News for 'REAL'

PSG, Bayern, Napoli clinch vital victories in European football leagues

PSG, Bayern, Napoli clinch vital victories in European football leagues

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Paris St Germain, Bayern Munich, and Napoli all secured crucial victories in their respective European football leagues, with Ferran Torres, Harry Kane, and Stanislav Lobotka scoring decisive goals. Juventus, however, suffered a late defeat to Sassuolo.

Anil Kapoor Vs Rohit Sharma: Who's More Entertaining?

Anil Kapoor Vs Rohit Sharma: Who's More Entertaining?

Rediff.com2 days ago

Hosts Anil Kapoor and Rohit Sharma bring their own brand of charm and humour to two new game shows that promise to make your weekends more entertaining, observes Divya Nair.

Asian Games: India eye hockey gold, LA Olympic berth

Asian Games: India eye hockey gold, LA Olympic berth

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Indian men's and women's hockey teams commence their Asian Games campaign in Japan, with both aiming for a gold medal to secure direct qualification for the Los Angeles Olympics. The men's team seeks to recover from a recent World Cup slump, while the women's team looks to build on their strong World Cup performance, facing significant challenges from opponents like China.

Delhi won't shut for BRICS Summit, but VVIP routes face curbs

Delhi won't shut for BRICS Summit, but VVIP routes face curbs

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The Delhi Traffic Police has issued a detailed advisory regarding traffic restrictions and diversions during the upcoming BRICS Summit from September 12-13. While Delhi will not be shut down, commuters should expect temporary stoppages and diversions, especially on routes used by VVIP convoys. The advisory covers movement for residents, essential services, public transport, and advice for exam candidates and hospital visitors, urging reliance on official updates.

Dhakshineswar-Balaji keep India's Davis Cup hopes alive

Dhakshineswar-Balaji keep India's Davis Cup hopes alive

Rediff.com4 days ago

India's Davis Cup team secured a crucial doubles victory against Korea, with Dhakshineswar Suresh and N Sriram Balaji winning their match 6-3, 3-6, 6-3. This win keeps India's hopes alive after falling 0-2 behind in the tie. The pressure now shifts to Sumit Nagal to win his reverse singles match and complete a rare comeback.

Defending champions PSG land Barcelona, Man City in mouth-watering Champions League draw

Defending champions PSG land Barcelona, Man City in mouth-watering Champions League draw

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Defending champions PSG will face Barcelona and Manchester City in the Champions League league phase, while Real Madrid meet Inter Milan and Arsenal in marquee clashes.

Government Firm On UPI MDR Charges Above Rs 2,000

Government Firm On UPI MDR Charges Above Rs 2,000

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Indian government has confirmed there will be no rollback of the 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) charges on Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions exceeding Rs 2,000, effective from October 15. Despite opposition, officials state the decision aims to make the UPI ecosystem self-sustainable and secure, with charges applying only to merchant payments, not person-to-person transactions.

Why AI Sovereignty Is Key To India's National Cybersecurity

Why AI Sovereignty Is Key To India's National Cybersecurity

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

Gaganyaan astronaut Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair stressed the critical importance of AI sovereignty for national cybersecurity, citing the increasing difficulty in distinguishing between real and fake content due to AI. Speaking at the Kerala Cyber Suraksha Summit, Nair highlighted that future conflicts and industries would involve a 'whole-of-nation approach,' blurring physical and digital boundaries. He urged greater awareness of digital threats and emphasised India's need to build on its technological capabilities in AI and cybersecurity, drawing parallels with the success of Chandrayaan-3. Other speakers also underscored the rising threat of cyberattacks and the potential for Kerala to contribute to national technology requirements.

The Long Road To Viksit Bharat

The Long Road To Viksit Bharat

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

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.

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.

Asian Games: Indian Hockey Teams Eye Gold And Direct Olympic Qualification

Asian Games: Indian Hockey Teams Eye Gold And Direct Olympic Qualification

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Indian men's and women's hockey teams are set to compete at the Asian Games in Kakamigahara, Japan, with the primary goal of winning gold to secure direct qualification for the Paris Olympics. The men's team aims to defend its title and overcome recent World Cup disappointment, while the women's team, buoyed by a strong World Cup performance, seeks only its second Asian Games gold. Both teams face tough competition, with the men needing to prove their dominance against regional rivals and the women confronting a strong Chinese side.

Adkitta Review: Mature Take On Relationships

Adkitta Review: Mature Take On Relationships

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Sakhi Gokhale is the real surprise in Adkitta, who gives her most mature performance yet, cheers Mayur Sanap.

Manoj Bajpayee Buys Farm Land At THIS Price

Manoj Bajpayee Buys Farm Land At THIS Price

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

Manoj Bajpayee has expanded his real estate portfolio with the acquisition of 4.45 acres of agricultural land in Pune's scenic Mulshi taluka.

