News for 'Global Practice'

US halts visa interviews globally amid Trump's immigration crackdown

US halts visa interviews globally amid Trump's immigration crackdown

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

The US State Department has paused visa appointments worldwide to conduct a 'global training initiative' for consular officers, aiming to ensure applicants are not likely to become a 'public charge' and are comprehensively evaluated, intensifying President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown.

NRAI Drives Global Standards With ISSF Shotgun Referee Course

NRAI Drives Global Standards With ISSF Shotgun Referee Course

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) has launched the ISSF Shotgun Referee Course in New Delhi, a five-day programme aimed at developing internationally qualified technical officials for shooting sports. The course, led by ISSF instructor Nooruddin Alyasi, attracts participants from India, Saudi Arabia, and Sri Lanka, signifying a major step towards enhancing officiating standards and technical infrastructure in the region.

'Will properly handle differences': China as Xi visits India

'Will properly handle differences': China as Xi visits India

Rediff.com3 hours ago

Chinese President Xi Jinping is in New Delhi for the 18th BRICS Summit, where he is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This visit, his first to India in nearly seven years, comes amidst efforts to normalise India-China relations following the 2020 Eastern Ladakh standoff and is expected to have significant implications for bilateral ties and BRICS cooperation.

How Overuse Of 'Watch' Antibiotics Drives Global Resistance

How Overuse Of 'Watch' Antibiotics Drives Global Resistance

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

A new study published in The Lancet Public Health journal reveals that almost all countries are overusing 'watch' class antibiotics, which are stronger drugs meant for specific conditions and contribute significantly to antibiotic resistance. The research developed a framework to assess appropriate antibiotic use and found that while many countries overuse antibiotics, particularly the 'watch' category, some also underuse 'reserve' antibiotics, potentially leaving patients with drug-resistant infections untreated. The study highlights a global inequality where lower-income countries need more specialised antibiotics but higher-income countries use them more.

India Sets 10-Year Vision For Defence Diplomacy

India Sets 10-Year Vision For Defence Diplomacy

Rediff.com7 days ago

'India is trying to project that it can engage with the world in a different way too.'

India co-sponsors UN resolution to end child marriage

India co-sponsors UN resolution to end child marriage

Rediff.com5 days ago

The UN General Assembly has adopted a resolution, co-sponsored by India, to designate November 27 as the International Day for the Elimination of Child, Early and Forced Marriage. This global initiative aims to raise awareness and accelerate efforts to combat this harmful practice, which disproportionately affects women and girls, hindering their education, health, and overall human rights.

Wars, tariffs test BRICS unity as leaders gather in Delhi

Wars, tariffs test BRICS unity as leaders gather in Delhi

Rediff.com21 hours ago

The BRICS summit in New Delhi brings together leaders from major emerging economies to address global challenges like trade disputes, geopolitical upheavals, and the economic impact of conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia. India, as chair, aims to position BRICS as an economic growth engine, focusing on the Global South's food, energy, and supply chain security. The summit also highlights the grouping's expansion and its growing influence in global governance.

Finance Minister Calls For Robust AI Safeguards In Finance Sector

Finance Minister Calls For Robust AI Safeguards In Finance Sector

Rediff.com19 hours ago

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has called for enhanced accountability and safeguards for artificial intelligence, particularly as it integrates into critical sectors like finance. Speaking at the Global Fintech Fest, she highlighted the dual nature of AI, capable of accelerating transactions but also amplifying fraud and cyberattacks. Sitharaman stressed the need for human and institutional responsibility in AI-driven decisions, urging regulators and companies to scrutinise high-risk AI applications. She also proposed a federated industry platform for Indian tech companies to navigate international regulations and ensure tax compliance globally.

BRICS should be non-Western, not anti-Western: Tharoor

BRICS should be non-Western, not anti-Western: Tharoor

Rediff.com18 hours ago

Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has articulated India's position on BRICS, advocating for it to be a "non-West, but not anti-West" platform, a stance he believes is crucial for India's national interest. He highlighted the prestige of hosting the BRICS summit, India's responsibility to represent the Global South, and the significance of bilateral meetings, particularly with China and Russia. Tharoor also addressed the strained India-China relations, citing border issues and trade leverage, and discussed the challenges within BRICS, including difficulties in achieving consensus on global issues and trade imbalances, while also considering the need for diversified international relations amidst unpredictable US sanctions.

