News for 'National Affairs'

MEA Confirms 13 Foreign Nationals Died In Delhi Hotel Fire

MEA Confirms 13 Foreign Nationals Died In Delhi Hotel Fire

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that 13 foreign nationals were among the 21 people who died in a recent hotel fire in south Delhi. The MEA is coordinating with respective embassies to provide assistance.

MY Bharat Convention: Empowering Young Indians For Nation-Building

MY Bharat Convention: Empowering Young Indians For Nation-Building

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

Over 6,000 young people from diverse backgrounds participated in the MY Bharat Youth Convention in New Delhi, interacting with Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and other dignitaries. The convention highlighted the crucial role of youth in nation-building and underscored India's significant demographic advantage.

Mandaviya To Review National Games Preparations In Meghalaya

Mandaviya To Review National Games Preparations In Meghalaya

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya will visit Meghalaya to review preparations for the 39th National Games and inaugurate a sports complex in Shillong.

Mandaviya To Review National Games Preparations In Meghalaya

Mandaviya To Review National Games Preparations In Meghalaya

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya will visit Meghalaya to review preparations for the 39th National Games and inaugurate a sports complex.

Why Delhi Leads In Murders Linked To Love And Illicit Affairs

Why Delhi Leads In Murders Linked To Love And Illicit Affairs

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Delhi recorded the highest number of murders linked to illicit relationships and love affairs among metropolitan cities, according to the latest figures of the NCRB.

India Urges End To Violence After Kuwait Airport Attack Kills Indian National

India Urges End To Violence After Kuwait Airport Attack Kills Indian National

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

India has condemned an attack on Kuwait International Airport, which resulted in the death of one Indian national and injuries to several others. The Ministry of External Affairs reiterated its call for an end to targeting civilian populations and infrastructure, while the Indian mission in Kuwait provides assistance to affected nationals.

National Commission For Women Plans UT Offices

National Commission For Women Plans UT Offices

Rediff.com19 May 2026

The National Commission for Women (NCW) has proposed opening offices in India's Union territories and is awaiting approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs, according to Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar.

Indian national killed in Iranian attack on Kuwait airport

Indian national killed in Iranian attack on Kuwait airport

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

An Indian national was killed in an attack on Kuwait International Airport, prompting the Indian Embassy to offer condolences and assistance. The attack, attributed to Iranian strikes, led to the suspension of air traffic and caused casualties and damage.

Lost many nationals in attacks on ships in Gulf, India tells UN

Lost many nationals in attacks on ships in Gulf, India tells UN

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

India has expressed firm opposition to attacks on merchant shipping amidst the ongoing Iran conflict, revealing that several Indian nationals have died or are missing due to these incidents. The nation also called for restraint, de-escalation, and prioritising civilian safety in the region.

Gulf nations welcome Iran-US deal, urge protection of maritime routes

Gulf nations welcome Iran-US deal, urge protection of maritime routes

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

The Gulf countries on Monday welcomed a peace deal reached between the US and Iran to end their conflict and called for protection of maritime routes and freedom of international navigation, including the uninterrupted flow of traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.

Pak-China affairs expert Lt Gen Subramani is India's next CDS

Pak-China affairs expert Lt Gen Subramani is India's next CDS

Rediff.com9 May 2026

The government has appointed Lieutenant General NS Raja Subramani (Retd) as the next Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), who shall also function as the secretary to the government of India, department of military affairs, with effect from the date of assumption of charge and until further orders.

India's Top Arms Supplier Is...

India's Top Arms Supplier Is...

Rediff.com6 hours ago

Europe has overtaken Asia as India's biggest arms supplier, reflecting New Delhi's evolving defence procurement strategy.

Cabinet rejig soon? Buzz intensifies as Amit Shah meets Prez

Cabinet rejig soon? Buzz intensifies as Amit Shah meets Prez

Rediff.com1 days ago

Union Home Minister Amit Shah met President Droupadi Murmu, following a similar meeting by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, intensifying speculation about an imminent reshuffle of the Union Council of Ministers. Recent resignations and new organisational appointments for some ministers are contributing to the buzz.

Doval, Wang review path to normalisation as India-China ties steadily thaw

Doval, Wang review path to normalisation as India-China ties steadily thaw

Rediff.com3 days ago

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval held "constructive" talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in New Delhi, focusing on the normalisation of bilateral ties. The discussions reviewed recent developments and progress towards rebuilding trust after the eastern Ladakh border standoff. Both sides have implemented measures, including disengagement pacts and high-level meetings, to improve relations.

