News for 'National Arena'

FIFA World Cup 2026: Football Fever Grips Cricket-Mad India!

FIFA World Cup 2026: Football Fever Grips Cricket-Mad India!

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The 23rd FIFA World Cup, to be staged across the Americas from June 11 to July 19, has once again ignited excitement across the globe. India, despite its national football team languishing at 139th in the FIFA rankings, has been swept up in the tournament's magic.

How Football Is Transforming A Rajasthan Village

How Football Is Transforming A Rajasthan Village

Rediff.com17 May 2026

In a Rajasthan village, over 100 girls are embracing football, transforming a barren field into a vibrant playground and chasing dreams once considered unattainable.

Ahmedabad On Track To Host 2030 Commonwealth Games

Ahmedabad On Track To Host 2030 Commonwealth Games

Rediff.com23 May 2026

Ahmedabad is preparing to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, with key sports complexes slated to be ready by 2029. The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave and the Gujarat Police Academy will be central to the Games, featuring 17 disciplines including shooting, badminton, and hockey. Celebrations are planned across 8,000 locations to mark Commonwealth Games Day.

TMC's paradox: Anti-BJP in Kolkata, pro-NDA in New Delhi

TMC's paradox: Anti-BJP in Kolkata, pro-NDA in New Delhi

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

The TMC is grappling with an extraordinary internal paradox as its legislative faction in West Bengal pledges 'constructive opposition' against the BJP, while a significant portion of its Lok Sabha MPs surprisingly aligns with the BJP-led NDA, exposing a profound ideological schism within the party.

Tribal Athletes Get National Platform at Khelo India Tribal Games

Tribal Athletes Get National Platform at Khelo India Tribal Games

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

The inaugural Khelo India Tribal Games (KITG) commenced in Chhattisgarh, providing a national stage for tribal athletes to showcase their abilities. Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya highlighted the event's significance in promoting sports culture and identifying talent from remote areas.

Gurindervir, Animesh Break 100m Record At Athletics Meet

Gurindervir, Animesh Break 100m Record At Athletics Meet

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The National Senior Athletics Federation Competition witnessed a national record being broken twice in the men's 100m race, along with other impressive performances in long jump and 10,000m races.

Indian Athletes Adjust to Indoor Challenges at National Championships

Indian Athletes Adjust to Indoor Challenges at National Championships

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

Athletes and officials adjusted to the unfamiliar setting at the inaugural National Indoor Championships in Bhubaneswar, with shot putters modifying their techniques and runners adapting to a curvy track.

First Test: New Zealand three down in chase of 254 vs England

First Test: New Zealand three down in chase of 254 vs England

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

New Zealand need 254 runs to defeat England in the opening Test of the three-match series after bowling the hosts out for 226 in their second innings at Lord's on Friday.

'Education Minister Must Resign'

'Education Minister Must Resign'

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

'The software vendor had a black mark against him and yet they went ahead with him. Why was this company shortlisted? Who is responsible for signing off this software?'

Hindi Cinema Is Incomplete Without The Muslim

Hindi Cinema Is Incomplete Without The Muslim

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

As time went by, different facets of the Hindi cinema started showing the complicated identity of Muslim -- sometimes tendentious and at other times perverse and unreliable.

Jaishankar's big gift wows Jamaica cricket fans

Jaishankar's big gift wows Jamaica cricket fans

Rediff.com4 May 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness dedicated a scoreboard gifted by India to Sabina Park, highlighting the strong cricket ties between the two nations.

India Gifts Scoreboard To Jamaica's Iconic Sabina Park

India Gifts Scoreboard To Jamaica's Iconic Sabina Park

Rediff.com4 May 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness dedicated a scoreboard gifted by India to Sabina Park, highlighting the strong cricket ties between the two nations.

Salim Kumar's 10 Funniest Characters

Salim Kumar's 10 Funniest Characters

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

From Manavalan to Kannan Srank, a tribute to the unforgettable Salim Kumar who made generations of Malayalis laugh with his signature humour.

Sri Lanka government takes over Cricket Board after resignations

Sri Lanka government takes over Cricket Board after resignations

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

The Sri Lankan government has taken over the administration of the country's cricket board following the resignation of its president and executive committee amid allegations of financial irregularities and poor team performance.

Why India Needs A Cultural Shift To Become A Sporting Superpower

Why India Needs A Cultural Shift To Become A Sporting Superpower

Rediff.com20 May 2026

An analysis of the disparities in India's sporting culture, highlighting the challenges faced by non-cricket athletes and the systemic changes needed for India to become a true sporting superpower.

IPL 2026: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Dragged Into Child Labour Row

IPL 2026: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Dragged Into Child Labour Row

Rediff.com13 May 2026

A Karnataka-based activist's threat to file a 'child labour' complaint against the Rajasthan Royals for fielding 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in the IPL has ignited a debate on nurturing young talent versus perceived exploitation, drawing widespread disbelief and criticism.

Sri Lanka Cricket chief Shammi Silva resigns amidst pressure

Sri Lanka Cricket chief Shammi Silva resigns amidst pressure

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Sri Lanka Cricket's chief Shammi Silva and his executive committee resigned following calls for a new administration from the country's President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

'Bullying, excessive demands': Why Iran is wary of US talks

'Bullying, excessive demands': Why Iran is wary of US talks

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

Ebrahim Azizi, head of Iran's National Security Committee, stated that diplomatic talks with the US are governed by national interest and security, viewing negotiations as an extension of military efforts.

