News for 'Foreign Office'

No Cabinet Nod Needed For Some PM Visit Pacts

No Cabinet Nod Needed For Some PM Visit Pacts

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

India has amended its guidelines governing the signing of international agreements during official visits by the prime minister, and select pacts have been exempted from prior Cabinet approval.

Pakistan Declares 'Open War' After Airstrikes on Afghan Taliban

Pakistan Declares 'Open War' After Airstrikes on Afghan Taliban

Rediff.com27 Feb 2026

Pakistan declared an 'open war' with Afghanistan following airstrikes targeting Taliban fighters in response to alleged cross-border attacks. The situation has drawn international concern, with calls for de-escalation and diplomatic resolution.

Delhi HC Denies Christian Michel's Bail in AgustaWestland Case

Delhi HC Denies Christian Michel's Bail in AgustaWestland Case

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

The Delhi High Court has dismissed Christian Michel James's petition for release in the AgustaWestland VVIP chopper scam case, upholding his continued detention.

Goa Woman Accused of Concealing Portuguese Nationality to Enrol as Voter

Goa Woman Accused of Concealing Portuguese Nationality to Enrol as Voter

Rediff.com8 Mar 2026

A woman in Goa has been booked for allegedly concealing her Portuguese nationality and fraudulently enrolling in the voter list.

The Inspiring Journey Of Sreeja, UPSC AIR 57

The Inspiring Journey Of Sreeja, UPSC AIR 57

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

'India is at a critical juncture in this century. I want to be a part of the diplomatic team that works to make India great.'

Politicians Under Fire Over Alleged Links to Accused Godman

Politicians Under Fire Over Alleged Links to Accused Godman

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

Activist Anjali Damania alleges phone calls between Maharashtra politicians and a rape-accused godman, sparking controversy and raising questions about their connections.

Aiyar versus Tharoor: Congress's men of letters in war of letters

Aiyar versus Tharoor: Congress's men of letters in war of letters

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

A public exchange of open letters between Congress leaders Mani Shankar Aiyar and Shashi Tharoor reveals a significant rift over foreign policy, particularly concerning Israel and the Sabarimala temple issue.

Samajwadi Party Leader Faces Charges Over Eid Protest Appeal

Samajwadi Party Leader Faces Charges Over Eid Protest Appeal

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

A Samajwadi Party leader has been booked for allegedly urging Muslims not to celebrate Eid as a protest against a US attack on Iran, claiming it was an appeal from jailed leader Azam Khan.

China's mediation fails to broker agreement between Pak, Afghanistan

China's mediation fails to broker agreement between Pak, Afghanistan

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

China's week-long mediation between Pakistan and Afghanistan concludes without a formal agreement, though Beijing claims progress in exploring solutions to resolve their differences.

Indian Youth Recruited for Terror by Pakistan Network: Police Bust Module

Indian Youth Recruited for Terror by Pakistan Network: Police Bust Module

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

Delhi Police have busted a Pakistan-linked terror module recruiting Indian youth through social media, arresting a key operative and uncovering plans for potential attacks.

No surplus oil, says Iran as US eases sanctions

No surplus oil, says Iran as US eases sanctions

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

In a statement issued by Iran's consulate in Mumbai, it said, "At present, Iran essentially has no floating crude or surplus available for international markets. The US Treasury Secretary's remarks appear aimed at reassuring buyers and managing market sentiment."

Young Sherlock Review: Tremendous Fun

Young Sherlock Review: Tremendous Fun

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

Even with its convoluted plot and a bit of a mid-series sag, Young Sherlock is tremendous fun, applauds Deepa Gahlot.

Amritpal Singh, Wanted in Punjab Extortion Cases, Detained in Moldova

Amritpal Singh, Wanted in Punjab Extortion Cases, Detained in Moldova

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

Amritpal Singh, a most-wanted gangster linked to the Jaggu Bhagwanpuria gang and involved in making extortion calls to businessmen in Punjab, was detained at the Moldova border.

Hormuz Blockade Is The New Battlefield

Hormuz Blockade Is The New Battlefield

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

The clock on the ceasefire is running out. But everyone's already whispering about round two, possibly as soon as this weekend.

Swiss Official Highlights Science Diplomacy as Key to Global Security

Swiss Official Highlights Science Diplomacy as Key to Global Security

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

A top Swiss official has emphasised the growing importance of science and technology in international affairs, leading Switzerland to prioritise anticipatory science diplomacy in its foreign policy. Collaboration with India reflects a shared vision between two global innovation leaders.

