News for 'International Studies'

Modi-Xi Meet: Why The Road Ahead Is Tough

Modi-Xi Meet: Why The Road Ahead Is Tough

Rediff.com7 days ago

'Xi is conveying that China is a pre-eminent power, and India should modulate its actions or approaches accordingly.'

UPI MDR: Ministry Addresses Concerns Over Cash Transactions And Inflation

UPI MDR: Ministry Addresses Concerns Over Cash Transactions And Inflation

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Finance Ministry has clarified that the 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000, effective October 15, is not expected to increase cash transactions or cause inflation. The ministry also dismissed allegations of US pressure influencing the decision, asserting that the policy aims to promote RuPay credit cards within the UPI ecosystem, and a monitoring mechanism will ensure the MDR burden is not passed on to consumers.

Why 9/11 Still Matters

Why 9/11 Still Matters

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

On the 25th anniversary of that world-changing morning in New York, it is also for the rest of to reflect. Not only on those who were killed but also on why the event happened and what led to it and what came after it, asserts Aakar Patel.

Miss Universe India Kaziah Liz Mej: 'I Wanted To Represent India Since I Was A Kid'

Miss Universe India Kaziah Liz Mej: 'I Wanted To Represent India Since I Was A Kid'

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

'I moved out of my house at the age of 17 to pursue this dream. Since then, I've been doing everything by myself, managing everything by myself for this one dream of Miss Universe.'

'Concerned about children': SC pushes warning labels on packaged foods

'Concerned about children': SC pushes warning labels on packaged foods

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has expressed serious concern over public health, especially children's, due to packaged foods high in salt, sugar, and fat, urging stakeholders to implement front-of-pack warning labels. The court criticised the FSSAI for delays and proposed a red-coloured hexagonal warning label for products high in two or more specified nutrients, to be implemented in phases.

'Understanding Your Body Is Very Important'

'Understanding Your Body Is Very Important'

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

'God has incredible plans for me and we'll see where that takes me.'

Will She Be Bollywood's Next Star?

Will She Be Bollywood's Next Star?

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

Aarushi Bajaj is all set to star in her first Hindi film, Don't Be Shy, produced by Alia Bhatt.

How AI Is Revolutionising Advertising For Indian Small Businesses

How AI Is Revolutionising Advertising For Indian Small Businesses

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

A study by Amazon Ads reveals that nearly 87% of Indian small and medium businesses (SMBs) believe AI has opened up new advertising opportunities, including streaming TV. The research indicates that 75% of surveyed SMBs attribute business growth to AI-enabled advertising, with 68% noting increased creativity. AI is also facilitating international trade for 59% of businesses, though human oversight remains crucial in decision-making.

How Microplastics Act As Trojan Horses For Contaminants

How Microplastics Act As Trojan Horses For Contaminants

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

A new review reveals that microplastics are not just pollutants but also act as carriers for toxic chemicals, microorganisms, and antibiotic resistance genes across various environmental compartments. This "Trojan horse effect" allows them to transport persistent organic pollutants and heavy metals, releasing them into organisms upon ingestion. Additionally, microplastics foster microbial communities, known as the plastisphere, which can accelerate the spread of antimicrobial resistance, amplifying ecological hazards.

India-China Rivalry Tests BRICS' Future

India-China Rivalry Tests BRICS' Future

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

India and China are in what experts call 'a cooperation-versus-competition situation'.

Ireland pacer Jai Moondra's unconventional path to international cricket stardom

Ireland pacer Jai Moondra's unconventional path to international cricket stardom

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Jai Moondra, a left-arm medium pacer from Rajasthan, made a dream international debut for Ireland, taking a wicket with his first ball against India. His journey is remarkable, having left a secure corporate job at Intel after pursuing an MTech in Dublin to chase his cricketing dream, culminating in a historic victory for Ireland.

US, EU flag India's 'trade barriers' at WTO, citing high tariffs, QCOs, and digital trade curbs

US, EU flag India's 'trade barriers' at WTO, citing high tariffs, QCOs, and digital trade curbs

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

The United States and the European Union have strongly criticised India's trade policies at the World Trade Organization review, highlighting concerns over high tariffs, quality-control orders (QCOs), and restrictions on digital trade and services, which they argue undermine India's economic openness.

Nepal floods: 525% rise in glacial lakes a potential hazard

Nepal floods: 525% rise in glacial lakes a potential hazard

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Following devastating flash floods in Nepal, experts are calling for systematic scientific assessments of glaciers to understand and mitigate hazards, alongside the development of a robust land use policy for the Himalayan region. The floods, which killed over 460 people and left thousands missing, are believed to be linked to climate change impacts on glaciers and permafrost.

Has Iran war depleted US's missile defence stockpiles?

Has Iran war depleted US's missile defence stockpiles?

