News for 'General'

India Names Strong Squad For BWF World Junior Championships

India Names Strong Squad For BWF World Junior Championships

Rediff.com5 hours ago

India has announced an 18-member squad for the upcoming BWF World Junior Championships in Cairo, Egypt. The team, featuring Asian U-17 champion Tanvi Patri and other promising talents, was selected after trials in Guwahati. India, a bronze medallist in the previous edition, aims for a strong performance, with the tournament introducing new scoring systems for the Suhandinata Cup and individual events.

Baghel replaced as Punjab Cong in-charge amid rift in state unit

Baghel replaced as Punjab Cong in-charge amid rift in state unit

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

The Congress party has announced a significant organisational reshuffle, appointing new general secretaries and state in-charges. Sachin Pilot has been made in-charge of Punjab, and Randeep Singh Surjewala for Gujarat, ahead of crucial assembly elections. Other changes include new in-charges for Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh, with some outgoing leaders being replaced.

RPSF constable pulls passenger from moving train in dramatic Chennai rescue

RPSF constable pulls passenger from moving train in dramatic Chennai rescue

Rediff.com2 hours ago

A Railway Protection Special Force (RPSF) constable, Deepak, heroically rescued a passenger who slipped while attempting to board a moving express train at Chennai Egmore railway station. His quick action, captured on CCTV, prevented a major tragedy and has earned him widespread praise.

Document Bank Transactions Before IT Officials Come Knocking

Document Bank Transactions Before IT Officials Come Knocking

Rediff.com18 hours ago

A deposit is not necessarily taxable simply because it appears in a bank account. What matters is whether its source can be satisfactorily explained.

10 IPO Checks Before You Invest

10 IPO Checks Before You Invest

Rediff.com4 days ago

Dig into the prospectus. Use the prospectus to understand the business and its risks.

BJP vs Congress: How big was their election fund gap in 5 state polls?

BJP vs Congress: How big was their election fund gap in 5 state polls?

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

The Bharatiya Janata Party received nearly Rs 1,473 crore at its central headquarters alone during the last five state assembly elections, more than seven times the Rs 207 crore in net receipts reported by the Congress across its central and state units, according to expenditure statements filed with the Election Commission.

Centre Extends N Kalaiselvi's Tenure As CSIR Director General

Centre Extends N Kalaiselvi's Tenure As CSIR Director General

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

N Kalaiselvi, the first woman Director General of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), has received an extension to her tenure until February 2027. Known for her pioneering work in lithium-ion batteries, Kalaiselvi's extended leadership marks a significant milestone for women in Indian science.

Why NCP (SP) Calls UPI MDR A 'Betrayal'

Why NCP (SP) Calls UPI MDR A 'Betrayal'

Rediff.com14 hours ago

The NCP (SP) has demanded a complete rollback of the 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000, effective October 15. The party termed the move a "direct assault" on small traders and shopkeepers, accusing the Modi government of "double standards" by burdening small merchants while large industrialists benefit from loan write-offs.

Bangladesh wants to 'reset' ties with India

Bangladesh wants to 'reset' ties with India

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

Bangladesh's State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Humaiun Kobir, announced that the country seeks to "reset" its relationship with India, moving towards a new bilateral engagement based on mutual interests. He described ties during the previous government's tenure as "uncomfortable" and emphasised the need for Bangladesh to approach India as "just another country," focusing on balanced relations rather than an "excessive preoccupation." This comes after Bangladesh's Prime Minister Tarique Rahman did not attend the BRICS Summit in India.

Pak says 28 terrorists killed in airstrikes on Afghan border

Pak says 28 terrorists killed in airstrikes on Afghan border

Rediff.com10 hours ago

Pakistan conducted airstrikes in Afghanistan's Kunar and Paktika provinces, claiming to have killed 28 terrorists in response to recent attacks on its security forces. However, the Afghan Taliban government condemned the strikes, reporting three civilian deaths and four injuries, and warned of an 'appropriate response,' further escalating cross-border tensions.

