News for 'Union Minister of State'

AI171 crash: Govt refutes media report blaming pilots

AI171 crash: Govt refutes media report blaming pilots

Rediff.com15 Feb 2026

Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol refutes a foreign media report regarding the Air India AI171 plane crash investigation, emphasizing that the probe is ongoing and trusting Indian agencies.

'Kill her': FIR says KSU activists attacked Kerala health minister with a 'weapon'

'Kill her': FIR says KSU activists attacked Kerala health minister with a 'weapon'

Rediff.com26 Feb 2026

Kerala Health Minister Veena George was allegedly attacked during a protest by KSU activists at a railway station in Kannur. Five activists have been arrested and remanded to judicial custody. The FIR states the minister was attacked with a 'weapon' while boarding a train.

Highlights of Union Budget 2026-27

Highlights of Union Budget 2026-27

Rediff.com1 Feb 2026

Highlights of Union Budget 2026-27

Nishant Kumar joins JD-U: What it means for Bihar politics

Nishant Kumar joins JD-U: What it means for Bihar politics

Rediff.com4 days ago

Nishant Kumar, son of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, has joined the Janata Dal (United) and committed to strengthening the party's organisation. His entry into politics sparks speculation about a future role in the state government.

Nitish set to step down as Bihar CM, to contest RS poll

Nitish set to step down as Bihar CM, to contest RS poll

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

Speculation is rife in Bihar about Chief Minister Nitish Kumar potentially moving to the Rajya Sabha, leading to discussions about a possible BJP chief minister and a role for Kumar's son, Nishant. Senior BJP leaders have dismissed the rumours.

Upper castes should handle tribal affairs, says Union minister, courts row

Upper castes should handle tribal affairs, says Union minister, courts row

Rediff.com2 Feb 2025

Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Suresh Gopi has stirred controversy by suggesting that members of the "upper castes" should handle the tribal affairs portfolio. Gopi, an actor-turned-politician, argued that true progress in tribal welfare would only be achieved under the leadership of individuals from "upper castes." His comments have been met with widespread criticism, including from CPI state secretary Benoy Viswam and prominent tribal leader C K Janu.

Pradhan Accuses TMC of Protecting 'Infiltrators' for Votes

Pradhan Accuses TMC of Protecting 'Infiltrators' for Votes

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan accuses the TMC of objecting to the omission of names from electoral rolls due to fears of losing the 'infiltrator' vote bank in the upcoming West Bengal Assembly polls.

BJP Slams Mamata Banerjee for Disrespecting President Murmu

BJP Slams Mamata Banerjee for Disrespecting President Murmu

Rediff.com4 days ago

The BJP has strongly criticised West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for her remarks about President Droupadi Murmu, accusing her of disrespect and questioning her commitment to the Constitution.

Nitish allows son to join politics, RS nomination likely

Nitish allows son to join politics, RS nomination likely

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's son, Nishant Kumar, is set to enter politics, with a formal announcement expected from the JD(U). Party leaders express enthusiasm and anticipate a significant role for Nishant within the party.

Govt closely watching Bangladesh developments: Union minister

Govt closely watching Bangladesh developments: Union minister

Rediff.com23 Dec 2024

Union Minister of State BL Verma expressed concern over the situation in Bangladesh and said the government is closely monitoring it. Addressing a Rozgar Mela in Jammu, he lauded the BSF for its role in safeguarding India's borders with Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Pakistan. He also responded to questions on the Samajwadi Party's controversial statement labelling the BJP government as a "Hindu terrorist organisation", the Congress's allegations of EVM fraud, and Rahul Gandhi's call for a caste census.

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".

Union minister booked over remarks against Rahul Gandhi

Union minister booked over remarks against Rahul Gandhi

Rediff.com19 Sep 2024

A first information report (FIR) has been registered against Union minister Ravneet Singh Bittu for his alleged remarks against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over the statements he made in the US about the condition of Sikhs in India, police said on Thursday.

Union minister Meghwal apologises after Meerabai remarks spark row

Union minister Meghwal apologises after Meerabai remarks spark row

Rediff.com27 Dec 2024

Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal has apologized for his remarks about revered poet-saint Meerabai, which drew significant backlash on social media. Meghwal's comments, made during a recent program in Sikar, sparked criticism, particularly from the Rajput community, which demanded an apology from him. He said he has immense respect for Meerabai and "expresses regret and asks for forgiveness" if his words had hurt anybody. The minister had said that Meerabai was troubled not by her husband but by her brother-in-law, who wanted to marry her after her husband's death.

