News for 'US State Department'

Househelp Suspected In Retired IAS Officer's Brutal Murder

Househelp Suspected In Retired IAS Officer's Brutal Murder

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

A retired 70-year-old IAS officer, Rakesh Agarwal, was found dead with his throat slit at his Bhopal residence. Police suspect his househelp, Varun, who joined two days prior and is now missing. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has assured strict action, while the Congress party has criticised the state's law and order situation following the incident.

Househelp Suspected In Retired IAS Officer's Brutal Murder

Househelp Suspected In Retired IAS Officer's Brutal Murder

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

A retired 70-year-old IAS officer, Rakesh Agarwal, was found dead with his throat slit at his Bhopal residence. Police suspect his househelp, Varun, who joined two days prior and is now missing. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has assured strict action, while the Congress party has criticised the state's law and order situation following the incident.

Two children among 9 killed in Pennsylvania mass shooting

Two children among 9 killed in Pennsylvania mass shooting

Rediff.com11 Oct 2026

A mass shooting and hours-long standoff in Erie, Pennsylvania, left nine people dead, including two children. CBS News, citing local media reports, indicated that law enforcement was dispatched to Perry Street around 5 PM on Friday following witness accounts of an armed man firing shots before entering a residence.

India's Medical Isotope Mission Needs Faster Corridors

India's Medical Isotope Mission Needs Faster Corridors

Rediff.com1 days ago

A country that makes the isotope sets the timetable for everyone who needs it.

Breaking Bad Actor RJ Mitte Dies At 34

Breaking Bad Actor RJ Mitte Dies At 34

Rediff.com5 days ago

RJ Mitte, the beloved Breaking Bad actor has passed away at 34, with his representative confirming the death by suicide.

My Twin Won Gold, Silver, Bronze And Broke A Record

My Twin Won Gold, Silver, Bronze And Broke A Record

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

Vithya Ramraj won three medals at the Asian Games and broke P T Usha's 42-year-old record. Her twin Nithya, an international athlete herself, ruled out of the Games by an injury, looks back at their journey from a rented home to a podium finish.

Veteran Physicist Umesh Waghmare To Lead Science And Technology Department

Veteran Physicist Umesh Waghmare To Lead Science And Technology Department

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Veteran physicist Professor Umesh V Waghmare has been appointed as the Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology. Currently a professor at JNCASR, Bengaluru, his appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet. He succeeds Professor Abhay Karandikar and brings a distinguished academic background from IIT-Bombay, Yale, and Harvard to the role.

West Bengal CM To Witness Historic India-Brazil Football Clash

West Bengal CM To Witness Historic India-Brazil Football Clash

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari will attend the India-Brazil international football friendly in Kolkata on October 3. The city is preparing for the historic match, with Brazil's five-time world champions having arrived and security measures stepped up.

Amit Kumar Takes Helm As Google Cloud India MD Steps Down

Amit Kumar Takes Helm As Google Cloud India MD Steps Down

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

Google Cloud India's Managing Director, Sashikumar Sreedharan, has resigned to pursue a new opportunity. Amit Kumar, previously MD for Digital Natives, has been appointed as the interim head of India operations. The transition was announced by Karan Bajwa, President of Google Cloud Asia Pacific, who highlighted the company's strong momentum in India.

How Forensic Evidence Unravelled A 9-Year-Old Murder Mystery In Kerala

How Forensic Evidence Unravelled A 9-Year-Old Murder Mystery In Kerala

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Kerala Crime Branch has arrested Raveendran Nair, former caretaker of Jayamadhavan Nair, for his murder nine years ago. The investigation, initially treated as an unnatural death, gained momentum through forensic evidence, contradictory statements, and a forged will, leading to the unravelling of a property dispute motive.

Manhunt Intensifies For Caretaker Accused Of Murdering Retired IAS Officer

Manhunt Intensifies For Caretaker Accused Of Murdering Retired IAS Officer

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Bhopal police have announced a Rs 30,000 reward for Varun Kumar, the caretaker suspected of murdering retired IAS officer Rakesh Agarwal. Kumar allegedly slit Agarwal's throat and attempted to set the house on fire before fleeing. A four-state manhunt is underway to apprehend the suspect.

