News for 'us secretary of state'

Kerala Parties React Differently To Assembly Exit Polls

Kerala Parties React Differently To Assembly Exit Polls

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

Political parties in Kerala, including the ruling LDF, opposition UDF, and BJP-led NDA, have reacted to the exit poll predictions for the Assembly elections, with varying degrees of confidence and skepticism.

Telangana Police To Focus On Cyber Crime, Road Safety

Telangana Police To Focus On Cyber Crime, Road Safety

Rediff.com1 May 2026

Telangana's newly appointed DGP C V Anand announced that the state police will implement measures to address cyber crimes, drug issues, and road accidents, involving district-level officials. He also mentioned reviewing the phone-tapping case linked to the previous BRS regime and prioritising rehabilitation programmes for surrendered Naxals.

'Not true': Iran denies participation in second round of talks in Pakistan

'Not true': Iran denies participation in second round of talks in Pakistan

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

Iran has denied agreeing to participate in a second round of peace talks, contradicting claims made by the United States. The denial comes as tensions remain high in West Asia, with a ceasefire window nearing its end.

'Subversion of democratic process': Bengal's Falta to see repolling on May 21

'Subversion of democratic process': Bengal's Falta to see repolling on May 21

Rediff.com3 May 2026

The Election Commission has ordered a repoll in all 285 polling booths of the Falta assembly constituency in West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district on May 21, following reports of severe electoral offences and subversion of the democratic process during the second phase of the assembly elections.

India Secure Dominant Victory Over Macau In Ice Hockey Asia Cup

India Secure Dominant Victory Over Macau In Ice Hockey Asia Cup

Rediff.com1 May 2026

India defeated Macau 8-1 in the U-18 Ice Hockey Asia Cup, with captain Gurtej Singh Bhatti scoring four goals in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

'Make Kharge Karnataka to CM to end leadership tussle'

'Make Kharge Karnataka to CM to end leadership tussle'

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara stated that the Congress party would welcome Mallikarjun Kharge as the chief minister of the state, amid speculation about leadership change and cabinet reshuffle.

Reopen Hormuz route quickly, stick to no-nuclear pledge: China to Iran

Reopen Hormuz route quickly, stick to no-nuclear pledge: China to Iran

Rediff.com6 May 2026

China has called on Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and expressed appreciation for Tehran's commitment not to develop nuclear weapons, a key demand of the US to end the conflict.

AITA Promises New Era Of Transparency After Court Order

AITA Promises New Era Of Transparency After Court Order

Rediff.com6 May 2026

The All India Tennis Association (AITA) has announced its commitment to transparency and inclusiveness following a Delhi High Court decision regarding its 2024 elections. The AITA plans to implement constitutional amendments and ensure player representation in its governance.

Vijay Is The New Chennai Super King!

Vijay Is The New Chennai Super King!

Rediff.com4 May 2026

Unlike films that end with the underdog becoming winner and being sworn in at a public ceremony, Vijay's trial by fire is only about to begin, predicts Saisuresh Sivaswamy.

India's 10-Year Plan To Become A Sporting Powerhouse

India's 10-Year Plan To Become A Sporting Powerhouse

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya emphasised the importance of executing the country's 10-year roadmap to become a global sporting powerhouse during the Chintan Shivir held in Srinagar. The event saw participation from state sports ministers and eminent sports personalities, focusing on active implementation and grassroots development.

Can Dinesh Trivedi's Dhaka posting mend frayed India-Bangladesh ties?

Can Dinesh Trivedi's Dhaka posting mend frayed India-Bangladesh ties?

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Former Union minister Dinesh Trivedi has been appointed as India's next High Commissioner to Bangladesh, signalling efforts to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.

What happens if Mamata doesn't resign? Experts weigh in

What happens if Mamata doesn't resign? Experts weigh in

Rediff.com6 May 2026

Legal experts suggest West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee should resign following her party's defeat in the assembly elections, or face potential dismissal by the governor.

No petrol, diesel price hike after assembly polls: Govt

No petrol, diesel price hike after assembly polls: Govt

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

The government has dismissed speculation of an imminent increase in petrol and diesel prices, assuring citizens that there are no plans for a hike despite rising crude oil costs.

Hansraj College Reviews Suspension Of Students After Fest Unrest

Hansraj College Reviews Suspension Of Students After Fest Unrest

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Hansraj College in Delhi is reconsidering the suspension of 30 students after protests, following alleged misconduct during the college fest and social media activity. The college disciplinary committee met to hear the students' sides, and a decision is expected soon.

