News for 'Next Challenge'

Nihal Sarin has a strong message for struggling Gukesh

Nihal Sarin has a strong message for struggling Gukesh

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Indian Grandmaster Nihal Sarin discusses fellow world champion D Gukesh's recent performance slump, attributing it to a lack of confidence rather than a decline in skill. Sarin expresses hope that the upcoming Chess Olympiad will help Gukesh regain his form. He also shares his views on the increasing role of AI in chess, the evolution towards faster formats, and potential improvements in the chess ecosystem.

PM lays out seven-point Sapta Dhara framework for Viksit Bharat

PM lays out seven-point Sapta Dhara framework for Viksit Bharat

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has introduced a 'Sapta Dhara' (seven-stream) reform framework, aiming to propel India into a developed nation by 2047. This comprehensive plan focuses on key sectors including manufacturing, agro-food processing, technology, logistics, defence, green and blue economy, and soft power, leveraging the nation's youth potential.

Indian Junior Squash Teams Eye World Championship Glory

Indian Junior Squash Teams Eye World Championship Glory

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Both the Indian men's and women's junior squash teams have successfully advanced to the quarterfinals of the World Junior Squash Team Championship in Ontario. The men's team overcame Kuwait in a hard-fought 2-1 victory, while the women's team secured a dominant 3-0 win against South Africa. The men are set to face England, and the women will compete against USA in their respective quarterfinal matches.

Indian-origin Neel Patel selected for Australia U-19 tour of India

Indian-origin Neel Patel selected for Australia U-19 tour of India

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Indian-origin cricketer Neel Patel, from New South Wales, has been named in Australia's 16-player Under-19 men's squad for a multi-format tour of India, featuring three 50-over matches and two four-day matches in Rajkot and Ahmedabad from 13 September to 9 October 2026.

Why AI Agents Can't Go Fully Autonomous Yet

Why AI Agents Can't Go Fully Autonomous Yet

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

The biggest challenge to widespread deployment is no longer AI. It is the financial and commerce infrastructure that was built decades ago for deterministic software and human interactions -- not autonomous AI agents.

Indian Racing Prodigy Atiqa Mir Shows Promise In Euro Series Karting

Indian Racing Prodigy Atiqa Mir Shows Promise In Euro Series Karting

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Indian racing prodigy Atiqa Mir showcased remarkable talent at the Champions of the Future Euro Series Round 4 in Kristianstad, Sweden. Despite an untimely crash and penalties, the 11-year-old delivered strong qualifying and heat race performances, gaining valuable experience for the upcoming FIA European Championship.

Neeraj Chopra's CWG Silver: A Triumph Over Injury

Neeraj Chopra's CWG Silver: A Triumph Over Injury

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Former Olympic and World Championship gold medallist Neeraj Chopra secured a silver medal at the Commonwealth Games 2026, describing it as a special achievement following a challenging 10-month recovery from multiple injuries. He credited his support system for his successful return to competition.

Rupa Rani And Pinki Singh Shine In Commonwealth Games Lawn Bowls

Rupa Rani And Pinki Singh Shine In Commonwealth Games Lawn Bowls

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

India's Rupa Rani Tirkey and Pinki Singh secured their third consecutive victory in the women's pairs Lawn Bowls at the Commonwealth Games, defeating Tonga in a tie-breaker to stay on course for the semifinals. Meanwhile, Putul Sonowal experienced his first defeat in the men's singles, losing to Malaysia's Izzat Shameer Dzulkeple after two initial wins.

How Ai+ Is Investing Rs 100 Crore To Boost Smartphone Security

How Ai+ Is Investing Rs 100 Crore To Boost Smartphone Security

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Indigenous smartphone brand Ai+ has announced a Rs 100 crore bug bounty program over five years, inviting independent researchers to identify and address security vulnerabilities. This initiative, named Project Trust+, aims to foster a collaborative environment with the tech community to enhance the safety and resilience of Ai+ products, reflecting the company's commitment to transparent and collaborative security development.

BWF Worlds: Sindhu gets dream start, Ayush faces defending champ

BWF Worlds: Sindhu gets dream start, Ayush faces defending champ

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Top Indian shuttlers have received a mixed draw for the BWF World Championships in New Delhi, with PV Sindhu and Lakshya Sen getting relatively favourable starts, while Asian Championships silver medallist Ayush Shetty faces a formidable opening round against defending champion Shi Yu Qi of China.

Jeev Milkha Singh Offers Crucial Asian Games Golf Advice

Jeev Milkha Singh Offers Crucial Asian Games Golf Advice

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Indian golfing legend Jeev Milkha Singh offers crucial advice to the national golf team ahead of the Asian Games, emphasising the importance of a strong short game and adapting to Japan's fast greens and windy conditions to secure medals.

