News for 'preparedness'

India urges states, UTs to step up Ebola surveillance after WHO alert

India urges states, UTs to step up Ebola surveillance after WHO alert

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The Union Health Ministry has directed states and Union territories to enhance surveillance, hospital preparedness, and screening of international travellers after the WHO declared the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda a public health emergency of international concern.

Report flags India's vulnerability to cyber attacks, CBRN threat

Report flags India's vulnerability to cyber attacks, CBRN threat

Rediff.com18 May 2026

A new report highlights India's increasing vulnerability to cyberattacks and CBRN threats due to geopolitical tensions, industrial growth, and urbanisation, calling for an urgent strengthening of its CBRN security strategy through collaboration and investment.

Kolkata police review security ahead of Bengal CM's meeting

Kolkata police review security ahead of Bengal CM's meeting

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Kolkata Police Commissioner Ajay Nand inspected Nabanna and surrounding areas ahead of West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari's first administrative meeting.

Ebola outbreak: India boosts surveillance; experts say no need to panic

Ebola outbreak: India boosts surveillance; experts say no need to panic

Rediff.com18 May 2026

Following the Ebola outbreak in parts of Africa, Indian authorities are closely monitoring the situation and reinforcing surveillance measures to prevent the virus's potential spread into the country. Health experts emphasise the importance of vigilance and preparedness.

Israel fears surprise Iran attack amid peace talks

Israel fears surprise Iran attack amid peace talks

Rediff.com22 May 2026

Amid ongoing ceasefire negotiations, Israel is on high alert, fearing a potential surprise missile and drone attack from Iran targeting Gulf countries and Israel, according to intelligence officials.

Bengal Government To Pursue CBI Investigation Into GTA Teacher Recruitment Scam

Bengal Government To Pursue CBI Investigation Into GTA Teacher Recruitment Scam

Rediff.com1 days ago

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced the state government will move the Supreme Court to vacate the stay on a CBI probe into the alleged Gorkhaland Territorial Administration teacher recruitment scam. The decision follows complaints of corruption and illegal teacher recruitment within the GTA.

Why India Postponed The India-Africa Forum Summit

Why India Postponed The India-Africa Forum Summit

Rediff.com21 May 2026

The India-Africa Forum Summit, scheduled for May 28-31 in New Delhi, has been postponed due to concerns over the Ebola virus outbreak in Africa. The Ministry of External Affairs announced that new dates will be finalised in consultation with African nations.

Centre notifies draft rules for VB-G RAM G rollout

Centre notifies draft rules for VB-G RAM G rollout

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Centre has notified draft rules for the Viksit Bharat - Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025, outlining the framework for the new rural employment programme replacing MGNREGA. The draft rules are open for public feedback until June 21, 2026.

Supreme Court To Review CBSE's Three-Language Rule

Supreme Court To Review CBSE's Three-Language Rule

Rediff.com3 days ago

The Supreme Court has agreed to examine a plea challenging the CBSE's policy mandating the study of three languages, including two native Indian languages, for Class 9 students starting July 1. The court has sought responses from the Centre, CBSE, and NCERT and will hear the matter in July.

Red alert issued as UP under severe heatwave; Banda boils at 47.6 degrees C

Red alert issued as UP under severe heatwave; Banda boils at 47.6 degrees C

Rediff.com22 May 2026

Uttar Pradesh is experiencing an intense heatwave, with Banda recording the highest temperature at 47.6 degrees Celsius. The IMD has issued a 'Red Colour Warning' for severe heatwave conditions. The extreme heat is disrupting daily life and economic activity, prompting government action to prevent heat-related illnesses.

KSCA disappointed as IPL 2026 final moved from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad

KSCA disappointed as IPL 2026 final moved from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad

Rediff.com6 May 2026

The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) has expressed its disappointment after the BCCI shifted the IPL 2026 final from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad, despite Bengaluru being the defending champions' home ground. The BCCI cited unspecified requirements from local authorities as the reason for the change.

Delhi CM Urges Transparency In Welfare Scheme Rollout

Delhi CM Urges Transparency In Welfare Scheme Rollout

Rediff.com3 days ago

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has directed officials to ensure the transparent and timely implementation of welfare schemes announced in the budget, warning of potential fund reductions for departments failing to utilise allocated budgets effectively.

Raksha Khadse Encourages Athletes To Pursue Excellence

Raksha Khadse Encourages Athletes To Pursue Excellence

Rediff.com3 days ago

Union Minister Raksha Khadse has encouraged sportspersons to strive for excellence, highlighting the government's focus on strengthening sports infrastructure and supporting athletes through initiatives like Khelo India.

