News for 'South Block'

India summons Iran envoys, protests strikes on vessels in Hormuz

India summons Iran envoys, protests strikes on vessels in Hormuz

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

India has lodged a 'strong protest' with Iran over recent strikes on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, which resulted in the death of one Indian sailor and injuries to several others, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a return to diplomatic engagement.

Let's Not Get Flattered By Sergei Gor's Kashmir Remarks

Let's Not Get Flattered By Sergei Gor's Kashmir Remarks

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

New Delhi must look for formal, institutional statements issued directly from Washington rather than rely on casual pronouncements meant for local audiences, notes Ambassador Rajasekhar.

China's Hydropower Plants: Why India Must Be Concerned

China's Hydropower Plants: Why India Must Be Concerned

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

It is very unfortunate that China has decided to proceed with the controversial mega hydropower plants(despite the apparent opposition of many scientists in China). Why is Delhi silent about the development? asks Claude Arpi.

Nearly 160 killed, over 750 missing in devastating Nepal flash floods

Nearly 160 killed, over 750 missing in devastating Nepal flash floods

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

A massive flash flood originating in Tibet has devastated central Nepal, killing 17 people and leaving nearly 500 missing, including 105 Indians. The deluge, caused by a rock slide near the Nepal-Tibet border, swept through districts, washing away bridges and severely damaging at least a dozen hydropower projects.

Women's Hockey Team Embarks On Final World Cup Preparations In Europe

Women's Hockey Team Embarks On Final World Cup Preparations In Europe

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

The Indian women's hockey team has departed for Frankfurt, Germany, to complete its final preparations for the upcoming FIH World Cup. The team will play practice matches and train in Europe before heading to the Netherlands for the tournament, where they will face China, South Africa, and England in Pool D.

Gambhir's Big Survival Test In Sri Lanka

Gambhir's Big Survival Test In Sri Lanka

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Already, the knives are out for Gautam Gambhir because of his poor record as coach in Test matches, and a potential defeat in Sri Lanka could prove to be the killer blow.

New dynamic lighting illuminates North, South Block

New dynamic lighting illuminates North, South Block

Rediff.com11 Oct 2017

The President's House will also be lit with such a system within three months, an official said.

Will Sheikh Hasina Be Killed If She Returns To Dhaka?

Will Sheikh Hasina Be Killed If She Returns To Dhaka?

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

'They probably imagine any hue and cry in the event Sheikh Hasina is hanged will be shortlived as it happened when Bhutto was hanged in Pakistan in 1979.'

Does Trump Urgently Need Modi's Help On Iran?

Does Trump Urgently Need Modi's Help On Iran?

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

US Vice-President J D Vance's unexpected phone call to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 8 has ignited speculation about a potential diplomatic overture, possibly seeking India's support amidst the escalating US-Iran conflict and a shifting global power landscape, suggests Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

Indian drugmakers in no rush to shift to US despite tariff threat

Indian drugmakers in no rush to shift to US despite tariff threat

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Indian pharmaceutical companies are not rushing to relocate manufacturing to the United States despite former President Donald Trump's renewed threat of tariffs up to 200 per cent on imported generic drugs. Instead, they are leveraging existing US plants, contract manufacturers, and making selective investments in complex products while maintaining India as their primary production hub.

How Tata Steel Tackled Challenges Under Chandra

How Tata Steel Tackled Challenges Under Chandra

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Tata Steel more than doubled its Indian capacity through acquisitions and expansion, strengthening cash generation as it pursued a costly restructuring of its European operations.

Protests demanding Pradhan's resignation sweep India

Protests demanding Pradhan's resignation sweep India

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Nationwide protests against the NEET paper leak have intensified across several Indian states, with demonstrators condemning the Delhi Police crackdown and demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The Congress party has called for further demonstrations, while various student and political groups have organised marches and sit-ins, some leading to clashes with police.

Students still throng Jantar Mantar protest site to click selfies

Students still throng Jantar Mantar protest site to click selfies

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Two days after a 36-day student agitation concluded at Jantar Mantar, the iconic protest site in New Delhi is already witnessing new demonstrations, including calls for Gorkhaland and women's reservation, alongside curious visitors documenting the aftermath.

India Owes Iran $7 Billion!

India Owes Iran $7 Billion!

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Formerly Iran's second-largest oil customer, Indian financial institutions were forced to withhold crude oil payments following the 2018 US sanctions.

How Sinner Overcame French Open Disappointment For Wimbledon Glory

How Sinner Overcame French Open Disappointment For Wimbledon Glory

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Jannik Sinner successfully defended his Wimbledon title, crediting intensive training after a surprising early exit from the French Open. He defeated Alexander Zverev in the final, marking his fifth major title and highlighting his dedication and resilience.

