News for 'Ministry'

OCI card to cost $275 as govt announces fresh fee structure

OCI card to cost $275 as govt announces fresh fee structure

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

The Indian government has revised the application fee for the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card and introduced changes to the application process, including abolishing the six-month continuous stay requirement.

Interpol Red Notice Gangster Sahil Chauhan Deported to India from Thailand

Interpol Red Notice Gangster Sahil Chauhan Deported to India from Thailand

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

Gangster Sahil Chauhan, wanted in multiple cases and subject to an Interpol Red Notice, has been deported from Thailand to India. He was apprehended in Bangkok and brought back to India, where he faces numerous criminal charges.

India blasts China's 'fake names' for Arunachal, warns of strain on ties

India blasts China's 'fake names' for Arunachal, warns of strain on ties

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

India has strongly criticised China's practice of assigning 'fictitious names' to areas within Indian territory, stating that such actions are futile attempts to alter reality and negatively impact efforts to normalise bilateral relations.

Setback for peace talks as Iranian FM leaves Pak, Trump cancels envoys' trip

Setback for peace talks as Iranian FM leaves Pak, Trump cancels envoys' trip

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

An Iranian delegation, led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, concluded high-level meetings in Islamabad, delivering an 'official list of demands' to Pakistani leaders for the US and Israel. This comes as President Trump cancelled his envoys' visit to Islamabad amid ongoing efforts to facilitate peace talks between Iran and the US.

Women's Group Demands Inquiry Into Cricketer Vaping Incident

Women's Group Demands Inquiry Into Cricketer Vaping Incident

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

A women's group has demanded an inquiry into visuals purportedly showing cricketer Riyan Parag using a vape-like device during an IPL match, questioning whether the incident was an attempt to normalise banned products.

Centre notifies Women's Reservation Act for J-K, other UTs

Centre notifies Women's Reservation Act for J-K, other UTs

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

The Centre has notified the implementation of the Women's Reservation Act 2023, providing a 33 per cent quota for women in legislatures, Jammu and Kashmir, and Union Territories, with the provisions set to come into force on April 17, 2026.

Why India Faces Stricter Doping Rules In Athletics

Why India Faces Stricter Doping Rules In Athletics

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) pledges to collaborate with NADA and the Sports Ministry to address doping concerns after the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) categorised India as a high-risk country for doping violations.

When US Presidents Abused India And/Or Indians!

When US Presidents Abused India And/Or Indians!

Rediff.com1 May 2026

If Trump doesn't like India, that is his choice. But to use such distasteful language on a public platform is deeply offensive and needs to be called out, points out Amberish K Diwanji.

Northern Borders 'Stable Yet Sensitive': Defence Ministry

Northern Borders 'Stable Yet Sensitive': Defence Ministry

Rediff.com3 Jan 2026

The deployment of the army in all sectors along the Line of Actual Control, the de facto border between India and China, is 'robust, well poised and prepared to deal with any emerging contingency'.

Blaze hits Raj HPCL refinery on eve of Modi launch, inauguration deferred

Blaze hits Raj HPCL refinery on eve of Modi launch, inauguration deferred

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

A major fire near the main unit of the newly built Rajasthan refinery of HPCL has postponed the inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The fire, which broke out near the crude distillation unit, was doused in about two hours with no reported casualties.

One Indian oil tanker crosses Hormuz, four others turn back

One Indian oil tanker crosses Hormuz, four others turn back

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

One Indian oil tanker successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz, while others turned back after Iran signalled the waterway's closure, amidst rising tensions and disruptions to global energy flows.

Arjun Singh and Aditya Singh secure India's first gold at US Open Pickleball Championship

Arjun Singh and Aditya Singh secure India's first gold at US Open Pickleball Championship

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

Arjun Singh and Aditya Singh won India's first gold medal at the US Open Pickleball Championship, defeating top seeds Ryder Brown and Soli Messiri in the U-18 boys' doubles category.

Amid US blockade of Hormuz, India emphasises safe maritime passage

Amid US blockade of Hormuz, India emphasises safe maritime passage

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has emphasised India's commitment to safe maritime transit and condemned attacks on merchant shipping amidst the ongoing West Asia conflict and global energy market disruptions.

