News for 'Standard'

Rishikesh's Glass Bridge Draws Tourists

Rishikesh's Glass Bridge Draws Tourists

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Bajrang Setu, India's first glass-floor cable suspension bridge, a new landmark in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand. It is a modern replacement for the iconic Lakshman Jhula, which was shut down due to safety concerns.

Why RBI Asked EPFO To Upgrade Its Investment System

Why RBI Asked EPFO To Upgrade Its Investment System

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

India's largest retirement fund manager, the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), is enhancing its investment governance and fund management practices, following the Reserve Bank of India's recommendations.

N-plants save blushes for India's Q1 investment outlay

N-plants save blushes for India's Q1 investment outlay

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

India's fresh investment plans in Q1FY27 surged 71 per cent to 14.77 trillion, primarily driven by four large nuclear power projects worth 6.5 trillion, according to investment monitoring firm Projects Today. Excluding these nuclear projects, fresh investment plans actually declined 4.27 per cent quarter-on-quarter.

Consumer forum lifts liquor seller's spirits, tells insurer to pay Rs 1.2 cr

Consumer forum lifts liquor seller's spirits, tells insurer to pay Rs 1.2 cr

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

A consumer disputes commission in Mumbai has directed National Insurance Company Ltd to pay a liquor wholesaler over 1.2 crore for stock ruined during the 2017 Mumbai floods, deeming the claim rejection 'arbitrary and unreasonable'.

Why AI Agents Can't Go Fully Autonomous Yet

Why AI Agents Can't Go Fully Autonomous Yet

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

The biggest challenge to widespread deployment is no longer AI. It is the financial and commerce infrastructure that was built decades ago for deterministic software and human interactions -- not autonomous AI agents.

Maharashtra Government Signs MoU For Kolhapur Cricket Stadium

Maharashtra Government Signs MoU For Kolhapur Cricket Stadium

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

The Maharashtra government has signed an MoU with the Kolhapur District Cricket Association to build an international-standard cricket stadium and multi-sports hub in Kolhapur, featuring a 35,000-capacity stadium and facilities for various sports.

Rahane finds new cricket chapter after retirement

Rahane finds new cricket chapter after retirement

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Former India captain Ajinkya Rahane has joined Amsterdam Flames as a marquee player in the inaugural European T20 Premier League, aiming to make a global impact and share his experience with other players.

Former CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Tewolde Gebremariam is new Air India boss

Former CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Tewolde Gebremariam is new Air India boss

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Air India has announced the appointment of Tewolde Gebremariam, former CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group, as its new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, replacing Campbell Wilson. This strategic appointment comes as the airline navigates expansion amidst significant challenges.

Why India Has No Hockey Umpire or Official at 2026 World Cup

Why India Has No Hockey Umpire or Official at 2026 World Cup

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

For the first time since 1998, no Indian umpire or technical official will be present at the FIH Men's Hockey World Cup, a situation that has left former international officials disappointed and calling for a structured pathway to develop and support Indian officiating talent.

IOA President PT Usha Praises India's Commonwealth Games Performance

IOA President PT Usha Praises India's Commonwealth Games Performance

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

Indian Olympic Association President PT Usha expressed immense pride in India's Commonwealth Games performance, particularly highlighting the boxers' mental strength and the overall medal tally, attributing success to government support.

Now, CJP backs Jharkhand students protesting JPSC exam irregularities

Now, CJP backs Jharkhand students protesting JPSC exam irregularities

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party has extended its support to students protesting in Jharkhand over alleged irregularities in JPSC, JSSC CGL, and various other competitive exams.

FULL TEXT: President Murmu's address to the nation on eve of 80th I-Day

FULL TEXT: President Murmu's address to the nation on eve of 80th I-Day

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

In her address to the nation on the eve of the country's 80th Independence Day, the president stressed that just as government and society remain united to ensure national security, everyone must contribute through joint and concerted efforts to safeguard the present and future of students.

Parliamentary Panel Pushes for Swift India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement

Parliamentary Panel Pushes for Swift India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

A Parliamentary Standing Committee on Commerce has urged the Indian government to swiftly conclude the proposed India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA), while ensuring India's interests are protected, recommending complete exemption for key export products like generic medicines and smartphones from future US tariff increases.

Why Start-up Employees May Retire Poor

Why Start-up Employees May Retire Poor

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

An employee whose financial future is 60-80 per cent dependent on a single company's growth trajectory has no genuine safety net.

