News for 'NOW'

Delhi SIR: Deleted votes exceed winning margin in 68 seats

Delhi SIR: Deleted votes exceed winning margin in 68 seats

Rediff.com16 hours ago

A report by 'Voter Adhikar Manch' has revealed that the number of excluded electors in Delhi's draft electoral roll under the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exceeded the winning margin in 68 of 70 Assembly constituencies in the 2025 polls. The audit found over 47 lakh electors marked as absent, shifted, dead, or duplicate, raising serious questions about the integrity of the electoral process and the accuracy of voter lists.

BCCI boosts commercial portfolio with new Rs 130 crore deals

BCCI boosts commercial portfolio with new Rs 130 crore deals

Rediff.com16 hours ago

The BCCI has announced new associate partnerships with Campa, SBI Life, and ChatGPT for India's home cricket matches. These deals are valued at over Rs 130 crore for two seasons, marking a 44% increase over the previous cycle and extending until March 2028. The partnerships highlight the growing commercial appeal and versatility of Indian cricket.

UK sanctions West Bank settlers, Israel shuts British consulate

UK sanctions West Bank settlers, Israel shuts British consulate

Rediff.com17 hours ago

The UK has announced a comprehensive sanctions regime against Israeli settlements in the West Bank, banning the import of goods and targeting entities involved in settlement expansion. Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband condemned the "ethnic cleansing of Palestinians" and highlighted international support for the UK's stance, while Israel reacted strongly with counter-measures.

BCCI confirms Indian cricketers' accommodation for Asian Games in Japan

BCCI confirms Indian cricketers' accommodation for Asian Games in Japan

Rediff.com17 hours ago

BCCI Vice-President Rajiv Shukla has confirmed that Indian cricketers participating in the upcoming Asian Games in Japan will stay in designated accommodation provided by the Organising Committee, which, while comfortable, will not be five-star hotels due to scarcity in Nagoya. Both BCCI and IOA have addressed the arrangements, ensuring player comfort and suitable facilities.

PM Modi calls for global UPI expansion to cut remittance costs

PM Modi calls for global UPI expansion to cut remittance costs

Rediff.com17 hours ago

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged the fintech sector to expand the global reach of India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI), connecting it with local systems in other countries to help the diaspora save on remittance costs.

Global Chess League: Kings Upset Pipers, Grandmasters Win Dramatically

Global Chess League: Kings Upset Pipers, Grandmasters Win Dramatically

Rediff.com17 hours ago

The Global Chess League's halfway stage saw significant upsets and dramatic finishes, with Triveni Continental Kings defeating table-toppers Alpine APL Pipers. Ganges Grandmasters secured a crucial win against PBG Alaskan Knights due to a last-second time violation, while CheQ Mumba Masters maintained their strong performance. These results have intensified the competition for the top two positions.

AIFF Unveils Ambitious Plans For IFL 2026-27 Season

AIFF Unveils Ambitious Plans For IFL 2026-27 Season

Rediff.com17 hours ago

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has announced that the 2026-27 Indian Football League (IFL) season will begin on October 30. Following a successful 2025-26 season with significantly increased viewership, the upcoming season will feature new regulations, including a limit of three foreign players on the pitch, and an expanded footprint with new venues in Nagaland and Odisha. Discussions also covered the IFL Charter, budget, and broadcast partnerships.

New WFI Policy: Asian Games Wrestlers Can Still Vie For World Championship Spots

New WFI Policy: Asian Games Wrestlers Can Still Vie For World Championship Spots

Rediff.com17 hours ago

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has implemented a new two-stage trial system for the 2026 Senior World Championships. This policy allows wrestlers participating in the Asian Games to also compete for a spot in the World Championships team through a "final trial," addressing the overlap between the two major events. The first phase of trials is scheduled for September 14-15, with specific provisions for certain weight categories and U23 championships.

Ricky Ponting warns of ODI cricket's decline amid T20 surge

Ricky Ponting warns of ODI cricket's decline amid T20 surge

Rediff.com18 hours ago

Legendary Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting expresses concern over the diminishing role of One Day International (ODI) cricket due to the rapid expansion of T20 Internationals and franchise leagues worldwide. While he believes Test cricket will remain strong with support from major cricketing nations, Ponting fears the 50-over format will be played less frequently. David Warner also weighs in on the challenges and opportunities presented by the crowded T20 calendar.

