News for 'state department'

Hospitals Ready as World Cup Organisers Monitor Ebola Concerns

Hospitals Ready as World Cup Organisers Monitor Ebola Concerns

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Pan American Health Organization and the World Health Organization have all described the risk of Ebola to World Cup host countries as low, citing measles, COVID-19 and influenza -- which spread when large crowds gather -- as the most likely threats.

Maha makes free drinking water mandatory for customers at eateries

Maha makes free drinking water mandatory for customers at eateries

Rediff.com13 hours ago

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration has issued a comprehensive order mandating free drinking water for customers in all food establishments, banning food served in newspapers, and introducing rigorous operational standards. These new regulations aim to improve food safety, hygiene, and transparency across hotels, restaurants, and other food service providers in the state.

Mumbai grinds to a halt as BEST strike pulls 2,700 buses off roads

Mumbai grinds to a halt as BEST strike pulls 2,700 buses off roads

Rediff.com5 days ago

Employees of Mumbai's BEST undertaking have launched an indefinite strike, severely impacting public transport and electricity services. The strike, called by a joint action committee, demands budget merger with BMC, settlement of dues, and implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission, among other issues. Despite court orders and MESMA invocation, the strike continues, causing widespread inconvenience to millions of commuters and electricity consumers.

DoT notifies new telecom authorisation rules, replacing multiple licences

DoT notifies new telecom authorisation rules, replacing multiple licences

Rediff.com1 hour ago

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has introduced a new authorisation regime, replacing multiple licences with a single permission for principal telecom services, aiming to simplify compliance and accommodate evolving technologies. This move is expected to ease business operations, enhance fraud prevention with AI, and expand connectivity, especially through satellite networks.

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.

CBI Uncovers Rs 661 Crore Government Funds Siphoning Scam

CBI Uncovers Rs 661 Crore Government Funds Siphoning Scam

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

The CBI has conducted searches across Chandigarh, Panchkula, and Delhi-NCR in connection with an alleged Rs 661 crore fraud involving the siphoning of government funds from Haryana government departments and the Chandigarh administration. The probe targets public servants, bank officials, and a private consultancy, with a chargesheet already filed against some accused.

SC grants Bihar contractor 4-week protection from arrest in tender case

SC grants Bihar contractor 4-week protection from arrest in tender case

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

The Supreme Court has granted four weeks of protection from arrest to Bihar-based contractor Rishu Shree, who is accused of acting as a middleman in government tender manipulation. Shree is alleged to have charged commissions to facilitate contracts, with the Enforcement Directorate investigating a "larger conspiracy" involving multiple Bihar departments.

New TN cabinet vows break from Dravidian-era governance

New TN cabinet vows break from Dravidian-era governance

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Following the swearing-in of C Joseph Vijay as Tamil Nadu's chief minister, the new cabinet has pledged a 'white paper' audit of all state departments and a 'zero-interference' policy in administration, signalling a significant shift in governance.

Father-Daughter Duo Busted In Rs 5.3 Crore Government Job Scam

Father-Daughter Duo Busted In Rs 5.3 Crore Government Job Scam

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

A father and daughter have been arrested in Bengaluru for allegedly defrauding over 40 job seekers of more than Rs 5.30 crore by promising them government jobs through fake connections and training centres.

TN YouTuber detained for criticising CM Joseph Vijay

TN YouTuber detained for criticising CM Joseph Vijay

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Well-known YouTuber Maridhas was detained by a special team of the Chennai City Police for allegedly posting critical videos targeting the TVK government, Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, and several state ministers. He was apprehended in Madurai and is being brought to Chennai for further interrogation.

TN CM Vijay carries forward DMK govt-initiated Rs 38,000-crore Hyundai project

TN CM Vijay carries forward DMK govt-initiated Rs 38,000-crore Hyundai project

Rediff.com5 days ago

Tamil Nadu's new government, led by C Joseph Vijay, is committed to advancing the ~38,000 crore shipbuilding project with HD Hyundai in Thoothukudi, securing bipartisan support from the Opposition DMK, despite initial industry concerns about policy continuity after the change in leadership.

Mizoram's 'Red Card' Scheme To Drink Alcohol

Mizoram's 'Red Card' Scheme To Drink Alcohol

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

Mizoram has long maintained one of the country's strictest prohibition regimes.

Bihar Asks Madrasas To Furnish Details: Here's Why

Bihar Asks Madrasas To Furnish Details: Here's Why

Rediff.com29 May 2026

The Bihar education department has requested madrasas, Sanskrit, and other government-aided minority schools to provide details regarding the number of students, teachers, and non-teaching staff to ensure proper utilisation of government aid.

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.

