News for 'World Service'

Jailer 2 Review: Rajinikanth Fanboy Fun With Flawed Villains

Jailer 2 Review: Rajinikanth Fanboy Fun With Flawed Villains

Rediff.com15 Oct 2026

Rajinikanth brings the swagger, Nelson delivers the whistles, but Jailer 2's predictable plot and underwhelming villains keep this fanboy extravaganza from becoming anything more than a familiar celebration of Thalaivar's aura.

Vijay Shekhar Sharma's Personal Bet On India's AI Future

Vijay Shekhar Sharma's Personal Bet On India's AI Future

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

Paytm founder Vijay Shekhar Sharma has pledged personal funds, ranging from Rs 1 crore to Rs 2 crore, to Indian entrepreneurs developing their own artificial intelligence models. This initiative aims to foster indigenous AI capabilities and reduce reliance on foreign models, echoing Sharma's past success in mobile payments.

India's Aviation Sector Soars: Indigenous Aircraft, New Airports On Horizon

India's Aviation Sector Soars: Indigenous Aircraft, New Airports On Horizon

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu announced India's ambition to produce its first indigenous civilian aircraft within two years through a joint venture. He highlighted the rapid growth of the country's aviation sector, with significant aircraft orders, planned new airports, and potential for manufacturing jet engines and Sustainable Aviation Fuel, underscoring India's increasing role in global aviation.

PM Modi Calls For Unified Global Action Against Cyber Frauds And Deepfakes

PM Modi Calls For Unified Global Action Against Cyber Frauds And Deepfakes

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged for a global framework to combat cross-border cyber frauds and deepfakes, highlighting the need for governments, tech companies, telecom operators, and financial institutions to collaborate. Speaking at the India Mobile Congress 2026, Modi stressed that technology thrives on trust and that India is ready to share its expertise in tackling cyber threats. He also noted the rapid expansion of 5G and the success of digital governance initiatives like Direct Benefit Transfer.

Satwik-Chirag crash out of BWF Worlds after China's stunning show

Satwik-Chirag crash out of BWF Worlds after China's stunning show

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

India's top men's doubles pair, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, were defeated in straight games by China's Liang Wei Keng and Wang Chang in the quarter-finals of the BWF World Championships, ending their bid for a third medal at the event.

BWF Worlds: Satwik-Chirag suffer shock exit, miss out on medal

BWF Worlds: Satwik-Chirag suffer shock exit, miss out on medal

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Satwik-Chirag's BWF World Championships campaign ended in a disappointing quarter-final defeat.

Cambridge Report Urges Teacher Involvement In Shaping India's AI Education Policy

Cambridge Report Urges Teacher Involvement In Shaping India's AI Education Policy

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

A new report from Cambridge University Press & Assessment highlights the critical need for Indian policymakers to collaborate with teachers in developing AI education policies. The study emphasizes investing in teacher professional learning and involving educators and learners in the design and evaluation of AI tools to ensure policies are grounded in classroom realities and promote critical AI literacy.

Alcaraz finds his rhythm after serve wobbles to overcome Michelsen in Tokyo

Alcaraz finds his rhythm after serve wobbles to overcome Michelsen in Tokyo

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Carlos Alcaraz overcame early struggles with his tweaked serve and tricky Tokyo conditions to beat Alex Michelsen in three sets and keep his Japan Open title defence alive.

'Our Bodies Are Wild Beings'

'Our Bodies Are Wild Beings'

Rediff.com15 Oct 2026

'Growing up in Bangladesh, I always felt that I was a piece of meat. As soon as I walked down the street, I could be the president of Bangladesh and I would still be a piece of meat because I am a woman.'

All Iranian airlines to be shut down globally from Sept 23: US

All Iranian airlines to be shut down globally from Sept 23: US

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

United States Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has warned that Iranian airlines could be effectively shut out of international travel from Wednesday, September 23, as Washington threatens secondary sanctions against foreign companies that continue providing services to Iran's carriers.

