News for 'Foreign Service'

South Korea FA apologises for alleged 'sexual services' to foreign referees

South Korea FA apologises for alleged 'sexual services' to foreign referees

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

South Korea's national football association has issued a deep apology following a media report alleging it provided 'sexual services' to foreign referees during international matches over a decade ago, specifically in 2011 and 2012.

Sensex, Nifty fall as high oil prices, foreign fund outflows weigh

Sensex, Nifty fall as high oil prices, foreign fund outflows weigh

Rediff.com1 days ago

Indian equity benchmark indices, Sensex and Nifty, extended their losses for a second consecutive day, driven by elevated crude oil prices, persistent foreign institutional investor (FII) outflows, and high US Treasury yields.

Finance Ministry Clarifies UPI MDR Policy, Denies Foreign Pressure

Finance Ministry Clarifies UPI MDR Policy, Denies Foreign Pressure

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Finance Ministry has clarified that the decision to impose a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 was made independently, refuting claims of foreign influence. The ministry stated the policy aims to build a self-sustaining digital payments ecosystem, with MDR funding infrastructure and supporting small merchants.

India Must Diversify Services Exports For Sustainable Growth

India Must Diversify Services Exports For Sustainable Growth

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agarwal highlighted the critical need for India to diversify its services exports beyond the dominant IT/ITeS and professional services sectors. Speaking at the Global Fintech Fest 2026, he emphasised the vast potential in the global financial services market, where India currently holds a small share, and stressed how fintech solutions, like UPI, can drive growth, reduce remittance costs, and support MSME trade finance, ultimately leading to sustainable economic expansion.

India Inc's foreign funding intent surges to $7.7 billion in July

India Inc's foreign funding intent surges to $7.7 billion in July

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Indian companies, including NBFCs, filed proposals to raise $7.696 billion through external commercial borrowings (ECBs) and foreign currency convertible bonds (FCCBs) in July 2026, a significant increase from $6.09 billion in June.

Why Foreign Investors Are Missing India's Real Story

Why Foreign Investors Are Missing India's Real Story

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

If India does get $100 billion a year in FDI, it would be a game-changer in every possible way. FPIs would come rushing back, AI or no AI, points out Debashis Basu.

After Nepal's U-turn on foreign aid, India rushes rescue team

After Nepal's U-turn on foreign aid, India rushes rescue team

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

An 11-member Indian team, including medical personnel and tunnel rescue experts, has arrived in Nepal to assist with rescue operations following devastating flash floods that killed over 500 people and left nearly 2,000 missing. Nepal has requested international aid for specialised tasks and Bailey bridges to restore transport services in the affected areas.

I-T dept launches nationwide drive against suspicious foreign remittances

I-T dept launches nationwide drive against suspicious foreign remittances

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

The Income Tax Department has initiated a nationwide verification drive targeting suspicious foreign remittances made by entities with minimal business activity, including those in border districts, and is scrutinising the chartered accountants who issued the mandatory tax determination certificates.

ED searches Jaisalmer premises over Belgian funds, proselytisation

ED searches Jaisalmer premises over Belgian funds, proselytisation

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted searches in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, investigating the alleged misuse of Rs 5.10 crore in foreign donations from a non-FCRA registered Belgian entity for proselytisation activities. Two local residents are accused of receiving funds without proper registration, disguising them as educational or cultural services, and using them to influence vulnerable communities.

All Iranian airlines to be shut down globally from Sept 23: US

All Iranian airlines to be shut down globally from Sept 23: US

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

United States Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has warned that Iranian airlines could be effectively shut out of international travel from Wednesday, September 23, as Washington threatens secondary sanctions against foreign companies that continue providing services to Iran's carriers.

US to substantially hike fees for EB-5 investor visa

US to substantially hike fees for EB-5 investor visa

Rediff.com15 hours ago

The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a significant increase in fees for the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Programme, effective November 30. This programme allows foreign investors, including many from India, to obtain permanent residency by investing in US commercial enterprises and creating jobs. The fee hikes, some more than doubling, are intended to fund USCIS operations, which are largely supported by fees rather than taxes.

India Inc's foreign borrowing intent surges to $6 billion in June

India Inc's foreign borrowing intent surges to $6 billion in June

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Indian companies, including NBFCs, filed proposals with the RBI to raise $6.08 billion through external commercial borrowings (ECBs) and foreign currency convertible bonds (FCCBs) in June, marking a significant increase from the previous month.

Stock Markets Today: Sensex, Nifty Recover as Oil Prices Moderate; IT Sector Leads Gains

Stock Markets Today: Sensex, Nifty Recover as Oil Prices Moderate; IT Sector Leads Gains

Rediff.com16 hours ago

Indian benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty rebounded in early trade after two days of losses, driven by easing crude oil prices and strong buying in blue-chip IT stocks, despite continued global uncertainties. Track Sensex, Nifty on September 30.

