News for 'States'

Breakthrough In Textile Wastewater Treatment By IIT And BHU Researchers

Breakthrough In Textile Wastewater Treatment By IIT And BHU Researchers

Rediff.com7 days ago

Researchers from IIT Guwahati and BHU have devised an eco-friendly biological method to treat textile wastewater, specifically targeting toxic azo dyes. Their novel bacterium, 'Brevundimonas sp. AJZ05', effectively degrades 98.50 per cent of Direct Blue-6 dye, producing non-toxic byproducts, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional chemical treatments.

Disha Salian death: 'CBI FIR names Aaditya Thackeray, Rhea, Dino Morea among others'

Disha Salian death: 'CBI FIR names Aaditya Thackeray, Rhea, Dino Morea among others'

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

The CBI has registered an FIR in the Disha Salian death case, following a Bombay High Court order that criticised Mumbai Police for its six-year delay and "glaring discrepancies" in the investigation. Salian, former manager of Sushant Singh Rajput, died in June 2020, a week before Rajput's own death, which led to speculation about a connection. The High Court had expressed concerns over the Mumbai Police's handling of the case, which was initially treated as an accidental death.

Arundhati Bhattacharya: 'Nothing Was Guaranteed, Nothing Was Given'

Arundhati Bhattacharya: 'Nothing Was Guaranteed, Nothing Was Given'

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

'Giving up is very easy. But don't give up. Try out whatever you can. Something will happen.'

Jarange to head to Mumbai for solo protest on Tuesday amid Ganesh festival

Jarange to head to Mumbai for solo protest on Tuesday amid Ganesh festival

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Denied permission for his hunger strike in Mumbai, Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange on Monday announced he would head to the Maharashtra capital alone on September 15 to stage a protest at Azad Maidan.

India's 501-strong squad eyes a new Asian Games high

India's 501-strong squad eyes a new Asian Games high

Rediff.com6 days ago

India's large contingent of 501 athletes is set to compete at the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, aiming to showcase the nation's growing sporting depth and its ambition to become a global top-10 sporting power by 2036. Despite initial accommodation challenges, the focus is on building on the momentum from the record 2022 Hangzhou Games, with strong medal hopes in shooting, athletics, cricket, badminton, and hockey.

India Eyes Historic Double Gold Defence At Chess Olympiad

India Eyes Historic Double Gold Defence At Chess Olympiad

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

India's men's and women's chess teams are set to defend their respective Chess Olympiad titles, with strong lineups featuring world champion D Gukesh and in-form R Praggnanandhaa for the men, and Koneru Humpy leading the top-seeded women's squad.

PIL in SC against govt's 0.4% MDR on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000

PIL in SC against govt's 0.4% MDR on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000

Rediff.com7 days ago

A Public Interest Litigation has been filed in the Supreme Court challenging the Centre's decision to impose a 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI person-to-merchant transactions exceeding Rs 2,000. The plea argues that the levy was introduced without adequate statutory safeguards, transparency, or public consultation, and questions its constitutional validity and potential adverse effects on merchants and consumers.

CJP to join Maharashtra PSC aspirants' protest

CJP to join Maharashtra PSC aspirants' protest

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and its founder Abhijeet Dipke have announced their support for students protesting alleged paper leaks and irregularities in Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) online examinations. The CJP plans to join the agitation and undertake a statewide tour if demands for the MPSC chairman and secretary's resignations are not met by September 24.

Paytm CEO Foresees Increased Profitability From New UPI Charges

Paytm CEO Foresees Increased Profitability From New UPI Charges

Rediff.com7 days ago

Paytm CEO Vijay Shekhar Sharma stated that the government's new Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on large-value UPI transactions will significantly increase the company's revenue and profitability. The 0.4% fee on UPI transfers exceeding Rs 2,000 to merchants, effective October 15, is expected to give Paytm a competitive edge. Sharma also highlighted the company's focus on generating free cash flow, expanding internationally, and developing proprietary artificial intelligence capabilities to drive future growth.

US to end 60-day grace period for H-1B holders losing jobs

US to end 60-day grace period for H-1B holders losing jobs

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed a new rule to eliminate the 60-day grace period for H-1B visa holders and other nonimmigrants after job loss, a move expected to significantly impact Indian technology workers.

