News for 'rapid'

Modi announces overhaul of civil defence in Independence Day address

Modi announces overhaul of civil defence in Independence Day address

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced plans to modernise India's civil defence volunteer force, stating that the existing system, designed for conventional wars, is inadequate against contemporary threats targeting critical infrastructure like refineries, banks, and data centres.

'Chicken's Neck' link to northeast to get 4th railway line

'Chicken's Neck' link to northeast to get 4th railway line

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

The Centre has approved a fourth railway line through the strategically important 'Chicken's Neck' corridor, a crucial link for Northeast India. This, along with other infrastructure projects like a double-line underground project and station redevelopment, aims to enhance connectivity, capacity, and passenger services in the region.

Kolkata hotel blaze: Govt orders safety audit of hotels, guest houses

Kolkata hotel blaze: Govt orders safety audit of hotels, guest houses

Rediff.com6 days ago

A devastating fire in a central Kolkata building resulted in nine deaths, primarily due to asphyxia, and the rescue of around 80 people. West Bengal minister Kaushik Chowdhury highlighted the quick response of the Fire Brigade but raised concerns about safety norms, lack of windows, and the proliferation of cramped hotels within the building. An investigation committee will be formed, and fire audits will be conducted across all hotels in the state.

'FY27 Should Be A Recovery Year For India'

'FY27 Should Be A Recovery Year For India'

Rediff.com6 days ago

'A favourable base, last year's policy measures, the carryover impact of a good monsoon and improving earnings should all help.'

Breakthrough: IIT Indore's Non-Invasive Oral Cancer Detection

Breakthrough: IIT Indore's Non-Invasive Oral Cancer Detection

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Researchers at IIT Indore have developed a non-invasive technique to detect early signs of oral cancer using saliva and a swab sample. This method is economical, quick, and aims to make early screening more accessible, especially in rural areas, offering an alternative to painful biopsies. The findings, published in the British Journal of Cancer, show distinctive molecular changes before the disease becomes clinically obvious.

Skoda Bets Big On India With CNG, Diesel and EVs

Skoda Bets Big On India With CNG, Diesel and EVs

Rediff.com6 days ago

Skoda Auto is strategically navigating the competitive Indian automotive market by prioritising profitable growth, exploring new powertrain options like CNG and a limited diesel return, and gearing up for a locally produced electric SUV, all while expanding its retail footprint.

For Rs 2, E-Eye Can Check If Water Is Safe

For Rs 2, E-Eye Can Check If Water Is Safe

Rediff.com7 days ago

E-Eye, which cost about Rs 3,500 to develop, can test a sample for around Rs 2, making it particularly suitable for field-level water quality monitoring in areas where access to sophisticated laboratories is limited.

Haryana CM Discusses AI, Digital Governance With World Bank

Haryana CM Discusses AI, Digital Governance With World Bank

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini met with a World Bank delegation to discuss advancing Artificial Intelligence, digital governance, and skill development in the state. The discussions focused on leveraging technology to enhance citizen services, with plans to showcase Haryana's AI Sandbox globally and develop a dedicated AI model for the state.

Police Use Brutal Force Against CJP Protestors

Police Use Brutal Force Against CJP Protestors

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Glimpses from the police action against the Cockroach Janta party' march to Parliament on Monday.

Chandigarh tense as march seeking Beant Singh assassin release turns violent

Chandigarh tense as march seeking Beant Singh assassin release turns violent

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Chandigarh police on Saturday used tear gas shells and water cannons to disperse protesters who tried to breach barricades during a march towards Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria's residence, seeking the release of Sikh prisoners, including Jagtar Singh Hawara, who is serving a life sentence for the assassination of then Punjab chief minister Beant Singh in 1995.

How AI Is Revolutionising Patient Care In India

How AI Is Revolutionising Patient Care In India

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

A new report by Philips indicates that Artificial Intelligence is significantly enhancing healthcare in India, with 71% of professionals reporting increased patient capacity and 85% believing it improves patient outcomes. AI is also seen as a tool to improve access to quality healthcare in rural areas, with patients also embracing its benefits for more meaningful interactions with doctors.

Lionel Messi Donates 80,000 Euros Towards Madrid Wildfire Reconstruction

Lionel Messi Donates 80,000 Euros Towards Madrid Wildfire Reconstruction

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Football superstar Lionel Messi has contributed 80,000 euros to support the reconstruction efforts in Madrid's Sierra Oeste region, which was severely impacted by recent devastating wildfires.

How Free Is India Today?

How Free Is India Today?

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

As India's decline continued on global indices, the government first blamed methodology and then motives. This is where we remain today as we wish each other and ourselves a happy Independence Day, points out Aakar Patel.

High-level panel set up to tackle road woes in Maha's Chakan industrial belt

High-level panel set up to tackle road woes in Maha's Chakan industrial belt

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

The Maharashtra government has constituted a high-level committee to address road repairs, traffic congestion and management issues in the rapidly expanding Chakan industrial belt in Pune district, and set up a mechanism for time-bound redressal of industrial grievances.

