News for 'State of Emergency'

Doping scandal hits Indian athletics: Swapna Barman provisionally suspended

Doping scandal hits Indian athletics: Swapna Barman provisionally suspended

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

India's first Asian Games gold-winning heptathlete, Swapna Barman, has been provisionally suspended by NADA after testing positive for the banned substance Boldenone. This disciplinary action proceeds despite her recent retirement announcement. The case highlights ongoing efforts to combat doping in Indian sports, with other athletes also facing bans.

How Researchers Uncovered A Unique Earthworm Eel In The Gangetic Basin

How Researchers Uncovered A Unique Earthworm Eel In The Gangetic Basin

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

An international research team has discovered a new species of subterranean earthworm eel, named Gangaichthys indonepalicus, in the Indo-Gangetic Plain of Bihar. This small, colourless fish, adapted to life in dark underground aquifers, is the first stygobitic fish recorded from the Gangetic Basin. The discovery followed a TikTok video and involved challenging manual pumping of borewell water to secure samples for scientific analysis.

Nepal flash floods: Villagers in Bihar-UP anxious after alert

Nepal flash floods: Villagers in Bihar-UP anxious after alert

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

Villages along the Uttar Pradesh-Bihar border are on high alert following devastating flash floods in Nepal, with authorities monitoring the Gandak River for potential downstream surges and the NDRF deploying 20 teams for preparedness.

Defence ministry official dies by suicide, parents allege marital harassment

Defence ministry official dies by suicide, parents allege marital harassment

Rediff.com23 Aug 2026

A 30-year-old Assistant Section Officer in the Ministry of Defence died by suicide in Dwarka, Delhi. Her parents have subsequently alleged mental and physical harassment by her husband and in-laws, leading to an FIR being registered and an ongoing police investigation.

Bhattacharya Dominates Day 2 Of Kolar Open

Bhattacharya Dominates Day 2 Of Kolar Open

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Shaurya Bhattacharya fired a five-under 67 to extend his lead to three strokes at nine-under 135 on day two of the Kolar Open. The Delhi golfer made six birdies against a lone bogey, showcasing strong ball-striking and adapting well to windy conditions. Mohd Azhar is his nearest challenger, while other notable players like Arjun Sharma, Angad Cheema, and Badal Hossain are tied for third.

Pakistan-Turkiye-Saudi Pact: Should India Be Concerned?

Pakistan-Turkiye-Saudi Pact: Should India Be Concerned?

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

Any military response to a cross-border terror attack from Pakistan will have to take into account the new alignments beginning to take shape in the region, points out former foreign secretary Shyam Saran.

Understanding The Impact Of New MDR On India's UPI Ecosystem

Understanding The Impact Of New MDR On India's UPI Ecosystem

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

India's UPI system continues its rapid growth, dominating retail payments. Recent amendments to the Payment and Settlement Systems Act allow for targeted Merchant Discount Rates (MDR) on high-value merchant transactions, aiming to create a self-sustaining revenue model for the ecosystem while keeping P2P and low-value payments free. This move could generate significant revenue and encourage ecosystem participation.

Himachal Pradesh on red alert as rainfall triggers landslides, schools declare holidays

Himachal Pradesh on red alert as rainfall triggers landslides, schools declare holidays

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Himachal Pradesh is on high alert with schools and colleges shut in several districts as heavy rainfall triggers landslides, flash floods, and road closures, prompting authorities to issue warnings and activate emergency centres.

Who Derailed Tarique Rahman's India Visit?

Who Derailed Tarique Rahman's India Visit?

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Who is running the show in Dhaka? This kind of flip-flop, culminating in a last-minute decision to skip a maiden visit, can happen only when the remote is in the hands of one of the competing lobbies within the BNP -- one that appears determined to play a game of chess with India.

Bihar Prohibition Fails To Curb Crime Against Women

Bihar Prohibition Fails To Curb Crime Against Women

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

'The prohibition regime has been accompanied by concerns regarding the expansion of the illicit liquor trade, increased enforcement challenges and corruption, and the growing use of alternative intoxicants, including illicit drugs.'

