News for 'State Department'

Gujarat Jail Staff To Receive Mental Health Training

Gujarat Jail Staff To Receive Mental Health Training

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

A week-long mental health training programme, 'Psychological Risk Assessment, Health Awareness and Resilience' (PRAHARI), has commenced for jail staff at Sabarmati Central Jail in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The initiative aims to equip prison personnel with skills to identify and manage mental health risks among inmates and to support their own mental well-being.

'Unlawful': US court strikes down Trump's $100,000 H-1B visa fee

'Unlawful': US court strikes down Trump's $100,000 H-1B visa fee

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

A US federal judge has ruled that the USD 100,000 fee imposed by former President Donald Trump for H-1B visa applications was unlawful, as it lacked congressional approval. The ruling states the fee was a tax, exceeding the administration's authority and impacting skilled global talent.

US arrests relatives of slain Iranian general Qasem Soleimani

US arrests relatives of slain Iranian general Qasem Soleimani

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

Two family members of Qassem Soleimani, the Iranian general killed in a US strike in 2020, have been arrested in the United States after their residency permits were rescinded.

HimClimX: New AI Platform For Himalayan Climate Insights

HimClimX: New AI Platform For Himalayan Climate Insights

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

BIT Mesra has launched 'HimClimX', an AI-powered platform designed for Himalayan climate intelligence and visualisation. It integrates over a century of climate data to offer trend analysis, anomaly detection, spatial visualisation, impact assessment, and AI-driven forecasting for the Himalayan region.

Forest Employee Killed In Haldwani After Drunken Argument

Forest Employee Killed In Haldwani After Drunken Argument

Rediff.com23 May 2026

A forest department employee was allegedly hacked to death with an axe in the Tanda forest in Haldwani following an argument with his associate, police said.

What Modi Govt Plans To Do About Illegal Immigration

What Modi Govt Plans To Do About Illegal Immigration

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

The NDA government has gradually nuanced its position on the issue of demographic challenge.

'This is not monarchy': Bihar CM's jibe at Rabri over govt bungalow

'This is not monarchy': Bihar CM's jibe at Rabri over govt bungalow

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary criticised the RJD regarding the allotment of government bungalows, referencing the dispute over Rabri Devi's residence.

Maharashtra Cyber Nabs Telegram Seller In Child Exploitation Case

Maharashtra Cyber Nabs Telegram Seller In Child Exploitation Case

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Maharashtra Cyber has arrested a Telegram-based seller, Adiraj Rajendra Bait, for allegedly dealing in Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse Material (CSEAM). The arrest followed an extensive investigation involving digital ecosystem monitoring, technical verification, and forensic analysis of the accused's mobile phone.

'Vijay's Government Will Be Pulled Down By December 2027'

'Vijay's Government Will Be Pulled Down By December 2027'

Rediff.com7 days ago

'You will have the President's rule for 7 to 8 months, And Annamalai will be the hero in those 7 months.'

Delhi CM Orders Redevelopment Plan For Burari DTO

Delhi CM Orders Redevelopment Plan For Burari DTO

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has ordered officials to prepare a redevelopment plan for the Burari district transport office (DTO) following complaints about inadequate facilities.

Two Arrested With Meth Tablets In Mizoram

Two Arrested With Meth Tablets In Mizoram

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Two individuals have been arrested in Mizoram's Lawngtlai district after authorities seized over 9 kg of methamphetamine tablets near the Myanmar border.

St Stephen's Appoints New Principal Despite University Objections

St Stephen's Appoints New Principal Despite University Objections

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Susan Elias has taken charge as the new principal of St. Stephen's College despite objections from Delhi University, marking a new chapter in the ongoing dispute between the college and the university.

Make Iran pay: US weighs using frozen assets for Gulf reconstruction

Make Iran pay: US weighs using frozen assets for Gulf reconstruction

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

A source familiar with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's thinking revealed on Saturday that the department "intends to utilise all available authorities to make Iranian assets accessible for rebuilding and repair efforts related to any future damage inflicted by Iran."

What Jawaharlal Nehru Did for India

What Jawaharlal Nehru Did for India

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Through his commitment to democratic norms, debate, dissent and constitutionalism, Jawaharlal Nehru helped ensure that parliamentary democracy took deep root in independent India. Utkarsh Mishra evaluates Nehru's 17 years as India's first prime minister, examining his role in nation-building, democratic institution-building, economic planning, scientific advancement and foreign policy.

