News for 'government initiatives'

India's Geospatial Sector Gets Boost With Mirai-GreenValley LiDAR Partnership

India's Geospatial Sector Gets Boost With Mirai-GreenValley LiDAR Partnership

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

GIS intelligence solutions provider Mirai Aerospace Systems and Software Solutions has signed an MoU with US-based GreenValley International Inc to strengthen India's geospatial and LiDAR remote sensing manufacturing base. The collaboration focuses on local assembly, manufacturing, technical support, and the development of AI-driven LiDAR applications, aiming to meet India's growing demand across various sectors.

Govt to 'hand-hold' private miners for critical mineral security abroad

Govt to 'hand-hold' private miners for critical mineral security abroad

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

Union Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy announced that the Indian government is intensifying its support for private mining entrepreneurs seeking critical mineral opportunities abroad, working with the Ministry of External Affairs and appointing mineral officers in embassies to facilitate these efforts.

Football Administrator Ranjit Bajaj Challenges AIFF Election Deferment In Court

Football Administrator Ranjit Bajaj Challenges AIFF Election Deferment In Court

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Football administrator Ranjit Bajaj has filed a writ petition in court, seeking directions for the All India Football Federation (AIFF) to immediately schedule and complete elections for its Executive Committee. Bajaj argues that the AIFF has already adopted a compliant constitution, making further deferment unjustified.

What Is Driving India's Outreach To Neighbours?

What Is Driving India's Outreach To Neighbours?

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

India has significantly increased its diplomatic engagements with Bhutan, Nepal, Bangladesh and the Maldives.

Niraj picked rifle over college, came home with Asiad silver

Niraj picked rifle over college, came home with Asiad silver

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

Indian shooter Niraj Kumar, a silver medallist in the men's 50m rifle 3 positions team event at the Asian Games, shared his joy and the sacrifices he made for his sport. He recounted choosing shooting over academics, asking his parents to buy him equipment, and expressed gratitude for the support from the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS). He also reflected on his Asian Games debut and future aspirations for an individual medal.

Rs 1,200-cr TN secretariat project hits hurdle amid Oppn, fisherfolk protest

Rs 1,200-cr TN secretariat project hits hurdle amid Oppn, fisherfolk protest

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

A proposed Rs 1,200 crore Secretariat-Assembly complex in Pattinapakkam, Chennai, has ignited significant opposition from local fishing communities and various political parties. Residents fear displacement, loss of livelihood, and environmental damage, citing ancestral rights and broken promises. Political leaders across the spectrum are urging Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay to reconsider the site, highlighting concerns about ecological impact, traffic, and financial priorities.

SEBI Chairman Highlights Cybersecurity As Board-Level Issue

SEBI Chairman Highlights Cybersecurity As Board-Level Issue

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

SEBI Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey stated that cybersecurity is now a board-level concern, not just an IT challenge, emphasising the need for caution when deploying artificial intelligence in critical infrastructure. He highlighted that AI for cybersecurity must be secure, governed, and accountable, and also addressed the emerging risks from quantum computing, urging collective resilience and sharing of best practices among regulators.

UP Governor Calls For Comprehensive AI Integration Across University Curricula

UP Governor Calls For Comprehensive AI Integration Across University Curricula

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel addressed AI Manthan 2.0, advocating for the comprehensive integration of Artificial Intelligence across all university subjects rather than as a standalone course. She urged universities to develop clear, time-bound AI roadmaps covering education, research, healthcare, and agriculture, emphasising indigenous AI development, employment creation, and the importance of "Safe and Trusted AI." The event also saw the formation of an AI Policy Advisory Group and an AI Implementation Group to drive these initiatives.

Delhi Half Marathon's Coveted Finisher's Medal Unveiled

Delhi Half Marathon's Coveted Finisher's Medal Unveiled

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Delhi Half Marathon, a World Athletics Gold Label Race, has unveiled its Finisher's Medal for its 21st edition.

SC seeks report on Lakhimpur Kheri trial judge's conduct

SC seeks report on Lakhimpur Kheri trial judge's conduct

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has requested a report from the Allahabad High Court Chief Justice regarding the conduct of the presiding officer in the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence case. This follows allegations by an eyewitness's advocate, Prashant Bhushan, that the officer improperly transferred cases, acquitted accused, and issued a non-bailable warrant against his ill client. The apex court also directed the Uttar Pradesh government to appoint an experienced public prosecutor for the trial.

PM promises Rs 1 lakh crore Innovation Fund for start-ups

PM promises Rs 1 lakh crore Innovation Fund for start-ups

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called upon India's youth to dream big, assuring them of government support and resources, including a Rs 1 lakh crore Innovation Fund, to bolster the country's burgeoning startup ecosystem and drive its journey towards becoming a developed nation.

