News for 'State for Tourism and Culture'

Ladakh Marathon Announces Historic Rs 1 Crore Prize Pool For 2026 Edition

Ladakh Marathon Announces Historic Rs 1 Crore Prize Pool For 2026 Edition

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

The upcoming 2026 Ladakh Marathon will feature a record prize pool of Rs 1 crore, aiming to attract over 10,000 visitors globally. This high-altitude event, scheduled from September 10 to 13, is set to welcome participants from 28 Indian states, six Union Territories, and all six inhabited continents, reinforcing its growing international stature.

Rs 1 Crore Telangana Golconda Masters Set To Begin In Hyderabad

Rs 1 Crore Telangana Golconda Masters Set To Begin In Hyderabad

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

The Telangana Golconda Masters, featuring top Indian and international golf professionals, is set to commence in Hyderabad with a prize purse of Rs 1 crore. The tournament is crucial for players aiming to qualify for the season-ending DP World India Championship.

Ladakh Marathon: A Global Sporting Spectacle

Ladakh Marathon: A Global Sporting Spectacle

Rediff.com2 days ago

The Ladakh Marathon has registered around 8,000 participants, with Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra reviewing preparations. The event is gaining international recognition, showcasing Ladakh's natural beauty and promoting high-altitude sports and tourism. Local participation is encouraged to enhance the event's vibrancy and strengthen Ladakh's identity as a premier destination for adventure sports.

Eating goat meat here is...: WB minister on Bageshwar Baba's diktat

Eating goat meat here is...: WB minister on Bageshwar Baba's diktat

Rediff.com15 hours ago

West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh asserted that eating non-vegetarian food during Durga Puja is not controversial, countering Bageshwar Dham head priest Dhirendra Shastri's call for vegetarianism. Ghosh highlighted Bengal's traditions, including goat sacrifice as prasad, and criticised attempts to dictate food choices or government involvement in community pujas. He also touched upon a controversy regarding an 11-handed Durga idol.

2 NRI women hailing from Chhattisgarh missing in flood-hit Nepal

2 NRI women hailing from Chhattisgarh missing in flood-hit Nepal

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Two Non-Resident Indian (NRI) women linked to Chhattisgarh have been reported missing following flash floods in Nepal, while two other women from the state who were earlier reported missing have established contact with their families, officials said on Friday.

How India Plans To Boost Its Sports Culture

How India Plans To Boost Its Sports Culture

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya released the Srinagar Khel Sankalp document, outlining a national vision to strengthen sports culture through cooperative federalism, focusing on athlete-centric development and infrastructure expansion.

Over 1,000 evacuated from Tibet-Nepal border after flash floods

Over 1,000 evacuated from Tibet-Nepal border after flash floods

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Devastating flash floods near the Tibet-Nepal border have led to the evacuation of over 1,000 people, including tourists, from Gyirong County. The floods caused casualties in both Tibet and Nepal, disrupted infrastructure, and prompted a Level-IV alert due to a rapidly forming barrier lake with a high risk of breaching and causing further downstream flooding.

Why Kerala's GI Handlooms Struggle Despite Recognition

Why Kerala's GI Handlooms Struggle Despite Recognition

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

An independent study reveals that while Geographical Indication (GI) registration has boosted the identity of Kerala's traditional handloom products, it has not uniformly translated into economic benefits across weaving clusters. Challenges include an ageing artisan population, competition from powerloom products, rising raw material costs, and inadequate marketing.

Nepal flash floods: Fear, grief grip Himalayan valleys

Nepal flash floods: Fear, grief grip Himalayan valleys

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

Devastating flash floods in Nepal's Bhote Koshi River, triggered by a glacier or ice rock collapse, have resulted in 175 recovered bodies and hundreds missing, including tourists. India has promptly responded by providing 10 tons of humanitarian aid and medical supplies, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveying condolences and assuring full support to Nepal.

India Launches AI Champions Programme For Digital Governance

India Launches AI Champions Programme For Digital Governance

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

A three-day 'AI Champions for Digital Governance' programme has commenced in New Delhi, hosted by ITDC, SCOPE, and LBSNAA. The initiative aims to train senior leadership and operational teams in applying artificial intelligence within public sector organisations, aligning with the IndiaAI Mission. Experts highlighted AI's role in improving efficiency, productivity, and public service delivery, while also emphasising responsible adoption and data quality. The programme seeks to build an AI-ready nation and contribute to India's vision of future-ready governance systems.

