News for 'Ministry'

Five killed, 558 missing in flash floods in Tibet's Gyirong: China

Five killed, 558 missing in flash floods in Tibet's Gyirong: China

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Flash floods in Tibet's Gyirong County, near the China-Nepal border, have resulted in five deaths and 558 missing individuals, including 260 foreign nationals. The disaster also caused significant casualties in Nepal and disrupted infrastructure. Rescue operations are underway, and concerns are rising over a newly formed barrier lake that poses a risk of further flooding.

SCO approves anti-terror security centre after Modi's warning

SCO approves anti-terror security centre after Modi's warning

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

India has highlighted 13 key outcomes from the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, focusing on enhanced cooperation in security, counter-terrorism, and addressing transnational threats. These outcomes include the establishment of a Universal Centre for Countering Challenges and Threats to Security, a strong stance against state-sponsored terrorism, and agreements on narcotics control, climate change, and artificial intelligence, reinforcing India's engagement in the Eurasian region.

'No question on dy PM candidate Vijay': TN Cong min firm on Rahul as PM face

'No question on dy PM candidate Vijay': TN Cong min firm on Rahul as PM face

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

Tamil Nadu minister P Viswanathan on Friday said that Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, will be the prime ministerial candidate in the 2029 elections, while expressing confidence in the Congress' political position in the state.

NEET, UGC-NET fallout: NTA axes 50 staffers, begins leadership overhaul

NEET, UGC-NET fallout: NTA axes 50 staffers, begins leadership overhaul

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

The National Testing Agency (NTA) is undergoing significant reforms, including the removal of over 50 staff members and the onboarding of new leadership and domain specialists. This comes after recent issues like errors in UGC-NET papers, leading to re-tests, and the cancellation of NEET-UG 2026. The Education Ministry has directed a complete overhaul of exam protocols and a thorough audit of all processes to ensure integrity.

Footpaths for walking: SC asks states, UTs for update

Footpaths for walking: SC asks states, UTs for update

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has declared the right to walk on demarcated footpaths a fundamental right, directing all states and Union Territories to ensure proper, encroachment-free pedestrian spaces. The court emphasised that footpaths are integral to human life and safety, and states must respond to advisories issued by central ministries regarding their implementation.

Tenzing Norgay Awards 2024: Celebrating India's Adventure Heroes

Tenzing Norgay Awards 2024: Celebrating India's Adventure Heroes

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

Mountaineer Baljeet Kaur, known for scaling five 8000-metre peaks in a single season, is one of four recipients of the Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Awards for 2024. Other awardees include Skalzang Rigzin for land adventure, Rimo Saha for water adventure, and Shiv Prasad Chamoli for lifetime achievement, recognising their exceptional contributions to adventure sports in India.

Health Ministry: 42 Drug Samples Fail Quality Tests

Health Ministry: 42 Drug Samples Fail Quality Tests

Rediff.com21 May 2026

The central drugs laboratories found 42 drug samples manufactured by various firms to be "not of standard quality (NSQ)" in its monthly drug alert for April, Union health ministry officials said on Thursday. Further, the state drug testing laboratories have identified 127 drug samples as NSQ, they said.

Hindu Outfit's Visit Provokes Eiffel Staff Strike

Hindu Outfit's Visit Provokes Eiffel Staff Strike

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Eiffel Tower employees launched a strike, leading to the iconic landmark's closure, after allegations surfaced that female staff were asked to vacate their posts during a visit by the Hindu religious organisation BAPS.

X account suspended of outfit handling Mohan Bhagwat's NYC event

X account suspended of outfit handling Mohan Bhagwat's NYC event

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

A US Congress-constituted advisory body on religious freedom, the USCIRF, has urged the Trump administration to revoke the visa issued to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, citing concerns over alleged violent attacks against religious minorities by RSS subgroups.

