News for 'Public Works Department'

Chandigarh Pioneers Digital Rupee For Welfare Delivery

Chandigarh Pioneers Digital Rupee For Welfare Delivery

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Chandigarh is set to launch the Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), or digital rupee, for Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) on August 14. This initiative makes Chandigarh the first Union Territory to fully roll out CBDC-based DBT for food subsidy, enhancing transparency and efficiency in welfare delivery. The digital rupee, issued by the RBI, will be purpose-bound for purchasing foodgrains from authorised merchants.

How Haryana Is Using Drones For Smart Governance

How Haryana Is Using Drones For Smart Governance

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Haryana is institutionalising drone technology as a key governance tool, deploying AI-powered surveillance and high-resolution geospatial mapping. This initiative aims to detect illegal constructions, monitor mining activities, map civic infrastructure, and track pollution across the state. The Chief Secretary reviewed progress on various projects, including an AI-powered Change Detection Application and digital mapping of municipal assets, highlighting the state's commitment to evidence-based governance and improved public service delivery.

At least 3 killed, 21 injured in Moscow cafe explosion

At least 3 killed, 21 injured in Moscow cafe explosion

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

At least three people died, and 21 were left injured after a woman carrying an improvised explosive device detonated a bomb near a summer cafe in central Moscow after being stopped by security, according to officials.

Mumbai's iconic Air India building set to become Maha govt hub soon

Mumbai's iconic Air India building set to become Maha govt hub soon

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

The Maharashtra government is nearing the acquisition of the Air India building in south Mumbai after the Finance Department transferred Rs 1,600 crore to the Public Works Department. The agreement with Air India Assets Holding Limited is expected to be signed within two weeks, providing much-needed office space for state government departments.

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.

Haryana CM Warns Action Against Officials Causing Public Harassment

Haryana CM Warns Action Against Officials Causing Public Harassment

Rediff.com21 May 2026

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has warned of strict action against government officials and employees who repeatedly make citizens visit offices to get their work done. He emphasised the government's commitment to holistic development and ensuring welfare schemes reach all eligible citizens during a 'Jan Samvad' programme in Kurukshetra district.

'Eknath Shinde Was Extremely Aggressive'

'Eknath Shinde Was Extremely Aggressive'

Rediff.com5 days ago

'I've seen a lot of meetings over the years, but this was the first time I've seen the deputy chief minister and the industries minister sit through something like this with 200 to 300 industrialists, local residents and politicians from both the ruling side and Opposition, all in the same room.'

NEET paper leak row: NTA floats Rs 7.5cr tender for security

NEET paper leak row: NTA floats Rs 7.5cr tender for security

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

In response to the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak controversy, the NTA has initiated a significant security upgrade, floating a Rs 7.5 crore tender for comprehensive, round-the-clock security services to protect its critical infrastructure and confidential examination materials.

Sitharaman: Hurry Up Tax Appeals

Sitharaman: Hurry Up Tax Appeals

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has urged income tax authorities to significantly accelerate the adjudication of taxpayer appeals.

No VIP treatment to anyone, says Tukharam Mundhe on cleaning up Mumbai's eateries

No VIP treatment to anyone, says Tukharam Mundhe on cleaning up Mumbai's eateries

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Meet the man who is on mission mode to enforce hygiene standards in eateries and restaurants.

Over 10 dead as monsoon batters several states; Uttarakhand on alert

Over 10 dead as monsoon batters several states; Uttarakhand on alert

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Torrential monsoon rains unleashed widespread destruction across several parts of the country on Thursday, inundating roads, uprooting trees, damaging property and disrupting normal life as authorities scrambled to restore normalcy.

3 killed, 5 missing in massive landslide at Wayanad tunnel site

3 killed, 5 missing in massive landslide at Wayanad tunnel site

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

A devastating landslide at Kalladi near Meppady in Wayanad, Kerala, has resulted in one death and seven missing individuals at a crucial tunnel road project site, with Chief Minister V D Satheesan attributing the tragedy to contractors' failure to heed warnings about accumulated mud.

BJP shares Kejriwal's 'Sheesh Mahal 2' pics; 'fake', says AAP

BJP shares Kejriwal's 'Sheesh Mahal 2' pics; 'fake', says AAP

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

The BJP has launched accusations against Arvind Kejriwal, alleging lavish spending and corruption related to his new bungalow in Delhi's Lodhi Estate, sparking a political row.

