asia conflict, with Iran blaming the UAE for the lack of consensus. India, as the host, issued a chair's statement highlighting the differing views.

In UAE, Modi offers help to end West Asia crisis

In UAE, Modi offers help to end West Asia crisis

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has offered India's support to bring peace to West Asia during talks with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Both countries signed agreements to strengthen strategic collaborations in energy and defence.

'Untenable': India rejects Nepal's claim over Kailash Yatra route

'Untenable': India rejects Nepal's claim over Kailash Yatra route

Rediff.com4 May 2026

India has firmly rejected Nepal's objection to the upcoming Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via the Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand, dismissing Kathmandu's territorial claims over the region.

India Brings Back Wanted Gangster Sahil Chauhan from Thailand

India Brings Back Wanted Gangster Sahil Chauhan from Thailand

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

Gangster Sahil Chauhan, wanted in multiple cases and subject to an Interpol Red Notice, has been deported from Thailand to India. This marks the fifth deportation secured by Haryana Police this year as they crack down on organised crime.