News for 'ONLY'

RBI shuts FCNR(B) swap facility early as inflows hit $52.3 billion

RBI shuts FCNR(B) swap facility early as inflows hit $52.3 billion

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has prematurely closed its swap facility for foreign currency non-resident (bank) deposits, FCNR(B), one month ahead of schedule, after banks mobilised $52.3 billion under the scheme by August 13, indicating sufficient foreign currency reserves.

Joseph Sunny's brace powers SC Delhi To emphatic Durand Cup semifinal berth

Joseph Sunny's brace powers SC Delhi To emphatic Durand Cup semifinal berth

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

SC Delhi staged a remarkable second-half comeback, scoring five goals to defeat debutants FC Raengdai of Manipur 5-1 in the Durand Cup quarter-finals. After conceding an early goal, Joseph Sunny's brace, along with goals from Rodriguinho, Juan Sebastian Pena, and Augustine Lalrochana, secured their place in the semifinals.

Indian Shuttler Ayush Shetty Creates Major Upset, Sindhu Advances

Indian Shuttler Ayush Shetty Creates Major Upset, Sindhu Advances

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Indian shuttler Ayush Shetty caused a major upset on the opening day of the BWF World Championships by defeating world No. 1 Shi Yu Qi of China. Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu also comfortably advanced to the second round in women's singles, while other Indian doubles pairs, Treesa Jolly-Gayatri Gopichand and Hariharan Amsakarunan-MR Arjun, secured their spots in the next round.

Clarity in approach, hunger for big runs key to maiden Test century: Devdutt Padikkal

Clarity in approach, hunger for big runs key to maiden Test century: Devdutt Padikkal

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

Devdutt Padikkal scored his maiden Test hundred against Sri Lanka, attributing his success to a clear strategy against spin and a strong desire to convert big scores. He focused on developing specific plans for bowlers and maintaining full commitment to every shot, while also emphasising the importance of staying focused after reaching a century.

'Stay calm': India goalkeeper Bichu Devi embraces Dhoni's mantra for hockey World Cup

'Stay calm': India goalkeeper Bichu Devi embraces Dhoni's mantra for hockey World Cup

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

India's World Cup goalkeeper Bichu Devi, inspired by cricketing legend Mahendra Singh Dhoni, emphasises the importance of composure under pressure.

Veteran Golfer Eleanor Givens Claims First LET Victory In Switzerland

Veteran Golfer Eleanor Givens Claims First LET Victory In Switzerland

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

Indian golfer Pranavi Urs finished tied-38th at the VP Bank Swiss Ladies event, while England's Eleanor Givens secured her maiden Ladies European Tour title after 15 seasons and 210 starts, rallying from behind on the final day.

Applying For US Student Visa? Avoid These 9 Mistakes

Applying For US Student Visa? Avoid These 9 Mistakes

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

When you apply for a US visa, you need to be clear and honest about why you chose this course or country and what you plan to do with the qualification afterwards -- whether you will be returning home or building a career abroad, says Sonal Kapoor, global chief business officer, Prodigy Finance.

Nurse found dead in govt hospital washroom in Kolkata

Nurse found dead in govt hospital washroom in Kolkata

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

A 30-year-old nurse was found dead in a Kolkata hospital washroom, with preliminary investigations suggesting a possible overdose of an anaesthetic drug. Police are probing all angles, including mental stress, while an internal health department committee has been formed.

Historic! Bangladesh claim first-ever Test win in Australia

Historic! Bangladesh claim first-ever Test win in Australia

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

Bangladesh secured a landmark nine-wicket victory over Australia in Darwin, marking their first-ever Test win in Australia and one of Test cricket's greatest upsets, despite a defiant century from Cameron Green.

Mahindra Launches BE 6 SPORTEQ Range: One Big Update, Simplified Options

Mahindra Launches BE 6 SPORTEQ Range: One Big Update, Simplified Options

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Is this one car with options, or three distinct vehicles? Rajesh Karkera/Rediff.com finds out.

'Coding Agents Won't Replace Software Engineers'

'Coding Agents Won't Replace Software Engineers'

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

'It seems unlikely that organisations will be a bunch of individuals who work on their own and there are no teams anymore, because that is not sustainable.'

'Bohot badhiya banda': Harbhajan reveals Gambhir's true side

'Bohot badhiya banda': Harbhajan reveals Gambhir's true side

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh has expressed his bewilderment at the continuous criticism directed towards Gautam Gambhir since he assumed the role of national head coach, acknowledging that Gambhir's direct approach might not appeal to everyone.

Govt adviser bats for E10 petrol to protect older vehicles

Govt adviser bats for E10 petrol to protect older vehicles

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

A government adviser has called for India to reintroduce a petrol variant with a lower ethanol blend, such as E10, alongside the current E20 fuel. This move aims to protect millions of older vehicles, particularly two-wheelers, which may experience performance issues and damage from the higher 20 per cent ethanol blend.

