News for 'General Service'

Washington in flames: Wildfire crisis triggers emergency, mass evacuations

Washington in flames: Wildfire crisis triggers emergency, mass evacuations

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

Washington Governor Bob Ferguson declared a statewide state of emergency and burn ban Saturday morning as an unprecedented wildfire crisis gripped the region, with active blazes scorching nearly 3,000 acres.

RBI Governor Discusses Future Of Digital Payment Merchant Discount Rate

RBI Governor Discusses Future Of Digital Payment Merchant Discount Rate

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra stated it is "premature" to discuss the implementation of Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) for digital payments, advising a "wait-and-watch" approach. He emphasised that investment in public payment infrastructure is necessary and someone must bear the cost, whether through taxes or MDR. The government is currently working on amendments to relevant statutes, and the RBI is focused on strengthening this infrastructure.

Fresh twist in Asunta Lakra vs Hockey India row

Fresh twist in Asunta Lakra vs Hockey India row

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Former India women's hockey team captain Asunta Lakra has challenged the ethics proceedings initiated against her by Hockey India, citing procedural irregularities and questioning the Ethics Committee's jurisdiction. Lakra denied all allegations as 'false, baseless, malicious, motivated and defamatory' and is seeking full disclosure of documents before providing a detailed reply.

Clinton sent decoy plane to Pak during 2000 visit, reveals veteran WH reporter

Clinton sent decoy plane to Pak during 2000 visit, reveals veteran WH reporter

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

A veteran White House reporter has revealed that the Clinton administration used a decoy aircraft during President Bill Clinton's high-risk visit to Pakistan in 2000, a security measure disclosed to journalists off-the-record due to the significant dangers involved.

HC orders Maha doctors to call off strike immediately, cites patient safety

HC orders Maha doctors to call off strike immediately, cites patient safety

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

The Bombay High Court has ordered resident doctors in Maharashtra to immediately end their strike, which was protesting the registration of homoeopaths under the Maharashtra Medical Council. The court expressed grave concern over patient safety and warned of wage stoppage, leading the Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) to agree to call off the protest.

'Best For Investors To Miss India IT Bus'

'Best For Investors To Miss India IT Bus'

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

'...as we believe with the adoption of AI, our IT services companies' revenue models will have to undergo a reset, which may in turn impact their potential for earnings growth.'

Why should Delhi be held to ransom by Jantar Mantar protests, asks HC

Why should Delhi be held to ransom by Jantar Mantar protests, asks HC

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

The Delhi High Court has raised concerns about Jantar Mantar remaining a designated protest site, questioning why the city should be inconvenienced by demonstrations. The court directed Delhi Police to decide on a protest request by the All India Dalit Christian Rights Protection Committee, while noting the Supreme Court is also examining alternative protest venues.

Former Captain Asunta Lakra Questions Hockey India Ethics Committee's Jurisdiction

Former Captain Asunta Lakra Questions Hockey India Ethics Committee's Jurisdiction

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Former India women's hockey captain Asunta Lakra has formally challenged the ethics proceedings initiated against her by Hockey India, citing procedural irregularities and questioning the Ethics Committee's jurisdiction. Lakra denies all allegations as "false, baseless, malicious, motivated and defamatory," and highlights issues with the committee's constitution and the incomplete documentation provided. This challenge comes amidst a broader context of sexual harassment allegations in Jharkhand hockey and institutional intimidation claims.

Now, CJP backs Jharkhand students protesting JPSC exam irregularities

Now, CJP backs Jharkhand students protesting JPSC exam irregularities

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party has extended its support to students protesting in Jharkhand over alleged irregularities in JPSC, JSSC CGL, and various other competitive exams.

'Chandra Has Taken Right Professional Decision At the Right Time'

'Chandra Has Taken Right Professional Decision At the Right Time'

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

While the latest trigger for him stepping down could be the uncertainty around his renewal as a director at the AGM, which is otherwise a routine matter, Chandra may have been contemplating quitting for some time now because of the overall turbulence with the principal shareholder on the leadership issue.

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.

Airport Authority Gets Waiver Request Amid Adani Airline Buzz

Airport Authority Gets Waiver Request Amid Adani Airline Buzz

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

The Airports Authority of India has received a request for a waiver from contractual restrictions that prevent airport concessionaires and their group entities from holding equity in scheduled airlines, Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol confirmed in the Rajya Sabha. This comes amid reports of the Adani group's interest in the airline business, despite their denial.

