News for 'Plan India'

'Not appropriate': SC cancels JPC meet on simultaneous elections

'Not appropriate': SC cancels JPC meet on simultaneous elections

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on simultaneous elections had scheduled an "informal interaction" with Supreme Court judges, which was later cancelled by the apex court. The Supreme Court deemed the meeting inappropriate as the proposed constitutional amendment could become subject to judicial review. JPC Chairman PP Chaudhary defended the panel's initial decision, citing precedents, while DMK MP P Wilson, who mooted the idea, expressed disappointment and argued against the notion that such interactions violate separation of powers.

Vini Jr, Raphinha among Brazil's stars coming to India

Vini Jr, Raphinha among Brazil's stars coming to India

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Brazil has announced a 26-member squad, featuring stars like Vinicius Junior, Raphinha, and Marquinhos, for their historic first-ever football match against India on October 3 in Kolkata. Coach Carlo Ancelotti is overseeing a significant rebuild, integrating young talent with experienced players, with an eye on future tournaments like the 2028 Olympics and 2030 World Cup. The squad includes several debutants and a focus on current form, marking a new strategic direction for the Selecao.

Russia responds to India's S-400 tender for 5 more squadrons

Russia responds to India's S-400 tender for 5 more squadrons

Rediff.com30 Aug 2026

In a significant development, the Russian side has submitted a detailed proposal to the Defence Ministry in response to the Indian tender for acquiring five more squadrons of the S-400 Sudarshan long-range air defence systems for the Indian Air Force.

Government Coaching Plan May Pressure Coaching Centres

Government Coaching Plan May Pressure Coaching Centres

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

'If a student can get a good teacher, quality content and mock tests at no cost, it becomes very hard for a mid-tier coaching centre to keep charging for the same lecture.'

CJP stir: Ensure Metro, Internet; no illegal detentions, SC tells Centre

CJP stir: Ensure Metro, Internet; no illegal detentions, SC tells Centre

Rediff.com11 Oct 2026

The Supreme Court on Sunday directed that people gathering peacefully should not be illegally detained and issued a notice to the Centre regarding alleged violations of its earlier order during a CJP protest in Delhi. The court also asked the Solicitor General to ensure normal metro services and no internet disruption, while addressing concerns about widespread detentions and transport closures.

'I Am Glad Nana Patekar Didn't Suffer'

'I Am Glad Nana Patekar Didn't Suffer'

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

'Very few people are fortunate to make such a quick and quiet exit from the world. He would have been miserable in a hospital.'

CM Mann Reviews Preparations For Asian Champions Trophy

CM Mann Reviews Preparations For Asian Champions Trophy

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has issued directives to various departments to ensure top-tier arrangements for the Asian Champions Trophy hockey tournament, set to take place in Jalandhar and Mohali from October 27 to November 5. Mann emphasised the need for world-class facilities, robust security, and comprehensive crowd management, while also calling for a statewide trophy tour and student participation to foster public enthusiasm and showcase Punjab's rich sporting heritage. He personally inspected venues and stressed the importance of cleanliness, beautification, and hospitality for international delegations.

AC, TV, & Appliance Prices to Increase by Up to 8% from October 1

AC, TV, & Appliance Prices to Increase by Up to 8% from October 1

Rediff.com27 Sep 2026

Leading appliance and consumer electronics manufacturers are set to increase prices of air conditioners, LED TVs, washing machines, and other products by 5 to 8 per cent from October 1, citing rising input costs for metals like copper and steel, crude derivatives, and currency exchange volatility due to the West Asia crisis.

Traders call for 'No UPI Day' on October 2 to protest new MDR levy

Traders call for 'No UPI Day' on October 2 to protest new MDR levy

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Trade and business associations across India are organising a 'No UPI Day' on October 2 to protest the upcoming 0.4 per cent merchant discount rate (MDR) on Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions exceeding 2,000, effective from October 15.

Poovamma's golden revenge at Asian Games after doping ban

Poovamma's golden revenge at Asian Games after doping ban

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

Indian quarter-miler MR Poovamma, 36, secured her third Asian Games 4x400m relay gold, marking a triumphant return after a two-year doping ban. She expressed immense satisfaction in proving her critics wrong and credited her family and husband for their unwavering support during her challenging comeback journey.