How Bank Of Baroda's New App Revolutionises Digital Payments

How Bank Of Baroda's New App Revolutionises Digital Payments

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Bank of Baroda has launched 'bob World 2.0', an AI-powered mobile banking app featuring voice-command capabilities for payments and navigation. The updated app also includes a personal finance management module and a persona-based customer experience, aiming to offer intuitive, secure, and personalised banking services.

Finance Ministry Clarifies UPI MDR Policy Amid US Pressure Allegations

Finance Ministry Clarifies UPI MDR Policy Amid US Pressure Allegations

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Finance Ministry has refuted allegations that US pressure influenced the decision to levy a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on select UPI payments. It clarified that NPCI guidelines prioritise RuPay credit cards on UPI to foster a domestic payment ecosystem and that the MDR introduction aims to create a sustainable revenue model for smaller domestic companies, thereby protecting India's sovereignty in digital payments.

Justice Mishra sworn in as Chief Justice despite Mann govt's objections

Justice Mishra sworn in as Chief Justice despite Mann govt's objections

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Justice Ashwani Kumar Mishra was sworn in as the Chief Justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, despite strong objections from the Punjab government. The Mann government claimed the appointment bypassed constitutional norms and procedures, leading to a political tussle with the Centre, which defended the process.

'Treatment is basic humanity': Australia captains on Imran

'Treatment is basic humanity': Australia captains on Imran

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Seven former Australian cricket captains, including Greg Chappell and Steve Waugh, have urged Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong to address the welfare of imprisoned former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan. Their appeal focuses on humanitarian treatment and due process, not the legal or political aspects of his case, citing concerns about his deteriorating health.

10 CV Tips To Get Hired

10 CV Tips To Get Hired

Rediff.com6 days ago

Weak verbs and poor language can make even impressive achievements seem ordinary, points out Nayagam PP, a career coach and founder of EduJob360.

Key Bishnoi aide held at Delhi airport after deportation from Canada

Key Bishnoi aide held at Delhi airport after deportation from Canada

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Punjab Police's Anti-Gangster Task Force has arrested Karamveer Singh, a close associate of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, at Delhi's IGI Airport after his deportation from Canada. Singh is accused of providing logistical support to Anmol Bishnoi, Lawrence's younger brother, and has a history of serious crimes. This arrest is considered a significant step against transnational organised crime, following another recent extradition from Moldova.

Three Juveniles Apprehended After Two Men Stabbed Near Maujpur Metro Station

Three Juveniles Apprehended After Two Men Stabbed Near Maujpur Metro Station

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Two 18-year-old men were stabbed during a quarrel near Maujpur Metro Station in northeast Delhi. Police have apprehended three juveniles aged 16-17 in connection with the incident, which stemmed from a trivial altercation.

Marc Benioff Highlights India's Role In Salesforce's AI Transformation

Marc Benioff Highlights India's Role In Salesforce's AI Transformation

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff has identified a significant opportunity for India as the company transitions its enterprise systems to an AI-first model. He emphasised India's crucial role, leveraging its extensive pool of technology professionals and partners, in this global technological transformation, which he likened to a "Y2K moment" for engineering.

How A Social Activist Helped Arrest Medical Rep In Minor Assault Case

How A Social Activist Helped Arrest Medical Rep In Minor Assault Case

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

A medical representative has been arrested in Thane for allegedly sexually assaulting a minor girl for over a year. The accused reportedly threatened the victim's family and offered money to silence them before being apprehended after a social activist's intervention.

Why Haaland's Winning Goal Stood Despite Offside Blunder In Manchester Derby

Why Haaland's Winning Goal Stood Despite Offside Blunder In Manchester Derby

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Pro Ref chief Howard Webb confirmed that VAR officials Matt Donohue and Blake Antrobus were stood down after 'tunnel vision' led to the incorrect awarding of Erling Haaland's goal in the Manchester derby, acknowledging the error to Manchester United.

India Passes Chess Olympiad Torch To Uzbekistan For 2026 Games

India Passes Chess Olympiad Torch To Uzbekistan For 2026 Games

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

The ceremonial torch for the Chess Olympiad 2026 in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, was handed over by FIDE Interim President Viswanathan Anand and AICF president Nitin Narang to Uzbek player Javokhir Sindarov. This event marks the official countdown to the prestigious team competition, continuing a tradition started by FIDE in 2022 to build excitement for the global chess event.

