News for 'Independent India'

Mamata faction gets 'football player' as symbol for bypolls

Mamata faction gets 'football player' as symbol for bypolls

Rediff.com3 days ago

The Election Commission has allotted the 'Football Player' symbol to the Mamata Banerjee-led faction of the Trinamool Congress for the upcoming West Bengal bypolls, while the rival Arup Roy-led group will contest with the 'Envelope' symbol.

UPI charges: Govt rejects rollback amid Opposition outcry

UPI charges: Govt rejects rollback amid Opposition outcry

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% fee on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 for merchants, effective October 15, sparking strong opposition from political parties and traders. Despite accusations of foreign influence and demands for a rollback, the finance ministry and top functionaries have stated there will be no reversal, citing the need for a self-sustaining digital payments ecosystem.

Mamata-Congress tie-up in Nandigram: Has Bengal Oppn politics changed?

Mamata-Congress tie-up in Nandigram: Has Bengal Oppn politics changed?

Rediff.com1 days ago

Former West Bengal Chief Minister's faction has announced support for the Congress candidate in the Nandigram assembly bypoll, marking a significant shift in state politics. This move comes amidst an internal party dispute within the Trinamool Congress and is seen as an attempt to consolidate anti-BJP votes and strengthen the INDIA bloc, despite a history of acrimonious rivalry between the two parties.

How To Pick The Right Broker

How To Pick The Right Broker

Rediff.com6 days ago

Investors opening new brokerage accounts must choose a broker suited to their style.

Bihar Police arrest 3 in Jamui harassment viral video case, invoke POCSO

Bihar Police arrest 3 in Jamui harassment viral video case, invoke POCSO

Rediff.com3 hours ago

Bihar Police have arrested three individuals in connection with a deeply disturbing viral video from Jamui showing the harassment of a young couple, an incident that has sparked widespread social media outrage and strong political condemnation.

The Taj's Hidden Story Is India's Wealth

The Taj's Hidden Story Is India's Wealth

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

In many ways, 17th century India occupied a position in the global economy comparable to that of the United States today. Just as millions of people now look towards America because of its economic opportunities, merchants, adventurers and trading companies once looked towards India.

This I-Day, we want PM Modi to address India's youth: Dipke

This I-Day, we want PM Modi to address India's youth: Dipke

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke has launched an online petition urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address India's youth on critical issues like education, unemployment, and the rising cost of living during his Independence Day speech. This initiative follows CJP's successful 36-day agitation against NEET irregularities, which led to the resignation of the Union Education Minister. The CJP is now broadening its campaign with a nationwide "Kya Bolti Public" tour to gather youth views for a comprehensive Youth Reform Charter.

Shubman Gill 'Comfortable' as India Captain, Eyes WTC Final

Shubman Gill 'Comfortable' as India Captain, Eyes WTC Final

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Shubman Gill, India's Test captain, expresses comfort with his leadership role and highlights the team's progress. He acknowledges the challenge of qualifying for the World Test Championship final, requiring significant wins in upcoming matches. Gill also discusses the honour of leading India in its 600th Test and shares insights on playing conditions in Sri Lanka.

Cong takes a dig at Modi after BRICS declaration cites Nehru

Cong takes a dig at Modi after BRICS declaration cites Nehru

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

The Congress party, through leader Jairam Ramesh, took a veiled swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi by invoking a Bollywood song and sharing Jawaharlal Nehru's notes from the 1955 Bandung Conference. This move came after the BRICS Delhi Declaration referenced the Bandung Conference, which advocated for a fairer and more inclusive multilateral system, amidst Modi's frequent criticism of Nehru.

Sitharaman: GST Council to tackle process reforms, digital economy tax complexities

Sitharaman: GST Council to tackle process reforms, digital economy tax complexities

Rediff.com4 days ago

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council's October 7 meeting will focus on 'GST 2.0' process reforms, including e-invoicing and input tax credit rules, while also addressing complex issues surrounding the taxation of the digital economy and cryptocurrency.

PM Modi: India Strong Contender to Host 2036 Olympics

PM Modi: India Strong Contender to Host 2036 Olympics

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced India's strong bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games and detailed plans for a nationwide talent hunt for children aged 5 to 15 to ensure significant participation and success in the event. He highlighted the success of the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) and India's growing presence in global sports.

PIL in SC against govt's 0.4% MDR on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000

PIL in SC against govt's 0.4% MDR on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000

Rediff.com4 days ago

A Public Interest Litigation has been filed in the Supreme Court challenging the Centre's decision to impose a 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI person-to-merchant transactions exceeding Rs 2,000. The plea argues that the levy was introduced without adequate statutory safeguards, transparency, or public consultation, and questions its constitutional validity and potential adverse effects on merchants and consumers.

Chandra Reappointment Sparks Legal Debate

Chandra Reappointment Sparks Legal Debate

Rediff.com7 hours ago

'On a plain reading of Article 121, it can be said that the chairman's casting vote can be invoked in either of these cases.'

