News for 'regional security'

India, US review defence ties, key deals at policy meet

India, US review defence ties, key deals at policy meet

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Key discussions focused on major defence procurements, including India's plan to acquire six additional P-8I aircraft for anti-submarine warfare. The deal, estimated at around Rs 30,000 crore, is under advanced negotiations.

Vande Bharat links Jammu to Srinagar, cuts travel time to under 5 hrs

Vande Bharat links Jammu to Srinagar, cuts travel time to under 5 hrs

Rediff.com2 May 2026

The first direct Vande Bharat Express service between Jammu and Srinagar has commenced commercial operations, significantly reducing travel time between the two cities and enhancing rail connectivity in the region.

Assam election: BJP ahead in most Barak Valley seats

Assam election: BJP ahead in most Barak Valley seats

Rediff.com4 May 2026

The BJP is currently leading in eight out of the 13 seats in Assam's Barak Valley, while the Congress is ahead in the remaining five constituencies, according to the latest Election Commission data.

From hills to Jungal Mahal, TMC draws a blank in 29 Bengal districts

From hills to Jungal Mahal, TMC draws a blank in 29 Bengal districts

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The BJP achieved a clean sweep in nine districts of West Bengal, securing all 68 seats in these regions during the recent election. This victory marks a significant shift in the state's political landscape, ending the Trinamool Congress's 15-year rule and establishing the BJP's dominance.

Strait of Hormuz changed irreversibly: Iran's big warning amid Trump's ultimatum

Strait of Hormuz changed irreversibly: Iran's big warning amid Trump's ultimatum

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

The naval command underlined recent regional developments, which have now established a new reality in which extra-regional powers, led by Washington, DC, can no longer dictate terms or project unchecked influence in Iran's immediate maritime environment.

Woman Maoist carrying Rs 15 lakh bounty held in Kolkata, another surrenders

Woman Maoist carrying Rs 15 lakh bounty held in Kolkata, another surrenders

Rediff.com12 May 2026

A woman Maoist leader carrying a bounty of Rs 15 lakh was arrested in Kolkata, while another red rebel surrendered before the police, a senior officer said.

'Frustrated' Trump considering resuming war on Iran: Report

'Frustrated' Trump considering resuming war on Iran: Report

Rediff.com12 May 2026

US President Donald Trump is reportedly considering military action against Iran due to stalled negotiations and Tehran's approach to its nuclear issue, according to CNN sources. Divisions within the Trump administration have emerged over the next course of action, with some officials advocating for a more aggressive approach through targeted military strikes.

US flag on Gulf map, alien and more: Trump's AI blitz on Iran

US flag on Gulf map, alien and more: Trump's AI blitz on Iran

Rediff.com18 May 2026

Donald Trump has escalated rhetoric against Iran by posting AI-generated images and videos depicting US military strikes, warning Tehran that time is running out to secure a ceasefire agreement.

UAE to store 30 mn barrels of crude in India's petroleum reserve: Misri

UAE to store 30 mn barrels of crude in India's petroleum reserve: Misri

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Foreign secretary Vikram Misri on Friday shared key details on agreements between India and the UAE, stating that the UAE will store up to 30 million barrels of crude oil in India's strategic petroleum reserve following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit.

Modi: TMC's 'Jungle Raj' In Bengal To End On May 4

Modi: TMC's 'Jungle Raj' In Bengal To End On May 4

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserted that the TMC's governance in West Bengal is nearing its end, citing corruption and unfulfilled promises. He highlighted the BJP's commitment to development and security, particularly for the fisherfolk and against infiltration.

As Pak brokers US-Iran talks, India says it supports...

As Pak brokers US-Iran talks, India says it supports...

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has stated that India is closely monitoring developments in West Asia, addressing topics ranging from ceasefire efforts to maritime security and the safe return of Indian nationals. The MEA also addressed the UN Climate Change Conference and the delimitation bill.

Iran's Araghchi lands in Islamabad for second round of talks with US

Iran's Araghchi lands in Islamabad for second round of talks with US

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

An Iranian delegation, led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, is expected to arrive in Islamabad for the second round of peace talks with the US, according to Pakistani media reports. This follows a phone call between Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Araghchi regarding the US-Iran ceasefire and Pakistan's diplomatic efforts.