CBSE's abrupt 3-language policy for Class 9 sparks concerns

CBSE's abrupt 3-language policy for Class 9 sparks concerns

Rediff.com17 May 2026

Educationists and parents are raising concerns about the CBSE's implementation of the three-language policy for Class 9, questioning the timing and preparedness of schools.

Govt to Crack Down on Industrial Users Diverting Cheaper Retail Fuel

Govt to Crack Down on Industrial Users Diverting Cheaper Retail Fuel

Rediff.com2 days ago

The Indian government has issued a stern warning to industrial users who are reportedly procuring cheaper retail fuel instead of industrial-grade fuel, leading to significant losses for state-run oil marketing companies (OMCs) and potential local shortages. This diversion, driven by a substantial price difference between retail and bulk diesel, is adversely impacting OMCs, which are absorbing daily losses of approximately 550 crore to keep retail prices stable.

NDA govt in Assam to be sworn-in on May 12

NDA govt in Assam to be sworn-in on May 12

Rediff.com7 May 2026

The newly elected BJP-led NDA government in Assam will be sworn in on May 12, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other dignitaries expected to attend. Preparations are underway to ensure a smooth and secure ceremony.

Territorial integrity to be part of BSF's new mandate: Amit Shah

Territorial integrity to be part of BSF's new mandate: Amit Shah

Rediff.com1 days ago

Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced a new 'territorial security' paradigm to complement conventional border security, involving public participation and advanced technology. He also highlighted progress in securing vulnerable areas along the Pakistan border and plans to expand the BSF's operational mandate.

Delhi Government Orders Safety Audit Of Schools

Delhi Government Orders Safety Audit Of Schools

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Delhi's Chief Minister has ordered a comprehensive audit of government schools to assess structural integrity, fire safety, and basic amenities after a surprise inspection revealed shortcomings.

Why IAF Needs Russian Su-57 Stealth Fighter

Why IAF Needs Russian Su-57 Stealth Fighter

Rediff.com1 days ago

Pakistan is reportedly pursuing Chinese J-35 stealth fighters while China already operates hundreds of J-20 stealth aircraft.

Patna High Court Highlights Need For Security Mock Drills

Patna High Court Highlights Need For Security Mock Drills

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

Patna High Court Chief Justice Sangam Kumar Sahoo emphasised the importance of mock drills to instill a sense of safety and security among citizens during an Anti-Terrorist Squad demonstration at the court premises.

Pilgrim Deaths Reported During Char Dham Yatra

Pilgrim Deaths Reported During Char Dham Yatra

Rediff.com14 May 2026

At least 38 pilgrims have died due to health-related reasons in the first 26 days of the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand. The pilgrimage began on April 19, with Kedarnath recording the highest fatalities.

Bargi survivor alleges negligence, recalls last-minute rush for life jackets

Bargi survivor alleges negligence, recalls last-minute rush for life jackets

Rediff.com1 May 2026

A woman from Delhi recounts the harrowing experience of a boat capsizing at Bargi Dam in Madhya Pradesh, highlighting alleged negligence and lack of safety measures.

Scorching days, restless nights: India battles intense heatwave

Scorching days, restless nights: India battles intense heatwave

Rediff.com7 days ago

Several parts of India are experiencing a severe heatwave, with temperatures soaring past 44 degrees Celsius. States are issuing alerts and taking measures to protect people and animals from the extreme conditions.

How India's New AI Weather Forecasts Will Help Farmers

How India's New AI Weather Forecasts Will Help Farmers

Rediff.com12 May 2026

Union Minister Jitendra Singh launched two advanced weather forecast products developed under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), aimed at delivering hyper-local, impact-based and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven weather services across India.

Fadnavis Calls For Maharashtra Police To Combat Cybercrime

Fadnavis Calls For Maharashtra Police To Combat Cybercrime

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has emphasised the need for the state police to enhance their preparedness in addressing modern challenges such as cybercrime and financial offences. He highlighted the importance of the police force in maintaining law and order and contributing to the state's economic progress during the closing ceremony of the 36th Maharashtra State Police Sports Competition.

Congress Protests NEET Exam Cancellation, Seeks Supreme Court Probe

Congress Protests NEET Exam Cancellation, Seeks Supreme Court Probe

Rediff.com13 May 2026

The Jammu and Kashmir Congress staged protests against the Centre over the cancellation of the NEET-UG exam, demanding strict action against those involved in the alleged paper leak and a Supreme Court-monitored probe.

