News for 'personnel department'

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.

IIT-B faculty backs professor in student suicide row

IIT-B faculty backs professor in student suicide row

Rediff.com2 days ago

The IIT Bombay Faculty Forum has expressed strong solidarity with Professor Suryanarayana Doolla, who was invigilating an exam where a student was found using a smartphone, an incident preceding the student's death by alleged suicide.

RPSF constable pulls passenger from moving train in dramatic Chennai rescue

RPSF constable pulls passenger from moving train in dramatic Chennai rescue

Rediff.com1 days ago

A Railway Protection Special Force (RPSF) constable, Deepak, heroically rescued a passenger who slipped while attempting to board a moving express train at Chennai Egmore railway station. His quick action, captured on CCTV, prevented a major tragedy and has earned him widespread praise.

Kite-Flying For Gaza Brings Mumbai Cops To Student's Home

Kite-Flying For Gaza Brings Mumbai Cops To Student's Home

Rediff.com1 days ago

A Mumbai student activist's home was subjected to a nine-hour police search following her participation in a global kite-flying event expressing solidarity with children in Gaza.

Crime Branch takes over probe into IIT-Bombay student suicide

Crime Branch takes over probe into IIT-Bombay student suicide

Rediff.com2 days ago

The Mumbai Police has transferred the alleged suicide case of a second-year IIT Bombay BTech student to the Crime Branch after his father filed a complaint alleging casteist slurs and harassment by Professor Suryanarayan Dulla, who was also named in an FIR.

5 MCD officials suspended after 7 deaths in Satya Niketan

5 MCD officials suspended after 7 deaths in Satya Niketan

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi has suspended a Deputy Commissioner and four engineers from the South Zone following the collapse of a five-storey building in Satya Niketan, which resulted in seven deaths. The suspensions were issued by the MCD Vigilance Department under disciplinary proceedings.

Bihar floods: More than 49 lakh hit in 15 districts as rivers swell

Bihar floods: More than 49 lakh hit in 15 districts as rivers swell

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Heavy rainfall and swollen rivers have led to severe flooding in 15 districts of Bihar, affecting over 49 lakh people. Major rivers like the Ganga and Kosi are flowing above danger levels, prompting the deployment of disaster response teams and the establishment of relief camps and community kitchens for those displaced.

MP hooch tragedy: Death toll climbs to 13; 96 under treatment in 4 hospitals

MP hooch tragedy: Death toll climbs to 13; 96 under treatment in 4 hospitals

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

The death toll in the Sagar hooch tragedy in Madhya Pradesh has risen to 12, with nearly 30 others under medical observation. Police have arrested 14 individuals and launched a major crackdown on bootleggers, investigating a potential link to Lalitpur, Uttar Pradesh. Three excise officials and two police personnel have been suspended, and the Chief Minister has ordered a probe.

Fire in Telangana hospital's newborn unit kills three infants

Fire in Telangana hospital's newborn unit kills three infants

Rediff.com10 hours ago

Three infants tragically died after a fire erupted in the Special Newborn Care Unit (SNCU) of the state-run RIMS hospital in Adilabad, Telangana. A preliminary inquiry suggests a short circuit in the air-conditioning unit caused the blaze, leading to thick smoke. State Health Minister C Damodar Rajanarasimha has ordered a comprehensive inquiry into the incident, promising strict action against any negligence.

Major IPS reshuffle: Six 1995-batch officers promoted to top CAPF, IB posts

Major IPS reshuffle: Six 1995-batch officers promoted to top CAPF, IB posts

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

In a major bureaucratic rejig, the Central government on Thursday promoted six 1995-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officers holding senior ranks in different Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and the Intelligence Bureau (IB).

PNB targets wealth management entry by 2027, ramps up credit card portfolio

PNB targets wealth management entry by 2027, ramps up credit card portfolio

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

State-run Punjab National Bank (PNB) is strategically planning to enter the wealth management segment by early 2027 and significantly expand its credit card portfolio, aiming to tap into lucrative markets largely dominated by private-sector banks.

