News for 'state agriculture department'

CBI Busts Bribery Ring In J&K Agriculture Department

CBI Busts Bribery Ring In J&K Agriculture Department

Rediff.com1 days ago

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested a Sub-Divisional Agriculture Officer (SDAO) and two others in Jammu and Kashmir for allegedly demanding and accepting a bribe to release a subsidy under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) scheme.

Farmer gets alert for 1-paisa as PM-Kisan payout, govt calls it 'glitch'

Farmer gets alert for 1-paisa as PM-Kisan payout, govt calls it 'glitch'

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

A farmer in Maharashtra received a message indicating a one-paisa credit instead of the expected Rs 2,000 under the PM-Kisan scheme, causing confusion. The Agriculture Department later clarified it was a technical error and the full instalment had been successfully processed.

Governor Yadav Champions Drone Tech For Nagaland's Youth

Governor Yadav Champions Drone Tech For Nagaland's Youth

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav has advocated for increased use of technology, especially drones and geospatial systems, to enhance governance and create employment opportunities for the state's youth. During his visit to the Nagaland GIS and Remote Sensing Centre and Drone Centre of Excellence, he highlighted the broad applications of drone technology and the importance of skill development. The centre is actively training youth in various drone-related courses, aiming to meet the demand for drone pilots in the Northeast.

India's Geospatial Sector Gets Boost With Mirai-GreenValley LiDAR Partnership

India's Geospatial Sector Gets Boost With Mirai-GreenValley LiDAR Partnership

Rediff.com5 days ago

GIS intelligence solutions provider Mirai Aerospace Systems and Software Solutions has signed an MoU with US-based GreenValley International Inc to strengthen India's geospatial and LiDAR remote sensing manufacturing base. The collaboration focuses on local assembly, manufacturing, technical support, and the development of AI-driven LiDAR applications, aiming to meet India's growing demand across various sectors.

Vijay opens Mettur gates, Cauvery water flows to delta fields amid scanty rain

Vijay opens Mettur gates, Cauvery water flows to delta fields amid scanty rain

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay opened the sluices of the Stanley Reservoir in Mettur on Tuesday for irrigation in the Cauvery delta districts.

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.

15 dead as rains pound Kerala, 7 missing

15 dead as rains pound Kerala, 7 missing

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan announced that the death toll from rain-related incidents has reached 15, with seven people still missing. He confirmed that the overall situation is under control, except for a few areas in Pathanamthitta, as the state intensifies rescue and relief operations. The CM detailed the deployment of rescue teams, functioning relief camps, and immediate compensation measures for victims and affected families, while also cautioning against rumours regarding dam water release.

July downpour reduces rainfall deficit to 12% as El Nino looms

July downpour reduces rainfall deficit to 12% as El Nino looms

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

The Centre has reviewed the monsoon situation, noting a reduced rainfall deficit and ongoing preparedness for the kharif season amidst El Nino concerns. A high-level meeting chaired by the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister discussed measures across various sectors, emphasising continuous monitoring and coordinated action to mitigate potential impacts on agriculture, water resources, and essential commodities.

Bengaluru, Mysuru unaffected by Karnataka bandh call over Cauvery

Bengaluru, Mysuru unaffected by Karnataka bandh call over Cauvery

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

While intense protests were seen in Mandya and preventive detentions carried out at several places, life remained unaffected in major urban centres like Bengaluru and Mysuru.

Jharkhand govt's move to cancel 44 recruitment exams sparks fresh protests

Jharkhand govt's move to cancel 44 recruitment exams sparks fresh protests

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

The Jharkhand government has cancelled 44 recruitment examinations conducted by the state Public Service Commission (JPSC) and an outsourced agency since 2014, including the JSSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) examination, following a 25-day student agitation over alleged irregularities. This decision has led to protests from around 2,000 candidates who had already been appointed to various state government departments after clearing the JSSC-CGL exam.

How Bihar Plans To Use AI For Efficient Governance

How Bihar Plans To Use AI For Efficient Governance

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary has called upon ministers and legislators to extensively use digital technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) for balanced development and improved public outreach. He highlighted the state government's existing use of AI in welfare programmes and project cost reduction, stressing its importance for Bihar's progress in the digital era.

Farmers on way to protest in Delhi stopped at Haryana border

Farmers on way to protest in Delhi stopped at Haryana border

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Indian farmers staged a significant protest at the Shambhu border against a proposed India-US trade deal, fearing its detrimental effects on the domestic agricultural sector and demanding its immediate abandonment. They later ended their agitation after assurances from the Haryana Agriculture Minister regarding the release of detained farmers and a meeting with the Union Agriculture Minister.

Govt adviser bats for E10 petrol to protect older vehicles

Govt adviser bats for E10 petrol to protect older vehicles

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

A government adviser has called for India to reintroduce a petrol variant with a lower ethanol blend, such as E10, alongside the current E20 fuel. This move aims to protect millions of older vehicles, particularly two-wheelers, which may experience performance issues and damage from the higher 20 per cent ethanol blend.

