News for 'us secretary of state'

Trump signals Iran talks within 36-72 hours, extends ceasefire

Trump signals Iran talks within 36-72 hours, extends ceasefire

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

US President Donald Trump has indefinitely extended the ceasefire with Iran at the request of Pakistan, aiming to allow Tehran's leadership time to form a unified proposal to end the seven-week war.

Punjab Government Offers Cash Rewards for Information on Wanted Gangsters

Punjab Government Offers Cash Rewards for Information on Wanted Gangsters

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

The Punjab government has announced cash rewards for information leading to the arrest of 28 proclaimed offenders, including foreign-based gangsters, prompting criticism from the BJP regarding the state's law and order situation.

Banerjee Promises to Drive BJP Out of Bengal, Then Delhi

Banerjee Promises to Drive BJP Out of Bengal, Then Delhi

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has vowed to remove the BJP from power in West Bengal and then at the national level, accusing the Election Commission of favouring the BJP and criticising the opposition parties.

Abhishek Banerjee Accuses Rivals of Aiding BJP in West Bengal

Abhishek Banerjee Accuses Rivals of Aiding BJP in West Bengal

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee addressed a rally in Murshidabad, accusing political rivals of working for the BJP and promising to restore voting rights to disenfranchised citizens if his party returns to power.

India Sporting Goods Fair Aims to Propel Manufacturing Sector

India Sporting Goods Fair Aims to Propel Manufacturing Sector

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

The 4th India Sporting Goods Fair (ISGF) showcases athletic gear and equipment from 75 exhibitors, highlighting the government's commitment to promoting sports goods manufacturing in India.

10 US scientists with crucial info die, disappear; probe ordered

10 US scientists with crucial info die, disappear; probe ordered

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

The US administration has ordered a probe into the deaths and disappearances of at least 10 top US scientists and researchers with access to information related to aerospace, defence and extra-terrestrial life.

Bai Hirabai Trust to move for alteration of restrictive clauses on trustee eligibility: Tata Trusts

Bai Hirabai Trust to move for alteration of restrictive clauses on trustee eligibility: Tata Trusts

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

Tata Trusts announced that the trustees of the Bai Hirabai Trust will initiate proceedings to alter restrictive clauses in its trust deed, specifically those prohibiting non-Zoroastrians from serving as trustees. This decision follows a challenge by former trustee Mehli Mistry regarding the appointments of Venu Srinivasan and Vijay Singh, who allegedly did not meet the original Parsi Zoroastrian faith and residency criteria.

AIADMK advances on candidates, manifesto; DMK yet to unveil plan

AIADMK advances on candidates, manifesto; DMK yet to unveil plan

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Tamil Nadu's AIADMK, leading the NDA in the state, has released its first list of 23 candidates for the upcoming Assembly elections, renominating key leaders and fielding experienced legislators from their traditional strongholds.

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.

Ajit Pawar's death: Maharashtra announces 3-day state mourning

Ajit Pawar's death: Maharashtra announces 3-day state mourning

Rediff.com28 Jan 2026

Ajit Pawar, 66, and four other persons were killed after an aircraft carrying them crashed in Maharashtra's Pune district on Wednesday morning

TMC's Abhishek Banerjee Challenges Amit Shah on Infiltration, Terror Incidents

TMC's Abhishek Banerjee Challenges Amit Shah on Infiltration, Terror Incidents

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

Senior TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee criticises Union Home Minister Amit Shah over infiltration, terror attacks, and unfulfilled job promises, questioning the BJP's governance record.

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.

EC removes Mamata's chief secy, DGP ahead of Bengal poll

EC removes Mamata's chief secy, DGP ahead of Bengal poll

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

The Election Commission's move to transfer West Bengal's chief secretary and DGP soon after the announcement of Assembly poll dates triggered a political slugfest.

Athletics Federation of India Requires Approval for Athlete Sponsorships

Athletics Federation of India Requires Approval for Athlete Sponsorships

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) has mandated that track and field athletes must obtain prior approval from the federation before entering into sponsorship agreements with any entity. This decision aims to protect the interests of both athletes and sponsors amid increasing instances of athletes and coaches frequently changing sponsors.

