News for 'Prime Minister'

TN ruling partners form new alliance ahead of key bypolls, Vijay to lead

TN ruling partners form new alliance ahead of key bypolls, Vijay to lead

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Tamil Nadu's ruling TVK and its post-poll allies have officially named their front the "Secular Social Justice Victory" alliance, with Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay elected as its leader. The alliance, which includes Congress, VCK, and IUML, is preparing for upcoming bypolls on October 6, which will serve as an initial test of its strength. Leaders emphasised the alliance's ideological foundation rooted in secularism and social justice, aiming to protect constitutional values and oppose communal forces.

Modi breaks silence on NEET row, calls paper leaks 'ghor paap'

Modi breaks silence on NEET row, calls paper leaks 'ghor paap'

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has affirmed strong action against NEET paper leak culprits and urged state governments to collaborate with the Centre to prevent future incidents, emphasising national interest over party politics. He highlighted the successful re-examination and arrests made.

'The ultimate goal is the Olympics': Arundhati after CWG gold

'The ultimate goal is the Olympics': Arundhati after CWG gold

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

Indian pugilists Arundhati Choudhary and Jaismine Lamboria, both Commonwealth Games 2026 gold medallists, shared their experiences and overwhelming reception following their historic victories in Glasgow, with Choudhary setting her sights on an Olympic medal.

When The 'Jackfruit King' Met PM Modi

When The 'Jackfruit King' Met PM Modi

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

'He wanted to know what products I'd brought along, so I showed him jackfruit flour, which research has linked to managing type 2 diabetes.' 'Then jackfruit seed flour, a strong source of protein that rural households have eaten for generations without it ever becoming a commercial product. I gave him ripe jackfruit chips too.'

Modi sets 2047 deadline, warns ministers against delays

Modi sets 2047 deadline, warns ministers against delays

Rediff.com22 May 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a meeting with his council of ministers, focusing on enhancing 'Ease of Living' and 'Ease of Doing Business' and setting the goal of a developed India by 2047.

PM bats for self-reliance to counter resource weaponisation

PM bats for self-reliance to counter resource weaponisation

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has highlighted the risks posed by the 'weaponisation' of resources and strategic sea routes, urging India to achieve greater self-reliance in energy to mitigate vulnerabilities to overseas supplies and geopolitical tensions.

'Sheikh Hasina Has Pulled A Political Masterstroke'

'Sheikh Hasina Has Pulled A Political Masterstroke'

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

'After announcing that she will return to Bangladesh, if she does not, her credibility will suffer.'

UPI payments above Rs 2,000 to merchants to attract 0.4% MDR from Oct 15

UPI payments above Rs 2,000 to merchants to attract 0.4% MDR from Oct 15

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI person-to-merchant (P2M) transactions exceeding Rs 2,000, effective October 15. This move ends nearly six years of fully free UPI payments, though person-to-person (P2P) transfers and small P2M payments remain free. The charges aim to bolster investment in UPI infrastructure, with specific exemptions and caps for essential sectors.

How AI Will Revolutionise Healthcare And Empower Doctors

How AI Will Revolutionise Healthcare And Empower Doctors

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Prof Ajit Kumar Chaturvedi, Vice-Chancellor of Banaras Hindu University, highlighted Artificial Intelligence's transformative potential in healthcare, emphasising its role in augmenting doctors' capabilities and enhancing efficiency. Speaking at PGIMER's Foundation Day, he stressed the need for India to develop AI solutions tailored to its unique healthcare realities, moving beyond being a mere consumer of Western-trained systems. PGIMER Director Vivek Lal also detailed the institute's expansion and commitment to affordable healthcare.

BRICS declaration reaches consensus amid Iran-Saudi- UAE rift

BRICS declaration reaches consensus amid Iran-Saudi- UAE rift

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

BRICS nations have successfully reached a consensus on a joint statement following extensive negotiations, with India playing a crucial role in bridging differences, particularly among West Asian members like Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, despite regional conflicts and geopolitical tensions.

SC seeks report on Lakhimpur Kheri trial judge's conduct

SC seeks report on Lakhimpur Kheri trial judge's conduct

Rediff.com2 hours ago

The Supreme Court has requested a report from the Allahabad High Court Chief Justice regarding the conduct of the presiding officer in the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence case. This follows allegations by an eyewitness's advocate, Prashant Bhushan, that the officer improperly transferred cases, acquitted accused, and issued a non-bailable warrant against his ill client. The apex court also directed the Uttar Pradesh government to appoint an experienced public prosecutor for the trial.

Land, business reforms key to India's next phase of growth, say economists

Land, business reforms key to India's next phase of growth, say economists

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Economists highlight that resolving domestic policy bottlenecks, particularly through land reforms and improving the ease of doing business, will be critical for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'next-generation reforms' and India's economic transformation towards its 'Viksit Bharat' vision for 2047.

My mother was abused, but we must forgive 'misguided' youth: Modi in new video

My mother was abused, but we must forgive 'misguided' youth: Modi in new video

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for forgiveness and guidance for students involved in NEET irregularity protests at Jantar Mantar, despite facing abusive language, stressing the importance of steering the youth towards the right path.