Andhra Pradesh aims for Rs 50,000 crore investment in rare earth corridor

Andhra Pradesh aims for Rs 50,000 crore investment in rare earth corridor

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

Andhra Pradesh is spearheading an ambitious initiative to establish a fully integrated beach sand minerals, rare earth, and titanium ecosystem, aiming to attract over 50,000 crore in investments over the next decade. This move is part of India's broader strategy to reduce its reliance on China for strategic minerals and permanent magnets, with the state preparing a comprehensive rare earth policy and planning specialised industrial clusters.

No joint statement as BRICS MENA fails to reach consensus on West Asia: MEA

No joint statement as BRICS MENA fails to reach consensus on West Asia: MEA

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

The ministry of external affairs on Monday said that a joint statement could not be issued following the BRICS deputy foreign ministers and special envoys on the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) meeting, which took place on April 24 in the national capital, as member countries were unable to reach a general consensus concerning the conflict in West Asia.

No plans for further peace talks with US, says Iran

No plans for further peace talks with US, says Iran

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

The Iranian Foreign Ministry has stated that Tehran currently has no plans for a subsequent round of negotiations with the United States, according to the state media Tasnim news agency. This announcement comes as international mediators had hoped for a follow-up to the Islamabad talks before the looming ceasefire deadline.

2 Years On, Automakers Still Waiting For Govt to Clear FAME-II Dues

2 Years On, Automakers Still Waiting For Govt to Clear FAME-II Dues

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

Under FAME-II, automakers provided subsidies to electric vehicle (EV) customers at the time of purchase, with the understanding that the government would reimburse the firms later.

Thane Stabbing: Note Referencing 'Lone Wolf' Attack Found

Thane Stabbing: Note Referencing 'Lone Wolf' Attack Found

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

A note referencing 'lone wolf' attacks and the Islamic State was found at the home of a man arrested for allegedly attacking two security guards in Thane, Maharashtra. The accused, who lived in the US for several years, appeared to have undergone 'self-radicalisation'.

Thane Stabbing: Note Referencing 'Lone Wolf' Attack Found

Thane Stabbing: Note Referencing 'Lone Wolf' Attack Found

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

A note referencing 'lone wolf' attacks and the Islamic State was discovered at the home of a man arrested for allegedly stabbing two security guards in Thane, Maharashtra, after questioning their religion.

Iran ready to reveal 'new cards on battlefield' amid Trump's threats

Iran ready to reveal 'new cards on battlefield' amid Trump's threats

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

This sharp Iranian response came after a series of uncompromising remarks from the US president.

NRAI Aims To Introduce Shooting To Lakhs Of Students

NRAI Aims To Introduce Shooting To Lakhs Of Students

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) is set to introduce approximately 7.5 lakh school students to the sport of shooting as part of its 75th foundation anniversary celebrations.

'Lone wolf, ISIS links': Maha ATS on man who stabbed guards

'Lone wolf, ISIS links': Maha ATS on man who stabbed guards

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

The accused, identified as Zaib Zubair Ansari (31), who returned to India from the US in 2020, allegedly asked the security guards their religion after an altercation at an under-construction building in the Mira Road area of Thane, he said.

Iran rejects US ceasefire proposal, presents 10-point plan to end war

Iran rejects US ceasefire proposal, presents 10-point plan to end war

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

Iran on Monday formally rejected a US-proposed ceasefire deal amid the escalating conflict in West Asia, instead unveiling its own 10-point plan aimed at permanently ending the ongoing war, as reported by the Iranian state news agency Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA).

Iran's Araghchi lands in Islamabad for second round of talks with US

Iran's Araghchi lands in Islamabad for second round of talks with US

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

An Iranian delegation, led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, is expected to arrive in Islamabad for the second round of peace talks with the US, according to Pakistani media reports. This follows a phone call between Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Araghchi regarding the US-Iran ceasefire and Pakistan's diplomatic efforts.

How To Harness Sports For Social Transformation: L-G Sinha Explains

How To Harness Sports For Social Transformation: L-G Sinha Explains

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha emphasised the importance of harnessing sports as a force for social transformation at a national 'Chintan Shivir' in Srinagar. He highlighted the need for collaboration between schools, communities, and families to create ecosystems where young athletes can discover their potential, and urged for greater support and resources for physical education teachers in schools.

NIA Probes Drone Arms Smuggling for Terror Plot

NIA Probes Drone Arms Smuggling for Terror Plot

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has launched an investigation into the smuggling of arms and ammunition via drones across the India-Pakistan border, suspecting a larger conspiracy to carry out terror attacks in India.