India-Pak truce a favour to Sharif, Munir: Trump repeats mediation claims

India-Pak truce a favour to Sharif, Munir: Trump repeats mediation claims

Rediff.com16 May 2026

US President Donald Trump on Friday said that the 'ceasefire' that he got done between India and Pakistan was a favour to their army chief Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Iran offers deal to reopen Strait of Hormuz to end US blockade: Report

Iran offers deal to reopen Strait of Hormuz to end US blockade: Report

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

Iran has submitted a fresh proposal to regional intermediaries offering to cease its military operations in the Strait of Hormuz, contingent upon a complete cessation of hostilities and the removal of the US blockade on Iranian maritime hubs.

NCB Seizes Heroin Worth Rs 8.5 Crore In Manipur

NCB Seizes Heroin Worth Rs 8.5 Crore In Manipur

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

The Narcotics Control Bureau, in coordination with Assam Rifles and Manipur Police, seized drugs worth Rs 8.5 crore from Manipur's Churachandpur district and arrested two individuals involved in the trafficking.

BJP storms to power in Bengal, ends Mamata's 15-year rule

BJP storms to power in Bengal, ends Mamata's 15-year rule

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The Bharatiya Janata Party has surged past the halfway mark in the West Bengal assembly elections, leading in 185 seats against the Trinamool Congress's 91, signalling a potential political shift in the state. Early trends suggest a geographically split mandate, with the BJP gaining in border, tribal, and industrial regions, while the TMC holds ground in parts of Kolkata and select rural strongholds.

Gulf port is either for everyone or...: Iran on US's blockade plan

Gulf port is either for everyone or...: Iran on US's blockade plan

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Iran has strongly criticised US plans to impose a blockade on its ports, warning that maritime security across the Persian Gulf region would be jeopardised if its own security is threatened.

Jammu Authorities Demolish Drug Peddler's House

Jammu Authorities Demolish Drug Peddler's House

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

The local administration in Jammu has demolished the residential property of a drug peddler as part of its ongoing crackdown on narcotics.

Pakistan Suicide Bombing: Police Station Targeted, Casualties Reported

Pakistan Suicide Bombing: Police Station Targeted, Casualties Reported

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

A suicide car bomb attack on a police station in northwest Pakistan resulted in five deaths and thirteen injuries. The banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has denied responsibility, alleging the attack was orchestrated by state institutions.

Maharashtra ATS Raids Target Pakistan-Based Gangster's Contacts

Maharashtra ATS Raids Target Pakistan-Based Gangster's Contacts

Rediff.com13 May 2026

The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) conducted raids at over 40 locations across the state, including Mumbai, targeting individuals connected to Pakistan-based gangster Shahzad Bhatti, who is accused of influencing Indian youth towards anti-national activities through social media.

At $92 bn, India Fifth-Largest Military Spender In 2025

At $92 bn, India Fifth-Largest Military Spender In 2025

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

India's defence expenditure surged to $92.1 billion in 2025, making it the world's fifth-largest military spender, according to SIPRI data. This 8.9 per cent year-on-year rise was primarily driven by operational and procurement needs following heightened regional tensions with Pakistan in May 2025.

Delhi Congress To Launch Yatra Demanding Justice For Slain Agent

Delhi Congress To Launch Yatra Demanding Justice For Slain Agent

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Delhi Congress will launch a 12-day 'Kalash Yatra' across 33 Purvanchal-dominated Assembly constituencies, carrying the ashes of slain delivery agent Pandav Kumar and demanding Rs 1 crore in compensation for the deceased's family.

NDA retains Puducherry, its lone southern segment

NDA retains Puducherry, its lone southern segment

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The AINRC-led NDA has won the Puducherry Assembly elections and is set to form the government. Chief Minister N Rangasamy won both seats he contested.

China unveils Xi Jinping's four-point plan for Middle East peace

China unveils Xi Jinping's four-point plan for Middle East peace

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

China on Tuesday listed out the four-point proposal given by President Xi Jinping for lasting peace in the Middle East.

Bengal polls: Despite row, 'Singham' observer keeps vigil

Bengal polls: Despite row, 'Singham' observer keeps vigil

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

Special police observer Ajay Pal Sharma toured West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district during the second phase of Assembly elections, facing political controversy and allegations of intimidation from TMC leaders.

North 24 Parganas tense after Suvendu aide's murder

North 24 Parganas tense after Suvendu aide's murder

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Tension prevailed in parts of West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district after a BJP leader's close aide was shot dead, prompting increased security measures and protests.

