Kozhikode becomes first Kerala district to achieve full disability ID registration

Akasa Air to start Mumbai-Kozhikode flights from Oct 1

Akasa Air is set to enhance connectivity between Mumbai and Kerala by introducing Kozhikode (Calicut) as its 30th destination. Starting October 1st, the airline will operate daily direct flights, establishing a crucial link between India's financial hub and the Malabar coast. This new route complements Akasa Air's existing services to Kochi, solidifying its presence in Kerala.

Brother of victim test positive for amoebic infection in Kerala

KOZHIKODE: Health authorities on Thursday confirmed a new case of amoebic meningoencephalitis (AME), commonly known as the brain-eating amoeba, in the younger brother of nine-year-old Anaya, who recently died of the disease. The seven-year-old boy, whose name has not been disclosed, tested positive and is now undergoing treatment at Kozhikode Government Medical College Hospital, where his condition is stable. The new case brings the total number of patients currently under treatment for the disease at the hospital to four. Anaya and her brother, residents of Thamarassery, had reportedly bathed in a pond near their home, a likely source of infection. This is a grave situation, and we are mobilising all our resources to contain the spread, said Dr K K Rajaram, Kozhikode District Medical Officer. The disease appearing in a cluster indicates a potential common source of infection. We have initiated a comprehensive survey of water bodies in the affected areas, including the pond near the residence of Anaya at Thamarassery, to identify the specific source, he said. On Wednesday, an 11-year-old girl from Chenakkalangadi, Malappuram, was diagnosed with AME. She had bathed in a stream near her house and a pool near a turf field at Kayantha, Kozhikode. Water samples from both sites are being tested. Other patients currently receiving treatment include a three-month-old infant from Omassery in critical condition on a ventilator and a 49-year-old man from Annassery, whose health status remains unchanged.

Campus placements still a distant dream for law students in Kerala

KOCHI: In the current scenario regarding higher education institutions, the primary factor that prompts students to pursue a course is the job prospects it offers. Placements have been a significant aspect of technical education. Now, even ITI institutions and arts and science colleges are making a concerted effort to secure placements for their students. In contrast, law colleges, especially Government Law Colleges, still have a considerable distance to cover. Speaking to TNIE, Safi Mohan, assistant professor in law at the Government Law College (GLC), Thiruvananthapuram, says, Things are picking up. Though more needs to be done. In the past two years, four of our students got placements. This year, three students got placements in Infosys. It should be noted that of the 1,000 students called for the job interview, three of our students made it. We are providing them with training to skill them to take up the jobs. According to him, as the first step towards achieving placements in multi-national companies and also big firms, the college has been securing internships for its students with IT companies. Last April and May, 75 students did internships in different institutions through the placement cell. Next year, in April and May, we plan to send 150 students to Tier 1 , 2, and 3 law firms in the country. Fifty students will be placed with corporate firms for internships. Almost 25 students are now doing a hybrid internship in different institutions. It should be noted that all internships in law firms and corporate firms are paid internships. Vidyuth K S, principal of Government Law College, Kozhikode, also highlighted the efforts being made by the college to gain visibility. According to him, in the past three years, the college was able to place 28 students in various firms that include Tri Legal, Conga Software Pvt Limited, Lakshmi Kumaran Sidharthan Attorney, and a Canadian company, Mathew and Gupta. We were the first in the history of the Government Law Colleges to organise a management fest. We did that in association with the Calicut Chamber of Commerce and Industry. We will be signing an MoU with them for the conduct of a series of activities. We have begun a training programme in association with the CCCI with an eye on the corporate sector, he added. He claimed that GLC, Kozhikode, has been having an active placement programme for the past five years. Though the numbers were fewer, the placement cell was active. We aim to increase the visibility of our college to attract the attention of the corporate sector, said the principal. However, even as these two GLCs are coming up with activities to increase their placement numbers, the same cant be said about their sister institutions GLC Ernakulam and GLC Thrissur. The activities of the placement cells in these colleges seem to have been confined to training their students for job interviews. Even as GLC Thrissur claims to be active in conducting training classes for its final-year students to prepare them for jobs, GLC Ernakulam is just waking up. According to Sonia K Das, principal, GLC Thrissur, the college had 14 of its students placed with a Hyderabad-based law firm in 2024. Explaining the difficulties in holding a campus recruitment drive in the law college, she said, Firms dont come to the law colleges to recruit employees. The reason behind this is that the majority of the students prefer to join the judicial services. Even in the case of the 14 students who had been placed with the Hyderabad law firm, many resigned to pursue judicial services. The firms dont want to take the risk. Then there are some who want to go for LLM. According to Advocate Mohammed Sha, chairman of the enrolment committee, Bar Council of Kerala, the main reason is the lack of quality. Why should MNCs or corporates come and recruit when the talent pool is mediocre? They prefer students passing out from National Law Universities (NLUs). I recruited five juniors from among those who did their LLB from NLUs. The other five juniors are rank holders from state law colleges, he said. He said that to be visible before the MNCs and the corporates, the law colleges need to either revise their curriculum or come up with activities that will see the skill and talent of their students honed.