SC grants relief to Rahul Gandhi in disproportionate assets case

SC grants relief to Rahul Gandhi in disproportionate assets case

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has provided significant relief to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi by directing the Allahabad High Court to cease proceedings in a case alleging disproportionate assets against him. The apex court also instructed the CBI and ED not to submit any reports based on the high court's previous directives.

Lakers set to break record with $12.5 billion sale

Lakers set to break record with $12.5 billion sale

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

The Los Angeles Lakers NBA team is reportedly being sold to businessmen Josh Kushner and Bob Iger for an unprecedented $12.5 billion, a deal that would make it the most expensive sports team ever sold.

Navneet Kaur wants hockey team to repeat cricket's feat

Navneet Kaur wants hockey team to repeat cricket's feat

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Veteran striker Navneet Kaur believes the Indian women's hockey team is inspired by the cricket team's ODI World Cup triumph and aims to script a similar title-winning story at the FIH Women's World Cup.

Praggnanandhaa holds Wesley So to a draw, maintains joint second at Sinquefield Cup

Praggnanandhaa holds Wesley So to a draw, maintains joint second at Sinquefield Cup

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa drew with tournament leader Wesley So in the fifth round of the Sinquefield Cup, maintaining his joint second position with 3 points. This result keeps him on track for a podium finish and a strong chance to qualify for the Grand Chess Tour finale.

SL vs India 1st Test, Day 2: Padikkal's 167, Jurel's fifty put India in command

SL vs India 1st Test, Day 2: Padikkal's 167, Jurel's fifty put India in command

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

India finished Day 2 on 460/9 after rain restricted play to just two sessions in the opening Test against Sri Lanka in Galle on Sunday.

Rajasthan govt restricts entry, photography in schools amid CJP campaign

Rajasthan govt restricts entry, photography in schools amid CJP campaign

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

The Rajasthan government has issued an order restricting the entry of outsiders into government schools and barring photography and videography without prior permission, a move that follows protests over poor conditions and an announced inspection by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP).

Jurel's Test spot at risk? Sarfaraz adds to pressure

Jurel's Test spot at risk? Sarfaraz adds to pressure

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel is at a critical juncture in his Test career, with his performance in the upcoming Sri Lanka series crucial for his future, especially given his struggles against spin and the presence of Sarfaraz Khan.

Beware! Drinking water at railway stations can make you sick

Beware! Drinking water at railway stations can make you sick

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

A report by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has revealed the presence of E.coli bacteria in drinking water samples from water coolers at several Indian railway stations. The audit also highlighted unhygienic conditions in railway washrooms and significant deficiencies in Minimum Essential Amenities (MEA) across 458 out of 512 non-suburban stations inspected.

Restaurants dish out special Independence Day menus

Restaurants dish out special Independence Day menus

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

As India celebrates its 80th Independence Day, hotels and restaurants across Delhi and other states are rolling out a diverse array of special offerings. These include themed culinary festivals showcasing regional Indian cuisines, fusion menus, live music performances, and attractive discounts. From royal Wazwan feasts to contemporary global blends and staycation packages, establishments are providing unique experiences for patrons to commemorate the occasion over the long weekend.

Why KL Rahul's Galle 50 could change everything

Why KL Rahul's Galle 50 could change everything

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

KL Rahul's patient half-century in the Galle Test against Sri Lanka highlights his evolving role as a consistent and strategic anchor for the Indian team. Despite a slower strike rate, his ability to stonewall spinners and build partnerships has been crucial, earning praise from coaches and teammates. This performance underscores his growing importance, especially after the departure of senior batters, as he aims to make a significant impact in the current Test series.

'Can't play forever': Rohit's 2027 World Cup future in doubt

'Can't play forever': Rohit's 2027 World Cup future in doubt

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Former Australian cricketer Matthew Hayden has commented on Rohit Sharma's future in international cricket, particularly concerning the 2027 World Cup. Hayden believes Sharma's decision will hinge on his continued hunger and energy, given his retirement from Tests and T20Is, and the demanding schedule of both IPL and ODI cricket. Despite age-related questions, Sharma has continued to deliver strong performances, notably a century against England.

TN House demands 543-seat LS formula, 33% women quota from 2029

TN House demands 543-seat LS formula, 33% women quota from 2029

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

The Tamil Nadu Assembly has adopted a resolution, moved by Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, urging the Union government to permanently fix the Lok Sabha strength at 543 and implement 33 per cent women's reservation by 2029. The resolution also opposes delimitation that could disadvantage states successful in population control.

10 Sequels That Came With Longest Gaps

10 Sequels That Came With Longest Gaps

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Awarapan 2, featuring Emraan Hashmi, is set to release 19 years after its original, joining a growing trend of long-delayed Bollywood sequels attempting to capitalise on nostalgia and past successes like Gadar 2 and Border 2, but not all such reboots guarantee box office triumph.