Indian Olympic Association Aligns Constitution With National Sports Governance Act

Indian Olympic Association Aligns Constitution With National Sports Governance Act

Rediff.com18 hours ago

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has approved significant constitutional changes to align with the National Sports Governance Act (NSGA), allowing for longer tenures for office-bearers and revising age limits. These amendments, which have received preliminary approval from the International Olympic Committee (IOC), also impact the structure of the Executive Council and set the stage for upcoming elections, including those for the Athletes' Commission.

How Indian Shooters Are Earning Global Respect

How Indian Shooters Are Earning Global Respect

Rediff.com18 hours ago

Olympic medallist Swapnil Kusale highlights the growing respect and "fear factor" Indian shooters command internationally due to their consistent performances. He expresses confidence in the Indian contingent for the upcoming Asian Games, despite some notable absences, and discusses challenges like range maintenance.

Security Heightened In Haldwani Ahead Of Crucial SC Verdict

Security Heightened In Haldwani Ahead Of Crucial SC Verdict

Rediff.com18 hours ago

Heavy police and drone teams have been deployed in Haldwani's Banbhoolpura area ahead of an anticipated Supreme Court verdict concerning alleged encroachment on 29 hectares of Railway land. The deployment is a precautionary measure given past unrest during demolition drives, with authorities appealing for peace and warning against rumour-mongering.

Samsung India begins job cuts; trims workforce at senior level

Samsung India begins job cuts; trims workforce at senior level

Rediff.com18 hours ago

Samsung India Electronics has initiated job cuts in its Consumer Electronics (CE) division, laying off 8-10 mid-to-senior-level employees with plans to let go of another 40-50 staff. This move is part of a cost-rationalisation exercise driven by rising input costs, muted consumer demand, and intense competition from rival Korean and Chinese players.

Indian hockey teams return to traditional blue jersey for Asian Games

Indian hockey teams return to traditional blue jersey for Asian Games

Rediff.com18 hours ago

The Indian hockey teams will return to their traditional blue jerseys for the upcoming Asian Games, reversing a controversial decision to switch to a saffron-coloured kit. The previous change had led to widespread criticism, internal discord within Hockey India, and even political debate, despite claims of visibility issues on blue turf.

Lamine Yamal's Champions League dream takes centre stage as Barcelona begin campaign

Lamine Yamal's Champions League dream takes centre stage as Barcelona begin campaign

Rediff.com18 hours ago

Lamine Yamal has made Champions League glory his primary target, aiming to help Barcelona end their 11-year European drought while embracing greater leadership responsibility.

Brazil Legend Cafu On India's Historic Friendly: A Learning Opportunity

Brazil Legend Cafu On India's Historic Friendly: A Learning Opportunity

Rediff.com18 hours ago

Brazil football legend Cafu has advised the Indian national team to view their upcoming friendly against Brazil on October 3 in Kolkata as a crucial learning experience rather than just a spectacle. He emphasised the match's importance for India's preparation for the 2030 World Cup cycle and highlighted Brazil's deep connection with Kolkata, referencing Pele's historic visit. Cafu also discussed the future of Brazilian football and his unique World Cup record.

Brazil Legend Cafu Sees India Friendly As Key Learning Opportunity

Brazil Legend Cafu Sees India Friendly As Key Learning Opportunity

Rediff.com18 hours ago

Brazil's legendary captain Cafu advises the Indian national football team to view their upcoming friendly match against five-time world champions Brazil as a crucial learning experience for future World Cup cycles, rather than just a spectacle. He highlights Brazil's strong connection with Kolkata and identifies promising young Brazilian talents for the future.

Why Indian Hockey Is Back In Blue For Asian Games

Why Indian Hockey Is Back In Blue For Asian Games

Rediff.com19 hours ago

Indian hockey teams will return to their traditional blue jerseys for the Asian Games after a controversial shift to saffron kits sparked widespread criticism and internal discord within Hockey India. The decision to revert to blue was confirmed by HI president Dilip Tirkey, who had previously questioned the saffron kit's adoption without proper approval.

Sports Minister Inspires Indian Athletes For Asian Games Success

Sports Minister Inspires Indian Athletes For Asian Games Success

Rediff.com19 hours ago

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya addressed the Indian contingent for the upcoming Asian Games, urging them to perform under pressure and continue the nation's impressive medal growth. He highlighted India's significant increase in medal tally from 2014 to 2023, attributing it to an improved sports ecosystem, and expressed confidence in the 503-member squad's potential.

