News for 'ministers'

Lucknow blaze: 'Papa, please save me, there is a fire'

Lucknow blaze: 'Papa, please save me, there is a fire'

Rediff.com5 days ago

Families of the victims who perished in the massive Aliganj fire in Lucknow are mourning their losses, with several alleging that delayed rescue efforts contributed to the high death toll. Many victims, including young animation artists, were trapped, and some attempted to save themselves by jumping from the building.

Punjab BJP Seeks Sedition Case Against Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann

Punjab BJP Seeks Sedition Case Against Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann

Rediff.com7 May 2026

The Punjab BJP has called for a sedition case against Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann for blaming the party for recent blasts in the state, alleging his remarks could be used by Pakistan to defend against accusations of sponsoring terrorism.

Ayodhya will be BJP's 'Lanka Kaand': Akhilesh Yadav

Ayodhya will be BJP's 'Lanka Kaand': Akhilesh Yadav

Rediff.com3 days ago

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has launched a scathing attack on the BJP, asserting that Ayodhya will be their "Lanka" due to alleged corruption in Ram Temple donations. He also linked the issue to the NEET controversy, suggesting a wider pattern of malfeasance and predicting internal strife within the ruling party.

NCERT brings Emergency into Class 9 syllabus; Pradhan hails move

NCERT brings Emergency into Class 9 syllabus; Pradhan hails move

Rediff.com4 days ago

The NCERT has included in the class 9 social science textbook a section on Emergency, which it described as "one of the major challenges to democracy in India" with Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan hailing the move saying future generations should know about the "dark deeds".

FIFA World Cup 2026: Madibo handed five-match ban for breaking Kone's leg

FIFA World Cup 2026: Madibo handed five-match ban for breaking Kone's leg

Rediff.com5 days ago

Qatar midfielder Assim Madibo has been given a five-match ban after receiving a red card for a tackle which seriously injured Canada midfielder Ismael Kone, FIFA said on Wednesday.

'Loyalty up for sale': Aaditya hits out at 'greedy' MPs

'Loyalty up for sale': Aaditya hits out at 'greedy' MPs

Rediff.com7 days ago

Aaditya Thackeray has vehemently condemned six rebel MPs, asserting that their "greed" led them to betray the voters' mandate for the INDIA bloc.

22 lakh take NEET re-exam today, Pradhan urges calm

22 lakh take NEET re-exam today, Pradhan urges calm

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan urged 22 lakh students appearing for the NEET re-exam to do so "fearlessly and free of anxiety," while the National Testing Agency (NTA) reminded candidates to download fresh admit cards and adhere to entry guidelines.

Nagpur commissioner's RSS praise draws Congress ire, demands probe

Nagpur commissioner's RSS praise draws Congress ire, demands probe

Rediff.com3 days ago

The Maharashtra Congress has called for an inquiry into IPS officer Vishwas Nangre Patil's speech at a Hindu Sakal Samaj event, where he reportedly praised the RSS. The party alleges that the speech raises questions about his neutrality and adherence to All India Services (Conduct) Rules, especially concerning political neutrality and the requirement for prior permission for such public engagements. Nangare Patil was recently appointed Nagpur police commissioner, a city known for housing the RSS headquarters.

Vijay moves resolution in TN assembly against Karnataka's Mekedatu project

Vijay moves resolution in TN assembly against Karnataka's Mekedatu project

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay is set to introduce a resolution in the state Assembly opposing Karnataka's plan to construct a dam across the Cauvery river at Mekedatu. The resolution will urge the Centre to withhold technical and environmental clearance, citing concerns that the project would unilaterally affect Tamil Nadu's interests.

US eases sanctions, grants 60-day Iranian oil licence amid Swiss talks

US eases sanctions, grants 60-day Iranian oil licence amid Swiss talks

Rediff.com7 days ago

In a major shift in Middle Eastern energy and security dynamics, the US Department of the Treasury on Monday issued a temporary 60-day general licence authorising transactions related to the production, delivery, and sale of Iranian crude oil, petrochemicals, and petroleum products.

US, Iran launch high-stakes peace talks in Switzerland

US, Iran launch high-stakes peace talks in Switzerland

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Top leaders from the US, Iran, and Pakistan, along with other nations, have gathered in Switzerland for high-level talks aimed at restoring peace in West Asia. These negotiations follow a recently signed Memorandum of Understanding between the US and Iran, initiating a 60-day window for a deal. Discussions focus on Iran's nuclear programme and the fragile interim peace deal, amidst renewed tensions and the fluctuating status of the Strait of Hormuz.

Fake video on NEET-UG exam paper leak, says NTA

Fake video on NEET-UG exam paper leak, says NTA

Rediff.com7 days ago

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has strongly refuted a video circulating on social media that falsely claims the NEET-UG 2026 paper was leaked, asserting that the recent re-examination was conducted successfully with comprehensive security measures.

How Drones Are Revolutionising Power Transmission In Karnataka

How Drones Are Revolutionising Power Transmission In Karnataka

Rediff.com3 days ago

Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation Limited (KPTCL) has successfully deployed advanced drone technology for inspecting high voltage transmission corridors, leading to an 85 per cent reduction in power outages. This initiative has improved operational efficiency, workforce safety, and enabled precise fault detection and predictive maintenance across over 11,000 transmission towers and 3,370 km of lines.

