News for 'foreign ministers'

Former foreign minister Natwar Singh passes away

Former foreign minister Natwar Singh passes away

Rediff.com11 Aug 2024

Former External Affairs Minister K Natwar Singh passed away on Saturday night after a prolonged illness, family sources said. He was 93.

Governor Review: Oversimple Take On India's Monetary Muddle

Governor Review: Oversimple Take On India's Monetary Muddle

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Governor: Simplistic narrative, questionable historical accuracy, underwhelming production quality, notes Sukanya Verma.

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.

Modi's Austerity Push Faces Reality Test

Modi's Austerity Push Faces Reality Test

Rediff.com25 May 2026

Following through announcements with enforcement of measures is key, as a run through recent Indian economic history shows, points out A K Bhattacharya.

India's Forex Reserves Drop by $8 Billion to $688.894 Billion

India's Forex Reserves Drop by $8 Billion to $688.894 Billion

Rediff.com22 May 2026

India's foreign exchange reserves saw a significant drop of USD 8.094 billion, settling at USD 688.894 billion for the week ending May 15, as the Reserve Bank of India intervened in the forex market and global events like the Middle East conflict impacted the rupee.

Delhi high court refuses to intervene in Cockroach Janta Party protest

Delhi high court refuses to intervene in Cockroach Janta Party protest

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

The Delhi High Court has refused to hear a petition seeking intervention against a protest called by the digital outfit 'Cockroach Janta Party' at Jantar Mantar on June 6. The petition raised concerns about law and order and sought crowd-control measures, alleging the group was involved in "transnational institutional destabilization."

US Navy attacked 3 merchant ships, India lodges strong protest

US Navy attacked 3 merchant ships, India lodges strong protest

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

India has strongly protested to the United States after three merchant ships with Indian crew members were attacked by the American military off the coast of Oman, resulting in the deaths of three Indian nationals.

Modi Has Transformed The Vocabulary Of Indian Politics

Modi Has Transformed The Vocabulary Of Indian Politics

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Few leaders since Independence have been able to establish such a direct connection with the electorate or shape the national conversation to the extent that Narendra Modi has done over the past decade, points out former Union minister Dr Karan Singh.

Bengal mulls holding centres near Bangladesh border

Bengal mulls holding centres near Bangladesh border

Rediff.com28 May 2026

The West Bengal government is considering establishing holding centres near the Petrapole border in North 24 Parganas district to manage growing movement and congestion in border areas.

INDIA bloc meet: Oppn leaders seek unity; DMK, AAP skip

INDIA bloc meet: Oppn leaders seek unity; DMK, AAP skip

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Leaders from several opposition parties within the INDIA bloc convened in New Delhi, stressing the critical need for unity to safeguard democratic values and address pressing issues like people's livelihoods, despite recent internal differences and electoral setbacks.

Pakistan to continue facilitating US-Iran talks, urges both to uphold ceasefire

Pakistan to continue facilitating US-Iran talks, urges both to uphold ceasefire

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

Pakistan has announced its commitment to continue facilitating talks between the United States and Iran, urging both nations to uphold the ceasefire agreement. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar highlighted Pakistan's role in mediating recent discussions and expressed hope for durable peace and regional stability.

Pakistan Rejects India's PoK Allegations, Issues Water Warning

Pakistan Rejects India's PoK Allegations, Issues Water Warning

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Pakistan has criticised India's recent remarks on Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) protests, asserting it is addressing issues democratically. Pakistan also warned India against blocking water, calling it an "act of war," and commented on India's nuclear capabilities and its own military strikes in Afghanistan.

Putin: Sanctions threat on India will 'boomerang' under Modi

Putin: Sanctions threat on India will 'boomerang' under Modi

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

Russian President Vladimir Putin asserted that any attempts to undermine India's sovereignty through 'threats of sanctions' would 'boomerang immediately' under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, highlighting India's sovereign decision-making and strong national interests.

Goa Minister Demands Police Accountability After Viral Videos Show Drugs, Solicitation at Calangute Beach

Goa Minister Demands Police Accountability After Viral Videos Show Drugs, Solicitation at Calangute Beach

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

Goa Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte has called for police action and accountability after videos showing alleged drug dealing and solicitation at Calangute beach went viral. He emphasised the need to protect Goa's image as a safe and preferred tourist destination.

