News for 'finance minister'

CII urges govt to phase out fuel excise cut

CII urges govt to phase out fuel excise cut

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has urged the Indian government to gradually restore the Rs 10-per-litre cut in special additional excise duty on petrol and diesel over six to nine months. This move aims to relieve pressure on government finances as crude oil prices stabilise, without significantly impacting consumer sentiment.

Mamata Banerjee Alleges Car Search Attempt by Central Forces

Mamata Banerjee Alleges Car Search Attempt by Central Forces

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused central forces of attempting to search her car while en route to Kolkata airport, alleging misuse of central machinery by the BJP ahead of state elections.

Rs 10 Crore Money Trail Uncovered In Jharkhand Treasury Scam

Rs 10 Crore Money Trail Uncovered In Jharkhand Treasury Scam

Rediff.com1 May 2026

The Jharkhand Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has uncovered a money trail of Rs 10 crore related to the Bokaro treasury scam, freezing several fixed deposits and arresting multiple individuals, including police personnel and an accountant.

Jharkhand BJP Urges Prompt Police Salary Disbursement

Jharkhand BJP Urges Prompt Police Salary Disbursement

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

The opposition BJP in Jharkhand has demanded the prompt payment of salaries to police personnel, which have been withheld following alleged irregularities in treasury funds across several districts. The police association claims that over 70,000 personnel have not received their salaries since March due to ongoing investigations into the matter.

Naveen Patnaik Seeks Sitharaman's Intervention In Tribal Man's Case

Naveen Patnaik Seeks Sitharaman's Intervention In Tribal Man's Case

Rediff.com2 May 2026

BJD president Naveen Patnaik has requested Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's intervention in a case where an Odisha tribal man was forced to exhume his sister's skeleton to prove her death to a rural bank. Patnaik seeks accountability for the incident, which has sparked public outrage.

New TN cabinet vows break from Dravidian-era governance

New TN cabinet vows break from Dravidian-era governance

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Following the swearing-in of C Joseph Vijay as Tamil Nadu's chief minister, the new cabinet has pledged a 'white paper' audit of all state departments and a 'zero-interference' policy in administration, signalling a significant shift in governance.

Technocrat-politician Ashok Lahiri to steer NITI Aayog with reform mandate

Technocrat-politician Ashok Lahiri to steer NITI Aayog with reform mandate

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

Ashok Lahiri, a distinguished economist with experience in government, the private sector, and electoral politics, has been appointed as the new Vice-Chairman of NITI Aayog, tasked with strengthening India's reform trajectory and policy-making.

Himanta Biswa Sarma: From AASU to BJP's Northeast face

Himanta Biswa Sarma: From AASU to BJP's Northeast face

Rediff.com6 days ago

Himanta Biswa Sarma's return as Assam's Chief Minister underscores the BJP's increasing dominance in the northeast, marked by both development and divisive policies.

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

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

Rediff.com4 days ago

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.

Jharkhand Parties Demand Pay For Police Amid Treasury Scam

Jharkhand Parties Demand Pay For Police Amid Treasury Scam

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Opposition parties in Jharkhand are demanding the release of salaries for police personnel, which have been withheld following the discovery of irregularities in treasury funds across several districts. The police association claims that over 70,000 personnel have not been paid since March, prompting calls for a thorough investigation and prompt action from the state government.

Parliament adjourns sine die, Budget Session ends

Parliament adjourns sine die, Budget Session ends

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

Both Houses of Parliament were adjourned sine die, concluding a Budget session marked by the passage of key legislations and the defeat of a Constitution amendment bill on women's reservation. The session saw frequent opposition protests and discussions on various issues, including the West Asia conflict.

'In India politics has taken over business'

'In India politics has taken over business'

Rediff.com59 minutes ago

'When we start describing somebody as an enemy that is the start of politics and emotion after which no business can take place.' 'We need to get out of this, allow Indian businessmen to do business with China.'

'It's Not Modi's Rupee That Benefits. It's India's Rupee That Benefits'

'It's Not Modi's Rupee That Benefits. It's India's Rupee That Benefits'

Rediff.com23 hours ago

'In all these years of rupee depreciation, of rising oil prices, of inflation caused by import dependence, not one leader had the courage to look the people in the eye and say: Please do this for your country.'

