News for 'Press Notes'

Sugar Prices May Ease Soon

Sugar Prices May Ease Soon

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Prices had started to ease following the government's decision to allow duty-free imports of 1 mt of raw sugar and would weaken further over the next 7 to 10 days.

SKM ends dharna after Punjab govt's assurance on key demands

SKM ends dharna after Punjab govt's assurance on key demands

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) has ended its protest at the Chandigarh-Mohali border after receiving written assurances from the Punjab government. The government has pledged to convene a state Assembly session within a month to address issues concerning river waters, agriculture, and farmer loans, including resolutions against old water agreements and certain central bills.

Gulf war simmers again: Houthi advance puts Saudi on edge

Gulf war simmers again: Houthi advance puts Saudi on edge

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Fighting in Yemen has intensified as Houthi rebels advance on strategic government-held areas like Marib and Taiz, putting pressure on Saudi Arabia to respond. The conflict is also linked to wider US-Iran tensions affecting shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, with former US President Trump commenting on the situation.

Remarks on Col Sofiya: Sanction awaited to prosecute MP minister, SC told

Remarks on Col Sofiya: Sanction awaited to prosecute MP minister, SC told

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court was informed that sanction is awaited to prosecute Madhya Pradesh minister Kunwar Vijay Shah for his remarks against Army officer Col Sofiya Qureshi. The SIT probe is complete, and a chargesheet will be filed once sanction is obtained. Shah had previously apologised for his controversial comments.

UPI fee: Why govt is putting a price on big merchant payments

UPI fee: Why govt is putting a price on big merchant payments

Rediff.com6 days ago

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) stated that the Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) "is distributed only amongst the UPI ecosystem, to further invest into infrastructure resilience, innovation, cybersecurity (protecting the UPI infrastructure with banks and non-banks) and customer service."

Supreme Court shield for journalist reporting on Ram temple theft

Supreme Court shield for journalist reporting on Ram temple theft

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has protected journalist Abhishek Upadhyay from coercive action by Ghaziabad Police, who had filed an FIR against him in a road rage case. Upadhyay alleges the FIR is retaliatory for his reporting on alleged irregularities in donations at Ayodhya's Ram temple. The court has sought a copy of the FIR and asked Upadhyay to approach the Allahabad High Court.

Sebi to review derivatives settlement pricing after market uproar over CAS

Sebi to review derivatives settlement pricing after market uproar over CAS

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

India's market regulator, Sebi, is set to issue a consultation paper proposing changes to the methodology for determining settlement prices of derivative contracts, following significant feedback and 'sharp price spikes and distortions' observed during the recently implemented Closing Auction Session (CAS) mechanism.

Drishyam: The Conclusion: From The Crime Scene To The Trailer Launch

Drishyam: The Conclusion: From The Crime Scene To The Trailer Launch

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

A nostalgic trip through Goa reveals the real locations, conversations and behind-the-scenes stories that shaped Drishyam: The Conclusion.

Microsoft's Hyderabad Data Centre Goes Live, Bolstering India's AI Ambitions

Microsoft's Hyderabad Data Centre Goes Live, Bolstering India's AI Ambitions

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Microsoft has announced the activation of its latest data centre in Hyderabad, significantly expanding its Cloud infrastructure in India and enabling organisations to leverage AI-era services with enhanced local choice and security.

SBI Highlights RBI's 'Chalk and Cheese' Policy Signals, Creating Market Uncertainty

SBI Highlights RBI's 'Chalk and Cheese' Policy Signals, Creating Market Uncertainty

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

State Bank of India's latest report highlights a 'chalk and cheese' divide in the Reserve Bank of India's recent policy communications, with the Monetary Policy Committee minutes showing a hawkish tone while the Governor's statements are more data-dependent, leading to market uncertainty regarding future interest rate hikes.

