News for 'Sunday Times'

Brazil in Kolkata: India's biggest football test awaits

Brazil in Kolkata: India's biggest football test awaits

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

India is set to host five-time world champions Brazil in a historic invitational football friendly in Kolkata. The match, while offering invaluable exposure for the Indian team, has also drawn criticism over its cost and the decision to withdraw from the FIFA ASEAN Cup. The event carries political significance and marks a key step in Brazil's rebuilding process.

India keeps Russia-Ukraine peace effort alive, says Jaishankar

India keeps Russia-Ukraine peace effort alive, says Jaishankar

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar stated that the world is entering an age of flux marked by conflicts and tariff volatility, requiring India to respond effectively to these challenges. He reiterated India's consistent stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, advocating for dialogue and diplomacy, and highlighted India's efforts to engage with both sides. Jaishankar also emphasised India's role in championing the voice of the Global South and navigating complex strategic partnerships in a multi-aligned world.

India Ranks Among Top 10 Emerging Markets in AI Readiness, Private Investment Soars

India Ranks Among Top 10 Emerging Markets in AI Readiness, Private Investment Soars

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

India has secured a spot among the top 10 leading emerging-market performers in artificial intelligence (AI) readiness, with private investment in AI more than tripling to USD 4.1 billion in 2025, according to a new World Bank report.

'We had more wrongs than rights': Hope after India loss

'We had more wrongs than rights': Hope after India loss

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

West Indies captain Shai Hope attributed his team's eight-wicket loss to India in the first T20I to a "chaotic" batting approach and a failure to properly assess conditions. Hope highlighted the need for ruthlessness against a quality side like India and acknowledged India's superior spin bowling and Shreyas Iyer's match-winning century.

West Bengal CM To Witness Historic India-Brazil Football Clash

West Bengal CM To Witness Historic India-Brazil Football Clash

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari will attend the India-Brazil international football friendly in Kolkata on October 3. The city is preparing for the historic match, with Brazil's five-time world champions having arrived and security measures stepped up.

India's 2036 Olympic bid: 'Hoping to become a sporting superpower'

India's 2036 Olympic bid: 'Hoping to become a sporting superpower'

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

India is determined to host the 2036 Olympics as part of a broader strategy to become a global sporting superpower, despite challenges like limited multi-sport event experience and a poor doping record, according to Indian Olympic Association CEO Raghuram Iyer.

'It Can't Be A Guy Killing Everyone...'

'It Can't Be A Guy Killing Everyone...'

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

'Something has to be new for the audience every time. It has to be a new experience while the emotions remain the same.'

PM Modi Calls For AI-Driven Civil Service Transformation At UPSC Centenary

PM Modi Calls For AI-Driven Civil Service Transformation At UPSC Centenary

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at the UPSC centenary, urged a fundamental shift in civil services recruitment and governance. He highlighted the need for services to adapt to an "instant-delivery world" powered by AI, focusing on citizen-centricity and evaluating candidates' motivation beyond academic knowledge. The PM also praised Captain Smit Machchhar's bravery during his address.

India's canoe slalom paddlers storm into Asian Games semis

India's canoe slalom paddlers storm into Asian Games semis

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Indian canoe slalom paddlers Hitesh Kewat, Pradhyumna Singh Rathod, Pallavi Jagtap, and Rina Sen have successfully advanced to the semifinals in their respective events at the Asian Games. Shikha Chouhan also qualified for the semifinals in the women's kayak single. The semifinals and medal rounds for most are scheduled for Wednesday, with Chouhan competing on Thursday.

Remembering Singeetham Srinivasa Rao, Movie Legend

Remembering Singeetham Srinivasa Rao, Movie Legend

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Singeetham Srinivasa Rao, one of Indian cinema's most inventive filmmakers, leaves behind a seven-decade legacy of fearless experimentation.

WOMEN INTERRUPTED: Building Bridges For Women To Return To The Workplace

WOMEN INTERRUPTED: Building Bridges For Women To Return To The Workplace

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

A career break does not erase the experience that came before it. But the labour market can act as though it does. The more women invest in building professional careers, the more costly an interruption can become. How, then, do we enable women to make a comeback? Whose responsibility is it? asks Radha Roy Biswas.

