News for 'India First'

PV Sindhu, Lakshya Sen Advance At Thailand Open

PV Sindhu, Lakshya Sen Advance At Thailand Open

Rediff.com13 May 2026

PV Sindhu, Lakshya Sen, and Kidambi Srikanth secured victories in their respective singles matches at the Thailand Open Super 500 tournament, while other Indian players experienced mixed results.

Vijay takes a selfie with Rahul Gandhi after swearing-in

Vijay takes a selfie with Rahul Gandhi after swearing-in

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Actor Vijay, president of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. The ceremony included a selfie with Rahul Gandhi and a 360-degree video of the cheering crowd. Vijay's party achieved a historic debut, ending the duopoly of DMK and AIADMK.

NEET paper leak: CBI arrests 5; TN CM Vijay calls for abolishing test

NEET paper leak: CBI arrests 5; TN CM Vijay calls for abolishing test

Rediff.com14 May 2026

The CBI has arrested five individuals and conducted searches across India in connection with the NEET UG paper leak case. Protests have intensified, and calls for the Education Minister's resignation have grown louder. Political parties are trading blame, and the Supreme Court is considering a plea for an overhaul of the National Testing Agency.

Chicago University Honours Ex-CEA Krishnamurthy Subramanian

Chicago University Honours Ex-CEA Krishnamurthy Subramanian

Rediff.com1 May 2026

The University of Chicago has conferred its Alumni Award for Professional Achievement to India's former chief economic adviser Krishnamurthy V Subramanian, the first Indian economist to receive the honour since 1941.

Like Karan Johar's Met Gala Outfit? VOTE!

Like Karan Johar's Met Gala Outfit? VOTE!

Rediff.com5 May 2026

Karan Johar made a stunning impact at the Met Gala, becoming the first Indian director to represent India at the event, with his Manish Malhotra-designed ensemble inspired by the paintings of Raja Ravi Varma.

PFRDA unveils new retirement income scheme, eases annuity exit rules for NPS subscribers

PFRDA unveils new retirement income scheme, eases annuity exit rules for NPS subscribers

Rediff.com16 May 2026

The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) has launched a new Retirement Income Scheme (RIS) and drawdown options under the National Pension System (NPS), offering greater flexibility for managing pension savings post-retirement. Additionally, PFRDA has eased annuity surrender rules, allowing exits in cases of critical illness or for older contracts with explicit surrender clauses.

Jaishankar's big gift wows Jamaica cricket fans

Jaishankar's big gift wows Jamaica cricket fans

Rediff.com4 May 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness dedicated a scoreboard gifted by India to Sabina Park, highlighting the strong cricket ties between the two nations.

Why Australia Is Resting Key Pacers For Pakistan, Bangladesh Tours

Why Australia Is Resting Key Pacers For Pakistan, Bangladesh Tours

Rediff.com11 May 2026

Australia has strategically rested key pacers Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood, while 3 uncapped players get call-up for the upcoming tours of Pakistan and Bangladesh.

'Vijay Hasn't Displaced The Dravidian Frame. He Has Tried To Repossess It'

'Vijay Hasn't Displaced The Dravidian Frame. He Has Tried To Repossess It'

Rediff.com13 May 2026

'Vijay did not defeat Dravidian politics from outside. He entered the Dravidian field and claimed ownership of it. 'His argument was not that the room should be destroyed. It was that the present occupants no longer deserved to remain in it.'

Bengal govt approves land transfer to BSF, joins Ayushman Bharat

Bengal govt approves land transfer to BSF, joins Ayushman Bharat

Rediff.com11 May 2026

The West Bengal government, led by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, has announced the implementation of several key administrative and policy measures, including the adoption of the Ayushman Bharat health scheme, land transfer to the BSF for border fencing, and the implementation of the BNS criminal law.

Buying Gold Bars, Coins? Read This

Buying Gold Bars, Coins? Read This

Rediff.com14 May 2026

'It has always been viewed as a hedge against inflation.'

'Like batting against a bowling machine': Finn Allen's maiden IPL ton

'Like batting against a bowling machine': Finn Allen's maiden IPL ton

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Finn Allen's unbeaten 47-ball IPL century powered KKR to an eight-wicket win over Delhi Capitals, with Mark Boucher and Piyush Chawla praising the Kiwi opener's explosive batting display.

West Bengal To Adopt Ayushman Bharat, BNS Criminal Law

West Bengal To Adopt Ayushman Bharat, BNS Criminal Law

Rediff.com11 May 2026

The West Bengal government, led by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, has announced the implementation of several key administrative and policy measures, including the adoption of the Ayushman Bharat health scheme, land transfer to the BSF for border fencing, and the implementation of the BNS criminal law.

