News for 'New Normal'

India braces for below-normal rainfall for Aug-Sept

India braces for below-normal rainfall for Aug-Sept

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted below-normal rainfall for India during the second half of the southwest monsoon season, specifically from August to September. This forecast indicates less than 94 per cent of the Long Period Average (LPA) for the period. While July saw good rainfall activity due to low-pressure systems and the Madden-Julian Oscillation, the Southern Peninsula experienced significantly low rainfall and record high minimum temperatures.

After dry June, IMD predicts below-normal rainfall in July

After dry June, IMD predicts below-normal rainfall in July

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

The monthly average rainfall over India is expected to be below normal during July, the India Meteorological Department said on Tuesday in its monthly forecast.

IMD forecasts below normal monsoon rainfall for India

IMD forecasts below normal monsoon rainfall for India

Rediff.com29 May 2026

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that the June-September southwest monsoon seasonal rainfall over India is expected to be 90 per cent of the long-period average. While the Northeast is likely to witness normal rainfall, the remaining parts of the country may see below normal rainfall.

Monsoon arrives in Kerala, below normal rainfall predicted

Monsoon arrives in Kerala, below normal rainfall predicted

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

The southwest monsoon has officially set over Kerala, albeit delayed from its typical June 1 start. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts below-normal rainfall for the season, expecting around 90% of the long-period average, primarily due to the emerging El Nino conditions.

Mumbai's BEST bus services remain below normal despite strike recall

Mumbai's BEST bus services remain below normal despite strike recall

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Despite BEST employees calling off their indefinite strike, Mumbai's bus services remained significantly below normal on Monday morning, with only 57% of the scheduled fleet operational. Commuters experienced long waits, leading many to seek alternative transport. The strike ended after an agreement with Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, which included interim pay hikes and commitments for future improvements and clearing dues.

'Economy May Take 2 To 3 Months To Return To Normal'

'Economy May Take 2 To 3 Months To Return To Normal'

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

'The real shock is going to be from a deficient monsoon.'

Below-normal monsoon forecast, geopolitical jitters trigger 1,092-point Sensex tumble

Below-normal monsoon forecast, geopolitical jitters trigger 1,092-point Sensex tumble

Rediff.com29 May 2026

Indian benchmark stock indices, Sensex and Nifty, experienced a significant decline for the third consecutive day, with the Sensex tumbling 1,092 points and Nifty closing below 24,550. This downturn was primarily driven by the India Meteorological Department's forecast of a below-normal southwest monsoon and ongoing geopolitical uncertainties surrounding the US-Iran ceasefire arrangement.

New AI Tool Maps How Different Brain Regions Age

New AI Tool Maps How Different Brain Regions Age

Rediff.com4 days ago

Researchers have developed an AI-based approach to generate detailed maps highlighting differences in how distinct parts of the brain age. This new model reveals that not all brain regions age at the same rate, with frontal and temporal lobes appearing biologically older. The study also links these regional ageing patterns to cognitive function and neurodegeneration, particularly in Alzheimer's disease.

Kerala rains: 25 dead, over 18K evacuated; red alert in 8 districts

Kerala rains: 25 dead, over 18K evacuated; red alert in 8 districts

Rediff.com4 days ago

The heavy rains that have battered Kerala since August 1 have claimed 25 lives, left four people missing, injured 10 and damaged hundreds of properties, forcing thousands to seek shelter in relief camps, the state government said on Tuesday.

Caffeine May Affect Sleep Quality Even With Normal Sleep Duration

Caffeine May Affect Sleep Quality Even With Normal Sleep Duration

Rediff.com28 May 2026

A new study reveals that evening caffeine consumption can impact sleep quality by reducing slow-wave activity, even if sleep duration appears normal. Researchers used EEG to analyse brain activity during sleep, finding that caffeine can shift the brain towards a more wakeful state, hindering restorative sleep.

Lovlina Borgohain calls for urgent housing for Assam flood victims

Lovlina Borgohain calls for urgent housing for Assam flood victims

Rediff.com18 hours ago

Indian boxer Lovlina Borgohain visited flood-affected areas in Golaghat, Assam, expressing deep concern over the severe destruction and urging authorities to prioritise providing housing for the displaced families.

India likely to witness above-normal rainfall in May: IMD

India likely to witness above-normal rainfall in May: IMD

Rediff.com1 May 2026

India is likely to witness a mixed temperature pattern along with wetter-than-usual conditions in May, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) indicating that rainfall across the country is "most likely to be above normal" at over 110 per cent of the long period average (LPA).

Asian Games medal 'very important' for me: Mirabai Chanu

Asian Games medal 'very important' for me: Mirabai Chanu

Rediff.com6 days ago

Olympic silver medallist Mirabai Chanu is now setting her sights on an Asian Games medal, acknowledging the immense pressure that comes with high expectations after her successful Commonwealth Games campaign.

