News for 'India First'

Didn't know full Vande Mataram would be sung: Satheesan

Didn't know full Vande Mataram would be sung: Satheesan

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan addressed the controversy surrounding the full rendition of Vande Mataram during the UDF government's swearing-in ceremony, stating that neither he nor his colleagues were informed beforehand. The issue has sparked political debate, with the CPI(M) criticising the move and the BJP accusing the Communists of insulting the national song.

India Remembers Pahalgam Terror Attack, Pledges Zero Tolerance

India Remembers Pahalgam Terror Attack, Pledges Zero Tolerance

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

India observed the first anniversary of the Pahalgam terror attack, with leaders paying homage to the victims and asserting the country's commitment to fighting terrorism.

RBI 'keeping close watch' on West Asia conflict for policy action

RBI 'keeping close watch' on West Asia conflict for policy action

Rediff.com19 May 2026

RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra stated that the central bank is closely monitoring whether the supply shock from the West Asia conflict will lead to a generalised price rise, potentially necessitating monetary policy action.

How India Became a Para Archery Powerhouse

How India Became a Para Archery Powerhouse

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

India's para archery team excelled at the World Archery Para Series in Bangkok, securing the top position with 13 medals.

How East Bengal Ended 22-Year Wait For ISL Glory

How East Bengal Ended 22-Year Wait For ISL Glory

Rediff.com22 May 2026

East Bengal secured the Indian Super League title after a dramatic season, defeating Inter Kashi in the final. AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey has assured a full-fledged format next season despite ongoing uncertainties surrounding the league's structure.

Twisha Sharma Dowry Death Case: Husband Arrested, Second Autopsy Ordered

Twisha Sharma Dowry Death Case: Husband Arrested, Second Autopsy Ordered

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The Twisha Sharma dowry death case has seen significant developments, including the arrest of her husband and a court order for a second autopsy by AIIMS Delhi. The family alleges dowry harassment, while the in-laws claim drug addiction.

No India-Pakistan Cricket Anytime Soon: Lalit Modi

No India-Pakistan Cricket Anytime Soon: Lalit Modi

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

Lalit Modi said he doesn't envisage India and Pakistan playing a bilateral Test series anytime soon because of the strained political relations between the two neighbours.

Indian Players Dominate Opening Day At SM Krishna Memorial Open

Indian Players Dominate Opening Day At SM Krishna Memorial Open

Rediff.com19 May 2026

Indian players enjoyed a successful opening day at the SM Krishna Memorial Open, with Manish Sureshkumar's upset victory over top seed Keegan Smith headlining the action. Several other Indian players also progressed to the next round after impressive performances.

Aditi Ashok Tied 72nd At Queen City Championship

Aditi Ashok Tied 72nd At Queen City Championship

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Aditi Ashok posted a 2-over 72 in the first round of the Kroger Queen City Championship, placing her in a tie for 72nd, six shots behind the leaders Rio Takeda, Ina Yoon, and Chella Choi.

Despite global risks, top Indian carmakers bullish on FY27 domestic demand

Despite global risks, top Indian carmakers bullish on FY27 domestic demand

Rediff.com18 May 2026

India's leading passenger vehicle manufacturers are significantly increasing investments and factory capacities, alongside planning major product launches for FY27, driven by strong confidence in sustained domestic demand growth despite global geopolitical tensions and supply chain risks.

Modi to embark on six-day visit to UAE, Europe

Modi to embark on six-day visit to UAE, Europe

Rediff.com11 May 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the UAE, the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway and Italy to deepen India's bilateral ties amid geopolitical changes.

Big verdict: No RTI for BCCI, rules CIC

Big verdict: No RTI for BCCI, rules CIC

Rediff.com18 May 2026

The Central Information Commission has ruled that the Board of Control for Cricket in India does not qualify as a 'public authority' under the Right to Information Act, effectively placing it outside the scope of RTI disclosures.

Why Indian Boxing May Shift To Performance-Based Selection

Why Indian Boxing May Shift To Performance-Based Selection

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Indian boxing is considering rewarding boxers who perform well at major international events like the Asian Games with direct entry to the Olympic qualifiers, according to women's head coach Santiago Nieva.

Satwiksairaj-Chirag Shetty Reach Thailand Open Final

Satwiksairaj-Chirag Shetty Reach Thailand Open Final

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty displayed resilience to reach the men's doubles final at the Thailand Open Super 500 badminton tournament, overcoming Malaysia's Goh Sze Fei and Nur Izzuddin in a thrilling three-game match.

