News for 'public governance'

How AI Can Transform Delhi's Administration: LG Sandhu

How AI Can Transform Delhi's Administration: LG Sandhu

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Delhi Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu highlighted the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in enhancing urban governance. He stressed that AI can address complex administrative challenges, improve efficiency in areas like traffic management and environmental monitoring, and shift governance towards an intelligence-driven model, provided it is human-centric and reflects India's diverse context.

TN Welfare Push Raises Fiscal Risks For New Government

TN Welfare Push Raises Fiscal Risks For New Government

Rediff.com4 May 2026

Amid the arithmetic of subsidies, consumption and capacity, whichever government assumes office in Tamil Nadu after May 4 is likely to inherit a growing debate over how far the state can continue to expand welfare promises without placing additional strain on public finances and the power sector.

Ram temple donation embezzlement case: SIT submits preliminary report

Ram temple donation embezzlement case: SIT submits preliminary report

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ayodhya Ram temple has submitted its preliminary report to the Uttar Pradesh government. The SIT, formed on June 13 following requests from the temple trust, is continuing its investigation and expects to submit a final report within 10-15 days. Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav had previously raised concerns about missing donations and demanded transparency in the probe.

CAB power struggle: Ganguly camp fires back as Dalmiya raises corruption concerns

CAB power struggle: Ganguly camp fires back as Dalmiya raises corruption concerns

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

The simmering tension between former Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) president Avishek Dalmiya and the current Sourav Ganguly-led establishment came out into the open on Wednesday, with the state cricket body's top brass issuing a strongly-worded rebuttal to allegations of corruption and governance failures barely three months before its annual general meeting.

All Sikh MLAs, ministers to appear before Akal Takht: Punjab CM

All Sikh MLAs, ministers to appear before Akal Takht: Punjab CM

Rediff.com2 days ago

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced that all Sikh MLAs and cabinet ministers will appear before the Akal Takht on June 29 regarding the anti-sacrilege law. This decision follows a closed-door meeting in Amritsar, where Mann stated that representatives would present their views in writing. The Akal Takht had summoned Sikh legislators and ministers over objections to the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act, 2026, which it claims was enacted without consulting the Sikh Panth. Mann also addressed accusations of challenging the Akal Takht's authority and criticised political appointees for one-sided decisions.

Indian Firms Announce Global Partnerships, New Fund, And Social Impact

Indian Firms Announce Global Partnerships, New Fund, And Social Impact

Rediff.com1 days ago

Indian companies LTM and Mastek announced new international partnerships for cloud, AI, and digital transformation. Jio BlackRock AMC launched a new hybrid fund. NMIMS partnered with Coursera for AI-enabled learning, and MakeMyTrip Foundation rebuilt a flood-damaged school in Manali.

BJP govt to table UCC bill in Bengal assembly, face twin TMC challenge

BJP govt to table UCC bill in Bengal assembly, face twin TMC challenge

Rediff.com2 days ago

Less than two months after ending the TMC's 15-year rule in the state, the BJP government is expected to table one of its most ambitious and politically sensitive promises, setting the stage for what could become the first major ideological confrontation of the post-election period.

How India Is Building AI Resilience Amid Global Access Restrictions

How India Is Building AI Resilience Amid Global Access Restrictions

Rediff.com6 hours ago

India is adopting a two-pronged strategy for artificial intelligence development, focusing on open-source models and indigenous innovation to counter global access restrictions on advanced AI technologies. The government aims to support local developers and ensure AI creates tangible economic impact across various sectors, rather than being solely driven by market speculation.

NCERT brings Emergency into Class 9 syllabus; Pradhan hails move

NCERT brings Emergency into Class 9 syllabus; Pradhan hails move

Rediff.com5 days ago

The NCERT has included in the class 9 social science textbook a section on Emergency, which it described as "one of the major challenges to democracy in India" with Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan hailing the move saying future generations should know about the "dark deeds".

