News for 'ministry'

UP family seeks aid after man dies in suspected Riyadh missile attack

UP family seeks aid after man dies in suspected Riyadh missile attack

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

The family of a 26-year-old man from Uttar Pradesh, who was killed in a suspected missile attack in Riyadh, has demanded compensation and a government job for his widow from the local administration.

Iran imposes 'toll' in Hormuz; India calls it baseless

Iran imposes 'toll' in Hormuz; India calls it baseless

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

The report said ships must submit full documentation, obtain clearance codes and accept IRGC-escorted passage through a designated corridor.

Moscow Reports Interception of 28 Ukrainian Drones

Moscow Reports Interception of 28 Ukrainian Drones

Rediff.com15 Mar 2026

Russian air defence units reportedly destroyed 28 Ukrainian drones targeting Moscow, marking the second consecutive day of such incidents. Airport operations were temporarily suspended due to the drone attacks.

SC halts Rajasthan's sand mining move in Chambal sanctuary

SC halts Rajasthan's sand mining move in Chambal sanctuary

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

The Supreme Court of India has stayed a notification by the Rajasthan government that would have de-notified a portion of the National Chambal Sanctuary for sand mining, citing the threat to endangered species and the illegal nature of the activity.

Iran War Burns India's Exporters: Stranded at Sea, Billed For A War They Never Started

Iran War Burns India's Exporters: Stranded at Sea, Billed For A War They Never Started

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

'Every day the meter is ticking. Like a time bomb.' Shipping giants are billing Indian exporters up to $3,000 per container in war surcharges -- on cargo that sailed before the war began -- as the Strait of Hormuz shuts down.

West Asia conflict: 'India can be a better mediator than Pakistan'

West Asia conflict: 'India can be a better mediator than Pakistan'

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

Fleur Hassan-Nahoum, special envoy, foreign ministry of Israel, has asserted that the situation has effectively been a "multi-front regional conflict" since its inception, while claiming significant military and strategic gains against adversarial forces.

400 killed in Pak airstrikes on Afghanistan rehab centre

400 killed in Pak airstrikes on Afghanistan rehab centre

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

A devastating airstrike on a Kabul drug rehabilitation centre has killed hundreds, escalating tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan and prompting international calls for de-escalation and investigation.

India's 2nd LPG tanker 'Nanda Devi' reaches Gujarat port amid crisis

India's 2nd LPG tanker 'Nanda Devi' reaches Gujarat port amid crisis

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

Despite ongoing tensions in West Asia, the successful arrival of the LPG carrier 'Nanda Devi' in Gujarat ensures a steady supply of liquefied petroleum gas to India, highlighting the country's efforts to secure its energy needs.

2 more Indian LPG carriers cross Hormuz safely amid tensions

2 more Indian LPG carriers cross Hormuz safely amid tensions

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

The vessels are carrying around 92,600 metric tonnes of LPG and have 33 and 27 Indian seafarers onboard, respectively. Visuals showed Pine Gas crossing the critical chokepoint.

What Happens When Trump's Deadline Expires?

What Happens When Trump's Deadline Expires?

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

Trump may strike. He may announce productive talks and extend again. He may do both at the same time. Iran will not open the Strait on someone else's terms, so no matter what happens, that problem will remain unsolved. And the IRGC will still be collecting its $2 million toll from every ship bold enough to ask permission to pass.

No deal with Iran to release seized oil tankers: India

No deal with Iran to release seized oil tankers: India

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has refuted reports suggesting a deal with Iran involving the release of seized vessels in exchange for safe passage of Indian ships through the Strait of Hormuz.

India Slams Pakistan Over Air Strikes in Afghanistan, Cites Sovereignty Concerns

India Slams Pakistan Over Air Strikes in Afghanistan, Cites Sovereignty Concerns

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

India has strongly condemned Pakistan's air strikes within Afghan territory, emphasising the need to respect Afghanistan's sovereignty and territorial integrity following civilian casualties and infrastructure damage.

London Court Upholds Nirav Modi Extradition Based on Indian Government Assurances

London Court Upholds Nirav Modi Extradition Based on Indian Government Assurances

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

The London High Court has rejected Nirav Modi's petition to reopen his extradition case, citing the Indian government's assurances regarding his treatment in India as a key factor in their decision.

