News for 'union ministers'

Vijay's cabinet expansion signals new coalition era in TN politics

Vijay's cabinet expansion signals new coalition era in TN politics

Rediff.com22 May 2026

AM Shahjahan and Vanni Arasu from IUML and VCK respectively were sworn in as ministers in Tamil Nadu, increasing the number of allies in the TVK government. This marks the first time representatives from both parties have been inducted into the state cabinet, signifying a shift in Tamil Nadu's coalition dynamics.

Illegal migration impact spreads beyond border areas: Govt

Illegal migration impact spreads beyond border areas: Govt

Rediff.com27 May 2026

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs has formed a High-Level Committee on Demographic Changes to study the impact of illegal immigration and other factors on India's demographic landscape.

300 tourists rescued after Gulmarg Gondola stalls midair

300 tourists rescued after Gulmarg Gondola stalls midair

Rediff.com26 May 2026

Hundreds of tourists were safely rescued from the Gulmarg Gondola cable car system in Jammu and Kashmir after it developed technical problems, leading to the suspension of operations.

Voting on 3 bills tomorrow at 4 pm after 15-18 hrs of debate

Voting on 3 bills tomorrow at 4 pm after 15-18 hrs of debate

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla announced that voting on three crucial bills, including amendments to the women's quota law and the establishment of a delimitation commission, will take place at 4 PM on Friday, following an anticipated 15-18 hour debate.

UCC Bill tabled in Assam; polygamy ban, live-in registration proposed

UCC Bill tabled in Assam; polygamy ban, live-in registration proposed

Rediff.com25 May 2026

The opposition parties, including Congress, Raijor Dal and Trinamool Congress, opposed the move and demanded wider consultation with all the stakeholders before its introduction.

CBSE revaluation portal hit by cyberattack, fees spike to Rs 68,000

CBSE revaluation portal hit by cyberattack, fees spike to Rs 68,000

Rediff.com30 May 2026

The CBSE revaluation portal experienced a cyber attack, affecting the payment system and leading to unauthorised access for approximately 50 students. The incident caused fee display abnormalities, prompting investigations and system enhancements.

Bengal to build 'holding centres' for illegal foreigners

Bengal to build 'holding centres' for illegal foreigners

Rediff.com25 May 2026

West Bengal's Bharatiya Janata Party government has moved to institutionalise its "detect, delete and deport" policy by directing all district administrations to set up "holding centres" for suspected illegal foreigners and foreign prisoners awaiting repatriation -- a step that appeared to give administrative shape to one of the party's most potent political themes in the state.

AAP Government Faces Criticism Over Punjab Security Lapses

AAP Government Faces Criticism Over Punjab Security Lapses

Rediff.com6 May 2026

Opposition parties have criticised the AAP government in Punjab following twin blasts in Jalandhar and Amritsar, citing a breakdown in law and order and intelligence systems. The blasts have sparked a political blame game, with accusations flying between the AAP and BJP.

BJP Candidates in Kerala Polls Face Criminal Cases, Asset Declarations Revealed

BJP Candidates in Kerala Polls Face Criminal Cases, Asset Declarations Revealed

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

Several BJP candidates contesting in the Kerala Assembly elections face pending criminal cases, primarily related to protests and agitations, according to their nomination papers. The affidavits also reveal details of their assets and liabilities.

Row over Vande Mataram before Tamil anthem at TN swearing-in event

Row over Vande Mataram before Tamil anthem at TN swearing-in event

Rediff.com21 May 2026

A political controversy has erupted in Tamil Nadu after the Tamil invocation song was rendered last during the swearing-in of new ministers. Left parties have criticised the decision to sing the Tamil anthem after Vande Mataram and the national anthem.

BJP Candidates in Kerala Polls Face Criminal Cases, Asset Declarations Revealed

BJP Candidates in Kerala Polls Face Criminal Cases, Asset Declarations Revealed

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

Several BJP candidates contesting in the Kerala Assembly elections face pending criminal cases, primarily related to protests and agitations, according to their nomination papers. The affidavits also reveal details of their assets and liabilities.

Enforcement Directorate Raids Dawood Gang's Drug Trafficker's Assets

Enforcement Directorate Raids Dawood Gang's Drug Trafficker's Assets

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

The Enforcement Directorate conducted raids across Maharashtra and Gujarat as part of a money laundering investigation against Mohammad Salim Dola, an alleged drug trafficker associated with the Dawood Ibrahim gang.

