News for 'National Affairs'

Tariffs cut, $30tn market: India, US unveil interim trade pact

Tariffs cut, $30tn market: India, US unveil interim trade pact

Rediff.com8 Feb 2026

The agreement addresses non-tariff barriers and promotes increased trade in technology products and cooperation between the two countries.

Blow to climate action, US exits 66 global cooperation bodies

Blow to climate action, US exits 66 global cooperation bodies

Rediff.com8 Jan 2026

President Donald Trump has withdrawn the United States from over 60 international organisations, including United Nations bodies and the India-France-led International Solar Alliance, calling the institutions 'redundant' and 'contrary' to America's interests.

One-Regulator Education Bill Sent To Panel

One-Regulator Education Bill Sent To Panel

Rediff.com16 Dec 2025

'It interferes in administrative matters of institutions, robbing them of their independence in day-to-day affairs and appointments.'

11 World Leaders And Their Pets

11 World Leaders And Their Pets

Rediff.com31 Jan 2026

Animal companions are often excellent publicity vehicles for politicians and leaders.

US tariff threat puts India's Chabahar port plans in doubt

US tariff threat puts India's Chabahar port plans in doubt

Rediff.com16 Jan 2026

India is evaluating its involvement in the Chabahar port project in Iran due to potential US tariffs. The US had granted India a waiver for the project, but it expires soon. India is exploring options to continue supporting the port's development while minimizing exposure to US sanctions.

Govt-Oppn tussle flares up in Lok Sabha; 8 MPs suspended

Govt-Oppn tussle flares up in Lok Sabha; 8 MPs suspended

Rediff.com3 Feb 2026

The House has been witnessing uproar after Rahul Gandhi was disallowed to cite an article based on excerpts from an unpublished 'memoir' of former Army chief General M M Naravane (retd).

Ishaan Tharoor among 300 staff axed by Washington Post

Ishaan Tharoor among 300 staff axed by Washington Post

Rediff.com5 Feb 2026

The Washington Post Guild, the union for staff members, had appealed to the public to send a message to Bezos: "Enough is enough. Without the staff of The Washington Post, there is no Washington Post."

Carney's Visit May Boost India-Canada Ties

Carney's Visit May Boost India-Canada Ties

Rediff.com23 Jan 2026

India and Canada are negotiating a long-term uranium supply agreement worth $2.8 billion. They are also exploring expanded civil nuclear cooperation after the passage of the SHANTI Bill.

Iran protests hit day 14, hundreds feared dead

Iran protests hit day 14, hundreds feared dead

Rediff.com11 Jan 2026

Anti-government protests in Iran have continued for the fourteenth consecutive day on Saturday, with authorities tightening security measures as demonstrations spread across multiple cities.

India, EU free trade deal to likely conclude on Jan 27

India, EU free trade deal to likely conclude on Jan 27

Rediff.com25 Jan 2026

India and the European Union are set to announce on January 27 the conclusion of negotiations and finalisation of a free trade agreement, which is aimed at boosting economic ties between the two regions amid disruptions in global trade due to US tariffs, an official said.

A profound loss: Hasina remembers arch-rival Khaleda Zia

A profound loss: Hasina remembers arch-rival Khaleda Zia

Rediff.com30 Dec 2025

Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina expressed condolences over the death of Khaleda Zia, acknowledging her role in the country's political history and contributions to democracy.

Op Sindhu: 296 more Indians, 4 Nepalese nationals evacuated from Iran

Op Sindhu: 296 more Indians, 4 Nepalese nationals evacuated from Iran

Rediff.com25 Jun 2025

Another special flight carrying 296 Indian nationals and four Nepalese nationals stranded in conflict-hit Iran landed safely in New Delhi on Wednesday, taking the total number of people evacuated under Operation Sindhu to 3,154.

Amit Shah calls for unified ATS structure for police across India

Amit Shah calls for unified ATS structure for police across India

Rediff.com27 Dec 2025

Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasizes the need for a unified anti-terrorism structure and a strong anti-terrorism grid across India to effectively counter terror attacks. He also announced a new plan to combat organized crime.