Iranian parliament speaker warns against US ground invasion

Iranian parliament speaker warns against US ground invasion

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

He also warned the Gulf countries, which are allowing the US to launch an attack from their soil, vowing to "punish" the regional partners.

'Nobody Is A Permanent Friend Or Enemy In Politics'

'Nobody Is A Permanent Friend Or Enemy In Politics'

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

'EPS exposed all the traitors. The DMK has given them political asylum. They are political orphans.'

CPI(M) Rejects Allegations of Pact with SDPI for Kerala Elections

CPI(M) Rejects Allegations of Pact with SDPI for Kerala Elections

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

CPI(M) general secretary M A Baby has denied any alliance or discussions with the SDPI for the upcoming Kerala Assembly elections, refuting allegations made by the UDF.

CPI(M) Rejects Allegations of Pact with SDPI for Kerala Elections

CPI(M) Rejects Allegations of Pact with SDPI for Kerala Elections

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

CPI(M) general secretary M A Baby has denied any alliance or discussions with the SDPI for the upcoming Kerala Assembly elections, refuting allegations made by the UDF.

Sports Ministry Wants Hockey India to Field Strongest Teams for Asian Games

Sports Ministry Wants Hockey India to Field Strongest Teams for Asian Games

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

The Sports Ministry is encouraging Hockey India to nominate its best teams for the Asian Games, amidst discussions about fielding separate teams for the continental event and the World Cup to prevent player burnout.

BJP Stages Protest in Amritsar, Demands CBI Probe into Warehousing Official's Suicide

BJP Stages Protest in Amritsar, Demands CBI Probe into Warehousing Official's Suicide

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

The Punjab BJP staged a protest in Amritsar against the AAP government, demanding a CBI probe into the suicide of a warehousing corporation official and justice for his family.

US Embassy in Baghdad warns of possible attack within 48 hours

US Embassy in Baghdad warns of possible attack within 48 hours

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

In a post on X, the embassy said such groups 'may intend to conduct attacks in central Baghdad in the next 24-48 hours', raising concerns over the safety of US citizens and installations in Iraq.

Venugopal Files Defamation Suit Over Election Accusations

Venugopal Files Defamation Suit Over Election Accusations

Rediff.com5 Apr 2026

Congress leader K C Venugopal has filed a defamation complaint against a Haryana-based man, alleging politically motivated accusations ahead of the Kerala Assembly elections.

In a fresh message, Khamenei extols sacrifice and martyrdom

In a fresh message, Khamenei extols sacrifice and martyrdom

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

Iran's supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei on Wednesday extolled the sacrifice and martyrdom of senior Iranian armed forces leaders as the conflict in West Asia enters into its second month.

'Iran begged for this ceasefire, and we all know it...,' claims US

'Iran begged for this ceasefire, and we all know it...,' claims US

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on Wednesday claimed that Tehran "begged" for a truce, maintaining that Washington achieved a "decisive military victory" during 'Operation Epic Fury.'

'God Does Not Make People Like Mohsina Kidwai Now'

'God Does Not Make People Like Mohsina Kidwai Now'

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

'She was not a yes person. She would tell the truth and her feelings to Indira Gandhi, and Indira Gandhi would value her opinion. The same was the case with Rajiv Gandhi who would value her opinion.'

A War With No Exit Strategy, No Victory To Declare

A War With No Exit Strategy, No Victory To Declare

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

Both sides have now revealed a preference for escalation over strategic defeat, and each new provocation narrows the space for the next pause. The Touska seizure, Iran's refusal to negotiate under blockade, Israel's strikes on Iranian oil infrastructure -- all of these add up to an increasingly untenable situation. This makes the wild card -- Trump and his motormouth -- more consequential than ever, notes Prem Panicker in his must read blog on the Iran War.

AJP Accuses Assam CM of Political Vendetta After Candidate Summoned

AJP Accuses Assam CM of Political Vendetta After Candidate Summoned

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

The Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) has criticised Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma after its Guwahati Central candidate, Kunki Chowdhury, was summoned by police in connection with an election-related case. The AJP alleges the ruling BJP is using intimidation tactics due to Chowdhury's strong performance.

