News for 'URGENT'

Days after 'will go to war' vow, Musk says H-1B visa system 'broken'

Days after 'will go to war' vow, Musk says H-1B visa system 'broken'

Rediff.com31 Dec 2024

Elon Musk, who has previously vowed to "go to war" to defend the H-1B visa program, has reignited debate surrounding the program by labeling it "broken" and in urgent need of "major reform." Musk, along with Indian-American tech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, has been tapped by Trump to lead his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). While Musk acknowledges the need for foreign workers in the tech industry, he believes the current H-1B system needs significant changes, including raising the minimum salary and adding a yearly cost for maintaining the visa. The H-1B visa, which allows US companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations, has been a subject of debate for years. The tech industry advocates for more H-1B visas to attract highly skilled workers, while some argue that it allows businesses to replace Americans with lower-paid foreign workers.

SC refuses urgent hearing on plea against firecracker ban in Delhi

SC refuses urgent hearing on plea against firecracker ban in Delhi

Rediff.com13 Oct 2022

"Let the high court decide, we will not get into this," the bench said.

When A PM Miraculously Escaped Air Crash

When A PM Miraculously Escaped Air Crash

Rediff.com17 Feb 2025

Wing Commander Raveendran and flight steward Sargeant Iyer, though shaken and injured, managed to open the rear door of the aircraft and shouted for Prime Minister Morarji Desai and the passengers in the forward cabin to exit in haste since they suspected that fire would engulf the aircraft.

Earth records hottest year ever in 2024, surpasses 1.5C mark

Earth records hottest year ever in 2024, surpasses 1.5C mark

Rediff.com11 Jan 2025

The year 2024 was the hottest year on record, with the global average temperature exceeding 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels for the first time, according to the European climate agency Copernicus. Every month from January to June was the warmest ever recorded, and from July to December (except August), each month was the second warmest on record. Scientists are warning that the world is entering a new climate reality, with extreme heatwaves, floods, and storms becoming more frequent and severe. The report also highlights the failure of developed nations to meet their climate finance commitments to developing countries, despite the urgency of the situation.

No urgent listing of cases by senior advocates, says CJI Ramana

No urgent listing of cases by senior advocates, says CJI Ramana

Rediff.com10 Aug 2022

Chief Justice of India (CJI) N V Ramana on Wednesday did not permit senior advocates to mention cases for urgent listing in the court presided over by him, saying, "No question of allowing seniors to mention".

So-called farmer leaders want to.....: SC slams Punjab over Dallewal fast

So-called farmer leaders want to.....: SC slams Punjab over Dallewal fast

Rediff.com2 Jan 2025

The Supreme Court criticized the Punjab government for making irresponsible statements regarding farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal's indefinite fast and questioned the intentions of some farmer leaders. The court emphasized that it never directed Dallewal to break his fast but expressed concern for his health and urged medical aid. The bench expressed frustration over the government's attempts to create an impression that they were persuading Dallewal to end his fast, despite the court's directives to provide medical aid.

Bangladesh foreign secy meets Indian envoy over border tensions

Bangladesh foreign secy meets Indian envoy over border tensions

Rediff.com12 Jan 2025

Bangladesh has summoned the Indian High Commissioner in Dhaka over border tensions, accusing India of violating a bilateral agreement by constructing fences at five locations along the Indo-Bangla border. The development comes after Bangladesh officials alleged that India had halted construction of barbed wire fencing due to strong opposition from the Border Guard Bangladesh and local residents.

Why Abhishek Missed Aishwarya's Birthday

Why Abhishek Missed Aishwarya's Birthday

Rediff.com6 Nov 2024

When Aishwarya celebrated her birthday in Dubai on November 1, the speculation regarding the Abhishek-Aishwarya marital rift ran even higher.

'GST Council Should Jack Up Rates'

'GST Council Should Jack Up Rates'

Rediff.com30 Nov 2024

'Rates go up, revenues go up, and the need for compensation diminishes.'

It Won't Be An Easy Term For The BJP

It Won't Be An Easy Term For The BJP

Rediff.com8 Feb 2025

Delhi faces a severe financial crunch and the deficit is largely due to numerous welfare schemes without adequate revenue flowing in. The success of welfare schemes and electoral promises will need careful financial planning and out of the box thinking to whip up additional revenue, notes Ramesh Menon.