Shivraj Patil cremated with state honours

Shivraj Patil cremated with state honours

Rediff.com13 Dec 2025

The last rites of veteran Congress leader and former Union minister Shivraj Patil were performed with full state honours in his home district, Latur, in Maharashtra on Saturday, with many top leaders in attendance.

Pope Francis likely to visit India after 2025: Union minister

Pope Francis likely to visit India after 2025: Union minister

Rediff.com7 Dec 2024

Union Minister George Kurian on Saturday said the much-awaited visit of Pope Francis to India is likely to happen after 2025, which has been announced as the 'Jubilee Year' by the Catholic Church.

Dhami Criticises TMC's Governance in West Bengal

Dhami Criticises TMC's Governance in West Bengal

Rediff.com7 days ago

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami criticised the Trinamool Congress' governance in West Bengal, citing issues such as increased infiltration, corruption, and atrocities against women during a rally in Hingalganj.

Ashwini Vaishnaw: BJP to End TMC's 15-Year Rule in West Bengal

Ashwini Vaishnaw: BJP to End TMC's 15-Year Rule in West Bengal

Rediff.com5 days ago

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw asserted that the BJP will form the government in West Bengal after the upcoming assembly elections, ending the Trinamool Congress's 15-year rule. He criticised the TMC for vote-bank politics, hindering development, and failing to protect women, while promising unprecedented development under a BJP government.

Ajit Pawar plane crash: Preliminary probe report soon

Ajit Pawar plane crash: Preliminary probe report soon

Rediff.com22 Feb 2026

The preliminary report on the plane crash that killed NCP leader Ajit Pawar is expected to be released by February 28, according to Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol. The incident has sparked speculation and calls for investigation into potential irregularities.

JD-U leaders upset over Nitish exit, welcome son's entry

JD-U leaders upset over Nitish exit, welcome son's entry

Rediff.com6 days ago

JD-U lawmakers voiced their concerns over Nitish Kumar's move to the Rajya Sabha, while also welcoming the imminent political debut of his son, Nishant, amidst speculation about the future leadership of the state.

ED wants speedy trial against P Chidambaram in PMLA cases

ED wants speedy trial against P Chidambaram in PMLA cases

Rediff.com26 Feb 2026

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is seeking an expedited trial against Congress leader P Chidambaram in the Aircel-Maxis and INX Media money laundering cases, having submitted the required prosecution sanction to the court.

BJP Fields Sanjay Bhatia for Haryana Rajya Sabha Seat

BJP Fields Sanjay Bhatia for Haryana Rajya Sabha Seat

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

The BJP has nominated Sanjay Bhatia, its former MP from Karnal, for the upcoming Rajya Sabha poll from Haryana. This decision comes as two Rajya Sabha seats in Haryana are set to fall vacant, prompting elections scheduled for March 16.

No Cabinet Nod Needed For Some PM Visit Pacts

No Cabinet Nod Needed For Some PM Visit Pacts

Rediff.com2 days ago

India has amended its guidelines governing the signing of international agreements during official visits by the prime minister, and select pacts have been exempted from prior Cabinet approval.

NCP minister calls for Sunetra Pawar to join Maha govt

NCP minister calls for Sunetra Pawar to join Maha govt

Rediff.com29 Jan 2026

Senior NCP leader Narhari Zirwal says the public wants Sunetra Pawar, wife of late Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, to be brought into the Maharashtra state ministry.

Mamata Banerjee Faces Resignation Calls After President's Displeasure

Mamata Banerjee Faces Resignation Calls After President's Displeasure

Rediff.com4 days ago

BJP MP Khagen Murmu has demanded the resignation of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, alleging she insulted President Droupadi Murmu. The demand follows the President's expression of displeasure over changes to her programme's venue and the absence of the CM or senior ministers.

Kerala salutes 10-month-old organ donor who gave 4 people a new life

Kerala salutes 10-month-old organ donor who gave 4 people a new life

Rediff.com15 Feb 2026

Kerala bid farewell to a 10-month-old girl, the state's youngest organ donor, with state honors after her parents donated her organs following her brain death.

Abhishek Banerjee Accuses BJP of Political Games, Challenges Amit Shah to Public Debate

Abhishek Banerjee Accuses BJP of Political Games, Challenges Amit Shah to Public Debate

Rediff.com4 days ago

TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee challenges Amit Shah to a debate on governance, accusing the BJP of political manipulation and misrepresenting West Bengal's financial situation. He also criticised the BJP's record on women's safety and alleged the Centre was withholding funds from West Bengal.

