News for 'Transformation of Rural Lives'

Rural Sports Festival Isha Gramotsavam Reaches North India

Rural Sports Festival Isha Gramotsavam Reaches North India

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Sadhguru's Isha Gramotsavam, a rural sports festival, is expanding its 18th edition into North India, covering 10 states and one Union Territory. This year's event will engage over 80,000 players from 40,000 villages in men's volleyball and women's throwball, offering a prize pool exceeding Rs 1 crore, with the aim of social transformation through sport.

Sumit Sarkar: The Historian Who Transformed Indian History

Sumit Sarkar: The Historian Who Transformed Indian History

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Sumit Sarkar was never intellectually dismissive of the Hindutva project. He took it with deadly seriousness for he grasped the challenge it posed to the aspirations and ideals of the anti-imperialist movement that generated multiple imaginings of freedom and ways to attain it, recalls Pradeep Kumar Dutta.

'Kareena Performs From The Gut'

'Kareena Performs From The Gut'

Rediff.com3 days ago

'Kareena is completely instinctive.'

Modi Has Transformed The Vocabulary Of Indian Politics

Modi Has Transformed The Vocabulary Of Indian Politics

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Few leaders since Independence have been able to establish such a direct connection with the electorate or shape the national conversation to the extent that Narendra Modi has done over the past decade, points out former Union minister Dr Karan Singh.

How UPI Rewired India's Money Story

How UPI Rewired India's Money Story

Rediff.com3 days ago

Digital money is gradually starting to behave like software. It's no longer inert -- sitting passively in accounts. In the not-so-distant future, your money could become 'smart' and 'active,' understanding your preferences, paying your bills automatically, optimising your returns, and managing your risks -- all without you having to manage the details.

Coming Up In Theatres This September: Vvaan, Mirzapur, Haiwaan, Daayra

Coming Up In Theatres This September: Vvaan, Mirzapur, Haiwaan, Daayra

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Get ready for a packed September as Bollywood unveils a diverse slate of theatrical releases, promising a thrilling mix of drama, psychological thrillers, and supernatural tales for movie enthusiasts.

Saree becomes lifeline as Tamil Nadu pilgrims escape Nepal floods

Saree becomes lifeline as Tamil Nadu pilgrims escape Nepal floods

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

A group of 21 pilgrims from Tamil Nadu faced a terrifying ordeal during a pilgrimage to Mount Kailash when flash floods and mudslides struck Timure, Nepal. Despite being trapped in a raging torrent, a combination of miraculous coincidences, quick thinking, and the selfless heroism of a couple, Ratnakumar and Poonguzhali, ensured their survival. Indian and Tamil Nadu officials coordinated a swift rescue operation, bringing them safely back home.

Bajaj Finance's Strong Q1 FY27 Performance Driven by AUM Growth, Digital Initiatives

Bajaj Finance's Strong Q1 FY27 Performance Driven by AUM Growth, Digital Initiatives

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

Bajaj Finance reported a strong Q1 FY27 performance with 24 per cent year-on-year AUM growth and a 28 per cent rise in consolidated profit after tax, driven by significant increases in consumer financing, gold loans, and commercial vehicle loans, alongside a strategic focus on digital transformation and AI.

UPI payments to remain free, charges to apply only on...: Govt

UPI payments to remain free, charges to apply only on...: Govt

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

The Indian government has clarified that consumers will not be charged for UPI transactions, and most merchant transactions will also remain free. This comes amidst speculation following an amendment to the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007. Any future merchant discount rate (MDR) would be nominal, threshold-based, and aimed at ensuring UPI's long-term sustainability and infrastructure development.

'Students India's future': Prez Murmu promises fair exams in I-Day eve address

'Students India's future': Prez Murmu promises fair exams in I-Day eve address

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Underlining that students are the "architects of India's future," President Droupadi Murmu on Friday said the government is taking comprehensive steps to reform public examinations to completely curb paper leaks and unfair means, making the system transparent, secure, and trustworthy.

India's Best Superhero Movies

India's Best Superhero Movies

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Not every Indian superhero movie lands, but these seven prove the genre has plenty of potential.

FULL TEXT: President Murmu's address to the nation on eve of 80th I-Day

FULL TEXT: President Murmu's address to the nation on eve of 80th I-Day

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

In her address to the nation on the eve of the country's 80th Independence Day, the president stressed that just as government and society remain united to ensure national security, everyone must contribute through joint and concerted efforts to safeguard the present and future of students.

