News for 'India First'

India braces for below-normal rainfall for Aug-Sept

India braces for below-normal rainfall for Aug-Sept

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted below-normal rainfall for India during the second half of the southwest monsoon season, specifically from August to September. This forecast indicates less than 94 per cent of the Long Period Average (LPA) for the period. While July saw good rainfall activity due to low-pressure systems and the Madden-Julian Oscillation, the Southern Peninsula experienced significantly low rainfall and record high minimum temperatures.

Two more boxing medals confirmed for India at CWG

Two more boxing medals confirmed for India at CWG

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Indian boxers Preeti Pawar (54kg) and Priya Ghanghas (60kg) have secured at least two bronze medals for the nation at the Commonwealth Games by advancing to the semifinals of their respective categories. Preeti dominated her quarterfinal bout with a unanimous 5-0 decision, while Priya overcame a tough challenge from local favourite Niamh Mitchell with a 4-1 split decision.

Ram temple theft row, CJP protest mar first day of Parliament

Ram temple theft row, CJP protest mar first day of Parliament

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Opposition parties disrupted Lok Sabha proceedings on the opening day of the Monsoon Session, leading to multiple adjournments. Protests focused on the alleged NEET paper leak and Ram temple donation theft issues, with demands for Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation. The House was eventually adjourned for the day after repeated appeals for order failed.

India secure double gold at Commonwealth Table Tennis Championships

India secure double gold at Commonwealth Table Tennis Championships

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

India's men's and women's table tennis teams both secured gold medals at the 22nd Commonwealth Table Tennis Championships. The men's team, led by Manush Shah's heroic performance, overcame Malaysia 3-2 in a thrilling final, while the women's team comfortably defeated Malaysia 3-0.

GX Group Boosts Domestic Photonics Manufacturing

GX Group Boosts Domestic Photonics Manufacturing

Rediff.com23 Aug 2026

Broadband technology firm GX Group is set to commence manufacturing operations at its advanced photonics facility in India from December, investing Rs 500 crore. This initiative aims to strengthen domestic manufacturing, create skilled jobs, and reduce dependence on imported optical components crucial for high-speed data networks and AI data centres.

84 Indians rescued in Nepal floods, search ops continue: MEA

84 Indians rescued in Nepal floods, search ops continue: MEA

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

The devastating flash floods wreaked havoc across Nepal, with the ministry of external affairs on Thursday stating that 84 Indian nationals have been rescued while 290 remain uncontactable as the Himalayan nation stepped up search, rescue and relief operations following the disaster that has claimed more than 390 lives.

Nepal Disaster: 'It Doesn't Look Like A Single Cause'

Nepal Disaster: 'It Doesn't Look Like A Single Cause'

Rediff.com6 days ago

'It appears to be a combination: A glacier breaking away, and a dam-like formation downstream reaching capacity and releasing water suddenly.'

Sohail Khan Blames Pacers For Pakistan's Test Decline

Sohail Khan Blames Pacers For Pakistan's Test Decline

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

Former Pakistan fast bowler Sohail Khan has criticised the current generation of pacers for their lack of skill development, attributing it to Pakistan's decline in Test cricket. He emphasised the importance of artful bowling over mere speed and highlighted how T20 cricket and internal politics are hindering player development.

India's Aman Sehrawat Clinches Gold In Hungary Wrestling Tournament

India's Aman Sehrawat Clinches Gold In Hungary Wrestling Tournament

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Olympic bronze medallist Aman Sehrawat won a gold medal in the men's 57kg freestyle category at the Polyak Imre, Varga Janos and Kozma Istvan Memorial Senior Ranking Tournament in Budapest. Deepak also secured a bronze in the 61kg category, with two more Indian wrestlers vying for podium finishes.

India's Aman Sehrawat Clinches Gold In Hungary Wrestling Tournament

India's Aman Sehrawat Clinches Gold In Hungary Wrestling Tournament

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Olympic bronze medallist Aman Sehrawat won a gold medal in the men's 57kg freestyle category at the Polyak Imre, Varga Janos and Kozma Istvan Memorial Senior Ranking Tournament in Budapest. Deepak also secured a bronze in the 61kg category, with two more Indian wrestlers vying for podium finishes.

Nissan Tekton First Look: Bold SUV Debut

Nissan Tekton First Look: Bold SUV Debut

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

While the starting price is the same as the Duster at Rs 10.4 lakh, the top-end is slightly cheaper at Rs 18.5 lakh for the 1.3l automatic.

1st Test, Day 3: Suthar, Jadeja star as Sri Lanka bowled out for 284

1st Test, Day 3: Suthar, Jadeja star as Sri Lanka bowled out for 284

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Manav Suthar and Ravindra Jadeja led India's bowling attack on Day 3 in Galle.

Vikram-1, India's 1st private orbital-class rocket, successfully enters space

Vikram-1, India's 1st private orbital-class rocket, successfully enters space

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Skyroot Aerospace successfully launched India's first privately developed orbital rocket, Vikram-1, placing multiple technology demonstration payloads and commemorative items, including a postcard from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, into low Earth orbit, marking a significant entry into the global orbital launch market.

