News for 'State for External'

Modi under Cong fire over US statements after killing of Indian seafarers

Modi under Cong fire over US statements after killing of Indian seafarers

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

The Congress on Sunday lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the US' statements after three Indian sailors were killed in American attacks on ships, with party leader Rahul Gandhi saying the "compromised PM" listens "like an obedient servant" and "complies with the orders".

Modi to meet Trump in France?

Modi to meet Trump in France?

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

India and the US are reportedly exploring a potential meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the G7 summit in France next week, aiming to rebuild bilateral ties after recent tensions.

Iran attacked 3 ships with Indians, alleges Trump; denies peace pact

Iran attacked 3 ships with Indians, alleges Trump; denies peace pact

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Trump further alleged that Iran was behind the attacks on three vessels carrying Indian seafarers near the Hormuz Strait, which resulted in the deaths of three, despite the US Central Command having confirmed that the strikes were carried out by American naval forces, calling the incident "totally unacceptable."

KEM student sent on leave over remarks at Pranit More's show

KEM student sent on leave over remarks at Pranit More's show

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Mumbai's KEM Hospital has placed MBBS student Sejal Pawar on compulsory leave for 15 days following her controversial remarks about male cadavers during a stand-up comedy show. The hospital has initiated a detailed inquiry, forming a five-member committee to investigate the matter, which sparked widespread social media outrage.

Another arrest made in Ayush Malik conversion case

Another arrest made in Ayush Malik conversion case

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

Police in Shamli, Uttar Pradesh, have made another arrest in an alleged unlawful religious conversion case, recovering a 'nikahnama' from the accused. The case involves Ayush Malik, who his father claims was forcibly converted, but Ayush himself states his conversion to Islam was voluntary. Legal action has been initiated against nine people, and Hindu organisations are demanding strict measures.

Modi, Trump share warm meeting at G7 amid strained ties

Modi, Trump share warm meeting at G7 amid strained ties

Rediff.com7 days ago

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump exchanged pleasantries and held a brief conversation at the G7 summit, their first in-person encounter in 16 months, setting the stage for high-stakes bilateral talks amidst continuing strain in India-US relations.

Modi-Trump G7 meeting to focus on trade deal, strategic ties

Modi-Trump G7 meeting to focus on trade deal, strategic ties

Rediff.com7 days ago

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump are set to hold comprehensive talks focusing on a bilateral trade deal, defence cooperation, and energy and critical minerals sectors during the G7 summit in Evian-les-Bains, France.

India-US ties momentum intact, will emerge stronger in future: Rubio

India-US ties momentum intact, will emerge stronger in future: Rubio

Rediff.com24 May 2026

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says relations between India and the US have not lost momentum and are set to strengthen, with hopes for a trade deal soon.

Canada, UAE Express Grief Over Deadly Delhi Fire

Canada, UAE Express Grief Over Deadly Delhi Fire

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Canada and the UAE have extended their condolences following a devastating fire in New Delhi that claimed 21 lives, including 12 foreign nationals. India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar confirmed that the Ministry is coordinating with concerned embassies to provide necessary assistance to those affected.

BJP eyeing 2/3rd majority to end reservations: Jairam Ramesh

BJP eyeing 2/3rd majority to end reservations: Jairam Ramesh

Rediff.com2 hours ago

Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh has alleged that the BJP's "real and ultimate target" in seeking a two-thirds majority in the Lok Sabha is to amend the Constitution to end reservation, rather than genuinely implement women's reservation.

Someone Else Owns India's Off Switch

Someone Else Owns India's Off Switch

Rediff.com7 days ago

A sovereign cloud, our own DNS root and Root CA, a defence-led research base that builds for keeps, and a real national cybersecurity strategy that outlives electoral cycles are not vanity projects. They are the difference between a nation that can be switched off and one that cannot, points out Venkata Satish Guttula.

India Urges End To Violence After Kuwait Airport Attack Kills Indian National

India Urges End To Violence After Kuwait Airport Attack Kills Indian National

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

India has condemned an attack on Kuwait International Airport, which resulted in the death of one Indian national and injuries to several others. The Ministry of External Affairs reiterated its call for an end to targeting civilian populations and infrastructure, while the Indian mission in Kuwait provides assistance to affected nationals.

Sitharaman: Focus on Fuel, Fertiliser, Forex Amid West Asia Crisis

Sitharaman: Focus on Fuel, Fertiliser, Forex Amid West Asia Crisis

Rediff.com25 May 2026

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has urged an increased focus on '3Fs'-fuel, fertiliser, and forex-to maintain India's economic resilience amidst the West Asia crisis, while also criticising those who spread pessimism.

