News for 'National Affairs'

India Forms AI Governance Body to Steer National Strategy

India Forms AI Governance Body to Steer National Strategy

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

India has established a high-level inter-ministerial body, the AI Governance and Economic Group (AIGEG), to steer the country's national AI governance strategy. The AIGEG will coordinate policy across ministries and oversee cross-sectoral governance issues, supported by a Technology and Policy Expert Committee (TPEC).

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.

Indian National Stranded in Russia Amid Gulf Tensions Seeks Repatriation

Indian National Stranded in Russia Amid Gulf Tensions Seeks Repatriation

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

The Indian government has addressed Parliament regarding a case of an Indian national seeking repatriation from Russia due to the situation in West Asia and the Gulf region. The government also responded to queries about Indian nationals denied entry to South Korea and seafarers detained in foreign countries.

Volleyball Players Quit National Camp Over Coaching and Facility Concerns

Volleyball Players Quit National Camp Over Coaching and Facility Concerns

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Two senior Indian volleyball players have quit the national camp in Ahmedabad, citing concerns over incompetent coaches, poor facilities, and politics within the Volleyball Federation of India (VFI).

How Cricket Strengthens India-Jamaica Relations

How Cricket Strengthens India-Jamaica Relations

Rediff.com2 days ago

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted the unifying role of cricket between India and Jamaica, dedicating a digital scoreboard gifted by India to Sabina Park in Kingston.

Jaishankar's big gift wows Jamaica cricket fans

Jaishankar's big gift wows Jamaica cricket fans

Rediff.com2 days ago

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.

Ukraine protests over detention of nationals in India

Ukraine protests over detention of nationals in India

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

Ukraine has lodged a formal protest with India regarding the detention of six Ukrainian nationals in Mizoram, alleging unauthorised entry and unlawful activities. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry is seeking consular access and immediate release of its citizens.

India Gifts Scoreboard To Jamaica's Iconic Sabina Park

India Gifts Scoreboard To Jamaica's Iconic Sabina Park

Rediff.com2 days ago

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.

Unified Training Camps Key To India's Thomas Cup Bronze

Unified Training Camps Key To India's Thomas Cup Bronze

Rediff.com3 hours ago

Unified high-performance training camps in Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Guwahati played a crucial role in India's bronze medal win at the Thomas Cup, with top shuttlers benefiting from the focused preparation.

Govt issues updated SOP for processing FDI applications

Govt issues updated SOP for processing FDI applications

Rediff.com20 hours ago

The Indian government has issued an updated Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for processing Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) applications, aiming to clear all proposals within 12 weeks, a two-week extension from the previous 10-week target, to ensure a fully paperless and transparent process.

Sri Lanka government takes over Cricket Board after resignations

Sri Lanka government takes over Cricket Board after resignations

Rediff.com6 days ago

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.

India Launches Indoor Athletics with National Championship in Bhubaneswar

India Launches Indoor Athletics with National Championship in Bhubaneswar

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

India is set to host its first-ever National Indoor Athletics Championship in Bhubaneswar, marking a significant step towards hosting the World Indoor Athletics Championships in 2028. The event will feature a 200m track and various field events, providing a novel experience for Indian athletes.

Cong dumps DMK, extends support to TVK for govt formation in TN

Cong dumps DMK, extends support to TVK for govt formation in TN

Rediff.com3 hours ago

The Tamil Nadu Congress has decided to support TVK leader Vijay in forming a secular government in the state. The decision was taken at an urgent meeting of the Political Affairs Committee (PAC) of Tamil Nadu Congress late on Tuesday night.

India Responds to West Asia Crisis: Six Nationals Dead, One Missing

India Responds to West Asia Crisis: Six Nationals Dead, One Missing

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has confirmed the deaths of six Indian nationals and one missing person amidst the escalating conflict in West Asia, detailing ongoing efforts for repatriation and diplomatic engagement.

We are not a dalal nation: Jaishankar at all-party meet

We are not a dalal nation: Jaishankar at all-party meet

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

The Indian government addressed opposition concerns regarding the West Asia crisis in an all-party meeting, outlining its strategy for ensuring the security of the Indian diaspora, fulfilling energy needs, and maintaining diplomatic relations with key partners. The government also dismissed Pakistan's reported mediation efforts.

VHP Appeals To UN For Religious Minorities' Protection In Pakistan, Bangladesh

VHP Appeals To UN For Religious Minorities' Protection In Pakistan, Bangladesh

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) has appealed to the United Nations to intervene on behalf of religious minorities in Pakistan and Bangladesh, citing human rights violations.

India-bound LPG carrier crosses Hormuz, to reach Visakhapatnam on May 13

India-bound LPG carrier crosses Hormuz, to reach Visakhapatnam on May 13

Rediff.com3 days ago

A Marshall Islands-flagged LPG carrier, MT Sarv Shakti, carrying Indian cargo, has safely crossed the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday and is expected to reach Visakhapatnam on May 13, according to official sources.

Drug Trafficker Dola's Chemist Links Under Investigation

Drug Trafficker Dola's Chemist Links Under Investigation

Rediff.com3 days ago

Investigators are probing the network of Mohammad Salim Dola, an alleged international drug trafficker, and have uncovered links with chemists and pharma dealers who allegedly aided his illicit trans-national racket.

Centre to resume talks with Ladakh groups on May 22 amid statehood demand

Centre to resume talks with Ladakh groups on May 22 amid statehood demand

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has decided to convene a meeting of the sub-committee for political dialogue with representatives of agitating Ladakh groups on May 22, according to Lt Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena.

Can Dinesh Trivedi's Dhaka posting mend frayed India-Bangladesh ties?

