News for 'Minister of State'

Modi Assures Support To New Kerala Chief Minister

Modi Assures Support To New Kerala Chief Minister

Rediff.com18 May 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated VD Satheesan on becoming the Chief Minister of Kerala and pledged central government support.

Pradhan's resignation non-negotiable, stir to continue: CJP

Pradhan's resignation non-negotiable, stir to continue: CJP

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) chief spokesperson Saurav Das has termed Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation 'non-negotiable' amidst ongoing protests over the NEET-UG paper leak, while Union Health Minister JP Nadda has called for an in-depth discussion on the issue in Parliament.

The Real Reasons India Can't Reach the FIFA World Cup

The Real Reasons India Can't Reach the FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Despite a population of 1.45 billion, India's football team is ranked a lowly 138th in the world and failed to qualify for next year's Asian Cup, highlighting deep-rooted systemic issues and a failure to implement reforms that keep the World Cup dream distant for fans.

NEET row: Mumbai cop shunted after drug threat to student protesters

NEET row: Mumbai cop shunted after drug threat to student protesters

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

The Mumbai police on Thursday ordered a probe and removed a police driver from the duty roster after a viral video purportedly showed him threatening student protesters with false narcotics charges if they returned to demonstrate.

Brig Ponwar, 1971 War hero, architect of India's jungle warfare, dies at 77

Brig Ponwar, 1971 War hero, architect of India's jungle warfare, dies at 77

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Brigadier Basant Kumar Ponwar (Retd), a distinguished veteran of the 1971 Indo-Pak War and the visionary behind India's modern jungle warfare strategies against Maoist insurgency, has passed away at 77. His extensive career spanned over five decades, contributing significantly to national defence through both the Indian Army and police forces, including founding the Counter Terrorism and Jungle Warfare College.

India May Need New Legal Framework For AI, Says Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw

India May Need New Legal Framework For AI, Says Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw indicates India may require a new legal framework for Artificial Intelligence, as the current IT law predates AI's rapid emergence. The government aims to balance innovation with regulation, engaging with the industry to ensure citizen safety while fostering technological growth.

The cockroach who would not leave: How Abhijeet Dipke made the govt bend

The cockroach who would not leave: How Abhijeet Dipke made the govt bend

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), has emerged as a prominent youth leader, transforming a satirical movement into a powerful force that led to the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Dipke views this as just the beginning, advocating for issue-based politics over identity politics and demanding further reforms in the examination system.

Will be forced to resume protests if cases not withdrawn: CJP warns govt

Will be forced to resume protests if cases not withdrawn: CJP warns govt

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has warned it will resume its agitation if the government fails to provide a written agreement by Tuesday on the withdrawal of criminal cases against its protesters and organisers. The party claims this agreement was reached during talks that led to the calling off of their 36-day protest at Jantar Mantar.

Vinesh Phogat praises youth after Pradhan's resignation: 'Democracy won, fear lost'

Vinesh Phogat praises youth after Pradhan's resignation: 'Democracy won, fear lost'

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

Veteran Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat lauded the nation's youth as the 'force that shapes the future' following Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation amidst the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak controversy, stating that 'democracy won and fear lost'.

Ended fast fearing...: Sonam Wangchuk rejects 'deal' charge

Ended fast fearing...: Sonam Wangchuk rejects 'deal' charge

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Sonam Wangchuk has strongly denied allegations of a 'deal' with the Centre, clarifying that he concluded his 26-day hunger strike only after receiving a crucial written assurance.

'All donation thieves in BJP': Cong escalates attack over Ram Temple theft

'All donation thieves in BJP': Cong escalates attack over Ram Temple theft

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

The Congress on Sunday launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party over the alleged theft of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya, saying not everyone in the BJP is a "chhanda chor" but all the "chhanda chors" are in the ruling party.

Durand Cup Trophy Tour Kicks Off In Ranchi Ahead Of Seven Matches

Durand Cup Trophy Tour Kicks Off In Ranchi Ahead Of Seven Matches

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Jharkhand Sports Minister Sudivya Kumar flagged off the 135th Durand Cup 2026 trophy tour in Ranchi. The state capital is set to host seven matches of the prestigious football tournament, including six league matches and one quarter-final, starting July 26. The minister expressed hope that Jharkhand's successful hosting could lead to it hosting final matches in future years.

Fadnavis to be replaced as Maharashtra CM? Raut's big claim

Fadnavis to be replaced as Maharashtra CM? Raut's big claim

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Shiv Sena-UBT leader Sanjay Raut has made significant claims regarding potential political shifts, suggesting Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis might move to the Centre, paving the way for a new BJP chief minister in the state. Raut also announced a 'Ram Raksha Andolan' protest in Nagpur against alleged embezzlement at the Ayodhya Ram temple and commented on delimitation and activist Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike.