Karnataka bypoll: Cong retains two assembly seats despite power tussle

Karnataka bypoll: Cong retains two assembly seats despite power tussle

Rediff.com4 May 2026

Ruling Congress in Karnataka on Monday retained Bagalkot and Davanagere South assembly seats, giving a respite to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and the party leadership, amid the ongoing power tussle over the leadership issue.

'Ready to Take the Risk': Inside Congress's Vijay Bet

'Ready to Take the Risk': Inside Congress's Vijay Bet

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Whether Vijay has the political spine to stitch together a stable government from this patchwork of conditions, demands, and midnight drama is the question Tamil Nadu is living through right now.

Haryana Suspends IAS Officers Amid IDFC Bank Fraud Investigation

Haryana Suspends IAS Officers Amid IDFC Bank Fraud Investigation

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

The Haryana government has suspended two IAS officers, Ram Kumar Singh and Pardeep Kumar, in connection with an ongoing investigation into a Rs 590-crore fraud case involving IDFC First Bank.

Relief for India as US renews Russian oil waiver for 30 days

Relief for India as US renews Russian oil waiver for 30 days

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

The United States has extended a waiver from sanctions to allow countries to buy petroleum products from Russia by a month, days after it ruled out renewal of the special measure.

Seers step up pressure on Congress for Shivakumar as CM

Seers step up pressure on Congress for Shivakumar as CM

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

A forum of swamijis has urged the Congress high command to immediately appoint D K Shivakumar as the Chief Minister of Karnataka, warning of consequences if the demand is not met.

India And Russia Consider Athletics Partnership

India And Russia Consider Athletics Partnership

Rediff.com1 May 2026

Athletics bodies of India and Russia are exploring a long-term cooperation in organising training camps, grassroots development works and mutual participation of their players in their respective competitions.

Odisha forest department buys Mahindra Thars from disaster fund, finds CAG

Odisha forest department buys Mahindra Thars from disaster fund, finds CAG

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

A special audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has revealed that Odisha's forest and environment department sidestepped central guidelines, procuring and customising Mahindra Thar SUVs worth 17 crore from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) for forest protection, despite the funds being earmarked for 'preparedness and capacity building'.

VHP Appeals To UN For Religious Minorities' Protection In Pakistan, Bangladesh

VHP Appeals To UN For Religious Minorities' Protection In Pakistan, Bangladesh

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) has appealed to the United Nations to intervene on behalf of religious minorities in Pakistan and Bangladesh, citing human rights violations.

Trump briefed on new military options, says Iran 'dying for a deal'

Trump briefed on new military options, says Iran 'dying for a deal'

Rediff.com1 May 2026

President Trump has been briefed on potential military actions against Iran, including strikes on infrastructure and control of the Strait of Hormuz, even as negotiations continue. He maintains economic pressure is the primary strategy, while legal questions arise over war powers.

48 hours after rout, revolt brews in TMC, leaders blame top brass

48 hours after rout, revolt brews in TMC, leaders blame top brass

Rediff.com6 May 2026

Following a significant defeat to the BJP, Trinamool Congress leaders are openly criticising the party leadership, citing mismanagement and lack of support as key factors in the election outcome.

Jharkhand Court Rejects Bail For Suspended IAS Officer

Jharkhand Court Rejects Bail For Suspended IAS Officer

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

The Jharkhand High Court has rejected a bail application filed by suspended IAS officer Vinay Choubey in a case registered by the anti-corruption bureau, involving the illegal sale of land and manipulation of records during his tenure as deputy commissioner in Hazaribagh.

India's U18 Ice Hockey Team To Compete In Asia Cup

India's U18 Ice Hockey Team To Compete In Asia Cup

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

The Indian U18 ice hockey team, led by Gurtej Singh Bhatti, will participate in the U18 Asia Cup in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, from April 27 to May 3, according to the national federation.

India's U18 Ice Hockey Team To Compete In Asia Cup

India's U18 Ice Hockey Team To Compete In Asia Cup

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

The Indian U18 ice hockey team, led by Gurtej Singh Bhatti, is set to participate in the U18 Asia Cup in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, from April 27 to May 3, according to the national federation.