How IIT-Kanpur's AI System Can Revolutionise Welfare Delivery

How IIT-Kanpur's AI System Can Revolutionise Welfare Delivery

Rediff.com19 hours ago

IIT-Kanpur has developed an AI-powered "Family Score" system to identify households needing welfare support using existing government data. This system, demonstrated in collaboration with the Andhra Pradesh government, aims to provide a faster and more cost-effective alternative to traditional surveys for assessing socio-economic conditions and ensuring targeted welfare delivery.

How Global UPI Can Save Diaspora Billions In Remittance Costs

How Global UPI Can Save Diaspora Billions In Remittance Costs

Rediff.com19 hours ago

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called upon the fintech industry to expand the global footprint of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), advocating for its integration with international payment systems to reduce remittance costs for the Indian diaspora. Speaking at the Global Fintech Fest, Modi highlighted UPI's current presence in 11 countries and its connection with Singapore's local system, urging further expansion into nations with significant Indian populations or trade ties. He also stressed the need for India to set its own global payment standards and for the fintech sector to innovate beyond payments, focusing on cybersecurity, ethical data protection, and regulatory frameworks.

Want justice, not revenge: Family of slain Manipuri musician

Want justice, not revenge: Family of slain Manipuri musician

Rediff.com19 hours ago

The family of Chongtham Vikram Singh, a Manipuri musician beaten to death in south Delhi, has appealed for justice and an impartial probe, stating they seek accountability, not revenge, for his sudden loss.

Wasim Akram worried over Imran Khan's health, calls for safeguards

Wasim Akram worried over Imran Khan's health, calls for safeguards

Rediff.com19 hours ago

Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram has expressed serious concerns about the health of his friend and ex-captain Imran Khan, who is currently imprisoned. Akram's comments follow similar calls from other international cricketers, including Brian Lara, for proper medical care and humane treatment for Khan.

NSE IPO likely to open on Sep 18, list on Sep 25

NSE IPO likely to open on Sep 18, list on Sep 25

Rediff.com19 hours ago

The National Stock Exchange's initial public offering (IPO), expected to raise around Rs 30,000 crore, is likely to open for public subscription on September 18 and list on September 25, potentially becoming India's largest IPO.

Football Administrator Ranjit Bajaj Challenges AIFF Election Deferment In Court

Football Administrator Ranjit Bajaj Challenges AIFF Election Deferment In Court

Rediff.com19 hours ago

Football administrator Ranjit Bajaj has filed a writ petition in court, seeking directions for the All India Football Federation (AIFF) to immediately schedule and complete elections for its Executive Committee. Bajaj argues that the AIFF has already adopted a compliant constitution, making further deferment unjustified.

NIA drops UAPA against US national Van Dyke, 6 Ukrainians in terror plot

NIA drops UAPA against US national Van Dyke, 6 Ukrainians in terror plot

Rediff.com19 hours ago

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a chargesheet against seven foreign nationals, including a US citizen and six Ukrainians, for illegal entry and alleged terror conspiracy with ethnic armed groups, though the stringent UAPA anti-terror law was not invoked at this stage.

India, China hold high-level talks on Arunachal border ahead of BRICS meet

India, China hold high-level talks on Arunachal border ahead of BRICS meet

Rediff.com19 hours ago

Indian and Chinese armies held their first high-level commanders' flag talks in the Arunachal Pradesh sector, following Special Representatives dialogue. These talks, aimed at maintaining peace along the Line of Actual Control, occurred amidst reports of aggressive military posturing and just days before Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to India for the BRICS summit.

Mukesh Kumar's Duleep Trophy performance fuels his India return ambitions

Mukesh Kumar's Duleep Trophy performance fuels his India return ambitions

Rediff.com19 hours ago

Mukesh Kumar, the Bengal pacer, has delivered an impressive performance in the Duleep Trophy, taking 11 wickets and expressing the critical importance of the ongoing domestic season for his potential India comeback. He detailed his strategic bowling approach on challenging pitches and the team's tactics for managing the hot conditions, while also providing an update on teammate Anukul Roy's injury.

India hockey brings back blue after saffron controversy

India hockey brings back blue after saffron controversy

Rediff.com19 hours ago

The Indian hockey teams are reverting to their traditional blue jerseys for the upcoming Asian Games after facing significant criticism for a previous shift to saffron. This decision follows internal discord within Hockey India, with its president, Dilip Tirkey, stating the saffron kit change was not permanent and lacked proper federation approval. The Asian Games are crucial for Olympic qualification.