Jharkhand Minister Promises Justice In Forest Deaths Case

Jharkhand Minister Promises Justice In Forest Deaths Case

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Jharkhand Health Minister Irfan Ansari met with the families of three individuals found dead in a forest in Hazaribag, assuring them of justice. The incident occurred after reporters were allegedly manhandled by family members following questions posed to the minister.

LS Speaker to decide on rebel TMC, Sena-UBT MPs before monsoon session

LS Speaker to decide on rebel TMC, Sena-UBT MPs before monsoon session

Rediff.com5 days ago

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla is set to make crucial decisions regarding the disqualification petitions against rebel MPs from the Trinamool Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT) before the upcoming monsoon session of Parliament. Both parties have sought the disqualification of their defecting members under the anti-defection law, while the Speaker is consulting legal experts and examining precedents to ensure legally sound decisions.

3 Indian tankers cross Hormuz safely as Iran shuts it again

3 Indian tankers cross Hormuz safely as Iran shuts it again

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Three Indian-flagged crude oil tankers, Desh Vaibhav, Desh Vibhor, and Sanmar Herald, successfully transited the Strait of Hormuz and are en route to India, even as Iran announced the closure of the critical waterway following Israeli strikes in Lebanon.

Dipke seeks support of farmers, NEET candidates as CJP stir enters Day 2

Dipke seeks support of farmers, NEET candidates as CJP stir enters Day 2

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

On the second day of the protest at Jantar Mantar, Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke sought farmers' support to the youth-led agitation over alleged examination irregularities, NEET paper leak and the demand for education minister's resignation.

'Picture abhi baaki hain': Shinde warns Uddhav, signals fresh exodus

'Picture abhi baaki hain': Shinde warns Uddhav, signals fresh exodus

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

In an apparent reference to the buzz of six rebel Shiv Sena-Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray MPs switching sides, Maharashtra deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Friday said this is just a trailer and the movie is yet to come, indicating more defections could be in offing in the rival faction.

Missing CCTVs, hundi keys with driver: What SIT found in Ram temple 'fraud'

Missing CCTVs, hundi keys with driver: What SIT found in Ram temple 'fraud'

Rediff.com2 days ago

Investigators recovered nearly Rs 80 lakh in cash and some foreign currency from six of the accused.

Why Did Sergio Gor Meet Amitbhai?

Why Did Sergio Gor Meet Amitbhai?

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor on Thursday met with Union Home Minister Amit Shah to discuss enhancing cooperation on combating terrorism and bringing criminals to justice in both countries.

NTA calls NEET-UG 2026 paper leak video 'fake' amid re-exams

NTA calls NEET-UG 2026 paper leak video 'fake' amid re-exams

Rediff.com7 days ago

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has strongly refuted a video circulating on social media that falsely claims the NEET-UG 2026 paper was leaked, asserting that the recent re-examination was conducted successfully with comprehensive security measures.

5 dead, 18 injured as temple roof collapses in Maharashtra

5 dead, 18 injured as temple roof collapses in Maharashtra

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

A slab of a Hanuman temple collapsed in Yashwadi village, Parbhani district, Maharashtra, resulting in the deaths of at least three people and injuries to several others. A rescue operation is underway, and approximately 25 individuals have been rescued so far. The incident occurred on a Saturday, a day when the temple typically sees a large number of devotees.

Mamata, her 21 ministers swept out in massive anti-incumbency wave

Mamata, her 21 ministers swept out in massive anti-incumbency wave

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The Trinamool Congress government's massive defeat in West Bengal shows "deep anti-incumbency and unpopularity" as out of 35 ministers who contested the assembly elections, 22 have been defeated, including Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in her constituency.

My brother BJP spokesperson, discloses judge in Mamata poll plea

My brother BJP spokesperson, discloses judge in Mamata poll plea

Rediff.com6 days ago

A Calcutta High Court judge, Gaurang Kant, disclosed that his elder brother is a national spokesperson for the BJP while hearing Mamata Banerjee's petition challenging the Bhabanipur assembly seat poll result. Despite the disclosure, Banerjee's lawyer expressed full confidence in the judge.

Time India Embraces China And US

Time India Embraces China And US

Rediff.com3 days ago

India's dual pursuit of a robust strategic partnership with Washington and a pragmatic, tension-management policy with Beijing represents the essence of modern multi-alignment. By embracing economic pragmatism, learning to compartmentalize political differences, and engaging in continuous dialogue, India can secure its borders, grow its economy, and contribute to a stable, multipolar Asian century, points out Ambassador Rajasekhar.

SC to hear Jacqueline Fernandez's plea in money laundering case on Thursday

SC to hear Jacqueline Fernandez's plea in money laundering case on Thursday

Rediff.com5 days ago

Bollywood actor Jacqueline Fernandez's plea against a Delhi court order to frame charges in a Rs 200-crore money laundering case is scheduled for a Supreme Court hearing. The case involves alleged conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar, who is accused of running an organised criminal network from jail and defrauding individuals.

