News for 'government initiatives'

India's fugitive hunt intensifies, 274 brought back from 36 nations in 7 yrs

India's fugitive hunt intensifies, 274 brought back from 36 nations in 7 yrs

Rediff.com4 days ago

As many as 274 fugitives have been repatriated from 36 countries in the last 7 years, an average of around 40 per year and a 10-fold jump from the 2004-13 period when around four fugitives were brought back every year, the government said on Tuesday.

Ethanol Blending In Petrol Causes No Damage To Vehicles: Brazilian Minister

Ethanol Blending In Petrol Causes No Damage To Vehicles: Brazilian Minister

Rediff.com1 days ago

'As long as the vehicle has a flex engine, it is irrelevant if the mixture is 15 per cent or 30 per cent; the performance is the same.'

Dharmendra Pradhan's Resignation: First Crack In Modi's Fortress?

Dharmendra Pradhan's Resignation: First Crack In Modi's Fortress?

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation is significant because it punctures, however slightly, the perception that the Modi government never retreats under pressure. Every long-serving government eventually reaches a point where every institutional failure is identified with the leader himself. Removing the minister may have prevented that political burden from falling directly on Modi. Whether it also resolves the underlying crisis is another matter, notes Ramesh Menon.

UP Government Provides Financial Aid To Murder Victim's Family

UP Government Provides Financial Aid To Murder Victim's Family

Rediff.com31 May 2026

The Uttar Pradesh government has provided financial assistance to the family of a man who was murdered in Baghpat district. The family received Rs 5 lakh from the Chief Minister Relief Fund following instructions from Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

WhatsApp begins testing age checks for Indian users

WhatsApp begins testing age checks for Indian users

Rediff.com4 days ago

WhatsApp is testing new ways for users in India to confirm their age as it prepares to comply with upcoming legal requirements, including those related to the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, the Meta-owned messaging platform said on Tuesday.

Who's Rahul Gandhi's favourite BJP politician? He reveals

Who's Rahul Gandhi's favourite BJP politician? He reveals

Rediff.com1 days ago

Rahul Gandhi recently connected with Gen Z through an engaging 'Ask Me Anything' session on Instagram, offering candid responses on student protests, his views on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and even his philosophy on pet ownership.

Jharkhand job exam row escalates; CM offers talks to students

Jharkhand job exam row escalates; CM offers talks to students

Rediff.com2 days ago

Students intensified their protest over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations in Jharkhand with five demonstrators joining an indefinite hunger strike, even as Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Wednesday said the question paper leak issues are a national problem and offered talks to resolve the impasse.

Equestrian Federation Governance Reforms Face Lengthy Delays

Equestrian Federation Governance Reforms Face Lengthy Delays

Rediff.com21 May 2026

The Ad-Hoc Committee appointed to run the Equestrian Federation of India (EFI) has informed the Delhi High Court that governance reforms and elections may take longer than initially planned. The committee cited statutory requirements under the new sports law and delays in gaining full control of the federation as reasons for the extended timeline.

'Desperate' Modi, 'pathetic' video: Cong slams PM over midnight address to nation

'Desperate' Modi, 'pathetic' video: Cong slams PM over midnight address to nation

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The Congress party has criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent video message on paper leaks as an 'eyewash', demanding the sacking of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and accountability for the alleged brutality against student protestors. The party highlighted the government's initial denial of the NEET-UG 2026 leak and its perceived failure to address widespread irregularities.

Jharkhand protestors seek probe by ex-judge from outside state into exam paper leaks

Jharkhand protestors seek probe by ex-judge from outside state into exam paper leaks

Rediff.com4 days ago

Job aspirants in Jharkhand are protesting alleged paper leaks in PSC and other recruitment exams, demanding an independent inquiry by retired high court judges from outside the state. They have lost faith in the ongoing CID investigation, citing past failures, and threaten to intensify their agitation if their demands for a CBI or independent judicial probe are not met. The protests have garnered support from various organisations, with one leader on an indefinite hunger strike.

