News for 'US Agency for International Development'

Harvard's 788 Indian Students: What Next?

Harvard's 788 Indian Students: What Next?

Rediff.com23 May 2025

The Trump administration has revoked Harvard University's eligibility to enrol foreign students, raising concerns over the legal status of thousands of students, including nearly 800 from India, currently enrolled at the varsity.

China backs Pak, advocates 'fair probe' into Pahalgam attack

China backs Pak, advocates 'fair probe' into Pahalgam attack

Rediff.com29 Apr 2025

China hopes both sides will remain restrained, move toward each other, and work together to de-escalate the situation.

'I Expect More Disasters To Happen'

'I Expect More Disasters To Happen'

Rediff.com16 Jun 2025

'Even one accident can cause problems for the entire coastal system.'

Why This Banker Didn't Get Promoted!

Why This Banker Didn't Get Promoted!

Rediff.com2 May 2025

The bank made a Rs 67 crore net profit, up 21% from the previous year. Its deposits grew 8%, the loan book 10%. Net bad loans dropped from 7.53% to 6.07%. So why was the banker, who headed the bank, not promoted?

Adani opts out of US funding for Colombo Port project

Adani opts out of US funding for Colombo Port project

Rediff.com11 Dec 2024

Billionaire Gautam Adani's group has pulled out of a loan deal with a US agency to fund a port terminal in Sri Lanka, saying it will use its own resources for the project. In an exchange filing late on Tuesday, Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ) said the project "is on track for commissioning by early next year". "The project will be financed through the company's internal accruals and capital management plan," the firm said.

'Medicines are just one part of the solution'

'Medicines are just one part of the solution'

Rediff.com21 May 2025

'We are looking at what kind of products, diagnostics or other solutions we can offer to become a well-rounded player in a particular disease area globally.'

'Habemus Sinner!': World No. 1 Returns

'Habemus Sinner!': World No. 1 Returns

Rediff.com6 May 2025

'I am happy to play tennis again.'

Private Hospitals to Add 34,000 Beds by FY29

Private Hospitals to Add 34,000 Beds by FY29

Rediff.com17 Apr 2025

Leading chains plan Rs 40K crore infra revival to close capacity gap over next 3-5 years

ALERT! New coronavirus found in China's Wuhan

ALERT! New coronavirus found in China's Wuhan

Rediff.com22 Feb 2025

A Chinese team of virologists has discovered a new bat coronavirus that can infect human cells, raising concerns about potential animal-to-human transmission. The virus, a new lineage of the HKU5 coronavirus, uses the same human receptor as the virus that causes COVID-19. The study, led by Shi Zhengli, a prominent virologist at the Wuhan Institute of Virology, was published in the journal Cell. The discovery comes amid ongoing scrutiny of the Wuhan lab, which was previously accused of being the source of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Chinese government has denied any involvement in the virus's origin and insists that the Wuhan lab never engaged in gain-of-function studies on coronaviruses.

'Vaibhav has two options: Gill Highway & Shaw Bylane'

'Vaibhav has two options: Gill Highway & Shaw Bylane'

Rediff.com29 Apr 2025

Bihar Cricket Association president Rakesh Tiwary, along with the Royals management, Dravid, and Vaibhav's father Sanjiv, are trying to create a safety net around the teenager, whose life has changed after becoming the youngest ever centurion in IPL's history.

World urges India and Pakistan to 'exercise restraint'

World urges India and Pakistan to 'exercise restraint'

Rediff.com7 May 2025

World leaders, including the UN Secretary-General and US President Donald Trump, have urged India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and seek peaceful solutions to the ongoing tensions. The calls for calm come after India conducted airstrikes in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in response to a recent terrorist attack. Leaders from the US, Russia, UK, China, UAE, Qatar, and Japan have expressed concern over the escalating situation and emphasized the need for dialogue and de-escalation.

Terrorism Premiums To Drop 15% From April 1

Terrorism Premiums To Drop 15% From April 1

Rediff.com31 Mar 2025

'India has not faced a major terrorism loss since the Mumbai terrorist attacks in 2008.'

