News for 'Free India'

DRI uncovers Rs 2,500-cr areca nut import fraud; 9 held

DRI uncovers Rs 2,500-cr areca nut import fraud; 9 held

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has dismantled a large-scale network involved in fraudulently importing South-East Asian areca nuts into India. The syndicate falsely declared the nuts as Bangladeshi origin to evade customs duty, leading to a potential revenue loss of over Rs 2,500 crore. Nine individuals have been arrested in connection with the scam.

Tata Motors PV: Margin Pressures May Dampen Strong Volume Growth

Tata Motors PV: Margin Pressures May Dampen Strong Volume Growth

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles (TMPV) reported Q1FY27 results showing significant margin pressures at both Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) and its domestic operations, despite strong volume growth in the India business. Analysts expect these margin headwinds to persist, potentially offsetting gains from increased sales and new launches.

How SBI Is Revolutionising Banking With Artificial Intelligence

How SBI Is Revolutionising Banking With Artificial Intelligence

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

State Bank of India (SBI) is extensively using artificial intelligence to underwrite nearly Rs 1 lakh crore in MSME loans and automate the processing of cheques up to Rs 10,000. This AI adoption aims to enhance efficiency, free up employee bandwidth, and improve customer service across various banking functions.

Devdutt Padikkal strengthens his claim for No. 3 spot with maiden Test ton

Devdutt Padikkal strengthens his claim for No. 3 spot with maiden Test ton

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

India's Devdutt Padikkal struck his maiden Test hundred to underline his credentials for the number three slot and propelled the tourists to a commanding 288-2 in the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle on Saturday.

VS Rathanvel secures Grandmaster title as India nears historic 100th GM mark

VS Rathanvel secures Grandmaster title as India nears historic 100th GM mark

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

V S Rathanvel has become India's 99th Grandmaster, fulfilling a five-year dream after crossing the 2500 Elo rating mark at the Guwahati Smart City International Open 2026. His achievement brings India closer to the landmark 100th GM milestone, marking a significant moment for Indian chess.

Nearly 160 killed, over 750 missing in devastating Nepal flash floods

Nearly 160 killed, over 750 missing in devastating Nepal flash floods

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

A massive flash flood originating in Tibet has devastated central Nepal, killing 17 people and leaving nearly 500 missing, including 105 Indians. The deluge, caused by a rock slide near the Nepal-Tibet border, swept through districts, washing away bridges and severely damaging at least a dozen hydropower projects.

India for open Indo-Pacific, against expansionism, Modi tells Indonesian parliament

India for open Indo-Pacific, against expansionism, Modi tells Indonesian parliament

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Indonesian parliament, emphasising India's commitment to development over expansionism and advocating for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific. He highlighted the strong historical ties between India and Indonesia, calling for enhanced cooperation in various sectors, including defence, technology, and counter-terrorism, amidst growing concerns over regional security.

Chaos at Abhishek Banerjee's office as civic body removes TMC billboard

Chaos at Abhishek Banerjee's office as civic body removes TMC billboard

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Private guards at Ttrinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee's office, his supporters and some party leaders on Thursday scuffled with police and Kolkata Municipal Corporation officials, trying to prevent them from entering the building on Camac Street and dismantling an "unauthorised" billboard.

FULL TEXT: President Murmu's address to the nation on eve of 80th I-Day

FULL TEXT: President Murmu's address to the nation on eve of 80th I-Day

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

In her address to the nation on the eve of the country's 80th Independence Day, the president stressed that just as government and society remain united to ensure national security, everyone must contribute through joint and concerted efforts to safeguard the present and future of students.

'K L Rahul better off without captaincy'

'K L Rahul better off without captaincy'

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Former India opener Wasim Jaffer believes K L Rahul performs best when not burdened by captaincy.

'Government Did A U-Turn On Caste Census'

'Government Did A U-Turn On Caste Census'

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

'They want to sabotage the caste census and bury Muslim backward classes, Hindu backward classes, Sikh backward classes and Buddhist backward classes.'

India to prioritise maritime security during UNSC bid

India to prioritise maritime security during UNSC bid

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has affirmed India's commitment to ensuring issues like a free, open, and rule-based maritime order, seafarer safety, and countering terror financing receive due attention at the UN Security Council during its 2028-29 term.

'They left my son to die, now they are roaming free': A father's emotional plea

'They left my son to die, now they are roaming free': A father's emotional plea

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

The grieving parents of Sarthak Mattoo, who died in an alleged hit-and-run incident in southwest Delhi, have made an emotional video appeal for justice, questioning the pace of the police investigation and demanding strict action against those responsible.

PM lays out seven-point Sapta Dhara framework for Viksit Bharat

PM lays out seven-point Sapta Dhara framework for Viksit Bharat

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has introduced a 'Sapta Dhara' (seven-stream) reform framework, aiming to propel India into a developed nation by 2047. This comprehensive plan focuses on key sectors including manufacturing, agro-food processing, technology, logistics, defence, green and blue economy, and soft power, leveraging the nation's youth potential.