China, US, India must compensate Nepal for flash floods: Khanal

China, US, India must compensate Nepal for flash floods: Khanal

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

Nepal has launched a diplomatic initiative to secure climate-related compensation from major greenhouse gas emitters, asserting that post-disaster assistance for recent deadly flash floods should be viewed as a moral and legal liability, not charity. Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal highlighted Nepal's disproportionate suffering from global warming despite negligible emissions, citing rapid glacier melt and extreme mountain disasters. The country has formally approached the Loss and Damage Fund board for urgent financial aid following a catastrophic flash flood in the Bhotekoshi river basin.

Doval in Beijing for talks amid border tensions, Xi visit uncertainty

Doval in Beijing for talks amid border tensions, Xi visit uncertainty

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

National security advisor Ajit Doval arrived in Beijing on Monday for a two-day visit to take part in the Special Representatives talks on the India-China boundary question with his Chinese counterpart and Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

FLY91's USD 1 Billion Aircraft Order To Boost Regional Connectivity

FLY91's USD 1 Billion Aircraft Order To Boost Regional Connectivity

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Regional Indian airline FLY91 has placed a significant order for 40 new ATR 72-600 turboprop aircraft, valued at nearly USD 1 billion. This marks the single largest order for ATR planes by a regional carrier globally and is set to dramatically expand FLY91's network, connecting more unserved and underserved cities across India. Deliveries are scheduled from late 2027 to 2032, supporting the airline's goal of operating over 60 aircraft.

Major Roster Changes For Indian Athletics Team At Asian Games

Major Roster Changes For Indian Athletics Team At Asian Games

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

The Indian athletics team for the upcoming Asian Games in Japan has undergone significant changes. Commonwealth Games medallist Yashvir Singh replaces an injured Neeraj Chopra, while long-distance runner Abhishek Pal has been dropped due to an alleged doping offence. Tejas Shirse is also out due to injury. The final team comprises 77 members, with six new additions. The Athletics Federation of India is aiming for 25-30 medals.

IOA, Sports Ministry Name Observers For Vinesh Phogat's Trial

IOA, Sports Ministry Name Observers For Vinesh Phogat's Trial

Rediff.com29 May 2026

Former footballer Aditi Chauhan and ex-hockey captain M M Somaiya will observe Vinesh Phogat's Asian Games trial, representing the IOA and Sports Ministry.

'India And China Have Arrived At A Nash Equilibrium'

'India And China Have Arrived At A Nash Equilibrium'

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

'The Chinese military cannot advance much in Ladakh, even if they want to.' 'Similarly, in Arunachal Pradesh, they can rename a village or two, intrude here or there, but cannot do much more realistically.'

Govt forms quick response teams to combat fake news on social media

Govt forms quick response teams to combat fake news on social media

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

Government departments are establishing Quick Response Teams (QRTs) to promptly address and counter misleading or fake content circulating on social media. These teams will monitor digital platforms, verify information, and coordinate with fact-checking units to ensure timely and accurate responses to misinformation, with some ministries already having formed their QRTs.

US C-17 military plane lands in Moscow amid airspace curbs, mission unclear

US C-17 military plane lands in Moscow amid airspace curbs, mission unclear

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

An American Boeing C-17A Globemaster III military transport aircraft reportedly landed in Moscow on Monday morning, according to online air traffic monitoring systems, Russian news agency TASS reported.

West Asia Crisis May Hit FY27 Fiscal Deficit

West Asia Crisis May Hit FY27 Fiscal Deficit

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

The fiscal consolidation path and Rs 1 trillion stabilisation fund provide room to absorb mild shocks, but sustained oil-price increases pose risks.

NIELIT To Establish Quantum And AI University In Amaravati

NIELIT To Establish Quantum And AI University In Amaravati

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has approved the establishment of India's first dedicated Quantum and AI University campus in Amaravati by NIELIT. This significant project, funded by the MeitY, Government of India, will focus on advanced technologies like Quantum, AI, and Semiconductors, integrating education, research, and entrepreneurship.

'I Have Come To Nepal To Find My Brother'

'I Have Come To Nepal To Find My Brother'

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

'We desperately want India to send the army as the evacuation process needs to be escalated immediately.'