Can Dinesh Trivedi's Dhaka posting mend frayed India-Bangladesh ties?

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Former Union minister Dinesh Trivedi has been appointed as India's next High Commissioner to Bangladesh, signalling efforts to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.

'India is great': US in damage-control mode after Trump's 'hellholes' repost

'India is great': US in damage-control mode after Trump's 'hellholes' repost

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

The US embassy spokesperson issued a statement clarifying President Trump's views on India after a controversial social media repost. The statement emphasised the strong relationship between the two countries and Trump's positive view of India's leadership.

India-bound LPG tanker safely passes through Strait Of Hormuz

India-bound LPG tanker safely passes through Strait Of Hormuz

Rediff.com2 days ago

A tanker carrying liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) for India has successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz and is en route to Visakhapatnam, India, carrying enough cargo to meet half a day's requirement for the country.

Delhi High Court Upholds AITA Elections Under Supervision

Delhi High Court Upholds AITA Elections Under Supervision

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

The Delhi High Court has validated the All India Tennis Association (AITA) elections held in September 2024, but stipulated that the elected body will operate as an interim arrangement under the supervision of a court-appointed Administrator.

India's 10-Year Plan To Become A Sporting Powerhouse

India's 10-Year Plan To Become A Sporting Powerhouse

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya emphasised the importance of executing the country's 10-year roadmap to become a global sporting powerhouse during the Chintan Shivir held in Srinagar. The event saw participation from state sports ministers and eminent sports personalities, focusing on active implementation and grassroots development.

How India Plans To Boost Its Sports Culture

How India Plans To Boost Its Sports Culture

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya released the Srinagar Khel Sankalp document, outlining a national vision to strengthen sports culture through cooperative federalism, focusing on athlete-centric development and infrastructure expansion.

Uninformed, in poor taste: India on Trump's 'hellhole' remark

Uninformed, in poor taste: India on Trump's 'hellhole' remark

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

India has criticised US President Donald Trump's social media repost referring to India and other countries as 'hellholes' in the context of immigration, deeming the remarks 'uninformed' and 'inappropriate'.

Sri Lanka Cricket chief Shammi Silva resigns amidst pressure

Sri Lanka Cricket chief Shammi Silva resigns amidst pressure

Rediff.com7 days ago

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.

How To Harness Sports For Social Transformation: L-G Sinha Explains

How To Harness Sports For Social Transformation: L-G Sinha Explains

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha emphasised the importance of harnessing sports as a force for social transformation at a national 'Chintan Shivir' in Srinagar. He highlighted the need for collaboration between schools, communities, and families to create ecosystems where young athletes can discover their potential, and urged for greater support and resources for physical education teachers in schools.

It's official, Rajya Sabha approves merger of AAP MPs with BJP

It's official, Rajya Sabha approves merger of AAP MPs with BJP

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

Seven Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MPs have officially merged with the BJP in the Rajya Sabha, reducing AAP's strength in the Upper House. The move increases the BJP's presence and has been criticised by AAP as unconstitutional.

Kerala University Must Allow Iranian Student To Use Swimming Pool: Rights Body

Kerala University Must Allow Iranian Student To Use Swimming Pool: Rights Body

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

The State Human Rights Commission has ruled that an Iranian student of Kerala University has the legal right to use the swimming pool at the Kariavattom campus and directed the Sports and Youth Affairs Department to ensure necessary facilities.

When US Presidents Abused India And/Or Indians!

When US Presidents Abused India And/Or Indians!

Rediff.com5 days ago

If Trump doesn't like India, that is his choice. But to use such distasteful language on a public platform is deeply offensive and needs to be called out, points out Amberish K Diwanji.

Pati Patni Aur Woh Do: 'We Aren't Promoting Infidelity'

Pati Patni Aur Woh Do: 'We Aren't Promoting Infidelity'

Rediff.com2 days ago

'When kids love it, it becomes a wholesome family film, and Pati Patni Aur Woh Do is one such film.'

Dawood Ibrahim's Aide Dola Arrives In Mumbai After Arrest

Dawood Ibrahim's Aide Dola Arrives In Mumbai After Arrest

Rediff.com6 days ago

Mohammad Salim Dola, a close associate of Dawood Ibrahim and a major drug trafficker, has been brought to Mumbai by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) after being arrested in Turkiye and granted transit remand by a Delhi court.

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.

'Racist trash': Trump slammed for 'hellhole' remark targeting India

'Racist trash': Trump slammed for 'hellhole' remark targeting India

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

Democrat leaders have criticised US President Donald Trump for referring to India and other countries as 'hellholes', accusing him of amplifying 'racist trash' on social media.

Sourav Kothari Advances At World Billiards Championship

Sourav Kothari Advances At World Billiards Championship

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

Sourav Kothari survived a scare in his opening match of the IBSF World Billiards Championship, while Pankaj Advani and Dhruv Sitwala registered comfortable wins.

Hardliners in Iran blocking negotiation with US: Report

Hardliners in Iran blocking negotiation with US: Report

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

A new assessment by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) reveals that a power struggle within Iran's leadership, with hardliners gaining influence, could significantly impact future negotiations with the United States.

India Vows To Fight Terrorism After Pahalgam Attack Anniversary

India Vows To Fight Terrorism After Pahalgam Attack Anniversary

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

Union ministers paid tribute to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack on its first anniversary, reaffirming India's commitment to combating terrorism with a firm and zero-tolerance policy.

Amid US blockade of Hormuz, India emphasises safe maritime passage

Amid US blockade of Hormuz, India emphasises safe maritime passage

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has emphasised India's commitment to safe maritime transit and condemned attacks on merchant shipping amidst the ongoing West Asia conflict and global energy market disruptions.

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.com1 days ago

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.