Pakistan intensifies efforts for US-Iran talks after ceasefire extension

Pakistan intensifies efforts for US-Iran talks after ceasefire extension

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Pakistan has intensified its efforts to bring the US and Iran back to the negotiating table to end the war in West Asia, following President Trump's extension of the ceasefire. Pakistani officials have engaged with Iranian, Turkish, and British counterparts to promote dialogue and diplomacy for a peaceful resolution.

US-Iran draft deal proposes immediate ceasefire, sanctions relief

US-Iran draft deal proposes immediate ceasefire, sanctions relief

Rediff.com22 May 2026

A potential agreement between the United States and Iran, including a comprehensive ceasefire and gradual lifting of US sanctions, may be announced soon, according to reports. The agreement aims to de-escalate tensions and establish a framework for resolving disputes.

'Oil Is Not The Problem. The Bigger Problem Is Gold'

'Oil Is Not The Problem. The Bigger Problem Is Gold'

Rediff.com18 May 2026

'Every year we import approximately $70 billion worth of gold -- closer to $72 billion in 2025-2026, an all-time record.' 'There is no parallel for this anywhere in the world. And this love for gold will not disappear overnight.'

Defence Commanders Get Bigger Financial Powers

Defence Commanders Get Bigger Financial Powers

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

Army, Navy and Air Force commanders received enhanced powers to address urgent operational requirements quickly.

Delhi to scrap B&B policy after deadly hotel fire

Delhi to scrap B&B policy after deadly hotel fire

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

The announcement comes after a massive fire ripped through the Flourish Stay B&B on Wednesday morning, leaving 21 people dead, including 11 foreign nationals, and several injured.

US-Iran talks: First phase concludes, both sides exchange texts

US-Iran talks: First phase concludes, both sides exchange texts

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

The United States and Iran concluded the first phase of in-person talks in Islamabad, with both delegations exchanging written texts to formalise areas of understanding. The discussions, involving key representatives from both sides, are aimed at reducing tensions and exploring possibilities of a structured understanding.

Unsinkable Aircraft Carrier Vs Real Aircraft Carrier

Unsinkable Aircraft Carrier Vs Real Aircraft Carrier

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

While the Andaman and Nicobar islands serve as a vital, stationary asset for projecting power in the Indian Ocean, referring to them as an unsinkable aircraft carrier ignores key military and geopolitical limitations, explains Commodore Venugopal Menon (retd).

India examines Bangladesh plea to extradite Sheikh Hasina

India examines Bangladesh plea to extradite Sheikh Hasina

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

India has acknowledged that it is currently reviewing the Bangladesh government's request for the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, as part of ongoing judicial and legal processes.

Trump 'seriously considering' strikes against Iran if...: Report

Trump 'seriously considering' strikes against Iran if...: Report

Rediff.com23 May 2026

US President Donald Trump is reportedly considering launching fresh strikes against Iran if ongoing negotiations fail to produce a peace deal, according to US media outlet Axios. This development comes as diplomatic efforts continue, with Pakistan and Qatar attempting to broker an agreement.

Fadnavis rides motorcycle to work after Modi's austerity call

Fadnavis rides motorcycle to work after Modi's austerity call

Rediff.com14 May 2026

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis rode a motorcycle to work following Prime Minister Modi's appeal to cut down fuel consumption amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

US-Iran agreement nears finalisation: Report

US-Iran agreement nears finalisation: Report

Rediff.com21 May 2026

The United States and Iran could be set to announce an agreement soon to achieve a complete solution to the hostilities in West Asia, as reported by Saudi state media Al Arabiya on Wednesday, citing sources familiar with the ongoing negotiations.

Trump to meet Xi Jinping on Wednesday to discuss Iran conflict, trade issues

Trump to meet Xi Jinping on Wednesday to discuss Iran conflict, trade issues

Rediff.com12 May 2026

US President Donald Trump is set to visit China for talks with President Xi Jinping on trade, global issues, and the Gulf war. The visit aims to address trade frictions and other key issues, with high expectations for progress.

Iran Allows 'Friendly Nations' to Use Strait of Hormuz Amid War: India, Pakistan Among Few

Iran Allows 'Friendly Nations' to Use Strait of Hormuz Amid War: India, Pakistan Among Few

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

Iran has reportedly allowed select "friendly nations" including India and Pakistan limited access to the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing conflict, easing some energy supply concerns. Here's what the move means for global trade and oil routes.

