News for 'official'

WhatsApp enables usernames to chat without sharing phone number

WhatsApp enables usernames to chat without sharing phone number

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

WhatsApp is introducing an optional username feature, allowing users to connect and chat without needing to share their phone numbers. This privacy-focused update will roll out gradually, enabling users to reserve unique usernames and offering greater control over personal information, especially in group chats or when interacting with businesses.

Not PM, here's who will be attending Khamenei funeral

Not PM, here's who will be attending Khamenei funeral

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in US-Israeli strikes on February 28.

'This Is My Last World Cup': Cristiano Ronaldo

'This Is My Last World Cup': Cristiano Ronaldo

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the current World Cup will be his last, expressing no regrets about his illustrious career.

Tata Steel aims to spend Rs 20,000 cr in FY27

Tata Steel aims to spend Rs 20,000 cr in FY27

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Tata Steel plans to invest approximately Rs 20,000 crore in capital expenditure during the current financial year (FY27), a significant increase from the previous year, with 60 per cent of this allocation directed towards its India business for expansion, new technologies, and sustainability.

One 97 Communications Subsidiary Gets European Payment Institution Licence

One 97 Communications Subsidiary Gets European Payment Institution Licence

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

One 97 Communications, operating as Paytm, announced that its subsidiary, Paytm Europe Payments, has secured a payment institution licence from Luxembourg's financial regulator, CSSF, effective July 2, 2026. This licence permits services like execution of payment transactions, credit transfers, and acquiring payment transactions, marking a significant step in Paytm's European expansion strategy, supported by a recent 9 million euro investment from Paytm Cloud Technologies Limited.

Mumbai local train horror: Man killed after row over shutting of door

Mumbai local train horror: Man killed after row over shutting of door

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

The Western Railway administration said a commuter stabbed Lohar inside a first-class coach of a Churchgate-Nallasopara fast local train during a fight over the doors.

Who Will Lift The FIFA World Cup Trophy? Meet The Final 8 Teams

Who Will Lift The FIFA World Cup Trophy? Meet The Final 8 Teams

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

The FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals are set, featuring a diverse lineup of one South American, one African, and six European teams, including defending champions Argentina and France, alongside surprise packages like Morocco and Norway, all vying for football's ultimate prize.

US de-lists 4 Indian companies sanctioned over Russia links

US de-lists 4 Indian companies sanctioned over Russia links

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

The United States has removed four Indian companies from its sanctions list, which had been accused of supplying advanced technology and equipment to Russia's military-industrial complex. The de-listed firms include RRG Engineering Technologies, Lokesh Machines, Galaxy Bearings, and Shaurya Aeronautics, previously sanctioned for exporting dual-use items to Russian entities.

Over 46,000 in six districts hit by Assam floods as Brahmaputra overflows

Over 46,000 in six districts hit by Assam floods as Brahmaputra overflows

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Assam's flood situation continues to worsen, affecting 46,000 people across six districts, with Dhemaji being the most severely impacted. The first flood-related fatality has been reported, and major rivers are flowing above danger levels, causing extensive damage to infrastructure and submerging vast areas of cropland.

Beed woman strangles alcoholic husband, covers it up as heart attack

Beed woman strangles alcoholic husband, covers it up as heart attack

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

A 40-year-old woman in Beed, Maharashtra, has been arrested for allegedly strangling her alcoholic husband and attempting to conceal the murder by claiming he died of a heart attack. Police became suspicious due to marks on the victim's body, leading to her confession.

Sena MP moves NCW against Sanjay Raut over abusive language

Sena MP moves NCW against Sanjay Raut over abusive language

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Shiv Sena Rajya Sabha MP Jyoti Waghmare has filed a complaint with the National Commission for Women (NCW) against UBT Sena MP Sanjay Raut, alleging continuous use of abusive language and public insult of women representatives. Waghmare has sought the registration of a criminal case against Raut, citing his conduct over the past four years and its negative impact on Maharashtra's political culture.

Meet the new Tata Sierra, India's fastest EV!

Meet the new Tata Sierra, India's fastest EV!

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

At an aggressive starting price of 18.79 lakh, the Tata Sierra.ev has a real-world range of 510 to 530 km with the 75 kWh battery pack on a single charge while the smaller 63 kWh battery coughs out a real-world range of 440 to 460 km, plus lifetime battery warranty as standard. And with the intelligent Quad-Wheel Drive system pushing out 504 Nm of torque, the EV flies from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.8 seconds, says Rajesh Karkera.

Odisha changes English spellings of 64 places to match Odia phonetics

Odisha changes English spellings of 64 places to match Odia phonetics

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

The Odisha government has officially changed the English spellings of 64 places, including major cities like Cuttack (now Kataka) and Balasore (now Baleshwar), to align with Odia phonetics. This move aims to preserve the state's linguistic and cultural identity by correcting colonial-era anglicised names and standardising official records.

