News for 'Independent India'

Punjab CM Questions Centre's 'Denial' of Bharat Ratna to Martyrs

Punjab CM Questions Centre's 'Denial' of Bharat Ratna to Martyrs

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has reaffirmed his government's commitment to honouring martyrs and building a vibrant Punjab, while also criticising the central government for not awarding the Bharat Ratna to freedom fighters like Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev.

India No 2: 8 Countries Growing Electric Rail Network

India No 2: 8 Countries Growing Electric Rail Network

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

India's rail modernisation drive has reached a critical milestone. With electrification reaching 99.2 per cent, Indian Railways is among the world's leading rail systems.

Jodhpur Woman, Married at 12, Successfully Annulls Child Marriage

Jodhpur Woman, Married at 12, Successfully Annulls Child Marriage

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

A 21-year-old woman in Jodhpur has successfully annulled her child marriage, which took place when she was only 12 years old. The court emphasized the adverse impact of child marriage and the importance of eliminating the practice.

Kejriwal breaks down after verdict, alleges conspiracy

Kejriwal breaks down after verdict, alleges conspiracy

Rediff.com27 Feb 2026

Arvind Kejriwal was discharged in the liquor policy case and claims it was a political conspiracy to destroy AAP.

India, Canada sign landmark nuclear agreement

India, Canada sign landmark nuclear agreement

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

India and Canada solidify their partnership with a landmark uranium supply agreement and discussions to finalise a comprehensive economic partnership, signaling stronger ties and cooperation on key global issues.

Rs 64,000 Crore Investment in Coal Gasification to Cut Energy Imports

Rs 64,000 Crore Investment in Coal Gasification to Cut Energy Imports

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

Coal and Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy announced that seven coal gasification projects will be established in Maharashtra, Odisha, and West Bengal with a Rs 64,000 crore investment, aiming to reduce India's reliance on energy imports.

Honey Trehan: 'Speaking The Truth Is Becoming A Crime In This Country For The CBFC'

Honey Trehan: 'Speaking The Truth Is Becoming A Crime In This Country For The CBFC'

Rediff.com1 days ago

Director Honey Trehan's film Punjab '95, based on human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra's life, remains stuck with the Censor Board, facing over 127 cuts.

Nayara Energy Increases Petrol and Diesel Prices Amidst Global Oil Surge

Nayara Energy Increases Petrol and Diesel Prices Amidst Global Oil Surge

Rediff.com6 days ago

Nayara Energy, a private fuel retailer in India, has increased petrol and diesel prices following a surge in global oil prices due to Middle East tensions. This move contrasts with state-owned retailers who continue to freeze prices.

Modi emerges longest-serving head of govt, surpassing Pawan Chamling

Modi emerges longest-serving head of govt, surpassing Pawan Chamling

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

With 8,931 days in office as head of government covering his tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister and as Prime Minister, PM Modi has overtaken Chamling's record of 8,930 days.

No proof, no benefits: Govt clarifies limits of census data use

No proof, no benefits: Govt clarifies limits of census data use

Rediff.com2 days ago

The Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India, Mritunjay Kumar Narayan, has reassured the public that individual data collected during the upcoming census will remain confidential and cannot be used for any purpose other than statistical aggregation.

Why HDFC Bank Chairman Atanu Chakraborty Resigned

Why HDFC Bank Chairman Atanu Chakraborty Resigned

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

Atanu Chakraborty has resigned as chairman of HDFC Bank, citing ethical concerns, marking an unusual departure and prompting the appointment of an interim chairman.

NDA sweeps RS polls as Nitish, Nitin enter Upper House

NDA sweeps RS polls as Nitish, Nitin enter Upper House

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

The ruling NDA alliance has secured a majority in the Rajya Sabha elections, winning key seats in Bihar, Odisha, and Haryana, while other candidates were elected unopposed across multiple states. The elections were marked by cross-voting allegations and political maneuvering.

Lakshmi, Durga And The Quiet Irony of Women's Day

Lakshmi, Durga And The Quiet Irony of Women's Day

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

Indian civilisation has long imagined wealth and power as feminine forces. And yet, when these qualities appear in real women, admiration sometimes gives way to discomfort, observes Vatsal Ramaiya.

Nirmala Sitharaman, the longest serving FM will present record 9th Budget on Feb 1

Nirmala Sitharaman, the longest serving FM will present record 9th Budget on Feb 1

Rediff.com30 Jan 2026

Sitharaman took charge of the Finance Ministry on May 31, 2019, and has steered the economy through the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical turmoil, making India the fastest-growing major economy in the world.