How Modi's Austerity Appeal Can Work

How Modi's Austerity Appeal Can Work

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Insights from behavioural economics suggest that an ambitious nudge can be effective if three conditions are met, points out Ram Singh Insights from behavioural economics suggest that an ambitious nudge can be effective if three conditions are met, points out Ram Singh, director, Delhi School of Economics.

'A little bit of movement' seen in Iran peace talks: Marco Rubio

'A little bit of movement' seen in Iran peace talks: Marco Rubio

Rediff.com22 May 2026

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that discussions aimed at halting the conflict with Iran have shown "some slight progress," while simultaneously echoing Washington's dissatisfaction with its NATO allies.

Delhi building collapse toll rises to 6; two MCD engineers suspened

Delhi building collapse toll rises to 6; two MCD engineers suspened

Rediff.com31 May 2026

A three-storey commercial building collapsed near Saket Metro station in south Delhi, resulting in four fatalities. Rescue operations have concluded, and an inquiry into the cause of the collapse has been initiated.

Why Bengal Will Now Hand Over Infiltrators To BSF

Why Bengal Will Now Hand Over Infiltrators To BSF

Rediff.com21 May 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced that Bangladeshi infiltrators detained in the state will be handed over to the BSF instead of being produced in courts, following a new rule. Instructions have been issued to the police and RPF to directly transfer detainees to the BSF at the Bangladesh border, with weekly reports submitted to the CMO.

Hardliners in Iran blocking negotiation with US: Report

Hardliners in Iran blocking negotiation with US: Report

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

A new assessment by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) reveals that a power struggle within Iran's leadership, with hardliners gaining influence, could significantly impact future negotiations with the United States.

Indians' overseas travel spending dips to $1.09 billion in March amidst rupee depreciation concerns

Indians' overseas travel spending dips to $1.09 billion in March amidst rupee depreciation concerns

Rediff.com24 May 2026

Overseas travel spending by Indians, including holiday trips, decreased by $212.43 million to $1.09 billion in March compared to February, according to the Reserve Bank of India's latest data.

BJP, Nepal's RSP Discuss Gen Z

BJP, Nepal's RSP Discuss Gen Z

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

'Our discussions focused on the India-Nepal development partnership and people-to-people ties.'

US envoys to hold direct talks with Iranian delegation in Pak

US envoys to hold direct talks with Iranian delegation in Pak

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

US special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are travelling to Pakistan for direct talks with an Iranian delegation as part of efforts to end the seven-week war, the White House announced.

Trump pushes mega Middle East reset through Iran deal

Trump pushes mega Middle East reset through Iran deal

Rediff.com26 May 2026

In a lengthy post on Truth Social, Trump said negotiations with Iran were 'proceeding nicely' and argued that several Muslim and Arab nations should formally recognise Israel and join the Abraham Accords once a deal is reached.

Ishaq Dar Urges Diplomatic Engagement to Resolve West Asia Crisis

Ishaq Dar Urges Diplomatic Engagement to Resolve West Asia Crisis

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has called for dialogue to address the ongoing conflict in West Asia, emphasising the importance of diplomatic engagement and sustained efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.

President Murmu honours 7 bravehearts with Kirti Chakra; 2 posthumously

President Murmu honours 7 bravehearts with Kirti Chakra; 2 posthumously

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

President Droupadi Murmu on Monday conferred seven Kirti Chakras, including two posthumously, to personnel of the armed forces displaying raw courage, unparalleled bravery and total disregard for personal safety in the line of duty.

Rahul Gandhi Accuses Modi of 'Compromised' Foreign Policy and Insensitivity to COVID-19 Suffering

Rahul Gandhi Accuses Modi of 'Compromised' Foreign Policy and Insensitivity to COVID-19 Suffering

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's foreign policy and his remarks referencing the COVID-19 pandemic in relation to the West Asia situation.

India, Venezuela vow long-term energy tie-up

India, Venezuela vow long-term energy tie-up

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

India's procurement of Venezuelan crude oil has picked up momentum since April and the South American nation has already emerged as the third largest oil supplier to the country.