News for 'First Citizen'

The Long Road To Viksit Bharat

The Long Road To Viksit Bharat

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The question for the next 20 years is not whether India can become a $5 trillion or $10 trillion economy. Those are attractive targets, but the real question is whether India can create enough productive jobs, educate its children properly, make its cities liveable, and give hundreds of millions of people a substantially better life, asserts Ramesh Menon.

7 Scams That Can Empty Your Bank Account

7 Scams That Can Empty Your Bank Account

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

A frozen phone screen, a fake customer-care call, a screen-sharing request or even a duplicate SIM can give cybercriminals a route into your bank account.

How India Post Is Revolutionising Last-Mile Connectivity With Drone Delivery

How India Post Is Revolutionising Last-Mile Connectivity With Drone Delivery

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

The Department of Posts successfully conducted its first-ever drone delivery of the National Flag from Mandi to Rehardhar in Himachal Pradesh. This initiative, overseen by Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, highlights the integration of technology with public service to enhance last-mile connectivity in challenging terrains and supports the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign.

Why More Private Invits Are Shifting to Public Listings

Why More Private Invits Are Shifting to Public Listings

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

At least four to five privately placed infrastructure investment trusts (Invits) are expected to transition to public listings by the end of the 2026-27 financial year, significantly increasing the number of publicly traded Invits to 12-14, according to N S Venkatesh, CEO of the Bharat Invits Association (BIA).

Doing Your PhD? You Could Get A Rs 33,000 Scholarship

Doing Your PhD? You Could Get A Rs 33,000 Scholarship

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Fund invites applications for Jawaharlal Nehru Scholarships for Doctoral Studies for the year 2026. A candidate may apply for scholarship in any one of the following areas of specialization:: Indian History & Civilization, Sociology, Comparative Studies in Religion & Culture, Ecology & Environment and Economics

BJP to launch month-long campaign on Modi's birthday

BJP to launch month-long campaign on Modi's birthday

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

The BJP has announced a month-long 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan' campaign, starting on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday, September 17, to commemorate his 25 years in public life. The initiative includes various programmes like 'Seva Diwas', 'Ashirwad Ka Diya', 'Seva Jyoti Kalash Yatra', youth yatras, and innovation challenges, all aimed at public participation and promoting the vision of 'Viksit Bharat 2047'.

'China's Biggest Threat Is Not America, But The Dalai Lama'

'China's Biggest Threat Is Not America, But The Dalai Lama'

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

'I know China will implode. It is scientifically impossible for China to control a nation through the barrel of a gun.'

Don't travel abroad, don't buy gold: Modi's advice despite GDP growth

Don't travel abroad, don't buy gold: Modi's advice despite GDP growth

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded India's 7.8 per cent GDP growth, achieved despite global conflicts and instability. He emphasised the importance of Swadeshi and self-reliance for a developed India by its 100th year of Independence, urging citizens to avoid unnecessary foreign expenditures.

Maha FDA unveils permanent food safety calendar for festivals

Maha FDA unveils permanent food safety calendar for festivals

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Maharashtra's Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has introduced a permanent, year-round food safety calendar to ensure public health during major festivals. This first-of-its-kind initiative categorises festivals into three levels and implements a four-stage inspection mechanism, focusing on preventing adulteration and unsafe food practices for high-demand products like sweets, dairy, and edible oils.

Brazilian Legend Cafu Calls On India To Embrace Football Potential

Brazilian Legend Cafu Calls On India To Embrace Football Potential

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

Legendary Brazilian captain Cafu has urged India to shed its "tiny status" mindset in football and believe in its potential for growth, offering Brazil's cooperation. He responded to Bhaichung Bhutia's concerns about an India-Brazil friendly, emphasising the importance of grassroots development and international collaboration, drawing parallels with Japan and China's success. Cafu also shared his personal journey of overcoming doubts to become a football legend.

Abhishek Banerjee rules out TMC return for 'traitors'

Abhishek Banerjee rules out TMC return for 'traitors'

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

Trinamool Congress national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee on Friday said not a single "traitor", who crossed over to the dissident factions to "protect their backs", will be allowed to return to the party.

Rajasthan local body polls hit by EVM snags; voter turnout touches 70%

Rajasthan local body polls hit by EVM snags; voter turnout touches 70%

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

The second and final phase of urban local body elections in Rajasthan was marked by EVM-related glitches and voter issues, with a 57.38 per cent turnout recorded by 3 pm. Prominent leaders like Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, and former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot cast their votes, while several incidents of disputes and alleged bogus voting were reported across various polling stations.