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

United States Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has rejected a CNN report claiming that the Pentagon's missile defence stockpiles have fallen to 'dangerously low levels' amid the conflict with Iran.

Chinese arms executive held for leaking secrets to two countries

Chinese arms executive held for leaking secrets to two countries

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

A Chinese military trading company executive has been arrested for allegedly leaking sensitive defence information to intelligence agencies from two countries, China's top spy and anti-espionage agency said on Monday.

The Long Road To Viksit Bharat

The Long Road To Viksit Bharat

Rediff.com6 days ago

The question for the next 20 years is not whether India can become a $5 trillion or $10 trillion economy. Those are attractive targets, but the real question is whether India can create enough productive jobs, educate its children properly, make its cities liveable, and give hundreds of millions of people a substantially better life, asserts Ramesh Menon.

The Kardashians Love Namrata Karad's Bags

The Kardashians Love Namrata Karad's Bags

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Namrata Karad, founder of Ahikoza by BRHAM, opens up about going from working on a Hugo Boss sales floor to seeing her bags carried by Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor, Kylie Jenner, Khloe Kardashian...

'20 Million Cubic Litres Of Water Was Coming At 160 Km Per Hour!'

'20 Million Cubic Litres Of Water Was Coming At 160 Km Per Hour!'

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

'The valley is around 16 km from the Nepal border, and it took just 8-10 minutes for the ice and rocks to reach the Nepal border. You can imagine how fast it must have travelled!'

AI Effect: 'Nearly 3 Million Jobs Are At Risk In India'

AI Effect: 'Nearly 3 Million Jobs Are At Risk In India'

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

In the next 36 months nearly 25 to 40 per cent of jobs will be under threat from AI and job losses are inevitable.

Longer life for clean-fuel vehicles may improve ownership costs

Longer life for clean-fuel vehicles may improve ownership costs

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

The Indian government's proposal to extend the operating life of certain battery-electric, CNG, and hydrogen vehicles under national permits by five years could significantly improve their total cost of ownership (TCO) and residual values, according to industry experts.

Dinusha's Unbeaten Century Forces Draw in Colombo, Earns Tendulkar Comparison

Dinusha's Unbeaten Century Forces Draw in Colombo, Earns Tendulkar Comparison

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

Sonal Dinusha's magnificent unbeaten 133, including a crucial century-run stand with Keshara Nuwantha, helped Sri Lanka secure a remarkable draw against India in the second Test at the Sinhalese Sports Club.

Blue Colts Aim For Historic Win Against Syria In U20 Asian Cup Qualifiers Opener

Blue Colts Aim For Historic Win Against Syria In U20 Asian Cup Qualifiers Opener

Rediff.com30 Aug 2026

India's U20 football team, the Blue Colts, is set to kick off their AFC U20 Asian Cup China 2027 Qualifiers campaign against Syria in Tashkent. This opening match is crucial as India aims to secure their first-ever win against Syria and qualify for the Asian Cup for the first time since 2006, navigating a tough group that also includes Uzbekistan and Bangladesh.

US missile reserves dwindle as Iran conflict drags on: Report

US missile reserves dwindle as Iran conflict drags on: Report

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

The American military's air-defence missile inventories, including Patriot and THAAD interceptors, are significantly depleted due to the ongoing five-month confrontation with Iran. A CSIS assessment reveals a steep drop in reserve stocks, raising concerns about the US's capacity to maintain Middle East operations and address other global security challenges. This depletion could force the US and its allies to take higher operational risks.

Women's Hockey World Cup: India Eyes Top Spot In Pool D Against England

Women's Hockey World Cup: India Eyes Top Spot In Pool D Against England

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

The Indian women's hockey team, unbeaten in the FIH Women's World Cup, faces England in their final Pool D match. A draw secures India's top spot, but England desperately needs a win to advance. India's strong attacking and defensive performances have built confidence, though coach Sjoerd Marijne warns against complacency, highlighting England's previous victory over India and their strong play. The team aims to continue its impressive run and potentially secure a podium finish.

How Researchers Uncovered A Unique Earthworm Eel In The Gangetic Basin

How Researchers Uncovered A Unique Earthworm Eel In The Gangetic Basin

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

An international research team has discovered a new species of subterranean earthworm eel, named Gangaichthys indonepalicus, in the Indo-Gangetic Plain of Bihar. This small, colourless fish, adapted to life in dark underground aquifers, is the first stygobitic fish recorded from the Gangetic Basin. The discovery followed a TikTok video and involved challenging manual pumping of borewell water to secure samples for scientific analysis.

The Taj's Hidden Story Is India's Wealth

The Taj's Hidden Story Is India's Wealth

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

In many ways, 17th century India occupied a position in the global economy comparable to that of the United States today. Just as millions of people now look towards America because of its economic opportunities, merchants, adventurers and trading companies once looked towards India.

