News for 'India'

From 'theek hai' to firm no: Why Sonia refused to be PM in 2004

From 'theek hai' to firm no: Why Sonia refused to be PM in 2004

Rediff.com1 days ago

Sonia Gandhi's memoir "Belonging: A Journey of Love" reveals the intense internal conflict and family opposition behind her decision to decline the prime minister's post in 2004. Despite initial rejection, then a hesitant acceptance under pressure from alliance leaders, she ultimately followed her "inner voice" to refuse the top job, nominating Manmohan Singh instead.

Why ITC's cigarette biz may remain under pressure in H2FY27

Why ITC's cigarette biz may remain under pressure in H2FY27

Rediff.com6 hours ago

ITC's non-cigarette divisions, including FMCG, agri, and paperboards, delivered strong growth in Q2FY27, significantly increasing their contribution to overall earnings and net revenues. This performance helped offset the continued pressure on the core cigarette business due to high taxation and declining volumes.

Why are people calling Dadi, chacha thieves?: Young Rahul asked Sonia

Why are people calling Dadi, chacha thieves?: Young Rahul asked Sonia

Rediff.com9 hours ago

Sonia Gandhi's memoir, "Belonging: A Journey Of Love," recounts a poignant incident from Rahul Gandhi's seventh birthday in 1977, shortly after Indira Gandhi's electoral defeat. Most of his friends skipped the celebration, offering Rahul an early, painful lesson in the fickle nature of political relationships, a theme that also affected Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.

An Indian Scientist's Nobel Connection

An Indian Scientist's Nobel Connection

Rediff.com10 hours ago

'Peter Hegemann was so kind that a paper published in 2010 in Nature Method which mentioned optogenetic as a tool of the year, he wrote, 'My graduate student Suneel Katariya was the one who identified gene in coding channelrhodoxin and that was the turning point of my research'.'

Auto Retail Sales Decline 23.8% in October, FADA Cites Festive Calendar Shift

Auto Retail Sales Decline 23.8% in October, FADA Cites Festive Calendar Shift

Rediff.com5 days ago

India's automobile retail sales saw a 23.8 per cent year-on-year decline in October to 31.72 lakh units, primarily due to the shift of major festivals like Dhanteras and Diwali to November this year, according to the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA). Despite the overall dip, electric vehicle sales reached an all-time high, and commercial vehicles, three-wheelers, and tractors recorded their best-ever October sales.

Indian Shooters Face Disappointment, Disqualification At World Championships

Indian Shooters Face Disappointment, Disqualification At World Championships

Rediff.com7 days ago

Indian shooters experienced a challenging day at the ISSF World Championships in Doha, failing to secure medals in the 10m air rifle mixed team and 25m rapid fire pistol events. A disqualification due to an apparel violation further marred their performance, and the team is yet to win an individual medal in an Olympic discipline or secure a quota place for the 2028 Los Angeles Games.

Far-right group disrupts Diwali celebrations in Seattle

Far-right group disrupts Diwali celebrations in Seattle

Rediff.com2 days ago

Far-right activists, led by Jake Lang, stormed Diwali celebrations in Seattle, displaying racist placards and sparking widespread condemnation from US lawmakers and community leaders.

Indian man detained in Russia, 'pressured to join army'

Indian man detained in Russia, 'pressured to join army'

Rediff.com2 days ago

A man from Raipur, Tikeshwar Sahu, who travelled to Russia for a job in September, has reportedly been detained there on "false" drug charges. His family alleges he is being pressured to join the Russian Army to fight in the war or face a long jail term. This incident follows a similar case last month involving another Chhattisgarh man. Sahu's family has sought intervention from the Chhattisgarh Chief Minister's Office and other authorities for his safe return.

Gurnoor Brar's journey: From demotivation to New Zealand success

Gurnoor Brar's journey: From demotivation to New Zealand success

Rediff.com4 days ago

Rookie Indian pacer Gurnoor Brar discusses his resurgence in New Zealand after a challenging West Indies series, crediting team support and learning from setbacks for his improved performance. He highlights the guidance from coaches and senior players, and his focus on continuous improvement for future goals like the 2027 ODI World Cup.

IAF plane makes world's highest-altitude landing at 13,629-ft airbase near LAC

IAF plane makes world's highest-altitude landing at 13,629-ft airbase near LAC

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Indian Air Force's Russian-origin IL-76MD heavy-lift transport aircraft made a historic landing at the Nyoma air base in eastern Ladakh, at an altitude of over 13,600 feet. This marks the highest-altitude landing for the aircraft globally, showcasing its capability and the crew's professionalism. The Nyoma air base, operationalised last November, is strategically significant and enhances India's airlift capabilities near the LAC with China.

