News for 'National Affairs'

Japan Arms Policy Shift Sparks China Ire

Japan Arms Policy Shift Sparks China Ire

Rediff.com1 May 2026

Beijing has been wary of Sanae Takaichi's efforts to boost Japan's military profile since taking office six months ago, points out Dr Rajaram Panda.

HC orders FIR against Rahul Gandhi in dual citizenship case

HC orders FIR against Rahul Gandhi in dual citizenship case

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

The Allahabad High Court has directed the registration of an FIR against Congress MP Rahul Gandhi concerning allegations of dual citizenship, potentially escalating the legal scrutiny surrounding the opposition leader.

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.

Delhi Villages To Get Land Ownership Rights: What It Means

Delhi Villages To Get Land Ownership Rights: What It Means

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

Residents of 31 villages in Delhi will soon receive ownership rights to their residential land within 'Lal Dora' limits, according to South Delhi BJP MP Ramvir Singh Bidhuri. Property cards will be issued to landowners, enabling them to secure bank loans.

Sonia Gandhi, Rahul booked in National Herald case

Sonia Gandhi, Rahul booked in National Herald case

Rediff.com30 Nov 2025

Delhi Police has filed an FIR against Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi and others in the National Herald case based on a complaint by the ED, alleging money laundering and abuse of position for personal gains.

JD(U) MP Seeks Assurance for Bihari Workers in West Asia Amidst Tensions

JD(U) MP Seeks Assurance for Bihari Workers in West Asia Amidst Tensions

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

JD(U) MP Sanjay Kumar Jha has appealed to the External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to ensure the safety and well-being of the Bihari diaspora in West Asia, following escalating tensions in the region.

Dubai could be blown up if UAE enters Iran war: Top US economist

Dubai could be blown up if UAE enters Iran war: Top US economist

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

Economist Jeffrey Sachs saw Gulf nations' decision to partner with the US through the Abraham Accords as an "invitation for disaster" as it made them more dependent on American protection.

Iran offers 'new proposal' to US to end war, reopen Hormuz

Iran offers 'new proposal' to US to end war, reopen Hormuz

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

In a significant diplomatic manoeuvre aimed at de-escalating regional tensions, Iran has reportedly submitted a "new proposal" to the United States through Pakistani intermediaries.

Chettri Set to Lead India Women's Football Team Again

Chettri Set to Lead India Women's Football Team Again

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

Crispin Chettri is expected to be reappointed as the head coach of the Indian women's football team, succeeding Amelia Valverde, following a recommendation from the AIFF's Technical Committee.

Pakistan hits back at India over comments on Afghan military action

Pakistan hits back at India over comments on Afghan military action

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

Pakistan has rejected India's criticism of its military campaign in Afghanistan, calling India's statement 'baseless' and 'misleading'.

Modi speaks to France, Oman, Malaysia leaders amid Gulf energy hub strikes

Modi speaks to France, Oman, Malaysia leaders amid Gulf energy hub strikes

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Amidst escalating tensions in West Asia, India strongly condemns the recent attacks on energy infrastructure, warning of further destabilisation to the already uncertain global energy market.

Operation Lotus? 7 AAP Rajya Sabha MPs led by Raghav Chadha join BJP

Operation Lotus? 7 AAP Rajya Sabha MPs led by Raghav Chadha join BJP

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) faces a significant setback as several of its Rajya Sabha MPs, including key figures like Raghav Chadha and Sandeep Pathak, resign from the party, with some reportedly joining the BJP.

Why India Doesn't Track Hate Speech Against Northeast Citizens

Why India Doesn't Track Hate Speech Against Northeast Citizens

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

The Indian government has stated that it does not maintain centralised data on incidents of hate speech, racial slurs, harassment, and discrimination against people from the Northeast, emphasising that policing and public order are the responsibility of state governments.