Security guard held, protests erupt after sexual assault on 8-year-old girl

Security guard held, protests erupt after sexual assault on 8-year-old girl

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

An 8-year-old girl was allegedly sexually assaulted by a security guard in Mumbai's Pydhonie area, leading to his arrest and widespread public protests. Hundreds gathered outside the police station, demanding swift justice and stricter laws, drawing attention from political figures like MLA Rohit Pawar.

Political row erupts over heightened security at Mamata's residence

Political row erupts over heightened security at Mamata's residence

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Heavy police and central forces deployment outside Mamata Banerjee's Kolkata residence has sparked a political row. The TMC alleges it's to prevent her from visiting the family of an 11-year-old rape and murder victim in Baruipur, while the BJP claims it's routine security. This comes amidst public outrage and violence following the girl's death.

Fire breaks out in Delhi's South Block

Fire breaks out in Delhi's South Block

Rediff.com20 Mar 2016

A fire broke out in a room of the South Block, which houses the PMO and offices of defence and external affairs ministry, but no one was injured, police and fire officials said.

Key accused in 11-year-old's rape-murder in Bengal killed in encounter

Key accused in 11-year-old's rape-murder in Bengal killed in encounter

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

An accused in the rape and murder of an 11-year-old girl in West Bengal's Baruipur was killed in an alleged police encounter. Prabhas Mondal, a prime suspect, reportedly tried to escape and fired at police during a crime scene reconstruction, leading to police retaliation. The incident follows widespread public outrage and protests over the girl's death.

Mob lynches man in Bengal after suspected rape-murder of 11-year-old girl

Mob lynches man in Bengal after suspected rape-murder of 11-year-old girl

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

An 11-year-old girl's body was found in Baruipur, West Bengal, leading to local protests and the lynching of a man accused of involvement. Police have arrested four people and assured strict action, with the Chief Minister also intervening.

Bengal rape-murder case: Police examine shack as possible crime scene

Bengal rape-murder case: Police examine shack as possible crime scene

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Investigators probing the alleged rape and murder of an 11-year-old girl in Baruipur, West Bengal, suspect one of the accused took the victim to a shack where two others were present before the crime, with the three allegedly consuming intoxicants prior to the assault.

Pakistan Rejects India's PoK Allegations, Issues Water Warning

Pakistan Rejects India's PoK Allegations, Issues Water Warning

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Pakistan has criticised India's recent remarks on Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) protests, asserting it is addressing issues democratically. Pakistan also warned India against blocking water, calling it an "act of war," and commented on India's nuclear capabilities and its own military strikes in Afghanistan.

FIFA World Cup Round of 16: Mbappe's France refuse to take Paraguay lightly

FIFA World Cup Round of 16: Mbappe's France refuse to take Paraguay lightly

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

France arrive in Philadelphia as the World Cup's most feared attacking force, but Kylian Mbappe and coach Didier Deschamps have warned that acclaim, records and a seemingly clear path mean little if they fail to stay grounded against Paraguay in Saturday's last-16 clash.

Paraguay eliminate four-time champions Germany after penalty shoot-out

Paraguay eliminate four-time champions Germany after penalty shoot-out

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Paraguay achieved a stunning upset by eliminating four-time World champions Germany from the World Cup in a penalty shootout. After a 1-1 draw in their Round of 32 match, Paraguay secured a 4-3 victory in the shootout, with Jose Canale scoring the decisive kick.

Messi, Bellingham and history collide in Argentina-England semi-final

Messi, Bellingham and history collide in Argentina-England semi-final

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Lionel Messi's Argentina take on Jude Bellingham's England in a blockbuster FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final, reviving one of football's greatest rivalries with a place in the final on the line.

Mamata accuses BJP of disrupting protest march after clashes

Mamata accuses BJP of disrupting protest march after clashes

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the BJP of disrupting a TMC protest march concerning the Baruipur rape and murder case, alleging that the police acted as an 'arm' of the saffron party by failing to enforce a Calcutta High Court order permitting the rally.

New Army Chief Set To Accelerate Modernisation

New Army Chief Set To Accelerate Modernisation

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Lieutenant General Seth's involvement in the army's capability development and modernisation efforts is evident from the key appointments he has held in the Strategic Planning and Capability Development Directorates, including Colonel Capability Development for Mechanised Forces, Brigadier Perspective Plans and Acquisition, and Additional Director General Capability Development.

