News for 'national capabilities'

Budget 2026 Treats Healthcare As Strategic National Capability

Budget 2026 Treats Healthcare As Strategic National Capability

Rediff.com4 Feb 2026

The Budget reframes healthcare as a strategic national capability, backing biopharma innovation, workforce expansion and technology-led governance to power India's next growth phase.

Gulf nations must pay for Hormuz security: Trump

Gulf nations must pay for Hormuz security: Trump

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Former US President Donald Trump stated that Gulf nations should reimburse the United States for safeguarding maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, while asserting that recent American military interventions have profoundly crippled Iran's military capabilities, claiming Iran has been "brought back to the Stone Ages."

BRICS Nations Strengthen Health Cooperation Through Digital Innovation

BRICS Nations Strengthen Health Cooperation Through Digital Innovation

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava highlighted the strong health cooperation within BRICS, emphasising the critical role of digital health and artificial intelligence in ensuring continuity of care. Speaking at the 16th BRICS Health Ministers' meeting, she noted shared challenges among member nations and showcased India's advancements in digital health infrastructure and AI strategy.

Belgium entrust Mark van Bommel with Nations League, Euro 2028 mission

Belgium entrust Mark van Bommel with Nations League, Euro 2028 mission

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Belgium have appointed former Netherlands international Mark van Bommel as their new head coach on a two-year contract running until the 2028 European Championship.

Human-Led AI Crucial For India's Developed Nation Vision By 2047

Human-Led AI Crucial For India's Developed Nation Vision By 2047

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Union Minister Jitendra Singh stated that human-led artificial intelligence will be the defining force in India's journey to becoming a developed nation by 2047. Speaking at the 29th National Conference on e-Governance, he emphasised that technology must strengthen governance without replacing human accountability, advocating for responsible AI deployment with citizens at the centre. The conference concluded with the adoption of the Jaipur Declaration on e-Governance 2026, outlining a roadmap for AI-enabled, data-driven, and secure digital governance.

Astrobase Unveils India's First Private FFSC Rocket Engine

Astrobase Unveils India's First Private FFSC Rocket Engine

Rediff.com2 days ago

Astrobase Space Technologies, a Bengaluru-based startup, has unveiled 'EVEREST', India's first privately built full-flow staged combustion (FFSC) LOX-Methane rocket engine. This advanced engine, designed for reusable medium-lift launch vehicles, aims to enhance India's position in the global space economy by providing high-performance propulsion systems for future satellite deployments.

Air India picks leader who quadrupled Ethiopian Airlines' revenue

Air India picks leader who quadrupled Ethiopian Airlines' revenue

Rediff.com4 days ago

Tewolde Gebremariam, a seasoned aviation professional with extensive experience at Ethiopian Airlines, has been named the new Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Air India. He is tasked with leading the airline's ambitious five-year transformation plan, Vihaan.AI, aimed at achieving significant growth and profitability, marking him as the second foreign national to helm Air India under Tata Group ownership.

RRP Electronics And Orvis Semi Partner For Indigenous Defence Sensors

RRP Electronics And Orvis Semi Partner For Indigenous Defence Sensors

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

RRP Electronics and Orvis Semi Pvt Ltd have formed a strategic partnership to develop and manufacture low-light imaging sensors for defence, surveillance, and security in India. This collaboration aims to reduce reliance on imports and bolster India's semiconductor and defence electronics ecosystem under government initiatives like Make in India.

India tests advanced Agni missile capable of hitting multiple targets

India tests advanced Agni missile capable of hitting multiple targets

Rediff.com9 May 2026

India has successfully conducted a flight test of an advanced Agni missile featuring Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology off the coast of Odisha.

US Official Urges Nations Not To Re-Invent AI Stack

US Official Urges Nations Not To Re-Invent AI Stack

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

A senior US official has warned against the weaponisation of digital and artificial intelligence sovereignty by political voices, urging nations to avoid costly re-invention of existing technology. The official highlighted the economic dangers of rebuilding entire tech stacks and emphasised India's crucial role as an indispensable partner in global technological leadership due to its engineering talent and innovation ecosystem.

