News for 'government initiatives'

BJP Demands CBI Investigation into Punjab Official's Suicide, Alleges Government Cover-Up

BJP Demands CBI Investigation into Punjab Official's Suicide, Alleges Government Cover-Up

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

A Punjab BJP delegation has requested a CBI investigation into the suicide of a Punjab State Warehousing Corporation official, alleging harassment and a cover-up by the state government.

TMC claims high voter turnout backs Mamata's governance

TMC claims high voter turnout backs Mamata's governance

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

The TMC has refuted Prime Minister Modi's claim that high voter turnout in the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly polls indicates a mandate for change, asserting it reflects support for Mamata Banerjee and her government's development agenda.

CJP protest: Wangchuk loses 6 kg as fast enters 8th day

CJP protest: Wangchuk loses 6 kg as fast enters 8th day

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party's (CJP) protest at the Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, demanding Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation and government accountability over alleged examination irregularities, entered its 16th day on Sunday, while it was the eighth day of an indefinite hunger strike announced by climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has lost around six kg since beginning the fast.

Mumbai's first desalination plant on course, to add 200 MLD a day

Mumbai's first desalination plant on course, to add 200 MLD a day

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

The Maharashtra government has confirmed that Mumbai's first desalination project is moving forward, with a work order issued and key clearances secured. This 200 MLD project, undertaken by the BMC, aims to address the city's growing water demand and will result in a minor tariff hike of 15-17 paise per litre.

Hooda Slams Haryana Government Over Crop Procurement Conditions

Hooda Slams Haryana Government Over Crop Procurement Conditions

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

Former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda has accused the state government of imposing arbitrary conditions on crop purchases, alleging anti-farmer policies and demanding compensation for weather-related crop damage.

Why Indians Thrive Overseas

Why Indians Thrive Overseas

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

India too can rise to the top if the 1.4 billion Indians back home are given better opportunities to use their innate talent and capacity to work hard, with right incentives in a more meritocratic rules-based system, asserts Ajay Chhibber.

Why Modi Should Watch Japan's Transformation Under Sanae Takaichi

Why Modi Should Watch Japan's Transformation Under Sanae Takaichi

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

History may remember Takaichi Sanae not as the leader who simply accelerated Japanese rearmament, but as one who governed during Japan's transition from an industrial-age security model to a post-industrial strategic member of the global order, points out Varun Arya.

India To Be Among Top 10 Sporting Nations By 2036: Minister

India To Be Among Top 10 Sporting Nations By 2036: Minister

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced India's ambitious goal to rank among the top 10 sporting nations by 2036 and break into the top five by 2047, attributing the progress to the government's efforts in streamlining sports governance and providing opportunities for youth.

Inmate's Viral Video From Hoshiarpur Jail Triggers Political Outcry

Inmate's Viral Video From Hoshiarpur Jail Triggers Political Outcry

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

A video of an inmate from Hoshiarpur Central Jail alleging harassment and demanding money from staff has gone viral, leading to an official inquiry and a political backlash against the Punjab government.

8 workers from Bihar killed in rock collapse in Bengaluru quarry

8 workers from Bihar killed in rock collapse in Bengaluru quarry

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Eight workers, mostly from Bihar, were killed after a massive granite rock collapsed at a stone quarry in Bengaluru South Taluk. The incident, which occurred at Madapattana, has led to allegations of illegal quarrying and negligence, with an MLA claiming police, forest, and mining department officials are involved. Chief Minister D K Shivakumar expressed grief and vowed action against violators, while rescue operations continue amidst fears of a rising death toll.

Suvendu plans stringent anti-conversion law, implementation of UCC in Bengal

Suvendu plans stringent anti-conversion law, implementation of UCC in Bengal

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced plans to enact a stringent law against religious conversion and implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the state. He linked these measures to strengthening national security and preserving Bengal's cultural identity, citing concerns over infiltration and demographic changes. Adhikari also highlighted efforts in border security, distinguished between illegal immigrants and CAA refugees, and paid tribute to Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay.

At least 164 killed, around 1,000 hurt as quakes rock Venezuela

At least 164 killed, around 1,000 hurt as quakes rock Venezuela

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

At least 32 people have been killed and over 700 injured after two powerful earthquakes struck western Venezuela, with Acting President Delcy Rodriguez declaring La Guaira a disaster zone and warning the death toll is expected to rise as rescue operations continue.

India Forms AI Governance Body to Steer National Strategy

India Forms AI Governance Body to Steer National Strategy

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

India has established a high-level inter-ministerial body, the AI Governance and Economic Group (AIGEG), to steer the country's national AI governance strategy. The AIGEG will coordinate policy across ministries and oversee cross-sectoral governance issues, supported by a Technology and Policy Expert Committee (TPEC).

