News for 'Nation First'

Census 2027 to be a 'National Digital Transformation Mission'

Census 2027 to be a 'National Digital Transformation Mission'

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo announced that the Census 2027 will be a fully digital and paperless exercise, utilising mobile technology, AI, and cloud computing for accuracy and efficiency, marking a shift towards data-driven governance.

India Is Lucky To Have Both Nehru And Modi

India Is Lucky To Have Both Nehru And Modi

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

If one has to compare the tenures of the two prime ministers one must credit Nehru with laying the foundations on which Modi is building a grand edifice, asserts Colonel Anil A Athale (retd).

Trump announces Iran peace deal, to be signed in Switzerland on Friday

Trump announces Iran peace deal, to be signed in Switzerland on Friday

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

US President Donald Trump and Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have announced a landmark peace deal between the US and Iran, which includes the crucial reopening of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz and the immediate cessation of military operations in Lebanon.

New Army Chief Set To Accelerate Modernisation

New Army Chief Set To Accelerate Modernisation

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Lieutenant General Seth's involvement in the army's capability development and modernisation efforts is evident from the key appointments he has held in the Strategic Planning and Capability Development Directorates, including Colonel Capability Development for Mechanised Forces, Brigadier Perspective Plans and Acquisition, and Additional Director General Capability Development.

India's Strongest Bridge Contingent Ready For Asia Cup Challenge

India's Strongest Bridge Contingent Ready For Asia Cup Challenge

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

India is set to field its strongest-ever contingent at the Asia Cup Bridge Championships 2026 in Goa, featuring top international stars and Asian Games medallists. The tournament, organised by the Bridge Federation of India, will host 46 elite teams from Asia and Oceania, highlighting India's growing prominence in intellectual sports.

India's Junior Badminton Squad Aims For Glory In Japan

India's Junior Badminton Squad Aims For Glory In Japan

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

All India junior ranking medallists Tanvi Patri and Abhinav Garg will spearhead the Indian contingent at the Badminton Asia Junior (U-19) championships in Yatsushiro, Japan, from June 26 to July 5. The Badminton Association of India (BAI) is confident of a strong performance and multiple medals from the squad, which includes direct selections and players chosen through trials.

He missed his baby's birth for FIFA World Cup

He missed his baby's birth for FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu, 35, missed the birth of his daughter to prepare for his fourth World Cup, which he believes might be his last. He is determined to perform well to make up for his absence and faces competition for the starting spot as South Korea prepares for their Group A matches.

From Rajasthan to record books: Suthar shines on Test debut

From Rajasthan to record books: Suthar shines on Test debut

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Manav Suthar starred on Test debut with figures of 6 for 33 as India bowled out Afghanistan for 152 and enforced the follow-on. The Rajasthan spinner registered the second-best bowling figures by an Indian on Test debut.

National Sports Awards Delayed: Ministry Re-evaluating Arjuna Award Recommendations

National Sports Awards Delayed: Ministry Re-evaluating Arjuna Award Recommendations

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

The National Sports Awards in India have been delayed due to a re-evaluation process aimed at ensuring only deserving athletes receive the honour. The Sports Ministry is reassessing Arjuna Award recommendations to maintain the award's value and avoid controversies.

'We want to unite the world': FIFA chief Infantino defends visa handling, ticket prices

'We want to unite the world': FIFA chief Infantino defends visa handling, ticket prices

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino addressed various issues ahead of the World Cup, defending the body's handling of visa challenges, stressing its inability to override government decisions, and highlighting efforts to ensure participation from all nations, including Iran. He also defended ticket pricing and expressed optimism for a competitive tournament focused on unity.

Flex fuel to be sold at 5,000 outlets by end of next year

Flex fuel to be sold at 5,000 outlets by end of next year

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

Oil-marketing companies (OMCs) are set to significantly expand the sale of flex fuel (E85) across India, with plans to reach 5,000 outlets in major cities by the end of next year, according to Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri. This move aims to boost ethanol demand, reduce crude oil imports, and cut carbon emissions, coinciding with the launch of India's first flex-fuel vehicles by Maruti Suzuki and Hero MotoCorp.

Australia ready to defy expectations against Turkey at World Cup

Australia ready to defy expectations against Turkey at World Cup

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Australia's coach Tony Popovic expresses confidence in his team's ability to challenge favourites Turkey in their World Cup opener in Vancouver, despite being considered underdogs. He also confirmed the squad is fully fit, including Mohamed Toure.