Uruguay hands Diego Forlan top coaching role

Uruguay hands Diego Forlan top coaching role

Rediff.com3 days ago

Diego Forlan, the former Manchester United and Atletico Madrid forward, has been named the new head coach for Uruguay's senior and Under-20 national football teams. He replaces Marcelo Bielsa, who left after Uruguay's early exit from the World Cup. Forlan, a celebrated player and 2010 World Cup Golden Ball winner, will bring his experience and leadership to the role, starting with the Under-20 squad.

Did Trump, Hegseth clash over weapons shortage? US Prez reacts

Did Trump, Hegseth clash over weapons shortage? US Prez reacts

Rediff.com3 days ago

Donald Trump has strongly refuted claims of a munitions shortage and denied any confrontation with Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, labelling the reports as "fake news" and asserting the nation's robust military production capabilities.

'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.

NEET paper leak: NTA fires 47 officials, promises overhaul

NEET paper leak: NTA fires 47 officials, promises overhaul

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has terminated 47 officials and plans legal action following the NEET paper leak controversy. This comes amidst widespread protests and demands for the Education Minister's resignation, as the NTA initiates a major overhaul and recruitment drive to strengthen its operations.

Experts Call For National Policy To Boost Assistive Technology Market

Experts Call For National Policy To Boost Assistive Technology Market

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Experts highlight India's significant market potential for assistive technologies, estimated at Rs 75,000-95,000 crore by 2030. They advocate for a National Assistive Technology Policy to address current gaps in access and service delivery, fostering inclusion, independence, and economic participation for persons with disabilities and the elderly.

IIT-ISM Dhanbad Secures Patent For Innovative Copper Recovery Technology

IIT-ISM Dhanbad Secures Patent For Innovative Copper Recovery Technology

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Researchers at IIT-ISM Dhanbad have been granted an Indian patent for an electrochemical reactor designed to recover copper from industrial wastewater. This innovative technology offers an environmentally sustainable solution for resource recovery and wastewater treatment, particularly benefiting the mining and metallurgical sectors.

Indian Volleyball Team's Historic Bronze Medal Achievement

Indian Volleyball Team's Historic Bronze Medal Achievement

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya felicitated the Indian men's volleyball team for winning the country's first-ever medal at the AVC Men's Volleyball Cup. India secured a bronze medal by defeating Bahrain, marking a historic achievement and reflecting the sport's growth in the nation. This success is expected to inspire young athletes and boost volleyball's development.

Mizoram CM Sets Ambitious Futsal Goals For State

Mizoram CM Sets Ambitious Futsal Goals For State

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma has called for the state to become a hub for Indian futsal, producing players capable of leading the national team to the FIFA Futsal World Cup. Speaking at a felicitation for Tlangnuam Futsal Club, he emphasised nurturing talent for international success and highlighted government investment in sports infrastructure.

Indigenous Turbojet Boosts India's Defence Ambitions

Indigenous Turbojet Boosts India's Defence Ambitions

Rediff.com7 days ago

Built as an expendable, short-duration turbojet engine for single-mission applications, it can power tactical cruise missiles, anti-ship missiles, and long-range loitering munitions.

HCLTech to invest Rs 15,000 crore in AI data centre, global tech hub in Odisha

HCLTech to invest Rs 15,000 crore in AI data centre, global tech hub in Odisha

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

HCLTech, India's third-largest IT services company, announced plans to establish a global technology centre and an AI-optimised data centre in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, with a total investment of approximately Rs 15,000 crore, marking its entry into the AI infrastructure business.

