News for 'State Department'

Court prevents temple from appyling chemical coating on idol

Court prevents temple from appyling chemical coating on idol

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

A Solapur court has issued a temporary injunction preventing the Pandharpur temple committee from applying a chemical protective coating on the idol of Lord Vitthal. The decision came after devotees argued that modern chemicals violate religious traditions, while the committee cited preservation needs ahead of the Ashadi Ekadashi pilgrimage. The court emphasised the idol's ownership by devotees and the lack of immediate emergency for the controversial coating.

FIFA To Hear Iran's Complaint Over US World Cup Travel Rules

FIFA To Hear Iran's Complaint Over US World Cup Travel Rules

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

The Iranian football team is facing significant travel restrictions in the US during the World Cup, requiring them to enter and leave within 24 hours of matches. This has led the Football Federation of Iran to lodge a formal complaint with FIFA, citing concerns over fair play and technical preparation, while US authorities maintain the measures are for safety and security.

91 Life Convicts Released From Telangana Prisons

91 Life Convicts Released From Telangana Prisons

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

The Telangana Prisons and Correctional Services Department facilitated the release of 91 life convicts who were granted special remission by the state government. The released prisoners include 85 men and six women, all of whom were found eligible for remission under the government's prescribed guidelines.

Cape Verde keeper Vozinha set for emotional World Cup reunion with mom

Cape Verde keeper Vozinha set for emotional World Cup reunion with mom

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Cape Verde's heroic goalkeeper Vozinha will have his mother in the stands when he next takes to the pitch at the World Cup on Sunday, after US officials moved to ensure she could obtain a visa in time.

70% children in India missed school due to extreme heat during May-June: Report

70% children in India missed school due to extreme heat during May-June: Report

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

A new report by child rights NGO CRY reveals that nearly seven in every 10 school-going children across India missed school or routine activities from May to June this year due to extreme heat, with 76 per cent reporting negative impacts on their ability to focus on studies.

Rubio meets Modi, discusses West Asia, extends Trump's invitation to visit US

Rubio meets Modi, discusses West Asia, extends Trump's invitation to visit US

Rediff.com23 May 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed various aspects of India-US bilateral ties, focusing on defence, trade, energy, and technology. Rubio extended an invitation from President Donald Trump for PM Modi to visit the US.

Kolkata warehouse tragedy: Suvendu orders audit of all TMC-era projects

Kolkata warehouse tragedy: Suvendu orders audit of all TMC-era projects

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

A committee constituted by the West Bengal government to carry out a special audit of sanctioned plans for high-rise residential and commercial buildings in and around the city will meet on Friday to begin the exercise, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said.

Odisha changes English spellings of 64 places to match Odia phonetics

Odisha changes English spellings of 64 places to match Odia phonetics

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

The Odisha government has officially changed the English spellings of 64 places, including major cities like Cuttack (now Kataka) and Balasore (now Baleshwar), to align with Odia phonetics. This move aims to preserve the state's linguistic and cultural identity by correcting colonial-era anglicised names and standardising official records.

CBI Uncovers Rs 661 Crore Government Funds Siphoning Scam

CBI Uncovers Rs 661 Crore Government Funds Siphoning Scam

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

The CBI has conducted searches across Chandigarh, Panchkula, and Delhi-NCR in connection with an alleged Rs 661 crore fraud involving the siphoning of government funds from Haryana government departments and the Chandigarh administration. The probe targets public servants, bank officials, and a private consultancy, with a chargesheet already filed against some accused.

10 AI Careers For Fresh Graduates

10 AI Careers For Fresh Graduates

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Dr Lovi Raj Gupta, pro vice-chancellor, Lovely Professional University, explains how aspiring professionals can equip themselves for a competitive AI-driven job market.

India Post's Biggest Makeover in 150 Years

India Post's Biggest Makeover in 150 Years

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

India Post is reinventing itself from a traditional mail service into a modern logistics, e-commerce, and real estate powerhouse. Several post offices situated inside major university campuses, called Gen Z post offices, have received a facelift, with cafe-like decor and wi-fi availability.

Mizoram's 'Red Card' Scheme To Drink Alcohol

Mizoram's 'Red Card' Scheme To Drink Alcohol

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

Mizoram has long maintained one of the country's strictest prohibition regimes.

'No one will be spared': Adhikari blames ex-mayor Hakim for warehouse collapse

'No one will be spared': Adhikari blames ex-mayor Hakim for warehouse collapse

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has alleged that the building plan for the collapsed Kolkata warehouse, which killed 10 people, was approved despite a faulty design and bears the signature of former mayor and TMC leader Firhad Hakim. Adhikari announced Rs 10 lakh compensation for the deceased's families and Rs 1 lakh for the injured, while also suspending all construction work in the Kolkata Metropolitan Area for four weeks for an audit of sanctioned plans.

Monsoon Activity Brings Relief To Uttar Pradesh

Monsoon Activity Brings Relief To Uttar Pradesh

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Several districts in Uttar Pradesh experienced rainfall, with Kanpur City recording the highest precipitation. The India Meteorological Department reported a drop in temperatures across the state, including Lucknow, and issued a forecast for continued rain in western UP.

