News for 'Least Developed Countries'

Mukesh Ambani Calls On Engineers To Build AI For India

Mukesh Ambani Calls On Engineers To Build AI For India

Rediff.com7 days ago

Mukesh Ambani, Chairman of Reliance Industries, has called upon India's engineering talent to spearhead Jio's ambitious artificial intelligence initiative. He emphasized India's role as a creator and global leader in AI, not just a consumer, outlining the execution phase of Reliance Intelligence with partnerships and a focus on developing affordable, language-fluent AI for all Indians.

India's Badminton Future: BAI Seeks Partners For New League

India's Badminton Future: BAI Seeks Partners For New League

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

The Badminton Association of India (BAI) has invited Expressions of Interest (EOI) from various organisations to conceptualise, develop, and manage a new professional badminton league in India. The initiative aims to create a sustainable league structure focused on commercialisation, fan engagement, and long-term growth of the sport. Interested parties must demonstrate strong financial capability and experience in managing sports leagues, with proposals due by June 30.

Guwahati Misses Out On Hosting India-Japan Summit

Guwahati Misses Out On Hosting India-Japan Summit

Rediff.com2 days ago

The visit was expected to project Assam as the gateway to Southeast Asia and reinforce the state's emergence as a preferred investment destination.

5 diamonds weighing 1.22 carats found during exploration in Chhattisgarh

5 diamonds weighing 1.22 carats found during exploration in Chhattisgarh

Rediff.com3 days ago

Five diamonds, including two of gem quality, have been discovered during scientific exploration in Chhattisgarh's Mahasamund district. This significant find in the Baloda-Belmundi Diamond Block could establish a new diamond-bearing region, promising future investments, revenue generation, and employment opportunities for the state and strengthening India's domestic diamond resources.

OpenAI Strengthens India Presence With New Managing Director

OpenAI Strengthens India Presence With New Managing Director

Rediff.com6 minutes ago

OpenAI has appointed Prabhjeet Singh as its Managing Director for India, a key market for the AI company. Singh, formerly President of Uber India and South Asia, will oversee consumer growth, enterprise adoption, partnerships, and regulatory engagement, reinforcing OpenAI's commitment to India's rapidly expanding AI ecosystem.

Welfare Spending Pushes Four States Into Red

Welfare Spending Pushes Four States Into Red

Rediff.com14 hours ago

Election-related freebies and populist measures are other factors crimping the revenue profile of these states.

No word on India-US interim trade deal as tariff deadline looms

No word on India-US interim trade deal as tariff deadline looms

Rediff.com2 days ago

India and the United States have reviewed progress on a proposed interim bilateral trade agreement, discussing market access, digital trade, and non-tariff barriers, as they race to finalise a deal before a temporary 10 per cent US tariff regime expires on July 24.

IPL 2026: Sooryavanshi should play other formats to fully develop his game: De Villiers

IPL 2026: Sooryavanshi should play other formats to fully develop his game: De Villiers

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Former South African cricketer AB de Villiers believes 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi should play ODI and Test cricket to fully develop his game, though he warned that the road in longer formats would not be easy.

'China, India should stick to being strategic partners, not rivals'

'China, India should stick to being strategic partners, not rivals'

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

A Chinese official stated that India and China should view each other as cooperative partners and opportunities for development, not rivals or threats. This statement came in response to Russian President Vladimir Putin's comments on the independent and strong ties Russia maintains with both nations, emphasising non-interference in India-China relations.

India's Ice Hockey Championship Aims To Boost Youth Talent

India's Ice Hockey Championship Aims To Boost Youth Talent

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The National Ice Hockey Championship has commenced in Dehradun, introducing Under-12 and Under-15 categories for boys and girls for the first time. The month-long event, organised by IHAI, aims to identify and develop young talent, inspired by the Indian women's team's recent success.

How CBI Is Tackling Widespread Builder-Banker Fraud

How CBI Is Tackling Widespread Builder-Banker Fraud

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

The Central Bureau of Investigation has filed a charge sheet against Ninex Developers Ltd and its director for alleged fraudulent activities in a Gurugram housing project. This marks the 11th charge sheet in the ongoing builder-banker nexus investigation, initiated by the Supreme Court, which involves 50 cases nationwide where homebuyers were allegedly cheated.

How CBI Is Tackling Widespread Builder-Banker Fraud

How CBI Is Tackling Widespread Builder-Banker Fraud

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

The Central Bureau of Investigation has filed a charge sheet against Ninex Developers Ltd and its director for alleged fraudulent activities in a Gurugram housing project. This marks the 11th charge sheet in the ongoing builder-banker nexus investigation, initiated by the Supreme Court, which involves 50 cases nationwide where homebuyers were allegedly cheated.

