News for 'Foreign Office'

Pak woman, son held in Karnataka with voter ID, ration card

Pak woman, son held in Karnataka with voter ID, ration card

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Two Pakistani nationals, Farah Naz and her son Mohammed Fardeen, have been arrested in Karnataka's Chikkaballapura district for allegedly obtaining a ration card and voter identity card by concealing their nationality. The arrests followed an inquiry that revealed Farah Naz, married to an Indian national, and her son, born in Pakistan, had acquired these documents illegally. Both cards have since been cancelled, and a criminal case has been registered under various acts.

Centre revives women's quota Bill, reaches out to Congress, DMK

Centre revives women's quota Bill, reaches out to Congress, DMK

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju met Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi to discuss resolving the persistent deadlock in the Lok Sabha's monsoon session, focusing on the Delimitation Bill and FCRA Bill, though no immediate commitment was secured from the Congress leader.

Will Trump Impose 100 Per Cent Tariffs On India?

Will Trump Impose 100 Per Cent Tariffs On India?

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

It is plain to see that the US senate bill's real objective is to derail India's time-tested strategic partnership with Russia, points out Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

'Mid- Small-Caps May Deliver More Selective Returns'

'Mid- Small-Caps May Deliver More Selective Returns'

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

'The market is currently neither cheap enough to be exciting about nor expensive enough to worry about.'

UK bars 11 foreign far-right extremists ahead of planned protest

UK bars 11 foreign far-right extremists ahead of planned protest

Rediff.com15 May 2026

The UK government has blocked eleven foreign far-right extremists from entering the country ahead of planned protest rallies, including a US-based extremist accused of anti-Muslim rhetoric. The move comes as thousands are expected to gather in London for anti-immigration and pro-Palestine demonstrations, prompting a large-scale police operation.

Maruti Suzuki's Q1 net profit falls 9% despite sales jump, as West Asia conflict drives up costs

Maruti Suzuki's Q1 net profit falls 9% despite sales jump, as West Asia conflict drives up costs

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

Maruti Suzuki India (MSIL) reported a 9.1 per cent year-on-year decline in net profit for the April-June quarter of 2026-27, marking its second consecutive quarterly fall. This dip occurred despite a significant 29.3 per cent jump in sales volume, primarily due to escalating commodity prices, increased energy costs, and logistics disruptions stemming from the West Asia conflict.

Why Modi Wants To Curb NGOs Funding

Why Modi Wants To Curb NGOs Funding

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Larger NGOs could no longer work with smaller ones, especially those organisations working on the ground that had no means of or expertise in raising money themselves, reveals Aakar Patel.

Relief likely for India from US tariffs over forced labour

Relief likely for India from US tariffs over forced labour

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

India anticipates a reduction in the United States' proposed tariffs on Indian goods under the Section 301 investigation, following New Delhi's recent notification to restrict the import of products made with forced labour.

After donation theft, 250 Ayodhya seers meet to rebuild devotee trust

After donation theft, 250 Ayodhya seers meet to rebuild devotee trust

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

A crucial meeting of around 250 seers and VHP functionaries in Ayodhya will address issues concerning the Ram temple, including ensuring adherence to Vaishnav-Ramanandi traditions, restoring devotee confidence after an alleged donation theft, and deliberating on the Trust's management. The meeting follows deferred decisions by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust on key appointments.

SBI to oversee new donation counting system at Ram Temple

SBI to oversee new donation counting system at Ram Temple

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

The Ram Temple trust in Ayodhya has implemented a new, two-shift system for counting cash donations, overseen by the State Bank of India (SBI), following an embezzlement scandal. A new team, including ex-servicemen and supervisors, has been deployed to enhance security and transparency in the process, aiming to prevent future theft and restore public trust.

US launches major probe into H-1B visa fraud, names Indian IT firm

US launches major probe into H-1B visa fraud, names Indian IT firm

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

The US Department of Labour's Office of the Inspector General has initiated an investigation into alleged fraud in H-1B and PERM work visa programmes. Indian IT firm Cognizant is among the companies under scrutiny for widespread schemes involving fraudulent applications, exploitation of foreign workers, and undercutting American labour. The probe aims to dismantle networks exploiting the guest worker visa system.

Government Skips Women's Quota, Delimitation In 5-Bill Slate

Government Skips Women's Quota, Delimitation In 5-Bill Slate

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

BJP sources said the government would introduce a fresh Bill on the issue and has reached out to parties that opposed the earlier legislation.