Labour Codes Enter Implementation Phase

Labour Codes Enter Implementation Phase

Rediff.com19 May 2026

A section of industry may need to begin compliance immediately, even as most states are yet to notify their rules.

EC makes elaborate security measures for second phase of Bengal polls

EC makes elaborate security measures for second phase of Bengal polls

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

The Election Commission has announced a stringent security plan for the second phase of the West Bengal assembly polls, ensuring voters can exercise their franchise without fear. Security personnel will be deployed constituency-wise, and area domination exercises will be stepped up in sensitive neighbourhoods. CCTV cameras will be installed at every polling station, and central forces will remain deployed at booths.

2 Indians part of crew of cruise ship hit by hantavirus

2 Indians part of crew of cruise ship hit by hantavirus

Rediff.com8 May 2026

A hantavirus outbreak on the Dutch vessel MV Hondius has resulted in multiple confirmed cases and fatalities, with Indian nationals among the crew. Health authorities are tracing those who disembarked.

Odisha forest department buys Mahindra Thars from disaster fund, finds CAG

Odisha forest department buys Mahindra Thars from disaster fund, finds CAG

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

A special audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has revealed that Odisha's forest and environment department sidestepped central guidelines, procuring and customising Mahindra Thar SUVs worth 17 crore from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) for forest protection, despite the funds being earmarked for 'preparedness and capacity building'.

Education Ministry dismisses concerns over CBSE 'On Screen Marking'

Education Ministry dismisses concerns over CBSE 'On Screen Marking'

Rediff.com17 May 2026

The Ministry of Education has dismissed concerns about On-Screen Marking (OSM) affecting students' scores in CBSE class 12 exams and announced a reduction in revaluation and answer sheet verification charges to ease student anxiety.

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.

Kerala braces for heatwave: IMD issues orange alert

Kerala braces for heatwave: IMD issues orange alert

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

The IMD has issued an orange alert for heatwave conditions in parts of Kerala, prompting authorities to urge caution. Maximum temperatures are expected to reach up to 41 degrees Celsius in some districts. Strict guidelines have been issued, including the suspension of vacation classes and rescheduling of working hours.

China Boosts Indian Ocean Ambitions, Should India Worry?

China Boosts Indian Ocean Ambitions, Should India Worry?

Rediff.com14 May 2026

For India, China's Indian Ocean power projection, maritime domain awareness, dual-use ports, underwater surveillance, antisubmarinewarfare, naval exercises with Pakistan, pose considerable pressure, depleted India's strategic depth and marginalises Indian role, points out Srikanth Kondapalli.

US Group Claims Unfairness In Rajasthan Royals Ownership Bid

US Group Claims Unfairness In Rajasthan Royals Ownership Bid

Rediff.com5 May 2026

A US-based consortium led by Kal Somani has expressed disappointment and alleged an unfair bidding process after losing the Rajasthan Royals ownership bid to Lakshmi Mittal's group.

Delhi Simulates Hostile Attack in City-Wide Civil Defence Drill

Delhi Simulates Hostile Attack in City-Wide Civil Defence Drill

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

A large-scale civil defence mock drill was conducted across Delhi, simulating a hostile attack scenario to test preparedness and response systems.

Hantavirus poses no immediate threat to India, says virologist

Hantavirus poses no immediate threat to India, says virologist

Rediff.com8 May 2026

An expert from the ICMR's National Institute of Virology addresses concerns about hantavirus cases detected on a cruise ship, stating there is no immediate public health threat to India and that the cases appear isolated.

Is GalaxEye's Mission Drishti Satellite Okay?

Is GalaxEye's Mission Drishti Satellite Okay?

Rediff.com12 May 2026

Concerns are rising about the status of GalaxEye Space's Mission Drishti, India's first Made in India OptoSAR satellite, launched on May 3. Reports suggest the satellite is tumbling in space, and experts highlight potential issues with solar panel deployment and stabilisation. The company has remained silent on the matter, fueling further speculation.

Enemies Beware! India's Missile Power Gets A Boost

Enemies Beware! India's Missile Power Gets A Boost

Rediff.com11 May 2026

Three milestones in three days signal India's growing mastery in next-generation strategic technologies spanning nuclear deterrence, hypersonic propulsion and precision stand-off strike capability.

Banks Review Cybersecurity Amid AI Threat Concerns

Banks Review Cybersecurity Amid AI Threat Concerns

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman convened a high-level meeting with bank heads to assess cybersecurity risks linked to advanced AI models, following concerns over Anthropic's Claude Mythos system and its potential impact on financial data security.