'Rahul Is Not Leaving Any Scope For Compromise'

'Rahul Is Not Leaving Any Scope For Compromise'

Rediff.com6 days ago

'Nobody, even the government, cannot compel Gyanesh Kumar to resign. He can only be removed through a constitutionally laid down process of impeachment. If he does get impeached, there will be political fallout on Mr Modi's government.'

Cross-Border Narcotics Network Busted In Punjab, 36 Kg Heroin Seized

Cross-Border Narcotics Network Busted In Punjab, 36 Kg Heroin Seized

Rediff.com5 days ago

Punjab Police have dismantled a significant cross-border narcotics smuggling operation, apprehending four individuals, including a juvenile, and seizing 36 kg of heroin. The network was allegedly operating under the direction of a foreign-based handler, receiving drone-smuggled consignments near the India-Pakistan border and distributing them further. Two motorcycles used in the operation were also impounded.

Under fire over MLAs' conduct, CM Vijay calls emergency TVK meet

Under fire over MLAs' conduct, CM Vijay calls emergency TVK meet

Rediff.com1 days ago

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has called an emergency meeting of TVK legislators in Chennai to address growing concerns over the conduct of party MLAs. The meeting, scheduled for November 11, will focus on maintaining discipline and public behaviour, particularly in light of allegations against Deputy Speaker M Ravisankar and MLA C Arul Vignesh. Opposition parties, including DMK and AIADMK, have heavily criticised the ruling TVK over these issues, demanding accountability from the Chief Minister.

Teenage Sensation Dhinidhi Desinghu Aims To Bridge Global Swimming Gap

Teenage Sensation Dhinidhi Desinghu Aims To Bridge Global Swimming Gap

Rediff.com10 hours ago

Dhinidhi Desinghu, a 16-year-old swimming prodigy, aims to revolutionise Indian swimming by bridging the significant gap with leading nations. She emphasises preparation, technique, and mental belief over genetic ability, drawing insights from her international competitions. Desinghu, who has already competed at the Asian Games and Paris Olympics, is focused on rigorous training, academic balance, and inspiring future generations to achieve global swimming success.

Rahul has made Parliament disruptions a Congress culture: Amit Shah

Rahul has made Parliament disruptions a Congress culture: Amit Shah

Rediff.com5 days ago

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday said that Rahul Gandhi has turned creating ruckus in Parliament and resorting to boycotts into a Congress culture.

Bhuvneshwar Never Chased an India Comeback. Ashwin Explains Why

Bhuvneshwar Never Chased an India Comeback. Ashwin Explains Why

Rediff.com13 Oct 2026

Ravichandran Ashwin discusses Bhuvneshwar Kumar's recall to the T20I squad, attributing it to his consistent IPL performance without chasing rewards. He also touches upon Mohammed Shami's potential comeback, his relationships with Jasprit Bumrah and Virat Kohli, and predicts India and South Africa as strong contenders for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Mandaviya Launches NDTL Research Grant Policy For Doping Fight

Mandaviya Launches NDTL Research Grant Policy For Doping Fight

Rediff.com3 Nov 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya launched the Extramural Research Grant Policy of the National Dope Testing Laboratory (NDTL) at the WAADS meeting in New Delhi. This policy aims to promote advanced research in doping detection and prevention, reinforcing India's commitment to clean sports ahead of major international events like the 2030 Commonwealth Games and 2036 Olympics.

'I should have been moderate in criticising him': Sonia on ex-PM Vajpayee

'I should have been moderate in criticising him': Sonia on ex-PM Vajpayee

Rediff.com1 days ago

Sonia Gandhi's memoir, "Belonging: A Journey of Love," reveals her interactions with former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, including a phone call after the 2001 Parliament attack and a heated exchange during a joint session in 2002 over the Prevention of Terrorism Ordinance (POTO). Gandhi recounts Vajpayee's strong reaction to her criticism and her later reflection on the incident.

Ramayana Opens To Rs 58 Crore

Ramayana Opens To Rs 58 Crore

Rediff.com2 days ago

Ramayana: Part 1 earned Rs 58 crores on its opening day across all languages, despite facing the usual pre-Diwali collection dip.

