News for 'Public Relations Department'

'Three Days' Banking Strike Is A Big Issue'

'Three Days' Banking Strike Is A Big Issue'

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

'There will be some inconvenience to people. But we have given one-month notice to the government one month ago.'

Sena-UBT leader murder: 2 held, kin claim political rivalry

Sena-UBT leader murder: 2 held, kin claim political rivalry

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Shiv Sena (UBT) functionary Pradeep Purnekar was brutally murdered in Thane, Maharashtra, leading to one arrest and one detention. The incident has sparked widespread protests, with party leaders like Aaditya Thackeray and Sanjay Raut alleging political rivalry and demanding further arrests, including a former mayor and her husband. Police are investigating all potential angles, including personal enmity and Purnekar's activism against the builder lobby and drug networks.

News, Bhakt Prahlad, He Ram clear Chhattisgarh police exams

News, Bhakt Prahlad, He Ram clear Chhattisgarh police exams

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Chhattisgarh's latest police recruitment exam results have drawn widespread attention after a bizarre mix of candidate names, such as 'News', 'Space Rani', 'He Ram' and 'Tufail', surfaced on the qualifying list, prompting the Opposition Congress to allege irregularities, even as candidates came forward to defend their unique monikers.

Why India Is Wooing Sri Lanka's JVP

Why India Is Wooing Sri Lanka's JVP

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is actively courting Sri Lanka's Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), a Marxist party with strong Sinhalese nationalist roots, marking a significant shift in bilateral relations despite ideological differences. This engagement, highlighted by a recent high-profile visit by JVP leader Tilvin Silva, aims to foster cooperation on economic projects and address New Delhi's concerns over slow progress in India-aided initiatives in the island nation.

Buy A Mature Rocket Or Design A New One?

Buy A Mature Rocket Or Design A New One?

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

Buying a mature rocket technology gives companies the designs and hardware know-how, but not necessarily the decades of engineering wisdom needed to make it work.

SC's unusual move on NEET leaks: Judges may visit NTA to inspect facilities

SC's unusual move on NEET leaks: Judges may visit NTA to inspect facilities

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has indicated that its judges may personally visit the National Testing Agency (NTA) to examine its upgraded facilities aimed at preventing recurring NEET paper leaks. This unusual move underscores the court's emphasis on institutional strengthening and permanent solutions. The NTA informed the bench that it has overhauled its system, while a high-powered panel is also working on structural reforms to ensure foolproof examination processes.

Jharkhand govt's move to cancel 44 recruitment exams sparks fresh protests

Jharkhand govt's move to cancel 44 recruitment exams sparks fresh protests

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

The Jharkhand government has cancelled 44 recruitment examinations conducted by the state Public Service Commission (JPSC) and an outsourced agency since 2014, including the JSSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) examination, following a 25-day student agitation over alleged irregularities. This decision has led to protests from around 2,000 candidates who had already been appointed to various state government departments after clearing the JSSC-CGL exam.

Turn 'approver' or face trial: Cong's warning to CEC Gyanesh Kumar

Turn 'approver' or face trial: Cong's warning to CEC Gyanesh Kumar

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

The Congress party staged nationwide protests, demanding the immediate arrest and removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The party accused the Election Commission of an "unprecedented attack" on voter equality through an alleged 'Mark VIP' feature and called for an independent review of decisions made under Kumar, citing objections from other commissioners regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

Leaked images show damaged US bases in Iranian strikes

Leaked images show damaged US bases in Iranian strikes

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

New photographic evidence and a Pentagon inspector general's report confirm extensive damage to US military installations across the Middle East due to Iranian missile and drone strikes. The report details billions in financial costs, structural losses to hundreds of buildings, and damage to dozens of aircraft, contradicting previous assertions about US military readiness and ordnance stockpiles. The conflict also led to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, impacting global oil prices.

Sonia Gandhi's memoir gets new publisher after Penguin backs out

Sonia Gandhi's memoir gets new publisher after Penguin backs out

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

HarperCollins India has announced the publication of Congress leader Sonia Gandhi's memoir, "Belonging: A Journey of Love," in India on November 10. The highly anticipated book will offer insights into her personal life and India's political journey, covering her childhood, marriage into the Nehru-Gandhi family, and entry into politics.

Student suicide: IIT-B apologises, suspends dean; director to stay

Student suicide: IIT-B apologises, suspends dean; director to stay

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

IIT Bombay has removed Suryanarayana Doolla, Dean of Administrative Affairs, from his post and issued a public apology following the death by suicide of 22-year-old student Sahil Wakode, who his parents allege faced caste-based discrimination.

Why ISRO Staff Are Worried About ISRO's Future

Why ISRO Staff Are Worried About ISRO's Future

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

A rocket designed and developed by ISRO is being transferred to industry for production.
Nine ISRO associations want to know whether this is simply an effort to expand India's industrial capacity or part of a larger policy under which ISRO itself will eventually withdraw from rocket manufacturing.