Stock Markets Today: Sensex, Nifty up in Volatile Trade

Stock Markets Today: Sensex, Nifty up in Volatile Trade

Rediff.com5 days ago

Indian benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty experienced volatile trading, influenced by elevated crude oil prices, high US bond yields, and selling pressure in IT stocks, despite an early rebound.

Mastercard Sells Entire 4.31% Stake in Fintech Firm Pine Labs for Rs 933 Crore

Mastercard Sells Entire 4.31% Stake in Fintech Firm Pine Labs for Rs 933 Crore

Rediff.com7 days ago

Global payments solution major Mastercard has fully exited Indian fintech firm Pine Labs, selling its entire 4.31 per cent stake for Rs 933 crore through block deals on the BSE.

Bank unions to go on 3-day strike from Monday. Here's why

Bank unions to go on 3-day strike from Monday. Here's why

Rediff.com3 days ago

Banking services across India, particularly at public sector banks, are set to be disrupted for three days starting Monday due to a nationwide strike by bank unions. The strike, called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU), is primarily to press for a five-day working week and other demands, despite the finance ministry's appeal for dialogue.

Stock Markets Today: Sensex, Nifty Rebound on Easing Crude Prices

Stock Markets Today: Sensex, Nifty Rebound on Easing Crude Prices

Rediff.com7 days ago

Indian benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty saw a rebound in early trade, driven by a moderation in crude oil prices, despite persistent selling by Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) and mixed global market cues.

The Prince And The Driver

The Prince And The Driver

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

A Kishore Kumar song, a birthday cake, a prince's break from protocol to thank his driver, a Persian painting on the ceiling of the presidential residence -- the BRICS Summit had many memorable moments.

'Dangerous path': India warns citizens against joining Russian military

'Dangerous path': India warns citizens against joining Russian military

Rediff.com4 hours ago

The Ministry of External Affairs has issued a strong advisory warning Indian nationals against joining the Russian armed forces, citing significant mortal dangers. The MEA noted instances of individuals seeking recruitment for monetary benefits, with some even renouncing Indian citizenship. The government is actively engaged with Russia to ensure the safety and early discharge of Indians already serving, having secured the release of 139 nationals previously.

Sensex, Nifty fall despite global cues; IT, financials lead decline

Sensex, Nifty fall despite global cues; IT, financials lead decline

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

Indian benchmark indices, Sensex and Nifty, closed lower on Tuesday, with the Sensex declining 329.91 points to 74,529.08 and the Nifty dipping 85.30 points to 23,329, primarily dragged by underperformance in IT, financial, and capital goods stocks despite positive global market trends and easing crude oil prices.

Finance Ministry Rejects US Influence Claims On UPI MDR

Finance Ministry Rejects US Influence Claims On UPI MDR

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

The Finance Ministry has refuted allegations that US pressure influenced the decision to levy a 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on select UPI payments. The ministry clarified that the NPCI guidelines prioritise RuPay credit cards on UPI to promote domestic alternatives and ensure a self-sustaining revenue model for smaller domestic companies, countering claims of favouring foreign payment providers.

FCNR(B) funds find a runway ahead of festival season-led credit demand

FCNR(B) funds find a runway ahead of festival season-led credit demand

Rediff.com5 days ago

RBI Deputy Governor Rohit Jain highlighted that banks are well-positioned to deploy $133 billion mobilised through FCNR(B) deposits, especially with strong credit demand ahead of the festival season, while also stressing the importance of robust technology governance and cyber defences in the financial sector.

All You Need to Know About New Green Card Bill

All You Need to Know About New Green Card Bill

Rediff.com1 days ago

The Bill proposes replacing employment-based Green Card preferences with a points-based immigration framework.

India Rejects US Influence Claims Over UPI MDR Policy

India Rejects US Influence Claims Over UPI MDR Policy

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

The Finance Ministry has dismissed allegations of US pressure influencing the 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on select UPI transactions. It clarified that NPCI guidelines prioritise RuPay credit cards on UPI and do not favour international cards. The ministry also asserted that the MDR, applicable to person-to-merchant transactions above Rs 2,000, is unlikely to increase cash transactions or cause inflation, with measures in place to prevent burdening consumers.

Stock Markets Today: Sensex, Nifty Rebound in Early Trade, Fed Decision Looms

Stock Markets Today: Sensex, Nifty Rebound in Early Trade, Fed Decision Looms

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Indian benchmark indices, Sensex and Nifty, saw an early rebound after significant losses, driven by value buying, though elevated oil prices and anticipation of the US Federal Reserve's policy decision tempered gains. Track Sensex, Nifty on September 16.

Have Foreign Assets? View Details In AIS

Have Foreign Assets? View Details In AIS

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

The data may include details of foreign bank accounts, investment accounts, certain financial investments, interest income, dividends and other specified financial income held by Indian tax residents abroad.

Stock Markets Today: Sensex Slips After Opening higher, Nifty Flat

Stock Markets Today: Sensex Slips After Opening higher, Nifty Flat

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

Indian benchmark indices, Sensex and Nifty, traded marginally higher in early trade despite the US Federal Reserve's recent rate hike and indications of further tightening, with the National Stock Exchange's much-anticipated Rs 22,569-crore IPO also opening for subscription.

