News for 'Minister of State'

George Kurian, lone Christian face in Modi cabinet, resigns

George Kurian, lone Christian face in Modi cabinet, resigns

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs George Kurian has resigned from the council of ministers following the conclusion of his Rajya Sabha term. President Droupadi Murmu accepted his resignation, which was effective immediately.

Battle for 5 states: Big winners and losers

Battle for 5 states: Big winners and losers

Rediff.com5 May 2026

As results of the Assembly elections in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam and Puducherry are declared, here's how the big names fared.

Daycare abuse: Karnataka govt seeks explanation from IT firm

Daycare abuse: Karnataka govt seeks explanation from IT firm

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge has stated the state government's "zero tolerance" policy regarding the alleged abuse of toddlers at a Bengaluru daycare centre. An explanation has been sought from the company, and action will be taken based on the inquiry report. Five nannies have been arrested, and police are investigating the alleged physical and mental abuse.

Wayanad landslide toll rises to six; search on for two missing

Wayanad landslide toll rises to six; search on for two missing

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

The death toll from the Wayanad landslide has increased to six after three more bodies were recovered. The deceased include migrant workers from Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, and Bihar. Search operations are ongoing for two missing individuals, while several injured remain hospitalised.

'Not Sonam Wangchuk': Aamir Khan's '3 Idiots' remark sparks storm

'Not Sonam Wangchuk': Aamir Khan's '3 Idiots' remark sparks storm

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Aamir Khan's comments that his 3 Idiots character Phunsukh Wangdu was not based on Sonam Wangchuk has triggered reactions from politicians, activists and social media users, with some accusing the actor of distancing himself from the educationist, who is currently on a hunger strike.

Why Is The ED Raiding Punjab Minister Sanjeev Arora?

Why Is The ED Raiding Punjab Minister Sanjeev Arora?

Rediff.com9 May 2026

The Enforcement Directorate conducted fresh searches against Punjab industries minister Sanjeev Arora and others allegedly linked to him as part of a money laundering investigation.

IOA Unveils Official Kit For Commonwealth Games Athletes

IOA Unveils Official Kit For Commonwealth Games Athletes

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

The Indian Olympic Association hosted a grand send-off for the country's Commonwealth Games contingent, unveiling the official ceremonial and competition kit for athletes heading to Glasgow. Dignitaries including Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and IOA President PT Usha attended the event, expressing hopes for a successful campaign.

Cabinet reshuffle imminent; Pradhan, a few others likely to lose ministry

Cabinet reshuffle imminent; Pradhan, a few others likely to lose ministry

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

There are strong possibilities of some Union ministers being sent to take organisational roles in the BJP and party office-bearers being inducted into the Modi ministry.

Shri Ram Bhoomi Movie Gets Rolling

Shri Ram Bhoomi Movie Gets Rolling

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

'Our new film, Shri Ram Bhoomi, begins shooting today in Ayodhya. How can any new work begin without the blessings of Ram Lalla and Lord Hanuman?'

Congress leader seeks privilege move against Rajnath over Operation Sindoor casualties

Congress leader seeks privilege move against Rajnath over Operation Sindoor casualties

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Congress leader K C Venugopal has written to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, demanding privilege proceedings against Defence Minister Rajnath Singh for allegedly "misleading" Parliament regarding Indian soldier casualties post the Pahalgam terror attack and during Operation Sindoor.

15 Indian tourists killed as speedboat capsizes in Vietnam

15 Indian tourists killed as speedboat capsizes in Vietnam

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

The speedboat was carrying 32 Indian tourists and four crew members.

Punjab cop shifted as FBI probes transnational extortion racket

Punjab cop shifted as FBI probes transnational extortion racket

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

A Station House Officer (SHO) in Hoshiarpur, Punjab, has been shifted to Police Lines following a fact-finding inquiry initiated by Punjab Police. This action comes after news reports linked the officer to an extortion-related investigation by the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) under "Operation Hard Ball," targeting India-based organised crime syndicates. The US indictment alleges the officer's involvement in a $400,000 extortion scheme using false murder charges, drawing significant political criticism.

Maharashtra minister seeks probe into AIMIM's role in TCS case

Maharashtra minister seeks probe into AIMIM's role in TCS case

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Maharashtra minister Sanjay Shirsat has called for a police investigation into the alleged involvement of AIMIM and its ex-MP Imtiaz Jaleel in the Nashik TCS case, following the arrest of accused Nida Khan. Shirsat alleges AIMIM is encouraging religious conversions and that Khan is part of a larger network.

TN govt moves SC over reservation for converts to Islam

TN govt moves SC over reservation for converts to Islam

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

The Tamil Nadu government has appealed to the Supreme Court against a Madras High Court judgment. The High Court ruled that individuals converting to Islam cannot claim reservation under the Backward Class (Muslim) category solely based on conversion, striking down a state Government Order that allowed such benefits.

