News for 'REAL'

Vibe Review: More Ridiculous Than Funny

Vibe Review: More Ridiculous Than Funny

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

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

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.com17 Sep 2026

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.

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.

Unsinkable Aircraft Carrier Vs Real Aircraft Carrier

Unsinkable Aircraft Carrier Vs Real Aircraft Carrier

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

While the Andaman and Nicobar islands serve as a vital, stationary asset for projecting power in the Indian Ocean, referring to them as an unsinkable aircraft carrier ignores key military and geopolitical limitations, explains Commodore Venugopal Menon (retd).

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.

My Incredible Mother Vijaya Mehta

My Incredible Mother Vijaya Mehta

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

'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.'

PAYD Motor Insurance: Is It Worth It?

PAYD Motor Insurance: Is It Worth It?

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

PAYD suits infrequent drivers who can estimate annual mileage.

Fermin Lopez Shines As Barcelona Thrash Valencia 5-0

Fermin Lopez Shines As Barcelona Thrash Valencia 5-0

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Barcelona secured a resounding 5-0 victory over hosts Valencia in their LaLiga clash, maintaining their perfect start to the new season. Fermin Lopez was instrumental with a goal and two assists, while Lamine Yamal scored twice, and Raphinha and Pedri also found the net. The win puts Barcelona at the top of the LaLiga table with 12 points from four games.

'If Inflation Persists, MPC May Review Policy Rates'

'If Inflation Persists, MPC May Review Policy Rates'

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

'A balance had to be struck between the economic cost of taking action at this point against the need not to fall behind the curve in controlling inflation and anchoring inflation expectations.'

How New UPI MDR Will Boost Digital Payments Ecosystem

How New UPI MDR Will Boost Digital Payments Ecosystem

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

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.

LaLiga PIX: Yamal double powers Barcelona past Levante to preserve perfect record

LaLiga PIX: Yamal double powers Barcelona past Levante to preserve perfect record

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Lamine Yamal's double propelled Barcelona to a hard-fought 4-2 victory over Levante, preserving their perfect LaLiga start with five wins and extending their winning run.

'Growth Is For 3%-4%. 96% Are Suffering'

'Growth Is For 3%-4%. 96% Are Suffering'

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

'They are claiming that they are very good in governance. All governments do propaganda. This is the propaganda of the government that they are doing very well, in spite of all the troubles.'

Mamata camp names bypoll candidates amid fight for symbol

Mamata camp names bypoll candidates amid fight for symbol

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

The Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress faction has announced Sanchita Pradhan (Dey) and Rabiul Alam Chowdhury as its candidates for the upcoming Nandigram and Rejinagar assembly by-elections in West Bengal. This announcement comes amidst a significant split within the TMC, with a rival faction led by Ritabrata Banerjee also vying for control of the party's name and symbol. The Election Commission is currently deliberating on the claims of both factions, a decision that will critically impact the by-polls scheduled for October 6.

'Growth Is For 3%-4%. 96% Are Suffering'

'Growth Is For 3%-4%. 96% Are Suffering'

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

'They are claiming that they are very good in governance. All governments do propaganda. This is the propaganda of the government that they are doing very well, in spite of all the troubles.'

India's Junior Women's Hockey Team Wins Asia Cup Title

India's Junior Women's Hockey Team Wins Asia Cup Title

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

The Indian junior women's hockey team secured their third consecutive AHF Junior Asia Cup title by defeating China 1-0.

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

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

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

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.

How UPI Revolutionised India's Digital Payments Ecosystem

How UPI Revolutionised India's Digital Payments Ecosystem

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has completed a decade since its launch, becoming the backbone of India's digital payments ecosystem. It has seen exponential growth in transaction volume and value, expanding financial inclusion and setting a global benchmark for real-time payments.

BJP Faces West Bengal Investment Test

BJP Faces West Bengal Investment Test

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

West Bengal could be the Bharatiya Janata Party's real test case of its business-friendly policies, points out Kanika Datta.

