News for 'Government'

SC to hear on Aug 31 plea challenging anonymous cash donations to parties

SC to hear on Aug 31 plea challenging anonymous cash donations to parties

Rediff.com3 days ago

The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear on August 31 a plea which has challenged the validity of a provision of the Income Tax Act that allows political parties to receive cash donations below Rs 2,000.

Nepal floods: 290 Indians still missing, 200 stranded on Chinese side

Nepal floods: 290 Indians still missing, 200 stranded on Chinese side

Rediff.com3 days ago

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has confirmed that 288 Indian nationals remain missing following devastating flash floods in Nepal, including those working on hydropower projects and tourist groups.

Mumbai MLAs' question quality drops from 50% to 33%: Report

Mumbai MLAs' question quality drops from 50% to 33%: Report

Rediff.com5 days ago

A recent report by Praja Foundation indicates a significant decline in the quality and quantity of questions raised by Mumbai MLAs in the Maharashtra assembly. The 'Mumbai's MLA Report Card, 2026' shows a sharp drop in average scores for question quality and a 72 per cent reduction in the number of questions asked compared to previous assemblies, raising concerns about legislative oversight.

Bihar teachers' recruitment exam schedule announced amid student protests

Bihar teachers' recruitment exam schedule announced amid student protests

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Job aspirants and guest faculties in Bihar are protesting in Patna, demanding the timely conduct of the BPSC TRE-4 exam, transparency in recruitments, and the resignation of education officials. They also seek implementation of UGC regulations, increased age limits, and regularisation of assistant professor appointments, threatening further agitation if demands are not met.

Ayodhya fish feast sparks political storm in UP; Yogi targets Ajay Rai

Ayodhya fish feast sparks political storm in UP; Yogi targets Ajay Rai

Rediff.com6 days ago

A political controversy has erupted in Uttar Pradesh after Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath accused state Congress chief Ajay Rai of participating in a fish feast in Ayodhya during the holy month of Shravan, near the Ram temple. Rai has vehemently denied the allegations, challenging Adityanath to provide proof and threatening to resign if proven, while also demanding the CM's resignation if no evidence is found. The Congress party has defended the event, stating it was a Nishad community gathering with their own food traditions.

West Asia crisis: Putin assures India of steady energy, fertiliser supplies

West Asia crisis: Putin assures India of steady energy, fertiliser supplies

Rediff.com6 days ago

Russia on Monday assured India of uninterrupted supply of energy and fertilisers amid disruption caused by the West Asia crisis, as External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met President Vladimir Putin in Moscow and held talks with his key interlocutors.

How Khelo India Dialogue Aims To Shape India's Sporting Future

How Khelo India Dialogue Aims To Shape India's Sporting Future

Rediff.com5 days ago

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host the 'Khelo India Dialogue' to engage with youth on India's sporting journey, national development, and Olympic aspirations. The virtual event, structured around five key themes including sports ecosystem improvement, youth leadership, and a 'Nasha Mukt Yuva' movement, aims to gather ideas for a stronger, youth-led 'Viksit Bharat' and nurture talent for the 2036 Olympics.

US may ease J-K travel advisory after security improvements: Envoy Gor

US may ease J-K travel advisory after security improvements: Envoy Gor

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, announced during his visit to Srinagar that the United States would reconsider its travel advisories for Jammu and Kashmir. He acknowledged the efforts by the central government and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in enhancing safety in the region, expressing hope that more Americans would visit the "incredibly beautiful place." Gor also met with CM Abdullah to discuss strengthening US-J&K relations.

Delhi Lakshmi Yojana: Ineligibility Leads To Fund Recovery

Delhi Lakshmi Yojana: Ineligibility Leads To Fund Recovery

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

The Delhi government has notified detailed guidelines for the Delhi Lakshmi Yojana, outlining strict provisions for beneficiaries found ineligible, including discontinuation of financial assistance, recovery of disbursed funds, and potential fraud charges. The scheme provides Rs 2,500 monthly to eligible women, with specific rules for fund disbursement via RD/FD accounts and CBDC wallets, along with clear eligibility and exclusion criteria.