Nepal floods: 275 Indians remain missing

Nepal floods: 275 Indians remain missing

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

The Ministry of External Affairs reported that 275 Indians remain missing following devastating flash floods along the Nepal-Tibet border, while 166 others have been rescued. India has supplied 95 tonnes of relief material and deployed 54 personnel, including rescue and forensic experts, to assist Nepal. The death toll in Nepal has reached 1,295, with thousands still missing, and significant infrastructure damage reported. India has also highlighted the need for developed countries to lead in climate change action.

Pickaxe Mountain next? Trump warns Iran nuclear site could be hit 'very soon'

Pickaxe Mountain next? Trump warns Iran nuclear site could be hit 'very soon'

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

US President Donald Trump on Friday (local time) said the United States could "hit" Iran's heavily fortified underground nuclear site known as Pickaxe Mountain "very soon", days after Washington targeted Iranian military targets.

Around 600 children missing in Nepal's 2 districts; toll rises to 1,295

Around 600 children missing in Nepal's 2 districts; toll rises to 1,295

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

Around 600 children are unaccounted for in Nepal's Rasuwa and Nuwakot districts following devastating flash floods, which have raised the death toll to 1,282 with over 4,700 people still missing.

Nepal flood toll reaches 939; over 10,000 rescued so far

Nepal flood toll reaches 939; over 10,000 rescued so far

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

The death toll from devastating flash floods in Nepal has tragically risen to 903, with 4,247 people still reported missing, including security personnel and foreigners. India has dispatched an 18-member team of forensic experts to assist with DNA analysis and identification of victims.

Nepal faces fresh threat as Bhotekoshi River swells

Nepal faces fresh threat as Bhotekoshi River swells

Rediff.com30 Aug 2026

The water levels in the Bhotekoshi River rose again on Sunday, days after a devastating flash flood struck Nepal, authorities warned, urging residents and rescue personnel in flood-hit districts to remain alert.

India rescues five-year-old kid among three more nationals in Nepal

India rescues five-year-old kid among three more nationals in Nepal

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

India has rescued three more nationals, including a child, from Nepal's flood-hit Trishuli Bazaar, bringing the total evacuees to 169, while 275 Indians remain missing. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that 1,907 Indians safely crossed into Nepal from China and India continues to provide extensive relief materials and expert teams to assist Nepal in its recovery efforts following the devastating flash floods.

National Table Tennis Championships Kicks Off Amidst TTFI Suspension

National Table Tennis Championships Kicks Off Amidst TTFI Suspension

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

The UTT National Ranking Table Tennis Championships has commenced in Kanpur, featuring 1900 players across 12 categories, including top senior athletes. The tournament proceeds despite the Sports Ministry's recent suspension of the Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) over election irregularities, with the TTFI asserting its autonomy.

Vizag airport closure: Delhi HC sends plea to Andhra HC

Vizag airport closure: Delhi HC sends plea to Andhra HC

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

The Delhi High Court has dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the closure of Visakhapatnam Airport for commercial flights, directing the petitioner to approach the Andhra Pradesh High Court instead. The court cited "forum non conveniens," stating that the primary impact and cause of action lie in Visakhapatnam, where a similar PIL is already pending. The petitioner argued that the decision to close the existing airport for 30 years, transferring operations to a new airport 60 km away, was arbitrary and wasted public funds.

84 Indians rescued in Nepal floods, search ops continue: MEA

84 Indians rescued in Nepal floods, search ops continue: MEA

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

The devastating flash floods wreaked havoc across Nepal, with the ministry of external affairs on Thursday stating that 84 Indian nationals have been rescued while 290 remain uncontactable as the Himalayan nation stepped up search, rescue and relief operations following the disaster that has claimed more than 390 lives.

Fresh flash flood threat in Nepal as Bhotekoshi water level rises

Fresh flash flood threat in Nepal as Bhotekoshi water level rises

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

A senior cryosphere specialist has warned of a potential secondary flash flood in Nepal due to debris from an ice-rock avalanche accumulating at a river confluence, creating a temporary dam that is collecting water.