JK cardiologist suspended for operating on healthy hearts

JK cardiologist suspended for operating on healthy hearts

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

A doctor in Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir, has been suspended following an inquiry into alleged large-scale procedural irregularities, including a pacemaker implantation scam where nearly 50 per cent of evaluated patients underwent unnecessary advanced cardiac surgical procedures. The inquiry revealed fraudulent insurance claims, patient exploitation, and manipulation of medical records.

TMC Leader Banerjee Criticises Modi Government's Economic Policies

TMC Leader Banerjee Criticises Modi Government's Economic Policies

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

Senior TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee criticised the Modi government's economic policies, citing rising prices and hardships caused by demonetisation and lockdown measures during an election rally in West Bengal.

Tirupati's Balaji Set to Arrive in North East India

Tirupati's Balaji Set to Arrive in North East India

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams has acquired a 10 acre plot in Assam, paving the way for construction of the first Sri Venkateswara temple in North East India.

Donation allegations 'baseless', will respond after SIT report: Champat Rai

Donation allegations 'baseless', will respond after SIT report: Champat Rai

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

A day after his resignation was accepted by the Ram temple trust, its former general secretary Champat Rai on Tuesday said he would respond to all allegations of donation embezzlement after the SIT submits its final report, even as opposition parties alleged a "cover-up" and stepped up the demand for its dissolution.

Mumbai man dies after falling into open manhole; 4 officials suspended

Mumbai man dies after falling into open manhole; 4 officials suspended

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

A 55-year-old man died after falling into an open manhole in Mumbai during heavy rains, leading to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) suspending four officials and initiating a homicide case against the responsible contractor for alleged negligence.

Football's race problem resurfaces after Garcia's Senegal remarks

Football's race problem resurfaces after Garcia's Senegal remarks

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Rudi Garcia's comments about Senegal's tactical structure, along with other pundit remarks, have reignited scrutiny over racially coded language in World Cup commentary, drawing criticism from scholars and anti-racism advocates who argue such language perpetuates harmful stereotypes about Black players and African teams.

Indian-Origin Founders Build Global Space Exchange

Indian-Origin Founders Build Global Space Exchange

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Nebex, founded by former Axiom Space executives, aims to build commercial infrastructure for the global space economy.

Jamshedpur on edge after Karni Sena leader murder during brawl, 5 held

Jamshedpur on edge after Karni Sena leader murder during brawl, 5 held

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Five individuals have been arrested in connection with the murder of Karni Sena leader Himanshu Singh in Jamshedpur, who was stabbed after protesting alleged eve-teasing. Prohibitory orders have been imposed across parts of the city, and a Jamshedpur bandh has been called by opposition parties for July 3.

SC pulls up DMK over plea against CM Vijay visiting stampede victims' kin

SC pulls up DMK over plea against CM Vijay visiting stampede victims' kin

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to entertain a plea by the DMK questioning Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay's scheduled meeting with the families of Karur stampede victims, stating that the court cannot regulate the executive head's visits.

Haryana Government Seizes Hundreds of LPG Cylinders in Black Market Crackdown

Haryana Government Seizes Hundreds of LPG Cylinders in Black Market Crackdown

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

The Haryana government is taking strict action against black marketing of cooking gas cylinders, registering FIRs and seizing hundreds of cylinders to ensure adequate supply for citizens.

Kolkata warehouse toll rises to 11, rescue ops underway after 24 hours

Kolkata warehouse toll rises to 11, rescue ops underway after 24 hours

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

The death toll from the Taratala warehouse collapse in south Kolkata has risen to 10, with rescue operations continuing using advanced Army equipment. Five individuals have been arrested, including the warehouse owner and structural engineer, as police investigate potential safety norm violations.

Private Sector Key To India-US Strategic Tech Outcomes

Private Sector Key To India-US Strategic Tech Outcomes

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Senior Indian officials highlight the indispensable role of the private sector in translating India-US cooperation in AI, semiconductors, quantum technologies, and critical minerals into tangible outcomes. The collaboration aims to build trusted, resilient technology ecosystems and position India as a global electronics and semiconductor hub.

'India is among Standard Chartered's top five wealth markets globally'

'India is among Standard Chartered's top five wealth markets globally'

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

"With the leverage available, I believe the scheme remains reasonably attractive," said P D Singh, India and South Asia Chief Executive Officer, Standard Chartered Bank, regarding the Foreign Currency Non-Resident (Bank) or FCNR (B) deposits.

Ram Temple donation probe: FIR alleges criminal conspiracy

Ram Temple donation probe: FIR alleges criminal conspiracy

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Ayodhya Police have taken Ram Shankar Yadav into custody following an FIR alleging embezzlement of donations at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. The complaint, lodged by a member of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, names nine individuals and others for systematic theft and misappropriation of funds. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed, and its preliminary findings led to the FIR. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has vowed a 'zero-tolerance' policy and urged evidence submission to the SIT.