'One Operation Sindoor Won't End Terror'

'One Operation Sindoor Won't End Terror'

Rediff.com10 May 2026

'India's security challenges are no longer confined to the Line of Control or the Line of Actual Control.'
'They also span cyber networks, economic systems, information warfare, technology ecosystems, maritime routes, and internal social cohesion.'

Poll defeat conceded? Mamata updates bio on X, Facebook

Poll defeat conceded? Mamata updates bio on X, Facebook

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Mamata Banerjee, former West Bengal chief minister, updated her social media profiles to reflect her position as Founder Chairperson of the All India Trinamool Congress and Chief Minister of West Bengal, despite the party's recent electoral defeat.

IPL's next TV deal could break all records again

IPL's next TV deal could break all records again

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Punjab Kings co-owner Mohit Burman anticipates a significant increase in the next IPL media rights cycle, potentially reaching 20-30 per cent, driven by recent high-value franchise acquisitions and the league's consistent engagement.

Chess Grandmaster Abhijeet Gupta Gets Assurance On Prize-Money

Chess Grandmaster Abhijeet Gupta Gets Assurance On Prize-Money

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Grandmaster Abhijeet Gupta, frustrated by delays in receiving prize money for winning the Odisha Open, has been assured by the All India Chess Federation that the issue will be resolved and his dues cleared.

Long Standing Sporting Records That Have Been Broken

Long Standing Sporting Records That Have Been Broken

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

A look at some of the long-standing barriers or world records which were broken in athletics, cricket and badminton.

Anukul Roy Aims For More Batting Responsibility At KKR

Anukul Roy Aims For More Batting Responsibility At KKR

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Anukul Roy, the Jharkhand all-rounder, has become a key player for Kolkata Knight Riders with his disciplined left-arm spin. He now seeks a more significant role with the bat, aiming to contribute more in the middle order and replicate his domestic success in the T20 league.

How Sakshi Chaudhary Overcame Setbacks To Secure CWG Berth

How Sakshi Chaudhary Overcame Setbacks To Secure CWG Berth

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Sakshi Chaudhary overcame a series of setbacks, including a loss at the World Championships and missing out on Asian Championships selection, to secure her place at the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games after a strategic shift to the 51kg category.

How UP Boosted Sugarcane Farmers' Income

How UP Boosted Sugarcane Farmers' Income

Rediff.com14 May 2026

The Uttar Pradesh government announced it has paid a record Rs 3,21,963 crore to sugarcane growers since 2017, emphasising on-time payments and direct transfers to farmers' accounts. The government highlighted initiatives like farm loan waivers and the 'Smart Ganna Kisan' system for online sugarcane management.

Vinesh Phogat Accused Of Indiscipline, Vows To Fight Back

Vinesh Phogat Accused Of Indiscipline, Vows To Fight Back

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Wrestler Vinesh Phogat vows to challenge the Wrestling Federation of India's (WFI) show-cause notice and ban from domestic events due to alleged indiscipline and anti-doping rule violations.

V D Satheesan: Opposition Firebrand to Kerala CM

V D Satheesan: Opposition Firebrand to Kerala CM

Rediff.com14 May 2026

V D Satheesan, a 61-year-old lawyer-turned-politician, has emerged as a prominent figure in Kerala politics, known for his aggressive opposition to the Left government and his role in revitalising the Congress party. His journey from student politics to a key leadership position highlights his strategic acumen and dedication to addressing local issues.

The NEET Math That Encourages Cheating

The NEET Math That Encourages Cheating

Rediff.com15 May 2026

'22 students are fighting over 35,000 seats. In that situation, when someone tells a desperate parent there is a shortcut, and the shortcut costs Rs 3 to Rs 5 lakh versus Rs 1.5 crore -- the maths is seductive.'

India blasts China's 'fake names' for Arunachal, warns of strain on ties

India blasts China's 'fake names' for Arunachal, warns of strain on ties

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

India has strongly criticised China's practice of assigning 'fictitious names' to areas within Indian territory, stating that such actions are futile attempts to alter reality and negatively impact efforts to normalise bilateral relations.

Massive Drug Seizure: Meth Tablets Recovered In Mizoram

Massive Drug Seizure: Meth Tablets Recovered In Mizoram

Rediff.com3 May 2026

Mizoram police and Assam Rifles seized methamphetamine tablets worth Rs 38.7 crore in Champhai district, bordering Myanmar, arresting three individuals including a Myanmar national.

