News for 'Plan International'

Shiprocket to use IPO funds for AI push, eyes broader merchant operating system

Shiprocket to use IPO funds for AI push, eyes broader merchant operating system

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Shiprocket plans to allocate a significant portion of its IPO proceeds towards artificial intelligence (AI), aiming to evolve its e-commerce enablement platform into a comprehensive operating system for merchants, enabling conversational commands and reducing manual tasks.

China blames high-altitude glacier collapse in Nepal for flash floods

China blames high-altitude glacier collapse in Nepal for flash floods

Rediff.com6 hours ago

China on Friday said the collapse of a high-altitude glacier in Nepal may have triggered the massive flash flood disaster that engulfed the Tibet-Nepal border, killing hundreds and causing widespread damage.

How AI Is Revolutionising Advertising For Indian Small Businesses

How AI Is Revolutionising Advertising For Indian Small Businesses

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

A study by Amazon Ads reveals that nearly 87% of Indian small and medium businesses (SMBs) believe AI has opened up new advertising opportunities, including streaming TV. The research indicates that 75% of surveyed SMBs attribute business growth to AI-enabled advertising, with 68% noting increased creativity. AI is also facilitating international trade for 59% of businesses, though human oversight remains crucial in decision-making.

Bihar, UP on high alert as Nepal floods raise Gandak surge threat

Bihar, UP on high alert as Nepal floods raise Gandak surge threat

Rediff.com2 days ago

Bihar and Uttar Pradesh are on high alert following devastating flash floods in Nepal's Gandak river system, prompting emergency measures including evacuations and continuous monitoring by central and state authorities.

Who Derailed Tarique Rahman's India Visit?

Who Derailed Tarique Rahman's India Visit?

Rediff.com3 days ago

Who is running the show in Dhaka? This kind of flip-flop, culminating in a last-minute decision to skip a maiden visit, can happen only when the remote is in the hands of one of the competing lobbies within the BNP -- one that appears determined to play a game of chess with India.

India Inc's foreign borrowing intent surges to $6 billion in June

India Inc's foreign borrowing intent surges to $6 billion in June

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Indian companies, including NBFCs, filed proposals with the RBI to raise $6.08 billion through external commercial borrowings (ECBs) and foreign currency convertible bonds (FCCBs) in June, marking a significant increase from the previous month.

US body seeks sanctions against RSS, opposes Mohan Bhagwat's visit

US body seeks sanctions against RSS, opposes Mohan Bhagwat's visit

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

The US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) has recommended sanctions against the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and advised the US government against extending diplomatic courtesies to its leaders. This comes ahead of RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat's visit to the US, with USCIRF officials citing allegations of attacks on religious minorities by RSS sub-groups. India has consistently rejected USCIRF's reports as biased and selective.

When A Flight Fails, Airlines Must Respond

When A Flight Fails, Airlines Must Respond

Rediff.com2 days ago

A flight may be cancelled for reasons beyond an airline's control. The chaos that follows need not be, points out Air Commodore Nitin Sathe (retd).

High-level panel set up to tackle road woes in Maha's Chakan industrial belt

High-level panel set up to tackle road woes in Maha's Chakan industrial belt

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

The Maharashtra government has constituted a high-level committee to address road repairs, traffic congestion and management issues in the rapidly expanding Chakan industrial belt in Pune district, and set up a mechanism for time-bound redressal of industrial grievances.

Quantum Computing: AI's Next Frontier

Quantum Computing: AI's Next Frontier

Rediff.com15 hours ago

Quantum computing is set to redefine artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and scientific discovery, promising unprecedented speeds and capabilities while also necessitating urgent development of quantum-safe security measures and strategic enterprise readiness, says Sunil Varghese.

Australian Nick Kyrgios suspended after positive cocaine test

Australian Nick Kyrgios suspended after positive cocaine test

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Former Wimbledon finalist Nick Kyrgios has been provisionally suspended from tennis after testing positive for benzoylecgonine, a cocaine metabolite, from a sample taken during an ATP 250 event in Mallorca in June. The volatile Australian owned up to his "huge mistake" in a public apology, citing the physical and mental toll of recent injuries.

A Trilogy Inspired By The Mahabharata

A Trilogy Inspired By The Mahabharata

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Sri Ramalayam Studios LLP is set to launch CODE, an ambitious film trilogy that reimagines the profound themes of the Mahabharata within an original science fiction narrative.

