News for 'note'

Govt to introduce Bill making insult to 'Vande Mataram' a criminal offence

Govt to introduce Bill making insult to 'Vande Mataram' a criminal offence

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

The Indian government plans to introduce a bill in the Rajya Sabha to make obstruction or insult to the national song 'Vande Mataram' a criminal offence. This amendment to the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, aims to grant 'Vande Mataram' the same statutory protection as the national anthem, 'Jana Gana Mana', with penalties up to three years' imprisonment.

How Kerala Aims To Become A National AI And Emerging Technologies Hub

How Kerala Aims To Become A National AI And Emerging Technologies Hub

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan announced the state's vision to become a national hub for artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, coinciding with the launch of Naviq Technology by IBS Software Group. The state government is implementing initiatives like an AI-powered dashboard, a Global Job Watch Tower, and curriculum revisions to align with technological advancements and foster skill development in AI and semiconductor sectors.

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.

US F-1 Visa: 'Continuing Studies In The US Will Depend On...

US F-1 Visa: 'Continuing Studies In The US Will Depend On...

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

With the duration of stay capped at four years, the biggest impact of the new F-1 visa rules is likely to be on PhD scholars, students enrolled in longer professional programmes, those whose graduation gets delayed and students moving from one academic programme to another, highlight education experts.

AI Deepfakes Push Courts To Protect Identity Rights

AI Deepfakes Push Courts To Protect Identity Rights

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Personality rights violations are increasingly being used as vehicles for financial fraud, with unsuspecting consumers misled by fabricated endorsements.

'Too little, too late': Cong on PM's announcements to check paper leaks

'Too little, too late': Cong on PM's announcements to check paper leaks

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

The Congress party has criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement of fast-track courts for paper leak cases, calling it "too little, too late" and a "deceptive" measure. The party demands accountability from the Modi government for its alleged failures in preventing and investigating paper leaks, specifically citing issues with the NEET-UG and UGC-NET investigations.

The rise and fall of Dharmendra Pradhan

The rise and fall of Dharmendra Pradhan

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Dharmendra Pradhan's political career faced an unexpected jolt as he resigned as Education Minister following nationwide protests over the NEET paper leak, marking a significant departure from the government's initial dismissive response to the agitation.

Maharashtra SIR deadline extended by 10 days, draft rolls on Aug 17

Maharashtra SIR deadline extended by 10 days, draft rolls on Aug 17

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

The Election Commission has extended the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Maharashtra by 10 days, moving the deadline to August 8. This extension also shifts the draft electoral roll publication to August 18, as part of ongoing efforts to update and verify voter information through house-to-house checks and document submissions.

FIR quashed, HC orders man's details deleted over right to be forgotten

FIR quashed, HC orders man's details deleted over right to be forgotten

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

The Bombay High Court has ruled that the fundamental right to privacy includes the right to be forgotten. This decision came after a man sought to have his name and details removed from court records following the quashing of an FIR against him, arguing that public access to such information prejudiced his career and caused personal stigma. The court emphasised balancing public access to information with an individual's right to privacy.

Teacher suspended after child locked inside classroom in UP

Teacher suspended after child locked inside classroom in UP

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

An assistant teacher in Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh, has been suspended after a Class 2 student was inadvertently locked inside a primary school classroom. The incident, which occurred on Friday, came to light through a viral video showing the distressed child. Villagers intervened, contacting school staff who returned to release the student after about 90 minutes. An inquiry held the teacher responsible, leading to her immediate suspension and a further probe.

Dharmendra Pradhan resigns after days of widespread protests

Dharmendra Pradhan resigns after days of widespread protests

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has resigned from his post amidst widespread nationwide protests concerning the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak controversy, citing the larger interest of students and the need to prevent exploitation by anti-national forces. The government is also preparing to introduce a stringent anti-paper leak law.

Bill to expedite paper leak trials to be tabled in Parliament

Bill to expedite paper leak trials to be tabled in Parliament

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

India is set to introduce a new amendment to its anti-paper leak law in the Lok Sabha, aiming to establish fast-track courts across all states and union territories for swift trials and significantly harsher penalties for exam malpractices, including jail terms of 5 to 10 years and fines up to Rs 50 lakh for individuals, and up to Rs 10 crore for organised crimes.

Recipe: Bethica's Soya Seaweed Tikki

Recipe: Bethica's Soya Seaweed Tikki

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

These yummy shallow fried tikkis, made of soya nuggets and seaweed, are so easy and simple to prepare. They are irresistible as starter or party snacks.