1,000 Indians still in Iran: MEA to Parl panel

1,000 Indians still in Iran: MEA to Parl panel

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

The Ministry of External Affairs informed a parliamentary committee that nearly 1,000 Indians remain in Iran amidst the West Asia conflict, and 23,000 students in the Gulf region missed CBSE exams due to the turmoil.

Why Cannes' Pick Amma Ariyan Is A Haunting Masterpiece

Why Cannes' Pick Amma Ariyan Is A Haunting Masterpiece

Rediff.com12 May 2026

John Abraham's 1986 film Amma Ariyan, now heading to the 2026 Cannes film festival, remains one of Malayalam cinema's most politically charged and unsettling masterpieces.

Over 800 Indians evacuated from Iran via Armenia, Azerbaijan

Over 800 Indians evacuated from Iran via Armenia, Azerbaijan

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

The Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed that nearly 880 Indian nationals, including students, have been evacuated from Iran via Armenia and Azerbaijan due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

How did India secure Hormuz passage for ships? Jaishankar reveals

How did India secure Hormuz passage for ships? Jaishankar reveals

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

Amidst rising Middle East tensions, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlights India's strategic dialogue with Iran to safeguard maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, ensuring India's energy security and continued oil trade.

West Asia conflict: 170 Indians cross into Armenia from Iran, says govt

West Asia conflict: 170 Indians cross into Armenia from Iran, says govt

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

The Indian embassy in Tehran has earlier stated that it is facilitating the safe movement of nationals who wish to leave Iran.

Delhi Scraps Thousands of Ration Cards, Eyes AI for Verification

Delhi Scraps Thousands of Ration Cards, Eyes AI for Verification

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

The Delhi government has cancelled over 45,000 ration cards and is considering using artificial intelligence to identify ineligible beneficiaries in its public distribution system.

Samrat Choudhary's govt wins trust vote in Bihar assembly

Samrat Choudhary's govt wins trust vote in Bihar assembly

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

The BJP-led government in Bihar secured a vote of confidence in the state assembly, with Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary pledging economic development and significant investments. The motion was passed amidst heated debates and accusations between the ruling NDA and the opposition, highlighting political tensions and differing views on issues like women's reservation.

India Missed Diplomatic Edge Against Pakistan

India Missed Diplomatic Edge Against Pakistan

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

Iran was the chance to arrange a concert of nations, to actually be a Vishwaguru. Instead, we are watching from the sidelines as Pakistan, the same country that is apparently still at war with Afghanistan, hosts talks between US-Israel and Iran. The irony is hard to miss, points out Amberish K Diwanji.

'Only they can play that role': Tharoor's dig at Pak over US-Iran talks

'Only they can play that role': Tharoor's dig at Pak over US-Iran talks

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor discusses India's role in the US-Iran peace talks taking place in Islamabad, emphasising the importance of peace over competition with Pakistan and highlighting India's regional interests.

Bengal turns saffron, Vijay shakes TN; Mamata, Stalin lose; BJP scores hat-trick in Assam

Bengal turns saffron, Vijay shakes TN; Mamata, Stalin lose; BJP scores hat-trick in Assam

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The BJP is showing strong leads in West Bengal and Assam, while actor Vijay's party is making a significant debut in Tamil Nadu. The Congress is ahead in Kerala, offering some consolation amid the changing political landscape in the state elections.

'India Playing A Chess Game In Nepal'

'India Playing A Chess Game In Nepal'

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

'Nepal today is far more aware, self-confident, aspirational, and assertive.' 'India's policy so far has not been geared to this shift. It is time to redraw our Nepal strategy.'

No Cabinet Nod Needed For Some PM Visit Pacts

No Cabinet Nod Needed For Some PM Visit Pacts

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

India has amended its guidelines governing the signing of international agreements during official visits by the prime minister, and select pacts have been exempted from prior Cabinet approval.

Trump Has Forced The World Into New Reality

Trump Has Forced The World Into New Reality

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

America's population and its media and its democratic structures seem fine with this, which is why Trump continues as he does, asserts Aakar Patel.