TMC stripped of key parliamentary panel chairpersonships

TMC stripped of key parliamentary panel chairpersonships

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

The Trinamool Congress has lost the chairpersonship of two significant Parliamentary panels following a reconstitution by Rajya Sabha Chairman C P Radhakrishnan and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. This development comes after a split in the TMC, with rebel MPs joining the Nationalist Citizen Party and supporting the NDA. The TMC has strongly criticised the move, alleging that Parliament is being turned into a 'deep, dark chamber' due to their exclusion from committee leadership.

Gauhati Student Death Accused Injured In Police Firing

Gauhati Student Death Accused Injured In Police Firing

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

A man accused in the death of Gauhati University student Nimisha Thakuria was injured in police firing in Guwahati after allegedly attempting to escape custody. Asif Ali, who was on police remand, sustained gunshot wounds to his leg and is currently hospitalised. The incident occurred as he was being taken to court, and further investigation is underway.

Punjab FC Announces 27-Member Squad For ISL 2026-27 Season

Punjab FC Announces 27-Member Squad For ISL 2026-27 Season

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

Punjab FC has announced a 27-member squad for the upcoming Indian Super League (ISL) 2026-27 season, featuring a mix of retained players, national team members, foreign talents, and 10 academy graduates. Head Coach Pavlos Dermitzakis expressed confidence in the balanced squad, which is set to kick off its campaign on October 14 against Odisha FC.

'Disastrous effect': SC orders halt to riverbed sand mining, seeks report

'Disastrous effect': SC orders halt to riverbed sand mining, seeks report

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

The Supreme Court has directed the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) to submit a report on sand mining from riverbeds, highlighting its disastrous impact on river ecosystems. The court also ordered Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh to file compliance affidavits regarding measures against illegal sand mining in and around the National Chambal Gharial Sanctuary, following concerns over environmental damage and a forest ranger's death.

Only some people are heard: Ex-IAS Divya Mittal launches party

Only some people are heard: Ex-IAS Divya Mittal launches party

Rediff.com3 days ago

Former IAS officer Divya Mittal has launched her new political party, Jan Neeti Bharat, with the aim of contesting the 2027 Uttar Pradesh assembly elections and redefining governance by making people central to policymaking and ensuring government accountability.

After Oppn complaints, EC replaces Nandigram police chief day before bypoll

After Oppn complaints, EC replaces Nandigram police chief day before bypoll

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

The Election Commission replaced the inspector-in-charge of Nandigram police station, Ajay Kumar Mishra, with Debashis Sarkar a day before the bypoll, following complaints from opposition parties alleging Mishra's closeness to the ruling party. This move comes amidst heightened political scrutiny and concerns raised by opposition leaders regarding the fairness of the election process in Nandigram, a constituency with significant political history in West Bengal.

H-1B visa 'completely broken', should be scrapped: Vance

H-1B visa 'completely broken', should be scrapped: Vance

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

US Vice President J D Vance has labelled the H-1B visa programme as "completely broken" and expressed support for its total abolition. He argues that corporations exploit the system to replace American workers with cheaper international staff, rather than bringing in elite talent. Vance also defended the controversial $100,000 levy on certain H-1B petitions, viewing it as a deterrent against cost-cutting exploitation.

Punjab CM's OSD Summoned By CBI In Bribery Probe

Punjab CM's OSD Summoned By CBI In Bribery Probe

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

The CBI has issued fresh summons to Rajbir Ghuman, OSD to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, in an alleged corruption case involving pecuniary benefits for managing postings of IAS and IPS officers. Ghuman failed to appear for questioning on Friday, leading CBI teams to paste summons on his premises. The case, registered on Tuesday following Punjab and Haryana High Court orders, also led to raids at eight locations.

How India Is Poised For A Major Tech Transformation

How India Is Poised For A Major Tech Transformation

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

Atomic Energy Commission chairman Ajit Kumar Mohanty stated that India is on the verge of a significant technological transformation, driven by advancements in AI, quantum technologies, and other fields. Speaking at BIT Mesra's convocation, he emphasised the need for strong indigenous capabilities, skilled professionals, and interdisciplinary collaboration to achieve a developed India. Other speakers, including BIT Mesra's Chancellor and Vice Chancellor, echoed the importance of continuous learning and contributing to national progress.