How AI Is Revolutionising Forest Protection In India

How AI Is Revolutionising Forest Protection In India

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

The Haldwani forest division has launched India's first AI-based forest acoustic surveillance system. This innovative technology uses AI, acoustic sensors, and long-range wireless communication to detect illegal logging, poaching, and other suspicious activities in real-time, even in remote areas. Powered by solar energy, the system provides continuous monitoring, significantly enhancing forest protection, wildlife conservation, and biodiversity monitoring efforts.

Will Volkswagen be 4th time lucky with Indian partner?

Will Volkswagen be 4th time lucky with Indian partner?

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

Volkswagen, a long-standing but minor player in India's fiercely competitive automotive sector, is now exploring a strategic partnership with the JSW group, aiming to revitalise its market presence, enhance profitability, and potentially establish India as a key export hub for electric vehicles.

'Hammer to kill a fly': SC slams curbs imposed in Delhi ahead of protests

'Hammer to kill a fly': SC slams curbs imposed in Delhi ahead of protests

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

The Supreme Court expressed concern over the closure of 57 Metro stations and cancellation of trains in Delhi ahead of protests, stating the Centre 'cannot use a hammer to kill a fly' and ordered against complete prohibition of transport services.

Indian Tennis Faces Historic Setback At Asian Games

Indian Tennis Faces Historic Setback At Asian Games

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Indian tennis experienced a significant disappointment at the recent Asian Games, failing to secure any medals for the first time since 1986. The campaign concluded with Sumit Nagal's quarterfinal exit in men's singles, alongside early exits for key doubles pairs. Coaches and officials acknowledge the high level of competition and the need for better support and development of the next generation of players to avoid similar outcomes in future tournaments.

NPS Tatkal To Drive Pension System Growth

NPS Tatkal To Drive Pension System Growth

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

PFRDA Chairperson S Ramann announced an ambitious target to add 2-3 crore new subscribers to the National Pension System (NPS) within the next two years. This growth will be significantly driven by the new 'NPS Tatkal' scheme, which enables direct enrolment and contributions via UPI applications, making the pension system more accessible, especially in tier 2 and tier 3 cities and for the informal sector.

India Sets 10-Year Vision For Defence Diplomacy

India Sets 10-Year Vision For Defence Diplomacy

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

'India is trying to project that it can engage with the world in a different way too.'

Beware These Insurance Sales Traps

Beware These Insurance Sales Traps

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

If a bank sold the policy, complain to its grievance cell and, if necessary, escalate the complaint to the Reserve Bank of India Ombudsman.

TCS: US green card programme suspension won't impact workforce strategy

TCS: US green card programme suspension won't impact workforce strategy

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has stated that the recent suspension of eight IT firms, including itself, from a US green card programme will not impact its workforce strategy or customer engagements, citing its low number of applications and focus on local hiring.

No Practice Games! Australia's Bold Plan For India Tests Next Year

No Practice Games! Australia's Bold Plan For India Tests Next Year

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Australia's head coach Andrew McDonald has announced that the team will forgo traditional practice matches before their upcoming Border Gavaskar Trophy Test series in India, opting instead for a short preparatory camp in sub-continental conditions. This strategic decision aims to better acclimatise players for the challenging Indian pitches.

Mobile Retailers Call For 'No UPI Day' Over MDR Fees

Mobile Retailers Call For 'No UPI Day' Over MDR Fees

Rediff.com27 Sep 2026

Mobile phone retailers across India, represented by AIMRA, are protesting the 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions exceeding Rs 2,000 for merchants. They plan to observe 'No UPI Day' on October 2, 2026, arguing that this fee will significantly impact their income and burden small businesses, advocating for a continued Zero MDR structure for UPI merchant payments.

