News for 'Public Affairs'

Eye on China: Quad ramps up Indo-Pacific surveillance

Eye on China: Quad ramps up Indo-Pacific surveillance

Rediff.com27 May 2026

The Quad grouping has expanded cooperation in critical minerals and energy, while unveiling new measures to boost maritime surveillance and port infrastructure across the Indo-Pacific. This move comes against the backdrop of China's growing military posturing in the region, with ministers reiterating strong opposition to destabilising actions and expressing serious concerns over militarisation of disputed features.

'I'm an honorary cockroach': Wangchuk hits back at Ladakh LG

'I'm an honorary cockroach': Wangchuk hits back at Ladakh LG

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Activist Sonam Wangchuk has rejected Ladakh Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena's claim that he was 'unsure' of the online movement's origins, asserting he considers himself an 'honorary cockroach'.

Marco Rubio arrives in India; Quad, trade, defence on agenda

Marco Rubio arrives in India; Quad, trade, defence on agenda

Rediff.com23 May 2026

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Kolkata for a four-day diplomatic tour to India, marking the first visit by a US secretary of state to the city in 14 years. His itinerary includes meetings with Indian officials, energy talks, and a Quad Foreign Ministers Meeting.

Hema Malini receives Dharmendra's Padma Vibhushan, daughter Ahana turns emotional

Hema Malini receives Dharmendra's Padma Vibhushan, daughter Ahana turns emotional

Rediff.com25 May 2026

Actor and Bharatiya Janata Party member of Parliament Hema Malini on Monday evening received the Padma Vibhushan on behalf of her late husband and cinema icon Dharmendra, who passed away on November 24, 2025.

UN cuts India's 2026 GDP forecast to 6.4%, cites global uncertainties

UN cuts India's 2026 GDP forecast to 6.4%, cites global uncertainties

Rediff.com20 May 2026

The United Nations has revised downward India's economic growth forecast for 2026 to 6.4 per cent from an earlier 6.6 per cent, attributing the change to global uncertainties and economic shocks stemming from the ongoing West Asia crisis.

Netas Walk Modi's Talk On Austerity

Netas Walk Modi's Talk On Austerity

Rediff.com20 May 2026

In response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for austerity, political leaders are reducing convoys and promoting public transport to conserve fuel.

Netanyahu's Alleged UAE Visit Sparks Diplomatic Tension With Iran

Netanyahu's Alleged UAE Visit Sparks Diplomatic Tension With Iran

Rediff.com14 May 2026

Iran has warned of consequences for any collusion between the United Arab Emirates and Israel, following reports of a secret meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan during Operation Roaring Lion.

Tata Sons Dilemma: To List Or Not To List

Tata Sons Dilemma: To List Or Not To List

Rediff.com26 May 2026

The upcoming Tata Sons board meeting in June could possibly throw some light on several critical issues that may have a bearing on the future of the corporate behemoth.

Haryana Voters Affirm Trust In BJP's Development Model

Haryana Voters Affirm Trust In BJP's Development Model

Rediff.com14 May 2026

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini celebrated the BJP's victory in the recent civic body elections, attributing the win to public confidence in the party's development-focused governance and rejection of the Congress' negative politics.

Territorial integrity to be part of BSF's new mandate: Amit Shah

Territorial integrity to be part of BSF's new mandate: Amit Shah

Rediff.com29 May 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced a new 'territorial security' paradigm to complement conventional border security, involving public participation and advanced technology. He also highlighted progress in securing vulnerable areas along the Pakistan border and plans to expand the BSF's operational mandate.

Why Modi Wouldn't Bother Targeting CPI(M), Explained

Why Modi Wouldn't Bother Targeting CPI(M), Explained

Rediff.com27 May 2026

BJP leader V Muraleedharan dismisses claims that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would strike a deal with the Congress to target the CPI(M), stating Modi has 'better things to do'. He also questioned Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan's concern over ED raids if he has done nothing wrong.

Maharashtra Government Backs Posthumous Padma Award For Jadhav

Maharashtra Government Backs Posthumous Padma Award For Jadhav

Rediff.com14 May 2026

The Maharashtra government has proposed a posthumous Padma Vibhushan award for wrestler Khashaba Dadasaheb Jadhav, India's first individual Olympic medalist, to the Bombay High Court.

India raises visa concerns with US over immigration policy changes

India raises visa concerns with US over immigration policy changes

Rediff.com24 May 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar raised India's concerns with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding changes to US visa and immigration policies, emphasising that legal mobility should not be negatively affected. Rubio acknowledged potential 'bumps' during the transition as the US aims to improve its immigration system.

