News for 'Planning and Development Department'

India expects FY27 fertiliser subsidy bill to rise 20%, retail prices to be same

India expects FY27 fertiliser subsidy bill to rise 20%, retail prices to be same

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

India's fertiliser subsidy bill for the current financial year (FY27) is projected to increase by approximately 20% due to surging global prices, primarily driven by the West Asia crisis, a senior official confirmed. Despite this, retail prices for urea and di-ammonium phosphate (DAP) will remain unchanged, ensuring adequate supply for the kharif season.

Odisha To Formulate SOP After Census Officials Attacked

Odisha To Formulate SOP After Census Officials Attacked

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

Four Census officials were assaulted in Odisha's Dhenkanal district, prompting the state government to formulate a standard operating procedure (SOP) to safeguard census officials from physical harm and heat-related risks.

Only reason they're alive is...: Trump warns Iran before talks

Only reason they're alive is...: Trump warns Iran before talks

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

Former US President Donald Trump has criticised Iran's stance on the Strait of Hormuz, calling it a form of 'extortion' amid ongoing negotiations for a peace deal. The remarks come as Iran considers imposing transit fees on vessels crossing the strategic waterway.

How IIT Guwahati's 3D-Printed Walls Could Revolutionise Earthquake-Resistant Construction

How IIT Guwahati's 3D-Printed Walls Could Revolutionise Earthquake-Resistant Construction

Rediff.com5 Apr 2026

Researchers at IIT Guwahati have developed a framework for designing earthquake-resistant 3D-printed concrete walls, potentially revolutionising construction in seismic zones.

Manohar Lal Khattar Urges Transparency in Haryana Welfare Schemes

Manohar Lal Khattar Urges Transparency in Haryana Welfare Schemes

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar has directed officials to ensure transparency in the implementation of central and Haryana government welfare schemes, aiming to maximise their reach. He reviewed multiple schemes across various departments during a DISHA meeting in Karnal.

In Rs 1 trn urban fund, cities to get Rs 10K cr for capacity building, credit guarantee

In Rs 1 trn urban fund, cities to get Rs 10K cr for capacity building, credit guarantee

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

The Indian government has launched the Urban Challenge Fund (UCF) with a total outlay of Rs 1 lakh crore, aiming to leverage private and market finance for urban infrastructure projects by providing state support in capacity building and credit guarantees.

Delhi's Drone Policy Aims for Safe Operations and Ecosystem Growth

Delhi's Drone Policy Aims for Safe Operations and Ecosystem Growth

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

The Delhi government is developing a drone policy focused on creating research clusters, establishing testing facilities, enabling drone use in traffic management, and providing subsidies to support the drone ecosystem.

India Clears Nuclear FDI Policy

India Clears Nuclear FDI Policy

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

'The Atomic Energy Commission has approved the FDI policy and it is going in for ministerial consultations.'

Trump signals Iran talks within 36-72 hours, extends ceasefire

Trump signals Iran talks within 36-72 hours, extends ceasefire

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

US President Donald Trump has indefinitely extended the ceasefire with Iran at the request of Pakistan, aiming to allow Tehran's leadership time to form a unified proposal to end the seven-week war.

Rajasthan High Court Orders Tree Planting as Community Service for Accused in ATM Theft Case

Rajasthan High Court Orders Tree Planting as Community Service for Accused in ATM Theft Case

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

The Rajasthan High Court has granted bail to two accused in an ATM theft case, ordering them to plant trees as community service, emphasising a reformative approach to criminal justice.

'Trump told G7 leaders Iran was about to surrender'

'Trump told G7 leaders Iran was about to surrender'

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

The call came before Iran's new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei vowed vengeance and urged citizens to continue their fight against the attacks by US and Israel.

Why Does US Want Pakistan To Mediate With Iran?

Why Does US Want Pakistan To Mediate With Iran?

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

The United States' historical strategic alignment with Pakistan, dating back to the Cold War, has consistently aimed to create a political and military parity with India, despite India's significantly larger size and resources. This long-standing relationship continues to influence regional dynamics, particularly in West Asia and the Indo-Pacific.

Despite talks, US may deploy 10,000 additional troops to West Asia

Despite talks, US may deploy 10,000 additional troops to West Asia

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

The deployment could include infantry and armoured units, in addition to the 82nd Airborne Division, which is already stationed in the region.