Govt unlikely to allow West Asia debate in Parl after Jaishankar's reply

Govt unlikely to allow West Asia debate in Parl after Jaishankar's reply

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

The Indian government is unlikely to allow a parliamentary debate on the West Asia crisis, citing prior briefings by the External Affairs Minister. This decision comes amid opposition protests and a pending no-confidence motion against the Speaker.

NCLAT Rejects MMTC's Challenge to NSEL Settlement Scheme

NCLAT Rejects MMTC's Challenge to NSEL Settlement Scheme

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) has dismissed an appeal by MMTC, challenging the settlement scheme between National Spot Exchange Ltd (NSEL) and its traders, affirming the earlier approval by the NCLT and the Supreme Court.

Easter Attacks: Will Sri Lanka Ever Nail The Guilty?

Easter Attacks: Will Sri Lanka Ever Nail The Guilty?

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Sri Lanka's response to the Easter attacks has been slow and politically contested, unlike India's swift institutional reforms after the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, observes Colonel R Hariharan (retd).

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.

Chhattisgarh to Host Khelo India Tribal Games Annually After Successful Inaugural Edition

Chhattisgarh to Host Khelo India Tribal Games Annually After Successful Inaugural Edition

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai announced that the Khelo India Tribal Games will be held annually in the state following the success of the inaugural edition. The event aims to provide a platform for tribal athletes to showcase their talent and gain national recognition.

Middle East conflict: 52,000 Indians return

Middle East conflict: 52,000 Indians return

Rediff.com8 Mar 2026

India is closely monitoring the situation in West Asia and working to ensure the safety of its citizens stranded in the region. Over 52,000 Indians have returned home following the partial opening of airspace.

Trump threatens to bomb Iran as Pakistan pushes for truce extension

Trump threatens to bomb Iran as Pakistan pushes for truce extension

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

US President Donald Trump threatened to bomb Iran if a deal is not reached before the ceasefire ends, while Pakistan urged both sides to extend the truce and pursue diplomacy.

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.

Indian Man Dies in Suspected Missile Strike in Riyadh, Family Appeals for Help

Indian Man Dies in Suspected Missile Strike in Riyadh, Family Appeals for Help

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

A 26-year-old Indian man working in Riyadh has reportedly been killed in a suspected missile attack, according to his family. They are seeking official confirmation and assistance from the Indian government to repatriate his body.

5 Indians killed, 1 missing in West Asia conflict: MEA

5 Indians killed, 1 missing in West Asia conflict: MEA

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

Aseem Mahajan, Additional Secretary (Gulf) in the Ministry of External Affairs, on Saturday informed that five Indians have been killed and one is missing due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia. He added that Indian missions remain open round the clock and are constantly working to provide assistance.

Indian Navy ships escorting tankers through Strait of Hormuz: Rajnath

Indian Navy ships escorting tankers through Strait of Hormuz: Rajnath

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh assures India's energy security amidst West Asia tensions, highlighting naval protection of tankers and readiness to counter cross-border terrorism.

Saudi Arabia expels Iranian military attache, staff after blatant attacks

Saudi Arabia expels Iranian military attache, staff after blatant attacks

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

The official statement highlighted that these "blatant Iranian attacks" have also targeted members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and several other Arab and Islamic nations.

Raghav Chadha on the way out? AAP replaces him as deputy leader in Rajya Sabha

Raghav Chadha on the way out? AAP replaces him as deputy leader in Rajya Sabha

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has requested the Rajya Sabha secretariat to remove Raghav Chadha as the party's deputy leader in the House, proposing Punjab MP Ashok Mittal as his replacement, amidst Chadha's absence from key party events and prolonged silence on AAP matters.

WADA Chief Meets Indian Officials to Strengthen Anti-Doping Efforts

WADA Chief Meets Indian Officials to Strengthen Anti-Doping Efforts

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

World Anti-Doping Agency President Witold Banka is in India to discuss the implementation of effective anti-doping measures with sports minister Mansukh Mandaviya and other officials, following concerns about India's high doping numbers.