High-Powered Committee to Drive Banking Reforms for Viksit Bharat, Says FM Sitharaman

High-Powered Committee to Drive Banking Reforms for Viksit Bharat, Says FM Sitharaman

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the government's plan to establish a high-powered committee to examine reforms for the banking sector, aligning it with the vision of a 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India) and India's next phase of growth.

Suvendu keeps home, power portfolios, Swapan is finance minister

Suvendu keeps home, power portfolios, Swapan is finance minister

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Ten days after the expansion of the BJP government's cabinet in West Bengal, key portfolios have been allocated, with senior leader Tapas Roy taking charge of industries and journalist-turned-politician Swapan Dasgupta appointed finance minister.

Income Tax Department Releases ITR Forms for Assessment Year 2026-27

Income Tax Department Releases ITR Forms for Assessment Year 2026-27

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

The Income Tax Department has released all income tax return (ITR) forms for the assessment year 2026-27, enabling individuals, businesses, and other entities to begin filing their returns for the financial year 2025-26.

Kerala on alert after 2 students test positive for Shigella infection

Kerala on alert after 2 students test positive for Shigella infection

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Two students of a school in Kerala's Wayanad district tested positive for Shigella infection, state minister T Siddique said on Monday.

Manohar Lal Khattar Urges Transparency in Haryana Welfare Schemes

Manohar Lal Khattar Urges Transparency in Haryana Welfare Schemes

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar has directed officials to ensure transparency in the implementation of central and Haryana government welfare schemes, aiming to maximise their reach. He reviewed multiple schemes across various departments during a DISHA meeting in Karnal.

Govt to Crack Down on Industrial Users Diverting Cheaper Retail Fuel

Govt to Crack Down on Industrial Users Diverting Cheaper Retail Fuel

Rediff.com28 May 2026

The Indian government has issued a stern warning to industrial users who are reportedly procuring cheaper retail fuel instead of industrial-grade fuel, leading to significant losses for state-run oil marketing companies (OMCs) and potential local shortages. This diversion, driven by a substantial price difference between retail and bulk diesel, is adversely impacting OMCs, which are absorbing daily losses of approximately 550 crore to keep retail prices stable.

Wayanad landslide: Missing construction manager's body recovered, toll rises to 8

Wayanad landslide: Missing construction manager's body recovered, toll rises to 8

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

The body of Vikram Rana, the last person missing after the July 7 landslide at the Anakkampoyil-Meppadi tunnel project site in Kalladi, Wayanad, Kerala, has been recovered. This brings the death toll to eight. A massive search operation involving multiple agencies led to the discovery of the construction manager's body, concluding the search efforts.

Minister's exit rocks Shivakumar govt; damage control begins

Minister's exit rocks Shivakumar govt; damage control begins

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

Congress leader Ramalinga Reddy has resigned from his ministerial position in the newly formed Shivakumar government in Karnataka, expressing strong displeasure over the portfolio allocated to him. He had sought the Bengaluru Development portfolio but was given Major and Medium Irrigation projects, leading to a significant setback for the new administration.

3 killed, 5 missing in massive landslide at Wayanad tunnel site

3 killed, 5 missing in massive landslide at Wayanad tunnel site

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

A devastating landslide at Kalladi near Meppady in Wayanad, Kerala, has resulted in one death and seven missing individuals at a crucial tunnel road project site, with Chief Minister V D Satheesan attributing the tragedy to contractors' failure to heed warnings about accumulated mud.

IIT-Guwahati Researchers Uncover Algae's Potential To Clean Lead From Water

IIT-Guwahati Researchers Uncover Algae's Potential To Clean Lead From Water

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Researchers at IIT-Guwahati have identified a type of blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) that can effectively remove lead from contaminated water. The study highlights the role of exopolysaccharides (EPS) produced by the algae in absorbing lead, with laboratory experiments showing up to 66.2% removal. This discovery offers a promising, naturally abundant solution for water purification, though further validation is needed before commercial application.

US, Japan Hold Key Patents In Rare Earth Tech, Study Finds

US, Japan Hold Key Patents In Rare Earth Tech, Study Finds

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

A new study reveals that despite China's significant control over global rare earth mining and processing, its dominance has a critical weakness: the US and Japan hold the majority of core patents for advanced rare earth functional material technologies. This technological gap means China lags in higher-value applications, impacting its strategic advantage in the industry.

Maharashtra Farmer Arrested for Hiding Cannabis Plants in Sorghum Crop

Maharashtra Farmer Arrested for Hiding Cannabis Plants in Sorghum Crop

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

A 60-year-old farmer in Maharashtra's Beed district has been arrested for allegedly cultivating cannabis plants hidden within a jowar (sorghum) crop.

91 Life Convicts Released From Telangana Prisons

91 Life Convicts Released From Telangana Prisons

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

The Telangana Prisons and Correctional Services Department facilitated the release of 91 life convicts who were granted special remission by the state government. The released prisoners include 85 men and six women, all of whom were found eligible for remission under the government's prescribed guidelines.