'Message has gone home': Govt's hard talk with Meta

'Message has gone home': Govt's hard talk with Meta

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

The Indian IT Ministry has engaged in 'hard talk' with Meta regarding child sexual abuse material (CSAM), leading to increased sensitivity and action from the tech giant. The government asserts that Indian laws must be followed and social media harms mitigated, with no safe harbour for violations. Discussions also covered AI labelling and the WhatsApp username issue, highlighting a global concern over social media harms.

'There is no way out': Infantino faces FIFA revolt

'There is no way out': Infantino faces FIFA revolt

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Regional football powerhouses, including UEFA, AFC, and CONCACAF, are reportedly discussing a vote of no confidence against FIFA President Gianni Infantino. This move comes after Infantino angered them with a proposal to sell a stake in the World Cup to private investors. Despite significant opposition, Infantino retains support from some member associations, particularly from Africa, complicating any challenge to his leadership ahead of the 2027 election.

Nepal floods trigger high alert in UP; Gandak, Rapti levels rise

Nepal floods trigger high alert in UP; Gandak, Rapti levels rise

Rediff.com3 days ago

The administration has sounded a high alert in Maharajganj and Kushinagar districts of Uttar Pradesh, while stepping up the monitoring of the Gandak and other water bodies downstream of rivers in Nepal, following devastating flash floods in the neighbouring country that have killed more than 350 people and left thousands missing.

Mamdani opposes RSS chief's Madison Square event, but can't stop it

Mamdani opposes RSS chief's Madison Square event, but can't stop it

Rediff.com5 days ago

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has voiced his opposition to the upcoming event at Madison Square Garden where RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat is scheduled to address the Indian diaspora. Mamdani, however, noted that the city might lack jurisdiction to cancel the private event, which has also drawn protests from various interfaith and civil rights organisations.

India's Forex Kitty Swells by $9.9 Billion to $716.9 Billion

India's Forex Kitty Swells by $9.9 Billion to $716.9 Billion

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

India's foreign exchange reserves increased by $9.9 billion to $716.9 billion for the week ended August 14, as reported by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). This surge follows a previous jump of $14.14 billion in the week prior, indicating a robust recovery after a period of decline earlier this year.

38 men booked for molesting activist during Ranchi student protests

38 men booked for molesting activist during Ranchi student protests

Rediff.com5 days ago

A case has been filed against 38 individuals, including 8 named persons, for allegedly molesting a female member of the JPSC-JSSC Reforms Manch during a protest in Ranchi on August 21. The complaint was lodged by the victim, accompanied by BJP's Babulal Marandi, at Kotwali police station, with charges including molestation and other sections of the BNS. The incident occurred during a procession against recruitment examination irregularities.

Joe Root Expresses Disappointment Over Recurring Nightclub Incidents

Joe Root Expresses Disappointment Over Recurring Nightclub Incidents

Rediff.com5 days ago

England captain Joe Root has expressed his deep disappointment and frustration over recurring nightclub incidents involving national team players, following fast bowler Brydon Carse's recent arrest and subsequent de-arrest. Root emphasised the team's commitment to building a strong culture and addressing off-field behaviour that detracts from their performance.

NCLT clears Subhash Chandra's Rs 6.5 crore payout for Rs 22,006 crore debt

NCLT clears Subhash Chandra's Rs 6.5 crore payout for Rs 22,006 crore debt

Rediff.com4 days ago

The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has approved a repayment plan for media baron Subhash Chandra, allowing him to settle admitted creditor claims of approximately Rs 22,006.57 crore by paying just Rs 6.5 crore, resulting in a nearly 99.97 per cent haircut for lenders.

Blinkit extends lead in quick commerce, outperforming rivals beyond major cities

Blinkit extends lead in quick commerce, outperforming rivals beyond major cities

Rediff.com4 days ago

A new CLSA report indicates that Eternal's Blinkit is significantly widening its lead in India's quick-commerce sector, particularly beyond major metropolitan areas, by expanding its dark store network and securing a first-mover advantage in over 180 cities.

