News for 'State for Public Affairs'

Arunachal BJP MP flags public concern over Chinese incursions

Arunachal BJP MP flags public concern over Chinese incursions

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

Arunachal Pradesh MP Tapir Gao underscores the critical importance of heeding local warnings regarding alleged Chinese incursions along the Line of Actual Control, amidst ongoing border tensions and official denials.

TN assembly mandates state anthem at all official events

TN assembly mandates state anthem at all official events

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has moved a government resolution mandating the rendition of Tamil Thaai Vazhthu at the commencement of all government events, emphasising the state's linguistic and cultural rights amidst a Union Home Affairs Ministry advisory on Vande Mataram.

Left to skip Vijay's meet called amid rift in alliance

Left to skip Vijay's meet called amid rift in alliance

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay is set to chair a crucial TVK alliance coordination meeting in Chennai. The meeting aims to formalise the ruling coalition's structure, common minimum programme, and joint steering committee. However, the absence of key Left allies and a public rift between TVK and Congress over national leadership aspirations threaten to destabilise the alliance, highlighting a significant test for CM Vijay's political management.

Flags should not be thrown on ground: MHA asks states, UTs to follow Flag Code

Flags should not be thrown on ground: MHA asks states, UTs to follow Flag Code

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

The Union home ministry directed all the states and Union territories on Monday to adhere to the Flag Code, underlining that while flags made of paper may be waved by the public on occasions of important national, cultural and sports events, those should not be discarded or thrown on the ground after the events.

35,000 security personnel deployed in Delhi for BRICS summit

35,000 security personnel deployed in Delhi for BRICS summit

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Delhi Police has implemented a comprehensive multi-layered security system for the upcoming BRICS Summit in New Delhi, deploying 15,000 personnel, 200 paramilitary companies, and over 500 CCTV cameras. The arrangements aim to ensure maximum security for visiting dignitaries while minimising public inconvenience, with extensive coordination across agencies and states, and robust measures at the main venue, Bharat Mandapam.

ACB Registers Two Cases Against JKAS Officer For Corruption

ACB Registers Two Cases Against JKAS Officer For Corruption

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has registered two separate First Information Reports (FIRs) against Sheeba Inayat, a Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS) officer. The charges include amassing assets disproportionate to her known income and alleged malpractices in the distribution of Public Distribution System (PDS) foodgrains, leading to a wrongful loss of over Rs 2.61 crore.

How Western Disturbances Influence North India's Winter Air Pollution

How Western Disturbances Influence North India's Winter Air Pollution

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

A new study reveals that approximately 70 per cent of the year-to-year variation in winter air pollution across northern India can be explained by the frequency of western disturbances. These storm systems, originating from the Mediterranean, help clear pollution through precipitation and ventilation. The findings suggest that predicting the frequency of these disturbances could provide advance warning of severe pollution, allowing for better preparedness and implementation of control measures.

West Bengal to fine Rs 100 for spitting, Rs 200 for littering, open defecation

West Bengal to fine Rs 100 for spitting, Rs 200 for littering, open defecation

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

West Bengal's Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Minister Agnimitra Pal announced that fines for spitting, littering, open defecation, and using single-use plastic bags will be enforced from Tuesday, with penalties ranging from Rs 100 to Rs 200, aiming to change public behaviour rather than generate revenue.

MEA Clarifies India's Participation In SAF Games 2027

MEA Clarifies India's Participation In SAF Games 2027

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

The Ministry of External Affairs stated that India's participation in the 2027 SAF Games in Pakistan will be guided by the sports ministry's policy, which permits Indian athletes to compete in events with Pakistani participants and vice-versa. Separately, the MEA also commented on the ongoing legal proceedings for seven foreign nationals, including a US citizen and six Ukrainians, who were recently chargesheeted by the NIA for illegal entry and movement, though not under UAPA at this stage.

Former player Rashid Khan takes a dig at Aaqib Javed over Pakistan's cricket chaos

Former player Rashid Khan takes a dig at Aaqib Javed over Pakistan's cricket chaos

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Former Pakistan all-rounder Rashid Khan has sarcastically suggested that senior selector Aaqib Javed be made the non-playing captain for all formats, following Javed's public criticism of the team's captain, coaches, and player selections. Khan expressed anguish over the current state of Pakistan cricket and questioned the PCB chairman's actions regarding player morale.

Banks, railways lead in corruption complaints, shows CVC report

Banks, railways lead in corruption complaints, shows CVC report

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

A recent Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) report reveals that over 70,500 corruption complaints were lodged against various government bodies last year, with banks and the Railways accounting for the highest numbers. While a significant portion of these complaints has been disposed of, thousands remain under process, highlighting ongoing challenges in addressing corruption within public sector entities.

Sugar should be 'very expensive': BJP leader amid price surge

Sugar should be 'very expensive': BJP leader amid price surge

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Madhya Pradesh Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya has ignited a political firestorm with his controversial remarks suggesting sugar should be "very expensive" and avoided by those over 40, drawing sharp criticism from the opposition amidst rising inflation concerns.

