News for 'Rural India'

Rural India's Land Inequality: Top 10% Own 44% of Land

Rural India's Land Inequality: Top 10% Own 44% of Land

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

A World Inequality Lab paper reveals significant land inequality in rural India, with the top 10% of households owning 44% of the land, while 46% are landless. The study highlights the impact of historical institutions, social stratification, and agro-ecological conditions on land distribution.

Rural Sports Festival Isha Gramotsavam Reaches North India

Rural Sports Festival Isha Gramotsavam Reaches North India

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Sadhguru's Isha Gramotsavam, a rural sports festival, is expanding its 18th edition into North India, covering 10 states and one Union Territory. This year's event will engage over 80,000 players from 40,000 villages in men's volleyball and women's throwball, offering a prize pool exceeding Rs 1 crore, with the aim of social transformation through sport.

Use PM CARES' Rs 8,500 crore fund for rural schools, says Abjhijeet Dipke

Use PM CARES' Rs 8,500 crore fund for rural schools, says Abjhijeet Dipke

Rediff.com5 days ago

Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), has called for the PM CARES Fund, which holds over Rs 8,452 crore, to be used to improve infrastructure in rural schools and build more than 1,000 new high-tech schools, highlighting the dire conditions faced by children.

Now CJP turns focus to poor rural education infra; campaign from Aug 15

Now CJP turns focus to poor rural education infra; campaign from Aug 15

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke on Monday announced a nationwide campaign to improve government schools in villages, calling on parents to conduct social audits of basic facilities and sarpanches to take up the task of improving the institutions.

India's Unemployment Rate Falls to 5.1% in July

India's Unemployment Rate Falls to 5.1% in July

Rediff.com7 days ago

India's overall unemployment rate for individuals aged 15 and above decreased to 5.1 per cent in July 2026, down from 5.5 per cent in June 2026, according to the latest Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) by the National Statistics Office (NSO).

India's Jobless Rate Climbs as Labour Participation Declines

India's Jobless Rate Climbs as Labour Participation Declines

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

India's urban unemployment rate for individuals aged 15 and above marginally increased to 6.7 per cent in April-June, while rural unemployment rose to 4.8 per cent, according to the latest Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS). This rise in unemployment coincides with a notable decline in the overall labour force participation rate (LFPR) to a five-quarter low of 54.6 per cent.

Is India Ready For Digital NEET?

Is India Ready For Digital NEET?

Rediff.com6 days ago

Computer-based testing can make the examination more secure and transparent. Ensuring equal opportunities to prepare will make it fair as well. India needs both, suggests Dibyasree Ganguly.

Skoda Bets Big On India With CNG, Diesel and EVs

Skoda Bets Big On India With CNG, Diesel and EVs

Rediff.com5 days ago

Skoda Auto is strategically navigating the competitive Indian automotive market by prioritising profitable growth, exploring new powertrain options like CNG and a limited diesel return, and gearing up for a locally produced electric SUV, all while expanding its retail footprint.

How AI Is Revolutionising Patient Care In India

How AI Is Revolutionising Patient Care In India

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

A new report by Philips indicates that Artificial Intelligence is significantly enhancing healthcare in India, with 71% of professionals reporting increased patient capacity and 85% believing it improves patient outcomes. AI is also seen as a tool to improve access to quality healthcare in rural areas, with patients also embracing its benefits for more meaningful interactions with doctors.

A Sarpanch Who Is Changing Lives

A Sarpanch Who Is Changing Lives

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Smriti Singh was alarmed to learn that several girls and women in her village were using ash, wheat stubble and tattered rags during menstruation because they could not afford or access sanitary pads.

Modi's new target on I-Day: 6 crore 'Lakhpati Didis'

Modi's new target on I-Day: 6 crore 'Lakhpati Didis'

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a new target of creating six crore 'Lakhpati Didis' to empower women and transform the rural economy. He highlighted the success of the existing initiative and the growing contribution of women in various sectors, from defence to technology.

How PhonePe's Data Platform Will Enhance National Planning

How PhonePe's Data Platform Will Enhance National Planning

Rediff.com4 days ago

Fintech firm PhonePe has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to integrate its enterprise data intelligence platform, PulsePro, into the PM GatiShakti framework. This collaboration aims to provide granular, hyperlocal insights for national infrastructure planning, economic analysis, and holistic urban and rural development.

'Students India's future': Prez Murmu promises fair exams in I-Day eve address

'Students India's future': Prez Murmu promises fair exams in I-Day eve address

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Underlining that students are the "architects of India's future," President Droupadi Murmu on Friday said the government is taking comprehensive steps to reform public examinations to completely curb paper leaks and unfair means, making the system transparent, secure, and trustworthy.