Govt begins efforts to join sixth-gen fighter jet programme: Parl panel

Govt begins efforts to join sixth-gen fighter jet programme: Parl panel

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

The defence ministryh has "initiated efforts" to join the sixth-generation fighter aircraft development programme, Future Combat Air System (FCAS), spearheaded by the French government, and sought from it the roadmap to acquire such aircraft, a parliamentary panel has said.

Football bodies accuse FIFA chief of 'deception' over World Cup rights

Football bodies accuse FIFA chief of 'deception' over World Cup rights

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), and CONCACAF have jointly criticised FIFA President Gianni Infantino for his handling of a proposed sale of commercial rights to the World Cup, accusing him of 'deception' and calling for an independent review.

The World No. 1 Who Lost A Leg In Combat

The World No. 1 Who Lost A Leg In Combat

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Subedar Hokato Sema lost his leg in a mine blast on the Line of Control. Today he is a champion para shot-putter and among the most decorated para soldier-athletes.

Milky Mist Dairy Food IPO to open on Aug 11, targets Rs 1,553 crore

Milky Mist Dairy Food IPO to open on Aug 11, targets Rs 1,553 crore

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Milky Mist Dairy Food Ltd has set the price band for its Rs 1,553 crore Initial Public Offering (IPO) at Rs 133-140 per share, with subscriptions opening on August 11 and closing on August 13.

Financial Sector Can't Wait for AI Risks to Emerge, Says CEA

Financial Sector Can't Wait for AI Risks to Emerge, Says CEA

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Chief Economic Advisor V Anantha Nageswaran has stressed the urgent need for India's financial sector to proactively address the safety and security risks of artificial intelligence, stating that waiting for problems to materialise is not an option.

Why Have Flipkart, Netflix Tied Up?

Why Have Flipkart, Netflix Tied Up?

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

'GenZ today is close to 45 to 50 per cent of the overall shopping journeys in the country. They are also very content-first in terms of entertainment or otherwise, general gratification of content and discovery.'

How AITA's New Digital Platform Will Transform Indian Tennis

How AITA's New Digital Platform Will Transform Indian Tennis

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

The All India Tennis Association (AITA) has launched a new digital platform in partnership with World Tennis Number, creating a unified ecosystem for Indian tennis. This platform will streamline registrations, tournament entries, and provide access to rankings, aiming to modernise the sport's administration and player experience.

N R Narayana Murthy: 'There Is Lot Of Confusion About AI'

N R Narayana Murthy: 'There Is Lot Of Confusion About AI'

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

'At the end of the day, it is just another technology produced by the human mind.'

AI surveillance, CCTV coverage: Kanwar Yatra goes hi-tech

AI surveillance, CCTV coverage: Kanwar Yatra goes hi-tech

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Uttar Pradesh authorities have implemented extensive security and logistical measures for the annual Kanwar Yatra, which began on Thursday and concludes on August 11. These include AI-enabled surveillance, additional security personnel, medical camps, dedicated control rooms, and traffic diversions, all aimed at ensuring a "zero incidents and zero accidents" pilgrimage for lakhs of devotees.

How To Get A Rs 14 LPA Package After Engineering

How To Get A Rs 14 LPA Package After Engineering

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

'There is no college that can guarantee a Rs 14 lakh per annum (LPA) package,' clarifies rediffGURU Chocko Valliappa.

Why Bank Frauds Keep Rising

Why Bank Frauds Keep Rising

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

'It's not about individuals operating the mule accounts being more or less skilled. Instead, 'lower-level' refers to the role the individual account plays in the broader mule network.'

The Insurance Add-On Every Car Owner Needs This Monsoon

The Insurance Add-On Every Car Owner Needs This Monsoon

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Protect your vehicle from the unpredictable monsoon season by understanding essential motor insurance add-ons like Engine Protect and Zero Depreciation, crucial for covering damages from floods, waterlogging, and preventing costly out-of-pocket expenses.

Brig Ponwar, 1971 War hero, architect of India's jungle warfare, dies at 77

Brig Ponwar, 1971 War hero, architect of India's jungle warfare, dies at 77

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Brigadier Basant Kumar Ponwar (Retd), a distinguished veteran of the 1971 Indo-Pak War and the visionary behind India's modern jungle warfare strategies against Maoist insurgency, has passed away at 77. His extensive career spanned over five decades, contributing significantly to national defence through both the Indian Army and police forces, including founding the Counter Terrorism and Jungle Warfare College.