150 illegally staying Bangladeshis in J-K to be deported

150 illegally staying Bangladeshis in J-K to be deported

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Jammu and Kashmir has begun the deportation process for Bangladeshi nationals allegedly staying illegally in the region, with 150 individuals already shifted to West Bengal. This action follows a survey identifying around 600 illegal immigrants and coincides with the Union Home Ministry's High-Level Committee on Demographic Change (HLCDC) investigating illegal immigration across India.

Nifty gains on Brent crude pullback, but analysts warn of continued volatility

Nifty gains on Brent crude pullback, but analysts warn of continued volatility

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Indian equity markets, led by the Nifty 50, saw gains following a pullback in Brent crude prices towards $101-102 a barrel and weaker-than-anticipated US jobs data, which eased concerns about a Fed rate hike. However, analysts caution that markets are likely to remain volatile in the near term.

Portugal in Nations League quarter-finals after all-win record

Portugal in Nations League quarter-finals after all-win record

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Title holders Portugal defeated Norway 2-1 in the Nations League, securing their place in the March quarter-finals with a perfect record. Goncalo Ramos scored the winning goal, further highlighting the team's success despite Cristiano Ronaldo's recent departure from the squad. Other Nations League results included Denmark beating Wales, the Netherlands overcoming Serbia, and Greece drawing with Germany.

Can Pargat Singh unite Punjab Congress ahead of 2027 state polls?

Can Pargat Singh unite Punjab Congress ahead of 2027 state polls?

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

Former Indian hockey captain and Olympian Pargat Singh has been appointed the new president of the Punjab Congress, replacing Amrinder Singh Raja Warring. A three-time MLA from Jalandhar Cantonment, Singh's elevation comes amidst internal party wrangling and is seen as a strategic move to unite factions ahead of the 2027 assembly elections. His journey spans from a decorated sports career to a prominent political figure, having previously served as a minister and consistently winning his assembly seat.

Neymar's tribute to Messi: 'The whole world thanks you'

Neymar's tribute to Messi: 'The whole world thanks you'

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

Brazil football legend Neymar Jr has penned an emotional tribute to Argentina icon Lionel Messi as Messi prepares for his final international match against Benin. Neymar, a former teammate at Barcelona and PSG, expressed gratitude for Messi's contributions to football and wished him well for his farewell game. The article also recaps Messi's illustrious international career, including his World Cup and Copa America triumphs, and his records as Argentina's most-capped player and highest goal scorer.

Jammu EOW Charges Two In Multi-Lakh Investment Scam

Jammu EOW Charges Two In Multi-Lakh Investment Scam

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of the Crime Branch Jammu has filed a chargesheet against two individuals, Manoj Kumar and Vikram Singh, in a financial fraud case involving over Rs 1.22 crore collected from investors in Samba district. The accused allegedly induced residents to invest in schemes from unregistered or de-registered NBFCs, promising high returns but failing to deliver.

BJP Accuses Rahul Gandhi Of Spreading False Narrative With AI Video

BJP Accuses Rahul Gandhi Of Spreading False Narrative With AI Video

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

The BJP has strongly criticised Rahul Gandhi and other Congress leaders for allegedly promoting a false narrative against Delhi Police using a fabricated AI-generated video. This comes after an arrest was made in connection with circulating the video, which purportedly showed an ACP harassing a woman journalist. The BJP questions Gandhi's silence and the potential involvement of the Congress IT cell in creating and amplifying the fake content.

Asian Games: Indian Kurash Athlete Yash Chauhan Fails Dope Test; Suspended

Asian Games: Indian Kurash Athlete Yash Chauhan Fails Dope Test; Suspended

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

Indian kurash player Yash Kumar Chauhan has been provisionally suspended after testing positive for multiple banned substances during the Asian Games.

Walking For 20 Minutes Not Enough To Keep Heart Healthy

Walking For 20 Minutes Not Enough To Keep Heart Healthy

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

In this new series on busting common health concerns, Cardiologist Dr Dipak Patil explains why walking and visiting the gym may not be enough to protect your heart health.