Tigers, Boars, Pythons, 400 Kg Tomatoes...

Tigers, Boars, Pythons, 400 Kg Tomatoes...

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Arti Dwarkadas, a former advertising professional, shares her experiences of transitioning from a balcony gardener to a rural Maharashtra farmer in Two Bandra Girls Buy A Farm.

IIM Bangalore Incubator Creates 35,000 Jobs, $7 Bn In Value

IIM Bangalore Incubator Creates 35,000 Jobs, $7 Bn In Value

Rediff.com7 days ago

As NSRCEL enters its next phase, the incubator plans to focus on AI, deep technology and global partnerships as it looks to expand its reach.

VB-G RAM G Act to replace MGNREGA: What Changes For Rural Workers

VB-G RAM G Act to replace MGNREGA: What Changes For Rural Workers

Rediff.com11 May 2026

The Indian government has announced the replacement of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) with the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin), or VB-G RAM G Act, 2025, effective July 1. The new scheme aims to expand guaranteed wage employment and link it more closely with infrastructure development and climate resilience, but faces concerns from opposition parties and labour rights activists.

CJP launches 'School Thik Karo' campaign, demands private school fee cap

CJP launches 'School Thik Karo' campaign, demands private school fee cap

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Abhijeet Dipke, convenor of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), has initiated the 'School Thik Karo' campaign from his native village in Hingoli, Maharashtra, to address the alleged neglect of government schools and advocate for a fee cap on private educational institutions.

Manappuram Finance transitions to professional leadership, names Ashish Singh CEO

Manappuram Finance transitions to professional leadership, names Ashish Singh CEO

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Manappuram Finance has announced the appointment of Ashish Singh as its new managing director and chief executive officer, effective January 1, 2027, marking a significant shift from its family-led governance structure.

Satcom To Drive India's Digital Transformation

Satcom To Drive India's Digital Transformation

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Trai Chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti highlighted the transformative role of satellite communications in expanding seamless connectivity across India, especially in remote areas. He noted that India's space economy is projected to grow significantly, driven by satcom technology that will bridge the digital divide, provide resilient infrastructure during disasters, and support strategic sectors.

Satcom To Drive India's Digital Transformation

Satcom To Drive India's Digital Transformation

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Trai Chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti highlighted the transformative role of satellite communications in expanding seamless connectivity across India, especially in remote areas. He noted that India's space economy is projected to grow significantly, driven by satcom technology that will bridge the digital divide, provide resilient infrastructure during disasters, and support strategic sectors.

Footpaths for walking: SC asks states, UTs for update

Footpaths for walking: SC asks states, UTs for update

Rediff.com8 hours ago

The Supreme Court has declared the right to walk on demarcated footpaths a fundamental right, directing all states and Union Territories to ensure proper, encroachment-free pedestrian spaces. The court emphasised that footpaths are integral to human life and safety, and states must respond to advisories issued by central ministries regarding their implementation.

Maha bans illegal dhabas, eateries, structures on NHs

Maha bans illegal dhabas, eateries, structures on NHs

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

The Maharashtra government has issued strict directives to local authorities, mandating an immediate ban on illegal dhabas, eateries, and commercial structures within national highway Right of Way. The order requires demolition of existing encroachments within 60 days, formation of highway safety task forces, and mandates prior clearance from NHAI or PWD for any new licenses in highway safety zones, aiming to enhance commuter safety and clear obstructions.

This Saas-Bahu Run A Business Together

This Saas-Bahu Run A Business Together

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Soaring above the mighty Chenab River, this record-breaking railway bridge is a sight to behold.

How India's New Phygital Centre Aims to Transform Rural Life in Madhya Pradesh

How India's New Phygital Centre Aims to Transform Rural Life in Madhya Pradesh

Rediff.com15 Mar 2026

India has launched its first integrated phygital service centre in Umri village, Madhya Pradesh, aiming to provide online services and boost rural development through digital connectivity and various essential services.

India's Best Superhero Movies

India's Best Superhero Movies

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Not every Indian superhero movie lands, but these seven prove the genre has plenty of potential.

Sajjan Kumar remark: Cong leader seeks Deepender Hooda's CWC ouster

Sajjan Kumar remark: Cong leader seeks Deepender Hooda's CWC ouster

Rediff.com1 days ago

Congress MLA and former Haryana Assembly Speaker Kuldeep Sharma has urged Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge to remove Rohtak MP Deepender Singh Hooda from the Congress Working Committee (CWC) over his remarks praising former party leader Sajjan Kumar.

