News for 'department'

Why ISRO Staff Are Worried About ISRO's Future

Why ISRO Staff Are Worried About ISRO's Future

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

A rocket designed and developed by ISRO is being transferred to industry for production.
Nine ISRO associations want to know whether this is simply an effort to expand India's industrial capacity or part of a larger policy under which ISRO itself will eventually withdraw from rocket manufacturing.

ISRO staring at privatisation? Employee associations seek clarity

ISRO staring at privatisation? Employee associations seek clarity

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

Nine employee associations at ISRO have written to Chairperson V Narayanan, seeking official clarification on the proposed transfer of manufacturing and operational functions to private entities. They raised concerns about ISRO's future role, employee consequences, and recruitment, following comments by IN-SPACe chairperson Pawan Goenka regarding ISRO's eventual exit from launch vehicle manufacturing.

Why Have Major Trade Unions Been Excluded From Minimum Wage Panel?

Why Have Major Trade Unions Been Excluded From Minimum Wage Panel?

Rediff.com7 days ago

'Major unions should be included. If this goes on, decision-making will become heavily one-sided and we will be forced to continue our strikes.'

New UPI Merchant Fee Ignites Fierce Political Debate

New UPI Merchant Fee Ignites Fierce Political Debate

Rediff.com6 days ago

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.

Finance Ministry Rejects US Influence Claims On UPI MDR

Finance Ministry Rejects US Influence Claims On UPI MDR

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Finance Ministry has refuted allegations that US pressure influenced the decision to levy a 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on select UPI payments. The ministry clarified that the NPCI guidelines prioritise RuPay credit cards on UPI to promote domestic alternatives and ensure a self-sustaining revenue model for smaller domestic companies, countering claims of favouring foreign payment providers.

Why 9/11 Still Matters

Why 9/11 Still Matters

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

On the 25th anniversary of that world-changing morning in New York, it is also for the rest of to reflect. Not only on those who were killed but also on why the event happened and what led to it and what came after it, asserts Aakar Patel.

ED Director Navin Orders Stepped-Up Action Against IBC Fraud And Police FIR Delays

ED Director Navin Orders Stepped-Up Action Against IBC Fraud And Police FIR Delays

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) Director, Rahul Navin, has issued directives to intensify action against Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) frauds involving "large haircuts" and to address delays in police registering FIRs based on ED's requests. The agency also aims to fast-track high-profile trials under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and enhance internal coordination and efficiency.

PM Modi, President Murmu congratulate Indian women's team on Asia Cup triumph

PM Modi, President Murmu congratulate Indian women's team on Asia Cup triumph

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Indian women's cricket team secured their eighth Women's Asia Cup title, defeating Sri Lanka by 72 runs in the final, a triumph that has garnered widespread congratulations from top Indian leaders.

Cops thrash Gujarat man at same spot where he beat his live-in partner to death

Cops thrash Gujarat man at same spot where he beat his live-in partner to death

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

A man accused of fatally assaulting his live-in partner in Bhavnagar was publicly thrashed by police during a crime scene reconstruction. Police officials defended the action, citing the need to restore public faith after the brutal murder, despite a recent circular from the Gujarat Home Department restricting such conduct.

CM Orders Strict Action After Teacher Accused Of Harassing Students

CM Orders Strict Action After Teacher Accused Of Harassing Students

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

A teacher at a government residential school in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district has been accused of sexually harassing a 14-year-old girl and other students. Police have registered a case under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and POCSO Act, with efforts underway to apprehend the accused. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has ordered a thorough probe, strict action, and directed district authorities to enhance vigilance and conduct regular inspections of girls' hostels and residential schools to ensure child safety.

Eating goat meat here is...: WB minister on Bageshwar Baba's diktat

Eating goat meat here is...: WB minister on Bageshwar Baba's diktat

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh asserted that eating non-vegetarian food during Durga Puja is not controversial, countering Bageshwar Dham head priest Dhirendra Shastri's call for vegetarianism. Ghosh highlighted Bengal's traditions, including goat sacrifice as prasad, and criticised attempts to dictate food choices or government involvement in community pujas. He also touched upon a controversy regarding an 11-handed Durga idol.

US halts visa interviews globally amid Trump's immigration crackdown

US halts visa interviews globally amid Trump's immigration crackdown

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

The US State Department has paused visa appointments worldwide to conduct a 'global training initiative' for consular officers, aiming to ensure applicants are not likely to become a 'public charge' and are comprehensively evaluated, intensifying President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown.

Newborn dies after ambulance stuck on damage road for 2 hours

Newborn dies after ambulance stuck on damage road for 2 hours

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

A newborn girl tragically died in Agra after the ambulance transporting her mother got stuck for two hours on a severely damaged road in Gadhwar village. The family has filed a complaint, prompting an investigation, while Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has criticised the incident, blaming corruption.