RTI reveals Rahul Gandhi objected to CIC's appointment, proposed 3 other names

RTI reveals Rahul Gandhi objected to CIC's appointment, proposed 3 other names

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

Rahul Gandhi voiced his disagreement with the selection of Raj Kumar Goyal as Chief Information Commissioner, proposing alternative candidates with extensive experience in public policy and law.

Policy for adoption of flex-fuel vehicles in works: Centre

Policy for adoption of flex-fuel vehicles in works: Centre

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

The Indian government is actively developing a policy for flex-fuel vehicle adoption and aiming for 100 per cent ethanol blending in petrol to enhance energy self-reliance, particularly in light of supply disruptions from the West Asia conflict.

China unveils Xi Jinping's four-point plan for Middle East peace

China unveils Xi Jinping's four-point plan for Middle East peace

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

China on Tuesday listed out the four-point proposal given by President Xi Jinping for lasting peace in the Middle East.

Delhi High Court Upholds AITA Elections Under Supervision

Delhi High Court Upholds AITA Elections Under Supervision

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

The Delhi High Court has validated the All India Tennis Association (AITA) elections held in September 2024, but stipulated that the elected body will operate as an interim arrangement under the supervision of a court-appointed Administrator.

Amid US blockade, China asks Iran to keep Hormuz Strait open

Amid US blockade, China asks Iran to keep Hormuz Strait open

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has urged Iran to guarantee freedom and safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil trade, amid ongoing tensions with the US.

Technocrat-politician Ashok Lahiri to steer NITI Aayog with reform mandate

Technocrat-politician Ashok Lahiri to steer NITI Aayog with reform mandate

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

Ashok Lahiri, a distinguished economist with experience in government, the private sector, and electoral politics, has been appointed as the new Vice-Chairman of NITI Aayog, tasked with strengthening India's reform trajectory and policy-making.

Iran arrests 35 'Mossad-linked' suspects in security crackdown

Iran arrests 35 'Mossad-linked' suspects in security crackdown

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

Iranian authorities have announced the arrest of 35 individuals on charges ranging from espionage to illegal trafficking, including alleged Mossad-linked suspects and affiliates of separatist organisations.

India, US chief negotiators to begin three-day trade pact talks in Washington from Apr 20

India, US chief negotiators to begin three-day trade pact talks in Washington from Apr 20

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

Chief negotiators from India and the US are set to begin three-day talks in Washington to recalibrate the bilateral trade agreement (BTA) framework, following significant changes in the US tariff landscape, including a new 10 per cent tariff imposed on all countries.

Bombay HC Asks Centre To Decide On Padma Award For Wrestler Jadhav

Bombay HC Asks Centre To Decide On Padma Award For Wrestler Jadhav

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

The Bombay High Court has directed the Union government to decide by May 4 on posthumously conferring the Padma Vibhushan award to wrestler Khashaba Dadasaheb Jadhav, India's first individual Olympic medallist.

'Iran can't have nukes': Trump rejects Tehran proposal, signals tough line

'Iran can't have nukes': Trump rejects Tehran proposal, signals tough line

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

US President Donald Trump on Monday confirmed that his administration has received a proposal from Iran aimed at ending the ongoing conflict in West Asia, but described the offer as insufficient.

Leh body wants direct talks with Amit Shah during his Ladakh visit

Leh body wants direct talks with Amit Shah during his Ladakh visit

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

The Leh Apex Body (LAB) has requested direct talks with Union Home Minister Amit Shah during his upcoming visit, deeming the scheduled sub-committee meeting insufficient for resolving Ladakh's long-standing issues.

India welcomes US-Iran truce, 'hopes' for lasting peace

India welcomes US-Iran truce, 'hopes' for lasting peace

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

India has welcomed the ceasefire between the US and Iran, advocating for de-escalation, dialogue, and diplomacy to secure lasting peace in West Asia.

Centre appoints special prosecutor for Pahalgam attack trial

Centre appoints special prosecutor for Pahalgam attack trial

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

The Centre has appointed lawyer Karambir Singh Nalwa as Special Public Prosecutor to lead the trial in the Pahalgam terror attack case, which resulted in the deaths of 25 tourists and a local pony operator on April 22 last year.

Pak gets 2nd tranche of $1bn loan from Saudi Arabia

Pak gets 2nd tranche of $1bn loan from Saudi Arabia

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Pakistan has received the second and final tranche of USD 1 billion from Saudi Arabia, completing a USD 3 billion aid package aimed at boosting its foreign reserves, the state bank said.