BRICS finance chiefs push for greater emerging market representation in IMF, World Bank

BRICS finance chiefs push for greater emerging market representation in IMF, World Bank

Rediff.com15 hours ago

BRICS finance ministers and central bank governors have called for increased representation of emerging-market and developing economies in the IMF and World Bank, while also criticising unilateral tariffs and trade measures, as the expanded bloc aims to bolster financial cooperation amidst global fragmentation.

US, EU flag India's 'trade barriers' at WTO, citing high tariffs, QCOs, and digital trade curbs

US, EU flag India's 'trade barriers' at WTO, citing high tariffs, QCOs, and digital trade curbs

Rediff.com1 days ago

The United States and the European Union have strongly criticised India's trade policies at the World Trade Organization review, highlighting concerns over high tariffs, quality-control orders (QCOs), and restrictions on digital trade and services, which they argue undermine India's economic openness.

How AI Is Poised To Transform Indian Healthcare

How AI Is Poised To Transform Indian Healthcare

Rediff.com4 days ago

A report by Bain & Company and HealthQuad identifies remote patient monitoring, OT/ICU optimisation, and chronic disease management as key opportunities for Artificial Intelligence in Indian healthcare. The report highlights a shift from experimental AI to real-world applications, driven by government initiatives, increasing EMR adoption, and a robust startup ecosystem. AI's autonomous capabilities are rapidly advancing while costs decrease, creating significant growth potential for providers and startups.

India, 163 other nations back UN's 'Correct the World map' move; US opposes

India, 163 other nations back UN's 'Correct the World map' move; US opposes

Rediff.com7 days ago

The UN General Assembly has adopted a resolution, backed by India, to correct the world map for a more accurate representation of continental landmasses. The resolution addresses the distortions caused by the widely used Mercator projection, which minimises the perceived sizes of regions like Africa, Latin America, and South Asia, promoting an unbalanced global view. India supports the move towards more accurate cartographic practices, specifically endorsing broader use of Equal Area map projections.

Infosys arm chief Lax Gopisetty missing in Nepal flash-floods

Infosys arm chief Lax Gopisetty missing in Nepal flash-floods

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

Infosys has confirmed that Lax Gopisetty, chief of its subsidiary Infosys Public Services, is unreachable following devastating floods in Nepal. Gopisetty was visiting the region personally, and Infosys is working with agencies and his family to ensure his safety. The Ministry of External Affairs also reported hundreds of Indians missing or stranded due to the floods, with India offering assistance to Nepal.

Nirmala Sitharaman Calls For Faster CBDC Progress And Stronger Cybersecurity Measures

Nirmala Sitharaman Calls For Faster CBDC Progress And Stronger Cybersecurity Measures

Rediff.com18 hours ago

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has urged the Reserve Bank of India to accelerate its central bank digital currency initiatives, emphasising the need to sharpen capabilities with the digital rupee amidst rapid advancements in tokenisation, agentic AI, and quantum computing. She also highlighted critical concerns regarding cybersecurity, warning that autonomous AI systems are evolving rapidly and require robust safeguards. Sitharaman proposed a federated industry platform to give India's technology ecosystem a collective international voice.

'We Don't Want Any Country To Use BRICS To Further Their Geopolitical Agenda'

'We Don't Want Any Country To Use BRICS To Further Their Geopolitical Agenda'

Rediff.com4 hours ago

In recent years, China and Russia have pushed for de-dollarisation within BRICS, which India has resisted. One reason is that India does not want to hurt its relationship with the United States, and another is the fear of China controlling trade because the renminbi is considered the strongest currency in the bloc today.