PM Modi Calls For Unified Global Action Against Cyber Frauds And Deepfakes

PM Modi Calls For Unified Global Action Against Cyber Frauds And Deepfakes

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged for a global framework to combat cross-border cyber frauds and deepfakes, highlighting the need for governments, tech companies, telecom operators, and financial institutions to collaborate. Speaking at the India Mobile Congress 2026, Modi stressed that technology thrives on trust and that India is ready to share its expertise in tackling cyber threats. He also noted the rapid expansion of 5G and the success of digital governance initiatives like Direct Benefit Transfer.

Three medals, one Asiad: Gulveer's historic feat!

Three medals, one Asiad: Gulveer's historic feat!

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Indian athletes delivered a stellar performance at the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya, securing a gold medal in the women's 4x400m relay. The team's victory marked India's first track and field gold at the games. Additionally, India clinched several bronze medals in events like the 4x100m mixed relay, women's high jump, and men's 5000m, with Gulveer Singh achieving a remarkable hat-trick of podium finishes.

Gurugram Teacher Murder: Police Arrest 22-Year-Old Suspect

Gurugram Teacher Murder: Police Arrest 22-Year-Old Suspect

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

A 75-year-old retired teacher, Madhu Sharma, was found strangled to death in her Gurugram home. Police have arrested 22-year-old Suraj Gupta, who confessed to the crime. Authorities are investigating the motive, including a possible theft angle.

'I Wanted To Quit Boxing': Lovlina's Big Reveal After Asian Games Gold

'I Wanted To Quit Boxing': Lovlina's Big Reveal After Asian Games Gold

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

Lovlina Borgohain, who had considered retiring after the Paris Olympics, clinched her maiden Asian Games gold medal in boxing, defeating China's Ziyi Bao 5-0 in the 75kg final.

How Abhishek Nayar helped Shreyas Iyer end his T20I century drought

How Abhishek Nayar helped Shreyas Iyer end his T20I century drought

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

Shreyas Iyer scored his maiden T20 International hundred after a crucial two-hour troubleshooting session with former India batting coach Abhishek Nayar. Nayar revealed they worked on Iyer's grip, initial movements, and tactical nuances to help him generate more force and clear boundaries, addressing issues Iyer felt during the Asian Games. Iyer's 43-ball 102 not out led India to an eight-wicket win against West Indies on Tuesday.

Mumbai Developer, Wife Face Trial For Rs 28 Crore Homebuyer Cheating Case

Mumbai Developer, Wife Face Trial For Rs 28 Crore Homebuyer Cheating Case

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

A special MPID court in Mumbai has framed charges against developer Vijay Machhindar, his wife, and their company Ornate Spaces Pvt Ltd for allegedly cheating homebuyers and investors of Rs 28 crore. The charges relate to failing to deliver flats in an Oshiwara residential project and not returning the invested money, leading to a trial under IPC, MPID, and MOFA provisions.

Bhuvneshwar's India return gives Shami hope, but numbers tell a different story

Bhuvneshwar's India return gives Shami hope, but numbers tell a different story

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

The article explores Mohammed Shami's potential return to the Indian cricket team, drawing parallels with Bhuvneshwar Kumar's recent comeback. It details Bhuvneshwar's impressive IPL performances and mentoring role, contrasting them with Shami's strong domestic cricket form since late 2024, and highlights the Bengal pacer's continued motivation for national selection.

'Always be the first one': Pranavi Urs scripts history at Asian Games

'Always be the first one': Pranavi Urs scripts history at Asian Games

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

Indian golfer Pranavi Urs made history by becoming the first Indian woman to win an Asian Games gold medal in golf.

Newly-Wed Woman Alleges Brutal Assault By Husband Over Dowry In Saudi Arabia And Keralam

Newly-Wed Woman Alleges Brutal Assault By Husband Over Dowry In Saudi Arabia And Keralam

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

A newly-wed woman in Keralam has filed a complaint against her husband and in-laws, accusing them of dowry harassment and physical assault. She alleges brutal attacks in Saudi Arabia, where her husband works, and in Keralam, leading to a police investigation under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Dowry Prohibition Act.