Abhay Singh Reflects On Asian Games Medals, Eyes Olympic Qualification

Abhay Singh Reflects On Asian Games Medals, Eyes Olympic Qualification

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Indian squash player Abhay Singh expressed disappointment despite winning two medals at the Asian Games, particularly with the men's team bronze, feeling it was a missed opportunity for gold. He also aims for gold in individual events and is now focused on qualifying for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

WOMEN INTERRUPTED: Building Bridges For Women To Return To The Workplace

WOMEN INTERRUPTED: Building Bridges For Women To Return To The Workplace

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

A career break does not erase the experience that came before it. But the labour market can act as though it does. The more women invest in building professional careers, the more costly an interruption can become. How, then, do we enable women to make a comeback? Whose responsibility is it? asks Radha Roy Biswas.

Tata Trusts Propose Merger to Keep Tata Sons Unlisted, Shed NBFC Tag

Tata Trusts Propose Merger to Keep Tata Sons Unlisted, Shed NBFC Tag

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Tata Trusts, the majority shareholders of Tata Sons, have proposed merging two operating companies, Tata Electronics Systems Solutions Pvt Ltd (TESS) and Tata Consulting Engineers (TCE), with Tata Sons. This restructuring aims to shed Tata Sons' classification as a non-banking financial company (NBFC) and a core investment company (CIC), thereby allowing it to retain its status as an unlisted private company and resolve ongoing disputes regarding its future ownership.

Shafali Verma backs India's middle order to shine in Women's Asia Cup semi-final

Shafali Verma backs India's middle order to shine in Women's Asia Cup semi-final

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

India opener Shafali Verma has expressed confidence in the team's middle-order ahead of their Women's Asia Cup semi-final clash against Bangladesh, dismissing concerns over recent low scores.

'Still the best': Pakistan coach's bizarre claim after India rout

'Still the best': Pakistan coach's bizarre claim after India rout

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

Pakistan women's team coach Wahab Riaz made a controversial statement after his side's seven-wicket defeat to India in the Women's Asia Cup 2026, claiming Pakistan is still the best team in the tournament. His comments came amidst criticism from former captain Sana Mir regarding squad selection, which Riaz defended as a move to build for the future. Pakistan now faces a crucial must-win match against Hong Kong to stay in the competition.

Munich is Germany's candidate to host Summer Olympics in 2036, 2040 or 2044

Munich is Germany's candidate to host Summer Olympics in 2036, 2040 or 2044

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

Munich has been selected by the German Olympic Committee to be Germany's candidate city for hosting the Summer Olympic Games in 2036, 2040, or 2044. This marks Germany's latest effort to bring the multi-sport event back to the country since 1972, with Munich's bid leveraging its existing Olympic park and enjoying strong local support.

Jyothi Surekha Vennam Sets Sights On 2028 Olympics After Asian Games Success

Jyothi Surekha Vennam Sets Sights On 2028 Olympics After Asian Games Success

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

India's top compound archer, Jyothi Surekha Vennam, discusses her recent performance at the Asian Games, including a women's team gold and an early individual exit. She expresses her determination to compete in the 2028 Olympics, where the compound mixed team event will debut, and shares her strategies for maintaining focus.

How to build a portfolio that saves tax, manages risk, and still grows?

How to build a portfolio that saves tax, manages risk, and still grows?

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

Most Indian investors start their investment journey with the wrong question. They ask, "Which fund will give the highest return?" instead of "How do I structure my investments so that I pay less tax, manage risk effectively, and still compound wealth over time?"

Asian Games: Joshna-Senthilkumar Assured Of Squash Mixed Doubles Medal

Asian Games: Joshna-Senthilkumar Assured Of Squash Mixed Doubles Medal

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

Veteran Joshna Chinappa and Velavan Senthilkumar have secured a medal for India in the Asian Games mixed doubles squash event by reaching the semi-finals.

Harita's story: Last-minute call-up, Asian Games bronze

Harita's story: Last-minute call-up, Asian Games bronze

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Harita Bhadra, India's Asian Games bronze-winning sprinter, showcased her dual talents by securing a medal in her debut international competition while also planning to design a special piece for her handmade jewellery brand, Dagina. The Loughborough University graduate, who dedicated a year to athletics, overcame a last-minute inclusion to deliver a strong performance in the 200m final, crediting her family's unwavering support.