Government Clarifies UPI Charges Amidst Political Row

Government Clarifies UPI Charges Amidst Political Row

Rediff.com7 days ago

The BJP has accused the Congress of spreading "fake news" regarding UPI transaction charges, asserting that the government has clarified that consumers will not be levied merchant discount rate (MDR) charges. This comes after the Congress criticised a government notification, alleging it paves the way for imposing fees on UPI transactions. The BJP has strongly refuted these claims, highlighting that most UPI transactions remain free and the government provides incentives to maintain a charge-free ecosystem for users.

Raj local polls: BJP wins 4 of 10 civic bodies; Independents emerge as key players

Raj local polls: BJP wins 4 of 10 civic bodies; Independents emerge as key players

Rediff.com7 days ago

The ruling BJP has increased its lead over the Congress in the Rajasthan urban local body elections, winning 3,587 wards against Congress's 3,050. Independents also performed strongly, securing 2,024 wards. While BJP secured a clear majority in Udaipur, Congress won in Ajmer and Pali. Bharatpur, the Chief Minister's hometown, saw Independents leading. These elections are a crucial test for the Bhajanlal Sharma-led BJP government ahead of the 2028 Assembly polls.

Axed Pakistan Players Summoned For Charles Meet

Axed Pakistan Players Summoned For Charles Meet

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Pakistan's axed players were summoned to attend a meeting with King Charles amid PCB fears over a low turnout.

How BRICS evolved from an acronym to a major global powerhouse

How BRICS evolved from an acronym to a major global powerhouse

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

This article details the quarter-century journey of BRICS, from its inception as an economic acronym by a Goldman Sachs economist to its current status as an expanded eleven-member international bloc. It highlights its growth, key historical moments, and the significance of its upcoming summit, particularly with Iran's renewed importance in discussions.

Rahul, Priyanka, Akhilesh detained after protest outside PM's residence

Rahul, Priyanka, Akhilesh detained after protest outside PM's residence

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, along with Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, were forcibly removed and detained by Delhi Police during a protest outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence, demanding justice for students protesting the NEET paper leak and condemning alleged police brutalities.

The Prime Minister Born On February 29

The Prime Minister Born On February 29

Rediff.com29 Feb 2024

Morarji Desai was 81 when he was elected prime minister and ruled India for two years, from March 1977 to July 1999.

Iran won't bow to 'bullying': Pezeshkian's message to US, Israel from Delhi

Iran won't bow to 'bullying': Pezeshkian's message to US, Israel from Delhi

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian declared that Iran will not succumb to "bullying" from the US and Israel, vowing to protect national interests amidst escalating West Asian hostilities. During his visit to New Delhi for the BRICS summit, Pezeshkian also discussed strengthening bilateral ties with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and advocated for local currencies in BRICS trade, positioning Iran as a strategic energy and transport partner.

If you love India and PM...: Raj Thackeray jabs Vivek Oberoi, R Madhavan

If you love India and PM...: Raj Thackeray jabs Vivek Oberoi, R Madhavan

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Raj Thackeray has sparked a debate by questioning actors Vivek Oberoi and R Madhavan for praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi's development initiatives while choosing to reside in Dubai.

CPI(ML) Slams New UPI MDR Framework As 'UPI Tax'

CPI(ML) Slams New UPI MDR Framework As 'UPI Tax'

Rediff.com4 days ago

CPI(ML) Liberation general secretary Dipankar Bhattacharya has strongly criticised the newly introduced Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on select UPI transactions, labelling it a "UPI tax" and demanding its immediate rollback. He drew parallels with demonetisation, arguing that the new framework would negatively impact small shopkeepers, MSMEs, and ordinary citizens by increasing prices.

DMK MLAs evicted from TN assembly after ruckus over Vijay's remarks

DMK MLAs evicted from TN assembly after ruckus over Vijay's remarks

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

The Tamil Nadu assembly descended into chaos, leading to the eviction of DMK MLAs, as they vehemently protested Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay's statements.

Vijay Kumar Demands Transparency In NRAI Coaching Appointments

Vijay Kumar Demands Transparency In NRAI Coaching Appointments

Rediff.com5 days ago

Olympic silver medallist Vijay Kumar has called for an independent review of the National Rifle Association of India's (NRAI) coaching appointments, citing concerns about transparency, eligibility criteria, and potential conflicts of interest. The NRAI, however, asserts that appointments are merit-based and views Kumar's concerns as 'sour grapes' after his own non-selection.

Political Row Erupts Over UPI Fee Decision

Political Row Erupts Over UPI Fee Decision

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Congress party has strongly refuted government claims that its MPs on the Parliament Standing Committee on Finance supported a fee on high-value UPI payments. Congress leaders, including Gaurav Gogoi and Manish Tewari, stated that the "UPI tax" proposal was not specifically discussed by the committee, accusing the Modi government of diverting attention from public backlash and appeasing US companies. The government, however, cited the committee's report which pressed for a tiered Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) framework.

