News for 'Understand India'

10 IPO Checks Before You Invest

10 IPO Checks Before You Invest

Rediff.com6 days ago

Dig into the prospectus. Use the prospectus to understand the business and its risks.

Delhi SIR: Bimal Jalan, IAF ex-chief Browne among voters issued notices

Delhi SIR: Bimal Jalan, IAF ex-chief Browne among voters issued notices

Rediff.com1 days ago

Former RBI Governor Bimal Jalan, ex-IAF Chief NAK Browne, and other prominent figures in Delhi have received notices regarding discrepancies in their voter details during the ongoing Special Summary Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls. Over 33 lakh electors have been identified for such notices, with a deadline of September 30 for responses.

Indian Surfing Team Eyes Olympic Qualification Via Asian Games

Indian Surfing Team Eyes Olympic Qualification Via Asian Games

Rediff.com5 days ago

Frenchman Samai Reboul, coach of the Indian national surfing team, views India's Asian Games debut as a crucial step towards qualifying for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The team, comprising two men and two women, is preparing in Mahabalipuram for the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, where surfing makes its continental debut and offers Olympic quota places.

Asian Games Kick Off With A Spectacle Of Innovation And Culture

Asian Games Kick Off With A Spectacle Of Innovation And Culture

Rediff.com3 days ago

Japan inaugurated the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya with a vibrant opening ceremony that seamlessly blended advanced technology and rich cultural traditions, despite earlier organisational challenges.

Sunil Chhetri 'a little jealous' as India prepares for Brazil, Uruguay clashes

Sunil Chhetri 'a little jealous' as India prepares for Brazil, Uruguay clashes

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri expressed a mix of excitement and 'a little jealousy' about the national team's unprecedented opportunity to play against football giants Brazil and Uruguay in October 2026, an experience he never had in his two-decade career.

Team India players report for gruelling fitness Test at CoE Bengaluru

Team India players report for gruelling fitness Test at CoE Bengaluru

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

India's top centrally-contracted cricketers, including Ravindra Jadeja, Rishabh Pant, and Yashasvi Jaiswal, underwent mandatory fitness tests at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. These assessments, featuring the Bronco Test, 2k run, and YoYo test, are crucial for the upcoming eight-month home season, which includes series against Afghanistan and West Indies, and the Asian Games.

How Tendenthoi Devi Haobijam Is Primed For Asian Games Success

How Tendenthoi Devi Haobijam Is Primed For Asian Games Success

Rediff.com7 days ago

Manipuri rower Tendenthoi Devi Haobijam expresses newfound confidence ahead of her second Asian Games appearance, attributing it to consistent team training, international exposure in Australia and Europe, and mentorship from her coach. She will lead India's challenge in the women's coxless four, aiming for a significant performance.

Arshdeep Singh ready for Test cricket despite fewer first-class games

Arshdeep Singh ready for Test cricket despite fewer first-class games

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh discusses his aspirations for Test cricket, acknowledging his limited first-class appearances but asserting his readiness. He highlights the importance of understanding body mechanics, managing workload, and adapting to various pitch conditions. Arshdeep also touches upon the strong contingent of Punjab players in Indian cricket and his preparations for upcoming international assignments like the T20I series against Afghanistan and the Asian Games.

Buy A Mature Rocket Or Design A New One?

Buy A Mature Rocket Or Design A New One?

Rediff.com23 hours ago

Buying a mature rocket technology gives companies the designs and hardware know-how, but not necessarily the decades of engineering wisdom needed to make it work.

FATF Urges Fintech To Invest Against Emerging Tech Threats

FATF Urges Fintech To Invest Against Emerging Tech Threats

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

FATF Vice-President Vivek Aggarwal has urged the fintech industry to increase investments to combat emerging threats from AI, scam compounds, virtual digital assets, and quantum computing. He warned that these technological challenges pose a significant risk to India's rapid growth in the fintech sector, highlighting a current lack of adequate investment and risk realisation within the industry.

How UPI MDR Charges Could Push Consumers Back To Cash

How UPI MDR Charges Could Push Consumers Back To Cash

Rediff.com6 days ago

A new Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000, effective October 15, could force small merchants and price-sensitive consumers to revert to cash, according to economic think tank GTRI. The move, which introduces a 0.4 per cent MDR with a Rs 300 cap and concessional rates for specific categories, is questioned by GTRI founder Ajay Srivastava, who suggests it's not a revenue issue for the government but potentially a response to US pressure regarding UPI and RuPay's preferential market position.