'There's Anger On The Ground Against BJP'

'There's Anger On The Ground Against BJP'

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

'If elections are held with honesty you will see their defeat.'

Slapped by teacher for not doing homework, KG boy dies in Vizag

Slapped by teacher for not doing homework, KG boy dies in Vizag

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

A six-year-old UKG student tragically died at a private school in Visakhapatnam after allegedly being slapped by a teacher inside the classroom, an incident captured on CCTV footage.

NeoGeoInfo Secures USD 20 Million For Global Expansion

NeoGeoInfo Secures USD 20 Million For Global Expansion

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

NeoGeoInfo Technologies, a spatial intelligence solutions provider, has secured a Series A investment of approximately USD 20 million from Neev II Fund and Aavishkaar Capital. This funding will fuel the company's R&D, expand its international presence in the Middle East and Americas, and strengthen its team for complex projects.

'Eknath Shinde Was Extremely Aggressive'

'Eknath Shinde Was Extremely Aggressive'

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

'I've seen a lot of meetings over the years, but this was the first time I've seen the deputy chief minister and the industries minister sit through something like this with 200 to 300 industrialists, local residents and politicians from both the ruling side and Opposition, all in the same room.'

Marathi test of Maharashtra auto/taxi drivers begins, 1,268 notices issued

Marathi test of Maharashtra auto/taxi drivers begins, 1,268 notices issued

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Maharashtra's transport department has initiated a statewide drive to assess taxi and autorickshaw drivers' working knowledge of Marathi, issuing notices to 1,268 drivers on the first day. Those who fail the initial 16-question test will receive a one-month notice to learn Marathi, with subsequent failure leading to a three-month badge suspension.

India Calls For BRICS Partnership In Digital Public Infrastructure And Telecom Standards

India Calls For BRICS Partnership In Digital Public Infrastructure And Telecom Standards

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Minister of State for Telecom Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani urged BRICS nations to collaborate on building institutional capacity and advocating for fair standards in international telecom and ICT bodies. He highlighted India's willingness to share its modular, open-source digital public infrastructure frameworks like Aadhaar and DigiLocker, emphasising their role in sustainable development and economic growth across the Global South.

'Every penny must reach temple treasury': SC on Banke Bihari donations

'Every penny must reach temple treasury': SC on Banke Bihari donations

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Supreme Court has issued a directive for the Shri Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan, mandating that all donations must be deposited into official donation boxes or the online temple treasury. This comes amidst serious allegations of sevayats siphoning off funds and obstructing online donation methods, highlighting the need for a transparent mechanism in temple management.

AI cannot substitute judicial conscience: CJI Surya Kant

AI cannot substitute judicial conscience: CJI Surya Kant

Rediff.com4 days ago

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant stated that while artificial intelligence (AI) can augment judicial reasoning, it cannot substitute judicial conscience, and a permanent apex body is proposed to supervise AI adoption and accountability within the judiciary.

HC judgment on hijab attack on Islam: Owaisi

HC judgment on hijab attack on Islam: Owaisi

Rediff.com5 days ago

AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi has urged people to support and strengthen the party for the 2027 Uttar Pradesh assembly elections, while also criticising the BJP government on issues like the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and the Vande Mataram row.

Bankura death: CJP gives Bengal govt 10-day ultimatum, threatens agitation

Bankura death: CJP gives Bengal govt 10-day ultimatum, threatens agitation

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

A leader of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on Monday gave the West Bengal government 10 days to arrest all those allegedly involved in the death of the father of a party volunteer in Bankura district and demanded a probe into the conduct of police personnel at the local police station.

Shillong violence sparks Assam-Meghalaya road blockade

Shillong violence sparks Assam-Meghalaya road blockade

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Traffic between Assam and Meghalaya was disrupted after Guwahati-based cab operators blocked National Highway-27, protesting alleged attacks on people from Assam during a Khasi Students' Union (KSU) rally in Shillong, which saw 31 vehicles damaged and several pedestrians assaulted.

