News for 'Minister of State'

Bangladesh ready to join Saudi-Pak-Turkiye defence alliance

Bangladesh ready to join Saudi-Pak-Turkiye defence alliance

Rediff.com2 days ago

Bangladesh is considering joining a newly formed defence alliance between Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkiye, with junior ministers stating that any decision would be based on national interests and a "Bangladesh First" policy. The pact, signed in Makkah, aims for collective deterrence.

Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir sworn in as Bangladesh President

Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir sworn in as Bangladesh President

Rediff.com4 days ago

Veteran politician Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has been sworn in as Bangladesh's 23rd President, following a contested parliamentary election that saw him defeat Colonel (retd) Oli Ahmed. Alamgir, a longtime secretary general of the ruling Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), will serve a five-year term.

Arson, petrol bomb attacks on govt offices reported across Meghalaya

Arson, petrol bomb attacks on govt offices reported across Meghalaya

Rediff.com4 days ago

Meghalaya is experiencing escalating tensions marked by arson and petrol bomb attacks on government properties, following violence during a Khasi Students' Union rally. The incidents are linked to an inter-state taxi standoff with Assam, leading to deployment of central forces and calls for peace from chief ministers.

Why Women Remain Under-Represented In Cabinets

Why Women Remain Under-Represented In Cabinets

Rediff.com7 days ago

Lack of women in Karnataka's new council of ministers has put the spotlight once again on women's under-representation in politics and policy.

Hazare writes to Modi; says minister's exit won't weaken govt, favours talks

Hazare writes to Modi; says minister's exit won't weaken govt, favours talks

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Social activist Anna Hazare on Wednesday wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying violence and police action during the students' ongoing protest in Delhi were "deeply distressing", and asserted that "dialogue" was always preferable to confrontation in a democracy.

'We Travelled Peacefully By Road From Imphal To Guwahati'

'We Travelled Peacefully By Road From Imphal To Guwahati'

Rediff.com1 days ago

'People have been facing significant difficulties due to skyrocketing airfares, and road transportation was inaccessible until now.'

3 newborns killed in Maha govt hospital fire, 36 rescued; probe ordered

3 newborns killed in Maha govt hospital fire, 36 rescued; probe ordered

Rediff.com1 days ago

The incident, which occurred early Monday morning, was reportedly caused by a sparking ventilator.

Is Fadnavis shifting to national politics? He says...

Is Fadnavis shifting to national politics? He says...

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has dismissed speculation about a potential move to national politics, asserting his commitment to serving the state. He clarified that his visit to Delhi was to discuss Maharashtra's development projects with the central government, not for a change in his political role.

TN assembly seeks TET exemption for 3.28 lakh teachers

TN assembly seeks TET exemption for 3.28 lakh teachers

Rediff.com18 hours ago

The Tamil Nadu Assembly has unanimously passed a resolution urging the Union Government to grant a permanent exemption from the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) for government teachers appointed before August 23, 2010. This move aims to protect the job security and benefits of over 3.28 lakh experienced educators who face the risk of losing their positions due to the mandatory TET requirement.

Govt forms panel for 'permanent political solution' to Gorkha issue

Govt forms panel for 'permanent political solution' to Gorkha issue

Rediff.com3 days ago

The Centre has established a committee to draft an agreement and finalise modalities for a 'permanent political solution' to the Gorkha identity issue in the Darjeeling hills and adjoining areas, following a tripartite meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Gorkha leaders, and the West Bengal government.

IIT steps in to ease queues at Puri Jagannath Temple

IIT steps in to ease queues at Puri Jagannath Temple

Rediff.com10 hours ago

The Odisha government has roped in IIT-Bhubaneswar to introduce a queue management system at the Jagannath Temple in Puri, including setting up wooden ramps for a clearer view of the deities, law minister Prithiviraj Harichandan said on Tuesday.

Telangana CM denied US trip, MEA cites 'non-conformity of norms'

Telangana CM denied US trip, MEA cites 'non-conformity of norms'

Rediff.com4 days ago

Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy's planned visit to the United States has been denied political clearance by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), citing non-conformity with laid down norms, forcing him to cancel the US leg of his 'TelanganaRising' delegation tour and return to Hyderabad earlier than planned.

Vijay shelves Parandur airport; announces more free LPGs, bus travel for women

Vijay shelves Parandur airport; announces more free LPGs, bus travel for women

Rediff.com1 days ago

Making several announcements in the assembly, Vijay, fulfilling TVK's key electoral assurances, announced three free cooking gas cylinders and also declared that the Parandur greenfield airport project will be shelved.

0.1% of Kumbh funds could have saved for...: SC judge

0.1% of Kumbh funds could have saved for...: SC judge

Rediff.com16 hours ago

Supreme Court Justice Prasanna Varale has voiced serious concerns over the closure of Marathi-medium schools, inadequate facilities in Ashram schools, and insufficient growth in Maharashtra's education budget, suggesting that greater spending could have prevented these shutdowns.

