News for 'Foreign Office'

Mizoram's 'Red Card' Scheme To Drink Alcohol

Mizoram's 'Red Card' Scheme To Drink Alcohol

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

Mizoram has long maintained one of the country's strictest prohibition regimes.

High Spirits: Liquor Brands Bet On Premium Buzz In Hindi Heartland

High Spirits: Liquor Brands Bet On Premium Buzz In Hindi Heartland

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Indian liquor brands are increasingly focusing on Hindi heartland states like Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Haryana as the next major growth engine for premiumisation, driven by expanding luxury portfolios, craft spirit launches, and upgraded retail experiences, as state governments embrace reforms.

How Chhattisgarh Police Foiled A Major Liquor Smuggling Bid

How Chhattisgarh Police Foiled A Major Liquor Smuggling Bid

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

Police in Chhattisgarh's Mohla-Manpur-Ambagarh Chowki district seized 800 boxes of illicit liquor worth Rs 50.28 lakh from a truck attempting to smuggle the consignment into Maharashtra. The driver was arrested, and an investigation is underway to uncover the full smuggling network.

A Green Banana Adventure

A Green Banana Adventure

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

It took years and years to bump into a green banana and learn how to eat it.

FBI foils major attack on White House UFC event attended by Trump

FBI foils major attack on White House UFC event attended by Trump

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

The FBI announced it foiled a potential attack on the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) event held at the White House last weekend, leading to multiple arrests. The alleged plot involved using explosive-laden drones and a sniper team to target the event attended by President Trump, with a "second wave" planned to storm the White House gate.

Centre rejects reports of UPSC Prelims paper leak

Centre rejects reports of UPSC Prelims paper leak

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

The Indian government has officially refuted social media claims regarding a leak of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination question paper. The Press Information Bureau's Fact Check wing labelled these allegations as "fake," clarifying that an institute's backdated answer key explanations were misinterpreted, not indicative of a leak.

Delhi Hotel Fire: Key Accused Jay Mishra Surrenders

Delhi Hotel Fire: Key Accused Jay Mishra Surrenders

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Jay Mishra, a key accused and associate of the hotel owner in the south Delhi hotel fire that killed 22 people, has surrendered to a court and been remanded to police custody. Mishra is believed to have played a crucial role in the hotel's operations, and his arrest is a significant development in the ongoing investigation into the tragic blaze.

'Baseless': Iran dismisses Trump's claim on attacking Indian ships

'Baseless': Iran dismisses Trump's claim on attacking Indian ships

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Iran has dismissed US President Donald Trump's assertion that Iran was responsible for a drone attack on Indian ships in the Strait of Hormuz as 'simply baseless'. The Iranian embassy stated that Trump's comments were an attempt to deflect attention from recent US military strikes on merchant vessels in the Gulf of Oman, which resulted in the deaths of three Indian mariners.

Gauhati High Court Gives Woman Citizenship Relief

Gauhati High Court Gives Woman Citizenship Relief

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The high court granted the petitioner one opportunity to establish her claim to Indian citizenship.

Delhi HC upholds blocking of Telegram ahead of NEET retest

Delhi HC upholds blocking of Telegram ahead of NEET retest

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

The Delhi High Court has upheld the Indian government's decision to temporarily restrict access to Telegram, citing the messaging app's capacity for 'automated dissemination' of large content, which could facilitate misinformation during the crucial NEET-UG retest.

As Iran Tensions Surge, India Leans On UAE

As Iran Tensions Surge, India Leans On UAE

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

For India, much is at stake: Crucial energy supplies traversing the Strait of Hormuz, the fate of its 10 million citizens living and working in West Asia -- who send generous remittances home -- and its major trade links with the region.

Pakistan intensifies efforts for US-Iran talks after ceasefire extension

Pakistan intensifies efforts for US-Iran talks after ceasefire extension

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Pakistan has intensified its efforts to bring the US and Iran back to the negotiating table to end the war in West Asia, following President Trump's extension of the ceasefire. Pakistani officials have engaged with Iranian, Turkish, and British counterparts to promote dialogue and diplomacy for a peaceful resolution.

Delhi Airport Customs Seize Gold, Arrest Foreign Nationals

Delhi Airport Customs Seize Gold, Arrest Foreign Nationals

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

Customs officials at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport have thwarted two separate gold smuggling attempts, seizing over 3.17 kg of gold worth approximately Rs 4.35 crore and arresting three foreign nationals.