Adani Group to redevelop Mumbai's Motilal Nagar

Adani Group to redevelop Mumbai's Motilal Nagar

Rediff.com12 Mar 2025

Adani Properties Pvt Ltd (APPL) has emerged as the highest bidder for the redevelopment of Motilal Nagar in Mumbai, offering more built-up area than its nearest rival, L&T. This will be the second mega redevelopment project of Adani Group in Mumbai, after the Dharavi slum redevelopment project. The total estimated redevelopment cost of Motilal Nagar is around Rs 36,000 crore, and the rehabilitation period is seven years from the project start/commencement date. The project will rehabilitate 3,372 residential units eligible under MHADA, 328 eligible commercial units and 1,600 eligible slum tenements.

Adani wins Rs 36,000-cr Mumbai project

Adani wins Rs 36,000-cr Mumbai project

Rediff.com12 Mar 2025

After the Dharavi slum redevelopment project, billionaire Gautam Adani's group has emerged as the highest bidder for the Rs 36,000 crore redevelopment of Motilal Nagar in Mumbai, sources said. Motilal Nagar I, II & III is one of Mumbai's biggest housing redevelopment projects, covering 143 acres in western suburb of Goregaon (W).

Pahalgam Attack: Unfinished Battle Against Terrorism

Pahalgam Attack: Unfinished Battle Against Terrorism

Rediff.com30 Apr 2025

The Pahalgam massacre highlights the evolution of terrorism into a multi-domain challenge. India's response must similarly evolve -- from tactical retaliation to comprehensive strategic deterrence. To establish a credible and sustained deterrent, India must also carry out continuous kinetic operations, both overt and covert, suggest Sakshit Raina and Rahul Mishra. To establish a credible and sustained deterrent, India must also carry out continuous kinetic operations, both overt and covert, suggest Sakshit Raina & Rahul Mishra.

India's N-E landlocked, B'desh only...: Yunus pitch to China

India's N-E landlocked, B'desh only...: Yunus pitch to China

Rediff.com1 Apr 2025

Bangladesh's Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has called upon China to expand its economic influence in Bangladesh, controversially mentioning that India's northeastern states being landlocked could present an opportunity. Yunus, who recently visited China and met with President Xi Jinping, highlighted Bangladesh's role as the "only guardian of the ocean " in the region, suggesting it could be a pathway for Chinese economic expansion. This statement has sparked debate, with Sanjeev Sanyal, a member of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's economic advisory council, questioning the relevance of India's landlocked states in Yunus' appeal to China. Yunus, however, emphasized the importance of a strong friendship with China, viewing it as a counterbalance to India. During his visit, Yunus signed nine agreements with Beijing and secured USD 2.1 billion in investments, loans, and grants from the Chinese government and companies.

May seek Interpol help in probing 'Pak links' of Gogoi's wife: Sarma

May seek Interpol help in probing 'Pak links' of Gogoi's wife: Sarma

Rediff.com4 Mar 2025

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said his government may seek the help of agencies like the Interpol in investigating the alleged interference of Pakistani national Ali Tauqeer Sheikh, who allegedly has links with Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi's British wife, in India's internal affairs. Sarma said the probe is at an initial stage and he has informed Union Home Minister Amit Shah about the developments in the case.

'Don't Think US Will Cut Off Ties With UN'

'Don't Think US Will Cut Off Ties With UN'

Rediff.com10 Mar 2025

'Decline of the UN did not start with the Trump administration. It has been happening over the last two decades or more.'

IIHL completes acquisition of Reliance Capital

IIHL completes acquisition of Reliance Capital

Rediff.com18 Mar 2025

IndusInd International Holdings chairman Ashok Hinduja on Tuesday announced the acquisition of Reliance Capital, completing the three-year-long resolution process of the debt-ridden company. IndusInd International Holdings Ltd (IIHL) has transferred the bid amount to the escrow account of the lender, and the takeover of the management from the Administrator will happen on Wednesday.