Cincinnati Open: Bejlek shocks World No 1 Sabalenka, Paul ousts top seed Zverev

Cincinnati Open: Bejlek shocks World No 1 Sabalenka, Paul ousts top seed Zverev

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

World number one Aryna Sabalenka and top seed Alexander Zverev were dramatically knocked out of the Cincinnati Open, with Sabalenka losing to Sara Bejlek and Zverev falling to Tommy Paul after saving a match point.

Bollywood Salutes Nana Patekar: 'A Legend Moves On'

Bollywood Salutes Nana Patekar: 'A Legend Moves On'

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

That voice, that intensity, that honesty in every performance he was completely his own. Nana Patekar was truly one of a kind.'

Nasscom President Highlights AI's Transformative Role In India's BPM Sector

Nasscom President Highlights AI's Transformative Role In India's BPM Sector

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

Nasscom President Rajesh Nambiar stated that artificial intelligence is not making India's Business Process Management (BPM) industry obsolete but is instead driving its significant reinvention. He highlighted that the sector has an opportunity to become the world's "intelligent operations and transformation hub" by leveraging AI, analytics, and cloud-based operations, moving beyond traditional call centres. Nambiar outlined three key priorities for the industry, including reimagining processes, building hybrid human-AI operating models, and redefining India's global BPM representation.

BWF Worlds: Treesa-Gayatri stun China, assure India of medal

BWF Worlds: Treesa-Gayatri stun China, assure India of medal

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

India's Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand staged a remarkable comeback victory in the women's doubles quarter-finals at the BWF World Championships 2026, defeating China's Jia Yifan and Zhang Shuxian to secure a semi-final spot and guarantee India a medal.

India-US trade talks reach 'plateau', limited room for concessions: Sitharaman

India-US trade talks reach 'plateau', limited room for concessions: Sitharaman

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated that negotiations for the India-US trade agreement have reached a 'plateau', indicating limited scope for further concessions from either side, while also highlighting the US's aim to reduce its trade deficit with India.

Import-linked GST drives 18.1% surge in September revenue

Import-linked GST drives 18.1% surge in September revenue

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

India's Goods and Services Tax (GST) receipts, after accounting for refunds, surged by 18.1 per cent annually to approximately 1.77 trillion in September, marking its fastest growth in six months. This increase was primarily driven by a significant rise in tax revenue from imports, which grew 26 per cent annually.

Florence Pugh Slams Cornell University Over Alleged Gang Rape Case

Florence Pugh Slams Cornell University Over Alleged Gang Rape Case

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Actress Florence Pugh has voiced strong support for a Cornell University student who was allegedly gang-raped, criticising the university's lenient handling of the accused. Pugh expressed her outrage at the systemic failure to protect women and the disproportionate consequences faced by victims versus perpetrators.

'I was fighting for my life, but wouldn't let others die': Capt Machchhar tells Modi

'I was fighting for my life, but wouldn't let others die': Capt Machchhar tells Modi

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Captain Smit Machchaar for his exceptional bravery in foiling an alleged attempt by his co-pilot to crash an Israel-bound flydubai flight. Modi spoke to Machchaar and his family, expressing pride in his heroic actions that saved hundreds of lives. The incident involved a sharp descent and diversion of the flight, with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu also acknowledging Machchaar's courage.

How India Is Integrating Payment Systems In Global Trade Deals

How India Is Integrating Payment Systems In Global Trade Deals

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

India is actively integrating payment system harmonisation into its Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations, especially with countries hosting a large Indian diaspora. This strategy aims to leverage India's growing fintech ecosystem, facilitate cross-border financial services, and position India as a global hub for financial services exports, particularly through platforms like GIFT City.

Top BJP leaders visit temples on Modi's 76th birthday

Top BJP leaders visit temples on Modi's 76th birthday

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 76th birthday was celebrated with extensive programmes in Varanasi, his Lok Sabha constituency. Events included special prayers by 76 young priests, a milk 'abhishek' of the Ganga, and a significant 'Seva Sankalp' motorcycle journey from Varanasi to Vadnagar, Modi's birthplace, involving 500 participants. Several prominent political figures, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, participated in the celebrations, offering prayers for Modi's health and India's progress.