Asian Games: How MMA Fighter Suchika Tariyal Was Denied Final Spot

Asian Games: How MMA Fighter Suchika Tariyal Was Denied Final Spot

Rediff.com1 days ago

Suchika Tariyal secured India's first-ever medal in mixed martial arts at the Asian Games, winning a bronze in the women's traditional 60kg event. Despite a fiercely contested bout that ended in a draw, she lost the semifinal to Singapore's Hui Hoon Teo due to a lesser weight rule. Tariyal expressed disappointment with the decision but was proud of her historic achievement for the country.

Quimcy stuns Japan star, moves closer to historic Asian Games medal

Quimcy stuns Japan star, moves closer to historic Asian Games medal

Rediff.com4 days ago

India's Quimcy Joaquim Dsouza has reached the women's singles semifinals in Teqball at the Asian Games, putting her one win away from securing the country's first-ever medal in the sport. She topped her group after defeating Japan's Yuina Sakamoto and Cambodia's Koemyean DY. The Indian mixed doubles pair of Quimcy and Mohammed Anas Imran Beg also remain in contention for a medal through the repechage round despite an earlier quarterfinal loss. Teqball is making its debut at the Asian Games.

Meta restricts viral AI video of Keralam CM Satheesan dancing

Meta restricts viral AI video of Keralam CM Satheesan dancing

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Meta has restricted access in India to a viral AI-generated video depicting Kerala Chief Minister VD Satheesan dancing with KSEB officials. The video, which garnered 1.78 crore views, was restricted following a legal request, though the creators believe it wasn't due to the CM's objection, as he had previously expressed excitement about it.

Pakistan-Turkiye-Saudi Pact: Should India Be Concerned?

Pakistan-Turkiye-Saudi Pact: Should India Be Concerned?

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

Any military response to a cross-border terror attack from Pakistan will have to take into account the new alignments beginning to take shape in the region, points out former foreign secretary Shyam Saran.

No external pressure on Sonia book, it came down to one issue: Penguin India

No external pressure on Sonia book, it came down to one issue: Penguin India

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

Penguin Random House India has denied any external pressure influenced its decision not to publish Sonia Gandhi's memoir, 'Belonging: A Journey of Love', stating an 'impasse over a particular issue' led to the author's team withdrawing the book.

Ibrahim Zadran: Embracing T20I Captaincy, Learning Under Pressure

Ibrahim Zadran: Embracing T20I Captaincy, Learning Under Pressure

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Afghanistan's new T20I captain, Ibrahim Zadran, is focused on enjoying his new role, taking responsibility, and making sound decisions under pressure, especially with the upcoming series in India.

We are ready to give up reservations if...: Athawale

We are ready to give up reservations if...: Athawale

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Union Minister Ramdas Athawale stated that opposing reservation is unconstitutional and that the policy would be given up if casteism is eliminated. He highlighted the historical context of reservations for SC/ST and OBCs, and the Modi government's EWS quota. Athawale also criticised the opposition, praised government achievements, and discussed various welfare schemes and infrastructure projects in Chhattisgarh.

FMCG firms to hold prices through festive season despite rising commodity costs

FMCG firms to hold prices through festive season despite rising commodity costs

Rediff.com2 days ago

Fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) companies in India are committed to maintaining current prices through the festive season, despite facing increased commodity costs and geopolitical disruptions. This strategy aims to protect consumer demand and sustain volume growth, even as margins remain under pressure.

4 India-based companies face US sanctions over Iran trade

4 India-based companies face US sanctions over Iran trade

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

The United States has sanctioned four India-based companies, including a customs broker and three other firms, for their involvement in importing petroleum and petrochemical products from Iran. This action is part of "Operation Economic Outcast," a broader US campaign to sever Iran's financial lifelines and prevent funding for its destabilising activities.

Smriti Mandhana: 'Don't Look At Me Like A Bechari'

Smriti Mandhana: 'Don't Look At Me Like A Bechari'

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

'I hate sympathy,' says India's vice-captain and top-ranked batter Smriti Mandhana.