Rajya Sabha MPs' expenses soar to Rs 262 cr in two yrs, reveals RTI

Rajya Sabha MPs' expenses soar to Rs 262 cr in two yrs, reveals RTI

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

An RTI reply has revealed that over Rs 262 crore was spent on salaries, allowances, and facilities for Rajya Sabha MPs in the financial years 2024-25 and 2025-26. This includes more than Rs 151 crore specifically for allowances and travel, with a significant increase in expenditure from the first to the second year.

Indian Idol 16 Winner Jyotirmayee Nayak: 'I Never Planned To Participate'

Indian Idol 16 Winner Jyotirmayee Nayak: 'I Never Planned To Participate'

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

'People usually send audition videos, but I didn't even send one because I never planned to participate.' 'I had gone there to prepare my students for the auditions.' 'Eventually, I ended up competing and became the winner.'

Mercedes-Benz India to launch more hybrid vehicles, undeterred by policy support gaps

Mercedes-Benz India to launch more hybrid vehicles, undeterred by policy support gaps

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Mercedes-Benz India plans to continue introducing hybrid vehicles, including the new AMG E 53 plug-in hybrid EV, to meet consumer demand, viewing hybrids as a crucial bridge to full electrification despite the absence of supportive government policies.

Maria Goretti: 'I Miss Making Money'

Maria Goretti: 'I Miss Making Money'

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Maria Goretti details her journey of losing and rediscovering her identity, saying, 'After being home for so long, I think somewhere I lost myself. I had nothing.'

Satcom To Drive India's Digital Transformation

Satcom To Drive India's Digital Transformation

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Trai Chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti highlighted the transformative role of satellite communications in expanding seamless connectivity across India, especially in remote areas. He noted that India's space economy is projected to grow significantly, driven by satcom technology that will bridge the digital divide, provide resilient infrastructure during disasters, and support strategic sectors.

Satcom To Drive India's Digital Transformation

Satcom To Drive India's Digital Transformation

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Trai Chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti highlighted the transformative role of satellite communications in expanding seamless connectivity across India, especially in remote areas. He noted that India's space economy is projected to grow significantly, driven by satcom technology that will bridge the digital divide, provide resilient infrastructure during disasters, and support strategic sectors.

NITI Aayog's Vision For India's Bioeconomy Growth

NITI Aayog's Vision For India's Bioeconomy Growth

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

A NITI Aayog report outlines India's potential to scale its bioeconomy to USD 691 billion by 2035 and USD 2.6 trillion by 2047, creating over 30 million high-value jobs. The report stresses the need for coordinated national execution, regulatory reforms, a strengthened talent pipeline, and a significant BioEconomy Growth Fund to achieve this vision, positioning India among the top biotechnology powers globally.

My Dear Friend Garry Sobers

My Dear Friend Garry Sobers

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Sir Garfield Sobers, who passed into the ages on July 17, would have turned 90 today, July 28. Former Pakistan captain Intikhab Alam remembers a dear friend who he believes was 'undoubtedly the greatest cricketer the world has ever seen.'

Govt bars telecom infra firms from overseas data transfer

Govt bars telecom infra firms from overseas data transfer

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

India's government has implemented stringent new regulations under the Telecommunications Act 2023, mandating that all communication infrastructure providers, including those utilising cloud-based networks, must store telecommunication data exclusively within the country, a move expected to significantly impact domestic data centre demand.

Breakfast recipe: Avocado toast with poached eggs

Breakfast recipe: Avocado toast with poached eggs

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Chef Prakash Chettiyar, executive chef, JW Marriott Kolkata shares a tempting breakfast recipe.

'Humiliated' by teachers, Class 8 girl ends life in Bengaluru

'Humiliated' by teachers, Class 8 girl ends life in Bengaluru

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

A Class 8 student in Bengaluru died by suicide, with her parents alleging harassment and humiliation by school staff. The education department has launched an inquiry into the incident, which occurred after the girl and classmates complained about a teacher's harsh behaviour.

Kajal Wins Gold As India Dominates Budapest Wrestling Ranking Series

Kajal Wins Gold As India Dominates Budapest Wrestling Ranking Series

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

Indian wrestlers delivered a strong performance at the Budapest Ranking Series, securing a total of 12 medals.

Birthday Special: Dhanush's 10 Best Films

Birthday Special: Dhanush's 10 Best Films

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

From intense gangster epics to tender slice-of-life dramas, these 10 films showcase why Dhanush remains one of Indian cinema's most versatile leading men.

From Neeraj to Mirabai: Watch Out For These Indian Stars At CWG 2026

From Neeraj to Mirabai: Watch Out For These Indian Stars At CWG 2026

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

India is sending a 125-member contingent to the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, with established stars like Neeraj Chopra, Mirabai Chanu, and Lovlina Borgohain, alongside rising talents such as Aryan Nehra and Gurindervir Singh, expected to lead the nation's medal charge across 13 disciplines.