Powerica IPO Sees Slow Start, Subscribed 1% on Opening Day

Powerica IPO Sees Slow Start, Subscribed 1% on Opening Day

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

The Powerica Limited IPO opened on March 24, 2026, with muted Day 1 subscription. Check latest GMP, price band, lot size, issue details, and investor response.

IPL 2026: Buttler reveals how he balances IPL and England cricket

IPL 2026: Buttler reveals how he balances IPL and England cricket

Rediff.com4 days ago

England's Jos Buttler discusses the challenges of balancing franchise cricket with international duties, the importance of saying 'no', and managing external pressures as a professional cricketer.

Cong MLAs face action after cross-voting in Rajya Sabha polls

Cong MLAs face action after cross-voting in Rajya Sabha polls

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

Rajya Sabha elections in Bihar, Odisha, and Haryana were marred by allegations of cross-voting and 'horse trading', leading to suspensions and warnings from the Congress party.

Jazz City Review: Over-Ambitious Historical Fiction

Jazz City Review: Over-Ambitious Historical Fiction

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Jazz City could have been enjoyable had it not been so densely over-plotted and unevenly executed, notes Deepa Gahlot.

Opposition targets CEC Gyanesh Kumar with 7-point chargesheet

Opposition targets CEC Gyanesh Kumar with 7-point chargesheet

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

Opposition MPs in India have moved notices in Parliament seeking the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, accusing him of bias, misconduct, and acting under the influence of the executive.

History In Minutes: The Right To Water: Ambedkar's Mahad Satyagraha

History In Minutes: The Right To Water: Ambedkar's Mahad Satyagraha

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

Ninety-nine years ago, a young Dr B R Ambedkar embarked on a revolutionary and most overdue reformatory path -- he led hundreds of men and women to a water tank in the town of Mahad, western Maharashtra, to fulfil one of the most basic human needs: The right to drink water from the tank.

Premium petrol price up Rs 2, industrial diesel up Rs 22; no change in normal petrol, diesel rates

Premium petrol price up Rs 2, industrial diesel up Rs 22; no change in normal petrol, diesel rates

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

Petrol diesel price today March 20, 2026: IOCL & HPCL hike premium petrol (XP95, Speed, Power) by 2/litre and industrial diesel by 22/litre. Regular petrol in Delhi 94.77, diesel 87.67 unchanged. Full city-wise rates inside.

India joins global condemnation of Israeli actions in West Bank

India joins global condemnation of Israeli actions in West Bank

Rediff.com19 Feb 2026

India has joined over 100 countries and global organizations in condemning Israel's "unilateral" decisions and measures aimed at expanding its "unlawful presence" in the West Bank.

American firms investing in IPL franchises show confidence in league's growth

American firms investing in IPL franchises show confidence in league's growth

Rediff.com5 days ago

Satyan Gajwani, chairman of Times Internet Limited and RCB's new co-owner, discusses the significance of American companies investing in IPL franchises like RCB and Rajasthan Royals, highlighting the league's immense growth potential and global appeal.

Opposition MPs Urge Amit Shah to Address Alleged Threats to Muslims in Uttam Nagar

Opposition MPs Urge Amit Shah to Address Alleged Threats to Muslims in Uttam Nagar

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

Opposition MPs, led by Congress MP Mohammad Jawed, have written to Home Minister Amit Shah expressing concerns over alleged threats to Muslims in Uttam Nagar, urging him to direct the Delhi Police to take decisive action against those spreading hate and creating an atmosphere of fear.

Petrol, Diesel Price March 20, 2026: Premium Petrol Hiked Rs 2, Industrial Diesel Rs 22 - Regular Rates Unchanged

Petrol, Diesel Price March 20, 2026: Premium Petrol Hiked Rs 2, Industrial Diesel Rs 22 - Regular Rates Unchanged

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

Petrol diesel price today March 20, 2026: IOCL & HPCL hike premium petrol (XP95, Speed, Power) by 2/litre and industrial diesel by 22/litre. Regular petrol in Delhi 94.77, diesel 87.67 unchanged. Full city-wise rates inside.

Kochi Biennale co-founder Bose Krishnamachari quits over sexual harassment charges

Kochi Biennale co-founder Bose Krishnamachari quits over sexual harassment charges

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Kochi-Muziris Biennale, a prominent art event, is embroiled in controversy as co-founder Bose Krishnamachari faces sexual harassment allegations, prompting his resignation and raising concerns about the event's future.