How India's Digital Ecosystem Propelled UPI To Global Success

How India's Digital Ecosystem Propelled UPI To Global Success

Rediff.com16 hours ago

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu highlighted that the success of UPI, which handles nearly half of the world's real-time digital transactions, stems from a collaborative ecosystem including financial inclusion, digital identity, and affordable internet. He attributed this digital payments revolution to the vision of PM Narendra Modi.

'Man-made landslide': Kerala minister on Wayanad tragedy

'Man-made landslide': Kerala minister on Wayanad tragedy

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Kerala Minister T Siddique stated that the Kalladi tunnel project site incident was a "man-made landslide" due to unscientific dumping of excavated earth, not a natural one. Six injured individuals are in stable condition, and an inquiry will be conducted into why previous directions were not followed. Rescue operations are underway with NDRF and Fire and Rescue Services teams.

What Are Our Leaders Up To?

What Are Our Leaders Up To?

Rediff.com5 days ago

Glimpses of our leaders at work on Wednesday: From photography and policy meetings to honours for veterans and high-level consultations.

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.com5 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.

Why UP Cricketers Are Demanding Three Ranji Teams

Why UP Cricketers Are Demanding Three Ranji Teams

Rediff.com1 days ago

"Gen Z" cricketers and their parents in Uttar Pradesh have protested at Ekana Stadium, demanding the formation of three Ranji Trophy teams to ensure equitable opportunities across the state. They cite the state's large population and alleged sidelining of players from certain regions in current leagues.

Bihar Police, Students Clash Over BPSC Exam Demands

Bihar Police, Students Clash Over BPSC Exam Demands

Rediff.com13 hours ago

Thousands of students clashed with Bihar Police in Patna while attempting to march to the chief minister's residence, protesting against the Bihar Public Service Commission's (BPSC) examination system and alleged irregularities.

India Calls For BRICS Partnership In Digital Public Infrastructure And Telecom Standards

India Calls For BRICS Partnership In Digital Public Infrastructure And Telecom Standards

Rediff.com5 days ago

Minister of State for Telecom Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani urged BRICS nations to collaborate on building institutional capacity and advocating for fair standards in international telecom and ICT bodies. He highlighted India's willingness to share its modular, open-source digital public infrastructure frameworks like Aadhaar and DigiLocker, emphasising their role in sustainable development and economic growth across the Global South.

US may ease J-K travel advisory after security improvements: Envoy Gor

US may ease J-K travel advisory after security improvements: Envoy Gor

Rediff.com6 days ago

US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, announced during his visit to Srinagar that the United States would reconsider its travel advisories for Jammu and Kashmir. He acknowledged the efforts by the central government and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in enhancing safety in the region, expressing hope that more Americans would visit the "incredibly beautiful place." Gor also met with CM Abdullah to discuss strengthening US-J&K relations.

Trump unveils 50% tariffs as US-Canada trade war escalates

Trump unveils 50% tariffs as US-Canada trade war escalates

Rediff.com1 days ago

The US-Canada trade war has escalated sharply, with US President Donald Trump on Monday announcing that tariffs on Canadian cars, trucks, automotive parts and steel imports will be raised to 50 percent from January 2027, following the collapse of trade negotiations between Washington and Ottawa last week.

In letter to PM, Hazare favours govt-protesters talk; says minister's resignation will send message

In letter to PM, Hazare favours govt-protesters talk; says minister's resignation will send message

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

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Bangladesh yet to decide on PM Rahman's visit to India

Bangladesh yet to decide on PM Rahman's visit to India

Rediff.com4 days ago

Bangladesh has not yet decided on Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's visit to India for the upcoming BRICS summit, with his office stating that Dhaka is awaiting New Delhi's response to its request for the extradition of deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina and other 'fugitive criminals' currently residing in India.

PM's cutout worshipped, 'Modi Chalisa' recited during an event at Press Club

PM's cutout worshipped, 'Modi Chalisa' recited during an event at Press Club

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Press Club of India clarified it did not organise an event where Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cutout was worshipped and a 'Modi Chalisa' was read. The event, organised by the Bihar State Transgender Welfare Board, was stopped by club authorities due to violation of rental terms. The organiser plans to build a temple for PM Modi in Bihar, citing his support for the transgender community.

Union minister Margherita, Bihar guv attend Khamenei's funeral ceremony

Union minister Margherita, Bihar guv attend Khamenei's funeral ceremony

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

A high-level Indian delegation, including Bihar Governor Lt Gen (Retd) Syed Ata Hasnain and Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita, paid tributes to the assassinated Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran, conveying India's condolences.

DMK seeks CBI case against Vijay's minister after SC snub

DMK seeks CBI case against Vijay's minister after SC snub

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

The DMK has approached the Supervisory Committee and the CBI, seeking action against Minister Aadhav Arjuna for allegedly influencing witnesses in the ongoing Supreme Court-monitored probe into the Karur stampede. This comes after the Supreme Court declined to regulate Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay's visit to Karur to meet victims' families, a visit the DMK opposes due to the ongoing investigation.