Political bigwigs, film celebs queue up to vote

Political bigwigs, film celebs queue up to vote

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

Here are glimpses of famous faces who got their fingers inked.

'Vote Jehad', 'Muslim League', What Next?

'Vote Jehad', 'Muslim League', What Next?

Rediff.com18 May 2026

The only thing that might make the BJP stop trying to isolate Muslims completely will be if substantial numbers of the community vote for the party that flaunts its animosity towards it, notes Jyoti Punwani.

Former Punjab Minister Bhullar Arrested in Suicide Case

Former Punjab Minister Bhullar Arrested in Suicide Case

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

Former Punjab minister Laljit Singh Bhullar has been arrested in connection with the suicide of a state warehousing corporation official who accused the AAP MLA of harassment. The arrest follows demands for a CBI probe and political uproar.

Bengal polls: BJP heavyweights shine, a few big names stumble

Bengal polls: BJP heavyweights shine, a few big names stumble

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The BJP experienced a mixed bag of results in the West Bengal Assembly elections, with several heavyweight candidates securing victories while others faced defeat. Key wins included Dilip Ghosh, Suvendu Adhikari, and others, but some prominent faces failed to win.

Rahul wearing T-shirt in Parliament is not nice: Rijiju

Rahul wearing T-shirt in Parliament is not nice: Rijiju

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju criticises Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's parliamentary conduct, accusing him of being unduly influenced by advisors and questioning his casual attire in the House.

Why Estonian Tech Startups Are Keen On Partnering With India

Why Estonian Tech Startups Are Keen On Partnering With India

Rediff.com31 May 2026

Estonian tech startups in AI, cybersecurity, defence, and medicine are showing interest in collaborating with India, aiming to tap into its vast market. Latitude59, a prominent startup conference, is considering hosting a networking event in India next year to foster these partnerships.

Gelatin sticks found near Modi event venue in Bengaluru amid bomb threat

Gelatin sticks found near Modi event venue in Bengaluru amid bomb threat

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Gelatin sticks were discovered near the venue of PM Narendra Modi's programme in Bengaluru, prompting a police investigation and heightened security measures.

TVK leader's claim of DMK pressure 'contrary to truth', says Rajinikanth

TVK leader's claim of DMK pressure 'contrary to truth', says Rajinikanth

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

Tamil superstar breaks silence, questions TVK leader's claim that DMK pressure forced him to quit politics.

Chandigarh Embraces 'No Car Day' To Cut Fuel Consumption

Chandigarh Embraces 'No Car Day' To Cut Fuel Consumption

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Chandigarh observed its first 'no car day' with officials using electric buses and bicycles, following the governor's appeal to cut fuel consumption and promote eco-friendly transportation.

Delhi HC asks IT body to review blocking of Cockroach party on X

Delhi HC asks IT body to review blocking of Cockroach party on X

Rediff.com29 May 2026

The Delhi High Court has asked a review committee to examine the blocking of the Cockroach Janta Party's X account, refusing to order its immediate unblocking but allowing the party's founder to appear before the committee.

FCRA Bill likely in Parl today, Congress asks MPs to rush to Delhi

FCRA Bill likely in Parl today, Congress asks MPs to rush to Delhi

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

The Congress party has directed its MPs to attend Parliament and protest against the FCRA Amendment Bill, describing it as unconstitutional and a threat to minority organisations. The government asserts the bill aims to enhance transparency and prevent misuse of foreign funds.

'Traitor, gimmick': Rahul targets Modi over economy, 'Melody'

'Traitor, gimmick': Rahul targets Modi over economy, 'Melody'

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for gifting 'Melody' toffees to Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni, calling it a 'gimmick' while India faces an 'economic storm'. He accused Modi of prioritising public relations over addressing the struggles of farmers, labourers, and youth, a sentiment echoed by other Congress leaders.

Satheesan justifies use of caste surname at swearing-in

Satheesan justifies use of caste surname at swearing-in

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan defended his use of the caste surname "Menon" during his swearing-in ceremony, saying he had only mentioned his father's name and saw nothing wrong in doing so on such an occasion.

Haryana's Child Crime Rate Highest Among States: NCRB Data

Haryana's Child Crime Rate Highest Among States: NCRB Data

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Congress leader Kumari Selja expresses concern over the NCRB report highlighting a surge in crimes against children in Haryana, urging the state government to take immediate action.

