News for 'social impact'

Govt allots 2 million more tonnes of broken rice for E20

Govt allots 2 million more tonnes of broken rice for E20

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The Indian government has allocated an additional 2 million tonnes of surplus broken rice from FCI stocks for its ethanol blending programme, while simultaneously issuing a detailed rebuttal to widespread misinformation regarding the E20 fuel, addressing concerns from water consumption to engine damage and environmental impact.

Delhi High Court Upholds Abhishek Sharma's Personality Rights Against Misuse

Delhi High Court Upholds Abhishek Sharma's Personality Rights Against Misuse

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court has issued an interim order protecting India cricketer Abhishek Sharma's personality rights, restraining third parties from misusing his name, image, and AI-generated content for commercial or personal gain. The court directed online platforms to remove infringing material, citing the spread of false and obscene content that damages his reputation and commercial value.

Trump scraps 20% Hormuz toll for 'massive' Gulf investment deals

Trump scraps 20% Hormuz toll for 'massive' Gulf investment deals

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Donald Trump announced he is replacing the 20% reimbursement fee for securing the Strait of Hormuz with massive trade and investment deals from Gulf States into the United States, while maintaining a full blockade on Iranian ship traffic.

Narrow escape for Mukesh Ambani as tree falls in front of convoy amid rains

Narrow escape for Mukesh Ambani as tree falls in front of convoy amid rains

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

A tree collapsed in front of industrialist Mukesh Ambani's security convoy in Mumbai's Bandra area amidst torrential rains, briefly obstructing traffic. The incident highlights the widespread rain-related disruptions, including falling trees and traffic snarls, prompting civic authorities to issue caution.

Max, Min And Meowzaki Review: Love And Loss

Max, Min And Meowzaki Review: Love And Loss

Rediff.com3 days ago

Max, Min And Meowzaki is not something Bollywood audiences are used to in their cinema that thrives on melodrama and noise. Still, it captures a slice of city life that has made space for cat lovers, movie buffs and Carnatic rockers, discovers Deepa Gahlot.

Rural Sports Festival Isha Gramotsavam Reaches North India

Rural Sports Festival Isha Gramotsavam Reaches North India

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Sadhguru's Isha Gramotsavam, a rural sports festival, is expanding its 18th edition into North India, covering 10 states and one Union Territory. This year's event will engage over 80,000 players from 40,000 villages in men's volleyball and women's throwball, offering a prize pool exceeding Rs 1 crore, with the aim of social transformation through sport.

When protestors found 'Bapu' walking in their midst

When protestors found 'Bapu' walking in their midst

Rediff.com2 days ago

'We looked up and there was a man dressed as Mahatma Gandhi walking with the protesters under Minto Bridge. Everyone burst into laughter. Almost instinctively, we shouted, 'Bapu ki jai ho!' It's one of those moments I'll never forget.'

'I Was Protesting For Every Student In The Country'

'I Was Protesting For Every Student In The Country'

Rediff.com3 days ago

'I went to protest because whatever is going on in our country is not right.'

Avengers Doomsday Trailer Review: Epic Or Overstuffed?

Avengers Doomsday Trailer Review: Epic Or Overstuffed?

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Avengers: Doomsday teaser trailer has dropped, revealing an ambitious, potentially overcrowded multiverse saga featuring Doctor Doom, returning heroes, and universe-colliding stakes that could define the future of the MCU.

Mumbai drenched by 300 mm rain; flight services hit, two killed

Mumbai drenched by 300 mm rain; flight services hit, two killed

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Heavy rainfall in Mumbai on Sunday led to significant disruptions, including a one-hour suspension of flight operations at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, widespread waterlogging, and multiple treefall incidents. One person died in Kurla due to a tree collapse, marking the second such fatality in a week. The India Meteorological Department had issued a 'red' alert, with several areas recording over 200 mm of rain.

The Great Collapse: How India's Big T20 Shake-Up Failed

The Great Collapse: How India's Big T20 Shake-Up Failed

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The Indian team, which looked invincible under Suryakumar Yadav, has suddenly hit rock bottom a few months after winning the T20 World Cup.

FIFA World Cup: 'In our hearts you won': Swiss fans back team

FIFA World Cup: 'In our hearts you won': Swiss fans back team

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Swiss football fans expressed pride in their national team despite a 3-1 defeat to Argentina in the World Cup quarter-finals, marking the end of an 'exceptional campaign' that captivated the country.

IMF Lowers India's FY27 Growth Outlook to 6.4% on Higher Energy Costs

IMF Lowers India's FY27 Growth Outlook to 6.4% on Higher Energy Costs

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reduced India's growth forecast for FY27 to 6.4 per cent, citing the potential impact of higher energy prices offsetting the country's economic resilience. Despite this, India remains among the fastest-growing major economies.