Varnapakittu transgender arts fete begins in Kozhikode

This years edition to feature a transgender film festival and a national seminar addressing issues related to health, education, law, and rehabilitation of the transgender community

Health officials in Kozhikode checking if well water could be PAM source

A three-month-old child and a 40-year-old man from Kozhikode and an 11-year-old child from Chelari in Malappuram are undergoing treatment for PAM at the MCH

One more amoebic infection case in Kerala; 11-year-old girl critical

KOZHIKODE: The state has reported a fresh case of amoebic meningoencephalitis , commonly called amoebic brain fever, raising serious public health concerns. An 11-year-old girl from Chenakkalangadi, Malappuram, has been diagnosed with the rare disease and is undergoing treatment at Kozhikode Medical College Hospital. Her condition is said to be critical. The girl was admitted on Tuesday after developing fever and related symptoms. Laboratory tests later confirmed the infection. Health officials have launched urgent measures to find the source of infection, believed to be linked to contaminated water. Following the confirmation, authorities have prohibited people from entering a public pond near the girls house, suspected to be a potential source. Local bodies have been directed to chlorinate nearby water sources as a precaution. With this, the total number of patients currently under treatment for amoebic brain fever at Kozhikode Medical College Hospital has increased to six, including a 3-month-old infant from Omassery, who remains in critical condition on ventilator support. Early detection and prevention crucial: Experts The outbreak has already claimed lives in the state. Recently, Anaya, a fourth-grade student from Thamarassery, succumbed to the infection, prompting extensive investigations around her residence. Her seven-year-old brother, who developed fever symptoms, tested negative but remains under observation. A 49-year-old man from Annassery is also hospitalised without significant improvement. Amoebic brain fever is caused by the free-living amoeba Naegleria fowleri, which thrives in warm, stagnant freshwater such as ponds and lakes. Infection occurs when contaminated water enters the nose, allowing the amoeba to reach the brain. Though rare, the disease is often fatal, with very low survival rates. The health department has issued guidelines to local bodies for chlorination and public awareness campaigns, urging people to avoid swimming in untreated water, especially during the monsoon. Medical experts stress that early detection and prevention are crucial. Once the infection sets in, the chances of survival are minimal. Avoiding exposure to unsafe water is the best protection, said a senior doctor at the Kozhikode Medical College Hospital. As of now, the 11-year-old girl continues to receive intensive care, as Kerala confronts another alarming case of this deadly infection.

Approval for LIFE Mission loans, Kerala government's Onam gift for tribal people

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state cabinet on Wednesday cleared a series of key decisions, including financial approvals under the LIFE Mission, welfare measures for Scheduled Tribes, and creation of new posts in government institutions. As part of the LIFE Mission housing scheme, the Cabinet gave in-principle approval for loans worth Rs 1,500 crore. Of this, a loan of Rs 1,100 crore will support 1,27,601 houses currently under construction and provide Rs 400 crore in housing assistance to beneficiaries in gram panchayats with large Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe populations. The total loan of Rs 1,500 crore will be taken from Housing and Urban Development Corporation Limited (HUDCO) through Kerala Urban Development Finance Corporation (KURDFC) with government guarantee. The repayment of principal will be made over 15 years from the Local Government Development Fund, while the state will meet the interest cost from the annual budget. The borrowing plan will be spread over Rs 750 crore each in 2025-26 and 2026-27. In a major Onam relief package, the government will provide Rs 1,000 each as a festival gift to 52,864 eligible Scheduled Tribe members above 60 years, excluding pensioners of central, state and semi-government institutions. The assistance, amounting to Rs 5.28 crore, will be disbursed from the Chief Ministers Relief Fund for this. The Cabinet also approved the creation of new teaching posts in five government nursing colleges in Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Palakkad, Wayanad and Kasaragod districts. Each college will get one assistant professor and one associate professor post. Additional posts will be created at Thiruvananthapuram Nursing College-Annex, taking the total to seven assistant professors and six associate professors. New posts have also been sanctioned for the excise department to oversee operations at nine newly opened Kerala State Beverage Corporation warehouses in Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam and Kozhikode, besides three junior teaching posts at Perdala Navajeevana HSS, Kasaragod. Key cabinet decisions Re-appointment of retired IHRD Associate Professor P Suresh Kumar as managing director of the Centre for Advanced Printing and Training. Salary revision for contractual employees of Kerala Medical Services Corporation, with retrospective effect from December 15, 2022. Guidelines for the payment of bonus to employees of state public sector undertakings for 2024-25. File Adalat: Ministers and secretaries have been directed to speed up disposal of pending files in departments where progress has been slow. Rebuild Kerala Initiative: Approval for road projects, including three in Pathanamthitta district, nine in Kollam, and three in Vattavada panchayat of Idukki district.

Kerala has advanced facilities to detect amoebic brain fever: Public health lab

KOZHIKODE: The Kerala State Public Health Laboratory has dismissed recent reports suggesting inadequate facilities for testing amoebic meningoencephalitis (amoebic brain fever) as baseless, clarifying that the state has robust systems for detection and diagnosis. While only about five laboratories in India currently have Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing facilities to detect amoebae, Kerala has operated an advanced molecular diagnostic system in Thiruvananthapuram since June last year. This facility enables both confirmation of amoebic infections and precise species identification a breakthrough in the states medical infrastructure. Until recently, amoebic fever cases were confirmed only at the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh. With Keralas testing capability, confirmation is now faster and available within the state, aiding timely treatment and research. The Thiruvananthapuram lab can identify five types of pathogenic amoebae Naegleria fowleri, Acanthamoeba species, Vermamoeba vermiformis, Balamuthia mandrillaris, and Paravahlkampfia francinae. Most labs in the country can detect only three types. Additionally, Kozhikode Medical Colleges microbiology laboratory provides preliminary testing to detect the presence of amoeba. When a patients cerebrospinal fluid sample is submitted, immediate initial testing is carried out. If amoebae are detected, treatment begins without delay. Only species-level identification requires the sample to be forwarded to Thiruvananthapuram, where results are made available online soon after testing. The state is also developing Kozhikode Medical Colleges microbiology department into another specialised centre for confirming amoebic brain fever. Amoebic meningoencephalitis is among the deadliest infections worldwide, with a 97% global mortality rate. However, Kerala has reduced the mortality rate to 23% through early diagnosis, preventive measures, and improved treatment strategies, according to the State Public Health Laboratory. The lab reiterated that Keralas advancements in diagnostic facilities and its proactive health policies have significantly enhanced both patient survival chances and medical research opportunities in the fight against this rare but fatal disease.