Nepal issues new media rules for flood coverage

Nepal issues new media rules for flood coverage

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

Nepal has introduced a media safety and operational protocol for journalists covering flood-affected regions, particularly for foreign media. The new guidelines, issued after devastating floods on August 26, mandate accreditation, adherence to safety instructions, and restrictions on movement in rescue zones to ensure orderly reporting and prevent interference with relief efforts.

Protest not to justify cheating but...: IIT Bombay students

Protest not to justify cheating but...: IIT Bombay students

Rediff.com1 days ago

Students at IIT Bombay are demanding 'meaningful institutional reforms' and greater accountability following the death of Sahil Wakode, a second-year B Tech student. While condemning academic misconduct, students highlight systemic issues and have submitted a comprehensive set of demands to the Director, who has agreed to implement them. The protest also addresses the removal of Dean Suryanarayana Doolla during an investigation into alleged abetment to suicide and caste discrimination, emphasising the need for an independent probe.

Fresh rainfall warning in Nepal's flood-hit areas, threatens rescue ops

Fresh rainfall warning in Nepal's flood-hit areas, threatens rescue ops

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

Nepal is grappling with devastating flash floods and landslides that have claimed over 650 lives and left more than 2,400 missing. Rescue operations are underway, but fresh warnings of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms from the meteorology department threaten to disrupt these efforts, exacerbating the crisis. Chinese authorities have also issued alerts regarding a potential barrier lake breach in Tibet, posing further flood risks downstream.

9 hours of Delhi police questioning: Why was ex-DoT officer taken away?

9 hours of Delhi police questioning: Why was ex-DoT officer taken away?

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Former bureaucrat Ashish Joshi was questioned for nearly nine hours by the Delhi Police Special Cell in connection with an old case. He was later released without arrest. The questioning followed claims by Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit about Joshi being taken away by police.

Buy A Mature Rocket Or Design A New One?

Buy A Mature Rocket Or Design A New One?

Rediff.com22 hours ago

Buying a mature rocket technology gives companies the designs and hardware know-how, but not necessarily the decades of engineering wisdom needed to make it work.

5 killed in UP firecracker factory blast; train ops suspended for one hour

5 killed in UP firecracker factory blast; train ops suspended for one hour

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

Five people were killed after a massive explosion at a firecracker factory in Uttar Pradesh's Kaushambi district on Monday afternoon, officials said.

84 Indians rescued in Nepal floods, search ops continue: MEA

84 Indians rescued in Nepal floods, search ops continue: MEA

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

The devastating flash floods wreaked havoc across Nepal, with the ministry of external affairs on Thursday stating that 84 Indian nationals have been rescued while 290 remain uncontactable as the Himalayan nation stepped up search, rescue and relief operations following the disaster that has claimed more than 390 lives.

'No fire safety': After ransack, Abhishek office floors face eviction

'No fire safety': After ransack, Abhishek office floors face eviction

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

The West Bengal Fire Department has ordered the evacuation of the basement and two floors of a high-rise building in central Kolkata, which houses TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee's office, due to a lack of fire safety measures. The order follows the expiry of the building's fire safety certificate and non-compliance with mandatory regulations, posing a threat to life and property.

India sends fresh relief materials to flood-hit Nepal; toll rises to 1,365

India sends fresh relief materials to flood-hit Nepal; toll rises to 1,365

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

India has dispatched a fresh tranche of 35 tonnes of humanitarian aid to flood-ravaged Nepal, marking the eighth special flight since devastating flash floods struck the Himalayan nation on August 26. The aid includes relief materials, specialised rescue equipment, and expert personnel, with Indian teams actively assisting in tunnel rescue operations and forensic identification of victims. The death toll has climbed to 1,365, and thousands remain missing as India reaffirms its commitment to supporting Nepal's recovery efforts.

