News for 'The Sunday Times'

Praveen Chithravel's Commonwealth Games Silver Fuels Family Pride, Village Dreams

Praveen Chithravel's Commonwealth Games Silver Fuels Family Pride, Village Dreams

Rediff.com7 days ago

Indian athlete Praveen Chithravel secured a silver medal in the men's triple jump at the 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games, bringing immense pride to his agricultural daily wage worker father and their village in Tamil Nadu.

Lok Sabha passes bill to allow charges on UPI, digital payments

Lok Sabha passes bill to allow charges on UPI, digital payments

Rediff.com3 days ago

The Lok Sabha has passed a Bill to amend the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007, authorising the government to permit banks and service providers to levy charges on UPI and other electronic payment modes. This move aims to create a sustainable revenue model for the digital payments ecosystem, shifting from the current exemption of UPI transactions from such charges.

BJP launches extortion culture clean-up in Bengal; suspends 22 leaders

BJP launches extortion culture clean-up in Bengal; suspends 22 leaders

Rediff.com4 days ago

The ruling BJP in West Bengal has suspended 22 functionaries, including several mandal presidents, over allegations of extortion and indiscipline. This action follows public warnings from the party leadership against adopting an 'extortion culture' and comes ahead of a visit by BJP's central in-charge for West Bengal, Sunil Bansal, to review the party's organisation and the new government's functioning.

Mohith HS: From Accidental Goalkeeper To India's World Cup Hope

Mohith HS: From Accidental Goalkeeper To India's World Cup Hope

Rediff.com4 days ago

Karnataka's Mohith HS, an accidental goalkeeper, is set to represent India at the FIH Hockey World Cup in the Netherlands and Belgium. The 24-year-old, who impressed in the FIH Pro League, will join Suraj Karkera as one of the team's custodians. Mohith's journey began by chance in school, evolving into a promising career that saw him play in the Junior World Cup and now the senior national team, driven by a dream to win for India.

RBI Governor Discusses Future Of Digital Payment Merchant Discount Rate

RBI Governor Discusses Future Of Digital Payment Merchant Discount Rate

Rediff.com4 days ago

RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra stated it is "premature" to discuss the implementation of Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) for digital payments, advising a "wait-and-watch" approach. He emphasised that investment in public payment infrastructure is necessary and someone must bear the cost, whether through taxes or MDR. The government is currently working on amendments to relevant statutes, and the RBI is focused on strengthening this infrastructure.

Unable to find Old Monk rum in stores? This is why

Unable to find Old Monk rum in stores? This is why

Rediff.com4 days ago

Several popular rum and whisky brands, including variants of Old Monk Rum and McDowell's No 1, have been prohibited from sale after laboratory tests found their samples did not conform to prescribed standards, primarily due to the addition of artificial flavouring substances.

Djokovic eyes Cincinnati Open for US Open prep, record 25th Slam

Djokovic eyes Cincinnati Open for US Open prep, record 25th Slam

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Novak Djokovic is set to compete in the Cincinnati Open, a crucial tune-up event, as he aims to build match sharpness and preserve his body in pursuit of a record 25th Grand Slam title at the upcoming US Open.

How PhonePe's PulsePro Will Transform Business Decision-Making

How PhonePe's PulsePro Will Transform Business Decision-Making

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Digital payments firm PhonePe has launched PulsePro, an enterprise intelligence platform providing businesses with aggregated and anonymised transaction data. This platform offers near real-time market insights at granular levels, helping companies track consumer spending, identify growth opportunities, and make informed expansion decisions across India.

India's Best Female Golfers Converge For Hero Women's Pro Tour Leg In Hosur

India's Best Female Golfers Converge For Hero Women's Pro Tour Leg In Hosur

Rediff.com5 days ago

The 11th Leg of the Hero Women's Pro Golf Tour is set to begin in Hosur, featuring all previous winners and a strong field of 53 players, including top amateurs and seasoned professionals. The tournament at Clover Greens Golf Course will see Vidhatri Urs, Vani Kapoor, Tvesa Malik, and others compete for honours.