Visa okayed: Girls with cerebral palsy to play in UK

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: After several days of anxious wait, five girls with cerebral palsy from Kerala are now a relieved lot. Their visas have finally been approved and they can now travel to the UK to participate in an international football tournament. The girls constitute the five-member team representing India in the intercontinental football tournament for children with cerebral palsy. Organised by the International Federation of Cerebral Palsy Football (IFCPF), the tourney began in Loughborough on Monday. Having undergone a rigorous one-month coaching camp in Alappuzha, the girls were in distress owing to the delay in issuance of UK visas. Their parents too stayed at the camp organised by the Cerebral Palsy Sports Federation of India (CPSFI). Following a report published in TNIE on August 15 highlighting the plight of the children, the Chief Ministers Office intervened and took up the matter with the Ministry of External Affairs and the UK Embassy in India. We are thankful to the chief ministers chief principal secretary K M Abraham who contacted us after seeing the news report. He and S Harikishore, NORKA secretary and officer on special duty at the CMO, who liasoned with the MEA and embassy, gave us real-time updates on each step, said R Girija Kumari, the teams coach. India to play first match on Friday; participation ticket to 26 World Cup The state government had a challenging task at hand as only a few days were left for the event. We went through anxious moments from last Thursday, starting with the non-issuance of visa for the travel originally scheduled for Monday, Girija, who is the secretary of the Cerebral Palsy Sports Association of Kerala, said. Then came the CMOs intervention. On Tuesday afternoon, we received information that visas would be issued. The next morning, however, we were in for a rude shock as the UKs Home Office sent a letter rejecting our visit visa applications. The children broke into tears and we had a tough time consoling them. Barely two hours later, we received a communication from the UK Visas and Immigration Office that six-month visit visas have been approved, she said. The team will fly to the UK on Thursday. The team members are Riya Koshy from Alappuzha, Arya S Nayan from Thiruvananthapuram, and Niya Fathima, Avanthika Vinod and Vrajasurya from Kozhikode. Meanwhile, the IFCPF took a favourable position by postponing the Indian teams match following talks with CPSFI president Rajesh Thomar and general secretary Kavitha Suresh, who are in the UK. The first match, earlier scheduled for Tuesday, has been slated for Friday. The second match is on Saturday. Participation in the event will help the Indian team get an entry to the 2026 IFCPF World Cup. Non-participation would have resulted in a two-year ban. On Tuesday, Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor had posted the TNIE report on X, seeking the intervention of MEA.

Man held under POCSO Act in Kozhikode

Kozhikode MP flags concerns over key road projects with Gadkari

Issues raised include missing entry points on the KozhikodePalakkad Greenfield Highway, exclusion of the KozhikodeMysore project, and demands for underpasses and foot overbridges on the Kozhikode Bypass

RBI shifting towards principle & outcome-based regulations: Dy Guv Rao

MUMBAI, Aug 20: The Reserve Bank is gradually shifting towards principle and outcome-based regulations that will give operational flexibility to regulated entities (REs) and tailor their activities to their unique needs, said central bank deputy governor M Rajeshwar Rao. There is no perfect regulatory approach, however, principle and outcome-based regulation is generally found to be more suitable for mature markets, he said while addressing the DoPT MDP on Financial Market Regulations at the Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode (IIM-K) [] The post RBI shifting towards principle & outcome-based regulations: Dy Guv Rao appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Panel discussion, film fete to be highlights of transgender arts fete

Kozhikode will host the three-day event from Thursday

Kozhikode beach to get modern food street

12 leopards died in Kerala this year; highest in a decade

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state has recorded the highest number of leopard deaths in a decade this year, with 12 fatalities reported till August 2025, according to forest department data. Between July 2015 and August 2025, a total of 92 leopards including adults, sub-adults, and juveniles have died due to natural causes, infighting, snaring, poisoning, hunting, electrocution, and vehicle hits. The toll was spread across almost every district, but the highest losses were in Palakkad with 34 deaths, followed by Wayanad with 20 and Thrissur with eight. Idukki recorded six deaths, Kottayam five, and Ernakulam four. Thiruvananthapuram reported three, the same as Malappuram and Kasaragod, while Kollam and Pathanamthitta had two each. Kozhikode and Kannur recorded one each. The trend shows an alarming spike this year, surpassing the previous peak of 10 deaths each in 2020 and 2024. In 2025 alone, six adult leopards, two sub-adults, three juveniles, and one of unidentified age were lost. Snaring has been a persistent threat, claiming two leopards this year and eight in total since 2018. Trapping accounted for a death this year, while other causes include hunting, poisoning, and electrocution. Vehicle collisions have also been reported, though less frequently. Despite conducting anti-snare drives across the state, incidents of snaring have increased. Conservation can only be done with community participation. Thats the only sustainable way. But there are certain groups among locals that encourage setting up snares in the name of safety, which have become dangerous, a senior forest official told TNIE. Snares are typically set for wild boars or other animals but end up killing non-target species like leopards. Trapping, the official explained, is different. Trapping is when the animals limbs are caught. It could be a cage trap or any other device. That wont trap the animal like snares do. Snares catch the animals entire body, the official said. Wildlife researchers say the danger is not limited to the snare itself. The animals might remain trapped for a long time before they are found. Their desperate efforts to escape can strangle them or tighten the snare around the body, causing internal bleeding. By the time darting and tranquillisation are attempted, the animal may already be in extreme stress and poor health, said Sandeep Das, a research associate with the department of zoology, Calicut University. While natural deaths form a significant portion of the toll, conservationists say that preventable causes like snaring demand urgent attention.