4 bills introduced in Lok Sabha amid opposition protests

4 bills introduced in Lok Sabha amid opposition protests

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

The Lok Sabha introduced four significant bills on Monday, including amendments to mines and minerals regulations, the establishment of a National Tribunals Commission, and the renaming of Kerala to Keralam, all while facing continuous protests from opposition members demanding a discussion on the July 20 police crackdown on students.

GDN Review: Madhavan Lifts Generic Biopic

GDN Review: Madhavan Lifts Generic Biopic

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

GDN has a fascinating genius at its centre, but Madhavan's terrific performance is let down by a repetitive, overly familiar biopic treatment.

Union minister Pradhan wants Mahakal Standard Time to replace GMT

Union minister Pradhan wants Mahakal Standard Time to replace GMT

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has advocated for the establishment of 'Mahakal Standard Time' (MST), citing Ujjain's historical significance as a centre for time calculation and astronomy.

Supreme Court flags 'one-person structure' in Shiv Sena's constitution

Supreme Court flags 'one-person structure' in Shiv Sena's constitution

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has questioned the amended constitution of the Shiv Sena, observing that it appeared to have made the party 'virtually a one-person structure' and raising concerns about democratic functioning within political parties.

How PhonePe's PulsePro Will Transform Business Decision-Making

How PhonePe's PulsePro Will Transform Business Decision-Making

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Digital payments firm PhonePe has launched PulsePro, an enterprise intelligence platform providing businesses with aggregated and anonymised transaction data. This platform offers near real-time market insights at granular levels, helping companies track consumer spending, identify growth opportunities, and make informed expansion decisions across India.

'A Student's Life Can't Be Held Hostage To A 3-Hour Performance'

'A Student's Life Can't Be Held Hostage To A 3-Hour Performance'

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Education sector experts agree that using the "best technology" was essential to ensure students did not have to sit for an examination all over again because of a question paper leak.

98 pc clean?: Bombay HC orders inspection of Mantralaya canteen

98 pc clean?: Bombay HC orders inspection of Mantralaya canteen

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

The Bombay High Court questioned the Maharashtra FDA's "98 per cent clean" certificate for the Mantralaya canteen, ordering an immediate inspection by a team of lawyers. The court emphasised the need for the FDA to be fair and impartial in its drives, criticising potential targeting of private establishments while overlooking government ones.

FSSAI issues notice to alcohol makers over misleading age claims, unauthorised flavours

FSSAI issues notice to alcohol makers over misleading age claims, unauthorised flavours

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

India's food safety regulator, FSSAI, has issued a notice to alcoholic beverage manufacturers for violating regulations concerning the unauthorised use of added flavours and misleading age-related claims, demanding compliance and explanations.

Ranbir Kapoor's Complex Daddy Issues On Screen

Ranbir Kapoor's Complex Daddy Issues On Screen

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Ranbir Kapoor's filmography frequently explores complex father-son relationships, from rebellious youth seeking approval to sons grappling with loss and dysfunctional dynamics, culminating in his latest role as an exiled prince honouring his father's promise in Ramayana.

'Worst Phase For Equities Appears To Be Behind Us'

'Worst Phase For Equities Appears To Be Behind Us'

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

'Healthy double-digit returns are still possible, though a sharp rally is unlikely.'

WhatsApp begins testing age checks for Indian users

WhatsApp begins testing age checks for Indian users

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

WhatsApp is testing new ways for users in India to confirm their age as it prepares to comply with upcoming legal requirements, including those related to the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, the Meta-owned messaging platform said on Tuesday.

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.

Sena split: SC says party controls legislature wing, but MLAs need 'elbow room'

Sena split: SC says party controls legislature wing, but MLAs need 'elbow room'

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court, hearing pleas on the Shiv Sena split, observed that a political party retains control over its legislature wing and its valid decisions must prevail, but also advocated for granting 'elbow room' to elected representatives for political decisions if a majority 'genuinely disagree' with party directions.

39 medals! India exceed expectations at CWG 2026

39 medals! India exceed expectations at CWG 2026

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

India finished fourth at the 2026 Commonwealth Games with 39 medals, overcoming the absence of traditional medal-winning sports. The contingent's success was driven by a record-breaking boxing campaign, a historic performance in judo, and strong contributions from para athletes, showcasing the country's expanding sporting depth.