Oracle Layoffs: 'He worked through Holi and Diwali... then locked out'

Oracle Layoffs: 'He worked through Holi and Diwali... then locked out'

Rediff.com5 days ago

A LinkedIn post by Pooja Sahu, detailing her husband Sourabh's sudden layoff from Oracle after 12 years of dedicated service, including working through holidays and even from a hospital, has gone viral, capturing the emotional toll of the tech giant's latest job cuts.

Indian Athletes Encounter Initial Hurdles At Asian Games Check-In

Indian Athletes Encounter Initial Hurdles At Asian Games Check-In

Rediff.com5 days ago

Indian athletes, including wushu and table tennis players, faced initial check-in difficulties upon arrival for the Asian Games in Nagoya. While some wushu players and coaches reportedly had issues with room allocation on the designated cruise ship, officials stated the problems were resolved. The Games' accommodation plan involves a mix of cruise ships, container rooms, and hotels, with some contingents already raising concerns about the quality and availability of lodging.

Why Have Major Trade Unions Been Excluded From Minimum Wage Panel?

Why Have Major Trade Unions Been Excluded From Minimum Wage Panel?

Rediff.com7 days ago

'Major unions should be included. If this goes on, decision-making will become heavily one-sided and we will be forced to continue our strikes.'

'Tatas May Challenge RBI's Decision'

'Tatas May Challenge RBI's Decision'

Rediff.com6 days ago

'...but should prepare for listing unless a court grants effective interim relief.'

Land, business reforms key to India's next phase of growth, say economists

Land, business reforms key to India's next phase of growth, say economists

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Economists highlight that resolving domestic policy bottlenecks, particularly through land reforms and improving the ease of doing business, will be critical for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'next-generation reforms' and India's economic transformation towards its 'Viksit Bharat' vision for 2047.

'Kareena Performs From The Gut'

'Kareena Performs From The Gut'

Rediff.com4 days ago

'Kareena is completely instinctive.'

Dhakshineswar Suresh: The Solo Journey From College To Pro Tennis

Dhakshineswar Suresh: The Solo Journey From College To Pro Tennis

Rediff.com5 days ago

Indian tennis player Dhakshineswar Suresh discusses the significant transition from collegiate tennis to the professional tour, highlighting the challenges of travelling alone, managing his body, and maintaining consistency. He shares insights on the importance of off-court preparation, physical fitness, and setting ambitious goals like breaking into the top 250.

South African envoy cleared in Zuma-Gupta temple visit row

South African envoy cleared in Zuma-Gupta temple visit row

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

The South African government has cleared its High Commissioner to India, Anil Sooklal, of any wrongdoing after he appeared at a temple event in Haridwar with former president Jacob Zuma and businessman Ajay Gupta, who faces corruption allegations. DIRCO stated Sooklal provided only customary protocol support to Zuma and attended the event independently, without facilitating any substantive engagement with Gupta.

Modi urges people to take 'developed India' pledge on I-Day

Modi urges people to take 'developed India' pledge on I-Day

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called upon citizens to celebrate Independence Day with honour and pride, urging them to take a pledge for a developed India. This appeal comes amidst parliamentary sessions marked by protests from both ruling and opposition alliances.

Strain in J-K ruling allies? NC, Cong clash over Vande Mataram rendition

Strain in J-K ruling allies? NC, Cong clash over Vande Mataram rendition

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Tensions have emerged within Jammu and Kashmir's ruling alliance between the National Conference and Congress over the full rendition of Vande Mataram at an official state event. While the NC defends it as a "statutory obligation," the Congress expresses strong disapproval, citing historical resolutions and the need to respect India's pluralistic ethos.

Sports Ministry Allows IOA To Retain 16-Member Executive Council

Sports Ministry Allows IOA To Retain 16-Member Executive Council

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The Sports Ministry has granted an exemption to the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), allowing it to maintain a 16-member Executive Council. This decision aligns with the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) recommendation, overriding the National Sports Governance Act's usual limit of 15 members, to ensure compliance with international statutes ahead of upcoming IOA elections.

AI Effect: 'Nearly 3 Million Jobs Are At Risk In India'

AI Effect: 'Nearly 3 Million Jobs Are At Risk In India'

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

In the next 36 months nearly 25 to 40 per cent of jobs will be under threat from AI and job losses are inevitable.

3 sisters take tricolour to India's 'silent village' in J-K

3 sisters take tricolour to India's 'silent village' in J-K

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Three mute sisters from Dhadkai, known as India's 'Silent Village', refused to eat until their father provided fabric for them to stitch tricolours, which they then distributed to over 150 homes, bringing the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign to their remote Jammu and Kashmir village.

How Social Media Is Destroying Your Retirement

How Social Media Is Destroying Your Retirement

Rediff.com3 days ago

Urban Indian millennials are caught in an algorithmically amplified consumption spiral where social media normalises spending patterns that systematically undermine retirement security.

