News for 'The Union'

BRICS Ministers Forge Stronger Sports Cooperation

BRICS Ministers Forge Stronger Sports Cooperation

Rediff.com7 days ago

BRICS Sports Ministers adopted a Joint Declaration in Visakhapatnam, reaffirming their commitment to strengthen sports cooperation through dialogue and mutual respect. The meeting, held under India's 2026 Chairship, saw Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya call for a BRICS Sporting Partnership and introduce three key initiatives: a Working Group on Sports Technology, a Sports Manufacturing Conclave in Udaipur, and Traditional and Indigenous Sports Demonstration Games in Ahmedabad in 2026.

Has Trump Chosen Pakistan Over India?

Has Trump Chosen Pakistan Over India?

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

We are back to the 1971 moment with both China and the US supporting Pakistan, asserts Colonel Anil A Athale (retd).

High-Powered Committee to Drive Banking Reforms for Viksit Bharat, Says FM Sitharaman

High-Powered Committee to Drive Banking Reforms for Viksit Bharat, Says FM Sitharaman

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the government's plan to establish a high-powered committee to examine reforms for the banking sector, aligning it with the vision of a 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India) and India's next phase of growth.

Government Coaching Plan May Pressure Coaching Centres

Government Coaching Plan May Pressure Coaching Centres

Rediff.com3 days ago

'If a student can get a good teacher, quality content and mock tests at no cost, it becomes very hard for a mid-tier coaching centre to keep charging for the same lecture.'

Why Was Amit Malviya Removed As BJP IT Cell Chief?

Why Was Amit Malviya Removed As BJP IT Cell Chief?

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Amit Malviya paid the price because he committed the cardinal mistake of himself 'becoming' the BJP's IT Cell and its social media. Malviya's removal contains a message to others -- never try to become bigger than the job that has been assigned, explains Nilanjan Mukhopadhyay.

Maha govt to act against drivers not knowing Marathi from tomorrow

Maha govt to act against drivers not knowing Marathi from tomorrow

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Maharashtra's Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced a drive against auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers lacking a 'working knowledge' of Marathi, with penalties ranging from licence suspension to cancellation, sparking fears among non-Marathi speaking drivers.

Kharge alleges BJP 'purified' stage after his Uttarakhand rally

Kharge alleges BJP 'purified' stage after his Uttarakhand rally

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Kharge, who is also the Congress President, demanded that cases should be registered, under the Untouchability Act, against those who purified the stage in Haldwani, and they should be arrested and sent to jail.

Complaint filed over minors' presence at CJP's NEET protest

Complaint filed over minors' presence at CJP's NEET protest

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

A Mumbai-based social media influencer has filed a complaint with Indore police, seeking an investigation into the alleged presence of minor boys and girls at a recent student protest in New Delhi. The complaint targets Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke and chief spokesperson Saurav Das, among others, for facilitating minors' participation in the NEET paper leak agitation. Police are investigating the matter, which could lead to charges under POCSO, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, IT Act, and Juvenile Justice Act if cognisable offences are found.

Jadavpur University vandalism probe panel chief quits

Jadavpur University vandalism probe panel chief quits

Rediff.com6 days ago

Professor Subha Shankar Sarkar has resigned as the head of a five-member committee investigating alleged ABVP vandalism at Jadavpur University, citing his inability to conduct an effective inquiry, prompting the university to seek a new chairperson.

2 earthquakes within 4 hours jolts Ladakh, triggers fear

2 earthquakes within 4 hours jolts Ladakh, triggers fear

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Two earthquakes, measuring 5.5 and 4.3 magnitude, struck Ladakh within four hours on Thursday, causing concern among residents in the seismically active region, though no loss of life or property damage was immediately reported.

H1N1 cases rise in Delhi, North India; experts say virus not more virulent

H1N1 cases rise in Delhi, North India; experts say virus not more virulent

Rediff.com6 days ago

H1N1 influenza cases have seen a recent increase in Delhi and parts of North India. Experts confirm it's a known strain, not more virulent, and advise precautions, especially for high-risk individuals like the elderly, children, and those with chronic illnesses. They stress the importance of rest, hydration, and medical consultation for severe symptoms, while also noting that most cases are mild and self-limiting.

Nepal flash floods: 59 Mansarovar pilgrims among missing Indians

Nepal flash floods: 59 Mansarovar pilgrims among missing Indians

Rediff.com3 days ago

Over 130 Indian nationals, including Kailash Manasarovar Yatra pilgrims and tourists, are missing or stranded in Nepal following devastating flash floods that have cut off central districts and disrupted communication links. Indian states and the embassy in Kathmandu have launched helplines to assist those affected.

NEET, UGC-NET fallout: NTA axes 50 staffers, begins leadership overhaul

NEET, UGC-NET fallout: NTA axes 50 staffers, begins leadership overhaul

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

The National Testing Agency (NTA) is undergoing significant reforms, including the removal of over 50 staff members and the onboarding of new leadership and domain specialists. This comes after recent issues like errors in UGC-NET papers, leading to re-tests, and the cancellation of NEET-UG 2026. The Education Ministry has directed a complete overhaul of exam protocols and a thorough audit of all processes to ensure integrity.