Why Left Parties Demand Withdrawal Of UPI Charges

Why Left Parties Demand Withdrawal Of UPI Charges

Rediff.com5 days ago

Left parties have strongly condemned the government's decision to impose charges on UPI payments exceeding Rs 2,000, with CPI General Secretary D Raja alleging the move was made under "US pressure" to favour foreign payment companies. Both CPI and All India Forward Bloc demand the withdrawal of this "anti-people decision," arguing it burdens consumers and merchants while undermining UPI's role as a public digital infrastructure. They highlight concerns that the charges weaken India's digital sovereignty and serve commercial interests of foreign corporations like Visa and Mastercard.

How Punjab Police Dismantled A Cross-Border Heroin Smuggling Module

How Punjab Police Dismantled A Cross-Border Heroin Smuggling Module

Rediff.com2 days ago

Punjab Police's Counter Intelligence wing in Amritsar has successfully busted a cross-border narcotics smuggling module, leading to the arrest of three individuals and the recovery of 17 kg of heroin. This latest seizure brings the total recovery by CI Amritsar to 54 kg of heroin in just four days, highlighting a significant crackdown on drug trafficking in the region.

Key Bishnoi aide held at Delhi airport after deportation from Canada

Key Bishnoi aide held at Delhi airport after deportation from Canada

Rediff.com6 days ago

Punjab Police's Anti-Gangster Task Force has arrested Karamveer Singh, a close associate of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, at Delhi's IGI Airport after his deportation from Canada. Singh is accused of providing logistical support to Anmol Bishnoi, Lawrence's younger brother, and has a history of serious crimes. This arrest is considered a significant step against transnational organised crime, following another recent extradition from Moldova.

Queue of bulldozers to welcome BJP chief Nitin Nabin in UP

Queue of bulldozers to welcome BJP chief Nitin Nabin in UP

Rediff.com16 hours ago

BJP National President Nitin Nabin was welcomed by a fleet of brightly painted bulldozers at a Meerut toll plaza, marking the start of his significant two-day visit to Uttar Pradesh focused on Assembly election preparations, organisational meetings, and temple visits.

Iran threatens 'painful attacks' on US bases if military action resumes

Iran threatens 'painful attacks' on US bases if military action resumes

Rediff.com17 hours ago

Iran's Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters has threatened "continuous, effective and painful" attacks on US bases and interests across the region if Washington resumes military action against Tehran, amid escalating tensions and a US naval blockade on Iranian ports.

India welcomes Chinese aerospace head for key BRICS Business Forum

India welcomes Chinese aerospace head for key BRICS Business Forum

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

India's Consul General in Shanghai, Pratik Mathur, extended greetings to Song Hou, Director General of China's Commercial Aircraft Corporation (COMAC), ahead of his visit to New Delhi for the BRICS Business Forum 2026. Discussions focused on B2B, technology, and connectivity ties, aligning with India's BRICS Presidency vision. The forum precedes the 18th BRICS Summit.

No Cage, No Elbows: Why Asian Games MMA Is Different

No Cage, No Elbows: Why Asian Games MMA Is Different

Rediff.com15 hours ago

The Asian Games' mixed martial arts competition features modified rules, including traditional uniforms and shin guards, to make the sport more palatable for potential Olympic inclusion. While intense, this version differs significantly from UFC fights. The sport faces challenges, including rival governing bodies vying for Olympic recognition, but FIMMA hopes the current format will appeal to IOC officials.

Saudi warns Houthis as drone intercepted over Mecca

Saudi warns Houthis as drone intercepted over Mecca

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Saudi-led coalition issued a stern warning to Yemen's Houthi rebels after intercepting a drone targeting Mecca, Islam's holiest city. Describing it as a "hostile and terrorist act," the coalition declared the security of holy sites a "red line" and vowed deterrent measures. This incident marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, with both sides exchanging accusations of military operations and civilian targeting.

CPI(ML) Slams New UPI MDR Framework As 'UPI Tax'

CPI(ML) Slams New UPI MDR Framework As 'UPI Tax'

Rediff.com4 days ago

CPI(ML) Liberation general secretary Dipankar Bhattacharya has strongly criticised the newly introduced Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on select UPI transactions, labelling it a "UPI tax" and demanding its immediate rollback. He drew parallels with demonetisation, arguing that the new framework would negatively impact small shopkeepers, MSMEs, and ordinary citizens by increasing prices.