Spurious Liquor Claims 14 Lives In Pune, Arrests Made

Spurious Liquor Claims 14 Lives In Pune, Arrests Made

Rediff.com29 May 2026

At least 14 people have died in Pune after consuming suspected spurious liquor. Police have arrested eight individuals, including a key bootlegger, and the investigation has been transferred to the CID. The incident has sparked outrage and raised concerns about the illegal liquor trade.

Centre To Release Funds To Bolster Mizoram's Power Sector

Centre To Release Funds To Bolster Mizoram's Power Sector

Rediff.com30 May 2026

Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar announced the Centre's readiness to release Rs 6 crore to Mizoram to strengthen its power sector. The announcement came during a meeting with BJP leaders in Aizawl, where issues concerning Mizoram, including pending central funds and housing schemes, were discussed.

Haryana Groom Lands In Jail For Reckless SUV Stunts During Wedding Procession

Haryana Groom Lands In Jail For Reckless SUV Stunts During Wedding Procession

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

A groom and three others were arrested in Haryana's Nuh district for allegedly performing dangerous stunts on SUVs while on their way to a wedding venue. The incident, captured on video, involved individuals standing and sitting on moving vehicle roofs, prompting police action and a stern warning against reckless driving during celebrations.

Maharashtra plans Devabhau, Chhava taxis to take on Uber/Ola, activists cry foul

Maharashtra plans Devabhau, Chhava taxis to take on Uber/Ola, activists cry foul

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Maharashtra BJP MLC Pravin Darekar announced the launch of 'Devabhau' and 'Chhava' cooperative taxi services in Mumbai, aiming to counter private aggregators and benefit drivers directly, but the scheme has drawn sharp criticism from social activist Anjali Damania and the Opposition Congress over the proposed use of Mumbai Bank funds and its political branding.

Spurious Liquor Claims Lives In Pune: Arrests Made

Spurious Liquor Claims Lives In Pune: Arrests Made

Rediff.com29 May 2026

At least 13 people have died in Pune after consuming suspected spurious liquor, leading to multiple arrests and a high-level investigation.

LDF govt left Rs 5 lakh cr liabilities, says Kerala CM on tabling white paper

LDF govt left Rs 5 lakh cr liabilities, says Kerala CM on tabling white paper

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan on Thursday hit out at the previous Left Democratic Front government, claiming that it had left behind huge liabilities, including Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board borrowings, amounting to Rs 5.07 lakh crore.

Police File 819-Page Chargesheet In Sulur Child Murder

Police File 819-Page Chargesheet In Sulur Child Murder

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Police in Coimbatore have filed an 819-page chargesheet against two men, K Karthi and R Mohan, in connection with the abduction, sexual assault, and murder of a 10-year-old girl in Sulur. The investigation was completed in a record 18 days, relying on scientific evidence and eyewitness testimonies, and the prosecution expects an expedited trial.

Maharashtra To Invoke MCOCA Against Cattle Smugglers

Maharashtra To Invoke MCOCA Against Cattle Smugglers

Rediff.com21 May 2026

The Maharashtra government has issued a circular directing authorities to invoke the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) against individuals, gangs, and organisations repeatedly involved in cattle smuggling.

Odisha Government Honours Para Archer Payal Nag For World Series Win

Odisha Government Honours Para Archer Payal Nag For World Series Win

Rediff.com29 May 2026

The Odisha government felicitated para archer Payal Nag for winning two gold medals at the World Para Archery Series 2026 in Bangkok and qualifying for the Para Asian Games. She received a cash award and funds for sports equipment.

Red alert issued as UP under severe heatwave; Banda boils at 47.6 degrees C

Red alert issued as UP under severe heatwave; Banda boils at 47.6 degrees C

Rediff.com22 May 2026

Uttar Pradesh is experiencing an intense heatwave, with Banda recording the highest temperature at 47.6 degrees Celsius. The IMD has issued a 'Red Colour Warning' for severe heatwave conditions. The extreme heat is disrupting daily life and economic activity, prompting government action to prevent heat-related illnesses.

2 fires in Noida: High-rise evacuated, no injuries reported

2 fires in Noida: High-rise evacuated, no injuries reported

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

Two separate fire incidents occurred in Noida on Friday morning, one in a 12th-floor flat of a high-rise residential society in Sector 75, leading to a full evacuation, and another in a building in Sector 52. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has taken cognisance of the incidents, directing immediate relief and rescue operations. No casualties or injuries have been reported in either incident, and the causes are under investigation.

US navy hits sanctioned tanker off Oman, all 24 Indians safe

US navy hits sanctioned tanker off Oman, all 24 Indians safe

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

An oil tanker carrying 24 Indian seafarers reported a fire off the coast of Oman, with all crew members confirmed safe. The incident occurred amidst renewed hostilities between Israel and Iran, who exchanged attacks on petrochemical facilities.

