News for 'Minister of State'

In a 1st, 'Vande Mataram' to be sung at Red Fort on I-Day

In a 1st, 'Vande Mataram' to be sung at Red Fort on I-Day

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

For the first time in history, the national song 'Vande Mataram' will be sung at the Red Fort during Independence Day celebrations on August 15.

Now, CJP backs Jharkhand students protesting JPSC exam irregularities

Now, CJP backs Jharkhand students protesting JPSC exam irregularities

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party has extended its support to students protesting in Jharkhand over alleged irregularities in JPSC, JSSC CGL, and various other competitive exams.

Digital Marketplace To Empower Jharkhand's Rural Women

Digital Marketplace To Empower Jharkhand's Rural Women

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Jharkhand has partnered with CSC eStore to create a digital marketplace for products made by women's self-help groups (SHGs). This initiative aims to expand market access, boost income for rural women, and strengthen the rural economy through e-commerce and digital governance. The state also plans to extend Aadhaar services to all panchayats by November 15.

Tollygunge Extortion Racket: Former Minister's Brother Arrested

Tollygunge Extortion Racket: Former Minister's Brother Arrested

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Swarup Biswas, brother of former West Bengal sports minister Arup Biswas, has been arrested in connection with an alleged extortion racket targeting the Tollygunge film and television industry. The arrest followed a complaint from a makeup artist who was allegedly asked for money for employment and threatened. Police are investigating multiple allegations of extortion and criminal intimidation, with protests erupting outside the police station following his arrest.

Tollygunge Extortion Racket: Former Minister's Brother Arrested

Tollygunge Extortion Racket: Former Minister's Brother Arrested

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Swarup Biswas, brother of former West Bengal sports minister Arup Biswas, has been arrested in connection with an alleged extortion racket targeting the Tollygunge film and television industry. The arrest followed a complaint from a makeup artist who was allegedly asked for money for employment and threatened. Police are investigating multiple allegations of extortion and criminal intimidation, with protests erupting outside the police station following his arrest.

Former deputy speaker of Bengal found hanging at Trinamool office

Former deputy speaker of Bengal found hanging at Trinamool office

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

Police are investigating the mysterious death of Asish Banerjee, former deputy speaker of the West Bengal Assembly and a prominent TMC leader, who was found hanging in a party office with a purported suicide note expressing regret over entering politics and denying corruption.

From Maoist Camps To The Fashion Ramp

From Maoist Camps To The Fashion Ramp

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

From guns to handlooms. From forest trails to a public runway. Women who had once been associated with that conflict walked into the spotlight wearing Bastar's traditional textiles.

TVK's maiden budget fulfils Vijay's poll promises with gold, cows

TVK's maiden budget fulfils Vijay's poll promises with gold, cows

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay-led Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam government on Wednesday allotted over Rs 1,000 crore to provide gifts of gold coin, ring and milch cows to beneficiaries to fulfill the election promise made by the party ahead of the assembly election this year.

Two shot dead in attack on Naga village in Manipur's Kangpokpi

Two shot dead in attack on Naga village in Manipur's Kangpokpi

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Two people were killed and two others injured after gunmen attacked a village in Manipur's Kangpokpi district on Friday, the police said.

Chinese incursion in Taksin? Arunachal CM says he will verify claim

Chinese incursion in Taksin? Arunachal CM says he will verify claim

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has stated his government will verify reports of alleged Chinese incursions in the Taksing sector of Upper Subansiri district. The claims, made by the Nah Welfare Society, suggest Chinese PLA personnel entered areas near villages close to the Line of Actual Control. Khandu plans to consult with the Indian Army and local bodies before drawing conclusions, while the Army previously rejected similar allegations from the NWS.

'Jan shakti' will drag him out over student crackdown: Kharge slams Shah

'Jan shakti' will drag him out over student crackdown: Kharge slams Shah

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Holding Home Minister Amit Shah responsible for alleged police brutalities on protesting students, Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday said that "Jan Shakti" (people's power) will "drag him out" one day to make him accountable.