Stock Markets Today: Sensex, Nifty Show Resilience Amid Global Market Turmoil

Stock Markets Today: Sensex, Nifty Show Resilience Amid Global Market Turmoil

Rediff.com5 days ago

Indian benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty traded higher in early sessions, driven by sustained foreign fund inflows and moderate crude oil prices, even as global markets experienced a significant sell-off, particularly in the US and Asia. Track Sensex, Nifty on November 6, 2026.

IPO Boom: 375 Issues Raise Rs 2.23 Trn

IPO Boom: 375 Issues Raise Rs 2.23 Trn

Rediff.com4 days ago

'The fact that nearly Rs 1 trillion came through fresh capital issuance is particularly encouraging, as it represents resources being channelled directly into business expansion, capacity creation, and growth.'

India's Medical Isotope Mission Needs Faster Corridors

India's Medical Isotope Mission Needs Faster Corridors

Rediff.com17 Oct 2026

A country that makes the isotope sets the timetable for everyone who needs it.

Pakistan ready to consider visa for Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann's visit

Pakistan ready to consider visa for Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann's visit

Rediff.com4 days ago

Pakistan has indicated it would consider issuing a visa to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann if he wishes to visit the country for the World Punjabi Conference in Lahore. While Mann has expressed interest, the decision also hinges on the Indian government's approval. The discussion also touched upon the Kartarpur Corridor, which remains closed, and Pakistan's broader efforts to facilitate religious pilgrims, including Sikhs and Hindus, to various sites.

'He shocked me': Sonia Gandhi on Pranab Mukherjee's PM hint

'He shocked me': Sonia Gandhi on Pranab Mukherjee's PM hint

Rediff.com8 hours ago

Sonia Gandhi's memoir, "Belonging: A Journey of Love," reveals that Pranab Mukherjee hinted at his desire to become prime minister during a 2010 conversation. Gandhi recounts her surprise at his suggestion for a "change at the top." The book also addresses criticisms of Gandhi being a "back seat driver" during the UPA years, which she refutes. Mukherjee's daughter, Sharmistha Mukherjee, has since questioned Gandhi's "shock," asserting her father's ambition was earned through hard work, not dynastic entitlement.

Prasidh Krishna gets crucial update ahead of NZ Tests

Prasidh Krishna gets crucial update ahead of NZ Tests

Rediff.com7 days ago

India fast bowler Prasidh Krishna has been declared fit for the upcoming two-match Test series against New Zealand, recovering from a left hamstring injury that had sidelined him from the preceding ODI series.

Ekta Diwas parade in Guj on Oct 31 to mark end of Maoist menace in India

Ekta Diwas parade in Guj on Oct 31 to mark end of Maoist menace in India

Rediff.com22 Oct 2026

This year's Ekta Diwas parade in Kevadia, Gujarat, will feature around 2,000 artists from 126 Naxal-affected districts and celebrate the significant achievement of ending armed Naxalism in the country. Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the annual event on October 31, which also commemorates Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's birth anniversary. The celebrations will include cultural performances, innovative tableaux, and will honour security forces while promoting tourism to the Statue of Unity.

Can Kohli Break Tendulkar's 100 Centuries Record?

Can Kohli Break Tendulkar's 100 Centuries Record?

Rediff.com5 days ago

'I don't think there's enough time till the World Cup for him to get to that.'

How Pune Customs Foiled Rs 3.72 Crore Hydroponic Weed Smuggling Bid

How Pune Customs Foiled Rs 3.72 Crore Hydroponic Weed Smuggling Bid

Rediff.com5 days ago

Customs officials at Pune International Airport seized 10.6 kg of hydroponic weed, valued at Rs 3.72 crore, from an Indian passenger arriving from Bangkok. The drugs were cleverly concealed in "Freeze Dried Monthong Durian" packets among noodles and vacuum-sealed polythene. The passenger was intercepted on November 4 and booked under the NDPS Act, with further investigation ongoing.

Jio Platforms to Reliance Power: A look at India's 10 biggest IPOs

Jio Platforms to Reliance Power: A look at India's 10 biggest IPOs

Rediff.com15 Oct 2026

Jio Platforms Ltd, the digital and telecom arm of Reliance Industries, is poised to launch India's largest-ever initial public offering (IPO) at Rs 30,213 crore, surpassing Hyundai Motor India's Rs 27,870-crore offering.

