News for 'Free India'

Costs could rise...: Skoda India director on shipping disruptions

Costs could rise...: Skoda India director on shipping disruptions

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

'So far our production is not affected. But every day the situation prolongs, it does bring risks in terms of shipments getting delayed.'

Supreme Court To Media: Show Restraint In Twisha Sharma Case

Supreme Court To Media: Show Restraint In Twisha Sharma Case

Rediff.com27 May 2026

The Supreme Court has asked the media to exercise restraint while reporting developments in the death of former model-turned-actor Twisha Sharma, observing that it was pained by the handling of the case.

Delhi Quad meet to focus on West Asia fallout, Indo-Pacific security

Delhi Quad meet to focus on West Asia fallout, Indo-Pacific security

Rediff.com25 May 2026

The economic fallout of the West Asia crisis, the prevailing security situation in the Indo-Pacific and ways to boost cooperation in critical minerals and technology are expected to top the agenda at a crucial meeting of the Quad foreign ministers on Tuesday.

US tightens Green Card rules, visa holders must apply from home countries

US tightens Green Card rules, visa holders must apply from home countries

Rediff.com23 May 2026

The US government on Friday issued a new policy memo tightening rules for foreign nationals on temporary visas seeking permanent residency, stating that persons wanting a Green Card must return to their home country to apply, except in "extraordinary circumstances".

Haryana CM Saini Accuses AAP Of Failing On Punjab Promises

Haryana CM Saini Accuses AAP Of Failing On Punjab Promises

Rediff.com31 May 2026

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini criticised the AAP government in Punjab, alleging unfulfilled promises, deteriorating law and order, and a failed anti-drug campaign. He also highlighted the welfare initiatives of Haryana's 'double-engine' government and expressed confidence in the BJP's future prospects in Punjab.

Redmi A7 Pro 5G Launched In India

Redmi A7 Pro 5G Launched In India

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

Xiaomi has unveiled the Redmi A7 Pro 5G in India. The handset begins at 11,499 and comes equipped with an impressive 6,300 mAh battery.

Hindi Cinema Is Incomplete Without The Muslim

Hindi Cinema Is Incomplete Without The Muslim

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

As time went by, different facets of the Hindi cinema started showing the complicated identity of Muslim -- sometimes tendentious and at other times perverse and unreliable.

'Can't make everyone happy': Rabada opens up on drug ban, criticism

'Can't make everyone happy': Rabada opens up on drug ban, criticism

Rediff.com14 May 2026

South Africa's Kagiso Rabada discusses his journey through a drugs ban and winning the World Test Championship, highlighting his focus on personal well-being and prioritising international cricket.

Shafali's fifty in vain as India lose to South Africa in 2nd T20I

Shafali's fifty in vain as India lose to South Africa in 2nd T20I

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

Laura Wolvaardt and Sune Luus shone as South Africa defeated India by eight wickets in the second women's T20I, taking a 2-0 lead in the five-match series.

Despite Q4 Loss, Analysts See Strong Future for IndiGo

Despite Q4 Loss, Analysts See Strong Future for IndiGo

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Despite reporting a weaker-than-expected net loss of Rs 2,536 crore for Q4FY26, largely due to a significant non-cash forex loss, analysts remain optimistic about IndiGo's long-term prospects, citing strong demand trends, a favourable pricing outlook, and strategic cost-control measures.

Centre turns down Karnataka's hate speech bill, says existing laws adequate

Centre turns down Karnataka's hate speech bill, says existing laws adequate

Rediff.com26 May 2026

The bill was passed by both houses of the state legislature during the winter session in Belagavi that concluded on December 19 last year, despite strong opposition from the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Janata Dal-Secular.

Dowry Deaths: Why Justice Is Still Elusive For Indian Women

Dowry Deaths: Why Justice Is Still Elusive For Indian Women

Rediff.com24 May 2026

A look into the tragic deaths of three young women in India, allegedly due to dowry-related harassment, highlights the persistent social and legal challenges in addressing this issue.

US raises concerns over India's data protection, internet shutdown policies

US raises concerns over India's data protection, internet shutdown policies

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

The United States Trade Representative (USTR) has expressed concerns that India's Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, particularly the lack of a deemed consent mechanism for credit information companies, and the Information Technology (IT) Rules of 2021, along with frequent internet shutdowns, could negatively impact the ability of US companies to operate and trade in India.

How Modi's Austerity Appeal Can Work

How Modi's Austerity Appeal Can Work

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Insights from behavioural economics suggest that an ambitious nudge can be effective if three conditions are met, points out Ram Singh Insights from behavioural economics suggest that an ambitious nudge can be effective if three conditions are met, points out Ram Singh, director, Delhi School of Economics.

