News for 'ZERO'

Tom Cruise's 10 Best Movies

Tom Cruise's 10 Best Movies

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Looking at the best Tom Cruise films outside the Mission: Impossible franchise that proves just how versatile the superstar can be.

What Drishyam, Singham, Dhamaal Have In Common

What Drishyam, Singham, Dhamaal Have In Common

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

From Hera Pheri to Krrish and Drishyam, these Bollywood franchises took their sequels in wildly different directions from the films that inspired them.

Love Wearing Activewear? See The Secret It Reveals

Love Wearing Activewear? See The Secret It Reveals

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

Some girls want their gym look to be cute enough for a post-workout coffee, others need maximum support and zero distractions, while some are clearly dressing for the airport, not the treadmill.

'They raped her on park benches, called their friends during assault'

'They raped her on park benches, called their friends during assault'

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

Police investigating the gangrape of a 17-year-old girl at Astha Kunj Park in New Delhi have revealed that the three accused followed the victim for nearly a kilometre before assaulting her at multiple secluded locations, coordinating their actions via phone calls. One accused, an advocate, was previously removed from a gym due to complaints about his behaviour. The probe also suggests the accused frequented the park and may have been involved in similar incidents, highlighting concerns about park security and lighting.

India Pioneers 100% Hydrogen DRI Plant For Green Steel

India Pioneers 100% Hydrogen DRI Plant For Green Steel

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

India is set to develop its first 100% hydrogen-powered Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) plant, a Rs 207-crore national pilot project led by CSIR-IMMT. This initiative aims to significantly reduce carbon emissions in the steel sector and achieve net-zero commitments, focusing on adapting the technology to India's domestic iron ore conditions.

Daayra Review: Potent Kareena, Prithviraj

Daayra Review: Potent Kareena, Prithviraj

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

Its unresolved, noncommittal conclusion is exactly the sort of anticlimactic reality Daayra wants to bring our attention to. Neither justice nor revenge can undo the fate met by the world's Nirbhayas or Arushis, observes Sukanya Verma.

UPI charges: Govt rejects rollback amid Opposition outcry

UPI charges: Govt rejects rollback amid Opposition outcry

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% fee on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 for merchants, effective October 15, sparking strong opposition from political parties and traders. Despite accusations of foreign influence and demands for a rollback, the finance ministry and top functionaries have stated there will be no reversal, citing the need for a self-sustaining digital payments ecosystem.

BharatPe Supports UPI MDR Changes, Distances From Ashneer Grover's Criticism

BharatPe Supports UPI MDR Changes, Distances From Ashneer Grover's Criticism

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

Fintech firm BharatPe has publicly supported the government's new Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) framework for UPI merchant transactions, which introduces a 0.4% fee on transfers over Rs 2,000. The company has also distanced itself from its former co-founder Ashneer Grover's strong criticism of these changes, stating his remarks are personal and do not reflect BharatPe's official position. BharatPe believes the new framework will strengthen digital payment economics while protecting consumers and small merchants.

Opposition Demands Rollback Of UPI MDR Fee, Cites US Pressure

Opposition Demands Rollback Of UPI MDR Fee, Cites US Pressure

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The opposition has intensified its criticism of the government's decision to impose a 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000, effective October 15. Leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Jairam Ramesh allege the move is a result of US pressure, particularly from American card companies, and demand an immediate rollback, warning of increased costs for consumers.

Congress Slams Government Over New UPI Charges, Cites US Pressure

Congress Slams Government Over New UPI Charges, Cites US Pressure

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Congress party has accused the Indian government of imposing new charges on UPI transactions due to pressure from the United States, specifically to benefit American card companies. The opposition party demanded the withdrawal of the decision, calling it "anti-national" and alleging it fills the coffers of US firms while burdening Indian citizens. The government, however, clarified that the Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) charges apply only to commercial transactions above Rs 2,000 and are not levied on consumers, a stance supported by the BJP which accused Congress of spreading "fake news".

Why BharatPe Supports The New UPI MDR Framework

Why BharatPe Supports The New UPI MDR Framework

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

Fintech company BharatPe has expressed strong support for the government's new Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) framework for UPI merchant transactions, which introduces a 0.4% fee on transfers exceeding Rs 2,000. The company explicitly distanced itself from critical remarks made by its former co-founder Ashneer Grover, clarifying that his views do not represent BharatPe's stance. BharatPe CEO Nalin Negi highlighted that the framework aims to strengthen digital payment economics, protect consumers and small merchants, and expand adoption in underserved markets, with most transactions remaining unaffected.

No tolerance for abusive remarks against women, CM Vijay warns Oppn

No tolerance for abusive remarks against women, CM Vijay warns Oppn

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay issued a stern warning against personal attacks, double-meaning insults, and derogatory language targeting women, particularly in political discourse. Speaking in the Assembly, he recalled past humiliations faced by late CM J Jayalalithaa and condemned recent incidents involving women personalities, stressing that such behaviour would face immediate legal consequences. He also outlined his administration's vision for public security and zero-tolerance against crime.