Kolkata hotel blaze: Govt orders safety audit of hotels, guest houses

Kolkata hotel blaze: Govt orders safety audit of hotels, guest houses

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

A devastating fire in a central Kolkata building resulted in nine deaths, primarily due to asphyxia, and the rescue of around 80 people. West Bengal minister Kaushik Chowdhury highlighted the quick response of the Fire Brigade but raised concerns about safety norms, lack of windows, and the proliferation of cramped hotels within the building. An investigation committee will be formed, and fire audits will be conducted across all hotels in the state.

Gavaskar, Kapil and 19 former captains seek proper care for Imran Khan

Gavaskar, Kapil and 19 former captains seek proper care for Imran Khan

Rediff.com7 days ago

Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev and 19 former captains urged Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif to ensure independent medical assessment, treatment and court-ordered family visits for Imran Khan.

Jharkhand scraps JSSC-CGL exam, all tests by TDPL after protests

Jharkhand scraps JSSC-CGL exam, all tests by TDPL after protests

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren has cancelled the JSSC-CGL exam and all tests conducted by outsourced agency TDPL since 2014, following widespread protests by job aspirants over alleged irregularities. An examination reforms committee has been formed, while some protesters continue to demand a CBI probe.

West Asia Crisis May Hit FY27 Fiscal Deficit

West Asia Crisis May Hit FY27 Fiscal Deficit

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

The fiscal consolidation path and Rs 1 trillion stabilisation fund provide room to absorb mild shocks, but sustained oil-price increases pose risks.

'We Travelled Peacefully By Road From Imphal To Guwahati'

'We Travelled Peacefully By Road From Imphal To Guwahati'

Rediff.com6 days ago

'People have been facing significant difficulties due to skyrocketing airfares, and road transportation was inaccessible until now.'

CJP launches 'School Thik Karo' campaign, demands private school fee cap

CJP launches 'School Thik Karo' campaign, demands private school fee cap

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Abhijeet Dipke, convenor of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), has initiated the 'School Thik Karo' campaign from his native village in Hingoli, Maharashtra, to address the alleged neglect of government schools and advocate for a fee cap on private educational institutions.

Bar Council chief faces resignation demand; rejects charges

Bar Council chief faces resignation demand; rejects charges

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

YR Sadashiva Reddy, Co-Chairman of the Bar Council of India (BCI), has called for the immediate resignation of BCI Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra, citing alleged irregularities in appointments, diversion of Council funds, financial dealings with law colleges, and other governance issues. Mishra has dismissed the allegations as 'baseless'.

Jharkhand exam stir: Students plan CM residence gherao on Aug 30

Jharkhand exam stir: Students plan CM residence gherao on Aug 30

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

Students protesting against alleged irregularities in Jharkhand's recruitment exams announced burning the effigies of Chief Minister Hemant Soren and Rahul Gandhi in all districts on Sunday, accusing the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha-Congress alliance of "failing to take concrete action" on their demands.

Big relief for Vijay govt as SC clears jobs for Karur victims' kin

Big relief for Vijay govt as SC clears jobs for Karur victims' kin

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has stayed a Madras High Court order that had quashed the Tamil Nadu government's decision to provide government jobs to relatives of those who died in a stampede at Karur last year, questioning the locus standi of petitioners challenging government policy.

Bribe to suppress rape case: Punjab CM's wife sends notice to ex-judge

Bribe to suppress rape case: Punjab CM's wife sends notice to ex-judge

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

Gurpreet Kaur, wife of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, has sent a legal notice to a former Punjab and Haryana High Court judge. This action follows allegations that she sought Rs 5 crore to suppress a rape case. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has also issued a notice to the Punjab government and police chief regarding the complaint, which has drawn criticism from opposition leaders like Amrinder Singh Raja Warring and Bikram Singh Majithia. The NHRC has directed an inquiry into the matter, citing potential human rights violations.

Foreigner dies at Surat station RPF post after brawl, probe launched

Foreigner dies at Surat station RPF post after brawl, probe launched

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

A foreign national passed away at the Railway Protection Force post in Surat after being deboarded from a train following a fight with co-passengers. The Government Railway Police has launched a custodial death investigation into the incident, as the man's identity and nationality remain unknown.