News for 'rural schools'

Use PM CARES' Rs 8,500 crore fund for rural schools, says Abjhijeet Dipke

Use PM CARES' Rs 8,500 crore fund for rural schools, says Abjhijeet Dipke

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), has called for the PM CARES Fund, which holds over Rs 8,452 crore, to be used to improve infrastructure in rural schools and build more than 1,000 new high-tech schools, highlighting the dire conditions faced by children.

Ministers should send their kids to village schools: Dipke

Ministers should send their kids to village schools: Dipke

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Abhijit Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), has challenged ministers and politicians to send their children to village schools for at least a day to truly grasp the difficulties faced by rural students, who often walk several kilometres for education.

CJP launches 'School Thik Karo' campaign, demands private school fee cap

CJP launches 'School Thik Karo' campaign, demands private school fee cap

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Abhijeet Dipke, convenor of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), has initiated the 'School Thik Karo' campaign from his native village in Hingoli, Maharashtra, to address the alleged neglect of government schools and advocate for a fee cap on private educational institutions.

Rural CV retail sales growth outpaces urban, driven by diversified economy and GST impact

Rural CV retail sales growth outpaces urban, driven by diversified economy and GST impact

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Rural commercial vehicle (CV) registrations have consistently outpaced urban sales from April to July 2026, driven by a significant diversification of the rural economy and the positive impact of GST-led consumption, according to experts and data from Fada.

Rajasthan: Schoolchildren turn journalists to bridge rural news gap

Rajasthan: Schoolchildren turn journalists to bridge rural news gap

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

A government school in Raholi, Tonk, Rajasthan, has launched its own student-run newspaper, 'Raholi Shiksha Samachar' and 'Raholi Education Times', to address the lack of newspaper access in rural areas and provide students with a platform for creativity and journalism skills.

School Education Takes A Hit In Bihar Floods

School Education Takes A Hit In Bihar Floods

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Floods have forced hundreds of government schools across Bihar to shut, disrupting studies for thousands of students.

Junk food to paper leaks: HC takes up Gen Z, Alpha, Beta challenges

Junk food to paper leaks: HC takes up Gen Z, Alpha, Beta challenges

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

The Rajasthan high court, Jodhpur, has taken suo motu cognisance of issues concerning Gen Z, Gen Alpha and Gen Beta, expressing concern over junk food, excessive screen time, paper leaks, inadequate infrastructure in rural schools and the possible erosion of basic learning skills in the age of artificial intelligence.

Now CJP turns focus to poor rural education infra; campaign from Aug 15

Now CJP turns focus to poor rural education infra; campaign from Aug 15

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke on Monday announced a nationwide campaign to improve government schools in villages, calling on parents to conduct social audits of basic facilities and sarpanches to take up the task of improving the institutions.

7-yr-old boy 'with fever' dies at Maha ashram school; 26 hospitalised

7-yr-old boy 'with fever' dies at Maha ashram school; 26 hospitalised

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

A 7-year-old student at a residential school in Palghar, Maharashtra, has died from high fever and breathing difficulties, leading to the hospitalisation of 26 other students with similar symptoms. This incident follows recent deaths of tribal girls in another Maharashtra ashram school due to snakebite, highlighting ongoing concerns about student safety and health in such facilities.

CJP team attacked in Rajasthan during 'School Thik Karo' campaign

CJP team attacked in Rajasthan during 'School Thik Karo' campaign

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

A Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) team, inspecting a government school in Rampura Kanwarpura village, Rajasthan, as part of its 'School Thik Karo' campaign, was allegedly attacked by villagers and BJP workers. CJP co-convener Ashutosh Ranka claimed their workers were assaulted, vehicles damaged, and women supporters roughed up, accusing the state police of inaction.

Kerala Intensifies Anti-Drug Campaigns In Schools

Kerala Intensifies Anti-Drug Campaigns In Schools

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala announced new anti-narcotic campaigns in schools, coinciding with International Day Against Drug Abuse on June 26. The initiative, part of 'Operation Toofaan', aims to make Kerala drug-free, with police actively targeting drug networks and reporting significant seizures and arrests.

Angh: The Other Indian Film Going To The Oscars

Angh: The Other Indian Film Going To The Oscars

Rediff.com6 hours ago

'I like to make films where I am also conflicted. I don't want to make films with themes that I am sure about because then it easily becomes agenda-driven.'

K'taka suspends two govt teachers for taking part in RSS route march

K'taka suspends two govt teachers for taking part in RSS route march

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Two government school teachers in Yadgir, Karnataka, have been suspended pending inquiry for participating in an RSS Patha Sanchalana. The Education Department cited violations of the Karnataka Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 2021, which prohibit government employees from associating with political organisations or participating in agitations. The teachers argued their participation was outside working hours and cultural, but their explanations were rejected.

