News for 'States'

Debate Rages Over New UPI MDR Charges

Debate Rages Over New UPI MDR Charges

Rediff.com2 days ago

BJD chief Naveen Patnaik has voiced concerns over the Centre's decision to introduce Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) charges on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 from October 15, urging protection for small traders and common people. This move has sparked a political debate, with the BJP defending the charges as beneficial for digital infrastructure and largely not impacting consumers, while the Congress and traders' associations criticise it as an additional burden.

Chirravuri And Thomas Face Setback At Nationwide Children's Championship

Chirravuri And Thomas Face Setback At Nationwide Children's Championship

Rediff.com10 hours ago

Indian golfers Mahanth Chirravuri and Rayhan Thomas experienced a challenging third round at the Nationwide Children's Hospital Championship, causing them to fall down the leaderboard. John Marshall Butler maintained his lead with a strong performance.

Found using mobile during exam, IIT-B student ends life; mother alleges murder

Found using mobile during exam, IIT-B student ends life; mother alleges murder

Rediff.com1 days ago

The mother of Sahil Ravindra Wakode, a 22-year-old IIT Bombay student found dead in his hostel room, has alleged her son was "tortured" and "killed," demanding justice, while the institute stated no disciplinary action was initiated against him after he was found using a mobile phone during an exam.

Thomas And Chirravuri Advance In Crucial Golf Tournament

Thomas And Chirravuri Advance In Crucial Golf Tournament

Rediff.com1 days ago

Indian-origin golfers Rayhan Thomas and Mahanth Chirravuri successfully made the cut at the Nationwide Children's Hospital Championship. Both players are aiming to improve their standings in the Korn Ferry Finals Tour points race to secure full playing rights for the next season and potentially a PGA Tour card.

Crime Branch Intercepts Truck With Rs 15.6 Lakh Spurious Liquor

Crime Branch Intercepts Truck With Rs 15.6 Lakh Spurious Liquor

Rediff.com6 hours ago

The Nagpur Crime Branch has intercepted a truck carrying 39,000 bottles of spurious liquor, valued at Rs 15.60 lakh, intended for illegal supply to Gadchiroli. One person has been arrested, and another accused is on the run. A case has been registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Maharashtra Prohibition Act.

CBI Busts Bribery Ring In J&K Agriculture Department

CBI Busts Bribery Ring In J&K Agriculture Department

Rediff.com7 hours ago

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested a Sub-Divisional Agriculture Officer (SDAO) and two others in Jammu and Kashmir for allegedly demanding and accepting a bribe to release a subsidy under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) scheme.

J&K Bribery Scandal: CBI Nabs Agriculture Officer For Subsidy Demands

J&K Bribery Scandal: CBI Nabs Agriculture Officer For Subsidy Demands

Rediff.com8 hours ago

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested a sub-divisional agriculture officer and two others in Jammu and Kashmir in connection with a bribery case. The officer allegedly demanded a bribe for releasing a subsidy under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP).

Ballia Double Murder: Husband Among Three Arrested

Ballia Double Murder: Husband Among Three Arrested

Rediff.com1 days ago

Police in Ballia, Uttar Pradesh, have arrested three individuals, including a 70-year-old man, Ramcheez Gupta, for the murder of his wife, Manti Gupta (65), and visually impaired daughter, Gauri (22). The bodies were found in Mustafabad village. Investigations revealed Ramcheez allegedly conspired with two others, Chandan Yadav and Dinesh Gupta, due to concerns about his social standing stemming from his wife's mental health issues and daughter's disability.

India on watch as Trump may sign Russia sanctions bill today

India on watch as Trump may sign Russia sanctions bill today

Rediff.com2 days ago

US President Donald Trump is expected to sign the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 later on Friday (local time). A White House official confirmed the development to ANI without revealing further details.

Asian Games: Quimcy blows 1-set lead, still has bronze to chase

Asian Games: Quimcy blows 1-set lead, still has bronze to chase

Rediff.com1 days ago

Indian Teqball player Quimcy Dsouza lost her Asian Games women's singles semifinal to Indonesia's Sumaya in a gruelling three-game match. Despite a strong start, Dsouza, a former state-level footballer, was overcome by Sumaya's sepak takraw background. Dsouza will now compete in the bronze medal playoff, aiming for a podium finish in Teqball's debut at the Asian Games.