Former Players Urge Fresh Blood To Revive Pakistan Hockey

Former Players Urge Fresh Blood To Revive Pakistan Hockey

Rediff.com3 days ago

Former Pakistan hockey players have expressed deep concern over the national team's poor performance at the World Cup, advocating for an immediate injection of fresh talent and a focus on the upcoming Asian Games. They attribute the sport's decline to cricket's dominance and a failure to adapt to modern hockey, urging the federation to prioritise competitive success to regain public interest.

How Air India Fared Under Chandra

How Air India Fared Under Chandra

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Air India Group has accumulated losses of about Rs 47,821 crore since its takeover, leaving its prolonged transformation among the biggest unfinished projects of N Chandrasekaran's tenure.

Bangladesh ready to join Saudi-Pak-Turkiye defence alliance

Bangladesh ready to join Saudi-Pak-Turkiye defence alliance

Rediff.com5 days ago

Bangladesh is considering joining a newly formed defence alliance between Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkiye, with junior ministers stating that any decision would be based on national interests and a "Bangladesh First" policy. The pact, signed in Makkah, aims for collective deterrence.

JNUSU holds Umar Khalid book discussion despite venue cancellation

JNUSU holds Umar Khalid book discussion despite venue cancellation

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

The Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union (JNUSU) proceeded with a discussion on former student Umar Khalid's book, "Fractured Communities: Adivasi Histories and the Politics of Power," despite the university cancelling the original venue booking. The event, planned to observe Indigenous Peoples' Day, was held outside an academic building after the JNUSU condemned the university's "arbitrary" decision.

'Nepal Flood Is A Warning'

'Nepal Flood Is A Warning'

Rediff.com18 hours ago

'There needs to be a monitoring of glaciers in high altitude areas and one needs to check regularly how geological changes are taking place.' 'We can mitigate that by regular monitoring but unfortunately, hardly any monitoring is happening.' 'And without monitoring those higher altitudes of Himalayas, people are suffering.'

Boom in EV two-wheeler demand creates supply bottleneck in India

Boom in EV two-wheeler demand creates supply bottleneck in India

Rediff.com3 days ago

India's electric two-wheeler market has seen record penetration, exceeding 11.2 per cent, driven by crude oil price fluctuations. This surge has led to an unexpected crisis for Indian OEMs, with unfulfilled customer demand reaching 20-30 per cent and average waiting periods exceeding four weeks, a situation expected to intensify during the upcoming festival season.

Nepal floods: 525% rise in glacial lakes a potential hazard

Nepal floods: 525% rise in glacial lakes a potential hazard

Rediff.com11 hours ago

Following devastating flash floods in Nepal, experts are calling for systematic scientific assessments of glaciers to understand and mitigate hazards, alongside the development of a robust land use policy for the Himalayan region. The floods, which killed over 460 people and left thousands missing, are believed to be linked to climate change impacts on glaciers and permafrost.

FIFA President's Position 'Untenable' After World Cup Rights Sale Fails

FIFA President's Position 'Untenable' After World Cup Rights Sale Fails

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

Gianni Infantino's position as FIFA president is deemed 'untenable' by the head of Europe's professional football leagues following his failed plan to sell a stake in the World Cup's commercial rights, a move that triggered widespread protest and a loss of confidence from regional confederations.

CAG audit reveals Indian Railways' lease repayment on wrong track

CAG audit reveals Indian Railways' lease repayment on wrong track

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

A Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) audit for 2024-25 has highlighted Indian Railways' concerning trend of repaying lease charges to its borrowing arm, IRFC, from budgetary grants instead of internal resources, alongside significant delays in safety-centric works.

Why India Has No Hockey Umpire or Official at 2026 World Cup

Why India Has No Hockey Umpire or Official at 2026 World Cup

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

For the first time since 1998, no Indian umpire or technical official will be present at the FIH Men's Hockey World Cup, a situation that has left former international officials disappointed and calling for a structured pathway to develop and support Indian officiating talent.

'Test cricket is dying'

'Test cricket is dying'

Rediff.com6 days ago

Former Sri Lankan pacer Chaminda Vaas has called on cricket authorities to actively work towards preserving Test and 50-over formats, warning that they are 'dying' amidst the growing global preference for T20s and franchise leagues.

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.