'Calculated campaign': HC initiates contempt action against Kejriwal, others

'Calculated campaign': HC initiates contempt action against Kejriwal, others

Rediff.com15 May 2026

The Delhi High Court has initiated criminal contempt proceedings against several AAP leaders, including Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia, for their social media posts against a judge in relation to the excise policy case.

IIT Madras Leads Global South In AI Road Safety Solutions

IIT Madras Leads Global South In AI Road Safety Solutions

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

IIT Madras's Centre of Excellence for Road Safety has organised its first international hackathon, focusing on AI in road safety. The event brought together participants from India and other BIMSTEC nations to develop data-driven, technology-enabled solutions for the region, which faces a high number of road fatalities annually. The hackathon aims to foster collaboration among governments, academic institutions, and regional bodies to address this critical issue.

FIFA Chief Gianni Infantino Faces Leadership Crisis After World Cup Rights U-Turn

FIFA Chief Gianni Infantino Faces Leadership Crisis After World Cup Rights U-Turn

Rediff.com6 days ago

UEFA and CONCACAF say they have lost confidence in FIFA President Gianni Infantino after the governing body withdrew its controversial World Cup rights plan.

Wife kills husband with pressure cooker lid for not buying her sarees

Wife kills husband with pressure cooker lid for not buying her sarees

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

A shocking incident in Thane sees a 30-year-old woman arrested for allegedly murdering her husband during a domestic dispute that escalated over sarees.

Mandaviya Assures Continued Support For India's Top Shooters

Mandaviya Assures Continued Support For India's Top Shooters

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has assured continued government support to trap shooter Neeru Dhanda and pistol ace Esha Singh, who recently achieved historic gold medals at ISSF World Cups. Mandaviya highlighted shooting as a priority sport for India, with significant investment in athlete development programs like TOPS and Khelo India, aiming for future Olympic and Commonwealth Games success.

Father-Daughter Duo Busted In Rs 5.3 Crore Government Job Scam

Father-Daughter Duo Busted In Rs 5.3 Crore Government Job Scam

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

A father and daughter have been arrested in Bengaluru for allegedly defrauding over 40 job seekers of more than Rs 5.30 crore by promising them government jobs through fake connections and training centres.

Ahmedabad to set new benchmarks for accessibility, sustainability at 2030 Commonwealth Games

Ahmedabad to set new benchmarks for accessibility, sustainability at 2030 Commonwealth Games

Rediff.com5 days ago

Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi has outlined Ahmedabad's vision for the 2030 Commonwealth Games, emphasising unparalleled accessibility for para athletes and a strong commitment to sustainability through green energy and electric transport.

Three NCPI Muslim MPs who skipped NDA meets join Modi for breakfast

Three NCPI Muslim MPs who skipped NDA meets join Modi for breakfast

Rediff.com1 days ago

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday expressed concern over the repeated disruptions of parliamentary proceedings, stating that due to the turmoil in the House, the country has been unable to listen to the talented MPs elected in recent times.

Why RBI Asked EPFO To Upgrade Its Investment System

Why RBI Asked EPFO To Upgrade Its Investment System

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

India's largest retirement fund manager, the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), is enhancing its investment governance and fund management practices, following the Reserve Bank of India's recommendations.

NEET paper leak row: NTA floats Rs 7.5cr tender for security

NEET paper leak row: NTA floats Rs 7.5cr tender for security

Rediff.com5 days ago

In response to the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak controversy, the NTA has initiated a significant security upgrade, floating a Rs 7.5 crore tender for comprehensive, round-the-clock security services to protect its critical infrastructure and confidential examination materials.

