News for 'First Direct'

Mumbai Metro network expands with launch of two new lines

Mumbai Metro network expands with launch of two new lines

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

Mumbai's metro network has expanded with the inauguration of the first phases of Metro Line 9 and Line 2B, promising improved connectivity and reduced travel times for commuters.

Hormuz Crisis Hits India Hard

Hormuz Crisis Hits India Hard

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

The cost of the war is being counted not in the corridors of power in Washington or Tehran, but in Firozabad's darkened furnace rooms, Howrah's idle casting sheds, and a barbershop in Kochi where the wait is suddenly, inexplicably, an hour long, notes Prem Panicker in his must read blog on the Iran War.

Trump dials Modi on Hormuz security; Gor hints at 'big-ticket' India-US deals

Trump dials Modi on Hormuz security; Gor hints at 'big-ticket' India-US deals

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump discussed the West Asia crisis and the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open and secure. They also reviewed progress in bilateral ties and anticipated upcoming deals in the energy sector.

IPL 2026: From Spectacle to Predictability: Is the IPL Losing Its Edge?

IPL 2026: From Spectacle to Predictability: Is the IPL Losing Its Edge?

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

Today, predictability has replaced volatility. When 200 becomes routine and chases follow a template, the element of surprise goes out the window and with it viewer engagement.

10 Expert Tips For Summer-Ready Skin

10 Expert Tips For Summer-Ready Skin

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

A simple routine of cleansing, moisturising and sunscreen is more effective than piling up products, advises Dr Rupika Singh, dermatologist and founder of Akiya Aesthetics.

Will Trump Attend Islamabad Peace Talks?

Will Trump Attend Islamabad Peace Talks?

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

The intriguing bit is that Trump is likely to attend the talks in Islamabad this weekend -- if he does, it will be the clearest signal yet that the US is ready to exit the war with some sort of win to show, since he cannot afford to go for the talks and return empty-handed, notes Prem Panicker in his must read blog on the Iran War

Amit Shah Vows to Tackle Corruption, Illegal Immigration in West Bengal

Amit Shah Vows to Tackle Corruption, Illegal Immigration in West Bengal

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed poll rallies in West Bengal, promising to tackle corruption and illegal immigration if the BJP comes to power. He criticised the current TMC government and outlined the BJP's plans for the state.

From Kartrocket To Shiprocket: Journey Of A Unicorn

From Kartrocket To Shiprocket: Journey Of A Unicorn

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

'More than becoming a unicorn, what truly satisfies us is seeing small businesses grow from Rs 10,000 a month to Rs 20 lakh after joining our platform.'

Don't Expect Too Much From Islamabad Summit

Don't Expect Too Much From Islamabad Summit

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

The core issues to be settled -- access to Hormuz, Israel's aggression in Lebanon, the question of Iran's nuclear programme, sanctions relief and compensation -- are thorny enough to require weeks of patient negotiation. The most likely outcome of the opening sessions is that both sides take the measure of each other, establish what is and is not negotiable, and return home without having broken anything. That would count as progress.

China Facilitates Dialogue Between Pakistan and Afghanistan to Resolve Conflict

China Facilitates Dialogue Between Pakistan and Afghanistan to Resolve Conflict

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

China is mediating talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan to address their ongoing military conflict, following Pakistan's operation against terrorist hideouts in Afghanistan and UN reports questioning Pakistan's evidence of militant presence in Afghanistan.

'Starting process of...': US warships cross Hormuz for 1st time since Iran war

'Starting process of...': US warships cross Hormuz for 1st time since Iran war

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

US President Donald Trump has announced plans to clear the Strait of Hormuz to secure the vital oil corridor, citing risks to global energy supplies and criticising other nations' inaction.

Pressure builds on developers to hike prices as costs rise

Pressure builds on developers to hike prices as costs rise

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Indian realty developers are contemplating price increases for ongoing and upcoming projects to offset margin pressures caused by rising input costs and supply chain disruptions, exacerbated by the West Asia conflict. Input and labour costs have surged by 5-12%, directly impacting developer margins, especially for under-construction projects.

Iran calls India a 'trusted partner'; asserts control over Hormuz

Iran calls India a 'trusted partner'; asserts control over Hormuz

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

Iran's ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, has described India as a "reliable and compassionate" partner while asserting Tehran's territorial authority over the Strait of Hormuz amidst ongoing regional tensions.