Monsoon advances across North India; 3 killed in Himachal

Monsoon advances across North India; 3 killed in Himachal

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

The southwest monsoon has advanced across northern Indian states, leading to widespread rainfall, waterlogging, road blockages, and rain-related deaths, particularly in Himachal Pradesh and Rajasthan. The Centre is monitoring the situation, especially concerning potential drought conditions in some areas due to the El Nino effect.

IMD forecasts below normal monsoon rainfall for India

IMD forecasts below normal monsoon rainfall for India

Rediff.com29 May 2026

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that the June-September southwest monsoon seasonal rainfall over India is expected to be 90 per cent of the long-period average. While the Northeast is likely to witness normal rainfall, the remaining parts of the country may see below normal rainfall.

India sees 41% rainfall deficit from June 4 to 18 as monsoon advance stalls

India sees 41% rainfall deficit from June 4 to 18 as monsoon advance stalls

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

With the southwest monsoon stalled over southern Maharashtra, India is facing a nationwide rainfall deficit of 41 percent between June 4 and June 18, according to the latest India meteorological department (IMD) data.

IMD Launches AI Monsoon Forecast Model

IMD Launches AI Monsoon Forecast Model

Rediff.com13 May 2026

'This system will be of immense help in agricultural planning, disaster management and water resources management.'

Himanta Biswa Sarma takes oath as Assam CM for 2nd term

Himanta Biswa Sarma takes oath as Assam CM for 2nd term

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Himanta Biswa Sarma was sworn in as the chief minister of Assam for a second consecutive term, along with four other ministers, marking the formation of the third successive NDA government in the state.

New CM Shivakumar battles discontent over portfolio allocation

New CM Shivakumar battles discontent over portfolio allocation

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

Karnataka Minister K H Muniyappa has publicly voiced his dissatisfaction with the portfolio allocation in the new D K Shivakumar government, citing a lack of consideration for seniority. He urged the Congress leadership to review the assignments, highlighting his preference for portfolios like Social Welfare or Agriculture, and noted that another senior minister, Ramalinga Reddy, also resigned over the issue.

'Why Should We Be Okay With 6.5% Growth Rate?'

'Why Should We Be Okay With 6.5% Growth Rate?'

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

'Why not aspire for 8 or 9 or even 10 per cent?'

'We will go to war': Pak threatens India amid water crisis

'We will go to war': Pak threatens India amid water crisis

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has issued a war threat against India, citing water security as a national concern. This comes as Pakistan grapples with a severe internal water crisis, attributed by experts to mismanagement, and India maintains its suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty following a terror attack. Asif accused India of "weaponising water" but admitted to lacking current data on the situation.

Odisha Vigilance Raids Engineer, Seizes Crores In Cash And Assets

Odisha Vigilance Raids Engineer, Seizes Crores In Cash And Assets

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

The Odisha Vigilance Department has uncovered assets worth crores of rupees, including over Rs 2 crore in cash, multiple properties, and gold, during raids on an assistant executive engineer. The engineer, Baikuntha Nath Behera, is under investigation for disproportionate assets. Separately, a lineman was arrested for accepting a bribe.

UP storm fury leaves 111 dead, 72 hurt; over 200 houses destroyed

UP storm fury leaves 111 dead, 72 hurt; over 200 houses destroyed

Rediff.com15 May 2026

At least 89 people have died in Uttar Pradesh after severe storms and heavy rain caused widespread damage, uprooting trees and electric poles and damaging homes. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed officials to provide immediate relief to affected families.

What Jawaharlal Nehru Did for India

What Jawaharlal Nehru Did for India

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Through his commitment to democratic norms, debate, dissent and constitutionalism, Jawaharlal Nehru helped ensure that parliamentary democracy took deep root in independent India. Utkarsh Mishra evaluates Nehru's 17 years as India's first prime minister, examining his role in nation-building, democratic institution-building, economic planning, scientific advancement and foreign policy.

Haryana CM Saini Orders FIR, Directs Action On Morni Grievances

Haryana CM Saini Orders FIR, Directs Action On Morni Grievances

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini addressed a public grievance redressal programme in Morni, Panchkula, ordering an FIR against a contractor for electricity delays and directing probes into other infrastructure issues. He emphasized timely resolution of public complaints related to electricity, water, roads, healthcare, and pensions, while also committing to improved road connectivity and upgrading health facilities in the region.

Haryana CM Saini Orders FIR, Directs Action On Morni Grievances

Haryana CM Saini Orders FIR, Directs Action On Morni Grievances

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini addressed a public grievance redressal programme in Morni, Panchkula, ordering an FIR against a contractor for electricity delays and directing probes into other infrastructure issues. He emphasized timely resolution of public complaints related to electricity, water, roads, healthcare, and pensions, while also committing to improved road connectivity and upgrading health facilities in the region.

Southwest monsoon expected to arrive in Kerala on May 26

Southwest monsoon expected to arrive in Kerala on May 26

Rediff.com15 May 2026

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted an early onset of the southwest monsoon over Kerala, expected around May 26. This marks the beginning of the crucial rainy season for India.