Has Meeting Your Ex Left You Confused?

Has Meeting Your Ex Left You Confused?

Rediff.com1 days ago

'Getting involved with an ex has never ended well,' warns rediffGURU Archana Deshpande, life coach and founder of TransformMe Life Skills Coach.

Supporters go on a rampage after Karnataka MLA denied cabinet berth

Supporters go on a rampage after Karnataka MLA denied cabinet berth

Rediff.com3 days ago

Supporters of Congress MLA S N Subba Reddy launched a violent protest in Chikkaballapura, Karnataka, after he was excluded from the state cabinet. The agitation, which included a bandh, road blockades, and an attempted self-immolation, highlights a wider rebellion within the ruling Congress over ministerial berth denials following the recent cabinet expansion.

Three-hour spin sessions: How Padikkal prepared for Sri Lanka tour

Three-hour spin sessions: How Padikkal prepared for Sri Lanka tour

Rediff.com13 hours ago

Devdutt Padikkal's childhood coach, Mohammad Naseeruddin, revealed the rigorous training regimen the cricketer underwent, including practising with Kookaburra balls on turning pitches, to prepare for the Sri Lankan spin attack ahead of the Test series.

Will Sheikh Hasina Be Killed If She Returns To Dhaka?

Will Sheikh Hasina Be Killed If She Returns To Dhaka?

Rediff.com21 hours ago

'They probably imagine any hue and cry in the event Sheikh Hasina is hanged will be shortlived as it happened when Bhutto was hanged in Pakistan in 1979.'

11-year-old rape survivor delivers baby girl in Haryana hospital

11-year-old rape survivor delivers baby girl in Haryana hospital

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

An 11-year-old rape survivor in Yamunanagar, Haryana, has given birth to a baby girl at the District Civil Hospital. Both the mother and baby are in stable condition. The minor's pregnancy was discovered in May, leading to the arrest of the accused under the POCSO Act. The family has consented to hand over the newborn to the Child Welfare Committee.

The World No. 1 Who Lost A Leg In Combat

The World No. 1 Who Lost A Leg In Combat

Rediff.com4 days ago

Subedar Hokato Sema lost his leg in a mine blast on the Line of Control. Today he is a champion para shot-putter and among the most decorated para soldier-athletes.

Our endeavour is to bring inflation in line with target over the medium term

"Our endeavour is to bring inflation in line with target over the medium term"

Rediff.com2 days ago

"Our endeavour is to bring headline inflation in line with the target over the medium term," said RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra, addressing concerns about the central bank's policy stance and economic outlook.

Tejpal case: HC calls trial court verdict perverse, says perfect victim a myth

Tejpal case: HC calls trial court verdict perverse, says perfect victim a myth

Rediff.com2 days ago

Convicting journalist Tarun Tejpal in a 2013 rape case, the Bombay high court on Thursday termed the trial court's verdict of acquittal as "perverse", and slammed it for falling prey to the notion that a complainant in such cases should be a "perfect victim" and behave in a certain way.

The Insurance Add-On Every Car Owner Needs This Monsoon

The Insurance Add-On Every Car Owner Needs This Monsoon

Rediff.com1 days ago

Protect your vehicle from the unpredictable monsoon season by understanding essential motor insurance add-ons like Engine Protect and Zero Depreciation, crucial for covering damages from floods, waterlogging, and preventing costly out-of-pocket expenses.

Gold loan-backed PSLC sales boost PSBs' non-interest income in Q1FY27

Gold loan-backed PSLC sales boost PSBs' non-interest income in Q1FY27

Rediff.com5 days ago

Public-sector banks (PSBs) have reported a substantial increase in non-interest income for Q1FY27, primarily driven by the sale of Priority Sector Lending Certificates (PSLCs) backed by their rapidly expanding gold loan portfolios. This strategy has allowed several lenders to book significant profits by exceeding priority sector lending targets.

Cauvery row: Karnataka unites as Shivakumar urges calm; Vijay defers visit

Cauvery row: Karnataka unites as Shivakumar urges calm; Vijay defers visit

Rediff.com6 days ago

Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Sunday asserted that his government was committed to protecting the interests of the state's farmers and people on the Cauvery issue, while appealing to organisations to withdraw the proposed state-wide bandh.

Free Haircuts Bring Smiles After Assam Floods

Free Haircuts Bring Smiles After Assam Floods

Rediff.com4 days ago

It has offered a rare moment of relief, allowing them to sit down, talk, smile and feel human again amid days of uncertainty and hardship.

Hospitalisation, Cashless Claims & Settlement: What Every Medical Insurance Policyholder Should Know

Hospitalisation, Cashless Claims & Settlement: What Every Medical Insurance Policyholder Should Know

Rediff.com1 days ago

Many claim disputes arise not because the insurer refuses to pay but because policyholders don't know the claim process, miss important documents or misunderstand what their policy covers.

