News for 'Key Points Government'

Punjab Government Reallocates Portfolios After Minister's Arrest

Punjab Government Reallocates Portfolios After Minister's Arrest

Rediff.com11 May 2026

The Punjab government has redistributed portfolios held by arrested minister Sanjeev Arora among other cabinet members, including Aman Arora, Harjot Singh Bains, and Tarunpreet Singh Sond.

AI And E-Commerce To Drive India's Consumer Economy To $1.9 Trillion By 2030

AI And E-Commerce To Drive India's Consumer Economy To $1.9 Trillion By 2030

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

A joint report by Deloitte India and FICCI projects India's consumer economy to reach USD 1.9 trillion by 2030. This growth will be fuelled by rapid AI adoption, evolving consumer preferences, and new commerce models like e-commerce and quick commerce. India leads in AI adoption among top countries, with businesses leveraging it for engagement, innovation, and forecasting. The report also highlights the emergence of a new Indian consumer seeking convenience and transparency, and identifies key trends shaping FMCG, retail, and e-commerce sectors.

Complaint filed over minors' presence at CJP's NEET protest

Complaint filed over minors' presence at CJP's NEET protest

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

A Mumbai-based social media influencer has filed a complaint with Indore police, seeking an investigation into the alleged presence of minor boys and girls at a recent student protest in New Delhi. The complaint targets Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke and chief spokesperson Saurav Das, among others, for facilitating minors' participation in the NEET paper leak agitation. Police are investigating the matter, which could lead to charges under POCSO, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, IT Act, and Juvenile Justice Act if cognisable offences are found.

CJP claims govt reached out for talks, to meet Nadda amid Parliament march

CJP claims govt reached out for talks, to meet Nadda amid Parliament march

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Amidst widespread protests, the Cockroach Janta Party is set to engage in talks with Union Minister J P Nadda.

US Visa Pause Clouds Travel Plans

US Visa Pause Clouds Travel Plans

Rediff.com1 days ago

'One important clarification is that the reported US action is not a blanket cancellation of all US tourist visas.'

Marathi test of Maharashtra auto/taxi drivers begins, 1,268 notices issued

Marathi test of Maharashtra auto/taxi drivers begins, 1,268 notices issued

Rediff.com7 days ago

Maharashtra's transport department has initiated a statewide drive to assess taxi and autorickshaw drivers' working knowledge of Marathi, issuing notices to 1,268 drivers on the first day. Those who fail the initial 16-question test will receive a one-month notice to learn Marathi, with subsequent failure leading to a three-month badge suspension.

Another Arrest Made In Haryana Government Embezzlement Case

Another Arrest Made In Haryana Government Embezzlement Case

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has arrested a real estate businessman in connection with the alleged embezzlement of Rs 645 crore from bank accounts linked to the Haryana government, Chandigarh administration, and private schools.

Indian family wants UK govt to repay 109-yr-old loan taken during WWI

Indian family wants UK govt to repay 109-yr-old loan taken during WWI

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Descendants of a Madhya Pradesh businessman are seeking repayment from the UK government for a Rs 35,000 loan made during World War I. The UK Debt Management Office has responded, asking for further documentation to examine the claim, which the family estimates to be worth crores today with interest.

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.

Govt, Opposition blame each other for Parliament washout

Govt, Opposition blame each other for Parliament washout

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

India's Monsoon Session of Parliament concluded with significantly low productivity, marked by frequent disruptions and protests from the Opposition, primarily the Congress, leading to minimal debate on key legislation.

SC orders SIT to expedite Ram Temple donations embezzlement probe

SC orders SIT to expedite Ram Temple donations embezzlement probe

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has directed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to expeditiously complete its probe into the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The court also mandated the SIT to submit a sealed status report and consider suggestions from litigants for improving transparency and investigation quality.

Bankura death: CJP gives Bengal govt 10-day ultimatum, threatens agitation

Bankura death: CJP gives Bengal govt 10-day ultimatum, threatens agitation

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

A leader of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on Monday gave the West Bengal government 10 days to arrest all those allegedly involved in the death of the father of a party volunteer in Bankura district and demanded a probe into the conduct of police personnel at the local police station.

TN assembly mandates state anthem at all official events

TN assembly mandates state anthem at all official events

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has moved a government resolution mandating the rendition of Tamil Thaai Vazhthu at the commencement of all government events, emphasising the state's linguistic and cultural rights amidst a Union Home Affairs Ministry advisory on Vande Mataram.

After NEET fiasco, Nilekani to head task force on NTA exam reforms

After NEET fiasco, Nilekani to head task force on NTA exam reforms

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced the formation of a high-powered task force, led by Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani, to recommend reforms for examinations conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). The task force aims to leverage technology for a robust and transparent examination system, following recent public agitation and the resignation of the Education Minister.