'Europe sells weapons, which are used to attack India': Jaishankar slams Western 'hypocrisy'

'Europe sells weapons, which are used to attack India': Jaishankar slams Western 'hypocrisy'

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has strongly defended India's decision to purchase Russian crude oil, stating that the country's energy choices are based on cost and availability, and highlighting the West's 'hypocrisy' in criticising India while historically supplying weapons used against it.

Kiren Rijiju Foresees Indian Fencers Winning Asian Games Medals And Qualifying For Olympics

Kiren Rijiju Foresees Indian Fencers Winning Asian Games Medals And Qualifying For Olympics

Rediff.com1 days ago

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju expressed confidence that Indian fencers will secure medals at the upcoming Asian Games and qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. He emphasized the need to popularize fencing in India, highlighting its potential to capture the youth's imagination and its significant medal opportunities at the Olympics. Rijiju also commented on the government's non-interference policy regarding sports federations' internal affairs, specifically addressing the Manika Batra selection issue.

'Imperative' for India and China to...: Chinese FM in Delhi

'Imperative' for India and China to...: Chinese FM in Delhi

Rediff.com2 days ago

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval in New Delhi, stressing the importance of respecting each other's "core interests" and implementing leaders' consensus for stable bilateral relations. Wang highlighted that India and China should view each other as partners, not rivals, and properly handle sensitive issues like the border dispute to foster cooperation and accelerate the modernisation of the Global South.

Iran condemns US strike on ship that killed Indian crew members

Iran condemns US strike on ship that killed Indian crew members

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Iran has criticised recent US attacks on merchant ships off the Oman coast, which resulted in the deaths of three Indian nationals, calling them a threat to global peace. India has also strongly condemned the 'lethal and deadly' strikes and summoned the US charge d'affaires to express its concerns.

Chinese FM Wang Yi to attend BRICS NSA meet in New Delhi from June 22 to 23

Chinese FM Wang Yi to attend BRICS NSA meet in New Delhi from June 22 to 23

Rediff.com7 days ago

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is set to attend the BRICS National Security Advisors meeting in New Delhi on June 22-23. The high-level gathering will address international security challenges, regional issues, and prepare for the upcoming BRICS Summit in India. Wang Yi is also expected to hold bilateral talks with India's NSA Ajit Doval, focusing on India-China border issues.

Time India Embraces China And US

Time India Embraces China And US

Rediff.com6 hours ago

India's dual pursuit of a robust strategic partnership with Washington and a pragmatic, tension-management policy with Beijing represents the essence of modern multi-alignment. By embracing economic pragmatism, learning to compartmentalize political differences, and engaging in continuous dialogue, India can secure its borders, grow its economy, and contribute to a stable, multipolar Asian century, points out Ambassador Rajasekhar.

'USA-Iran Deal Is Not Enforceable'

'USA-Iran Deal Is Not Enforceable'

Rediff.com3 days ago

'Actual implementation of the 14-point agreement is proving hard to achieve let alone striking and sustaining a long-term treaty or deal.'

MY Bharat Youth Convention To Feature Top Sports Stars

MY Bharat Youth Convention To Feature Top Sports Stars

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports is organising a MY Bharat Youth Convention in New Delhi, featuring prominent sports personalities and bringing together over 6,000 young participants. The event aims to felicitate emerging talent in sports, entrepreneurship, governance, and content creation.

Suvendu minister performs puja before entering scam-tainted Partha's office

Suvendu minister performs puja before entering scam-tainted Partha's office

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Newly appointed West Bengal minister Bishal Lama performed a puja before occupying his new office, which was previously used by former education minister Partha Chatterjee, who was arrested in a school jobs scam. Lama stated it was a personal tradition for auspicious beginnings.

Explained: What establishes citizenship in India

Explained: What establishes citizenship in India

Rediff.com3 hours ago

A clarification by the ministry of external affairs that the passport is not a proof of citizenship has once again brought to the fore the need for a legal framework to provide citizens with a single document to establish they are Indians.

US warns India against violating Hormuz blockade

US warns India against violating Hormuz blockade

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

The US has warned India that any violation of its naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz and illicit transport of Iranian oil will not be tolerated, a statement made amidst a diplomatic row over the deaths of Indian seafarers in US attacks on commercial vessels off the coast of Oman.