Orangutans found in Odisha forest: Hunt on for black SUV

Orangutans found in Odisha forest: Hunt on for black SUV

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Odisha Police's STF and the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau are investigating the rescue of five baby orangutans in Balasore, suspecting an international wildlife trafficking network. The probe focuses on a black SUV seen near the rescue site and potential routes from West Bengal, with officials believing the animals were trafficked from Southeast Asia. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has called for stringent action against those involved.

SC's unusual move on NEET leaks: Judges may visit NTA to inspect facilities

SC's unusual move on NEET leaks: Judges may visit NTA to inspect facilities

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Supreme Court has indicated that its judges may personally visit the National Testing Agency (NTA) to examine its upgraded facilities aimed at preventing recurring NEET paper leaks. This unusual move underscores the court's emphasis on institutional strengthening and permanent solutions. The NTA informed the bench that it has overhauled its system, while a high-powered panel is also working on structural reforms to ensure foolproof examination processes.

Tiger mauls woman sanitation worker to death in Jaipur as guard opens gate

Tiger mauls woman sanitation worker to death in Jaipur as guard opens gate

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

A woman sanitation worker, Sugna Devi, was mauled to death by a tiger named Shivaji in Nahargarh Biological Park, Jaipur, after a forest guard allegedly opened the enclosure gate while workers were inside. The forest department has suspended the guard and ordered an inquiry. The victim's family protested, leading to an agreement for Rs 10 lakh compensation, a dairy booth, and contractual jobs for two family members.

Student suicide: IIT-B apologises, suspends dean; director to stay

Student suicide: IIT-B apologises, suspends dean; director to stay

Rediff.com1 days ago

IIT Bombay has removed Suryanarayana Doolla, Dean of Administrative Affairs, from his post and issued a public apology following the death by suicide of 22-year-old student Sahil Wakode, who his parents allege faced caste-based discrimination.

Elephants vs Rajdhani Express: Alert forest officials avert tragedy in Assam

Elephants vs Rajdhani Express: Alert forest officials avert tragedy in Assam

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

A major tragedy was averted in Assam's Hojai district on Wednesday when forest personnel alerted the Rajdhani Express after spotting a large herd of elephants crossing a railway track, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said.

Nepal faces fresh threat as Bhotekoshi River swells

Nepal faces fresh threat as Bhotekoshi River swells

Rediff.com30 Aug 2026

The water levels in the Bhotekoshi River rose again on Sunday, days after a devastating flash flood struck Nepal, authorities warned, urging residents and rescue personnel in flood-hit districts to remain alert.

Barrier lake formed at Tibet-Nepal border, China issues alert

Barrier lake formed at Tibet-Nepal border, China issues alert

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

China has issued a Level-IV alert due to a newly formed barrier lake at the Tibet-Nepal border, warning of a high risk of breaching and flooding downstream areas. The lake, formed at the confluence of Chhochen Khola and Purepu Tsangpo rivers, has accumulated an estimated two million cubic metres of water, with inflows expected to increase, raising concerns for areas including Gyirong Port.

Nepal-Tibet flood toll rises to 1,243; PM Shah flags climate change link

Nepal-Tibet flood toll rises to 1,243; PM Shah flags climate change link

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Nepal's devastating flash floods have claimed 1,127 lives, with thousands still missing a week after the disaster. Rescuers are intensifying efforts to find survivors and recover bodies across affected regions, while police work to identify victims and relocate families from high-risk areas.

Fresh flood risk in Nepal as new barrier lake forms on China border

Fresh flood risk in Nepal as new barrier lake forms on China border

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

A new barrier lake has formed near the source of Nepal's Bhote Koshi River, with Chinese authorities warning of a potential breach. This poses a fresh flood risk to downstream areas in Nepal, prompting warnings for residents and calls for diplomatic consultations to manage cross-border glacier risks.

Protests erupt over 3 TN men's death in K'taka forest firing; officials booked

Protests erupt over 3 TN men's death in K'taka forest firing; officials booked

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

Tamil Nadu's DMK and PMK parties have called for a thorough investigation into the alleged killing of three Tamil men by Karnataka Forest Department personnel. The incident, which occurred on August 15, has sparked protests and led to an FIR being filed against forest officials, with political leaders demanding justice and compensation for the victims' families.