Southern states back Shah's push for dialogue to settle water disputes

Southern states back Shah's push for dialogue to settle water disputes

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Chief ministers from southern states convened at the Southern Zonal Council meeting in Kovalam, where Karnataka CM DK Shivakumar advocated for the 1971 census as the basis for delimitation and a freeze on Lok Sabha seats, while also addressing the contentious Cauvery water and Mekedatu dam issues.

Does Trump Urgently Need Modi's Help On Iran?

Does Trump Urgently Need Modi's Help On Iran?

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

US Vice-President J D Vance's unexpected phone call to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 8 has ignited speculation about a potential diplomatic overture, possibly seeking India's support amidst the escalating US-Iran conflict and a shifting global power landscape, suggests Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

Why KL Rahul's Galle 50 could change everything

Why KL Rahul's Galle 50 could change everything

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

KL Rahul's patient half-century in the Galle Test against Sri Lanka highlights his evolving role as a consistent and strategic anchor for the Indian team. Despite a slower strike rate, his ability to stonewall spinners and build partnerships has been crucial, earning praise from coaches and teammates. This performance underscores his growing importance, especially after the departure of senior batters, as he aims to make a significant impact in the current Test series.

Bar Council revokes order banning enrolment of NALSAR graduates after outcry

Bar Council revokes order banning enrolment of NALSAR graduates after outcry

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

The Bar Council of India initially directed state bar councils not to enrol 2026 NALSAR University of Law graduates due to alleged student protests against the CJI's convocation participation. However, following widespread social media criticism, the BCI reversed its decision, allowing students to enrol while an inquiry into the instigators continues.

Indira Gandhi Stadium Ready For Badminton World Championships

Indira Gandhi Stadium Ready For Badminton World Championships

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

The Badminton World Federation (BWF) has expressed satisfaction with the extensive renovation and cleaning work at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi, addressing previous criticisms regarding hygiene and facilities. Significant improvements have been made, including toilet renovations, deep cleaning, seat replacements, and pest control measures, ensuring the venue is ready for the upcoming World Championships.

Modi dials Iran's Prez; stresses free navigation in Hormuz, backs dialogue

Modi dials Iran's Prez; stresses free navigation in Hormuz, backs dialogue

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephonic conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, discussing recent developments in West Asia and reiterating India's emphasis on the importance of freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Modi welcomed the recent peace understanding between the US and Iran, stressing dialogue and diplomacy for regional stability. India will also send representatives to the burial ceremonies of Iran's late Supreme Leader.

Manipal Health to launch India's largest healthcare IPO on July 29, aiming for Rs 9,275 crore

Manipal Health to launch India's largest healthcare IPO on July 29, aiming for Rs 9,275 crore

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Manipal Health Enterprises is set to launch India's largest healthcare initial public offering (IPO) on July 29, aiming to raise Rs 9,275.22 crore to fund expansion and debt reduction, with the issue closing on July 31.

SC tells EC, states to expedite probes into poll black money

SC tells EC, states to expedite probes into poll black money

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has emphasised the need for timely investigations and conclusions of criminal cases involving illicit money in elections. Observing that black money compromises democracy and the rule of law, the court issued several directives, including reporting seizures to competent authorities within 24 hours, completing investigations within a year, and submitting quarterly status reports to the Election Commission. The ruling also mandates High Courts to designate special courts for expeditious disposal of cases against candidates and requires High Court approval for withdrawing cases.

India-UK trade pact: 85% of India's exports out of British steel measures

India-UK trade pact: 85% of India's exports out of British steel measures

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

India has successfully negotiated the protection of its steel export interests under the free trade agreement with the UK, ensuring 85 per cent of its outbound shipments remain outside Britain's steel safeguard measures. This consensus addresses a key sticking point ahead of the comprehensive economic and trade agreement (CETA) coming into force on July 15.

1st T20I: Sooryavanshi, Mayank dazzle in India's commanding win over Zimbabwe

1st T20I: Sooryavanshi, Mayank dazzle in India's commanding win over Zimbabwe

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi hit an 18-ball half-century as India crushed Zimbabwe by seven wickets to go 1-0 up in the 3-match T20I series in Harare on Thursday.

BCI chief apologises for letter banning NALSAR graduates

BCI chief apologises for letter banning NALSAR graduates

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

Bar Council of India (BCI) Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra has issued an apology to law students, particularly those from NALSAR, for any hurt caused by the recent controversy surrounding their convocation and enrolment, urging them to make independent decisions.

Can Social Media Age Bans Work?

Can Social Media Age Bans Work?

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

At what age should society stop regulating life choices and allow people to make their own?

Google Bets Big on India's AI Future

Google Bets Big on India's AI Future

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

The aim is to win over the country's enterprises, developers and startups as AI systems shift from answering questions to autonomously executing tasks.

