News for 'Union Minister of State'

Day 3 of BEST strike: Special buses for NEET re-exam

Day 3 of BEST strike: Special buses for NEET re-exam

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking arranged special bus services for students appearing in the NEET re-examination in Mumbai, deploying 60 buses on 24 routes for approximately 180 trips, despite an ongoing strike by its employees that has paralysed public transport.

Why V D Satheesan Will Be A Good Kerala Chief Minister

Why V D Satheesan Will Be A Good Kerala Chief Minister

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Senior Congress leader Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan expressed confidence in V D Satheesan's ability to lead Kerala as Chief Minister, citing his vision, competence, and strength. Other Congress leaders have also expressed their views on the new CM.

9 TVK ministers to be sworn in along with Vijay

9 TVK ministers to be sworn in along with Vijay

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Actor Vijay is set to be sworn in as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu after his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), secured a majority in the Assembly with coalition support. The swearing-in ceremony will take place at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai.

Bengal Minister Alleges BJP Plot For Detention Camps

Bengal Minister Alleges BJP Plot For Detention Camps

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

West Bengal Education Minister Bratya Basu has accused the BJP of planning detention camps for Bengali-speaking citizens in the state if they come to power, alleging a conspiracy to deport those whose names are missing from the electoral roll.

Maha minister Nitesh Rane gets one-month jail in engineer mud attack case

Maha minister Nitesh Rane gets one-month jail in engineer mud attack case

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

A court in Sindhudurg convicted Maharashtra minister Nitesh Rane in a 2019 case of pouring mud on an NHAI engineer, sentencing him to one-month imprisonment. The court suspended the sentence, allowing Rane time to appeal.

'Won't leave Jantar Mantar until...': Cockroach Party founder

'Won't leave Jantar Mantar until...': Cockroach Party founder

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), led by Abhijit Dipke, is staging a protest at Jantar Mantar, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged examination irregularities and repeated paper leaks. Dipke has stated he will not leave until their demands are met and has requested Delhi Police to extend permission for the ongoing demonstration.

Government's Big Plans For North East Oil Exploration

Government's Big Plans For North East Oil Exploration

Rediff.com5 days ago

A tripartite pact -- amid the promise of removing AFSPA from almost all of the North East -- revives hydrocarbon exploration along the Assam-Nagaland border after decades of dormancy.

Fake video on NEET-UG exam paper leak, says NTA

Fake video on NEET-UG exam paper leak, says NTA

Rediff.com7 days ago

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has strongly refuted a video circulating on social media that falsely claims the NEET-UG 2026 paper was leaked, asserting that the recent re-examination was conducted successfully with comprehensive security measures.

Odisha BJD Accuses BJP Of Poaching Leaders With Inducements

Odisha BJD Accuses BJP Of Poaching Leaders With Inducements

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Odisha's BJD has accused the BJP of luring its leaders with inducements after Rajya Sabha MP Debashish Samantaray resigned and joined the BJP. The BJD spokesperson criticised Samantaray for criticising the party after enjoying benefits during its tenure.

Does Trouble Follow Dharmendra Pradhan?

Does Trouble Follow Dharmendra Pradhan?

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Mr Pradhan is not an especially charismatic leader or a brilliant orator, but his understanding of realpolitik and organisational dynamics makes him the ultimate party man, points out Aditi Phadnis.

22 lakh take NEET re-exam today, Pradhan urges calm

22 lakh take NEET re-exam today, Pradhan urges calm

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan urged 22 lakh students appearing for the NEET re-exam to do so "fearlessly and free of anxiety," while the National Testing Agency (NTA) reminded candidates to download fresh admit cards and adhere to entry guidelines.

NDA govt in Assam to be sworn-in on May 12

NDA govt in Assam to be sworn-in on May 12

Rediff.com7 May 2026

The newly elected BJP-led NDA government in Assam will be sworn in on May 12, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other dignitaries expected to attend. Preparations are underway to ensure a smooth and secure ceremony.

UK health minister quits, may challenger Starmer for PM

UK health minister quits, may challenger Starmer for PM

Rediff.com14 May 2026

UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting resigned from the Cabinet, citing a loss of confidence in Prime Minister Keir Starmer's leadership, potentially triggering a Labour leadership contest.

Mumbai's BEST bus services remain below normal despite strike recall

Mumbai's BEST bus services remain below normal despite strike recall

Rediff.com7 days ago

Despite BEST employees calling off their indefinite strike, Mumbai's bus services remained significantly below normal on Monday morning, with only 57% of the scheduled fleet operational. Commuters experienced long waits, leading many to seek alternative transport. The strike ended after an agreement with Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, which included interim pay hikes and commitments for future improvements and clearing dues.