Assam CM Unveils NESFIC To Transform Northeast Into Innovation Hub

Assam CM Unveils NESFIC To Transform Northeast Into Innovation Hub

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched the North East Seva Innovation Challenge (NESFIC), envisioning the region as India's 'living laboratory' for technology and problem-solving. The initiative aims to empower young innovators to address real-world challenges faced by government, industries, and citizens, with a focus on practical implementation and government procurement.

Microsoft India President On AI's Future And Investment In The Nation

Microsoft India President On AI's Future And Investment In The Nation

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

Microsoft India and South Asia President, Puneet Chandok, discusses the company's strong belief in human-centric AI development, significant investments in India's cloud and AI infrastructure, and the country's pivotal role as an AI market, talent hub, and technology builder. He highlights AI's impact on jobs and the need for responsible innovation.

Hyundai India gears up for localised mass-market SUV EV launch

Hyundai India gears up for localised mass-market SUV EV launch

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Hyundai Motor India Ltd (HMIL) is set to launch a localised mass-market SUV built on a dedicated EV platform, expanding its EV portfolio beyond the IONIQ 5 and CRETA Electric, while also significantly boosting its charging infrastructure and training its workforce.

How India Is Poised To Become A Global Semiconductor Powerhouse

How India Is Poised To Become A Global Semiconductor Powerhouse

Rediff.com27 Sep 2026

India is strategically positioned to develop a robust domestic semiconductor ecosystem, driven by increasing electronics consumption, strong government support through incentives, and a global shift in supply chains. Boston Consulting Group Managing Director Ankush Wadhera highlights India's potential as a safe haven for investments, with the AI boom further fuelling demand for advanced chips. The nation aims to expand its capabilities across the entire semiconductor value chain, attracting significant global and domestic investments.

How Bank Of Baroda's New App Revolutionises Digital Payments

How Bank Of Baroda's New App Revolutionises Digital Payments

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Bank of Baroda has launched 'bob World 2.0', an AI-powered mobile banking app featuring voice-command capabilities for payments and navigation. The updated app also includes a personal finance management module and a persona-based customer experience, aiming to offer intuitive, secure, and personalised banking services.

On Trump's UNGA Agenda: Mamdani, Macron and Zelenskyy

On Trump's UNGA Agenda: Mamdani, Macron and Zelenskyy

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

US President Donald Trump is set to engage in a series of high-profile meetings during the 81st United Nations General Assembly High-Level Week in New York, including discussions with NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

US embassy conveys Trump's birthday wishes for Modi

US embassy conveys Trump's birthday wishes for Modi

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 76th birthday was marked by a flurry of greetings from global leaders, including Italian PM Giorgia Meloni, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, and Russian President Vladimir Putin, all underscoring strengthening bilateral ties and India's increasing stature on the world stage.

Indian Golfers Aim For Glory At Asian Games With Strong Squad

Indian Golfers Aim For Glory At Asian Games With Strong Squad

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

India's six-member golf contingent, led by silver medallist Aditi Ashok, is set to compete at the Asian Games. The team, comprising experienced professionals like Yuvraj Sandhu, Veer Ahlawat, and Diksha Dagar, aims to add to India's seven past golf medals. They face a strong international field, including PGA Tour stars like Tom Kim and Keita Nakajima, on a challenging course.

Serial practitioner of terrorism: Jaishankar slams Pak PM Sharif at UNGA

Serial practitioner of terrorism: Jaishankar slams Pak PM Sharif at UNGA

Rediff.com27 Sep 2026

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, addressing the UN General Assembly, strongly criticised Pakistan for its support of terrorism, asserting India's right to self-defence and stating that friendship cannot coexist with terrorism. He also highlighted India's global responsibilities, contributions to the Global South, and its stance on reformed multilateralism and AI.