Delhi sets up 24x7 command centre for BRICS summit

Delhi sets up 24x7 command centre for BRICS summit

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) is establishing a 24x7 command centre and implementing extensive civic preparations to ensure the smooth hosting of the 18th BRICS Summit. These measures include enhanced sanitation, beautification, traffic management, and coordination among various agencies to present a welcoming city for world leaders.

Abu Dhabi Targets Indian Tourists

Abu Dhabi Targets Indian Tourists

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

'India was the emirate's largest international source market by hotel guest volume.'

FY28 Budget Work Starts Early

FY28 Budget Work Starts Early

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

The Centre has spent 28 per cent of its FY27 capital expenditure budget of Rs 12.21 trillion in the first three months against around 24.5 per cent during the corresponding period a year ago.

Nepal floods: Bihar on high alert as Ganga, Gandak, Kosi, Burhi Gandak swell

Nepal floods: Bihar on high alert as Ganga, Gandak, Kosi, Burhi Gandak swell

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Parts of Bihar are facing a potential deluge as major rivers like the Ganga, Gandak, Kosi, and Burhi Gandak show rising water levels. This surge is attributed to devastating flash floods and continuous rainfall in neighbouring Nepal, prompting authorities to open barrage gates and place disaster response teams on standby.

Narrow escape for Punjabi singer Ammy Virk in Canada gun attack

Narrow escape for Punjabi singer Ammy Virk in Canada gun attack

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Punjabi singer Ammy Virk's concert convoy was targeted in a shooting incident in Abbotsford, Canada, though he escaped unhurt. Police are investigating the targeted attack and a connected vehicle fire.

Congress Labels New UPI Charges As 'Modi Tax', Alleges US Pressure

Congress Labels New UPI Charges As 'Modi Tax', Alleges US Pressure

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Congress party has criticised the government's new 0.4% charge on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 for merchants, terming it a "Modi tax". Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, allege that this move will ultimately burden consumers through price hikes and accuse the government of succumbing to American pressure to dilute India's zero-MDR policy. The government states the charge will support banks and fintechs.

UEFA Seeks Evidence Against FIFA President Infantino In Swiss Case

UEFA Seeks Evidence Against FIFA President Infantino In Swiss Case

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

UEFA is seeking evidence in a US court for a potential Swiss criminal case against FIFA President Gianni Infantino concerning his abandoned World Cup commercial-rights plan.

Bengaluru 'Peptide Party' cancelled after food regulator notice

Bengaluru 'Peptide Party' cancelled after food regulator notice

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

Peptide parties are informal, invite-only social gatherings where biohackers, wellness enthusiasts, and fitness influencers meet to discuss, sample, or promote peptide-based products.

BRICS ahead, Delhi rains put civic coordination under spotlight

BRICS ahead, Delhi rains put civic coordination under spotlight

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

Heavy rainfall caused significant waterlogging in New Delhi, particularly near IGI Airport, just days before the BRICS Summit. The incident highlighted coordination issues among various city agencies, with PWD officials attributing some flooding to other departments, despite a recent review meeting by the Lieutenant Governor to ensure inter-agency synergy.

Odisha govt lens on Vedanta plant over excess water usage

Odisha govt lens on Vedanta plant over excess water usage

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Vedanta Ltd's aluminium plant in Jharsuguda, Odisha, is under regulatory scrutiny by the state's Water Resources department regarding its water sources and drawal history. This follows a complaint alleging unauthorised groundwater extraction and previous financial demands for illegal water use, with the National Green Tribunal also seeking responses on environmental concerns.

Nature Reclaims Abandoned Mines, Creating Rich Bird Habitats In Asola-Bhatti

Nature Reclaims Abandoned Mines, Creating Rich Bird Habitats In Asola-Bhatti

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

A study by the Wildlife Institute of India in the Asola-Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary reveals that abandoned mining areas have become the most bird-rich habitat, supporting 46 species. These former quarries, now featuring diverse scrub, grassland, rocky patches, and water pools, demonstrate nature's recovery after human disturbance ceased, highlighting the importance of habitat diversity for conservation.

Malayalam Filmmaker R Sarath Passes Away

Malayalam Filmmaker R Sarath Passes Away

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Malayalam filmmaker R Sarath, celebrated for his distinctive contributions to cinema including the award-winning Sayahnam, has passed away in Thiruvananthapuram.

India eye series win against Afghanistan despite fifth bowler concerns

India eye series win against Afghanistan despite fifth bowler concerns

Rediff.com7 days ago

India is set to face Afghanistan in the second T20I, aiming to clinch the series despite ongoing concerns about a reliable fifth bowling option in the absence of Hardik Pandya. The team delivered a dominant performance in the first match, securing a seven-wicket victory.

Supreme Court Intervenes For Water Sports Coach Bilquis Mir

Supreme Court Intervenes For Water Sports Coach Bilquis Mir

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has directed the Jammu and Kashmir administration to issue a no-objection certificate and relieving order to international water sports coach Bilquis Mir, enabling her to join the Indian National Kayaking and Canoeing Team as chief coach for the Asian Games. This ruling came after PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti criticised the bureaucratic hurdles faced by Mir, highlighting systemic issues within the administration.