Budget Prepares For Rise In Cancer Cases

Budget Prepares For Rise In Cancer Cases

Rediff.com3 Feb 2025

Do we have enough trained oncologists and medical professionals in India to man these over 4,500 beds in the public sector?

Mamata wants UN peacekeeping mission in Bangladesh, says Modi must...

Mamata wants UN peacekeeping mission in Bangladesh, says Modi must...

Rediff.com2 Dec 2024

Banerjee stressed she wished for harmony, fraternal ties and cordial relationship to remain between all communities living in Bangladesh and elsewhere.

Artificial rain in Delhi? AAP govt seeks Centre's nod to combat air

Artificial rain in Delhi? AAP govt seeks Centre's nod to combat air

Rediff.com19 Nov 2024

Amid Delhi's worsening air quality, which has plunged into the severe plus category with an AQI consistently above 450, Environment Minister Gopal Rai on Tuesday called for immediate intervention from the central government.

India's HMPV cases rise to 5; govt says no need to panic

India's HMPV cases rise to 5; govt says no need to panic

Rediff.com6 Jan 2025

It is important to note that neither of the patients have any history of international travel, the ministry underlined.

How can we...: SC refuses to stall Saini's oath taking ceremony

How can we...: SC refuses to stall Saini's oath taking ceremony

Rediff.com17 Oct 2024

The bench asked the petitioner to circulate three copies of the petition for the three judges and cautioned with imposition of fine.

Aus Open PIX: Djokovic survives scare; Alcaraz cruises

Aus Open PIX: Djokovic survives scare; Alcaraz cruises

Rediff.com13 Jan 2025

Novak Djokovic was seriously rattled early on by inspired American teenager Nishesh Basavareddy but rallied for a 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 victory on Monday.

BJP offered Rs 50 cr to 50 Cong MLAs: Siddaramaiah

BJP offered Rs 50 cr to 50 Cong MLAs: Siddaramaiah

Rediff.com14 Nov 2024

Karnataka BJP President B Y Vijayendra on Thursday challenged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to disclose the source of his allegation that Rs 50 crore bribe each was offered to 50 Congress MLAs to topple the government. He said the Chief Minister has lost faith in his own MLAs and, hence, was levelling false allegations.

SC refuses urgent hearing on plea seeking army protection for Kukis

SC refuses urgent hearing on plea seeking army protection for Kukis

Rediff.com20 Jun 2023

The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused urgent hearing on a plea seeking Army protection for minority Kuki tribals amid ethnic violence in Manipur.

How can you take risk?: SC raps Delhi govt over air pollution

How can you take risk?: SC raps Delhi govt over air pollution

Rediff.com18 Nov 2024

The SC questioned the Delhi government over delay in implementation of stricter anti-pollution measures under GRAP-4, and said it will not allow scaling down of the preventive measures without its prior permission.

FACE's ambitious goal: Uniting 75% fintech players

FACE's ambitious goal: Uniting 75% fintech players

Rediff.com27 Nov 2024

The Fintech Association for Consumer Empowerment (FACE), the only self-regulatory organisation for financial technology/fintech (SRO-FT) companies, is aiming to secure membership from at least 75 per cent of players across all key fintech categories within the next three years, according to a senior executive. The total number of members in the organisation has increased to 110, up from around 60 when it received approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to operate as an SRO-FT in August.

Ferry sinks off Mumbai coast as Navy boat rams it; 13 killed, 99 rescued

Ferry sinks off Mumbai coast as Navy boat rams it; 13 killed, 99 rescued

Rediff.com19 Dec 2024

Two passengers died and 75 others were rescued after a speed boat crashed into a ferry off the Mumbai coast. The ferry, carrying 80 passengers and five crew members, was on its way to Elephanta Islands when the speed boat circled it before crashing into it. The Navy and Coast Guard launched a massive rescue operation, with 11 Navy boats, three Marine Police boats, and a Coast Guard boat deployed. Four helicopters were also involved in the search and rescue operation. Police, Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority personnel, and local fishermen are assisting in the rescue efforts. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that seven to eight passengers remain missing.