Indian-origin couple, ailing son fall to death in London

Indian-origin couple, ailing son fall to death in London

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

An Indian-origin couple and their 9-year-old terminally ill son died after falling from their 36th-floor apartment in London in a suspected murder-suicide. Police believe the son's severe illness contributed to the tragic decision.

Ceasefire in danger as Iran blocks Hormuz again after Israel attack

Ceasefire in danger as Iran blocks Hormuz again after Israel attack

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

The fragile ceasefire in West Asia between the US and Iran to halt the hostilities in the region for two weeks faces renewed uncertainty as Tehran reportedly moved to block the strategic Strait of Hormuz once again due to Israel's intensified offensive against Hezbollah in Lebanon, according to Iranian state media Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), which US President Trump says was "not included" as part of the ceasefire deal.

Neeraj Chopra Satisfied With Doha Comeback After Injury Layoff

Neeraj Chopra Satisfied With Doha Comeback After Injury Layoff

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra finished fourth in the Doha Diamond League with a throw of 85.69m, marking his return to competition after multiple injuries. Despite not winning, Chopra expressed satisfaction with his performance, stating he focused on reaching the competition stage without extra pressure. He confirmed his participation in the upcoming Commonwealth Games and discussed his recovery process and the growing competition in South Asian javelin.

Stir erupts against Karnataka's AI city

Stir erupts against Karnataka's AI city

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

About 45 km from the tech hub of Bengaluru, the Karnataka government is planning a mega artificial intelligence (AI)-powered city with a budget of more than Rs 18,000 crore. To be spread over 9,000 acres, the project aims to follow the theme "Work, live, play" with technology as its core. At the centre of it are, however, thousands of farmers who are protesting against land acquisition by the government.

Mexico lights up FIFA 2026 World Cup opener in style

Mexico lights up FIFA 2026 World Cup opener in style

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

With Mariachi costumes, trumpets, and a sea of dark green support, Mexico City has opened the World Cup on Thursday, as fans packed the famous Azteca stadium ahead of the opening game between Mexico and South Africa, amid a backdrop of protests around the capital.

Monsoon fury brings Mumbai-Pune to a standstill; 'Missing Link' reopens

Monsoon fury brings Mumbai-Pune to a standstill; 'Missing Link' reopens

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Heavy monsoon rains have severely impacted Mumbai and its surrounding areas, leading to landslides, suspension of train services, and at least 13 fatalities over the past few days. The Mumbai-Pune Expressway was also shut due to a concrete pillar collapse and waterlogging.

Why Mexicans Feel Left Out of Their Own World Cup After 40 Years

Why Mexicans Feel Left Out of Their Own World Cup After 40 Years

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Despite the World Cup returning to their country for the first time in four decades, many in Mexico said they feel excluded, priced out of stadiums, forced to pay for expensive TV subscriptions and constrained by strict licensing rules.

IMD Launches AI Monsoon Forecast Model

IMD Launches AI Monsoon Forecast Model

Rediff.com13 May 2026

'This system will be of immense help in agricultural planning, disaster management and water resources management.'

Trauma lingers for Malviya Nagar residents after deadly blaze

Trauma lingers for Malviya Nagar residents after deadly blaze

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Residents of Malviya Nagar, South Delhi, are grappling with fear and trauma a day after a devastating hotel fire claimed 21 lives. Police have arrested the hotel owner and are investigating the cause, including alleged permit violations.

North, South blocks to be converted into national museums, Centre tells SC

North, South blocks to be converted into national museums, Centre tells SC

Rediff.com29 Oct 2021

The Centre has informed the Supreme Court that the North and South blocks, which cover nearly 27 acres housing government offices in national capital, are proposed to be converted into national museums.

Outrage After Teen Dies Trying To Stop Girl's Harassment

Outrage After Teen Dies Trying To Stop Girl's Harassment

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

The death of a 17-year-old boy in Delhi, who was shot after objecting to the harassment of a girl, has triggered widespread protests and demands for justice. Family and community members are calling for swift action against those responsible.

Op Sindoor: 'Pakistan Was Completely Blind'

Op Sindoor: 'Pakistan Was Completely Blind'

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

'We won not (only) because we were able to carry out long-range precision strikes.' 'That is, of course, one of the reasons but we had better situational awareness about what's happening than Pakistan.'

Beijing reacts to Quad ministers' New Delhi statement

Beijing reacts to Quad ministers' New Delhi statement

Rediff.com26 May 2026

In response to the Quad ministers' joint statement, China on Tuesday said it opposes the creation of exclusive 'small cliques' and 'bloc confrontation'.