US-Iran peace deal on track, negotiators are in Switzerland: Vance

US-Iran peace deal on track, negotiators are in Switzerland: Vance

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

US Vice President J D Vance confirmed that peace talks with Iran are underway in Switzerland, with negotiators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner already present. Vance plans to join soon, expressing confidence in the US's strong negotiating position despite a delay caused by recent Israel-Lebanon firing.

Trump: US-Iran peace deal to be signed Sunday, Strait of Hormuz 'open to all'

Trump: US-Iran peace deal to be signed Sunday, Strait of Hormuz 'open to all'

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

US President Donald Trump announced that a deal to end the war with Iran would be signed on Sunday, with the strategic Strait of Hormuz immediately becoming 'open to all'. This follows indications from Pakistan that negotiations were in their final stages, though Iran has yet to comment on the timeline.

Deaths reported in crack down on protesters in PoJK

Deaths reported in crack down on protesters in PoJK

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Tensions are escalating in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) following violent clashes between Pakistani security forces and protestors, resulting in civilian deaths and a communications blackout. The situation has drawn international condemnation, with over 50 British Parliament members expressing concern and a former Indian police chief criticising Pakistan's actions.

DRI seizes 440+ Endangered Animals, Ivory

DRI seizes 440+ Endangered Animals, Ivory

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence has conducted a nationwide crackdown on wildlife trafficking, seizing over 440 endangered animals and 15 kg of ivory, and arresting 33 individuals involved in organised crime syndicates.

Midcap, Smallcap Indices Scale Record Highs

Midcap, Smallcap Indices Scale Record Highs

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

'Midcaps and smallcaps are the 'go-to segments' for retail investors.'

Foreign Universities Offer Rs 1,000 Cr Scholarships

Foreign Universities Offer Rs 1,000 Cr Scholarships

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

The scholarships are expected to support both merit- and need-based categories, including students from non-metro regions and those enrolling in high-demand disciplines such as AI and other STEM fields.

Cyber Fraud Syndicate Busted in Delhi, Foreign Links Exposed

Cyber Fraud Syndicate Busted in Delhi, Foreign Links Exposed

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

Delhi Police have dismantled a cyber fraud syndicate with connections to foreign handlers, arresting three individuals, including a bank employee. The investigation revealed the use of mule accounts, social media platforms, and cryptocurrency for illicit transactions.

'5,200 applications': Ram Temple Trust defers CEO selection by a month

'5,200 applications': Ram Temple Trust defers CEO selection by a month

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust on Wednesday deferred the selection of its first chief executive officer (CEO) by a month after receiving 5,200 applications for the post and decided to appoint a secretary in the interim to meet growing administrative requirements.

ED probes Christian group over foreign card cash deals in Maoist areas

ED probes Christian group over foreign card cash deals in Maoist areas

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is investigating the use of foreign debit cards by a global Christian mission to withdraw crores of rupees in Naxal violence-hit regions of India. Searches were conducted in multiple states, and foreign debit cards, cash, and digital devices were seized.

India's FCNR (B) Inflows Fall Short of Expectations, Rupee Weakens

India's FCNR (B) Inflows Fall Short of Expectations, Rupee Weakens

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Inflows into foreign currency non-resident (bank), or FCNR (B), deposits have significantly underperformed market expectations, leading to a more than 1 per cent depreciation of the rupee against the dollar this week. Analysts point to fading RBI support measures, tepid interest due to rising global bond yields, and narrowing interest rate spreads compared to 2013 as key challenges.

US de-lists 4 Indian companies sanctioned over Russia links

US de-lists 4 Indian companies sanctioned over Russia links

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

The United States has removed four Indian companies from its sanctions list, which had been accused of supplying advanced technology and equipment to Russia's military-industrial complex. The de-listed firms include RRG Engineering Technologies, Lokesh Machines, Galaxy Bearings, and Shaurya Aeronautics, previously sanctioned for exporting dual-use items to Russian entities.

Dharmendra Pradhan's Resignation: First Crack In Modi's Fortress?

Dharmendra Pradhan's Resignation: First Crack In Modi's Fortress?

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation is significant because it punctures, however slightly, the perception that the Modi government never retreats under pressure. Every long-serving government eventually reaches a point where every institutional failure is identified with the leader himself. Removing the minister may have prevented that political burden from falling directly on Modi. Whether it also resolves the underlying crisis is another matter, notes Ramesh Menon.

Why Congress Is Suspicious About CJP

Why Congress Is Suspicious About CJP

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

A Congress spokesperson, quoted in media reports, summed up the party's thinking by saying, 'Whenever BJP is in trouble on the ground, a new 'apolitical' or 'alternative' party appears with the same ideology and the same backers.'