Rs 10, Rs 20 Polymer Notes Approved

Rs 10, Rs 20 Polymer Notes Approved

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

RBI says polymer notes have a significantly longer lifespan, potentially reducing printing costs and replacement frequency.

How an ice-rock avalanche caused devastating floods in Nepal

How an ice-rock avalanche caused devastating floods in Nepal

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Scientists are examining how a possible glacial collapse and ice-rock avalanche may have triggered the devastating flash floods along Nepal's Bhote Koshi River, with preliminary assessments indicating that debris may have temporarily blocked the Lhende River and created a landslide dam that subsequently gave way.

Digital Divide Keeps Women Out of India's Gig Economy: Report

Digital Divide Keeps Women Out of India's Gig Economy: Report

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Despite near gender parity in basic bank account ownership, women in India remain significantly underrepresented in the growing platform economy due to gaps in digital financial capability and access to credit, according to a joint report by the International Labour Organization and National Council of Applied Economic Research.

Why Smart People Still Fail At Retirement Planning

Why Smart People Still Fail At Retirement Planning

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Retirement planning is not a test of how smart you are; it is a test of how well you control your behaviour.

Indian Grandfather And Grandson Achieve Rare Elbrus Summit Feat

Indian Grandfather And Grandson Achieve Rare Elbrus Summit Feat

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Lingam Ravindra Rao, 72, and his 17-year-old grandson, Anuraag Pokuri, have successfully scaled Mount Elbrus, Europe's highest peak. Rao is now the oldest Indian to achieve this feat, while Anuraag is the youngest Indian-origin person to climb both the West and East peaks back-to-back. This remarkable expedition highlights their shared passion for mountaineering and their ambition to complete the Seven Summits.

The 17 Year Old Running A Business For Women

The 17 Year Old Running A Business For Women

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

Seventeen-year-old Naavya Shah's idea was simple -- source fresh flour from a women-run mill, sell it directly to customers and, wherever possible, put women in charge of the parts of the business they had traditionally been excluded from.

What caused the deadly Nepal flash floods

What caused the deadly Nepal flash floods

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Experts from the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) suggest that an ice-rock avalanche originating in a high-altitude area likely triggered the devastating flash floods that swept across central Nepal districts, killing at least 95 people and leaving nearly 500 missing.

Dronacharya Awardee Parveer Singh's Journey: From Seema Punia To Asian Games Gold

Dronacharya Awardee Parveer Singh's Journey: From Seema Punia To Asian Games Gold

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Veteran athletics coach Parveer Singh, who guided athletes like Seema Punia, Tajinderpal Singh Toor, and Annu Rani to international medals, has been named for the prestigious Dronacharya Award. The article details his extensive career spanning over two decades, his role as a coach educator, and his academic contributions to sports coaching.

'China Should Have Alerted Nepal'

'China Should Have Alerted Nepal'

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

'The trigger for the flood was definitely natural, but the damage that it caused was human-made.'

China's submarine missile test rattles Pacific; Australia, Japan protest

China's submarine missile test rattles Pacific; Australia, Japan protest

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

China on Monday successfully test-fired a long-range strategic missile from one of its nuclear-powered submarines in the Pacific Ocean, drawing sharp reactions from Japan and Australia.

How Deepak Dhar's Statistical Mechanics Work Earned Him The Dirac Medal

How Deepak Dhar's Statistical Mechanics Work Earned Him The Dirac Medal

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Indian physicist Deepak Dhar, a professor at ICTS-TIFR in Bengaluru, has been awarded the prestigious 2026 Dirac Medal for his significant contributions to statistical mechanics. He shares the honour with three other physicists for their work on understanding complex systems, with applications in diverse fields like biology, finance, and AI. Dhar is particularly recognised for his "sandpile model" and has previously received the Padma Bhushan and Boltzmann Medal.

Why This England Pacer Retired From Cricket Aged 25

Why This England Pacer Retired From Cricket Aged 25

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

England fast bowler John Turner, 25, has announced his shock retirement from professional cricket, citing a persistent stress fracture and injury record.

Indian Students In Canada Face 'Post-Graduation Work Permit' Shock

Indian Students In Canada Face 'Post-Graduation Work Permit' Shock

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

For hundreds of Indian scholars who journeyed to Canada aiming for a foreign degree and a path toward long-term career opportunities, what should have been a triumphant graduation has instead spiralled into deep uncertainty.

15-Year-Old Delhi Teen Stuns World No 1 Magnus Carlsen

15-Year-Old Delhi Teen Stuns World No 1 Magnus Carlsen

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Fifteen-year-old Delhi chess prodigy Vandan Alankar Sawai stuns World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen in an online blitz tournament.