All about UPI charges: Will merchants pass on MDR to customers?

All about UPI charges: Will merchants pass on MDR to customers?

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Indian government has introduced a 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI payments exceeding Rs 2,000 made to merchants, effective from October 15, with a comprehensive framework set to take full effect by October 15, 2026. This policy aims to regulate transaction fees while protecting small merchants and person-to-person transactions.

UEFA 'On Course' to Find Challenger to FIFA President Infantino

UEFA 'On Course' to Find Challenger to FIFA President Infantino

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

UEFA vice-president Laura McAllister stated that UEFA is actively seeking a credible challenger to FIFA President Gianni Infantino for the upcoming March election, emphasising the need for a candidate capable of uniting football's confederations and delivering lasting governance reform, rather than merely installing a European figurehead.

How India's Junior Women's Hockey Team Secured Asia Cup Hat-Trick

How India's Junior Women's Hockey Team Secured Asia Cup Hat-Trick

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

India's junior women's hockey team defeated China 1-0 in the AHF Junior Asia Cup final, securing their third consecutive title and qualifying for the junior women's World Cup. Sanika Chandrakant Mane scored the decisive goal in the 17th minute.

Centre deploys tool to prevent fertiliser shortage

Centre deploys tool to prevent fertiliser shortage

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

India's fertiliser ministry has introduced a new analytical tool and a national-to-retail dashboard to monitor fertiliser dispatches, movement, and inventories in real time, aiming to prevent localised shortages and ensure equitable access for farmers.

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

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

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

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.

UK sanctions West Bank settlers, Israel shuts British consulate

UK sanctions West Bank settlers, Israel shuts British consulate

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

The UK has announced a comprehensive sanctions regime against Israeli settlements in the West Bank, banning the import of goods and targeting entities involved in settlement expansion. Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband condemned the "ethnic cleansing of Palestinians" and highlighted international support for the UK's stance, while Israel reacted strongly with counter-measures.

It's A Medical Miracle Review: Confused Thriller

It's A Medical Miracle Review: Confused Thriller

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

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

Narrow escape for Punjabi singer Ammy Virk in Canada gun attack

Narrow escape for Punjabi singer Ammy Virk in Canada gun attack

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Punjabi singer Ammy Virk's concert convoy was targeted in a shooting incident in Abbotsford, Canada, though he escaped unhurt. Police are investigating the targeted attack and a connected vehicle fire.

Premier League: Liverpool's struggles continue with Fulham draw, Chelsea held by Hull

Premier League: Liverpool's struggles continue with Fulham draw, Chelsea held by Hull

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Liverpool's early season woes persisted with a goalless draw against Fulham, while Chelsea needed a late equaliser from Joao Pedro to salvage a 2-2 draw against surprise package Hull City. Nottingham Forest secured a late win against Aston Villa, and 10-man Crystal Palace fell to Ipswich Town in a thrilling encounter.

UPI charges: Govt rejects rollback amid Opposition outcry

UPI charges: Govt rejects rollback amid Opposition outcry

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% fee on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 for merchants, effective October 15, sparking strong opposition from political parties and traders. Despite accusations of foreign influence and demands for a rollback, the finance ministry and top functionaries have stated there will be no reversal, citing the need for a self-sustaining digital payments ecosystem.

Selectors to weigh Pant's white-ball comeback, Hardik's fitness for Windies series

Selectors to weigh Pant's white-ball comeback, Hardik's fitness for Windies series

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

National selectors are set to convene in New Delhi to finalise India's ODI and T20I squads for the upcoming home series against West Indies, with Rishabh Pant's potential white-ball return and Hardik Pandya's fitness being the primary discussion points.

Why Opposition Calls New UPI MDR A Surrender To US Pressure

Why Opposition Calls New UPI MDR A Surrender To US Pressure

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Opposition parties, including Congress, TMC, and RJD, have strongly criticised the government's decision to impose a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions exceeding Rs 2,000 made to merchants. They allege the move is a result of "American imperialism" and will lead to increased commodity prices, while the government maintains the charge is on merchants and not consumers, with person-to-person transactions remaining free.