LS erupts over anti-paper leak bill, NEET stir crackdown dominates debate

LS erupts over anti-paper leak bill, NEET stir crackdown dominates debate

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

After six days of stalemate, a discussion on the anti-paper leak bill began on Tuesday in Lok Sabha with the government describing it as a reaffirmation of ruling dispensation's commitment to safeguard the welfare of students but opposition hit back over the lathi-charge on protesters, saying every blow on them hurt the government's prestige more than the backs of the youth.

Ram temple theft: Accused's wife gets fresh document deadline

Ram temple theft: Accused's wife gets fresh document deadline

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

The Ayodhya Development Authority (ADA) has granted Supriya Mishra, wife of Luv Kush Mishra, who is accused in the Ram temple donation case, an additional week to provide documents for a house in her name that is under construction in Ayodhya's Saadatganj area, the police said.

Can VinFast Sustain Its Blistering India Start?

Can VinFast Sustain Its Blistering India Start?

Rediff.com3 days ago

VinFast has gone from an unknown brand to India's fifth-largest EV carmaker in just seven months, but its toughest battle is only beginning.

M&M's Auto Segment Poised for Near-Term Gains Despite Q1FY27 Margin Contraction

M&M's Auto Segment Poised for Near-Term Gains Despite Q1FY27 Margin Contraction

Rediff.com2 hours ago

Mahindra & Mahindra's Q1FY27 results missed consensus estimates due to declining gross margins, but strong demand for its SUV portfolio and strategic price hikes are expected to drive near-term gains, particularly in the auto segment, despite headwinds in farm equipment.

How AITA's New Digital Platform Will Transform Indian Tennis

How AITA's New Digital Platform Will Transform Indian Tennis

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

The All India Tennis Association (AITA) has launched a new digital platform in partnership with World Tennis Number, creating a unified ecosystem for Indian tennis. This platform will streamline registrations, tournament entries, and provide access to rankings, aiming to modernise the sport's administration and player experience.

India Pledges Lasting Legacy For 2030 Commonwealth Games In Ahmedabad

India Pledges Lasting Legacy For 2030 Commonwealth Games In Ahmedabad

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya affirmed India's commitment to hosting the 2030 Centenary Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad, promising an exceptional event and a lasting institutional legacy. He highlighted India's support for governance reforms, anti-doping measures, and initiatives like Khelo India, while also advocating for a stronger, member-driven framework for Commonwealth sports.

CM Vijay's office set for historic shift from Fort St George

CM Vijay's office set for historic shift from Fort St George

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

The Tamil Nadu Chief Minister's office is relocating from the historic Fort St George to a new, spacious, and modern facility on the 10th floor of the Namakkal Kavignar Maaligai building in the Secretariat complex due to space constraints and administrative considerations. This move marks a significant departure from a nearly six-decade tradition.

Cop murder accused, who lived as fake doctor in MP, held after 28 years

Cop murder accused, who lived as fake doctor in MP, held after 28 years

Rediff.com2 days ago

A man who allegedly reinvented himself as a small-town "doctor", married, raised a family and quietly ran a clinic in Madhya Pradesh while evading law for nearly 28 years over the murder of a cop has been finally arrested by the Delhi police.

Bihar to drop charges against NEET protesters, release detainees

Bihar to drop charges against NEET protesters, release detainees

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

The Bihar government has announced the withdrawal of all cases filed against protesters involved in demonstrations concerning the NEET paper leak. This decision includes the release of individuals who were jailed in connection with these incidents.

'Pradhan greeted as if he came back after fighting Pak'

'Pradhan greeted as if he came back after fighting Pak'

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

The Congress party, through Deputy Leader Gaurav Gogoi, has criticised the proposed amendments to India's anti-paper leaks law, arguing that previous legislation has failed to prevent examination leaks. Gogoi highlighted the ongoing student protests and questioned the government's sincerity, particularly regarding the handling of the NEET fiasco and the welcome given to former Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. He also raised concerns about the National Testing Agency's accountability.