3 Khalistani terrorists gunned down in encounter in UP

3 Khalistani terrorists gunned down in encounter in UP

Rediff.com23 Dec 2024

Two AK-47 rifles, two Glock pistols, and a huge cache of ammunition were seized from them, he said.

Drug victims need rehabilitation, not demonisation: SC

Drug victims need rehabilitation, not demonisation: SC

Rediff.com17 Dec 2024

The Supreme Court of India expressed deep concern over the rising drug abuse problem in the country, highlighting the impact on youth and the need for urgent intervention. The court emphasized the need for rehabilitation rather than demonization of drug users and called for open discussions to address the issue. The judgment came while granting bail to a man accused in a heroin smuggling case. The court cited a 2019 report that indicated a significant number of people in India use opioids, cannabis, and other substances, with alarming trends in opioid dependence.

Protests after Delhi principal's casteist slur, assault on Dalit student

Protests after Delhi principal's casteist slur, assault on Dalit student

Rediff.com18 Nov 2024

A Dalit student at Delhi University's Shaheed Bhagat Singh College has filed a police complaint alleging that its principal hurled casteist slurs and assaulted him after he was falsely accused of sending obscene messages on the official WhatsApp group of his department. The student, a third-year BA Hindi Honours student, claimed the incident caused him mental trauma and defamation. He has also written to the University Vice-Chancellor and the National Commission for Scheduled Castes, seeking action against those involved. The principal has denied the allegations, claiming the student was being manipulated by a faculty member against whom an inquiry is underway.

Govt plans to use AI to check traffic violations: Gadkari

Govt plans to use AI to check traffic violations: Gadkari

Rediff.com24 Oct 2024

The government is proposing to use Artificial Intelligence and other innovative methods to check traffic violations and ensure that penalties are levied accurately, Union minister Nitin Gadkari said on Thursday. Addressing the 12th edition of the Traffic InfraTech Expo, the minister outlined plans for upgrading toll collection methods, including the exploration of satellite toll systems, which would improve efficiency and ensure transparency in toll collection. Gadkari noted that road safety cannot be achieved without integrating advanced engineering solutions, enforcement of laws, and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Chaseable target but we didn't bat well: Harmanpreet

Chaseable target but we didn't bat well: Harmanpreet

Rediff.com27 Oct 2024

India captain Harmanpreet Kaur acknowledged the urgent need to address her team's batting woes following their 76-run loss to New Zealand in the second women's ODI in Ahmedabad on Sunday.

Inequality a relative concept; absolute poverty India's urgent concern: CEA

Inequality a relative concept; absolute poverty India's urgent concern: CEA

Rediff.com22 Dec 2023

Chief Economic Advisor (CEA) V Anantha Nageswaran considers absolute poverty a more direct and pressing concern for India. He argues that inequality is a relative concept. Simultaneously, with formerly economically deprived sections joining the ranks of the middle class, policy attention needs to extend beyond 'roti, kapda, makaan' to keep the growth engine up and running.

Groom reaches Guwahati on time for wedding thanks to railways

Groom reaches Guwahati on time for wedding thanks to railways

Rediff.com17 Nov 2024

A Mumbai man managed to reach Guwahati on time for his wedding on Sunday, thanks to the help of Indian Railways. The groom and his relatives were travelling on the Gitanjali Express from Mumbai, which was delayed. They were worried about missing the Saraighat Express to Guwahati. A member of the wedding party posted a message on X, requesting help. The Howrah Divisional Railway Manager, acting on instructions from higher authorities, detained the Saraighat Express and ensured the swift arrival of the Gitanjali Express. The groom and his relatives were then quickly transported to the Saraighat Express by battery-operated vehicles. The wedding took place without further complications. The family expressed their gratitude to the Indian Railways for their assistance.

Statue of Pak's 1971 surrender vandalised in B'desh, Tharoor reacts

Statue of Pak's 1971 surrender vandalised in B'desh, Tharoor reacts

Rediff.com12 Aug 2024

"This follows disgraceful attacks on the Indian cultural centre, temples and Hindu homes in several places, even as reports came in of Muslim civilians protecting other minority homes and places of worship," Tharoor said in a post on X.