Narang, Kunjarani Join Panel For National Sports Board

Narang, Kunjarani Join Panel For National Sports Board

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Olympic medallist Gagan Narang and weightlifting great N Kunjarani Devi have been appointed to a five-member search-cum-selection committee for the National Sports Board. Chaired by Cabinet Secretary T V Somanathan, the committee will recommend names for the Board's Chairperson and Members. The National Sports Board is tasked with recognising National Sports Bodies and ensuring compliance with governance, financial, and ethical standards under the new National Sports Governance Act.

Muslim woman performs last rites of Hindu man in Kerala

Muslim woman performs last rites of Hindu man in Kerala

Rediff.com3 days ago

In a heartwarming act of compassion, Irfana Iqbal, a Muslim panchayat member in Kasaragod, Kerala, performed the last rites of an abandoned Hindu man, Narayanan, according to his customs after his family refused to claim his body. Her selfless act, driven by the belief that humanity transcends religion, has garnered widespread appreciation.

Kamakhya temple gears up for lakhs of devotees for Ambubachi Mela

Kamakhya temple gears up for lakhs of devotees for Ambubachi Mela

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

The famed Ambubachi Mela at Kamakhya temple in Guwahati is set to begin, with the administration expecting around eight lakh devotees over the next four days. The temple doors will close on Monday night for the 'prabritti' period, symbolising the annual menstrual cycle of Goddess Kamakhya, and reopen on June 26.

Sena-UBT remains strong, Aaditya capable of leading it: Raut

Sena-UBT remains strong, Aaditya capable of leading it: Raut

Rediff.com4 days ago

Sanjay Raut defended the strength of Shiv Sena-UBT, backing Aaditya Thackeray as a capable next-generation leader while claiming the party cadre remains loyal to Uddhav Thackeray despite recent MP defections driven by money and central agency pressure.

Manipur Home Minister Asks Public for Patience in Bombing Case

Manipur Home Minister Asks Public for Patience in Bombing Case

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

Manipur's Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam has appealed to the public for patience as the investigation into the April 7 bombing in Bishnupur district continues. The minister's plea comes amid public criticism over the failure to quickly apprehend those responsible for the attack that killed two children.

India's fertiliser subsidy bill set to double to Rs 3.4 trillion in FY27

India's fertiliser subsidy bill set to double to Rs 3.4 trillion in FY27

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

India's Central government is likely to see its fertiliser subsidy bill double to a record 3.4 trillion in FY27, up from the Budget estimate of 1.7 trillion, due to surging global fertiliser prices exacerbated by the West Asia war. This significant increase, coupled with revenue losses from excise duty cuts for oil-marketing companies, is straining the government's fiscal space, though capital expenditure plans remain unchanged.

'Only Small Fish Have Been Caught For Ram Temple Theft'

'Only Small Fish Have Been Caught For Ram Temple Theft'

Rediff.com16 hours ago

''These people who were running the show at the Ram temple have something to hide, therefore they are not ready for a CBI investigation.'

Day 3 of BEST strike: Special buses for NEET re-exam

Day 3 of BEST strike: Special buses for NEET re-exam

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking arranged special bus services for students appearing in the NEET re-examination in Mumbai, deploying 60 buses on 24 routes for approximately 180 trips, despite an ongoing strike by its employees that has paralysed public transport.

Ram Temple donation scam: Champat Rai's statement recorded

Ram Temple donation scam: Champat Rai's statement recorded

Rediff.com7 hours ago

Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust general secretary Champat Rai's statement has been recorded by Ayodhya police as part of the investigation into the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple, following his offer to resign over the controversy.

Opposition Slams Punjab Government Over Patiala Rail Blast

Opposition Slams Punjab Government Over Patiala Rail Blast

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Opposition parties in Punjab have criticised the Bhagwant Mann government following a blast incident at a freight corridor rail track in Patiala, citing intelligence failures and a lack of grip on law and order.

Congress leader seeks privilege move against Rajnath over Operation Sindoor casualties

Congress leader seeks privilege move against Rajnath over Operation Sindoor casualties

Rediff.com8 hours ago

Congress leader K C Venugopal has written to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, demanding privilege proceedings against Defence Minister Rajnath Singh for allegedly "misleading" Parliament regarding Indian soldier casualties post the Pahalgam terror attack and during Operation Sindoor.

