News for 'Welcome Group'

India, Sri Lanka sign major defence pact

India, Sri Lanka sign major defence pact

Rediff.com5 Apr 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a tri-services ceremonial welcome in Colombo, Sri Lanka, marking the first time such an honor has been bestowed upon a foreign leader. The welcome took place at the historic Independence Square, the venue for national day celebrations. Modi's visit comes as Sri Lanka shows signs of recovery from a recent economic crisis, with India playing a significant role in providing assistance. During the visit, both leaders are expected to discuss a range of issues, including defense cooperation, energy, and digital initiatives.

Prayagraj Airport handling 40 VIP flights daily

Prayagraj Airport handling 40 VIP flights daily

Rediff.com24 Feb 2025

The Prayagraj airport in India is experiencing a surge in air traffic due to the Maha Kumbh, a major religious festival. The airport is handling an average of 40 non-scheduled charters and private jets daily, with figures reaching 70 on weekends. This is in addition to the average 148 scheduled commercial passenger aircraft operating daily. The airport recently received a contingent of about 180 politicians from Rajasthan and has seen corporate bigwigs like the Ambani brothers, Gautam Adani, and Pawan Munjal pass through. The airport has also hosted four international flights since the beginning of the Maha Kumbh, including a flight carrying Laurene Powell Jobs, the wife of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs. The airport is currently undergoing an upgrade and expansion, and officials are looking forward to the government's plans to integrate Prayagraj with the airports at Kashi and Ayodhya to promote tourism in the region.

RSS: 'Any Type Of Violence Is Not Good'

RSS: 'Any Type Of Violence Is Not Good'

Rediff.com20 Mar 2025

Prime Minister Modi will visit RSS headquarters in Nagpur on March 30.

Pune hospital ends deposit policy after pregnant woman's death

Pune hospital ends deposit policy after pregnant woman's death

Rediff.com5 Apr 2025

The Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital in Pune, India, has stopped taking deposits from patients at the emergency department after a pregnant woman died after being turned away for non-payment. The hospital faced intense criticism following the incident, which involved the wife of a BJP MLC's personal secretary. The woman was shifted to another hospital where she died after delivering twins.

Meet India's first private reinsurer

Meet India's first private reinsurer

Rediff.com15 Mar 2025

In Debasish Panda's last board meeting as chairperson of the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (Irdai), the regulator approved the "R2" licence for Kamlesh Goyal and Prem Watsa-backed Value Attics Reinsurance, making it the first private-sector Indian reinsurer after GIC Re, the public-sector reinsurer. "The authority reviewed and approved the R2 application of Value Attics Reinsurance, making it the first private-sector reinsurer after GIC Re, the public-sector reinsurer.

When I Attended The Bachchans' Holi Party

When I Attended The Bachchans' Holi Party

Rediff.com14 Mar 2025

The Bachchan family have this knack of going out of their way to make you feel extremely comfortable.

This phase will...: SC judges visit strife-torn Manipur

This phase will...: SC judges visit strife-torn Manipur

Rediff.com22 Mar 2025

Supreme Court judge, Justice B R Gavai, expressed hope that the "current difficult phase" in ethnic strife-torn Manipur will be over soon with the assistance of the executive, legislature and judiciary and the state will prosper like the rest of the country. Justice Gavai, who led a delegation of Supreme Court judges that visited Manipur, called upon the people of the state to work together to restore peace and harmony. He also urged the people of the state to work together to restore peace and normalcy, and lauded the natural beauty he witnessed while travelling from Imphal to Churachandpur. He expressed delight in noting that training programmes were being imparted at the relief camps, and thanked the Chief Justice of Manipur High Court and the district legal services authority for their efforts. Justice Gavai also stressed the need for readmission of students who had to drop out of school due to the conflict and called upon the educational institutions and the public to ensure all students complete their education.

Why Konark wheel was chosen as backdrop for G20 welcome

Why Konark wheel was chosen as backdrop for G20 welcome

Rediff.com9 Sep 2023

The Konark Wheel was built during the 13th century under the reign of King Narasimhadeva-I. The wheel embodies India's ancient wisdom, advanced civilisation and architectural excellence.

Jay Shah joins elite board shaping cricket's future

Jay Shah joins elite board shaping cricket's future

Rediff.com23 Jan 2025

ICC chairperson Jay Shah has been inducted into the newly formed World Cricket Connects Advisory Board, an independent group that will discuss the future of cricket at the Lord's on June 7 and 8.

Married? Do You Have This Medical Cover?

Married? Do You Have This Medical Cover?

Rediff.com19 Feb 2025

Maternity coverage is a specific feature in health insurance policies that covers the medical expenses associated with childbirth and complications associated, if any.

'US Remains Invested In Quad'

'US Remains Invested In Quad'

Rediff.com14 Feb 2025

'Trump's aggressive stance towards China and preference for military posturing could shift the Quad's balance towards overt militarisation.'