Spain Coach Slams Argentina's 'Intolerable' World Cup Final Brawl

Spain Coach Slams Argentina's 'Intolerable' World Cup Final Brawl

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has strongly condemned the post-match clashes that marred the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, calling the behaviour of Argentina's players 'unacceptable' after his side lifted the trophy with a dramatic extra-time victory.

Sonam Wangchuk seeks temporary discharge from Safdarjung to join Parl march

Sonam Wangchuk seeks temporary discharge from Safdarjung to join Parl march

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Activist Sonam Wangchuk's vital parameters are stable, but his blood parameters require close clinical observation at Safdarjung Hospital. He is under continuous medical management by a multidisciplinary team following his forcible admission after a 21-day hunger strike protesting NEET irregularities.

Karnataka activists tear up Vijay's Jana Nayagan posters over Cauvery order

Karnataka activists tear up Vijay's Jana Nayagan posters over Cauvery order

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Kannada activists in Mandya and Mysuru have intensified protests against the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee's directive for Karnataka to release 3,500 cusecs of Cauvery water daily to Tamil Nadu. Protesters cite severe drinking water scarcity and have engaged in actions like disrupting film screenings and blocking highways. Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has stated the state will appeal the CWRC's order.

Can Auqib Nabi Continue His Wicket Ways In Tests? Here's What Pathan Said

Can Auqib Nabi Continue His Wicket Ways In Tests? Here's What Pathan Said

Rediff.com4 days ago

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi's biggest strength lies in his ability to force top batters into errors while defending, rather than relying on raw pace.

El Nino effect severely impacts India's hydropower generation, pushing up power demand and coal reliance

El Nino effect severely impacts India's hydropower generation, pushing up power demand and coal reliance

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

India's hydropower generation has been significantly constrained in July due to the El Nio effect, which has weakened the southwest monsoon and reduced reservoir levels. This decline, following a 21 per cent year-on-year drop in June 2026, is forcing greater reliance on coal generation and straining grid flexibility amidst rising power demand.

IIT Indore Pioneers Rapid Waste-To-Chemical Conversion

IIT Indore Pioneers Rapid Waste-To-Chemical Conversion

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Researchers at IIT Indore have developed a groundbreaking method to convert carbon dioxide and glycerol, two common waste materials, into valuable green chemicals like lactic acid and formic acid in just seven minutes. This low-energy process uses a specially designed ruthenium-based catalyst and microwave heating, offering a sustainable solution for waste management and green manufacturing.

Jaishankar raises market access, trade imbalance in talks with Yi

Jaishankar raises market access, trade imbalance in talks with Yi

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Manila, reiterating that peace and tranquillity in border areas are prerequisites for normal India-China relations. He stressed the importance of mutual respect, interest, and sensitivity, while also raising concerns about market access, trade imbalance, and supply chain uncertainties.

'Gaslighting': Oppn slams Modi's 'forgiveness' call to protesters

'Gaslighting': Oppn slams Modi's 'forgiveness' call to protesters

Rediff.com7 days ago

Opposition leaders have sharply criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal to 'forgive' young protesters who used abusive language, accusing him of deflecting from issues of alleged police action and a 'broken education system'.

Monsoon Completes India Coverage On July 9

Monsoon Completes India Coverage On July 9

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

After a subdued start, the southwest monsoon has gathered pace since the beginning of July, narrowing the cumulative rainfall deficit from nearly 30 per cent on June 30 to around 15 per cent as of July 8.

Friendship Day: The Art Of Letting Building Friends Go

Friendship Day: The Art Of Letting Building Friends Go

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

There are friends you make because life brings you together. And then there are friends who become part of the place you call home. Mine lived across my building.

FIFA probe begins after Spain-Argentina World Cup final explodes

FIFA probe begins after Spain-Argentina World Cup final explodes

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

World football's governing body, FIFA, has initiated a disciplinary investigation into the post-match brawl that erupted after Spain's 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina in a chaotic World Cup final, following tensions that boiled over after a contentious match.

3 Big Lessons From Main Vaapas Aaunga

3 Big Lessons From Main Vaapas Aaunga

Rediff.com7 days ago

'Making a film -- good or bad -- is extremely hard work, involving hundreds of people and at least two years from idea to release. When the audience rejects it, it is known to push makers into depression. And then there is the danger of theatres stopping the screenings after week one if footfalls don't improve.'

Rashmika Mandanna Suffers Hip Injury, Out Of Action For 6 Weeks

Rashmika Mandanna Suffers Hip Injury, Out Of Action For 6 Weeks

Rediff.com7 days ago

'I am getting better. Thank you for checking in.'

10 killed after Typhoon Noul makes landfall in southern China

10 killed after Typhoon Noul makes landfall in southern China

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

Ten people were killed in rain-triggered floods in China as Typhoon Noul made landfall early Sunday in the southern province of Guangdong.