Odisha tribal man carries sister's skeleton to bank to withdraw Rs 19,300

Odisha tribal man carries sister's skeleton to bank to withdraw Rs 19,300

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

A tribal man in Odisha's Keonjhar district brought the skeleton of his dead sister to a bank to withdraw money deposited in her name after bank officials insisted on the account holder's presence.

West Asia Conflict Deepens India's Economic Challenges

West Asia Conflict Deepens India's Economic Challenges

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

Even if there is an early agreement on a cessation of hostilities in West Asia, the price shock will not go away easily, points out A K Bhattacharya.

Outrage As Odisha Bank Asks Man To Produce Sister's Skeleton

Outrage As Odisha Bank Asks Man To Produce Sister's Skeleton

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

A tribal man in Odisha was forced to carry his sister's exhumed skeleton to a bank to withdraw her money, sparking widespread condemnation. The bank claims it only requested valid documents, but the incident has raised questions about the treatment of vulnerable customers.

'Biggest Single Danger Is If Remittances Come Down'

'Biggest Single Danger Is If Remittances Come Down'

Rediff.com6 days ago

'At the first sign of real trouble, that money will move. There will be a run.'

Govt raises import duty on gold, silver after PM's appeal

Govt raises import duty on gold, silver after PM's appeal

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Indian government has increased import duties on gold and silver from 6 per cent to 15 per cent to curb inbound shipments of precious metals amid a rising import bill due to the West Asia crisis.

Punjab Achieves Record Tax Enforcement, Recovering 1,137 Crore

Punjab Achieves Record Tax Enforcement, Recovering 1,137 Crore

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

Punjab's Finance Minister announces record tax enforcement outcomes for the financial year 2025-26, driven by intelligence-led actions and robust revenue protection, including significant penalties imposed and recovered from fraudulent networks.

Why Odisha Bank Asked Man To Bring Sister's Skeleton

Why Odisha Bank Asked Man To Bring Sister's Skeleton

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

A tribal man in Odisha was forced to carry his sister's exhumed skeleton to a bank to prove her death and withdraw her money, sparking outrage and prompting government intervention.

Govt ready with corrective steps: Union minister on West Asia conflict

Govt ready with corrective steps: Union minister on West Asia conflict

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

The Indian government has implemented several measures to mitigate external risks, support the balance of payments, and maintain macroeconomic stability amidst the ongoing West Asia crisis, according to Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary.

Pakistan hikes fuel price by 200% amid Iran war

Pakistan hikes fuel price by 200% amid Iran war

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

Pakistan has significantly increased the price of high-octane fuel, impacting luxury vehicle owners, while also seeing increases in petrol, diesel, and airline fares due to rising global oil prices.

Harivansh elected unopposed as Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman

Harivansh elected unopposed as Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

Harivansh has been re-elected as the Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha unopposed, marking his third term in the position.

UP storm fury leaves 111 dead, 72 hurt; over 200 houses destroyed

UP storm fury leaves 111 dead, 72 hurt; over 200 houses destroyed

Rediff.com4 days ago

At least 89 people have died in Uttar Pradesh after severe storms and heavy rain caused widespread damage, uprooting trees and electric poles and damaging homes. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed officials to provide immediate relief to affected families.

Suvendu aide murder: CBI probe hints at Rs 1 cr contract killing

Suvendu aide murder: CBI probe hints at Rs 1 cr contract killing

Rediff.com6 days ago

The CBI has registered an FIR in the alleged murder of Chandranath Rath, an aide to West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, taking over the investigation from the state police following a request from the state government.

Meet Mamata's 'ceremonial' finance minister

Meet Mamata's 'ceremonial' finance minister

Rediff.com26 Mar 2022

Analysts have their doubts how much independence she has as finance minister. As Amit Mitra advises the chief minister, day-to-day work is done by the finance secretary and the chief secretary.

CBI To Investigate Killing Of Suvendu Adhikari's Associate

CBI To Investigate Killing Of Suvendu Adhikari's Associate

Rediff.com6 days ago

The CBI has taken over the investigation into the murder of Chandranath Rath, an aide to West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to probe the killing, which occurred shortly after the BJP's victory in the assembly elections.

Revealed! Nirmalaji's 'Dharam Sankat'...

Revealed! Nirmalaji's 'Dharam Sankat'...

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

'Whether you will bring this down and cause hurt to senior citizens, who are probably living on that little interest rate that they earn out of it... But equally, if I just look at the kitty of the National Small Savings Fund, it is from that same kitty that I'm borrowing.'