'There is no Pakistani Kashmir, only PoK': India rebukes NYT headline

'There is no Pakistani Kashmir, only PoK': India rebukes NYT headline

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

The Indian Embassy in the US strongly refuted a New York Times headline referring to "Pakistani Kashmir," asserting that there is only Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and that Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh are integral parts of India. The embassy highlighted Pakistan's illegal occupation and exploitation of these territories, linking it to ongoing protests in PoK.

Why Congress decided to sing only 2 stanzas of Vande Mataram

Why Congress decided to sing only 2 stanzas of Vande Mataram

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Vande Mataram, the national song that has stirred passions and political controversies for more than a century, received legal protection on Thursday with Parliament passing a bill making any insult to it a punishable offence, rekindling the long-running debate over its place in India's history and identity.

Rahul, Priyanka, Akhilesh detained after protest outside PM's residence

Rahul, Priyanka, Akhilesh detained after protest outside PM's residence

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, along with Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, were forcibly removed and detained by Delhi Police during a protest outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence, demanding justice for students protesting the NEET paper leak and condemning alleged police brutalities.

Will get back to you, says govt as CJP insists on Pradhan's resignation

Will get back to you, says govt as CJP insists on Pradhan's resignation

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Amidst escalating protests over the NEET paper leak, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has declared Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation 'non-negotiable' and is also demanding 1 crore compensation for families affected by suicides linked to the exam cancellation.

Second DMK MLA arrested for defamatory speech against Vijay

Second DMK MLA arrested for defamatory speech against Vijay

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

DMK MLA G V Markandeyan was arrested for allegedly making defamatory remarks and threatening Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, leading to strong condemnation from DMK president M K Stalin, who accused the ruling TVK of political vendetta.

Stone-pelting at Jantar Mantar after Pradhan resigns, cops injured

Stone-pelting at Jantar Mantar after Pradhan resigns, cops injured

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

A protest at Jantar Mantar escalated into violence after Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation announcement, leading to three police officers, including a special commissioner, sustaining injuries from stone-pelting. Security forces responded with tear gas and a mild lathicharge to control the situation. An investigation is underway, and Delhi Police have registered 15 FIRs, with over 200 police personnel and 65 protesters reportedly injured in ongoing demonstrations.

Pradhan hits back at Rahul over NEET, says govt ready for Parliament debate

Pradhan hits back at Rahul over NEET, says govt ready for Parliament debate

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan criticised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for staging a protest outside the Prime Minister's residence regarding the NEET paper-leak issue. Pradhan accused Gandhi of using students as "political tools" to disrupt Parliament, while asserting the government's commitment to discussing NEET concerns in the House. The incident involved Gandhi and other opposition leaders being detained after refusing to end their sit-in.

How Sharmila Dhankar Overcame Adversity To Win India's First Para-Athletics Gold In 20 Years

How Sharmila Dhankar Overcame Adversity To Win India's First Para-Athletics Gold In 20 Years

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Sharmila Dhankar, overcoming polio and an abusive marriage, made history by winning India's first para-athletics gold medal in 20 years at the Commonwealth Games in the women's shot put F57 event. Her compatriot Shilpa Shyla also secured a bronze after a protest. Dhankar's inspiring journey from Haryana to international success, supported by her family and second husband, highlights her remarkable resilience and dedication to para-athletics.

Bill to expedite paper leak trials to be tabled in Parliament

Bill to expedite paper leak trials to be tabled in Parliament

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

India is set to introduce a new amendment to its anti-paper leak law in the Lok Sabha, aiming to establish fast-track courts across all states and union territories for swift trials and significantly harsher penalties for exam malpractices, including jail terms of 5 to 10 years and fines up to Rs 50 lakh for individuals, and up to Rs 10 crore for organised crimes.

Kerala Police Meet Ramesh Chennithala Amid Home Minister Speculation

Kerala Police Meet Ramesh Chennithala Amid Home Minister Speculation

Rediff.com17 May 2026

Top Kerala police officers met with Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala amid speculation he will be the next Home Minister, discussing security for the swearing-in ceremony.

Vijay expands cabinet, Cong ministers join TN govt

Vijay expands cabinet, Cong ministers join TN govt

Rediff.com21 May 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay expanded his Cabinet, inducting 23 more legislators as ministers, including two from the Congress party, marking their return to governance in the state after nearly 60 years.

Dharmendra Pradhan resigns after days of widespread protests

Dharmendra Pradhan resigns after days of widespread protests

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has resigned from his post amidst widespread nationwide protests concerning the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak controversy, citing the larger interest of students and the need to prevent exploitation by anti-national forces. The government is also preparing to introduce a stringent anti-paper leak law.