Saudi Arabia's Pipeline Closure Raises Cost Of India's Crude

Saudi Arabia's Pipeline Closure Raises Cost Of India's Crude

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

Saudi Arabia's East-West pipeline shutdown could make crude costlier for India as refiners face fewer supply routes and rising freight and insurance costs.

Why Ajit Doval Visited Dhaka On Thursday

Why Ajit Doval Visited Dhaka On Thursday

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

India's national security adviser was in Dhaka for roughly three-quarters of the day on Thursday to prepare the ground for Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's visit to New Delhi.

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.

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.

SEMICON India 2026: Unpacking India's Strategic Push For Chip Manufacturing

SEMICON India 2026: Unpacking India's Strategic Push For Chip Manufacturing

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

India is making a significant push to establish itself as a global semiconductor manufacturing hub, driven by strategic investments and policy support. The upcoming SEMICON India 2026 event will showcase the country's advancements and ambitions in this critical industry, which underpins virtually all modern electronic devices and has faced global supply chain vulnerabilities.

India Rejects US Influence Claims Over UPI MDR Policy

India Rejects US Influence Claims Over UPI MDR Policy

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

The Finance Ministry has dismissed allegations of US pressure influencing the 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on select UPI transactions. It clarified that NPCI guidelines prioritise RuPay credit cards on UPI and do not favour international cards. The ministry also asserted that the MDR, applicable to person-to-merchant transactions above Rs 2,000, is unlikely to increase cash transactions or cause inflation, with measures in place to prevent burdening consumers.

Experts Call For Localised AI To Serve India's Unique Needs

Experts Call For Localised AI To Serve India's Unique Needs

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Experts at AI Manthan 2.0 in Kanpur stressed the need for Artificial Intelligence to be customised for India's specific requirements in education, healthcare, agriculture, and governance. Discussions highlighted the development of local language models, AI solutions for farmers like crop loss assessment and a single-window platform, and AI's role in healthcare for diagnosis and reducing doctors' workload, all while ensuring data privacy through federated learning.

Rajasthan CM Highlights Job Creation and Youth Empowerment Initiatives

Rajasthan CM Highlights Job Creation and Youth Empowerment Initiatives

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma announced the creation of over 1.25 lakh government jobs and ongoing recruitment for over 1.33 lakh posts, alongside initiatives to curb paper leaks and promote youth entrepreneurship.

GST Council Oct 7 Meet: What Businesses Want!

GST Council Oct 7 Meet: What Businesses Want!

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Industry is pushing for GST reforms that would let companies use unused tax credits from one state to pay GST liabilities in another, potentially freeing up working capital trapped across state registrations.

Serial practitioner of terrorism: Jaishankar slams Pak PM Sharif at UNGA

Serial practitioner of terrorism: Jaishankar slams Pak PM Sharif at UNGA

Rediff.com27 Sep 2026

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, addressing the UN General Assembly, strongly criticised Pakistan for its support of terrorism, asserting India's right to self-defence and stating that friendship cannot coexist with terrorism. He also highlighted India's global responsibilities, contributions to the Global South, and its stance on reformed multilateralism and AI.

Meta executives quizzed by NCPCR over child abuse material ads

Meta executives quizzed by NCPCR over child abuse material ads

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Senior executives from Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, appeared before India's child rights body, NCPCR, for questioning regarding alleged advertisements promoting child sexual exploitative and abuse material (CSEAM) on its platforms. This follows a BBC report and a stern notice from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to Meta over the issue.

Fire in Telangana hospital's newborn unit kills three infants

Fire in Telangana hospital's newborn unit kills three infants

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

Three infants tragically died after a fire erupted in the Special Newborn Care Unit (SNCU) of the state-run RIMS hospital in Adilabad, Telangana. A preliminary inquiry suggests a short circuit in the air-conditioning unit caused the blaze, leading to thick smoke. State Health Minister C Damodar Rajanarasimha has ordered a comprehensive inquiry into the incident, promising strict action against any negligence.

Odisha's Koraput coffee served to delegates at BRICS Summit

Odisha's Koraput coffee served to delegates at BRICS Summit

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

Odisha's Koraput Coffee, specifically the 'Tiger Bright' brand, was distributed to delegates and journalists at the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi. This initiative has brought international attention to the Arabica coffee grown by tribal farmers in the Koraput district, highlighting the state's local produce and the 'Vocal for Local' spirit. The coffee's unique cultivation methods and the support from the Tribal Development Co-operative Corporation of Odisha Ltd (TDCCOL) have significantly boosted its market presence and benefited tribal families.