Pak summons US envoy, lodges strong protest over Sergio Gor's J-K remarks

Pak summons US envoy, lodges strong protest over Sergio Gor's J-K remarks

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Pakistan summoned US Charge d'Affaires Natalie Baker to lodge a "strong demarche" following remarks by US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, who stated that Jammu and Kashmir is an important part of India. Pakistan's Foreign Office condemned Gor's characterisation, asserting that Jammu and Kashmir is an internationally recognised disputed territory and that the US ambassador's statement contradicted the US's long-standing position and commitment to international law.

Xi by his side, Modi warns against 'weaponisation of tech'

Xi by his side, Modi warns against 'weaponisation of tech'

Rediff.com7 days ago

Prime Minister Narendra Modi cautioned against the 'weaponisation' of technology and critical minerals at the BRICS summit, advocating for cooperation to foster shared prosperity. Concurrently, Chinese President Xi Jinping announced plans for an open-source AI ecosystem for BRICS nations, positioning Beijing as a key technology partner amid global AI competition.

Junk food to paper leaks: HC takes up Gen Z, Alpha, Beta challenges

Junk food to paper leaks: HC takes up Gen Z, Alpha, Beta challenges

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

The Rajasthan high court, Jodhpur, has taken suo motu cognisance of issues concerning Gen Z, Gen Alpha and Gen Beta, expressing concern over junk food, excessive screen time, paper leaks, inadequate infrastructure in rural schools and the possible erosion of basic learning skills in the age of artificial intelligence.

IN-SPACe's Growing Role Raises ISRO Concerns

IN-SPACe's Growing Role Raises ISRO Concerns

Rediff.com5 days ago

'IN-SPACe like an octopus is stretching its tentacles everywhere and choking ISRO.'

Bengal to fast-track CAA hearings, 23,000 get citizenship: CM Suvendu

Bengal to fast-track CAA hearings, 23,000 get citizenship: CM Suvendu

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Monday said that hearings of applications for citizenship under the CAA will soon be over, and so far the state has issued certificates to 23,000 people out of 2.30 lakh applicants.

Remarks on Col Sofiya: Sanction awaited to prosecute MP minister, SC told

Remarks on Col Sofiya: Sanction awaited to prosecute MP minister, SC told

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court was informed that sanction is awaited to prosecute Madhya Pradesh minister Kunwar Vijay Shah for his remarks against Army officer Col Sofiya Qureshi. The SIT probe is complete, and a chargesheet will be filed once sanction is obtained. Shah had previously apologised for his controversial comments.

Sikkim has 16 highly-dangerous glacial lakes, shows govt data

Sikkim has 16 highly-dangerous glacial lakes, shows govt data

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

Sikkim has identified 40 high-hazard glacial lakes, with 16 at the highest risk of catastrophic outbursts. Following a devastating GLOF in 2023, the state is developing India's first dedicated GLOF Risk Mitigation Protocol, using advanced monitoring and interdisciplinary approaches to protect downstream settlements and serve as a model for other Himalayan regions.

India cited Trump's 'unpredictable behaviour' for no presser

India cited Trump's 'unpredictable behaviour' for no presser

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

Indian government sources revealed that a 'cautious approach' was adopted during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's June talks with then-US President Donald Trump due to concerns over Trump's 'unpredictable behaviour' with foreign leaders, leading to a preference against a joint media interaction.

'I Have Come To Nepal To Find My Brother'

'I Have Come To Nepal To Find My Brother'

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

'We desperately want India to send the army as the evacuation process needs to be escalated immediately.'

FIFA President Infantino Tried to Reach Trump After Rights Plan Collapse: Report

FIFA President Infantino Tried to Reach Trump After Rights Plan Collapse: Report

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino reportedly sought support from the Trump administration following the collapse of his plan to sell a stake in World Cup commercial rights, facing mounting criticism and feeling 'isolated' by negative media coverage.

FIFA labels report of Infantino seeking Trump's help 'pure fiction'

FIFA labels report of Infantino seeking Trump's help 'pure fiction'

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

FIFA has vehemently denied a report claiming President Gianni Infantino sought assistance from the U.S. President Donald Trump's administration following the collapse of a multi-billion dollar plan to sell a stake in World Cup commercial rights, calling the allegations 'pure fiction'.

Telangana CM denied US trip, MEA cites 'non-conformity of norms'

Telangana CM denied US trip, MEA cites 'non-conformity of norms'

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy's planned visit to the United States has been denied political clearance by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), citing non-conformity with laid down norms, forcing him to cancel the US leg of his 'TelanganaRising' delegation tour and return to Hyderabad earlier than planned.

84 Indians rescued in Nepal floods, search ops continue: MEA

84 Indians rescued in Nepal floods, search ops continue: MEA

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

The devastating flash floods wreaked havoc across Nepal, with the ministry of external affairs on Thursday stating that 84 Indian nationals have been rescued while 290 remain uncontactable as the Himalayan nation stepped up search, rescue and relief operations following the disaster that has claimed more than 390 lives.