Mammooty, Vijay Amritraj among 2nd batch of Padma award honorees

Mammooty, Vijay Amritraj among 2nd batch of Padma award honorees

Rediff.com7 days ago

President Droupadi Murmu conferred Padma awards upon 65 eminent personalities, including tennis legend Vijay Amritraj, actor Mammootty, and singer Alka Yagnik, in the second civil investiture ceremony. The awards recognised contributions across various fields, with Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri categories.

Assam Government Argues Zubeen Garg Death Case

Assam Government Argues Zubeen Garg Death Case

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

The Assam government, led by Advocate General Devajit Saikia, has commenced arguments in the Zubeen Garg death case before a special fast-track court. The government aims to ensure no loopholes are left in the charge framing process, despite differing conclusions from Singapore Police.

West Bengal Reinstates CBI General Consent For Central Employee Probes

West Bengal Reinstates CBI General Consent For Central Employee Probes

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

The West Bengal government has restored general consent for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to investigate cases involving central government employees and public sector undertakings within the state. This decision reverses a 2018 move by the previous Trinamool Congress government to withdraw such consent, allowing the CBI to operate more freely in these specific matters.

Maharashtra Government To Seek Death Penalty In Pune Rape-Murder Case

Maharashtra Government To Seek Death Penalty In Pune Rape-Murder Case

Rediff.com3 May 2026

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has assured that the government will push for a death penalty for the accused in the Pune child rape-murder case, asserting that the state will fast-track the trial to ensure justice in 'record time'.

Mumbai grinds to a halt as BEST strike pulls 2,700 buses off roads

Mumbai grinds to a halt as BEST strike pulls 2,700 buses off roads

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Employees of Mumbai's BEST undertaking have launched an indefinite strike, severely impacting public transport and electricity services. The strike, called by a joint action committee, demands budget merger with BMC, settlement of dues, and implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission, among other issues. Despite court orders and MESMA invocation, the strike continues, causing widespread inconvenience to millions of commuters and electricity consumers.

Prez Murmu's Village Gears Up For PM Modi

Prez Murmu's Village Gears Up For PM Modi

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

In the remote tribal village of Pahadpur, preparations are in full swing as it looks to script history.

Dell Expands Local Server Production In India Driven By AI And Data Sovereignty

Dell Expands Local Server Production In India Driven By AI And Data Sovereignty

Rediff.com7 hours ago

Dell Technologies is significantly expanding its domestic manufacturing in India, with a majority of its servers now produced locally, driven by data sovereignty and AI adoption. The company also launched new AI infrastructure solutions, including PowerStore Elite, designed for secure on-premises data management and AI workflows, while asserting that AI creates more jobs.

Death toll in TN ammonia leak rises to 9, all women

Death toll in TN ammonia leak rises to 9, all women

Rediff.com7 days ago

A gas leak at a seafood processing facility in Tamil Nadu's Tiruvallur district has resulted in the deaths of nine women, with 69 others hospitalised. The victims, primarily from Odisha and Assam, suffered severe ammonia inhalation symptoms. Authorities are investigating the cause and monitoring the health of those affected.

Shun arrogance, follow law: Priyank Kharge fires fresh salvo at RSS

Shun arrogance, follow law: Priyank Kharge fires fresh salvo at RSS

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge has intensified his demand for the RSS to register itself and disclose its financial dealings, arguing that the organisation cannot wield significant social and political influence while simultaneously claiming no political agenda and evading public accountability. Kharge's remarks follow RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's rejection of such calls, with Bhagwat asserting the organisation is neither secretive nor operating outside public scrutiny.

Why Was Minister Bhujbal's Official Residence Address Misused?

Why Was Minister Bhujbal's Official Residence Address Misused?