Mamata in Delhi for INDIA bloc huddle amid split scare, meets Kejriwal

Mamata in Delhi for INDIA bloc huddle amid split scare, meets Kejriwal

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

23 political parties of the INDIA bloc will meet on Monday to redraw their strategy to take on the BJP and iron out differences amid changed power dynamics after the defeat of regional anchors TMC and DMK in the recent assembly polls.

Former Captain Tamim Iqbal Elected Bangladesh Cricket Board President

Former Captain Tamim Iqbal Elected Bangladesh Cricket Board President

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal has been elected as the President of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), becoming the youngest to hold the position. He plans to bring structural changes and ensure transparency within the board, having previously led an ad-hoc committee.

Sri Lanka Easter Attack Victims Demand Unhindered Probe

Sri Lanka Easter Attack Victims Demand Unhindered Probe

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Kin of 2019 Easter Sunday attack victims in Sri Lanka protested against alleged opposition attempts to obstruct ongoing investigations. The protests follow the arrest of former intelligence chief Suresh Sallay and accusations of political conspiracy related to the attacks. The current government has reopened the probe, citing past political interference.

Age is just a number as veterans take centre stage at FIFA World Cup

Age is just a number as veterans take centre stage at FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

A record eight players aged 40 or older have been selected to play at the tournament in Canada, Mexico and the United States - one more than at all the past 22 tournaments combined.

FIDE Suspends Russia's Membership For Ukraine Violations

FIDE Suspends Russia's Membership For Ukraine Violations

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The International Chess Federation (FIDE) has suspended Russia's membership for up to three years due to its failure to comply with a ruling to stop holding events in Russian-controlled Ukrainian territories. This decision follows Russia's continued organisation of chess events in annexed regions, violating a Court of Arbitration for Sport order.

Cockroach party founder Dipke arrives in Delhi, urges peaceful protest

Cockroach party founder Dipke arrives in Delhi, urges peaceful protest

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the online movement Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), arrived in Delhi on Saturday ahead of a planned demonstration at Jantar Mantar, and urged supporters to maintain discipline and ensure that the protest remains peaceful.

Rising Stars of Indian Chess: Rishabh Kumar and Adhiraj Mitra Chart Their Own Paths to Glory

Rising Stars of Indian Chess: Rishabh Kumar and Adhiraj Mitra Chart Their Own Paths to Glory

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

As India's remarkable chess revolution gathers momentum, teenagers Rishabh Kumar and Adhiraj Mitra are ensuring that the country's future on the 64 squares remains brighter than ever.

Pankaj Advani Clinches Dramatic Pool Nationals Double

Pankaj Advani Clinches Dramatic Pool Nationals Double

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

Pankaj Advani defeated Pushpender Singh to win the men's 10-ball pool event at the Pool Nationals. Chitra Magimairaj won the women's final against Neena Praveen.

After 3 deaths in ship attacks, India summons US envoy for second time

After 3 deaths in ship attacks, India summons US envoy for second time

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

India has summoned the US charge d'affaires for the second time this week to protest American Navy strikes on three commercial vessels off the coast of Oman, which resulted in the deaths of three Indian crew members. New Delhi has demanded an end to these attacks, acknowledging that the US Navy targeted the ships, some of which were reportedly non-compliant with US sanctions.

PSG celebrate European dominance at French Open

PSG celebrate European dominance at French Open

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Paris St Germain players presented their Champions League trophies to the French Open crowd on Monday, two days after winning Europe's premium club competition for the second time in a row.

Kane Williamson retires at 35, ending a legendary era

Kane Williamson retires at 35, ending a legendary era

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

The 35-year-old finishes as New Zealand's all-time leading international run-scorer with 19,346 runs, including 48 centuries and six double-centuries. Williamson's retirement means he will play no further part in the BlackCaps current Test series in England, with a replacement player to be confirmed in due course.

The business behind the three-minute water breaks during FIFA World Cup 2026

The business behind the three-minute water breaks during FIFA World Cup 2026

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

With hot weather due and memories fresh of the scorching 2025 Club World Cup, FIFA has for the first time mandated three-minute hydration breaks in each half for all 104 matches of the World Cup starting this week in the U.S., Mexico and Canada.

US Navy attacked 3 merchant ships, India lodges strong protest

US Navy attacked 3 merchant ships, India lodges strong protest

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

India has strongly protested to the United States after three merchant ships with Indian crew members were attacked by the American military off the coast of Oman, resulting in the deaths of three Indian nationals.

BJP wins all 3 RS seats in MP after Natarajan's nomination rejected

BJP wins all 3 RS seats in MP after Natarajan's nomination rejected

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Three BJP candidates have been declared elected unopposed in the biennial Rajya Sabha elections in Madhya Pradesh, while the Congress party has moved the Supreme Court against the rejection of its candidate Meenakshi Natarajan's nomination.