Vishal through to CWG 400m semis, eyes historic medal

Vishal through to CWG 400m semis, eyes historic medal

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

National record holder Vishal TK has qualified for the men's 400m semifinals at the Commonwealth Games, keeping India's medal aspirations alive. His compatriot Rajesh Ramesh, however, narrowly missed out on qualification. Vishal, who holds the national record of 44.98 seconds, finished second in his heat and will compete in the semifinals on July 30.

How China's Robot Employees Are Revolutionising Park Management

How China's Robot Employees Are Revolutionising Park Management

Rediff.com4 days ago

China has deployed 72 "robot employees" across Beijing's municipal parks to perform various tasks like cleaning, patrolling, guiding visitors, and pest control. This initiative is part of China's "Robot Plus" strategy, driven by an ageing population and labour shortages, and showcases the growing domestic service robot market. These AI-powered robots enhance efficiency and visitor experience in popular attractions like the Summer Palace and Zizhuyuan Park.

Fresh talks 'last chance' for Iran: Trump as Tehran denies talks

Fresh talks 'last chance' for Iran: Trump as Tehran denies talks

Rediff.com6 days ago

Donald Trump stated that Iran has been given a "last chance" to reach an agreement, revealing that the US paused a planned military strike after receiving requests from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Iran to pursue diplomacy instead.

Ruthless Touch And Street Smarts: The Secret Of Morocco's Evolution

Ruthless Touch And Street Smarts: The Secret Of Morocco's Evolution

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Morocco showcased their evolution as a top football nation with a comprehensive 3-0 victory over Canada in the World Cup last 16.

Former CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Tewolde Gebremariam is new Air India boss

Former CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Tewolde Gebremariam is new Air India boss

Rediff.com4 days ago

Air India has announced the appointment of Tewolde Gebremariam, former CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group, as its new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, replacing Campbell Wilson. This strategic appointment comes as the airline navigates expansion amidst significant challenges.

Gen Z Protests: What Government Needs To Fix

Gen Z Protests: What Government Needs To Fix

Rediff.com3 days ago

The challenge thrown by the youth movement creates the opportunity for a more consequential debate on India's economic trajectory because it must remain centered on India's youth as its driving impulse, asserts former foreign secretary Shyam Saran.

How IdeaForge's Rs 500 Crore QIP Fuels India's Drone Technology Future

How IdeaForge's Rs 500 Crore QIP Fuels India's Drone Technology Future

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Drone technology company ideaForge Technology has successfully raised Rs 500 crore through a Qualified Institutional Placement (QIP). The funding, which saw strong interest from domestic and international institutional investors, will be used to accelerate innovation, expand its product portfolio into combat drones and autonomous systems, and strengthen its working capital to meet growing demand in defence, homeland security, and civil sectors.

How IdeaForge's Rs 500 Crore QIP Fuels India's Drone Technology Future

How IdeaForge's Rs 500 Crore QIP Fuels India's Drone Technology Future

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Drone technology company ideaForge Technology has successfully raised Rs 500 crore through a Qualified Institutional Placement (QIP). The funding, which saw strong interest from domestic and international institutional investors, will be used to accelerate innovation, expand its product portfolio into combat drones and autonomous systems, and strengthen its working capital to meet growing demand in defence, homeland security, and civil sectors.

Modi takes a dig at 'young' Rahul Gandhi while praising youth power

Modi takes a dig at 'young' Rahul Gandhi while praising youth power

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded young Indian innovators for the country's first privately developed orbital rocket, Skyroot Aerospace's Vikram-1, which made India the third nation with private orbital launch capabilities. While praising the 28-year-old average age of the Skyroot team, Modi made a veiled remark about a "56-year-old young man," widely understood to be a dig at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who recently turned 56.

AI could erode India's outsourcing advantage, warns WB report

AI could erode India's outsourcing advantage, warns WB report

Rediff.com5 days ago

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is beginning to alter hiring patterns in South Asia, with multinational companies (MNCs) and firms integrated into global value chains (GVCs) reducing recruitment more sharply than domestic firms, signalling the technology's early impact on the region's export-oriented services sector, according to the World Bank's World Development Report 2026.