Karnataka announces India's first govt-driven AI university

Karnataka announces India's first govt-driven AI university

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar announced the establishment of India's first government-driven Artificial Intelligence University and an AI Hub in Bengaluru. This initiative aims to position Karnataka as a global leader in responsible AI innovation, fostering talent, research, and collaboration. The state seeks to become an AI-native state, leveraging AI to improve governance and daily life across various sectors.

Kareena In Daayra: 'She Is A Cop Who Wears Lipstick'

Kareena In Daayra: 'She Is A Cop Who Wears Lipstick'

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

'Ever since I have become a mother, I have become a better actor.'

Raghav Chadha Highlights India's Digital Transformation At Global Conference

Raghav Chadha Highlights India's Digital Transformation At Global Conference

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

BJP MP Raghav Chadha addressed the 12th IPU Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, highlighting India's digital transformation journey. He emphasised how technology is widening access and promoting inclusion, citing UPI's success, affordable data, and robust data protection laws. Chadha also discussed India's digital cooperation with Uzbekistan and the importance of digital rights, safety, and skill development for all citizens.

Footpaths for walking: SC asks states, UTs for update

Footpaths for walking: SC asks states, UTs for update

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has declared the right to walk on demarcated footpaths a fundamental right, directing all states and Union Territories to ensure proper, encroachment-free pedestrian spaces. The court emphasised that footpaths are integral to human life and safety, and states must respond to advisories issued by central ministries regarding their implementation.

Is Caste Census Only In Name?

Is Caste Census Only In Name?

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Opposition leaders have questioned how caste responses will be recorded without state-wise pre-prepared lists.

Outrage After Cab Driver Assaults Senior Citizen For Objecting To Spitting

Outrage After Cab Driver Assaults Senior Citizen For Objecting To Spitting

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

An aggregator cab driver in Thane, Maharashtra, has been arrested for brutally assaulting a 70-year-old man who objected to him spitting in public. The incident, captured on video and widely shared, led to public outrage and intervention from state political leaders, resulting in the driver's arrest and charges including attempted murder.

First meet at Seva Teerth: Cabinet pledges citizen-centric governance

First meet at Seva Teerth: Cabinet pledges citizen-centric governance

Rediff.com24 Feb 2026

The Union Cabinet, meeting at the new PMO complex 'Seva Teerth', resolved to prioritize citizen empowerment and service in all its decisions, guided by the principle of 'Nagrik Devo Bhava'.

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.

Did Mohan Bhagwat Sync With Gen Z?

Did Mohan Bhagwat Sync With Gen Z?

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

All's well with the State; it's the citizens who have to really buck up, was the sum and substance of Mohan Bhagwat's message to Gen Z.

'Rs 12 Lakh Crore Disappeared from India's GDP'

'Rs 12 Lakh Crore Disappeared from India's GDP'

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

'The fundamental issue that I have raised, how come India's GDP in current prices went down from Rs 86 lakh crore down to Rs 80 lakh crore -- a staggering erasure of Rs 6 lakh crore. This disappearance of Rs 6 lakh crore has not been answered by anyone.'

Union cabinet approves high court bench for Ladakh

Union cabinet approves high court bench for Ladakh

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

The Union Cabinet has approved the establishment of a High Court bench in Ladakh, a move lauded by Home Minister Amit Shah and Lt Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena as a significant step towards improving access to justice and ensuring the all-round development of the Union Territory.

How Bank Staff Exploit Depositors' Trust For Fraud

How Bank Staff Exploit Depositors' Trust For Fraud

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

A sophisticated cross-bank syndicate is systematically defrauding non-resident Indians (NRIs) and elderly citizens by exploiting their fixed deposits through forged documents and fictitious loans, often involving colluding bank employees and real estate deals.

10 Questions Every First-Time Health Insurance Buyer Must Ask

10 Questions Every First-Time Health Insurance Buyer Must Ask

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

The best time to buy health insurance is when you don't think you need it.

'Students India's future': Prez Murmu promises fair exams in I-Day eve address

'Students India's future': Prez Murmu promises fair exams in I-Day eve address

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Underlining that students are the "architects of India's future," President Droupadi Murmu on Friday said the government is taking comprehensive steps to reform public examinations to completely curb paper leaks and unfair means, making the system transparent, secure, and trustworthy.

Shehbaz present as Modi warns SCO: No double standards on terror

Shehbaz present as Modi warns SCO: No double standards on terror

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the SCO summit in Bishkek, called for a united front against terrorism and its financing, rejecting double standards. He emphasised resolving conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy, not battlefields. Modi also highlighted that connectivity projects must respect national sovereignty and territorial integrity, a veiled reference to China's Belt and Road Initiative. India's vision for SCO rests on security, connectivity, and opportunity.