Odisha CM Under Fire For Alleged Rise In Police Brutality

Odisha CM Under Fire For Alleged Rise In Police Brutality

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Opposition parties in Odisha, BJD and Congress, have criticised Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, accusing him of a surge in police brutality. The allegations stem from a custodial death in Ganjam district and other instances of alleged police misconduct. The BJP has defended the government, stating that prompt action has been taken in response to these cases.

Rajasthan ACB Nabs Engineer, Middleman In Bribe Case

Rajasthan ACB Nabs Engineer, Middleman In Bribe Case

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

The Rajasthan Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) arrested a JVVNL assistant engineer, Navneet Singh Gurjar, and a middleman, Mohammad Shazim, in Tonk for allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 20,000. The bribe was demanded to return a removed electricity meter and prevent further action.

Pak steps up US-Iran peace push with third ministerial visit to Tehran

Pak steps up US-Iran peace push with third ministerial visit to Tehran

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited Tehran for the third time recently to mediate peace amidst rising tensions between the US and Iran. Pakistan is actively leading diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict in West Asia, which has impacted global energy markets and trade.

MBBS student faces probe over remarks at comedy show

MBBS student faces probe over remarks at comedy show

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Mumbai's civic-run KEM Hospital has initiated a two-member committee probe into controversial remarks made by MBBS student Sejal Pawar regarding male cadavers during a stand-up comedy show, which the hospital dean deemed 'unacceptable'.

30 Indian truck drivers arrested for living illegally in US, to be deported

30 Indian truck drivers arrested for living illegally in US, to be deported

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

About 30 Indian nationals living illegally in the US and working as commercial truck drivers have been arrested and will be deported as part of 'Operation Checkmate'.

Scorching days, restless nights: India battles intense heatwave

Scorching days, restless nights: India battles intense heatwave

Rediff.com23 May 2026

Several parts of India are experiencing a severe heatwave, with temperatures soaring past 44 degrees Celsius. States are issuing alerts and taking measures to protect people and animals from the extreme conditions.

Xi Jinping lands in North Korea to deepen ties, Kim receives him at airport

Xi Jinping lands in North Korea to deepen ties, Kim receives him at airport

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in Pyongyang for his first official visit in seven years, meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to reaffirm their long-standing friendship and pledge further development of bilateral relations amidst Pyongyang's deepening military ties with Moscow and China's assertions against Japan's 'new militarism'.

US Navy attacked 3 merchant ships, India lodges strong protest

US Navy attacked 3 merchant ships, India lodges strong protest

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

India has strongly protested to the United States after three merchant ships with Indian crew members were attacked by the American military off the coast of Oman, resulting in the deaths of three Indian nationals.

5 Crore Silver Consignment Seized At Rajkot Airport

5 Crore Silver Consignment Seized At Rajkot Airport

Rediff.com17 May 2026

Gujarat ATS intercepts a large silver consignment worth 5 crore at Rajkot Airport, suspecting tax evasion.

CID notice to Abhishek over TMC MLAs' complaint: Suvendu on signature row

CID notice to Abhishek over TMC MLAs' complaint: Suvendu on signature row

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari denies political vendetta in the CID's investigation into alleged signature forgery by TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee, following complaints from within his own party.

Centre turns down Karnataka's hate speech bill, says existing laws adequate

Centre turns down Karnataka's hate speech bill, says existing laws adequate

Rediff.com26 May 2026

The bill was passed by both houses of the state legislature during the winter session in Belagavi that concluded on December 19 last year, despite strong opposition from the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Janata Dal-Secular.

Gurugram Clinic Run By Fake Doctor Busted

Gurugram Clinic Run By Fake Doctor Busted

Rediff.com27 May 2026

A man was arrested in Gurugram for allegedly running a fake clinic and treating patients without a medical degree for six years.

Pune hooch tragedy claims 14 lives, 8 held; CID to probe case

Pune hooch tragedy claims 14 lives, 8 held; CID to probe case

Rediff.com29 May 2026

At least 12 people have died in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad after consuming suspected spurious liquor. Police have arrested eight individuals, including a key bootlegger, and investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the illegal operation.

Meghalaya Government To Examine Limestone Mining Objections

Meghalaya Government To Examine Limestone Mining Objections

Rediff.com18 May 2026

Meghalaya's Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar has announced that the state government will review objections raised by pressure groups and villagers regarding the proposed limestone mining project in Jaintia Hills district.