Health dept. issues alert against amoebic meningoencephalitis in Kozhikode

Chief Minister to inaugurate work on Kalladi-Meppadi tunnel road project in Kozhikode on August 31

2,134-crore project will be completed in association with Public Works department, Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board and Konkan Railway Corporation

What Is Brain-Eating Amoeba? Kerala Girl Dies From Rare Infection

A nine-year-old girl in Keralas Kozhikode died from a rare brain infection caused by the brain-eating amoeba.

Brain-eating amoeba kills 9-year-old in Kerala: How it enters the human body, symptoms, treatment, and precautions

Brain-eating amoeba symptoms and treatment: A nine-year-old girl in Kozhikode, Kerala, has died from amoebic encephalitis. This rare brain infection is caused by amoeba found in contaminated water. Health officials are investigating the source. This is potentially the fourth case in the district this year. The infection is often fatal. People should avoid swimming in unclean water.

Water tank collapse at Eranhiparambu in Keralas Kozhikode floods houses, worsens water shortage

One of the concrete walls of the square-shaped tank gave way, producing a loud noise that alerted local residents

Well water under scanner in Kerala as rare amoebic infection surges

KOZHIKODE: Health authorities in the state have issued a high alert following a surge in cases of the rare and deadly amoebic encephalitis, with a new threat now under investigation: the potential for infection from domestic well water. While typically associated with warm, fresh surface waters like ponds and rivers, the amoeba responsible for the disease, Naegleria fowleri, is now suspected of being a potential contaminant in private wells, especially those that are poorly maintained or untreated. This comes under scrutiny after two cases of amoebic encephalitis were reported in Kozhikode district recently, one of which involves a 3-month-old baby from Omassery, whose family claims the child had no contact with any water source other than the well at their home. This has forced health officials to consider a new avenue of transmission, one that moves beyond traditional recreational water activities. DMO K K Rajaram said an investigation is under way to confirm this potential link. Our preliminary findings suggest the infant might have been exposed to contaminated water from their well or a nearby source, as there is no history of contact with rivers or public ponds, he said. Water samples collected from areas close to the patients house are being tested to ascertain the source of infection. Health dept calls for heightened vigil This isnt an isolated theory. According to an health department official, studies have shown that though rare, Naegleria fowleri can colonise well water systems, especially if they are not regularly tested or chlorinated. The amoeba thrives in warm water and well temperatures can often create an ideal environment for its proliferation. In documented cases from other regions, children have been infected after bathing in well water at home. This highlights the critical need for a new level of public awareness and proactive measures, like routine testing and chlorination, to prevent the amoeba from thriving in household water supplies, the official said. In another case, a youth from Annassery in the district has been diagnosed with the infection. According to officials, the youth had reportedly taken bath in a pond near his house, but the confirmation on the source of infection will be released only after getting test reports of the samples taken from five different water bodies near his house. With this, three cases have been confirmed in the district this month. Earlier, the death of a nine-year-old girl, Anaya, from Thamarassery, was confirmed to be due to the same infection. In response to the confirmed cases, the states health department has issued a high alert, urging residents, particularly families with young children, to be extremely cautious. Dr Rajaram advised the public to avoid swimming or bathing in stagnant freshwater bodies. For those who rely on well water, he stressed the importance of regular testing and chlorination as a preventive measure.

Two more diagnosed with amoebic meningoencephalitis in Kozhikode

Senior citizen found dead in Kozhikode

Advisory issued after girl dies of amoebic meningoencephalitis in Wayanad

KOZHIKODE: The health department has issued additional cautionary instructions post the death of a girl due to amoebic meningoencephalitis in Thamarassery. Nine-year-old Anaya Sanoop died of primary amoebic meningoencephalitis on Thursday. The health department has instructed people to refrain from bathing in ponds, water bodies, streams, rivers etc. within the limits of Thamarassery panchayat. The health department has also conducted inspections in these areas. Four people, including the childs relatives, are suffering from fever and are under observation at the Kozhikode Medical College Hospital. However, it is not clear how the girl contracted the disease. A week ago, she had gone swimming in a pond in Anappoyil near her house. This being a stagnant pond, has increased the possibility of presence of the amoeba in the water. Therefore, the water in the pond was sent for testing by the health department. Anayas two brothers had also bathed in this pond and their saliva samples were also sent for testing. The authorities will also test the tap water used at home. Anaya, a fourth-grade student at Korangad LP School, developed symptoms of fever after returning from school on Wednesday. The girls health condition deteriorated and she was brought to the Thamarassery Taluk Hospital on Thursday morning. She was later shifted to Kozhikode Medical College Hospital, but she had died by the time she reached here. Her parents have come forward with serious allegations against the Thamarassery Taluk Hospital in the incident.

237 grams of suspected MDMA seized in Kozhikode; one held

Woman passenger injured, falls unconscious as KSRTC bus hits pothole in Keralas Kozhikode

Passengers say the incident was caused not only by the poor condition of the road stretch but also by the bus drivers rash driving

