News for 'Union and State'

458 Prisoners Benefit from Centre's 'Support to Poor Prisoners' Scheme

458 Prisoners Benefit from Centre's 'Support to Poor Prisoners' Scheme

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

The Centre's 'Support to Poor Prisoners' scheme has aided 458 prisoners unable to pay fines or secure bail. The scheme, launched in 2023, aims to provide financial assistance to those facing financial constraints.

Violence fails to dent massive turnout in Bengal Phase 1; BJP, TMC claim edge

Violence fails to dent massive turnout in Bengal Phase 1; BJP, TMC claim edge

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

The first phase of the West Bengal assembly elections was disrupted by EVM glitches and overnight violence in several districts. Polling was halted or delayed at multiple booths due to malfunctioning Electronic Voting Machines. Incidents of violence were reported in Murshidabad and Cooch Behar, with political parties trading accusations.

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.

BJP promises Rs 3,000 a month, reservation in govt jobs to Bengal women

BJP promises Rs 3,000 a month, reservation in govt jobs to Bengal women

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

The BJP has released its election manifesto for West Bengal, promising a hardline stance on infiltration, financial assistance for women and unemployed youth, and the implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission for state employees.

How LeT Terrorist Set Up India Network, Evading Detection

How LeT Terrorist Set Up India Network, Evading Detection

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist Abdullah, alias Abu Hureira, who was tasked with establishing bases outside Jammu and Kashmir, adopted various professions, including share trading, to blend in with the local population. He was recently arrested along with other members of his network.

Will Vijay Be Tamil Nadu's Showstopper?

Will Vijay Be Tamil Nadu's Showstopper?

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Whether he comes to power or not, both his admirers and opponents agree on one thing -- Vijay may well turn out to be the 'X factor'.

Chhattisgarh to Reward Khelo India Tribal Games Medalists, Promises Olympics Bonus

Chhattisgarh to Reward Khelo India Tribal Games Medalists, Promises Olympics Bonus

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai announced cash prizes for the state's medal winners at the inaugural Khelo India Tribal Games and promised future rewards for Olympic athletes.

Census 2027 to be a 'National Digital Transformation Mission'

Census 2027 to be a 'National Digital Transformation Mission'

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo announced that the Census 2027 will be a fully digital and paperless exercise, utilising mobile technology, AI, and cloud computing for accuracy and efficiency, marking a shift towards data-driven governance.

K V Thomas Predicts LDF Victory, Cites Congress Infighting

K V Thomas Predicts LDF Victory, Cites Congress Infighting

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

K V Thomas, Kerala's Special Representative in New Delhi, forecasts a third term for the CPI(M)-led LDF government, attributing the UDF's potential failure to internal conflicts and criticising the BJP for introducing 'consumerism' into Kerala politics.

Banerjee Alleges BJP Deleted 9 Million Names from Voter Lists

Banerjee Alleges BJP Deleted 9 Million Names from Voter Lists

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the BJP of deleting over 9 million names from voter lists in an attempt to win the upcoming Assembly elections. She vowed to fight the alleged manipulation legally and politically.

Why JJP Leader Digvijay Chautala Faces Charges Over University Event

Why JJP Leader Digvijay Chautala Faces Charges Over University Event

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

Police have filed a case against JJP leader Digvijay Singh Chautala and members of the INSO for allegedly damaging public property during an event at Kurukshetra University. The FIR cites damage to chairs and other property, leading to accusations of political disruption and government interference.

Haryanvi singer booked over offensive language at U'khand college event

Haryanvi singer booked over offensive language at U'khand college event

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

Haryanvi singer Masoom Sharma has been booked by police for allegedly using indecent and offensive language during a performance at a DAV College event in Dehradun. A police investigation has been launched following complaints from student representatives.

UCC, 'Ram Rajya': Shah sharpens BJP's Bengal poll pitch

UCC, 'Ram Rajya': Shah sharpens BJP's Bengal poll pitch

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched the BJP's manifesto for West Bengal, promising a Uniform Civil Code, a Bengali chief minister, and improved governance.

Assam, Puducherry witness historic turnout; over 78% vote in Kerala

Assam, Puducherry witness historic turnout; over 78% vote in Kerala

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

Voters in Kerala, Assam, and Puducherry are voting in crucial assembly elections.