New AI Model Enhances Space Safety By Monitoring Satellites

New AI Model Enhances Space Safety By Monitoring Satellites

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

Researchers have developed a new AI model that can monitor satellites and detect anomalies in their behaviour, significantly reducing the risk of in-orbit collisions. This tool, part of the AI4 Space Safety and Sustainability project, learns from satellite light reflections to predict motion and identify unusual activity, crucial for managing the increasingly crowded space environment.

PhonePe Charts Ambitious Decade-Long Digital Progress Roadmap

PhonePe Charts Ambitious Decade-Long Digital Progress Roadmap

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

PhonePe, at the Global Fintech Fest 2026, unveiled its strategic vision for the next decade, focusing on inclusive digital progress for individuals, households, and businesses across India. The roadmap details innovations in financial inclusion, wealth creation, credit access, and merchant solutions.

RBI launches UPI tap-to-pay, multi-currency forex on Bharat Connect

RBI launches UPI tap-to-pay, multi-currency forex on Bharat Connect

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced new features for India's digital payment ecosystem, including UPI tap-to-pay for PIN-less transactions up to 5,000 and multi-currency capabilities for forex on Bharat Connect, supporting Euro, British Pound, and other major currencies.

LaLiga: Barcelona secure first home win of season against Athletic Bilbao

LaLiga: Barcelona secure first home win of season against Athletic Bilbao

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Raphinha and Fermin Lopez scored for Barcelona in their 2-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao at the Camp Nou, marking their first home win of the LaLiga season and putting them level on points at the top of the table.

AirTag, duplicate key: Stalker kills Indian-origin woman in US

AirTag, duplicate key: Stalker kills Indian-origin woman in US

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

An Indian-origin woman, Shalini Thakur, was shot dead in California by Rohit, an undocumented immigrant from India, who had allegedly stalked her for months. Rohit later died by suicide after a police standoff. Thakur had previously reported the stalking and obtained a restraining order.

Why Janhvi Kapoor, Kalyani Priyadarshan Say, 'Watch Your Back'

Why Janhvi Kapoor, Kalyani Priyadarshan Say, 'Watch Your Back'

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Why should the front of your outfit get all the attention? Celebrities are turning around the traditional jewellery rulebook and proving that the back can be just as glamorous, dramatic and deserving of a close-up.

Why Opposition Calls UPI MDR A Betrayal And US Appeasement

Why Opposition Calls UPI MDR A Betrayal And US Appeasement

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The opposition has strongly criticised the government's decision to introduce a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 for merchants, effective October 15. They allege the move is a result of US pressure and will lead to increased commodity prices, calling it a "betrayal" of the common man. The government, however, clarifies that customers will not be charged, and the MDR applies only to merchants for larger transactions.

Why Kylian Mbappe Believes He Deserves The Ballon D'Or

Why Kylian Mbappe Believes He Deserves The Ballon D'Or

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Kylian Mbappe has asserted his belief that he deserves to win the Ballon d'Or this year, despite not securing any club or international silverware. The French forward highlighted his individual performances, including becoming the World Cup's all-time leading scorer, and praised new France coach Zinedine Zidane.

Congress Slams Government Over New UPI Charges, Cites US Pressure

Congress Slams Government Over New UPI Charges, Cites US Pressure

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Congress party has accused the Indian government of imposing new charges on UPI transactions due to pressure from the United States, specifically to benefit American card companies. The opposition party demanded the withdrawal of the decision, calling it "anti-national" and alleging it fills the coffers of US firms while burdening Indian citizens. The government, however, clarified that the Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) charges apply only to commercial transactions above Rs 2,000 and are not levied on consumers, a stance supported by the BJP which accused Congress of spreading "fake news".

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.