Iran would have wiped out Israel if...: Trump

Iran would have wiped out Israel if...: Trump

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

US President Donald Trump asserted that Iran is attempting to remove him from office, believing a Democratic administration would permit them to develop nuclear weapons. Trump vowed to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear capabilities and stated he has no regrets about his confrontational approach, claiming he would act the same way again. He also linked the ongoing conflict to rising stock markets and oil prices, and controversially suggested renaming the Strait of Hormuz.

The Rationale Behind Government's UPI Fee Decision

The Rationale Behind Government's UPI Fee Decision

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Indian government has challenged Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's criticism of levying fees on UPI payments above Rs 2,000 to merchants. The government highlighted that a parliamentary standing committee, which included Congress MPs, had previously backed a tiered Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) framework for UPI. This move aims to ensure the financial sustainability of the UPI ecosystem and reduce its dependence on government subsidies, a concern raised by the committee due to the significant funding gap between allocations and operational costs.

India's Geospatial Sector Gets Boost With Mirai-GreenValley LiDAR Partnership

India's Geospatial Sector Gets Boost With Mirai-GreenValley LiDAR Partnership

Rediff.com7 days ago

GIS intelligence solutions provider Mirai Aerospace Systems and Software Solutions has signed an MoU with US-based GreenValley International Inc to strengthen India's geospatial and LiDAR remote sensing manufacturing base. The collaboration focuses on local assembly, manufacturing, technical support, and the development of AI-driven LiDAR applications, aiming to meet India's growing demand across various sectors.

Thailand Women's Batter Chantham Wants To Master Suryakumar's 'Supla Shot'

Thailand Women's Batter Chantham Wants To Master Suryakumar's 'Supla Shot'

Rediff.com7 days ago

Thailand women's team batter Natthakan Chantham is attempting to incorporate Suryakumar Yadav's unique 'Supla shot' into her T20 game, despite initial difficulties, and also admires India's Shubman Gill for his effortless batting.

Why Tata Trusts Can't Oppose Chandra's Third Term

Why Tata Trusts Can't Oppose Chandra's Third Term

Rediff.com6 days ago

N Chandrasekaran's letter of not seeking a third term was written to Tata Sons directors (including to Noel Tata as a nominee director) and, therefore, Tata Trusts did not have a locus standi on accepting or rejecting that letter.

4 Rivers 6 Ranges Review: A Brave Drama

4 Rivers 6 Ranges Review: A Brave Drama

Rediff.com6 days ago

4 Rivers 6 Ranges finds its strongest moments in the moral conflict between non-violence, survival and the fight for freedom.

Vijay clarifies 'touching jaw' gesture in assembly after row

Vijay clarifies 'touching jaw' gesture in assembly after row

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has clarified that his recent jaw-touching gesture in the State Assembly was unintentional, not meant to mock DMK president MK Stalin. The gesture sparked social media debate and drew criticism from CPI(M) State Secretary P Shanmugam, who linked it to Stalin's jaw fracture during the Emergency. Vijay made the gesture while criticising the DMK over alleged corruption.

Golden double by Jefferson-Wooden, Bednarek at Ultimate Athletics

Golden double by Jefferson-Wooden, Bednarek at Ultimate Athletics

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Americans Melissa Jefferson-Wooden and Kenny Bednarek secured double sprint gold at the inaugural World Athletics Ultimate Championship in Budapest, each winning the 100m and 200m titles and a $300,000 jackpot. Jefferson-Wooden's 200m time of 21.47 seconds made her the third fastest woman in history, while Bednarek, known as "Kung Fu Kenny," dominated the men's 200m. The event, designed for television, drew sellout crowds and featured other star athletes like Gianmarco Tamberi and Mondo Duplantis, with World Athletics president Sebastian Coe noting its potential for future Olympic and World Championship elements.

Thane Court Upholds Minor's Testimony, Convicts Man In POCSO Case

Thane Court Upholds Minor's Testimony, Convicts Man In POCSO Case

Rediff.com7 days ago

A special POCSO court in Thane has convicted a 20-year-old man for sexually assaulting a 16-year-old girl, sentencing him to three years of rigorous imprisonment. The court relied heavily on the victim's "clear and cogent" testimony and rejected the plea for probation, citing the fear and insecurity caused by the accused's actions.