Carmakers ramp up production for festive season, but high base and inventory risks loom

Carmakers ramp up production for festive season, but high base and inventory risks loom

Rediff.com2 days ago

Indian passenger vehicle manufacturers are significantly increasing production and stocking dealerships in anticipation of strong festival season demand, with new launches planned and supply bottlenecks being addressed. However, the industry faces potential moderation in growth during the second half of FY27 due to a high base from last year's post-GST surge, commodity inflation, and elevated inventory levels.

'Crisis In The Economy Started Last Year'

'Crisis In The Economy Started Last Year'

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

'It is not because of the war in West Asia, which began on February 28.' 'Petroleum product prices are already going through the roof. They are bound to have a serious inflationary impact.' 'A country's leadership is tested in trying times. It is here that the current leadership is failing.'

Govt adviser bats for E10 petrol to protect older vehicles

Govt adviser bats for E10 petrol to protect older vehicles

Rediff.com7 days ago

A government adviser has called for India to reintroduce a petrol variant with a lower ethanol blend, such as E10, alongside the current E20 fuel. This move aims to protect millions of older vehicles, particularly two-wheelers, which may experience performance issues and damage from the higher 20 per cent ethanol blend.

Shabana Azmi: 'This Cause Is Far Bigger Than Any Individual'

Shabana Azmi: 'This Cause Is Far Bigger Than Any Individual'

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

'A man is willing to give up his life. Bachhe bhook hartal pe hain.'

India sees 4-fold surge in high-income earners over five years

India sees 4-fold surge in high-income earners over five years

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

The number of individuals reporting a gross total income of 100 crore or more in their income tax returns has quadrupled to 576 in Assessment Year 2025-26, up from 142 in AY 2021-22, according to data shared in Parliament.

Pallaburusu Director Uday Chauhan: 'Have Seen Parents Neglected In Villages'

Pallaburusu Director Uday Chauhan: 'Have Seen Parents Neglected In Villages'

Rediff.com5 days ago

'I was thinking how can I do something for these lonely, aging people in the villages. The parents stay and the children leave for a better future.'

India's Top 100 Brands Hit $253 Billion

India's Top 100 Brands Hit $253 Billion

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

LIC is the only brand in the Brand Finance India 100 2026 report that has a top five rank in both brand value and brand strength.

Why India Could Be Facing Early Menopause

Why India Could Be Facing Early Menopause

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Early and premature menopause can heighten risks of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, metabolic disorders, cognitive decline, depression and early death and are major public health concerns. The conditions also seriously affect a woman's quality of life.

The MBBS Costs You Don't See Till It's Too Late

The MBBS Costs You Don't See Till It's Too Late

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Be aware of a set of costs that never appears on a college's fee page. They sit as clauses near the end of the state counselling body's prospectus and, in many states, not even there, warns Ashok Hegde, founder, neet2seat.

Retail inflation climbs to 4.45% in July, driven by soaring food prices

Retail inflation climbs to 4.45% in July, driven by soaring food prices

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

India's retail inflation, measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), rose to 4.45 per cent in July, up from 4.38 per cent in June, primarily due to higher food prices, particularly onions and ginger. This marks the second consecutive month the inflation rate has remained above the Reserve Bank's median target.

Tricolour to fly in former Maoist bastions this I-Day: Chhattisgarh CM

Tricolour to fly in former Maoist bastions this I-Day: Chhattisgarh CM

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Monday said Maoism was once considered difficult to eliminate, but the menace has now been wiped out, and this year the 'Tiranga Yatra' will also reach remote villages and schools in former Maoist strongholds of the state

Jharkhand: JSSC-CGL exam cancellation puts 2,000 jobs at risk

Jharkhand: JSSC-CGL exam cancellation puts 2,000 jobs at risk

Rediff.com6 days ago

Following Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren's decision to cancel the JSSC-CGL exam and other recruitment tests due to alleged irregularities, approximately 2,000 successful candidates now fear losing their jobs, demanding a CBI probe and a fair opportunity to defend themselves.

When The 'Jackfruit King' Met PM Modi

When The 'Jackfruit King' Met PM Modi

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

'He wanted to know what products I'd brought along, so I showed him jackfruit flour, which research has linked to managing type 2 diabetes.' 'Then jackfruit seed flour, a strong source of protein that rural households have eaten for generations without it ever becoming a commercial product. I gave him ripe jackfruit chips too.'

India's Auto Sector Records Highest-Ever Q1 Dispatches in FY27

India's Auto Sector Records Highest-Ever Q1 Dispatches in FY27

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Domestic passenger vehicle dispatches in India reached a record 12,73,811 units in the first quarter of FY27, marking a 25.9 per cent growth, driven by robust domestic demand despite geopolitical headwinds, according to SIAM.