How UPI Revolutionised India's Digital Payment Landscape

How UPI Revolutionised India's Digital Payment Landscape

Rediff.com13 hours ago

Union Home Minister Amit Shah lauded UPI on its 10th anniversary, highlighting its role in India's digital transformation. Launched by NPCI in 2016, UPI has become the world's largest real-time payment system, witnessing a massive surge in transaction volume and value, demonstrating its success in empowering people with swift, seamless, and secure digital transactions.

Young Leaders Dialogue To Shape India's Future

Young Leaders Dialogue To Shape India's Future

Rediff.com6 days ago

The third edition of the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue (VBYLD) has commenced with a quiz contest, leading to a national finale in January 2027 where young leaders will present their ideas for a developed India to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The multi-stage event includes essay challenges, district championships, and state-level dialogues, aiming to foster youth participation in nation-building across various thematic areas.

India cited Trump's 'unpredictable behaviour' for no presser

India cited Trump's 'unpredictable behaviour' for no presser

Rediff.com1 days ago

Indian government sources revealed that a 'cautious approach' was adopted during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's June talks with then-US President Donald Trump due to concerns over Trump's 'unpredictable behaviour' with foreign leaders, leading to a preference against a joint media interaction.

DMK moves SC against Vijay's ministers influencing stampede witnesses

DMK moves SC against Vijay's ministers influencing stampede witnesses

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

The DMK has approached the Supreme Court, alleging that Tamil Nadu ministers are actively influencing witnesses in the CBI probe into last year's Karur stampede case, which resulted in 41 deaths.

Who Derailed Tarique Rahman's India Visit?

Who Derailed Tarique Rahman's India Visit?

Rediff.com22 hours ago

Who is running the show in Dhaka? This kind of flip-flop, culminating in a last-minute decision to skip a maiden visit, can happen only when the remote is in the hands of one of the competing lobbies within the BNP -- one that appears determined to play a game of chess with India.

Not my habit to complain about my country: Omar on meeting US envoy

Not my habit to complain about my country: Omar on meeting US envoy

Rediff.com6 days ago

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced he would meet US Ambassador Sergio Gor to discuss the regional situation but firmly stated he would not raise internal issues with the US representative. Abdullah emphasised that solutions to J&K's problems lie with the central government, not with foreign entities, maintaining his stance against complaining about India to foreign diplomats.

How CJI's cockroach remark led to youth movement that claimed a minister

How CJI's cockroach remark led to youth movement that claimed a minister

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

A derogatory 'cockroach' remark by Chief Justice Surya Kant during a Supreme Court hearing inadvertently sparked a nationwide student movement, transforming an insult into a powerful symbol of protest that led to Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation.

Canada suspends trade talks with US, 50% tariff kicks in

Canada suspends trade talks with US, 50% tariff kicks in

Rediff.com3 days ago

Trade negotiations between the United States and Canada have collapsed, leading to the US imposing 50% tariffs on nearly $28 billion worth of Canadian imports, with Canada immediately vowing to retaliate dollar-for-dollar.

Delhi Government Collaborates With EkStep Foundation To Make Administrative Data AI-Ready

Delhi Government Collaborates With EkStep Foundation To Make Administrative Data AI-Ready

Rediff.com12 hours ago

The Delhi government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with EkStep Foundation to transform its administrative data into an AI-ready format. This initiative aims to improve governance, enhance public service delivery, and enable proactive, evidence-based decision-making by leveraging artificial intelligence.

Ayodhya fish feast sparks political storm in UP; Yogi targets Ajay Rai

Ayodhya fish feast sparks political storm in UP; Yogi targets Ajay Rai

Rediff.com1 days ago

A political controversy has erupted in Uttar Pradesh after Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath accused state Congress chief Ajay Rai of participating in a fish feast in Ayodhya during the holy month of Shravan, near the Ram temple. Rai has vehemently denied the allegations, challenging Adityanath to provide proof and threatening to resign if proven, while also demanding the CM's resignation if no evidence is found. The Congress party has defended the event, stating it was a Nishad community gathering with their own food traditions.

Marathi fine rumours trigger protests by Mumbai auto, taxi drivers

Marathi fine rumours trigger protests by Mumbai auto, taxi drivers

Rediff.com1 days ago

Widespread fear amongst autorickshaw and taxi drivers over rumoured steep fines linked to a state government Marathi proficiency drive erupted into street protests in parts of Mumbai on Monday, forcing Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to step in and address the panic. During protests, some drivers tried to prevent other members from transporting passengers, inconveniencing common people in the morning hours.

BNP veteran becomes new Bangladesh Prez in first contest after 35 years

BNP veteran becomes new Bangladesh Prez in first contest after 35 years

Rediff.com5 days ago

Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, secretary general of the ruling Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and a close ally of former premier Khaleda Zia, has been elected as Bangladesh's new President in the first contested poll for the post in 35 years.