UAE to Invest Additional $25 Billion in India, Deepening Economic Ties

UAE to Invest Additional $25 Billion in India, Deepening Economic Ties

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has expressed intent to invest an additional $25 billion in India, with an ultimate goal of reaching $100 billion in investments, Union Minister Piyush Goyal announced. This comes as both nations plan to enhance cooperation in shipping, ports, energy, and emerging technologies, against a backdrop of expanding bilateral trade.

MMA Fighter Varun Sanyal's Unforgettable Asian Games Debut

MMA Fighter Varun Sanyal's Unforgettable Asian Games Debut

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

Indian MMA fighter Varun Sanyal faced a challenging Asian Games debut, marked by logistical issues and a medical disqualification due to a weight-cutting incident. Despite the setback, Sanyal, an Indian citizen with Singapore PR, shares his journey in MMA, his 'fighting nomad' lifestyle, and his aspirations for Indian fighters.

Davis Cup: Dhakshineswar Leads India's Charge Against Korea

Davis Cup: Dhakshineswar Leads India's Charge Against Korea

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

India's Davis Cup team is set for a high-stakes Qualifier Round 2 clash against South Korea in Seoul, with players like Dhakshineswar Suresh and Sumit Nagal aiming to secure a historic Final 8 berth under the current format.

Vishy Anand Re-elected FIDE Deputy President

Vishy Anand Re-elected FIDE Deputy President

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

Anand's re-election as Deputy President means Bharat Singh Chauhan's bid for vice president is ineligible due to FIDE rules against multiple representatives from the same federation on the council.

US, EU flag India's 'trade barriers' at WTO, citing high tariffs, QCOs, and digital trade curbs

US, EU flag India's 'trade barriers' at WTO, citing high tariffs, QCOs, and digital trade curbs

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

The United States and the European Union have strongly criticised India's trade policies at the World Trade Organization review, highlighting concerns over high tariffs, quality-control orders (QCOs), and restrictions on digital trade and services, which they argue undermine India's economic openness.

UPI Fee: Governments Gusty Response

UPI Fee: Governments Gusty Response

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

If the new MDR regime is rolled out from the middle of this month, as scheduled, it should count as one of the boldest political actions by the Modi government on an economic-policy issue, and a signal that it is less worried about erosion of political capital it draws from one of its key constituencies, notes A K Bhattacharya.

PhonePe To Expand Digital Payments To Rural India With 20,000 New Hires

PhonePe To Expand Digital Payments To Rural India With 20,000 New Hires

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

PhonePe has announced a significant expansion plan to deepen digital payment infrastructure across India's towns and villages. This initiative includes hiring over 20,000 sales personnel and deploying more than 50 lakh payment devices, with a strong focus on rural areas, aiming to bring small merchants into the formal financial ecosystem.

'Leave ISRO ALONE!'

'Leave ISRO ALONE!'

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

'I don't think the government will sacrifice such a fine institution for monetary gains.'

S&P, Fitch Raise India's FY27 GDP Growth Forecasts, Anticipate RBI Rate expected

S&P, Fitch Raise India's FY27 GDP Growth Forecasts, Anticipate RBI Rate expected

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

Fitch Ratings has increased India's GDP growth forecast for the current fiscal year (FY'27) to 6.9 per cent, up from 6.4 per cent, attributing the revision to robust economic growth in the June quarter and overall economic resilience. The agency also anticipates the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will raise interest rates by 0.25 per cent in October.

9/11: Remembering Lives Lost 25 Years On

9/11: Remembering Lives Lost 25 Years On

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

From FDNY tributes to preserved artifacts, these photographs document remembrance and the continuing impact of 9/11.

Football bodies accuse FIFA chief of 'deception' over World Cup rights

Football bodies accuse FIFA chief of 'deception' over World Cup rights

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), and CONCACAF have jointly criticised FIFA President Gianni Infantino for his handling of a proposed sale of commercial rights to the World Cup, accusing him of 'deception' and calling for an independent review.