New Punjab BJP Chief Dhillon Sets Sights On 2027 Assembly Elections

New Punjab BJP Chief Dhillon Sets Sights On 2027 Assembly Elections

Rediff.com30 May 2026

Newly appointed Punjab BJP chief Kewal Singh Dhillon has outlined his plans to strengthen the party in the state, aiming for a majority in the 2027 assembly elections. He criticised the ruling AAP government and promised to address key issues such as crop diversification and law and order.

NTA calls NEET-UG 2026 paper leak video 'fake' amid re-exams

NTA calls NEET-UG 2026 paper leak video 'fake' amid re-exams

Rediff.com7 days ago

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has strongly refuted a video circulating on social media that falsely claims the NEET-UG 2026 paper was leaked, asserting that the recent re-examination was conducted successfully with comprehensive security measures.

Lalu, Rabri's security cover withdrawn, RJD men guard home

Lalu, Rabri's security cover withdrawn, RJD men guard home

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

RJD spokesperson Shakti Yadav staged a protest outside Rabri Devi's residence after the Bihar government downgraded the security cover for the Lalu Prasad family. The RJD alleges this is an insult and a threat, while the ruling NDA maintains the decision is based on standard security protocols and should be respected. The move follows the allotment of Rabri Devi's long-occupied bungalow to a BJP minister.

Focus on your studies: Pradhan to NEET aspirants amid row

Focus on your studies: Pradhan to NEET aspirants amid row

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

After reviewing the preparations at the headquarters of the National Testing Agency (NTA), Pradhan said meetings have been held under the Cabinet secretary, and all the states have been asked to cooperate.

Haryana Minister Suggests Saini Contest Gurugram Election to Fulfill Ahirwal Wish

Haryana Minister Suggests Saini Contest Gurugram Election to Fulfill Ahirwal Wish

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

Haryana minister Rao Narbir Singh has suggested that Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini contest the next election from Gurugram to fulfil the Ahirwal region's desire to have a CM from the area.

FMSCI pushes for Formula 1, MotoGP, World Rally C'ship return to India

FMSCI pushes for Formula 1, MotoGP, World Rally C'ship return to India

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

FMSCI President Arindam Ghosh announced plans to bring Formula 1 back to India by 2030, and a round of the World Rally Championship and MotoGP by 2028, following a meeting with the Sports Ministry. The federation is focused on developing Indian drivers and promoting motorsports in the country.

How BJP Secured a Foothold In Kerala

How BJP Secured a Foothold In Kerala

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The BJP has made significant gains in the Kerala Assembly elections, securing three seats and marking a potential breakthrough in a state where it has traditionally struggled.

Gorakhpur Protest: CJP Members Detained Over Pradhan Effigy

Gorakhpur Protest: CJP Members Detained Over Pradhan Effigy

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

Three members of the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) were detained in Gorakhpur for attempting to burn an effigy of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan during a protest against alleged examination irregularities.

Rahul wears white t-shirt becasue he hates...: Union minister

Rahul wears white t-shirt becasue he hates...: Union minister

Rediff.com7 Apr 2025

Rahul Gandhi has urged the youth of Bihar to join him in the march in Begusarai wearing "white T-shirts".

CJP steps up protest, launches nationwide campaign against Pradhan

CJP steps up protest, launches nationwide campaign against Pradhan

Rediff.com2 days ago

Stepping up attack against Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, the Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke on Friday announced the launch of a nationwide campaign to demand his resignation and exhorted students, farmers and civil society groups to join him at Jantar Mantar on June 28.

BJP backs Arunachal CM Khandu after SC-directed CBI probe into contracts

BJP backs Arunachal CM Khandu after SC-directed CBI probe into contracts

Rediff.com31 May 2026

The BJP in Arunachal Pradesh has voiced its support for Chief Minister Pema Khandu amidst speculation about his political future following a Supreme Court-directed CBI inquiry into alleged corruption.

Himanta Biswa Sarma takes oath as Assam CM for 2nd term

Himanta Biswa Sarma takes oath as Assam CM for 2nd term

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Himanta Biswa Sarma was sworn in as the chief minister of Assam for a second consecutive term, along with four other ministers, marking the formation of the third successive NDA government in the state.

Police Drop Attempted Murder Charge Against KSU Activists

Police Drop Attempted Murder Charge Against KSU Activists

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Kerala Police have dropped attempted murder charges against Kerala Students' Union (KSU) activists accused of assaulting former Health Minister Veena George, citing lack of evidence. The charge sheet, filed after a detailed investigation including CCTV footage review, retains other offences like unlawful assembly and voluntarily causing hurt.