Phunchuk Stobdan: Icon Of India's Territorial Integrity

Phunchuk Stobdan: Icon Of India's Territorial Integrity

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Phunchuk Stobdan's forte was candour and strong views on India's defence. Naturally, India's adversaries were in awe of him, fearing his views and unyielding stand on boundary issues, remembers Tarun Vijay.

What NSA Ajit Doval Told 16 Prominent Indian Muslims

What NSA Ajit Doval Told 16 Prominent Indian Muslims

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

'I cannot imagine that any NSA before Ajit Doval would have given us this kind of time and this kind of engagement. They would have offered slogans, or nothing at all. That, too, tells you something.'

Parliament adjourns sine die, Budget Session ends

Parliament adjourns sine die, Budget Session ends

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

Both Houses of Parliament were adjourned sine die, concluding a Budget session marked by the passage of key legislations and the defeat of a Constitution amendment bill on women's reservation. The session saw frequent opposition protests and discussions on various issues, including the West Asia conflict.

21 dead, 29 injured as bus rolls into gorge in J-K's Udhampur

21 dead, 29 injured as bus rolls into gorge in J-K's Udhampur

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

A passenger bus accident in the Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir resulted in the death of fifteen people and injuries to twenty others. The accident occurred near Kagort village in the Ram Nagar area.

Release Bengal Dues Before Professing Love, Banerjee Tells Modi

Release Bengal Dues Before Professing Love, Banerjee Tells Modi

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to release the pending central dues to West Bengal before professing his love for the state. Banerjee also criticised BJP leaders and defended the 'Jai Bangla' slogan.

BJP, LDF eye hat-tricks in Assam, Kerala; NDA aims for Puducherry

BJP, LDF eye hat-tricks in Assam, Kerala; NDA aims for Puducherry

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

Voting has commenced for the Assembly elections in Kerala, Assam, and Puducherry, with millions of voters deciding the fate of numerous candidates across various constituencies. The elections are crucial for determining the future governance and political landscape of these regions.

SIR effect or anti-incumbency? Kerala sees high turnout

SIR effect or anti-incumbency? Kerala sees high turnout

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

Kerala recorded a high voter turnout in the Assembly elections, with over 77 per cent of eligible voters casting their ballots. The election is crucial as it will determine whether the LDF secures a rare third consecutive term, the UDF stages a comeback, or the NDA makes deeper inroads into Kerala's political landscape.

Shah Accuses TMC of Jeopardising National Security Through Infiltration

Shah Accuses TMC of Jeopardising National Security Through Infiltration

Rediff.com28 Mar 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has accused the TMC government in West Bengal of jeopardising national security through appeasement politics and failing to secure the border, framing the upcoming election as crucial for the entire country.

Iran calls India a 'trusted partner'; asserts control over Hormuz

Iran calls India a 'trusted partner'; asserts control over Hormuz

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

Iran's ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, has described India as a "reliable and compassionate" partner while asserting Tehran's territorial authority over the Strait of Hormuz amidst ongoing regional tensions.

FCRA Bill likely in Parl today, Congress asks MPs to rush to Delhi

FCRA Bill likely in Parl today, Congress asks MPs to rush to Delhi

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

The Congress party has directed its MPs to attend Parliament and protest against the FCRA Amendment Bill, describing it as unconstitutional and a threat to minority organisations. The government asserts the bill aims to enhance transparency and prevent misuse of foreign funds.

Air India Unveils First Refurbished Boeing 787-8 After $400M Investment

Air India Unveils First Refurbished Boeing 787-8 After $400M Investment

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Air India's first refurbished Boeing 787-8 aircraft has landed in Delhi, marking a milestone in the airline's USD 400 million investment plan to upgrade its wide-body fleet. The aircraft features comprehensive interior upgrades, including new seats and in-flight entertainment systems.

Haryana CM Saini Emphasises Sikh Values at Baisakhi Celebration

Haryana CM Saini Emphasises Sikh Values at Baisakhi Celebration

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini emphasised the importance of Sikh Gurus' teachings at the Baisakhi Mahotsav in Kurukshetra, highlighting the government's efforts to promote these values and support the Sikh community.

'Bihar May Follow Gujarat Template'

'Bihar May Follow Gujarat Template'

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

'Samrat Chaudhury's limited independent standing within the party, his reliance on the central leadership for his elevation, and his lack of a personal mass base all point toward this outcome.'