Gavaskar on Miller's Single Refusal: Intent Can't Be Faulted

Gavaskar on Miller's Single Refusal: Intent Can't Be Faulted

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

Sunil Gavaskar defends David Miller's decision not to take a single in the IPL match between Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans, while Kevin Pietersen praises Rashid Khan's performance.

April's OTT Menu: Happy Patel, Sitaare Zameen Par

April's OTT Menu: Happy Patel, Sitaare Zameen Par

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

Despite the IPL taking up maximum eyeballs, OTT offers a wide selection of original films, web series and movies making their digital premiere in April.

Panchayat 5 Filming Begins

Panchayat 5 Filming Begins

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

The much-loved OTT series Panchayat promises fresh challenges for Abhishek as he navigates a vengeful leadership and unfinished business in Phulera while still aspiring to complete his MBA.

EC releases Bengal's post-SIR supplementary list, silent on deleted voters

EC releases Bengal's post-SIR supplementary list, silent on deleted voters

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

The Election Commission is yet to disclose the number of voters whose names have been included or deleted following the SIR adjudication process in poll-bound West Bengal.

Modi Accuses TMC of Appeasement Politics, Banerjee Alleges BJP's Delimitation Plot

Modi Accuses TMC of Appeasement Politics, Banerjee Alleges BJP's Delimitation Plot

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee engaged in a war of words during election rallies, with Modi accusing the TMC of supporting divisive forces and Banerjee alleging the BJP plans to divide the state.

Why Noida's Industrial Hub Erupted In Protest

Why Noida's Industrial Hub Erupted In Protest

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

'Workers are being pushed into 12- to 14-hour shifts under poor conditions. These largely leaderless protests are likely to continue.'

Belgian Court Supports Extradition of Mehul Choksi to India on Fraud Charges

Belgian Court Supports Extradition of Mehul Choksi to India on Fraud Charges

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

The Antwerp Court of Appeal has advised the Belgian government to approve the extradition of fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi to India on six of seven charges, including criminal conspiracy and fraud.

BJP won't allow Babri Masjid to come up in Bengal, says Amit Shah

BJP won't allow Babri Masjid to come up in Bengal, says Amit Shah

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed poll rallies in West Bengal, attacking Mamata Banerjee's TMC and promising development if the BJP wins the state elections. He accused Banerjee of appeasement politics and vowed to prevent the construction of a Babri Masjid-like structure in Bengal.

West Asia War Pushes RBI into Growth-Inflation Dilemma

West Asia War Pushes RBI into Growth-Inflation Dilemma

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Sanjay Malhotra is now confronting the classic growth-inflation tradeoff, a situation exacerbated by the West Asia war, which threatens to end the 'goldilocks period' of low inflation and robust growth.

1st Indian vessel crosses Strait of Hormuz after US-Iran ceasefire

1st Indian vessel crosses Strait of Hormuz after US-Iran ceasefire

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

An India-flagged LPG tanker, Jag Vikram, has successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz following a temporary ceasefire between the United States and Iran, marking a significant development for India's energy security.

Iran releases Supreme Leader's video amid death rumours

Iran releases Supreme Leader's video amid death rumours

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

In the video, the Supreme Leader can be seen teaching religious studies to a group of pupils who are listening attentively. The IRIB said that the video of Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei was published for the first time.

SC halts Rajasthan's sand mining move in Chambal sanctuary

SC halts Rajasthan's sand mining move in Chambal sanctuary

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

The Supreme Court of India has stayed a notification by the Rajasthan government that would have de-notified a portion of the National Chambal Sanctuary for sand mining, citing the threat to endangered species and the illegal nature of the activity.

Rupali Chakankar quits NCP women's wing post over rape-accused 'godman' link

Rupali Chakankar quits NCP women's wing post over rape-accused 'godman' link

Rediff.com28 Mar 2026

NCP leader Rupali Chakankar has resigned from her position as the party's Maharashtra women's wing chief following controversy surrounding her association with Ashok Kharat, who has been accused of rape.

