News for 'universal'

Capybara Tooth Discovery Challenges Long-Held Beliefs About Atacama Desert's Past

Capybara Tooth Discovery Challenges Long-Held Beliefs About Atacama Desert's Past

Rediff.com7 days ago

Scientists are stunned by the discovery of a nine-million-year-old capybara tooth fossil in Chile's Atacama Desert, a region currently devoid of capybaras. This finding not only marks the oldest record of the semi-aquatic rodent in coastal Chile but also significantly challenges the long-standing scientific view that the Atacama Desert has been continuously dry for 40 million years, suggesting a much wetter past.

Why BJP, Congress Watch CJP's Future Moves

Why BJP, Congress Watch CJP's Future Moves

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Some see in the CJP the potential of weakening the Opposition. Hence the BJP/RSS's 'softly softly catchee monkey' approach, with co-option being the ultimate aim, points out Aditi Phadnis.

'12 Years Of Hard Work': Elavenil's Parents Celebrate Historic Silver Medals At Asian Games

'12 Years Of Hard Work': Elavenil's Parents Celebrate Historic Silver Medals At Asian Games

Rediff.com5 days ago

Elavenil Valarivan's family celebrated her historic Asian Games silver medals, saying 12 years of dedication, sacrifice and support from coaches and authorities finally brought her long-awaited success.

Kit Delay Forces Toor Out, Sehrawat Steps In As India's Flag-Bearer

Kit Delay Forces Toor Out, Sehrawat Steps In As India's Flag-Bearer

Rediff.com6 days ago

Due to a delay in receiving his official kit, shot-putter Tajinderpal Singh Toor has been replaced by kabaddi player Pawan Sehrawat as India's flag-bearer for the Asian Games opening ceremony in Nagoya.

Dhakshineswar Suresh: The Solo Journey From College To Pro Tennis

Dhakshineswar Suresh: The Solo Journey From College To Pro Tennis

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Indian tennis player Dhakshineswar Suresh discusses the significant transition from collegiate tennis to the professional tour, highlighting the challenges of travelling alone, managing his body, and maintaining consistency. He shares insights on the importance of off-court preparation, physical fitness, and setting ambitious goals like breaking into the top 250.

Farah Khan's Emotional Goodbye To Her Children

Farah Khan's Emotional Goodbye To Her Children

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Farah Khan shared an emotional farewell as her triplets, Czar, Diva, and Anya, embarked on their university journeys across three different cities in the US.

Visa Hurdle Cleared For Indian Asian Games Athletes

Visa Hurdle Cleared For Indian Asian Games Athletes

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

Five Indian track and field athletes, including pole vaulter Sindhushree Ganesh and triple jumper Asha Ilango, who faced visa delays, have now received their travel documents and are set to join the Asian Games contingent in Japan. They will participate in an acclimatisation camp before the athletics competition begins.

Article 370 to 'vote chori': When Gyanesh Kumar made headlines

Article 370 to 'vote chori': When Gyanesh Kumar made headlines

Rediff.com2 days ago

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar is facing significant scrutiny after an investigation revealed objections from his fellow election commissioners, Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi, regarding decisions made during the Special Intensive Revision of voter lists. The objections, reportedly made at least 14 times, concerned issues like changes to voter registration forms and centralised control over electoral roll databases, intensifying criticism of Kumar's tenure and the EC's impartiality.

'Understanding Your Body Is Very Important'

'Understanding Your Body Is Very Important'

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

'God has incredible plans for me and we'll see where that takes me.'

'Dream of every athlete': Manu on Asian Games honour

'Dream of every athlete': Manu on Asian Games honour

Rediff.com7 days ago

Double Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker and defending shot put champion Tajinderpal Singh Toor have been named India's flag-bearers for the Asian Games opening ceremony. Both athletes have significant achievements, with Bhaker making history at the Paris Olympics and Toor winning gold in previous Asian Games editions. Their selection highlights the importance of shooting and athletics to India's medal tally.

Commonwealth Champion Bids Farewell To Her Guns

Commonwealth Champion Bids Farewell To Her Guns

Rediff.com3 days ago

Commonwealth Games gold medallist and Arjuna Awardee Roopa Unnikrishnan gives away the rifles that shaped her brilliant shooting career, hoping they will inspire a new generation of Indian shooters.

