News for 'Independence'

India's Doping Crisis: Why The Nation Tops Global Offenders List

India's Doping Crisis: Why The Nation Tops Global Offenders List

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

India continues to lead the Athletics Integrity Unit's (AIU) global list of dope offenders with 162 names, highlighting a significant problem in the country's sports. The nation has been re-categorised to 'Category A' by the AIU, indicating an "extremely high" doping risk and requiring more stringent anti-doping measures.

Will Nagraj Manjule Recreate Sairat Magic With Khashaba?

Will Nagraj Manjule Recreate Sairat Magic With Khashaba?

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

The Khashaba teaser leaves behind the feeling that Marathi cinema is gearing up for something monumental, notes Mayur Sanap.

WhatsApp Is Changing. Are You Safe?

WhatsApp Is Changing. Are You Safe?

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

WhatsApp is finally letting you hide your phone number behind a custom username. While it's a massive win for privacy, cybersecurity experts warn it could unleash a wave of identity scams. Here is what you need to know.

No respite for Mumbaikars from rains, but 2 lakes starts overflowing

No respite for Mumbaikars from rains, but 2 lakes starts overflowing

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Heavy rains and thunder returned to Mumbai, causing significant delays in local and long-distance train services, particularly affecting routes towards Gujarat and Pune. Two key reservoirs, Tulsi and Vihar lakes, have begun overflowing, though the city's overall water stock remains at 41.43 per cent.

Omar, NC MLAs head to off-site location amid defection rumours

Omar, NC MLAs head to off-site location amid defection rumours

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah led his party MLAs and supporting independents to an off-site meeting, reportedly at Dachigam National Park, amidst claims by the Leader of Opposition that several ruling party MLAs were on the verge of defecting.

10 Bollywood Films That Chased Hidden Treasures

10 Bollywood Films That Chased Hidden Treasures

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

From Khazana to Tumbbad and Dhamaal, Bollywood's treasure-hunt adventures have delivered everything from hidden riches and cursed gold to madcap comedy and even horror.

SC forms high-powered committee to review Centre's Aravalli report

SC forms high-powered committee to review Centre's Aravalli report

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

The Supreme Court has established a high-powered committee, chaired by Kanchan Devi, Director General of the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE), to independently review the Centre's report on the definition and delineation of the Aravalli hill range, aiming to resolve 'critical ambiguities' in its findings.

TMC revolt brings NDA closer to two-thirds mark in RS; LS goal distant

TMC revolt brings NDA closer to two-thirds mark in RS; LS goal distant

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

A rebellion within the Trinamool Congress is expected to significantly increase the NDA's numbers in both the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha, bringing the ruling alliance closer to a two-thirds majority needed for constitutional amendments. This shift is driven by upcoming Rajya Sabha elections, TMC MP resignations, and potential support from defecting TMC Lok Sabha members.

Trump vs UEFA explodes over FIFA Balogun decision

Trump vs UEFA explodes over FIFA Balogun decision

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Former US President Donald Trump personally intervened with FIFA President Gianni Infantino to overturn a red-card ban for US striker Folarin Balogun, a decision UEFA called 'unprecedented, incomprehensible and unjustifiable' and which has sparked widespread criticism over the integrity of the game.

'Heavens are not going to fall': SC refuses urgent hearing in Ram temple donation case

'Heavens are not going to fall': SC refuses urgent hearing in Ram temple donation case

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

The Supreme Court has declined an urgent hearing on a plea demanding a fair and time-bound investigation into alleged embezzlement of donations at the revered Ram temple in Ayodhya, deferring the matter until after the summer break.

India's All-Rounder Nitish Reddy Sidelined From UK Tour

India's All-Rounder Nitish Reddy Sidelined From UK Tour

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Indian all-rounder Nitish Reddy has been ruled out of the upcoming white ball tour of the UK due to a quadriceps injury sustained during the recent ODI series against Afghanistan. He will require a minimum of four weeks for rehabilitation.

Delhi dowry death: 'She hoped earning more would help end abuse'

Delhi dowry death: 'She hoped earning more would help end abuse'

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

A 28-year-old newlywed Delhi woman, Akriti Sutar, who died after allegedly falling from a building, had hoped that returning to work and earning money would help her gradually end the dowry-related taunts and abuse she faced at her matrimonial home, her brother revealed.

Six Operation Sindoor heroes' names added to National War Memorial

Six Operation Sindoor heroes' names added to National War Memorial

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Six military personnel, who died in the line of duty during Operation Sindoor last year, have been officially recognised and their names inscribed on a wall at the National War Memorial in New Delhi. This marks the first public release of their names since the operation in May 2025, which was conducted in response to the Pahalgam terror attack.

Argentina captain Lionel Messi to start on bench against Jordan

Argentina captain Lionel Messi to start on bench against Jordan

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has confirmed that star player Lionel Messi will start on the bench for their final World Cup Group F match against Jordan.