World Tennis Aims For 30% Participation Boost With New Identity

World Tennis Aims For 30% Participation Boost With New Identity

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

The International Tennis Federation (ITF) has rebranded as World Tennis, announcing an ambitious vision to increase global participation by 30% to 140 million players by 2035. The organisation, which governs the sport and runs major competitions, plans to reinvest 85% of its income annually for the next decade to achieve its strategic goals, including powering future stars and elevating national competitions. The name change aims to enhance recognition and foster greater collaboration within the sport.

5 dead, 20 rescued as under-construction warehouse collapses in Kolkata

5 dead, 20 rescued as under-construction warehouse collapses in Kolkata

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

A three-storey under-construction warehouse in Kolkata's Taratala area collapsed, killing three people and trapping several others. Rescue operations are ongoing, with 18 individuals already saved, amid allegations of substandard construction materials and illegal building practices.

Modi calls Japan PM Takaichi his 'younger sister'

Modi calls Japan PM Takaichi his 'younger sister'

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed his Japanese counterpart Sanae Takaichi as his 'younger sister' and hailed her as a 'visionary and popular leader' during a joint press meet, where both leaders unveiled initiatives to deepen bilateral cooperation and strengthen the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership.

Two Pak-backed terror modules plotting attack in Delhi busted; 6 held

Two Pak-backed terror modules plotting attack in Delhi busted; 6 held

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

The Delhi police busted two Pakistan-backed modules linked to gangster Shahzad Bhatti plotting terror attacks in the capital with the arrest of six operatives, officials said on Monday.

Veteran Physicist Umesh Waghmare To Lead Science And Technology Department

Veteran Physicist Umesh Waghmare To Lead Science And Technology Department

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Veteran physicist Professor Umesh V Waghmare has been appointed as the Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology. Currently a professor at JNCASR, Bengaluru, his appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet. He succeeds Professor Abhay Karandikar and brings a distinguished academic background from IIT-Bombay, Yale, and Harvard to the role.

Pune Maritime Institute Officials Face Charges in Student's Death

Pune Maritime Institute Officials Face Charges in Student's Death

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

The principal of a maritime institute in Pune and three others have been booked for alleged negligence after a student died when a basketball hoop collapsed.

As Ram temple trust meets, chairman says 'deeply hurt'

As Ram temple trust meets, chairman says 'deeply hurt'

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust held a crucial meeting in Ayodhya to deliberate on the resignations of general secretary Champat Rai and member Anil Mishra, following allegations of embezzlement of donations. The meeting also reviewed the ongoing SIT probe into the alleged theft.

5 diamonds weighing 1.22 carats found during exploration in Chhattisgarh

5 diamonds weighing 1.22 carats found during exploration in Chhattisgarh

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

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.

Explained: The controversy behind South Korea's World Cup elimination

Explained: The controversy behind South Korea's World Cup elimination

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

South Korea's World Cup group-stage exit has sparked a nationwide football crisis, with coach Hong Myung-bo resigning, President Lee Jae Myung ordering an investigation, and growing calls for sweeping reforms within the Korea Football Association.

'This was my final match': Mahrez ends Algeria career

'This was my final match': Mahrez ends Algeria career

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Riyad Mahrez, the Algerian football star, has announced his retirement from international football following Algeria's elimination from the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 by Switzerland. Mahrez confirmed his decision after Algeria's 2-0 defeat, concluding a distinguished career with 119 appearances, 40 goals, and 45 assists, including a pivotal role in Algeria's 2019 Africa Cup of Nations victory.

Punjab FC Strengthens Squad With Mohammed Inam Signing

Punjab FC Strengthens Squad With Mohammed Inam Signing

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Punjab FC has announced the signing of Mohammed Inam, a talented footballer from Jammu and Kashmir, on a two-year contract. Inam, who previously captained Real Kashmir FC, brings experience from the Indian Football League, I-League qualifiers, and the Durand Cup to his new club.

Taylor Swift-Travis Kelce's NYC Wedding: All The Details

Taylor Swift-Travis Kelce's NYC Wedding: All The Details

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Singer Taylor Swift and NFL player Travis Kelce are reportedly already married after a private ceremony, with their grand Madison Square Garden celebration now underway.

Diljit Dosanjh's 'Satluj' removed from OTT 2 days after release

Diljit Dosanjh's 'Satluj' removed from OTT 2 days after release

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Diljit Dosanjh's film 'Satluj', based on human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, has been made unavailable on ZEE5 in India just two days after its release, following a prolonged censorship battle.