Maharashtra police dogs to spend retirement with their handlers

Maharashtra police dogs to spend retirement with their handlers

Rediff.com23 Aug 2026

Retired police dogs in Maharashtra will now be allowed to stay with the security force for life rather than being sent to adoptive homes, following a directive by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, officials said on Sunday.

Illegal constructions above 4 floors to be sealed in Delhi

Illegal constructions above 4 floors to be sealed in Delhi

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Following a tragic building collapse in Satya Niketan that claimed five lives, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi has ordered the immediate sealing of all illegal constructions with more than four floors and vowed strict action against negligent officials.

Pradhama Drishtiya Kuttakkar Review: Gripping Cop Drama

Pradhama Drishtiya Kuttakkar Review: Gripping Cop Drama

Rediff.com7 days ago

Pradhama Drishtiya Kuttakkar is a gripping cat-and-mouse game that benefits from smart writing.

Nepal floods: Hope of finding survivors fades with each passing day

Nepal floods: Hope of finding survivors fades with each passing day

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

Nepal is reeling from devastating flash floods that have claimed over 600 lives and left more than 2,400 people missing. Rescuers are battling difficult conditions, including intermittent rainfall, to find survivors, while families desperately search for loved ones among lists of the injured and deceased. The widespread destruction has left towns and villages buried under mud, with infrastructure severely damaged.

Ex-Havildar nabbed for stealing AK-203 rifles, pistols from Army unit

Ex-Havildar nabbed for stealing AK-203 rifles, pistols from Army unit

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

An army personnel has been taken into custody in connection with the theft of service weapons and ammunition from an Army facility in Hyderabad. The theft, which included assault rifles, pistols, and night vision binoculars, was detected on August 31, prompting a joint investigation by Telangana Police and Army authorities.

US to close consulate in Pak's Peshawar citing personnel's safety

US to close consulate in Pak's Peshawar citing personnel's safety

Rediff.com6 May 2026

The State Department spokesperson said the US will continue to engage meaningfully with the people and officials of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to foster economic ties, promote regional security, and advance the interests of the American people.

Chaos at Abhishek Banerjee's office as civic body removes TMC billboard

Chaos at Abhishek Banerjee's office as civic body removes TMC billboard

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Private guards at Ttrinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee's office, his supporters and some party leaders on Thursday scuffled with police and Kolkata Municipal Corporation officials, trying to prevent them from entering the building on Camac Street and dismantling an "unauthorised" billboard.

MP hooch tragedy claims 11 lives, 54 fall ill; 3 officials suspended

MP hooch tragedy claims 11 lives, 54 fall ill; 3 officials suspended

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

Eleven people have died and 54 others fallen ill after consuming spurious liquor in Madhya Pradesh's Sagar district. A preliminary investigation suggests the illicit liquor was supplied from Lalitpur in Uttar Pradesh. Authorities have suspended three excise officials and two police personnel, and multiple FIRs have been registered as a probe is underway.

How AI Is Revolutionising Forest Protection In India

How AI Is Revolutionising Forest Protection In India

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

The Haldwani forest division has launched India's first AI-based forest acoustic surveillance system. This innovative technology uses AI, acoustic sensors, and long-range wireless communication to detect illegal logging, poaching, and other suspicious activities in real-time, even in remote areas. Powered by solar energy, the system provides continuous monitoring, significantly enhancing forest protection, wildlife conservation, and biodiversity monitoring efforts.

Nepal-Tibet floods: Toll surges to 392; 1,500 missing amid fresh threat

Nepal-Tibet floods: Toll surges to 392; 1,500 missing amid fresh threat

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Nepal is grappling with one of its worst disasters in recent years as massive flash floods, triggered by an ice avalanche, have claimed 270 lives and left thousands missing across multiple districts, prompting urgent rescue and relief operations.