Day after Mehli Mistry's plaint, Venu Srinivasan resigns from Tata Navsari trust

Day after Mehli Mistry's plaint, Venu Srinivasan resigns from Tata Navsari trust

Rediff.com5 Apr 2026

Veteran industrialist Venu Srinivasan has resigned from the Bai Hirabai Jamsetji Tata Navsari Charitable Institution, following a challenge to his appointment by a former trustee.

West Asia Conflict Can Create Havoc With Budget Numbers

West Asia Conflict Can Create Havoc With Budget Numbers

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

The conflict may disrupt Budget 2026-2027 projections, squeezing revenues and raising subsidies, prompting fiscal adjustments and potential reforms, echoing lessons from the Covid-era shock, points out A K Bhattacharya.

ED Officers Honoured For Kolkata I-PAC Raid

ED Officers Honoured For Kolkata I-PAC Raid

Rediff.com1 May 2026

Two Enforcement Directorate officers who participated in the raid against I-PAC in Kolkata this January received an award for their 'exceptional competence'.

CBI Investigates Possible Contract Killing Of Adhikari Aide

CBI Investigates Possible Contract Killing Of Adhikari Aide

Rediff.com6 days ago

The CBI is investigating the murder of Suvendu Adhikari's aide, Chandranath Rath, suspecting it was a meticulously planned contract killing. The investigation involves forensic analysis and examination of potential interstate criminal links.

'Indians Are Not Buying Too Much Of Gold'

'Indians Are Not Buying Too Much Of Gold'

Rediff.com54 minutes ago

'Even last year, when India bought gold, the physical quantity was much less than the previous years.'

Andhra Pradesh aims for Rs 50,000 crore investment in rare earth corridor

Andhra Pradesh aims for Rs 50,000 crore investment in rare earth corridor

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

Andhra Pradesh is spearheading an ambitious initiative to establish a fully integrated beach sand minerals, rare earth, and titanium ecosystem, aiming to attract over 50,000 crore in investments over the next decade. This move is part of India's broader strategy to reduce its reliance on China for strategic minerals and permanent magnets, with the state preparing a comprehensive rare earth policy and planning specialised industrial clusters.

Mamata Banerjee Claims Central Forces Searched Her Car, Questions BJP Leaders' Exemption

Mamata Banerjee Claims Central Forces Searched Her Car, Questions BJP Leaders' Exemption

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused central forces of searching her car and criticised the BJP for alleged election misconduct during a rally in Islampur, Uttar Dinajpur district.

As Iran Tensions Surge, India Leans On UAE

As Iran Tensions Surge, India Leans On UAE

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

For India, much is at stake: Crucial energy supplies traversing the Strait of Hormuz, the fate of its 10 million citizens living and working in West Asia -- who send generous remittances home -- and its major trade links with the region.

Nirmala Sitharaman, the longest serving FM will present record 9th Budget on Feb 1

Nirmala Sitharaman, the longest serving FM will present record 9th Budget on Feb 1

Rediff.com30 Jan 2026

Sitharaman took charge of the Finance Ministry on May 31, 2019, and has steered the economy through the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical turmoil, making India the fastest-growing major economy in the world.

Still Want To Buy Gold? 5 Tips To Reduce Your Cost

Still Want To Buy Gold? 5 Tips To Reduce Your Cost

Rediff.com4 days ago

With duties at 15%, GST at 3%, and making charges running as high as 20% -- the gap between a smart purchase and a careless one can easily be Rs 30,000 to Rs 50,000 on every Rs 1 lakh invested. And most of that gap is entirely avoidable. Ramalingam Kalirajan explains the math.

Why Modi Gave More Powers To The Enforcement Directorate

Why Modi Gave More Powers To The Enforcement Directorate

Rediff.com1 May 2026

Union Minister Pankaj Chaudhary stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi strengthened the Enforcement Directorate to combat financial crimes like money laundering and corruption, dismissing allegations of it being used to target political opponents.

Kharge, Rijiju spar in RS over West Asia conflict discussion

Kharge, Rijiju spar in RS over West Asia conflict discussion

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

The Rajya Sabha witnessed a heated debate between the opposition and the government regarding a discussion on the West Asia crisis, with accusations of political maneuvering and failure to uphold the dignity of parliamentary positions.