Assam polls: Congress, Raijor Dal finalise alliance

Assam polls: Congress, Raijor Dal finalise alliance

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

The Congress and Raijor Dal have finalised a seat-sharing agreement for the Assam assembly elections, with Congress leaving 11 constituencies for Raijor Dal and a friendly contest in two others. The alliance aims to defeat the BJP government.

How Brigade Parade Ground became Bengal's political epicentre

How Brigade Parade Ground became Bengal's political epicentre

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Kolkata's Brigade Parade Ground, a historic venue for political rallies and demonstrations, is set to host the swearing-in ceremony of Bengal's first BJP government, marking a significant shift in the state's political landscape. The ground has been a stage for political heavyweights and pivotal moments in Bengal's history.

ISRO And TIFR To Boost Space Exploration Through Collaboration

ISRO And TIFR To Boost Space Exploration Through Collaboration

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

ISRO and TIFR have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on space science, technology, and exploration, marking a significant milestone for India's space programme.

Formula One embraces AI revolution as teams chase competitive edge

Formula One embraces AI revolution as teams chase competitive edge

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming Formula One, with teams like Williams and Red Bull using AI for race strategy, data analysis and operations as tech partnerships and sponsorship revenues surge.

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.

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.

Rashid Khan turned down offers to play for India, Australia, reveals new book

Rashid Khan turned down offers to play for India, Australia, reveals new book

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

Afghanistan's star leg-spinner Rashid Khan declined citizenship offers from India and Australia, reaffirming his commitment to representing his home country, according to a new book.

Exit Iran 'Expeditiously': India Issues Fresh Advisory

Exit Iran 'Expeditiously': India Issues Fresh Advisory

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

The embassy also said that the exit must be undertaken in coordination with the mission.

Athletics Federation of India Requires Approval for Athlete Sponsorships

Athletics Federation of India Requires Approval for Athlete Sponsorships

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) has mandated that track and field athletes must obtain prior approval from the federation before entering into sponsorship agreements with any entity. This decision aims to protect the interests of both athletes and sponsors amid increasing instances of athletes and coaches frequently changing sponsors.

Kerala Win, Assam Loss Exposes Congress Crisis

Kerala Win, Assam Loss Exposes Congress Crisis

Rediff.com7 May 2026

If current trends persist, the Congress risks becoming increasingly regionally concentrated, dependent on a handful of states rather than functioning as a truly pan-India political force.

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.

My Indian father-in-law never asked me to...: JD Vance

My Indian father-in-law never asked me to...: JD Vance

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

US Vice President JD Vance has stated that immigrants who become US citizens should prioritise the interests of the United States above their country of origin. He emphasised the importance of allegiance to the US for the effective functioning of the American system.

Paralympics open with message of unity amid Middle East conflict

Paralympics open with message of unity amid Middle East conflict

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

Games open in Verona with calls for unity amid wars and athlete absences

Stage set for counting day showdown in 5 states

Stage set for counting day showdown in 5 states

Rediff.com3 May 2026

Counting of votes begins in Tamil Nadu, Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, and West Bengal, with significant implications for regional and national parties.

Lift sanctions, accept nuclear programme: Iran's 10-point peace plan

Lift sanctions, accept nuclear programme: Iran's 10-point peace plan

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

Iran has put forward a comprehensive 10-point framework that it says forms the basis of a complete resolution.

Nitin Nabin Criticises Mamata Banerjee's Focus on Politics Over Sports in West Bengal

Nitin Nabin Criticises Mamata Banerjee's Focus on Politics Over Sports in West Bengal

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

BJP National President Nitin Nabin has criticised West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for allegedly prioritising political games over sports and cultural activities, leading to the state's decline in these areas. He also accused the TMC government of using sports clubs for political purposes.

AFI To Conduct SRY Gene, DNA Tests On Athletes

AFI To Conduct SRY Gene, DNA Tests On Athletes

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) will conduct SRY Gene tests at the Federation Cup in Ranchi to ensure only biological females compete in the women's category. The AFI will also start DNA testing of Indian athletes to collect data for research, injury prevention, and training methods.

Leander Paes joins BJP ahead of Bengal polls

Leander Paes joins BJP ahead of Bengal polls

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

Paes had joined the Trinamool Congress in 2021 and campaigned for the party during the Goa elections in 2022.

Tennis Legend Leander Paes Joins BJP Ahead of West Bengal Elections

Tennis Legend Leander Paes Joins BJP Ahead of West Bengal Elections

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

Indian tennis icon Leander Paes has joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), marking a significant transition from his celebrated sports career to the political arena, ahead of assembly elections in West Bengal.

Aboobacker Clinches Gold in Thrilling Triple Jump Duel

Aboobacker Clinches Gold in Thrilling Triple Jump Duel

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

Abdulla Aboobacker won gold in the men's triple jump at the Indian Open Jumps Competition, while Sarvesh Anil Kushare secured victory in the high jump and Dev Meena won the pole vault.

How Sheetal Devi and Payal Nag are Shaping India's Para Archery Future

How Sheetal Devi and Payal Nag are Shaping India's Para Archery Future

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

Sheetal Devi, the first woman armless archer to become a world champion, finds a teammate in Payal Nag, a quadruple amputee, who won gold at the World Archery Para Series, highlighting India's growing strength in para archery.

Italy STUNNED! Bosnia end World Cup hopes again

Italy STUNNED! Bosnia end World Cup hopes again

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

Italy's World Cup drought continues after a playoff loss to Bosnia, while the Czech Republic and Sweden secured their spots in the tournament with dramatic victories over Denmark and Poland, respectively.