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

A non-cognisable case has been registered against a lawyer for allegedly using Maharashtra minister Chhagan Bhujbal's official residence address in a public notice for a private property development project, leading to a complaint from the minister's office regarding security and administrative breach.

Defence ministry refutes 'concealment' charge over Op Sindoor martyrs

Defence ministry refutes 'concealment' charge over Op Sindoor martyrs

Rediff.com2 days ago

Amid a row surrounding the six martyrs of Operation Sindoor, the defence ministry on Saturday said the nation paid homage to them at the "earliest opportunity", and their memory shall always be honoured with the dignity and reverence, it deserves.

IOC Introduces New Strategic Dialogue Phase For 2036 Olympic Host Selection

IOC Introduces New Strategic Dialogue Phase For 2036 Olympic Host Selection

Rediff.com6 days ago

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has introduced a new "Strategic Dialogue" phase in its host selection process for the 2036 Olympic Games, aiming for greater transparency and cost control. This new phase will impact India's bid, with the final host decision expected in mid-2029.

JK cardiologist suspended for operating on healthy hearts

JK cardiologist suspended for operating on healthy hearts

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

A doctor in Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir, has been suspended following an inquiry into alleged large-scale procedural irregularities, including a pacemaker implantation scam where nearly 50 per cent of evaluated patients underwent unnecessary advanced cardiac surgical procedures. The inquiry revealed fraudulent insurance claims, patient exploitation, and manipulation of medical records.

Kumaraswamy Calls For Tech Adoption In Steel To Boost Competitiveness

Kumaraswamy Calls For Tech Adoption In Steel To Boost Competitiveness

Rediff.com6 days ago

Union Steel Minister HD Kumaraswamy has urged the Indian steel industry to adopt advanced technologies like AI, Machine Learning, and IoT to enhance global competitiveness and productivity. Speaking at a Chintan Shivir, he highlighted that digitalisation is crucial for achieving ambitious steel capacity targets by 2035 and addressing challenges such as operational efficiency, decarbonisation, and export competitiveness. The minister also emphasised how technology can improve safety and reduce downtime in steel plants.

Bengal's mid-day meal shift sparks fresh egg vs veg debate

Bengal's mid-day meal shift sparks fresh egg vs veg debate

Rediff.com4 days ago

The move has sparked a political row, with the opposition accusing the BJP of promoting a vegetarian agenda.

Mammootty, Madhavan, Alka Yagnik Receive Padma Awards

Mammootty, Madhavan, Alka Yagnik Receive Padma Awards

Rediff.com6 days ago

President Droupadi Murmu conferred the prestigious Padma Awards 2026 upon a host of luminaries, including Mammootty, R Madhavan, and Alka Yagnik.

Why China's Bangladesh Push Should Worry India

Why China's Bangladesh Push Should Worry India

Rediff.com16 hours ago

Beijing clearly intends to extend the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor to Bangladesh as part of its larger Maritime Belt and Road Initiative to boost its Indian Ocean presence.

'RTI activism a new business', says SC; denies bail to activist

'RTI activism a new business', says SC; denies bail to activist

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

The Supreme Court has criticised RTI activism, calling it a "new business," while denying anticipatory bail to an activist accused of obstructing road construction work and intimidating public servants in Punjab.

Manipur Boosts Security With CoBRA Deployment Amidst Ethnic Tensions

Manipur Boosts Security With CoBRA Deployment Amidst Ethnic Tensions

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Manipur Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam announced the deployment of two CoBRA battalions to improve law and order, following the discovery of six Naga civilians' bodies and the release of 14 Kuki individuals. Both the Home Minister and Chief Minister have pledged to bring perpetrators of violence to justice and urged public cooperation for peace.

At least 164 killed, around 1,000 hurt as quakes rock Venezuela

At least 164 killed, around 1,000 hurt as quakes rock Venezuela

Rediff.com5 days ago

At least 32 people have been killed and over 700 injured after two powerful earthquakes struck western Venezuela, with Acting President Delcy Rodriguez declaring La Guaira a disaster zone and warning the death toll is expected to rise as rescue operations continue.