BJP should heed 'godfather' Bhagwat's advice on Gen Z: Dipke

BJP should heed 'godfather' Bhagwat's advice on Gen Z: Dipke

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Abhijeet Dipke, convener of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), has urged the BJP to align with RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's stance on Gen Z protests, particularly regarding NEET examination irregularities, and to refrain from labelling protesting youth as 'anti-national'.

How much did Modi's 23 foreign trips in 2025 cost? Here's the breakdown

How much did Modi's 23 foreign trips in 2025 cost? Here's the breakdown

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Over Rs 180 crore was incurred on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to 23 countries including the US, the UK, France, China and Japan in 2025, according to data shared by the government.

CM Shivakumar Hails Shilpa K Shyla's Commonwealth Games Bronze

CM Shivakumar Hails Shilpa K Shyla's Commonwealth Games Bronze

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar congratulated para-athlete Shilpa K Shyla for winning a bronze medal in Shot Put at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, highlighting her achievement as a source of pride and inspiration for the state and nation.

Kerala Minister Alleges Conspiracy Behind ED Office Attack

Kerala Minister Alleges Conspiracy Behind ED Office Attack

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala has alleged that the violent attack on Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials' vehicles was a conspiracy by the CPI(M) to disrupt law and order. The ED raids were linked to financial dealings between former CM Pinarayi Vijayan's daughter's firm and a sand mining company.

CJP launches 'School Thik Karo' campaign, demands private school fee cap

CJP launches 'School Thik Karo' campaign, demands private school fee cap

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Abhijeet Dipke, convenor of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), has initiated the 'School Thik Karo' campaign from his native village in Hingoli, Maharashtra, to address the alleged neglect of government schools and advocate for a fee cap on private educational institutions.

Tamil Nadu moves SC over Cauvery water share by Karnataka

Tamil Nadu moves SC over Cauvery water share by Karnataka

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

The Tamil Nadu government has filed a petition in the Supreme Court regarding the Cauvery water dispute with Karnataka, alleging that the water quantum allocated by the CWRC and released by Karnataka is insufficient. The state seeks its due share of water, citing Karnataka's ample reservoir storage.

15 dead as rains pound Kerala, 7 missing

15 dead as rains pound Kerala, 7 missing

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan announced that the death toll from rain-related incidents has reached 15, with seven people still missing. He confirmed that the overall situation is under control, except for a few areas in Pathanamthitta, as the state intensifies rescue and relief operations. The CM detailed the deployment of rescue teams, functioning relief camps, and immediate compensation measures for victims and affected families, while also cautioning against rumours regarding dam water release.

Veteran educationist D Y Patil passes away at 92

Veteran educationist D Y Patil passes away at 92

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

The veteran leader founded several educational institutions in the state.

E20 petrol: Nitin Gadkari sues Meta, X, Google over 'defamatory' AI deepfakes

E20 petrol: Nitin Gadkari sues Meta, X, Google over 'defamatory' AI deepfakes

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has filed a civil suit against Meta, X Corp, Google LLC, and unknown persons in the Bombay High Court over "defamatory" deepfakes and AI-generated posts concerning the ethanol policy. The court will hear the matter on August 5, with Gadkari seeking a permanent injunction and immediate takedown of the fake content, which he claims has harmed his reputation.

Trump adopts 'low-key' approach towards Iran, no new strikes planned

Trump adopts 'low-key' approach towards Iran, no new strikes planned

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

US President Donald Trump stated that the United States is taking a "low-key" approach towards Iran, focusing on economic pressure rather than military action, amidst ongoing tensions over the Strait of Hormuz. Trump highlighted Iran's worsening economic situation and the impact of the US naval blockade, while negotiations for reopening the Strait remain stalled due to new conditions from Tehran.