East Bengal eye Durand Cup semis after AFC Champions League win

East Bengal eye Durand Cup semis after AFC Champions League win

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

East Bengal, fresh from their AFC Champions League Two qualifying play-off victory, are set to face a formidable Indian Army Football Team in the Durand Cup quarterfinals. The match, crucial for a spot in the semi-finals, will test East Bengal's momentum against the Army's disciplined play. Another quarterfinal features unbeaten SC Delhi against debutants FC Raengdai.

Nepal flood toll reaches 788; over 275 Indians, 128 PIOs missing

Nepal flood toll reaches 788; over 275 Indians, 128 PIOs missing

Rediff.com30 Aug 2026

The death toll from flash floods in central Nepal has surged to 734, with nearly 2,500 people still missing. India has intensified its rescue and relief efforts, sending additional aid, technical teams, and forensic experts, while also working to locate and rescue over 275 missing Indian nationals.

US Visa Pause Clouds Travel Plans

US Visa Pause Clouds Travel Plans

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

'One important clarification is that the reported US action is not a blanket cancellation of all US tourist visas.'

Why Japan Is Expanding Defence Ties Beyond India

Why Japan Is Expanding Defence Ties Beyond India

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Japan is deepening its defence relationship with India while simultaneously expanding its economic, infrastructure and security engagement with countries around India -- particularly Bangladesh. The result is an emerging Japanese conception of South Asia in which India remains the strategic anchor, but the geography surrounding India is becoming increasingly important, points out Varun Arya.

'Friend' stabs DU girl student for talking to other men

'Friend' stabs DU girl student for talking to other men

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

A 21-year-old Delhi University student was brutally stabbed to death at her home in Tilak Nagar. Police suspect a known acquaintance, Imran, committed the crime out of rage over her talking to another person. Imran is currently absconding, and multiple police teams have been formed to apprehend him as investigations continue.

Is UP Governor Needling Yogi?

Is UP Governor Needling Yogi?

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

'Some people may not like what I am saying, but shortcomings have to be pointed out. These deficiencies should be rectified within the next three months.' 'This is Gorakhpur, where our CM himself resides. If such shortcomings exist here, then what will happen?'

Australia's batting order faces scrutiny ahead of South Africa tour

Australia's batting order faces scrutiny ahead of South Africa tour

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

Australia secured an innings and 51-run victory over Bangladesh in the second Test, but the performance highlighted persistent issues with their top-order batting, particularly for Marnus Labuschagne, raising questions ahead of their South Africa tour.

Kolkata hotel blaze: Govt orders safety audit of hotels, guest houses

Kolkata hotel blaze: Govt orders safety audit of hotels, guest houses

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

A devastating fire in a central Kolkata building resulted in nine deaths, primarily due to asphyxia, and the rescue of around 80 people. West Bengal minister Kaushik Chowdhury highlighted the quick response of the Fire Brigade but raised concerns about safety norms, lack of windows, and the proliferation of cramped hotels within the building. An investigation committee will be formed, and fire audits will be conducted across all hotels in the state.

Sharma And Imangali Dominate Asian Junior Rapid Chess

Sharma And Imangali Dominate Asian Junior Rapid Chess

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

India's Madhavendra Pratap Sharma and Kazakhstan's Akhilbay Imangali are leading the rapid event of the Asian Junior Chess Championship in Mumbai, both with a perfect score of 4 points after four rounds. While the open section sees clear leaders, the girls' rapid championship is a much closer contest with six players sharing the lead, all unbeaten. With three rounds remaining, the competition for titles and podium finishes remains intense in both categories.

Market Crash: 7 Costly Mistakes to Avoid

Market Crash: 7 Costly Mistakes to Avoid

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Understanding the most common mistakes during market downturns can help you protect your investments and stay focused on your long-term financial goals, says Ramalingam Kalirajan

Vance dials Modi day after Senate clears sanctions bill

Vance dials Modi day after Senate clears sanctions bill

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

US Vice President JD Vance and Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a phone call to discuss expanding the India-US comprehensive global strategic partnership, focusing on trade, defence, energy security, emerging technologies, and critical minerals. The discussion comes amidst rising tensions in West Asia and recent regional realignments, with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to strengthening cooperation.