Morbi man captured in Ukraine appeals to Modi for help

Morbi man captured in Ukraine appeals to Modi for help

Rediff.com22 Dec 2025

A 22-year-old man from Gujarat's Morbi town, captured by Ukrainian forces while fighting for the Russian military, has sent a video message to his family here, making an emotional appeal for help from the Indian government for his release.

India free to buy oil from sources it deems beneficial, says Russia

India free to buy oil from sources it deems beneficial, says Russia

Rediff.com9 Dec 2025

Two days after Russian President Vladimir Putin concluded his visit to India, during which he assured that Moscow would remain a reliable energy supplier, the Kremlin on Monday said that India, as a sovereign nation, is free to buy oil from sources it deems beneficial. It expressed confidence that New Delhi will continue to prioritise its economic interests.

India launches Op Sindhu to evacuate nationals from war-hit Iran

India launches Op Sindhu to evacuate nationals from war-hit Iran

Rediff.com18 Jun 2025

Iranian embassy officials in Delhi said the Iranian foreign ministry was in close touch with the Indian mission in Tehran after some students were injured.

Russia, China condemn US action in Venezuela

Russia, China condemn US action in Venezuela

Rediff.com3 Jan 2026

Russia and China on Saturday condemned the United States airstrikes on Venezuela and the capture of its president, Nicolas Maduro and his wife.

Arunachal integral part of India: MEA on Shanghai airport detention

Arunachal integral part of India: MEA on Shanghai airport detention

Rediff.com26 Nov 2025

India has rejected China's response to the detention of an Indian national from Arunachal Pradesh at the Shanghai airport, asserting that the border state is an integral part of the country. The incident involved Pema Wang Thongdok, who was detained for 18 hours for holding an Indian passport.

2025: Modi's Busiest Foreign Travel Year In A Decade

2025: Modi's Busiest Foreign Travel Year In A Decade

Rediff.com31 Dec 2025

The PM's overseas visits in 2025 picked up sharply after May, particularly following Operation Sindoor.

'Bad neighbours' can't seek water: Jaishankar's warning to Pak

'Bad neighbours' can't seek water: Jaishankar's warning to Pak

Rediff.com2 Jan 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar asserts India's right to defend against terrorism from 'bad neighbours' while highlighting India's support for friendly nations.

Sjoerd Marijne returns as India women's hockey coach

Sjoerd Marijne returns as India women's hockey coach

Rediff.com2 Jan 2026

The 51-year-old, who was associated with the Indian women's team from 2017 to 2021, will be supported by Matias Vila as analytical coach.

India breaks silence on US action on Venezuela, Maduro capture

India breaks silence on US action on Venezuela, Maduro capture

Rediff.com4 Jan 2026

India said it is closely monitoring the evolving situation in Venezuela and reaffirmed its support for the well-being of people of the country.

77th Republic Day parade to witness many firsts

77th Republic Day parade to witness many firsts

Rediff.com17 Jan 2026

The upcoming Republic Day Parade will center around the sesquicentenary of 'Vande Mataram,' featuring themed decorations, performances, and special guests.

'Ridiculous': India trashes Pak's airspace denial claim on Sri Lanka aid

'Ridiculous': India trashes Pak's airspace denial claim on Sri Lanka aid

Rediff.com3 Dec 2025

India has refuted Pakistan's allegation that it denied permission to use Indian airspace for sending humanitarian aid to cyclone-hit Sri Lanka, calling the claim 'ridiculous'.

UK bars US Islamic preacher's entry for defending Hamas

UK bars US Islamic preacher's entry for defending Hamas

Rediff.com6 Jan 2026

Britain has banned the entry of an Islamic preacher, Dr. Shadee Elmasry, over his defence of Hamas following the October 7, 2023, attack in Israel. The UK Home Office cited concerns about hate speech and extremist ideas.

We have to 'avenge' our painful history: NSA Doval

We have to 'avenge' our painful history: NSA Doval

Rediff.com10 Jan 2026

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval emphasized the need to strengthen India's security across all sectors, including the economy, to address historical vulnerabilities. He highlighted the sacrifices of freedom fighters and the importance of strong leadership.