Centre tightens FCRA rules for NGOs receiving foreign funds

Centre tightens FCRA rules for NGOs receiving foreign funds

Rediff.com3 days ago

The Indian government has amended the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) rules, introducing stricter regulations for NGOs receiving foreign funds. Key changes include mandatory selection of predefined purposes and areas of operation, restrictions on foreign nationals as key functionaries, and explicit exclusion of proselytisation from certain faith-based activities. The amendments also introduce minimum spending limits, enhanced financial accountability, and increased transparency requirements, including social media disclosure and ultimate donor identification.

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.

Passport-citizenship row: Govt says no new move in 12 yrs; Oppn hits out

Passport-citizenship row: Govt says no new move in 12 yrs; Oppn hits out

Rediff.com15 hours ago

Government sources have clarified that a passport has never been considered proof of citizenship in India, a stance consistent for the past 12 years and rooted in the Passport Act 1967. This clarification, reiterated by the Ministry of External Affairs, has drawn criticism from opposition leaders and public figures.

Modi embarks on five-nation tour; energy security, trade in focus

Modi embarks on five-nation tour; energy security, trade in focus

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has begun a six-day tour of the UAE, the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway and Italy to strengthen bilateral relations amid geopolitical challenges. The trip will focus on energy security, trade, and technological cooperation.

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.

Delhi High Court Affirms AITA General Body's Primacy In Constitutional Amendments

Delhi High Court Affirms AITA General Body's Primacy In Constitutional Amendments

Rediff.com3 days ago

The Delhi High Court has reaffirmed the All India Tennis Association's (AITA) General Body's authority in amending its constitution, directing that proposed changes be put to a clause-by-clause vote by members. This interim order modifies a single judge's ruling, ensuring the federation's democratic processes are maintained while complying with new sports governance laws, with fresh elections mandated by September 30.

Manika Batra Demands Answers, Threatens Legal Action Over Asian Games Snub

Manika Batra Demands Answers, Threatens Legal Action Over Asian Games Snub

Rediff.com2 days ago

Indian table tennis star Manika Batra has threatened legal action against the Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) if she is not provided a 'factual explanation' for her omission from the Asian Games squad.

Jalandhar Doctor's Suicide: Husband Accused Of Torture, Fraud

Jalandhar Doctor's Suicide: Husband Accused Of Torture, Fraud

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

A 37-year-old government doctor in Jalandhar, Punjab, died by suicide, leading to her ophthalmologist husband being booked for abetment. The victim's father alleges her husband subjected her to physical and mental torture over extramarital affairs and committed financial fraud by forging her signature for a large loan. The accused husband is currently absconding.

India bags first-ever vice presidency of Paris-based financial watchdog FATF

India bags first-ever vice presidency of Paris-based financial watchdog FATF

Rediff.com6 days ago

India was on Friday accorded the vice presidency of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the global body that sets standards for combating money laundering and terrorist financing, for the first time.

'You'll get a million votes in Delhi': Meloni recalls India visit

'You'll get a million votes in Delhi': Meloni recalls India visit

Rediff.com23 hours ago

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's new book, 'Giorgia's Vision', reveals anecdotes from her 2023 India visit, including the widespread 'Welcome' posters and a joke about her popularity in New Delhi. She also shares insights into her diplomatic approach, emphasising personal connections over rigid formalities, and recounts interactions with various world leaders.

Goodbye, Shastri Bhawan

Goodbye, Shastri Bhawan

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

As Shastri Bhawan nears demolition, one of Delhi's most iconic government buildings leaves behind six decades of stories, power, journalism and public life.

Modi under Cong fire over US statements after killing of Indian seafarers

Modi under Cong fire over US statements after killing of Indian seafarers

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

The Congress on Sunday lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the US' statements after three Indian sailors were killed in American attacks on ships, with party leader Rahul Gandhi saying the "compromised PM" listens "like an obedient servant" and "complies with the orders".

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.

Namo Cities: Delhi's decongestion dream faces the test of execution

Namo Cities: Delhi's decongestion dream faces the test of execution

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister's announcement of four 'Namo Cities' aims to decentralise development and decongest Delhi, but experts warn that the initiative may face execution challenges similar to previous urbanisation plans due to inadequate coordination among NCR states.

MEA assures help to Indians hit in Kuwait attack

MEA assures help to Indians hit in Kuwait attack

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that an Indian national was killed and 13 others injured in an attack on Kuwait International Airport. The MEA is providing assistance to the victims' families and monitoring the situation amidst escalating US-Iran tensions, also advising Indian nationals against travel to Iran and facilitating evacuations.