Major Heroin Haul: Nine Arrested In Mizoram Drug Bust

Major Heroin Haul: Nine Arrested In Mizoram Drug Bust

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Nine individuals from Manipur were arrested in Mizoram's Aizawl district with 740 gm of heroin, seized during a joint operation by the Excise and Narcotics Department, Assam Rifles, and CYMA. The drugs were found concealed in soap cases, and the accused have been booked under the NDPS Act.

Why Banks Prefers Retired Bureaucrats...

Why Banks Prefers Retired Bureaucrats...

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

It is because dealing with a regulatory system that is largely headed by retired IAS officers then becomes relatively easy, points out A K Bhattacharya.

Haryana Strengthens Sports Coaching With 33 New Appointments

Haryana Strengthens Sports Coaching With 33 New Appointments

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Haryana Sports Minister Gaurav Gautam announced that the state has appointed 33 sportspersons to coaching positions within the last month. These new coaches are expected to play a crucial role in identifying and nurturing grassroots talent to prepare athletes for future international competitions, including the 2036 Olympics. The state also highlighted its sports policy, which includes job reservations for outstanding sportspersons.

US Paves Way For Return Of Supersonic Air Travel

US Paves Way For Return Of Supersonic Air Travel

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

The US Department of Transportation has proposed new rules to reverse a five-decade ban on overland supersonic flights, driven by advancements in quiet supersonic technology like NASA's X-59 aircraft. This move aims to enable a new era of faster air travel while addressing noise concerns, with final rules expected by mid-2027.

Arunachal flood: Landslides hinder search for missing persons

Arunachal flood: Landslides hinder search for missing persons

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

An IAF helicopter has been deployed to assist in the search and rescue of four people missing after flash floods and landslides in Arunachal Pradesh's Keyi Panyor district. Incessant rain has cut off six districts, damaged homes, and injured 17, with one fatality reported. Efforts are also underway to restore crucial road connectivity.

Gurugram Police SHO Transferred After Head Constable Caught In Bribe Scandal

Gurugram Police SHO Transferred After Head Constable Caught In Bribe Scandal

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

A Head Constable at Manesar Women Police Station was caught accepting a Rs 50,000 bribe by the Anti-Corruption Bureau, leading to the immediate transfer of the station's SHO and a departmental inquiry for lack of supervision.

5 dead, 20 rescued as under-construction warehouse collapses in Kolkata

5 dead, 20 rescued as under-construction warehouse collapses in Kolkata

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

A three-storey under-construction warehouse in Kolkata's Taratala area collapsed, killing three people and trapping several others. Rescue operations are ongoing, with 18 individuals already saved, amid allegations of substandard construction materials and illegal building practices.

After dry June, IMD predicts below-normal rainfall in July

After dry June, IMD predicts below-normal rainfall in July

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

The monthly average rainfall over India is expected to be below normal during July, the India Meteorological Department said on Tuesday in its monthly forecast.

Nagaland postpones yoga day events to Monday after widespread opposition

Nagaland postpones yoga day events to Monday after widespread opposition

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

The Nagaland government has postponed its official International Day of Yoga programme from Sunday to Monday following significant opposition from student bodies, tribal organisations, churches, and political groups. These groups cited religious sentiments in the Christian-majority state against holding the event on a Sunday.

Father-Daughter Duo Busted In Rs 5.3 Crore Government Job Scam

Father-Daughter Duo Busted In Rs 5.3 Crore Government Job Scam

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

A father and daughter have been arrested in Bengaluru for allegedly defrauding over 40 job seekers of more than Rs 5.30 crore by promising them government jobs through fake connections and training centres.

TN YouTuber detained for criticising CM Joseph Vijay

TN YouTuber detained for criticising CM Joseph Vijay

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Well-known YouTuber Maridhas was detained by a special team of the Chennai City Police for allegedly posting critical videos targeting the TVK government, Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, and several state ministers. He was apprehended in Madurai and is being brought to Chennai for further interrogation.

CBI Uncovers Rs 657 Crore Fraud In Haryana And Chandigarh Government Funds

CBI Uncovers Rs 657 Crore Fraud In Haryana And Chandigarh Government Funds

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

The CBI has filed two chargesheets in connection with the siphoning of Rs 657 crore from Haryana government and Chandigarh Smart City Limited funds held at IDFC First Bank. The fraud involved fictitious transactions, shell entities, and alleged gold purchases and real estate investments, with IDFC First Bank having already reimbursed the Haryana government.

FIFA World Cup: US Says Iran Travel Restrictions Stay In Place

FIFA World Cup: US Says Iran Travel Restrictions Stay In Place

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House Task Force for the World Cup, confirmed that the US will continue to assess Iran's travel arrangements for the tournament despite their complaints about restrictions.

US Embassy in Baghdad warns of possible attack within 48 hours

US Embassy in Baghdad warns of possible attack within 48 hours

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

In a post on X, the embassy said such groups 'may intend to conduct attacks in central Baghdad in the next 24-48 hours', raising concerns over the safety of US citizens and installations in Iraq.

