News for 'Foreign Service'

Jewellers back PM's gold appeal, propose monetisation scheme enhancements

Jewellers back PM's gold appeal, propose monetisation scheme enhancements

Rediff.com6 days ago

Leading Indian jewellery bodies, including the All India Gem & Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC) and Malabar Gold & Diamonds, have expressed support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal to reduce gold imports and are advocating for enhancements to the Gold Monetisation Scheme (GMS) to unlock India's vast idle gold reserves.

Foreign investors dump Rs 88,180 cr in Mar; 2026 outflows cross Rs 1 lakh cr

Foreign investors dump Rs 88,180 cr in Mar; 2026 outflows cross Rs 1 lakh cr

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

Foreign investors have withdrawn over Rs 88,000 crore from Indian equities this month, driven by geopolitical tensions, a weak rupee, and concerns about rising crude oil prices.

Probe into Foreigners' Activities Aims to Uncover Conspiracy Against India

Probe into Foreigners' Activities Aims to Uncover Conspiracy Against India

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Security agencies in India are investigating a potential conspiracy involving arrested foreigners, including a US mercenary, who allegedly aimed to exploit Indian ethnic groups to undermine national security. The investigation involves data extraction from mobile phones and scrutiny of social media accounts to uncover the full extent of the plot and identify all involved parties.

Why Army chief wants to open a cafe

Why Army chief wants to open a cafe

Rediff.com3 days ago

Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi shared his vision for a cafe named 'Ahista Zindagi' in Madhya Pradesh, designed as a retreat for reflection and conversation in today's fast-paced world, during an interaction with youths in Delhi.

India-Pak truce a favour to Sharif, Munir: Trump repeats mediation claims

India-Pak truce a favour to Sharif, Munir: Trump repeats mediation claims

Rediff.com4 days ago

US President Donald Trump on Friday said that the 'ceasefire' that he got done between India and Pakistan was a favour to their army chief Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Gulf War Crisis: Why India Will Take A Huge Hit

Gulf War Crisis: Why India Will Take A Huge Hit

Rediff.com11 May 2026

This is the time for India to plan forward fully, with the goal of Atmanirbharata, and energy security. The Persian Gulf is no longer a reliable source, points out Rajeev Srinivasan.

Credit Card Transactions Soar 2.6x, Private Banks Dominate

Credit Card Transactions Soar 2.6x, Private Banks Dominate

Rediff.com1 days ago

Credit card transactions in India have surged over 2.6 times between 2021 and 2025, reaching 570 crore volumes and Rs 23.2 lakh crore in value, with private sector banks significantly increasing their market share, according to a recent RBI report.

Why Credit Card Usage Is Booming In India

Why Credit Card Usage Is Booming In India

Rediff.com1 days ago

Credit card transactions in India have surged over 2.6 times between 2021 and 2025, driven by private sector banks, while debit card usage declines due to growing adoption of UPI and digital wallets, according to an RBI report.

State Election Results, Crude Oil Prices to Dictate Stock Market Trends This Week

State Election Results, Crude Oil Prices to Dictate Stock Market Trends This Week

Rediff.com3 May 2026

Indian stock markets are poised for volatility this week, driven primarily by the outcomes of five state assembly elections, ongoing high crude oil prices amid West Asia tensions, and the release of Q4 corporate earnings, according to market analysts.

ED Attaches Assets In Global Media App Fraud Case

ED Attaches Assets In Global Media App Fraud Case

Rediff.com9 May 2026

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has attached properties worth Rs 1.06 crore in connection with the 'Global Media App' fraud, an online earning platform that allegedly generated over Rs 45 crore through illicit means.

Govt issues updated SOP for processing FDI applications

Govt issues updated SOP for processing FDI applications

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The Indian government has issued an updated Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for processing Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) applications, aiming to clear all proposals within 12 weeks, a two-week extension from the previous 10-week target, to ensure a fully paperless and transparent process.

UPI Transactions Surge To 22.35 Billion In April

UPI Transactions Surge To 22.35 Billion In April

Rediff.com4 May 2026

UPI transactions reached 22.35 billion in April, marking a 25 per cent increase compared to April 2025. UPI now accounts for 85 per cent of all digital transactions in India and is live in eight countries.

Coolcations Drive Summer Travel Surge

Coolcations Drive Summer Travel Surge

Rediff.com6 days ago

As temperatures soar, booking queries have surged by double digits -- going up to 125 per cent -- for destinations like Kashmir, Shillong, Gangtok, Munnar, Leh, Rishikesh, Guwahati, Imphal, Kodaikanal and the Andamans.