Subhash Kashyap: A Titan Passes Into The Ages

Subhash Kashyap: A Titan Passes Into The Ages

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Dr Subhash Kashyap not only enhanced Parliament's image in India and abroad, but also the position of Lok Sabha secretary-general which succeeding secretary-generals have upheld thorough neutrality, objectivity and high degree of professionalism, notes Rup Narayan Das.

India Celebrates 'Fit India Sundays' And Commonwealth Games Day

India Celebrates 'Fit India Sundays' And Commonwealth Games Day

Rediff.com24 May 2026

Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya joined a cycling event in Ahmedabad to mark the 75th edition of 'Fit India Sundays on Cycle' and Commonwealth Games Day, encouraging citizens to embrace cycling for fitness and short commutes. The event saw participation from athletes, celebrities, and citizens across India.

Centre to resume talks with Ladakh groups on May 22 amid statehood demand

Centre to resume talks with Ladakh groups on May 22 amid statehood demand

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has decided to convene a meeting of the sub-committee for political dialogue with representatives of agitating Ladakh groups on May 22, according to Lt Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena.

Hand over Bangladeshi infiltrators to BSF, not courts, Suvendu tells police

Hand over Bangladeshi infiltrators to BSF, not courts, Suvendu tells police

Rediff.com21 May 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced that Bangladeshi infiltrators detained in the state will be directly handed over to the BSF for deportation, bypassing court appearances, following a new rule.

Japan's Onestruction, IISc Join Hands For Urban Data Exchange

Japan's Onestruction, IISc Join Hands For Urban Data Exchange

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

Onestruction Inc and DataKaveri Systems have signed an MoU to establish a framework for strategic and technical collaboration in urban and built environment data exchange.

Vijay revokes astrologer's appointment as OSD after criticism

Vijay revokes astrologer's appointment as OSD after criticism

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Amidst public outcry and opposition criticism, the Tamil Nadu government has revoked the appointment of astrologer Rickey Radhan Pandit Vettrivel as Officer on Special Duty to the Chief Minister.

When US Presidents Abused India And/Or Indians!

When US Presidents Abused India And/Or Indians!

Rediff.com1 May 2026

If Trump doesn't like India, that is his choice. But to use such distasteful language on a public platform is deeply offensive and needs to be called out, points out Amberish K Diwanji.

Delhi Scraps Thousands of Ration Cards, Eyes AI for Verification

Delhi Scraps Thousands of Ration Cards, Eyes AI for Verification

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

The Delhi government has cancelled over 45,000 ration cards and is considering using artificial intelligence to identify ineligible beneficiaries in its public distribution system.

Bengal to build 'holding centres' for illegal foreigners

Bengal to build 'holding centres' for illegal foreigners

Rediff.com25 May 2026

West Bengal's Bharatiya Janata Party government has moved to institutionalise its "detect, delete and deport" policy by directing all district administrations to set up "holding centres" for suspected illegal foreigners and foreign prisoners awaiting repatriation -- a step that appeared to give administrative shape to one of the party's most potent political themes in the state.

New TN cabinet vows break from Dravidian-era governance

New TN cabinet vows break from Dravidian-era governance

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Following the swearing-in of C Joseph Vijay as Tamil Nadu's chief minister, the new cabinet has pledged a 'white paper' audit of all state departments and a 'zero-interference' policy in administration, signalling a significant shift in governance.

Nepal seeks diplomatic solution to border dispute with India

Nepal seeks diplomatic solution to border dispute with India

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Nepal has reiterated its commitment to resolving the border issue with India through diplomatic channels, emphasising historical agreements and understanding.

Trump-Xi Rapprochement: Time For India To Be Cautious

Trump-Xi Rapprochement: Time For India To Be Cautious

Rediff.com21 May 2026

India would confront a more entrenched China, a less dependable United States, and a regional order increasingly shaped by great-power bargaining over which it exercises limited influence, notes Amberish K Diwanji.

UCC Bill tabled in Assam; polygamy ban, live-in registration proposed

UCC Bill tabled in Assam; polygamy ban, live-in registration proposed

Rediff.com25 May 2026

The opposition parties, including Congress, Raijor Dal and Trinamool Congress, opposed the move and demanded wider consultation with all the stakeholders before its introduction.

Jharkhand Authorities Investigate Jail Sex Abuse Allegations

Jharkhand Authorities Investigate Jail Sex Abuse Allegations

Rediff.com19 May 2026

A team from the Jharkhand State Legal Services Authority (JHALSA) is investigating allegations of sexual exploitation of a woman inmate at Birsa Munda Central Jail. The investigation was prompted by claims of abuse, pregnancy, and forced abortion, leading to calls for strict action and a high-level probe.