Why PT Usha failed to get elected as IOA Sportsperson of Merit

Why PT Usha failed to get elected as IOA Sportsperson of Merit

Rediff.com2 days ago

PT Usha, President of the Indian Olympic Association, failed to secure a spot as a Sportsperson of Merit (SOM) in a recent controversial election, while Saina Nehwal and other prominent athletes were elected. This outcome impacts Usha's eligibility for the upcoming IOA Executive Council polls on December 5, as complaints of alleged Model Code of Conduct violations have also surfaced.

India Face Batting Questions As Bhuvi Boosts Bowling Options In Series Decider

India Face Batting Questions As Bhuvi Boosts Bowling Options In Series Decider

Rediff.com16 Oct 2026

India may turn to Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Kuldeep Yadav for the series-deciding T20I against West Indies as they look to strengthen their bowling attack.

How Punjab Police Tracked Down Gangster Afridi In Ethiopia

How Punjab Police Tracked Down Gangster Afridi In Ethiopia

Rediff.com3 days ago

Punjab Police, with central agency support, has secured the deportation of wanted gangster Gurwinder alias Afridi from Ethiopia after a 10-month international manhunt. This marks the first time Punjab Police has secured a fugitive's deportation from an African country. Afridi, a key kingpin of the Doni Bal-Prabh Dassuwal gang, is wanted in over 30 heinous criminal cases, including five murders, and was allegedly directing organised crime from abroad. The operation, codenamed 'Operation SHAHID', involved extensive international coordination and tracking across multiple continents.

After Wife's Cancer Battle, Tickner Finds Joy in Cricket Again

After Wife's Cancer Battle, Tickner Finds Joy in Cricket Again

Rediff.com5 days ago

New Zealand pacer Blair Tickner backs his team to bounce back against India in the second ODI, insisting the hosts have the quality to level the three-match series.

Shreyas Iyer highlights bowling failures as India miss T20I series win vs Windies

Shreyas Iyer highlights bowling failures as India miss T20I series win vs Windies

Rediff.com17 Oct 2026

India captain Shreyas Iyer reflected on the drawn five-match T20I series against the West Indies, suggesting India could have performed better with the ball in their lost games. West Indies captain Shai Hope expressed satisfaction with his team's progress despite missing a series win. India is now set to tour New Zealand for another five-match series.

Throwing Stones In Celebration!!!

Throwing Stones In Celebration!!!

Rediff.com1 days ago

The traditional Dhami stone fair in Himachal Pradesh draws villagers and spectators for a centuries-old post-Diwali ritual steeped in history and culture.

Rahul Gandhi meets Ankita Bhandari's parents protesting at India Gate

Rahul Gandhi meets Ankita Bhandari's parents protesting at India Gate

Rediff.com14 Oct 2026

Rahul Gandhi met the parents of Ankita Bhandari, who were protesting at India Gate, demanding justice for their daughter's murder.

Samson reveals what cost India the 4th T20I

Samson reveals what cost India the 4th T20I

Rediff.com15 Oct 2026

Sanju Samson defended India's bowlers after their 24-run defeat to the West Indies in the fourth T20, which levelled the series 2-2. He attributed the loss to Tilak Varma's dismissal as a turning point and praised Shai Hope's match-winning century. Samson also discussed the challenging conditions in Hyderabad and the need for emerging pacers to gain experience.

Rakul Singh 'Proud As An Indian' To Play Surpanakha

Rakul Singh 'Proud As An Indian' To Play Surpanakha

Rediff.com4 days ago

'To see Ramayana being brought to life on such a grand scale is truly something else. Being part of a story that means so much to our country, and seeing it come together on such a scale, makes this journey even more special.'

India's Top 8 Gold-Owning States

India's Top 8 Gold-Owning States

Rediff.com12 Oct 2026

Which parts of urban India have the highest proportion of households owning gold jewellery or bullion?

1st ODI: Kamboj's seam and bounce impress Gill as young pacer delivers in Auckland

1st ODI: Kamboj's seam and bounce impress Gill as young pacer delivers in Auckland

Rediff.com7 days ago

India captain Shubman Gill lauded pacer Anshul Kamboj's performance in the first ODI against New Zealand, calling him 'tailor-made' for the conditions. Kamboj's 2-wicket haul, along with strong performances from Arshdeep Singh and Gurnoor Brar, helped India bowl out New Zealand for 185, securing a win in the five-match series opener. Gill also highlighted key fielding efforts and the team's overall strong performance despite rain interruptions.