Ajinkya Rahane: 'I gave this game everything I had'

Ajinkya Rahane: 'I gave this game everything I had'

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Veteran Indian cricketer Ajinkya Rahane has announced his retirement from international cricket, concluding a career that spanned nearly two decades and included an undefeated Test captaincy record.

'I'd be good at it': Stokes eyes England job

'I'd be good at it': Stokes eyes England job

Rediff.com5 days ago

Former England captain Ben Stokes has expressed his desire to coach the national team one day, believing his experience as a player and captain would make him successful. He is currently pursuing his Level 3 coaching qualification and has an understanding of the responsibilities involved in leadership. Stokes also commented on Harry Brook not being made Test captain despite being vice-captain, questioning the message it sent.

'Every medal you win brings immense joy to the country'

'Every medal you win brings immense joy to the country'

Rediff.com6 days ago

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya felicitated the Indian weightlifting team for their strong performance at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, where they secured one gold, six silver, and one bronze medal.

Indian Navy sink NEROCA to stay alive in Durand Cup

Indian Navy sink NEROCA to stay alive in Durand Cup

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Indian Navy football team secured their first victory in the Durand Cup, defeating NEROCA FC 2-0 in a Group D fixture. Goals from Roshan Panna and E Muhammed Inayath sealed the win, moving the Navy to second place in their group.

Former CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Tewolde Gebremariam is new Air India boss

Former CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Tewolde Gebremariam is new Air India boss

Rediff.com4 days ago

Air India has announced the appointment of Tewolde Gebremariam, former CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group, as its new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, replacing Campbell Wilson. This strategic appointment comes as the airline navigates expansion amidst significant challenges.

Why Start-up Employees May Retire Poor

Why Start-up Employees May Retire Poor

Rediff.com5 days ago

An employee whose financial future is 60-80 per cent dependent on a single company's growth trajectory has no genuine safety net.

Indian Men's Squash Team Clinches Bronze After Semifinal Loss To USA

Indian Men's Squash Team Clinches Bronze After Semifinal Loss To USA

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

The Indian men's squash team secured a bronze medal at the World Squash Junior Team Championships in Ontario after losing 0-2 to the USA in the semifinals. This marks the first time the Indian men's team has achieved consecutive bronze medal finishes in the competition.

Tata Sons AGM: Will Chandra's Term Be Renewed?

Tata Sons AGM: Will Chandra's Term Be Renewed?

Rediff.com3 days ago

Just in case the AGM, scheduled At the AGM, if it is held, a shareholders' vote on Chandra's renewal as a director on the Tata Sons board is unlikely but not ruled out.

Enemy nations use drugs to weaken India's youths under terror plan: Modi

Enemy nations use drugs to weaken India's youths under terror plan: Modi

Rediff.com7 days ago

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday asked the country's youth to take a pledge against substance abuse, saying drugs can give them a "high" for some time, but would make their entire career and personal life "low".

Durand Cup: Samaleswari Sporting secure resounding win over Baghpat FC

Durand Cup: Samaleswari Sporting secure resounding win over Baghpat FC

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Samaleswari Sporting bounced back from an opening defeat to secure a commanding 4-1 victory over Durand Cup debutants Baghpat FC. Basit Ahmed Bhat scored twice, supported by goals from Marat Tareck and Gnohere Krizo, while Crispin Cleetus netted Baghpat's lone goal. The Odisha-based team controlled the second half, extending their lead and comfortably seeing out the match.

Lodha Developers targets Rs 10,000 crore from Palava data centre park land sales

Lodha Developers targets Rs 10,000 crore from Palava data centre park land sales

Rediff.com5 days ago

Lodha Developers plans to generate approximately 10,000 crore in sales over the next three to four years by monetising about 150 acres of land at its data centre park in Palava, part of the Mumbai metropolitan region (MMR). This strategy is a planned recurring pillar of their business, funding the build-out of 1 gigawatt of powered shell capacity and aiming for over 2,000 crore in annual rental income by FY32.