Indian Olympic Association Adopts New Constitutional Amendments

Indian Olympic Association Adopts New Constitutional Amendments

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has approved significant constitutional changes to align with the National Sports Governance Act (NSGA).

Global Uncertainty Drives FPIs to Pull Rs 20,974 Crore from Indian Equities

Global Uncertainty Drives FPIs to Pull Rs 20,974 Crore from Indian Equities

Rediff.com1 days ago

Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) have withdrawn Rs 20,974 crore from Indian equities in September, driven by global uncertainties, higher US interest rates and bond yields, elevated crude oil prices, and a weakening rupee.

Why Opposition Calls UPI MDR A Betrayal And US Appeasement

Why Opposition Calls UPI MDR A Betrayal And US Appeasement

Rediff.com5 days ago

The opposition has strongly criticised the government's decision to introduce a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 for merchants, effective October 15. They allege the move is a result of US pressure and will lead to increased commodity prices, calling it a "betrayal" of the common man. The government, however, clarifies that customers will not be charged, and the MDR applies only to merchants for larger transactions.

Ajit Agarkar opts out of 2nd stint as BCCI chief selector, search for successor underway

Ajit Agarkar opts out of 2nd stint as BCCI chief selector, search for successor underway

Rediff.com3 days ago

Ajit Agarkar has informed the BCCI he will not continue as chief selector, prompting the board to begin searching for his successor as his contract ends October 4.

Keralam minister returns friend's luxury car amid row

Keralam minister returns friend's luxury car amid row

Rediff.com2 days ago

Keralam Minister K M Shaji has returned an ultra-luxury Range Rover, belonging to a friend, which he was using as his official vehicle. The move comes amidst controversy and allegations of violating his oath of office, with the opposition questioning the use of a private luxury car instead of a government-provided one.

Kerala Ex-DGP Convicted For Disproportionate Assets

Kerala Ex-DGP Convicted For Disproportionate Assets

Rediff.com4 days ago

A court in Kottayam has found former state DGP Tomin J Thachankary guilty of amassing wealth disproportionate to his known sources of income under the Prevention of Corruption Act. The sentence will be pronounced later, with the prosecution arguing against leniency despite Thachankary's health plea.

Indian Olympic Association Set To Approve Key Constitutional Changes

Indian Olympic Association Set To Approve Key Constitutional Changes

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) is poised to approve significant constitutional amendments to comply with the National Sports Governance Act 2025. These changes, already endorsed by the executive committee, will be formalised at a Special General Body Meeting. Key areas of reform include age and tenure guidelines for office bearers, which differ from the existing IOA rules, and a potential reduction in the Executive Committee's size. The General House will also discuss the upcoming December elections.

Maha BJP ex-MLA, axed cop booked for gang-raping woman at gunpoint

Maha BJP ex-MLA, axed cop booked for gang-raping woman at gunpoint

Rediff.com4 days ago

A former BJP MLA, Narendra Pawar, and a dismissed police constable, Shailesh Patil, have been booked in Thane for allegedly gangraping a 22-year-old woman after holding her captive at gunpoint at a farmhouse. The woman was reportedly coerced into consuming alcohol before the assault.

UEFA Confirms Allianz Arena, Camp Nou for Champions League Finals

UEFA Confirms Allianz Arena, Camp Nou for Champions League Finals

Rediff.com6 days ago

UEFA has announced that the Allianz Arena in Munich will host the Champions League final in 2028, and Camp Nou in Barcelona will host the final in 2029, marking significant returns for both iconic stadiums.

India sounds alarm over security, navigation risks amid Red Sea tensions

India sounds alarm over security, navigation risks amid Red Sea tensions

Rediff.com3 days ago

India has once again raised alarms over the escalation in the security situation in the Red Sea area and strongly condemned Houthi strikes targeting Saudi Arabian territory, "including on civilians and economic assets."

General Dhiraj Seth takes over as 31st Army Chief

General Dhiraj Seth takes over as 31st Army Chief

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

General Dhiraj Seth has been appointed as the new Chief of the Army Staff, taking command of the 1.3 million-strong Indian Army. He brings nearly four decades of extensive experience, including commanding two operational Army commands along the western front, and will lead the force in its pursuit of self-reliance and readiness amidst dynamic global geo-strategic challenges.

