News for 'State Department'

Fernandes: 'No divisions' in Portugal squad after Ronaldo exit

Fernandes: 'No divisions' in Portugal squad after Ronaldo exit

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Bruno Fernandes has spoken to Cristiano Ronaldo and dismissed suggestions of a rift within the Portugal squad following Ronaldo's abrupt departure from the national team's training camp, emphasising that Ronaldo remains a national symbol.

Remembering Singeetham Srinivasa Rao, Movie Legend

Remembering Singeetham Srinivasa Rao, Movie Legend

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Singeetham Srinivasa Rao, one of Indian cinema's most inventive filmmakers, leaves behind a seven-decade legacy of fearless experimentation.

Key Accomplice Arrested In Major Counterfeit Drug Racket

Key Accomplice Arrested In Major Counterfeit Drug Racket

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

Police in Bengaluru have arrested Balasubramanian, a partner in DM Pharma, in connection with an interstate counterfeit drug racket. This arrest follows the apprehension of alleged kingpin Prashanth Rajan Babu. The Special Investigation Team is probing the supply chain, financial transactions, and distribution channels of fake medicines worth nearly Rs 5 crore, which were being relabelled as premium brands.

Gambhir Defends Dube Move, Urges India to Learn From WI Loss

Gambhir Defends Dube Move, Urges India to Learn From WI Loss

Rediff.com6 days ago

After India's defeat despite scoring 249, Gautam Gambhir says only the openers are permanent in T20 cricket and backs a flexible batting order.

Turn 'approver' or face trial: Cong's warning to CEC Gyanesh Kumar

Turn 'approver' or face trial: Cong's warning to CEC Gyanesh Kumar

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

The Congress party staged nationwide protests, demanding the immediate arrest and removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The party accused the Election Commission of an "unprecedented attack" on voter equality through an alleged 'Mark VIP' feature and called for an independent review of decisions made under Kumar, citing objections from other commissioners regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

Court Remands Five Pakistani Nationals In Massive Drug Smuggling Case

Court Remands Five Pakistani Nationals In Massive Drug Smuggling Case

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Five Pakistani nationals have been remanded to police custody by an Ahmedabad court in connection with a Rs 3,000 crore drug haul involving 526 kg of methamphetamine and heroin seized from an Iranian boat in the Arabian Sea. The operation was a joint effort by the Gujarat ATS and Indian Coast Guard.

Interstate Counterfeit Drug Racket Kingpin Nabbed At Bengaluru Airport

Interstate Counterfeit Drug Racket Kingpin Nabbed At Bengaluru Airport

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Prashanth Rajan Babu, the alleged kingpin of an interstate counterfeit drug racket, has been arrested at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru after absconding to Azerbaijan. He is accused of leading a network that refilled cheap bulk drugs into new vials and relabelled them as premium imported brands, with a previous raid seizing fake medicines worth Rs 5 crore.

How Bengaluru Police Busted A Major Counterfeit Drug Operation

How Bengaluru Police Busted A Major Counterfeit Drug Operation

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Prashanth Rajan Babu, the alleged kingpin of an interstate counterfeit drug racket, has been arrested at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru after absconding in Azerbaijan. He is accused of leading a network that refilled cheap drugs and relabelled them as premium brands, with drugs worth Rs 5 crore seized earlier.

High-Level Panel Investigates Medical Care Delay In Jharkhand Gang-Rape Case

High-Level Panel Investigates Medical Care Delay In Jharkhand Gang-Rape Case

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

A high-level committee has been formed to investigate the alleged delay in medical care for a 13-year-old girl in Jharkhand who died after an alleged gang-rape and assault. The two-member panel visited Gumla and Simdega districts, speaking with the family and examining documents, as police continue their investigation into the incident.

Interstate Counterfeit Drug Racket Kingpin Nabbed At Bengaluru Airport

Interstate Counterfeit Drug Racket Kingpin Nabbed At Bengaluru Airport

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Prashanth Rajan Babu, the alleged kingpin of an interstate counterfeit drug racket, has been arrested at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru. He had been absconding and was reportedly hiding in Azerbaijan. The arrest follows a major raid in August where fake medicines worth Rs 5 crore were seized, and a Special Investigation Team was formed to probe the network.