BMW has maxi plans for Mini Cooper, drive into Tier 2 markets

BMW has maxi plans for Mini Cooper, drive into Tier 2 markets

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

The luxury carmaker plans to drive growth through local assembly of the MINI Countryman, expansion into 10 new cities and a broader product portfolio.

How US State Department Is Leveraging UFC For Global Diplomacy

How US State Department Is Leveraging UFC For Global Diplomacy

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

The US Department of State has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) to launch a public-private partnership aimed at advancing sports diplomacy worldwide. This initiative will leverage UFC's extensive global platform and athletes to engage international audiences, promote cultural exchange, and champion American values such as discipline and perseverance.

How US State Department Is Leveraging UFC For Global Diplomacy

How US State Department Is Leveraging UFC For Global Diplomacy

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

The US Department of State has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) to launch a public-private partnership aimed at advancing sports diplomacy worldwide. This initiative will leverage UFC's extensive global platform and athletes to engage international audiences, promote cultural exchange, and champion American values such as discipline and perseverance.

US Navy attacked 3 merchant ships, India lodges strong protest

US Navy attacked 3 merchant ships, India lodges strong protest

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

India has strongly protested to the United States after three merchant ships with Indian crew members were attacked by the American military off the coast of Oman, resulting in the deaths of three Indian nationals.

US confirms firing 2 Hellfire missiles at Indian vessel

US confirms firing 2 Hellfire missiles at Indian vessel

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed striking the Guinea-Bissau-flagged oil tanker MT Jalveer, carrying 20 Indian seafarers, in the Gulf of Oman for allegedly violating the US blockade against Iran. This incident marks the third commercial vessel attacked by US forces in the region this week, with three Indian seafarers previously losing their lives in an attack on the MT Settebello.

Delhi govt mandates WFH, Metro rides for ministers, officials to save fuel

Delhi govt mandates WFH, Metro rides for ministers, officials to save fuel

Rediff.com14 May 2026

The Delhi government has announced a series of measures to conserve fuel, including work from home for government offices, increased use of public transport, and reduced fuel quotas for officers.

Blocked roof exit, cooking heaters: Probe reveals more lapses in Delhi hotel fire

Blocked roof exit, cooking heaters: Probe reveals more lapses in Delhi hotel fire

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Delhi Police are investigating a blocked roof exit and the use of cooking heaters in guest rooms as key factors in the recent Malviya Nagar hotel fire that killed 21 people. Hotel owner Lavkesh Bajaj has been arrested, and a Look Out Circular issued against his wife, while the manager remains absconding.

BJP eyeing 2/3rd majority to end reservations: Jairam Ramesh

BJP eyeing 2/3rd majority to end reservations: Jairam Ramesh

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh has alleged that the BJP's "real and ultimate target" in seeking a two-thirds majority in the Lok Sabha is to amend the Constitution to end reservation, rather than genuinely implement women's reservation.

Why Bengal Will Now Hand Over Infiltrators To BSF

Why Bengal Will Now Hand Over Infiltrators To BSF

Rediff.com21 May 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced that Bangladeshi infiltrators detained in the state will be handed over to the BSF instead of being produced in courts, following a new rule. Instructions have been issued to the police and RPF to directly transfer detainees to the BSF at the Bangladesh border, with weekly reports submitted to the CMO.

Pak steps up US-Iran peace push with third ministerial visit to Tehran

Pak steps up US-Iran peace push with third ministerial visit to Tehran

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited Tehran for the third time recently to mediate peace amidst rising tensions between the US and Iran. Pakistan is actively leading diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict in West Asia, which has impacted global energy markets and trade.

Governor Review: Oversimple Take On India's Monetary Muddle

Governor Review: Oversimple Take On India's Monetary Muddle

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Governor: Simplistic narrative, questionable historical accuracy, underwhelming production quality, notes Sukanya Verma.

Stock Markets Today: Sensex, Nifty Rally on US-Iran Peace Deal

Stock Markets Today: Sensex, Nifty Rally on US-Iran Peace Deal

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Indian benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty surged significantly in early trade, tracking a global rally fueled by US President Donald Trump's declaration of an end to the war with Iran and a subsequent drop in crude oil prices.

US navy hits sanctioned tanker off Oman, all 24 Indians safe

US navy hits sanctioned tanker off Oman, all 24 Indians safe

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

An oil tanker carrying 24 Indian seafarers reported a fire off the coast of Oman, with all crew members confirmed safe. The incident occurred amidst renewed hostilities between Israel and Iran, who exchanged attacks on petrochemical facilities.