No Khel Ratna for 2025; Tejaswin, Divya and Gayatri Gopichand among Arjuna awardees

No Khel Ratna for 2025; Tejaswin, Divya and Gayatri Gopichand among Arjuna awardees

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Seventeen Indian sportspersons, including World Cup winning chess player Divya Deshmukh, decathlete Tejaswin Shankar, and shuttler Gayatri Gopichand, have been named for the prestigious Arjuna Award for 2025.

India rejects US body's call for sanctions on RSS

India rejects US body's call for sanctions on RSS

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

India has strongly rejected remarks by the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) officials calling for sanctions against the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and advising against diplomatic courtesies for its leaders. The External Affairs Ministry spokesperson labelled USCIRF a "biased" organisation with its own agenda, lacking credibility.

SC junks PIL seeking mandatory ethanol labelling at petrol pumps

SC junks PIL seeking mandatory ethanol labelling at petrol pumps

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking mandatory and uniform labelling of ethanol percentage in petrol at fuel pumps. The petitioner, Narendra Kumar Goswami, was advised to approach the jurisdictional high court for relief, with the Attorney General arguing it was a proxy litigation.

Former India Coach Soumyadeep Roy Back For Asian Games After Tokyo Controversy

Former India Coach Soumyadeep Roy Back For Asian Games After Tokyo Controversy

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Former India international and coach Soumyadeep Roy is set to join the national table tennis squad for the upcoming Asian Games as a personal coach, five years after being embroiled in a match-fixing controversy at the Tokyo Olympics. Despite the past issues and the suspension of the TTFI, Roy aims to guide his players and contribute to India's medal prospects.

How Khelo India Is Shaping Future Shooting Champions

How Khelo India Is Shaping Future Shooting Champions

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Veteran skeet shooter Mairaj Ahmad Khan expresses strong optimism about the future of Indian shooting, attributing the potential rise to government-backed initiatives like Khelo India. He is preparing for his third Asian Games appearance and believes India will have the best team across all shooting disciplines in the next four years, thanks to enhanced grassroots development and support systems.

Nepal-Tibet floods: Toll surges to 392; 1,500 missing amid fresh threat

Nepal-Tibet floods: Toll surges to 392; 1,500 missing amid fresh threat

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Nepal is grappling with one of its worst disasters in recent years as massive flash floods, triggered by an ice avalanche, have claimed 270 lives and left thousands missing across multiple districts, prompting urgent rescue and relief operations.

Asim Munir Gives ISI's 'Dirty Harry' New Job

Asim Munir Gives ISI's 'Dirty Harry' New Job

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

Major General Faisal Naseer, infamously dubbed 'Dirty Harry' for his controversial tenure in the ISI, has been appointed national co-ordinator of Pakistan's National Counter-Terrorism Authority.

India Rejects Ruling On Indus Waters Treaty

India Rejects Ruling On Indus Waters Treaty

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

India said the Hague-based Court of Arbitration has no jurisdiction over its sovereign decisions on the Indus Waters Treaty.

How PhonePe's Data Platform Will Enhance National Planning

How PhonePe's Data Platform Will Enhance National Planning

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Fintech firm PhonePe has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to integrate its enterprise data intelligence platform, PulsePro, into the PM GatiShakti framework. This collaboration aims to provide granular, hyperlocal insights for national infrastructure planning, economic analysis, and holistic urban and rural development.

Swatantra Bhardwaj was invited to Modi's swearing-in, I-Day celebration

Swatantra Bhardwaj was invited to Modi's swearing-in, I-Day celebration

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

Hindutva influencer Swatantra Bhardwaj, known for provocative social media posts and claims of political proximity, has been detained in Bulandshahr. His detention follows a viral video where he boasted about assaulting a Jantar Mantar protester's father, leaving him with severe injuries, and claiming to have avoided jail due to political connections. Police acted after public outcry and protests.