Ishan Kishan praises Mohammed Shami's drive for India return

Ishan Kishan praises Mohammed Shami's drive for India return

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

East Zone skipper Ishan Kishan has lauded veteran pacer Mohammed Shami's unwavering hunger and motivation to make a comeback to the Indian cricket team. Shami's impressive performance in the Duleep Trophy semifinal, where he took five wickets, has convinced Kishan that age is just a number when it comes to the 36-year-old's drive to succeed.

Delhi: Niece held for murdering, robbing 60-year-old uncle

Delhi: Niece held for murdering, robbing 60-year-old uncle

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

A 60-year-old man was found dead in his Rohini home after a robbery. Police have detained his niece, a primary school teacher, and two associates, including a gym trainer and a student, suspecting her to be the mastermind behind the robbery-cum-murder. Stolen cash and jewellery have been partially recovered.

'India And China Have Arrived At A Nash Equilibrium'

'India And China Have Arrived At A Nash Equilibrium'

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

'The Chinese military cannot advance much in Ladakh, even if they want to.' 'Similarly, in Arunachal Pradesh, they can rename a village or two, intrude here or there, but cannot do much more realistically.'

Ellora's Magnificent Kailasa Temple

Ellora's Magnificent Kailasa Temple

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

The magnificent Kailasa temple stands as a testament to ancient Indian engineering and artistic brilliance, carved meticulously from a single mountain.

Delhi HC Directs ED To Remove FIITJEE Press Release

Delhi HC Directs ED To Remove FIITJEE Press Release

Rediff.com7 May 2026

The Delhi High Court has directed the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to remove a press release containing 'judgemental aspersions' related to its investigation against the FIITJEE coaching institute.

Now you can contribute to Nepal flood relief from India via UPI

Now you can contribute to Nepal flood relief from India via UPI

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

India's UPI International payment system is now playing a crucial role in humanitarian efforts, enabling seamless disaster relief donations from Indian users to Nepal's Prime Minister Disaster Relief Fund, showcasing its growing global acceptance and utility beyond tourism. UPI IMAGE: Kindly note that this image has been posted for representational purposes only. Photograph: Unsplash Key Points UPI International, initially for Indian tourists, is now facilitating disaster relief donations to Nepal's Prime Minister Disaster Relief Fund. The embassy of Nepal in India is actively encouraging Indian users to utilise their UPI apps for these contributions. This marks a significant shift, expanding UPI's cross-border use case beyond tourism to include inbound collection for foreign governments. The move positions UPI International alongside global payment giants like Alipay+ and UnionPay for international aid. Donors need to activate the UPI International feature on their apps to transact, with amounts converted from INR to NPR.

Fuel-efficiency tool for trucks may be ready by Dec, launch likely in Feb

Fuel-efficiency tool for trucks may be ready by Dec, launch likely in Feb

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

India is set to launch Bharat Vecto, its first certification tool for assessing the fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions of medium and heavy commercial vehicles, by December, with a full launch targeted for the Bharat Mobility Global Expo in February 2027.

Dubai fund transfers: Fresh ED claims against Vijayan's daughter in CMRL case

Dubai fund transfers: Fresh ED claims against Vijayan's daughter in CMRL case

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

The Enforcement Directorate has seized handwritten notes and digital evidence during searches related to former Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's daughter, Veena T. The agency alleges these notes detail fund transfers to Dubai and amounts handled beyond her known income, linking her to a money laundering probe involving Cochin Minerals and Rutile Ltd (CMRL) and her defunct company, Exalogic Solutions. Political leaders have condemned the probe as a vendetta.

Now, DEA questions Press Notes 2 & 4

Now, DEA questions Press Notes 2 & 4

Rediff.com17 Jun 2009

For the second time since Press Note 2 and 4 were issued in February 2009, the Department of Economic Affairs in the finance ministry has raised questions on their implementation, this time over an application before the Foreign Investment Promotion Board.