Days after ULFA peace pact, 3 Naga groups unite for talks with Centre

Days after ULFA peace pact, 3 Naga groups unite for talks with Centre

Rediff.com31 Dec 2023

Stating that there is no nomenclature for the three groups who have come together, Akato said they will approach the Centre for political talks.

After row, AMU says students can play Holi 'freely'

After row, AMU says students can play Holi 'freely'

Rediff.com8 Mar 2025

Amid demands for allowing Holi celebration on the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) campus, its administration has decided that students can do so "freely" at the Non-Resident Students Centre Hall. The decision came after a controversy erupted when members of a right-wing group accused the university administration of denying permission to Hindu students to organize a 'Holi Milan' function on campus. However, the university administration clarified that the decision to allow Holi celebrations at the NRSC Hall was taken because of an AMU board examination scheduled for March 9. The administration further stated that March 10, 11, and 12 are working days and there will be classes, while March 13 and 14 are holidays, making them suitable for celebrations.

'Bengal Is In Business'

'Bengal Is In Business'

Rediff.com6 Feb 2025

'This is the Bengal story, where businesses are nurtured, dreams are realised, and legacies are built.'

Amazing, Awesome, Stunning Photographs!

Amazing, Awesome, Stunning Photographs!

Rediff.com4 Mar 2025

The 2025 Sony World Photography Awards has announced its National and Regional Award winners, celebrating talent from 56 countries.

Abhishek Bachchan joins European T20 League as co-owner

Abhishek Bachchan joins European T20 League as co-owner

Rediff.com6 Jan 2025

With cricket being included in the 2028 Olympics, its popularity will further surge. I'm humbled and excited about this unique collaboration between the cricket boards of Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands.

Vice-captain Axar knows with power comes responsibility

Vice-captain Axar knows with power comes responsibility

Rediff.com20 Jan 2025

'When you are in the leadership group you have to make some harsh decisions. These are the discussions we have.'

35 Years After IPKF's Return, Tamil Politics Has Changed

35 Years After IPKF's Return, Tamil Politics Has Changed

Rediff.com24 Mar 2025

Since the IPKF's withdrawal from Sri Lanka in March 1990, the LTTE's once-powerful influence in Tamil Nadu has faded.

PSG, Dortmund, Milan, Newcastle in tough Champions League group

PSG, Dortmund, Milan, Newcastle in tough Champions League group

Rediff.com31 Aug 2023

Holders Manchester City will take on RB Leipzig, Red Star Belgrade and Young Boys in Group G.

Sudhir Ghosh: The MP Who Foresaw Quad

Sudhir Ghosh: The MP Who Foresaw Quad

Rediff.com17 Mar 2025

After the 1962 War with China, there was a demand to forge greater defence cooperation between India and the West. One such voice was that of Sudhir Ghosh, a distinguished MP, to tie up strategic cooperation with the USA immediately after the Chinese attack on India, recalls Rup Narayan Das.

Abandoned Shiva temple reopens in Aligarh's Muslim-dominated area

Abandoned Shiva temple reopens in Aligarh's Muslim-dominated area

Rediff.com19 Dec 2024

Right-wing organizations, including Bajrang Dal and All India Karni Sena, held a 'shuddhikaran' (purification) ceremony and chanted Hanuman chalisa at a long-abandoned Shiva temple in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh. The temple, located in a Muslim-majority locality, was "reopened" by members of these groups. The ceremony took place on Wednesday night amid tight security measures. Local residents, including a former Aligarh Mayor, have voiced concerns over the state of the temple and called for its restoration.

'India Must Not Support Nepal's Ex-King'

'India Must Not Support Nepal's Ex-King'

Rediff.com17 Apr 2025

'Gyanendra back on the throne would be bad news for the Nepali people. He may not have learnt from his experience, but we have.'

Army, IAF, Navy Promised Faster Defence Buys

Army, IAF, Navy Promised Faster Defence Buys

Rediff.com3 Mar 2025

'Currently, it takes between two and three years to formulate the request for proposal for procuring specific military equipment for the armed forces. It should not be this way.'

Sanjay Roy found guilty of raping, murdering RG Kar doctor

Sanjay Roy found guilty of raping, murdering RG Kar doctor

Rediff.com18 Jan 2025

A Kolkata court on Saturday convicted prime accused Sanjay Roy of raping and murdering an on-duty doctor at the state-run RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, 162 days after the crime that sparked nationwide outrage and led to prolonged protests.

Deep State And Beyond: The Rise of Conspiracy Theories

Deep State And Beyond: The Rise of Conspiracy Theories

Rediff.com25 Feb 2025

From bhikshus of Ashokan 3rd century BC and medieval Sufis to Oxfam, Omidyar and Soros now, non-State actors have any real power only when they work in conjunction with a real State, asserts Shekhar Gupta.

Taliban carry out retaliatory strikes on Pakistan

Taliban carry out retaliatory strikes on Pakistan

Rediff.com28 Dec 2024

Afghanistan's Taliban forces targeted 'several points' in Pakistan on Saturday, Taliban said, days after Pakistani aircraft carried out aerial bombardments inside the country, as per Al Jazeera.