Punjab Jails Minister Warns Of Strict Action Over Prison Lapses

Punjab Jails Minister Warns Of Strict Action Over Prison Lapses

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Punjab jails minister Dr Ravjot Singh has warned that jail superintendents and concerned officials will be held responsible for any violent incidents, security breaches, or administrative lapses within prisons, and will face strict disciplinary action.

Punjab Jails Minister Warns Of Strict Action Over Prison Lapses

Punjab Jails Minister Warns Of Strict Action Over Prison Lapses

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Punjab jails minister Dr Ravjot Singh has warned that jail superintendents and concerned officials will be held responsible for any violent incidents, security breaches, or administrative lapses within prisons, and will face strict disciplinary action.

Ex-Minister's Brother Swarup Biswas In Police Custody Over Extortion Racket

Ex-Minister's Brother Swarup Biswas In Police Custody Over Extortion Racket

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

Trinamool Congress leader Swarup Biswas, brother of former West Bengal Sports minister Aroop Biswas, has been remanded to police custody in Kolkata. He was arrested in connection with an alleged extortion racket operating in the Tollygunge film and television industry, facing charges of sexual harassment, extortion, and attempt to murder.

BJP plans action against rebels after Datia bypoll loss

BJP plans action against rebels after Datia bypoll loss

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

The Bharatiya Janata Party's decision to replace six-time MLA Narottam Mishra with a rookie candidate in the Datia Assembly bypoll in Madhya Pradesh led to a significant defeat, with the Congress retaining the seat. This loss is seen as a major setback for the BJP's image of discipline, with the party indicating possible disciplinary action against those who defied the central leadership's choice.

Karnataka Minister Nagendra Faces Charges In Funds Diversion Case

Karnataka Minister Nagendra Faces Charges In Funds Diversion Case

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

The CBI has filed three chargesheets against former Karnataka minister B Nagendra and his associate Nekkanti Nagaraj for allegedly diverting Rs 89 crore in state government funds intended for Scheduled Tribes.

Vijay government may privatise TN's liquor sales to curb graft

Vijay government may privatise TN's liquor sales to curb graft

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

An intensified DVAC probe into a multi-crore liquor scam, allegedly involving former DMK Minister V Senthil Balaji, has led to a suggestion to privatise retail liquor sales in Tamil Nadu. The investigation targets alleged collusion in TASMAC bar licences, transport tenders, and procurement, with the Madras High Court dismissing Balaji's anticipatory bail plea. The FIR details systemic corruption, significant revenue loss, and illicit fund generation, prompting political reactions.

When The 'Jackfruit King' Met PM Modi

When The 'Jackfruit King' Met PM Modi

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

'He wanted to know what products I'd brought along, so I showed him jackfruit flour, which research has linked to managing type 2 diabetes.' 'Then jackfruit seed flour, a strong source of protein that rural households have eaten for generations without it ever becoming a commercial product. I gave him ripe jackfruit chips too.'

Vance dials Modi day after Senate clears sanctions bill

Vance dials Modi day after Senate clears sanctions bill

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

US Vice President JD Vance and Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a phone call to discuss expanding the India-US comprehensive global strategic partnership, focusing on trade, defence, energy security, emerging technologies, and critical minerals. The discussion comes amidst rising tensions in West Asia and recent regional realignments, with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to strengthening cooperation.

CBI chargesheets 11, including 2 BJP workers, in Suvendu aide murder case

CBI chargesheets 11, including 2 BJP workers, in Suvendu aide murder case

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

The Central Bureau of Investigation has filed a charge sheet against 11 accused people, including two Bharatiya Janata Party workers, in connection with the killing of West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari's aide Chandranath Rath, officials said Thursday.

Kerala rains: 25 dead, over 18K evacuated; red alert in 8 districts

Kerala rains: 25 dead, over 18K evacuated; red alert in 8 districts

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

The heavy rains that have battered Kerala since August 1 have claimed 25 lives, left four people missing, injured 10 and damaged hundreds of properties, forcing thousands to seek shelter in relief camps, the state government said on Tuesday.