Avika Gor: 'Khatron Ke Khiladi 15 Tests Every Bit Of You'

Avika Gor: 'Khatron Ke Khiladi 15 Tests Every Bit Of You'

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

'Khatron Ke Khiladi is a show where people get to see a side of me, which is courageous and daring. It was a surprise for me. I got to know what I was capable of.'

Tejaswin Shankar eyes Asian Games gold after rapid decathlon progress

Tejaswin Shankar eyes Asian Games gold after rapid decathlon progress

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Tejaswin Shankar, a two-time Commonwealth Games medalist, is targeting an Asian Games decathlon gold with a personal best, while building towards Olympic-level performances and longevity.

Ollie Pope opens up on England return, Ashes goal

Ollie Pope opens up on England return, Ashes goal

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

England batter Ollie Pope, recalled to the Test squad for the Pakistan series after a challenging Ashes tour, describes the call-up as feeling like a 'debut' and is determined to prove himself, particularly with an eye on the next home Ashes series.

Indian Shuttler Rounak Chouhan Shines At Taipei Open

Indian Shuttler Rounak Chouhan Shines At Taipei Open

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Indian shuttler Rounak Chouhan successfully navigated the qualifying rounds of the Taipei Open Super 300, securing his spot in the men's singles main draw with two impressive victories. However, it was a challenging day for most other Indian participants across various categories, who faced defeats in their respective qualifying and opening matches. HS Prannoy and Unnati Hooda are set to lead the Indian contingent in the main draw.

Centre defends CEC law in SC, says PM's integrity cannot be questioned

Centre defends CEC law in SC, says PM's integrity cannot be questioned

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Defending the law for regulating appointment procedures of the chief election commissioner and the deputies, the Centre on Thursday told the Supreme Court that it would be wrong to assume that the prime minister and the other ministers would act in "bad faith" and against "democracy" because they have a numerical majority in the selection procedure.

FIFA U-turn! Infantino scraps World Cup stake sale

FIFA U-turn! Infantino scraps World Cup stake sale

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced on Friday that the world soccer's governing body has abandoned its controversial plans to sell a stake in the World Cup to private investors, following widespread backlash from major confederations and internal dissent.

'If Rohit, Kohli score runs why should we look at their age?': Harbhajan

'If Rohit, Kohli score runs why should we look at their age?': Harbhajan

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh has voiced strong support for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup, emphasising that performance, not age, should be the primary criterion for selection.

Key Arab Football Federations Reaffirm Support For FIFA President Infantino

Key Arab Football Federations Reaffirm Support For FIFA President Infantino

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Six Arab football federations, including 2030 World Cup co-host Morocco and Qatar, have publicly declared their "full support" and "confidence" in FIFA President Gianni Infantino. This backing comes as Infantino faces significant backlash and withdrawals of support from European and Oceania federations over his failed $20 billion private investment plan for the World Cup, highlighting a growing schism within global football governance.

Why Team Chemistry Is Crucial For Fyers American Gambits

Why Team Chemistry Is Crucial For Fyers American Gambits

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Indian Grandmaster Nihal Sarin believes team chemistry will be vital for Fyers American Gambits' success in the upcoming Global Chess League. The tournament, featuring elite players and a unique team format, will also serve as preparation for the Chess Olympiad. Sarin highlights the challenge and excitement of integrating diverse playing styles into a cohesive unit.

7 states account for 85% of India's installed solar capacity

7 states account for 85% of India's installed solar capacity

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Despite aggressive expansion, India's solar power sector faces significant hurdles from rising regional disparities in installed capacity and a looming manufacturing glut due to overcapacity in domestic solar equipment production, potentially leading to consolidation and pricing pressures.

Infantino's Re-election Bid in Jeopardy as Federations Withdraw Support

Infantino's Re-election Bid in Jeopardy as Federations Withdraw Support

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

The national football federations of Serbia, Sweden, and Wales have withdrawn their support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino's re-election bid, with England's FA also expected to follow suit, intensifying the backlash against him following a failed plan to sell a stake in the World Cup to private investors.

Babar powers Pakistan to series-levelling win against Windies

Babar powers Pakistan to series-levelling win against Windies

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Pakistan successfully chased down a target of 75 runs on Day 4 to level their two-Test series against West Indies 1-1, with captain Babar Azam sealing the victory with two sixes despite an injury scare.

Diksha Dagar's Scottish Open Journey: A Look At Her Performance

Diksha Dagar's Scottish Open Journey: A Look At Her Performance

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Indian golfer Diksha Dagar concluded the Women's Scottish Open in tied-16th position after a final round of 1-over 73. Despite a patchy performance, Dagar's result saw her climb to sixth place on the Ladies European Tour Order of Merit, with Korea's Jenny Shin claiming the title.

Manu Bhaker's next challenge: Balancing fame and focus

Manu Bhaker's next challenge: Balancing fame and focus

Rediff.com3 Aug 2024

With millions of dollars set to come her way via cash rewards and endorsements, maintaining focus solely on sport can be a challenge.

