News for 'Free State'

Saini Targets Rivals, Courts OBCs in Punjab

Saini Targets Rivals, Courts OBCs in Punjab

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini addressed the 'Saini Samaj' in Punjab, appealing to the OBC community ahead of the upcoming state elections. He criticized rival parties for neglecting OBCs and highlighted the BJP's commitment to their welfare.

Maha tables stricter anti-conversion Bill, proposes 7-year jail term

Maha tables stricter anti-conversion Bill, proposes 7-year jail term

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

The Maharashtra government has introduced the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Bill 2026, which aims to prohibit religious conversions carried out through coercion, fraud, or marriage, with stringent penalties for violations.

Supreme Court Dismisses Snake Venom Case Against Elvish Yadav

Supreme Court Dismisses Snake Venom Case Against Elvish Yadav

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

The Supreme Court has quashed the FIR against Elvish Yadav, who was arrested for allegedly using snake venom at a rave party in Noida. Yadav expresses relief and questions who will compensate for the harassment he and his family faced.

States Have Thrown A Spanner In RBI's Easy-Money Machine

States Have Thrown A Spanner In RBI's Easy-Money Machine

Rediff.com7 Jan 2026

State debt is rising because revenues are disappointingly weak. Ten states have debt ratios exceeding 30 per cent. In 2023-2024, states were borrowing simply to meet day-to-day expenses, points out Debashis Basu.

Badal Accuses AAP of Deteriorating Punjab Law and Order

Badal Accuses AAP of Deteriorating Punjab Law and Order

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal has criticised the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab, alleging a decline in law and order and accusing them of using financial schemes to sway voters ahead of elections.

Indian Women's Hockey Team Secures World Cup Berth Despite Loss to England in Qualifiers

Indian Women's Hockey Team Secures World Cup Berth Despite Loss to England in Qualifiers

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

The Indian women's hockey team qualified for the FIH Hockey World Cup despite losing to England in the qualifiers final.

Woman Delivers Baby at Hospital Gate After Ambulance Driver Leaves Her

Woman Delivers Baby at Hospital Gate After Ambulance Driver Leaves Her

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

A 28-year-old woman delivered a baby girl at the main gate of a Raisen district hospital after a Janani Express ambulance driver allegedly left her outside. Hospital staff assisted the woman and her newborn, and the hospital is investigating the incident.

Kathua Police Foil Bovine Smuggling Attempt, Rescuing 20 Animals

Kathua Police Foil Bovine Smuggling Attempt, Rescuing 20 Animals

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

Police in Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir, rescued 20 bovine animals from smugglers in two separate operations, arresting two suspects and impounding two vehicles.

Set up gaushalas to keep highways free of stray animals, SC tells NHAI

Set up gaushalas to keep highways free of stray animals, SC tells NHAI

Rediff.com29 Jan 2026

The Supreme Court has suggested that the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) consider establishing gaushalas (cowsheds) under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to care for stray animals entering highways. The court also expressed dissatisfaction with several states' efforts to manage stray dog populations and suggested developing an app to report stray animal sightings.

India Navigates West Asia Crisis: Ensuring Energy Security and Citizen Safety

India Navigates West Asia Crisis: Ensuring Energy Security and Citizen Safety

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

India addresses the escalating conflict in West Asia, outlining its diplomatic efforts to ensure energy security, the safety of its citizens, and advocating for a peaceful resolution through dialogue.

LPG cylinder price hiked by Rs 60 amid Iran war

LPG cylinder price hiked by Rs 60 amid Iran war

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

Domestic LPG and commercial cylinder prices in India have seen a significant increase, driven by rising global energy costs linked to the conflict in West Asia. This marks the second price hike in less than a year, impacting households and businesses.

Rs 18.63 Crore Worth of Narcotics Destroyed in Navi Mumbai

Rs 18.63 Crore Worth of Narcotics Destroyed in Navi Mumbai

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

Narcotics worth Rs 18.63 crore were destroyed in Navi Mumbai as part of the 'Nasha Mukt (Drug Free) Navi Mumbai' campaign. The destruction involved drugs seized in 55 cases and is part of a larger effort that has seen drugs worth Rs 38.45 crore seized in 114 cases. Recent crackdowns include busting a gang from Punjab involved in heroin and opium peddling.