How Karachi's Football Fans Celebrate The FIFA World Cup

How Karachi's Football Fans Celebrate The FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Despite Pakistan not qualifying for the FIFA World Cup, Karachi is buzzing with excitement as the global event begins. "WC Football" villages have been set up in areas like Malir and Lyari, known for their love of the sport, featuring large screens, decorations, and enthusiastic fans. The city's passion for football is evident, with local clubs and administration organising events for youngsters, highlighting the sport's growing influence beyond cricket.

What Jawaharlal Nehru Did for India

What Jawaharlal Nehru Did for India

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Through his commitment to democratic norms, debate, dissent and constitutionalism, Jawaharlal Nehru helped ensure that parliamentary democracy took deep root in independent India. Utkarsh Mishra evaluates Nehru's 17 years as India's first prime minister, examining his role in nation-building, democratic institution-building, economic planning, scientific advancement and foreign policy.

The Bihar I Have Begun To Believe In

The Bihar I Have Begun To Believe In

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Bihar's greatest resource is not beneath its soil but above it -- its people. With a population approaching 140 million and one of India's youngest demographic profiles, Bihar possesses an asset many societies would envy, explains Bihar Governor Lieutenant General Syed Ata Hasnain (retd).

Why Ram Charan Is Thanking Salman-Aamir For Peddi

Why Ram Charan Is Thanking Salman-Aamir For Peddi

Rediff.com19 May 2026

Ram Charan's highly anticipated film Peddi has unveiled its trailer, with the actor acknowledging the significant influence of Salman Khan and Aamir Khan in establishing the success of sports dramas in Indian cinema.

7 Facts You Didn't Know About Baisakhi

7 Facts You Didn't Know About Baisakhi

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

The first day of the month of Vaisakh is the harvest festival of Baisakhi.

India's Supreme Court Addresses the Deep-Rooted Issue of Crimes Against Women

India's Supreme Court Addresses the Deep-Rooted Issue of Crimes Against Women

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

The Supreme Court of India has expressed concern over the continued prevalence of domestic abuse and crimes against women, highlighting that these issues are symptomatic of a deeper societal problem rooted in patriarchy, despite economic and legal advancements.

Haryana Enters Agreement for Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0 Implementation

Haryana Enters Agreement for Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0 Implementation

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

The Haryana government has signed an MoU with the central government to implement Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0, focusing on water quality, sustainability, and long-term resource management with an investment of Rs 3,000 crore.

Raghu Rai: The Genius Who Captured India For Eternity

Raghu Rai: The Genius Who Captured India For Eternity

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

He was childlike with a camera in his hands -- not nave, but wonderstruck, as though the world were always on the verge of delivering something unrepeatable. Pulitzer Prize nominee Namas Bhojani recalls his long association with Raghu Rai, the legendary photographer who passed into the ages on Sunday.

Modi's village adoption plan has potential to transform rural India

Modi's village adoption plan has potential to transform rural India

Rediff.com20 Nov 2014

Each 'adarsh village' should have piped drinking water, connectivity to the main road, electricity supply to all households, library, telecom and broadband connectivity including CCTVs in public areas. Emphasis will also be on e-governance, says Sheela Bhatt/Rediff.com.

Winning Bengal Was The Hard Part For The BJP... Governing It May Prove Even Harder

Winning Bengal Was The Hard Part For The BJP... Governing It May Prove Even Harder

Rediff.com5 May 2026

A BJP government in Bengal inherits more problems than it might care to admit at its moment of triumph, points out Ramesh Menon

#powerofpower: Lighting up rural lives through music

#powerofpower: Lighting up rural lives through music

Rediff.com7 Oct 2015

Simanta Roy Buck finds out why Indian-American singer-songwriter Zoya Mohan bought a one-way ticket to Mumbai.

Vijayan Reflects on Life, Influences in Interview

Vijayan Reflects on Life, Influences in Interview

Rediff.com26 Feb 2026

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan reflects on his childhood, political journey, and personal influences in a recent interview, discussing his early reading habits, experiences with political violence, and his approach to governance.

Why Budget 2026 Deserves 8.5/10

Why Budget 2026 Deserves 8.5/10

Rediff.com2 Feb 2026

This is the first Budget in my memory of Budgets over the last half a century which has embraced upfront, enthusiastically and emphatically, technology, modernity and fiscal sobriety, notes Shreekant Sambrani.