Gujarat CID-Crime Registers FIRs Against Three Political Outfits In Rs 314 Crore Poll Donation Scam

Gujarat CID-Crime Registers FIRs Against Three Political Outfits In Rs 314 Crore Poll Donation Scam

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

Gujarat CID-Crime has registered FIRs against three political outfits Swatantrata Abhivyakti Party, Satyavadi Rakshak Party, and Garib Kalyan Party for allegedly orchestrating a 'poll donation scam' amounting to Rs 314 crore in tax evasion. These parties reportedly collected donations, returned money after deducting commissions, and facilitated tax rebates for donors, with chartered accountants also implicated. The scam involved submitting false contribution reports to the Election Commission.

Ramlila Maidan: Delhi's costly protest venue with limited dates

Ramlila Maidan: Delhi's costly protest venue with limited dates

Rediff.com5 days ago

Ramlila Maidan, recently designated as one of Delhi's new protest sites, is proving to be a costly and difficult option for demonstrators. With no free dates for the next two and a half months and booking fees exceeding Rs 1 lakh, it contrasts sharply with the previously free Jantar Mantar. The ground, rich in political history, also poses logistical challenges due to its busy commercial location and impact on traffic.

Mamata Banerjee likely to join CJP protest at Jantar Mantar

Mamata Banerjee likely to join CJP protest at Jantar Mantar

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

Former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee indicated her potential participation in a protest at Jantar Mantar on October 10, demanding the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. She strongly criticised the BJP and the Election Commission over alleged electoral malpractices and "SIR anomalies" in Bengal. Banerjee also expressed solidarity with Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra regarding their treatment during recent protests and plans to approach President Droupadi Murmu.

CPI(M) Launches Internal Inquiry Into Councillor's Bribery Scandal

CPI(M) Launches Internal Inquiry Into Councillor's Bribery Scandal

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

The CPI(M) has initiated an internal inquiry into allegations that one of its councillors in the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation, Ajin S, demanded a Rs 10 lakh bribe to resolve a land dispute. The complainant, Sanju, provided audio and video clips, while Ajin S denies the claims, calling them fabricated. The party's state secretary confirmed the probe, and the Thiruvananthapuram Mayor also acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations.

'Drunk men all around': Last call by Assam woman found dead in Andhra

'Drunk men all around': Last call by Assam woman found dead in Andhra

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

A tragic incident has unfolded as an Assam woman, Himashree Boro, was found dead near railway tracks in Andhra Pradesh, prompting her family to allege murder and question railway safety and RPF response after she reported feeling unsafe on the train.

IIT Delhi Researchers Successfully Transmit Quantum And Classical Data Over Single Fibre

IIT Delhi Researchers Successfully Transmit Quantum And Classical Data Over Single Fibre

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Researchers at IIT Delhi have successfully demonstrated the simultaneous transmission of quantum-entangled photons and classical data over a 50-km optical fibre link. This breakthrough addresses key challenges in integrating fragile quantum signals with existing telecommunications infrastructure, paving the way for more scalable and secure future quantum networks.

GST Council to focus on process reforms, ease of doing business

GST Council to focus on process reforms, ease of doing business

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council is set to discuss proposals aimed at transforming the complex indirect tax system into a more business-friendly regime, focusing on simplifying compliance, reducing administrative burdens, and potentially raising the prosecution threshold.

'No state can block elephants': SC orders nationwide corridor survey

'No state can block elephants': SC orders nationwide corridor survey

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court on Monday directed the ministry of environment, forests and climate change (MoEFCC) to conduct a nationwide survey to check if any state has constructed obstacles or created blockades in elephant corridors, saying it was unacceptable.

Rahul Gandhi in Chennai for 'Chhatron Ki Goonj' event, to meet Vijay

Rahul Gandhi in Chennai for 'Chhatron Ki Goonj' event, to meet Vijay

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi arrived in Chennai on Saturday for the sixth edition of 'Chhatron Ki Goonj,' a youth outreach programme. He is scheduled to meet Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, marking their first interaction since the formation of the SSJV alliance and TVK joining the INDIA bloc. The visit includes an unscripted interaction with students at Island Grounds, focusing on critical issues, amidst tight security arrangements.

