News for 'free'

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.

Amazon Now hits $1 billion annualised gross sales in India, eyes 100 cities by Diwali

Amazon Now hits $1 billion annualised gross sales in India, eyes 100 cities by Diwali

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Amazon's ultra-fast delivery service, Amazon Now, has achieved $1 billion in annualised gross sales in India over the last three months, marking it as the fastest-growing e-commerce business in Amazon India's history, with orders doubling every quarter.

10 IPO Checks Before You Invest

10 IPO Checks Before You Invest

Rediff.com6 days ago

Dig into the prospectus. Use the prospectus to understand the business and its risks.

We are ready to give up reservations if...: Athawale

We are ready to give up reservations if...: Athawale

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Union Minister Ramdas Athawale stated that opposing reservation is unconstitutional and that the policy would be given up if casteism is eliminated. He highlighted the historical context of reservations for SC/ST and OBCs, and the Modi government's EWS quota. Athawale also criticised the opposition, praised government achievements, and discussed various welfare schemes and infrastructure projects in Chhattisgarh.

Chitra Core: India's New Coronary Stent Promises Safer Cardiac Care

Chitra Core: India's New Coronary Stent Promises Safer Cardiac Care

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

SCTIMST and Invasive Technologies have launched "Chitra Core," a new drug-eluting coronary stent designed with significantly less metal to reduce complications. This indigenous innovation, developed in collaboration, aims to provide advanced and cost-effective cardiac care, building on decades of Indian medical device development. The institute is also developing a unique TiN-coated stent for global markets.

Messi Masterclass Powers Inter Miami To Big Win Against Montreal

Messi Masterclass Powers Inter Miami To Big Win Against Montreal

Rediff.com30 Aug 2026

Lionel Messi scored four goals, including a hat-trick, to lead Inter Miami to a dominant 7-1 victory over Montreal in Major League Soccer, ending their five-game winless streak and moving them to second in the Eastern Conference.

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.

'Talaq-e-hassan' valid form of divorce, rules Gauhati HC

'Talaq-e-hassan' valid form of divorce, rules Gauhati HC

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The Gauhati High Court has affirmed the validity of 'Talaq-E-Hassan' as a form of divorce in India, directing a petitioner to register his divorce under the new Assam Compulsory Registration of Muslim Marriages and Divorce Act, 2024.

Arsenal bounce back to beat Chelsea 2-1, maintain perfect start

Arsenal bounce back to beat Chelsea 2-1, maintain perfect start

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Arsenal successfully defended their Premier League title challenge by defeating Chelsea 2-1, recovering from an early concession with goals from Kai Havertz and captain Martin Odegaard, maintaining a perfect start to the season.

'Sound during Hindu festivals....': Maha ministers clash over DJ sound

'Sound during Hindu festivals....': Maha ministers clash over DJ sound

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

Maharashtra ministers are divided over the use of high-decibel DJ systems during Hindu festivals. While Minister Yogesh Kadam asserts that festival sound will not be stopped, his colleagues Sanjay Shirsat and Meghana Bordikar advocate for adherence to noise pollution norms, with Bordikar citing a personal tragedy. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has also called for a return to traditional celebrations and a consensus on restricting DJ systems.

In a first, 92 Maoist-free Bastar villages to celebrate I-Day

In a first, 92 Maoist-free Bastar villages to celebrate I-Day

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Ninety-two remote villages in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region, once a Maoist stronghold, will hoist the national flag for the first time since Independence on August 15. This historic event signifies the end of left-wing extremism in these areas, with the state government leading an extensive campaign to foster national pride.

BRICS Summit: When Geography Speaks Louder Than Words

BRICS Summit: When Geography Speaks Louder Than Words

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

New Delhi was told it had given something up; in reality it had stopped talking about it, notes Dr Abhishek Puri.

Kimi Antonelli focused on winning, not F1 championship

Kimi Antonelli focused on winning, not F1 championship

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli is pushing thoughts of the Formula One championship to the back of his mind, despite a commanding 66-point lead over teammate George Russell, preferring to focus on winning races.

How UPI Rewired India's Money Story

How UPI Rewired India's Money Story

Rediff.com6 days ago

Digital money is gradually starting to behave like software. It's no longer inert -- sitting passively in accounts. In the not-so-distant future, your money could become 'smart' and 'active,' understanding your preferences, paying your bills automatically, optimising your returns, and managing your risks -- all without you having to manage the details.

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

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

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

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.

What Will The iPhone Duo, Apple's First Foldable Phone, Cost In India?