China hikes defence budget, 3 times higher than India

China hikes defence budget, 3 times higher than India

Rediff.com5 Mar 2025

China has announced a 7.2 percent increase in its national defence budget, bringing the total to USD 249 billion for the year. This rise comes amidst China's ongoing efforts to modernize its armed forces, including the development of new warships and fighter jets. The budget increase, exceeding last year's 7.2 percent rise, reflects China's commitment to bolstering its military capabilities. Chinese Premier Li Qiang emphasized the importance of the Communist Party's leadership in guiding the military, with President Xi Jinping at the helm of the Central Military Commission. China's defence spending is now three times that of India's and is viewed by critics as a sign of the country's growing military ambitions.

Flying out of Delhi could soon get very expensive!

Flying out of Delhi could soon get very expensive!

Rediff.com27 Feb 2025

GMR Group-led DIAL, which manages and operates India's largest airport, recently requested the AERA to double the user development fee (UDF) for international business and first-class travellers compared to economy and premium economy over the next four years. It has also sought higher UDF for all domestic passengers flying during peak hours -- 5 am-8:55 am and 5 pm-8:55 pm.

Amit Panghal joins pro boxing ranks

Amit Panghal joins pro boxing ranks

Rediff.com13 Feb 2025

Amit Panghal, India's lone male boxer to win a world championship silver medal, has turned professional.

Has US Averted India-Pakistan War?

Has US Averted India-Pakistan War?

Rediff.com2 May 2025

The 'mediation' by the United States from behind the scene on the diplomatic track appears to be once again working, which calls on both Delhi and Islamabad to show restraint and pull back from a military confrontation, notes Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

We began Rana extradition process, Modi govt benefited: Congress

We began Rana extradition process, Modi govt benefited: Congress

Rediff.com10 Apr 2025

The Congress party has claimed credit for the extradition of Tahawwur Rana, an accused in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, from the US, saying the Modi government did not initiate the process and merely benefited from the "mature, consistent and strategic diplomacy" begun under the UPA. Former Home Minister P Chidambaram said the government did not secure any breakthrough to make the extradition possible, nor is it the result of any grandstanding. He added that it was a testament to what the Indian state can achieve when diplomacy, law enforcement and international cooperation are pursued sincerely and without any kind of chest-thumping. Chidambaram detailed the UPA government's efforts in securing Rana's extradition, citing the registration of a case against him in 2009, diplomatic pressure on Canada and the US, and continued efforts despite legal setbacks. He highlighted the role of the UPA in securing Rana's conviction for other terrorism-related offences and the cooperation between the US and Indian agencies in gathering evidence and securing his extradition. The Congress leader further stated that it was the UPA's groundwork that paved the way for Rana's extradition, even after the change in government in 2014.

Budget 2025: Defence Must Be The Priority

Budget 2025: Defence Must Be The Priority

Rediff.com31 Jan 2025

'The first and most basic responsibility of any government is to protect its people from external threats and internal harm.' 'Budget 2025-2026 has to focus on meeting this responsibility,' asserts R Jagannathan.

'India Can't Be Left Out of Global AI Policy'

'India Can't Be Left Out of Global AI Policy'

Rediff.com5 Feb 2025

The government wants the AI Summit to give it an early start in becoming part of any global body setting policies for the emerging technology.

Punjab: Grenade attack on BJP leader's home, 2 held; ISI link suspected

Punjab: Grenade attack on BJP leader's home, 2 held; ISI link suspected

Rediff.com8 Apr 2025

A loud sound was heard at around 1 am outside Kalia's residence near Shastri Market in Jalandhar, police said, adding that no one was hurt in the incident.

Vietnam: A Wonderful Place For A Holiday

Vietnam: A Wonderful Place For A Holiday

Rediff.com12 May 2025

Whether it's navigating the labyrinthine Cu Chi Tunnels, boating on the Mekong, marveling at ancient Champa temples, or the Mekong Bay, Vietnam promises a journey like no other.

What's New for Indian Sports in This Year's Budget?

What's New for Indian Sports in This Year's Budget?

