News for 'US Agency for International Development'

Xi Jinping Urges Global Cooperation For Ethical AI Development

Xi Jinping Urges Global Cooperation For Ethical AI Development

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Chinese President Xi Jinping called for global collaboration in artificial intelligence development, emphasising a "symphony of global collaboration" over a "solo performance" by any single nation. Speaking at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai, Xi highlighted the need for ethical AI governance, shared prosperity, and addressing challenges like the widening digital divide. He also announced China's commitment to support developing countries with 5,000 AI research projects and training programmes. The event also saw 29 countries sign an agreement to establish the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation (WAICO) in Shanghai.

Hyderabad Police Busts International 'OG Ganja' Smuggling Network

Hyderabad Police Busts International 'OG Ganja' Smuggling Network

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Telangana's EAGLE Force, in coordination with Customs and NCB, has dismantled an international 'OG Ganja' smuggling ring operating between Bangkok and India. The operation led to the arrest of a woman junior artist and the seizure of 2.15 kg of cannabis, exposing a larger syndicate that exploits vulnerable women as drug carriers.

Xi Jinping Calls For Global AI Collaboration, Not Solo Performance

Xi Jinping Calls For Global AI Collaboration, Not Solo Performance

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for global collaboration in Artificial Intelligence development, stating it should be a "symphony" rather than a "solo performance." His remarks came at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai, where 29 countries also signed an agreement to establish the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation (WAICO), an independent intergovernmental body headquartered in Shanghai. China also pledged 5,000 AI research projects and training for developing nations.

How India Busted An International 'Jihadi Drug' Syndicate

How India Busted An International 'Jihadi Drug' Syndicate

Rediff.com16 May 2026

The Narcotics Control Bureau has busted an international drug syndicate involved in trafficking Captagon, seizing approximately 227.7 kg of the 'jihadi drug' worth Rs 182 crore.

Iran's Prez Pezeshkian reaches Pak for talks on US pact, regional security

Iran's Prez Pezeshkian reaches Pak for talks on US pact, regional security

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is on a state visit to Pakistan to discuss the full implementation of an agreement signed between Iran and the US, alongside regional and international developments. The visit also aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation across various sectors, following recent high-level talks between the US and Iran in Switzerland regarding regional security.

NASA's Anil Menon, 2 Russians lift off on 8-month ISS mission

NASA's Anil Menon, 2 Russians lift off on 8-month ISS mission

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Nasa astronaut Anil Menon, along with Russian cosmonauts Pyotr Dubrov and Anna Kikina, has embarked on an eight-month mission to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard a Soyuz MS-29 spacecraft, lifting off from Kazakhstan.

Financial Crimes Decline Due To Agency Action: ED

Financial Crimes Decline Due To Agency Action: ED

Rediff.com1 May 2026

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) reports a decline in traditional financial crimes due to sustained investigative actions and government initiatives, while highlighting emerging challenges like cryptocurrency fraud and terror financing.

Indian-Origin Astronaut Anil Menon Begins Eight-Month ISS Mission

Indian-Origin Astronaut Anil Menon Begins Eight-Month ISS Mission

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Indian-origin NASA astronaut Anil Menon, along with two Russian cosmonauts, has embarked on an eight-month mission to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard a Soyuz MS-29 spacecraft. This marks Menon's first spaceflight, where he will conduct scientific research and technology demonstrations focused on human space exploration, microgravity effects, and in-space production of advanced materials.

Hormuz Crisis Exposes India's Energy Risks

Hormuz Crisis Exposes India's Energy Risks

Rediff.com6 days ago

Despite decades of efforts towards energy transition, oil will remain the critical energy source for all nations for some decades. We can hope for peace opening the Strait of Hormuz, but must prepare for war closing it, points out former foreign secretary Ranjan Mathai.

ONGC to build 1.75 mt strategic oil reserve in Mangaluru, boosting India's energy security

ONGC to build 1.75 mt strategic oil reserve in Mangaluru, boosting India's energy security

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

State-run Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has approved the development of a 1.75 million tonnes (mt) strategic petroleum reserve (SPR) in Mangaluru, a project deemed of national importance, with plans for broad commercial utilisation.

You ever think it might be your last call to family? Iranian FM asked US envoy

You ever think it might be your last call to family? Iranian FM asked US envoy

Rediff.com5 days ago

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has revealed the intense psychological pressure faced by Tehran's diplomatic delegation during peace negotiations with the United States, recalling a direct exchange with US President Donald Trump's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, where he questioned the envoy about the constant military threats.

India climbs to 11th among top FDI destinations in 2025, UN report reveals

India climbs to 11th among top FDI destinations in 2025, UN report reveals

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

India has significantly improved its position as a global foreign direct investment (FDI) destination, climbing two places to 11th in 2025, with inflows surging by nearly 44 per cent to $38.89 billion, according to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (Unctad) World Investment Report 2026.

Kuwait, Bahrain attacked; Jordan downs 4 Iranian missiles

Kuwait, Bahrain attacked; Jordan downs 4 Iranian missiles

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Kuwait's air defence systems engaged 'hostile aerial targets', Jordan intercepted four missiles, and Bahrain sounded warning sirens after Iran launched retaliatory strikes targeting US military installations in the region.