President Trump Takes Maiden Flight On Refurbished Air Force One

President Trump Takes Maiden Flight On Refurbished Air Force One

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Donald Trump took the first flight on the newly refurbished Air Force One, a Boeing 747-8i previously owned by Qatar and gifted to the US presidential fleet. The jet features a new red, white, and navy blue livery, replacing the older robin's egg blue. Trump expressed excitement about the advanced security and features, noting it will serve as a "bridge" until new planes are delivered by 2028.

Sports Ministry Imposes Strict Medal-Focused Criteria For Asian Games Contingent

Sports Ministry Imposes Strict Medal-Focused Criteria For Asian Games Contingent

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

The Sports Ministry, led by Mansukh Mandaviya, has announced stringent selection criteria for the upcoming Asian Games, capping the contingent at 600 athletes. The policy prioritises medal prospects, stating that the Games are not for "exposure tours" or securing jobs. This includes a "realistic chance of winning a medal" and being in the top six continental rankings. The ministry will scrutinise recommendations from National Sports Federations, with specific cases like equestrian Anush Agarwalla and table tennis player Manika Batra highlighting the new approach.

Suvendu keeps home, power portfolios, Swapan is finance minister

Suvendu keeps home, power portfolios, Swapan is finance minister

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Ten days after the expansion of the BJP government's cabinet in West Bengal, key portfolios have been allocated, with senior leader Tapas Roy taking charge of industries and journalist-turned-politician Swapan Dasgupta appointed finance minister.

Israel doesn't need US aid, says Netanyahu, rejects Palestinian State

Israel doesn't need US aid, says Netanyahu, rejects Palestinian State

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a significant policy shift, declaring that Israel's robust economy no longer requires American financial assistance. He also reiterated strong opposition to Palestinian statehood, affirmed an aggressive national defence strategy, warned of pre-emptive strikes against Iran, and confirmed the continued military presence in southern Lebanon.

'Red cards are not overturned by political phone calls'

'Red cards are not overturned by political phone calls'

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Thierry Henry, including the UEFA, Belgium and several football figures questioned FIFA's late decision to suspend USA's Folarin Balogun's World Cup ban.

BJP rebel stuns Mahayuti, defeats Sena nominee in Nashik council polls

BJP rebel stuns Mahayuti, defeats Sena nominee in Nashik council polls

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

BJP rebel Gokul Gite secured a surprising victory in Maharashtra legislative council's Nashik district local governing body constituency, defeating the ruling Shiv Sena nominee Narendra Darade by 109 votes, despite senior Mahayuti leaders' attempts to resolve his independent candidature.

India-Nepal Boundary Dispute Needs Solution

India-Nepal Boundary Dispute Needs Solution

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

The boundary mess between India and Nepal needs a solution in a manner as mentioned by Nepal's Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal: 'On evidence not emotions', counsels Lieutenant General Shakti Gurung (retd).

MEA's Rare Toshakhana Auction Ends June 30

MEA's Rare Toshakhana Auction Ends June 30

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Items include luxury watches, jewellery, carpets, shawls, silverware and collectible artefacts with bidding prices reaching up to Rs 20 lakh.

Donation allegations 'baseless', will respond after SIT report: Champat Rai

Donation allegations 'baseless', will respond after SIT report: Champat Rai

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

A day after his resignation was accepted by the Ram temple trust, its former general secretary Champat Rai on Tuesday said he would respond to all allegations of donation embezzlement after the SIT submits its final report, even as opposition parties alleged a "cover-up" and stepped up the demand for its dissolution.

CJI Kant Advocates 'Swadeshi Jurisprudence' In Age Of AI

CJI Kant Advocates 'Swadeshi Jurisprudence' In Age Of AI

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant stated that the Supreme Court views technology as an aid to human reasoning, not a replacement, and emphasised developing "Swadeshi Jurisprudence" tailored to India's unique conditions. He highlighted efforts to create an indigenous AI ecosystem for the judiciary and stressed that AI cannot substitute human judgment, empathy, or ethical discernment.

Assam Police Foil Terror Plot

Assam Police Foil Terror Plot

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Police say timely operation prevented a possible mass-casualty attack.

Historic! DR Congo Qualify for FIFA World Cup Knockouts After 52 Years

Historic! DR Congo Qualify for FIFA World Cup Knockouts After 52 Years

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

The Democratic Republic of Congo has made a historic return to the World Cup knockout stages, 52 years after a disastrous debut.

'USA-Iran Deal Is Not Enforceable'

'USA-Iran Deal Is Not Enforceable'

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

'Actual implementation of the 14-point agreement is proving hard to achieve let alone striking and sustaining a long-term treaty or deal.'

'What Happened With Anthropic Is A Wake-Up Call'

'What Happened With Anthropic Is A Wake-Up Call'

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

'It shows that access to these technologies cannot be taken for granted.'