Why RBI Backs UPI MDR For Transactions Over Rs 2,000

Why RBI Backs UPI MDR For Transactions Over Rs 2,000

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has endorsed the introduction of a Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions exceeding Rs 2,000, effective October 15. This move, which levies a 0.4 per cent fee on merchant payments above the threshold, aims to bolster the long-term sustainability and growth of India's digital payments ecosystem. The RBI clarified that person-to-person (P2P) transactions and small person-to-merchant (P2M) payments below Rs 2,000 will remain free for users, ensuring no direct charge on customers.

Putin to brief Modi on Ukraine war at New Delhi summit

Putin to brief Modi on Ukraine war at New Delhi summit

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Ahead of President Vladimir Putin's visit to India for the BRICS summit, Russia has expressed support for New Delhi's peace initiatives to resolve the Ukraine conflict. Discussions between Putin and PM Modi will cover defence, energy, technology, and the repatriation of Indian nationals from the Russian military, alongside addressing trade and investment ties.

Ashok Gehlot Slams Centre Over New UPI Transaction Charges

Ashok Gehlot Slams Centre Over New UPI Transaction Charges

Rediff.com5 days ago

Former Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot has criticised the Centre for introducing a 0.4% charge on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000, alleging the decision was influenced by pressure from the United States and its payment companies like Visa and Mastercard. He highlighted a perceived shift in the government's stance on Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) for UPI, claiming it would ultimately burden consumers and small businesses while benefiting American firms.

Why Expanding Early Warning Systems Is Crucial For Disaster Mitigation

Why Expanding Early Warning Systems Is Crucial For Disaster Mitigation

Rediff.com2 days ago

Climate scientist Tapio Schneider advocates for expanding early warning systems beyond rainfall events to include other disaster triggers like flash floods, citing the recent Nepal floods. He highlights the inevitability of 1.5 degrees Celsius global warming and discusses the role of advanced climate modelling and AI in improving predictions and research, particularly for regions like India.

How to build a portfolio that saves tax, manages risk, and still grows?

How to build a portfolio that saves tax, manages risk, and still grows?

Rediff.com1 days ago

Most Indian investors start their investment journey with the wrong question. They ask, "Which fund will give the highest return?" instead of "How do I structure my investments so that I pay less tax, manage risk effectively, and still compound wealth over time?"

Rahul hugs Cong leader, calls it Modi's foreign policy. Then comes Meloni jibe

Rahul hugs Cong leader, calls it Modi's foreign policy. Then comes Meloni jibe

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi launched a scathing attack on the BJP-RSS, labelling them a "bunch of jokers" with no understanding of India, and criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's foreign policy as merely "hugging leaders." He also claimed the RSS has become an instrument of large capital, serving Adani and Ambani, and vowed that the Congress would keep pressure on the government until Modi and Shah resign. The BJP hit back, calling Gandhi immature and out of depth.

Japan Captain Is Confident Of Tackling Sooryavanshi

Japan Captain Is Confident Of Tackling Sooryavanshi

Rediff.com7 days ago

Japan cricket team captain Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming expressed confidence in his team's ability to counter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, citing a previous dismissal by Japanese spinner Charlie Hara-Hinze at the Under-19 Asia Cup.

Indian Para Shooters Secure Gold And Silver At Changwon World Championships

Indian Para Shooters Secure Gold And Silver At Changwon World Championships

Rediff.com6 days ago

Indian para shooters Millie Shah, Mona Agarwal, and Avani Lekhara secured a gold medal in the R2 women's 10m air rifle standing SH1 team event at the Changwon 2026 WSPS Para Shooting World Championships. The men's team also won silver, and individual medals were claimed by Mona Agarwal (silver) and Avani Lekhara (bronze), significantly boosting India's medal tally.

How A Ronaldinho Reel Changed Quimcy's Sporting Journey

How A Ronaldinho Reel Changed Quimcy's Sporting Journey

Rediff.com4 days ago

Quimcy Dsouza, a former Maharashtra footballer, made an unconventional journey to the Asian Games teqball semifinals after discovering the sport through Ronaldinho. Despite a defeat, she expressed pride in her performance and her role in pioneering teqball in India, highlighting the challenges of limited funding and her dedication to growing the sport.

