News for 'Soon India'

Padikkal's Fighting Ton Steadies India After Pant Injury Blow in Colombo

Padikkal's Fighting Ton Steadies India After Pant Injury Blow in Colombo

Rediff.com23 Aug 2026

India faced early pressure in the second Test against Sri Lanka, reaching 88 for two at lunch on day one. Openers KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal were dismissed after a solid start, with Devdutt Padikkal and Shubman Gill at the crease. The session also saw some on-field drama and a dropped catch.

Who Derailed Tarique Rahman's India Visit?

Who Derailed Tarique Rahman's India Visit?

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Who is running the show in Dhaka? This kind of flip-flop, culminating in a last-minute decision to skip a maiden visit, can happen only when the remote is in the hands of one of the competing lobbies within the BNP -- one that appears determined to play a game of chess with India.

Asian Games: 'Vidarsa has made Keralam proud'

Asian Games: 'Vidarsa has made Keralam proud'

Rediff.com1 days ago

Vidarsa K Vinod has made history by becoming the first woman from Keralam to win an Asian Games medal in shooting, securing a silver in the women's 10m air rifle team event in Japan.

Bihar Police arrest 3 in Jamui harassment viral video case, invoke POCSO

Bihar Police arrest 3 in Jamui harassment viral video case, invoke POCSO

Rediff.com1 hour ago

Bihar Police have arrested three individuals in connection with a deeply disturbing viral video from Jamui showing the harassment of a young couple, an incident that has sparked widespread social media outrage and strong political condemnation.

How Sonal Dinusha became India's latest spin nightmare

How Sonal Dinusha became India's latest spin nightmare

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Sri Lankan all-rounder Sonal Dinusha, who averaged 140 in the recent Test series against India, found solace and success in cricket as an escape from financial hardship. His journey, marked by dedication and a relentless work ethic, saw him rise from a child without a bat to a national hero, with coaches highlighting his unwavering commitment to the game.

Sebi Chief: Initial Liquidity Issues with CAS Seen Across Global Markets

Sebi Chief: Initial Liquidity Issues with CAS Seen Across Global Markets

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Sebi chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey acknowledged that all global jurisdictions experienced lower liquidity during the initial implementation phases of the closing auction session (CAS), a stock price determination framework introduced in India on August 3.

Petrol, diesel prices in India are unlikely to be cut anytime soon

Petrol, diesel prices in India are unlikely to be cut anytime soon

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Despite international crude oil prices falling to a four-month low, retail petrol and diesel prices in India are unlikely to be cut immediately because state-run refiners are still processing costlier crude purchased during the peak of the West Asia crisis, Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said.

How BRICS evolved from an acronym to a major global powerhouse

How BRICS evolved from an acronym to a major global powerhouse

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

This article details the quarter-century journey of BRICS, from its inception as an economic acronym by a Goldman Sachs economist to its current status as an expanded eleven-member international bloc. It highlights its growth, key historical moments, and the significance of its upcoming summit, particularly with Iran's renewed importance in discussions.

UIDAI Plans International Expansion For Aadhaar

UIDAI Plans International Expansion For Aadhaar

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is actively working on plans to expand Aadhaar's reach globally, particularly to benefit non-resident Indians (NRIs) and overseas citizens of India (OCIs). This initiative aims to enhance interoperability, attract investment, and streamline digital identification processes, with new guidelines for merchants and products like Aadhaar Lite also in development.

Top BJP leaders visit temples on Modi's 76th birthday

Top BJP leaders visit temples on Modi's 76th birthday

Rediff.com4 days ago

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 76th birthday was celebrated with extensive programmes in Varanasi, his Lok Sabha constituency. Events included special prayers by 76 young priests, a milk 'abhishek' of the Ganga, and a significant 'Seva Sankalp' motorcycle journey from Varanasi to Vadnagar, Modi's birthplace, involving 500 participants. Several prominent political figures, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, participated in the celebrations, offering prayers for Modi's health and India's progress.

Colombo Test, Day 4: India close in on win even after Mendis-Sooriyabhandara fight back

Colombo Test, Day 4: India close in on win even after Mendis-Sooriyabhandara fight back

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

India have held a significant stranglehold on the 2nd Test against Sri Lanka at lunch on Day 4 in Colombo on Wednesday.

Boxer Parveen Hooda Aims For Asian Games Redemption After Ban

Boxer Parveen Hooda Aims For Asian Games Redemption After Ban

Rediff.com5 days ago

Indian boxer Parveen Hooda is set to compete in the Asian Games, aiming to win a medal after her previous bronze was revoked due to a WADA suspension for whereabouts failures. Her comeback journey has been marked by significant challenges, including changing weight categories multiple times, overcoming injuries, and adapting her training to a new division. Hooda is determined to prove herself and achieve a podium finish, viewing it as unfinished business.