Found using mobile during exam, IIT-B student ends life; mother alleges murder

Found using mobile during exam, IIT-B student ends life; mother alleges murder

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

The mother of Sahil Ravindra Wakode, a 22-year-old IIT Bombay student found dead in his hostel room, has alleged her son was "tortured" and "killed," demanding justice, while the institute stated no disciplinary action was initiated against him after he was found using a mobile phone during an exam.

PM Modi Calls For Unified Global Action Against Cyber Frauds And Deepfakes

PM Modi Calls For Unified Global Action Against Cyber Frauds And Deepfakes

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged for a global framework to combat cross-border cyber frauds and deepfakes, highlighting the need for governments, tech companies, telecom operators, and financial institutions to collaborate. Speaking at the India Mobile Congress 2026, Modi stressed that technology thrives on trust and that India is ready to share its expertise in tackling cyber threats. He also noted the rapid expansion of 5G and the success of digital governance initiatives like Direct Benefit Transfer.

I don't think I won a bronze, I lost the silver: Tejaswin Shankar

I don't think I won a bronze, I lost the silver: Tejaswin Shankar

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Tejaswin Shankar, India's national record holder in decathlon, secured a bronze medal at the Asian Games but expressed significant disappointment, stating he "lost the silver" rather than "won a bronze." He revealed his competitive drive, particularly against Japan's Yuma Muruyama, whom he beat in the final 1500m race. Shankar also discussed his demanding competition schedule and his strategy to achieve 8300 points for World Championships qualification, alongside his duties as a teaching assistant in the USA.

Why This CM Is Probing Lionel Messi!

Why This CM Is Probing Lionel Messi!

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

In 100 days in office, Chief Minister V D Satheesan has ordered five SITs. This would appear to be some kind of a record, points out Aditi Phadnis.

West Bengal Launches Quantum And Semiconductor Tech Section To Attract Investments

West Bengal Launches Quantum And Semiconductor Tech Section To Attract Investments

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

West Bengal has launched an Emerging Quantum and Semiconductor Technologies (EQST) section at CSIR-CGCRI to attract investments and position the state as a hub for next-generation technology. Minister Kalyan Chakraborti highlighted India's need to invest in these crucial sectors and outlined the state's plans to collaborate with institutions and leverage budget initiatives to foster research and start-ups.

Cambridge Report Urges Teacher Involvement In Shaping India's AI Education Policy

Cambridge Report Urges Teacher Involvement In Shaping India's AI Education Policy

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

A new report from Cambridge University Press & Assessment highlights the critical need for Indian policymakers to collaborate with teachers in developing AI education policies. The study emphasizes investing in teacher professional learning and involving educators and learners in the design and evaluation of AI tools to ensure policies are grounded in classroom realities and promote critical AI literacy.

Reforms Utsav To Showcase 1,300 Reforms

Reforms Utsav To Showcase 1,300 Reforms

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

The three-month long outreach will be closely monitored by senior government officials.

'SIR Is Bloodless Political Genocide'

'SIR Is Bloodless Political Genocide'

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

'93 lakhs deletions in Bengal, 96 lakhs in Tamil Nadu, 24 lakhs in Kerala, 77 lakhs in Gujarat, 45 lakhs in Madhya Pradesh, 44 lakhs in Rajasthan. 2.89 crores in Uttar Pradesh. Nearly 3 crores!'

Thane Celebrates Shooter Rudrankksh Patil's Asian Games Success

Thane Celebrates Shooter Rudrankksh Patil's Asian Games Success

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Indian sport shooter Rudrankksh Patil, a multiple medallist at the ongoing Asian Games, was given a grand civic reception in his hometown of Thane. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde praised his achievements, which include bronze and silver medals at the recent games, and highlighted his inspiring journey for young athletes. The article also notes his past and future successes, including a silver at the 2026 Asian Games.

Administrative Error Alleged In Bail For Tribal Land Accused

Administrative Error Alleged In Bail For Tribal Land Accused

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

The Surguja district administration has challenged a subordinate court's order granting bail to an accused in a case involving the alleged illegal transfer of tribal land. Collector Ajeet Vasant wrote to the Principal District and Sessions Judge, Ambikapur, alleging that the bail was granted without hearing the prosecution and that the case falls under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, requiring a Special Court. The accused, Azad Iraqi, is implicated in fabricating documents to mutate tribal land into his name.