Gill: Fielding, Death Bowling Need Fine-Tuning Ahead of World Cup

Gill: Fielding, Death Bowling Need Fine-Tuning Ahead of World Cup

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

India captain Shubman Gill has candidly addressed the team's critical shortcomings following their loss to West Indies in the 3rd ODI in Mullanpur on Saturday.

India to probe mid-air attack on Captain Smit Machchhar

India to probe mid-air attack on Captain Smit Machchhar

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

India's anti-terror agency, the National Investigation Agency (NIA), has registered a case to investigate a mid-air attack on Captain Smit Machchhar, an Indian pilot, inside the cockpit of an Israel-bound flydubai flight, citing an "apparent attempt to hijack or cause it to crash."

India To Unveil AI Regulation Paper Soon

India To Unveil AI Regulation Paper Soon

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that the Indian government will release a consultation paper on AI regulations within a month. This framework will address critical aspects like AI safety, deepfakes, and a human-first approach, emphasising the industry's primary responsibility in ensuring safe AI deployment. The move comes amidst growing global concerns over AI risks and the need for robust safeguards.

LIC's top management thins as MD exits, other PSU insurers also face vacancies

LIC's top management thins as MD exits, other PSU insurers also face vacancies

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) is facing a thinning of its top management as Managing Director Dinesh Pant exits to join Irdai, leaving one of four MD posts vacant. This comes amidst broader staffing challenges across several public sector insurers and a headless Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB).

MP's third cheetah habitat opens; CM Mohan Yadav releases two felines

MP's third cheetah habitat opens; CM Mohan Yadav releases two felines

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav released two cheetahs, Vyom and Neera, into the Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve, making it the state's third cheetah habitat. This expansion is part of India's Cheetah Project, which has seen the big cat population grow to 60. The initiative aims to boost wildlife tourism and local economies, with the government also supporting villagers through revenue sharing and homestay schemes.

IIT-B faculty backs professor in student suicide row

IIT-B faculty backs professor in student suicide row

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

The IIT Bombay Faculty Forum has expressed strong solidarity with Professor Suryanarayana Doolla, who was invigilating an exam where a student was found using a smartphone, an incident preceding the student's death by alleged suicide.

Experts Urge Caution: AI Must Not Replace Human Judgement In Tourism

Experts Urge Caution: AI Must Not Replace Human Judgement In Tourism

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Experts at a national symposium in Shillong discussed the role of Artificial Intelligence in tourism, emphasising that AI should support human judgment, local knowledge, and cultural values rather than replace them. Discussions highlighted the need for robust policies to address ethical concerns, safeguard livelihoods, and preserve cultural heritage while leveraging AI for innovation and sustainability in the tourism sector, particularly in Meghalaya.

CEC Gyanesh Kumar in fresh trouble as Keralam orders probe into 2006 case

CEC Gyanesh Kumar in fresh trouble as Keralam orders probe into 2006 case

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala has ordered a Vigilance probe into corruption allegations related to the 2006 KSTP road project, implicating incumbent Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, who was then the PWD secretary. The investigation also concerns the death by suicide of a Malaysian engineer involved in the project, who reportedly named Kumar in his suicide notes. The probe revives a case that was allegedly "hushed up" after a change in government.

Accept 7 conditions or face 'decisive war': Iran tells Trump

Accept 7 conditions or face 'decisive war': Iran tells Trump

Rediff.com20 Sep 2026

Iran has conveyed seven conditions to the United States through Qatari mediators for starting negotiations to end the ongoing war, while warning that Tehran is prepared for a "decisive war" if Washington rejects its demands.

Uttarakhand Professor Faces Molestation Charges After Internal Inquiry

Uttarakhand Professor Faces Molestation Charges After Internal Inquiry

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

Police in Uttarakhand's Tehri district have registered a case against an assistant professor for alleged molestation of two female students, including a minor, following an internal inquiry at a government college. The case has been filed under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and POCSO Act, with authorities initiating a thorough investigation.

Assam CM Unveils NESFIC To Transform Northeast Into Innovation Hub

Assam CM Unveils NESFIC To Transform Northeast Into Innovation Hub

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched the North East Seva Innovation Challenge (NESFIC), envisioning the region as India's 'living laboratory' for technology and problem-solving. The initiative aims to empower young innovators to address real-world challenges faced by government, industries, and citizens, with a focus on practical implementation and government procurement.