India's Enemies Watch Out: AK-203 Sher Roars!

India's Enemies Watch Out: AK-203 Sher Roars!

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

India has successfully manufactured and test-fired its first fully indigenous AK-203 assault rifle, named 'Sher', at the Korwa facility in Uttar Pradesh, marking a significant milestone in defence self-reliance with 100 per cent Indian components.

Anahat Singh Eyes Asian Games Gold, Olympic Berth

Anahat Singh Eyes Asian Games Gold, Olympic Berth

Rediff.com3 days ago

World junior champion Anahat Singh, now 18, is returning to the Asian Games with significantly higher stakes, as the women's singles gold medal offers direct Olympic qualification. Ranked world number 20, she is a strong medal contender and is embracing the pressure of competing for her country. Anahat faces formidable opponents like Satomi Watanbe and Sivasangari Subramaniam but is focused on refining her game and physical strength to achieve her goals.

Ajit Agarkar opts out of 2nd stint as BCCI chief selector, search for successor underway

Ajit Agarkar opts out of 2nd stint as BCCI chief selector, search for successor underway

Rediff.com2 days ago

Ajit Agarkar has informed the BCCI he will not continue as chief selector, prompting the board to begin searching for his successor as his contract ends October 4.

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.com3 days ago

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.

Irfan Pathan Takes Dig At Pakistan With 'Sunday' Joke

Irfan Pathan Takes Dig At Pakistan With 'Sunday' Joke

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

The Indian women's cricket team secured a dominant seven-wicket victory over Pakistan in the Women's Asia Cup, bowling them out for just 55 runs. This one-sided win prompted former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan to revive his viral "Sunday" joke on social media, referencing past India-Pakistan clashes.

After 10 Years, India May Import Sugar

After 10 Years, India May Import Sugar

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

India is set to import 1 million tonnes of raw sugar at zero duty after domestic stocks fell sharply and prices surged ahead of the festival season.

Long incarceration: HC grants bail to 2 in terror conspiracy case

Long incarceration: HC grants bail to 2 in terror conspiracy case

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

The Delhi High Court has granted bail to Sobiya Aziz and Kamran Ashraf Reshi, accused in a terror conspiracy case related to Jammu and Kashmir and other major Indian cities. The court cited their nearly five-year incarceration and the slow pace of the trial as reasons for the decision, imposing strict conditions on their social media use.

Sehwag to Host Rise and Fall

Sehwag to Host Rise and Fall

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Rise and Fall Season 2 will feature Virender Sehwag as host, with 15 celebrities divided into Rulers and Workers, navigating power, money, alliances and shifting strategies.

4 Rivers 6 Ranges Review: A Brave Drama

4 Rivers 6 Ranges Review: A Brave Drama

Rediff.com3 days ago

4 Rivers 6 Ranges finds its strongest moments in the moral conflict between non-violence, survival and the fight for freedom.

TMC rebellion: Mamata faces her own political weapon

TMC rebellion: Mamata faces her own political weapon

Rediff.com3 days ago

Mamata Banerjee, who founded the Trinamool Congress through an act of rebellion against the Congress, now faces a similar internal revolt that threatens the very identity of her party. The Election Commission's interim decision to withhold the TMC name and symbol for the upcoming bypolls highlights a deeper struggle for political inheritance. This situation, unprecedented for the party, forces both Mamata's loyalists and rebels to seek electoral recognition without their established identity, marking a significant challenge to her long-standing dominance.

Why Opposition Calls UPI MDR A Betrayal And US Appeasement

Why Opposition Calls UPI MDR A Betrayal And US Appeasement

Rediff.com5 days ago

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.

Congress Accuses Modi Government Of US Appeasement On UPI MDR

Congress Accuses Modi Government Of US Appeasement On UPI MDR

Rediff.com5 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.com5 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.

Why Opposition Calls New UPI MDR A Surrender To US Pressure

Why Opposition Calls New UPI MDR A Surrender To US Pressure

Rediff.com5 days ago

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 UPI Merchant Fee Ignites Fierce Political Debate

New UPI Merchant Fee Ignites Fierce Political Debate

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% transaction fee on UPI payments above Rs 2,000 for merchants, effective October 15, sparking a political row. The Congress party has labelled it a "Modi tax" and accused the government of succumbing to US pressure, while the BJP has defended the move, clarifying that consumers will not be charged and small vendors are protected. The finance ministry reiterated that the charge is on merchants, not customers.

From Auto Driver's Daughter to Record Holder: Ancy Sojan Eyes Asian Games Gold

From Auto Driver's Daughter to Record Holder: Ancy Sojan Eyes Asian Games Gold

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Kerala's Ancy Sojan clinched the women's long jump title at the Indian Athletics Series Final, expressing strong confidence for the upcoming Asian Games where she aims to win gold and experience the national anthem on the podium.

