News for 'Western Region'

US launches new strikes on Iran after Trump vows to hit 'hard'

US launches new strikes on Iran after Trump vows to hit 'hard'

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has launched self-defence strikes against multiple targets in Iran, citing ongoing Iranian aggression. This action has led to Iran's Red Crescent placing emergency centres on high alert amidst reports of explosions in several Iranian cities. Concurrently, Iraqi media claims Iran retaliated with a missile strike on a US air base in Erbil.

'Conversation going on': Trump rejects reports of breakdown in US-Iran talks

'Conversation going on': Trump rejects reports of breakdown in US-Iran talks

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

US President Donald Trump has dismissed media reports suggesting that diplomatic negotiations between Washington and Tehran have stalled, maintaining that dialogue persists despite intensifying geopolitical friction across the Middle East.

Could This Hidden Himalayan Lake Trigger Massive Floods?

Could This Hidden Himalayan Lake Trigger Massive Floods?

Rediff.com14 May 2026

A team of scientists has identified a 'potentially dangerous' proglacial lake at 16,500 feet in Arunachal Pradesh's Mago Chu basin, a critical headwaters region of the Brahmaputra, warning of a possible Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) due to rapid glacier transformation.

Why India-China Border Dispute Remains Unresolved

Why India-China Border Dispute Remains Unresolved

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

While tensions have eased at several friction points and mechanisms for managing the boundary have been reactivated, underlying differences persist. Disputes over naming practices in Arunachal Pradesh, continued infrastructure development on both sides, and unresolved questions regarding patrolling rights indicate that the structural gap remains, notes Dr Kumar.

US navy hits sanctioned tanker off Oman, all 24 Indians safe

US navy hits sanctioned tanker off Oman, all 24 Indians safe

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

An oil tanker carrying 24 Indian seafarers reported a fire off the coast of Oman, with all crew members confirmed safe. The incident occurred amidst renewed hostilities between Israel and Iran, who exchanged attacks on petrochemical facilities.

'We have let Pakistan...': Sonia slams Modi govt's 'stony silence' on Gaza 'genocide'

'We have let Pakistan...': Sonia slams Modi govt's 'stony silence' on Gaza 'genocide'

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Sonia Gandhi criticised PM Modi's Israel visit, calling it a "bewildering strategic decision" amid the regional conflict.

Why Taiwan Is At The Heart Of US-China Rivalry

Why Taiwan Is At The Heart Of US-China Rivalry

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

For the foreseeable future, the most likely outcome remains continuation of the status quo. Taiwan will remain self-governing without formally declaring independence, while China continues to apply sustained pressure short of war, predict Krishnan Srinivasan and Manoj Mohanka.

Someone Else Owns India's Off Switch

Someone Else Owns India's Off Switch

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

A sovereign cloud, our own DNS root and Root CA, a defence-led research base that builds for keeps, and a real national cybersecurity strategy that outlives electoral cycles are not vanity projects. They are the difference between a nation that can be switched off and one that cannot, points out Venkata Satish Guttula.

Local Conditions, Not Distant Air, Fuel Indo-Gangetic Plain Heatwaves: IIT Bombay Study

Local Conditions, Not Distant Air, Fuel Indo-Gangetic Plain Heatwaves: IIT Bombay Study

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

Researchers at IIT Bombay have discovered that heatwaves in the Indo-Gangetic Plains are primarily caused by local land and weather conditions, rather than hot air originating from elsewhere, emphasising the need for location-specific early warning systems.

North India sizzles at 45 deg Celsius, relief likely from Tuesday

North India sizzles at 45 deg Celsius, relief likely from Tuesday

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

Northern states in India are experiencing severe heatwave conditions, with temperatures reaching up to 46.6 degrees Celsius. The heatwave has impacted daily life, leading to a decline in tourism and increased power demand. Authorities have issued advisories and implemented measures to mitigate the effects of the extreme heat.

What Jawaharlal Nehru Did for India

What Jawaharlal Nehru Did for India

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Through his commitment to democratic norms, debate, dissent and constitutionalism, Jawaharlal Nehru helped ensure that parliamentary democracy took deep root in independent India. Utkarsh Mishra evaluates Nehru's 17 years as India's first prime minister, examining his role in nation-building, democratic institution-building, economic planning, scientific advancement and foreign policy.

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.