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.

'Hostile Takeover Of Tata Sons Would Be Extremely Difficult'

'Hostile Takeover Of Tata Sons Would Be Extremely Difficult'

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

'The issue appears to be less about Chandrasekaran personally and more about the direction Tata Sons should take.'

Dahi Handi: 31 Pune Ganapati Mandals say no to DJs, embrace tradition

Dahi Handi: 31 Pune Ganapati Mandals say no to DJs, embrace tradition

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

In Pune, 31 prominent Ganapati mandals celebrated a "DJ-free" Dahi Handi, advocating for traditional instruments over high-decibel sound systems for upcoming festivals like Ganeshotsav. This initiative, led by Punit Balan, aims to preserve Maharashtra's cultural heritage and reduce noise pollution, gaining support from around 200 mandals and the Chief Minister.

Major changes to BCCI umpire fees and performance review

Major changes to BCCI umpire fees and performance review

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

The BCCI has significantly revised the pay structure for umpires and match referees after a decade, introducing new categories and substantially increasing per-day fees. A merit-based promotion and relegation system has also been implemented to ensure high standards in domestic cricket officiating. Additionally, the board addressed its stance on the National Sports Governance Act, updated age-fraud policies, and called for support for physically challenged cricketers.

How Indian Agriculture Initiatives Have Doubled Farmer Income

How Indian Agriculture Initiatives Have Doubled Farmer Income

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan informed the Lok Sabha that government initiatives in the agriculture sector have doubled farmers' income through measures like MSP and fertiliser subsidies.

'Shocked' SC seeks report on deaths in Manipur camp

'Shocked' SC seeks report on deaths in Manipur camp

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has expressed shock over numerous deaths, including unnatural ones, in relief camps for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Manipur. It directed the state's chief secretary to explain steps taken for investigation, criminal proceedings, and ensuring safety, questioning low compensation and incomplete post-mortems. The court also sought a report from MSLSA and urged expeditious trials in violence-related cases.

Land, business reforms key to India's next phase of growth, say economists

Land, business reforms key to India's next phase of growth, say economists

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Economists highlight that resolving domestic policy bottlenecks, particularly through land reforms and improving the ease of doing business, will be critical for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'next-generation reforms' and India's economic transformation towards its 'Viksit Bharat' vision for 2047.

Police Uncover Decades-Long Abuse In Veeramani POCSO Case

Police Uncover Decades-Long Abuse In Veeramani POCSO Case

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

In a high-profile POCSO case, Chennai police have discovered more minor victims of sexual harassment allegedly by granite businessman R Veeramani, with investigators suspecting the abuse spans over two decades. Additional victims' statements have been recorded, and the case involves charges under POCSO, IT, and SC/ST Acts.

10 IPO Checks Before You Invest

10 IPO Checks Before You Invest

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

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

BJP to launch month-long campaign on Modi's birthday

BJP to launch month-long campaign on Modi's birthday

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

The BJP has announced a month-long 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan' campaign, starting on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday, September 17, to commemorate his 25 years in public life. The initiative includes various programmes like 'Seva Diwas', 'Ashirwad Ka Diya', 'Seva Jyoti Kalash Yatra', youth yatras, and innovation challenges, all aimed at public participation and promoting the vision of 'Viksit Bharat 2047'.

'India Should Stop Listening To The US'

'India Should Stop Listening To The US'

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

'If you listen to a rowdy in a class, he will keep on bullying you.' 'India can say do whatever you want. We will not compromise on anything.'

'Tatas May Challenge RBI's Decision'

'Tatas May Challenge RBI's Decision'

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

'...but should prepare for listing unless a court grants effective interim relief.'

Banking services impacted as unions go on nationwide strike to press for 5-day workweek

Banking services impacted as unions go on nationwide strike to press for 5-day workweek

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Banking services, particularly at public sector banks across India, were impacted by a nationwide strike called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) to demand the immediate implementation of a five-day workweek and resolution of pending wage-related issues.

'Washington Shouldn't Threaten A Strategic Partner'

'Washington Shouldn't Threaten A Strategic Partner'

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

'It is a blunt and dangerous attempt to pressure India to sign BTA on one-sided terms.'

How To Prevent Deaths By Suicide At IITs

How To Prevent Deaths By Suicide At IITs

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

171 IIT student deaths by suicide or other unnatural causes have been recorded between January 2006 and September 2026. Of these, 120 were recorded between 2016 and September 2026, compared with 51 in the preceding decade.