We are ready to give up reservations if...: Athawale

We are ready to give up reservations if...: Athawale

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Union Minister Ramdas Athawale stated that opposing reservation is unconstitutional and that the policy would be given up if casteism is eliminated. He highlighted the historical context of reservations for SC/ST and OBCs, and the Modi government's EWS quota. Athawale also criticised the opposition, praised government achievements, and discussed various welfare schemes and infrastructure projects in Chhattisgarh.

Modi declares war on paper leak mafia as anti-cheating bill gets Parl nod

Modi declares war on paper leak mafia as anti-cheating bill gets Parl nod

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced comprehensive reforms in the education system to combat paper leaks, following the passage of a new anti-paper leak law. He asserted that there would be no leniency for those involved in examination irregularities, highlighting the government's commitment to ensuring fair opportunities for students.

Enemies Beware! India Widens Missile Testing Infrastructure

Enemies Beware! India Widens Missile Testing Infrastructure

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Specialised range taking shape in Andhra Pradesh, while West Bengal clears way for DRDO's new testing facility.

'Everywhere there is filth in Mumbai, is this international city?' HC

'Everywhere there is filth in Mumbai, is this international city?' HC

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

The Bombay High Court has strongly criticised the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) for the pervasive garbage on Mumbai's roads, warning of action against ward officers if the situation does not improve. Hearing petitions on pollution near the Kanjurmarg dumping ground, the court observed that the "entire municipal machinery is inactive" and suggested imposing heavy fines on litterers. The court has demanded BMC's Standard Operating Procedure and a list of officers responsible for cleanliness, threatening to remove those who fail to act.

Modi posts fresh video on Instagram, thanks everyone for support

Modi posts fresh video on Instagram, thanks everyone for support

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a new bill to introduce strict laws against paper leaks, following public demand and student protests. The announcement was made via an Instagram video that also set a new world record for views.

The Long Road To Viksit Bharat

The Long Road To Viksit Bharat

Rediff.com7 days ago

The question for the next 20 years is not whether India can become a $5 trillion or $10 trillion economy. Those are attractive targets, but the real question is whether India can create enough productive jobs, educate its children properly, make its cities liveable, and give hundreds of millions of people a substantially better life, asserts Ramesh Menon.

No regular FIR against girl who abused Modi at Delhi protest

No regular FIR against girl who abused Modi at Delhi protest

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Earlier, the girl issued an apology video on social media on Saturday saying she had been "influenced."

BJP-SAD to reunite? Badal backs delimitation bill after Modi meet

BJP-SAD to reunite? Badal backs delimitation bill after Modi meet

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has called for the immediate passage of the women's reservation bill and the delimitation bill, advocating for a uniform 50 per cent increase in seats for all states to ensure fair and equitable representation.

How India's Digital Ecosystem Propelled UPI To Global Success

How India's Digital Ecosystem Propelled UPI To Global Success

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu highlighted that the success of UPI, which handles nearly half of the world's real-time digital transactions, stems from a collaborative ecosystem including financial inclusion, digital identity, and affordable internet. He attributed this digital payments revolution to the vision of PM Narendra Modi.

US hits Canada with fresh import bans, tariffs amid trade war

US hits Canada with fresh import bans, tariffs amid trade war

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

The United States has announced a new round of trade measures against Canada, including bans on Canadian dairy, alcoholic beverages, and motorcycles, and reshuffled existing tariffs. This escalation comes after Canada imposed retaliatory tariffs on American goods. The US administration cited Canada's retaliatory actions as the trigger, contrasting it with other nations that chose negotiation over retaliation.

'Attack on one is attack on all': Pak, Saudi, Turkiye sign joint defence pact

'Attack on one is attack on all': Pak, Saudi, Turkiye sign joint defence pact

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye on Friday signed a key joint defence agreement under which an attack against one of them will be treated as an attack against all of them, amid increasing security concerns in the wake of escalating tensions in West Asia.

Nepal floods: 'She was coming for Raksha Bandhan, but decided to visit Kailash first'

Nepal floods: 'She was coming for Raksha Bandhan, but decided to visit Kailash first'

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

An NRI couple from Vadodara, Kinnari and Mihir Patel, who travelled to Nepal from New Zealand, have gone missing after devastating flash floods hit the region, prompting their family to appeal to the government for swift rescue action.

Putin Offers More Fertilisers To India

Putin Offers More Fertilisers To India

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Russia remains India's biggest fertiliser supplier, with imports rising nearly 40 per cent in 2025.

Who's Rahul Gandhi's favourite BJP politician? He reveals

Who's Rahul Gandhi's favourite BJP politician? He reveals

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Rahul Gandhi recently connected with Gen Z through an engaging 'Ask Me Anything' session on Instagram, offering candid responses on student protests, his views on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and even his philosophy on pet ownership.

Canada suspends trade talks with US, 50% tariff kicks in

Canada suspends trade talks with US, 50% tariff kicks in

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

Trade negotiations between the United States and Canada have collapsed, leading to the US imposing 50% tariffs on nearly $28 billion worth of Canadian imports, with Canada immediately vowing to retaliate dollar-for-dollar.