No trace of 6 fishermen days after boat capsize off Andhra coast

No trace of 6 fishermen days after boat capsize off Andhra coast

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

A lone fisherman survived after a fishing boat carrying seven capsizes off the Visakhapatnam coast; a passing ship saved him from certain death after the crew threw him a life jacket and pulled him on board.

Wayanad landslide: Missing construction manager's body recovered, toll rises to 8

Wayanad landslide: Missing construction manager's body recovered, toll rises to 8

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

The body of Vikram Rana, the last person missing after the July 7 landslide at the Anakkampoyil-Meppadi tunnel project site in Kalladi, Wayanad, Kerala, has been recovered. This brings the death toll to eight. A massive search operation involving multiple agencies led to the discovery of the construction manager's body, concluding the search efforts.

Why Is The ED Raiding Punjab Minister Sanjeev Arora?

Why Is The ED Raiding Punjab Minister Sanjeev Arora?

Rediff.com9 May 2026

The Enforcement Directorate conducted searches against Punjab industries minister Sanjeev Arora and others allegedly linked to him as part of a money laundering case investigation.

Bengal Minister Grilled In Civic Body Recruitment Scam Probe

Bengal Minister Grilled In Civic Body Recruitment Scam Probe

Rediff.com1 May 2026

West Bengal minister Sujit Bose was questioned by the Enforcement Directorate for nearly nine hours in connection with the alleged civic body recruitment scam.

Major Crackdown On Bishnoi Gang; 24 Arrested In US, Canada, Europe

Major Crackdown On Bishnoi Gang; 24 Arrested In US, Canada, Europe

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

A coordinated international operation, 'Operation Hard Ball', led to the arrest of 24 alleged members and associates of three India-based criminal syndicates, including the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, across the US, Canada, and Europe.

Does India Want To Repair Iran Relationship?

Does India Want To Repair Iran Relationship?

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

India is navigating a complex diplomatic landscape, attempting to balance its 'forever honeymoon' with the Israel-UAE-Bahrain axis against its historical ties with Iran, as evidenced by recent high-level visits and evolving geopolitical realignments in the Middle East, observes Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

Storm caused Jabalpur cruise boat tragedy: MP minister

Storm caused Jabalpur cruise boat tragedy: MP minister

Rediff.com2 May 2026

Madhya Pradesh tourism minister blames a sudden storm for the cruise boat tragedy in Jabalpur, raising questions about safety checks and vessel fitness.

Wayanad landslide: Families evacuated, search on for missing

Wayanad landslide: Families evacuated, search on for missing

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Following a landslide near the Kalladi tunnel project in Wayanad, Kerala, district authorities have begun evacuating families and intensified rescue operations to find seven missing persons. Heavy rains are complicating efforts, while project engineers clarify the landslide did not originate from the active construction zone.

EC to begin Phase 3 of SIR, to cover 22 states

EC to begin Phase 3 of SIR, to cover 22 states

Rediff.com11 May 2026

The Election Commission is preparing to launch the third phase of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voters' lists, potentially covering 22 states and Union Territories with approximately 40 crore electors.

India Launches AI Champions Programme For Digital Governance

India Launches AI Champions Programme For Digital Governance

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

A three-day 'AI Champions for Digital Governance' programme has commenced in New Delhi, hosted by ITDC, SCOPE, and LBSNAA. The initiative aims to train senior leadership and operational teams in applying artificial intelligence within public sector organisations, aligning with the IndiaAI Mission. Experts highlighted AI's role in improving efficiency, productivity, and public service delivery, while also emphasising responsible adoption and data quality. The programme seeks to build an AI-ready nation and contribute to India's vision of future-ready governance systems.

India Launches AI Champions Programme For Digital Governance

India Launches AI Champions Programme For Digital Governance

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

A three-day 'AI Champions for Digital Governance' programme has commenced in New Delhi, hosted by ITDC, SCOPE, and LBSNAA. The initiative aims to train senior leadership and operational teams in applying artificial intelligence within public sector organisations, aligning with the IndiaAI Mission. Experts highlighted AI's role in improving efficiency, productivity, and public service delivery, while also emphasising responsible adoption and data quality. The programme seeks to build an AI-ready nation and contribute to India's vision of future-ready governance systems.

Women Cash Schemes Boost Savings, Spending

Women Cash Schemes Boost Savings, Spending

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

15 states have rolled out unconditional cash transfer schemes for women, with an estimated annual outlay of around Rs 1.7 trillion covering nearly 120 million beneficiaries.

