News for 'US Agency for International Development'

Why Vinesh Phogat Received Doping Test Warning

Why Vinesh Phogat Received Doping Test Warning

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 serves as a warning under anti-doping rules.

Ahmedabad plane crash: One year later, grief and fear persist

Ahmedabad plane crash: One year later, grief and fear persist

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

One year after the devastating AI 171 plane crash in Ahmedabad, the profound grief and lasting trauma continue to haunt the victims' families and eyewitnesses, many of whom still struggle with a deep-seated fear of flying and the indelible scars of their loss.

NEET-UG 2026 Scrapped: What Students Must Do Now

NEET-UG 2026 Scrapped: What Students Must Do Now

Rediff.com12 May 2026

Based on the official NTA statement and government directives issued on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, here is a guide for students and parents about what they can do now.

Key Myanmar Drug Trafficker Arrested In Delhi

Key Myanmar Drug Trafficker Arrested In Delhi

Rediff.com17 May 2026

The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has arrested a major Myanmar-based drug trafficker in Delhi, who was a key supplier of methamphetamine and heroin. The arrest follows extensive surveillance and coordinated operations targeting transnational drug trafficking networks along the India-Myanmar border.

Trump-Xi Engagement Raises India's Concerns

Trump-Xi Engagement Raises India's Concerns

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

The US-China rapprochement, however tenuous, is not without implications for India. Both China and Pakistan have become closer to the US, notes Ambassador T P Sreenivasan.

Narcotics ring busted, cocaine worth Rs 1,745 cr seized in Mumbai: Amit Shah

Narcotics ring busted, cocaine worth Rs 1,745 cr seized in Mumbai: Amit Shah

Rediff.com1 May 2026

The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has busted a major international narcotics ring, seizing 349 kg of high-grade cocaine worth Rs 1,745 crore in Mumbai.

Key Myanmar Drug Trafficker Arrested In Delhi

Key Myanmar Drug Trafficker Arrested In Delhi

Rediff.com17 May 2026

The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has arrested a major Myanmar-based drug trafficker in Delhi, who was a key supplier of methamphetamine and heroin across the India-Myanmar border. The arrest follows extensive surveillance and investigations into transnational drug trafficking networks.

India deplores attacks on ships in Strait of Hormuz at UNSC

India deplores attacks on ships in Strait of Hormuz at UNSC

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

India has expressed strong concerns over attacks on commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz, citing its importance to India's energy and economic security. Ambassador Yojna Patel highlighted the need to respect international law and ensure the safety of seafarers, while also addressing broader Middle East issues including the situation in Gaza and Lebanon.

India's FDI Inflows Set to Cross $90 Billion in FY26, Says DPIIT Secretary

India's FDI Inflows Set to Cross $90 Billion in FY26, Says DPIIT Secretary

Rediff.com3 May 2026

India's foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows are projected to surpass $90 billion in 2025-26 (FY26), driven by robust policy reforms, free trade agreements, and strong economic growth, according to DPIIT Secretary Amardeep Singh Bhatia.

VHP Appeals To UN For Religious Minorities' Protection In Pakistan, Bangladesh

VHP Appeals To UN For Religious Minorities' Protection In Pakistan, Bangladesh

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) has appealed to the United Nations to intervene on behalf of religious minorities in Pakistan and Bangladesh, citing human rights violations.

As Pak brokers US-Iran talks, India says it supports...

As Pak brokers US-Iran talks, India says it supports...

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has stated that India is closely monitoring developments in West Asia, addressing topics ranging from ceasefire efforts to maritime security and the safe return of Indian nationals. The MEA also addressed the UN Climate Change Conference and the delimitation bill.

Meet Amit Kshatriya, Indian-American behind historic moon mission

Meet Amit Kshatriya, Indian-American behind historic moon mission

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

Indian-American scientist Amit Kshatriya's journey from watching rocket launches in Houston to becoming NASA's Associate Administrator is a testament to his dedication and expertise in space exploration.

Pakistan offers to host US-Iran talks after call with Saudi Crown Prince

Pakistan offers to host US-Iran talks after call with Saudi Crown Prince

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has offered to mediate between the US and Iran to de-escalate the ongoing conflict in West Asia, following a joint US-Israel attack on Iran. Sharif has been in contact with Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and other nations to promote dialogue and diplomacy.

