News for 'Focus'

Tension escalates in West Asia as IRGC announces Hormuz closure

Tension escalates in West Asia as IRGC announces Hormuz closure

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Saturday (local time) announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz "until further notice," stating that the strategic waterway would remain shut until the United States ends its "interference" in the West Asia region, Press TV reported.

How Xabi Alonso Plans To Get Chelsea Back To The Top

How Xabi Alonso Plans To Get Chelsea Back To The Top

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso said he wants to see greater hunger and a desire to improve from his players as he prepares for his first Premier League season in charge.

Wangchuk's health worsens further as fast enters 15th day

Wangchuk's health worsens further as fast enters 15th day

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's health has deteriorated significantly on the 15th day of his indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar, where the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) is protesting alleged examination irregularities. Wangchuk's blood pressure has dropped and he has lost 7.8 kg, while the protest is drawing support from political leaders and public intellectuals.

How EY India's New Platform Quantifies Cyber Risk In Real-Time

How EY India's New Platform Quantifies Cyber Risk In Real-Time

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

EY India has launched its Cyber Performance Management (CPM) platform, an integrated solution designed to help enterprises quantify and manage cyber risk in real-time. This platform leverages AI and cybersecurity to provide decision intelligence, enabling organisations to identify and address threats proactively and translate cyber exposure into financial insights.

Ronaldo becomes oldest scorer in FIFA World Cup knockouts

Ronaldo becomes oldest scorer in FIFA World Cup knockouts

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo became the oldest player to score in a FIFA World Cup knockout match, netting a penalty at 41 years and 147 days during Portugal's dramatic 2-1 victory over Croatia. This historic goal, his first in a World Cup knockout stage, helped Portugal advance to the Round of 16, with Ronaldo dismissing speculation about his future focus on the tournament.

'Spain never allowed Mbappe to get into the game'

'Spain never allowed Mbappe to get into the game'

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Former India internationals analyse Spain's dominant performance and tactical discipline that led them to the FIFA World Cup final, highlighting their defensive solidity and adaptability.

Chhattisgarh Focuses on Bastar Development After Naxalism 'Elimination'

Chhattisgarh Focuses on Bastar Development After Naxalism 'Elimination'

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

The Chhattisgarh government is shifting its focus to the development of the Bastar region after claiming the elimination of armed Naxalism. The plan includes preserving tribal culture, creating economic opportunities for youth, and strengthening the economy through forest produce and women-led self-help groups.

Does Rajkummar Rao Get Dada right? VOTE!

Does Rajkummar Rao Get Dada right? VOTE!

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

RajKummar Rao is set to portray Sourav Ganguly in the upcoming biopic Dada: The Sourav Ganguly Story, with the first look poster dramatically recreating Ganguly's iconic shirtless celebration at Lord's after India's historic 2002 NatWest Trophy victory.

Wangchuk vows to 'stay alive' for July 20 march as hunger strike enters Day 20

Wangchuk vows to 'stay alive' for July 20 march as hunger strike enters Day 20

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's indefinite hunger strike has entered its 20th day, with doctors warning of his critical health condition. Despite this, Wangchuk is resolute in his call for a peaceful march to Parliament on July 20, coinciding with the Monsoon Session's opening, to protest alleged examination irregularities and demand the Union education minister's resignation.

Tech Mahindra's Q1 Net Profit Surges 28.4% to Rs 1,465 Crore, Signals Strong Demand

Tech Mahindra's Q1 Net Profit Surges 28.4% to Rs 1,465 Crore, Signals Strong Demand

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

IT major Tech Mahindra reported a 28.4 per cent increase in consolidated net profit for the June quarter, reaching Rs 1,465 crore, driven by broad-based growth across manufacturing and financial services, and expressed confidence in a positive demand environment for the rest of the year.

France's World Cup run fuelled by player-led analysis and strong team bonds

France's World Cup run fuelled by player-led analysis and strong team bonds

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

France's journey to the World Cup semi-finals is not just about star players like Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele, but also a deep-seated unity and player-led analysis forged in private conversations and hotel rooms, according to midfielders Adrien Rabiot and defender Jules Kounde.

Marijne Confident Indian Women's Hockey Can Overcome Dual Tournament Gap

Marijne Confident Indian Women's Hockey Can Overcome Dual Tournament Gap

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Indian women's hockey coach Sjoerd Marijne acknowledges the tight schedule between the World Cup and Asian Games but expresses confidence in the team's ability to manage the physical demands. Former captain MM Somaya also highlighted the importance of the World Cup as preparation for the Asian Games, where a gold medal secures a spot in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

US, Japan Hold Key Patents In Rare Earth Tech, Study Finds

US, Japan Hold Key Patents In Rare Earth Tech, Study Finds

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

A new study reveals that despite China's significant control over global rare earth mining and processing, its dominance has a critical weakness: the US and Japan hold the majority of core patents for advanced rare earth functional material technologies. This technological gap means China lags in higher-value applications, impacting its strategic advantage in the industry.