Iranian forces open fire in Strait of Hormuz; Indian vessels turn back

Iranian forces open fire in Strait of Hormuz; Indian vessels turn back

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

Iran has reimposed restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz, with its forces opening fire on a passing tanker and forcing at least two Indian vessels to reverse course, escalating tensions in the region and raising concerns over energy supplies.

CCS assesses West Asia crisis, orders steps to help stranded Indians

CCS assesses West Asia crisis, orders steps to help stranded Indians

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has reviewed the evolving situation in West Asia, directing departments to assist Indian nationals affected by recent developments and emphasizing the need for dialogue and diplomacy.

35 vessels transited via Hormuz in 24 hrs with our 'permission': IRGC Navy

35 vessels transited via Hormuz in 24 hrs with our 'permission': IRGC Navy

Rediff.com22 May 2026

As many as 35 vessels, including cargo carriers and oil tankers, successfully navigated through the strategic maritime chokepoint of the Strait of Hormuz over the last 24 hours, according to Iran's state media reports citing a formal declaration by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy.

Why TMC Leader Calls Modi Bengal Government's 'Brand Ambassador'

Why TMC Leader Calls Modi Bengal Government's 'Brand Ambassador'

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee has described Narendra Modi as the 'biggest brand ambassador' of the incumbent government in West Bengal, citing the prime minister's recent visit to Jhargram as proof of the TMC's success in restoring peace to the region.

How Sachin Tendulkar Is Transforming Dantewada Through Sports

How Sachin Tendulkar Is Transforming Dantewada Through Sports

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar visited Chhattisgarh's Dantewada district to support the 'Maidan Cup' initiative, aimed at transforming the Maoist-affected region into a sports hub. The initiative has developed around 50 school playgrounds and benefits over 5,000 children, promoting sports like kabaddi, kho-kho, athletics, and volleyball.

'Unacceptable': India on attacks on ships in Strait of Hormuz

'Unacceptable': India on attacks on ships in Strait of Hormuz

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

India has expressed strong concern over the targeting of commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz during the West Asia conflict, urging for the restoration of unimpeded navigation and global commerce.

Trump to meet Xi Jinping on Wednesday to discuss Iran conflict, trade issues

Trump to meet Xi Jinping on Wednesday to discuss Iran conflict, trade issues

Rediff.com12 May 2026

US President Donald Trump is set to visit China for talks with President Xi Jinping on trade, global issues, and the Gulf war. The visit aims to address trade frictions and other key issues, with high expectations for progress.

Trump ends China visit after extensive talks with Xi on trade, global issues

Trump ends China visit after extensive talks with Xi on trade, global issues

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Donald Trump says several issues were settled during the final day of talks with Xi Jinping covering trade, tariffs, and diplomacy.

Terror incidents decline in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa after operation

Terror incidents decline in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa after operation

Rediff.com28 Mar 2026

Terror incidents in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province have declined by 65 per cent following the launch of "Operation Ghazab Lil-Haq," according to official documents.

Top Maoist Leader Killed in Chhattisgarh: What This Means

Top Maoist Leader Killed in Chhattisgarh: What This Means

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

A woman Maoist carrying a reward of Rs 5 lakh was killed in an encounter with security personnel in Chhattisgarh's Kanker district.

TSPC Sub-Zonal Commander Arrested With Arms In Jharkhand

TSPC Sub-Zonal Commander Arrested With Arms In Jharkhand

Rediff.com5 May 2026

A sub-zonal commander of the banned Tritiya Sammelan Prastuti Committee (TSPC) was arrested with arms and ammunition from Jharkhand's Latehar district, police said.

Explosives Seized In Kerala CM's Constituency Before Vote Count

Explosives Seized In Kerala CM's Constituency Before Vote Count

Rediff.com3 May 2026

Police in Kerala seized explosive materials, including crude bombs and gunpowder, in the Dharmadam Assembly constituency, represented by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, just before the vote counting. The search followed a tip-off about illegal firecracker manufacturing.

Iranian delegation reaches Islamabad for peace talks

Iranian delegation reaches Islamabad for peace talks

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

Delegations from the US and Iran have arrived in Islamabad for talks aimed at resolving the conflict between the two nations, following a ceasefire brokered by Pakistan. The negotiations are being closely watched due to their potential impact on regional security and global diplomacy.

Why Puducherry Voters Like N Rangaswamy

Why Puducherry Voters Like N Rangaswamy

Rediff.com5 May 2026

In Puducherry, where constituencies have fewer than 30,000 electors on average, it is usual for N Rangaswamy to call out people he knows by name during his roadside election meetings.