This Is How We Remember Our Heroes

This Is How We Remember Our Heroes

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

Despite repeated demands over the years, the proposal to develop Khudiram Bose's cremation ground in Muzaffarpur into a martyr park has yet to see the light of day due to official apathy.

South African envoy cleared in Zuma-Gupta temple visit row

South African envoy cleared in Zuma-Gupta temple visit row

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

The South African government has cleared its High Commissioner to India, Anil Sooklal, of any wrongdoing after he appeared at a temple event in Haridwar with former president Jacob Zuma and businessman Ajay Gupta, who faces corruption allegations. DIRCO stated Sooklal provided only customary protocol support to Zuma and attended the event independently, without facilitating any substantive engagement with Gupta.

BRICS ahead, Delhi rains put civic coordination under spotlight

BRICS ahead, Delhi rains put civic coordination under spotlight

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

Heavy rainfall caused significant waterlogging in New Delhi, particularly near IGI Airport, just days before the BRICS Summit. The incident highlighted coordination issues among various city agencies, with PWD officials attributing some flooding to other departments, despite a recent review meeting by the Lieutenant Governor to ensure inter-agency synergy.

Delhi gears up for BRICS summit with extensive makeover

Delhi gears up for BRICS summit with extensive makeover

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Central Delhi has undergone a significant beautification drive, including extensive lighting, floral displays, and BRICS-themed signages, in preparation for the upcoming BRICS Leaders' Summit. The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) and other civic bodies have focused on sprucing up key routes, hotels, and the summit venue, Bharat Mandapam, to welcome delegates and visitors.

Vijay slams DMK's corruption, names Stalin, Udhayanidhi as beneficiaries

Vijay slams DMK's corruption, names Stalin, Udhayanidhi as beneficiaries

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has accused the opposition DMK of organised corruption and illegal collection of "party funds" during its previous regime, citing Enforcement Directorate documents. The allegations, which named former CM M K Stalin and his deputy Udhayanidhi as beneficiaries, led to a major ruckus in the Assembly.

Bengal to fast-track CAA hearings, 23,000 get citizenship: CM Suvendu

Bengal to fast-track CAA hearings, 23,000 get citizenship: CM Suvendu

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Monday said that hearings of applications for citizenship under the CAA will soon be over, and so far the state has issued certificates to 23,000 people out of 2.30 lakh applicants.

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.

'Nobody is...': Tukaram Mundhe on notice to SRK, Ajay Devgn and Tiger

'Nobody is...': Tukaram Mundhe on notice to SRK, Ajay Devgn and Tiger

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Mundhe said the FDA was examining advertisements for products other than tobacco-related items and would act wherever misleading claims or other violations were found.

Kin of missing Nepal flood victims perform symbolic funeral rites

Kin of missing Nepal flood victims perform symbolic funeral rites

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Eight days after devastating floods in Nepal, families of the missing are resorting to symbolic funeral rites using effigies due to diminishing hopes of finding their loved ones and the destruction of their homes. The disaster has also led to a severe shortage of facilities for traditional mourning rituals in Kathmandu, forcing many to seek alternative arrangements or travel.

Man seeking ban on DJs, loudspeakers assaulted in Pune

Man seeking ban on DJs, loudspeakers assaulted in Pune

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

Vidyanand Bapat, a Pune-based activist advocating for a ban on high-decibel DJ systems and loudspeakers during festivals, was publicly assaulted by a man named Santosh Chavan while speaking to media persons.

One India, one time: IST to become sole official time standard

One India, one time: IST to become sole official time standard

Rediff.com30 Aug 2026

The Indian government has notified the Legal Metrology (Indian Standard Time) Rules, 2026, establishing IST as the sole reference for all official purposes nationwide. These rules, effective in 180 days, aim to synchronise digital systems, reduce reliance on foreign time sources, and enhance coordination across critical sectors like banking, railways, and telecommunications.

Trump tightens green card rules, Indians face fresh hurdles

Trump tightens green card rules, Indians face fresh hurdles

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

The Trump administration has reinstated and expanded the "public charge" rule, making it harder for immigrants seeking green cards if they have used public benefits like Medicaid, food stamps, or housing assistance. This policy change, effective September 18, will impact many applicants, including those from India, by broadening the criteria for inadmissibility.

Let's Not Get Flattered By Sergei Gor's Kashmir Remarks

Let's Not Get Flattered By Sergei Gor's Kashmir Remarks

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

New Delhi must look for formal, institutional statements issued directly from Washington rather than rely on casual pronouncements meant for local audiences, notes Ambassador Rajasekhar.

ED Director Navin Orders Stepped-Up Action Against IBC Fraud And Police FIR Delays

ED Director Navin Orders Stepped-Up Action Against IBC Fraud And Police FIR Delays

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) Director, Rahul Navin, has issued directives to intensify action against Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) frauds involving "large haircuts" and to address delays in police registering FIRs based on ED's requests. The agency also aims to fast-track high-profile trials under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and enhance internal coordination and efficiency.