Iran Bids Final Farewell to Khamenei

Iran Bids Final Farewell to Khamenei

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Thousands of mourners and international delegates gathered as Iran paid its final respects to its late supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in an Israeli strike on February 28, in Tehran.

Crude falls back to Feb levels: What is stopping a fuel price cut?

Crude falls back to Feb levels: What is stopping a fuel price cut?

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Global oil prices fell on Thursday to their lowest levels since before the outbreak of the Iran conflict, offering a significant economic tailwind for India, the world's third-largest crude importer, by easing inflation risks, reducing the import bill and improving the government's fiscal position.

Student dies after consuming hot tea, RKM school shuts hostel

Student dies after consuming hot tea, RKM school shuts hostel

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Ramakrishna Mission Vidyalaya in Narendrapur, West Bengal, has indefinitely closed its hostels and suspended classes after a Class 12 student died following an alleged incident involving hot tea. The decision comes amidst widespread protests, a police probe into negligence, and the suspension of three staffers, with the headmaster also offering to resign.

Coach Nagelsmann quits after Germany ouster from FIFA WC

Coach Nagelsmann quits after Germany ouster from FIFA WC

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

The decision was made following Germany's World Cup exit in the Round of 32 following their loss to Paraguay.

Mehbooba Mufti to travel to Iran for Khamenei's funeral

Mehbooba Mufti to travel to Iran for Khamenei's funeral

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

PDP president Mehbooba Mufti has received an official invitation to attend the state funeral of Iran's slain supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran. She will travel to Iran as a distinguished guest of India to pay her final respects, highlighting the historical and strategic ties between the two nations.

Sonia Gandhi files reply in voter list dispute

Sonia Gandhi files reply in voter list dispute

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi has filed a reply in a legal matter concerning her inclusion in the voter list, which is alleged to have occurred before she became an Indian citizen. The case, initiated by Advocate Vikas Tripathi, seeks the registration of an FIR against Gandhi and is currently pending before a sessions court.

CM Vijay runs anti-drug marathon with public for full 6 km

CM Vijay runs anti-drug marathon with public for full 6 km

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay actively participated in a 6 km anti-drug marathon at Chennai's Marina Beach, running alongside thousands of participants. This marks a historic first for a sitting CM in the state to complete such an event for a social cause, drawing praise from political figures and reinforcing the government's commitment to a drug-free Tamil Nadu.

Manuel Neuer retires after Germany's FIFA World Cup exit

Manuel Neuer retires after Germany's FIFA World Cup exit

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Legendary German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has announced his retirement from international football following Germany's unexpected exit from the World Cup. His comeback for the tournament, necessitated by injuries to other players, ended in disappointment as Germany lost to Paraguay in a penalty shootout in the Round of 32. Neuer concludes his illustrious international career with 128 caps, a 2014 World Cup title, and a legacy as one of the sport's greatest goalkeepers.

Major Muharram tragedy averted in Mumbai as man held with 15K rat poison capsules

Major Muharram tragedy averted in Mumbai as man held with 15K rat poison capsules

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

A man was apprehended in Mumbai for distributing suspicious tablets during a procession. One person who consumed a pill experienced adverse symptoms like vomiting and discomfort, though they are now out of danger. Police have registered a case under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita section 123, and further investigation is ongoing.

Strong tremors in Delhi, J-K as 6.2-magnitude quake hits Afghanistan

Strong tremors in Delhi, J-K as 6.2-magnitude quake hits Afghanistan

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

A 6.2-magnitude earthquake originating in Afghanistan caused strong tremors across Delhi-NCR and Jammu and Kashmir, leading to panic but no immediate reports of damage or casualties.

'Red cards are not overturned by political phone calls'

'Red cards are not overturned by political phone calls'

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Thierry Henry, including the UEFA, Belgium and several football figures questioned FIFA's late decision to suspend USA's Folarin Balogun's World Cup ban.

Detectives, Daadis, Demons On OTT

Detectives, Daadis, Demons On OTT

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Sukanya Verma lists your OTT watch options.

Ram Temple donation scam accused's wife gets notice over illegal building

Ram Temple donation scam accused's wife gets notice over illegal building

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

The Ayodhya Development Authority has issued a notice to the wife of a Ram temple donation theft accused for alleged unauthorised construction, as police intensify their investigation into the embezzlement case. Recoveries of cash, gold, silver, and a "Ramrajya Kosh" donation box have been made, and eight people have been arrested.

60-day prohibitory orders in Dharmatala ahead of TMC's July 21 rally

60-day prohibitory orders in Dharmatala ahead of TMC's July 21 rally

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

The Kolkata police on Tuesday imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) in the Dharmatala area, including the traditional venue of Trinamool Congress' annual July 21 Martyrs' Day rally, for 60 days, citing intelligence inputs about possible violent demonstrations that could disrupt public order and traffic.