Why CPI(M) Leaders Protested ED Raids On Pinarayi Vijayan

Why CPI(M) Leaders Protested ED Raids On Pinarayi Vijayan

Rediff.com27 May 2026

CPI(M) leaders, including Brinda Karat and M A Baby, were detained during a protest outside the ED headquarters in Delhi against searches at the residence of former Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

Amit Shah Promises Jobs, End To Infiltration In Bengal If BJP Wins

Amit Shah Promises Jobs, End To Infiltration In Bengal If BJP Wins

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah promised one lakh jobs for youths each year based on merit if the BJP won the West Bengal election, and also pledged to make the state free of infiltrators.

DMK's jibe at allies joining TVK govt causes uproar

DMK's jibe at allies joining TVK govt causes uproar

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The DMK criticised its former allies, VCK and IUML, for joining the TVK government, leading to a heated exchange and prompting DMK chief M K Stalin to call for restraint.

Trinamool splits as 58 MLAs elect rebel leader as Leader of Opposition

Trinamool splits as 58 MLAs elect rebel leader as Leader of Opposition

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

The dramatic development marked the culmination of a revolt that began with allegations of forged signatures on a letter proposing a Leader of Opposition and snowballed into an open challenge to the party leadership following the TMC's defeat at the hands of the BJP in the assembly elections.

BJP, Opposition Trade Barbs Over Women's Quota Bill

BJP, Opposition Trade Barbs Over Women's Quota Bill

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

The BJP and the Opposition have engaged in a war of words over the implementation of the women's reservation bill, which aims to reserve seats for women in legislatures. The bill was defeated in the Lower House, leading to accusations and counter-accusations between the parties.

Modi to interact with chief ministers over West Asia conflict

Modi to interact with chief ministers over West Asia conflict

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold a video conference with chief ministers of most states to assess their preparedness and strategies in response to the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

Modi inaugurates India's longest 6-lane highway connecting Meerut to Prayagraj

Modi inaugurates India's longest 6-lane highway connecting Meerut to Prayagraj

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 594-km-long Ganga Expressway, connecting Meerut to Prayagraj, aiming to boost connectivity, industrial investment, and economic growth in Uttar Pradesh.

Hardeep Puri's daughter moves HC over Epstein links; seeks Rs 10 cr damages

Hardeep Puri's daughter moves HC over Epstein links; seeks Rs 10 cr damages

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

Himayani Puri, daughter of Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, has filed a lawsuit in the Delhi High Court seeking the removal of defamatory social media content linking her to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and claiming damages of Rs 10 crore.

Satheesan's use of caste surname during swearing-in sparks row

Satheesan's use of caste surname during swearing-in sparks row

Rediff.com19 May 2026

Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan faces criticism for using his caste surname 'Menon' during his swearing-in ceremony, igniting a debate on caste identity and political messaging.

Opposition Leaders Attend Cremation of Official Who Accused Ex-Minister of Harassment

Opposition Leaders Attend Cremation of Official Who Accused Ex-Minister of Harassment

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

The cremation of a warehousing corporation official who died by suicide after accusing former Punjab minister Laljit Singh Bhullar of harassment was held in Amritsar. Bhullar has been arrested for abetting suicide, sparking a political row and demands for a CBI probe.

AIADMK alleges horse trading as 3 rebel MLAs join Vijay's party

AIADMK alleges horse trading as 3 rebel MLAs join Vijay's party

Rediff.com26 May 2026

Three All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam legislators who were part of the rebel group led by C Ve Shanmugam and SP Velumani, met Tamil Nadu assembly Speaker JC D Prabhakar on Monday and tendered their resignation.

Smriti Irani Accuses TMC of Corruption, Promises Financial Aid for Women in West Bengal

Smriti Irani Accuses TMC of Corruption, Promises Financial Aid for Women in West Bengal

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

Senior BJP leader Smriti Irani has criticised the TMC government in West Bengal, alleging corruption and failure to ensure women's safety. She promised a monthly cash support of Rs 3,000 for every woman if the BJP is voted to power.

India, New Zealand Join Hands To Enhance Rugby Coaching

India, New Zealand Join Hands To Enhance Rugby Coaching

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Rugby India and New Zealand Rugby will collaborate for a two-day high-performance coaching program at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar, marking 100 years of India-New Zealand sporting ties.

India Advocates For Ethical AI Use In Global Healthcare

India Advocates For Ethical AI Use In Global Healthcare

Rediff.com21 May 2026

Union Health Minister J P Nadda has emphasised the need for sound regulation, ethical oversight, and equity in the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to healthcare, speaking at the World Health Assembly in Geneva.