SC steps in to fast-track acid attack cases nationwide

SC steps in to fast-track acid attack cases nationwide

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

The Supreme Court of India has directed all high courts to establish timelines for trial courts to expedite the conclusion of acid attack cases across the country, emphasising the need for a more proactive approach and adequate compensation for victims.

Actress Monalisa Bhonsle Defies Family, Marries Muslim Man in Kerala

Actress Monalisa Bhonsle Defies Family, Marries Muslim Man in Kerala

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

Monalisa Bhonsle, an Indian actress, has married a Muslim man in Kerala against her family's wishes, leading to controversy and allegations of 'love jihad'.

Kerala VACB Registers 818 Corruption Cases in Five Years

Kerala VACB Registers 818 Corruption Cases in Five Years

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

The Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB) in Kerala has registered 818 corruption-related cases over the past five years, marking a significant effort to combat corruption through strengthened surveillance, advanced technology, and increased public participation.

Toor to Fine-Tune Performance at Indian Open Throws

Toor to Fine-Tune Performance at Indian Open Throws

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

Two-time Asian Games champion shot putter Tajinderpal Singh Toor is set to compete in the Indian Open Throws Competition in Patiala, aiming to evaluate his form ahead of major events like the Asian Games and Commonwealth Games.

Girl Rescued After Fleeing Odisha School Over Harassment Claims

Girl Rescued After Fleeing Odisha School Over Harassment Claims

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

Odisha Police rescued a girl from a central government-run residential school in Bhadrak district after she ran away following alleged sexual harassment by a teacher. The class 7 student escaped by scaling the boundary wall and sought refuge in a nearby village.

Shekar Takes Lead in Hero Women's Pro Golf Tour Leg 5

Shekar Takes Lead in Hero Women's Pro Golf Tour Leg 5

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

Jasmine Shekar leads the Hero Women's Pro Golf Tour after the first round, followed closely by amateur Lavanya Gupta.

Why India's Japan Connection Is Important

Why India's Japan Connection Is Important

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

In a region increasingly shaped by competition and coercion, such collaboration strengthens security without confrontation, builds capacity without dependency and promotes order without domination, points out Dr Kumar.

VP Radhakrishnan Calls on Nagaland University Graduates to Embrace Leadership

VP Radhakrishnan Calls on Nagaland University Graduates to Embrace Leadership

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

Vice President C P Radhakrishnan addressed Nagaland University graduates, urging them to become responsible leaders and contribute to nation-building, emphasising the importance of peace, unity, and character for development.

'Stay tuned' for Modi-Trump meet: US envoy

'Stay tuned' for Modi-Trump meet: US envoy

Rediff.com20 Feb 2026

The US President had hosted Modi for an official working visit in Washington, DC, on February 13 last year.

Banerjee Questions President's Silence on Tribal Issues, Alleges Political Interference

Banerjee Questions President's Silence on Tribal Issues, Alleges Political Interference

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused President Droupadi Murmu of acting on the advice of the BJP and questioned her silence on issues affecting tribal communities in other states. This comes after Murmu raised concerns about the pace of tribal development in West Bengal.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei killed in US-Israel strikes

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei killed in US-Israel strikes

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has been killed in a US-Israeli attack, sparking celebrations in Iran and raising questions about the future of the regime.

Ten-Man Jamshedpur FC Secures Victory Over Inter Kashi

Ten-Man Jamshedpur FC Secures Victory Over Inter Kashi

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

Jamshedpur FC defeated Inter Kashi 1-0 in an Indian Super League match, showcasing resilience after Vincy Barretto's early red card. Steven Eze's goal secured the victory, marking Jamshedpur's fourth consecutive win.

World Sleep Day: 5 Relaxing Asanas For Good Sleep

World Sleep Day: 5 Relaxing Asanas For Good Sleep

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

On World Sleep Day, Sailendra Raane, yoga expert and founder of Mahati Wellness, explains how yoga and small lifestyle fixes can help you lay the groundwork for a good night's sleep.

Aditi Ashok in Top 10 After First Round at Blue Bay LPGA

Aditi Ashok in Top 10 After First Round at Blue Bay LPGA

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

Indian golfer Aditi Ashok began her week at the Blue Bay LPGA with a 4-under 68, placing her in T-7 after the first round. Chinese players Mary Liu and Weiwei Zhang, along with South Korea's Youmin Hwang, lead the tournament.