Shafali Verma Highlights India's Batting Challenges On Turning Pitches

Shafali Verma Highlights India's Batting Challenges On Turning Pitches

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

India opener Shafali Verma acknowledged the team's batting unit needs to address its shortcomings on turning pitches, despite securing a 94-run victory against Thailand in the Women's Asia Cup opener. Verma, who scored a brisk 64, noted that while the new ball came on well, the older ball gripped and turned, causing difficulties for the middle order. She emphasised the need for adaptation and praised Thailand's improving performance.

Sikkim has 16 highly-dangerous glacial lakes, shows govt data

Sikkim has 16 highly-dangerous glacial lakes, shows govt data

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

Sikkim has identified 40 high-hazard glacial lakes, with 16 at the highest risk of catastrophic outbursts. Following a devastating GLOF in 2023, the state is developing India's first dedicated GLOF Risk Mitigation Protocol, using advanced monitoring and interdisciplinary approaches to protect downstream settlements and serve as a model for other Himalayan regions.

Punjab farmers begin week-long protest against Indo-US trade deal

Punjab farmers begin week-long protest against Indo-US trade deal

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

Farmers under the Samyukta Kisan Morcha have initiated a week-long protest at the Chandigarh-Mohali border, demanding a minimum support price (MSP) based on the C2 plus 50 per cent formula, debt waivers, and opposing the proposed India-US trade deal, Electricity Amendment Bill, and Seed Bill. They also raised concerns about water depletion and sought resolutions based on riparian principles.

What If Sindoor Resumes? Will Saudis, Turks Rush To Help Pakistan?

What If Sindoor Resumes? Will Saudis, Turks Rush To Help Pakistan?

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

A question has been raised whether the Mecca Pact will have a negative impact on our doctrine that the Operation Sindoor has only been suspended and that it would be resumed if Pakistan engages in terrorism in the future. But the Mecca Pact only speaks of aggression, not defence against terrorism, points out Ambassador T P Sreenivasan.

'My Back Hurts When I Bend To Lift Something'

'My Back Hurts When I Bend To Lift Something'

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

With the right exercises and regular strength training, you can improve and get back to feeling strong and pain-free, suggests rediffGURU Dr Shakeeb Ahmed Khan.

Banks Oppose Subhash Chandra Repayment Plan

Banks Oppose Subhash Chandra Repayment Plan

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

'Resolution plan with this much haircut is totally unviable.'

Jantar Mantar protests reflect 'systemic failures': RSS

Jantar Mantar protests reflect 'systemic failures': RSS

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) recently held a three-day coordination meeting in Visakhapatnam, where senior leader C R Mukunda highlighted discussions on demographic imbalance, its impact on social harmony, recent youth protests, and underlying systemic failures. The Sangh believes these issues, including exam irregularities like NEET, point to broader administrative and institutional shortcomings that require constructive efforts from both government and society.

Bombay HC Shocked By Demolition Of Ambedkar's Printing Press

Bombay HC Shocked By Demolition Of Ambedkar's Printing Press

Rediff.com11 May 2026

The Bombay High Court has expressed shock over the demolition of a printing press set up by Dr B R Ambedkar in Mumbai in 2016 and has criticised the city police for their inaction despite complaints.

IIT Madras Researchers Uncover Critical Role Of Rare Marine Microorganisms

IIT Madras Researchers Uncover Critical Role Of Rare Marine Microorganisms

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Researchers at IIT Madras have discovered that rare 'specialist' marine microorganisms play a crucial and previously underestimated role in maintaining the stability of ocean ecosystems. Their global analysis of bacterial communities, published in 'mSystems', reveals these microbes act as vital connectors within microbial networks, significantly impacting ecosystem resilience and informing conservation efforts.

Slapped by teacher for not doing homework, KG boy dies in Vizag

Slapped by teacher for not doing homework, KG boy dies in Vizag

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

A six-year-old UKG student tragically died at a private school in Visakhapatnam after allegedly being slapped by a teacher inside the classroom, an incident captured on CCTV footage.

