News for 'free'

Putin Offers More Fertilisers To India

Putin Offers More Fertilisers To India

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Russia remains India's biggest fertiliser supplier, with imports rising nearly 40 per cent in 2025.

Modi calls for identifying, isolating 'Dimagi Naxals'

Modi calls for identifying, isolating 'Dimagi Naxals'

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has cautioned the nation about "intellectual Naxals" who he claims are embedded in the system, manipulating policies and posing a threat to society. Speaking on Independence Day, Modi urged citizens to identify and isolate these ideological supporters of Naxalism, highlighting their historical influence in power corridors and their role in promoting violence and anarchy.

Niharika Chouksey Is Winning Hearts With...

Niharika Chouksey Is Winning Hearts With...

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

On screen, Niharika Chouksey is winning hearts with her bubbly, girl-next-door charm in Tum Se Tum Tak.

Mumbai churches seek self-declaration forms from worshippers after anti-conversion law

Mumbai churches seek self-declaration forms from worshippers after anti-conversion law

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Churches across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region have started asking worshippers to fill self-declaration forms, affirming they are attending prayers voluntarily. This move comes after Maharashtra's new anti-conversion law, the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act, 2026, came into force, leading to concerns among the Christian community about potential harassment and false accusations.

NRI Deposit Inflows Drop 23% in Q1 FY27, RBI Data Reveals

NRI Deposit Inflows Drop 23% in Q1 FY27, RBI Data Reveals

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Inflows into non-resident Indian (NRI) deposit schemes decreased by 23.24 per cent to $2.78 billion during the first quarter of FY27, down from $3.61 billion in the previous year, according to Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data.

Bengal to fast-track CAA hearings, 23,000 get citizenship: CM Suvendu

Bengal to fast-track CAA hearings, 23,000 get citizenship: CM Suvendu

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Monday said that hearings of applications for citizenship under the CAA will soon be over, and so far the state has issued certificates to 23,000 people out of 2.30 lakh applicants.

How Khalin Joshi Built A Commanding Lead At The J&K Open

How Khalin Joshi Built A Commanding Lead At The J&K Open

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Bengaluru golfer Khalin Joshi has significantly extended his lead to seven shots at the J&K Open, finishing day two at 13-under 129. His bogey-free round of 66 included three birdies and an eagle, leaving competitors Rashid Khan and Angad Cheema trailing. The tournament saw 50 players make the cut at one-over 143, despite a shortened hole due to waterlogging.

A Sarpanch Who Is Changing Lives

A Sarpanch Who Is Changing Lives

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Smriti Singh was alarmed to learn that several girls and women in her village were using ash, wheat stubble and tattered rags during menstruation because they could not afford or access sanitary pads.

'UP Has Potential To Generate More Than 11 Million Jobs'

'UP Has Potential To Generate More Than 11 Million Jobs'

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

'Improved law and order and transparent governance have helped change UP's investment image.'

Chaos at Abhishek Banerjee's office as civic body removes TMC billboard

Chaos at Abhishek Banerjee's office as civic body removes TMC billboard

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Private guards at Ttrinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee's office, his supporters and some party leaders on Thursday scuffled with police and Kolkata Municipal Corporation officials, trying to prevent them from entering the building on Camac Street and dismantling an "unauthorised" billboard.

NTA stumbles again: UGC-NET retest ordered after massive errors in 3 papers

NTA stumbles again: UGC-NET retest ordered after massive errors in 3 papers

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

The National Testing Agency (NTA) on Sunday announced the retest for three papers of the UGC-NET June 2026 examination -- English, Commerce and Sociology -- following complaints about several errors in these papers.

Why Are National Chess Champions Ignored?

Why Are National Chess Champions Ignored?

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

If winning the National Championship does not help a player make the national team, what exactly is the value of becoming India's national champion?

Modi govt's new Gen Z push: One minister to visit one university every day

Modi govt's new Gen Z push: One minister to visit one university every day

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

The Modi government is launching a 'One Day, One University' programme, sending Union ministers to universities daily to engage with Gen Z, address their concerns, and inform them about government schemes. This initiative follows recent student protests over the NEET paper leak and aims to foster better understanding between the youth and the government.

The Secret Tukaram Mundhe Won't Reveal

The Secret Tukaram Mundhe Won't Reveal

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Whether it's a five-star banquet hall, a school lunch supplier, a blood bank, or a Bollywood actors' surrogate advertisements, Tukaram Mundhe seems to have an opinion, a bye-law, and very possibly an inspection team on standby.