'Watch what happens to these scumbags today': Trump as war enters 13th day

'Watch what happens to these scumbags today': Trump as war enters 13th day

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

United States President Donald Trump on Friday signalled the US intention of going all out in its campaign against Iran's Islamic regime, warning Iran to watch out for what would happen today and saying that the US was winning the conflict despite what reports claimed.

Noida International Airport Gears Up for Grand Opening

Noida International Airport Gears Up for Grand Opening

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Noida International Airport is set for its grand opening as roads are fixed and infrastructure preparations near completion. Here's what's ready and what to expect from the launch.

IIT Guwahati Creates Stronger Cement Mortar for Nuclear Safety

IIT Guwahati Creates Stronger Cement Mortar for Nuclear Safety

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

Researchers at IIT Guwahati have developed a method to enhance cement mortar, making it stronger, more durable, and capable of blocking harmful radiation, with the goal of improving the safety of nuclear facilities.

Ex-Chief Secretary Criticises Himachal CM Over Housing Project Graft Claims

Ex-Chief Secretary Criticises Himachal CM Over Housing Project Graft Claims

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

Former chief secretary Vinit Chowdhary has criticised Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu over his handling of graft allegations in the Chester Hill housing project.

Oracle lays off 12,000 staff in India; another round likely

Oracle lays off 12,000 staff in India; another round likely

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

US-based IT firm Oracle has reportedly laid off approximately 12,000 employees in India, with further layoffs expected. The company cited organisational changes and streamlining of operations as reasons for the retrenchment.

Pakistan to host crucial US-Iran talks amid anxiety

Pakistan to host crucial US-Iran talks amid anxiety

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

Pakistan is set to host face-to-face talks between the United States and Iran, aiming to solidify a fragile ceasefire and prevent further conflict in West Asia. The discussions will focus on a long-term peace arrangement, including sanctions relief, regional security, and Iran's nuclear program.

PSU stakes can go below 51% with a golden share' shield

PSU stakes can go below 51% with a golden share' shield

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance has asked the finance ministry to spell out a clear legal strategy, including options such as a "golden share" or indirect control structures, to maintain strategic oversight in public sector entities if state ownership falls below 51 per cent.

How The Taxman Plans To Close Cases Faster

How The Taxman Plans To Close Cases Faster

Rediff.com11 Feb 2026

Building on last year's clearance of 172K cases, I-T department is pushing for faster appeal disposals, penalty reforms and system-driven processes to curb litigation and boost tax certainty.

What Made Colonel Sonam Wangchuk A Legend?

What Made Colonel Sonam Wangchuk A Legend?

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Colonel Sonam Wangchuk, a decorated Kargil War hero known as the 'Lion of Ladakh' and recipient of the Maha Vir Chakra, has passed away. He was celebrated for his gallantry and leadership in securing the Chorbat-La in the Batalik sub-sector during Operation Vijay in 1999.

J-K plans 9 new tourist spots; sites shut after Pahalgam to reopen by May

J-K plans 9 new tourist spots; sites shut after Pahalgam to reopen by May

Rediff.com20 Feb 2026

The Jammu and Kashmir government announces plans to introduce nine new tourist destinations and reopen sites closed after the Pahalgam terror attack, aiming to revive and expand the region's tourism sector.

Gujarat govt allocates Rs 1,331 Cr to make Ahmedabad 'Olympic-ready'

Gujarat govt allocates Rs 1,331 Cr to make Ahmedabad 'Olympic-ready'

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

The Gujarat government has announced a significant investment in sports infrastructure, with the goal of transforming the state into a sports hub and positioning Ahmedabad as a potential host city for the 2036 Olympic Games.

Students Urged to Embrace AI Wisely, Not Fear It

Students Urged to Embrace AI Wisely, Not Fear It

Rediff.com15 Mar 2026

At the D Y Patil International University's Foundation Day, experts advised students to embrace AI wisely, highlighting its potential and the importance of critical thinking in the digital age.

'If the first ball is meant to be hit, hit it': Parag's message for Sooryavanshi ahead of IPL 2026

'If the first ball is meant to be hit, hit it': Parag's message for Sooryavanshi ahead of IPL 2026

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag emphasises the importance of allowing young talent Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to develop without undue pressure, while coach Kumar Sangakkara focuses on the team's flexibility and depth for the upcoming IPL season.