FIFA World Cup: What Did Messi and Ronaldo Post Before Big Matches?

FIFA World Cup: What Did Messi and Ronaldo Post Before Big Matches?

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Football superstars Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have taken to social media to share their preparations for crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 group-stage matches. Messi, fresh off a hat-trick, is fine-tuning for Argentina's clash against Austria, while Ronaldo, after a frustrating draw, is refocusing for Portugal's game against Uzbekistan.

US and Iran agree to de-escalate strikes, reopen Strait of Hormuz

US and Iran agree to de-escalate strikes, reopen Strait of Hormuz

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

US and Iran officials have reportedly agreed to de-escalate tensions and ensure free passage through the Strait of Hormuz, with technical talks scheduled to continue. This development follows months of conflict, rising gas prices, and strained diplomatic relations, marked by recent retaliatory strikes and threats from both sides. Further discussions on Iran's nuclear program are set to take place in Qatar, highlighting ongoing diplomatic efforts despite recent volatility.

Shreya Kalra Can Get Locked Up For...

Shreya Kalra Can Get Locked Up For...

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

From viral reels to millions of followers, Shreya Kalra has built a reputation for serving looks as effortlessly as she serves content.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Lionel Messi's birthday sparks celebrations across Argentina

FIFA World Cup 2026: Lionel Messi's birthday sparks celebrations across Argentina

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Moved by Lionel Messi's record-breaking form at the World Cup, Argentines have taken to the streets and social media to sing "Happy Birthday" to their favourite footballer who turned 39 on Wednesday.

Maharashtra Leaders Pay Tribute to Ambedkar's Legacy of Social Justice

Maharashtra Leaders Pay Tribute to Ambedkar's Legacy of Social Justice

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

Maharashtra's Governor and Chief Minister, along with other state leaders, paid tribute to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar on his 135th birth anniversary, recognising his profound impact on social justice, equality, and the Indian Constitution.

President Murmu Confers 2nd Round of Padma Awards

President Murmu Confers 2nd Round of Padma Awards

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

President Droupadi Murmu presented the honours to eminent personalities and posthumous awardees for their exceptional contributions.

EC's SIR exercise marks 1 year; Nearly 6cr names deleted so far

EC's SIR exercise marks 1 year; Nearly 6cr names deleted so far

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

The Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls has completed one year, leading to the deletion of nearly six crore voters across 19 states and Union territories. This exercise, which began in Bihar, has faced opposition criticism but was upheld by the Supreme Court. The purification drive has significant implications, including linking voter data to social security benefits in some states.

Meta launches Muse Image AI: Why you should be worried

Meta launches Muse Image AI: Why you should be worried

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Meta's new Muse Image AI generator, which can create AI images from public Instagram accounts without explicit consent, has sparked significant privacy concerns and criticism over its 'opt-in-by-default' approach, raising fears of deepfakes and online impersonation.

Major Crackdown On Bishnoi Gang; 24 Arrested In US, Canada, Europe

Major Crackdown On Bishnoi Gang; 24 Arrested In US, Canada, Europe

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

A coordinated international operation, 'Operation Hard Ball', led to the arrest of 24 alleged members and associates of three India-based criminal syndicates, including the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, across the US, Canada, and Europe.

Sharvari: 'Thank You For Showing Up'

Sharvari: 'Thank You For Showing Up'

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

'The messages, the videos, the tears, the conversations, the love... I've been reading and watching all of it, often with tears in my own eyes.'

Noida impact? BJP MLA urges Yogi govt to formulate labour welfare policy

Noida impact? BJP MLA urges Yogi govt to formulate labour welfare policy

Rediff.com1 May 2026

BJP MLA Dhirendra Singh has urged the Uttar Pradesh government to formulate a comprehensive policy covering education, healthcare, housing and social security for labourers.

Why Indians Thrive Overseas

Why Indians Thrive Overseas

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

India too can rise to the top if the 1.4 billion Indians back home are given better opportunities to use their innate talent and capacity to work hard, with right incentives in a more meritocratic rules-based system, asserts Ajay Chhibber.

Jaishankar, Rubio discuss West Asia conflict's impact on energy security

Jaishankar, Rubio discuss West Asia conflict's impact on energy security

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar discussed the West Asia conflict's impact on the global economy, particularly energy security, with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. He also engaged with GCC ambassadors and his Sri Lankan and German counterparts on the same issue.

EPF Scheme 2026: What's Changed for You?

EPF Scheme 2026: What's Changed for You?

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

For members, the message is simple: don't be misled by headlines about '100% withdrawal'. The basic purpose of the EPF remains unchanged -- to help employees build a financial cushion for retirement while allowing limited access to savings for genuine needs during their working lives.