Slipper attack on Pappu Yadav at presser as he defends Ram Temple theft skit

Slipper attack on Pappu Yadav at presser as he defends Ram Temple theft skit

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

The controversy surrounding the Parliament Ram Mandir skit intensified on Sunday after a clash broke out at the residence of Purnia MP Pappu Yadav, who had portrayed a temple priest wearing saffron robes during the performance in Parliament on Friday.

Atlanta Police enhance security for high-stakes England vs. Argentina World Cup semi-final

Atlanta Police enhance security for high-stakes England vs. Argentina World Cup semi-final

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

The Atlanta Police Department has significantly increased security measures for the World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina, two nations with a historically fierce football rivalry, deploying additional personnel and resources across the city and stadium.

Mizoram Shuts Schools, Offices Half-Day For FIFA Final

Mizoram Shuts Schools, Offices Half-Day For FIFA Final

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

Mizoram has declared a full holiday for educational institutions and a half-day for government offices to allow residents to watch the FIFA World Cup final. Chief Minister Lalduhoma highlighted the state's passion for football and the importance of the sport to its youth.

Heavy rains cripple Thane, Palghar; 6-yr-old swept away

Heavy rains cripple Thane, Palghar; 6-yr-old swept away

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Heavy monsoon rains have severely impacted Thane and Palghar, Mumbai's neighbouring districts, causing extensive waterlogging, tree and wall collapses, and prompting significant rescue efforts, including the tragic death of a six-year-old child.

5 dead, 20 rescued as under-construction warehouse collapses in Kolkata

5 dead, 20 rescued as under-construction warehouse collapses in Kolkata

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

A three-storey under-construction warehouse in Kolkata's Taratala area collapsed, killing three people and trapping several others. Rescue operations are ongoing, with 18 individuals already saved, amid allegations of substandard construction materials and illegal building practices.

Nijjar killing: US to seek extradition of Lawrence Bishnoi

Nijjar killing: US to seek extradition of Lawrence Bishnoi

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The United States Department of Justice plans to seek the extradition of Lawrence Bishnoi, accused of orchestrating the killing of Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada and involvement in other crimes in the US. Extradition is also sought for Gurinderjit Singh Nagra in an extortion case. These actions are part of a larger international operation targeting India-based transnational organised crime groups.

Five killed in shooting at German youth welfare facility; two held

Five killed in shooting at German youth welfare facility; two held

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

At least five people were killed and several others injured in a shooting at a youth welfare facility in the northern German city of Stade on Monday, CNN reported, citing local police.

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.

35 dead in 2 days as floods ravage Gujarat

35 dead in 2 days as floods ravage Gujarat

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Gujarat has reported 35 rain-related deaths in the past two days, primarily in the worst-affected districts of Valsad and Navsari, as floodwaters recede and authorities initiate damage assessment surveys and post-flood cleanliness drives.

July downpour reduces rainfall deficit to 12% as El Nino looms

July downpour reduces rainfall deficit to 12% as El Nino looms

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

The Centre has reviewed the monsoon situation, noting a reduced rainfall deficit and ongoing preparedness for the kharif season amidst El Nino concerns. A high-level meeting chaired by the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister discussed measures across various sectors, emphasising continuous monitoring and coordinated action to mitigate potential impacts on agriculture, water resources, and essential commodities.

Christopher Nolan's Odyssey Is 'Gimmicky', 'Abysmal'

Christopher Nolan's Odyssey Is 'Gimmicky', 'Abysmal'

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

'None of the characters has convincing motivation for their actions or words. There are no sex scenes, and all the food looks horrible.'

How Punjab Is Strengthening Public Safety And Rural Economy

How Punjab Is Strengthening Public Safety And Rural Economy

Rediff.com1 May 2026

The Punjab Cabinet has approved a series of measures aimed at enhancing public safety through forensic science upgrades and boosting rural incomes with a new farm stay policy.

Wayanad landslide: Families evacuated, search on for missing

Wayanad landslide: Families evacuated, search on for missing

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Following a landslide near the Kalladi tunnel project in Wayanad, Kerala, district authorities have begun evacuating families and intensified rescue operations to find seven missing persons. Heavy rains are complicating efforts, while project engineers clarify the landslide did not originate from the active construction zone.

How Mumbai's Siddhivinayak Temple Counts Cash, Donations

How Mumbai's Siddhivinayak Temple Counts Cash, Donations

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

'Earlier, people used to hand money directly to priests after a ritual, and priests would keep it in their own pockets. We completely stopped that practice.'