Govt allows FDI in inventory-based e-commerce model only for export purposes

Govt allows FDI in inventory-based e-commerce model only for export purposes

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

The Indian government has permitted Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in an inventory-based e-commerce model exclusively for the export of domestically manufactured or produced goods, aiming to boost outbound shipments without affecting small local retailers.

Shipping firms asked to avoid sending Indian sailors on vessels through Hormuz

Shipping firms asked to avoid sending Indian sailors on vessels through Hormuz

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

The Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) has instructed shipping companies to avoid deploying Indian sailors on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz due to the ongoing West Asia crisis, following recent attacks on two vessels carrying Indian seafarers.

Education Loans: What You Must Know

Education Loans: What You Must Know

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Education loan defaults carry serious consequences. Credit bureaus record missed payments against both the student and the co-borrower, usually a parent.

India's fugitive hunt intensifies, 274 brought back from 36 nations in 7 yrs

India's fugitive hunt intensifies, 274 brought back from 36 nations in 7 yrs

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

As many as 274 fugitives have been repatriated from 36 countries in the last 7 years, an average of around 40 per year and a 10-fold jump from the 2004-13 period when around four fugitives were brought back every year, the government said on Tuesday.

The MBBS Costs You Don't See Till It's Too Late

The MBBS Costs You Don't See Till It's Too Late

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Be aware of a set of costs that never appears on a college's fee page. They sit as clauses near the end of the state counselling body's prospectus and, in many states, not even there, warns Ashok Hegde, founder, neet2seat.

'Worst Phase For Equities Appears To Be Behind Us'

'Worst Phase For Equities Appears To Be Behind Us'

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

'Healthy double-digit returns are still possible, though a sharp rally is unlikely.'

Meet Prashant Kishor's Wife, Jahnavi Das

Meet Prashant Kishor's Wife, Jahnavi Das

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Prashant Kishor and Dr Jahnavi Das first met while working on a United Nations public health initiative.

FPIs Reverse Selling Spree, Infuse Rs 20,200 Crore into Indian Equities in July

FPIs Reverse Selling Spree, Infuse Rs 20,200 Crore into Indian Equities in July

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

After four consecutive months of withdrawals, Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) injected Rs 20,200 crore into Indian equities in July, driven by attractive valuations, improving corporate earnings, and a more favourable global environment.

5 Early Signs Of Hepatitis: Don't Ignore

5 Early Signs Of Hepatitis: Don't Ignore

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Hepatitis is a condition that causes the liver to become inflamed. Make sure you treat it early.

Centre defends CEC law in SC, says PM's integrity cannot be questioned

Centre defends CEC law in SC, says PM's integrity cannot be questioned

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Defending the law for regulating appointment procedures of the chief election commissioner and the deputies, the Centre on Thursday told the Supreme Court that it would be wrong to assume that the prime minister and the other ministers would act in "bad faith" and against "democracy" because they have a numerical majority in the selection procedure.

Railways to take reforms path to boost share in freight transport

Railways to take reforms path to boost share in freight transport

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

"Indian Railways is now the world's second-largest cargo carrier by volume, up from fourth, even as its share of the country's total freight movement remains well below potential.'

Two dead, 5 fall ill amid crowd surge, rain-hit Rath Yatra in Puri

Two dead, 5 fall ill amid crowd surge, rain-hit Rath Yatra in Puri

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

One person died and many others fell ill in a temporary crowd surge during the Rath Yatra celebrations in Odisha's Puri on Thursday, official sources said.

'Creamy layer' not applicable to SC/ST reservations, govt tells SC

'Creamy layer' not applicable to SC/ST reservations, govt tells SC

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

The Centre has informed the Supreme Court that the 'creamy layer' principle, which excludes affluent individuals from reservation benefits, does not apply to Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs). This stance opposes Public Interest Litigations (PILs) seeking to implement such a principle for SC/ST reservations and to direct the government to formulate policies for more equitable distribution of reservation benefits.

ServiceNow Enhances AI Control Tower For Enterprise Governance

ServiceNow Enhances AI Control Tower For Enterprise Governance

Rediff.com6 May 2026

ServiceNow has announced an expansion of its AI Control Tower offering with new capabilities that give enterprises control over every AI system, agent, and workflow, regardless of where it runs.

NEET paper leak: NTA fires 47 officials, promises overhaul

NEET paper leak: NTA fires 47 officials, promises overhaul

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has terminated 47 officials and plans legal action following the NEET paper leak controversy. This comes amidst widespread protests and demands for the Education Minister's resignation, as the NTA initiates a major overhaul and recruitment drive to strengthen its operations.