45 yrs of delay: SC calls Jharkhand double-murder case a 'judicial failure'

45 yrs of delay: SC calls Jharkhand double-murder case a 'judicial failure'

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Supreme Court has directed the release of a 70-year-old man by suspending his sentence as it termed the nearly half century long litigation in a double-murder case from Jharkhand a "failure of judicial system."

Modi urges people to take 'developed India' pledge on I-Day

Modi urges people to take 'developed India' pledge on I-Day

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called upon citizens to celebrate Independence Day with honour and pride, urging them to take a pledge for a developed India. This appeal comes amidst parliamentary sessions marked by protests from both ruling and opposition alliances.

SC: Immediate FIRs must be filed for all missing persons, not just children

SC: Immediate FIRs must be filed for all missing persons, not just children

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has clarified that its order for immediate FIR registration in missing persons cases applies to every individual, regardless of age or gender, warning states and Union Territories of contempt proceedings for non-compliance.

Row erupts over 'purification' of venue after Kharge's visit

Row erupts over 'purification' of venue after Kharge's visit

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

The Congress party has strongly condemned the 'purification' of a rally venue in Haldwani, Uttarakhand, after a public meeting addressed by party chief Mallikarjun Kharge, alleging it reflects an 'anti-Dalit' mindset of the BJP and RSS.

Bihar Police, Students Clash Over BPSC Exam Demands

Bihar Police, Students Clash Over BPSC Exam Demands

Rediff.com5 days ago

Thousands of students clashed with Bihar Police in Patna while attempting to march to the chief minister's residence, protesting against the Bihar Public Service Commission's (BPSC) examination system and alleged irregularities.

NTA Faces Major Exam Process Overhaul

NTA Faces Major Exam Process Overhaul

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

The overhaul comes after a series of controversies surrounding the conduct of examinations administered by NTA, which has faced questions over examination security and its handling of irregularities.

Why Women Remain Under-Represented In Cabinets

Why Women Remain Under-Represented In Cabinets

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Lack of women in Karnataka's new council of ministers has put the spotlight once again on women's under-representation in politics and policy.

TN House demands 543-seat LS formula, 33% women quota from 2029

TN House demands 543-seat LS formula, 33% women quota from 2029

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

The Tamil Nadu Assembly has adopted a resolution, moved by Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, urging the Union government to permanently fix the Lok Sabha strength at 543 and implement 33 per cent women's reservation by 2029. The resolution also opposes delimitation that could disadvantage states successful in population control.

'You Can't Over-Rule A Supreme Court Judgment By Making A Law'

'You Can't Over-Rule A Supreme Court Judgment By Making A Law'

Rediff.com5 days ago

'This government is in the very bad habit of doing so again and again. It has done so many times.'

After Gen z, Gen Alpha steps out of classrooms in protest

After Gen z, Gen Alpha steps out of classrooms in protest

Rediff.com4 days ago

Across India, Gen Alpha students (born between 2010 and 2024) are increasingly taking to the streets to protest against poor school infrastructure, lack of teachers, and unhygienic conditions, leading to some significant wins and drawing attention to the declining state of public education.

FIR booked in pellet injuries case after Rahul's 6-hr dharna

FIR booked in pellet injuries case after Rahul's 6-hr dharna

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi staged a six-hour dharna at a police station in New Delhi, demanding an FIR for 19-year-old Sahil Lochab, who sustained pellet gun injuries during a July 20 protest. The FIR was registered after Gandhi's protest, with the BJP criticising his actions as 'politics of anarchy'.

Cong-ruled states to challenge Mines Act in SC

Cong-ruled states to challenge Mines Act in SC

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Congress-ruled states, including Karnataka, Kerala, and Telangana, are preparing to challenge the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2026, in the Supreme Court. They allege the new law undermines states' rights by restricting their powers to levy taxes on mineral resources, a claim the Centre denies, stating it aims for uniform mineral rates.

Not my habit to complain about my country: Omar on meeting US envoy

Not my habit to complain about my country: Omar on meeting US envoy

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced he would meet US Ambassador Sergio Gor to discuss the regional situation but firmly stated he would not raise internal issues with the US representative. Abdullah emphasised that solutions to J&K's problems lie with the central government, not with foreign entities, maintaining his stance against complaining about India to foreign diplomats.

New BJP team: Many sidelined faces make a comeback

New BJP team: Many sidelined faces make a comeback

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Several prominent BJP leaders, including former Union minister Smriti Irani, RSS veteran Ram Madhav, and former chief ministers Biplab Kumar Deb and Tirath Singh Rawat, have been reinstated into significant roles within the party's national team. This reshuffle marks a political recovery for many who had previously seen their influence wane or lost electoral battles, positioning them for key organisational responsibilities ahead of upcoming elections.

