News for 'Minister of State'

FIFA's $20 Billion Subsidiary Plan for World Cup Draws UEFA's Fury

FIFA's $20 Billion Subsidiary Plan for World Cup Draws UEFA's Fury

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

FIFA plans to create a $20 billion subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), to manage the World Cup and other events, offering up to 20% stakes to external investors, a move that has drawn fierce criticism from UEFA, who accused the governing body of putting the game's 'soul' up for sale.

Jana Nayagan Review: Mass-y For Fans, Messy For Others

Jana Nayagan Review: Mass-y For Fans, Messy For Others

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

C Joseph Vijay's Jana Nayagan is not just a film but a potent political statement, strategically crafted to align with his political aspirations and claim the legacy of M G Ramachandran, notes Saisuresh Sivaswamy.

20% too much, we'll be fair: Iran mocks Trump over Hormuz claim

20% too much, we'll be fair: Iran mocks Trump over Hormuz claim

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi mocked US President Donald Trump's claim of the US being the 'guardian' of the Strait of Hormuz, asserting that Iran has always been and will remain the sole guardian, while also suggesting that any entity providing security should be compensated, though Trump's proposed '20 per cent' levy is 'too much'.

India's first hydrogen train set for commercial debut soon

India's first hydrogen train set for commercial debut soon

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

The Northern Railway is expected to soon announce the date for the commencement of commercial operations of the country's first hydrogen-powered train after Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated it on the Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana on Friday.

Jana Nayagan Piracy: '400 Cr Film Can't Leak'

Jana Nayagan Piracy: '400 Cr Film Can't Leak'

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Director H Vinoth has finally broken his silence on the controversies surrounding Jana Nayagan, addressing allegations of the film's leak and the Censor Board's role in its delayed release, while also defending actor-politician Vijay's decision to remain silent.

MP's Hindu-inclusive Waqf Board sparks political row; Cong moves SC

MP's Hindu-inclusive Waqf Board sparks political row; Cong moves SC

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Congress leaders on Monday termed the reorganisation of the Madhya Pradesh Waqf Board with the inclusion of two Hindu members as "inappropriate" and said they would challenge the decision in the Supreme Court.

Kerala Minister Orders Probe Into Abuse Claims Against Accused In Toddler Death Case

Kerala Minister Orders Probe Into Abuse Claims Against Accused In Toddler Death Case

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Kerala Minister Bindu Krishna has ordered a comprehensive investigation into allegations against Ashkar, arrested in connection with the death of a toddler, following claims of abuse by his first wife's family. The investigation was launched after a post-mortem examination revealed multiple injuries on the child's body, indicating severe physical abuse.

Mandaviya Announces Telangana As Host For Khelo India Youth Games

Mandaviya Announces Telangana As Host For Khelo India Youth Games

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced that Telangana will host the 2026 Khelo India Youth Games, expected to take place in November, continuing the vision to spread national events across India.

'Dipke not detained:' Delhi police deny CJP claims

'Dipke not detained:' Delhi police deny CJP claims

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), which on Monday attempted to march to Parliament to register its protest on the NEET exam leak, said that its founder Abhijeet Dipke had been "picked up" by Delhi Police as protests intensified.

Sonam Wangchuk being given required treatment: Hospital

Sonam Wangchuk being given required treatment: Hospital

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

Activist Sonam Wangchuk is receiving medical intervention at Safdarjung Hospital in New Delhi, where his condition is being closely monitored by a team of experts. He was forcibly taken to the hospital on the 21st day of his indefinite hunger strike, which he began on June 28 to protest alleged irregularities in the NEET examination and demand the Union Education Minister's resignation. Despite stable vital parameters, his blood parameters remain altered due to prolonged fasting, necessitating continuous medical care.

Pvt sector enters India's critical minerals race with Indonesia deal

Pvt sector enters India's critical minerals race with Indonesia deal

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Hyderabad-based Midwest Ltd has become the first Indian private company to secure overseas critical mineral mines, sealing a deal with Indonesia's state-run PT Perusahaan Mineral Nasional (PERMINAS) to ensure a long-term supply of rare earths.

Bengal govt can now detain suspects without trial, raze rioters' properties

Bengal govt can now detain suspects without trial, raze rioters' properties

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

West Bengal has enacted two controversial legislations, the Public Safety and Control of Anti-Social Activities Act and the Maintenance of Public Order (Amendment) Act, aimed at curbing organised crime and violent protests. These laws grant authorities significant powers, including preventive detention without trial and property attachment for riot damages, drawing both support and criticism.

Bollywood Bats For Youth: 'Our Students Need Hugs, Not Batons'

Bollywood Bats For Youth: 'Our Students Need Hugs, Not Batons'

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

'This is not the first time this government has show us the 'darkest day of democracy''

Why Bangladesh Matters For India's Future

Why Bangladesh Matters For India's Future

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

For India, the guiding principle should remain clear: Engage Bangladesh as a sovereign nation and society rather than through the prism of any individual leader or political party, suggests Manoj Mohanka.

