News for 'preparedness'

300 mm rain in 24 hrs floods Mumbai; road, rail traffic hit

300 mm rain in 24 hrs floods Mumbai; road, rail traffic hit

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Mumbai experienced heavy overnight monsoon rains, with some areas receiving over 200 mm in 24 hours, leading to widespread waterlogging, traffic congestion, and disruptions in suburban train services, particularly on Central Railway lines due to a track cave-in.

Delhi Government To Formulate New Rules For Coaching Centres

Delhi Government To Formulate New Rules For Coaching Centres

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The Delhi government is establishing a multidisciplinary committee to develop a regulatory framework for coaching institutes. This initiative follows recent tragedies, including the Saket building collapse and the Old Rajendra Nagar coaching centre incident, and aims to address issues like fee structures, student safety, infrastructure, and grievance redressal.

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.

'1.38L CCTVs, 51k jammers': Over 2.8L students to take NEET re-exam amid tight security

'1.38L CCTVs, 51k jammers': Over 2.8L students to take NEET re-exam amid tight security

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has implemented extensive security and logistical arrangements, including AI-based CCTV monitoring, biometric verification, and police escorts, to ensure the smooth, secure, and transparent conduct of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination.

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.

Security tightened in Delhi ahead of Cockroach Janta Party protest

Security tightened in Delhi ahead of Cockroach Janta Party protest

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

Delhi Police has intensified security across the city, especially at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport and border points, in anticipation of a protest called by the digital outfit Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). Over 1,000 personnel have been deployed, and senior officers have reviewed arrangements to maintain law and order and ensure public safety.

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.

No nod sought for CJP protest, say Delhi police; 1,000 cops deployed

No nod sought for CJP protest, say Delhi police; 1,000 cops deployed

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

The Delhi Police has confirmed that it has not yet received any official request for permission from the digital group Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) to hold a protest at Jantar Mantar. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and are ready to deploy personnel to maintain law and order if necessary.

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.

New Army Chief Set To Accelerate Modernisation

New Army Chief Set To Accelerate Modernisation

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Lieutenant General Seth's involvement in the army's capability development and modernisation efforts is evident from the key appointments he has held in the Strategic Planning and Capability Development Directorates, including Colonel Capability Development for Mechanised Forces, Brigadier Perspective Plans and Acquisition, and Additional Director General Capability Development.

Centre notifies draft rules for VB-G RAM G rollout

Centre notifies draft rules for VB-G RAM G rollout

Rediff.com23 May 2026

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.

Heatwaves Trigger Hidden Ozone Threat

Heatwaves Trigger Hidden Ozone Threat

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

'Can you believe there are over 26,500 deaths linked to heatwave-driven ozone in 2024?'

Parents' association slams CBSE's 'rushed' on-screen marking system

Parents' association slams CBSE's 'rushed' on-screen marking system

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

The Delhi Parents Association (DPA) has criticised the CBSE's On-Screen Marking (OSM) system for Class 12 answer sheet evaluation, alleging it was rushed, lacked adequate preparation and training for teachers, and led to discrepancies in results. DPA president Aprajita Gautam claimed the trial run was too short and feedback from teachers was insufficient.

Delhi hotel fire wipes out 8 of family, kin recall last call

Delhi hotel fire wipes out 8 of family, kin recall last call

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

A devastating fire in Delhi's Hauz Rani area claimed 21 lives, including eight members of the Agrawal family. Relatives recounted the harrowing last moments and raised serious concerns about the lack of fire safety infrastructure at the bed and breakfast where the tragedy occurred, highlighting the profound grief and challenges in identifying victims.

Bengal Government To Pursue CBI Investigation Into GTA Teacher Recruitment Scam

Bengal Government To Pursue CBI Investigation Into GTA Teacher Recruitment Scam

Rediff.com29 May 2026

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.

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.

Supreme Court To Review CBSE's Three-Language Rule

Supreme Court To Review CBSE's Three-Language Rule

Rediff.com27 May 2026

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.

Ebola fears: Another Sudanese hospitalised in Hyderabad, Ugandan girl isolated in Jaipur

Ebola fears: Another Sudanese hospitalised in Hyderabad, Ugandan girl isolated in Jaipur

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

A Sudanese national with fever was admitted to the state-run Gandhi Hospital in Hyderabad, taking the total number of Ebola-related admissions at the facility to two, officials said on Friday, while a 19-year-old woman from Uganda has been admitted to a government hospital in Jaipur after showing symptoms similar to Ebola virus infection.

Op Sindoor: 'Pakistan Was Completely Blind'

Op Sindoor: 'Pakistan Was Completely Blind'

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

'We won not (only) because we were able to carry out long-range precision strikes.' 'That is, of course, one of the reasons but we had better situational awareness about what's happening than Pakistan.'

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.

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.

Delhi CM Urges Transparency In Welfare Scheme Rollout

Delhi CM Urges Transparency In Welfare Scheme Rollout

Rediff.com27 May 2026

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.

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.

Raksha Khadse Encourages Athletes To Pursue Excellence

Raksha Khadse Encourages Athletes To Pursue Excellence

Rediff.com27 May 2026

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.

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.

Maharashtra overtakes Tamil Nadu in NITI's 2024 export preparedness index

Maharashtra overtakes Tamil Nadu in NITI's 2024 export preparedness index

Rediff.com15 Jan 2026

Maharashtra has pipped Tamil Nadu in NITI Aayog's latest Export Preparedness Index (EPI) for 2024. While Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh gained ground, Karnataka and Haryana slipped out of the top five, the central government think tank said in its report released on Wednesday.

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.

Govt to Crack Down on Industrial Users Diverting Cheaper Retail Fuel

Govt to Crack Down on Industrial Users Diverting Cheaper Retail Fuel

Rediff.com28 May 2026

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.

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.

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.com29 May 2026

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.

Why IAF Needs Russian Su-57 Stealth Fighter

Why IAF Needs Russian Su-57 Stealth Fighter

Rediff.com30 May 2026

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

'Education Minister Must Resign'

'Education Minister Must Resign'

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

'The software vendor had a black mark against him and yet they went ahead with him. Why was this company shortlisted? Who is responsible for signing off this software?'

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.

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'.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Scorching days, restless nights: India battles intense heatwave

Scorching days, restless nights: India battles intense heatwave

Rediff.com23 May 2026

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.