Banerjee Accuses BJP of Inciting Societal Discord for Political Gain

Banerjee Accuses BJP of Inciting Societal Discord for Political Gain

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the BJP of inciting conflict within Indian society and exploiting the resulting instability for financial gain. She also criticised Amit Shah and the BJP's governance.

How Indian Agriculture Initiatives Have Doubled Farmer Income

How Indian Agriculture Initiatives Have Doubled Farmer Income

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan informed the Lok Sabha that government initiatives in the agriculture sector have doubled farmers' income through measures like MSP and fertiliser subsidies.

Samrat Choudhary's full circle: From sacked Rabri minister to Bihar CM

Samrat Choudhary's full circle: From sacked Rabri minister to Bihar CM

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

It has been a chequered political journey for Samrat Choudhary, who began his political career as a minister in Bihar nearly three decades ago, only to be removed by the then-Governor following allegations about his eligibility.

Cibil CEO: Lenders must engage with customers on credit usage, as they did during pandemic

Cibil CEO: Lenders must engage with customers on credit usage, as they did during pandemic

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

TransUnion Cibil CEO Bhavesh Jain highlights the improved retail portfolio quality in January but stresses the need for lenders to continuously engage with borrowers on credit usage and repayment, similar to the approach taken during the Covid-19 pandemic, as the impact of the Iran war on credit quality is still being assessed.

Opposition to meet on Wednesday over women's quota bill strategy

Opposition to meet on Wednesday over women's quota bill strategy

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

With the three-day special sitting of Parliament on the constitution amendment bill related to the implementation of 33 percent reservation for women from the 2029 Lok Sabha polls set to begin on Thursday, a meeting of opposition parties is slated to be held on Wednesday at the residence of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge.

'India Playing A Chess Game In Nepal'

'India Playing A Chess Game In Nepal'

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

'Nepal today is far more aware, self-confident, aspirational, and assertive.' 'India's policy so far has not been geared to this shift. It is time to redraw our Nepal strategy.'

Why IUML Thinks Congress CM Candidate Debate Is Unnecessary

Why IUML Thinks Congress CM Candidate Debate Is Unnecessary

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), a key ally of the Congress in Kerala, has criticised the public discussions and arguments regarding who should be the chief ministerial candidate of the United Democratic Front (UDF). IUML leader P M A Salam stated that such debates could lead to discontent among party workers and the general public.

'Delimitation Can't Be Challenged Once It Is Approved'

'Delimitation Can't Be Challenged Once It Is Approved'

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

'The Supreme Court stated that once the delimitation plan is approved by Parliament and receives assent of the President, it cannot be undone. Nor can it be modified.'

Banerjee Retorts to Modi's Claims on Bengal's Fish Production

Banerjee Retorts to Modi's Claims on Bengal's Fish Production

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has refuted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's claims regarding the state's fish production, accusing him of misrepresenting facts and alleging restrictions on non-vegetarian food consumption in BJP-ruled states.

Won't allow Bengalis to become minority in Bengal: Modi

Won't allow Bengalis to become minority in Bengal: Modi

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a rally in Jangipur, West Bengal, promising to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and addressing concerns about infiltration and demographic changes in the state.

TMC Leader O'Brien Counters Modi's 'White Paper' Promise on Bengal Corruption

TMC Leader O'Brien Counters Modi's 'White Paper' Promise on Bengal Corruption

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

Trinamool Congress leader Derek O'Brien has criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's promise of a 'white paper' on corruption in West Bengal, highlighting instances of opposition leaders joining the BJP and allegedly receiving leniency in corruption investigations.

BJP Protests, Demands CBI Investigation into Punjab Official's Suicide

BJP Protests, Demands CBI Investigation into Punjab Official's Suicide

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

The Punjab BJP held a state-level protest against the AAP government, demanding a CBI probe into the suicide of a warehousing corporation official who allegedly faced harassment from a state minister.

Annpurna Devi calls for swift action in Hazaribagh rape and murder case

Annpurna Devi calls for swift action in Hazaribagh rape and murder case

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

Union Minister Annpurna Devi has condemned the alleged rape and murder of a 12-year-old girl in Jharkhand and called for immediate arrests and strict punishment for the perpetrators. She also criticised the state government's response.