Why Fund Managers Are Avoiding IT Stocks

Why Fund Managers Are Avoiding IT Stocks

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

IT services stocks have had tough two years, with prices coming under pressure from 2025 and the sell-off extending through the first half of 2026.

India's FY27 growth to moderate in H2 amid inflation, liquidity risks: DBS

India's FY27 growth to moderate in H2 amid inflation, liquidity risks: DBS

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

India's economy is projected to lose momentum in the second half of fiscal 2026-27, with tighter financial conditions, elevated energy prices, and broadening inflation pressures posing significant risks, according to DBS Bank economist Radhika Rao.

Indian Equities Tank as Oil Surges, Rate Hike Fears Grip Global Markets

Indian Equities Tank as Oil Surges, Rate Hike Fears Grip Global Markets

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Indian benchmark indices, Sensex and Nifty, experienced a significant downturn, with Sensex tanking 778 points and Nifty closing at a five-month low, driven by surging crude oil prices, geopolitical tensions, and fears of further interest rate hikes by major central banks.

Sensex, Nifty Rebound on Easing Crude, Hopes of West Asia De-escalation

Sensex, Nifty Rebound on Easing Crude, Hopes of West Asia De-escalation

Rediff.com7 days ago

Indian benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty rebounded on Wednesday, driven by a decline in crude oil prices below USD 100 per barrel and optimism surrounding a potential de-escalation of the conflict in West Asia.

Stock Markets Today: Sensex, Nifty in Red; BSE tanked over 600 points

Stock Markets Today: Sensex, Nifty in Red; BSE tanked over 600 points

Rediff.com6 days ago

Indian benchmark indices, Sensex and Nifty, experienced a significant drop in early trade, with the Sensex falling over 600 points, primarily due to crude oil prices surging past the USD 100 per barrel mark and weak global market trends. Track Sensex, Nifty on September 24.

India's BoP pressure to remain a challenge, says Chief Economic Advisor

India's BoP pressure to remain a challenge, says Chief Economic Advisor

Rediff.com5 days ago

India's Chief Economic Advisor V Anantha Nageswaran stated that the country's balance of payments (BoP) pressure is expected to remain a continuous challenge due to rising imports, commodity dependence, high global interest rates, and intense competition for capital.

UPI MDR: Ministry Addresses Concerns Over Cash Transactions And Inflation

UPI MDR: Ministry Addresses Concerns Over Cash Transactions And Inflation

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

The Finance Ministry has clarified that the 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000, effective October 15, is not expected to increase cash transactions or cause inflation. The ministry also dismissed allegations of US pressure influencing the decision, asserting that the policy aims to promote RuPay credit cards within the UPI ecosystem, and a monitoring mechanism will ensure the MDR burden is not passed on to consumers.

Tata Listing Will Add Fresh Equity To Market

Tata Listing Will Add Fresh Equity To Market

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

At a valuation of around Rs 10 trillion, Tata Sons would rank among India's 10 largest listed companies and could qualify for inclusion in key indices such as the Nifty 50, Sensex and the Nifty 100.

US, EU flag India's 'trade barriers' at WTO, citing high tariffs, QCOs, and digital trade curbs

US, EU flag India's 'trade barriers' at WTO, citing high tariffs, QCOs, and digital trade curbs

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

The United States and the European Union have strongly criticised India's trade policies at the World Trade Organization review, highlighting concerns over high tariffs, quality-control orders (QCOs), and restrictions on digital trade and services, which they argue undermine India's economic openness.

Criticism Of RBI's Swap Scheme Is Uncalled For

Criticism Of RBI's Swap Scheme Is Uncalled For

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

It is important to understand that the rupee's appreciation, driven by the 2013 special swap scheme, reduced India's import costs for petroleum, oil, and gold, points out Dr Ashwani Mahajan, National Co-Convenor, Swadeshi Jagaran Manch.

Tata's Problem Is India's Problem

Tata's Problem Is India's Problem

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

J R D Tata, chairman of the Tata group from 1938 to 1991, said that whenever he had to make a difficult decision, he would ask himself, what will be good for India, and what will be good for the Tatas. If he had a doubt, he would decide in favour of India. In the long run, it would turn out well for the Tatas too, he said, points out Arun Maira.

Global uncertainty prompts FPIs to pull Rs 5,109 cr from Indian govt bonds

Global uncertainty prompts FPIs to pull Rs 5,109 cr from Indian govt bonds

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) have withdrawn nearly Rs 5,109.21 crore from Indian government securities under the fully accessible route (FAR) in just three days, driven by global uncertainty, elevated crude prices, rising US Treasury yields, and a depreciating rupee.

Sitharaman: GST Council to tackle process reforms, digital economy tax complexities

Sitharaman: GST Council to tackle process reforms, digital economy tax complexities

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council's October 7 meeting will focus on 'GST 2.0' process reforms, including e-invoicing and input tax credit rules, while also addressing complex issues surrounding the taxation of the digital economy and cryptocurrency.