Sanjiv Bajaj: 'Fortunately, We've More Companies Than Family Members'

Sanjiv Bajaj: 'Fortunately, We've More Companies Than Family Members'

Rediff.com23 May 2026

'We strongly believe that anyone with capability and a strong work ethic should have a chance at the top job.'

Sooryavanshi Slays Giants As Rajasthan Royals Inch Closer To Playoffs

Sooryavanshi Slays Giants As Rajasthan Royals Inch Closer To Playoffs

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi blazed his way to a breathtaking 38-ball 93 as Rajasthan Royals moved closer to a playoff berth with a thumping seven-wicket win over Lucknow Super Giants.

Bhopal Police Have No Objection To Second Autopsy In Dowry Death Case

Bhopal Police Have No Objection To Second Autopsy In Dowry Death Case

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Bhopal police have stated they have no objection to a second post-mortem of Twisha Sharma, who was found dead at her home last week, following allegations of dowry harassment. A local court is reviewing the case diary after the family requested the second autopsy be conducted at AIIMS Delhi, citing lapses in the initial investigation.

'Every Political Party Will Be BJP-ised'

'Every Political Party Will Be BJP-ised'

Rediff.com20 May 2026

'Look at the way SIR that was implemented in Bengal. They wanted to entirely curate the voter list in order to suit their purposes and victory.' 'Look at the targeted deletions and the targeted voting list.' 'The difference between the TMC and the BJP was only about 4% but that 4% vote was done so selectively that the difference ultimately showed up as 100 seats!'

India unveils 'Prahaar', first national counter-terror policy

India unveils 'Prahaar', first national counter-terror policy

Rediff.com23 Feb 2026

The policy unveiled by the home ministry is based on seven key pillars to counter the terror threats emanating from India or abroad -- prevention, responses, aggregating internal capacities, human rights and "Rule of Law"-based processes.

Satwik-Chirag reveal pain behind Thailand Open run

Satwik-Chirag reveal pain behind Thailand Open run

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty progressed to the Thailand Open Super 500 final after a hard-fought victory, attributing their mental fortitude to years of overcoming injuries and setbacks.

'Talk about cricket': Riyan Parag Slams Personal Attacks By Commentators

'Talk about cricket': Riyan Parag Slams Personal Attacks By Commentators

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Rajasthan Royals skipper Riyan Parag has criticised TV commentators and experts for making personal attacks on him during the IPL, urging them to respect players and focus on cricket. He also praised Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's innings against LSG.

10-yr-old raped, brutally killed in TN; CM Vijay vows action

10-yr-old raped, brutally killed in TN; CM Vijay vows action

Rediff.com23 May 2026

Political leaders in Tamil Nadu, including TTV Dhinakaran and Anbumani Ramadoss, have strongly condemned the abduction and murder of a 10-year-old girl in Coimbatore district. Two people have been reportedly arrested in connection with the incident.

Sensex Rises Over 400 Points, Nifty Crosses 23,800 Amid Positive Market Sentiment

Sensex Rises Over 400 Points, Nifty Crosses 23,800 Amid Positive Market Sentiment

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Sensex gains over 400 points while Nifty trades above 23,800 amid strong IT sector buying.

'Oil Is Not The Problem. The Bigger Problem Is Gold'

'Oil Is Not The Problem. The Bigger Problem Is Gold'

Rediff.com18 May 2026

'Every year we import approximately $70 billion worth of gold -- closer to $72 billion in 2025-2026, an all-time record.' 'There is no parallel for this anywhere in the world. And this love for gold will not disappear overnight.'

Why India Is Now A High-Risk Doping Nation

Why India Is Now A High-Risk Doping Nation

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

India has been designated as a country with an 'extremely high' risk of doping by World Athletics, leading to more stringent anti-doping measures for Indian athletes.

Satwiksairaj Rankireddy-Chirag Shetty Win Thrilling Opener At Thailand Open

Satwiksairaj Rankireddy-Chirag Shetty Win Thrilling Opener At Thailand Open

Rediff.com12 May 2026

Top seeds Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty overcame a tough challenge to defeat Indonesia's Muh Putra Erwiansyah and Bagas Maulana in their opening men's doubles match at the Thailand Open Super 500 tournament.