Govt sought removal of 2.44 lakh URLs in five months

Govt sought removal of 2.44 lakh URLs in five months

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Government departments requested social media platforms to remove 2.44 lakh pieces of content between March and July, with states initiating 82% of these requests. The IT Intermediaries Rules 2021 were amended to reduce takedown time to three hours. The PIB Fact Check unit clarified its role in content moderation, refuting claims of automated blocking by Meta and emphasising the need to address lawlessness in cyberspace.

Irdai's crackdown on insurer operating costs signals stricter compliance

Irdai's crackdown on insurer operating costs signals stricter compliance

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India's (Irdai) recent actions against insurers for breaching expense of management (EoM) limits indicate a serious commitment to enforcing operating and distribution cost controls, according to industry experts.

Student bodies protest UGC-NET re-exam, demand inquiry into NTA's failures

Student bodies protest UGC-NET re-exam, demand inquiry into NTA's failures

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Student organisations across India are protesting the National Testing Agency's (NTA) decision to re-conduct the UGC-NET examinations for three subjects, citing repeated lapses that jeopardise students' academic and career plans. They are demanding the NTA be scrapped or held accountable for its failures.

Vijay's 'gift' leaves MLA singing his praises in assembly

Vijay's 'gift' leaves MLA singing his praises in assembly

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay announced official vehicles and a monthly allowance for MLAs to address public grievances and monitor government projects in their constituencies. This initiative aims to reduce financial burden, improve transparency, and ensure grassroots service delivery.

'They left my son to die, now they are roaming free': A father's emotional plea

'They left my son to die, now they are roaming free': A father's emotional plea

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

The grieving parents of Sarthak Mattoo, who died in an alleged hit-and-run incident in southwest Delhi, have made an emotional video appeal for justice, questioning the pace of the police investigation and demanding strict action against those responsible.

Why Nobody Cares About Building Toilets

Why Nobody Cares About Building Toilets

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

We raid restaurants for cockroaches but never raid the roadside. Public hygiene runs entirely on faith and fumes. Even after so many years of being a free nation, points out Binu Alex.

Why Smart People Still Fail At Retirement Planning

Why Smart People Still Fail At Retirement Planning

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Retirement planning is not a test of how smart you are; it is a test of how well you control your behaviour.

India's World Cup failure exposes hockey's selection and transition problem

India's World Cup failure exposes hockey's selection and transition problem

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

The Indian men's hockey team's failure to reach the semi-finals of the World Cup has highlighted significant issues, including a lack of intent in player transition and questionable selection decisions, according to former players and experts.

12 bootleggers detained, 21 others booked after Gujarat hooch tragedy

12 bootleggers detained, 21 others booked after Gujarat hooch tragedy

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Seven people have died and 30 others are hospitalised in Gujarat's Bhavnagar district after consuming spurious liquor. Police have detained 12 bootleggers and registered an FIR against 21 individuals. The victims reportedly consumed illicit liquor from duplicate bottles of an IMFL brand, with preliminary investigations suggesting the supply originated from Madhya Pradesh.

2nd Test: Bowlers rock SL after Jurel ton propels India to 503 for 9 on Day 2

2nd Test: Bowlers rock SL after Jurel ton propels India to 503 for 9 on Day 2

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

Dhruv Jurel notched up an unbeaten 115 to propel India to a commanding 509 for 8 before they declared the first innings against Sri Lanka on day two of the second Test in Colombo.

'Mere pyare deshwasiyon' dominates Modi's 13th I-Day speech

'Mere pyare deshwasiyon' dominates Modi's 13th I-Day speech

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Independence Day speeches consistently feature specific terms of address like 'Mere pyare deshwasiyon' and 'sathiyon', offering insights into his communication strategy and connection with the Indian populace.

Nearly 160 killed, over 750 missing in devastating Nepal flash floods

Nearly 160 killed, over 750 missing in devastating Nepal flash floods

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

A massive flash flood originating in Tibet has devastated central Nepal, killing 17 people and leaving nearly 500 missing, including 105 Indians. The deluge, caused by a rock slide near the Nepal-Tibet border, swept through districts, washing away bridges and severely damaging at least a dozen hydropower projects.

Is India Ready For Digital NEET?

Is India Ready For Digital NEET?

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Computer-based testing can make the examination more secure and transparent. Ensuring equal opportunities to prepare will make it fair as well. India needs both, suggests Dibyasree Ganguly.

Chouhan Launches Free Coaching For Disadvantaged Students

Chouhan Launches Free Coaching For Disadvantaged Students

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan launched 'Mama Coaching Classes' in Madhya Pradesh's Vidisha to provide free coaching and guidance for competitive examinations to economically disadvantaged yet talented students.