CPI(M) Condemns ED Raids On Kerala CM As Political Attack

CPI(M) Condemns ED Raids On Kerala CM As Political Attack

Rediff.com27 May 2026

CPI(M) leaders have strongly criticised the ED raids on former Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan and others, alleging political motivation and a conspiracy by the BJP and Congress. They claim the raids are an attempt to intimidate the party and its leaders, and have vowed to fight back against what they see as a politically fabricated case.

Kerala University Must Allow Iranian Student To Use Swimming Pool: Rights Body

Kerala University Must Allow Iranian Student To Use Swimming Pool: Rights Body

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

The State Human Rights Commission has ruled that an Iranian student of Kerala University has the legal right to use the swimming pool at the Kariavattom campus and directed the Sports and Youth Affairs Department to ensure necessary facilities.

RIL's Q4 Profit Falls 12.5% Due to Energy Crisis, Jio Platforms Reports 13% Growth

RIL's Q4 Profit Falls 12.5% Due to Energy Crisis, Jio Platforms Reports 13% Growth

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

Reliance Industries Ltd reported a 12.5 per cent fall in its March quarter net profit, primarily impacted by the global energy crisis affecting its oil and chemicals business, while its consumer-facing Jio Platforms unit saw a 13 per cent increase in profit after tax.

How India Busted An International 'Jihadi Drug' Syndicate

How India Busted An International 'Jihadi Drug' Syndicate

Rediff.com16 May 2026

The Narcotics Control Bureau has busted an international drug syndicate involved in trafficking Captagon, seizing approximately 227.7 kg of the 'jihadi drug' worth Rs 182 crore.

Hardliners in Iran blocking negotiation with US: Report

Hardliners in Iran blocking negotiation with US: Report

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

A new assessment by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) reveals that a power struggle within Iran's leadership, with hardliners gaining influence, could significantly impact future negotiations with the United States.

Rubio meets Modi, discusses West Asia, extends Trump's invitation to visit US

Rubio meets Modi, discusses West Asia, extends Trump's invitation to visit US

Rediff.com23 May 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed various aspects of India-US bilateral ties, focusing on defence, trade, energy, and technology. Rubio extended an invitation from President Donald Trump for PM Modi to visit the US.

Delhi Simulates Hostile Attack in City-Wide Civil Defence Drill

Delhi Simulates Hostile Attack in City-Wide Civil Defence Drill

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

A large-scale civil defence mock drill was conducted across Delhi, simulating a hostile attack scenario to test preparedness and response systems.

Red Fort blast: NIA chargesheet links all accused to Qaida offshoot

Red Fort blast: NIA chargesheet links all accused to Qaida offshoot

Rediff.com14 May 2026

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a chargesheet against 10 accused in connection with the Red Fort area car bomb explosion case, which resulted in 11 fatalities and extensive property damage.

In UAE, Modi offers help to end West Asia crisis

In UAE, Modi offers help to end West Asia crisis

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has offered India's support to bring peace to West Asia during talks with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Both countries signed agreements to strengthen strategic collaborations in energy and defence.

Delhi blast: NIA files 7,500-page chargesheet against 10; reveals plot

Delhi blast: NIA files 7,500-page chargesheet against 10; reveals plot

Rediff.com14 May 2026

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a chargesheet against 10 accused in connection with the Red Fort blast, revealing a jihadi conspiracy by Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind to overthrow the Indian government and impose Sharia law.

Sanjeev Arora Challenges Arrest By ED In Money Laundering Case

Sanjeev Arora Challenges Arrest By ED In Money Laundering Case

Rediff.com12 May 2026

Punjab Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora has challenged his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), claiming it is illegal and unconstitutional. The Punjab and Haryana High Court heard arguments and adjourned the matter to May 14. Arora was arrested in connection with an alleged Rs 100-crore GST fraud-linked money laundering case.

J-K Anti-Corruption Bureau probes alleged ration fraud in Reasi district

J-K Anti-Corruption Bureau probes alleged ration fraud in Reasi district

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

The Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau has registered a case against a former tehsil supply officer and others for alleged misappropriation of government ration and funds in the Reasi district.

Satwiksairaj-Chirag Shetty Reach Thailand Open Final

Satwiksairaj-Chirag Shetty Reach Thailand Open Final

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty displayed resilience to reach the men's doubles final at the Thailand Open Super 500 badminton tournament, overcoming Malaysia's Goh Sze Fei and Nur Izzuddin in a thrilling three-game match.