CRPF Jawan's Family Attacked: A Call For Justice

CRPF Jawan's Family Attacked: A Call For Justice

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

A CRPF jawan has sought protection for his family in Kanpur after a local history-sheeter allegedly attacked his home while he was on duty. The jawan's viral video highlights concerns for soldiers' families, prompting police to register an FIR and initiate action against the accused.

'Baseless': Iran dismisses Trump's claim on attacking Indian ships

'Baseless': Iran dismisses Trump's claim on attacking Indian ships

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Iran has dismissed US President Donald Trump's assertion that Iran was responsible for a drone attack on Indian ships in the Strait of Hormuz as 'simply baseless'. The Iranian embassy stated that Trump's comments were an attempt to deflect attention from recent US military strikes on merchant vessels in the Gulf of Oman, which resulted in the deaths of three Indian mariners.

3 missing Indian seafarers killed in US strike on ship off Oman coast

3 missing Indian seafarers killed in US strike on ship off Oman coast

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed the deaths of three Indian seafarers who were initially reported missing from the Palau-flagged MT Settebello. India has protested to the US over the attack on the commercial vessel, which the US Central Command stated was due to the vessel attempting to transport oil from Iran, violating a blockade.

'Trump Genuinely Likes India'

'Trump Genuinely Likes India'

Rediff.com2 days ago

'The flip side of this is that he won't hesitate to call out India if he thinks its policies are hurting US economic interests or border US foreign policy goals.'

Heatwaves Trigger Hidden Ozone Threat

Heatwaves Trigger Hidden Ozone Threat

Rediff.com2 days ago

'Can you believe there are over 26,500 deaths linked to heatwave-driven ozone in 2024?'

MEA assures help to Indians hit in Kuwait attack

MEA assures help to Indians hit in Kuwait attack

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that an Indian national was killed and 13 others injured in an attack on Kuwait International Airport. The MEA is providing assistance to the victims' families and monitoring the situation amidst escalating US-Iran tensions, also advising Indian nationals against travel to Iran and facilitating evacuations.

Delhi Quad meet to focus on West Asia fallout, Indo-Pacific security

Delhi Quad meet to focus on West Asia fallout, Indo-Pacific security

Rediff.com25 May 2026

The economic fallout of the West Asia crisis, the prevailing security situation in the Indo-Pacific and ways to boost cooperation in critical minerals and technology are expected to top the agenda at a crucial meeting of the Quad foreign ministers on Tuesday.

Can Dinesh Trivedi Reset India-Bangladesh Ties?

Can Dinesh Trivedi Reset India-Bangladesh Ties?

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Dinesh Trivedi's experience as a businessperson and his fluency in Bengali are expected to be crucial in strengthening India-Bangladesh relations, particularly in attracting Indian investments to Dhaka.

Philadelphia Police Offer Reward In Indian Man's Murder

Philadelphia Police Offer Reward In Indian Man's Murder

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

Anshul Kuncha, a 28-year-old Indian national from Hyderabad, was shot dead in Philadelphia after delivering pizza to a vacant home. Police are offering a $20,000 reward for information leading to an arrest, and the Consulate General of India is providing assistance to his family.

I'm a big, big fan of Modi, India can count on me: Trump

I'm a big, big fan of Modi, India can count on me: Trump

Rediff.com26 May 2026

Taking to Truth Social on Monday evening, Trump reposted Gor's original Sunday night dispatch alongside a video snippet from the grand celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of America's independence, hosted at the iconic Bharat Mandapam in the national capital.

'I love Modi. India can count on me 100%': Trump's phone call at live Delhi event

'I love Modi. India can count on me 100%': Trump's phone call at live Delhi event

Rediff.com25 May 2026

US President Donald Trump reiterated his strong support for India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, declaring that 'India can count on me 100 per cent' during a celebratory event marking the 250th anniversary of American independence in New Delhi.

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.

India, US strike landmark critical minerals deal amid China concerns

India, US strike landmark critical minerals deal amid China concerns

Rediff.com27 May 2026

A readout by the US said the agreement marked a milestone in the strategic partnership between the two nations to ensure that the foundational elements required for advanced technology and energy are available within trusted networks.

Tea Stall Argument Turns Deadly In Surat, Two Killed

Tea Stall Argument Turns Deadly In Surat, Two Killed

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

Two men were killed in Surat after a clash erupted following an argument at a tea stall in the early hours of Sunday. The incident, which involved a dispute over gutka and an altercation, led to one group returning with knives. Police have arrested two accused and are searching for two others.