They made me better: Prabhsimran credits Yuvraj, Ponting for India breakthrough

They made me better: Prabhsimran credits Yuvraj, Ponting for India breakthrough

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Prabhsimran Singh credited mentor Yuvraj Singh's tactical guidance and Punjab Kings head coach Ricky Ponting's unwavering faith for his growth, saying both played a pivotal role in earning his maiden India T20I call-up.

US senators name India in sweeping Russia sanctions bill

US senators name India in sweeping Russia sanctions bill

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

A bipartisan group of US senators has introduced a comprehensive bill imposing extensive sanctions on Russia, with India identified as one of five countries that could incur tariffs for its continued purchase of Russian oil.

FIFA World Cup: Is Everything OK Between Bellingham and Tuchel?

FIFA World Cup: Is Everything OK Between Bellingham and Tuchel?

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

After England's 2-1 World Cup quarter-final win over Norway, midfielder Jude Bellingham pushed back against manager Thomas Tuchel's "sloppy" performance assessment, highlighting the team's resilience and the challenging conditions. Despite the friction, Bellingham's two goals were crucial in securing England's semi-final spot, underscoring his vital role in the tournament.

From Disappointment To Determination: Rabada Shifts Focus

From Disappointment To Determination: Rabada Shifts Focus

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

Kagiso Rabada reflects on a 'disappointing' previous season, highlighting his shift from 'desperate' to 'determined' after a match-winning spell that helped Gujarat Titans defeat Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL.

Wayanad landslide: Missing construction manager's body recovered, toll rises to 8

Wayanad landslide: Missing construction manager's body recovered, toll rises to 8

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

The body of Vikram Rana, the last person missing after the July 7 landslide at the Anakkampoyil-Meppadi tunnel project site in Kalladi, Wayanad, Kerala, has been recovered. This brings the death toll to eight. A massive search operation involving multiple agencies led to the discovery of the construction manager's body, concluding the search efforts.

RBI may rationalise board norms, shift focus to strategy, policy

RBI may rationalise board norms, shift focus to strategy, policy

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is set to revise its directives for bank boards, aiming to alleviate operational burdens and enable them to concentrate on crucial policy and strategic decision-making, thereby enhancing corporate governance in the Indian banking sector.

FinMin Clears Rs 1.25 Lakh Crore for India Semiconductor Mission 2.0

FinMin Clears Rs 1.25 Lakh Crore for India Semiconductor Mission 2.0

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

The Finance Ministry's expenditure department has approved a substantial Rs 1.25 lakh crore outlay for India Semiconductor Mission 2.0, significantly increasing the country's investment in global chip-making ambitions and aiming to establish India as a major semiconductor hub.

Google Bets Big on India's AI Future

Google Bets Big on India's AI Future

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

The aim is to win over the country's enterprises, developers and startups as AI systems shift from answering questions to autonomously executing tasks.

Oriental Cup Returns With Expanded Format And Scholarships For Young Footballers

Oriental Cup Returns With Expanded Format And Scholarships For Young Footballers

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

The fourth edition of the Oriental Cup, an inter-school football tournament, is scheduled from July 7 to 16 in New Delhi. It will feature over 45 school teams, 1,500 student-athletes, and offer scholarships worth Rs 2.5 lakh to encourage young talent. Organisers aim to make it India's leading school football competition, with growing participation, especially among girls' teams.

ISL Golden Ball Winner Miguel Joins Mohun Bagan Super Giant

ISL Golden Ball Winner Miguel Joins Mohun Bagan Super Giant

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Mohun Bagan Super Giant has announced the signing of Brazilian midfielder Miguel Figueira Damasceno, the reigning ISL Golden Ball winner, on a two-year contract. Miguel, who previously played a crucial role in East Bengal's title-winning campaign, is known for his attacking prowess and ability to provide assists. He expressed excitement about playing for Mohun Bagan's passionate fanbase and aims to help the team win multiple titles.

Google selects 20 Indian AI startups for 2026 accelerator programme

Google selects 20 Indian AI startups for 2026 accelerator programme

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Global technology giant Google has announced the selection of 20 Indian AI startups for its 2026 Google for Startups Accelerator programme, marking the 10th anniversary of its accelerator initiatives.

From ACL rehab to Lord's honours board: Yastika Bhatia's remarkable comeback

From ACL rehab to Lord's honours board: Yastika Bhatia's remarkable comeback

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

India wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia became the first woman cricketer to score a Test century at Lord's, hitting 113 against England. This remarkable achievement marks a significant comeback for Bhatia, who recovered from a career-threatening ACL injury sustained last year. She credited her family, teammates, and support staff for her successful rehabilitation and expressed her belief that her best is yet to come.