Agnikul Partners With ICEYE To Develop, Launch Satellites

Agnikul Partners With ICEYE To Develop, Launch Satellites

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

'With this deal, we may see even 50 launches a year within the next few years.'

Iran's 'revenge list' features Meloni, Macron alongside Trump, Bibi

Iran's 'revenge list' features Meloni, Macron alongside Trump, Bibi

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, his son and successor, Mojtaba Khamenei, issued a "revenge list" featuring 13 world leaders, including Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu, with a graphic depicting them as targets, amidst escalating regional hostilities and US reports of an Iranian assassination plot against Trump.

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.

Sensex Sees Worst H1 Since 2020

Sensex Sees Worst H1 Since 2020

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

IT stocks had their worst first half fall in decades, with the Nifty IT index declining 31% in the January-June 2026 period, its biggest decline in the first six months of a calendar year since 2003.

Should You Buy 30-Year Government Bonds?

Should You Buy 30-Year Government Bonds?

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Long-duration bonds allow investors to match investment tenure with long-term liabilities and also stabilise their long-duration portfolios.

The India Story Review: Not Brave Enough!

The India Story Review: Not Brave Enough!

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The India Story adopts a very soap opera-like approach, piling on ham-fisted melodrama along with plenty of unevenness, sighs Sreeju Sudhakaran

'India is among Standard Chartered's top five wealth markets globally'

'India is among Standard Chartered's top five wealth markets globally'

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

"With the leverage available, I believe the scheme remains reasonably attractive," said P D Singh, India and South Asia Chief Executive Officer, Standard Chartered Bank, regarding the Foreign Currency Non-Resident (Bank) or FCNR (B) deposits.

Bengaluru Police Bust Drug Racket, Arrest Eight Including Foreign National

Bengaluru Police Bust Drug Racket, Arrest Eight Including Foreign National

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

Bengaluru police have arrested eight individuals, including a foreign national, for allegedly selling drugs in the city. The operation resulted in the seizure of drugs, vehicles, and other items worth Rs 27.42 crores.

Chinese FM Wang Yi to attend BRICS NSA meet in New Delhi from June 22 to 23

Chinese FM Wang Yi to attend BRICS NSA meet in New Delhi from June 22 to 23

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is set to attend the BRICS National Security Advisors meeting in New Delhi on June 22-23. The high-level gathering will address international security challenges, regional issues, and prepare for the upcoming BRICS Summit in India. Wang Yi is also expected to hold bilateral talks with India's NSA Ajit Doval, focusing on India-China border issues.

Govt allots 2 million more tonnes of broken rice for E20

Govt allots 2 million more tonnes of broken rice for E20

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The Indian government has allocated an additional 2 million tonnes of surplus broken rice from FCI stocks for its ethanol blending programme, while simultaneously issuing a detailed rebuttal to widespread misinformation regarding the E20 fuel, addressing concerns from water consumption to engine damage and environmental impact.

Pak to host Saudi, Turkish, Egyptian FMs for talks on Iran war

Pak to host Saudi, Turkish, Egyptian FMs for talks on Iran war

Rediff.com28 Mar 2026

Pakistan is set to host the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkiye to discuss a range of issues, including de-escalating tensions in West Asia.

NBFCs drive India's securitisation market to record Rs 60,000 crore in Q1

NBFCs drive India's securitisation market to record Rs 60,000 crore in Q1

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

India's securitisation market achieved its highest-ever first-quarter performance, reaching approximately 60,000 crore, a 22 per cent year-on-year increase, primarily driven by Non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) and a significant surge in gold loan securitisation.

Pakistan Rejects India's PoK Allegations, Issues Water Warning

Pakistan Rejects India's PoK Allegations, Issues Water Warning

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Pakistan has criticised India's recent remarks on Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) protests, asserting it is addressing issues democratically. Pakistan also warned India against blocking water, calling it an "act of war," and commented on India's nuclear capabilities and its own military strikes in Afghanistan.

Araghchi meets Munir in Pak, Iran says no talks planned with US

Araghchi meets Munir in Pak, Iran says no talks planned with US

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

Iran's Foreign Ministry has denied reports of planned talks with the United States during a visit to Islamabad, Pakistan, despite US envoys also visiting the region.

US hits over 80 targets in Iran after Hormuz attacks

US hits over 80 targets in Iran after Hormuz attacks

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

The United States conducted retaliatory strikes against Iran, targeting over 80 sites, after accusing Tehran of attacking commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, while Iran condemned the US decision to revoke a temporary suspension of sanctions on Iranian oil sales.