UP teachers suspended after intimate classroom video goes viral

UP teachers suspended after intimate classroom video goes viral

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Two assistant teachers at a government primary school in Kannauj, Uttar Pradesh, have been suspended after a video purportedly showing them in an intimate act inside a classroom surfaced on social media. An inquiry confirmed the conduct was inconsistent with expected standards, leading to disciplinary action and an ongoing departmental investigation.

SC judge recuses from DMK leader's bail hearing

SC judge recuses from DMK leader's bail hearing

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Supreme Court Justice V Mohana has recused herself from hearing the anticipatory bail plea of DMK leader V Senthil Balaji in a new corruption case related to alleged irregularities in the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC). The plea, seeking pre-arrest bail, was filed after the Madras High Court dismissed Balaji's petition. The case involves a systematic cash-kickback scheme and overcharging at TASMAC retail shops.

Cricket Club of India, MIG Cricket Club lose food licences after FDA action

Cricket Club of India, MIG Cricket Club lose food licences after FDA action

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the food business licences of the Cricket Club of India (CCI), MIG Cricket Club in Bandra East, and three other clubs in the city for alleged violations of food safety and hygiene norms, officials said on Tuesday.

What made SIAM do a U-turn on E20 fuel within a week?

What made SIAM do a U-turn on E20 fuel within a week?

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Why the industry's public position changed is difficult to say. What the developments did establish, though, is that ethanol-blended petrol has become one of the country's most politically and commercially sensitive policy issues.

Chief Justice Kant Flags AI Concerns, Advocates Disclosure In Arbitration

Chief Justice Kant Flags AI Concerns, Advocates Disclosure In Arbitration

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant highlighted the rapid integration of Artificial Intelligence into arbitration practices, expressing concerns about its accuracy, authenticity, and ethical use. He stressed the need for mandatory disclosure when generative AI is used in preparing legal documents and reports, advocating for shared standards to manage deepfakes and AI-generated material. The CJI also encouraged embracing AI for efficiency in tasks like e-discovery while preserving core arbitration principles.

'Rats, flies': FDA suspends licence of Mumbai's iconic Rustom ice cream over hygiene

'Rats, flies': FDA suspends licence of Mumbai's iconic Rustom ice cream over hygiene

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Maharashtra FDA has suspended the license of Mumbai's renowned 'Rustom' ice cream outlet due to serious food safety and hygiene violations, including live rats, houseflies, and expired food items.

'A Stone Can't Be Answered With An AK-47'

'A Stone Can't Be Answered With An AK-47'

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

'Instead of choosing dialogue, the government chose repression... Force ought to be the last resort, not the first.'

Pakistan to build modern cricket stadium in Saudi Arabia

Pakistan to build modern cricket stadium in Saudi Arabia

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

The PCB will build a cricket stadium as per international standards and with state-of-the-art facilities, said the Pakistan Cricket Board.

India's youngest athlete bows out of CWG 2026

India's youngest athlete bows out of CWG 2026

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Teenage Indian para cyclist Lisha Das finished sixth and last in the women's C4-C5 4,000m individual pursuit qualifying event at the Commonwealth Games.

Vedika Pinto: 'I Don't Begrudge Star Kids At All'

Vedika Pinto: 'I Don't Begrudge Star Kids At All'

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

'I don't think they are at fault for where they are born or what they are allotted.' 'If anything, today it feels like being a star kid comes with its own set of assumptions and challenges, regardless of how talented you are.'

US missile reserves dwindle as Iran conflict drags on: Report

US missile reserves dwindle as Iran conflict drags on: Report

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

The American military's air-defence missile inventories, including Patriot and THAAD interceptors, are significantly depleted due to the ongoing five-month confrontation with Iran. A CSIS assessment reveals a steep drop in reserve stocks, raising concerns about the US's capacity to maintain Middle East operations and address other global security challenges. This depletion could force the US and its allies to take higher operational risks.

HDFC Bank's Workforce Shrinks by 3,343 in FY26 Despite Balance Sheet Expansion

HDFC Bank's Workforce Shrinks by 3,343 in FY26 Despite Balance Sheet Expansion

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

HDFC Bank, India's largest private sector lender, reported a reduction of 3,343 employees in FY26, bringing its total workforce to 2,11,178, even as its balance sheet expanded by 12 per cent. The bank's MD and CEO, Sashidhar Jagdishan, attributed the headcount reduction to redeploying talent from back-end functions to customer-facing roles due to technology-led efficiencies. The annual report also addressed the challenging resignation of part-time chairman Atanu Chakraborty, which raised questions about the bank's governance standards.