Who Will Win Kerala's Game Of Thrones?

Who Will Win Kerala's Game Of Thrones?

Rediff.com11 May 2026

Already, within the week of the election results it became apparent that the Congress' DNA has not changed from its traditional approach to politics as but a game of thrones, observes Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

Will China Now Attack Taiwan?

Will China Now Attack Taiwan?

Rediff.com21 hours ago

Chinese leaders, including its generals, will have to weigh whether they can win a war if they ever attack Taiwan and if at all, can they sustain the subsequent devastation, notes Rup Narayan Das.

India must not rent its intelligence future: Adani

India must not rent its intelligence future: Adani

Rediff.com7 days ago

Gautam Adani, chairman of Adani group, emphasised that energy and intelligence are inseparable national priorities, asserting that India must build its own capabilities in these sectors rather than relying on external sources, especially in the context of global conflicts and shifting supply chains.

UPSC introduces face authentication, eligibility changes for civil services exam

UPSC introduces face authentication, eligibility changes for civil services exam

Rediff.com6 Feb 2026

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced mandatory face authentication for all candidates at examination centers and introduced stricter eligibility criteria for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026.

Vikram Doraiswami appointed as India's ambassador to China

Vikram Doraiswami appointed as India's ambassador to China

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Vikram Doraiswami, a seasoned diplomat, has been appointed as India's new ambassador to China, succeeding Pradeep Kumar Rawat. This decision comes as both countries attempt to improve bilateral relations following a period of strain.

Sensex rallies 356 points as state poll results align with market expectations

Sensex rallies 356 points as state poll results align with market expectations

Rediff.com4 May 2026

Indian benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty closed higher, with the Sensex climbing 355.90 points, driven by positive state election results and better-than-expected Q4 earnings, despite ongoing geopolitical concerns.

Stock markets today: Sensex, Nifty50 fall in early trade dragged by IT firms

Stock markets today: Sensex, Nifty50 fall in early trade dragged by IT firms

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

Indian benchmark equity indices, Sensex and Nifty, experienced a decline in early trade, ending a three-day rally, primarily due to heavy selling in IT stocks and concerns over prolonged instability in West Asia.

Ready for 'negotiations with dignity': Iranian Prez

Ready for 'negotiations with dignity': Iranian Prez

Rediff.com11 May 2026

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that Iran is considering various paths to address regional tensions, including negotiations conducted with dignity and authority, while emphasising that military gains should be reinforced through diplomacy.

Oil Price Surge, FII Outflows Drag Indian Stock Markets Lower

Oil Price Surge, FII Outflows Drag Indian Stock Markets Lower

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Indian benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty experienced declines due to a sharp rally in crude oil prices, continuous foreign fund outflows, and geopolitical uncertainties. Regulatory developments in the banking sector, particularly the implementation of the Expected Credit Loss (ECL) framework, also contributed to the selling pressure.

RBI Citizen's Charter: Nearly All Applications Processed On Time

RBI Citizen's Charter: Nearly All Applications Processed On Time

Rediff.com4 May 2026

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced that it processed 99.7 per cent of applications within the prescribed timeline under its Citizen's Charter in April 2026. The central bank handled a total of 21,150 applications, showcasing its commitment to efficient service delivery.

Mumbai TV Actor Alleges Theft By Maid Hired Online

Mumbai TV Actor Alleges Theft By Maid Hired Online

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

A television actor in Mumbai has filed a police complaint against a maid he hired online, alleging the theft of foreign currency and jewellery worth over Rs 7 lakh from his residence.

Putin meets Iran's Araghchi, offers support to bring peace to West Asia

Putin meets Iran's Araghchi, offers support to bring peace to West Asia

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

Russian President Vladimir Putin has offered his support to help bring peace to West Asia, praising the Iranian people for their resilience. This comes as Iran seeks to resolve the conflict with the US, following discussions with Pakistani and Omani leadership.

Stock Markets Today: Sensex, Nifty50 Surge in Early Trade, Maruti Jumps 4%

Stock Markets Today: Sensex, Nifty50 Surge in Early Trade, Maruti Jumps 4%

Rediff.com4 May 2026

Indian markets on Dalal Street rallied sharply as easing tensions in the US-Iran conflict and stable oil prices boosted sentiment. Track Nifty 50 and BSE Sensex performance and key global triggers.