BJP govt to table UCC bill in Bengal assembly, face twin TMC challenge

BJP govt to table UCC bill in Bengal assembly, face twin TMC challenge

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Less than two months after ending the TMC's 15-year rule in the state, the BJP government is expected to table one of its most ambitious and politically sensitive promises, setting the stage for what could become the first major ideological confrontation of the post-election period.

India Post's Biggest Makeover in 150 Years

India Post's Biggest Makeover in 150 Years

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

India Post is reinventing itself from a traditional mail service into a modern logistics, e-commerce, and real estate powerhouse. Several post offices situated inside major university campuses, called Gen Z post offices, have received a facelift, with cafe-like decor and wi-fi availability.

Not true: WhatsApp denies popular figure username abuse amid govt scrutiny

Not true: WhatsApp denies popular figure username abuse amid govt scrutiny

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

WhatsApp has asserted that username reservation relating to well-known public figure names is restricted only to their legitimate account owners, and termed as "false" any claims that people are reserving popular or well-known usernames.

India's Grand Plan To Bring Formula One Back

India's Grand Plan To Bring Formula One Back

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

The Indian Sports Ministry, led by Minister Manuskh Mandaviya, is establishing a dedicated Task Force to explore the revival of Formula One racing in India. This initiative follows a meeting with key stakeholders, aiming to assess the challenges and benefits of hosting major motorsport events, with a target of bringing F1 back by 2028. The Task Force will recommend a comprehensive policy framework to support motorsports growth, leveraging India's significant F1 fanbase.

'Why Should We Be Okay With 6.5% Growth Rate?'

'Why Should We Be Okay With 6.5% Growth Rate?'

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

'Why not aspire for 8 or 9 or even 10 per cent?'

Kolkata warehouse tragedy: Suvendu orders audit of all TMC-era projects

Kolkata warehouse tragedy: Suvendu orders audit of all TMC-era projects

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

A committee constituted by the West Bengal government to carry out a special audit of sanctioned plans for high-rise residential and commercial buildings in and around the city will meet on Friday to begin the exercise, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said.

'Dalai Lama Loved Repairing Mechanical Watches'

'Dalai Lama Loved Repairing Mechanical Watches'

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

'Only the Dalai Lama could have kept the Tibet issue alive the way he did.'

India's defence output hits record 1.78 lakh crore in 2025-26

India's defence output hits record 1.78 lakh crore in 2025-26

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

India's annual defence production has reached an all-time high of Rs 1.78 lakh crore in FY 2025-26, marking a significant 15.6 per cent growth over the previous fiscal year. This achievement reflects a 110 per cent increase since 2020-21 and highlights the country's expanding defence industrial base, driven by policy support and increased private sector participation.

Delhi ministers switch to virtual meets, metro, EVs, e-bicycles to save fuel

Delhi ministers switch to virtual meets, metro, EVs, e-bicycles to save fuel

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Following Prime Minister Modi's appeal, Delhi ministers are adopting measures like using public transport, electric vehicles, and virtual meetings to reduce fuel consumption and cut expenditure.

Vaiko's MDMK snaps ties with DMK, to back Vijay's TVK

Vaiko's MDMK snaps ties with DMK, to back Vijay's TVK

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

The MDMK general council, led by Vaiko, has announced its decision to withdraw from the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance. The party accused the DMK of attempting to prop up an AIADMK government, which they claim goes against the people's mandate and the alliance's secular ideology.

Russian Olympic Committee Ban Provisionally Lifted By IOC

Russian Olympic Committee Ban Provisionally Lifted By IOC

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

The International Olympic Committee has provisionally lifted its ban on the Russian Olympic Committee, which was imposed in 2023. This decision opens the door for Russian athletes to return to international competitions, including the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, though the use of national symbols remains undecided.

AIFF Seeks Ministry, FIFA Nod For Name Change To FFB

AIFF Seeks Ministry, FIFA Nod For Name Change To FFB

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has proposed changing its name to the Football Federation of Bharat (FFB). This significant proposal, accepted during a Special General Body Meeting, now awaits crucial approvals from the sports ministry and FIFA.

Twisha Sharma death case: CBI probe recommended; kin moves HC for 2nd autopsy

Twisha Sharma death case: CBI probe recommended; kin moves HC for 2nd autopsy

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The Madhya Pradesh government has proposed transferring the case of Twisha Sharma, who allegedly died due to dowry harassment, to the CBI. The family has also filed a plea in the High Court for a second post-mortem, citing flaws in the initial one.