'Don't intimidate me': History-sheeter dares Kerala home minister

'Don't intimidate me': History-sheeter dares Kerala home minister

Rediff.com21 hours ago

History-sheeter Arjun Ayanki has publicly challenged Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala, daring him to reinvestigate a case and warning him against intimidation. This comes as police intensify their search for Ayanki in connection with allegedly threatening a police officer. Ayanki, known for his involvement in a gold smuggling network, has multiple cases against him, including a recent one for his social media post against the minister.

Govt allows FDI in inventory-based e-commerce model only for export purposes

Govt allows FDI in inventory-based e-commerce model only for export purposes

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

The Indian government has permitted Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in an inventory-based e-commerce model exclusively for the export of domestically manufactured or produced goods, aiming to boost outbound shipments without affecting small local retailers.

19-year-old NEET aspirant commits suicide in Maharashtra

19-year-old NEET aspirant commits suicide in Maharashtra

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

A 19-year-old medical aspirant, Ankita Suresh Sangle, allegedly died by suicide in Jalalpur after being disheartened by her NEET re-examination score of 166 marks, while the family of another aspirant, Akanksha Chaturvedi, who died earlier, demanded justice and compensation, calling for top government leadership resignations amidst the ongoing NEET paper leak controversy.

UEFA nations to boycott World Cup over FIFA stake sale plans

UEFA nations to boycott World Cup over FIFA stake sale plans

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

UEFA's member associations have unanimously voted to boycott the World Cup and other FIFA competitions in protest against FIFA's plan to sell stakes to external investors in a subsidiary managing its tournaments.

Iran nears control of Hormuz under proposed Oman deal

Iran nears control of Hormuz under proposed Oman deal

Rediff.com2 days ago

A proposed deal between Iran and Oman could grant Tehran control over vessels entering the Gulf through the Strait of Hormuz, according to a senior Iranian source and two regional officials who spoke to Reuters on Wednesday, in what represents one of the most significant concessions made to Iran to date.

Consumer forum lifts liquor seller's spirits, tells insurer to pay Rs 1.2 cr

Consumer forum lifts liquor seller's spirits, tells insurer to pay Rs 1.2 cr

Rediff.com4 days ago

A consumer disputes commission in Mumbai has directed National Insurance Company Ltd to pay a liquor wholesaler over 1.2 crore for stock ruined during the 2017 Mumbai floods, deeming the claim rejection 'arbitrary and unreasonable'.

At presser, Rahul Gandhi demands Amit Shah's sacking, SC-monitored probe

At presser, Rahul Gandhi demands Amit Shah's sacking, SC-monitored probe

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has strongly criticised the government over alleged police excesses against students, demanding Prime Minister Narendra Modi sack Home Minister Amit Shah. Gandhi also called for a Supreme Court-monitored investigation into the "brutalities" and accused the Lok Sabha of silencing him when he tried to speak on the issue.

First Biotech Startups Receive Funding Under India's Rs 1 Trillion R&D Fund

First Biotech Startups Receive Funding Under India's Rs 1 Trillion R&D Fund

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

The Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) has chosen seven to eight biotechnology startups as the initial group to receive funding from the government's ~1 trillion Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund, with an average investment of approximately ~25 crore per startup.

LS deadlock ends, parties agree to discuss anti-paper leak bill on Tuesday

LS deadlock ends, parties agree to discuss anti-paper leak bill on Tuesday

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

The Lok Sabha stalemate is expected to conclude as Speaker Om Birla has secured an agreement from all political parties to discuss the Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill 2026. This bill proposes stricter punishments, including up to 10 years in jail and a Rs 50 lakh fine, for paper leak offences, following recent nationwide student protests over the NEET fiasco.

GSTN Postpones E-Way Bill Changes

GSTN Postpones E-Way Bill Changes

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

GSTN has put on hold its planned enhancements to the e-way bill system, providing businesses with crucial time to adapt to the proposed changes amid widespread industry concerns.