Top Pharma Firms Maintain Volume Growth Amid Market Shift to Chronic Therapies

Top Pharma Firms Maintain Volume Growth Amid Market Shift to Chronic Therapies

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

India's 10 largest pharmaceutical companies have consistently maintained positive average volume growth throughout 2026, while smaller rivals have experienced more erratic performance, driven by a market shift towards chronic and sub-chronic therapies.

BRICS joint declaration omits mention of US for Iran attacks

BRICS joint declaration omits mention of US for Iran attacks

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

The BRICS grouping adopted a consensus joint declaration in New Delhi, successfully navigating differences on the West Asia conflict but notably omitting any direct mention of US strikes on Iran or Iranian military attacks on Gulf Arab nations. The declaration also criticised Israel's actions in Gaza and called for a concerted approach against terrorism.

Avengers: Endgame Encore: How The 4 New Crucial Scenes Set Up Doomsday

Avengers: Endgame Encore: How The 4 New Crucial Scenes Set Up Doomsday

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Avengers: Endgame Encore adds four crucial scenes that connect the old MCU to Avengers: Doomsday, from Loki's shocking return to Doctor Doom's sinister plans for the multiverse.

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.

Closing Auction Session Triggers Wild 14-Minute Market Swings on Expiry Day

Closing Auction Session Triggers Wild 14-Minute Market Swings on Expiry Day

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The Closing Auction Session (CAS) on expiry day led to unprecedented volatility in the Nifty 50 and Sensex, causing the indices to swing wildly in just 14 minutes and raising concerns among traders about market manipulation and increased speculation.

Congress Alleges Modi Govt Paving Way For UPI Fees, Surrendering To US Pressure

Congress Alleges Modi Govt Paving Way For UPI Fees, Surrendering To US Pressure

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The Congress party has criticised the Modi government over a notification regarding UPI transactions, alleging it paves the way for imposing fees, especially on transactions above Rs 2,000. Rahul Gandhi claimed the government is surrendering to American pressure, while Mallikarjun Kharge highlighted the potential burden on common citizens amidst inflation. The government's notification prohibits charges on UPI transactions up to Rs 2,000 but remains silent on higher amounts, sparking fears of a "Digital Payments Tax."

No NSE Proposal for Self-Trading, Will Examine UPI MDR Concerns: Sebi

No NSE Proposal for Self-Trading, Will Examine UPI MDR Concerns: Sebi

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

SEBI Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey stated that the National Stock Exchange (NSE) has not submitted any proposal seeking approval to trade on its own platform after getting listed, and such trading is currently not permitted. He also confirmed that SEBI would examine concerns raised by brokers and asset management companies regarding the new UPI Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) framework.

'We Will Ask Customers To Pay In Cash'

'We Will Ask Customers To Pay In Cash'

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

'UPI has been free since Covid, so why is the government charging us now?'

How Social Media Is Destroying Your Retirement

How Social Media Is Destroying Your Retirement

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

Urban Indian millennials are caught in an algorithmically amplified consumption spiral where social media normalises spending patterns that systematically undermine retirement security.

'We want to dominate all teams': Abhishek Sharma

'We want to dominate all teams': Abhishek Sharma

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

Abhishek Sharma's explosive 82-run innings led India to a seven-wicket victory over Afghanistan in the opening T20 International in New Delhi, giving them a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Despite recent underwhelming performances, the Indian team showcased a strong collective effort, with key contributions from Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, and Ishan Kishan, while Afghanistan's skipper acknowledged their batting shortfall.

Remember These Images From 25 Years Ago?

Remember These Images From 25 Years Ago?

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

As younger generations grow up without personal memories of 9/11, the 25th anniversary serves as a powerful reminder of loss, resilience, bravery and America's enduring promise to never forget.

The Rationale Behind Government's UPI Fee Decision

The Rationale Behind Government's UPI Fee Decision

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Indian government has challenged Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's criticism of levying fees on UPI payments above Rs 2,000 to merchants. The government highlighted that a parliamentary standing committee, which included Congress MPs, had previously backed a tiered Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) framework for UPI. This move aims to ensure the financial sustainability of the UPI ecosystem and reduce its dependence on government subsidies, a concern raised by the committee due to the significant funding gap between allocations and operational costs.

'I Quit Every Gym I Joined, Then I Did Hyrox'

'I Quit Every Gym I Joined, Then I Did Hyrox'

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Rikin Dewey went from unused gym memberships and late-night partying to six days of training, losing nine kg and completing his first HYROX.

7 Hidden Credit Card Settings To Avoid Scams

7 Hidden Credit Card Settings To Avoid Scams

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Your credit card may have security controls you rarely use. Here are seven settings that can help prevent unwanted or fraudulent transactions.

Merchants to Pay 18% GST on UPI MDR for Transactions Above Rs 2,000

Merchants to Pay 18% GST on UPI MDR for Transactions Above Rs 2,000

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Merchants will be subject to an 18 per cent Goods and Services Tax (GST) on the Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) for UPI payments exceeding Rs 2,000, but can mitigate this burden by claiming input tax credit (ITC), according to tax experts.