Indian Badminton Players Still Waiting for Certificates After University Games Exclusion

Indian Badminton Players Still Waiting for Certificates After University Games Exclusion

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

Six Indian badminton players are still awaiting participation certificates promised by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) after an administrative lapse prevented them from competing at the World University Games.

Radio-Collared Tiger Dies of Suspected Poisoning Near Satpura Tiger Reserve

Radio-Collared Tiger Dies of Suspected Poisoning Near Satpura Tiger Reserve

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

A radio-collared tiger was allegedly poisoned to death near the Satpura Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh, leading to the arrest of five individuals suspected of lacing the tiger's kill with poison after it preyed on their cattle; the suspects are also allegedly involved in illegal opium cultivation.

Bengal polls: EC tightens grip with strategic transfers

Bengal polls: EC tightens grip with strategic transfers

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

The Election Commission has intensified preparations for the West Bengal Assembly elections by reshuffling senior officers and deploying IAS and IPS officers in key poll management roles.

Trump weighs US-Iran 'joint venture' to secure Hormuz after truce

Trump weighs US-Iran 'joint venture' to secure Hormuz after truce

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that Washington is considering a "joint venture" with Iran to secure the Strait of Hormuz, following his announcement of a two-week ceasefire.

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.

Haryana Boosts Anti-Narcotics Efforts with New Tech and Coordination

Haryana Boosts Anti-Narcotics Efforts with New Tech and Coordination

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Haryana is strengthening its anti-narcotics framework with an integrated and technology-driven roadmap, focusing on increased enforcement, inter-state coordination, and financial disruption of drug networks.

Ex-CPI(M) Leader Accuses Party of Caste-Based Campaigning in Kerala

Ex-CPI(M) Leader Accuses Party of Caste-Based Campaigning in Kerala

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

Former CPI(M) leader G Sudhakaran has accused the party of engaging in caste-based campaigning in the Ambalapuzha constituency, leading to a heated exchange with party officials.

Abhishek Banerjee Alleges Centre Starving West Bengal by Blocking Funds

Abhishek Banerjee Alleges Centre Starving West Bengal by Blocking Funds

Rediff.com5 Apr 2026

Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee accuses the central government of withholding funds from West Bengal to punish voters for supporting the TMC, while highlighting state-led initiatives to support the population.

Radio-Collared Tiger Dies of Poisoning in Madhya Pradesh

Radio-Collared Tiger Dies of Poisoning in Madhya Pradesh

Rediff.com28 Mar 2026

A radio-collared tiger was allegedly poisoned to death in Madhya Pradesh, leading to the arrest of five individuals. The incident highlights concerns about poaching and monitoring failures, prompting calls for investigation and accountability.

Why Former IAS Officer Cheema's Move Strengthens Shiromani Akali Dal

Why Former IAS Officer Cheema's Move Strengthens Shiromani Akali Dal

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Former IAS officer Kanwaljeet Singh Cheema joins the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), with party president Sukhbir Singh Badal highlighting his administrative experience and criticising the AAP government's performance in Punjab.

Hazaribag Treasury Scam: Arrests Increase as Embezzlement Reaches 28 Crore

Hazaribag Treasury Scam: Arrests Increase as Embezzlement Reaches 28 Crore

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

The Hazaribag Superintendent of Police (SP) Office treasury scam has seen further developments with more arrests and a significant increase in the embezzlement amount to 28 crore. The investigation continues, with authorities pursuing leads in Bihar and freezing suspicious accounts.

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.

Centre to retain states' tax share at 41% for next five years

Centre to retain states' tax share at 41% for next five years

Rediff.com1 Feb 2026

The 16th Finance Commission, led by Arvind Panagariya, has recommended maintaining the states' share in central taxes at 41% for the five-year period starting April 1, 2026. The government has accepted this recommendation, with Rs 1.4 lakh crore allocated to states for FY 2026-27 as Finance Commission Grants.