First meet at Seva Teerth: Cabinet pledges citizen-centric governance

First meet at Seva Teerth: Cabinet pledges citizen-centric governance

Rediff.com24 Feb 2026

The Union Cabinet, meeting at the new PMO complex 'Seva Teerth', resolved to prioritize citizen empowerment and service in all its decisions, guided by the principle of 'Nagrik Devo Bhava'.

'If You Can Make a Difference, Just Do It'

'If You Can Make a Difference, Just Do It'

Rediff.com11 Dec 2025

'There'll be extended periods where things aren't working in your favour. But if you believe in the cause profoundly, then you simply persevere.'

Ex-bus conductor, paediatrician among 45 Padma Shri 'unsung heroes'

Ex-bus conductor, paediatrician among 45 Padma Shri 'unsung heroes'

Rediff.com25 Jan 2026

India announces Padma Shri awards for 45 individuals, recognizing 'unsung heroes' like a former bus conductor who created the world's largest free library and a pediatrician who established Asia's first human milk bank.

India's Housing Finance Sector Hits Home Run

India's Housing Finance Sector Hits Home Run

Rediff.com29 Oct 2025

India's housing finance sector is riding a wave of post-pandemic revival, driven by policy support, digital innovation, and growing demand from younger homebuyers in emerging cities.

'Cannot win everyday': Star shooter Manu Bhaker admits

'Cannot win everyday': Star shooter Manu Bhaker admits

Rediff.com18 Nov 2025

That Bhaker couldn't feature among the 13 Indian medallists in the just-concluded tournament has come as a bit of a surprise to many in the shooting fraternity.

The Best Hindi 25 Films In 25 Years

The Best Hindi 25 Films In 25 Years

Rediff.com7 Jan 2026

Over 25 years, societies evolve and tastes change. Cinema absorbs and reflects this transformation. Picking only 25 films from the first quarter of the century is tough.

The Indian Teen Who Won The Global Student Prize 2025

The Indian Teen Who Won The Global Student Prize 2025

Rediff.com6 Oct 2025

Eighteen-year-old Adarsh Kumar from India, who founded Skillzo, a skill-building and mentorship start-up for less privileged students, is the winner of the Chegg Global Student Prize this year.

Bihar polls: Tejashwi's stronghold faces BJP challenge

Bihar polls: Tejashwi's stronghold faces BJP challenge

Rediff.com26 Oct 2025

Raghopur assembly constituency in Bihar prepares for a high-stakes election where voters may be deciding the next chief minister. Tejashwi Yadav, the RJD's CM candidate, seeks a third term, facing a strong challenge from BJP's Satish Kumar.

Nitish Kumar Has The Opportunity Of A Lifetime To Change Bihar

Nitish Kumar Has The Opportunity Of A Lifetime To Change Bihar

Rediff.com18 Nov 2025

If he cannot do it this term by using his bureaucracy and experts from different fields, it will be a tragedy, asserts Ramesh Menon.

Every IPL ticket you buy helps women in Rajasthan

Every IPL ticket you buy helps women in Rajasthan

Rediff.com8 Mar 2025

The Rajasthan Royals have launched a special 'Pink Promise' campaign to celebrate International Women's Day, featuring an all-pink jersey for their match against Mumbai Indians.

A Forgotten School Blooms Again In Meghalaya

A Forgotten School Blooms Again In Meghalaya

Rediff.com2 Aug 2025

With no money or staff, here's how Batskhem Thabah, a teacher, transformed an abandoned village school in rainy Raibah into a lively place for learning.

Now you can make final PF pension withdrawal after 3 years

Now you can make final PF pension withdrawal after 3 years

Rediff.com14 Oct 2025

The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) board has approved liberalised part withdrawals for subscribers, allowing up to 100 per cent EPF withdrawal, and rolled out the 'Vishwas Scheme' to reduce litigation through rationalised penal damages.

Dedicated life to...: Modi's high praise for RSS chief

Dedicated life to...: Modi's high praise for RSS chief

Rediff.com11 Sep 2025

Praising Mohan Bhagwat for his intellectual depth and empathetic leadership, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that his tenure as the head of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh since 2009 will be considered the most transformative period in its 100-year journey.

From Fields to Bestsellers: Reena Rathore's Inspiring Story

From Fields to Bestsellers: Reena Rathore's Inspiring Story

Rediff.com29 May 2025

'My life has been quite difficult. I felt I could see it in words. I thought if everyone else can write, then I can too.'

'Gen Zs Are Not Interested In Farming'

'Gen Zs Are Not Interested In Farming'

Rediff.com3 Nov 2025

'They are totally disconnected with farm activities which their families have been involved in for years.'