Ready to withdraw and follow Rahul Gandhi, Tejashwi: Prashant Kishor

Ready to withdraw and follow Rahul Gandhi, Tejashwi: Prashant Kishor

Rediff.com5 Jan 2025

Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kishor, who has been on a fast unto death to press the demand for cancellation of a Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) exam, on Sunday sought the support of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and former Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav.

Party Recipe: Ganesh's Maple Chicken Poppers

Party Recipe: Ganesh's Maple Chicken Poppers

Rediff.com27 Dec 2024

Crispy, sweet chicken snacks for the new year countdown.

Minorities faced 205 attacks in B'desh after fall of Hasina govt: Hindu groups

Minorities faced 205 attacks in B'desh after fall of Hasina govt: Hindu groups

Rediff.com10 Aug 2024

Asserting that the situation was deteriorating, Rosario urged Yunus to resolve the crisis by giving it top priority and putting an end to the violence.

Teammate surprised as Messi pops up in group chat!

Teammate surprised as Messi pops up in group chat!

Rediff.com20 Jul 2023

Lionel Messi has already proved to be a team player at his new club Inter Miami as the Argentine forward surprised a team mate in the players' group chat.

500 Wickets Club Welcomes Ashwin

500 Wickets Club Welcomes Ashwin

Rediff.com16 Feb 2024

He is the ninth bowler and fifth spinner to complete the feat in Tests.

Why Modi Chose To Speak In Parliament On Maha Kumbh

Why Modi Chose To Speak In Parliament On Maha Kumbh

Rediff.com26 Mar 2025

Besides the not-so-hidden unease between Modi and Adityanath, Modi chose to address the Lok Sabha to ensure that he could personally claim all the kudos, observes Nilanjan Mukhopadhyay.

Day after Trump's order, NCAA bans transgender women from sports

Day after Trump's order, NCAA bans transgender women from sports

Rediff.com7 Feb 2025

The NCAA previously allowed transgender women to compete as long as they met testosterone limits on a sport-by-sport basis.

Trump Announces F-35 Jet Deal, Billions in Military Sales To India

Trump Announces F-35 Jet Deal, Billions in Military Sales To India

Rediff.com14 Feb 2025

India and the United States have agreed to deepen their strategic partnership in several key areas, with President Donald Trump announcing plans to provide India with F-35 fighter jets and billions of dollars in military supplies. The two leaders also discussed energy cooperation, critical technologies, connectivity, and countering terrorism. They agreed to work together on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, and Trump noted India's reforms to welcome US nuclear technologies. Prime Minister Modi said the two countries can shape a better world through their cooperation. Both leaders also addressed the Russia-Ukraine conflict, with Modi stressing India's commitment to peace.

Welcome To The Largest Camel Fair!

Welcome To The Largest Camel Fair!

Rediff.com15 Nov 2023

The Pushkar Camel Fair -- also called Kartik Mela or Pushkar ka Mela -- is an annual multi-day livestock fair and cultural fete held in the town of Pushkar near Ajmer in Rajasthan.

'2025 Is Year To Keep Expectations Low'

'2025 Is Year To Keep Expectations Low'

Rediff.com12 Feb 2025

'Stay disciplined, and remain invested.' 'Volatile times are the best to invest in structural opportunities at the right price.'

Govt's pace of work tripled in 3rd term: President Murmu

Govt's pace of work tripled in 3rd term: President Murmu

Rediff.com31 Jan 2025

President Droupadi Murmu addressed both Houses of Parliament, highlighting the government's achievements in various sectors, including economic growth, social welfare, and infrastructure development. She emphasized the government's efforts to lift the economy out of "policy paralysis" and create a more inclusive society. Murmu also acknowledged the challenges posed by digital fraud and cybercrime and stressed the need for a social infrastructure revolution. The President's speech is considered a policy statement, outlining the government's vision and roadmap for the future.

What Air India Plans For Its Crews

What Air India Plans For Its Crews

Rediff.com4 Oct 2024

Some of the proposed policies have been welcomed by pilots and cabin crew, while others have sparked criticism.

My Favourite Oscar Moment

My Favourite Oscar Moment

Rediff.com4 Mar 2025

The balance was so perfect in that moment, the irony so rich. Those who cheered on Elia Kazan were cheering on the one quality that made him such a singular artist: He was his own man and not susceptible to groupthink. Those who protested Kazan's presence were protesting that very quality: They were saying that he was too much of an outlier, a wolf in a radical's clothing. Sreehari Nair captures his Kodak moment at the Oscars.

Biden makes his final Quad summit an event to remember

Biden makes his final Quad summit an event to remember

Rediff.com22 Sep 2024

US President Joe Biden on Saturday rolled out the red carpet to welcome leaders of Quad countries, Prime Ministers Narendra Modi of India, Anthony Albanese from Australia and Fumio Kishida of Japan.