Unidentified Man Found Dead In Old Delhi; Police Investigate

Unidentified Man Found Dead In Old Delhi; Police Investigate

Rediff.com27 May 2026

An unidentified man was found dead on a pavement in the Chitli Kabar Market area of Old Delhi. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding his death and seeking public assistance to identify him.

Why India-China Border Dispute Remains Unresolved

Why India-China Border Dispute Remains Unresolved

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

While tensions have eased at several friction points and mechanisms for managing the boundary have been reactivated, underlying differences persist. Disputes over naming practices in Arunachal Pradesh, continued infrastructure development on both sides, and unresolved questions regarding patrolling rights indicate that the structural gap remains, notes Dr Kumar.

Converted voluntarily, won't return to Hinduism: Ayush alias Mohammad Ali

Converted voluntarily, won't return to Hinduism: Ayush alias Mohammad Ali

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

A religious conversion case in Shamli, Uttar Pradesh, has led to a police investigation and the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT). A man, Ayush Malik alias Mohammad Ali, claims he voluntarily converted to Islam, while his father alleges illegal conversion and forgery. Authorities have heightened security in the area as the probe continues and arrests have been made.

India summons US envoy, protests strike on ship with 24 Indians; 3 missing

India summons US envoy, protests strike on ship with 24 Indians; 3 missing

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

India has strongly protested a US military strike on the commercial vessel Settebello off the Oman coast, which left three of the 24 Indian crew members missing. The US Central Command stated it disabled the Palau-flagged vessel for violating a blockade of Iranian ports.

'Pakistan Can Only Disintegrate If Any External Power Intervenes'

'Pakistan Can Only Disintegrate If Any External Power Intervenes'

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

'If this region destabilises, then we are not far away. This region should not destabilise.'

India's Myanmar Challenge And Hlaing's Promises

India's Myanmar Challenge And Hlaing's Promises

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

To get its act going in Myanmar, India would need very dynamic diplomacy and not the lazy all-eggs-in-one-basket approach, points out Subir Bhaumik.

Pakistani youth crosses LoC to meet lover in Uri, apprehended by Army

Pakistani youth crosses LoC to meet lover in Uri, apprehended by Army

Rediff.com31 May 2026

A 22-year-old man from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir crossed the Line of Control (LoC) to meet his lover in North Kashmir's Uri sector but was apprehended by the Indian Army.

Perplexity CEO Unveils Vision For Hybrid AI Operating Systems At COMPUTEX

Perplexity CEO Unveils Vision For Hybrid AI Operating Systems At COMPUTEX

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas unveiled the company's vision for AI operating systems at COMPUTEX 2026, highlighting Perplexity Computer's ability to coordinate multiple AI models and balance performance with privacy and cost. He emphasised the growing trend of hybrid AI, combining local device processing with data centre capabilities, and acknowledged Intel's partnership.

India launches emergency mission to pull 13 ships out of Hormuz

India launches emergency mission to pull 13 ships out of Hormuz

Rediff.com29 May 2026

India on Friday launched a highly coordinated, priority operation to safely guide 13 Indian-flagged commercial vessels out of the volatile Strait of Hormuz, the ministry of ports, shipping, and waterways announced on Friday.

Eye on China: Quad ramps up Indo-Pacific surveillance

Eye on China: Quad ramps up Indo-Pacific surveillance

Rediff.com27 May 2026

The Quad grouping has expanded cooperation in critical minerals and energy, while unveiling new measures to boost maritime surveillance and port infrastructure across the Indo-Pacific. This move comes against the backdrop of China's growing military posturing in the region, with ministers reiterating strong opposition to destabilising actions and expressing serious concerns over militarisation of disputed features.

Putin: Sanctions threat on India will 'boomerang' under Modi

Putin: Sanctions threat on India will 'boomerang' under Modi

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

Russian President Vladimir Putin asserted that any attempts to undermine India's sovereignty through 'threats of sanctions' would 'boomerang immediately' under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, highlighting India's sovereign decision-making and strong national interests.

'Severe' blast kills 8 workers at Vizag Steel Plant in Andhra Pradesh

'Severe' blast kills 8 workers at Vizag Steel Plant in Andhra Pradesh

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

An industrial accident at the Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Ltd (Vizag Steel Plant) in Visakhapatnam resulted in the deaths of at least six workers after molten iron spilt on them. Authorities are investigating the incident, and rescue operations are underway.

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'.