Hansraj College Lifts Suspension Of Students' Union Leaders

Hansraj College Lifts Suspension Of Students' Union Leaders

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

Hansraj College in Delhi University has revoked the suspension of its students' union office bearers after a disciplinary committee meeting. The suspensions were initially issued to 30 students for various reasons, including misconduct during the college fest and defaming the college on social media.

Bihar Liquor Ban: Over 1.7 Million Arrested Since 2016

Bihar Liquor Ban: Over 1.7 Million Arrested Since 2016

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

Since Bihar implemented its liquor prohibition law in April 2016, over 1.7 million people have been arrested for offences related to alcohol consumption and sale. The state's Prohibition, Excise and Registration Department reports high conviction rates and significant revenue collection despite the ban.

Indian tanker clears Hormuz; New Delhi raises concerns with Iran post attacks

Indian tanker clears Hormuz; New Delhi raises concerns with Iran post attacks

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

India has raised concerns with Iran over the safety of merchant shipping after two vessels were fired upon in the Strait of Hormuz, prompting them to turn back.

Mamata to hold virtual meeting with all TMC counting agents on Saturday

Mamata to hold virtual meeting with all TMC counting agents on Saturday

Rediff.com1 May 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee will hold a virtual meeting with counting agents to ensure there are no lapses during the vote counting process.

How To Harness Sports For Social Transformation: L-G Sinha Explains

How To Harness Sports For Social Transformation: L-G Sinha Explains

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha emphasised the importance of harnessing sports as a force for social transformation at a national 'Chintan Shivir' in Srinagar. He highlighted the need for collaboration between schools, communities, and families to create ecosystems where young athletes can discover their potential, and urged for greater support and resources for physical education teachers in schools.

Rahul-Sonia to take call on Kerala CM, decision by Sunday

Rahul-Sonia to take call on Kerala CM, decision by Sunday

Rediff.com7 May 2026

As the CLP meeting passed a resolution authorising the party's high command to decide the next CM, observers will file a report to the Congress national leadership, who will take the final call.

Stock markets today: Sensex, Nifty50 rebound as US-Iran negotiations progress, easing oil price fears

Stock markets today: Sensex, Nifty50 rebound as US-Iran negotiations progress, easing oil price fears

Rediff.com6 May 2026

Indian benchmark indices, Sensex and Nifty, saw a significant rebound in early trade, driven by a decline in crude oil prices. This drop followed US President Donald Trump's announcement of progress in negotiations with Iran towards an agreement to end the war, leading to a temporary pause in 'Project Freedom' to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz. Track Nifty 50 and BSE Sensex performance and key global triggers.

Andhra Pradesh CM Lays Foundation for Google's $15 Bn AI Data Centre, Heralding Digital Future

Andhra Pradesh CM Lays Foundation for Google's $15 Bn AI Data Centre, Heralding Digital Future

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu laid the foundation for a USD 15 billion Google Artificial Intelligence data centre near Visakhapatnam, calling it a 'growth engine for India' and Asia's biggest such facility.

Govt body plans legal framework for AI companies

Govt body plans legal framework for AI companies

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

India's newly formed Artificial Intelligence Governance and Economic Group (AIGEG) is set to advocate for a unified legal framework for AI companies, including developers of large language models and chatbot systems, alongside broader operational rules.

Why Hansraj College Suspended 30 Students

Why Hansraj College Suspended 30 Students

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

Hansraj College administration suspends at least 30 students for various reasons, including violence during the college festival and defaming the college on social media. The student union has condemned the move and is planning a protest.

Odisha To Formulate SOP After Census Officials Attacked

Odisha To Formulate SOP After Census Officials Attacked

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

Four Census officials were assaulted in Odisha's Dhenkanal district, prompting the state government to formulate a standard operating procedure (SOP) to safeguard census officials from physical harm and heat-related risks.

Former Congress Leader Accuses Shimla Police of Abduction Attempt

Former Congress Leader Accuses Shimla Police of Abduction Attempt

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

A former Congress leader from Himachal Pradesh's Mandi district has accused the Shimla Police of attempting to abduct him, alleging it was directed by high-ranking officials in the state government after he was stopped for traffic violations.

Jharkhand Parties Demand Pay For Police Amid Treasury Scam

Jharkhand Parties Demand Pay For Police Amid Treasury Scam

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Opposition parties in Jharkhand are demanding the release of salaries for police personnel, which have been withheld following the discovery of irregularities in treasury funds across several districts. The police association claims that over 70,000 personnel have not been paid since March, prompting calls for a thorough investigation and prompt action from the state government.