BharatPe Supports UPI MDR Changes, Distances From Ashneer Grover's Criticism

BharatPe Supports UPI MDR Changes, Distances From Ashneer Grover's Criticism

Rediff.com5 days ago

Fintech firm BharatPe has publicly supported the government's new Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) framework for UPI merchant transactions, which introduces a 0.4% fee on transfers over Rs 2,000. The company has also distanced itself from its former co-founder Ashneer Grover's strong criticism of these changes, stating his remarks are personal and do not reflect BharatPe's official position. BharatPe believes the new framework will strengthen digital payment economics while protecting consumers and small merchants.

India's Biggest Stock Market Booms And Busts

India's Biggest Stock Market Booms And Busts

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

'Every period of excessive optimism eventually gives way to a correction, while periods of extreme pessimism often create the best investment opportunities.'

RBI Deputy Governor: UPI MDR won't trigger shift back to cash

RBI Deputy Governor: UPI MDR won't trigger shift back to cash

Rediff.com3 days ago

RBI Deputy Governor S C Murmu stated that the introduction of merchant discount rate (MDR) on UPI transactions is unlikely to cause a shift back to cash, despite some concerns, emphasising that MDR will help the payments ecosystem recover costs.

New UPI Merchant Fee Sparks Volatility In Fintech Shares

New UPI Merchant Fee Sparks Volatility In Fintech Shares

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% fee on UPI transfers above Rs 2,000 made to merchants, effective October 15, ending nearly six years of free merchant payments. This move led to initial rallies in fintech stocks like Paytm and Mobikwik, though some later pared gains. Person-to-person transactions and small payments remain free for customers, with the fee being a Merchant Discount Rate (MDR).

Manav Suthar's resilience impresses India spin coach

Manav Suthar's resilience impresses India spin coach

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Indian left-arm spinner Manav Suthar faced a challenging day in the second Test against Sri Lanka, conceding over five runs an over initially, but impressed spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule with his resilience and ability to bounce back with two crucial wickets.

Devdutt Padikkal: Not Taking Anything For Granted In Test Cricket

Devdutt Padikkal: Not Taking Anything For Granted In Test Cricket

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Karnataka batter Devdutt Padikkal discusses his approach to cementing a place in the Indian Test XI, acknowledging limited opportunities despite his recent back-to-back hundreds in Sri Lanka. He emphasises the importance of consistent performance and his readiness to seize opportunities, drawing insights from conversations with Rahul Dravid.

The Importance Of Veer Guardian

The Importance Of Veer Guardian

Rediff.com2 days ago

The political confidence required to place high-end Japanese aircraft and personnel on Indian soil is itself a data point.
It indicates a level of trust that would have been difficult to imagine when India-Japan defence ties were largely symbolic, explains Varun Arya.

Cong refuses to withdraw Nandigram candidate despite arrest

Cong refuses to withdraw Nandigram candidate despite arrest

Rediff.com3 days ago

AICC general secretary K C Venugopal announced that the Congress would not withdraw its candidate Milan Pradhan from the Nandigram Assembly bypoll in West Bengal, despite his recent arrest. Pradhan was apprehended in connection with a 2007 anti-land acquisition movement case, shortly after the Trinamool Congress extended its support to him. Venugopal alleged political pressure and questioned the Election Commission's silence, vowing to elevate the issue to a national level.

CCI Chairperson Flags AI Risks In Digital Markets

CCI Chairperson Flags AI Risks In Digital Markets

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Competition Commission of India (CCI) chairperson Ravneet Kaur has warned that the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) could intensify anti-competitive practices in digital markets, including self-preferencing, discriminatory pricing, and market manipulation. She highlighted the CCI's ongoing study into AI's impact on competition and stressed the regulator's role in fostering growth while preventing abuse of dominance.

Akhilesh Yadav Criticises New UPI MDR Charges As 'Chungi'

Akhilesh Yadav Criticises New UPI MDR Charges As 'Chungi'

Rediff.com5 days ago

Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav has criticised the BJP government's proposed Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on high-value UPI transactions, calling it a "chungi" (tax) on digital payments. He alleged the move was an attempt to extract money from people's transactions, contradicting the government's goal of a trillion-dollar economy. The new UPI framework will impose a 0.4% MDR on person-to-merchant transactions above Rs 2,000 from October 15, with certain sectors having a flat Rs 5 MDR.