Beyond Harman: Mithali backs Smriti for ODI captaincy, Shafali for T20

Beyond Harman: Mithali backs Smriti for ODI captaincy, Shafali for T20

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Smriti Mandhana is more suited to lead India in the longer formats after Harmanpreet Kaur's tenure ends while the much younger Shafali Varma can be handed the reins of the T20 side following another pre-mature exit from the World Cup, former captain legendary Mithali Raj said.

Islamabad likely to host next round of US-Iran technical talks on July 11

Islamabad likely to host next round of US-Iran technical talks on July 11

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Pakistan capital Islamabad is emerging as the leading venue for the next round of technical negotiations between the US and Iran, a media report said Sunday.

Football's race problem resurfaces after Garcia's Senegal remarks

Football's race problem resurfaces after Garcia's Senegal remarks

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Rudi Garcia's comments about Senegal's tactical structure, along with other pundit remarks, have reignited scrutiny over racially coded language in World Cup commentary, drawing criticism from scholars and anti-racism advocates who argue such language perpetuates harmful stereotypes about Black players and African teams.

Karnataka Government Discusses Bringing Global Chess League To Bengaluru

Karnataka Government Discusses Bringing Global Chess League To Bengaluru

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

A delegation from the Global Chess League met Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara to discuss the possibility of Bengaluru hosting the league's fourth edition. The state government expressed its commitment to supporting prestigious global sporting events to boost its sports ecosystem.

Wayanad landslide toll rises to six; search on for two missing

Wayanad landslide toll rises to six; search on for two missing

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

The death toll from the Wayanad landslide has increased to six after three more bodies were recovered. The deceased include migrant workers from Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, and Bihar. Search operations are ongoing for two missing individuals, while several injured remain hospitalised.

Modi asks secretaries to fast-track reforms, boost self-reliance

Modi asks secretaries to fast-track reforms, boost self-reliance

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday interacted with government secretaries and discussed with them on two key issues -- deregulation and other reforms for 'ease of doing business' and 'ease of living' and promoting 'Aatmanirbharta'.

Why Chautala Wants Haryana Assembly To Focus On Farmers

Why Chautala Wants Haryana Assembly To Focus On Farmers

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

INLD president Abhay Singh Chautala criticised the Haryana government, urging them to address the hardships faced by farmers instead of bringing a censure motion against the opposition. He highlighted issues with biometric verifications at 'mandis' and problems with land registry fees.

Government to Revamp TOPS Scheme with Focus on High-Yielding Sports

Government to Revamp TOPS Scheme with Focus on High-Yielding Sports

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

The Indian government is set to revamp its Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), focusing on quarterly athlete evaluations and prioritising high medal-yielding sports like aquatics and cycling to improve performance at the Olympic Games.

Curran open to fill Stokes void in England squad

Curran open to fill Stokes void in England squad

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Sam Curran says he would welcome the opportunity to replace retired Ben Stokes in England's Test side as the all-rounder eyes a return to red-ball cricket after nearly four years away.

Exiled author Taslima Nasrin to return to Kolkata after 20 years

Exiled author Taslima Nasrin to return to Kolkata after 20 years

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasrin is set to return to Kolkata next month for an anti-fundamentalism literary event, nearly two decades after she was forced to leave the city amid violent protests over her writings. The BJP government in West Bengal is projecting this as a reversal of past capitulation to religious fundamentalism.

Shreyas Iyer calls India's 125-run T20I defeat 'atrocious'

Shreyas Iyer calls India's 125-run T20I defeat 'atrocious'

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

India captain Shreyas Iyer described his team's 125-run defeat against England in the third T20 International as 'atrocious,' criticising the bowling unit and the team's overall performance.

Wimbledon 2026: Zverev powers past Fery, eyes second straight Slam

Wimbledon 2026: Zverev powers past Fery, eyes second straight Slam

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Alexander Zverev ended the fairytale Wimbledon run of Briton Arthur Fery with a 7-6(0), 6-2, 6-4 win on Friday to reach the final, where he will have an opportunity to win back-to-back Grand Slam trophies after his French Open success.

Download Satluj: Diljit Dosanjh

Download Satluj: Diljit Dosanjh

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Diljit Dosanjh encouraged fans to share pirated copies of Satluj, stating the work belongs to the people.

Trent shares tumble over 11% on disappointing Q1 revenue

Trent shares tumble over 11% on disappointing Q1 revenue

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Shares of Tata group's retail firm Trent slumped over 11 per cent after its June quarter standalone revenue growth of 19 per cent to Rs 5,666 crore missed market expectations, which had anticipated a 22 per cent year-on-year increase.

Modi stopped Putin from using nuclear weapons on Ukraine in 2022: Polish min

Modi stopped Putin from using nuclear weapons on Ukraine in 2022: Polish min

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Poland's Secretary of State, Wladyslaw T Bartoszewski, has credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi with preventing Russian President Vladimir Putin from using tactical nuclear weapons in Ukraine in late 2022, highlighting Modi's significant influence on the Russian leader.