India playing 'big role' in addressing West Asia crisis: Trump

India playing 'big role' in addressing West Asia crisis: Trump

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

US President Donald Trump has lauded India as an 'essential partner' and 'trusted ally' in addressing regional challenges, particularly its 'big role' in West Asia peace efforts, following discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G7 Summit.

Monsoon advances across North India; 3 killed in Himachal

Monsoon advances across North India; 3 killed in Himachal

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

The southwest monsoon has advanced across northern Indian states, leading to widespread rainfall, waterlogging, road blockages, and rain-related deaths, particularly in Himachal Pradesh and Rajasthan. The Centre is monitoring the situation, especially concerning potential drought conditions in some areas due to the El Nino effect.

Marathi must for all commercial passenger vehicle drivers: Maha minister

Marathi must for all commercial passenger vehicle drivers: Maha minister

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has mandated that all commercial passenger vehicle drivers in the state must possess a working knowledge of Marathi, warning of strict action against those who refuse to comply.

'Engine of plunder': Cong targets MP CM over Ujjain land scam

'Engine of plunder': Cong targets MP CM over Ujjain land scam

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Madhya Pradesh BJP president Hemant Khandelwal has termed the land scam allegations against Yadav as "baseless", saying whenever the state has a CM from the backward class, the Congress attempts to weaken him.

What's Holding Up India-US Trade Deal?

What's Holding Up India-US Trade Deal?

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

India is waiting for assurance from the US on comparative advantage over other economies under the deal.

Why ED Is Raiding Punjab Minister Sanjeev Arora Again

Why ED Is Raiding Punjab Minister Sanjeev Arora Again

Rediff.com9 May 2026

The Enforcement Directorate conducted fresh searches against Punjab industries minister Sanjeev Arora and others allegedly linked to him as part of a money laundering investigation. Raids were carried out at multiple locations, including Arora's residence and business premises, following a new case registered under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

Nation Mourns Loss Of Shooting Icon Jaspal Rana

Nation Mourns Loss Of Shooting Icon Jaspal Rana

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami attended the 'terahvin' rituals of legendary shooter Jaspal Rana in Dehradun. Dignitaries paid their respects to the Padma Shri recipient, who passed away on June 11 due to cardiac complications. Rana, a celebrated pistol shooter and coach, was instrumental in guiding Manu Bhaker to Olympic success.

Kerala Minister Criticises Former Police Chiefs' Comments

Kerala Minister Criticises Former Police Chiefs' Comments

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

Kerala's General Education Minister V Sivankutty has criticised former DGPs R Sreelekha and T P Senkumar for their alleged adverse remarks against the police, questioning the timing and appropriateness of their statements.

Two Chinese ex-defence ministers sentenced to death for corruption

Two Chinese ex-defence ministers sentenced to death for corruption

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Two former Chinese defence ministers, Wei Fenghe and Li Shangfu, were sentenced to death with a two-year reprieve over graft charges, official media reported.

Telangana HC Denies Interim Protection To Union Minister's Son In POCSO Case

Telangana HC Denies Interim Protection To Union Minister's Son In POCSO Case

Rediff.com16 May 2026

The Telangana High Court has denied interim protection from arrest to Bageerath, son of Union Minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar, in a POCSO case. The court will issue orders on the anticipatory bail petition at a later date.

Vijay govt appoints film producer as Delhi representative

Vijay govt appoints film producer as Delhi representative

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

The Tamil Nadu government has appointed film producer K Venkata Narayana as the state's special representative to the government in New Delhi, evoking sharp criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party and other opposition parties on Friday.

How India Is Becoming A Global Hub For International Sporting Events

How India Is Becoming A Global Hub For International Sporting Events

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya highlighted India's growing global sporting stature, evidenced by the increasing number of international events the country is hosting. He announced that India is set to host 36 international events between January 2025 and June 2026, along with 9 events this year and 19 in 2027-2028. Mandaviya also spoke about government support for athletes, transparent selection processes for major events like the Commonwealth Games, and improved domestic athletic performances, citing 26 national records broken in Indian athletics recently.

India to supply BrahMos, Astra missiles to Indonesia; backs Indo-Pacific peace

India to supply BrahMos, Astra missiles to Indonesia; backs Indo-Pacific peace

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto have significantly advanced the India-Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, securing crucial agreements on defence, critical minerals, and maritime security, including BrahMos missile supply and Sabang port development.

Union Minister's Son Booked Under POCSO Act: What We Know

Union Minister's Son Booked Under POCSO Act: What We Know

Rediff.com9 May 2026

A case has been registered against the son of Union Minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar under the POCSO Act following allegations of sexual harassment of a minor girl. The accused has alleged extortion and criminal intimidation by the teen and her parents.