UEFA's 'Clear Line' platform aims to clarify VAR rules for all

UEFA's 'Clear Line' platform aims to clarify VAR rules for all

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

UEFA has introduced 'Clear Line', a new platform designed to provide clear guidelines on when and how the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system should intervene, aiming to reduce controversy and increase understanding among all football stakeholders.

How To Get A Rs 14 LPA Package After Engineering

How To Get A Rs 14 LPA Package After Engineering

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

'There is no college that can guarantee a Rs 14 lakh per annum (LPA) package,' clarifies rediffGURU Chocko Valliappa.

Air India to conduct drug test for all pilots after Phuket incident

Air India to conduct drug test for all pilots after Phuket incident

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Air India and Air India Express are implementing mandatory psychoactive substance testing for all their 5,000+ pilots. This decision follows an incident where the pilot of a Phuket-Delhi flight, which experienced a sudden altitude drop injuring 24 people, tested positive for marijuana. The testing aims to enhance safety standards and reassure passengers.

From Maoist Camps To The Fashion Ramp

From Maoist Camps To The Fashion Ramp

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

From guns to handlooms. From forest trails to a public runway. Women who had once been associated with that conflict walked into the spotlight wearing Bastar's traditional textiles.

Row erupts over 'purification' of venue after Kharge's visit

Row erupts over 'purification' of venue after Kharge's visit

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

The Congress party has strongly condemned the 'purification' of a rally venue in Haldwani, Uttarakhand, after a public meeting addressed by party chief Mallikarjun Kharge, alleging it reflects an 'anti-Dalit' mindset of the BJP and RSS.

'Maini will need to choose between Formula E and Formula 1'

'Maini will need to choose between Formula E and Formula 1'

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Mahindra Racing CEO Frederic Bertrand has stated that while Indian reserve driver Kush Maini has the potential to become a Formula E driver, the team will not compromise its competitive ambitions for nationality.

India Aims To Break 32-Year Jinx Against England In World Cup Clash

India Aims To Break 32-Year Jinx Against England In World Cup Clash

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

India faces a tough challenge against world No. 3 England in a crucial FIH Men's Hockey World Cup Pool D match. India, coming off a win against Wales, needs to improve its open play finishing and overcome a 32-year World Cup jinx against England. The outcome will significantly impact their path to the knockout stages.

Jharkhand student leader on hunger strike stopped from joining Tiranga Yatra

Jharkhand student leader on hunger strike stopped from joining Tiranga Yatra

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha (JLKM) leader Devendra Nath Mahto was allegedly prevented by police from joining a Tiranga Yatra while on his 14th day of an indefinite hunger strike against alleged irregularities in state recruitment examinations. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Hemant Soren assured the public that his government is committed to ensuring transparency in examinations conducted by the JPSC and JSSC.

Case against Tamil Nadu teacher who caned, injured 10 female students

Case against Tamil Nadu teacher who caned, injured 10 female students

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

A government school teacher in Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu, has been booked for allegedly caning 10 Class 10 female students, causing severe hand injuries and preventing them from taking exams. The incident led to a police case under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Juvenile Justice Act after a parent's complaint.

Trai expands 1601 number series to utilities, logistics to curb fraud

Trai expands 1601 number series to utilities, logistics to curb fraud

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) has expanded the 1600-number series to include utilities, courier, and logistics companies, introducing the new 1601 series to help consumers identify legitimate calls and prevent widespread fraud and impersonation.

Cricket Scotland, Dutch Cricket Association slam ICC over 2027 World Cup format changes

Cricket Scotland, Dutch Cricket Association slam ICC over 2027 World Cup format changes

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Cricket Scotland and the Royal Dutch Cricket Association have strongly criticised the International Cricket Council's decision to implement significant structural changes to the 2027 ODI World Cup qualification pathway and tournament format, stating it 'risk weakening the integrity and credibility of international cricket'.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day Crosses Rs 400 Crore In India

Spider-Man: Brand New Day Crosses Rs 400 Crore In India

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Spider-Man: Brand New Day has swung into the exclusive Rs 400 crore club at the Indian box office, captivating audiences with its remarkable performance.

Independence Day Spirit Fuels Indian Hockey Fans At World Cup Opener

Independence Day Spirit Fuels Indian Hockey Fans At World Cup Opener

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Indian hockey fans, including a significant diaspora presence and supporters from abroad, created a vibrant, festive atmosphere in Amstelveen for the World Cup opener against Wales on Independence Day, driven by increased expectations following recent Olympic successes.

Nagaland churches body opposes compulsory 'Vande Mataram'

Nagaland churches body opposes compulsory 'Vande Mataram'

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

The Nagaland Baptist Church Council has voiced strong opposition to any directive making the singing of 'Vande Mataram' compulsory, especially for Christians. They argue that patriotism should not be reduced to forced conformity and that India's constitutional values of liberty, pluralism, and freedom of conscience must be respected. The council also called for dialogue and sensitivity from state institutions.