News for 'UNITED STATES'

Tiger Woods accepts five-year licence suspension in plea deal over rollover crash

Tiger Woods accepts five-year licence suspension in plea deal over rollover crash

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

Tiger Woods agreed to a five-year driving licence suspension in an impaired-driving plea deal, with the judge warning that any violation could result in immediate imprisonment.

Modi, Shah, CEC destroyed India's vote: Rahul

Modi, Shah, CEC destroyed India's vote: Rahul

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has launched a scathing attack, calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar 'deshdrohis' (traitors) for allegedly 'destroying' India's voting system and 'stealing elections'.

Coco Gauff ousts Paula Badosa; stays on course for second US Open title

Coco Gauff ousts Paula Badosa; stays on course for second US Open title

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

World number four Coco Gauff secured a hard-fought victory against Paula Badosa in the second round of the U.S. Open. Despite Badosa's strong challenge and previous wins against Gauff, the American triumphed in two sets, 6-4, 7-6(5), on a sweltering evening at Arthur Ashe Court, advancing her quest for a second title at Flushing Meadows.

Why Zero-Fee UPI Transactions Are Crucial For India's Digital Economy

Why Zero-Fee UPI Transactions Are Crucial For India's Digital Economy

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

Former NITI Aayog vice-chairman Rajiv Kumar has urged the government to maintain zero-fee UPI transactions for several more years, arguing that the benefits of UPI as a public good outweigh the costs. This comes amidst the government's recent decision to introduce a 0.4% fee on person-to-merchant UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 from October 15, a move that has drawn criticism.

US halts visa interviews globally amid Trump's immigration crackdown

US halts visa interviews globally amid Trump's immigration crackdown

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

The US State Department has paused visa appointments worldwide to conduct a 'global training initiative' for consular officers, aiming to ensure applicants are not likely to become a 'public charge' and are comprehensively evaluated, intensifying President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown.

Rs 1,200-cr TN secretariat project hits hurdle amid Oppn, fisherfolk protest

Rs 1,200-cr TN secretariat project hits hurdle amid Oppn, fisherfolk protest

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

A proposed Rs 1,200 crore Secretariat-Assembly complex in Pattinapakkam, Chennai, has ignited significant opposition from local fishing communities and various political parties. Residents fear displacement, loss of livelihood, and environmental damage, citing ancestral rights and broken promises. Political leaders across the spectrum are urging Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay to reconsider the site, highlighting concerns about ecological impact, traffic, and financial priorities.

OMCs Lose Rs 5 Per Litre On Petrol, Rs 23 On Diesel

OMCs Lose Rs 5 Per Litre On Petrol, Rs 23 On Diesel

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

'If crude remains above $100 per barrel, with restricted retail-price increases, OMCs could face negative petrol and diesel marketing margins, higher LPG under-recoveries, higher crude-landing, freight and insurance costs, working capital and debt accumulation and inventory losses if crude subsequently corrects sharply.'

'1,000 missiles locked and loaded': Trump's big warning to Iran

'1,000 missiles locked and loaded': Trump's big warning to Iran

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Donald Trump has issued a severe warning to Iran, threatening 'decimation' with '1,000 missiles' if the nation pursues alleged assassination plots against him, while Iranian officials accuse the US of violating a MoU amidst ongoing diplomatic talks.

Brand USA Unveils 'More To Love' Campaign After World Cup

Brand USA Unveils 'More To Love' Campaign After World Cup

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Brand USA, the destination marketing organisation for the United States, has launched a new social-first series called 'More to Love'. This campaign aims to thank international fans who visited the US during the FIFA World Cup and encourage them to return to explore more of the country's diverse attractions, including its national parks and landmarks. The campaign is being amplified globally, including in India.

BRICS declaration backs India's stand on fighting terror

BRICS declaration backs India's stand on fighting terror

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

The BRICS grouping has fully endorsed India's demand for zero-tolerance against terrorism and rejected double standards in combating the menace. Their declaration condemned terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir and reaffirmed commitment to holding terrorists accountable under international law.