'1.38L CCTVs, 51k jammers': Over 2.8L students to take NEET re-exam amid tight security

'1.38L CCTVs, 51k jammers': Over 2.8L students to take NEET re-exam amid tight security

Rediff.com4 days ago

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has implemented extensive security and logistical arrangements, including AI-based CCTV monitoring, biometric verification, and police escorts, to ensure the smooth, secure, and transparent conduct of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination.

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

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

Rediff.com3 days ago

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.

SC to hear plea on Ram Temple Trust fund embezzlement

SC to hear plea on Ram Temple Trust fund embezzlement

Rediff.com1 hour ago

The Supreme Court has scheduled a hearing for June 29 on a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking the registration of an FIR and a time-bound probe into the alleged embezzlement of donations received by the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust in Ayodhya.

US Senate passes resolution to limit Trump's Iran war powers

US Senate passes resolution to limit Trump's Iran war powers

Rediff.com1 days ago

The US Senate passed a resolution directing then-President Donald Trump to withdraw American forces from the conflict with Iran. This bipartisan vote, though largely symbolic as a concurrent resolution, highlighted congressional concerns over potential escalation and a desire to limit presidential military authority without legislative approval.

Kamakhya temple gears up for lakhs of devotees for Ambubachi Mela

Kamakhya temple gears up for lakhs of devotees for Ambubachi Mela

Rediff.com2 days ago

The famed Ambubachi Mela at Kamakhya temple in Guwahati is set to begin, with the administration expecting around eight lakh devotees over the next four days. The temple doors will close on Monday night for the 'prabritti' period, symbolising the annual menstrual cycle of Goddess Kamakhya, and reopen on June 26.

Haryana Strengthens Sports Coaching With 33 New Appointments

Haryana Strengthens Sports Coaching With 33 New Appointments

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Haryana Sports Minister Gaurav Gautam announced that the state has appointed 33 sportspersons to coaching positions within the last month. These new coaches are expected to play a crucial role in identifying and nurturing grassroots talent to prepare athletes for future international competitions, including the 2036 Olympics. The state also highlighted its sports policy, which includes job reservations for outstanding sportspersons.

Lokayukta Raids Unearth Rs 9.5 Crore Assets From Indore Officer

Lokayukta Raids Unearth Rs 9.5 Crore Assets From Indore Officer

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Lokayukta police in Indore raided the premises of Women and Child Development Department Joint Director Laxminarayan Kandwal, uncovering assets worth approximately Rs 9.5 crore, nearly four times his total salary over 30 years of service. The raids followed a complaint of disproportionate assets, leading to a case registered under the Prevention of Corruption Act.

Iran to commute to FIFA World Cup games from Mexico after US refusal

Iran to commute to FIFA World Cup games from Mexico after US refusal

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Iran's national soccer team will sleep in Mexico and travel to the US on the days of its three FIFA World Cup matches after Washington declined to host the squad for the tournament.

US-Iran peace deal: Tehran gives up nuke bid, wins sanctions relief

US-Iran peace deal: Tehran gives up nuke bid, wins sanctions relief

Rediff.com7 days ago

The United States and Iran have reached an agreement in principle to immediately and permanently halt all military operations, lift sanctions, and work towards a comprehensive final agreement within 60 days, including a significant reconstruction package for Iran.

US, Iran to hold talks in Switzerland; Pak, Qatar to attend

US, Iran to hold talks in Switzerland; Pak, Qatar to attend

Rediff.com7 days ago

The United States and Iran are scheduled to hold their initial round of talks in Switzerland on Friday, following a ceasefire agreement virtually signed by US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.

Inmate's Viral Video From Hoshiarpur Jail Triggers Political Outcry

Inmate's Viral Video From Hoshiarpur Jail Triggers Political Outcry

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

A video of an inmate from Hoshiarpur Central Jail alleging harassment and demanding money from staff has gone viral, leading to an official inquiry and a political backlash against the Punjab government.

Visa Woes Hit Pakistan Hockey Team Ahead Of England Leg

Visa Woes Hit Pakistan Hockey Team Ahead Of England Leg

Rediff.com4 days ago

Pakistan's national hockey team is facing significant challenges ahead of the final leg of the FIH Pro League in England, with captain Ammad Shakeel Butt's visa rejected and head coach Manzur-ul-Hasan also struggling to secure his travel documents. This comes amidst a dismal performance in the league and growing criticism over team management.

Fake video on NEET-UG exam paper leak, says NTA

Fake video on NEET-UG exam paper leak, says NTA

Rediff.com3 days ago

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has strongly refuted a video circulating on social media that falsely claims the NEET-UG 2026 paper was leaked, asserting that the recent re-examination was conducted successfully with comprehensive security measures.