Delhi Gymkhana Club: No coercive action till Sep 16, govt tells HC

Delhi Gymkhana Club: No coercive action till Sep 16, govt tells HC

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

The Centre has assured the Delhi High Court that it will not take coercive action against the Delhi Gymkhana Club until September 16 regarding its eviction from the 27.3-acre premises. This comes as the court hears pleas challenging a show-cause notice for eviction, following the termination of the club's perpetual lease deed by the Land & Development Office. The legal battle centres on the validity of the lease termination and the jurisdiction of the estate officer.

'India And China Have Arrived At A Nash Equilibrium'

'India And China Have Arrived At A Nash Equilibrium'

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

'The Chinese military cannot advance much in Ladakh, even if they want to.' 'Similarly, in Arunachal Pradesh, they can rename a village or two, intrude here or there, but cannot do much more realistically.'

Hindu Outfit's Visit Provokes Eiffel Staff Strike

Hindu Outfit's Visit Provokes Eiffel Staff Strike

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Eiffel Tower employees launched a strike, leading to the iconic landmark's closure, after allegations surfaced that female staff were asked to vacate their posts during a visit by the Hindu religious organisation BAPS.

Young Leaders Dialogue To Shape India's Future

Young Leaders Dialogue To Shape India's Future

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

The third edition of the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue (VBYLD) has commenced with a quiz contest, leading to a national finale in January 2027 where young leaders will present their ideas for a developed India to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The multi-stage event includes essay challenges, district championships, and state-level dialogues, aiming to foster youth participation in nation-building across various thematic areas.

India Sets 10-Year Vision For Defence Diplomacy

India Sets 10-Year Vision For Defence Diplomacy

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

'India is trying to project that it can engage with the world in a different way too.'

Only 9 Women CEOs, 25 Women MDs in Top 500

Only 9 Women CEOs, 25 Women MDs in Top 500

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

The top 500 listed companies had 860 women directors or board members overall.

West Asia Crisis May Hit FY27 Fiscal Deficit

West Asia Crisis May Hit FY27 Fiscal Deficit

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

The fiscal consolidation path and Rs 1 trillion stabilisation fund provide room to absorb mild shocks, but sustained oil-price increases pose risks.

Nijjar killing: US to seek extradition of Lawrence Bishnoi

Nijjar killing: US to seek extradition of Lawrence Bishnoi

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The United States Department of Justice plans to seek the extradition of Lawrence Bishnoi, accused of orchestrating the killing of Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada and involvement in other crimes in the US. Extradition is also sought for Gurinderjit Singh Nagra in an extortion case. These actions are part of a larger international operation targeting India-based transnational organised crime groups.

Let's Not Get Flattered By Sergei Gor's Kashmir Remarks

Let's Not Get Flattered By Sergei Gor's Kashmir Remarks

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

New Delhi must look for formal, institutional statements issued directly from Washington rather than rely on casual pronouncements meant for local audiences, notes Ambassador Rajasekhar.

Vande Mataram: Sharmila Tagore Vs Kangana Ranaut

Vande Mataram: Sharmila Tagore Vs Kangana Ranaut

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Actor-MP Kangana Ranaut and movie legend Sharmila Tagore are embroiled in a public debate over Vande Mataram.

How US State Department Is Leveraging UFC For Global Diplomacy

How US State Department Is Leveraging UFC For Global Diplomacy

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

The US Department of State has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) to launch a public-private partnership aimed at advancing sports diplomacy worldwide. This initiative will leverage UFC's extensive global platform and athletes to engage international audiences, promote cultural exchange, and champion American values such as discipline and perseverance.

How US State Department Is Leveraging UFC For Global Diplomacy

How US State Department Is Leveraging UFC For Global Diplomacy

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

The US Department of State has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) to launch a public-private partnership aimed at advancing sports diplomacy worldwide. This initiative will leverage UFC's extensive global platform and athletes to engage international audiences, promote cultural exchange, and champion American values such as discipline and perseverance.

Lok Sabha to take up anti-paper leak bill today

Lok Sabha to take up anti-paper leak bill today

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

The Indian Parliament is scheduled for a significant legislative day, with the Lok Sabha set to consider and pass the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026. Concurrently, the Rajya Sabha will introduce the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Amendment) Bill, 2026, and pass the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, highlighting a busy agenda for both houses.

We fought major wars with Pak, but China...: Ex-Army chief

We fought major wars with Pak, but China...: Ex-Army chief

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Former Army chief General Manoj Naravane asserted that while India's immediate attention is on Pakistan due to terrorism, China will be New Delhi's primary long-term competitor across political, economic, trade, and military domains, necessitating a strong military deterrence alongside dialogue.

'How Can You Grow At 7% With These Rates Of Private Investment?'

'How Can You Grow At 7% With These Rates Of Private Investment?'

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

'You have to get private investment to somewhere between 35% to 36% of GDP. It is hovering about 30%-31%.'