Doctors, academics among 35 new faces in Adhikari's Cabinet

Doctors, academics among 35 new faces in Adhikari's Cabinet

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Thirty-five BJP MLAs were sworn in as ministers as part of an expansion of the Suvendu Adhikari-led cabinet in West Bengal. The oath-taking ceremony took place weeks after Adhikari was sworn in as chief minister.

'2026 Could Be Warmest Year Ever Recorded'

'2026 Could Be Warmest Year Ever Recorded'

Rediff.com25 May 2026

'We should expect extreme heat, extreme rains, floods, landslides and maybe cyclones. Not just this year, in the coming year as well.'

Trump ends situation room meet, no decision on Iran yet

Trump ends situation room meet, no decision on Iran yet

Rediff.com30 May 2026

The White House has not announced any decision following US President Donald Trump's meeting with his national security team regarding Iran, despite Trump's earlier indication that the discussion would lead to a 'final determination' on the matter.

Days after Trump trip, Putin to land in China on Tuesday for two-day visit

Days after Trump trip, Putin to land in China on Tuesday for two-day visit

Rediff.com18 May 2026

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit China for talks with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, shortly after US President Donald Trump's visit to Beijing. The visit underscores the close strategic ties between China and Russia amid global tensions.

Why Sea Chokepoints Have Become The New Battleground

Why Sea Chokepoints Have Become The New Battleground

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

If Iran and Oman choose to charge a fee for rendering services to vessels using their territorial waters, so be it. The US is indulging in an irrationally self-destructive act, notes Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

Theatre Commands Plan Gains Momentum

Theatre Commands Plan Gains Momentum

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The plan includes three such formations: A China-focused Northern Theatre Command, a Pakistan-focused Western Theatre Command, and a Maritime Theatre Command.

Rain brings relief to North India; Delhi sees coolest June 1 in 3 yrs

Rain brings relief to North India; Delhi sees coolest June 1 in 3 yrs

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Most north Indian states reported below-normal temperatures on Monday, with rain and thunderstorms lashing parts of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Himachal Pradesh. The southwest monsoon is expected to arrive in Kerala in the next two to three days.

Scorching days, restless nights: India battles intense heatwave

Scorching days, restless nights: India battles intense heatwave

Rediff.com23 May 2026

Several parts of India are experiencing a severe heatwave, with temperatures soaring past 44 degrees Celsius. States are issuing alerts and taking measures to protect people and animals from the extreme conditions.

US-China Rivalry Enters New Phase

US-China Rivalry Enters New Phase

Rediff.com27 May 2026

The Beijing summit may have reduced immediate diplomatic uncertainty, but it did not resolve the deeper structural contest between the United States and China. That contest appears likely to define the coming decade, notes Varun Arya.

Heatwave sweeps North India, UP on alert; relief in J-K, Himachal

Heatwave sweeps North India, UP on alert; relief in J-K, Himachal

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

Many places across northern states including Delhi recorded above-normal temperatures crossing 40 degrees Celsius, while the India Meteorological Department warned of heatwave conditions in parts of Uttar Pradesh in the coming days. Jammu and Kashmir saw a dip in temperatures with fresh snowfall in the higher reaches and rainfall in the plains.

Severe heatwave grips India, Banda in UP scorches at 48 deg C

Severe heatwave grips India, Banda in UP scorches at 48 deg C

Rediff.com19 May 2026

Large parts of India are experiencing a severe heatwave, with temperatures soaring to dangerous levels. Authorities have issued alerts and health advisories as the heatwave intensifies across multiple states.

Kurdish President's residence hit by drone strike

Kurdish President's residence hit by drone strike

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

Iraq's Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) on Saturday confirmed a drone strike targeting the residence of Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani in Duhok amid escalating tensions in West Asia, triggering a sharp blame game between the United States and Iran.

Lee Cronin's The Mummy Review: Boring Horror

Lee Cronin's The Mummy Review: Boring Horror

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

This Mummy is all sound and fury, signifying nothing, discovers Mayur Sanap.

Projectile hits near Iran's Bushehr nuclear facility; 1 killed

Projectile hits near Iran's Bushehr nuclear facility; 1 killed

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

A projectile struck near Iran's Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, resulting in one security personnel casualty and damage to an auxiliary building. The incident has raised concerns about nuclear safety and potential regional consequences, drawing criticism from Iranian officials and prompting calls for restraint from the IAEA.