Ramdev's associate Balkrishna acquitted in 15-year-old forged documents case

Ramdev's associate Balkrishna acquitted in 15-year-old forged documents case

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

A CBI court in Dehradun has acquitted Acharya Balkrishna, general secretary of Patanjali Yogpeeth, in a 15-year-old passport forgery case. Co-accused Naresh Chandra Dwivedi was also acquitted. The case, initiated in 2011 by the CBI, alleged Balkrishna obtained an Indian passport using forged documents, claiming he was a Nepali national.

Asian Games Organisers Downplay Accommodation Issues, Blame 'Politicisation'

Asian Games Organisers Downplay Accommodation Issues, Blame 'Politicisation'

Rediff.com3 days ago

The Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) has dismissed concerns about organisational chaos at the Asian Games, attributing criticisms to attempts to "politicise" the event. Despite widespread issues like accommodation scarcity, lengthy check-ins, and athlete complaints, OCA officials insist challenges are normal and are being handled effectively. They also addressed a diplomatic complaint from South Korea regarding a historical figure at a welcome ceremony and defended cost-saving measures like container-style accommodation.

2 Jaish terrorists killed in Udhampur operation; one detained

2 Jaish terrorists killed in Udhampur operation; one detained

Rediff.com4 days ago

Two suspected Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists have been killed in an ongoing joint operation by the Army, police, and CRPF in a remote forest area of Jammu and Kashmir's Udhampur district.

Congress Labels New UPI Charges As 'Modi Tax', Alleges US Pressure

Congress Labels New UPI Charges As 'Modi Tax', Alleges US Pressure

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Congress party has criticised the government's new 0.4% charge on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 for merchants, terming it a "Modi tax". Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, allege that this move will ultimately burden consumers through price hikes and accuse the government of succumbing to American pressure to dilute India's zero-MDR policy. The government states the charge will support banks and fintechs.

India vs Japan One-Off T20I: More Than Just a Match for Cricket in Japan

India vs Japan One-Off T20I: More Than Just a Match for Cricket in Japan

Rediff.com15 hours ago

Cricket giants India are set to play a historic one-off T20 International against Japan in Sano, a match seen as a pivotal moment for the sport's growth in the baseball-dominated country, coinciding with celebrations of 75 years of India-Japan diplomatic relations.

Mumbai's Olympia Coffee House, where Christopher Nolan stopped for chai, loses licence

Mumbai's Olympia Coffee House, where Christopher Nolan stopped for chai, loses licence

Rediff.com3 days ago

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the licences of several food establishments in Mumbai, including the Nair Hospital canteen and Olympia Coffee House, due to serious violations of food safety and hygiene standards. Inspections revealed issues like unsanitary conditions, improper food handling, pest infestations, and lack of trained staff. The FDA also cancelled licences of other businesses and seized unhygienic milk products as part of a festive season campaign.

Want to Study at Leiden University On A Scholarship?

Want to Study at Leiden University On A Scholarship?

Rediff.com6 days ago

Selected applicants may receive a fee reduction of 10,000 to 15,000 euros in tuition costs.

Indian Olympic Association Aligns Constitution With National Sports Governance Act

Indian Olympic Association Aligns Constitution With National Sports Governance Act

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has approved significant constitutional changes to align with the National Sports Governance Act (NSGA), allowing for longer tenures for office-bearers and revising age limits. These amendments, which have received preliminary approval from the International Olympic Committee (IOC), also impact the structure of the Executive Council and set the stage for upcoming elections, including those for the Athletes' Commission.

PAYD Motor Insurance: Is It Worth It?

PAYD Motor Insurance: Is It Worth It?

Rediff.com5 days ago

PAYD suits infrequent drivers who can estimate annual mileage.

LS Speaker's unique move on FCRA Bill: Nomiates two Rajya Sabha MPs to JPC

LS Speaker's unique move on FCRA Bill: Nomiates two Rajya Sabha MPs to JPC

Rediff.com4 days ago

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has made a rare move by nominating two Rajya Sabha members as "special invitees" to the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) examining the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026. This decision comes as the contentious Bill, referred to the 31-member JPC for detailed examination, faces opposition demands for its withdrawal.