Modi to embark on six-day visit to UAE, Europe

Modi to embark on six-day visit to UAE, Europe

Rediff.com11 May 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the UAE, the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway and Italy to deepen India's bilateral ties amid geopolitical changes.

Avoid These Life Insurance Mistakes

Avoid These Life Insurance Mistakes

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Proposal forms are often filled by the agent. Check the form after it is filled.

Boost For IAF: Free Hand On Weapons For 114 Rafales

Boost For IAF: Free Hand On Weapons For 114 Rafales

Rediff.com16 Feb 2026

'The additional Rafales will be from a vastly improved version compared to the 36 acquired for the IAF under the 2016 deal.'

India's exports plunge 7.44% in March; trade with West Asia nosedives

India's exports plunge 7.44% in March; trade with West Asia nosedives

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

India's exports experienced their steepest fall in five months, declining by 7.44 per cent in March to $38.92 billion, primarily due to trade uncertainty and geopolitical tensions, with shipments to West Asia contracting by over 50 per cent.

India Dismisses US Religious Freedom Concerns as 'Distorted'

India Dismisses US Religious Freedom Concerns as 'Distorted'

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

The Indian government has dismissed the US Commission on International Religious Freedom's (USCIRF) report on religious freedom in India, stating that it does not recognise the commission's authority to comment on the rights of Indian citizens.

Hormuz Crisis Hits India Hard

Hormuz Crisis Hits India Hard

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

The cost of the war is being counted not in the corridors of power in Washington or Tehran, but in Firozabad's darkened furnace rooms, Howrah's idle casting sheds, and a barbershop in Kochi where the wait is suddenly, inexplicably, an hour long, notes Prem Panicker in his must read blog on the Iran War.

Mamata Banerjee Declares Mission To Oust BJP

Mamata Banerjee Declares Mission To Oust BJP

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Trinamool Congress leader Mamata Banerjee has declared that removing the BJP from power is her life's mission, alleging election rigging and vowing to support TMC workers. She announced a nationwide anti-BJP programme and protested against post-poll violence and government actions.

Vedang Raina: 'I Am Attracted To Money More Than Fame'

Vedang Raina: 'I Am Attracted To Money More Than Fame'

Rediff.com27 May 2026

'I did not understand that if a film is released, what is the impact of its collection on my career and my life. For me, it was a big thing that I am coming on the silver screen.' 'Now, one-and-a-half years later, I am still processing its impact.'

India, Oman to ink free trade agreement during PM Narendra Modi visit

India, Oman to ink free trade agreement during PM Narendra Modi visit

Rediff.com13 Dec 2025

Next week's three-nation foreign tour of Prime Minister Narendra Modi will see India and Oman sign a free trade deal. The visit will also pave the way for agreements with Ethiopia and Jordan to increase India's bilateral trade and investments.

Dell 15 (2026) Arrives in India Starting 69,699

Dell 15 (2026) Arrives in India Starting 69,699

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

The Dell 15 (2026) enters the Indian market with an introductory price of 69,699 for the entry-level model, which includes 8 GB memory and a 512 GB SSD.

How UP Boosted Sugarcane Farmers' Income

How UP Boosted Sugarcane Farmers' Income

Rediff.com14 May 2026

The Uttar Pradesh government announced it has paid a record Rs 3,21,963 crore to sugarcane growers since 2017, emphasising on-time payments and direct transfers to farmers' accounts. The government highlighted initiatives like farm loan waivers and the 'Smart Ganna Kisan' system for online sugarcane management.

India U20 secure SAFF Championship semi-final spot after draw with Bangladesh

India U20 secure SAFF Championship semi-final spot after draw with Bangladesh

Rediff.com28 Mar 2026

The Indian U20 men's team played out a 1-1 draw against Bangladesh in their second match of the SAFF U20 Championship 2026, securing their place as Group B toppers and advancing to the semi-finals.

Amit Shah Promises Jobs, End To Infiltration In Bengal If BJP Wins

Amit Shah Promises Jobs, End To Infiltration In Bengal If BJP Wins

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah promised one lakh jobs for youths each year based on merit if the BJP won the West Bengal election, and also pledged to make the state free of infiltrators.

Sachdeva, Hossain Share Lead At DP World Players Championship

Sachdeva, Hossain Share Lead At DP World Players Championship

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Teenager Harman Sachdeva and 41-year-old Jamal Hossain carded matching scores of five-under 67 to share a one-shot lead after the opening round of the DP World Players Championship here on Tuesday.