CM Vijay breaks TN assembly tradition, moves to ministers' row

CM Vijay breaks TN assembly tradition, moves to ministers' row

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay departed from a long-standing Assembly tradition by sitting with ministers in the front row instead of his designated chair. This move, considered unprecedented for a chief minister, occurred during a session where the presence of department secretaries was also debated.

Over 100 Maha tourists stranded in flood-affected Nepal

Over 100 Maha tourists stranded in flood-affected Nepal

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

State officials report that at least 114 tourists from Maharashtra are estimated to be stranded in flood-hit Nepal, with 53 confirmed safe. The Maharashtra government has initiated coordination efforts with tour agencies and central authorities, establishing helplines and control rooms to assist and gather information on those affected by the devastating flash floods.

Another DKS min in trouble as ED searches unearth Rs 3 cr, foreign assets

Another DKS min in trouble as ED searches unearth Rs 3 cr, foreign assets

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

The Enforcement Directorate has seized Rs 3.45 crore in cash during searches against Karnataka PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi, his family, and associates in a FEMA investigation. The probe concerns alleged undisclosed overseas investments, cross-border business links, and collection of bribes from PWD contractors, with the minister denying wrongdoing and alleging political targeting.

UPI fee: Why govt is putting a price on big merchant payments

UPI fee: Why govt is putting a price on big merchant payments

Rediff.com5 days ago

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) stated that the Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) "is distributed only amongst the UPI ecosystem, to further invest into infrastructure resilience, innovation, cybersecurity (protecting the UPI infrastructure with banks and non-banks) and customer service."

PIX: Abhishek, Arshdeep power India to big win over Afghanistan

PIX: Abhishek, Arshdeep power India to big win over Afghanistan

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

Abhishek Sharma roared back to form with a blistering 84 off 32 balls, while Arshdeep Singh's superb 3 for 19 helped India cruise to a seven-wicket win over Afghanistan in the opening T20I in Delhi on Sunday.

New UPI Charges: Understanding The Impact On Digital Payments

New UPI Charges: Understanding The Impact On Digital Payments

Rediff.com5 days ago

The government is introducing a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI person-to-merchant payments above Rs 2,000, effective October 15. This move ends the zero-MDR regime, aiming to fund UPI infrastructure and sustainability, as the previous government subsidy was insufficient to cover operational costs. Payments between individuals and most everyday merchant transactions will remain free.

Pradhama Drishtiya Kuttakkar Review: Gripping Cop Drama

Pradhama Drishtiya Kuttakkar Review: Gripping Cop Drama

Rediff.com6 days ago

Pradhama Drishtiya Kuttakkar is a gripping cat-and-mouse game that benefits from smart writing.

Judicial officer cannot shout at judges in court: SC

Judicial officer cannot shout at judges in court: SC

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has refused to stay contempt proceedings initiated by the Bombay High Court against a judicial officer for an "unwarranted outburst" in court. The apex court observed that a judicial officer cannot shout at judges and deemed the officer's conduct as "gross indiscipline," advising him to tender an unconditional apology to the High Court. The High Court had initiated proceedings after the officer allegedly blamed the court administration in a high-pitched tone during a hearing on fast-track court posts.

PNB targets wealth management entry by 2027, ramps up credit card portfolio

PNB targets wealth management entry by 2027, ramps up credit card portfolio

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

State-run Punjab National Bank (PNB) is strategically planning to enter the wealth management segment by early 2027 and significantly expand its credit card portfolio, aiming to tap into lucrative markets largely dominated by private-sector banks.

Delhi gears up for BRICS summit with extensive makeover

Delhi gears up for BRICS summit with extensive makeover

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Central Delhi has undergone a significant beautification drive, including extensive lighting, floral displays, and BRICS-themed signages, in preparation for the upcoming BRICS Leaders' Summit. The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) and other civic bodies have focused on sprucing up key routes, hotels, and the summit venue, Bharat Mandapam, to welcome delegates and visitors.

Edgbaston Test: Debutant Razaullah blasts 81 to stretch England's wait

Edgbaston Test: Debutant Razaullah blasts 81 to stretch England's wait

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Pakistan's lower order staged a spirited late fightback, with debutant Razaullah smashing 81 and sharing a 121-run stand with Abbas to frustrate England before dismissal.

Farah Khan's Emotional Goodbye To Her Children

Farah Khan's Emotional Goodbye To Her Children

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Farah Khan shared an emotional farewell as her triplets, Czar, Diva, and Anya, embarked on their university journeys across three different cities in the US.

Vijay opens Mettur gates, Cauvery water flows to delta fields amid scanty rain

Vijay opens Mettur gates, Cauvery water flows to delta fields amid scanty rain

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay opened the sluices of the Stanley Reservoir in Mettur on Tuesday for irrigation in the Cauvery delta districts.