NCERT, CBSE Face Major Staff Shortages

NCERT, CBSE Face Major Staff Shortages

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

A parliamentary panel flagged staffing shortages at NCERT and CBSE, inadequate education spending, falling enrolment and poor internet connectivity in government schools.

A Sarpanch Who Is Changing Lives

A Sarpanch Who Is Changing Lives

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Smriti Singh was alarmed to learn that several girls and women in her village were using ash, wheat stubble and tattered rags during menstruation because they could not afford or access sanitary pads.

Understanding The New UPI Transaction Fees For Merchants

Understanding The New UPI Transaction Fees For Merchants

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% transaction fee on Unified Payments Interface (UPI) payments exceeding Rs 2,000 for merchants, effective October 15, marking the end of nearly six years of free service. Person-to-person transfers and small-value transactions below Rs 2,000 remain free. The new Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) is capped at Rs 300 for transactions above Rs 75,000, with differentiated rates for essential sectors and investments, and safeguards to prevent costs from being passed to consumers.

UPI payments above Rs 2,000 to merchants to attract 0.4% MDR from Oct 15

UPI payments above Rs 2,000 to merchants to attract 0.4% MDR from Oct 15

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI person-to-merchant (P2M) transactions exceeding Rs 2,000, effective October 15. This move ends nearly six years of fully free UPI payments, though person-to-person (P2P) transfers and small P2M payments remain free. The charges aim to bolster investment in UPI infrastructure, with specific exemptions and caps for essential sectors.

Search on for 5,000 missing in Nepal, over 1,000 bodies unidentified

Search on for 5,000 missing in Nepal, over 1,000 bodies unidentified

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

Eleven days after devastating floods triggered by an ice-rock avalanche, Nepal continues to grapple with a rising death toll of 1,344 and nearly 5,000 missing. Authorities face significant challenges in identifying the deceased, with many bodies severely damaged. DNA samples are being collected from relatives to aid identification, while the government mobilises relief and rehabilitation efforts. A fresh flood incident in Gorkha district also caused damage.

Miss Universe India Kaziah Liz Mej: 'I Wanted To Represent India Since I Was A Kid'

Miss Universe India Kaziah Liz Mej: 'I Wanted To Represent India Since I Was A Kid'

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

'I moved out of my house at the age of 17 to pursue this dream. Since then, I've been doing everything by myself, managing everything by myself for this one dream of Miss Universe.'

Tricolour to fly in former Maoist bastions this I-Day: Chhattisgarh CM

Tricolour to fly in former Maoist bastions this I-Day: Chhattisgarh CM

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Monday said Maoism was once considered difficult to eliminate, but the menace has now been wiped out, and this year the 'Tiranga Yatra' will also reach remote villages and schools in former Maoist strongholds of the state

Phiball: IIT Madras Reinvents Basketball With A Three-Team Circular Court

Phiball: IIT Madras Reinvents Basketball With A Three-Team Circular Court

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

IIT Madras has launched "Phiball," a new three-team basketball game designed to be faster, more accessible, and tactically demanding. Inspired by Omegaball, Phiball is played on a circular court, forcing players to adapt to new strategies and constant defense, making it an intense experience with low setup costs.

Phiball: IIT Madras Reinvents Basketball With A Three-Team Circular Court

Phiball: IIT Madras Reinvents Basketball With A Three-Team Circular Court

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

IIT Madras has launched "Phiball," a new three-team basketball game designed to be faster, more accessible, and tactically demanding. Inspired by Omegaball, Phiball is played on a circular court, forcing players to adapt to new strategies and constant defense, making it an intense experience with low setup costs.

Saree becomes lifeline as Tamil Nadu pilgrims escape Nepal floods

Saree becomes lifeline as Tamil Nadu pilgrims escape Nepal floods

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

A group of 21 pilgrims from Tamil Nadu faced a terrifying ordeal during a pilgrimage to Mount Kailash when flash floods and mudslides struck Timure, Nepal. Despite being trapped in a raging torrent, a combination of miraculous coincidences, quick thinking, and the selfless heroism of a couple, Ratnakumar and Poonguzhali, ensured their survival. Indian and Tamil Nadu officials coordinated a swift rescue operation, bringing them safely back home.

Is India Ready For Digital NEET?

Is India Ready For Digital NEET?

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Computer-based testing can make the examination more secure and transparent. Ensuring equal opportunities to prepare will make it fair as well. India needs both, suggests Dibyasree Ganguly.

Mammootty@75: His 10 Funniest Films

Mammootty@75: His 10 Funniest Films

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

From Kottayam Kunjachan to Unda, here are 10 Mammootty films that prove the megastar can be every bit as entertaining as he is intense.

Footpaths for walking: SC asks states, UTs for update

Footpaths for walking: SC asks states, UTs for update

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has declared the right to walk on demarcated footpaths a fundamental right, directing all states and Union Territories to ensure proper, encroachment-free pedestrian spaces. The court emphasised that footpaths are integral to human life and safety, and states must respond to advisories issued by central ministries regarding their implementation.