4 picnickers stranded on MP island rescued after 11 hours

4 picnickers stranded on MP island rescued after 11 hours

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Four picnickers were rescued from a river island in Madhya Pradesh's Khandwa district after being stranded for 11 hours due to a sudden rise in water levels. The State Disaster Emergency Response Force (SDERF) conducted a challenging operation, using drones to deliver supplies and eventually towing a motorboat to safety.

The Taj's Hidden Story Is India's Wealth

The Taj's Hidden Story Is India's Wealth

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

In many ways, 17th century India occupied a position in the global economy comparable to that of the United States today. Just as millions of people now look towards America because of its economic opportunities, merchants, adventurers and trading companies once looked towards India.

Defence Minister Praises Armed Forces Athletes As 'Soldier And Champion' Blend

Defence Minister Praises Armed Forces Athletes As 'Soldier And Champion' Blend

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded armed forces athletes for their medal-winning performance at the recently concluded Commonwealth Games, calling them a 'perfect blend of a soldier and a champion'. He highlighted their strong willpower and the inspiration they provide to the nation, especially the youth. Indian Army athletes secured 16 medals, including 8 gold, contributing significantly to India's overall tally.

Rains batter Gujarat, red alert in 13 districts; 1,500 evacuated

Rains batter Gujarat, red alert in 13 districts; 1,500 evacuated

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Several districts in central and south Gujarat received heavy rainfall on Friday with over 1,500 persons evacuated to safer places in Surat which is the worst-affected, officials said.

'We should not fight': Sarma urges Arunachal CM Khandu to probe border firing

'We should not fight': Sarma urges Arunachal CM Khandu to probe border firing

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has urged his Arunachal Pradesh counterpart, Pema Khandu, to order an inquiry into a recent firing incident along the inter-state border that injured 12 people from Assam. The incident occurred amidst ongoing efforts to resolve long-standing boundary disputes between the two northeastern states, with Sarma emphasising the need for cooperation despite the setback.

Gold prices increasingly driven by inflation, monetary policy, not just war: Report

Gold prices increasingly driven by inflation, monetary policy, not just war: Report

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

A new report by Motilal Oswal Financial Services Ltd (MOFSL) indicates that inflation, interest rates, and monetary policy have become more significant drivers of gold prices than traditional geopolitical conflicts, with markets increasingly focusing on these economic factors.

Champat Rai, Anil Mishra Get Clean Chit From SIT?

Champat Rai, Anil Mishra Get Clean Chit From SIT?

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Former Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust general secretary Champat Rai and ex-trustee Anil Mishra, who had stepped down amid a temple donation theft controversy, are now actively holding meetings and interacting with seers in Ayodhya. This re-emergence coincides with the Special Investigation Team (SIT) sharing its final report on alleged irregularities in Ram temple donations with the Trust, sparking speculation about its findings.

Jharkhand govt cancels recruitment exams, but protest continues

Jharkhand govt cancels recruitment exams, but protest continues

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

The Jharkhand government has cancelled all recruitment tests conducted by outsourced agency TSR Data Processing Pvt Ltd (TDPL) since 2014, including the JSSC-CGL exam, in response to student protests. However, agitators are continuing their demonstration, demanding a CBI probe into alleged irregularities.

CM Adhikari announces fresh probe into RG Kar rape-murder case

CM Adhikari announces fresh probe into RG Kar rape-murder case

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has announced a fresh investigation into the 2024 rape and murder of a doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The decision follows a request from the victim's mother, now a BJP MLA, and includes a separate probe into alleged cremation irregularities. Adhikari criticised previous police handling and vowed to ensure justice, despite a CBI investigation having already led to a conviction.