How SBI Is Revolutionising Banking With Artificial Intelligence

How SBI Is Revolutionising Banking With Artificial Intelligence

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

State Bank of India (SBI) is extensively using artificial intelligence to underwrite nearly Rs 1 lakh crore in MSME loans and automate the processing of cheques up to Rs 10,000. This AI adoption aims to enhance efficiency, free up employee bandwidth, and improve customer service across various banking functions.

Trump unveils 50% tariffs as US-Canada trade war escalates

Trump unveils 50% tariffs as US-Canada trade war escalates

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

The US-Canada trade war has escalated sharply, with US President Donald Trump on Monday announcing that tariffs on Canadian cars, trucks, automotive parts and steel imports will be raised to 50 percent from January 2027, following the collapse of trade negotiations between Washington and Ottawa last week.

New Study Reveals White Matter's Crucial Role In Cognitive Health

New Study Reveals White Matter's Crucial Role In Cognitive Health

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

A study conducted on older adults in India suggests that the health of the brain's white matter wiring can help mitigate the cognitive effects of gray matter loss, supporting overall cognitive health. Researchers found that healthier superficial white matter is linked to stronger language skills and may act as a source of resilience against cognitive decline.

Delhi High Court seeks Beco's response to HUL's 'skin irritation' ad suit

Delhi High Court seeks Beco's response to HUL's 'skin irritation' ad suit

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

The Delhi High Court has sought a response from sustainable consumer goods startup Beco regarding a suit filed by Hindustan Unilever (HUL). HUL alleges that Beco disparaged its products, Surf Excel and Vim, by claiming they cause skin irritation in its advertising campaign.

'We Travelled Peacefully By Road From Imphal To Guwahati'

'We Travelled Peacefully By Road From Imphal To Guwahati'

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

'People have been facing significant difficulties due to skyrocketing airfares, and road transportation was inaccessible until now.'

OpenAI Launches ChatGPT For Teens

OpenAI Launches ChatGPT For Teens

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

'ChatGPT for Teens brings together learning and safety features in one unified experience, supporting active, collaborative learning outside the classroom while enabling more intentional and age-appropriate use of AI.'

Kaith's shootout heroics help Mohun Bagan set up Durand Cup final against East Bengal

Kaith's shootout heroics help Mohun Bagan set up Durand Cup final against East Bengal

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Mohun Bagan Super Giant defeated NorthEast United 4-3 in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw in the Durand Cup semi-final. Goalkeeper Vishal Kaith was the hero, making two crucial saves to send Mohun Bagan into the final, where they will face arch-rivals East Bengal FC in the Kolkata Derby.

Mahua Moitra seeks privilege action against Bengal officials over eviction

Mahua Moitra seeks privilege action against Bengal officials over eviction

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra has moved a privilege notice before Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla against three senior officials, alleging a serious breach of protocol and contemptuous conduct after she was asked to vacate a circuit house in West Bengal's Krishnanagar late in the night on August 14.

Hockey World Cup: Netherlands dent India's semi-final hopes with 3-1 win

Hockey World Cup: Netherlands dent India's semi-final hopes with 3-1 win

Rediff.com23 Aug 2026

India's strong defensive start unravelled after half-time as three Dutch goals secured a 3-1 win, denting the team's World Cup semifinal hopes.

Durand Cup: How 11 Young Footballers Earned Emerging Player Awards

Durand Cup: How 11 Young Footballers Earned Emerging Player Awards

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

The Durand Football Tournament Society has recognised 11 young footballers with the Emerging Player award, each receiving Rs 1 lakh. These players, from various teams across all six groups, impressed with their performances, showcasing promising talent and potential during the ongoing Durand Cup.

DRI uncovers Rs 2,500-cr areca nut import fraud; 9 held

DRI uncovers Rs 2,500-cr areca nut import fraud; 9 held

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has dismantled a large-scale network involved in fraudulently importing South-East Asian areca nuts into India. The syndicate falsely declared the nuts as Bangladeshi origin to evade customs duty, leading to a potential revenue loss of over Rs 2,500 crore. Nine individuals have been arrested in connection with the scam.

Tata Motors PV: Margin Pressures May Dampen Strong Volume Growth

Tata Motors PV: Margin Pressures May Dampen Strong Volume Growth

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles (TMPV) reported Q1FY27 results showing significant margin pressures at both Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) and its domestic operations, despite strong volume growth in the India business. Analysts expect these margin headwinds to persist, potentially offsetting gains from increased sales and new launches.