El Nino effect: 111 districts tagged as most vulnerable, 20 in Maharashtra

El Nino effect: 111 districts tagged as most vulnerable, 20 in Maharashtra

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Indian government has identified 111 districts as 'most vulnerable' to crop damage due to a 43 per cent monsoon deficit, driven by El Nino, which threatens kharif sowing. Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan stated that weak monsoon conditions are expected to persist until July 2, prompting contingency plans and recommendations for alternative, less water-intensive crops.

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.com2 days ago

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.

India playing 'big role' in addressing West Asia crisis: Trump

India playing 'big role' in addressing West Asia crisis: Trump

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

US President Donald Trump has lauded India as an 'essential partner' and 'trusted ally' in addressing regional challenges, particularly its 'big role' in West Asia peace efforts, following discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G7 Summit.

Israel, Lebanon sign US-led framework pact in 'first step' towards peace

Israel, Lebanon sign US-led framework pact in 'first step' towards peace

Rediff.com2 days ago

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Friday (local time) announced a US-mediated framework agreement between Israel and Lebanon aimed at achieving "lasting peace and security".

Ananthan Kaadu Review: Predictable Revenge Saga

Ananthan Kaadu Review: Predictable Revenge Saga

Rediff.com3 days ago

Indrans' standout performance deserves a sharper screenplay than this over-edited, all-too-familiar revenge saga, rues Sreeju Sudhakaran.

5 diamonds weighing 1.22 carats found during exploration in Chhattisgarh

5 diamonds weighing 1.22 carats found during exploration in Chhattisgarh

Rediff.com6 days ago

Five diamonds, including two of gem quality, have been discovered during scientific exploration in Chhattisgarh's Mahasamund district. This significant find in the Baloda-Belmundi Diamond Block could establish a new diamond-bearing region, promising future investments, revenue generation, and employment opportunities for the state and strengthening India's domestic diamond resources.

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif signs US-Iran peace deal

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif signs US-Iran peace deal

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday signed the historic peace deal between the United States and Iran as a guarantor; the agreement will see the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the lifting of the US naval blockade.

Diplomatic century: Modi completes 100 foreign visits in 12 yrs as PM

Diplomatic century: Modi completes 100 foreign visits in 12 yrs as PM

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's week-long ongoing tour of France and Slovakia is his 100th foreign trip since he assumed the high office 12 years ago.

'Yoga for peace, warships for security': Modi commissions 3 naval vessels

'Yoga for peace, warships for security': Modi commissions 3 naval vessels

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday used two major public engagements in Kolkata to outline a broader vision for India's future -- one rooted in inner balance and collective well-being through yoga, and the other in national self-reliance and maritime strength.

Sena-UBT remains strong, Aaditya capable of leading it: Raut

Sena-UBT remains strong, Aaditya capable of leading it: Raut

Rediff.com3 days ago

Sanjay Raut defended the strength of Shiv Sena-UBT, backing Aaditya Thackeray as a capable next-generation leader while claiming the party cadre remains loyal to Uddhav Thackeray despite recent MP defections driven by money and central agency pressure.

FMSCI pushes for Formula 1, MotoGP, World Rally C'ship return to India

FMSCI pushes for Formula 1, MotoGP, World Rally C'ship return to India

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

FMSCI President Arindam Ghosh announced plans to bring Formula 1 back to India by 2030, and a round of the World Rally Championship and MotoGP by 2028, following a meeting with the Sports Ministry. The federation is focused on developing Indian drivers and promoting motorsports in the country.

Pandian's wife, ex-IAS officer Sujata joins Biju Janata Dal

Pandian's wife, ex-IAS officer Sujata joins Biju Janata Dal

Rediff.com4 days ago

Sujata Rout Karthikeyan, wife of former Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik's close aide VK Pandian, has formally joined the BJD. Naveen Patnaik welcomed her, emphasising her experience as an IAS officer and her work with women. Patnaik also clarified that he would continue to lead the BJD in the next elections, despite speculation about Sujata taking over. Sujata expressed her dedication to serving the people of Odisha under Patnaik's leadership. Her entry into politics follows her husband's withdrawal after the BJD's recent electoral defeat.

Jacqueline Fernandez withdraws Supreme Court plea challenging money laundering charges

Jacqueline Fernandez withdraws Supreme Court plea challenging money laundering charges

Rediff.com4 days ago

Bollywood actor Jacqueline Fernandez has withdrawn her plea from the Supreme Court, challenging a Delhi court's order to frame charges against her in a Rs 200 crore money laundering case.

Chinese FM Wang Yi to attend BRICS NSA meet in New Delhi from June 22 to 23

Chinese FM Wang Yi to attend BRICS NSA meet in New Delhi from June 22 to 23

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is set to attend the BRICS National Security Advisors meeting in New Delhi on June 22-23. The high-level gathering will address international security challenges, regional issues, and prepare for the upcoming BRICS Summit in India. Wang Yi is also expected to hold bilateral talks with India's NSA Ajit Doval, focusing on India-China border issues.