Aaqib Javed Urges Former Players To Coach On Ground

Aaqib Javed Urges Former Players To Coach On Ground

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Pakistan's senior selector Aaqib Javed has challenged former cricketers to actively contribute to grassroots development instead of merely criticising the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and national team on television. He emphasised the importance of sharing expertise with youngsters and highlighted modern digital scouting methods.

The EPlane Company Unveils E200X Electric Air Taxi Prototype

The EPlane Company Unveils E200X Electric Air Taxi Prototype

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Chennai-based deep-tech startup The ePlane Company has successfully completed the assembly of its full-scale electric air taxi, the e200X. This prototype, designated PT-01, is now ready for ground testing, marking a significant step towards flight testing and eventual type certification. The versatile e200X is designed for passenger air taxi services, urban cargo transport, and air ambulance operations, aiming to leverage existing city infrastructure.

Vedanta Aluminium Metal set to be top performer post-demerger

Vedanta Aluminium Metal set to be top performer post-demerger

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

The demerger of Vedanta's four new entities - Vedanta Aluminium Metal, Vedanta Oil & Gas, Vedanta Power, and Vedanta Iron & Steel - has led to a 16% appreciation in aggregated market capitalisation, with Vedanta Aluminium Metal identified as a likely near-term top performer due to its scale, low production costs, and favourable commodities cycle.

India's Demerger Trend Soars: Over $40 Billion in Deals in 2025

India's Demerger Trend Soars: Over $40 Billion in Deals in 2025

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Indian companies are increasingly opting for demergers, with 29 deals valued at over $40 billion in 2025 alone, marking a 10-year high, as promoters and boards recognise that markets favour focused businesses over complex conglomerates.

UP govt forms SIT to probe Ram Temple donation controversy

UP govt forms SIT to probe Ram Temple donation controversy

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

The Uttar Pradesh government has formed a three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe allegations of financial mismanagement and missing donations related to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust in Ayodhya. The move follows a request from the Trust itself, amidst escalating political demands for transparency from various parties including the Samajwadi Party and Congress.

TMC power battle explodes as Ritabrata-led rebel camp captures party HQ

TMC power battle explodes as Ritabrata-led rebel camp captures party HQ

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

A rebel faction of the Trinamool Congress, led by Ritabrata Banerjee, has taken control of the party's organisational headquarters in Kolkata. This move follows their claim to the party's name and symbol before the Election Commission, intensifying the power struggle with the Mamata Banerjee-led faction. Both sides are now preparing submissions for the Election Commission regarding the party's control.

SI Fined For Lapses In Twisha Sharma Death Probe Amid Family Allegations

SI Fined For Lapses In Twisha Sharma Death Probe Amid Family Allegations

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Bhopal police have fined a sub-inspector Rs 5,000 for procedural lapses in the initial investigation into the death of former model-actor Twisha Sharma. The action follows allegations by Twisha's family regarding delayed evidence collection, particularly the ligature material. The case, involving dowry death charges against her husband and mother-in-law, has since been transferred to the CBI.

Bhopal Police Penalise Sub-Inspector In Twisha Sharma Death Case

Bhopal Police Penalise Sub-Inspector In Twisha Sharma Death Case

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Bhopal police have fined a sub-inspector Rs 5,000 for negligence in the initial investigation into the death of former model-actor Twisha Sharma. The action follows family allegations of procedural lapses, including the late submission of crucial evidence. The case, involving dowry death charges against Twisha's husband and mother-in-law, has since been transferred to the CBI.

BJP sweeps Himachal civic polls, Congress suffers setback

BJP sweeps Himachal civic polls, Congress suffers setback

Rediff.com31 May 2026

The BJP has secured victories in the Mandi, Dharamshala, and Solan municipal corporation elections in Himachal Pradesh, dealing a blow to the Congress party, which managed to retain control only in Palampur.

10 Questions Every First-Time Health Insurance Buyer Must Ask

10 Questions Every First-Time Health Insurance Buyer Must Ask

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

The best time to buy health insurance is when you don't think you need it.

Rupee Exchange Rate Is Not Just A Number

Rupee Exchange Rate Is Not Just A Number

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

If we really want to curb the further depreciation of the rupee and make the rupee appreciate, we want to come out of the mindset that the exchange rate is merely a number, bring policy corrections to help reduce the outflow of foreign exchange by imposing suitable tariffs to discourage imports and bring self reliance, discipline FPIs, and correcting rules governing royalty outflows, suggests Dr Ashwani Mahajan, National Co-Convenor, Swadeshi Jagaran Manch.

'Not one step': HC rejects plea to reopen CBSE Std 12 re-evaluation portal

'Not one step': HC rejects plea to reopen CBSE Std 12 re-evaluation portal

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

The Delhi High Court has refused to direct the reopening of the CBSE's portal for the re-evaluation of Class 12 answer sheets, stating that individual students can take action if aggrieved and that reopening the portal would delay the entire result declaration process.