First Dengue Vaccine Approved for India

First Dengue Vaccine Approved for India

Rediff.com5 days ago

The vaccine has been cleared for use in individuals aged 4 to 60 years and can be administered irrespective of whether the taker has had dengue before, eliminating the need for pre-vaccination screening.

World Cup 2026: Can Football Unite a Fractured World?

World Cup 2026: Can Football Unite a Fractured World?

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, is set to be football's largest tournament but will unfold against a backdrop of significant geopolitical tensions, including conflicts, strained alliances, and complex immigration policies, challenging its traditional role as a symbol of global unity.

Bangladesh Objection Delays Assam Border Fencing

Bangladesh Objection Delays Assam Border Fencing

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

'Fencing work for 4.35 km of the border could not be carried out due to objections by the Border Guard Bangladesh.'

Why JPC Deferred Constitution Amendment Bill Report

Why JPC Deferred Constitution Amendment Bill Report

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

The dramatic postponement came while members were voting on the committee's five principal recommendations, making it an unprecedented moment in the functioning of a parliamentary committee.

Anthropic Restores Fable 5, Mythos 5 Access After US Lifts Export Controls

Anthropic Restores Fable 5, Mythos 5 Access After US Lifts Export Controls

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Artificial intelligence major Anthropic has reinstated access to its Fable 5 and Mythos 5 AI models after the US government lifted export controls imposed due to national security concerns over a "jailbreak" vulnerability. The company has implemented new safeguards and is collaborating with major tech firms to develop a framework for addressing AI model vulnerabilities. India, a significant market for Anthropic, will see Fable 5 available globally, while Mythos 5 access expands under Project Glasswing.

'Paani Waali Train': 'This Is The Future Of Railway Mobility'

'Paani Waali Train': 'This Is The Future Of Railway Mobility'

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

India has launched its first hydrogen-powered train, the 'Namo Green Rail', from Jind, Haryana, marking a significant step towards sustainable railway mobility. The 10-coach train, which emits only water vapour, is currently operating on the Jind-Sonipat route and represents a major technological advancement for the country's transport sector.

Bangladesh turns to China on Teesta: Should India be concerned?

Bangladesh turns to China on Teesta: Should India be concerned?

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Dhaka and Beijing on Thursday agreed to strengthen cooperation on the management of the Teesta and other rivers and signed 13 agreements to bolster bilateral ties following talks between Bangladeshi Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and Chinese Premier Li Qiang.

US-Iran peace deal: Tehran gives up nuke bid, wins sanctions relief

US-Iran peace deal: Tehran gives up nuke bid, wins sanctions relief

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

The United States and Iran have reached an agreement in principle to immediately and permanently halt all military operations, lift sanctions, and work towards a comprehensive final agreement within 60 days, including a significant reconstruction package for Iran.

US, Iran to hold talks in Switzerland; Pak, Qatar to attend

US, Iran to hold talks in Switzerland; Pak, Qatar to attend

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

The United States and Iran are scheduled to hold their initial round of talks in Switzerland on Friday, following a ceasefire agreement virtually signed by US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.

Iran's Supreme Leader to skip father's funeral

Iran's Supreme Leader to skip father's funeral

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei will not attend his father, former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei's, funeral due to security concerns stemming from Israeli threats. This decision follows a sharp warning from Iran's Foreign Minister to the United States, urging it to control Israel after its Defence Minister reportedly marked Khamenei for death. The incident highlights escalating tensions and ongoing diplomatic efforts to de-escalate hostilities in West Asia.

Khamenei Funeral Signals Shift In India-Iran Relations

Khamenei Funeral Signals Shift In India-Iran Relations

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

It is an unusual choice to depute a retired general for the funeral of a revered religious figure but a thoughtful one in an attempt to inject verve into the bilateral relationship and restore the equilibrium in India's West Asian policies, notes Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

US eases sanctions, grants 60-day Iranian oil licence amid Swiss talks

US eases sanctions, grants 60-day Iranian oil licence amid Swiss talks

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

In a major shift in Middle Eastern energy and security dynamics, the US Department of the Treasury on Monday issued a temporary 60-day general licence authorising transactions related to the production, delivery, and sale of Iranian crude oil, petrochemicals, and petroleum products.

Vinesh Phogat Faces Warning After Missed Doping Test

Vinesh Phogat Faces Warning After Missed Doping Test

Rediff.com5 May 2026

Wrestler Vinesh Phogat has been notified by the International Testing Agency (ITA) for a missed out-of-competition doping test dating back to December 18, 2025. This marks her first whereabouts failure in the last 12 months and triggers a warning under anti-doping regulations.

DRI Foils Rs 5 Crore Crystal Meth Smuggling Bid At Chennai Airport

DRI Foils Rs 5 Crore Crystal Meth Smuggling Bid At Chennai Airport

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

DRI sleuths at Chennai International Airport seized five kgs of crystal methamphetamine, valued at Rs 5 crore, from a passenger attempting to board a flight to Kuala Lumpur. The passenger has been arrested, and an investigation is underway to uncover the broader drug network.