At UNGA, Iran Prez challenges Trump with photo from Minab

At UNGA, Iran Prez challenges Trump with photo from Minab

Rediff.com2 days ago

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian delivered a strong address at the UN General Assembly, rejecting US allegations against Iran and accusing Washington and Israel of aggression and terrorism. He criticised US sanctions, defended Iran's peaceful nuclear programme, and highlighted the Palestinian issue.

Queue of bulldozers to welcome BJP chief Nitin Nabin in UP

Queue of bulldozers to welcome BJP chief Nitin Nabin in UP

Rediff.com4 days ago

BJP National President Nitin Nabin was welcomed by a fleet of brightly painted bulldozers at a Meerut toll plaza, marking the start of his significant two-day visit to Uttar Pradesh focused on Assembly election preparations, organisational meetings, and temple visits.

The First Lady Boss Of India's Elite Commando Force

The First Lady Boss Of India's Elite Commando Force

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Sanjukta Parashar, an IPS officer with a formidable background in counter-insurgency, has made history by becoming the first woman inspector general of the CRPF's elite CoBRA force.

Satya Niketan collapse: Student bodies demand immediate safety audit

Satya Niketan collapse: Student bodies demand immediate safety audit

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

A building collapse in Satya Niketan, near Delhi University, has prompted student and teacher organisations to demand a comprehensive safety audit of paying guest accommodations across the city. The incident has highlighted concerns over structural compliance, fire safety, illegal constructions, and inadequate living conditions for students.

'I am a loser': AMU student dies by suicide; second death in four weeks

'I am a loser': AMU student dies by suicide; second death in four weeks

Rediff.com30 Aug 2026

An Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) undergraduate student, Krishna Sharma, 22, allegedly committed suicide at his rented accommodation, leaving a note describing himself as a "loser" unable to cope with personal issues. This marks the second such incident involving an AMU student in four weeks, prompting questions about student well-being and support systems.

GMCK Student Dr Komal Saluja Honoured With Researcher Of The Year Award

GMCK Student Dr Komal Saluja Honoured With Researcher Of The Year Award

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Dr Komal Verma Saluja, a final-year student at Government Medical College Kota (GMCK), has been awarded the "Researcher of the Year Award 2026" by the India chapter of the American College of Physicians (ACP). She is the youngest and first medical student to receive this prestigious accolade. Saluja's research includes identifying an imaging biomarker for early cognitive decline in type 2 diabetes and developing a diagnostic method for fatty liver disease using echocardiography. Her achievements have brought pride to GMCK and highlight the need for more novel diagnostic and therapeutic research in India.

Heart Of The Beast Review: Come For Brad Pitt, Stay For The Dog

Heart Of The Beast Review: Come For Brad Pitt, Stay For The Dog

Rediff.com2 days ago

Heart Of The Beast may not tell a new story, but its old-fashioned storytelling makes these familiar elements work well enough for a heartfelt drama, notes Mayur Sanap.

Thomas And Chirravuri Advance In Crucial Golf Tournament

Thomas And Chirravuri Advance In Crucial Golf Tournament

Rediff.com6 days ago

Indian-origin golfers Rayhan Thomas and Mahanth Chirravuri successfully made the cut at the Nationwide Children's Hospital Championship. Both players are aiming to improve their standings in the Korn Ferry Finals Tour points race to secure full playing rights for the next season and potentially a PGA Tour card.

Why Teachers Should Embrace AI To Become Gurus

Why Teachers Should Embrace AI To Become Gurus

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Padma Shri awardee educationist Dinesh Singh advocates for teachers to embrace artificial intelligence, viewing it as a tool to elevate their role rather than a threat. Speaking at the 4th STTAR Global Education Conference, Singh urged educators to use AI to become "gurus." Other leaders, including Shishir Jaipuria, emphasised that the future of education lies in human-technology collaboration, with teachers remaining crucial for inspiring students.

No Cage, No Elbows: Why Asian Games MMA Is Different

No Cage, No Elbows: Why Asian Games MMA Is Different

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Asian Games' mixed martial arts competition features modified rules, including traditional uniforms and shin guards, to make the sport more palatable for potential Olympic inclusion. While intense, this version differs significantly from UFC fights. The sport faces challenges, including rival governing bodies vying for Olympic recognition, but FIMMA hopes the current format will appeal to IOC officials.