Sandhu And Danek Share Lead At Chennai Open

Sandhu And Danek Share Lead At Chennai Open

Rediff.com19 hours ago

Ajeetesh Sandhu and Stepan Danek are joint leaders after the first round of the Chennai Open, both carding seven-under 65s. Sandhu, a former Asian Tour winner, made eight birdies, while Danek played a flawless round with seven birdies. Other notable players like Jairaj Singh Sandhu and Saptak Talwar are also in contention.

Will India travel to Pakistan for 2027 SAF Games?

Will India travel to Pakistan for 2027 SAF Games?

Rediff.com20 hours ago

India has clarified its policy regarding participation in the 2027 South Asian Federation (SAF) Games in Pakistan, stating decisions will align with national sports policies and international governing bodies. While bilateral sporting engagements with Pakistan remain suspended, Indian athletes are permitted to compete in multilateral events. The government also aims to simplify visa processes to position India as a global sports hosting destination.

Brijendra Singh Choudhary Loses Asian Beach Games Silver Over Doping Violation

Brijendra Singh Choudhary Loses Asian Beach Games Silver Over Doping Violation

Rediff.com20 hours ago

Indian kabaddi player Brijendra Singh Choudhary has been stripped of his silver medal from the Asian Beach Games after testing positive for a prohibited diuretic. The International Testing Agency (ITA) confirmed the anti-doping rule violation, which Choudhary has accepted.

Take a decision: SC raps Odisha over Dara Singh's remission plea

Take a decision: SC raps Odisha over Dara Singh's remission plea

Rediff.com20 hours ago

The Supreme Court has expressed strong displeasure with the Odisha government for delaying a decision on the remission plea of Ravindra Pal alias Dara Singh, who is serving a life sentence for the 1999 murder of Australian missionary Graham Stuart Staines and his two sons. The court has directed the state to make a decision by September 17, warning of summoning officials if the delay persists. Singh, incarcerated for over 26 years, seeks premature release based on his time served and a 2022 state policy.

'Another Year Of Success': Yuvraj's Wish For 'Prince' Gill

'Another Year Of Success': Yuvraj's Wish For 'Prince' Gill

Rediff.com20 hours ago

Indian cricket captain Shubman Gill received birthday wishes from prominent figures like Yuvraj Singh and BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla. Both praised his growth, composure, batting style, and leadership qualities, wishing him continued success and many more milestones.

Duleep Trophy Final: East Zone in command; South Zone 242/6 at stumps

Duleep Trophy Final: East Zone in command; South Zone 242/6 at stumps

Rediff.com20 hours ago

East Zone pacers Mohammed Shami and Mukesh Kumar chipped away at the wickets to leave South Zone tottering on 242/6 at stumps on Day 3, of the Duleep Trophy final.

Fadnavis rules out taking OBC share for Maratha quota

Fadnavis rules out taking OBC share for Maratha quota

Rediff.com20 hours ago

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that the government would grant Maratha reservation only within constitutional limits and without impacting the share of other communities, amidst activist Manoj Jarange's ongoing hunger strike for OBC status for Marathas.

Indian Enterprises Boost AI Investment But Face Governance Challenges

Indian Enterprises Boost AI Investment But Face Governance Challenges

Rediff.com20 hours ago

A new report reveals that enterprise AI investment in India has surged by 119 per cent, exceeding the global average. However, only 22 per cent of Indian organisations have established adequate governance frameworks, creating a significant gap between rapid deployment and safe, scalable AI adoption. This lack of governance impacts operational depth and raises concerns about transparency, regulation, and data privacy.

Naman Dhir's blistering century lights up Sher-e-Punjab T20 League

Naman Dhir's blistering century lights up Sher-e-Punjab T20 League

Rediff.com21 hours ago

Naman Dhir smashed a breathtaking 37-ball century and finished unbeaten on 173, powering Amritsar Soormas to 279 while setting the Sher-e-Punjab T20 League alight with his fireworks.

Doping Scandal Rocks Indian Kabaddi: Player Loses Asian Beach Games Silver

Doping Scandal Rocks Indian Kabaddi: Player Loses Asian Beach Games Silver

Rediff.com21 hours ago

Indian kabaddi player Brijendra Singh Choudhary has been stripped of his silver medal from the Asian Beach Games after failing an in-competition dope test. He tested positive for the prohibited diuretic brinzolamide and has accepted the sanction, leading to the disqualification of his results.

'Chulbuliness Is Very Close To Me'

'Chulbuliness Is Very Close To Me'

Rediff.com21 hours ago

'I was very sceptical when I was doing a Bollywood film.'