India-EU FTA Legal Scrub to Conclude Soon, Pact Expected by December 31

India-EU FTA Legal Scrub to Conclude Soon, Pact Expected by December 31

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal announced that the legal scrubbing of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) text is expected to be completed within 10-12 days, with the final deal anticipated to be signed by December 31.

Opposition Demands Rollback Of UPI MDR Fee, Cites US Pressure

Opposition Demands Rollback Of UPI MDR Fee, Cites US Pressure

Rediff.com5 days ago

The opposition has intensified its criticism of the government's decision to impose a 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000, effective October 15. Leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Jairam Ramesh allege the move is a result of US pressure, particularly from American card companies, and demand an immediate rollback, warning of increased costs for consumers.

SL vs India 1st Test, Day 2: Padikkal's 167, Jurel's fifty put India in command

SL vs India 1st Test, Day 2: Padikkal's 167, Jurel's fifty put India in command

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

India finished Day 2 on 460/9 after rain restricted play to just two sessions in the opening Test against Sri Lanka in Galle on Sunday.

'They Fought To The Last Man, Last Bullet, Last Breath'

'They Fought To The Last Man, Last Bullet, Last Breath'

Rediff.com3 days ago

I had found spending one night at 14,500 feet inside a cottage difficult to get by -- struggling to breathe in the cold, thin, mountain air. Here, our soldiers had fought a ferocious battle at much greater heights in bone-chilling weather, worse than I had encountered. 114 men were killed in action in a 16-hour epic battle against China in Rezang La, the farthest outpost along India's border with China.

India sees Rs 4,896 crore FDI in 29 projects after easing China stake norms

India sees Rs 4,896 crore FDI in 29 projects after easing China stake norms

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

India has attracted foreign direct investment (FDI) worth approximately 4,896 crore across 29 projects since May, following the government's relaxation of norms under Press Note 2 of 2026. The revised rules permit investment without government approval from entities with up to 10 per cent non-controlling ownership by land-bordering countries.

Sufiya Sufi targets record in Ladakh Ultra Marathon title defence

Sufiya Sufi targets record in Ladakh Ultra Marathon title defence

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Five-time Guinness World Records holder Sufiya Sufi is preparing to defend her Ladakh Silk Route Ultra Marathon title, aiming for a record-breaking performance. She shares her journey into ultra-running, which began in 2017 as an escape from a monotonous routine, and her ultimate dream of a 30,000-km circumnavigation run.

Padma Shri awardee gets SIT notice over name mismatch

Padma Shri awardee gets SIT notice over name mismatch

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Padma Shri awardee Harekal Hajabba has received an election notice due to a name mismatch in the electoral rolls. While his official documents identify him as "Harekal Hajabba," the 2002 electoral roll listed him simply as "Hajabba." He is confident the issue will be resolved after presenting his documents to local authorities.

New WFI Policy: Asian Games Wrestlers Can Still Vie For World Championship Spots

New WFI Policy: Asian Games Wrestlers Can Still Vie For World Championship Spots

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has implemented a new two-stage trial system for the 2026 Senior World Championships. This policy allows wrestlers participating in the Asian Games to also compete for a spot in the World Championships team through a "final trial," addressing the overlap between the two major events. The first phase of trials is scheduled for September 14-15, with specific provisions for certain weight categories and U23 championships.

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.

Government Clarifies UPI Charges Amidst Political Row

Government Clarifies UPI Charges Amidst Political Row

Rediff.com6 days ago

The BJP has accused the Congress of spreading "fake news" regarding UPI transaction charges, asserting that the government has clarified that consumers will not be levied merchant discount rate (MDR) charges. This comes after the Congress criticised a government notification, alleging it paves the way for imposing fees on UPI transactions. The BJP has strongly refuted these claims, highlighting that most UPI transactions remain free and the government provides incentives to maintain a charge-free ecosystem for users.

India scraps physical boarding passes for international flyers

India scraps physical boarding passes for international flyers

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

Indian immigration authorities are eliminating the mandatory physical stamping of boarding passes for international travellers from September 1, allowing e-boarding passes on smartphones for clearance. This move by the Bureau of Immigration aims to reduce passenger inconvenience and errors, with physical passes still accepted but not stamped. A pilot project for digital immigration entry/exit for Indian passport holders is also underway.

Blue Colts Secure Crucial Win, Eye AFC U20 Asian Cup Qualification

Blue Colts Secure Crucial Win, Eye AFC U20 Asian Cup Qualification

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

India's U20 football team secured a dominant 3-0 victory over Bangladesh in their final AFC U20 Asian Cup Qualifiers group match. Goals from Danny Meitei Laishram, Vishal Yadav, and Md Arbash sealed the win, bringing India's total to six points. The team's qualification for the main tournament, potentially after 20 years, now hinges on the outcome of the Syria-Uzbekistan match.