News for 'Times of India'

Sports Ministry Backs New University Sports Body, AIU's Future Uncertain

Sports Ministry Backs New University Sports Body, AIU's Future Uncertain

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

The Sports Ministry has granted provisional recognition to the Indian Unisports Federation (IUSF) for university sports development, relaxing affiliation conditions. This move casts doubt on the future of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), which has faced criticism and a show-cause notice for administrative lapses, including issues at the World University Games last year.

Jaffer backs Tilak Varma as ideal successor to Virat Kohli at No. 3

Jaffer backs Tilak Varma as ideal successor to Virat Kohli at No. 3

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Former Indian cricketer Wasim Jaffer believes young batter Tilak Varma is the ideal candidate to replace Virat Kohli at the crucial No. 3 position in One-Day Internationals once Kohli retires after the 2027 World Cup, citing Varma's versatility and strong first-class record.

Can India overtake 107-medal tally at Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games?

Can India overtake 107-medal tally at Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games?

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Ambitious India out to match Hangzhou benchmark in Nagoya.

RBI hikes repo rate by 25 bps to 5.50% as per market expectations

RBI hikes repo rate by 25 bps to 5.50% as per market expectations

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

The Reserve Bank of India on Wednesday raised its policy repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.50 per cent, beginning a rate-hike cycle as rising inflation risks, elevated global yields and resilient domestic growth strengthened the case for tighter monetary policy. The decision by the Monetary Policy Committee marks a shift from its August policy, when it kept the repo rate unchanged at 5.25 per cent and retained a neutral stance while seeking greater clarity on the inflation outlook and growth-inflation balance.

Michael Bracewell to take casual contract, eyes Big Bash League

Michael Bracewell to take casual contract, eyes Big Bash League

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

New Zealand all-rounder Michael Bracewell will move to a casual contract for the 2026-27 season to pursue an opportunity in Australia's Big Bash League, the country's cricket board (NZC) announced.

Vande Bharat zooms at 100 kmph across world's highest Chenab Bridge

Vande Bharat zooms at 100 kmph across world's highest Chenab Bridge

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

The Vande Bharat Express has successfully achieved a speed of 100 kmph over the world's highest Chenab Railway Bridge and India's first cable-stayed Anji Bridge. This significant speed enhancement on the 111-km Katra-Banihal section of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link project will reduce travel time and improve rail connectivity to the Kashmir Valley.

She Quit CA To Make MMA History For India At Asian Games

She Quit CA To Make MMA History For India At Asian Games

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

Prachiti Nagpurkar, a former chartered accountant, has made history as the first Indian to referee a mixed martial arts (MMA) bout at the Asian Games in Nagoya. She left her lucrative profession to pursue her passion for MMA, where she also owns a gym and trains fighters. Nagpurkar advocates for women in male-dominated sports, expressing pride in her role as a female official in the cage.

'Sonali, Tu Khoop Honest Aahe': Madhuri Hugs, Dances on KBC Marathi

'Sonali, Tu Khoop Honest Aahe': Madhuri Hugs, Dances on KBC Marathi

Rediff.com5 days ago

It was beautiful to watch two successful actors speak about their career and personal journeys -- the highs and lows -- with such mutual admiration, notes Divya Nair.

BMW India CEO: Remove EV Road Tax Caps to Boost Adoption

BMW India CEO: Remove EV Road Tax Caps to Boost Adoption

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO of BMW Group India, has urged state governments like Delhi to remove price caps on road tax benefits for electric vehicles (EVs), arguing that such limits deter luxury-car buyers and hinder the transition to cleaner mobility in pollution-affected regions.

CPM MP John Brittas injured in police action during Delhi protest

CPM MP John Brittas injured in police action during Delhi protest

Rediff.com7 days ago

CPI(M) leader John Brittas was allegedly manhandled and injured by Delhi Police personnel during a protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The Rajya Sabha MP was taken to RML Hospital for examination. Brittas has written to the President, Rajya Sabha chairman, and CJI seeking an independent investigation into the alleged assault, claiming he was dragged, assaulted, and abandoned. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor condemned the incident, and other political leaders like M A Baby and Manoj Jha visited Brittas, criticising the police action and alleging brutality against protesters. The protest was organised to demand Kumar's resignation over alleged electoral roll irregularities.

GST Council to focus on process reforms, ease of doing business

GST Council to focus on process reforms, ease of doing business

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council is set to discuss proposals aimed at transforming the complex indirect tax system into a more business-friendly regime, focusing on simplifying compliance, reducing administrative burdens, and potentially raising the prosecution threshold.