Hockey legend KD Singh Babu's ancestral home triggers UP political slugfest

Hockey legend KD Singh Babu's ancestral home triggers UP political slugfest

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday accused the Samajwadi Party of allowing the ancestral house of eminent hockey player KD Singh 'Babu' in Barabanki to go on sale, asserting that his government intervened to prevent it.

'1,000 missiles locked and loaded': Trump's big warning to Iran

'1,000 missiles locked and loaded': Trump's big warning to Iran

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Donald Trump has issued a severe warning to Iran, threatening 'decimation' with '1,000 missiles' if the nation pursues alleged assassination plots against him, while Iranian officials accuse the US of violating a MoU amidst ongoing diplomatic talks.

NEET Protest: Jantar Mantar turns community kitchen, food becomes symbol of solidarity

NEET Protest: Jantar Mantar turns community kitchen, food becomes symbol of solidarity

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

At Jantar Mantar, where students are protesting the NEET paper 'leak' and demanding the Education Minister's resignation, volunteers have transformed the site into a community kitchen, providing a steady supply of food and refreshments as a powerful expression of solidarity.

Bengal Minister Promises Action Against Food Department Corruption

Bengal Minister Promises Action Against Food Department Corruption

Rediff.com12 May 2026

West Bengal Food and Supplies Minister Ashok Kirtania has warned of strict action against corruption in the department, echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's slogan 'Na khaunga, na khane dunga'. He promised to act against those involved in irregularities during the previous regime, particularly concerning the public distribution system and ration distribution.

81 lakh women removed from Maharashtra's Ladki Bahin scheme

81 lakh women removed from Maharashtra's Ladki Bahin scheme

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Maharashtra's Ladki Bahin Yojana has seen 81 lakh registered beneficiaries removed following a multi-month e-KYC verification drive, with the state's Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare clarifying the process was mandatory to filter out ineligible individuals, income-tax payers, and government employee families.

Olympic Gold Medallist Abhinav Bindra Calls For Education Reform Amid NEET Row

Olympic Gold Medallist Abhinav Bindra Calls For Education Reform Amid NEET Row

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra and Grandmaster Nihal Sarin have voiced concerns over the ongoing NEET exam irregularities and student suicides. Bindra called for a transparent and merit-based education system, while Sarin highlighted the immense pressure students face. The protests, supported by activist Sonam Wangchuk, have seen students attempting to march to Parliament.

Ram Temple theft hurts devotees, says Shinde; targets Uddhav on Siddhivinayak

Ram Temple theft hurts devotees, says Shinde; targets Uddhav on Siddhivinayak

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Maharashtra deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Friday said the alleged embezzlement of donations to the Ram Temple at Ayodhya has pained devotees, but stressed strict action will be taken against those found guilty in the case.

BRS MLA's Vehicle Vandalised After Remarks Against Union Minister

BRS MLA's Vehicle Vandalised After Remarks Against Union Minister

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Tension arose in Karimnagar after BJP workers allegedly vandalised a BRS MLA's vehicle following remarks against Union Minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar.

Two Assam Rifles jawans killed, many hurt in Manipur militant ambush

Two Assam Rifles jawans killed, many hurt in Manipur militant ambush

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Two Assam Rifles soldiers were killed and several others injured in a militant ambush in Manipur's Ukhrul district. The attack occurred amidst ongoing ethnic violence in the state, which has seen over 260 deaths since May 2023. State Home Minister condemned the incident and vowed strict action against perpetrators.

Guwahati Restaurants To Stay Open Late For FIFA World Cup Matches

Guwahati Restaurants To Stay Open Late For FIFA World Cup Matches

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

The Assam government has permitted restaurants in Guwahati to remain open until 3:30 am on specific dates, including July 15, 16, 19, and 20, to allow football enthusiasts to watch the FIFA World Cup semi-finals and final. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced this decision, encouraging responsible enjoyment of the matches, while also allowing other districts to follow suit based on public demand and restaurant associations' requests.

BJP slaps Rs 100 cr defamation notice on Omar Abdullah

BJP slaps Rs 100 cr defamation notice on Omar Abdullah

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The Jammu and Kashmir unit of the BJP has served a legal notice to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, demanding a retraction and public apology for his allegations that the BJP attempted to bribe National Conference legislators to destabilise his government. The BJP has called the claims "false, baseless and defamatory" and warned of civil and criminal proceedings, including a Rs 100 crore defamation suit, if their demands are not met within seven days.

How BJP Plans To Scuttle Prashant Kishor's Bankipur Campaign

How BJP Plans To Scuttle Prashant Kishor's Bankipur Campaign

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

'It is a well calculated strategy of the BJP to hit the JSP and widely propagate that leaders have been leaving PK sensing his defeat in the bypoll.'

Delhi High Court Ruling Paves Way For YFI Recognition

Delhi High Court Ruling Paves Way For YFI Recognition

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

The Yoga Federation of India (YFI) announced its intention to seek recognition from the Sports Ministry and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) following a Delhi High Court decision. The court set aside Yogasana Bharat's national federation status, mandating a fresh affiliation process. YFI plans to meet with IOA President P T Usha and Union Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya to present its vision for Yogasana development.

