News for 'Indian Administrative Services'

Why did IIT-IIM graduate Divya Mittal quit IAS after 13 years?

Why did IIT-IIM graduate Divya Mittal quit IAS after 13 years?

Rediff.com1 days ago

Divya Mittal, a 2013-batch IAS officer and former Deoria district magistrate, has resigned from the Indian Administrative Service after 13 years. An alumna of IIT Delhi and IIM Bangalore, Mittal cited no specific reason but reflected on her journey from working in London to serving India, highlighting her impactful tenures in Mirzapur and Deoria.

Indian EVMs are secure, not connected to internet: CEC Gyanesh Kumar

Indian EVMs are secure, not connected to internet: CEC Gyanesh Kumar

Rediff.com6 days ago

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar has affirmed that Indian electronic voting machines (EVMs) are manufactured by public sector companies and operate without internet, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi connectivity, ensuring their security and reliability.

NTA gets two new directors amid reforms following NEET fiasco

NTA gets two new directors amid reforms following NEET fiasco

Rediff.com3 days ago

The Centre has appointed two directors and a joint director to the National Testing Agency (NTA) amidst ongoing reforms and scrutiny over issues like the NEET paper leak. These appointments are part of a broader overhaul of the NTA's examination system.

Cabinet, Home Secretaries Get One-Year Extension

Cabinet, Home Secretaries Get One-Year Extension

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Cabinet Secretary T V Somanathan and Home Secretary Govind Mohan have been granted a one-year extension in their service by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet. Somanathan's tenure is extended beyond August 2026, and Mohan's beyond August 2026, up to August 2027, under special provisions for key government officials.

Why Are Indian IT Firms Cutting H-1B Applications?

Why Are Indian IT Firms Cutting H-1B Applications?

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Indian IT companies have significantly reduced their fresh H-1B visa applications for US FY27, a direct consequence of soaring fees imposed by the Trump administration and new lottery system changes that prioritise higher-salaried employees, leading to a seven-year low in registrations.

Trump tightens green card rules, Indians face fresh hurdles

Trump tightens green card rules, Indians face fresh hurdles

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

The Trump administration has reinstated and expanded the "public charge" rule, making it harder for immigrants seeking green cards if they have used public benefits like Medicaid, food stamps, or housing assistance. This policy change, effective September 18, will impact many applicants, including those from India, by broadening the criteria for inadmissibility.

ICE detains Indian-origin guitarist, green-card holder grandmother in US

ICE detains Indian-origin guitarist, green-card holder grandmother in US

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Two Indian-origin individuals, Pritesh Walia, a jazz guitarist, and Venkata Vasamsetty, a green-card holder grandmother, have been detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in separate cases, highlighting the Trump administration's intensified deportation and enforcement drive.

Tributes Pour In For Sports Administrator Randhir Singh

Tributes Pour In For Sports Administrator Randhir Singh

Rediff.com27 May 2026

The Indian sporting fraternity mourns the death of veteran administrator and former shooter Randhir Singh, with tributes pouring in from prominent figures like Abhinav Bindra and PT Usha.

One India, one time: IST to become sole official time standard

One India, one time: IST to become sole official time standard

Rediff.com1 days ago

The Indian government has notified the Legal Metrology (Indian Standard Time) Rules, 2026, establishing IST as the sole reference for all official purposes nationwide. These rules, effective in 180 days, aim to synchronise digital systems, reduce reliance on foreign time sources, and enhance coordination across critical sectors like banking, railways, and telecommunications.

Indian Crypto Firms Applaud CBDT's New Reporting Framework

Indian Crypto Firms Applaud CBDT's New Reporting Framework

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Indian crypto exchanges and companies have expressed strong support for the Central Board of Direct Taxes' (CBDT) new Crypto Asset Reporting Framework (CARF), which mandates reporting and due-diligence obligations for crypto service providers on all transactions starting 2026.

How AITA's New Digital Platform Will Transform Indian Tennis

How AITA's New Digital Platform Will Transform Indian Tennis

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

The All India Tennis Association (AITA) has launched a new digital platform in partnership with World Tennis Number, creating a unified ecosystem for Indian tennis. This platform will streamline registrations, tournament entries, and provide access to rankings, aiming to modernise the sport's administration and player experience.

Shipping firms asked to avoid sending Indian sailors on vessels through Hormuz

Shipping firms asked to avoid sending Indian sailors on vessels through Hormuz

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

The Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) has instructed shipping companies to avoid deploying Indian sailors on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz due to the ongoing West Asia crisis, following recent attacks on two vessels carrying Indian seafarers.