Mamata Banerjee and Narendra Modi clash over President Murmu's remarks on tribal development in West Bengal.

Mamata Banerjee and Narendra Modi clash over President Murmu's remarks on tribal development in West Bengal.

Rediff.com5 days ago

A political controversy has erupted in West Bengal after President Droupadi Murmu raised concerns about the lack of development among tribal communities, leading to a clash between Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

No toll plaza queues anywhere in India by yearend, says Gadkari

No toll plaza queues anywhere in India by yearend, says Gadkari

Rediff.com25 Feb 2026

'Within six months I expect petrol, diesel, and electric vehicles (EVs) to reach cost parity,' says Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari.

SteelMin signs MoUs worth Rs 11,887 crore with 55 companies

SteelMin signs MoUs worth Rs 11,887 crore with 55 companies

Rediff.com10 Feb 2026

The Ministry of Steel on Monday signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with 55 companies for 85 projects under the third round of the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for specialty steel.

Stormy first part of Budget Session ends

Stormy first part of Budget Session ends

Rediff.com13 Feb 2026

The first leg of the Budget session concluded with debates over the India-US trade deal and a former army chief's memoir, and will reassemble on March 9.

Rashtra Sevika Samiti Calls for Women's Day to Reflect Indian Values

Rashtra Sevika Samiti Calls for Women's Day to Reflect Indian Values

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

Rashtra Sevika Samiti emphasizes the importance of guiding International Women's Day with Indian cultural values, focusing on social awareness, mindset change, and women's empowerment through unity and family values.

Manipur hostage crisis ends: 21 Tangkhul Nagas freed as Centre steps in

Manipur hostage crisis ends: 21 Tangkhul Nagas freed as Centre steps in

Rediff.com12 hours ago

The Union Home Ministry intervened to secure the release of 21 Tangkhul Naga civilians held hostage in Manipur's Ukhrul district, following tensions between Kuki and Naga communities.

Bihar govt rejects demands to revoke liquor ban

Bihar govt rejects demands to revoke liquor ban

Rediff.com19 Feb 2026

The Bihar government has rejected demands to review its prohibition law, which has been in place for a decade, despite concerns raised by members of the ruling NDA about financial losses to the state.

'Even China...': BJP slams Congress for blindly backing Iran

'Even China...': BJP slams Congress for blindly backing Iran

Rediff.com7 days ago

The BJP has criticised the Congress party for allegedly prioritising its vote bank and outdated ideologies over India's national interest and citizen safety in its foreign policy approach towards Iran.

Maharashtra Bids Farewell to Ajit Pawar

Maharashtra Bids Farewell to Ajit Pawar

Rediff.com29 Jan 2026

Thousands of supporters gathered to pay their last respects, chanting slogans in his memory. The large turnout and emotional farewell highlighted Ajit Pawar's strong grassroots connect and his significant influence in Maharashtra politics.

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.

Centre to evacuate Indians from Gulf; IndiGo to operate 10 Jeddah flights

Centre to evacuate Indians from Gulf; IndiGo to operate 10 Jeddah flights

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi assures that the Indian government is prepared to bring back Indians stranded in the Gulf region due to the Iran-Israel conflict and disruptions in Dubai, emphasizing citizen safety as the top priority.

Mass Surrender: 108 Maoists Give Up Arms in Chhattisgarh

Mass Surrender: 108 Maoists Give Up Arms in Chhattisgarh

Rediff.com1 days ago

In a significant victory for the government's anti-Naxal efforts, 108 Maoists, including 44 women, surrendered in Chhattisgarh's Bastar district, citing disillusionment and the appeal of rehabilitation programs. The surrender also led to the recovery of a large cache of weapons and valuables.

Union Budget 2026: Sitharaman tries to cover all bases, leaves out markets

Union Budget 2026: Sitharaman tries to cover all bases, leaves out markets

Rediff.com1 Feb 2026

Budget 2026 sticks to fiscal discipline, shuns populist measures despite five key state elections coming up, but ends up rattling stock markets with a higher transaction tax on derivatives trading.

Bengal Guv Bose's sudden exit before polls triggers political row

Bengal Guv Bose's sudden exit before polls triggers political row

Rediff.com7 days ago

West Bengal Governor C V Ananda Bose has resigned from his post, triggering a political storm in the state ahead of the upcoming assembly elections. The sudden resignation has led to speculation and accusations between the ruling TMC and the BJP.