Tamil Nadu assembly adopts resolutions against NEET and FCRA bill

Tamil Nadu assembly adopts resolutions against NEET and FCRA bill

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

The Tamil Nadu Assembly has adopted crucial resolutions against the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) and the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, with the lone BJP member opposing both.

Rural India's Land Inequality: Top 10% Own 44% of Land

Rural India's Land Inequality: Top 10% Own 44% of Land

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

A World Inequality Lab paper reveals significant land inequality in rural India, with the top 10% of households owning 44% of the land, while 46% are landless. The study highlights the impact of historical institutions, social stratification, and agro-ecological conditions on land distribution.

Pallaburusu Director Uday Chauhan: 'Have Seen Parents Neglected In Villages'

Pallaburusu Director Uday Chauhan: 'Have Seen Parents Neglected In Villages'

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

'I was thinking how can I do something for these lonely, aging people in the villages. The parents stay and the children leave for a better future.'

Actor Tim Curry Dies At 80: 'He Was A Force'

Actor Tim Curry Dies At 80: 'He Was A Force'

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

Tim Curry, celebrated for his unforgettable performances in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Clue, and Annie, has passed away at 80, prompting an outpouring of tributes from Hollywood and fans worldwide.

Shalarth scam: BJP-linked education baron held over fake teacher IDs in Maha

Shalarth scam: BJP-linked education baron held over fake teacher IDs in Maha

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

An education baron from Jalgaon district in Maharashtra, associated with the Bharatiya Janata Party, has been arrested in connection with the alleged Shalarth ID scam, which involves creating fake identities of teachers on a government portal and withdrawing salaries in their names.

Rains batter Gujarat, red alert in 13 districts; 1,500 evacuated

Rains batter Gujarat, red alert in 13 districts; 1,500 evacuated

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Several districts in central and south Gujarat received heavy rainfall on Friday with over 1,500 persons evacuated to safer places in Surat which is the worst-affected, officials said.

Karnataka Launches AI-Ready KEO PCs To Bridge Digital Divide

Karnataka Launches AI-Ready KEO PCs To Bridge Digital Divide

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Karnataka is rolling out the first batch of 2,000 indigenously developed AI-ready KEO PCs, priced at Rs 18,999, to rural libraries and educational institutions. This initiative aims to extend artificial intelligence and digital literacy beyond urban centres, supporting students with AI skills, spoken English, and competitive exam preparation, even in areas with limited internet connectivity.

Maharashtra students who haven't updated Aadhaar IDs won't lose benefits: Minister

Maharashtra students who haven't updated Aadhaar IDs won't lose benefits: Minister

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Maharashtra School Education Minister Dada Bhuse stated that despite 5.5 lakh students having non-updated Aadhaar IDs, no student is being deprived of government scheme benefits or facing educational hurdles. He clarified that the government is actively conducting special camps and has issued instructions to ensure continuous access to education and benefits while the update drive is underway.

On Guru Purnima, para-athlete Dilip Gavit dedicates CWG gold to coach Vaijanath Kale

On Guru Purnima, para-athlete Dilip Gavit dedicates CWG gold to coach Vaijanath Kale

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Indian para-athlete Dilip Mahadu Gavit, fresh off winning the Commonwealth Games 2026 gold medal in the men's T47 100m with a Games record, dedicated his triumph to his coach Vaijanath Kale on Guru Purnima, crediting him for spotting his talent and transforming his career.

Top education ministry officials shifted amid nationwide protests

Top education ministry officials shifted amid nationwide protests

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The Indian education ministry has undergone a significant reshuffle of top officials, including the removal of higher education secretary Vineet Joshi, amidst widespread controversies surrounding NEET-UG paper leaks and CBSE digital evaluation glitches, with the opposition demanding the resignation of Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Ensure every road has encroachment-free pedestrian space: SC to Centre

Ensure every road has encroachment-free pedestrian space: SC to Centre

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has directed the Centre to ensure all roads have properly demarcated, encroachment-free spaces for pedestrians, emphasising that the right to walk on a footpath is a fundamental right.

'When You Empower A Woman, You Empower A Family'

'When You Empower A Woman, You Empower A Family'

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

'You empower a man, you are not necessarily empowering a family, you are just empowering him.'

Raghav Juyal's Brother Makes A Fascinating Film!

Raghav Juyal's Brother Makes A Fascinating Film!

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

'Raghav and I complement each other. He talks to me a lot about form and how he approaches his characters. Our paths are different, but we both are very much aligned emotionally.'

Why India Could Be Facing Early Menopause

Why India Could Be Facing Early Menopause

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Early and premature menopause can heighten risks of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, metabolic disorders, cognitive decline, depression and early death and are major public health concerns. The conditions also seriously affect a woman's quality of life.