Deal or total surrender: Trump warns Iran as Tehran denies talks

Deal or total surrender: Trump warns Iran as Tehran denies talks

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Former US President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Iran, stating that "nothing will get through" unless a deal or "total surrender" is achieved, amid escalating tensions and conflicting reports on direct negotiations.

20 additional CRPF companies deployed in Delhi amid protests

20 additional CRPF companies deployed in Delhi amid protests

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

The Centre has ordered the deployment of 20 additional companies of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in Delhi. These forces are being airlifted from West Bengal to strengthen security measures in response to CJP protests, demonstrations by various political parties, and the ongoing Parliament session, following instances of violent clashes.

Jharkhand protesters defy barricades, stage sit-in near assembly; cops use force

Jharkhand protesters defy barricades, stage sit-in near assembly; cops use force

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Thousands of job aspirants in Jharkhand clashed with police during a protest against alleged exam irregularities, demanding a CBI probe and comprehensive reforms in the state's public service commissions.

How CII-IWN Is Empowering Women Through Practical AI Skills

How CII-IWN Is Empowering Women Through Practical AI Skills

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

The Confederation of Indian Industry-Indian Women Network (CII-IWN) organised a hands-on Artificial Intelligence (AI) workshop in Chandigarh for women entrepreneurs and professionals. The session focused on practical applications of AI, including generative AI and LLMs, to address business challenges and enhance productivity across various functions like marketing, content creation, and data analysis.

Gold loan-backed PSLC sales boost PSBs' non-interest income in Q1FY27

Gold loan-backed PSLC sales boost PSBs' non-interest income in Q1FY27

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Public-sector banks (PSBs) have reported a substantial increase in non-interest income for Q1FY27, primarily driven by the sale of Priority Sector Lending Certificates (PSLCs) backed by their rapidly expanding gold loan portfolios. This strategy has allowed several lenders to book significant profits by exceeding priority sector lending targets.

Before Buying A Gadget On EMI, Read This

Before Buying A Gadget On EMI, Read This

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Don't judge an expensive gadget only by its EMI cost; also consider how many years it will remain useful after you've finished paying for it.

CRPF to review RAF actions, pellet gun use during Jantar Mantar protests

CRPF to review RAF actions, pellet gun use during Jantar Mantar protests

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) will conduct a "professional post-event assessment" into the Rapid Action Force's (RAF) alleged use of pellet guns against anti-NEET protestors during a March 20 demonstration towards Parliament. This review follows the dispersal of protestors and aims to evaluate the circumstances and adherence to protocols regarding the use of crowd control measures.

How China Shielded Itself From Oil Shock

How China Shielded Itself From Oil Shock

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

China sailed through the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz relatively unscathed even as the impact of its steps shielded other consuming nations from having to pay high crude oil prices.

RG Kar case: 'Chor, chor' chants as mob attacks TMC ex-MLA Nirmal Ghosh

RG Kar case: 'Chor, chor' chants as mob attacks TMC ex-MLA Nirmal Ghosh

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Former TMC MLA Nirmal Ghosh was assaulted by a mob in West Bengal after his arrest in connection with the alleged "hurried cremation" of an RG Kar hospital doctor. Ghosh, along with another accused, Sanjib Mukherjee, faced public anger and physical attacks while being escorted by police. The arrests follow a fresh complaint by the victim's father, alleging the former MLA's influence in forcing the cremation, an aspect now under renewed investigation.

From 40 acres to CoE: How Jay Shah brought BCCI's vision to life

From 40 acres to CoE: How Jay Shah brought BCCI's vision to life

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

The Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) Centre of Excellence, a state-of-the-art cricketing facility, is nearing its second anniversary, with BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia and former India cricketer VVS Laxman crediting former BCCI Secretary Jay Shah's pivotal role in its establishment.

'70 per cent watch club games': Is bilateral cricket in danger?

'70 per cent watch club games': Is bilateral cricket in danger?

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Former India cricketer Harbhajan Singh believes the exploding popularity of T20 leagues, particularly the IPL, poses a significant threat to the future of bilateral international cricket, stating that '70 per cent (people are watching club cricket instead of international cricket)'.

Microsoft Boosts India's Digital Infrastructure With Fourth Cloud Region

Microsoft Boosts India's Digital Infrastructure With Fourth Cloud Region

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Microsoft has launched its fourth cloud region in India, located in Hyderabad, significantly expanding its hyperscale cloud presence. This move is part of a USD 20.5-billion investment in India's digital and AI infrastructure, aiming to support the country's rapid digital growth and meet increasing demand from major enterprises.

Oppn seeks urgent debate on police brutality at Gen Z protests

Oppn seeks urgent debate on police brutality at Gen Z protests

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Opposition parties have submitted notices in the Rajya Sabha demanding an urgent discussion on the alleged use of force, including pellet guns, against students protesting the NEET paper leak issue. They are seeking accountability from the Home Minister and Prime Minister regarding the police action and alleged assault on protesters and journalists.