India Launches AI Champions Programme For Digital Governance

India Launches AI Champions Programme For Digital Governance

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

A three-day 'AI Champions for Digital Governance' programme has commenced in New Delhi, hosted by ITDC, SCOPE, and LBSNAA. The initiative aims to train senior leadership and operational teams in applying artificial intelligence within public sector organisations, aligning with the IndiaAI Mission. Experts highlighted AI's role in improving efficiency, productivity, and public service delivery, while also emphasising responsible adoption and data quality. The programme seeks to build an AI-ready nation and contribute to India's vision of future-ready governance systems.

Haryana's Vasant Utsav: A Blend of Culture, Nature, and Environmental Awareness

Haryana's Vasant Utsav: A Blend of Culture, Nature, and Environmental Awareness

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini inaugurated the 38th 'Vasant Utsav' in Panchkula, highlighting the state's commitment to culture, nature, and environmental conservation through various initiatives.

From Maoist Camps To The Fashion Ramp

From Maoist Camps To The Fashion Ramp

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

From guns to handlooms. From forest trails to a public runway. Women who had once been associated with that conflict walked into the spotlight wearing Bastar's traditional textiles.

Storm caused Jabalpur cruise boat tragedy: MP minister

Storm caused Jabalpur cruise boat tragedy: MP minister

Rediff.com2 May 2026

Madhya Pradesh tourism minister blames a sudden storm for the cruise boat tragedy in Jabalpur, raising questions about safety checks and vessel fitness.

Governor Parnaik Encourages Youth To Promote National Unity

Governor Parnaik Encourages Youth To Promote National Unity

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Arunachal Pradesh Governor K T Parnaik has urged young people to connect with others from across India, preserve traditional values, and work to eliminate regional barriers through interaction and mutual respect.

Chalo Varanasi! A British Politico's Journey

Chalo Varanasi! A British Politico's Journey

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Rajdeep Choudhury's documentary Chalo India with Ericji (Varanasi) offers an unique exploration of India.

Typhoon Bavi makes landfall in China; 2 million evacuated

Typhoon Bavi makes landfall in China; 2 million evacuated

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Typhoon Bavi made landfall in eastern China, leading to the evacuation of nearly 2 million people. Authorities issued red alerts for rainstorms and orange alerts for the typhoon, causing widespread cancellations of flights and ferry services, and the closure of tourist attractions.

Prez Murmu's Village Gears Up For PM Modi

Prez Murmu's Village Gears Up For PM Modi

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

In the remote tribal village of Pahadpur, preparations are in full swing as it looks to script history.

How Punjab Is Strengthening Public Safety And Rural Economy

How Punjab Is Strengthening Public Safety And Rural Economy

Rediff.com1 May 2026

The Punjab Cabinet has approved a series of measures aimed at enhancing public safety through forensic science upgrades and boosting rural incomes with a new farm stay policy.

OTT Shows Are Driving North East Tourism

OTT Shows Are Driving North East Tourism

Rediff.com2 Jan 2026

Cities across the north east have recorded significant year-on-year growth in air traffic, pointing to a clear link between screen exposure and travel intent.

From fear to footfalls: Kashmir tourism's slow return after Pahalgam

From fear to footfalls: Kashmir tourism's slow return after Pahalgam

Rediff.com28 Dec 2025

The Pahalgam attack in Jammu and Kashmir impacted tourism, but recovery efforts are underway with government initiatives and events to promote the region and boost MICE tourism.

Suvendu keeps home, power portfolios, Swapan is finance minister

Suvendu keeps home, power portfolios, Swapan is finance minister

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Ten days after the expansion of the BJP government's cabinet in West Bengal, key portfolios have been allocated, with senior leader Tapas Roy taking charge of industries and journalist-turned-politician Swapan Dasgupta appointed finance minister.

What Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Is Doing For Kangana Ranaut's Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata

What Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Is Doing For Kangana Ranaut's Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

'The real Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata are the citizens of our country.' 'The Delhi government will make the film tax-free in the city so that every citizen is able to watch it.'

8 States Most Visited By Domestic Tourists

8 States Most Visited By Domestic Tourists

Rediff.com5 Jan 2026

These 8 states emerged as the country's most-travelled destinations for local Indian visitors, according to Ministry Of Tourism's most recent statistics which are from 2024.

India Explores 2036 Olympic Bid During CWG Review

India Explores 2036 Olympic Bid During CWG Review

Rediff.com15 May 2026

A meeting to review India's Commonwealth Games preparations included discussions on advancing the country's bid for the 2036 Olympic Games, with Gujarat's Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi participating online.

Thousands Brave Rain for Jammu's Inaugural International Marathon

Thousands Brave Rain for Jammu's Inaugural International Marathon

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

Thousands of runners participated in Jammu's first international marathon, braving incessant rain. The event featured multiple race categories, celebrity participation, and a significant prize pool, aiming to boost tourism and promote a healthy lifestyle.