PM Modi calls for global UPI expansion to cut remittance costs

PM Modi calls for global UPI expansion to cut remittance costs

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged the fintech sector to expand the global reach of India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI), connecting it with local systems in other countries to help the diaspora save on remittance costs.

SC junks PIL seeking mandatory ethanol labelling at petrol pumps

SC junks PIL seeking mandatory ethanol labelling at petrol pumps

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking mandatory and uniform labelling of ethanol percentage in petrol at fuel pumps. The petitioner, Narendra Kumar Goswami, was advised to approach the jurisdictional high court for relief, with the Attorney General arguing it was a proxy litigation.

Nehru To Modi: PMs Who Hoisted The Flag At The Red Fort

Nehru To Modi: PMs Who Hoisted The Flag At The Red Fort

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

As India prepares to mark its 80th Independence Day on August 15, 2026, the magnificent Red Fort will once again become the centre of the nation's celebrations.

What Will Modi-Putin Discuss?

What Will Modi-Putin Discuss?

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

One of the important topics of discussion between the two leaders is expected to be the Northern Sea Route and the Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor.

SC refuses to reconstitute panel probing police action during CJP protest

SC refuses to reconstitute panel probing police action during CJP protest

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Supreme Court has rejected pleas to reconstitute a high-powered committee investigating alleged police excesses against student protesters in Delhi, stating that the allegations against the panel were based on conjecture. The court emphasised the committee's role in ensuring fairness and transparency, and directed it to proceed with its inquiry into various issues including the use of pellet guns, targeted violence, and property destruction, while ensuring protection and confidentiality for vulnerable witnesses.

Mamata camp names bypoll candidates amid fight for symbol

Mamata camp names bypoll candidates amid fight for symbol

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress faction has announced Sanchita Pradhan (Dey) and Rabiul Alam Chowdhury as its candidates for the upcoming Nandigram and Rejinagar assembly by-elections in West Bengal. This announcement comes amidst a significant split within the TMC, with a rival faction led by Ritabrata Banerjee also vying for control of the party's name and symbol. The Election Commission is currently deliberating on the claims of both factions, a decision that will critically impact the by-polls scheduled for October 6.

SC judge sends 4th letter against Rajasthan HC judge to CJI

SC judge sends 4th letter against Rajasthan HC judge to CJI

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Supreme Court Justice Sandeep Mehta has sent a fourth letter to CJI Surya Kant, reiterating and expanding allegations against Rajasthan High Court judge Sanjeev Prakash Sharma, accusing him of judicial interference, breaching confidentiality, and administrative abuse, further deepening a significant judicial controversy.

Tata Trusts Readies For Court Fight

Tata Trusts Readies For Court Fight

Rediff.com8 hours ago

'It is unfortunate that the Chairman of Tata Sons, a Company renowned for setting high standards of corporate governance, is contending reappointment on such an untenable interpretation of the Articles'.

India's next Olympic stars? PM Modi targets 5-15 age group

India's next Olympic stars? PM Modi targets 5-15 age group

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reaffirmed India's commitment to hosting the 2036 Olympic Games and unveiled a comprehensive nationwide talent hunt programme aimed at identifying and nurturing sporting talent among children aged five to 15 years.

NEET protest: SC rejects calls to reconstitute police excesses probe panel

NEET protest: SC rejects calls to reconstitute police excesses probe panel

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has affirmed its decision not to alter the five-member high-powered committee, led by former Justice R Subhash Reddy, which is investigating allegations of police excesses against student protesters and violence against police personnel in Delhi. The court dismissed concerns about potential bias, stating the committee acts as its "extended hand" and will function under its supervision. It also noted the suspension of an executive magistrate who issued a show-cause notice to a student involved in protests.

How Technology And Innovation Will Drive India's Growth

How Technology And Innovation Will Drive India's Growth

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his Independence Day address, highlighted technology and innovation as central to India's goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047. He called for India to lead in emerging technologies like AI, quantum computing, and space, announcing a massive AI skilling initiative for one crore youth. Modi stressed the importance of becoming a global innovation hub, bolstering energy security with nuclear power, and strengthening cybersecurity.

SC seeks Centre's reply on plea seeking social media curbs for minors

SC seeks Centre's reply on plea seeking social media curbs for minors

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has sought responses from the Union ministries of electronics and information technology and law and justice regarding a plea for safeguards for minors on social media. The NGO 'Just Rights for Children Alliance' filed the plea, arguing that social media platforms should not enter into contracts with children under 18, citing their statutory incapacity to contract and the risks of online harm.

Left to skip Vijay's meet called amid rift in alliance

Left to skip Vijay's meet called amid rift in alliance

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay is set to chair a crucial TVK alliance coordination meeting in Chennai. The meeting aims to formalise the ruling coalition's structure, common minimum programme, and joint steering committee. However, the absence of key Left allies and a public rift between TVK and Congress over national leadership aspirations threaten to destabilise the alliance, highlighting a significant test for CM Vijay's political management.