Onam Recipes: Coconut Payasam, Green Mung Thoran

Onam Recipes: Coconut Payasam, Green Mung Thoran

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Two Kerala recipes to add to your Onam repast

Industry welcomes scrapping of Press Note 18

Industry welcomes scrapping of Press Note 18

Rediff.com12 Jan 2005

India Inc on Tuesday welcomed the Centre's move to scrap the controversial Press Note 18 and said that it was an "irritant" which has been removed.

US Treasury prepares mock-up design of $250 note with Trump's face

US Treasury prepares mock-up design of $250 note with Trump's face

Rediff.com29 May 2026

The US Treasury Department is exploring the possibility of featuring Donald Trump's portrait on a new $250 note, pending congressional approval to amend the law that prohibits living individuals from being depicted on US currency.

It's frustrating, but 10 out of 10 for the effort and intent: Shubman Gill

It's frustrating, but 10 out of 10 for the effort and intent: Shubman Gill

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

Shubman Gill called India's drawn second Test against Sri Lanka frustrating but praised his players' effort, cleared Mohammad Siraj of injury concerns and backed India's WTC qualification hopes.

Govt sought removal of 2.44 lakh URLs in five months

Govt sought removal of 2.44 lakh URLs in five months

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Government departments requested social media platforms to remove 2.44 lakh pieces of content between March and July, with states initiating 82% of these requests. The IT Intermediaries Rules 2021 were amended to reduce takedown time to three hours. The PIB Fact Check unit clarified its role in content moderation, refuting claims of automated blocking by Meta and emphasising the need to address lawlessness in cyberspace.

Morne Morkel hails Prasidh Krishna's resilience, calls him 'world-class'

Morne Morkel hails Prasidh Krishna's resilience, calls him 'world-class'

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

India bowling coach Morne Morkel has lauded pacer Prasidh Krishna for his resilience in ignoring 'outside voices' and working hard to develop into a 'world-class bowler', highlighting his impressive performance against Sri Lanka.

Manav Suthar's resilience impresses India spin coach

Manav Suthar's resilience impresses India spin coach

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Indian left-arm spinner Manav Suthar faced a challenging day in the second Test against Sri Lanka, conceding over five runs an over initially, but impressed spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule with his resilience and ability to bounce back with two crucial wickets.

Sonia Gandhi memoir to chronicle love, tragedy and her 2004 PM refusal

Sonia Gandhi memoir to chronicle love, tragedy and her 2004 PM refusal

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Congress leader Sonia Gandhi is set to release her memoir, "Belonging: A Journey of Love," in November. The book will cover her personal life, including her marriage to Rajiv Gandhi, the tragedies she faced, her decision to decline the prime ministership in 2004, and her journey into politics. It promises an intimate look at her experiences within one of India's most powerful political families.

We're taking shape as Test team, but need to turn it into a performance: Gary Kirsten

We're taking shape as Test team, but need to turn it into a performance: Gary Kirsten

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Sri Lanka's head coach Gary Kirsten expressed satisfaction with his team's developing approach to Test cricket despite a loss to India. He highlighted the team's fight and resilience, particularly after a poor start in their first innings, and praised young batter Sonal Dinusha. Kirsten also provided an update on key player injuries ahead of the next Test.

India's Sri Lanka win reveals 2 big Test positives

India's Sri Lanka win reveals 2 big Test positives

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Devdutt Padikkal's assured batting at number three and Manav Suthar's strong performance as a lead Test spinner are the biggest gains for India from their recent Test series in Sri Lanka, addressing key questions surrounding the team's future.

Govt may proceed with Justice Varma's impeachment in Winter Session

Govt may proceed with Justice Varma's impeachment in Winter Session

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

The Centre is reportedly considering moving forward with the impeachment process against Justice Yashwant Varma in the upcoming Winter session of Parliament, despite his resignation. A Lok Sabha Speaker-constituted panel has found him guilty of possessing unaccounted cash and disturbing evidence.