'Doyen of Indian PMs': US, Russia hail Modi on tenure milestone

'Doyen of Indian PMs': US, Russia hail Modi on tenure milestone

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

US President Donald Trump described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as 'a Great One', while Russia hailed him as the 'doyen of all Indian prime ministers' as world leaders congratulated him on becoming India's longest continuously serving elected representative at the top post.

Iran's Prez Pezeshkian reaches Pak for talks on US pact, regional security

Iran's Prez Pezeshkian reaches Pak for talks on US pact, regional security

Rediff.com3 days ago

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is on a state visit to Pakistan to discuss the full implementation of an agreement signed between Iran and the US, alongside regional and international developments. The visit also aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation across various sectors, following recent high-level talks between the US and Iran in Switzerland regarding regional security.

Sarvam AI becomes unicorn with $234 million Series B funding, HCLTech acquires 10.46% stake

Sarvam AI becomes unicorn with $234 million Series B funding, HCLTech acquires 10.46% stake

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Sarvam AI, an Indian full-stack sovereign artificial intelligence company, has achieved unicorn status after raising $234 million in a Series B funding round led by HCLTech and Bessemer Venture Partners, with HCLTech acquiring a 10.46 per cent stake.

UN Women warns AI amplifies gender bias, digital violence

UN Women warns AI amplifies gender bias, digital violence

Rediff.com2 days ago

UN Women has issued a stark warning that the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is placing women at a higher risk of discrimination and digital violence, citing studies that reveal significant gender bias in AI systems and large language models.

Government's Big Plans For North East Oil Exploration

Government's Big Plans For North East Oil Exploration

Rediff.com2 days ago

A tripartite pact -- amid the promise of removing AFSPA from almost all of the North East -- revives hydrocarbon exploration along the Assam-Nagaland border after decades of dormancy.

Tender Scam Blows Lid Off Bihar Corruption

Tender Scam Blows Lid Off Bihar Corruption

Rediff.com7 days ago

'As the Bihar government's focus is on development and infrastructure projects worth thousands of crores, Rishu Sinha created a network to pay a decent commission to government officials for securing tenders.'

Muslim board to launch movement against community's 'marginalisation'

Muslim board to launch movement against community's 'marginalisation'

Rediff.com4 days ago

The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) announced a nationwide movement against the 'deteriorating condition' and social and political marginalisation of Muslims in India, citing concerns over mob violence, demolition drives, and attempts to impose Vande Mataram.

India issues fresh travel warning as Iran, Israel trade strikes

India issues fresh travel warning as Iran, Israel trade strikes

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

The advisory follows recent developments, including Israeli airstrikes targeting central and western Iran.

Starlink in 'Productive Discussions' with India, Awaits Final Clearance

Starlink in 'Productive Discussions' with India, Awaits Final Clearance

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Elon Musk's Starlink is in "active and productive discussions" with the Indian government, awaiting final regulatory clearance, including spectrum allocation, to launch its satellite internet services, despite media reports suggesting a freeze on approvals.

Trump officials, Iranian FM on way to Switzerland for talks

Trump officials, Iranian FM on way to Switzerland for talks

Rediff.com6 days ago

US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi are reportedly heading to Switzerland for a new round of US-Iran negotiations, following a recently announced memorandum of understanding to end hostilities in West Asia and a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah.

No Room for Complacency: Koeman Eyes Defensive Fixes Before Morocco Tie

No Room for Complacency: Koeman Eyes Defensive Fixes Before Morocco Tie

Rediff.com13 hours ago

Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman has warned against underestimating Morocco despite topping Group F, calling the Round of 32 clash the Dutch side's "real test" while admitting there is still room for defensive improvement.

Why Make Yoga Day A Ritual

Why Make Yoga Day A Ritual

Rediff.com4 days ago

We have Yoga Day. We have Hindi Day. We have, I am fairly certain, so many days, though I have never met anyone enjoying these days, notes Binu Alex.

India questions China's developing country status

India questions China's developing country status

Rediff.com14 Jan 2022

India and China have mostly set aside their bilateral differences in order to champion the cause of developing countries at the World Trade Organisation (WTO). That seems to be changing. During the latest round of China's trade policy review, India questioned its northern neighbour's claim that it was a developing country, since, going by the World Bank's definition, its per capita income belongs to that of an upper middle income country. "As per the per capita income level, the Chinese economy belongs to 'upper-middle income'. "How can China still claim to be a developing country? "What are the indicators which China is using to claim such a status?" India asked.

US eases sanctions, grants 60-day Iranian oil licence amid Swiss talks

US eases sanctions, grants 60-day Iranian oil licence amid Swiss talks

Rediff.com4 days ago

In a major shift in Middle Eastern energy and security dynamics, the US Department of the Treasury on Monday issued a temporary 60-day general licence authorising transactions related to the production, delivery, and sale of Iranian crude oil, petrochemicals, and petroleum products.