Dronathon 2026: IAF Boosts Indigenous Drone Capabilities In Jaisalmer

Dronathon 2026: IAF Boosts Indigenous Drone Capabilities In Jaisalmer

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

The Indian Air Force has launched 'Dronathon 2026' at the Pokhran range in Jaisalmer, a three-day event showcasing advancements in unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and counter-UAS technologies by domestic manufacturers. The initiative aims to bolster the IAF's capabilities in the unmanned domain, align with the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' objective, and assess indigenous technologies against operational requirements through live demonstrations. It also fosters interaction between the IAF, industry, and even students, promoting the development of scalable unmanned solutions.

'We Get 4 Threats From Terrorists Every Month'

'We Get 4 Threats From Terrorists Every Month'

Rediff.com5 days ago

'...in which our names are written with our phone numbers.'

Nagal falters as Korea end India's Davis Cup hopes

Nagal falters as Korea end India's Davis Cup hopes

Rediff.com4 days ago

India failed to qualify for the Davis Cup Final 8 after losing 3-1 to Korea in the Qualifier Round 2 tie. Despite a fighting doubles victory by Dhakshineswar Suresh and N Sriram Balaji, Sumit Nagal's defeat in the reverse singles sealed India's fate, making Korea the first Asian team to reach the knockout stage under the new format.

How AI Is Poised To Transform Indian Healthcare

How AI Is Poised To Transform Indian Healthcare

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

A report by Bain & Company and HealthQuad identifies remote patient monitoring, OT/ICU optimisation, and chronic disease management as key opportunities for Artificial Intelligence in Indian healthcare. The report highlights a shift from experimental AI to real-world applications, driven by government initiatives, increasing EMR adoption, and a robust startup ecosystem. AI's autonomous capabilities are rapidly advancing while costs decrease, creating significant growth potential for providers and startups.

Why RBI Backs UPI MDR For Transactions Over Rs 2,000

Why RBI Backs UPI MDR For Transactions Over Rs 2,000

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has endorsed the introduction of a Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions exceeding Rs 2,000, effective October 15. This move, which levies a 0.4 per cent fee on merchant payments above the threshold, aims to bolster the long-term sustainability and growth of India's digital payments ecosystem. The RBI clarified that person-to-person (P2P) transactions and small person-to-merchant (P2M) payments below Rs 2,000 will remain free for users, ensuring no direct charge on customers.

My Incredible Mother Vijaya Mehta

My Incredible Mother Vijaya Mehta

Rediff.com9 hours ago

'She was not burdened by the knowledge of her craft and the world. She just was a child till her last days.' 'When she smiled, everybody in the room would light up.'

Congress Accuses Modi Government Of US Appeasement On UPI MDR

Congress Accuses Modi Government Of US Appeasement On UPI MDR

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Congress party has strongly criticised the Modi government's decision to introduce a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions over Rs 2,000, alleging it is a result of US pressure to benefit American card companies. The party also linked this move to broader US actions against India, including tariffs and H-1B visa issues, coining the term "Narendra's Ongoing Trump Appeasement." The government, however, clarified that consumers will not bear the charge, which applies only to merchants.

Is Modi Govt Bowing To US Demands On UPI Charges?

Is Modi Govt Bowing To US Demands On UPI Charges?

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Congress party has accused the Modi government of succumbing to US pressure by introducing a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions over Rs 2,000 for merchants. The party alleges this move aims to benefit US card companies and links it to broader US actions against India, including tariffs and H-1B visa issues. The government, however, clarifies that consumers will not be charged.

Pradhama Drishtiya Kuttakkar Review: Gripping Cop Drama

Pradhama Drishtiya Kuttakkar Review: Gripping Cop Drama

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Pradhama Drishtiya Kuttakkar is a gripping cat-and-mouse game that benefits from smart writing.

Finance Ministry Clarifies UPI MDR Policy, Denies Foreign Pressure

Finance Ministry Clarifies UPI MDR Policy, Denies Foreign Pressure

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Finance Ministry has clarified that the decision to impose a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 was made independently, refuting claims of foreign influence. The ministry stated the policy aims to build a self-sustaining digital payments ecosystem, with MDR funding infrastructure and supporting small merchants.

Government Directs No Charges On Small UPI, RuPay Transactions

Government Directs No Charges On Small UPI, RuPay Transactions

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The Indian government has mandated that banks and payment providers cannot levy charges on UPI transactions up to Rs 2,000 or on payments made via RuPay debit cards. This directive follows an amendment to the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007, aiming to sustain and expand the digital payments ecosystem.

Asian Games: Indian Shooters Face Logistical Hurdles In Nagoya

Asian Games: Indian Shooters Face Logistical Hurdles In Nagoya

Rediff.com6 days ago

A senior coach from India's shooting contingent for the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games has voiced disappointment over the logistical arrangements, particularly the long travel times to the training venue.

Swadeshi Jagran Manch Calls For Government To Reconsider UPI Transaction Fee

Swadeshi Jagran Manch Calls For Government To Reconsider UPI Transaction Fee

Rediff.com7 days ago

The RSS-affiliated Swadeshi Jagran Manch (SJM) has urged the government to reconsider imposing a merchant discount rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000, arguing that the costs do not warrant such a move. This comes after the government announced a 0.4 per cent fee on merchant transfers over Rs 2,000 from October 15, while assuring that person-to-person and small payments remain free. SJM co-convener Ashwani Mahajan highlighted that banks have not demanded MDR and that UPI has reduced their transaction costs.