Jammu & Kashmir Achieves High Rate of Public Grievance Resolution

Jammu & Kashmir Achieves High Rate of Public Grievance Resolution

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

Jammu and Kashmir has shown significant progress in addressing public grievances through the JK Samadhan portal, achieving an 88 per cent disposal rate. District administrations and key departments have played a crucial role in this achievement, with high disposal rates and positive citizen feedback.

70-foot Messi statue in Kolkata taken down over safety concerns

70-foot Messi statue in Kolkata taken down over safety concerns

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

A 70-foot statue of football legend Lionel Messi was removed from Kolkata's Lake Town area on Monday after concerns were raised about its safety.

Why Kolkata's Messi Statue Is Being Taken Down

Why Kolkata's Messi Statue Is Being Taken Down

Rediff.com28 May 2026

The 70-foot statue of Lionel Messi in Kolkata, West Bengal, is set to be dismantled due to safety concerns after being found unstable in the wind.

Shiv Sena corporator held for attack on docs, admitted to ICU with chest pain

Shiv Sena corporator held for attack on docs, admitted to ICU with chest pain

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

A Shiv Sena corporator, Ramesh Mhatre, arrested for assaulting two doctors in Thane, was admitted to the ICU after complaining of chest pain. Medical professionals protested his actions, demanding security for healthcare workers, even as they provided him treatment.

Suvendu govt to toughen laws against vandalism, attacks on officials

Suvendu govt to toughen laws against vandalism, attacks on officials

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

The West Bengal government plans to introduce two new bills in the Assembly to address public disorder, vandalism, and attacks on police and public servants. One bill will amend the existing Public Order Act, 1972, while the other, titled the Public Safety Control and Anti-Social Activity Bill, will comprehensively strengthen public safety measures. These legislative changes aim to curb incidents of violence and allow for compensation recovery from offenders.

Adarsh Baal Vidyalaya Review: Humour, Heart, Hard Realities

Adarsh Baal Vidyalaya Review: Humour, Heart, Hard Realities

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Adarsh Baal Vidyalaya is as breezy and it is earnest, discovers Deepa Gahlot.

3rd ODI: Morkel confident Rohit Sharma will overcome slump in form

3rd ODI: Morkel confident Rohit Sharma will overcome slump in form

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

India bowling coach Morne Morkel has expressed confidence in Rohit Sharma's ability to overcome his recent struggles in the ongoing ODI series against England, highlighting the calmness he brings to the team. Morkel also discussed the team's batting concerns, the need for middle-order breakthroughs, and his potential role in the 2027 World Cup.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day's Post-Credit Scene Explained

Spider-Man: Brand New Day's Post-Credit Scene Explained

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Spider-Man: Brand New Day's seemingly underwhelming post-credit scene may actually be quietly setting up Peter Parker's biggest MCU adventure yet.

Kolkata warehouse tragedy: Suvendu orders audit of all TMC-era projects

Kolkata warehouse tragedy: Suvendu orders audit of all TMC-era projects

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

A committee constituted by the West Bengal government to carry out a special audit of sanctioned plans for high-rise residential and commercial buildings in and around the city will meet on Friday to begin the exercise, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said.

Badrinath temple treasurer removed amid donation row

Badrinath temple treasurer removed amid donation row

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

The Badrinath temple committee has removed its treasurer, Sandesh Mehta, after 'overwriting' was detected in the donations logbook and the quantity of silver in the temple locker exceeded recorded amounts, amidst an ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities.

Heavy rains with 80 kmph winds alert for Mumbai; WFH for pvt firms

Heavy rains with 80 kmph winds alert for Mumbai; WFH for pvt firms

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

The India Meteorological Department has issued a 'red' alert for Mumbai, Thane, and Raigad districts, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall and strong winds. Residents are advised to avoid unnecessary travel, and warnings include potential flash floods, structural damage, and disruptions to essential services. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has also urged caution and deployed officials to monitor the situation.

Delhi CM Urges Transparency In Welfare Scheme Rollout

Delhi CM Urges Transparency In Welfare Scheme Rollout

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has directed officials to ensure the transparent and timely implementation of welfare schemes announced in the budget, warning of potential fund reductions for departments failing to utilise allocated budgets effectively.

Ram temple trust begins search for CEO. Check the criteria

Ram temple trust begins search for CEO. Check the criteria

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has invited applications for the first Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. This new position aims to strengthen administrative and financial management following alleged embezzlement concerns. The CEO will be appointed for a three-year term, overseeing various aspects from finance to pilgrim facilities, and must be an actively practising Hindu with specific managerial experience.