Vigilance probe sought into collapse of Thorayikadavu bridge in Kozhikode

Preliminary report on the incident submitted to Minister for Public Works

One injured as bridge under construction collapses in Kerala

KOZHIKODE: A portion of the under-construction Thorayikadavu bridge, which connects the Koyilandy and Balussery constituencies, collapsed on Thursday afternoon, injuring a worker. The incident occurred over the middle of the river when a newly installed beam tilted and gave way, causing the concrete structure to collapse along with it. The incident has sparked widespread concern and prompted immediate action from authorities. Local residents and political workers have alleged that substandard construction practices may have led to the collapse an allegation that is now under official investigation. The injured worker was identified as being part of the construction crew and was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. The Thorayikadavu bridge is designed to connect the Pookkad and Atholi riverbanks. The project, funded by KIIFB (Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board) with a budget of approximately `23.82 crore, is being constructed by the Malappuram-based PMR Group. The bridge is planned to be 265 metres long and 12 metres wide. The construction work is overseen by the PWD Kerala Road Fund Unit. According to local resident Ajay Bose, several construction workers narrowly escaped serious injuries when the beam collapsed during concreting work. Its a miracle more people werent hurt, he said, highlighting the dangerous nature of the incident. Following the collapse, a higher official with PWD demanded an urgent report from the project director. He stated that further action would be taken once the report is received. Congress workers expressed outrage over the collapse, calling it a textbook example of negligence and corruption. They demanded a thorough probe and strict action against the construction company. This is not just a structural failure; its a failure of responsibility, said a local Congress leader, who preferred to remain anonymous. The public deserves to know why a project of this magnitude, funded by public money, was allowed to be compromised. Residents said the bridge was seen as a vital infrastructure project that would improve connectivity and boost the local economy. They are demanding accountability from the construction firm, PMR Group, and have called for an urgent and transparent inquiry.

After battling physical hurdles, 17-year-old Aman to hoist Tricolour at Everest Base Camp

KOZHIKODE: After 10 days of relentless trekking, a teenager from a small town in Kozhikode is on the verge of turning his lifelong dream into a powerful statement for a nation. Aman Ali, a 17-year-old student from Arakkinar, will hoist the Tricolour today at Everest Base Camp -- at a formidable altitude of 5,364 metres. His journey is also a story of triumph over disability that many would consider a showstopper. Born without hands and living with a locomotor disability linked to cerebral palsy, Amans trek has been an inspiration to his fellow climbers and a symbol of hope for thousands. He is part of a nine-member climbing group from Kerala, led by experienced mountaineer Sheikh Hassan Khan. The groups mission has been to not just reach base camp, but to support Aman in his quest to hoist the Indian flag on Independence Day, in a symbolic act of freedom and resilience. In a conversation from the breathtaking heights of the Himalayas, Aman shared his feelings, his voice filled with a quiet determination. People thought this trip would be challenging for me, but at no point did I feel my disability would force me to step back, he said. Aman credited his team for their unwavering support, a camaraderie that transformed the difficult trek into a shared adventure. The huge support from my team indeed boosted me to reach this extent. They considered me as part of them and made me walk just like any normal people would trek to the base camp. This expedition is Amans first serious trek, his only previous experience being a climb up Kurumbalakotta, a hill in his home state of Keralas Wayanad district. He wants his story to be a beacon of motivation. I want to be the motivation for thousands of disabled people in our country. If I can achieve this height, then anyone can, he asserted. Nobody should keep us aside by talking about our disability. My legs are enough to reach this height. Beyond the majestic peaks and challenging terrain, Aman has grand ambitions. He dreams of becoming a professional footballer and captaining the Indian team. Upon his return, he plans to train at the prestigious I M Vijayan Football Camp. Currently a Class 11 humanities student of Rahmania Higher Secondary School for the Handicapped, his academic aspirations remain strong, and his school is preparing a heros welcome on his return. It was during his participation in the Mazhavillu sports training camp for children with disabilities -- run by Cheruvannur Unity FC in collaboration with Gokulam Kerala FC -- that Aman shared his dream of climbing the Everest with Muhammed Shahel, his camp coach. Shahel researched the expedition and associated costs and realised that it would cost around `3.5 lakh. The biggest challenge for Aman was finding the money. Hearing about his situation, television broadcaster and publisher Santhosh George Kulangara donated `1 lakh, while `3.5 lakh were provided by Xylem Education to cover the trip and other necessary expenses. The donations helped Amans dream take flight. Amans journey, which began on August 4, was made possible by the collective effort of his schools National Service Scheme volunteers and programme officer, T Shahul Hameed, who raised funds for the trip. But the biggest support, he says, came from his parents Razia and Noushad Ali and his sister Ashna who have always believed in his dreams.

Violence marks Partition horrors day

Clashes break out at University of Calicut, Government Law College in Kozhikode, Government College in Kasaragod after Sangh Parivar outfits try to observe day as directed by Governor

Local bodies in Kozhikode to initiate stringent measures against people who abandon pets

List of dog owners who are yet to comply with the registration formalities to be prepared in the limits of various local bodies in the district as part of the action plan

Kids with cerebral palsy await UK visa for tournament

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Five girls with cerebral palsy are anxiously awaiting their UK visas, uncertain if they would be able to fulfil their dream of participating in an international football championship. Trained by the Cerebral Palsy Sports Federation of India, the five girls were chosen to represent the country in the intercontinental football tournament for children with cerebral palsy, organised by the International Federation of Cerebral Palsy Football. The delay in getting visas has pushed them into uncertainty, as the tournament is set to begin on August 16 at Loughborough. Tickets from Thiruvananthapuram to London have already been booked. However, they will not be able to attend the championship if we do not get the visas by Friday, the last working day left before the tourney begins. Such opportunities are rare and the girls would be really disappointed if they couldnt make it, said their coach R Girija Kumari. The girls had submitted their visa applications at the UK Visa Application Centre in Kochi. The selected girls are Riya Koshy from Alappuzha, Arya S Nayan from Thiruvananthapuram, and Niya Fathima, Avanthika Vinod, and Vrajasurya from Kozhikode.