Political Row Erupts In Tamil Nadu Over POCSO Case Video Evidence

Political Row Erupts In Tamil Nadu Over POCSO Case Video Evidence

Rediff.com3 days ago

Tamil Nadu Minister R Nirmal Kumar has challenged former DMK minister S Regupathy's assertion that video evidence in a POCSO case involving industrialist R Veeramani is "shadowy." Kumar accused the DMK of attempting to protect the accused, while Regupathy denied the allegations, defending the previous government's actions and criticising the current administration's handling of public concerns and sensitive case disclosures. The dispute highlights political tensions surrounding a high-profile child protection case.

BCI has no statutory power to regulate conduct of students: SC on NALSAR row

BCI has no statutory power to regulate conduct of students: SC on NALSAR row

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has ruled that the Bar Council of India (BCI) lacks the statutory authority to regulate the conduct of law students. The court clarified that disciplinary actions against students fall under the purview of their respective educational institutions, setting aside BCI notifications issued during a controversy involving NALSAR University students.

Supreme Court Halts Death Sentence For Man In POCSO Case

Supreme Court Halts Death Sentence For Man In POCSO Case

Rediff.com3 days ago

The Supreme Court has stayed the execution of a man sentenced to death for the repeated sexual assault of three minor girls. The apex court's decision comes after the Madras High Court confirmed his conviction and death penalty. The Supreme Court has sought reports from probation officers, jail authorities, and a psychological evaluation of the appellant, posting the matter for hearing after 20 weeks.

Want To Study Research at IIT-Bombay?

Want To Study Research at IIT-Bombay?

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

Students who want to gain hands-on research experience at the IIT Bombay can apply for the IITB Research Internship Award 2026.

Post Delhi Collapse: 'Our Parents Want Us Back Home'

Post Delhi Collapse: 'Our Parents Want Us Back Home'

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

'We are living in the belief that our building will not fall.'

Breakthrough Recombinant Antivenom Offers Broad Protection Against Indian Cobra Species

Breakthrough Recombinant Antivenom Offers Broad Protection Against Indian Cobra Species

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Researchers from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and Technical University of Denmark have developed a recombinant antivenom that provides broad protection against the venom of spectacled cobras, monocled cobras, and Indian king cobra species in mice. This lab-produced antivenom offers a next-generation solution to traditional animal-derived antivenoms, addressing issues like variability and limited species coverage.

Will challenge HC order quashing activist's NSA detention: SG

Will challenge HC order quashing activist's NSA detention: SG

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the Supreme Court that an appeal would be filed against an Allahabad High Court decision that quashed the detention of Delhi University student Akriti Chaudhary under the National Security Act. The High Court had also awarded Rs 5 lakh compensation to Chaudhary and criticised the "despotic" conduct of the Gautam Buddha Nagar DM. The Supreme Court also expressed displeasure over a Greater Noida executive magistrate's notice to another student for protest participation.

'How dare you': SC raps Noida magistrate for notice to CJP protester

'How dare you': SC raps Noida magistrate for notice to CJP protester

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court of India strongly criticised a Greater Noida executive magistrate for issuing a notice to a student who participated in a protest, despite the court's earlier order against penal action on student protesters. Chief Justice of India Surya Kant expressed surprise at the magistrate's action and stated that an explanation would be sought. The court had previously quashed FIRs against student protesters and directed compensation for families affected by the NEET paper leak.

New Study Reveals Asymmetric Expansion Of Extreme Heat Seasons Globally

New Study Reveals Asymmetric Expansion Of Extreme Heat Seasons Globally

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

A new study published in AGU Advances reveals that extreme heat events are becoming more frequent and expanding beyond traditional summer months globally. This expansion is asymmetric, occurring earlier in spring in regions like western Europe and northwestern India, and later into autumn in areas such as the western US and eastern China. Researchers highlight the challenges this poses for human acclimatisation and community preparedness, as existing infrastructure like cooling centres are built around historical summer calendars.