Sebi to overhaul SME listing framework, tighten AI/ML accountability in financial markets

Sebi to overhaul SME listing framework, tighten AI/ML accountability in financial markets

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) is set to undertake a comprehensive overhaul of the small and medium enterprise (SME) listing framework and tighten accountability around the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in financial markets, Sebi Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey announced.

Drug kingpin Virender Singh Basoya to be extradited to India

Drug kingpin Virender Singh Basoya to be extradited to India

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

In a significant victory against international drug trafficking, India has secured the return of fugitive drug kingpin Virender Singh Basoya from the UAE.

FIFA President's Position 'Untenable' After World Cup Rights Sale Fails

FIFA President's Position 'Untenable' After World Cup Rights Sale Fails

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

Gianni Infantino's position as FIFA president is deemed 'untenable' by the head of Europe's professional football leagues following his failed plan to sell a stake in the World Cup's commercial rights, a move that triggered widespread protest and a loss of confidence from regional confederations.

'Zealots overlooked...': Tharoor questions full Vande Mataram rendition

'Zealots overlooked...': Tharoor questions full Vande Mataram rendition

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has criticised the Centre's new mandate requiring the full rendition of the National Song, Vande Mataram, alongside the National Anthem at official functions. Tharoor argues that the extended duration could lead to a decrease in respect rather than an increase, citing practical considerations for audiences. The amendment bill, which grants Vande Mataram equal statutory penal protection as the National Anthem, recently received presidential assent.

After Gen z, Gen Alpha steps out of classrooms in protest

After Gen z, Gen Alpha steps out of classrooms in protest

Rediff.com1 days ago

Across India, Gen Alpha students (born between 2010 and 2024) are increasingly taking to the streets to protest against poor school infrastructure, lack of teachers, and unhygienic conditions, leading to some significant wins and drawing attention to the declining state of public education.

Jharkhand: JSSC-CGL exam cancellation puts 2,000 jobs at risk

Jharkhand: JSSC-CGL exam cancellation puts 2,000 jobs at risk

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Following Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren's decision to cancel the JSSC-CGL exam and other recruitment tests due to alleged irregularities, approximately 2,000 successful candidates now fear losing their jobs, demanding a CBI probe and a fair opportunity to defend themselves.

Ministers should send their kids to village schools: Dipke

Ministers should send their kids to village schools: Dipke

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Abhijit Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), has challenged ministers and politicians to send their children to village schools for at least a day to truly grasp the difficulties faced by rural students, who often walk several kilometres for education.

Modi seeks unity on women's quota in Independence Day address

Modi seeks unity on women's quota in Independence Day address

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has appealed to opposition parties to support the delimitation-linked Women's Reservation Bill, highlighting its 40-year struggle. The bill aims to provide 33 per cent reservation for women in legislatures and increase Lok Sabha seats, requiring a two-thirds majority for passage. Despite previous setbacks and ongoing efforts to secure numbers, the government continues to push for this crucial legislation.

AI cannot substitute judicial conscience: CJI Surya Kant

AI cannot substitute judicial conscience: CJI Surya Kant

Rediff.com1 days ago

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant stated that while artificial intelligence (AI) can augment judicial reasoning, it cannot substitute judicial conscience, and a permanent apex body is proposed to supervise AI adoption and accountability within the judiciary.

Sports Ministry Suspends Table Tennis Federation Of India

Sports Ministry Suspends Table Tennis Federation Of India

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

The Sports Ministry has suspended the Table Tennis Federation of India's recognition due to governance issues, including delayed elections, and has directed the Indian Olympic Association to form an ad-hoc committee to manage the sport.

Wholesale Price Inflation Eases to 9.78% in July, Driven by Fuel and Food Price Moderation

Wholesale Price Inflation Eases to 9.78% in July, Driven by Fuel and Food Price Moderation

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

India's wholesale price index (WPI) inflation marginally eased to 9.78 per cent in July 2026, down from 9.87 per cent in June, primarily due to a cooling in the prices of fuel, power, and food items, marking the first month-on-month drop under the new 2022-23 base year.

New 'boss' scam to dupe corporate employees busted

New 'boss' scam to dupe corporate employees busted

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Ahmedabad Cyber Crime Branch has uncovered a Rs 1.5 crore WhatsApp fraud, leading to the arrest of two key SIM and OTP suppliers in West Bengal. The investigation revealed a sophisticated international cybercrime network spanning China, Pakistan, India, and Hong Kong, operating a "boss scam" and utilizing a "Cybercrime as a Service" model. Police recovered a significant portion of the defrauded amount and secured thousands of devices.

Nepal floods: 290 Indians still missing, 200 stranded on Chinese side

Nepal floods: 290 Indians still missing, 200 stranded on Chinese side

Rediff.com16 hours ago

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has confirmed that 288 Indian nationals remain missing following devastating flash floods in Nepal, including those working on hydropower projects and tourist groups.