Theatre Command Gets Push With New CDS, Navy Chief

Theatre Command Gets Push With New CDS, Navy Chief

Rediff.com11 May 2026

'General Subramani's appointment as military adviser in the NSCS has given him insight into decision-making at the apex level prior to formally taking over as CDS.'

The Kerala Couple Who Created The Met Gala Carpet

The Kerala Couple Who Created The Met Gala Carpet

Rediff.com12 May 2026

The world watches the Met Gala for the celebrities and the couture. But, for the last few years, one Indian brand from Kerala has quietly been creating the carpet that fashion's biggest stars pose on.

Sunil Mittal plans Bharti Telecom to regain 51% Airtel stake, eyes succession in a decade

Sunil Mittal plans Bharti Telecom to regain 51% Airtel stake, eyes succession in a decade

Rediff.com14 May 2026

Telecom czar Sunil Bharti Mittal plans to hand over the reins of Bharti Airtel to his children in the next decade and desires that promoter firm Bharti Telecom regains over 50 per cent stake in the company.

India to face Ireland in T20I series before England ODIs

India to face Ireland in T20I series before England ODIs

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

India will play two T20 Internationals in Ireland on June 26 and June 28, preceding their tour of England. The matches will be held in Belfast, marking India's return to the city since 2007.

IPL 2026: LSG vs CSK: Urvil Patel blasts 13-ball fifty as CSK sink LSG

IPL 2026: LSG vs CSK: Urvil Patel blasts 13-ball fifty as CSK sink LSG

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings rode on Urvil Patel's explosive 23-ball 65 to beat Lucknow Super Giants by five wickets in a tense IPL clash and keep their playoff hopes alive in Chennai on Sunday.

Education Ministry To Prioritise AI Training For Teachers

Education Ministry To Prioritise AI Training For Teachers

Rediff.com8 May 2026

The Education Ministry will focus on training teachers in the use of Artificial Intelligence tools over the next three to four months to support classroom teaching, lesson planning and student assessment, a senior official said.

IPL 2026: Why Is India Ignoring Shreyas Iyer for T20 Captaincy?

IPL 2026: Why Is India Ignoring Shreyas Iyer for T20 Captaincy?

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

Despite consistent performances and a strong leadership record in the IPL, Shreyas Iyer is being overlooked for the T20 captaincy, raising questions about India's selection priorities.

SC urges Kapur family to settle RK Family Trust dispute through mediation

SC urges Kapur family to settle RK Family Trust dispute through mediation

Rediff.com14 May 2026

The Supreme Court has urged the Kapur family, including Rani Kapur and Priya Kapur, to resolve their dispute over the family trust through mediation, appointing a former Chief Justice to oversee the process.

Can Starc Stop Sooryavanshi In Crucial IPL 2026 Clash?

Can Starc Stop Sooryavanshi In Crucial IPL 2026 Clash?

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Rajasthan Royals and Delhi Capitals face off in a crucial IPL match with significant playoff implications, highlighting the anticipated battle between Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's aggressive batting and Mitchell Starc's seam bowling.

Indian Boxers Secure 27 Medals At Asian Youth Championships

Indian Boxers Secure 27 Medals At Asian Youth Championships

Rediff.com6 May 2026

Indian boxers have secured 27 medals at the Asian Boxing U15 & U17 Championships in Tashkent, with the U-15 girls securing 14 medals and the U-15 boys confirming 13 medals.

PT Usha calls for athlete-first policies in Indian sports administration

PT Usha calls for athlete-first policies in Indian sports administration

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

IOA President PT Usha emphasises the importance of athlete-centric policies in Indian sports administration, highlighting the need for prioritising athlete welfare and development.

Why Young Indians Skip Health Cover

Why Young Indians Skip Health Cover

Rediff.com14 May 2026

Young buyers often underestimate future health risks.

Indian Archers Miss Podium At Archery World Cup Stage 2

Indian Archers Miss Podium At Archery World Cup Stage 2

Rediff.com6 May 2026

Indian compound men's and women's teams, considered strong medal contenders, endured a disappointing outing in Stage 2 of the Archery World Cup, failing to secure a podium finish after crumbling in crunch situations.

Tumakuru Open: Top Seeds Secure Quarterfinal Spots

Tumakuru Open: Top Seeds Secure Quarterfinal Spots

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Top seeds Justina Mikulskyte, Zuzanna Pawlikowska, Vaidehee Chaudhari, and Zeel Desai advanced to the singles quarterfinals of the Tumakuru Open ITF W35. In doubles, Indian and international pairs also secured spots in the semifinals after intense matches.