Lamine Yamal: 'I deserve Ballon d'Or this year'

Lamine Yamal: 'I deserve Ballon d'Or this year'

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Barcelona's Lamine Yamal believes his World Cup success with Spain and LaLiga title with Barcelona should give him the advantage over Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe in the race for the prestigious Ballon d'Or award.

Indian Gymnast Pranati Nayak Eyes Maiden Asian Games Medal

Indian Gymnast Pranati Nayak Eyes Maiden Asian Games Medal

Rediff.com6 days ago

Indian gymnast Pranati Nayak, the sole representative from India, is set to compete in her fourth Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, aiming for her first medal.

Top Indian And International Archers To Compete In APL Season 2

Top Indian And International Archers To Compete In APL Season 2

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

The second season of the Archery Premier League (APL) is set to commence on October 8 in Hyderabad, featuring a strong lineup of India's top archers, including Olympians Deepika Kumari and Atanu Das, alongside 12 international stars like world number one Marcus D'Almeida. The league will showcase 36 Indian archers competing in both recurve and compound categories, with a unique 15-second shot clock designed to enhance competition.

Delhi Residents Shocked After Headless Infant Body Discovered Near Crematorium

Delhi Residents Shocked After Headless Infant Body Discovered Near Crematorium

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Residents of Kanjhawala, New Delhi, are in shock after the headless body of a newborn infant, estimated to be two to three months old, was discovered near a crematorium. Police have launched an investigation to determine the circumstances of the death, how the body was brought to the location, and who abandoned it. Multiple police teams are searching for the missing head, and authorities are checking crematorium records and questioning staff.

'Misleading and unfair': Govt bans advance tipping on ride-hailing apps

'Misleading and unfair': Govt bans advance tipping on ride-hailing apps

Rediff.com7 days ago

India's Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare announced that cab aggregators have been ordered to cease advance tipping options, deeming the practice misleading and unfair. This follows the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) imposing a Rs 10 lakh penalty on Rapido for unfair business practices, including advance tipping and "dark patterns" that pressure users to pay more. Investigations into Uber and Ola are ongoing, with the government emphasizing that tipping should be voluntary and post-ride.

UPI MDR: Ministry Addresses Concerns Over Cash Transactions And Inflation

UPI MDR: Ministry Addresses Concerns Over Cash Transactions And Inflation

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Finance Ministry has clarified that the 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000, effective October 15, is not expected to increase cash transactions or cause inflation. The ministry also dismissed allegations of US pressure influencing the decision, asserting that the policy aims to promote RuPay credit cards within the UPI ecosystem, and a monitoring mechanism will ensure the MDR burden is not passed on to consumers.

Is Modi Govt Bowing To US Demands On UPI Charges?

Is Modi Govt Bowing To US Demands On UPI Charges?

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Congress party has accused the Modi government of succumbing to US pressure by introducing a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions over Rs 2,000 for merchants. The party alleges this move aims to benefit US card companies and links it to broader US actions against India, including tariffs and H-1B visa issues. The government, however, clarifies that consumers will not be charged.

I Stood Where Every Man Died A Hero's Death

I Stood Where Every Man Died A Hero's Death

Rediff.com6 days ago

The soil mingled with the blood of 114 soldiers, gathered from the battlefield, has been preserved in a glass bottle in Rezang La. When the frozen bodies of the were recovered, they had their rifles in hand, fingers on the trigger, pointed towards the enemy. The mountains they defended will never forget them. Neither should we.

Asian Games a 'teaser' for Olympics, says India women's coach Amol Muzumdar

Asian Games a 'teaser' for Olympics, says India women's coach Amol Muzumdar

Rediff.com6 days ago

India women's head coach Amol Muzumdar and skipper Harmanpreet Kaur view the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games as crucial preparation and a 'teaser' for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where women's cricket will make its debut, aiming to carry their winning mindset into both global events.

Elderly Woman Found Murdered With Face Crushed In Meerut Village

Elderly Woman Found Murdered With Face Crushed In Meerut Village

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

A 65-year-old woman was found murdered with her face crushed in Ganeshpur village, Meerut. The victim, Vimla, was discovered near the Bijnor-Mawana road. Police recovered a blood-stained brick from the scene. While her family suspects robbery due to missing jewellery, police are investigating all angles and awaiting the post-mortem report.