Ahmedabad's 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' Invitation for 2030 Commonwealth Games

Ahmedabad's 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' Invitation for 2030 Commonwealth Games

Rediff.com7 days ago

India officially launched its bid to host the centenary edition of the Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad in 2030, presenting a vibrant cultural showcase at the Glasgow closing ceremony that blended ancient philosophy, contemporary artistry, and cultural grandeur.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day's Post-Credit Scene Explained

Spider-Man: Brand New Day's Post-Credit Scene Explained

Rediff.com6 days ago

Spider-Man: Brand New Day's seemingly underwhelming post-credit scene may actually be quietly setting up Peter Parker's biggest MCU adventure yet.

Know More About Mohanlal's Daughter Vismaya Before Her Thudakkam Debut

Know More About Mohanlal's Daughter Vismaya Before Her Thudakkam Debut

Rediff.com3 days ago

As Vismaya Mohanlal makes her acting debut with Thudakkam, here's what you need to know about Mohanlal's daughter, from her Muay Thai training to her life away from the spotlight.

Gurindervir Singh's Commonwealth Games 100m Campaign Ends Early

Gurindervir Singh's Commonwealth Games 100m Campaign Ends Early

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

India's top sprinter, Gurindervir Singh, was eliminated from the men's 100m event at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, finishing 28th overall in the heats with a time of 10.39 seconds, significantly slower than his national record.

Gurindervir Singh's Commonwealth Games 100m Campaign Ends Early

Gurindervir Singh's Commonwealth Games 100m Campaign Ends Early

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

India's top sprinter, Gurindervir Singh, was eliminated from the men's 100m event at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, finishing 28th overall in the heats with a time of 10.39 seconds, significantly slower than his national record.

Fresh talks 'last chance' for Iran: Trump as Tehran denies talks

Fresh talks 'last chance' for Iran: Trump as Tehran denies talks

Rediff.com5 days ago

Donald Trump stated that Iran has been given a "last chance" to reach an agreement, revealing that the US paused a planned military strike after receiving requests from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Iran to pursue diplomacy instead.

From World No. 2 to Asian Games Medal Hope: Manav Thakkar's Next Big Mission

From World No. 2 to Asian Games Medal Hope: Manav Thakkar's Next Big Mission

Rediff.com5 days ago

'Being World No. 2 will give us good confidence when we compete at the Asian Games.'

CAQM Mandates Drone Surveillance To Tackle Stubble Burning In Northern States

CAQM Mandates Drone Surveillance To Tackle Stubble Burning In Northern States

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has directed Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan to implement drone-based surveillance to monitor and prevent stubble burning. This initiative aims to counter late-evening burning incidents that evade satellite detection, leveraging drone technology for real-time monitoring, accurate detection, and evidence collection to ensure effective enforcement against agricultural residue burning.

'Ciao Capitano': Milan says goodbye to Baresi

'Ciao Capitano': Milan says goodbye to Baresi

Rediff.com5 days ago

Fans, former teammates, and opponents gathered in Milan to bid farewell to Franco Baresi, the iconic AC Milan and Italy defender who passed away at 66. Baresi, a legendary figure in Italian football, was remembered for his illustrious 20-year career with AC Milan and his contributions to the Italian national team.

Indian Swimmers Face Setbacks At Commonwealth Games

Indian Swimmers Face Setbacks At Commonwealth Games

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Seasoned Indian swimmer Sajan Prakash failed to qualify for the men's 200m freestyle finals at the Commonwealth Games, finishing 20th overall. Compatriot Aneesh Gowda also missed out. While Aryan Nehra finished seventh in the 1500m freestyle, para swimmers Chaitanya Vishwas Kulkarni and Suyash Narayan Jadhav advanced to the S7 50m freestyle finals, offering a glimmer of hope for India.