'Fight won't be easy': CJP gears up for anti-Gyanesh Kumar protest

'Fight won't be easy': CJP gears up for anti-Gyanesh Kumar protest

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and various student organisations have called for a united protest on October 10 against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. They demand his resignation and an overhaul of the electoral system, describing the confrontation as a fight for democracy against the BJP. The groups are seeking to sustain street pressure, following a previous agitation that led to a minister's resignation.

India-China Rivalry Tests BRICS' Future

India-China Rivalry Tests BRICS' Future

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

India and China are in what experts call 'a cooperation-versus-competition situation'.

Sharma Maintains Lead At Kapil Dev Invitational

Sharma Maintains Lead At Kapil Dev Invitational

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

Shubhankar Sharma retained a two-shot lead after the third round of the Kapil Dev Invitational Tour Championship on Friday, despite an even-par 72. Bengaluru's Manoj S and Italy's Michele Ortolani are his closest challengers heading into the final round.

Why Sooryavanshi Will Have To Wait: Gambhir

Why Sooryavanshi Will Have To Wait: Gambhir

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Gautam Gambhir has told Vaibhav Sooryavanshi that despite his impressive form, he will need to wait for his opportunity in the T20 team due to the established players and the importance of team continuity.

Parthiv Patel Reveals How He Nearly Replaced Kohli As RCB Captain

Parthiv Patel Reveals How He Nearly Replaced Kohli As RCB Captain

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

Former India wicketkeeper-batter Parthiv Patel has revealed that Royal Challengers Bengaluru considered him for the captaincy ahead of the 2019 IPL season, a plan that was derailed by a change in coaching staff.

High Drama As Para-Shooters Protest Alleged Corruption At Asian Games Send-Off

High Drama As Para-Shooters Protest Alleged Corruption At Asian Games Send-Off

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

Indian para-shooters staged a protest during the send-off ceremony for the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Para Games contingent, alleging widespread corruption, manipulation, and financial extortion in the selection process.

RBI's 'Calibrated Tightening' Drags Indian Markets Lower Amid Global Headwinds

RBI's 'Calibrated Tightening' Drags Indian Markets Lower Amid Global Headwinds

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

Indian benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty experienced declines in early trade, influenced by the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) recent repo rate hike and its signal for continued monetary tightening, coupled with rising crude oil prices and foreign fund outflows. Track Sensex, Nifty on October 8.

India's 'Vayu UTtaM' System Revolutionises Drone Airspace Management

India's 'Vayu UTtaM' System Revolutionises Drone Airspace Management

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

The Indian Air Force (IAF) demonstrated 'Vayu UTtaM', an indigenously developed multi-mode Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) system, at 'Dronathon 2026' in Pokhran. This ground-based system is designed to manage drone operations in congested airspace and identify rogue drones, with applications extending to critical infrastructure, civil aviation, and public safety. The event also saw the release of the 'IAF UAS Roadmap' to guide indigenous innovation in unmanned systems.

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.

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.

India Is A Maritime Nation In Geography, Not In Mindset

India Is A Maritime Nation In Geography, Not In Mindset

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

India may have a vast coastline and a strategic location, but it will become a true maritime nation only when its people understand, value and actively participate in the maritime ecosystem, asserts Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta (retd).

When Life Changes After A Partner Dies

When Life Changes After A Partner Dies

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

We joke about our spouses all the time. Nobody jokes about the day the joking partner is gone, and the whole house turns very quiet, observes Binu Alex.

Harmanpreet Kaur urges India to 'stick to strengths' for Asia Cup final

Harmanpreet Kaur urges India to 'stick to strengths' for Asia Cup final

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

India captain Harmanpreet Kaur has called on her team to maintain simplicity and trust their inherent strengths as they prepare to face Sri Lanka in the Women's Asia Cup final, aiming to avenge their previous defeat.

India on watch as Trump may sign Russia sanctions bill today

India on watch as Trump may sign Russia sanctions bill today

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

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.

Sports Minister Mandaviya Directs Hockey India To Revive Cash-Strapped League

Sports Minister Mandaviya Directs Hockey India To Revive Cash-Strapped League

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

The Sports Ministry has formed a five-member committee to address the financial viability and sustainability of the Hockey India League (HIL). Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya met with Hockey India officials and franchise representatives, directing them to develop a comprehensive plan for the league's revival, which has faced challenges since its return last year.

No meet was sought, offer turned down: EC on Oppn protest

No meet was sought, offer turned down: EC on Oppn protest

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

The Election Commission of India clarified its position after INDIA bloc MPs marched to its office, stating that no formal appointment was sought until late afternoon. The EC later declined a request to meet 240 MPs at the Parliament House Annexe, citing protocol that meetings must be held at the EC premises. The incident involved a protest march led by Rahul Gandhi and a standoff with police.