Govt to introduce Bill making insult to 'Vande Mataram' a criminal offence

Govt to introduce Bill making insult to 'Vande Mataram' a criminal offence

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

The Indian government plans to introduce a bill in the Rajya Sabha to make obstruction or insult to the national song 'Vande Mataram' a criminal offence. This amendment to the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, aims to grant 'Vande Mataram' the same statutory protection as the national anthem, 'Jana Gana Mana', with penalties up to three years' imprisonment.

Hyderabad teacher booked for giving 'Islamic homework' to Hindu student

Hyderabad teacher booked for giving 'Islamic homework' to Hindu student

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

An FIR has been registered against a teacher and others at a private school in Hyderabad after a Hindu student was allegedly assigned "Islamic religious practices" as homework. The incident sparked outrage from political and religious groups, leading to the teacher's termination.

When Manmohan Singh told then CEC: 'I will commit suicide'

When Manmohan Singh told then CEC: 'I will commit suicide'

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh once told then Chief Election Commissioner SY Quraishi in 2012, "I will commit suicide," expressing his deep anguish over ministers' "loose talk" criticising the Election Commission's functioning, a revelation made in Quraishi's upcoming book.

Mamata spends all night at Martyrs Day rally venue to prevent 'BJP-backed miscreants'

Mamata spends all night at Martyrs Day rally venue to prevent 'BJP-backed miscreants'

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

West Bengal's annual July 21 Martyrs' Day observance has transformed into an unprecedented political contest, with three rival camps - Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress, a breakaway TMC faction, and the Congress - holding parallel programmes in central Kolkata, each vying for legacy and organisational strength.

Monsoon session: Controversial bills, NEET Leak, Ram temple row set to dominate

Monsoon session: Controversial bills, NEET Leak, Ram temple row set to dominate

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

The Indian government and opposition are preparing for a contentious Monsoon Session of Parliament, with key issues including the Constitution Amendment Bill on delimitation and women's reservation, the alleged NEET paper leak, and a row over Ram temple donations set to spark heated debates.

I-T portal 'largely stable' despite peak load, Infosys penalised for delays

I-T portal 'largely stable' despite peak load, Infosys penalised for delays

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

The Indian government has informed the Lok Sabha that the income-tax return (ITR) e-filing portal is functioning in a 'largely stable and efficient manner' despite a significant increase in traffic during the peak filing season. However, it acknowledged transient technical issues and disclosed that contractual penalties have been imposed on Infosys for project delays and service-level agreement failures.

Tamil Nadu Cabinet: Criminal Cases Against 50% Of Ministers

Tamil Nadu Cabinet: Criminal Cases Against 50% Of Ministers

Rediff.com12 May 2026

A report by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) reveals that half of the newly appointed Tamil Nadu Cabinet ministers have criminal cases against them, while 20 per cent possess assets exceeding Rs 100 crore.

Maharashtra to make domicile must for driving licence from Aug 1

Maharashtra to make domicile must for driving licence from Aug 1

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Maharashtra plans new policy to make domicile certificate mandatory for driving licence from August 2026, alongside efforts to regulate bike taxi services for revenue and job creation.

No Minority Consolidation Against LDF, Says Kerala Minister

No Minority Consolidation Against LDF, Says Kerala Minister

Rediff.com3 May 2026

Kerala Industries Minister P Rajeev dismisses claims of minority consolidation against the ruling LDF in the Assembly polls, stating minorities have no grievances and trust the Left's stance against the Centre.

Key Aide Of Former Minister Arrested In Rajasthan Scam

Key Aide Of Former Minister Arrested In Rajasthan Scam

Rediff.com11 May 2026

Sanjay Badaya, a close aide of former Rajasthan minister Mahesh Joshi, has been arrested in connection with the alleged Rs 960-crore Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) scam.

CJP protest: Teen receives pellet injuries, may lose sight in one eye

CJP protest: Teen receives pellet injuries, may lose sight in one eye

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

The first thought Ajay Duggal had when he saw his nephew, his eyes shut, his face, neck and chest pockmarked with tiny red perforations, was this: "What if the 19-year-old loses his sight completely." Sahil Lochab was allegedly hit by a pellet gun in his right eye during the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest in Delhi on June 20. His uncle asked him what he could see from the eye. The reply chilled him - there was nothing. No blur, no haze, only darkness.

Denied ticket, BJP leader's 3000 supporters clash with police in MP

Denied ticket, BJP leader's 3000 supporters clash with police in MP

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Supporters of senior BJP leader Narottam Mishra clashed with police and blocked a national highway in Madhya Pradesh's Datia district after Mishra was denied a ticket for the July 30 assembly by-election, leading to injuries among police personnel and arrests.

Maha rains: 13 dead in 4 days; rain to continue till July 8

Maha rains: 13 dead in 4 days; rain to continue till July 8

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has warned of a possible cloudburst-like spell in Nashik on Tuesday and stated that the state machinery is on high alert, with heavy rains expected to continue until July 8. Citizens are urged to avoid unnecessary travel as authorities manage landslides, swollen rivers, and rescue operations.