Why is Bhutia angry over India's Brazil match?

Why is Bhutia angry over India's Brazil match?

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

The All India Football Federation's decision to field two separate teams for the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup and an international friendly against Brazil has sparked controversy.

Morkel reveals KL Rahul's big role in Sri Lanka Test

Morkel reveals KL Rahul's big role in Sri Lanka Test

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

India's bowling coach Morne Morkel has emphasised the crucial role wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul will play in the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka, citing his experience and ability to guide younger players.

How China Shielded Itself From Oil Shock

How China Shielded Itself From Oil Shock

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

China sailed through the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz relatively unscathed even as the impact of its steps shielded other consuming nations from having to pay high crude oil prices.

India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test: SSC pitch might offer equal chance to batters and bowlers

India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test: SSC pitch might offer equal chance to batters and bowlers

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Sri Lankan cricket officials are considering a balanced pitch for the second Test against India at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC), moving away from a spin-friendly track. This decision aims to provide equal opportunities for both batters and bowlers, similar to the Galle pitch, and support their young batting lineup. The SSC pitch character has evolved over the years, with less home advantage since the retirement of legendary players.

Maresca on Rodri and Savinho: 'When Players Want to Leave...'

Maresca on Rodri and Savinho: 'When Players Want to Leave...'

Rediff.com7 days ago

Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has expressed comfort with his current squad despite ongoing transfer uncertainty, acknowledging that key players Rodri and Savinho have made their desire to leave clear, while the club remains prepared for further movements before the transfer window closes.

A Mom-Son Japanese Odyssey

A Mom-Son Japanese Odyssey

Rediff.com3 days ago

Researching Japan was like going down a rabbit hole. There is just so much to see and do, but I finally decided we would stick to the 'Golden Route' of Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, notes Radhika Mittal.

Tata Group Faces Massive Funding Challenge

Tata Group Faces Massive Funding Challenge

Rediff.com2 days ago

Tata Sons has the balance sheet to support them, for now.

Indian student kills girlfriend in US, arrested in Germany

Indian student kills girlfriend in US, arrested in Germany

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Batchigari is accused of first-degree murder and kidnapping, having allegedly stolen Salazar's phone and credit cards and sent deceptive texts to her mother to conceal the crime.

PM Modi: India Strong Contender to Host 2036 Olympics

PM Modi: India Strong Contender to Host 2036 Olympics

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced India's strong bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games and detailed plans for a nationwide talent hunt for children aged 5 to 15 to ensure significant participation and success in the event. He highlighted the success of the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) and India's growing presence in global sports.

In a 1st, 'Vande Mataram' to be sung at Red Fort on I-Day

In a 1st, 'Vande Mataram' to be sung at Red Fort on I-Day

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

For the first time in history, the national song 'Vande Mataram' will be sung at the Red Fort during Independence Day celebrations on August 15.

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'.

Sebi to overhaul SME listing framework, tighten AI/ML accountability in financial markets

Sebi to overhaul SME listing framework, tighten AI/ML accountability in financial markets

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) is set to undertake a comprehensive overhaul of the small and medium enterprise (SME) listing framework and tighten accountability around the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in financial markets, Sebi Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey announced.

US F-1 Visa: 'Continuing Studies In The US Will Depend On...

US F-1 Visa: 'Continuing Studies In The US Will Depend On...

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

With the duration of stay capped at four years, the biggest impact of the new F-1 visa rules is likely to be on PhD scholars, students enrolled in longer professional programmes, those whose graduation gets delayed and students moving from one academic programme to another, highlight education experts.

Trump says Gaza deal reached for Hamas disarmament, Israeli withdrawal

Trump says Gaza deal reached for Hamas disarmament, Israeli withdrawal

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

US President Donald Trump has announced a "historic" agreement for the complete disarmament of Hamas and other armed groups in Gaza, coupled with a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces. The deal, part of Trump's 20-point Gaza plan, involves an International Stabilization Force and a new Palestinian police force, with Gaza eventually administered by a new Palestinian government. Egypt, Qatar, and Turkiye were thanked for their mediation efforts.

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.

Mahindra Scorpio Lifestyler 2027 Unveiled: Expected Price & Features!

Mahindra Scorpio Lifestyler 2027 Unveiled: Expected Price & Features!

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Upcoming Mahindra Scorpio Lifestyler 2027: Expected Price & Features!