'India Should Stop Listening To The US'

'India Should Stop Listening To The US'

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

'If you listen to a rowdy in a class, he will keep on bullying you.' 'India can say do whatever you want. We will not compromise on anything.'

'No excuses': Vimal sends strong message to Ayush Shetty

'No excuses': Vimal sends strong message to Ayush Shetty

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

Former badminton coach Vimal Kumar expresses optimism about India's medal prospects at the upcoming Asian Games, suggesting they can surpass their previous tally of three. He stresses the critical need for Indian singles players, including Lakshya Sen and Ayush Shetty, to overcome inconsistencies and deliver under pressure. Kumar also highlights the challenges posed by the new 15-point format and the highly competitive nature of men's singles badminton.

'Married For 15 Years, Now We Don't Have Sex'

'Married For 15 Years, Now We Don't Have Sex'

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

rediffGURU Anu Krishna recommends being patient, and consulting with a professional to help rebuild intimacy and strengthen communication in the marriage.

Law And Order Review: Criminally Bad!

Law And Order Review: Criminally Bad!

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

Law And Order not only delivers an outdated and amateurish gangster drama, but also manages to drag Mammootty's iconic Black character into the mess.

Understanding The GST Impact On UPI Transactions Over Rs 2,000

Understanding The GST Impact On UPI Transactions Over Rs 2,000

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Tax experts clarify that merchants will pay 18% GST on Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) for UPI payments exceeding Rs 2,000, effective October 15. However, registered merchants can claim Input Tax Credit (ITC), mitigating the tax burden. This move is expected to generate significant GST revenue for the exchequer while funding payment infrastructure.

BJP to leverage BRICS Summit success in poll campaigns

BJP to leverage BRICS Summit success in poll campaigns

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

The successful hosting of the 18th BRICS summit in New Delhi has provided a significant boost to the BJP, offering a timely opportunity to strengthen its narrative against the opposition ahead of crucial assembly elections next year. BJP sources highlight the BRICS grouping's strong condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack and the consensus declaration as major diplomatic victories for the Modi government, countering criticisms of its foreign policy. The party plans to leverage these outcomes during its month-long Seva Sankalp campaign to connect with various sections of society.

Asian Games a 'teaser' for Olympics, says India women's coach Amol Muzumdar

Asian Games a 'teaser' for Olympics, says India women's coach Amol Muzumdar

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

India women's head coach Amol Muzumdar and skipper Harmanpreet Kaur view the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games as crucial preparation and a 'teaser' for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where women's cricket will make its debut, aiming to carry their winning mindset into both global events.

Political Row Erupts Over UPI Fee Decision

Political Row Erupts Over UPI Fee Decision

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

The Congress party has strongly refuted government claims that its MPs on the Parliament Standing Committee on Finance supported a fee on high-value UPI payments. Congress leaders, including Gaurav Gogoi and Manish Tewari, stated that the "UPI tax" proposal was not specifically discussed by the committee, accusing the Modi government of diverting attention from public backlash and appeasing US companies. The government, however, cited the committee's report which pressed for a tiered Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) framework.

How To Pick The Right Broker

How To Pick The Right Broker

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Investors opening new brokerage accounts must choose a broker suited to their style.

Why Opposition Calls New UPI MDR A Surrender To US Pressure

Why Opposition Calls New UPI MDR A Surrender To US Pressure

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Opposition parties, including Congress, TMC, and RJD, have strongly criticised the government's decision to impose a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions exceeding Rs 2,000 made to merchants. They allege the move is a result of "American imperialism" and will lead to increased commodity prices, while the government maintains the charge is on merchants and not consumers, with person-to-person transactions remaining free.

New Study Warns Of 50% Rise In Petrochemical Emissions By 2050

New Study Warns Of 50% Rise In Petrochemical Emissions By 2050

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

New research from the University of Sheffield indicates that greenhouse gas emissions from petrochemical production could increase by 50 per cent by 2050 under a business-as-usual scenario. The study, published in Nature Sustainability, provides the first detailed global map of these emissions, identifying key sources and highlighting the challenge of decarbonising the sector.

New UPI Merchant Fee Ignites Fierce Political Debate

New UPI Merchant Fee Ignites Fierce Political Debate

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% transaction fee on UPI payments above Rs 2,000 for merchants, effective October 15, sparking a political row. The Congress party has labelled it a "Modi tax" and accused the government of succumbing to US pressure, while the BJP has defended the move, clarifying that consumers will not be charged and small vendors are protected. The finance ministry reiterated that the charge is on merchants, not customers.

SEMICON India 2026: Unpacking India's Strategic Push For Chip Manufacturing

SEMICON India 2026: Unpacking India's Strategic Push For Chip Manufacturing

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

India is making a significant push to establish itself as a global semiconductor manufacturing hub, driven by strategic investments and policy support. The upcoming SEMICON India 2026 event will showcase the country's advancements and ambitions in this critical industry, which underpins virtually all modern electronic devices and has faced global supply chain vulnerabilities.