Don't allow...: UP CM amid Noida workers' violence

Don't allow...: UP CM amid Noida workers' violence

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

Adityanath had earlier referred to a conspiracy angle behind the violence during the protest, which is currently under police investigation.

WADA To Evaluate India's Dope Testing Lab

WADA To Evaluate India's Dope Testing Lab

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) will assess the performance of India's National Dope Testing Laboratory (NDTL) in the coming months, a process described as routine by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA). WADA President Witold Banka expressed satisfaction with the facility after a recent visit, while India is also in the running to host the next WADA Global Education Conference.

How Delhi's Forests Are Quietly Combating Climate Change

How Delhi's Forests Are Quietly Combating Climate Change

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Researchers have discovered that Delhi's urban forests are significant carbon sinks, storing substantial amounts of carbon in trees and soil, with the potential to generate revenue through carbon credits. The study highlights the importance of preserving and expanding these forests to combat climate change.

Vinesh Phogat Alleges Conspiracy, Vows To Fight WFI Ban

Vinesh Phogat Alleges Conspiracy, Vows To Fight WFI Ban

Rediff.com11 May 2026

Vinesh Phogat has accused the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) of trying to force her out of the sport, following a show-cause notice and ineligibility declaration. She insists she will fight the ban and has denied any anti-doping violations.

ISRO Highlights Crucial Role of Mission Operations in India's Space Ambitions

ISRO Highlights Crucial Role of Mission Operations in India's Space Ambitions

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

ISRO Chairman V Narayanan has emphasised the critical role of mission operations in ensuring the success of India's expanding space programme. He highlighted this at the Spacecraft Mission Operations conference, noting the importance of sustained teamwork and operational precision, particularly for long-duration missions like Chandrayaan-3 and the upcoming Gaganyaan programme.

Mumbai-Pune Expressway missing link to open on May 1; cuts travel by 30 mins

Mumbai-Pune Expressway missing link to open on May 1; cuts travel by 30 mins

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

Maharashtra deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Sunday said the long-awaited 'missing link' on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, aimed at bypassing the winding Bhor Ghat section and improving safety, will be inaugurated on May 1.

Exit Iran 'Expeditiously': India Issues Fresh Advisory

Exit Iran 'Expeditiously': India Issues Fresh Advisory

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

The embassy also said that the exit must be undertaken in coordination with the mission.

Pakistan Intensifies Diplomacy to Resolve West Asia Conflict

Pakistan Intensifies Diplomacy to Resolve West Asia Conflict

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has engaged in extensive diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict in West Asia, offering to host talks between the US and Iran and engaging with leaders from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Malaysia, the UK, China, and the European Union.

Iran reports attack on nuclear site, no radiation leak

Iran reports attack on nuclear site, no radiation leak

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

The Natanz nuclear facility is one of Iran's key nuclear installations and has previously been at the centre of international concerns over Tehran's nuclear programme.

Why India's Israel-UAE Bet Looks Risky

Why India's Israel-UAE Bet Looks Risky

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Frankly, was it really necessary in the middle of a fratricidal war for External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to travel to Abu Dhabi for a one-on-one with the sheikh on April 12?Or, for National Security Advisor Ajit Doval to follow up on April 26? Or, for PM Narendra Modi to follow through today? There are no easy answers, notes Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

Key Suspect in Kanchan Kumari Murder Case Arrested After Deportation

Key Suspect in Kanchan Kumari Murder Case Arrested After Deportation

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

Amritpal Singh Mehron, the main suspect in the murder of social media influencer Kanchan Kumari, has been arrested after being deported to India from the Middle East.

Why The Energy Crisis Will Get Worse

Why The Energy Crisis Will Get Worse

Rediff.com11 May 2026

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted some 20 per cent of the global flows but even if it opens, damages to production facilities in the region will take time to repair, points out Sunita Narain.

FATF lauds India's ED as model asset recovery agency

FATF lauds India's ED as model asset recovery agency

Rediff.com11 Nov 2025

In its report, 'Asset Recovery Guidance and Best Practices', the global money laundering and terrorist financing watchdog, shared multiple examples from cases investigated by the ED, citing them as models of effective asset recovery practice and inter-agency coordination.