Pressure builds on developers to hike prices as costs rise

Pressure builds on developers to hike prices as costs rise

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Indian realty developers are contemplating price increases for ongoing and upcoming projects to offset margin pressures caused by rising input costs and supply chain disruptions, exacerbated by the West Asia conflict. Input and labour costs have surged by 5-12%, directly impacting developer margins, especially for under-construction projects.

New Army Chief Set To Accelerate Modernisation

New Army Chief Set To Accelerate Modernisation

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Lieutenant General Seth's involvement in the army's capability development and modernisation efforts is evident from the key appointments he has held in the Strategic Planning and Capability Development Directorates, including Colonel Capability Development for Mechanised Forces, Brigadier Perspective Plans and Acquisition, and Additional Director General Capability Development.

Blessings of 140 crore Indians my greatest strength: Modi

Blessings of 140 crore Indians my greatest strength: Modi

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has surpassed Jawaharlal Nehru's record to become India's longest-serving democratically elected Prime Minister. He expressed gratitude to President Droupadi Murmu, NDA chief ministers, Vice President C P Radhakrishnan, and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla for their wishes, attributing his achievements to the collective efforts and aspirations of 140 crore Indians and reaffirming his commitment to a 'Viksit Bharat'.

Chinese FM Wang Yi to attend BRICS NSA meet in New Delhi from June 22 to 23

Chinese FM Wang Yi to attend BRICS NSA meet in New Delhi from June 22 to 23

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is set to attend the BRICS National Security Advisors meeting in New Delhi on June 22-23. The high-level gathering will address international security challenges, regional issues, and prepare for the upcoming BRICS Summit in India. Wang Yi is also expected to hold bilateral talks with India's NSA Ajit Doval, focusing on India-China border issues.

Someone Else Owns India's Off Switch

Someone Else Owns India's Off Switch

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

A sovereign cloud, our own DNS root and Root CA, a defence-led research base that builds for keeps, and a real national cybersecurity strategy that outlives electoral cycles are not vanity projects. They are the difference between a nation that can be switched off and one that cannot, points out Venkata Satish Guttula.

Novartis Launches Prostate Cancer Radiotherapy

Novartis Launches Prostate Cancer Radiotherapy

Rediff.com3 days ago

The launch highlights the growing maturity of India's nuclear medicine ecosystem.

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.com6 days ago

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.

World Environment Day: Meet The 14 Year Old Fighting Climate Change

World Environment Day: Meet The 14 Year Old Fighting Climate Change

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

'People told me to go back to school and leave climate issues to adults. But if adults had done their job, I wouldn't be here protesting.' At just 14, climate activist Licypriya Kangujam says children are paying the price for a crisis they did not create, while governments continue to make promises without delivering meaningful change.

US-Iran Talks, Crude Prices, FII Activity to Dictate Markets

US-Iran Talks, Crude Prices, FII Activity to Dictate Markets

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Indian stock market's movement this week will be significantly influenced by the outcome of US-Iran talks, global crude oil prices, and the trading activities of foreign institutional investors (FIIs), according to market analysts.

What Jawaharlal Nehru Did for India

What Jawaharlal Nehru Did for India

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Through his commitment to democratic norms, debate, dissent and constitutionalism, Jawaharlal Nehru helped ensure that parliamentary democracy took deep root in independent India. Utkarsh Mishra evaluates Nehru's 17 years as India's first prime minister, examining his role in nation-building, democratic institution-building, economic planning, scientific advancement and foreign policy.

India: World's Biggest Plastic Polluter

India: World's Biggest Plastic Polluter

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

India generates 9.3 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, nearly 20 per cent of the world's total.

'India's long-range missile programme aimed beyond South Asia'

'India's long-range missile programme aimed beyond South Asia'

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

A senior Pakistani defence official, Lt Gen (retd) Mazhar Jamil, claimed that India's long-range missile development indicates ambitions to become a global nuclear power capable of threatening Western capitals, urging international attention to India's military modernisation. He also reiterated Pakistan's commitment to deterrence stability in South Asia.

Tanveer Singh Bajwa New President Of Ski And Snowboard India

Tanveer Singh Bajwa New President Of Ski And Snowboard India

Rediff.com31 May 2026

Ski and Snowboard India (SSI) elected Tanveer Singh Bajwa as its president and Mohammad Arshad as secretary general following elections conducted under the supervision of an Election Officer in accordance with directions of the Delhi High Court.

Modi calls on states to leverage AI, tackle cyber fraud and prepare for El Nino impact

Modi calls on states to leverage AI, tackle cyber fraud and prepare for El Nino impact

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged states to balance the opportunities presented by artificial intelligence with the need to safeguard against social challenges like cyber fraud and drug abuse. He also warned of the risks posed by El Nino conditions, calling for stronger water conservation measures and emphasising the collective resolve towards a 'Viksit Bharat'.