Delhi Cop Nabbed in Fake Police Clearance Certificate Scam

Delhi Cop Nabbed in Fake Police Clearance Certificate Scam

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

A Delhi Police constable has been arrested for his alleged involvement in a racket producing fake Police Clearance Certificates (PCCs). The investigation uncovered a network charging individuals for forged documents, highlighting concerns about corruption and security.

How Punjab Police is Using AI to Combat Gang Violence

How Punjab Police is Using AI to Combat Gang Violence

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

Punjab Police is using intelligence-led policing and digital tools, including AI-powered voice recognition, to combat organised crime and dismantle gangster networks operating across states and continents.

Pistol Found Near Rajghat Linked to Advocate Shooting

Pistol Found Near Rajghat Linked to Advocate Shooting

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

A pistol, allegedly found by a delivery person in an abandoned scooter near Rajghat, has been linked to a shooting incident targeting an advocate associated with jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi.

Customs Busts Bhutan Car Smuggling Racket, Arrests Five

Customs Busts Bhutan Car Smuggling Racket, Arrests Five

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

Indian Customs officials have arrested five individuals from West Bengal and Assam for their involvement in smuggling high-end used cars from Bhutan. The investigation revealed a widespread network of forged documents and illegal vehicle registrations.

Gulf War: 'Missiles Flew Past Us'

Gulf War: 'Missiles Flew Past Us'

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

'We are getting used to the constant alerts to take shelter, listening to sonic booms from jets flying above us, hearing news of neighbouring ports being targeted, and being the only ship in the terminal.'

Pakistan backs Chinese claim of mediation during Operation Sindoor

Pakistan backs Chinese claim of mediation during Operation Sindoor

Rediff.com3 Jan 2026

Pakistan has backed China's claim that Beijing played a role in defusing tension with India during Operation Sindoor, calling it 'diplomacy for peace' that was part of international efforts.

US-Iran: The Weekend Has Left The World In A More Dangerous Place

US-Iran: The Weekend Has Left The World In A More Dangerous Place

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

The ceasefire is still technically holding, to the extent that no overt hostilities have been reported yet, but the rhetoric has hardened dangerously. The week ahead will also clarify whether the Islamabad failure was a negotiating tactic or whether Washington has genuinely locked itself into a position from which the only exits are climb-down, escalation, or the slow bleed of a new status quo that nobody chose and nobody controls. Prem Panicker continues his must read blog on the Iran War.

Iran Ceasefire Hours From Collapse

Iran Ceasefire Hours From Collapse

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Trump has made it clear: the US will not lift its blockade of Iranian ports until a deal is signed.

Dhurandhar And The Politics Of Storytelling

Dhurandhar And The Politics Of Storytelling

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

The Dhurandhar movies will undoubtedly shape the minds of the audience much more than news reports, court investigations, books and documentaries. But it is worth remembering that Pakistan's irridentist claims against India's national security have succeeded due to strategic planning, diplomacy, and the unsung heroines and heroes across government agencies, not due to a single maverick leader, points out Shweta Desai.But it is worth to remember that Pakistan's irredentist claims against India's national security have succeeded due to strategic planning, diplomacy, and the unsung heroines and heroes across government agencies -- not a single maverick, points out Shweta Desai.

War In The Strait Of Hormuz Has Landed On A Tawa In Mumbai

War In The Strait Of Hormuz Has Landed On A Tawa In Mumbai

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

The LPG squeeze on India's restaurant sector is the quotidian face of a deeper crisis.

Gujarat ATS Busts Etomidate Smuggling Ring Exporting to Malaysia

Gujarat ATS Busts Etomidate Smuggling Ring Exporting to Malaysia

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

The Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) seized 22 kg of etomidate, an analgesic drug, disguised as aloe vera powder at Mumbai airport. The drug was being illegally exported to Malaysia via air cargo. Three individuals from Surat have been arrested in connection with the smuggling operation.

Ahead of Carney visit, Canada says India no longer linked to violent crimes

Ahead of Carney visit, Canada says India no longer linked to violent crimes

Rediff.com26 Feb 2026

The statement suggests that Canadian authorities do not see ongoing foreign interference or violent activity tied to India at present.