'Oppn can't dictate': Rijiju amid demand for Shah's statement

'Oppn can't dictate': Rijiju amid demand for Shah's statement

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju asserted in Lok Sabha that the Opposition cannot dictate which minister responds to questions, amidst demands for Home Minister Amit Shah to address police action on protesting students. The House faced continuous disruptions, leading to adjournment.

Uttarakhand sacks constable for participating in CJP protest

Uttarakhand sacks constable for participating in CJP protest

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

A constable in Uttarakhand's Pithoragarh district, Sher Singh, has been dismissed from service for participating in a political demonstration in New Delhi and violating service rules. A departmental inquiry found him guilty of gross misconduct. Singh had previously gone viral for alleging corruption in state recruitment exams and was already suspended for unauthorised absence, besides being named in a land-grabbing FIR.

India's Core Infrastructure Output Jumps 5% in June, Driven by Cement, Electricity

India's Core Infrastructure Output Jumps 5% in June, Driven by Cement, Electricity

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

India's nine core infrastructure sectors recorded a five-month high production growth of 5 per cent in June, primarily boosted by significant increases in the output of cement, electricity, and the newly added iron ore, despite declines in crude oil, natural gas, refinery products, and fertiliser.

India's Regional Air Connectivity Set To Soar With Electric Seaplanes

India's Regional Air Connectivity Set To Soar With Electric Seaplanes

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

SkyHop Aviation has partnered with Norwegian firm NOEMI Aerospace to explore deploying electric seaplanes in India and South Asia, aiming to enhance regional air connectivity. The collaboration includes evaluating NOEMI's aircraft for SkyHop's fleet, with plans to induct up to 10 by FY2030, and exploring manufacturing opportunities in India.

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.

SC forms panel to probe police action during student protests

SC forms panel to probe police action during student protests

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Supreme Court has established a five-member high-powered committee, led by former top court judge Justice R Subhash Reddy, to investigate allegations of police excesses against student protesters and violence against police personnel during recent demonstrations in Delhi.

Empowering Women: FICCI FLO And MLA Launch Drone Pilot Training

Empowering Women: FICCI FLO And MLA Launch Drone Pilot Training

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

FICCI FLO and UP BJP MLA Rajeshwar Singh are collaborating to train 100 women as 'drone pilots' in Lucknow. This initiative aims to provide employment and entrepreneurship opportunities in the burgeoning drone economy. The announcement was made at an event where MLA Singh also highlighted his efforts in public grievance redressal and establishing women's empowerment centres in his constituency.

CPI(M) Slams Proposed UPI Charges As Breach Of Public Trust

CPI(M) Slams Proposed UPI Charges As Breach Of Public Trust

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

The CPI(M) has strongly opposed the Union government's proposal to levy charges on UPI transactions, calling it a "breach of public trust" and demanding the immediate withdrawal of the legislation. The party highlighted that the government had previously promoted UPI as a free public utility, encouraging widespread adoption, and now seeks to monetise this infrastructure. They also linked this move to a broader trend of increasing banking charges.

Why Hooda wants Haryana to host CWG 2030

Why Hooda wants Haryana to host CWG 2030

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Congress MP Deepender Hooda has urged the central government to consider Haryana as the host or co-host for the 2030 Commonwealth Games, citing the state's significant contribution to India's medal tally in major competitions.

Tata power struggle deepens as Chandra, other Ratan Tata allies step away

Tata power struggle deepens as Chandra, other Ratan Tata allies step away

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

N Chandrasekaran, chairman of Tata Sons, announced he would not seek reappointment when his term ends in February 2027, following a series of departures by senior figures closely associated with former chairman Ratan Tata, including Vijay Singh and Mehli Mistry, amid a deepening power struggle and governance dispute within the Tata Group.

Census 2027: What personal details will you have to disclose?

Census 2027: What personal details will you have to disclose?

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

In addition to caste details, the Census will, for the first time, collect personal information such as the total number of bank accounts held by individuals, along with their mobile number, Aadhaar number, voter ID number, passport number and driving licence status, according to the 40 questions notified by the Registrar General of India on Friday.

High-level panel set up to tackle road woes in Maha's Chakan industrial belt

High-level panel set up to tackle road woes in Maha's Chakan industrial belt

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

The Maharashtra government has constituted a high-level committee to address road repairs, traffic congestion and management issues in the rapidly expanding Chakan industrial belt in Pune district, and set up a mechanism for time-bound redressal of industrial grievances.

Jharkhand protesters want Rahul Gandhi to break ties with JMM-led govt

Jharkhand protesters want Rahul Gandhi to break ties with JMM-led govt

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

Students in Jharkhand are intensifying their protests against alleged irregularities in state recruitment examinations, demanding Chief Minister Hemant Soren's resignation and planning to gherao his residence on August 20, while the CM assures impartial investigations and systemic reforms.