Digital Ecosystem Key To Unlocking MSME Credit

Digital Ecosystem Key To Unlocking MSME Credit

Rediff.com1 days ago

India's MSME sector faces a significant formal credit gap of approximately Rs 60 lakh crore, with traditional channels meeting only a fraction of the demand. A new report suggests that a centralised, interoperable digital layer could effectively bridge this gap and enhance productivity across the formal business sector by digitising workflows and enabling cash-flow-based underwriting.

Karnataka Government Partners With ElevenLabs For AI-Powered Citizen Services

Karnataka Government Partners With ElevenLabs For AI-Powered Citizen Services

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

The Karnataka government is collaborating with ElevenLabs to explore pilot projects using voice AI across various sectors including skilling, investment promotion, healthcare, culture, and citizen services. This initiative aims to leverage advanced AI to enhance accessibility and efficiency of government services, with a strong focus on responsible AI use and safeguards against misinformation.

We need not be...: RSS chief explains Hindutva, Hindu Rashtra in London

We need not be...: RSS chief explains Hindutva, Hindu Rashtra in London

Rediff.com5 days ago

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, addressing British Hindus in London, unequivocally stated that their loyalty lies with the UK, clarifying the concept of 'karma bhoomi' within Hindutva and emphasising unity in diversity.

'When We Divert A River's Flow, We're Inviting Trouble'

'When We Divert A River's Flow, We're Inviting Trouble'

Rediff.com2 days ago

'When a glacier collapse or a major flood event does occur, the water will simply reclaim its original path, and anything built in that path will be swept away.'

Why India's Ethanol Blending Policy Needs A Rethink

Why India's Ethanol Blending Policy Needs A Rethink

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

A group of experts has voiced significant concerns regarding India's ethanol-blended fuel policy, citing potential negative impacts on land-use, agriculture patterns, food security, groundwater levels, and household incomes. They recommend a return to E10 fuel and a review of the policy's overall benefits versus costs to consumers and the environment.

BRICS Ministers Forge Stronger Sports Cooperation

BRICS Ministers Forge Stronger Sports Cooperation

Rediff.com23 Aug 2026

BRICS Sports Ministers adopted a Joint Declaration in Visakhapatnam, reaffirming their commitment to strengthen sports cooperation through dialogue and mutual respect. The meeting, held under India's 2026 Chairship, saw Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya call for a BRICS Sporting Partnership and introduce three key initiatives: a Working Group on Sports Technology, a Sports Manufacturing Conclave in Udaipur, and Traditional and Indigenous Sports Demonstration Games in Ahmedabad in 2026.

High-Powered Committee to Drive Banking Reforms for Viksit Bharat, Says FM Sitharaman

High-Powered Committee to Drive Banking Reforms for Viksit Bharat, Says FM Sitharaman

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the government's plan to establish a high-powered committee to examine reforms for the banking sector, aligning it with the vision of a 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India) and India's next phase of growth.

Times Square turns yoga hub as thousands join global event

Times Square turns yoga hub as thousands join global event

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Thousands of Yoga enthusiasts and practitioners assembled at the iconic Times Square here on Sunday for a day-long session of the ancient Indian practice to commemorate International Day of Yoga.

Quantum Computing: AI's Next Frontier

Quantum Computing: AI's Next Frontier

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

Quantum computing is set to redefine artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and scientific discovery, promising unprecedented speeds and capabilities while also necessitating urgent development of quantum-safe security measures and strategic enterprise readiness, says Sunil Varghese.

PIX: Yoga unites world as Indian missions lead global events

PIX: Yoga unites world as Indian missions lead global events

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Thousands of yoga enthusiasts across the world marked the International Day of Yoga on Sunday, as Indian missions abroad organised events to highlight the ancient practice's role in fostering health and well-being.

Alia To Zendaya: The Beautiful Bandana Brigade

Alia To Zendaya: The Beautiful Bandana Brigade

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

The bandana, once a rockstar staple, is making a chic comeback among female celebrities in both Bollywood and Hollywood, with stars like Priyanka Chopra, Alia Bhatt, and Zendaya showcasing versatile ways to style the head scarf.