When You Date A Married Man...

When You Date A Married Man...

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

'You never get chosen,' warns rediffGURU Anu Krishna, 'because he is fighting a battle outside.' 'It leads you to keep vacillating between, 'Should I be with him or leave him?''

Gadgets to be examined for cause of Tripura top cop's death

Gadgets to be examined for cause of Tripura top cop's death

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Tripura Police have initiated a forensic analysis of all electronic gadgets belonging to DGP Anurag Dhankar, who was found dead in his office washroom. A case of unnatural death has been registered, and the investigation aims to determine the cause and circumstances, especially if suicide is confirmed. Calls for a judicial probe into the incident are also growing.

'What Logic Is There?': Gambhir's Decisions Face Heat

'What Logic Is There?': Gambhir's Decisions Face Heat

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Following India's disappointing limited-overs tour of the UK, head coach Gautam Gambhir and the team management are facing intense scrutiny over selection decisions, particularly the omission of Kuldeep Yadav in the third ODI. Former cricketer Sadagoppan Ramesh criticised the team's logic, while also praising Rohit Sharma's century under pressure. The tour has sparked broader discussions about team selections and optimal talent utilisation.

IPS trainee attempts suicide after sexual harassment complaint

IPS trainee attempts suicide after sexual harassment complaint

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

A trainee IPS officer at SVPNPA, accused of stalking and sexually harassing a fellow woman trainee, attempted suicide by consuming a poisonous substance. He is currently hospitalised, and a case has been registered against him under various sections, including the BNS and IT Act.

HCLTech CEO C Vijayakumar's Salary Jumps 67% to $18.13 Million in FY26

HCLTech CEO C Vijayakumar's Salary Jumps 67% to $18.13 Million in FY26

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

HCLTech CEO C Vijayakumar's total salary for the financial year 2025-26 surged by nearly 66.9 per cent to $18.13 million, primarily driven by long-term incentives and stock options, placing him at the top among his Indian IT sector peers.

India's Women Boxers Poised for Medals at Commonwealth Games, Says Former Coach Qamar

India's Women Boxers Poised for Medals at Commonwealth Games, Says Former Coach Qamar

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Former Indian boxing coach Mohammed Ali Qamar believes the country's women's boxing squad for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games is one of its best ever, with each of the seven members capable of securing a medal, though he cautioned that draws would be crucial.

Indian Investors Boost Paytm Stake To Over 51%

Indian Investors Boost Paytm Stake To Over 51%

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Paytm's parent company, One 97 Communications Ltd, has seen its domestic ownership increase to 51.6% in Q1 FY27, solidifying its status as an Indian-Owned and Controlled Company. This rise is driven by increased investments from mutual funds and insurance companies, reflecting growing investor confidence following Paytm's first full-year profit in FY26 and improved operating performance.

Indian Investors Boost Paytm Stake To Over 51%

Indian Investors Boost Paytm Stake To Over 51%

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Paytm's parent company, One 97 Communications Ltd, has seen its domestic ownership increase to 51.6% in Q1 FY27, solidifying its status as an Indian-Owned and Controlled Company. This rise is driven by increased investments from mutual funds and insurance companies, reflecting growing investor confidence following Paytm's first full-year profit in FY26 and improved operating performance.

IOA To Probe Sexual Harassment Allegations In Hockey Jharkhand Polls

IOA To Probe Sexual Harassment Allegations In Hockey Jharkhand Polls

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

The recent Hockey Jharkhand elections have been embroiled in controversy following allegations of sexual harassment and intimidation made by former India women's captain Asunta Lakra against Hockey India secretary general Bhola Nath Singh. The Sports Ministry has directed the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to form an inquiry panel to investigate these serious claims, while Bhola Nath Singh denies all allegations.

London Diaries: Every Meal Is a Gamble

London Diaries: Every Meal Is a Gamble

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

Divya Nair shares the recipe for the perfectly-cooked salmon to be served with imperfect-looking mushroom pt and mashed potatoes, cooked with lots of love.

Maharashtra waives off Rs 48,000 crore of farmers' power dues

Maharashtra waives off Rs 48,000 crore of farmers' power dues

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced a significant waiver of approximately Rs 48,000 crore in pending electricity dues for farmers, aiming to facilitate new agricultural power connections and support the state's agricultural sector.

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.

World IVF Day: 10 Habits That Lower Sperm Count

World IVF Day: 10 Habits That Lower Sperm Count

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

From what goes on your plate to how long someone sits with a laptop on their lap, seemingly harmless habits can make a big difference, warns says Dr Aakil Khan, consultant and urologist at KIMS Hospitals, Thane.