Rishabh Das In Asian Games 100m Backstroke Final

Rishabh Das In Asian Games 100m Backstroke Final

Rediff.com18 hours ago

Indian swimmer Rishabh Das has qualified for the men's 100m backstroke final at the Asian Games after finishing fifth in the heats. While Das showed strong performance, other Indian swimmers faced disappointment in the 100m freestyle heats.

Viral Video Leads To Arrest In Bengaluru Dagger Attack

Viral Video Leads To Arrest In Bengaluru Dagger Attack

Rediff.com10 hours ago

Bengaluru police have arrested a man in Jayanagar 9th Block for allegedly attempting to murder a person with a dagger following a monetary dispute. The incident gained public attention after a video of the accused brandishing weapons went viral on social media, leading to his swift apprehension and judicial remand.

NGOs down by half in last 10 years; contribution rises to Rs 22,974 cr

NGOs down by half in last 10 years; contribution rises to Rs 22,974 cr

Rediff.com2 days ago

The Ministry of Home Affairs informed a Joint Committee of Parliament that the number of active NGOs registered under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act has halved over the last decade, even as foreign funds received by them have significantly increased. Christian associations received the largest share of these funds in 2024-25. The report comes amidst discussions on a contentious FCRA amendment bill aimed at tighter government oversight.

'Very heavy tariffs': Trump fumes as Canada moves closer to EU

'Very heavy tariffs': Trump fumes as Canada moves closer to EU

Rediff.com3 days ago

US President Donald Trump has threatened the European Union with "very heavy tariffs" if he perceives their actions as hostile, specifically in response to Canada's efforts to deepen economic and strategic ties with the EU. This comes as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen invited Canada to become the EU's first "associate member" to strengthen resilience amid global trade uncertainties and US trade policies.

With Saudi attacked, is Pakistan ready to join Gulf War?

With Saudi attacked, is Pakistan ready to join Gulf War?

Rediff.com3 days ago

Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has reiterated the nation's unwavering commitment to the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement, underscoring its role in regional security following an attempted drone attack near the holy city of Mecca. The pact, signed by Pakistan, Turkiye, and Saudi Arabia, establishes a framework for collective deterrence against armed attacks.

Accept 7 conditions or face 'decisive war': Iran tells Trump

Accept 7 conditions or face 'decisive war': Iran tells Trump

Rediff.com13 hours ago

Iran has conveyed seven conditions to the United States through Qatari mediators for starting negotiations to end the ongoing war, while warning that Tehran is prepared for a "decisive war" if Washington rejects its demands.

Mayawati's family succession plan for BSP: Ishan in, Akash and Deepika out

Mayawati's family succession plan for BSP: Ishan in, Akash and Deepika out

Rediff.com8 hours ago

BSP supremo Mayawati has announced a definitive decision regarding the involvement of her brother Anand Kumar's children in the party. She stated that only Ishan Anand would be given a role, while Akash Anand and Deepika Anand would be kept away. Mayawati cited Akash Anand's conduct and his father-in-law's influence as reasons for his exclusion, emphasising her commitment to the party's integrity and following the principles of BSP founder Kanshi Ram.

London police cancels Vijay's event citing safety reasons

London police cancels Vijay's event citing safety reasons

Rediff.com4 days ago

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay's fan event in London was cancelled by Metropolitan Police due to safety concerns, disappointing hundreds who had gathered. The CM is in the UK leading a delegation to attract investments, having already secured MoUs worth Rs 12,300 crore, aiming to create over 9,400 jobs and position Tamil Nadu as a manufacturing and technology hub.

SC mandates co-option of two women members to each state bar council

SC mandates co-option of two women members to each state bar council

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has directed State Bar Councils to co-opt two women members, either former High Court judges or senior women advocates, to ensure greater gender representation. This move reinforces earlier directives for 30% women's representation and aims to dismantle the perception of Bar Councils as "men's clubs", promoting objectivity and transparency in their functioning.