How Tendenthoi Devi Haobijam Is Primed For Asian Games Success

How Tendenthoi Devi Haobijam Is Primed For Asian Games Success

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Manipuri rower Tendenthoi Devi Haobijam expresses newfound confidence ahead of her second Asian Games appearance, attributing it to consistent team training, international exposure in Australia and Europe, and mentorship from her coach. She will lead India's challenge in the women's coxless four, aiming for a significant performance.

De Ketelaere double as Belgium thrash USA to make last 8

De Ketelaere double as Belgium thrash USA to make last 8

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

The United States' World Cup dreams came to a crashing halt in the last 16 against Belgium on Monday as Charles De Ketelaere scored twice in a 4-1 win, overshadowed by FIFA's controversial decision to suspend US forward Folarin Balogun's ban.

If Guptas, Jaiswals had not been here...: WB BJP chief's remarks sparks row

If Guptas, Jaiswals had not been here...: WB BJP chief's remarks sparks row

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

West Bengal BJP president Samik Bhattacharya's comments recalling the role of non-Bengali communities during the 1946 communal riots and alleging past restrictions on Durga Puja have drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties, including the TMC, Congress, and CPI(M). Bhattacharya appealed for unity for peaceful Durga Puja celebrations, while opposition leaders accused him of divisive politics and distorting history.

Dr Bhairavi Joshi Receives UN Certificate Of Excellence For Cycling Initiatives

Dr Bhairavi Joshi Receives UN Certificate Of Excellence For Cycling Initiatives

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

Dr Bhairavi Joshi, a member of the Cycling Federation of India's Development Committee, has been awarded the United Nations World Bicycle Day Founder Leszek Sibilski's Certificate of Excellence for her significant efforts in promoting cycling across India through various community initiatives.

PIX: Williams sisters lose, but US Open return turns to celebration

PIX: Williams sisters lose, but US Open return turns to celebration

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

Tennis legends Serena and Venus Williams played what was likely their final U.S. Open doubles match, losing to Maya Joint and Chan Hao-ching in a thrilling three-set encounter. Despite the defeat, the match was a celebration of their illustrious careers, drawing 23,000 adoring fans to Arthur Ashe Stadium who cheered every point of the iconic sisters.

NGOs down by half in last 10 years; contribution rises to Rs 22,974 cr

NGOs down by half in last 10 years; contribution rises to Rs 22,974 cr

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

The Ministry of Home Affairs informed a Joint Committee of Parliament that the number of active NGOs registered under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act has halved over the last decade, even as foreign funds received by them have significantly increased. Christian associations received the largest share of these funds in 2024-25. The report comes amidst discussions on a contentious FCRA amendment bill aimed at tighter government oversight.

Iran insists Strait of Hormuz closed as US vows 'freedom of navigation'

Iran insists Strait of Hormuz closed as US vows 'freedom of navigation'

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Iran's Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA) has declared the Strait of Hormuz closed due to 'recent illegal movements' by the US military, demanding transit permits, while the US Central Command (CENTCOM) insists the strait is 'open to all vessels' and vows to ensure 'freedom of navigation'.

Iran vows to 'correct' Trump's Hormuz 'delusions'

Iran vows to 'correct' Trump's Hormuz 'delusions'

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Iran has strongly rejected former US President Donald Trump's assertion that the Strait of Hormuz is 'NEW U.S. TERRITORY', with top officials warning that his 'delusions' would be 'corrected' and highlighting the gap between Washington's claims and its actual influence over the strategic waterway.

India Faces 100% US Tariff Risk Over Russian Oil

India Faces 100% US Tariff Risk Over Russian Oil

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

The US senate last week passed a bill that would allow Washington to impose tariffs on major buyers of Russian energy.

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

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

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

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.