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.

Why VVS Laxman will now join every selection meeting...

Why VVS Laxman will now join every selection meeting...

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

BCCI secretary Devaijit Saikia announced that Centre of Excellence head VVS Laxman will now attend all senior selection panel meetings to prevent miscommunication between the selectors and the COE, particularly regarding player fitness and rehabilitation. This decision follows past speculations of friction between Laxman and former chief selector Ajit Agarkar over player recovery timelines.

Brazil Legend Cafu Sees India Friendly As Key Learning Opportunity

Brazil Legend Cafu Sees India Friendly As Key Learning Opportunity

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Brazil's legendary captain Cafu advises the Indian national football team to view their upcoming friendly match against five-time world champions Brazil as a crucial learning experience for future World Cup cycles, rather than just a spectacle. He highlights Brazil's strong connection with Kolkata and identifies promising young Brazilian talents for the future.

Repo Rate Hike: Impact On Loans, FDs

Repo Rate Hike: Impact On Loans, FDs

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

'Existing borrowers who have surplus cash should make partial loan prepayments to offset the impact of rising EMIs and reduce the overall interest burden.'

India 0-2 down: Davis Cup Final 8 hopes on the brink

India 0-2 down: Davis Cup Final 8 hopes on the brink

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

India's Davis Cup Final 8 aspirations are in peril after losing both singles matches to Korea in their Qualifier tie. Dhakshineswar Suresh and Sumit Nagal both squandered promising starts, leaving India trailing 0-2 and needing to win all three remaining matches to advance.

Oversupply Looms: India's Cement Sector Braces for Pricing Pressure

Oversupply Looms: India's Cement Sector Braces for Pricing Pressure

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

India's cement industry is on the brink of an oversupply situation as aggressive capacity expansion by major players is set to outpace demand growth over the next two financial years, potentially leading to pricing pressures and moderated utilisation rates.

Why Suryakumar Yadav was left out of Mumbai's Ranji squad

Why Suryakumar Yadav was left out of Mumbai's Ranji squad

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Suryakumar Yadav's Ranji Trophy comeback has hit a roadblock after he missed Mumbai's pre-season camp and lacked recent red-ball experience.

Historic India T20I match can transform cricket in Japan, says JCA chief Curr

Historic India T20I match can transform cricket in Japan, says JCA chief Curr

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

The Japan Cricket Association (JCA) is set to host its first-ever T20I against reigning world champions India, a landmark event expected to significantly elevate cricket's profile and drive its long-term growth in Japan, according to JCA COO Alan Curr.

Defending Champions India Face Organisational Chaos At Chess Olympiad

Defending Champions India Face Organisational Chaos At Chess Olympiad

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Defending champions India experienced significant organisational issues upon arrival in Samarkand for the Chess Olympiad, with players facing a five-hour delay in hotel room allotment. This caused frustration among players and coaches, though organisers assured the situation was being resolved.

US Bill Imposing 100% Tariffs On India Set For House Vote

US Bill Imposing 100% Tariffs On India Set For House Vote

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The US House of Representatives has advanced a bill that would empower President Donald Trump to impose 100 per cent tariffs on countries, including India, that purchase oil and gas from Russia, and also extend sanctions on Iran. The legislation, which previously passed the Senate, aims to curb Russia's energy revenue amidst the Ukraine conflict.

PIX: PT Usha Meets Cricket Team After Winning Asian Games Gold

PIX: PT Usha Meets Cricket Team After Winning Asian Games Gold

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

IOA chief PT Usha met the Indian Cricket Team after their thrilling win over Pakistan to win the Asian Games gold medal in Nisshin on Saturday.

Tirkey, Bhola Nath face off as Hockey India crisis grows

Tirkey, Bhola Nath face off as Hockey India crisis grows

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Hockey India is embroiled in a significant internal dispute between President Dilip Tirkey and Secretary Bhola Nath Singh, primarily over a controversial jersey colour change and the authority to call emergent meetings. An upcoming Executive Board meeting aims to address these differences, discuss the future of the Hockey India League (HIL) including its restructuring into a joint venture, finalise election dates, and deliberate on hosting Asian Champions Trophy events.

Japan aims for cricket growth with historic India T20 match

Japan aims for cricket growth with historic India T20 match

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Japan's cricket captain Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming and all-rounder Charlie Hara-Hinze believe the upcoming historic T20 match against India on September 22 can serve as a crucial springboard for the sustained growth of cricket in Japan, a country traditionally dominated by baseball.