Novak Djokovic says body 'feeling good' as Beijing return offers fresh start

Novak Djokovic says body 'feeling good' as Beijing return offers fresh start

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Novak Djokovic returns at the China Open encouraged by his fitness, aiming to revive momentum against Nuno Borges at a venue where he remains unbeaten across 29 matches.

Reliance Industries raises Rs 25,000 crore in September bond issues, navigating rising borrowing costs

Reliance Industries raises Rs 25,000 crore in September bond issues, navigating rising borrowing costs

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) has successfully raised a total of Rs 25,000 crore through domestic bond issues in September, including a recent Rs 13,000 crore 10-year bond at 7.90 per cent, as it prioritises funding certainty amidst expectations of a possible RBI rate hike and rising borrowing costs.

'You can't suddenly make a change': Pujara backs Samson

'You can't suddenly make a change': Pujara backs Samson

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Former cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara believes the Indian team is well-prepared for the slowish tracks expected in the upcoming T20I series against the West Indies, particularly the first match in Lucknow, thanks to their recent experience on challenging pitches at the Asian Games in Japan.

AIFF finally sets date for much-awaited elections

AIFF finally sets date for much-awaited elections

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has announced that its much-anticipated elections will take place on December 20. This decision, made at a Special General Body Meeting attended by FIFA and AFC officials, aims to resolve governance uncertainties and elect new office-bearers at a critical time for Indian football. Rajeev Sharma has been appointed as the electoral officer.

Why Delhi Court Granted Bail To Eight Gold Smuggling Accused

Why Delhi Court Granted Bail To Eight Gold Smuggling Accused

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

A Delhi court has granted bail to eight men accused of smuggling over 6 kg of gold worth Rs 9.9 crore, citing the customs department's failure to provide specific reasons for their continued detention. The court noted the absence of direct evidence linking the accused to the gold recovered from the aircraft after their disembarkation, and the lack of corroboration for alleged activities in Dubai.

Asian Games Gold Medallist Sujeet Kalkal Eyes 2028 Olympics Gold

Asian Games Gold Medallist Sujeet Kalkal Eyes 2028 Olympics Gold

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

Asian Games gold medallist Sujeet Kalkal is focusing on improving his ground game, identified by coaches as a crucial area for his 2028 Los Angeles Olympics aspirations.

The inside story of Bhuvneshwar Kumar's surprise recall after four-year India exile

The inside story of Bhuvneshwar Kumar's surprise recall after four-year India exile

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Bhuvneshwar Kumar, despite being written off in 2022, is set to make a national comeback in 2026, showcasing his enduring swing bowling prowess and strong work ethic, particularly after stellar performances in the IPL.

Manu's father slams 'gutter' near Asian Games range

Manu's father slams 'gutter' near Asian Games range

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Double Olympic medalist shooter Manu Bhaker concluded her Asian Games campaign without a medal, leading her father, Ram Kishan Bhaker, to heavily criticise the event's organisation, citing issues like travel distance, bus timings, and unsanitary conditions at the shooting range in Aichi-Nagoya.

Arshdeep-Samreen Get Lovey-Dovey In Japan

Arshdeep-Samreen Get Lovey-Dovey In Japan

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Arshdeep Singh is making the most of the rain-affected Asian Games in Nagoya, enjoying a romantic time with girlfriend Samreen Kaur and sharing a charming post from Nagoya Castle.

Indian Stars Gill, Abhishek, Charani, Shafali Vie for ICC Player of the Month

Indian Stars Gill, Abhishek, Charani, Shafali Vie for ICC Player of the Month

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Indian cricketers Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, Sree Charani, and Shafali Verma have been shortlisted for the ICC Men's and Women's Player of the Month awards for September, recognising their exceptional performances in recent international matches.

India Invited To Present 2036 Olympic Bid To IOC Commission

India Invited To Present 2036 Olympic Bid To IOC Commission

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has invited India, Germany, Qatar, and Turkiye, among others, to present their bids for hosting the 2036 Olympic Games to its Future Host Commission next month. Ahmedabad is India's preferred city for the mega-event, with negotiations led by the Indian Olympic Association in collaboration with the Gujarat government and Union Sports Ministry. The host will be announced in mid-2029, following a streamlined selection process focusing on venue master-plan, funding, public support, and athlete experience.