Amritpal Singh's Absence Nears Limit: Court Reserves Order

Amritpal Singh's Absence Nears Limit: Court Reserves Order

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

The Punjab and Haryana High Court is considering a plea regarding incarcerated MP Amritpal Singh's absence from Parliament, which has reached 59 sittings. The court has been informed that Singh can apply for condoning his absence, as continuous absence for 60 sittings could lead to his seat being declared vacant.

Yunus rakes up India's 'Seven Sisters' in farewell speech

Yunus rakes up India's 'Seven Sisters' in farewell speech

Rediff.com17 Feb 2026

Relations with India experienced a downturn during Yunus's tenure, while ties with Pakistan saw positive developments.

US report calls for 'targeted sanctions' against R&AW, RSS

US report calls for 'targeted sanctions' against R&AW, RSS

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

A US federal government commission has raised concerns about the state of religious freedom in India, recommending its designation as a 'Country of Particular Concern' and suggesting targeted sanctions.

Oppn MPs submit notices in LS, RS seeking motion for removal of CEC

Oppn MPs submit notices in LS, RS seeking motion for removal of CEC

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

Opposition MPs have submitted notices in both Houses of Parliament seeking a motion for the removal of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, alleging partisan conduct and obstruction of electoral fraud investigations.

Hyderabad Police Uncover Multi-Crore QNet Money Circulation Scam

Hyderabad Police Uncover Multi-Crore QNet Money Circulation Scam

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

Hyderabad police have dismantled a multi-crore illegal money circulation racket allegedly promoted by QNet, arresting 32 individuals across Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka.

'Life Support Withdrawal Is About Reducing Suffering, Not Ending Life'

'Life Support Withdrawal Is About Reducing Suffering, Not Ending Life'

Rediff.com7 days ago

'Families go through turmoil at that time. There is a feeling of guilt and uncertainty, and they do not know what they should be doing.' 'Now that the new judgment has clarified what the procedure is, doctors will be confident enough to talk to the families and explain what is to be done.'

Airline stocks fly into rough weather again

Airline stocks fly into rough weather again

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

India's aviation sector is facing fresh turbulence, with rising fuel costs, the Ministry of Civil Aviation's free-seat directive, and geopolitical disruptions in West Asia clouding near-term earnings visibility.

JMI Probes Boys' Entry and Brawl at Girls' Hostel

JMI Probes Boys' Entry and Brawl at Girls' Hostel

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) is investigating an incident where a group of boys allegedly entered the premises of the girls' hostel and engaged in a brawl. The university has launched an inquiry after a video of the incident circulated on social media.

SC asks CBI, ED to conduct 'fair, time-bound' probe into Anil Ambani Group banking fraud

SC asks CBI, ED to conduct 'fair, time-bound' probe into Anil Ambani Group banking fraud

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

The Supreme Court has ordered a 'fair, dispassionate, transparent, and time-bound' investigation by the CBI and ED into the Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group, addressing concerns over alleged large-scale banking fraud and demanding accountability.

Ahead of Carney visit, Canada says India no longer linked to violent crimes

Ahead of Carney visit, Canada says India no longer linked to violent crimes

Rediff.com26 Feb 2026

The statement suggests that Canadian authorities do not see ongoing foreign interference or violent activity tied to India at present.

The Actor Who Plays The Most Special Role In Dhurandhar The Revenge

The Actor Who Plays The Most Special Role In Dhurandhar The Revenge

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

Ahida Sarmai, a special child with Down's Syndrome, makes her own space among Dhurandhar's biggest stars.

Modi invites Bangladesh's new PM Tarique Rahman to visit India

Modi invites Bangladesh's new PM Tarique Rahman to visit India

Rediff.com18 Feb 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invited Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to visit India, conveying his best wishes to the newly sworn-in leader.

'Mamata, Stalin or...': Sena-UBT on INDIA bloc leadership issue

'Mamata, Stalin or...': Sena-UBT on INDIA bloc leadership issue

Rediff.com18 Feb 2026

The Shiv Sena-UBT is openly questioning the Congress party's leadership within the INDIA bloc.

NCP (SP) Leader Calls for Withdrawal of 'Misguided' Transgender Bill

NCP (SP) Leader Calls for Withdrawal of 'Misguided' Transgender Bill

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

NCP (SP) leader Anish Gawande has urged the government to withdraw the Transgender Persons Amendment Bill, 2026, arguing that it undermines the right to self-determination of gender identity and was drafted without adequate consultation.