IIT Delhi Breakthrough: India's First Indigenous Micro-GPU Designed

IIT Delhi Breakthrough: India's First Indigenous Micro-GPU Designed

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Researchers at IIT Delhi have successfully designed India's first working indigenous micro Graphics Processing Unit (GPU). This significant development aims to reduce the country's reliance on imported GPUs, which are crucial for AI, Machine Learning, and various embedded applications, and could help bridge the digital divide.

'Not appropriate': SC cancels JPC meet on simultaneous elections

'Not appropriate': SC cancels JPC meet on simultaneous elections

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on simultaneous elections had scheduled an "informal interaction" with Supreme Court judges, which was later cancelled by the apex court. The Supreme Court deemed the meeting inappropriate as the proposed constitutional amendment could become subject to judicial review. JPC Chairman PP Chaudhary defended the panel's initial decision, citing precedents, while DMK MP P Wilson, who mooted the idea, expressed disappointment and argued against the notion that such interactions violate separation of powers.

Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium Undergoes Major Facelift For International Football Fixtures

Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium Undergoes Major Facelift For International Football Fixtures

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

Kolkata's iconic Salt Lake Stadium is undergoing extensive renovations to prepare for upcoming international football matches featuring five-time world champions Brazil and two-time world champions Uruguay against India. The upgrades include fresh paint, renovated seating, improved spectator facilities, re-turfing of pitches, and enhanced security measures.

Pilibhit Court Directs FIR Against 10 Officials Over Alleged Assault On Women Protesters

Pilibhit Court Directs FIR Against 10 Officials Over Alleged Assault On Women Protesters

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

A special court in Pilibhit has ordered the registration of an FIR against 10 officials, including a sub-divisional magistrate and circle officer, following allegations of assault and misbehaviour with women protesting against liquor shops in a residential area. The court's directive came after the women's complaint was allegedly not registered by local police.

Heavy rain disrupts life across North India; six killed in UP

Heavy rain disrupts life across North India; six killed in UP

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

Heavy rainfall has severely impacted Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Uttarakhand, leading to casualties, widespread flooding, and significant disruptions. The Char Dham Yatra was suspended, flights were cancelled, and standing crops were damaged. Other regions like Himachal Pradesh, West Bengal, Rajasthan, and Delhi also experienced varied weather conditions, including snowfall and light rains.

Conflict Of Interest Allegations Rock Indian Shooting Coach Ahead Of Asian Games

Conflict Of Interest Allegations Rock Indian Shooting Coach Ahead Of Asian Games

Rediff.com27 Sep 2026

A national shotgun coach, involved in India's Asian Games preparations, is under scrutiny by the Sports Authority of India (SAI) for alleged conflict of interest. The complaint, filed by an unsuccessful bidder, concerns the coach reportedly seeking a contract to build a shooting range in Chennai. This probe could impact the coach's participation in the upcoming Asian Games, while the NRAI states it has no knowledge of such activities.

Woman judge, 32, suffers heart attack while working in court

Woman judge, 32, suffers heart attack while working in court

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

An Additional Civil Judge in Etah, Aarti Maurya, suffered a heart attack while on duty at the court premises and was subsequently referred to a higher medical centre for advanced treatment.

Crime Branch takes over probe into IIT-Bombay student suicide

Crime Branch takes over probe into IIT-Bombay student suicide

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

The Mumbai Police has transferred the alleged suicide case of a second-year IIT Bombay BTech student to the Crime Branch after his father filed a complaint alleging casteist slurs and harassment by Professor Suryanarayan Dulla, who was also named in an FIR.

Bihar floods: More than 49 lakh hit in 15 districts as rivers swell

Bihar floods: More than 49 lakh hit in 15 districts as rivers swell

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Heavy rainfall and swollen rivers have led to severe flooding in 15 districts of Bihar, affecting over 49 lakh people. Major rivers like the Ganga and Kosi are flowing above danger levels, prompting the deployment of disaster response teams and the establishment of relief camps and community kitchens for those displaced.

Rs 3,000 cr drugs seized from Iranian boat near Lakshdweep; 5 Pakistanis held

Rs 3,000 cr drugs seized from Iranian boat near Lakshdweep; 5 Pakistanis held

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

The Indian Coast Guard, in a joint operation with the Gujarat ATS, seized 526 kilograms of methamphetamine and heroin valued at over Rs 3,000 crore from an Iranian boat in the Arabian Sea near Lakshadweep. Five Pakistani nationals operating the vessel were detained, and preliminary investigations reveal a transnational smuggling network aiming to deliver the consignment to Tamil Nadu and Punjab.