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.com7 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.

How India's Indigenous Quantum Refrigerator Achieved A Major Milestone

How India's Indigenous Quantum Refrigerator Achieved A Major Milestone

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

India's indigenous Dilution Refrigerator, developed by AQV, has successfully reached four Kelvin (-269C) at the Quantum Reference Facility in Amaravati, marking a significant milestone in the country's quantum technology development and cryogenic engineering capabilities.

Parliamentary panel recommends sending envoys to North, South Poles

Parliamentary panel recommends sending envoys to North, South Poles

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

A parliamentary panel has strongly recommended that the Indian government appoint a dedicated 'polar ambassador' to enhance its strategic engagement and diplomatic influence in the critical Arctic and Antarctic regions, aligning with global trends and India's growing focus on polar affairs.

UPI payments to remain free, charges to apply only on...: Govt

UPI payments to remain free, charges to apply only on...: Govt

Rediff.com1 days ago

The Indian government has clarified that consumers will not be charged for UPI transactions, and most merchant transactions will also remain free. This comes amidst speculation following an amendment to the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007. Any future merchant discount rate (MDR) would be nominal, threshold-based, and aimed at ensuring UPI's long-term sustainability and infrastructure development.

India Launches AI Champions Programme For Digital Governance

India Launches AI Champions Programme For Digital Governance

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

A three-day 'AI Champions for Digital Governance' programme has commenced in New Delhi, hosted by ITDC, SCOPE, and LBSNAA. The initiative aims to train senior leadership and operational teams in applying artificial intelligence within public sector organisations, aligning with the IndiaAI Mission. Experts highlighted AI's role in improving efficiency, productivity, and public service delivery, while also emphasising responsible adoption and data quality. The programme seeks to build an AI-ready nation and contribute to India's vision of future-ready governance systems.

India Launches AI Champions Programme For Digital Governance

India Launches AI Champions Programme For Digital Governance

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

A three-day 'AI Champions for Digital Governance' programme has commenced in New Delhi, hosted by ITDC, SCOPE, and LBSNAA. The initiative aims to train senior leadership and operational teams in applying artificial intelligence within public sector organisations, aligning with the IndiaAI Mission. Experts highlighted AI's role in improving efficiency, productivity, and public service delivery, while also emphasising responsible adoption and data quality. The programme seeks to build an AI-ready nation and contribute to India's vision of future-ready governance systems.

Mandaviya To Review National Games Preparations In Meghalaya

Mandaviya To Review National Games Preparations In Meghalaya

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya will visit Meghalaya to review preparations for the 39th National Games and inaugurate a sports complex in Shillong.

Mandaviya To Review National Games Preparations In Meghalaya

Mandaviya To Review National Games Preparations In Meghalaya

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya will visit Meghalaya to review preparations for the 39th National Games and inaugurate a sports complex.

CEA Calls For Industry Investment In Skilling, Innovation For GCCs

CEA Calls For Industry Investment In Skilling, Innovation For GCCs

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Chief Economic Adviser V Anantha Nageswaran has urged the industry to invest in skilling, capability development, and innovation to counter the challenges posed by artificial intelligence, particularly for Global Capability Centres (GCCs). He noted that while the government has supported GCCs through Budget measures like simplifying transfer pricing and promoting expansion into tier-II/III cities, industry must move beyond low-cost execution to thrive in an an AI-driven landscape. Nageswaran emphasised that AI displaces routine tasks, necessitating a focus on higher-value work and continuous skill enhancement to maintain India's competitive edge.

Mystery Of The Sun Solved?

Mystery Of The Sun Solved?

Rediff.com4 days ago

Scientists discover tiny whirlpool-like swirls on the Sun that could explain solar activity, improve space weather research and solve a decades-old solar mystery.