1st Indian vessel crosses Strait of Hormuz after US-Iran ceasefire

1st Indian vessel crosses Strait of Hormuz after US-Iran ceasefire

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

An India-flagged LPG tanker, Jag Vikram, has successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz following a temporary ceasefire between the United States and Iran, marking a significant development for India's energy security.

India flags energy, maritime threats at BRICS amid West Asia crisis

India flags energy, maritime threats at BRICS amid West Asia crisis

Rediff.com15 May 2026

India has expressed serious concerns about the West Asia crisis and its potential impact on energy supplies and maritime stability, urging BRICS nations to find practical solutions to geopolitical challenges and unilateral sanctions.

'If We Hadn't Passed An Order Against Ranveer...'

'If We Hadn't Passed An Order Against Ranveer...'

Rediff.com27 May 2026

'If we had not passed an order against Ranveer Singh, the film industry would have collapsed.'

Trump threatens to bomb Iran as Pakistan pushes for truce extension

Trump threatens to bomb Iran as Pakistan pushes for truce extension

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

US President Donald Trump threatened to bomb Iran if a deal is not reached before the ceasefire ends, while Pakistan urged both sides to extend the truce and pursue diplomacy.

Is Pakistan's mediation stalling US-Iran peace deal?

Is Pakistan's mediation stalling US-Iran peace deal?

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

Doubts are emerging about Pakistan's role in mediating peace negotiations between the US and Iran, with suggestions that Islamabad's efforts are stalling and failing to secure a definitive response from the United States.

Why Tim Cook Is 'Over The Moon Excited' About India

Why Tim Cook Is 'Over The Moon Excited' About India

Rediff.com1 May 2026

Apple CEO Tim Cook expresses strong optimism about the Indian market, citing its potential for growth and the company's recent successes in the region.

Iran blames UAE after BRICS ministers fail to agree on joint declaration

Iran blames UAE after BRICS ministers fail to agree on joint declaration

Rediff.com16 May 2026

The BRICS foreign ministers' meeting in New Delhi concluded without a joint statement due to disagreements over the West Asia conflict, with Iran blaming the UAE for the lack of consensus. India, as the host, issued a chair's statement highlighting the differing views.

Unseasonal Rain Puts Wheat Crop At Risk

Unseasonal Rain Puts Wheat Crop At Risk

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

Unseasonal rainfall could damage standing wheat crops, especially late-sown fields nearing maturity and grain-filling stages.

Storms, hail sweep north India; 34 rescued as Baramulla school floods

Storms, hail sweep north India; 34 rescued as Baramulla school floods

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

A new western disturbance brought thunderstorms and rain to parts of northern India, with hailstorms and snow reported in several regions. The weather caused flooding in Jammu and Kashmir and prompted a yellow alert in Delhi.

Evacuate Now! Iran Warns Civilians in Neighbouring Gulf Countries

Evacuate Now! Iran Warns Civilians in Neighbouring Gulf Countries

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

The IRGC accused US and Israeli forces of using civilians as 'human shields' and warned of continued attacks.

Two more Indian LPG tankers transit Hormuz with 94K tonne cooking gas

Two more Indian LPG tankers transit Hormuz with 94K tonne cooking gas

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

Two more Indian-flagged LPG tankers have safely navigated the Strait of Hormuz, ensuring continued cooking gas supply to India amidst regional conflict. These tankers are expected to reach Indian shores soon, following the successful transit of previous vessels.

'Beginning of a new chapter': Modi inaugurates Noida airport in Jewar

'Beginning of a new chapter': Modi inaugurates Noida airport in Jewar

Rediff.com28 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first phase of the Noida International Airport in Jewar, Uttar Pradesh, highlighting its role as a multi-modal transport hub and its potential to significantly boost cargo and passenger handling capacity.

Pak rejects reports of stalled US, Iran talks; Araghchi reacts

Pak rejects reports of stalled US, Iran talks; Araghchi reacts

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

Pakistan's Foreign Office has refuted media reports suggesting that its efforts to facilitate peace talks between the US and Iran have stalled, calling the reports baseless and speculative.

War, Rain Dampen Q4 Consumer Durables Sales, Especially ACs

War, Rain Dampen Q4 Consumer Durables Sales, Especially ACs

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

Increased input costs due to geopolitical conflict in West Asia and unseasonal rain in March negatively impacted volumes of consumer durables makers, particularly air conditioners, in Q4FY26, leading to projected declines in EBITDA and APAT despite revenue growth.