Sensex, Nifty Extend Losses as Surging Oil Prices and IT Sell-off Hit Markets

Sensex, Nifty Extend Losses as Surging Oil Prices and IT Sell-off Hit Markets

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

Indian equity benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty tumbled over 1 per cent for the third consecutive day, driven by a sharp rally in crude oil prices, massive selling in IT stocks, and unabated foreign fund outflows amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

Gautam Adani: Energy Security, Digital Infrastructure Key To Geopolitics

Gautam Adani: Energy Security, Digital Infrastructure Key To Geopolitics

Rediff.com11 May 2026

Gautam Adani emphasised the importance of energy security and digital infrastructure in shaping geopolitical power, urging India to develop sovereign capabilities across the AI value chain.

Iran: Why Trump Must Take A Leap Of Faith

Iran: Why Trump Must Take A Leap Of Faith

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

There are enough people at the top decision-making level in Tehran who are still willing to negotiate, provided Trump can create the right setting for the negotiation to acquire a dynamic of its own, points out Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

Key Arms Trafficking Operative with Pakistan Links Arrested in Delhi

Key Arms Trafficking Operative with Pakistan Links Arrested in Delhi

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

Delhi Police have arrested Harsh Pal Singh, a key operative in a transnational arms trafficking and terror module with alleged links to Pakistan-based handlers. Singh is associated with jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and is accused of receiving illegal arms consignments and mediating in extortion cases.

Iran War Hits Kerala Tourism Hard

Iran War Hits Kerala Tourism Hard

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

'We have lost 70-80 per cent of our business from foreign guests.'

Sensex Down 757 Points on Heavy Selling in IT Shares

Sensex Down 757 Points on Heavy Selling in IT Shares

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

Indian benchmark equity indices, Sensex and Nifty, snapped a three-day rally, tumbling nearly 1 per cent due to heavy selling in IT stocks, a jump in crude oil prices, foreign fund outflows, and fears of prolonged instability in West Asia.

'Impact of the spike in energy prices will be transient'

'Impact of the spike in energy prices will be transient'

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

'As re-industrialisation gathers pace across regions like Asia, Europe and the US, a wide range of products and inputs will see demand.'

Govt may hike FDI limit to 100% in pension sector; bill likely in Monsoon Session

Govt may hike FDI limit to 100% in pension sector; bill likely in Monsoon Session

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

The Indian government is reportedly considering increasing the foreign direct investment (FDI) limit in the pension sector to 100 per cent, bringing it in line with the insurance sector. A Bill to amend the PFRDA Act, 2013, is expected in an upcoming Parliament session.

Gulf War: Indian Airlines Face Rs 2,500 Cr Losses

Gulf War: Indian Airlines Face Rs 2,500 Cr Losses

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

The broader conflict in West Asia, the largest international market for Indian carriers, has forced a sharp reduction in daily flights relative to the summer schedule.

Near-term growth, margin triggers missing in Wipro's Q4 results

Near-term growth, margin triggers missing in Wipro's Q4 results

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

Wipro reported Q4FY26 IT services revenue of $2.6 billion, a modest 0.2 per cent Q-o-Q constant currency growth, with adjusted operating profit margin beating estimates at 17.2 per cent. The company announced a significant share buyback of ~15,000 crore, but faces near-term growth challenges, particularly in the BFSI segment, and has issued a soft Q1FY27 revenue guidance.

Bihar Liquor Ban: Over 1.7 Million Arrested Since 2016

Bihar Liquor Ban: Over 1.7 Million Arrested Since 2016

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

Since Bihar implemented its liquor prohibition law in April 2016, over 1.7 million people have been arrested for offences related to alcohol consumption and sale. The state's Prohibition, Excise and Registration Department reports high conviction rates and significant revenue collection despite the ban.

Jewish men stabbed near London synagogue; police probe terror link

Jewish men stabbed near London synagogue; police probe terror link

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

Two Jewish men were stabbed near a synagogue in north-west London, in an attack declared by police as a 'terrorist' incident. A 45-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.

Industrial credit growth may clock 9-13% in H1CY26

Industrial credit growth may clock 9-13% in H1CY26

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

The Indian banking sector is projected to experience a steady 9-13 per cent industrial credit growth in the first half of 2026, driven by capital expenditure, infrastructure development, and sectoral demand recovery, according to a Ficci-IBA survey.

Kerala Offers Congress Golden Chance; Will It Deliver?

Kerala Offers Congress Golden Chance; Will It Deliver?

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Kerala's voters are sophisticated, educated, and unforgiving. They have once again made it clear that no government is entitled to remain in power. The Congress would do well to remember this, points out Ramesh Menon.