Over 3 lakh apply for inclusion in voters list in Kozhikode

Kozhikode ranks second in the State for the highest number of applicants, while Malappuram, with 4,14,953 applicants, tops the list

Nipah survivor from Mangaluru in coma at Kozhikode hospital to get 17 lakh from CMDRF

He had initially contracted the infection while attending to a patient during the 2023 outbreak in Kozhikode

Kerala govt approves pay hike for government lawyers, sanctions aid for health workers

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state cabinet on Wednesday approved a hike in the monthly remuneration of government pleaders and public prosecutors, along with a substantial financial aid package for a health worker suffering long-term effects of Nipah encephalitis. As per the decision, the monthly pay for District Government Pleaders and Public Prosecutors will increase from 87,500 to 1,10,000. Additional Government Pleaders and Additional Public Prosecutors will see their pay rise from 75,000 to 95,000, while pleaders engaged for government work will now receive 25,000, up from 20,000. The revised rates will be effective retrospectively from 1 January 2022. The Cabinet also sanctioned 17 lakh from the Chief Ministers Distress Relief Fund for Tito Thomas, a health worker from Kozhikode, who has been in a coma for over a year after contracting Nipah encephalitis in 2023. He is currently undergoing treatment at a private hospital. In another decision, the V R Krishna Iyer Memorial Stadium in Thalassery will be leased to the Thalassery Municipality for 10 years under specific conditions. The land may only be used for sports and related welfare activities, with any commercial establishments requiring prior government approval. A coordination committee, chaired by the municipal chairman and comprising representatives from the Sports and Revenue Departments, will oversee management. The stadium must be made available free of charge for official Sports Department use, while other departments or organisations using it for sports purposes will be charged a reasonable fee, to be decided jointly by the stadium management committee.

Initial delays hit Kozhikode Corporations menstrual cup project

Teachers collective takes out march in Kozhikode

Deviant children emerging as a social concern in Kerala schools

Functionaries of the Higher Secondary School Teachers Association (HSSTA), an organisation of teachers in government higher secondary schools, claim that such incidents have recently been reported from Kozhikode, Malappuram, Kannur, and Kasaragod, and other districts in the State as well.

DGCA Sends Show Cause Notice To IndiGo For Lapses In Simulator Training For 1,700 Pilots

The DGCA found that simulators used for training, testing, or checking for airfields such as Kozhikode, Leh, and Kathmandu were not qualified or approved for the specific airport models, sources said.

Eight passenger trains in Kerala get additional coaches

KOZHIKODE: The Southern Railway announced augmenting two additional coaches to eight passenger trains operating in the state. The statement from the zonal railway said that one second-class general and one second-class chair car coaches were provided for the convenience of the passengers. Train No. 16366 Nagercoil Junction Kottayam Daily Express, leaving Nagercoil junction at 1 pm, would be augmented starting from August 15. Train No. 16326 Kottayam Nilambur Daily Express, departing Kottayam at 5.15 am and Train No. 16325 Nilambur Kottayam Daily Express, departing Nilambur at 3.15 pm will be augmented from August 16. Train No. 56311 Kottayam Kollam Junction Daily Passenger departing Kottayam at 5.40 am and Train No. 56302 Kollam Junction Alappuzha Daily Passenger departing from Kollam Jn. at 9.05 am, Train No. 56301 Alappuzha Kollam Junction Daily Passenger departing from Alappuzha at 1.15 pm, Train No. 56307 Kollam Junction Thiruvananthapuram Central Daily Passenger departing Kollam Jn. at 3.55 pm, and Train No. 56308 Thiruvananthapuram Central Nagercoil Junction Daily Passenger departing Thiruvananthapuram Central at 6 pm would be augmented with effect from August 17.

Alert systems revamped post-Wayanad

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A year after facing widespread criticism over the lack of timely warnings before the deadly landslide in Wayanad, central agencies such as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and Geological Survey of India (GSI) have initiated major overhauls in their alert mechanisms. In a significant move to improve weather forecasting and disaster preparedness in Keralas high ranges, the IMD is establishing its first radar station in Wayanad. The new X-band Doppler Weather Radar (DWR) is expected to enhance real-time monitoring, especially in areas where expanding ground-based observatories is difficult. Radar data is especially useful for rainfall analysis. It provides an indirect yet effective ground-level assessment, said Neetha K Gopal, Director, IMD Kerala. Once operational, the radar will monitor rainfall within a 100-km radius, covering Wayanad and nearby regions in Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. Though initial plans considered Kozhikode or Kannur, the radar location was shifted to Wayanad after the landslide that struck the district on July 30 last year. Increasing the number of ground observatories in forested, hilly terrain remains a logistical challenge. IMD is currently calibrating existing stations. However, improved inter-agency coordination is also shaping the new approach. We now share data more frequently among agencies, though its still an informal mechanism, Neetha added. The IMD had come under fire for failing to issue a red alert ahead of the disaster. The landslide occurred in the early hours of July 30, but the red alert-indicating a severe risk to life-was issued only around 6 am, hours after the event. The Geological Survey of India too had been criticised for downplaying the threat. However, Dr V Ambili, Deputy Director General of the GSI Kerala unit, said the agency has since refined its alert system based on more robust data collection. We have moved from broad map-based bulletins to taluk-level alerts in Wayanad and Idukki. The warning categories-green, yellow, orange, and red-are now issued for specific regions, she said.

Lookout notice issued against Rapper Vedan

KOCHI: The Kochi city police have issued a lookout notice against rapper Hirandas Murali aka Vedan in connection with an alleged rape complaint filed by a woman doctor. The notice was issued as the police could not trace Vedan even two weeks after the case was registered. Police said he is likely to flee the country to avoid arrest. The lookout circular was sent to airports late on Sunday to prevent him from fleeing the country, said a source with Kochi city police. The probe team suspects that Vedan may be attempting to leave the country, prompting the issuance of the notice. If he manages to travel abroad, bringing him back would be a challenging task. The probe is being conducted by Infopark SHO under the supervision of the Thrikkakkara ACP, said the official. Responding to the ongoing probe, a top source with Kochi city police, stated, The victim has given a statement that she was sexually assaulted five times in Kozhikode, Kochi, and Eloor. She also alleged that the accused assaulted her under the influence of drugs. Moreover, she named some friends of Vedan who were aware of the incidents. The woman stated that Vedan had cut off contact with her since July 2023, ignoring her calls, which left her mentally distressed, said the source. The victim also revealed that she had transferred Rs 31,000 to Vedan on several occasions and submitted Google Pay transaction details to support her claim, he added. Following Vedans disappearance, Olam Live, a music event featuring Vedan as headliner, originally scheduled to take place at the Bolgatty Palace in Kochi on August 9, 2025, was postponed. The Kochi city police had planned to arrest him if he attended the event. Meanwhile, Vedan has filed a petition seeking anticipatory bail in the High Court, which is scheduled to be heard on August 18, 2025.