CJP ends 36-day protest after govt accepts all demands

CJP ends 36-day protest after govt accepts all demands

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has called off its 36-day agitation following the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who stepped down amidst widespread protests over irregularities in the exam system and the NEET paper leak. The government also agreed to the CJP's demands for 1 crore compensation to families of students who died by suicide and no action against protesters.

152 exam paper leaks in 10 years, zero conviction: Rahul Gandhi

152 exam paper leaks in 10 years, zero conviction: Rahul Gandhi

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has accused the Modi government of 'destroying' India's education system, expressing full support for protesting students and their demands, including the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and an apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Can E20 Janta Party be the next big digital movement?

Can E20 Janta Party be the next big digital movement?

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

A new digital political phenomenon, the 'E20 Janta Party', is gaining traction on Instagram, mobilising Gen Z against the government's mandatory 20% ethanol-blended petrol (E20) and demanding Union Minister Nitin Gadkari's resignation.

India's Nuclear Mission Gains Major Momentum

India's Nuclear Mission Gains Major Momentum

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

The government introduced the SHANTI Act, 2025, to support the mission and open the sector to private participation.

Mamata reaches out to Cong, CPI-M for anti-BJP front

Mamata reaches out to Cong, CPI-M for anti-BJP front

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee has urged the Congress and CPI(M) to set aside their differences and unite under the INDIA bloc to fight the BJP in West Bengal. This marks a significant shift in the TMC's stance, which has historically been a bitter rival to the Congress and Left in the state.

Prashant Kishore claims aides detained ahead of Bankipur bypoll

Prashant Kishore claims aides detained ahead of Bankipur bypoll

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Jan Suraaj founder Prashant Kishore has accused the ruling BJP and the state government of using police to harass his party workers, alleging that over 16 leaders were detained ahead of the Bankipur Assembly by-election. Despite the alleged intimidation, Kishore expressed "200 per cent" confidence in his victory.

DMK MP Kanimozhi Slams State Over Law And Order After Minor Girl Assaulted In Tiruchy

DMK MP Kanimozhi Slams State Over Law And Order After Minor Girl Assaulted In Tiruchy

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

A 43-year-old man has been arrested under the POCSO Act in Tiruchirapalli after a 14-year-old girl was found unconscious following an alleged abduction and sexual assault. The incident has sparked protests and drawn sharp criticism from DMK MP Kanimozhi regarding the state's law and order situation and women's safety.

Maharashtra waives off Rs 48,000 crore of farmers' power dues

Maharashtra waives off Rs 48,000 crore of farmers' power dues

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced a significant waiver of approximately Rs 48,000 crore in pending electricity dues for farmers, aiming to facilitate new agricultural power connections and support the state's agricultural sector.

'Argentina is in the heart. Argentina in the final': Kerala's Leaders Enjoy FIFA World Cup

'Argentina is in the heart. Argentina in the final': Kerala's Leaders Enjoy FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Ministers and political leaders in Kerala are openly expressing their excitement and support for their favourite teams, particularly Argentina, ahead of the FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina.

Karnataka Backs Pole Vault Star Sindhushree Ganesh For Asian Games

Karnataka Backs Pole Vault Star Sindhushree Ganesh For Asian Games

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara has provided international-standard pole vaulting equipment and financial aid to Sindhushree Ganesh, who will represent India at the Asian Games. Sindhushree, from an underprivileged background, has overcome challenges to achieve national recognition in pole vault, fulfilling her late father's dream.

Andy Burnham takes charge as UK PM, promises 'circuit breaker' for Britain

Andy Burnham takes charge as UK PM, promises 'circuit breaker' for Britain

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Andy Burnham has officially taken office as the new UK Prime Minister, pledging to make politics more about problem-solving and usher in a 'circuit breaker' moment for the country with significant political and economic changes.

Why Malaysia Is Winning Indian Tourists

Why Malaysia Is Winning Indian Tourists

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Go once. You will know, even before you board the flight home, that you will return.

Won't spare those...: Modi's message to youth amid protests

Won't spare those...: Modi's message to youth amid protests

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced stringent measures, including the establishment of fast-track courts, to combat exam paper leaks and protect the future of India's youth, following widespread protests over the NEET paper leak.

Sachin Tendulkar supports student protests against exam leaks

Sachin Tendulkar supports student protests against exam leaks

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar has publicly supported students protesting against repeated exam paper leaks, emphasising the importance of meritocracy and condemning shortcuts. The ongoing protests, which have seen violent clashes, are spearheaded by the Cockroach Janata Party and Sonam Wangchuk, demanding the removal of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan following the NEET paper leaks and subsequent student suicides.

Mumbai cop manhandles woman protester, police defends

Mumbai cop manhandles woman protester, police defends

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

A viral video shows a plainclothes policeman allegedly manhandling a woman protester during a NEET paper leak demonstration in Mumbai.