Is VAR Ruining The FIFA World Cup?

Is VAR Ruining The FIFA World Cup?

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

The 2026 World Cup has been marred by widespread controversy surrounding the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system, with coaches, players, and fans criticising its application, consistency, and impact on match outcomes, leading to a significant increase in interventions and red cards.

Diljit Dosanjh's 'Satluj' removed from OTT 2 days after release

Diljit Dosanjh's 'Satluj' removed from OTT 2 days after release

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Diljit Dosanjh's film 'Satluj', based on human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, has been made unavailable on ZEE5 in India just two days after its release, following a prolonged censorship battle.

Manika Batra Alleges TTFI Violated Constitution In Asian Games Squad Selection

Manika Batra Alleges TTFI Violated Constitution In Asian Games Squad Selection

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Star Indian table tennis player Manika Batra has accused the Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) of violating its own Constitution during the selection of the Asian Games squad, where she was named a reserve. Batra claims a nine-member committee, exceeding the constitutional limit, finalised the team, leading to her "mental exhaustion" from the ongoing fight.

FIFA World Cup: Ronaldo Taunted With 'Messi' Chants

FIFA World Cup: Ronaldo Taunted With 'Messi' Chants

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Portugal, led by Cristiano Ronaldo, were held to a surprising 1-1 draw by DR Congo in their FIFA World Cup 2026 opener. Ronaldo had a quiet game, failing to score, and was met with "Messi" chants from fans after the match, raising questions about the team's early performance.

Haryana CM Saini Lauds Ambedkar's Advocacy for Women's Education and Social Justice

Haryana CM Saini Lauds Ambedkar's Advocacy for Women's Education and Social Justice

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini commemorated B.R. Ambedkar's birth anniversary, highlighting his contributions to women's empowerment and social justice. Saini and Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal criticised the Congress party for allegedly disrespecting Ambedkar, while praising the current government's efforts to honour his legacy.

Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh ban social media for kids

Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh ban social media for kids

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh announce ban social media for teens, sparking debate about its effectiveness, impact on education, and implications for advertisers targeting young audiences.

FIFA World Cup: Meet Vozinha, The Goalkeeper Who Frustrated Messi

FIFA World Cup: Meet Vozinha, The Goalkeeper Who Frustrated Messi

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Cabo Verde, making their FIFA World Cup debut, delivered a memorable performance, reaching the Round of 32 and pushing defending champions Argentina to extra time. Despite a 3-2 defeat, their campaign was marked by resilience, drawing against European champions Spain and two-time world champions Uruguay, and highlighted by the exceptional goalkeeping of 40-year-old Vozinha.

World Cup Brings Increased Policing, Displacement For Vancouver's Homeless

World Cup Brings Increased Policing, Displacement For Vancouver's Homeless

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

The FIFA World Cup in Vancouver has intensified concerns among locals regarding increased policing and displacement of homeless individuals and drug users. Residents report more aggressive sweeps and confiscation of belongings, despite city officials stating these are routine operations and not directly influenced by the tournament.

Centre tightens FCRA rules for NGOs receiving foreign funds

Centre tightens FCRA rules for NGOs receiving foreign funds

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

The Indian government has amended the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) rules, introducing stricter regulations for NGOs receiving foreign funds. Key changes include mandatory selection of predefined purposes and areas of operation, restrictions on foreign nationals as key functionaries, and explicit exclusion of proselytisation from certain faith-based activities. The amendments also introduce minimum spending limits, enhanced financial accountability, and increased transparency requirements, including social media disclosure and ultimate donor identification.

KEM student sent on leave over remarks at Pranit More's show

KEM student sent on leave over remarks at Pranit More's show

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Mumbai's KEM Hospital has placed MBBS student Sejal Pawar on compulsory leave for 15 days following her controversial remarks about male cadavers during a stand-up comedy show. The hospital has initiated a detailed inquiry, forming a five-member committee to investigate the matter, which sparked widespread social media outrage.

Social Media Influencer's Remarks Spark Outrage and Arrest in Pilibhit

Social Media Influencer's Remarks Spark Outrage and Arrest in Pilibhit

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

A social media influencer in Pilibhit, Uttar Pradesh, was arrested after allegedly making derogatory remarks against the Valmiki community in a video posted online, leading to protests and road blockades.

Indo-Australian Athlete Attempts India Run For Charity

Indo-Australian Athlete Attempts India Run For Charity

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Indo-Australian athlete Om Satija is attempting to become the youngest person to run the length of India, undertaking a 5000km 'One India Run' from Kanyakumari to Kashmir to raise funds for charity.

Mammootty, Madhavan, Alka Yagnik Receive Padma Awards

Mammootty, Madhavan, Alka Yagnik Receive Padma Awards

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

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