Team Nadda Vs Team Nabin: Who's In, Who's Out

Team Nadda Vs Team Nabin: Who's In, Who's Out

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Bharatiya Janata Party President Nitin Nabin has made his first significant mark on the BJP's national apparatus with a major organisational reshuffle, bringing back key figures like Smriti Irani and Ram Madhav while removing Nadda-era functionaries, signalling a strategic move ahead of crucial state elections.

Infantino faces fresh threat ahead of FIFA election

Infantino faces fresh threat ahead of FIFA election

Rediff.com6 days ago

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is campaigning for re-election by positioning himself as the advocate for less wealthy football nations, while UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has ruled out running against him but anticipates an opposition candidate.

Jharkhand protests: 3 FIRs filed against 39 named, 900 unnamed people

Jharkhand protests: 3 FIRs filed against 39 named, 900 unnamed people

Rediff.com7 days ago

Three FIRs have been lodged against 39 named and more than 900 unnamed people in connection with clashes that broke out between the police and protesting job aspirants in Jharkhand's Giridih and Hazaribag, officials said on Sunday.

When I became MLA, Amit Shah was not even born: Kharge

When I became MLA, Amit Shah was not even born: Kharge

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has accused the BJP of being 'anti-religion' following an alleged 'purification' ritual after his speech in Uttarakhand, and challenged the ruling party's claims of patriotism, questioning their involvement in India's independence struggle.

Pak summons US envoy, lodges strong protest over Sergio Gor's J-K remarks

Pak summons US envoy, lodges strong protest over Sergio Gor's J-K remarks

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Pakistan summoned US Charge d'Affaires Natalie Baker to lodge a "strong demarche" following remarks by US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, who stated that Jammu and Kashmir is an important part of India. Pakistan's Foreign Office condemned Gor's characterisation, asserting that Jammu and Kashmir is an internationally recognised disputed territory and that the US ambassador's statement contradicted the US's long-standing position and commitment to international law.

CIBIL Score Explained: Why It Matters

CIBIL Score Explained: Why It Matters

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

For millions of Indians, this number has become one of the most important financial indicators. It can influence not only whether a bank approves a loan but also the interest rate you pay, the credit limit you receive and, in some cases, how quickly your application is processed.

How India Post Is Revolutionising Last-Mile Connectivity With Drone Delivery

How India Post Is Revolutionising Last-Mile Connectivity With Drone Delivery

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

The Department of Posts successfully conducted its first-ever drone delivery of the National Flag from Mandi to Rehardhar in Himachal Pradesh. This initiative, overseen by Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, highlights the integration of technology with public service to enhance last-mile connectivity in challenging terrains and supports the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign.

Harsimrat hints at SAD-BJP alliance ahead of Punjab polls

Harsimrat hints at SAD-BJP alliance ahead of Punjab polls

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Shiromani Akali Dal MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal has hinted at a potential re-alliance with the BJP, expressing a desire for "agreements" that bring progress to Punjab from Delhi. This follows a recent meeting between SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reigniting speculation about the former allies rejoining forces after their 2020 split over farm laws.

ISKCON event at JNU cancelled after students' protest

ISKCON event at JNU cancelled after students' protest

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

The Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union (JNUSU) successfully protested an event featuring an ISKCON representative at the university's central library, leading to its cancellation. The JNUSU cited university rules prohibiting religious organisations from holding events on campus, a concern they had previously raised regarding ISKCON's activities.

JNU cancels nod for discussion on Umar Khalid's book

JNU cancels nod for discussion on Umar Khalid's book

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) cancelled permission for a discussion on a book authored by its former student Umar Khalid, currently jailed in the 2020 northeast Delhi riots conspiracy case, citing 'non-disclosure of full facts' about the event. The JNUSU condemned the decision as 'arbitrary and authoritarian', vowing to proceed with the discussion at an alternative venue.

From Smriti Irani to Mansoor, BJP gives UP a bigger role in national team

From Smriti Irani to Mansoor, BJP gives UP a bigger role in national team

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

The BJP has announced its new national organisational team, with eight leaders from Uttar Pradesh receiving key appointments. These include two national vice-presidents, two general secretaries, two secretaries, and the chiefs of the OBC and Minority Morchas. The appointments reflect a strategic focus on youth, social diversity, and experienced campaigners, particularly after the party's recent electoral setbacks in the state.

India imposes sugar stock limits on bulk consumers to curb price rise

India imposes sugar stock limits on bulk consumers to curb price rise

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

The Indian government has imposed stockholding limits on bulk sugar consumers, restricting them to a 15-day supply if they use over 10 tonnes monthly, effective September 1 to November 30, to stabilise prices ahead of the festival season.

Raut says rebels fighting over Union ministry, claims 'Rs 25 crore settlement'

Raut says rebels fighting over Union ministry, claims 'Rs 25 crore settlement'

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Shiv Sena-UBT leader Sanjay Raut has made explosive claims of a Rs 25 crore deal for dissident MPs who miss out on Union ministerial berths, highlighting growing rifts within Maharashtra's political landscape. Six Sena-UBT MPs are expected to join the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, with Aaditya Thackeray calling them 'shameless, ungrateful and corrupt'.