US Open PIX: Elena Rybakina overcomes Gauff; to face Aryna Sabalenka in final

US Open PIX: Elena Rybakina overcomes Gauff; to face Aryna Sabalenka in final

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Elena Rybakina overpowered Coco Gauff in a fierce US Open semi-final on Thursday to secure a title showdown with defending champion Aryna Sabalenka.

BJP to leverage BRICS Summit success in poll campaigns

BJP to leverage BRICS Summit success in poll campaigns

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

The successful hosting of the 18th BRICS summit in New Delhi has provided a significant boost to the BJP, offering a timely opportunity to strengthen its narrative against the opposition ahead of crucial assembly elections next year. BJP sources highlight the BRICS grouping's strong condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack and the consensus declaration as major diplomatic victories for the Modi government, countering criticisms of its foreign policy. The party plans to leverage these outcomes during its month-long Seva Sankalp campaign to connect with various sections of society.

How Shah Rukh's Chak De! India Inspires Indonesian Hockey Team At Asian Games 2026

How Shah Rukh's Chak De! India Inspires Indonesian Hockey Team At Asian Games 2026

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

Indonesian hockey players, particularly Ferdian Fathur Rahman and Firdaus Muhammad, are deeply inspired by the Bollywood film "Chak De! India" as they prepare to face India at the Asian Games.

Indian Athletes Encounter Initial Hurdles At Asian Games Check-In

Indian Athletes Encounter Initial Hurdles At Asian Games Check-In

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Indian athletes, including wushu and table tennis players, faced initial check-in difficulties upon arrival for the Asian Games in Nagoya. While some wushu players and coaches reportedly had issues with room allocation on the designated cruise ship, officials stated the problems were resolved. The Games' accommodation plan involves a mix of cruise ships, container rooms, and hotels, with some contingents already raising concerns about the quality and availability of lodging.

Festive Season Fuels 35% Surge in India's Passenger Vehicle Sales for August

Festive Season Fuels 35% Surge in India's Passenger Vehicle Sales for August

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

India's passenger vehicle sales are estimated to have surged by approximately 35 per cent to about 4.5 lakh units in August, driven by strong performances from major automakers like Maruti Suzuki India, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, and Mahindra & Mahindra, with the industry entering the festive season with optimism.

India Sets 10-Year Vision For Defence Diplomacy

India Sets 10-Year Vision For Defence Diplomacy

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

'India is trying to project that it can engage with the world in a different way too.'

US Open unveils new way to watch 16 courts at once

US Open unveils new way to watch 16 courts at once

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

ESPN is launching "RedZone at the U.S. Open," a new streaming service designed to offer tennis fans simultaneous coverage of 16 courts, mirroring the successful NFL RedZone model. A dedicated broadcast team will curate the most important moments from August 30 to September 4, ensuring viewers catch all critical action.

'India And China Have Arrived At A Nash Equilibrium'

'India And China Have Arrived At A Nash Equilibrium'

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

'The Chinese military cannot advance much in Ladakh, even if they want to.' 'Similarly, in Arunachal Pradesh, they can rename a village or two, intrude here or there, but cannot do much more realistically.'

Natural Calamities Trigger Property Insurance Rate Spike, Discounts Cut

Natural Calamities Trigger Property Insurance Rate Spike, Discounts Cut

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

Property insurance premium rates are increasing by 25-30 per cent, primarily due to a reduction in discounts, following substantial claims from natural calamities like the Gujarat floods, which caused an estimated 5,000 crore in losses.

India refuse to accept Asia Cup trophy: 'We Stand By BCCI's Stance'

India refuse to accept Asia Cup trophy: 'We Stand By BCCI's Stance'

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

The Indian women's cricket team fully supports the BCCI's decision not to accept the Asia Cup trophy from Asian Cricket Council's Pakistani chief Mohsin Naqvi, with head coach Amol Muzumdar stating that winning the tournament is 'good enough' for the players.