Rediff.com1 Feb 2025

Sports budget raised by over Rs 350 crore, Khelo India gets biggest share

Adani crisis: No negative actions so far by lenders, investors, says Crisil

Adani crisis: No negative actions so far by lenders, investors, says Crisil

Rediff.com29 Nov 2024

Backing embattled Adani Group, rating agency CRISIL Ratings on Friday said the conglomerate has sufficient liquidity and operational cash flows to meet debt obligations and committed capex and that there has been no negative actions so far by lenders and investors following the US indictment of group founder chairman. The Adani Group, which has the flexibility to reduce certain discretionary capital expenditure (capex) depending on developments in financial markets and future capital availability, has a healthy Ebitda and cash balance that reduces its dependence on external debt to sustain operations, it said in a bulletin.

Will Pakistan's Generals Never Learn?

Will Pakistan's Generals Never Learn?

Rediff.com19 Apr 2025

Asim Munir and his brand of short-sighted army officers give no inkling of paying heed, changing course or learning lessons from the past, observes Rana Banerji, who headed the Pakistan desk at RA&W.

Govt to open nuclear power sector for private participation

Govt to open nuclear power sector for private participation

Rediff.com1 Feb 2025

Ushering in reforms, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday proposed to open up the nuclear power sector for private players and announced a Rs 20,000 crore Nuclear Energy Mission for research in the field, with an aim to set up five small and modular reactors by 2033.

Must find 'right path' to live in harmony: Xi to Modi

Must find 'right path' to live in harmony: Xi to Modi

Rediff.com23 Oct 2024

In his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the 16th BRICS Summit in the Russian city of Kazan, Xi said that China-India relations are essentially a question of how the two large developing countries and neighbours, each with a 1.4-billion-strong population, treat each other, it added.

US sanctions Pak, calls its missile programme a threat

US sanctions Pak, calls its missile programme a threat

Rediff.com20 Dec 2024

Asserting that Pakistan developing sophisticated missile technology will give it the capability to strike targets well beyond South Asia, including in the United States, a top White House official said on Thursday that the Asian country's actions are an emerging threat to the United States.

'No Politics When It Comes To The Country's Finances'

'No Politics When It Comes To The Country's Finances'

Rediff.com2 Apr 2025

'Each state is unique, but when it comes to finance, the fundamentals cannot be different.'

Meet India's first private reinsurer

Meet India's first private reinsurer

Rediff.com15 Mar 2025

In Debasish Panda's last board meeting as chairperson of the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (Irdai), the regulator approved the "R2" licence for Kamlesh Goyal and Prem Watsa-backed Value Attics Reinsurance, making it the first private-sector Indian reinsurer after GIC Re, the public-sector reinsurer. "The authority reviewed and approved the R2 application of Value Attics Reinsurance, making it the first private-sector reinsurer after GIC Re, the public-sector reinsurer.

Suspicious late-night radio signals detected near Indo-Bangladesh border

Suspicious late-night radio signals detected near Indo-Bangladesh border

Rediff.com10 Feb 2025

Amateur Ham Radio operators have picked up suspicious late-night radio signals in coded Bengali, Urdu and Arabic along the Indo-Bangladesh border in South Bengal over the last two months, raising concerns about possible extremist activities. The signals, which have been detected between 1 AM and 3 AM, are unusual in their pattern and language usage, according to Ham radio operators, who have reported the matter to authorities. The development comes amidst ongoing unrest in Bangladesh and growing anti-India rhetoric in the neighbouring country. Security agencies are investigating the matter, and the Border Security Force (BSF) has acknowledged the seriousness of the situation.

Salvaging Marx From The 'Marxists'

Salvaging Marx From The 'Marxists'

Rediff.com15 Mar 2025

'If we truly wish to understand and apply Marx's insights today, we must reject the rigid dogmas that later 'Marxists' imposed in his name.'

Russia's Rosatom Ships N-Reactor For Kudankulam

Russia's Rosatom Ships N-Reactor For Kudankulam

Rediff.com13 Jan 2025

Kudankulam will house the largest nuclear power plants in India and the flagship project of Russian-Indian technological and energy cooperation.

South Korean Prez lifts martial law after backlash

South Korean Prez lifts martial law after backlash

Rediff.com4 Dec 2024

Members of the opposition escalated their criticism of Yoon, with some threatening to initiate impeachment proceedings against the president.