US, Iran ink MoU to end hostilities, reopen Strait of Hormuz

US, Iran ink MoU to end hostilities, reopen Strait of Hormuz

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

United States President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian have virtually signed a 14-point memorandum of understanding (MoU) to end hostilities, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and begin a 60-day negotiation process on sanctions and Iran's nuclear programme.

Monsoon fury brings Mumbai-Pune to a standstill; 'Missing Link' reopens

Monsoon fury brings Mumbai-Pune to a standstill; 'Missing Link' reopens

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Heavy monsoon rains have severely impacted Mumbai and its surrounding areas, leading to landslides, suspension of train services, and at least 13 fatalities over the past few days. The Mumbai-Pune Expressway was also shut due to a concrete pillar collapse and waterlogging.

Delhi sets countdown for ICE 2W, 3W phaseout

Delhi sets countdown for ICE 2W, 3W phaseout

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

The Delhi government has approved the Delhi EV Policy 2.0, which will phase out fresh registrations of internal combustion engine (ICE) two-wheelers and three-wheelers over the next two years, starting with a ban on ICE 3Ws and N1 category LCVs from January 1, 2027, and ICE 2Ws from April 1, 2028.

Assess Mythos Threat By June 30: RBI To Banks

Assess Mythos Threat By June 30: RBI To Banks

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

'...A new challenge has emerged in the form of Mythos.'

After revolt, Mamata, Abhishek return to grassroots, cuts I-PAC role

After revolt, Mamata, Abhishek return to grassroots, cuts I-PAC role

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Facing a massive rebellion of MLAs and MPs after its defeat in the West Bengal assembly polls, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has begun an organisational reset, with sources saying the focus is on top leaders increasing direct engagement with workers and reducing dependence on political-consultancy firm I-PAC.

Security tightened in Delhi ahead of Cockroach Janta Party protest

Security tightened in Delhi ahead of Cockroach Janta Party protest

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

Delhi Police has intensified security across the city, especially at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport and border points, in anticipation of a protest called by the digital outfit Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). Over 1,000 personnel have been deployed, and senior officers have reviewed arrangements to maintain law and order and ensure public safety.

ISI asks J-K OGWs to infiltrate national parties to evade crackdown

ISI asks J-K OGWs to infiltrate national parties to evade crackdown

Rediff.com31 May 2026

Pakistan's ISI is reportedly pushing its network of Over Ground Workers (OGWs) in Jammu and Kashmir to infiltrate mainstream national political parties to evade security crackdowns and investigations. The ISI is also attempting to revive dormant, locally-founded terror outfits to give an 'indigenous colour' to terrorist violence and mask Pakistan's direct involvement.

Xi Jinping lands in North Korea to deepen ties, Kim receives him at airport

Xi Jinping lands in North Korea to deepen ties, Kim receives him at airport

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in Pyongyang for his first official visit in seven years, meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to reaffirm their long-standing friendship and pledge further development of bilateral relations amidst Pyongyang's deepening military ties with Moscow and China's assertions against Japan's 'new militarism'.

US, Iran launch high-stakes peace talks in Switzerland

US, Iran launch high-stakes peace talks in Switzerland

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Top leaders from the US, Iran, and Pakistan, along with other nations, have gathered in Switzerland for high-level talks aimed at restoring peace in West Asia. These negotiations follow a recently signed Memorandum of Understanding between the US and Iran, initiating a 60-day window for a deal. Discussions focus on Iran's nuclear programme and the fragile interim peace deal, amidst renewed tensions and the fluctuating status of the Strait of Hormuz.

CID storms Mamata's residence, Abhishek's office in forgery probe

CID storms Mamata's residence, Abhishek's office in forgery probe

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

A CID team visited the Trinamool Congress (TMC)'s central office in Kolkata as part of an investigation into alleged forged signatures of MLAs. The controversy, which involves a proposal for the Leader of Opposition, has triggered an unprecedented split within the party, with a rebel faction electing its own leader. TMC leaders prevented the CID from entering the premises, citing the absence of national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee.

Made-in-India drone swarms pass battlefield trial

Made-in-India drone swarms pass battlefield trial

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

The autonomous, edge-native drone swarms are capable of continuing operations even when some lose connectivity, run low on battery, or return to base.

NADA Hands Provisional Suspension To Prominent Athletes Over Doping Violations

NADA Hands Provisional Suspension To Prominent Athletes Over Doping Violations

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

India's National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) has provisionally suspended 24 athletes across various sports, including cricketer Bhupen Lalwani, weightlifter Ajith Narayana, wrestler Sahil Jaglan, and national record holder runner KM Deeksha, for failing dope tests. The suspensions highlight ongoing challenges with doping in Indian sports.

Putin makes big Su-57 offer to India, proposes joint production

Putin makes big Su-57 offer to India, proposes joint production

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

Russian President Vladimir Putin has offered New Delhi Russia's fifth-generation stealth aircraft Sukhoi Su-57 and even suggested that the combat jet could even be jointly produced in India in line with the strong strategic partnership between the two countries.