Mass Surrender: 108 Maoists Give Up Arms in Chhattisgarh

Mass Surrender: 108 Maoists Give Up Arms in Chhattisgarh

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

In a significant victory for the government's anti-Naxal efforts, 108 Maoists, including 44 women, surrendered in Chhattisgarh's Bastar district, citing disillusionment and the appeal of rehabilitation programs. The surrender also led to the recovery of a large cache of weapons and valuables.

Tarique Rahman clears air on India ties, Sheikh Hasina

Tarique Rahman clears air on India ties, Sheikh Hasina

Rediff.com14 Feb 2026

BNP chairman Tarique Rahman called for maintaining law and order and sought cooperation in building a safe and humane Bangladesh after his party's victory in parliamentary elections.

Nadda Alleges West Bengal Government Sheltering Infiltrators, Threatening Original Inhabitants

Nadda Alleges West Bengal Government Sheltering Infiltrators, Threatening Original Inhabitants

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

Union Minister JP Nadda accuses the West Bengal government of sheltering infiltrators, leading to demographic changes and hindering development.

PM Modi Reassures Support for Indians Amidst West Asia Conflict

PM Modi Reassures Support for Indians Amidst West Asia Conflict

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed an NDA rally, assuring that the Indian government is providing assistance to Indian citizens stranded in West Asia due to the ongoing conflict. He criticised the Congress party for allegedly making provocative statements and spreading rumours regarding the crisis.

Fake Overseas Job Racket Busted in Noida, Two Arrested

Fake Overseas Job Racket Busted in Noida, Two Arrested

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

Noida Police arrested two individuals for allegedly defrauding over 100 people of more than Rs 70 lakh by promising fake overseas jobs through social media. The accused operated under a fictitious firm, luring victims with promises of high salaries and free visas.

Italian Couple Adopt Jharkhand Orphan

Italian Couple Adopt Jharkhand Orphan

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

An Italian couple adopted a 12-year-old orphan schoolgirl from Ramgarh district in Jharkhand after completing all official formalities.

Expired Food, Cosmetics Racket Busted in Delhi; One Arrested

Expired Food, Cosmetics Racket Busted in Delhi; One Arrested

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

Delhi Police busted a racket involving the tampering and sale of expired food and cosmetic products, arresting one man allegedly involved in altering expiry dates and reselling the goods as fresh stock.

Strikes aimed to remove 'existential threat': Netanyahu

Strikes aimed to remove 'existential threat': Netanyahu

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a joint operation with the US against Iran, citing the threat posed by its nuclear ambitions and support for terrorism.

UN Emphasises Gender Equality as Key to India's Development Goals

UN Emphasises Gender Equality as Key to India's Development Goals

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

A top UN official has emphasised the critical role of women in India's development, highlighting that gender equality should be viewed as both a human right and a key factor in development effectiveness.

Murmu's 'upset' remark sparks spat with Mamata; Modi jumps in

Murmu's 'upset' remark sparks spat with Mamata; Modi jumps in

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee escalates tensions ahead of assembly polls by accusing President Droupadi Murmu of political bias and criticising her stance on tribal welfare, sparking a major controversy.

Agricultural shift from subsidies to sustainability may be the way ahead

Agricultural shift from subsidies to sustainability may be the way ahead

Rediff.com26 Feb 2026

India is already a heavyweight in global farm trade in pockets such as rice exports, but experts are urging a pivot from a subsidy- and procurement-driven mindset to a productivity and nutrition strategy that still shields farmers from volatility.

Abhishek Kumar Clinches Victory at DP World PGTI NexGen Event

Abhishek Kumar Clinches Victory at DP World PGTI NexGen Event

Rediff.com26 Feb 2026

Abhishek Kumar shot a final round 64 to win the DP World PGTI NexGen event in Faridabad. It was his first professional win.

Sebi Alerts Investors to Fake STT Payment Demands

Sebi Alerts Investors to Fake STT Payment Demands

Rediff.com26 Feb 2026

Sebi cautions investors against fake notices demanding Securities Transaction Tax (STT) payments and warns about fraudsters posing as account handlers promising risk-free profits.

Kerala minister in infidelity storm after wife's explosive allegation

Kerala minister in infidelity storm after wife's explosive allegation

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

Kerala Transport Minister K B Ganesh Kumar faces accusations of infidelity from his wife, Bindhu Menon, amidst ongoing marital issues and political tensions.