Whiff of a novel trend? Artificial flowers are reshaping Keralas festivals

KOZHIKODE: For generations, fresh flowers have played a major role in the vibrant festivals of Kerala. From the golden shower of the kani konna during Vishu to the intricate floral carpets, or pookalams, of Onam, these natural blooms are deep-rooted in Malayali culture. But in recent years, a new kind has been flowering -- one made of plastic and that promises convenience, affordability and a longer-lasting festive spirit. This shift from natures bounty to a more practical, reusable alternative is not just a trend -- its now a burgeoning cottage industry. Traders across the state have reported a significant surge in the popularity of these synthetic flowers, noting that they are washable, recyclable, and significantly cheaper than fresh flowers that are now mostly imported from neighbouring states. The pookalam, a centrepiece of the Onam celebration, has traditionally been a labour of love, a daily creative effort using flowers plucked from local gardens. But with the scarcity of native flowers such as thumba and thechi and the rise of urban living, this cherished tradition is becoming increasingly challenging. This is where entrepreneur Arvindakshan N K and his family from Thrissur stepped in. With the support of his wife, Jisha, and son, Aljith, Arvindakshan turned his company, Empire Creation, into a family business creating pre-assembled, artificial pookalams. We first tried this ten years ago, but the frame we used couldnt be folded, so it didnt take off, Arvindakshan said. The idea was revived recently when a customer asked for a pookalam mat, sparking the familys new venture. The new version, which uses a durable base and high-quality artificial flowers, can be easily rolled up for storage and reuse. The response has been nothing short of explosive. The familys social media channels, managed by Aljith, an automobile engineer, have been flooded with orders. In just one week, a single social media post garnered more than 800,000 views. Im finding more scope in this business, Aljith says, noting that hes attended several marketing courses to help grow the company. The family has already shipped more than 1,000 pookalams and is struggling to keep up with demand. We have been receiving orders from around the world, he said. Were getting more orders from outside India, Aljith explains. Weve had orders from the UK, Canada, Ireland, and the United States. The family was even challenged to make a pookalam six feet in diameter for a church in Ireland, a feat they accomplished despite not having created one over four feet. This global demand highlights a clear need within the Malayali diaspora. For families living in countries where fresh flowers are expensive or simply unavailable, these ready-made pookalams offer a perfect solution. They allow them to keep their traditions alive without the daily effort or the worry of wilting petals. They can be unrolled and placed in minutes, providing an instant connection to their homelands festive spirit. The raw materials, primarily artificial flowers from China, allow the family to keep costs down and pass the savings on to customers. Prices range from Rs 250 for a 1.5 ft pookalam to Rs 2,300 for a four-feet one. The family, which has been in the artificial-flower business for 15 years, is now facing the challenge of scaling up. With over 400 orders pending and a delivery issue to tackle, they have enlisted the help of friends to complete the backlog. While currently offering a single design, Empire Creation is planning to introduce more creations for the next season.

Kozhikode has to be regular venue for RIFFK: Minister

Mavelicus 2025 Onam celebrations to begin in Kozhikode on August 31

Celebrations will be held on a grand scale with a variety of programmes, says Tourism Minister

Artificial intelligence cannot replace human factor, says IIM-Kozhikode director Debashis Chatterjee

KOCHI: AI cannot replace humans in terms of leadership as it requires humanitarian qualities, said IIM-Kozhikode director Debashis Chatterjee. He was speaking at the Mindful Leadership Masterclass on the topic Explore the essence of the human factor in an AI world. In an era, that is increasingly being defined by predictive algorithms, it is a leaders responsibility to preserve the human factor. The corporates need a dedicated reflection time to cultivate high-potential leaders who can navigate uncertainty and create value in ways AI cannot replicate, he said. The author and columnist talked about how mindfulness and self-awareness play a major part in effective leadership at the event held in JW Marriott Hotel, Kochi. He added that while AI can play by the rules and logic -- with the incorporation of abundant data -- use traditional technical skills and make analytical decisions, a human mind is needed to understand the context of things, work with insights, think critically and serve accordingly. Ultimately, what the advent of AI does is that it will push us to a point where one gains the ability to function with their intuitive senses, beyond all data, in every case. Algorithm does not have awareness, he said. The class conducted by IIM-K, was attended by leaders and over 150 professionals from a wide spectrum of institutions in Kochi, including Air India, Cochin Shipyard Limited, Cochin International Aviation Services Limited (subsidiary of CIAL), Steel and Industrial Forgings Limited (SIFL), Kerala Electrical & Allied Engineering Co Ltd (KEL), Travancore Cochin Chemicals Ltd (TCC), FACT, Federal Bank, ESAF Bank, KSIDC, and KSEB. The event also featured the release of Chatterjees latest book One Minute Wisdom, on transformative coaching for life, learning and leadership.