Airpay and MSCB Team Up to Expand Digital Payments in Maharashtra's Rural Co-operative Sector

Airpay and MSCB Team Up to Expand Digital Payments in Maharashtra's Rural Co-operative Sector

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

Airpay Payment Services has partnered with Maharashtra State Co-operative Bank (MSCB) to enable UPI-based digital payments across the lender's network in Maharashtra, aiming to accelerate financial inclusion in rural areas.

Testing time, not just for us, but for world: India on Iran war

Testing time, not just for us, but for world: India on Iran war

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Amidst the escalating conflict in West Asia, India is actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to protect its energy security interests and ensure the safety of its diaspora in the region.

How Many Indians Live In The Middle East?

How Many Indians Live In The Middle East?

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

Based on figures currently listed on the ministry of external affairs web site, a large number of Indians reside across West Asia.

Maoist debate sparks fierce NDA-UPA war of words in Lok Sabha

Maoist debate sparks fierce NDA-UPA war of words in Lok Sabha

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

The Lok Sabha witnessed a heated debate between BJP and Congress members regarding the handling of Naxalism, with the BJP accusing the previous UPA government of failing to contain left-wing extremism and the Congress defending its efforts to curb the threat.

UK Court Upholds Nirav Modi Extradition Order After Reviewing Indian Assurances

UK Court Upholds Nirav Modi Extradition Order After Reviewing Indian Assurances

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

The UK High Court has rejected Nirav Modi's attempt to reopen his extradition case, citing the Indian government's comprehensive assurances against torture as sufficient to allow his transfer to India.

Punjab's Halwara Airport to Commence Flight Bookings in April, Boosting Connectivity

Punjab's Halwara Airport to Commence Flight Bookings in April, Boosting Connectivity

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

Flight bookings for Halwara airport in Punjab are scheduled to begin in April, with the first commercial flight expected between May 10 and 15. The airport's opening is anticipated to significantly enhance air connectivity and boost economic growth in the region.

Blast at Punjab BJP Office Sparks Panic and Investigation

Blast at Punjab BJP Office Sparks Panic and Investigation

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

An explosion outside the Punjab BJP headquarters in Chandigarh caused panic, with a social media post claiming responsibility as retaliation for the killing of Sikh youths. Police suspect a crude device was used, and an investigation is underway.

New truncated gas allocation regime still faces a large LNG shortfall

New truncated gas allocation regime still faces a large LNG shortfall

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

India's plans to ration the consumption of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) - in response to reduction in their import owing to war in West Asia - may fall short of what is needed to meet domestic needs.

Russian air defences repel large-scale Ukrainian drone assault on Moscow

Russian air defences repel large-scale Ukrainian drone assault on Moscow

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

Russian air defences reportedly intercepted and destroyed 250 Ukrainian drones targeting Moscow over the weekend, according to Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin. The drone attack led to temporary curtailment of operations at major airports in the capital.

Bangladesh Cricket Board Election Probe: Sports Minister To Consult ICC

Bangladesh Cricket Board Election Probe: Sports Minister To Consult ICC

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

Bangladesh's Sports Minister Aminul Haque plans to consult with the ICC regarding alleged irregularities in the Bangladesh Cricket Board elections and will appoint a committee to investigate the country's failure to participate in the T20 World Cup.

Indian Man Dies in Suspected Missile Strike in Riyadh, Family Appeals for Help

Indian Man Dies in Suspected Missile Strike in Riyadh, Family Appeals for Help

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

A 26-year-old Indian man working in Riyadh has reportedly been killed in a suspected missile attack, according to his family. They are seeking official confirmation and assistance from the Indian government to repatriate his body.

Trinamool Congress Counters Amit Shah's Allegations, Raises Concerns Over BJP's Governance

Trinamool Congress Counters Amit Shah's Allegations, Raises Concerns Over BJP's Governance

Rediff.com28 Mar 2026

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has responded to Union Home Minister Amit Shah's 'chargesheet' against the West Bengal government, accusing the BJP of attempting to polarise voters and evade accountability on issues such as women's safety and infiltration.

Middle East conflict: 28 Indian ships with 778 crew stuck in Persian Gulf

Middle East conflict: 28 Indian ships with 778 crew stuck in Persian Gulf

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

28 Indian vessels carrying 778 seafarers are stranded in the Persian Gulf, prompting government monitoring and coordination to ensure their safety and security.