Punjab Police Uncovers Cross-Border Drug Smuggling Operation

Punjab Police Uncovers Cross-Border Drug Smuggling Operation

Rediff.com24 May 2026

Punjab Police have dismantled a cross-border drug smuggling module, arresting four individuals in Ferozepur and seizing a significant quantity of heroin and cash.

ISI-Backed Module Suspected in Chandigarh BJP Office Blast: Two More Arrested

ISI-Backed Module Suspected in Chandigarh BJP Office Blast: Two More Arrested

Rediff.com5 Apr 2026

Punjab Police have arrested two more individuals allegedly involved in the recent blast outside the BJP headquarters in Chandigarh, bringing the total arrests to seven. The suspects are believed to be part of an ISI-backed module taking instructions from handlers in Germany and Portugal.

Global Rally Propels Sensex Up 1,695 Points, Nifty Gains 2% on US-Iran Peace Hopes

Global Rally Propels Sensex Up 1,695 Points, Nifty Gains 2% on US-Iran Peace Hopes

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Indian benchmark indices, Sensex and Nifty, closed sharply higher, with the Sensex climbing 1,695.40 points and the Nifty surging nearly 2 per cent, driven by a global market rally and a decline in crude oil prices following US President Donald Trump's declaration that his country has ended the war with Iran.

Modi under Cong fire over US statements after killing of Indian seafarers

Modi under Cong fire over US statements after killing of Indian seafarers

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

The Congress on Sunday lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the US' statements after three Indian sailors were killed in American attacks on ships, with party leader Rahul Gandhi saying the "compromised PM" listens "like an obedient servant" and "complies with the orders".

How Punjab Police Dismantled Drug Trafficking Networks

How Punjab Police Dismantled Drug Trafficking Networks

Rediff.com31 May 2026

Punjab Police has dismantled the financial infrastructure of drug-trafficking networks, freezing assets worth Rs 300 crore linked to alleged drug smugglers.

ED Conducts Fresh Searches In Ex-Cop's Extortion Case

ED Conducts Fresh Searches In Ex-Cop's Extortion Case

Rediff.com27 May 2026

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted fresh searches at the Kandi residence of arrested former Kolkata Police officer Santanu Sinha Biswas in connection with the alleged 'Sona Pappu' extortion and land-grab case.

Pakistan to join BRICS? Foreign Office replies

Pakistan to join BRICS? Foreign Office replies

Rediff.com26 Aug 2023

"We will examine the latest developments and make a determination about our future engagement with BRICS," Baloch said.

Setback for peace talks as Iranian FM leaves Pak, Trump cancels envoys' trip

Setback for peace talks as Iranian FM leaves Pak, Trump cancels envoys' trip

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

An Iranian delegation, led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, concluded high-level meetings in Islamabad, delivering an 'official list of demands' to Pakistani leaders for the US and Israel. This comes as President Trump cancelled his envoys' visit to Islamabad amid ongoing efforts to facilitate peace talks between Iran and the US.

Pakistan Hosts Key Summit to Address West Asia Tensions

Pakistan Hosts Key Summit to Address West Asia Tensions

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

Pakistan is hosting a quadrilateral summit of foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkiye to discuss the conflict in West Asia and explore avenues for peace. The summit includes discussions on regional developments and meetings with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Three Nigerians Arrested For Social Media Fraud In Gurugram

Three Nigerians Arrested For Social Media Fraud In Gurugram

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Gurugram Police have arrested three Nigerian nationals for allegedly defrauding people through social media platforms by posing as women. The police recovered mobile phones, a laptop, and SIM cards from the accused, who are also charged under the Passport Act and the Foreigners Act.

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.

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.

Pakistan hits back at India over comments on Afghan military action

Pakistan hits back at India over comments on Afghan military action

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

Pakistan has rejected India's criticism of its military campaign in Afghanistan, calling India's statement 'baseless' and 'misleading'.

Pakistan Issues Strong Demarche To Afghanistan Over Terror Attack

Pakistan Issues Strong Demarche To Afghanistan Over Terror Attack

Rediff.com11 May 2026

Pakistan has strongly condemned Afghanistan for allegedly harbouring terrorists responsible for a deadly attack on a police post, issuing a stern warning and demanding action against terrorist groups operating from Afghan soil.