US-Iran talks: First phase concludes, both sides exchange texts

US-Iran talks: First phase concludes, both sides exchange texts

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

The United States and Iran concluded the first phase of in-person talks in Islamabad, with both delegations exchanging written texts to formalise areas of understanding. The discussions, involving key representatives from both sides, are aimed at reducing tensions and exploring possibilities of a structured understanding.

Iran claims its supertanker transited Hormuz despite US blockade

Iran claims its supertanker transited Hormuz despite US blockade

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

Conflicting reports emerge regarding the effectiveness of the US blockade on Iranian ports, with Iran claiming successful transit of vessels and the US asserting complete maritime dominance.

Why Did India Not Stop The War?

Why Did India Not Stop The War?

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

India is one of the few nations, and perhaps the only nation, that has good relations with America, Israel and Iran. Knowing that a war in the Gulf would damage our economy, hurt supply of fertilisers and fuel, and cause general chaos, we should have tried to ensure this war did not begin, asserts Aakar Patel.

Key Accused in Influencer Murder Case, Amritpal Singh Mehron, Arrested After Deportation

Key Accused in Influencer Murder Case, Amritpal Singh Mehron, Arrested After Deportation

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

Amritpal Singh Mehron, the primary suspect in the murder of social media influencer Kanchan Kumari, has been arrested after being deported to India from the Middle East. He was apprehended at Delhi's airport and is now in police custody.

1993 Gujarat Arms Landing: Court Convicts 12 In Dawood Ibrahim Case

1993 Gujarat Arms Landing: Court Convicts 12 In Dawood Ibrahim Case

Rediff.com4 May 2026

A special TADA court in Jamnagar convicted 12 individuals in connection with the 1993 arms landing case linked to Dawood Ibrahim, while acquitting 17 others. The case involves a conspiracy to smuggle weapons into India to avenge the Babri Masjid demolition.

Easter Attacks: Will Sri Lanka Ever Nail The Guilty?

Easter Attacks: Will Sri Lanka Ever Nail The Guilty?

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Sri Lanka's response to the Easter attacks has been slow and politically contested, unlike India's swift institutional reforms after the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, observes Colonel R Hariharan (retd).

This War Has Surpassed All Limits Of Uncivilised Behaviour

This War Has Surpassed All Limits Of Uncivilised Behaviour

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

One of the most uncivilised characteristics of this war has been the total disregard for international law and the laws of armed conflict, asserts Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta (retd).

No talks with US until...: Iran denies sending negotiators to Pak

No talks with US until...: Iran denies sending negotiators to Pak

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

Iranian news agencies have denied reports of Iranian officials travelling to Pakistan for negotiations with the United States, even as Pakistan prepares for potential talks and faces criticism from Israel.

Drones fired at warship, US troops retreat, claims Iran

Drones fired at warship, US troops retreat, claims Iran

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

Tensions escalate between Iran and the US following an attack on an Iranian commercial vessel in the Sea of Oman, with both sides trading accusations over maritime security and ceasefire violations.

Why India Is Now A High-Risk Doping Nation

Why India Is Now A High-Risk Doping Nation

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

India has been designated as a country with an 'extremely high' risk of doping by World Athletics, leading to more stringent anti-doping measures for Indian athletes.

CBI Arrests Key Accused in Massive Gain Bitcoin Scam

CBI Arrests Key Accused in Massive Gain Bitcoin Scam

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested Ayush Varshney, co-founder of Darwin Labs, in connection with the 200 million Gain Bitcoin cryptocurrency scam. Varshney was apprehended while attempting to flee the country.

Why India Faces Stricter Doping Rules In Athletics

Why India Faces Stricter Doping Rules In Athletics

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) pledges to collaborate with NADA and the Sports Ministry to address doping concerns after the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) categorised India as a high-risk country for doping violations.

Lift sanctions, accept nuclear programme: Iran's 10-point peace plan

Lift sanctions, accept nuclear programme: Iran's 10-point peace plan

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

Iran has put forward a comprehensive 10-point framework that it says forms the basis of a complete resolution.

AFI To Conduct SRY Gene, DNA Tests On Athletes

AFI To Conduct SRY Gene, DNA Tests On Athletes

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) will conduct SRY Gene tests at the Federation Cup in Ranchi to ensure only biological females compete in the women's category. The AFI will also start DNA testing of Indian athletes to collect data for research, injury prevention, and training methods.