Kazakhstan Hockey Team Sharpen Skills in India for Asian Games

Kazakhstan Hockey Team Sharpen Skills in India for Asian Games

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

The Kazakhstan senior men's hockey team is currently in India for a high-performance training camp at the Sports Authority of India's Northern Regional Centre, Sonipat, Haryana, from March 10 to 21 as part of its preparations for the upcoming Asian Games Qualifiers.

Fuel Crisis: Will There Be a Lockdown? Govt Says...

Fuel Crisis: Will There Be a Lockdown? Govt Says...

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

Calling such reports baseless, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said there was no such move under consideration.

LPG Crisis Triggers Reverse Migration Across Cities

LPG Crisis Triggers Reverse Migration Across Cities

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

'It would be similar to what happened during COVID-19.' 'They are not just losing income, but being pushed into distress.'

2 more Indian ships safely cross Strait of Hormuz

2 more Indian ships safely cross Strait of Hormuz

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

Two Indian ships carrying liquified petroleum gas (LPG) from the Gulf countries crossed the Strait of Hormuz early on Saturday morning, raising the number of Indian vessels safely passing through the war-hit, narrow shipping lane to three.

5 Indians killed, 1 missing in West Asia conflict: MEA

5 Indians killed, 1 missing in West Asia conflict: MEA

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

Aseem Mahajan, Additional Secretary (Gulf) in the Ministry of External Affairs, on Saturday informed that five Indians have been killed and one is missing due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia. He added that Indian missions remain open round the clock and are constantly working to provide assistance.

The US Rescue That Raises More Questions Than It Answers

The US Rescue That Raises More Questions Than It Answers

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

The 'rescue' operation occurred within kilometres of Iran's underground tunnel complex at Isfahan, assessed by the IAEA and US intelligence as holding a substantial portion of the country's 60 per cent enriched uranium stockpile. Retired senior US military officers have highlighted that the mission's footprint -- hundreds of special operators, multiple heavy-lift aircraft deep inside Iran -- appears outsized for recovering a single airman. Prem Panicker continues his must read blog on the Iran War.

'Transgender Persons Will Have To Show Their Genitals As Proof'

'Transgender Persons Will Have To Show Their Genitals As Proof'

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

'Lakhs of transgender people's identities will get erased. Many of them will go into hiding and lead depressing lives.'

Modi speaks to France, Oman, Malaysia leaders amid Gulf energy hub strikes

Modi speaks to France, Oman, Malaysia leaders amid Gulf energy hub strikes

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Amidst escalating tensions in West Asia, India strongly condemns the recent attacks on energy infrastructure, warning of further destabilisation to the already uncertain global energy market.

Iran allows Indian ships to pass through Hormuz: Sources

Iran allows Indian ships to pass through Hormuz: Sources

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

IRGC said vessels seeking to sail through the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz must obtain Iran's approval; otherwise, they could become targets of Iranian attacks.

SC to examine if Parsi women lose faith rights after interfaith marriage

SC to examine if Parsi women lose faith rights after interfaith marriage

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

The Supreme Court of India has agreed to examine a constitutional challenge regarding gender discrimination within Parsi personal law, specifically focusing on whether a Parsi woman loses her religious identity upon marrying outside the community.

Iran rejects Trump's talks claim, says US buying time for military plans

Iran rejects Trump's talks claim, says US buying time for military plans

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

"The US President's statements are within the framework of efforts to reduce energy prices and gain time to implement his military plans," the ministry stated.

Govt says fuel stocks adequate, warns against panic buying

Govt says fuel stocks adequate, warns against panic buying

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

The Indian government has reassured citizens that the country has sufficient reserves of petrol, diesel, and LPG, and that refineries are operating at high capacity despite global supply chain disruptions. They have urged citizens to avoid panic buying and hoarding.

The Gulf War: What's Pakistan Up To?

The Gulf War: What's Pakistan Up To?

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

Egypt, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey met in Islamabad in what analysts say is the formal opening of a new diplomatic formation that could reshape the post-war regional order. Their immediate goal is a ceasefire; their larger ambition is to ensure that neither Iran nor Israel emerges from this war in a dominant position. Pakistan's foreign minister then flew directly to Beijing and mooted a Chinese role as guarantor of any eventual agreement. Prem Panicker continues his must read daily blog on the Gulf War.

$3 Billion a Week: The Cost of Israel's Iran War

$3 Billion a Week: The Cost of Israel's Iran War

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

The Israeli Finance Ministry has warned that the ongoing war with Iran could cost Israel an estimated NIS 9.4 billion (USD 3 billion approximately) per week under current restrictions on economic activities.