Opposition slams Centre, Delhi govt over fatal hostel collapse

Opposition slams Centre, Delhi govt over fatal hostel collapse

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

A five-storey boys' hostel in Satya Niketan, Delhi, collapsed, killing three students and trapping others, leading to widespread condemnation from opposition parties. Leaders from Congress and AAP criticised both the central and Delhi governments, highlighting inadequate hostel facilities and demanding accountability for student safety.

Last-minute change: Pawan replaces Toor as Asian Games flag-bearer

Last-minute change: Pawan replaces Toor as Asian Games flag-bearer

Rediff.com6 days ago

Kabaddi player Pawan Sehrawat has replaced shot-putter Tajinderpal Singh Toor as India's male flag-bearer for the Asian Games opening ceremony due to Toor's ceremonial kit not being available. Toor was unable to collect his kit in time to attend the event, leading to the last-minute change.

Mumbai's Olympia Coffee House, where Christopher Nolan stopped for chai, loses licence

Mumbai's Olympia Coffee House, where Christopher Nolan stopped for chai, loses licence

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the licences of several food establishments in Mumbai, including the Nair Hospital canteen and Olympia Coffee House, due to serious violations of food safety and hygiene standards. Inspections revealed issues like unsanitary conditions, improper food handling, pest infestations, and lack of trained staff. The FDA also cancelled licences of other businesses and seized unhygienic milk products as part of a festive season campaign.

Kabaddi Star Pawan Sehrawat Steps In As Asian Games Flag-Bearer

Kabaddi Star Pawan Sehrawat Steps In As Asian Games Flag-Bearer

Rediff.com6 days ago

Seasoned kabaddi player Pawan Sehrawat has been named India's male flag-bearer for the Asian Games opening ceremony, replacing shot-putter Tajinderpal Singh Toor. Toor was unable to attend due to not receiving his ceremonial kit in time, a logistical issue stemming from the athletics team's acclimatisation camp near Tokyo.

Arunachal Pradesh Unveils New Leafless Orchid Species

Arunachal Pradesh Unveils New Leafless Orchid Species

Rediff.com4 days ago

Scientists have discovered a rare leafless orchid species, Gastrodia keyiensis, in a remote gorge along the Keyi River in Arunachal Pradesh. This elusive orchid, which lacks leaves and chlorophyll, relies on soil fungi for nutrients and was found at an altitude of around 1,000 metres. The discovery highlights the rich biodiversity of Arunachal Pradesh and the need for conservation.

Indian athletics team faces visa delays ahead of Asian Games in Japan

Indian athletics team faces visa delays ahead of Asian Games in Japan

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

A small contingent of the 74-member Indian athletics team is still awaiting visa clearance for Japan, potentially impacting their acclimatisation camp ahead of the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya. AFI officials are working to resolve the issue, which stems from VFS requirements regarding application locations.

Katrina Is A Mom... This Is What Happened To Her Body

Katrina Is A Mom... This Is What Happened To Her Body

Rediff.com4 days ago

When the Internet reduced Katrina Kaif to her post-pregnancy body, it exposed how society prioritises cruel 'bounce back' ideals over genuine postpartum healing.

Japan yet to catch Asian Games fever as Nagoya welcomes athletes

Japan yet to catch Asian Games fever as Nagoya welcomes athletes

Rediff.com7 days ago

Five years after the Tokyo Olympics were held without spectators, Japan's Asian Games in Nagoya are struggling to generate local enthusiasm, with many residents unaware of the event despite the return of fans.

UP Scholarship 2026: Eligibility, Last Date, How To Apply

UP Scholarship 2026: Eligibility, Last Date, How To Apply

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

The UP Scholarship, officially known as the Uttar Pradesh Scholarship and Fee Reimbursement Scheme, provides financial assistance to students from Classes 9 to 12 as well as those pursuing graduation, post-graduation, diploma and other post-matric courses.

'CEC Gyanesh Kumar will go to jail': Oppn on report of difference in EC over SIR

'CEC Gyanesh Kumar will go to jail': Oppn on report of difference in EC over SIR

Rediff.com2 days ago

A political storm has erupted with the Opposition demanding the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, following reports that two Election Commissioners raised 'expansive red flags' over the Special Intensive Revision of voters' lists, citing issues like name deletions and decisions made without their knowledge.