25 Illegal Bangladeshi Nationals Arrested In Mumbai

25 Illegal Bangladeshi Nationals Arrested In Mumbai

Rediff.com26 Feb 2026

Investigations reveal that many of them had been residing in the country for the past six to eight years.

How Delhi Police Busted an International Arms Trafficking Syndicate

How Delhi Police Busted an International Arms Trafficking Syndicate

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Delhi Police dismantled a major international arms trafficking module with links to Pakistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh, arresting 10 operatives and recovering a cache of foreign-made weapons.

Supreme Court Dismisses Case Against Elvish Yadav in Snake Venom Party Allegations

Supreme Court Dismisses Case Against Elvish Yadav in Snake Venom Party Allegations

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

The Supreme Court has quashed an FIR and subsequent proceedings against YouTuber Elvish Yadav, who was arrested for allegedly using snake venom at a rave party in Noida. The court cited issues with the applicability of the NDPS Act and the validity of proceedings under the Wildlife (Protection) Act.

The US Rescue That Raises More Questions Than It Answers

The US Rescue That Raises More Questions Than It Answers

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

The 'rescue' operation occurred within kilometres of Iran's underground tunnel complex at Isfahan, assessed by the IAEA and US intelligence as holding a substantial portion of the country's 60 per cent enriched uranium stockpile. Retired senior US military officers have highlighted that the mission's footprint -- hundreds of special operators, multiple heavy-lift aircraft deep inside Iran -- appears outsized for recovering a single airman. Prem Panicker continues his must read blog on the Iran War.

J'khand man with links to foreign nuke scientist held in Delhi for spying

J'khand man with links to foreign nuke scientist held in Delhi for spying

Rediff.com28 Oct 2025

Delhi Police have arrested a 59-year-old man for alleged espionage activities and involvement in a fake passport racket operating from Jamshedpur. The accused had links with a foreign-based nuclear scientist.

Delhi Police Apprehends Three Bangladeshi Nationals for Illegal Stay

Delhi Police Apprehends Three Bangladeshi Nationals for Illegal Stay

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

Delhi Police apprehended three Bangladeshi nationals from Adarsh Nagar for illegally staying in India and initiated deportation proceedings after discovering inconsistencies in their claims and finding Bangladeshi identity documents on their phones.

'Auspicious ally': China backs Doraiswami as bridge to revive India ties

'Auspicious ally': China backs Doraiswami as bridge to revive India ties

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

China has welcomed the appointment of Vikram Doraiswami as the new Indian Ambassador, expressing optimism for improved Sino-India relations. Doraiswami, a seasoned diplomat with experience in China, is expected to play a key role in managing complex bilateral issues and fostering cooperation.

B'desh summons Indian envoy over its missions' security

B'desh summons Indian envoy over its missions' security

Rediff.com23 Dec 2025

The Bangladesh Foreign Ministry condemned the violence, citing threats to diplomatic personnel and establishments, and urged India to ensure their safety and security.

Ever Notice These Bollywood Easter Eggs?

Ever Notice These Bollywood Easter Eggs?

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

Eagle-eyed movie buffs don't miss a thing. Part of their passion for cinema is noticing clever little details slipped in by the filmmaker as ardently as the creative. With Easter Sunday just around the corner, Sukanya Verma digs up some super filmi easter eggs just for you.

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.

The Gulf War: What's Pakistan Up To?

The Gulf War: What's Pakistan Up To?

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

Egypt, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey met in Islamabad in what analysts say is the formal opening of a new diplomatic formation that could reshape the post-war regional order. Their immediate goal is a ceasefire; their larger ambition is to ensure that neither Iran nor Israel emerges from this war in a dominant position. Pakistan's foreign minister then flew directly to Beijing and mooted a Chinese role as guarantor of any eventual agreement. Prem Panicker continues his must read daily blog on the Gulf War.

Iran vows revenge after killing of supreme leader Khamenei

Iran vows revenge after killing of supreme leader Khamenei

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Sunday issued a formal address and said that the event is a moment of profound religious and historical consequence.

Delhi Court Seeks Clarification in Russian Woman's Child Custody Case

Delhi Court Seeks Clarification in Russian Woman's Child Custody Case

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

A Delhi court has requested further information from the investigating officer in the child custody case involving Viktoriaa Basu, a Russian woman accused of illegally leaving India with her child.