Apple's iPhone 18 Series, Foldable Duo See Significant Price Hikes in India

Apple's iPhone 18 Series, Foldable Duo See Significant Price Hikes in India

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Apple's upcoming iPhone 18 lineup is set to cost 20 to 43 per cent more in India, primarily due to rising global memory component costs and a depreciating rupee, while the new foldable iPhone Duo will be priced between Rs 3 lakh and Rs 4.5 lakh, matching the cost of some hatchback cars.

Boult tips Rahul as India's key batter, but warns of cold weather in NZ Tests

Boult tips Rahul as India's key batter, but warns of cold weather in NZ Tests

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Former New Zealand pacer Trent Boult has identified KL Rahul as India's primary batter for the upcoming two-Test series against New Zealand, praising his batting style and anticipating challenging cold conditions for the late October-November tour.

El Nio threatens rabi crops, may affect foodgrain output

El Nio threatens rabi crops, may affect foodgrain output

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

India's Agriculture Secretary Atish Chandra has warned that the upcoming rabi (winter) crop season is likely to be challenging for rainfed areas due to the strengthening El Nio weather pattern, potentially affecting foodgrain production. This comes as Maharashtra declares drought in nearly 74 per cent of its talukas, highlighting the immediate impact of climate change.

Were These Biopics Done Right?

Were These Biopics Done Right?

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

From Azhar and Sanju to Thackeray and Swatantrya Veer Savarkar, Bollywood has often struggled to tell controversial true stories without turning their subjects into heroes.

Batting coach Reifer calls for greater responsibility from West Indies middle order

Batting coach Reifer calls for greater responsibility from West Indies middle order

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

West Indies batting coach Floyd Reifer has stressed the need for the middle order to show greater responsibility and regain consistency, especially as the team prepares for the ODI World Cup Qualifier. He acknowledged positives from the recent loss to India, including a strong opening partnership, and highlighted the potential of young batter Jewel Andrew.

Sena (UBT) Demands CBI Probe Into Pradeep Purnekar's Murder Amid Political Row

Sena (UBT) Demands CBI Probe Into Pradeep Purnekar's Murder Amid Political Row

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

Shiv Sena (UBT) spokesperson Sushma Andhare has called for a CBI probe into the murder of party leader Pradeep Purnekar in Thane, alleging it was a contract killing and citing potential political pressure on local police. Opposition parties have also announced a protest march to the Thane police commissioner's office, while Shiv Sena MP Jyoti Waghmare accused opposition leaders of politicising the tragedy. Police have made arrests in connection with the murder.

Fusion CX Eyes Major Growth With AI, Prepares For IPO

Fusion CX Eyes Major Growth With AI, Prepares For IPO

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

Customer experience firm Fusion CX is significantly investing in AI-enabled services and data infrastructure, aiming to increase its share in total turnover to 25% within 12-18 months. The company, which reported a turnover of Rs 1,818.13 crore in FY26, is preparing for an IPO of Rs 800-1,000 crore in October, driven by organic growth, acquisitions, and its AI strategy.

TN CM Vijay Unveils Plans For Olympic City And F1 Race In Chennai

TN CM Vijay Unveils Plans For Olympic City And F1 Race In Chennai

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has announced the establishment of a world-class Tamil Nadu Olympic City in Chennai, featuring advanced sports arenas, training centres, and accommodation.

Suryakumar Yadav vows hard work for India return

Suryakumar Yadav vows hard work for India return

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

Former India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav, who lost his spot in the national team after struggles with form and an inconsistent IPL season, has stated he is working hard for a comeback. The 35-year-old, a key player for Mumbai Indians, last played for India in Tests and ODIs in 2023.

Rohit, Kohli face big test as World Cup 2027 countdown begins

Rohit, Kohli face big test as World Cup 2027 countdown begins

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

India's three-match ODI series against the West Indies, starting Sunday, is a vital preparatory stage for the ICC World Cup 2027. The series will focus on giving game time to young players like Yashasvi Jaiswal and assessing the form of key players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who is nearing a significant ODI milestone. The development of all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy is also a priority. The West Indies team, grappling with recent losses and financial issues, will aim to overcome these challenges and deliver a competitive performance.