Judges are not gods, won't get every judgment right: Outgoing SC judge

Judges are not gods, won't get every judgment right: Outgoing SC judge

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

Retiring Supreme Court Justice Sanjay Karol stated in his farewell address that judges are not gods and will not get every judgement right, emphasising the need for humility and the ability to see the real person behind every litigant.

In 12 years, India developed on scale never seen before: Modi on I-Day

In 12 years, India developed on scale never seen before: Modi on I-Day

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the nation from the Red Fort on Independence Day, declared that India is undergoing a rapid transformation across various sectors and is firmly on track to become a developed nation by 2047.

80th Independence Day: Modi vows to realise 'Viksit Bharat' dream by 2047

80th Independence Day: Modi vows to realise 'Viksit Bharat' dream by 2047

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his 80th Independence Day address, expressed strong confidence that India will achieve developed nation status by 2047, urging citizens to embrace big dreams and unwavering resolve to realise 'Viksit Bharat'. He highlighted India's economic transformation and significant growth in various sectors, including defence production, electronic manufacturing, and mobile phone production.

NLSIU students, alumni oppose CJI, BCI chief attending convocation

NLSIU students, alumni oppose CJI, BCI chief attending convocation

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

The Students and Alumni of the National Law School of India University (NLSIU) in Bengaluru have opposed Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Bar Council of India chairman Manan Kumar Mishra attending the upcoming convocation of the varsity.

Kangana: I Identify As A Bhakt...'

Kangana: I Identify As A Bhakt...'

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Actor-turned-politician Kangana Ranaut has publicly endorsed Isha Koppikar's 'andhbhakt' declaration, asserting that such devotion is rooted in love for the country.

Why Nobody Cares About Building Toilets

Why Nobody Cares About Building Toilets

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

We raid restaurants for cockroaches but never raid the roadside. Public hygiene runs entirely on faith and fumes. Even after so many years of being a free nation, points out Binu Alex.

Should polygamy be declared unconstitutional?: SC asks govt

Should polygamy be declared unconstitutional?: SC asks govt

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has sought the Centre's response on a petition challenging the constitutional validity of polygamy among Muslims, arguing it violates fundamental rights and creates legal asymmetry by exempting Muslim men from bigamy laws applicable to other citizens.

Who Derailed Tarique Rahman's India Visit?

Who Derailed Tarique Rahman's India Visit?

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Who is running the show in Dhaka? This kind of flip-flop, culminating in a last-minute decision to skip a maiden visit, can happen only when the remote is in the hands of one of the competing lobbies within the BNP -- one that appears determined to play a game of chess with India.

Shillong violence sparks Assam-Meghalaya road blockade

Shillong violence sparks Assam-Meghalaya road blockade

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Traffic between Assam and Meghalaya was disrupted after Guwahati-based cab operators blocked National Highway-27, protesting alleged attacks on people from Assam during a Khasi Students' Union (KSU) rally in Shillong, which saw 31 vehicles damaged and several pedestrians assaulted.

Govt reveals where PM CARES money is invested

Govt reveals where PM CARES money is invested

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

The PM CARES Fund experienced a 30 per cent decrease in domestic donations and an 18 per cent drop in foreign contributions during the fiscal year 2024-2025. Despite this, the total balance in the fund increased to Rs 8,452 crore, primarily held in fixed deposits and savings accounts. The fund's expenditure on the PM CARES for Children Scheme also saw a sharp reduction.

The Secret Tukaram Mundhe Won't Reveal

The Secret Tukaram Mundhe Won't Reveal

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Whether it's a five-star banquet hall, a school lunch supplier, a blood bank, or a Bollywood actors' surrogate advertisements, Tukaram Mundhe seems to have an opinion, a bye-law, and very possibly an inspection team on standby.

Maharashtra Government Embraces Indigenous AI For Digital Transformation

Maharashtra Government Embraces Indigenous AI For Digital Transformation

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

The Maharashtra government has approved the deployment of sovereign artificial intelligence solutions from Sarvam AI for its departments, with a two-year outlay of Rs 11.26 crore. This initiative includes the Indus AI workspace for 2,500 users, ensuring government data remains within India, along with citizen outreach agents and speech models for the MahaAI platform.

Actor Tim Curry Dies At 80: 'He Was A Force'

Actor Tim Curry Dies At 80: 'He Was A Force'

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

Tim Curry, celebrated for his unforgettable performances in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Clue, and Annie, has passed away at 80, prompting an outpouring of tributes from Hollywood and fans worldwide.