Flyers recall how Capt Machchhar fought back despite stabbing

Flyers recall how Capt Machchhar fought back despite stabbing

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

An Indian pilot and several passengers are being hailed as heroes after thwarting a co-pilot's alleged attempt to crash a flydubai flight en route to Tel Aviv. The incident involved a mid-air struggle, a rapid descent, and an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia, with international leaders praising the bravery that saved 174 lives.

4th coal mine near MP's tiger corridor gets green nod

4th coal mine near MP's tiger corridor gets green nod

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

The Union environment ministry's expert panel has approved a fourth underground coal mining project in Madhya Pradesh's Umaria district, close to the vital Bandhavgarh-Achanakmar tiger corridor. These clearances, granted since July, raise concerns about biodiversity and tiger movement, despite conditions for wildlife conservation plans and compensatory afforestation. The projects involve significant forest land diversion and pose risks like land subsidence and habitat disturbance for Schedule-I species.

Task Force Formed To Revive Formula 1 In India By 2028

Task Force Formed To Revive Formula 1 In India By 2028

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has announced the formation of a 10-member Task Force, chaired by Yugal Kishore Joshi, to explore the revival of Formula 1 in India. The committee will assess challenges, identify policy interventions, and develop a roadmap to potentially host a race by 2028, addressing issues that led to its discontinuation after 2013.

Sena-UBT leader murder: 2 held, kin claim political rivalry

Sena-UBT leader murder: 2 held, kin claim political rivalry

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Shiv Sena (UBT) functionary Pradeep Purnekar was brutally murdered in Thane, Maharashtra, leading to one arrest and one detention. The incident has sparked widespread protests, with party leaders like Aaditya Thackeray and Sanjay Raut alleging political rivalry and demanding further arrests, including a former mayor and her husband. Police are investigating all potential angles, including personal enmity and Purnekar's activism against the builder lobby and drug networks.

El Nio Drags Monsoon To 11-Year Low

El Nio Drags Monsoon To 11-Year Low

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

This was the fourth-lowest rainfall since 2001 and the 13th lowest since 1901, under the impact of El NiƱo.

Jharkhand minister's daughter among 4 killed as car rams truck

Jharkhand minister's daughter among 4 killed as car rams truck

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

Trisha, daughter of Jharkhand Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Dipika Pandey Singh, was among four people killed when their car rammed into a stationary truck on Marine Drive Road in Jamshedpur. The accident occurred in the early hours, also claiming the lives of Sarthak Agarwal, Naman Gupta, and Vanshika Khandelwal.

Opposition MPs Did Not Back UPI MDR, Says Congress

Opposition MPs Did Not Back UPI MDR, Says Congress

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

The Congress party has strongly refuted claims by Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance Chairperson Bhartruhari Mahtab that opposition MPs supported levying a Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions. Congress MP Manish Tewari termed Mahtab's remarks "erroneous and fallacious," clarifying that the committee's recommendation was to "explore" revenue models, not to implement MDR. The party accused Mahtab of misleading due to his recent switch to the BJP.

IIT Indore Develops AI Tool To Correct Gender Bias In Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati Translations

IIT Indore Develops AI Tool To Correct Gender Bias In Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati Translations

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Researchers at IIT Indore have developed HGAST, an AI tool designed to correct gender-specific errors in translations from English to Hindi, Marathi, and Gujarati. The tool acts as a correction layer, identifying and rectifying masculine verb forms often used by AI systems when translating female speech, significantly improving accuracy for female speakers without retraining existing models.

AI Can Disrupt Jobs, Not Doom Humanity

AI Can Disrupt Jobs, Not Doom Humanity

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

'My biggest fear about AI is that humans are going to rush to deploy it before AI is ready.'

Mr Singh, get off our roads: US advt on deportation sparks row

Mr Singh, get off our roads: US advt on deportation sparks row

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

The US Department of Homeland Security faced widespread criticism for an AI-generated advertisement featuring a brown-bearded man identified as "Mr Singh" in a campaign against unlicensed commercial drivers. Advocacy groups, including the Hindu American Foundation and Sikh Coalition, condemned the ad as "racist" and "anti-American" for its perceived targeting and profiling of Sikh and Hindu communities.