Cong worker dies during protest near UP assembly; party blames police

Cong worker dies during protest near UP assembly; party blames police

Rediff.com19 Dec 2024

A Congress worker died during a protest near the Uttar Pradesh Assembly in Lucknow, India, on Wednesday. The Congress party alleged the worker, Prabhat Pandey, died due to "police brutality," while police said he was brought to the hospital unconscious and had no visible injury marks. An investigation is underway, and a post-mortem is to be conducted by a panel of doctors.

Bank Account Dormant? You Can Still Get Your Money

Bank Account Dormant? You Can Still Get Your Money

Rediff.com11 Dec 2024

Ramalingam Kalirajan offers some easy steps to reactivate your accounts with banks like SBI, HDFC Bank, IDFC First Bank and PNB just so that you can start availing all the benefits linked to your account.

Money laundering a big threat to online gaming and digital economy: Report

Money laundering a big threat to online gaming and digital economy: Report

Rediff.com24 Oct 2024

The fast-growing Indian online gaming sector is facing a significant threat from money laundering, necessitating urgent steps to ensure its sustained success and protect the country's robust digital economy, a report said on Thursday. The essential measures outlined in a report by the Digital India Foundation include forming a dedicated task force for illegal operators, creating a whitelist of legal operators, combating misleading advertisements, and incorporating principles of financial integrity and international cooperation.

Protect international cricket: MCC calls for urgent intervention

Protect international cricket: MCC calls for urgent intervention

Rediff.com10 Mar 2023

With franchise cricket taking over a major part of the calender, MCC called for urgent intervention to save international cricket.

212 Million Indians Have Diabetes

212 Million Indians Have Diabetes

Rediff.com14 Nov 2024

Of these 212 million Indians, 133 million have untreated diabetes. Undiagnosed diabetes has been linked with complications such as diabetic retinopathy which can cause vision loss and blindness.

On way to Sambhal, Rahul, Priyanka stopped at UP border

On way to Sambhal, Rahul, Priyanka stopped at UP border

Rediff.com4 Dec 2024

Curbs under Section 163 (power to issue an order in urgent cases of nuisance or apprehended danger) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), which were set to expire on Sunday, have now been extended till December 31 in Sambhal.

Sambhal violence well-planned BJP conspiracy: Akhilesh

Sambhal violence well-planned BJP conspiracy: Akhilesh

Rediff.com3 Dec 2024

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Tuesday alleged a 'well-planned' conspiracy by the Bharatiya Janata Party for the violence in Uttar Pradesh's Sambhal, where a team of Congress MPs led by Rahul Gandhi is scheduled to visit on December 4 amid restrictions imposed by the district administration.

Congress takes Maharashtra poll complaints to EC

Congress takes Maharashtra poll complaints to EC

Rediff.com29 Nov 2024

The Congress party in India has alleged "serious and grave inconsistencies" in the data relating to the polling and counting processes for the recently concluded Maharashtra Assembly elections. The party has sought an in-person hearing from the Election Commission to present evidence of alleged discrepancies, including the arbitrary deletion and addition of voters and inexplicable increases in voting percentages. The Congress leaders claim these irregularities benefited the ruling BJP-led alliance, which won a decisive victory in the polls.

BJP can win many seats in Assam's minority areas if...: Himanta

BJP can win many seats in Assam's minority areas if...: Himanta

Rediff.com28 Nov 2024

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma believes that the BJP could win more seats in the state by aggressively campaigning in minority-dominated areas. He attributed the party's recent success in the bypolls to its beneficiary schemes, which he claims have garnered support from the minority community. Sarma emphasized that the BJP will continue with its development work for all communities and has no plans for appeasement. He also gave an update on the Guwahati-North Guwahati bridge project, which is progressing well and is scheduled to be opened to the public in July 2025. Sarma also hinted at a possible cabinet reshuffle in the coming months.

SC refuses urgent hearing on plea against talaq-e-hasan

SC refuses urgent hearing on plea against talaq-e-hasan

Rediff.com25 May 2022

A vacation bench of Justices DrY Chandrachud and Bela M Trivedi asked the counsel, who mentioned the matter for urgent listing, to mention it before the bench next week.

Rahul, Priyanka to visit Sambhal with Cong MPs

Rahul, Priyanka to visit Sambhal with Cong MPs

Rediff.com3 Dec 2024

Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi along with the five other Congress MPs from Uttar Pradesh will visit violence-hit Sambhal on Wednesday, party's state unit chief Ajay Rai said.