Suvendu Adhikari: From Mamata's Minister To West Bengal Chief Minister

Suvendu Adhikari: From Mamata's Minister To West Bengal Chief Minister

Rediff.com9 May 2026

In West Bengal's political circles, it was widely believed that after Mamata Banerjee, Suvendu Adhikhari was perhaps the only leader with a truly significant mass base of his own.

Jobs, Not Exams, Hold Key To Youth Anger

Jobs, Not Exams, Hold Key To Youth Anger

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

If the government wishes that protests like the one that took place at Jantar Mantar during the last few weeks should not recur, it must refocus its energies on jobs, not just the examination system, points out A K Bhattacharya.

Agitating J'khand job seekers form 11-member delegation for talks with govt

Agitating J'khand job seekers form 11-member delegation for talks with govt

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Students and job aspirants in Jharkhand, protesting alleged irregularities in recruitment exams, have formed an 11-member delegation to engage in talks with the state government. This decision follows Chief Minister Hemant Soren's offer for dialogue to resolve the ongoing impasse, which includes demands for exam cancellation, an independent probe, and comprehensive reforms in the JPSC and JSSC.

Premature life policy exits surpass maturity payouts

Premature life policy exits surpass maturity payouts

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Premature surrender and withdrawal of life insurance policies in India have surpassed maturity payouts over the past five years, indicating a growing trend of policyholders exiting long-term policies before their full tenure, according to data presented in the Lok Sabha.

Ink thrown at AISA chief Neha Bora during Ranchi exam protest

Ink thrown at AISA chief Neha Bora during Ranchi exam protest

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

All India Students' Association president Neha Bora was attacked with ink during a protest march in Ranchi against alleged irregularities in Jharkhand recruitment exams. The attacker, identified as Amarnath Pandey, accused her of being "anti-national" due to her support for Umar Khalid. Bora, who has previously faced police action during protests, remained defiant, alleging the incident was orchestrated by BJP-RSS to suppress student movements. The protests against exam irregularities have been ongoing for 14 days, with students demanding re-examination and dialogue with the government.

Will India Extradite Sheikh Hasina?

Will India Extradite Sheikh Hasina?

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

India's position appears to be anchored around three red lines: Hasina's safety and the guarantee of a fair trial; assurances that Bangladeshi territory will not be used for activities hostile to India; and the restoration of an inclusive democratic process in Bangladesh.

Bankura death: CJP gives Bengal govt 10-day ultimatum, threatens agitation

Bankura death: CJP gives Bengal govt 10-day ultimatum, threatens agitation

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

A leader of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on Monday gave the West Bengal government 10 days to arrest all those allegedly involved in the death of the father of a party volunteer in Bankura district and demanded a probe into the conduct of police personnel at the local police station.

Sarla Aviation Secures Design Organisation Approval For Indigenous Electric Air Taxis

Sarla Aviation Secures Design Organisation Approval For Indigenous Electric Air Taxis

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Bengaluru-based electric air taxi startup Sarla Aviation has received Design Organisation Approval (DOA) from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), a crucial step towards commercial production of its indigenous electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The company also inaugurated its new headquarters and announced partnerships, highlighting India's growing capabilities in advanced aerospace technology.

Noida airport waterlogging sparks row as BJP, SP clash over infra

Noida airport waterlogging sparks row as BJP, SP clash over infra

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Waterlogging at the newly-built Noida International Airport in Jewar after heavy rains has ignited a political dispute between the Samajwadi Party and the BJP government. While SP chief Akhilesh Yadav criticised the infrastructure, airport authorities stated the temporary water accumulation was cleared within 30 minutes without disrupting operations. BJP MLA Dhirendra Singh defended the development, accusing the opposition of politicising the issue.