'Challenges Are Not New To Us'

'Challenges Are Not New To Us'

Rediff.com18 May 2026

'Unfortunately the treasury is empty, in zero. So we have to first make money for the development activities of the state, and also to continue the welfare measures.'

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

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

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

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.

West Asia Conflict Deepens India's Economic Challenges

West Asia Conflict Deepens India's Economic Challenges

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

Even if there is an early agreement on a cessation of hostilities in West Asia, the price shock will not go away easily, points out A K Bhattacharya.

Kuldeep Should Be Playing Regularly: Harbhajan

Kuldeep Should Be Playing Regularly: Harbhajan

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

'If I was with the team, I would pick bowlers who I feel can pick wickets and win matches for me with the ball.'

Why Cricket Australia Is Eyeing India For Future Ashes Tests

Why Cricket Australia Is Eyeing India For Future Ashes Tests

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Cricket Australia is exploring the possibility of hosting an Ashes Test match in India in the future, following its decision to bring the Big Bash League opener to Chennai. While no immediate plans are in place, CA chief executive Todd Greenberg highlighted strong relationships with the ECB and BCCI and the growing strength of Test cricket involving Australia, England, and India. He acknowledged logistical challenges due to the packed global cricket calendar.

BWF Worlds: Sindhu eyes 6th medal; Satwik-Chirag chase glory

BWF Worlds: Sindhu eyes 6th medal; Satwik-Chirag chase glory

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu is set to chase an unprecedented sixth medal at the BWF World Championships, which are returning to India after 17 years, beginning in New Delhi on Monday. Sindhu, already a five-time World Championships medallist, is high on confidence after winning the Japan Open Super 750 last month.

FIFA World Cup: What Did Messi and Ronaldo Post Before Big Matches?

FIFA World Cup: What Did Messi and Ronaldo Post Before Big Matches?

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Football superstars Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have taken to social media to share their preparations for crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 group-stage matches. Messi, fresh off a hat-trick, is fine-tuning for Argentina's clash against Austria, while Ronaldo, after a frustrating draw, is refocusing for Portugal's game against Uzbekistan.

Difficult to think of cricket without ODIs: Jonty Rhodes

Difficult to think of cricket without ODIs: Jonty Rhodes

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Former South Africa cricketer Jonty Rhodes believes that while bilateral ODI series may become fewer in the future, the 50-over format is unlikely to disappear entirely, with passionate fans continuing to support their teams.

Why India Could Find It 'Tough' To Qualify For WTC 2025-27 Final

Why India Could Find It 'Tough' To Qualify For WTC 2025-27 Final

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Aakash Chopra believes India faces a challenging path to the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 final, even if they register a 2-0 series sweep in Sri Lanka.

Former CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Tewolde Gebremariam is new Air India boss

Former CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Tewolde Gebremariam is new Air India boss

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Air India has announced the appointment of Tewolde Gebremariam, former CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group, as its new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, replacing Campbell Wilson. This strategic appointment comes as the airline navigates expansion amidst significant challenges.

Infantino holds crisis meeting in Morocco as FIFA stake sale fallout continues

Infantino holds crisis meeting in Morocco as FIFA stake sale fallout continues

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is holding a crisis meeting with top officials in Morocco to address the fallout from his failed attempt to sell commercial rights to the World Cup, a move that has led to widespread criticism and calls for his removal.

'No blame game over Bumrah, Sudharsan injuries': V V S Laxman defends BCCI CoE

'No blame game over Bumrah, Sudharsan injuries': V V S Laxman defends BCCI CoE

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

VVS Laxman, head of the BCCI's Centre of Excellence, has defended the CoE against criticism regarding slow player recovery, stating that cricketers are not 'machines' and rehabilitation timelines can vary.

De Vries Leads Mahindra's Charge In London Finale

De Vries Leads Mahindra's Charge In London Finale

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Nyck de Vries discusses Mahindra Racing's impressive turnaround in the Formula E season, as they head into the London finale aiming for a historic top-three team championship finish. Despite a challenging start, de Vries' victories and the team's collective effort have positioned them for their best result since 2016-17, with de Vries also reflecting on his F1 experience.

Cricket Scotland, KNCB Slam ICC's 'Setback' World Cup Qualification Changes

Cricket Scotland, KNCB Slam ICC's 'Setback' World Cup Qualification Changes

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Cricket Scotland and the Royal Dutch Cricket Association (KNCB) have jointly criticised the International Cricket Council's (ICC) significant structural changes to the Men's 50-over World Cup qualification pathway, calling it a 'setback to Associate Member cricket' and expressing disappointment over the lack of consultation.

Siwach Wins Opening Bout At Commonwealth Games

Siwach Wins Opening Bout At Commonwealth Games

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Indian boxer Sachin Siwach defeated Canada's Keoma Al-Ahmadieh in a 4-1 split decision to advance to the pre-quarterfinals of the Commonwealth Games boxing competition.