West Bengal Launches Quantum And Semiconductor Tech Section To Attract Investments

West Bengal Launches Quantum And Semiconductor Tech Section To Attract Investments

Rediff.com6 days ago

West Bengal has launched an Emerging Quantum and Semiconductor Technologies (EQST) section at CSIR-CGCRI to attract investments and position the state as a hub for next-generation technology. Minister Kalyan Chakraborti highlighted India's need to invest in these crucial sectors and outlined the state's plans to collaborate with institutions and leverage budget initiatives to foster research and start-ups.

Nithari accused Surendra Koli found hanging at his tea shop

Nithari accused Surendra Koli found hanging at his tea shop

Rediff.com2 days ago

Surendra Koli, who was at the centre of the sensational Nithari killings and subsequently acquitted in all 13 cases, was found hanging at his tea stall in Haridwar, police confirmed, with investigations ongoing into the suspected suicide.

UCC will be implemented in Maha after panel report: CM Fadnavis

UCC will be implemented in Maha after panel report: CM Fadnavis

Rediff.com6 days ago

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday said that the state government has already constituted a committee to prepare the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and that the law will be implemented after the committee submits its report.

JD-U softens stand on UCC, says 'will not oppose for no reason'

JD-U softens stand on UCC, says 'will not oppose for no reason'

Rediff.com5 days ago

Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Chaudhary stated that the JD(U) will thoroughly study the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill before deciding on its stance, indicating they will not oppose it without valid reasons. This position contrasts with the RJD's strong opposition and highlights the JD(U)'s independent approach within the NDA.

Chess Olympiad: India men down Spain; women crush Mongolia

Chess Olympiad: India men down Spain; women crush Mongolia

Rediff.com1 days ago

The Indian men's team continued its fine performance, defeating Spain 3-1, with World champion D Gukesh showing the way with a very clean victory over former world championship challenger Alexei Shirov.

ED Director Navin Orders Stepped-Up Action Against IBC Fraud And Police FIR Delays

ED Director Navin Orders Stepped-Up Action Against IBC Fraud And Police FIR Delays

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) Director, Rahul Navin, has issued directives to intensify action against Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) frauds involving "large haircuts" and to address delays in police registering FIRs based on ED's requests. The agency also aims to fast-track high-profile trials under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and enhance internal coordination and efficiency.

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.

India's Professional Hockey Model Praised By FIH President

India's Professional Hockey Model Praised By FIH President

Rediff.com2 days ago

International Hockey Federation (FIH) President Tayyab Ikram has commended India's professional approach to hockey, urging other Asian nations to adopt similar strategies to improve their global standing. He highlighted India's journey from past Olympic glory to recent bronze medals, positioning it as a model for development in the sport.

India Women Win 10m Air Rifle Team Silver At Asian Games

India Women Win 10m Air Rifle Team Silver At Asian Games

Rediff.com15 hours ago

India's women's 10m air rifle team, comprising Elavenil Valarivan, Sonam Maskar, and Vidarsa Vinod, secured a silver medal at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games. This marks India's first confirmed medal at the event, with Sonam and Elavenil also qualifying for the individual final.

US tariff blitz on Russian oil: How will China strike back?

US tariff blitz on Russian oil: How will China strike back?

Rediff.com3 days ago

China has strongly rejected a US bill that would impose tariffs on countries, including India, for purchasing Russian oil and gas. Beijing views the "Lindsey O Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act 2026" as an act of "long-arm jurisdiction" and interference in its sovereign trade relations, asserting that its economic cooperation with other nations is based on equality and mutual benefit.

Weather Disrupts La Sella Open, Pranavi Urs Eyes Top-10 Finish

Weather Disrupts La Sella Open, Pranavi Urs Eyes Top-10 Finish

Rediff.com10 hours ago

Indian golfer Pranavi Urs is in contention for a top-10 finish at the weather-affected La Sella Open on the Ladies European Tour, despite play being suspended due to heavy rain. The tournament has been shortened to 54 holes, with Urs currently tied-eighth.