Indian-origin CFO gets jail term for bribing surgeons in US

Indian-origin CFO gets jail term for bribing surgeons in US

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

An Indian-origin chief financial officer of a US spinal implant company has been sentenced to a four-month jail term for his role in a scheme to bribe surgeons. Aditya Humad conspired to pay over USD 540,000 in sham consulting fees to surgeons to induce them to use SpineFrontier's products, leading to millions in revenue for the company and undermining healthcare safeguards.

How a tea break saved 5 friends in devastating Nepal floods

How a tea break saved 5 friends in devastating Nepal floods

Rediff.com1 days ago

Five friends from Raipur, Chhattisgarh, narrowly escaped being swept away by flash floods in Nepal's Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river valleys thanks to an impromptu tea break. They endured two tense days on higher ground, witnessing devastation, before returning home safely, with a poignant Raksha Bandhan moment providing comfort.

US issues details of new Green Card rules effective from September 18

US issues details of new Green Card rules effective from September 18

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is updating Form I-485 for permanent residence, effective September 18, 2026, with no grace period for older versions. This change, aligning with public-charge inadmissibility rules, significantly impacts Green Card applicants, particularly Indian nationals facing visa backlogs, who must use the correct form version to avoid rejection.

Does Trump Urgently Need Modi's Help On Iran?

Does Trump Urgently Need Modi's Help On Iran?

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

US Vice-President J D Vance's unexpected phone call to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 8 has ignited speculation about a potential diplomatic overture, possibly seeking India's support amidst the escalating US-Iran conflict and a shifting global power landscape, suggests Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

Centre rejects reports of UPSC Prelims paper leak

Centre rejects reports of UPSC Prelims paper leak

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

The Indian government has officially refuted social media claims regarding a leak of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination question paper. The Press Information Bureau's Fact Check wing labelled these allegations as "fake," clarifying that an institute's backdated answer key explanations were misinterpreted, not indicative of a leak.

Remembering Randhir Singh: Pioneer Of Indian Olympic Movement

Remembering Randhir Singh: Pioneer Of Indian Olympic Movement

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Randhir Singh, a prominent figure in Indian sports and the Olympic movement, has died at the age of 79. He was known for his contributions as an athlete, administrator, and advocate for Indian sports on the international stage.

'Young People Feel Uncertainty Because Of The Huge Disruption In The Job Market'

'Young People Feel Uncertainty Because Of The Huge Disruption In The Job Market'

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

'It could be in IT, it could be in administration, it could be in legal, it could be in technical services, but entry level jobs are rapidly disappearing because AI is taking them over.' 'So, the big question what would happen if the bottom rung of the ladder is removed?'

How AI Weather Forecasts Are Transforming Farming In Telangana

How AI Weather Forecasts Are Transforming Farming In Telangana

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

A World Bank report highlights how Artificial Intelligence-powered weather forecasts have enabled small farmers in Telangana, India, to save up to USD 560 by adapting their farming practices to specific risks. The report, "The Promise of Artificial Intelligence," advocates for developing countries to rapidly adopt small, low-cost AI tools to enhance productivity, improve government services, and avoid missing out on the AI revolution.

Indian-Origin Astronaut Anil Menon Begins Eight-Month ISS Mission

Indian-Origin Astronaut Anil Menon Begins Eight-Month ISS Mission

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Indian-origin NASA astronaut Anil Menon, along with two Russian cosmonauts, has embarked on an eight-month mission to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard a Soyuz MS-29 spacecraft. This marks Menon's first spaceflight, where he will conduct scientific research and technology demonstrations focused on human space exploration, microgravity effects, and in-space production of advanced materials.

In a first, Red Fort to echo Vande Mataram on Independence Day

In a first, Red Fort to echo Vande Mataram on Independence Day

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

For the first time in Independence Day celebrations, 'Vande Mataram' will be rendered at the Red Fort complex during the 79th anniversary on August 15, followed by the recitation of the National Anthem, marking 150 years of the National Song's legacy.

New deadline set as AIFF tries to save Jamshedpur FC

New deadline set as AIFF tries to save Jamshedpur FC

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

The All India Football Federation has extended the deadline for Jamshedpur FC to reconsider its decision to withdraw from the Indian Super League until August 12. This move comes as the AIFF reviews preparations for the upcoming ISL season, while Jamshedpur FC maintains its exit is a strategic decision focused on grassroots development, unrelated to the league's commercial future.

Why Banks Prefers Retired Bureaucrats...

Why Banks Prefers Retired Bureaucrats...

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

It is because dealing with a regulatory system that is largely headed by retired IAS officers then becomes relatively easy, points out A K Bhattacharya.

Govt Nods Polymer Banknote Trials for Rs 10 and Rs 20 Denominations

Govt Nods Polymer Banknote Trials for Rs 10 and Rs 20 Denominations

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

The Indian government has approved the introduction of one billion polymer banknotes in Rs 10 and Rs 20 denominations for field trials, aiming to enhance durability. This move comes as the Finance Minister also addressed Parliament on declining retail inflation, GST reforms, and other fiscal measures taken to support the economy and household consumption.