Uttar Pradesh DGP Highlights Improved Law And Order, Warns Social Media Strongmen

Uttar Pradesh DGP Highlights Improved Law And Order, Warns Social Media Strongmen

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

Uttar Pradesh DGP Rajeev Krishna stated that the state's law and order situation has significantly improved, with criminals losing their former confidence. He warned against anti-social elements using social media to intimidate and discussed ongoing probes into the Ayodhya Ram Mandir irregularities and the extradition of a drug trafficking kingpin. The DGP also highlighted the rising challenge of cybercrime and police efforts to combat it.

Iranian World Cup players will be able to enter US the day before matches

Iranian World Cup players will be able to enter US the day before matches

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Iran's national soccer team, currently training in Tijuana, Mexico, will be able to enter the US the day before each of their three World Cup matches, the Department of Homeland Security said on Tuesday.

Excise Department Busts Liquor Smuggling Racket in Palghar, Three Arrested

Excise Department Busts Liquor Smuggling Racket in Palghar, Three Arrested

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

The Maharashtra excise department seized Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) worth Rs 11.39 lakh in Palghar district, leading to the arrest of three persons. Three vehicles worth Rs 21 lakh were also seized in the operations.

Mystery fire destroys 4,000 EVMS stored in Kolkata govt building

Mystery fire destroys 4,000 EVMS stored in Kolkata govt building

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

West Bengal minister Kaushik Chowdhury on Thursday said that around 4,000 EVMs were gutted in a government building fire in Kolkata, as the police launched an investigation following the registration of an FIR in connection with the incident.

Day 3 of BEST strike: Special buses for NEET re-exam

Day 3 of BEST strike: Special buses for NEET re-exam

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking arranged special bus services for students appearing in the NEET re-examination in Mumbai, deploying 60 buses on 24 routes for approximately 180 trips, despite an ongoing strike by its employees that has paralysed public transport.

High Court Expresses Concern Over Police Handling Of Missing Minor Girls

High Court Expresses Concern Over Police Handling Of Missing Minor Girls

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

The Allahabad High Court's Lucknow bench has expressed serious concern over the rising number of missing minor girls in the state capital, directing senior police officers to ensure effective monitoring and accountability in such cases. The court ordered a detailed report from the DCP (East) and sought explanations from the Police Commissioner, stressing the need for vigilance.

Haryana Revamps Sports Policy For Olympic Glory And Athlete Welfare

Haryana Revamps Sports Policy For Olympic Glory And Athlete Welfare

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Haryana is revamping its 2015 Sports Policy to focus on long-term talent development for future Olympians, moving beyond just prize money and jobs. Key initiatives include 'Mission Olympics-2036 Vijayee Bhavah' for young athletes and the 'Khelo Haryana App' for integrated athlete services. The state aims to strengthen athlete welfare, infrastructure, and institutional support.

Iran, Israel trade strikes for 1st time since truce; raising war fears

Iran, Israel trade strikes for 1st time since truce; raising war fears

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Tensions in West Asia have dramatically escalated as Israel launched targeted military operations against Iran, triggering widespread blasts across strategic cities, following earlier Iranian projectile attacks on Israel.

Passenger Caught With 29 Exotic Animals At Mumbai Airport

Passenger Caught With 29 Exotic Animals At Mumbai Airport

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

Customs officials at Mumbai international airport intercepted an Indian passenger arriving from Bangkok with 29 exotic wild animals, including a gibbon, melanistic squirrel, ball python, and iguana. A rescue team was called to identify and stabilise the animals, which will be repatriated to their country of origin.

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.

NTA calls NEET-UG 2026 paper leak video 'fake' amid re-exams

NTA calls NEET-UG 2026 paper leak video 'fake' amid re-exams

Rediff.com3 days ago

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has strongly refuted a video circulating on social media that falsely claims the NEET-UG 2026 paper was leaked, asserting that the recent re-examination was conducted successfully with comprehensive security measures.

Ghaziabad Police Register FIRs Against Two Illegal Madrasas

Ghaziabad Police Register FIRs Against Two Illegal Madrasas

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Police in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, have registered FIRs against two madrasas for allegedly operating illegally without proper registration or approval from the Minority Welfare Department. The action follows the sealing of these institutions in the Khoda area and is linked to the recent murder of a 17-year-old, Surya Chauhan, whose alleged killer was later killed in a police encounter. Three individuals have been named in the FIRs, with one madrasa specifically cited for lacking various essential certificates.

FIFA World Cup: Neymar back in training but unlikely to return against Haiti

FIFA World Cup: Neymar back in training but unlikely to return against Haiti

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Neymar offered Brazil a flicker of World Cup encouragement on Tuesday when he trained on the pitch with the national team in the United States for the first time.