Vibe Review: More Ridiculous Than Funny

Vibe Review: More Ridiculous Than Funny

Rediff.com5 days ago

Despite occasional bursts of spunky comedy, the madness simply doesn't land as expected, and the overall vibe feels off with Vibe.

Ghamasaan Revives Bollywood's Chambal Fascination

Ghamasaan Revives Bollywood's Chambal Fascination

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Director Tigmanshu Dhulia returns to the Chambal world with Ghamasaan, pitting Pratik Gandhi's police officer against Arshad Warsi's dreaded Maharaj.

Why not deny bow-and-arrow symbol to both Sena factions, SC asks EC

Why not deny bow-and-arrow symbol to both Sena factions, SC asks EC

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Supreme Court has questioned the Election Commission's decision to allot the Shiv Sena's bow-and-arrow symbol to the Eknath Shinde faction, asking if the possibility of denying the symbol to both factions was adequately considered. The court also raised concerns about using legislative majority as a test while disqualification proceedings against MLAs were pending. The Shinde faction argued for the validity of the legislative majority test, citing significant vote share and legal precedents.

Gulf tensions drive NRI luxury home investments back to India

Gulf tensions drive NRI luxury home investments back to India

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

Non-resident Indians are increasingly investing in luxury homes in India, driven by geopolitical uncertainties, particularly the Iran war. This trend is observed across major cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and the National Capital Region, with developers noting a significant rise in NRI pre-sales. While some see it as a temporary shift, others believe India is becoming a stable, long-term investment destination for NRIs, especially those from West Asia.

Court blocks Trump's new visa rules for foreign students, journalists

Court blocks Trump's new visa rules for foreign students, journalists

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

A federal judge has temporarily blocked a Trump administration rule that sought to cap the stays of foreign students, journalists, and exchange visitors, citing potential 'catastrophic' damage to the US economy and higher-education system.

PAYD Motor Insurance: Is It Worth It?

PAYD Motor Insurance: Is It Worth It?

Rediff.com7 days ago

PAYD suits infrequent drivers who can estimate annual mileage.

Dave Cousins: India's First Olympic Archery Medal Is Inevitable

Dave Cousins: India's First Olympic Archery Medal Is Inevitable

Rediff.com5 days ago

Dave Cousins, India's new national compound archery head coach, believes a historic first Olympic medal for India is inevitable. He is preparing the team for the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games and has long-term plans for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, noting the changing Asian archery landscape and the impressive work ethic of Indian archers.

13 catches dropped, India Women's coach plays down fielding concerns after Asia Cup triumph

13 catches dropped, India Women's coach plays down fielding concerns after Asia Cup triumph

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Despite India's dominant Asia Cup victory, head coach Amol Muzumdar acknowledged fielding as an area for improvement, while dismissing concerns over the middle-order's performance.

Gold Rally: Should Investors Buy Now?

Gold Rally: Should Investors Buy Now?

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

Investors should cap gold allocation at 10-15 per cent and consider staggered purchases through gold ETFs.

How New UPI MDR Will Boost Digital Payments Ecosystem

How New UPI MDR Will Boost Digital Payments Ecosystem

Rediff.com7 days ago

Experts laud the decision to impose a 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions exceeding Rs 2,000, effective October 15. This move, along with a dedicated fund for small merchants, is seen as crucial for creating a sustainable digital payments ecosystem, incentivising expansion in rural areas, and funding innovation while keeping most transactions free for users.

Haiwaan Review: Akshay Hams, Saif Bores

Haiwaan Review: Akshay Hams, Saif Bores

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Haiwaan's staggeringly foolish notions make for unintended comedy, rues Sukanya Verma.

It's A Medical Miracle Review: Confused Thriller

It's A Medical Miracle Review: Confused Thriller

Rediff.com4 days ago

It's A Medical Miracle has a promising superhero premise and some genuinely inventive moments, but a wildly uneven screenplay ultimately squanders its potential.

India's 501-strong squad eyes a new Asian Games high

India's 501-strong squad eyes a new Asian Games high

Rediff.com5 days ago

India's large contingent of 501 athletes is set to compete at the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, aiming to showcase the nation's growing sporting depth and its ambition to become a global top-10 sporting power by 2036. Despite initial accommodation challenges, the focus is on building on the momentum from the record 2022 Hangzhou Games, with strong medal hopes in shooting, athletics, cricket, badminton, and hockey.

Sachin Tendulkar Spends Rs 70 Crore On Lonavala Property

Sachin Tendulkar Spends Rs 70 Crore On Lonavala Property

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Sachin Tendulkar has acquired a 3.86 acre land parcel in Lonavala, Maharashtra, for approximately Rs 70 crore, completing the purchase through three separate conveyance deeds.