Espionage scandals: Southampton joins sport's Hall of Shame

Espionage scandals: Southampton joins sport's Hall of Shame

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Several sports teams around the world have paid a hefty price for spying on their opponents over the years but the potential financial cost to English soccer club Southampton for their infraction could be the heaviest.

Election over, petrol, diesel prices hiked by Rs 3/litre

Election over, petrol, diesel prices hiked by Rs 3/litre

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Petrol and diesel prices in India have been increased by Rs 3 per litre each, marking the first rate hike in over four years. This decision follows a period of stable prices during recent state elections, despite rising global crude oil prices and significant losses for fuel retailers.

Jwala Gutta Donates 60 Litres Of Breast Milk

Jwala Gutta Donates 60 Litres Of Breast Milk

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Badminton player Jwala Gutta is raising awareness about the importance of breast milk donation, revealing she donated nearly 60 litres to hospitals in Hyderabad and Chennai.

Miraculous Escape For Tourists From Rhino

Miraculous Escape For Tourists From Rhino

Rediff.com19 May 2026

The incident took place during a routine jungle safari inside the UNESCO World Heritage site in Assam.

Ashwin Urges Patience As CSK Enter Post-Dhoni Transition

Ashwin Urges Patience As CSK Enter Post-Dhoni Transition

Rediff.com19 May 2026

Former India cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has voiced his support for Chennai Super Kings captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, acknowledging the pressures of IPL leadership and the team's transition phase after MS Dhoni's captaincy.

Bharat Singh Chauhan Re-Elected As CCA Chairman

Bharat Singh Chauhan Re-Elected As CCA Chairman

Rediff.com18 May 2026

Bharat Singh Chauhan has been unanimously re-elected as the Chairman of the Commonwealth Chess Association (CCA) for another four-year term.

Row over Vande Mataram before Tamil anthem at TN swearing-in event

Row over Vande Mataram before Tamil anthem at TN swearing-in event

Rediff.com21 May 2026

A political controversy has erupted in Tamil Nadu after the Tamil invocation song was rendered last during the swearing-in of new ministers. Left parties have criticised the decision to sing the Tamil anthem after Vande Mataram and the national anthem.

Petrol, diesel prices hiked again within a week, up by 90 paise

Petrol, diesel prices hiked again within a week, up by 90 paise

Rediff.com19 May 2026

Petrol and diesel prices in India have been increased for the second time in a week, following a long freeze on revisions. The increase comes as global crude prices surge and state-run oil firms look to recoup losses.

St Stephen's College To Focus On AI Under New Principal

St Stephen's College To Focus On AI Under New Principal

Rediff.com12 May 2026

St Stephen's College is set to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) under its newly-appointed principal, Susan Elias, the first woman to hold the position in the college's 145-year history. Elias aims to equip students with AI and quantum computing skills, introducing certification courses for students and alumni.

India Remembers Victims Of Pahalgam Terror Attack

India Remembers Victims Of Pahalgam Terror Attack

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

A year after the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, India remembers the victims and reaffirms its commitment to fighting terrorism. Families of the deceased mourn their loss, while political leaders reiterate the nation's resolve to stand united against terror.

Kohli on captaincy era: 'Everyone felt ownership'

Kohli on captaincy era: 'Everyone felt ownership'

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Virat Kohli discusses his time as captain of the Indian Test cricket team and how a shared sense of responsibility among players contributed to their success.

In UAE, Modi offers help to end West Asia crisis

In UAE, Modi offers help to end West Asia crisis

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has offered India's support to bring peace to West Asia during talks with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Both countries signed agreements to strengthen strategic collaborations in energy and defence.

Gandhis, Congress And The Kaikeyi Principle

Gandhis, Congress And The Kaikeyi Principle

Rediff.com19 May 2026

The Gandhis have served both the Congress and India. But it has been 12 years since the 2014 verdict, and the returns have been diminishing. It is time for them to step aside, let the party find its own footing, and allow someone else to make the hard calls. That is what the Congress needs. And frankly, it is what India needs too, points out Harishchandra.

Inflation, weak rupee drag Indian markets lower; fuel price hike adds to concerns

Inflation, weak rupee drag Indian markets lower; fuel price hike adds to concerns

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Indian benchmark equity indices, Sensex and Nifty, closed lower due to investor caution over rising bond yields, a weaker rupee, and fresh fuel price hikes, which have revived inflation concerns.