What Will The iPhone Duo, Apple's First Foldable Phone, Cost In India?

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

While the iPhone Duo grabbed the spotlight at Apple's September event, the biggest takeaway is how the company's hardware, software and AI are becoming more closely connected across its entire lineup.

Modi-Pezeshkian meet: India calls for dialogue in West Asia, safe navigation

Modi-Pezeshkian meet: India calls for dialogue in West Asia, safe navigation

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in New Delhi for talks focusing on the West Asia situation, bilateral relations, and BRICS cooperation. The meeting, Pezeshkian's first visit to India as president, comes amidst heightened tensions in West Asia due to new US sanctions on Iran and concerns over global oil supplies from the Strait of Hormuz. Both leaders emphasised regional stability and economic resilience.

Congress Questions Government's UPI Fee Notification

Congress Questions Government's UPI Fee Notification

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The Congress party has criticised the government's recent notification regarding UPI transactions, alleging it paves the way for users to be charged fees, particularly for transactions above Rs 2,000. The party claims the government lacks transparency and questions if the move is to benefit American firms. The government, however, states that charges are necessary for the system's sustainability and infrastructure upgrades, with the Finance Minister clarifying that Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) applies to merchants, not customers.

DMK MLAs evicted from TN assembly after ruckus over Vijay's remarks

DMK MLAs evicted from TN assembly after ruckus over Vijay's remarks

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

The Tamil Nadu assembly descended into chaos, leading to the eviction of DMK MLAs, as they vehemently protested Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay's statements.

PIX: Barcelona Rout Feyenoord 5-1; Stuttgart's Demirovic Scores Hat-trick

PIX: Barcelona Rout Feyenoord 5-1; Stuttgart's Demirovic Scores Hat-trick

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Barcelona captain Raphinha scored two goals, leading his side to a resounding 5-1 victory over Feyenoord in their opening Champions League fixture. Meanwhile, Ermedin Demirovic's hat-trick secured a 3-1 win for VfB Stuttgart against Viking Stavanger.

India's Asian Games contingent to focus on empathy and safeguarding

India's Asian Games contingent to focus on empathy and safeguarding

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

The Indian contingent for the upcoming Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya will undergo orientation sessions focusing on empathy and mutual respect. For the first time, a Safeguarding Officer will accompany the 768-strong team to provide support, counsel distressed athletes, and enforce a code of conduct, ensuring a safe and conducive environment for performance. The officer's role, mandated by the Olympic Council of Asia, includes confidential reporting and potential accreditation suspension for serious violations.

Trump promises $5,000 to every adult American if GOP wins midterms

Trump promises $5,000 to every adult American if GOP wins midterms

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

President Donald Trump has announced a promise to issue a USD 5,000 dividend to every adult US citizen if Republicans secure victory in both the House and the Senate in the upcoming midterm elections, citing the nation's economic success under his administration.

Why Is Alia Bhatt Nervous?

Why Is Alia Bhatt Nervous?

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

'Fourteen years ago, I made my debut as an actor. And now, 14 years later, I am introducing four new actors and a debutante director. I am way more nervous than they are right now. I have butterflies in my stomach.'

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."

Rahul Gandhi Claims Modi Government Surrendering To US Pressure On UPI Charges

Rahul Gandhi Claims Modi Government Surrendering To US Pressure On UPI Charges

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has accused the Modi government of quietly paving the way for imposing fees on UPI transactions, alleging it's a surrender to American pressure. The government's recent notification exempts charges only up to Rs 2,000, sparking concerns that higher value transactions and eventually all UPI payments could incur fees. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, however, clarified that Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) applies to merchants, not customers, and supports digital infrastructure.

Sandhu And Danek Share Lead At Chennai Open

Sandhu And Danek Share Lead At Chennai Open

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Ajeetesh Sandhu and Stepan Danek are joint leaders after the first round of the Chennai Open, both carding seven-under 65s. Sandhu, a former Asian Tour winner, made eight birdies, while Danek played a flawless round with seven birdies. Other notable players like Jairaj Singh Sandhu and Saptak Talwar are also in contention.

Coco Gauff saves two match-points to beat Mirra Andreeva and make US Open semis

Coco Gauff saves two match-points to beat Mirra Andreeva and make US Open semis

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Coco Gauff staged a remarkable comeback at the US Open, saving two match points to defeat Mirra Andreeva 2-6 7-6(7) 6-2 and secure her spot in the semi-finals. The 2023 champion overcame a poor start and a challenging tiebreak to win, setting up a clash with second seed Elena Rybakina.