Google challenges Delhi HC ruling on keyword bidding

Google challenges Delhi HC ruling on keyword bidding

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Google has challenged a Delhi High Court single-judge bench ruling that held it liable for trademark infringement by allowing competitors to bid on and use the 'Hindware' trademark as keywords in its Google Ads programme. Google argues that keyword bidding promotes competition and is a globally accepted norm, citing previous rulings that allowed the practice. The tech giant contends that the Trade Marks Act does not distinguish between coined and generic words for such infringements.

Rohit Yadav Surpasses Neeraj Chopra in Global List with 87.05m Throw

Rohit Yadav Surpasses Neeraj Chopra in Global List with 87.05m Throw

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Rohit Yadav lit up Bhubaneswar's Kalinga Stadium with a career-best throw of 87.05m in the men's javelin throw on the concluding day of the 65th National Inter-State Senior Athletics Championships.

'If The Economy Is Growing At 6.5-7%, Why Don't Wages Increase?'

'If The Economy Is Growing At 6.5-7%, Why Don't Wages Increase?'

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

'Wages have not risen. Rural wages have stagnated. The growth was 0.7 per cent last year. For casual and irregular labour, the wage growth is negative.'

'This Is Where Investors Will Make Money'

'This Is Where Investors Will Make Money'

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

'Value is not where you make money in India. It never has been.' 'You have to buy momentum.' 'Momentum is in technology, and I don't see that slowing down because I believe the AI infrastructure boom is going to last for a while.'

Zendaya@30: Her 30 Iconic Fashion Moments

Zendaya@30: Her 30 Iconic Fashion Moments

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

Explore the unparalleled style evolution of Zendaya, the ultimate couture chameleon, as we celebrate 30 of her most iconic and unforgettable fashion moments.

India removes hurdle for rupee export payments, eyes wider international use

India removes hurdle for rupee export payments, eyes wider international use

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

India has removed a key regulatory hurdle, allowing exporters to receive payments in Indian currency while retaining incentives under the country's foreign trade policy, a move aimed at promoting wider use of the rupee in international trade.

Neeraj Chopra, Gopichand Launch Indian School Of Coaching Excellence

Neeraj Chopra, Gopichand Launch Indian School Of Coaching Excellence

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra and badminton legend Pullela Gopichand have launched the Indian School of Coaching Excellence (ISCE), an initiative designed to strengthen India's sports coaching landscape.

India broadens crude sourcing to Latin America, Venezuela becomes key supplier

India broadens crude sourcing to Latin America, Venezuela becomes key supplier

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

India is significantly expanding its crude oil sourcing to Latin America, with Venezuela emerging as a major supplier, as geopolitical disruptions in the Middle East and the Strait of Hormuz compel the world's third-largest oil consumer to diversify its energy supplies.

L Subramaniam: 'Honours Are A Passing Cloud'

L Subramaniam: 'Honours Are A Passing Cloud'

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

'Ultimately, everything has to be shared. That's why you have that talent. To share it. Unless you share, it won't continue.'

HC rejects UP student's hijab plea, upholds school dress code

HC rejects UP student's hijab plea, upholds school dress code

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

The Allahabad high court has dismissed a petition filed by a minor student of a school in Prayagraj. The petitioner had sought permission to wear a hijab additionally along with the prescribed school dress code while attending classes.

'India Doesn't Need To Fear Turkish Or Saudi Interventions In A Future India-Pakistan Conflict'

'India Doesn't Need To Fear Turkish Or Saudi Interventions In A Future India-Pakistan Conflict'

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

'It beggars belief that Saudi Arabia would deploy military force against India, a top partner and market.'

'How Can You Grow At 7% With These Rates Of Private Investment?'

'How Can You Grow At 7% With These Rates Of Private Investment?'

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

'You have to get private investment to somewhere between 35% to 36% of GDP. It is hovering about 30%-31%.'

Mohan Bhagwat: 'If any Hindu thinks there should be no Muslim in Bharat...'

Mohan Bhagwat: 'If any Hindu thinks there should be no Muslim in Bharat...'

Rediff.com30 Aug 2026

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat stated that a true Hindu believes in the unity of humanity and that all religious paths lead to the same goal, asserting that 'if any Hindu thinks that there should be no Muslim in Bharat, he will not remain Hindu'.