Washington in flames: Wildfire crisis triggers emergency, mass evacuations

Washington in flames: Wildfire crisis triggers emergency, mass evacuations

Rediff.com7 days ago

Washington Governor Bob Ferguson declared a statewide state of emergency and burn ban Saturday morning as an unprecedented wildfire crisis gripped the region, with active blazes scorching nearly 3,000 acres.

Para Athlete Gavit Targets 100m, 400m World Records At Asian Games

Para Athlete Gavit Targets 100m, 400m World Records At Asian Games

Rediff.com4 days ago

Para athlete Dilip Gavit, fresh off a Commonwealth Games gold in the 100m, is now focused on breaking world records in both the 100m and 400m events at the upcoming Para Asian Games in Japan. Gavit, who competes in the T47 category, also shared insights into his training, his past achievements in able-bodied events, and the crucial role of his coach, Vaijanath Kale, in his journey.

15 Hidden Clues In The Ramayana Trailer

15 Hidden Clues In The Ramayana Trailer

Rediff.com2 days ago

From Ravana's divine weapon to the mystery around Parashurama, the Ramayana trailer hides several fascinating details in plain sight.

Voice Of India Platform To Assess AI Systems For Indian Contexts

Voice Of India Platform To Assess AI Systems For Indian Contexts

Rediff.com5 days ago

AI4Bharat at IIT Madras and Josh Talks AI have launched 'Voice of India', a multimodal AI evaluation platform designed to assess AI systems against Indian conditions, languages, accents, and dialects. This platform aims to provide scientifically rigorous, India-specific evaluations, covering areas like Voice AI, large language models, document processing, safety, cultural appropriateness, and Indian legal reasoning, to build trust and enable informed deployment decisions.

Avika Gor: 'Khatron Ke Khiladi 15 Tests Every Bit Of You'

Avika Gor: 'Khatron Ke Khiladi 15 Tests Every Bit Of You'

Rediff.com4 days ago

'Khatron Ke Khiladi is a show where people get to see a side of me, which is courageous and daring. It was a surprise for me. I got to know what I was capable of.'

Who Could Replace FIFA President Infantino In 2027: Top Candidates

Who Could Replace FIFA President Infantino In 2027: Top Candidates

Rediff.com5 days ago

FIFA President Gianni Infantino's re-election bid is facing significant challenges as several national football federations, including Serbia, Sweden, and Wales, have withdrawn their support.

Fresh twist in Asunta Lakra vs Hockey India row

Fresh twist in Asunta Lakra vs Hockey India row

Rediff.com4 days ago

Former India women's hockey team captain Asunta Lakra has challenged the ethics proceedings initiated against her by Hockey India, citing procedural irregularities and questioning the Ethics Committee's jurisdiction. Lakra denied all allegations as 'false, baseless, malicious, motivated and defamatory' and is seeking full disclosure of documents before providing a detailed reply.

'The Most Striking Part Of This Gen-Z Movement Is Fearlessness'

'The Most Striking Part Of This Gen-Z Movement Is Fearlessness'

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

'I had this fear that, dinner table talks would result in brainwashing youngsters as parents talk toxic communal news. But I'm so glad to realise that at least some section of youngsters depend on their own channels to more know more about political developments.'

Apologise in 3 days or...: Zuckerberg warned over PM video removal

Apologise in 3 days or...: Zuckerberg warned over PM video removal

Rediff.com4 days ago

An Indian Parliamentary standing committee has demanded an apology from Meta chief Mark Zuckerberg within three days for the temporary removal of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's video from Facebook, threatening to withdraw immunity under the IT Act if he fails to comply. The committee also pushed for government action against Google India regarding financial fraud.

India's fugitive hunt intensifies, 274 brought back from 36 nations in 7 yrs

India's fugitive hunt intensifies, 274 brought back from 36 nations in 7 yrs

Rediff.com5 days ago

As many as 274 fugitives have been repatriated from 36 countries in the last 7 years, an average of around 40 per year and a 10-fold jump from the 2004-13 period when around four fugitives were brought back every year, the government said on Tuesday.