Cong hints at equal seat-sharing with SP in 2027 UP assembly polls

Cong hints at equal seat-sharing with SP in 2027 UP assembly polls

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Newly-appointed Uttar Pradesh Congress in-charge Rajendra Pal Gautam on Wednesday hinted at an equal seat-sharing arrangement with the Samajwadi Party for the 2027 Uttar Pradesh assembly elections.

New ICAR-CIFT Technology Revolutionises Live Fish Transport

New ICAR-CIFT Technology Revolutionises Live Fish Transport

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

The ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (ICAR-CIFT) has secured an Indian patent for a novel technology designed to make live fish and aquatic animal transport safer and more efficient without the use of chemicals. This innovative system employs controlled hypothermic anaesthetisation, gradually cooling aquatic animals to prevent shock and improve survival rates during transit, offering a practical and affordable solution for the seafood industry.

How Nykaa Is Revolutionising Beauty And Fashion Shopping With OpenAI

How Nykaa Is Revolutionising Beauty And Fashion Shopping With OpenAI

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Beauty and lifestyle retailer Nykaa has announced a multi-year collaboration with OpenAI to integrate AI-driven shopping experiences through ChatGPT. This partnership will allow users to receive conversational recommendations for beauty and fashion products, with Nykaa fulfilling these queries. Additionally, OpenAI's technologies will be deployed across Nykaa's internal operations to boost productivity.

Haryana Revamps Sports Policy For Olympic Glory And Athlete Welfare

Haryana Revamps Sports Policy For Olympic Glory And Athlete Welfare

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Haryana is revamping its 2015 Sports Policy to focus on long-term talent development for future Olympians, moving beyond just prize money and jobs. Key initiatives include 'Mission Olympics-2036 Vijayee Bhavah' for young athletes and the 'Khelo Haryana App' for integrated athlete services. The state aims to strengthen athlete welfare, infrastructure, and institutional support.

How AI Is Transforming Wildlife Protection In Rajasthan

How AI Is Transforming Wildlife Protection In Rajasthan

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

Rajasthan's forest department is implementing an AI-based surveillance system across its wildlife sanctuaries to enhance anti-poaching efforts and monitor animal movement. The system, utilising thermal cameras, drones, and advanced software, provides 24x7 monitoring, helps prevent human-wildlife conflict through real-time alerts, and strengthens the fight against wildlife crime. Installations are being rolled out in phases across key protected areas, with advanced cameras capable of identifying individual animals and suspicious activities.

US Files Charges Against Indian Man In 2017 Murder Case

US Files Charges Against Indian Man In 2017 Murder Case

Rediff.com20 May 2026

The US has announced federal charges against Nazeer Hameed, an Indian national, for his alleged involvement in the 2017 murder of Sasikala Narra and her six-year-old son Anish Narra in Maple Shade, New Jersey. Hameed fled to India after the murders and now faces charges for unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.

Noida techie death: Irrigation department raised flag in 2023

Noida techie death: Irrigation department raised flag in 2023

Rediff.com20 Jan 2026

A software engineer's death in Noida after his car plunged into a water-filled pit has sparked allegations of negligence against local authorities. An Irrigation Department letter warning about the need for head regulators to manage water accumulation in the area was allegedly ignored.

Mumbai records over 70 mm rain in 5 hours, IMD warns of more showers

Mumbai records over 70 mm rain in 5 hours, IMD warns of more showers

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Mumbai is experiencing intense monsoon activity, with over 100 mm of rainfall recorded in 24 hours, leading to widespread waterlogging and two tragic rain-related deaths, as the India Meteorological Department forecasts continued heavy to very heavy showers and gusty winds.

Rats, cockroaches found in 6 Mumbai restaurants, FDA suspends licences

Rats, cockroaches found in 6 Mumbai restaurants, FDA suspends licences

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the food business licences of six restaurants and eateries in Mumbai, including a posh establishment in Nariman Point. The action followed raids that uncovered unhygienic kitchens, expired stock, misbranded products, and pest infestations. The FDA also seized banned food items and made arrests during a wider statewide enforcement drive, vowing continued strict action.

China's submarine missile test rattles Pacific; Australia, Japan protest

China's submarine missile test rattles Pacific; Australia, Japan protest

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

China on Monday successfully test-fired a long-range strategic missile from one of its nuclear-powered submarines in the Pacific Ocean, drawing sharp reactions from Japan and Australia.

TN anti-corruption body books former Stalin minister Velu in road scam

TN anti-corruption body books former Stalin minister Velu in road scam

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

The Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) has registered a case against former Tamil Nadu Highways Minister E V Velu, nine officials, and a private firm in connection with an alleged multi-crore road construction scam. The case involves fraudulent payments for unexecuted works in Karur and Erode districts, prompting political reactions from DMK Chief M K Stalin.

Kerala To Inspect Eateries Amid Rising Infectious Diseases

Kerala To Inspect Eateries Amid Rising Infectious Diseases

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Kerala's Health Minister K Muraleedharan has announced increased inspections of eateries across the state due to a rise in infectious diseases. The Food Safety Department has been directed to conduct searches, and licences will be revoked for any violations of food safety norms.