Fresh controversy hits India's shooting setup

Fresh controversy hits India's shooting setup

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

A top national shotgun coach, involved in India's Asian Games preparations, is under investigation by the Sports Authority of India for alleged conflict of interest related to a contract for building a shooting range in Chennai.

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.

'Sound during Hindu festivals....': Maha ministers clash over DJ sound

'Sound during Hindu festivals....': Maha ministers clash over DJ sound

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

Maharashtra ministers are divided over the use of high-decibel DJ systems during Hindu festivals. While Minister Yogesh Kadam asserts that festival sound will not be stopped, his colleagues Sanjay Shirsat and Meghana Bordikar advocate for adherence to noise pollution norms, with Bordikar citing a personal tragedy. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has also called for a return to traditional celebrations and a consensus on restricting DJ systems.

Mumbai mayor orders withdrawal of controversial heritage bungalow tender

Mumbai mayor orders withdrawal of controversial heritage bungalow tender

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde has instructed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to withdraw a controversial Rs 3 crore tender for upgradation works around her official heritage bungalow in Byculla. The tender, issued by the BMC's zoo department, faced strong objections from the opposition, particularly Shiv Sena (UBT), which alleged misuse of public funds. Tawde clarified that the works were for the surrounding area, not the bungalow itself, and cited the tender's mention of the Mayor's bungalow as the reason for its withdrawal.

SHANTI Rules Boost Nuclear Investment

SHANTI Rules Boost Nuclear Investment

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

The rules require nuclear plant operators to maintain an insurance policy, financial security or a combination of both to cover civil liability for nuclear damage.

Big relief for Vijay govt as SC clears jobs for Karur victims' kin

Big relief for Vijay govt as SC clears jobs for Karur victims' kin

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has stayed a Madras High Court order that had quashed the Tamil Nadu government's decision to provide government jobs to relatives of those who died in a stampede at Karur last year, questioning the locus standi of petitioners challenging government policy.

US Visa Pause Clouds Travel Plans

US Visa Pause Clouds Travel Plans

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

'One important clarification is that the reported US action is not a blanket cancellation of all US tourist visas.'

MP hooch tragedy claims 11 lives, 54 fall ill; 3 officials suspended

MP hooch tragedy claims 11 lives, 54 fall ill; 3 officials suspended

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

Eleven people have died and 54 others fallen ill after consuming spurious liquor in Madhya Pradesh's Sagar district. A preliminary investigation suggests the illicit liquor was supplied from Lalitpur in Uttar Pradesh. Authorities have suspended three excise officials and two police personnel, and multiple FIRs have been registered as a probe is underway.

Sebi to widen AI surveillance net to detect financial misstatements

Sebi to widen AI surveillance net to detect financial misstatements

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) is set to expand its artificial intelligence (AI)-based surveillance beyond trading data to include corporate filings, aiming to proactively flag financial misstatements and manipulation in quarterly results without relying solely on investor complaints.

Lok Sabha to take up anti-paper leak bill today

Lok Sabha to take up anti-paper leak bill today

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

The Indian Parliament is scheduled for a significant legislative day, with the Lok Sabha set to consider and pass the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026. Concurrently, the Rajya Sabha will introduce the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Amendment) Bill, 2026, and pass the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, highlighting a busy agenda for both houses.

Maha FDA notice to SRK, Ajay Devgn and Tiger Shroff over pan masala ad

Maha FDA notice to SRK, Ajay Devgn and Tiger Shroff over pan masala ad

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration has issued a show-cause notice to actors Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn and Tiger Shroff over their advertisement for Vimal Elaichi, claiming it prima facie amounts to "indirect or surrogate" promotion of prohibited pan masala and tobacco-related products.

Haryana CM Saini Orders FIR, Directs Action On Morni Grievances

Haryana CM Saini Orders FIR, Directs Action On Morni Grievances

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini addressed a public grievance redressal programme in Morni, Panchkula, ordering an FIR against a contractor for electricity delays and directing probes into other infrastructure issues. He emphasized timely resolution of public complaints related to electricity, water, roads, healthcare, and pensions, while also committing to improved road connectivity and upgrading health facilities in the region.

Haryana CM Saini Orders FIR, Directs Action On Morni Grievances

Haryana CM Saini Orders FIR, Directs Action On Morni Grievances

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini addressed a public grievance redressal programme in Morni, Panchkula, ordering an FIR against a contractor for electricity delays and directing probes into other infrastructure issues. He emphasized timely resolution of public complaints related to electricity, water, roads, healthcare, and pensions, while also committing to improved road connectivity and upgrading health facilities in the region.

Bank unions threaten strike on Sept 11 over 5-day banking

Bank unions threaten strike on Sept 11 over 5-day banking

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

If the strike materialises, banking services, especially in public sector banks, would be impacted for four days in many parts of the country. September 11 is a Friday, and the subsequent two days are bank holidays.