Rishikesh mother saves son, is electrocuted with infant

Rishikesh mother saves son, is electrocuted with infant

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

A tragic incident in Rishikesh saw a mother and her two-year-old daughter electrocuted in a waterlogged area due to a snapped power line. The mother, Suman Jethudi, managed to save her 12-year-old son before her death. Following public outcry and a complaint, a Junior Engineer of Uttarakhand Power Corporation Limited (UPCL) has been suspended, and a high-level inquiry committee has been formed. UPCL has also launched a statewide safety inspection drive.

What Is Analogue Paneer? Why Have The Maharashtra, Gujarat Governments Banned It For A Year?

What Is Analogue Paneer? Why Have The Maharashtra, Gujarat Governments Banned It For A Year?

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

After Maharashtra's crackdown on analogue paneer, here's what dietitians say about its nutritional value, health concerns and how to choose fresh paneer.

Complaint filed over minors' presence at CJP's NEET protest

Complaint filed over minors' presence at CJP's NEET protest

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

A Mumbai-based social media influencer has filed a complaint with Indore police, seeking an investigation into the alleged presence of minor boys and girls at a recent student protest in New Delhi. The complaint targets Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke and chief spokesperson Saurav Das, among others, for facilitating minors' participation in the NEET paper leak agitation. Police are investigating the matter, which could lead to charges under POCSO, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, IT Act, and Juvenile Justice Act if cognisable offences are found.

Indian billionaire Lakshmi Mittal's Ukraine steel plant hit in Russian strike, 2 killed

Indian billionaire Lakshmi Mittal's Ukraine steel plant hit in Russian strike, 2 killed

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

A Russian missile strike on the ArcelorMittal steel plant in Kryvyi Rih, Ukraine, has resulted in two fatalities and 13 injuries. The attack partially disrupted operations at the country's largest steelworks, owned by Indian billionaire Lakshmi Mittal, damaging key energy and blast furnace facilities. Search and rescue efforts are underway, and the extent of the damage is being assessed.

Fresh clash erupts along Assam-Arunachal border, police fires in air

Fresh clash erupts along Assam-Arunachal border, police fires in air

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

A fresh clash erupted between protesters from Assam and Arunachal Pradesh in Dhemaji district, leading to police firing in the air, as an indefinite economic blockade against Arunachal Pradesh entered its second day over land encroachment issues and an earlier firing incident.

Praggnanandhaa holds Wesley So to a draw, maintains joint second at Sinquefield Cup

Praggnanandhaa holds Wesley So to a draw, maintains joint second at Sinquefield Cup

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa drew with tournament leader Wesley So in the fifth round of the Sinquefield Cup, maintaining his joint second position with 3 points. This result keeps him on track for a podium finish and a strong chance to qualify for the Grand Chess Tour finale.

AI And E-Commerce To Drive India's Consumer Economy To $1.9 Trillion By 2030

AI And E-Commerce To Drive India's Consumer Economy To $1.9 Trillion By 2030

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

A joint report by Deloitte India and FICCI projects India's consumer economy to reach USD 1.9 trillion by 2030. This growth will be fuelled by rapid AI adoption, evolving consumer preferences, and new commerce models like e-commerce and quick commerce. India leads in AI adoption among top countries, with businesses leveraging it for engagement, innovation, and forecasting. The report also highlights the emergence of a new Indian consumer seeking convenience and transparency, and identifies key trends shaping FMCG, retail, and e-commerce sectors.

El Nino Revives India's Water Disputes

El Nino Revives India's Water Disputes

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Change of guard in some states and evolving El Nino dynamics are triggering fresh actions on raging water-sharing disputes in several states.

India broadens crude sourcing to Latin America, Venezuela becomes key supplier

India broadens crude sourcing to Latin America, Venezuela becomes key supplier

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

India is significantly expanding its crude oil sourcing to Latin America, with Venezuela emerging as a major supplier, as geopolitical disruptions in the Middle East and the Strait of Hormuz compel the world's third-largest oil consumer to diversify its energy supplies.

Parliamentary Panel Wants Cap on Private Hospital Room Charges

Parliamentary Panel Wants Cap on Private Hospital Room Charges

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

'Having analysed the break up of the hospital billing structure the committee believes that rationalising of room charges needs to be done on an emergent basis.'