'US Thought They Could Pressurise India'

'US Thought They Could Pressurise India'

Rediff.com3 hours ago

'They talked bad about our leaders. They said India was a dead economy. They were not sensitive to the Indian psyche.'

Amit Shah Counters Concerns Over Southern States' Representation After Delimitation

Amit Shah Counters Concerns Over Southern States' Representation After Delimitation

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah refuted claims that southern states will have reduced representation in the Lok Sabha after the implementation of women's reservation and delimitation of constituencies, assuring an increase in both the number of seats and percentage of power.

3 missing Indian seafarers killed in US strike on ship off Oman coast

3 missing Indian seafarers killed in US strike on ship off Oman coast

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed the deaths of three Indian seafarers who were initially reported missing from the Palau-flagged MT Settebello. India has protested to the US over the attack on the commercial vessel, which the US Central Command stated was due to the vessel attempting to transport oil from Iran, violating a blockade.

Will be in trouble if I speak truth: BJP leader on Ram temple fund row

Will be in trouble if I speak truth: BJP leader on Ram temple fund row

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

BJP leader and former MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh has claimed knowledge of alleged misuse and theft of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya, stating he is not yet ready to reveal the truth due to powerful individuals involved. He also commented on the NEET paper leak controversy, defending the Union Education Minister.

Tamil Nadu Government Intensifies Efforts To Protect Children

Tamil Nadu Government Intensifies Efforts To Protect Children

Rediff.com24 May 2026

Tamil Nadu government is taking proactive measures to curb crime against children, following the sexual assault and murder of a 10-year-old girl in Coimbatore. The government is focusing on strict policing, public awareness, and swift justice through fast-track courts.

Kerala BJP Confident Of Future Power After Assembly Poll Wins

Kerala BJP Confident Of Future Power After Assembly Poll Wins

Rediff.com5 May 2026

Kerala BJP chief Rajeev Chandrasekhar expressed confidence in the party's future in the state, drawing parallels with the BJP's growth in West Bengal. He highlighted the party's focus on development and its commitment to addressing people's issues in the Assembly.

Kerala BJP Eyes Power After Assembly Wins

Kerala BJP Eyes Power After Assembly Wins

Rediff.com5 May 2026

Kerala BJP chief Rajeev Chandrasekhar expressed confidence that the party would eventually capture power in the state, drawing parallels to the party's growth in West Bengal.

Amit Shah Counters Concerns Over Southern States' Representation After Delimitation

Amit Shah Counters Concerns Over Southern States' Representation After Delimitation

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah refuted claims that southern states will have reduced representation in the Lok Sabha after the implementation of women's reservation and delimitation of constituencies, assuring an increase in both the number of seats and percentage of power.

'Severe' blast kills 8 workers at Vizag Steel Plant in Andhra Pradesh

'Severe' blast kills 8 workers at Vizag Steel Plant in Andhra Pradesh

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

An industrial accident at the Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Ltd (Vizag Steel Plant) in Visakhapatnam resulted in the deaths of at least six workers after molten iron spilt on them. Authorities are investigating the incident, and rescue operations are underway.

BEST bus strike: Mumbaikars continue to struggle for 2nd day

BEST bus strike: Mumbaikars continue to struggle for 2nd day

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

BEST employees continued their strike in Mumbai for a second day, causing significant disruption to public transport despite appeals from the Maharashtra Transport Minister and the invocation of MESMA. Commuters were forced to rely on alternative, overcrowded transport options, while the striking unions maintained their demands for budget merger, improved pay, and absorption of contractual workers.

UP launches crackdown on illegal coaching centres, several sealed

UP launches crackdown on illegal coaching centres, several sealed

Rediff.com5 days ago

In a bid to provide students with a safe, transparent and quality educational environment, a special drive is being conducted across Uttar Pradesh to strengthen the regulation of coaching institutes and against illegal coaching centres.

Union minister Suresh Gopi booked for 'misusing' ambulance in Kerala

Union minister Suresh Gopi booked for 'misusing' ambulance in Kerala

Rediff.com3 Nov 2024

The case was registered following a complaint filed by KP Sumesh, a local Communist Party of India leader, seeking legal action against Gopi for allegedly misusing an ambulance to reach the Pooram venue flouting police restrictions.

What Modi Govt Plans To Do About Illegal Immigration

What Modi Govt Plans To Do About Illegal Immigration

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

The NDA government has gradually nuanced its position on the issue of demographic challenge.