High drama in Karnataka assembly as guv walks out over speech row

High drama in Karnataka assembly as guv walks out over speech row

Rediff.com22 Jan 2026

Gehlot had on Wednesday refused to deliver the address to the Karnataka legislature, leading to a stalemate over the fate of the customary speech that outlines the government's policies.

Revealed: CM Nitish poorer than ministers, assets put at Rs 1.65 cr

Revealed: CM Nitish poorer than ministers, assets put at Rs 1.65 cr

Rediff.com31 Dec 2025

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's assets have increased slightly to Rs 1.65 crore, while several ministers are wealthier, according to the latest asset disclosure.

Khaleda Zia to be laid to rest beside husband; Jaishankar to attend funeral

Khaleda Zia to be laid to rest beside husband; Jaishankar to attend funeral

Rediff.com31 Dec 2025

The funeral of Bangladesh's former prime minister Khaleda Zia will be held on Wednesday, and she will be buried with full state honors beside her husband, late president Ziaur Rahman.

The Reason Why Parasakthi Released Now

The Reason Why Parasakthi Released Now

Rediff.com12 Jan 2026

Throughout Parasakthi, Sivakarthikeyan mentions he is not against Hindi but the imposition of Hindi, notes A Ganesh Nadar.

India Still Features In Trump's Security Plan

India Still Features In Trump's Security Plan

Rediff.com26 Dec 2025

The new US national security strategy signals a retreat from global dominance while reaffirming continuity in India's role in Indo-Pacific security and Quad cooperation, points out former foreign secretary Shyam Saran.

Images That Defined 2025

Images That Defined 2025

Rediff.com29 Dec 2025

Captured in powerful images and unforgettable moments, 2025 emerged as a turning point in global affairs. These images tell the defining stories that shaped the world across continents.

'National Sports Bill will usher in new era for sports in India'

'National Sports Bill will usher in new era for sports in India'

Rediff.com19 Jul 2025

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju feels that the National Sports Governance Bill, which is set to be tabled in the monsoon session beginning on Monday, will usher in a 'new era' for sports in India.

Hadi killed in political plot led by Awami League: Bangladesh police

Hadi killed in political plot led by Awami League: Bangladesh police

Rediff.com6 Jan 2026

Bangladesh police have formally charged 17 people in connection with the murder of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi, alleging it was an act of political vengeance orchestrated by the Awami League.

India, UAE seal defence pact, set $200 bn trade target

India, UAE seal defence pact, set $200 bn trade target

Rediff.com20 Jan 2026

Under the defence partnership, India and the UAE are eyeing defence industrial collaboration and cooperation in advanced technologies, cyberspace training, special operations, interoperability of their militaries and counter terrorism.

Over 18,000 Indians deported by US since 2009, Jaishankar tells RS

Over 18,000 Indians deported by US since 2009, Jaishankar tells RS

Rediff.com4 Dec 2025

The Indian government reveals that the United States has deported over 18,000 Indian nationals since 2009, with a focus on human trafficking investigations and concerns over the treatment of deportees.

Kerala film fest drops six movies after MEA warning

Kerala film fest drops six movies after MEA warning

Rediff.com19 Dec 2025

The Kerala Chalachitra Academy decided not to screen six films at the IFFK after the Ministry of External Affairs raised objections, citing concerns over foreign policy and national security. Academy chairman Resul Pookutty denies political influence in the decision.

'World like coalition politics; we have to be very nimble'

'World like coalition politics; we have to be very nimble'

Rediff.com20 Dec 2025

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar discusses India's foreign policy challenges in a multipolar world, emphasizing the need for nimbleness and prioritizing national interests.

40 dead, 100 injured in fire at bar in Switzerland

40 dead, 100 injured in fire at bar in Switzerland

Rediff.com1 Jan 2026

The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) on Thursday stated that around 40 people have died and 100 others have been injured in a non-arson fire at the 'Le Constellation' bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, citing information provided by the Valais Cantonal Police.

US deported 2,790 Indians in 2025 so far: Govt

US deported 2,790 Indians in 2025 so far: Govt

Rediff.com31 Oct 2025

"From the UK side, this year we have had around 100 Indian nationals who have been deported after their nationality was duly verified by us," Jaiswal said.