Ramayana Teaser Out On Hanuman Jayanti: Ranbir Kapoor Stuns as Lord Ram

Ramayana Teaser Out On Hanuman Jayanti: Ranbir Kapoor Stuns as Lord Ram

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

Ramayana, which is being mounted as a two-part cinematic event, will soar. The music, visuals, technical finesse and the promise of strong performances not just tease a film, it teases a grand experience, notes Mayur Sanap.

Will Dhurandhar Get A Third Part? Click Here To Know

Will Dhurandhar Get A Third Part? Click Here To Know

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

Despite the monumental box office success of Dhurandhar 2, Aditya Dhar has firmly announced his decision not to direct a third instalment.

Manohar Lal Khattar Urges Transparency in Haryana Welfare Schemes

Manohar Lal Khattar Urges Transparency in Haryana Welfare Schemes

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar has directed officials to ensure transparency in the implementation of central and Haryana government welfare schemes, aiming to maximise their reach. He reviewed multiple schemes across various departments during a DISHA meeting in Karnal.

ED custody no barrier for Kejriwal's governance, issues first directive

ED custody no barrier for Kejriwal's governance, issues first directive

Rediff.com24 Mar 2024

Atishi said the directions, received late on Saturday, brought tears to her eyes with Kejriwal showing concern for the people of Delhi despite his own plight.

AAP MLA Italia Alleges Police Harassment; Authorities Explain Visit as Warrant Service

AAP MLA Italia Alleges Police Harassment; Authorities Explain Visit as Warrant Service

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

Aam Aadmi Party MLA Gopal Italia has accused the police of intimidating his family in Surat, while police officials state they were serving a court warrant related to a case in Mehsana.

Indian E-Commerce Market Poised for Massive Growth by 2030

Indian E-Commerce Market Poised for Massive Growth by 2030

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

A new report by Google and Deloitte projects India's e-commerce market will nearly triple to USD 250 billion by 2030, driven by Gen Z shoppers, quick commerce expansion, and AI.

Vijay Varma Reveals His Hamza Connection At Matka King Launch

Vijay Varma Reveals His Hamza Connection At Matka King Launch

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

'When life throws a Hamza at you, make it Dhurandhar's Hamza, not Darlings' Hamza!'

New Solar-Powered Method Could Revolutionise Sustainable Aviation Fuel Production

New Solar-Powered Method Could Revolutionise Sustainable Aviation Fuel Production

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

Researchers at the University of Sheffield have developed a novel method for producing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) using concentrated solar energy and captured CO2, potentially reducing reliance on used cooking oil.

'I Was Blown Away By Sheeba Chadha'

'I Was Blown Away By Sheeba Chadha'

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

This Hamlet and most of the film's characters are Hindus, so there is an elaborate wedding sequence with a baraat, dholki players, dancing baraatis, and a dance performance piece, set to the qawwali Mast Qalander.

Old Vs New Tax Regime: Stop Losing Money

Old Vs New Tax Regime: Stop Losing Money

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

With Income Tax Act 2025 in force, your tax choice can quietly cost you big money if you're not paying attention. Ramalingam Kalirajan explains how

Kasargod Embassy Review: Nothing Redeemable About This Badly-Made Show

Kasargod Embassy Review: Nothing Redeemable About This Badly-Made Show

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

Kasargod Embassy squanders a promising premise with weak writing, bad performances and amateurish execution, resulting in a tedious and largely forgettable watching experience, notes Sreeju Sudhakaran.

Vaazha 2 Review: An Improved, Crowd-Pleasing Sequel That Hits All the Right Notes

Vaazha 2 Review: An Improved, Crowd-Pleasing Sequel That Hits All the Right Notes

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

Vaazha 2 grows beyond the shadow of its predecessor by refining its tone, strengthening its themes and delivering more assured emotional beats and performances, notes Sreeju Sudhakaran.

Noida factory workers' protest over pay hike turns violent; govt steps in

Noida factory workers' protest over pay hike turns violent; govt steps in

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Protests by factory workers in Noida, India, demanding wage increases turned violent, resulting in arson, vandalism, and stone-pelting in Phase-2 and Sector 60 areas. Police have been deployed to control the situation and maintain order.

Check Out The Dark Side Of The Moon!

Check Out The Dark Side Of The Moon!

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

One of the most striking features in this view is the Orientale Basin, a massive impact crater about 600 miles (965 km) wide.