Why Autonomous AI Agents Pose A Global Security Risk

Why Autonomous AI Agents Pose A Global Security Risk

Rediff.com27 Sep 2026

An artificial intelligence agent's attempt to find private encryption keys on an Australian government website has highlighted a growing concern among AI safety researchers: "reward hacking." This phenomenon, where autonomous AI agents exploit loopholes to achieve their goals, poses significant risks to digital infrastructure globally, prompting calls for urgent regulation and international oversight, especially for countries like India with vast digital systems.

India plays peacemaker, brokers Iran-UAE talks at BRICS

India plays peacemaker, brokers Iran-UAE talks at BRICS

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

India successfully facilitated a significant diplomatic meeting between Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and UAE Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi. This interaction, a diplomatic breakthrough given ongoing West Asia conflicts, occurred as BRICS adopted a declaration urging restraint and protection of civilians in the region, highlighting the bloc's commitment to peace and stability.

India rejects US body's call for sanctions on RSS

India rejects US body's call for sanctions on RSS

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

India has strongly rejected remarks by the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) officials calling for sanctions against the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and advising against diplomatic courtesies for its leaders. The External Affairs Ministry spokesperson labelled USCIRF a "biased" organisation with its own agenda, lacking credibility.

India Slams Pakistan At UN, Calls It 'Frankenstein State'

India Slams Pakistan At UN, Calls It 'Frankenstein State'

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

India strongly criticised Pakistan at the United Nations, labelling it a "Frankenstein state" for its alleged support of terrorism. The remarks came after Pakistan and the OIC raised the Kashmir issue, which India firmly rejected, reiterating Jammu and Kashmir's integral status. India also deemed the Indus Water Treaty "outdated" given Pakistan's policies.

Nepal's Hindu Rashtra Debate

Nepal's Hindu Rashtra Debate

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Nepal's Hindu groups have sought an all-party discussion on restoring Hindu-nation status within three months.

Security Heightened In Haldwani Ahead Of Crucial SC Verdict

Security Heightened In Haldwani Ahead Of Crucial SC Verdict

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Heavy police and drone teams have been deployed in Haldwani's Banbhoolpura area ahead of an anticipated Supreme Court verdict concerning alleged encroachment on 29 hectares of Railway land. The deployment is a precautionary measure given past unrest during demolition drives, with authorities appealing for peace and warning against rumour-mongering.

BRICS Countries Unite To Build Resilient Digital Healthcare Systems

BRICS Countries Unite To Build Resilient Digital Healthcare Systems

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The CEO of the National Health Authority, Sunil Kumar Barnwal, highlighted BRICS nations' shared aspiration for connected, patient-centric, and resilient healthcare systems through digital health infrastructure and responsible AI. Discussions at the 16th BRICS Health Ministers' meeting focused on overcoming challenges like limited interoperability and workforce constraints, with countries like Brazil and Indonesia sharing successful digital health initiatives.

Cong's Nandigram candidate sent to 14-day custody in 19-yr-old case

Cong's Nandigram candidate sent to 14-day custody in 19-yr-old case

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

Congress's Nandigram bypoll candidate Milan Pradhan has been sent to judicial custody until October 3 on charges dating back 19 years, effectively ending his campaign for the October 6 by-election.

World Athletics: Ingebrigtsen returns with Ultimate 5,000m win; Duplantis misses Vault mark

World Athletics: Ingebrigtsen returns with Ultimate 5,000m win; Duplantis misses Vault mark

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Jakob Ingebrigtsen made a stunning comeback from Achilles surgery to win the men's 5,000 metres at the inaugural World Athletics Ultimate Championship, securing a $150,000 prize. Fellow star Mondo Duplantis also claimed a pole vault title, narrowly missing a world record. The new championship format aims to attract new fans with its high-stakes fields and glitzy production.

Pickaxe Mountain next? Trump warns Iran nuclear site could be hit 'very soon'

Pickaxe Mountain next? Trump warns Iran nuclear site could be hit 'very soon'

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

US President Donald Trump on Friday (local time) said the United States could "hit" Iran's heavily fortified underground nuclear site known as Pickaxe Mountain "very soon", days after Washington targeted Iranian military targets.