Can India Become New Power Centre Of Global Chess?

Can India Become New Power Centre Of Global Chess?

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

'India should hold several high-level chess tournaments that would attract the world's top players so that the country will have a say in the game.'

RSS had no role in Hyderabad liberation, says Priyank Kharge; slams BJP

RSS had no role in Hyderabad liberation, says Priyank Kharge; slams BJP

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Karnataka home minister Priyank Kharge on Saturday rejected Bharatiya Janata Party leader B L Santhosh's claim that Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh workers had protected his (Kharge's) family from Razakars during Hyderabad state's integration with India, saying that his family and people of the region were protected by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Jawaharlal Nehru and the Indian Army.

Indian Firms Announce Global Partnerships, New Fund, And Social Impact

Indian Firms Announce Global Partnerships, New Fund, And Social Impact

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Indian companies LTM and Mastek announced new international partnerships for cloud, AI, and digital transformation. Jio BlackRock AMC launched a new hybrid fund. NMIMS partnered with Coursera for AI-enabled learning, and MakeMyTrip Foundation rebuilt a flood-damaged school in Manali.

India bags first-ever vice presidency of Paris-based financial watchdog FATF

India bags first-ever vice presidency of Paris-based financial watchdog FATF

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

India was on Friday accorded the vice presidency of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the global body that sets standards for combating money laundering and terrorist financing, for the first time.

'More focused on money': Ex-Pakistan selector slams players

'More focused on money': Ex-Pakistan selector slams players

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Former Pakistan Test spinner and chief selector Iqbal Qasim has criticised the current generation of Pakistani cricketers for prioritising financial gain, particularly through leagues like the PSL, over dedicated skill development and game awareness, attributing this to a lack of vision among selectors and a general disinterest among young players.

The World No. 1 Who Lost A Leg In Combat

The World No. 1 Who Lost A Leg In Combat

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Subedar Hokato Sema lost his leg in a mine blast on the Line of Control. Today he is a champion para shot-putter and among the most decorated para soldier-athletes.

Why India's Youth Anger Exploded

Why India's Youth Anger Exploded

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

The failure of the State when it directly affects our lives, through a corrupt exam system, has produced this current anger, points out Aakar Patel.

NEET-PG row: High-powered panel to audit admission system, Centre tells SC

NEET-PG row: High-powered panel to audit admission system, Centre tells SC

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

The Centre on Tuesday told the Supreme Court that it has constituted a high-powered committee headed by the director general of health services (DGHS) to formulate a mechanism for conducting a comprehensive audit of the existing system of admission through the NEET-PG examination.

Environment ministry removes three senior officials in surprise rejig

Environment ministry removes three senior officials in surprise rejig

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

The Environment Ministry has removed its private secretary and two additional private secretaries through three separate orders issued on July 3. While one was removed on "administrative grounds" and another "prematurely repatriated," the appointment of the third was terminated, with no specific reasons publicly stated for these significant personnel changes.

Ex-Beed Collector Remanded In Custody Over Land Scam

Ex-Beed Collector Remanded In Custody Over Land Scam

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Former Beed district collector Avinash Pathak has been remanded in police custody in connection with an alleged Rs 241 crore land acquisition and compensation scam.

Indian Techies Face Green Card Uncertainty

Indian Techies Face Green Card Uncertainty

Rediff.com25 May 2026

This could come as a setback to thousands of Indian engineers who have waited for years for their work visas to pave the way for the coveted Green Card.

SC questions need for quota for children of well-to-do OBC families

SC questions need for quota for children of well-to-do OBC families

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The Supreme Court of India has questioned the continued provision of reservation benefits to children from economically and educationally advanced families within backward classes, highlighting concerns about social mobility and fairness.

Haryana Government Approves CBI Probe Into Bank Fraud Case

Haryana Government Approves CBI Probe Into Bank Fraud Case

Rediff.com16 May 2026

The Haryana government has authorised the CBI to investigate the alleged involvement of five IAS officers in a Rs 590-crore fraud case involving IDFC First Bank. The CBI can now summon the officers for questioning.

Bindra report exposes flaws in India's sports administration

Bindra report exposes flaws in India's sports administration

Rediff.com30 Dec 2025

'Neither SAI nor state departments have a dedicated sports administration service. Instead, roles are filled by generalist civil servants or contractual staff, often lacking sector-specific expertise.'

How India Can Lead In AI-Native Governance, According To ServiceNow

How India Can Lead In AI-Native Governance, According To ServiceNow

Rediff.com7 May 2026

ServiceNow Vice Chairman Nick Tzitzon highlights India's potential to develop an AI-native government model, emphasising enhanced public services, data privacy, and economic growth.