Praggnanandhaa to Face Caruana in Grand Chess Tour Final

Praggnanandhaa to Face Caruana in Grand Chess Tour Final

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa has secured his spot in the finals of the Grand Chess Tour's last leg, defeating Germany's Vincent Keymer 19-9. He is set to compete against defending champion Fabiano Caruana of the USA for the title.

Preeti Pawar And Priya Ghanghas Guarantee Medals For India

Preeti Pawar And Priya Ghanghas Guarantee Medals For India

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Indian boxers Preeti Pawar and Priya Ghanghas have secured at least two bronze medals for the nation at the Commonwealth Games by advancing to the semifinals of their respective weight categories. Preeti dominated her 54kg quarterfinal with a unanimous decision, while Priya overcame a tough challenge in the 60kg division with a split decision win. However, Parveen Hooda was eliminated in her 65kg quarterfinal bout.

Could Nepal's Disaster Have Been Foreseen?

Could Nepal's Disaster Have Been Foreseen?

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

'This is no longer a single-hazard problem; it is a cascading, multi-hazard problem. A landslide never occurs in isolation. This entire chain is the cascading effect of what looks, at first, like a single disaster.'

Satwiksairaj and Chirag Shetty secure quarterfinal berth at World Championships

Satwiksairaj and Chirag Shetty secure quarterfinal berth at World Championships

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Indian men's doubles pair Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty advanced to the quarterfinals of the World Championships after a hard-fought victory over Malaysia's Junaidi Arif and Yap Roy King.

Should You Invest In Balanced Hybrid Funds?

Should You Invest In Balanced Hybrid Funds?

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

'Since the category has a limited track record, assess the fund manager's experience across equity and debt market cycles rather than relying only on past returns.'

Jasprit Bumrah Fit To Lead India's Pace Attack In Sri Lanka

Jasprit Bumrah Fit To Lead India's Pace Attack In Sri Lanka

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

India's premier fast bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, has received clearance from the BCCI's Centre of Excellence to participate in the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka. Bumrah had been recovering from an impact injury sustained during the recent ODI series against England, which forced him to miss the third ODI. His return is crucial for India's World Test Championship aspirations.

India complete Zimbabwe clean sweep; Vaibhav shines

India complete Zimbabwe clean sweep; Vaibhav shines

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's remarkably adaptive 81 and an equally solid effort from bowlers led by pacer Mayank Yadav ensured India's smooth 35-run win over Zimbabwe in the third and final T20I

Javed Miandad breaks down while pleading for Imran Khan's release

Javed Miandad breaks down while pleading for Imran Khan's release

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

Javed Miandad broke down while pleading for Imran Khan's release, defending his former captain as honest and urging authorities to resolve his imprisonment amid growing health concerns.

AISA backs CJP's Sept 5 protest over student FIRs, NEET

AISA backs CJP's Sept 5 protest over student FIRs, NEET

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

The All India Students' Association (AISA) has announced its support for the Cockroach Janta Party's (CJP) proposed September 5 protest march in Delhi. The demonstration aims to demand the withdrawal of FIRs against students and an inquiry into alleged pellet and bullet firing during previous agitations, alongside addressing unresolved issues related to the NEET exam.

Delhi couple held for ISI spy network, supplying Indian SIMs to Pak

Delhi couple held for ISI spy network, supplying Indian SIMs to Pak

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Delhi Police have dismantled an alleged Pakistan ISI-backed espionage module, arresting a couple, Md Sahil and Sameera, for procuring Indian SIM cards and sending them to Pakistan. The couple allegedly recruited individuals for reconnaissance of cantonment areas and facilitated communication for Pakistani handlers through social media.

New Study Reveals White Matter's Crucial Role In Cognitive Health

New Study Reveals White Matter's Crucial Role In Cognitive Health

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

A study conducted on older adults in India suggests that the health of the brain's white matter wiring can help mitigate the cognitive effects of gray matter loss, supporting overall cognitive health. Researchers found that healthier superficial white matter is linked to stronger language skills and may act as a source of resilience against cognitive decline.

How Much Did Spider-Man: Brand New Day Earn In India On Day 1?

How Much Did Spider-Man: Brand New Day Earn In India On Day 1?

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Tom Holland and Zendaya's Spider-Man: Brand New Day has made a spectacular debut at the Indian box office.

India Eyes Maiden Gold At FISU World University Squash Championship

India Eyes Maiden Gold At FISU World University Squash Championship

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

India is set to host the FISU World University Squash Championship in Mumbai from August 3, aiming for its first-ever gold medal. With home advantage and a bronze medallist from the previous edition, Suraj Chand, the team carries high expectations.

'I Don't Know Anything': Sarfaraz on Imran Interview Row

'I Don't Know Anything': Sarfaraz on Imran Interview Row

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

A controversy overshadowed Pakistan's Lord's Test after reports emerged of the PCB threatening to boycott the match if Sky Sports aired an interview with Imran Khan's sons. Head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed denied any knowledge of such a threat, despite the interview being broadcast and the team returning to play. The incident highlights the political tensions surrounding Imran Khan's imprisonment impacting the cricket team.