CALM-Brain: India's First Psychiatric Data Repository Launched

CALM-Brain: India's First Psychiatric Data Repository Launched

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

India has launched its first repository of data on major psychiatric disorders, CALM-Brain, in Bengaluru. This initiative aims to systematically document details of patients with mental illness to improve diagnosis and treatment.

Pak pushes for talks even as Iran, Israel reject peace moves

Pak pushes for talks even as Iran, Israel reject peace moves

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions in West Asia, offering to host talks between the US and Iran and engaging with regional leaders to promote peace and stability.

US Needs Iran Back At The Table FAST!

US Needs Iran Back At The Table FAST!

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

The question is whether the clocks allow enough time for two deeply mistrustful sides to get there, and whether the surface calm holds long enough for the paddling to produce something before the ceasefire ends on April 22, notes Prem Panicker in his must read blog on the Iran War.

US, Iran hold historic direct peace talks in Pakistan, first since 1979

US, Iran hold historic direct peace talks in Pakistan, first since 1979

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

As the negotiations continued, the Iranian government said on social media that "talks between Iran and the US in Islamabad entered the expert-level stage as economic, military, legal, and nuclear committees joined in".

Shehbaz Sharif Briefs Saudi Crown Prince on Pakistan's Diplomatic Efforts for Middle East Peace

Shehbaz Sharif Briefs Saudi Crown Prince on Pakistan's Diplomatic Efforts for Middle East Peace

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has briefed Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman on Pakistan's diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation in West Asia. This follows Pakistan's offer to host talks between the US and Iran to resolve the ongoing conflict.

Private Banks Face CEO Talent Crunch

Private Banks Face CEO Talent Crunch

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

What is the reason behind this drying up of talent for the top post in private banks?

India Nuclear Journey Takes A Hanuman Leap

India Nuclear Journey Takes A Hanuman Leap

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

In many ways, this is only the beginning -- of a new chapter in India's nuclear story, and of a future where its vast thorium reserves could finally power its ambitions.

Stranded Windies await flight home after T20 World Cup exit

Stranded Windies await flight home after T20 World Cup exit

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

The West Indies cricket team remains stranded in Kolkata due to international airspace restrictions following the T20 World Cup, while South African players also face travel disruptions.

Govt Plans Car-To-Car Alerts To Prevent Crashes

Govt Plans Car-To-Car Alerts To Prevent Crashes

Rediff.com9 Jan 2026

'We hope we will be able to at least end crashes that involve collisions with stationary vehicles as there will be an automatic warning.'

Govt moves to shield trade as Iran war chokes sea routes

Govt moves to shield trade as Iran war chokes sea routes

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

With the Iran war escalating sharply and crisis deepening in the global energy market, India on Monday unveiled a coordinated plan to support exporters and shippers caught in the fallout.

India Targets 200,000 Foreign Students by 2030

India Targets 200,000 Foreign Students by 2030

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

The government has intensified its Study in India programme and is working closely with universities and states to achieve this goal.

The US Rescue That Raises More Questions Than It Answers

The US Rescue That Raises More Questions Than It Answers

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

The 'rescue' operation occurred within kilometres of Iran's underground tunnel complex at Isfahan, assessed by the IAEA and US intelligence as holding a substantial portion of the country's 60 per cent enriched uranium stockpile. Retired senior US military officers have highlighted that the mission's footprint -- hundreds of special operators, multiple heavy-lift aircraft deep inside Iran -- appears outsized for recovering a single airman. Prem Panicker continues his must read blog on the Iran War.

High Court Refuses Relief to Ex-Official in Money Laundering Case

High Court Refuses Relief to Ex-Official in Money Laundering Case

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

The Bombay High Court has ruled that accepting a bribe constitutes acquiring proceeds of crime, denying relief to a former municipal official arrested in a money laundering case.

US trade probe targets India, 15 other countries

US trade probe targets India, 15 other countries

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

The United States Trade Representative (USTR) office on Wednesday launched a sweeping investigation into manufacturing and industrial practices in 16 economies, including India, citing concerns over what it calls 'structural excess capacity' that could distort global trade. Announcing the move on a White House press call, Jamieson Greer said the probe would be conducted under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, one of Washington, DC's most powerful trade enforcement tools.