Punjab CM Hails Gurindervir Singh's Historic Sprint

Punjab CM Hails Gurindervir Singh's Historic Sprint

Rediff.com24 May 2026

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann congratulated athlete Gurindervir Singh for breaking the men's 100m national record at the Federation Cup athletics meet in Ranchi.

Sairaj Bahutule returns to India team in coaching role

Sairaj Bahutule returns to India team in coaching role

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Former India leg-spinner Sairaj Bahutule has been appointed as the spin-bowling coach for the men's national team, commencing with the Test against Afghanistan. He brings extensive coaching experience from domestic cricket and the IPL.

P V Sindhu, Satwik-Chirag to headline India's Asian Games squad

P V Sindhu, Satwik-Chirag to headline India's Asian Games squad

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Two-time Olympic medallist P V Sindhu and reigning men's doubles champion Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty will headline the Indian badminton squad at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games.

Croatia grab late win to beat Slovenia in World Cup warm-up

Croatia grab late win to beat Slovenia in World Cup warm-up

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Luka Modric scored to put Croatia ahead before they edged Slovenia 2-1 in the international friendly before the World Cup.

Mexico lights up FIFA 2026 World Cup opener in style

Mexico lights up FIFA 2026 World Cup opener in style

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

With Mariachi costumes, trumpets, and a sea of dark green support, Mexico City has opened the World Cup on Thursday, as fans packed the famous Azteca stadium ahead of the opening game between Mexico and South Africa, amid a backdrop of protests around the capital.

PM has to speak up: Rahul Gandhi on 3 Indians killed in US strikes

PM has to speak up: Rahul Gandhi on 3 Indians killed in US strikes

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has strongly criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his silence on the deaths of three Indian seafarers in US military strikes on commercial vessels, calling Modi a 'compromised PM' who lacks the courage to confront those responsible.

Modi calls on states to leverage AI, tackle cyber fraud and prepare for El Nino impact

Modi calls on states to leverage AI, tackle cyber fraud and prepare for El Nino impact

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged states to balance the opportunities presented by artificial intelligence with the need to safeguard against social challenges like cyber fraud and drug abuse. He also warned of the risks posed by El Nino conditions, calling for stronger water conservation measures and emphasising the collective resolve towards a 'Viksit Bharat'.

Manav Suthar: India uncover new spin star in big win

Manav Suthar: India uncover new spin star in big win

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Left-arm spinner Manav Suthar excelling on his Test debut is a testament to the robust structure that BCCI has created for talent identification, India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak said on Monday after the home team trounced Afghanistan inside three days in Mullanpur.

TMC merger: Strategic move to aid BJP without legal hurdles

TMC merger: Strategic move to aid BJP without legal hurdles

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Twenty rebel Trinamool Congress Lok Sabha MPs have merged with the obscure Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI), a move seen by political observers as a strategic way to support the BJP-led NDA without immediately joining the saffron party and bypassing legal complexities.

This Simple Habit Will Help You Score 99%ile In CAT 2026

This Simple Habit Will Help You Score 99%ile In CAT 2026

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

CAT and MBA expert and rediffGURU Patrick D'Souza explains how a simple daily reading habit can help aspirants clinch 99 percentile in the Common Admission Test this year.

Modi to meet Trump in France?

Modi to meet Trump in France?

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

India and the US are reportedly exploring a potential meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the G7 summit in France next week, aiming to rebuild bilateral ties after recent tensions.

'Doyen of Indian PMs': US, Russia hail Modi on tenure milestone

'Doyen of Indian PMs': US, Russia hail Modi on tenure milestone

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

US President Donald Trump described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as 'a Great One', while Russia hailed him as the 'doyen of all Indian prime ministers' as world leaders congratulated him on becoming India's longest continuously serving elected representative at the top post.

'Real TMC' rules out merger with Cong, to support NDA

'Real TMC' rules out merger with Cong, to support NDA

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Rebel leader Ritabrata Banerjee has declared his dissident camp as the 'real Trinamool Congress,' claiming the support of 64 MLAs and a growing number of MPs, and explicitly stating they have no plans to merge with the Congress.

A R Rahman performs at Attari border in tribute to BSF

A R Rahman performs at Attari border in tribute to BSF

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

Held during the Beating Retreat ceremony at JCP Stadium, the event was titled Jai Ho -- A Musical Salute to the Bravehearts and came ahead of the release of filmmaker Imtiaz Ali's new film Main Vaapas Aaunga, a cross border drama which features music by Rahman.