Second Edition of Rugby Premier League to be Held in Hyderabad

Second Edition of Rugby Premier League to be Held in Hyderabad

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

The second edition of the Rugby Premier League (RPL) will be held in Hyderabad from June 16 to 28, featuring the Rugby 7s format and six franchises from the inaugural season.

The Bihar I Have Begun To Believe In

The Bihar I Have Begun To Believe In

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Bihar's greatest resource is not beneath its soil but above it -- its people. With a population approaching 140 million and one of India's youngest demographic profiles, Bihar possesses an asset many societies would envy, explains Bihar Governor Lieutenant General Syed Ata Hasnain (retd).

What Suvendu Adhikari Must Understand

What Suvendu Adhikari Must Understand

Rediff.com9 May 2026

The electorate did not vote for the BJP as much as they voted against the TMC. This is an important distinction that the new government will ignore at its own peril, points out Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta (retd).

National Centre of Excellence for Winter Sports Coming to J&K

National Centre of Excellence for Winter Sports Coming to J&K

Rediff.com26 Feb 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced the establishment of a National Centre of Excellence to promote winter sports in Jammu and Kashmir and the expansion of the Khelo India Winter Games into a 15-day event.

Lucknow earns UNESCO recognition for culinary heritage

Lucknow earns UNESCO recognition for culinary heritage

Rediff.com1 Nov 2025

Lucknow has been officially inducted into UNESCO's Creative Cities Network (CCN) under the 'Gastronomy' category, recognizing its culinary heritage.

Nand Kishore Yadav Takes Office as Nagaland's New Governor

Nand Kishore Yadav Takes Office as Nagaland's New Governor

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

Nand Kishore Yadav has been sworn in as the new Governor of Nagaland, succeeding Ajay Kumar Bhalla. He pledged to uphold the Constitution, promote development, and preserve the state's cultural heritage.

Gaya's Vishnupad Corridor Project: 'Vikas Nahi, Vinash Hai'

Gaya's Vishnupad Corridor Project: 'Vikas Nahi, Vinash Hai'

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Priests see red over the Rs 2,390 crore project to overhaul infrastructure around one of Bihar's most significant pilgrimage site, particularly for those performing pind daan.

Temple linked to godman Kharat got Rs 1 cr from Maha govt

Temple linked to godman Kharat got Rs 1 cr from Maha govt

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

The Maharashtra government sanctioned over Rs 1 crore for development works at a temple linked to Ashok Kharat, a self-styled godman accused of rape, in 2018. The funds were approved under the regional tourism development scheme. Kharat was arrested on March 18 after being accused of repeated rape.

Gulf War: 'If America Wants An Exit, It Can'

Gulf War: 'If America Wants An Exit, It Can'

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

'US and Iran have not annulled the ceasefire, and the possibility of continuing negotiations remains open.'

TMC Leader Accuses BJP of Betraying Rajbanshi Community in North Bengal

TMC Leader Accuses BJP of Betraying Rajbanshi Community in North Bengal

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

Senior TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee has accused the BJP government of failing to honour promises made to the Rajbanshi community in north Bengal, including recognising their language and raising a 'Narayani Sena' battalion.

Kerala Offers Congress Golden Chance; Will It Deliver?

Kerala Offers Congress Golden Chance; Will It Deliver?

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Kerala's voters are sophisticated, educated, and unforgiving. They have once again made it clear that no government is entitled to remain in power. The Congress would do well to remember this, points out Ramesh Menon.

The Significance Of Rajnath Singh's Vietnam Visit

The Significance Of Rajnath Singh's Vietnam Visit

Rediff.com23 May 2026

Vietnam is an emerging regional power and a closer relationship with Hanoi is closely aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Act East Policy, points out Dr Rajaram Panda.

Mandaviya Assures Fair Selection for Asian Games, Predicts Record Performance

Mandaviya Assures Fair Selection for Asian Games, Predicts Record Performance

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya expressed confidence in India's performance at the upcoming Asian Games, assuring a fair and transparent selection process. He also highlighted the importance of the Khelo India Tribal Games in identifying and promoting sporting talent from tribal communities.

Modi Accuses TMC of Appeasement Politics, Banerjee Alleges BJP's Delimitation Plot

Modi Accuses TMC of Appeasement Politics, Banerjee Alleges BJP's Delimitation Plot

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee engaged in a war of words during election rallies, with Modi accusing the TMC of supporting divisive forces and Banerjee alleging the BJP plans to divide the state.