Prudential to acquire 75% stake in Bharti Life Insurance for Rs 3,500 crore

Prudential to acquire 75% stake in Bharti Life Insurance for Rs 3,500 crore

Rediff.com18 May 2026

Prudential plc has announced its acquisition of a 75 per cent stake in Bharti Life Insurance for approximately 3,500 crore, a strategic move to secure majority ownership in the Indian life insurance market. This acquisition necessitates Prudential reducing its holding in ICICI Prudential Life Insurance to below 10 per cent.

IPL 2026, Qualifier 2: Gill's ton takes Gujarat Titans past Rajasthan Royals to final

IPL 2026, Qualifier 2: Gill's ton takes Gujarat Titans past Rajasthan Royals to final

Rediff.com30 May 2026

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's explosive innings and Donovan Ferreira's late fireworks powered the Rajasthan Royals to a formidable total against Gujarat Titans in the IPL Qualifier 2.

PFRDA unveils new retirement income scheme, eases annuity exit rules for NPS subscribers

PFRDA unveils new retirement income scheme, eases annuity exit rules for NPS subscribers

Rediff.com16 May 2026

The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) has launched a new Retirement Income Scheme (RIS) and drawdown options under the National Pension System (NPS), offering greater flexibility for managing pension savings post-retirement. Additionally, PFRDA has eased annuity surrender rules, allowing exits in cases of critical illness or for older contracts with explicit surrender clauses.

Representative of Iran's Supreme Leader lauds India as 'land of humanity'

Representative of Iran's Supreme Leader lauds India as 'land of humanity'

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

The representative of Iran's Supreme Leader in India expressed gratitude towards Indians, calling India a land of 'loyalty and humanity'.

How Haryana Family Achieved Double Mayoral Win In The UK

How Haryana Family Achieved Double Mayoral Win In The UK

Rediff.com24 May 2026

In a remarkable achievement, a family from Haryana, India, now residing in the UK, celebrates as both the son, Tushar Kumar, and the mother, Parveen Rani, have been elected as mayors in their respective towns. Tushar has become the youngest Indian-origin mayor in the UK.

Modi embarks on five-nation tour; energy security, trade in focus

Modi embarks on five-nation tour; energy security, trade in focus

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has begun a six-day tour of the UAE, the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway and Italy to strengthen bilateral relations amid geopolitical challenges. The trip will focus on energy security, trade, and technological cooperation.

Debutant Diamond Harbour FC clinch IFL title, secure promotion to Indian Super League

Debutant Diamond Harbour FC clinch IFL title, secure promotion to Indian Super League

Rediff.com18 May 2026

Diamond Harbour FC secured the Indian Football League (IFL) title in their debut season, drawing 1-1 with Dempo SC and earning promotion to the Indian Super League (ISL).

Gandhis, Congress And The Kaikeyi Principle

Gandhis, Congress And The Kaikeyi Principle

Rediff.com19 May 2026

The Gandhis have served both the Congress and India. But it has been 12 years since the 2014 verdict, and the returns have been diminishing. It is time for them to step aside, let the party find its own footing, and allow someone else to make the hard calls. That is what the Congress needs. And frankly, it is what India needs too, points out Harishchandra.

Why Modi Gave More Powers To The Enforcement Directorate

Why Modi Gave More Powers To The Enforcement Directorate

Rediff.com1 May 2026

Union Minister Pankaj Chaudhary stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi strengthened the Enforcement Directorate to combat financial crimes like money laundering and corruption, dismissing allegations of it being used to target political opponents.

'I won't step down,' Mamata dares Centre to dismiss her

'I won't step down,' Mamata dares Centre to dismiss her

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Outgoing West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee addressed a meeting of newly-elected MLAs of her party and stated she will not resign from her post in the wake of assembly poll results and the Centre can dismiss her.

NITI Aayog Member Gauba Outlines Sweeping Deregulation to Boost Ease of Doing Business

NITI Aayog Member Gauba Outlines Sweeping Deregulation to Boost Ease of Doing Business

Rediff.com13 May 2026

NITI Aayog Member Rajiv Gauba has detailed an extensive deregulation agenda, moving India towards a 'permitted unless prohibited' principle to dismantle new forms of the Licence Raj and clear 'regulatory cholesterol' for businesses.

4 Reasons Why Market Recovered After March Crash

4 Reasons Why Market Recovered After March Crash

Rediff.com22 May 2026

'Once the market decides it wants to go up, it goes up -- no amount of bad news can really hold it back.'