Vande Mataram: Sharmila Tagore Vs Kangana Ranaut

Vande Mataram: Sharmila Tagore Vs Kangana Ranaut

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Actor-MP Kangana Ranaut and movie legend Sharmila Tagore are embroiled in a public debate over Vande Mataram.

'We should have evidence': Former CDS reveals how Modi ordered Op Sindoor

'We should have evidence': Former CDS reveals how Modi ordered Op Sindoor

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Former Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan (retd) revealed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi directed an 'unthinkable' and 'big lesson' action against Pakistan following the April 2024 Pahalgam terror attack, emphasising India's zero-tolerance policy for cross-border terrorism and the need for irrefutable evidence.

Nitin Mukesh: 'There Can Never Be Another Mukesh'

Nitin Mukesh: 'There Can Never Be Another Mukesh'

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

'He is celebrated more for his melancholic songs although he sang an equal number of happy songs.'

Rishabh Pant Fastest To Hit 100 sixes In Test cricket

Rishabh Pant Fastest To Hit 100 sixes In Test cricket

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has achieved a significant milestone, becoming the first Indian and fourth overall player to hit 100 sixes in Test cricket.

2nd Test: Jaiswal faces possible punishment after physical contact with Fernando

2nd Test: Jaiswal faces possible punishment after physical contact with Fernando

Rediff.com23 Aug 2026

Indian opener Yashasvi Jaiswal is under scrutiny for a potential ICC Code of Conduct breach following a heated altercation with Sri Lankan pacer Asitha Fernando during the second Test. The incident involved physical contact, with Jaiswal's helmet touching Fernando's forehead after Jaiswal's dismissal. India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak acknowledged the 'heat of the moment' but stated Jaiswal should not have made body contact. Match referee Andy Pycroft may invoke Article 2.12, which could lead to a reprimand, fine, or demerit points for Jaiswal.

How Iyer's Leadership, Laxman's Mentorship Led India To Zimbabwe Sweep

How Iyer's Leadership, Laxman's Mentorship Led India To Zimbabwe Sweep

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

India's new-look T20 squad, led by Shreyas Iyer and mentored by interim coach VVS Laxman, secured a dominant 3-0 series sweep against Zimbabwe. Both Iyer and Laxman praised each other's contributions, highlighting Iyer's leadership and Laxman's inspiring guidance in the team's success.

India's Young Golf Talent Set To Shine At R&A Amateur Championship

India's Young Golf Talent Set To Shine At R&A Amateur Championship

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

A four-member Indian golf team, comprising Harjai Milkha Singh, Ishnidh Singh Virdi, Guntas Kaur Sandhu, and Rashi Mishra, is set to compete in the prestigious R&A Amateur golf championship across two courses in Scotland. The tournament features both boys' and girls' categories, attracting top junior talent globally, with winners earning significant exemptions into major championships.

Devdutt Padikkal strengthens his claim for No. 3 spot with maiden Test ton

Devdutt Padikkal strengthens his claim for No. 3 spot with maiden Test ton

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

India's Devdutt Padikkal struck his maiden Test hundred to underline his credentials for the number three slot and propelled the tourists to a commanding 288-2 in the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle on Saturday.

Why UPI Should Be Kept Free

Why UPI Should Be Kept Free

Rediff.com7 days ago

Making UPI payments fee-based for some transactions could enhance mental reservations against digital payments -- which have largely been overcome -- once more. Do we want to regress?, asks R Jagannthan.

Why Are Thousands of GST Appeals Pending?

Why Are Thousands of GST Appeals Pending?

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

GSTAT has crossed 75,000 filings but disposed of only 83 cases, highlighting the huge backlog facing India's new GST appeals tribunal.

Colombo Test: Rishabh Pant Walks Off Retired Hurt After Wrist Injury

Colombo Test: Rishabh Pant Walks Off Retired Hurt After Wrist Injury

Rediff.com23 Aug 2026

India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant retired hurt during the second Test against Sri Lanka after being hit on his left arm by a short ball from Lahiru Kumara. He received medical attention but was visibly in pain and left the field, with Ravindra Jadeja replacing him.

Nepal floods revive Uttarakhand's Rishiganga, Dharali horrors

Nepal floods revive Uttarakhand's Rishiganga, Dharali horrors

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

The devastating floods in Nepal have brought back memories of two major disasters in Uttarakhand in recent years, the Rishiganga tragedy of February 2021 and the Dharali disaster of August 2025, which caused extensive loss of life and property and left thousands struggling to rebuild their lives.

Will Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Make India Debut in First T20I Vs Ireland?

Will Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Make India Debut in First T20I Vs Ireland?

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Vaobhav Sooryavanshi, 15, stands a chance to become India's youngest international cricketer, potentially breaking Sachin Tendulkar's record.