From Maoist Camps To The Fashion Ramp

From Maoist Camps To The Fashion Ramp

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

From guns to handlooms. From forest trails to a public runway. Women who had once been associated with that conflict walked into the spotlight wearing Bastar's traditional textiles.

Jharkhand student leader on hunger strike stopped from joining Tiranga Yatra

Jharkhand student leader on hunger strike stopped from joining Tiranga Yatra

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha (JLKM) leader Devendra Nath Mahto was allegedly prevented by police from joining a Tiranga Yatra while on his 14th day of an indefinite hunger strike against alleged irregularities in state recruitment examinations. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Hemant Soren assured the public that his government is committed to ensuring transparency in examinations conducted by the JPSC and JSSC.

DLTA Denies Land Lease Breaches Amid AITA Election Buzz

DLTA Denies Land Lease Breaches Amid AITA Election Buzz

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

The Delhi Lawn Tennis Association (DLTA) has strongly denied reports of violating land lease conditions for the R K Khanna Tennis Complex, asserting that all facilities comply with government norms. The association suggested that the allegations are "mala fide" and strategically timed to influence the upcoming All India Tennis Association (AITA) elections. DLTA also defended its commercial subletting practices, stating they are approved by the L&DO and are essential for generating revenue as it receives no government funding for maintenance.

Indian drugmakers in no rush to shift to US despite tariff threat

Indian drugmakers in no rush to shift to US despite tariff threat

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Indian pharmaceutical companies are not rushing to relocate manufacturing to the United States despite former President Donald Trump's renewed threat of tariffs up to 200 per cent on imported generic drugs. Instead, they are leveraging existing US plants, contract manufacturers, and making selective investments in complex products while maintaining India as their primary production hub.

Finfluencer Advice: What Investors Must Know

Finfluencer Advice: What Investors Must Know

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Verify a content creator's Sebi registration, qualifications and certifications before acting on their advice.

Jurel's Test spot at risk? Sarfaraz adds to pressure

Jurel's Test spot at risk? Sarfaraz adds to pressure

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel is at a critical juncture in his Test career, with his performance in the upcoming Sri Lanka series crucial for his future, especially given his struggles against spin and the presence of Sarfaraz Khan.

NEET-UG Counselling: Essential Tips to Avoid Costly Mistakes and Secure Your Medical Seat

NEET-UG Counselling: Essential Tips to Avoid Costly Mistakes and Secure Your Medical Seat

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

As the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) web site opens for NEET-UG registration, aspiring medical students are urged to avoid simple, yet costly, mistakes during the online counselling process, with experts advising thorough preparation and careful choice filling.

Maha bans illegal dhabas, eateries, structures on NHs

Maha bans illegal dhabas, eateries, structures on NHs

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

The Maharashtra government has issued strict directives to local authorities, mandating an immediate ban on illegal dhabas, eateries, and commercial structures within national highway Right of Way. The order requires demolition of existing encroachments within 60 days, formation of highway safety task forces, and mandates prior clearance from NHAI or PWD for any new licenses in highway safety zones, aiming to enhance commuter safety and clear obstructions.

NEET-UG Counselling: Look Before You Lock Your R1 Choices

NEET-UG Counselling: Look Before You Lock Your R1 Choices

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Read your counselling bulletin, start to finish. Each counselling body speaks its own language, lets you edit choices differently and puts a different price on changing your mind, says Ashok Hegde, founder, neet2seat.

Tricolour to fly in former Maoist bastions this I-Day: Chhattisgarh CM

Tricolour to fly in former Maoist bastions this I-Day: Chhattisgarh CM

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Monday said Maoism was once considered difficult to eliminate, but the menace has now been wiped out, and this year the 'Tiranga Yatra' will also reach remote villages and schools in former Maoist strongholds of the state

Modi-Takaichi Summit Opens New India-Japan Chapter

Modi-Takaichi Summit Opens New India-Japan Chapter

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Notwithstanding the economic complementarities and the host of agreements for deepening economic relation on a host of areas, both sides share common viewpoints on the foreign policy domain and seek common grounds to serve as a counterweight to China, notes Dr Rajaram Panda.

Tata Sons continues as 'upper-layer NBFC'; listing application pending

Tata Sons continues as 'upper-layer NBFC'; listing application pending

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Tata Sons, the holding company of the Tata group, continues to be classified as an 'upper-layer non-banking financial company' (NBFC) by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), despite its application to deregister as an NBFC-Core Investment Company (CIC) remaining under consideration. This classification subjects it to enhanced regulation and a mandatory listing requirement, which remains uncertain.

Shiprocket to use IPO funds for AI push, eyes broader merchant operating system

Shiprocket to use IPO funds for AI push, eyes broader merchant operating system

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Shiprocket plans to allocate a significant portion of its IPO proceeds towards artificial intelligence (AI), aiming to evolve its e-commerce enablement platform into a comprehensive operating system for merchants, enabling conversational commands and reducing manual tasks.