SIR focused on voter exclusion, disturbed free and fair elections: Ex-CEC Quraishi

SIR focused on voter exclusion, disturbed free and fair elections: Ex-CEC Quraishi

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Former Chief Election Commissioner S Y Quraishi has strongly criticised the Election Commission's ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, stating it is 'focussed more on exclusion' and has 'played havoc with democracy' by disturbing free and fair elections.

Kareena Kapoor's Top 10 Performances

Kareena Kapoor's Top 10 Performances

Rediff.com7 days ago

From the adorably vain Poo to the free-spirited Geet, Kareena Kapoor Khan has delivered some memorable performances.

Coco Gauff reveals the 'absurd' US Open ticket requests

Coco Gauff reveals the 'absurd' US Open ticket requests

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

Tennis star Coco Gauff and her mother are speaking out against acquaintances who only resurface to ask for free tickets to the US Open. Gauff revealed that her mother's recent Instagram post, which bluntly told friends and family to stop asking for tickets, was a much-needed intervention after years of absurd requests, particularly during the New York tournament.

Punitive action against student dissent unconstitutional: SC judge

Punitive action against student dissent unconstitutional: SC judge

Rediff.com30 Aug 2026

Supreme Court Justice Ujjal Bhuyan stated that threatening students with punitive action for expressing different views or asking questions is unconstitutional and a misuse of power. He emphasised that universities should foster free thinking and disagreement, as tolerance and dissent are fundamental constitutional values essential for a liberal democracy.

Modi's SCO vision: 'Security, Connectivity, Opportunity'

Modi's SCO vision: 'Security, Connectivity, Opportunity'

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is embarking on a two-nation tour to Uzbekistan and the Kyrgyz Republic, where he will attend the SCO Summit. He aims to advance India's vision for the region, focusing on security, connectivity, and opportunity, and to strengthen strategic partnerships in Central Asia, fostering a region free from terrorism.

'There Will Be No Water In The Rivers!'

'There Will Be No Water In The Rivers!'

Rediff.com7 days ago

'All the glaciers will disappear!'

7 Wonderful Car-Free Places

7 Wonderful Car-Free Places

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Visit places without emissions, car noise pollution.

Pakistan court returns Hindu girl to family after forced marriage, conversion to Islam

Pakistan court returns Hindu girl to family after forced marriage, conversion to Islam

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

A Pakistani court has ordered the return of 21-year-old Hindu girl Shirimati Reeta to her parents after she was allegedly lured, pressured to convert to Islam, and marry a Muslim man. Reeta, who had gone missing from Sindh, was recovered by police in Punjab and stated in court her desire to return home, highlighting the ongoing issue of forced conversions among minority girls in Pakistan.

India co-sponsors UN resolution to end child marriage

India co-sponsors UN resolution to end child marriage

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

The UN General Assembly has adopted a resolution, co-sponsored by India, to designate November 27 as the International Day for the Elimination of Child, Early and Forced Marriage. This global initiative aims to raise awareness and accelerate efforts to combat this harmful practice, which disproportionately affects women and girls, hindering their education, health, and overall human rights.

Auto, Healthcare, Retail Drive 14% Rise in White-Collar Hiring

Auto, Healthcare, Retail Drive 14% Rise in White-Collar Hiring

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

India's white-collar job market experienced a 14 per cent year-on-year growth in August, with the auto, healthcare, and retail sectors leading the surge, according to a report by Naukri.com.

Vinesh Phogat Moves Delhi HC Over World Championship Trials

Vinesh Phogat Moves Delhi HC Over World Championship Trials

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

The Delhi High Court has sought WFI's response on Vinesh Phogat's plea to participate in the September 14 selection trials for the 2026 World Championship.

'I have a good chance': Karkera eyes Asian Games podium

'I have a good chance': Karkera eyes Asian Games podium

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Asian Games debutant Kartik Karkera, an orthopaedic doctor, expresses confidence in securing a podium finish in the men's marathon despite facing faster international competitors. He believes the challenging heat and humidity will make it a tactical race, playing to his strengths, and prioritises a medal over a personal best. Karkera also highlights the advantage of his 1500m background and medical knowledge in his training.

2 dead, 130 'Govindas' injured in Dahi Handi festivities in Maha

2 dead, 130 'Govindas' injured in Dahi Handi festivities in Maha

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

Dahi Handi celebrations in Maharashtra turned tragic with two fatalities and over 130 'Govindas' injured. A seven-year-old boy died in Mumbai after a brick column collapsed, while a woman was crushed by an iron frame in Pune. Authorities are investigating the incidents, and political leaders have urged for safety during the festivities.