Bihar floods: More than 49 lakh hit in 15 districts as rivers swell

Bihar floods: More than 49 lakh hit in 15 districts as rivers swell

Rediff.com6 days ago

Heavy rainfall and swollen rivers have led to severe flooding in 15 districts of Bihar, affecting over 49 lakh people. Major rivers like the Ganga and Kosi are flowing above danger levels, prompting the deployment of disaster response teams and the establishment of relief camps and community kitchens for those displaced.

Kerala Ex-DGP Convicted For Disproportionate Assets

Kerala Ex-DGP Convicted For Disproportionate Assets

Rediff.com3 days ago

A court in Kottayam has found former state DGP Tomin J Thachankary guilty of amassing wealth disproportionate to his known sources of income under the Prevention of Corruption Act. The sentence will be pronounced later, with the prosecution arguing against leniency despite Thachankary's health plea.

Fatal Argument: Delhi Teen Stabbed To Death Over 'Papa' Joke Among Friends

Fatal Argument: Delhi Teen Stabbed To Death Over 'Papa' Joke Among Friends

Rediff.com6 hours ago

An 18-year-old man, Sumit Giri, was allegedly stabbed to death in Naraina Village, West Delhi, following an argument among friends that began with a joke about calling someone "Papa". The incident escalated, leading to the fatal stabbing and subsequent assault by the accused's brother. Police have registered a murder case and are investigating the motive.

ED Uncovers Major Call Centre Scam Targeting Americans

ED Uncovers Major Call Centre Scam Targeting Americans

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Enforcement Directorate conducted two-day searches across Chandigarh, Punjab, and Maharashtra, seizing mobile phones, laptops, and cash. This action is part of a money laundering investigation into a "fake" call centre accused of defrauding US citizens through spam emails.

India's Elavenil Valarivan Shines With Two Silver Medals At Asian Games

India's Elavenil Valarivan Shines With Two Silver Medals At Asian Games

Rediff.com15 hours ago

Indian shooter Elavenil Valarivan secured two silver medals at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, winning an individual silver in the women's 10m air rifle event and contributing to a team silver. Her performance marks an encouraging start for India's shooting campaign, which aims to build on the success of the previous Hangzhou Asian Games.

Why MP Fuel Pumps Will Stop Accepting High-Value UPI Payments

Why MP Fuel Pumps Will Stop Accepting High-Value UPI Payments

Rediff.com2 days ago

Fuel pump dealers in Madhya Pradesh plan to stop accepting UPI payments exceeding Rs 2,000 for petrol and diesel from October 16, citing concerns over the proposed Merchant Discount Rate (MDR). The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has urged the government to reconsider the MDR imposition, warning it could hinder digital payment adoption and impact traders' profits.

HCLTech Report Reveals Integration As Semiconductor Industry's Biggest Hurdle

HCLTech Report Reveals Integration As Semiconductor Industry's Biggest Hurdle

Rediff.com2 days ago

A global research report by HCLTech indicates that integration has surpassed supply chain constraints as the primary challenge for the semiconductor industry. The study, which surveyed 300 senior leaders, highlights increasing dependency on semiconductors across industries, with 98% of enterprises more reliant now than three years ago and 99% expecting further increases. AI is also driving the strategic importance of semiconductor architecture.

Build Cities Around Women's Safety

Build Cities Around Women's Safety

Rediff.com3 days ago

'It is not about a place with fewer incidents of violence but a city where women have real agency in planning their daily lives.'

Mumbai's Olympia Coffee House, where Christopher Nolan stopped for chai, loses licence

Mumbai's Olympia Coffee House, where Christopher Nolan stopped for chai, loses licence

Rediff.com2 days ago

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the licences of several food establishments in Mumbai, including the Nair Hospital canteen and Olympia Coffee House, due to serious violations of food safety and hygiene standards. Inspections revealed issues like unsanitary conditions, improper food handling, pest infestations, and lack of trained staff. The FDA also cancelled licences of other businesses and seized unhygienic milk products as part of a festive season campaign.

7 states account for 85% of India's installed solar capacity

7 states account for 85% of India's installed solar capacity

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Despite aggressive expansion, India's solar power sector faces significant hurdles from rising regional disparities in installed capacity and a looming manufacturing glut due to overcapacity in domestic solar equipment production, potentially leading to consolidation and pricing pressures.