Publishers Must Adapt To Evolving AI Copyright Framework

Publishers Must Adapt To Evolving AI Copyright Framework

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

A new report highlights that publishers need to adopt clear records, AI-specific provisions, and transparent disclosure of AI use to manage legal and commercial risks as the copyright framework around artificial intelligence evolves. Jointly developed by SS Rana & Co and Ficci, the 'Copyright In The AI Age' report emphasises practical governance measures while courts and regulators work on legal principles. It also addresses concerns about authorship, creators' rights, and research integrity amidst increasing AI integration in publishing.

Why Invasive Species Threaten Global South Biodiversity Most

Why Invasive Species Threaten Global South Biodiversity Most

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

A new study reveals that the impacts of invasive species on biodiversity are most severe in the Global South, challenging previous assumptions. Factors like rapidly developing economies, weak governance, and limited management capacity make these regions particularly vulnerable, leading to higher ecological and economic damages.

Assam floods toll goes up to 80, over 2.12 lakh affected

Assam floods toll goes up to 80, over 2.12 lakh affected

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Assam's flood death toll has risen to 80, with two new fatalities reported from Sivasagar district, as eight districts and over 2.12 lakh people remain affected. The state government has announced a six-month moratorium on loan repayments for flood-affected individuals and is seeking a special support package from the Centre.

How Neeraj Chopra's Co-Ownership Will Boost Grassroots Sports In India

How Neeraj Chopra's Co-Ownership Will Boost Grassroots Sports In India

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra has become a co-owner of the UBS Athletics Kids Cup, a grassroots initiative promoting sports among children. Having served as an ambassador, Chopra's new role aims to expand the programme's reach to one million children across India, fostering confidence, discipline, and a stronger sporting culture from the ground up.

One Hospitalisation Can Ruin Your Retirement Goals

One Hospitalisation Can Ruin Your Retirement Goals

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

If you do not insulate your retirement corpus from the true cost of modern critical care, you don't have a retirement plan -- you have a fragile strategy waiting for an expensive medical emergency to break it

Anna Huang Claims Record-Breaking Fourth LET Title; Indian Golfers Impress

Anna Huang Claims Record-Breaking Fourth LET Title; Indian Golfers Impress

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Indian golfers Pranavi Urs and Aditi Ashok delivered strong performances at the PIF London Championship, finishing tied 19th and tied 17th respectively. Meanwhile, Canada's Anna Huang secured her fourth Ladies European Tour title, becoming the youngest player to achieve this feat after a dramatic final round.

FULL TEXT: President Murmu's address to the nation on eve of 80th I-Day

FULL TEXT: President Murmu's address to the nation on eve of 80th I-Day

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

In her address to the nation on the eve of the country's 80th Independence Day, the president stressed that just as government and society remain united to ensure national security, everyone must contribute through joint and concerted efforts to safeguard the present and future of students.

Indian Crypto Firms Applaud CBDT's New Reporting Framework

Indian Crypto Firms Applaud CBDT's New Reporting Framework

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Indian crypto exchanges and companies have expressed strong support for the Central Board of Direct Taxes' (CBDT) new Crypto Asset Reporting Framework (CARF), which mandates reporting and due-diligence obligations for crypto service providers on all transactions starting 2026.

How Kerala Aims To Become A National AI And Emerging Technologies Hub

How Kerala Aims To Become A National AI And Emerging Technologies Hub

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan announced the state's vision to become a national hub for artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, coinciding with the launch of Naviq Technology by IBS Software Group. The state government is implementing initiatives like an AI-powered dashboard, a Global Job Watch Tower, and curriculum revisions to align with technological advancements and foster skill development in AI and semiconductor sectors.

Pellet guns cannot be banned outright, specific misuse to be examined: SC

Pellet guns cannot be banned outright, specific misuse to be examined: SC

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has stated that a complete ban on pellet guns is not possible as long as existing advisories permit their use for crowd control in exceptional circumstances by security agencies. However, the court clarified that allegations of specific misuse can be examined on a case-by-case basis, particularly in light of recent protests against the NEET paper leak.

Did Trump, Hegseth clash over weapons shortage? US Prez reacts

Did Trump, Hegseth clash over weapons shortage? US Prez reacts

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Donald Trump has strongly refuted claims of a munitions shortage and denied any confrontation with Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, labelling the reports as "fake news" and asserting the nation's robust military production capabilities.

Rashid Khan's picks 6 for 34 to lead Afghanistan to 92-run win over Ireland

Rashid Khan's picks 6 for 34 to lead Afghanistan to 92-run win over Ireland

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Rashid Khan's exceptional bowling performance, taking 6 wickets for 34 runs, was instrumental in Afghanistan's 92-run victory over Ireland in the second ODI, giving them a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.

RAF probes use of excessive force, pellet guns during Delhi protests

RAF probes use of excessive force, pellet guns during Delhi protests

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The Rapid Action Force (RAF) has initiated an inquiry into allegations of its personnel using disproportionate force and firing pellet guns during recent student protests in Delhi, following social media footage and reports of injuries.