Two women found dead in Kozhikode

Elderly woman pushed out of train after robbery in Kozhikode; search on to nab suspect

The alleged incident took place in Sampark Kranti Express on August 8

Promoting Satan: Muslim scholars decry Labubu craze

KOZHIKODE: Labubu those quirky, sharp-toothed plush dolls turned the global in thing of 2025 in no time. Created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung and China-based Pop Mart, the dolls have found fans across the world, including India, with celebrities like Lisa from K-Pop group Blackpink and singer Rihanna also flaunting them on social media. However, a section of Muslim religious scholars from Kerala has raised alarm over the craze for the spiritually dangerous dolls, terming them a modern revival of ancient demonic imagery. This Labubu craze is promoting Satan, declared Rahumathulla Qasimi Mutthedam, a religious scholar. It is nothing but a reincarnation of kuttichathan. Weve always known an evil spirit masked in cuteness. Turning a blind eye to such symbolism is spiritually careless, he said. Qasimi said the dolls eerie features bulging eyes, sharp teeth and mischievous grin are not harmless quirks but reflective of ghostly beings long warned about in Islamic and Kerala folk tradition. The recent viral theory connecting Labubu to Pazuzu, an ancient Mesopotamian demon made infamous by The Exorcist, has intensified the debate. However, not all legal or cultural minds in Kerala are on board with the religious condemnation. There is no law against collecting dolls. Associating a cartoon character with Satan is not only irrational, its dangerous, said Advocate Naseer Ali, a Kozhikode-based civil rights lawyer. Fine to caution, but coercion unacceptable We are treading into the territory of moral panic. Whats next? Banning Halloween? Burning storybooks, Ali asked, while emphasising that the campaign against Labubu threatens to conflate mythology with legal discourse and risks targeting harmless personal expression under the guise of spiritual purity. Ali said, In a plural society, not everyone shares the same spiritual symbols or fears. Its fine to caution, but coercion or public shaming is not acceptable. However, scholar Abdul Kareem from Kozhikode said: These are not merely toys. They carry symbolic power. We may not believe the dolls are evil, but belief is not the only issue. Exposure matters, he warned. Mariya Faisal, a 19-year-old collector in Kochi, felt differently. Labubu is like a secret handshake, said Mariya. Youre either in the club, or youre not. Its art, not evil. Still, religious scholars urge fans to consider what they are glorifying, she said. Exorcism, ban Influencers across the globe have staged mock exorcisms of the dolls, while videos of Labubu dolls being burned have circulated on TikTok and Instagram. In some areas of Russia and Iraqs Kurdistan region, the dolls have been banned. $10,000 resale value Labubu was first introduced in 2015 through Hong Kong artist Kasing Lungs illustrated book series The Monsters. In his own words, Labubu is a mischievous but kind-hearted forest elf with no ties to any demonic tradition. Rare Labubu figures command resale prices upwards of $10,000.

Kerala launches landmark housing scheme for transgender community

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Often facing ostracism and exclusion, transgender persons have long struggled to find safe and affordable housing in Kerala. However, a new initiative by the state government is set to change this. A housing scheme, first of its kind, will be launched exclusively for transgender community, offering them a chance to live with dignity and security. The scheme brought out by the social justice department will provide financial assistance to transgender persons for both purchase of land and construction of house. Social Justice Minister R Bindu will formally launch the scheme at the Varnapakittu transgender arts festival scheduled to be held in Kozhikode from August 21 to 23. The pioneering scheme aims to provide a supportive environment, addressing the unique challenges faced by the transgender community. By offering affordable housing options, the government hopes to empower transgender individuals, promoting their inclusion and well-being in society, Bindu said. Under the scheme, beneficiaries will be provided three options. Transgender persons who do not have land or house will be entitled to an interest-free loan of Rs 15 lakh facilitated by the government. While the interest will be paid by the government, the beneficiary will have to pay back only the principal amount as EMIs. Transgender persons who possess land or have been allotted land through sponsorship from various agencies can avail an assistance of `6 lakh for house construction. This will be disbursed in three instalments at various stages of construction. Those already enlisted as beneficiaries of housing schemes implemented through local self-government department or Kudumbashree will be given Rs 2 lakh by the social justice department, in addition to the Rs 4 lakh allocated under these schemes. Clear guidelines for transparency in selection Clear guidelines had been laid down to ensure transparency and fairness in the selection process, Social Justice Director Adeela Abdulla said. The scheme had received a rousing response when it was discussed with stakeholders and members of the state transgender justice board. According to Syama S Prabha, project officer of the state transgender cell and member of the transgender justice board, the initiative will bring about a positive transformation in the lives of transgenders. It will also provide them with a sense of belonging and security, the official added. Criteria Transgender persons can submit application forms online or in person; selection based on priority Priority for applicants who do not own homes, live in temporary or unsafe conditions Elderly and differently-abled transgender individuals to get priority, too A technical committee, chaired by the director of social justice, will oversee the process. Applicants must present valid identity documents confirming their transgender status. Those applying for construction assistance must provide proof of land ownership.

Kerala's twin tunnel road faces criticism over ecological impact

KALPETTA: Work on the ambitious Wayanad-Kozhikode twin tunnel road will begin on August 31, with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan set to inaugurate it. The Rs 2,043.74-crore project, touted as a transformative step for Keralas transport infrastructure, involves an 8.753-km twin-tube unidirectional tunnel with four-lane approaches, bypassing the winding and congested Thamarassery ghat section of NH 766. The tunnel road which will be Indias third largest once completed is also expected to slash the travel time between Kozhikode and Bengaluru, besides giving tourism initiatives a push and improving Wayanad residents access to hospitals, markets, and schools. The positives notwithstanding, the project is facing severe criticism from various corners. The Wayanad Prakrithi Samrakshana Samithi has filed a PIL at the High Court, claiming the tunnel passes through the ecologically sensitive areas of Thiruvambady (in Kozhikode) and Vellarimala (in Wayanad), zones identified by both Gadgil and Kasturirangan committees as highly vulnerable. The real concern is that the tunnel ends at Kalladi which is part of the Nilgiris-Wayanad-Coorg biodiversity corridor where both Puthumala and Chooralmala -- the sites of two major landslides in six years are located. Experts warn that tunnelling and blasting could destabilise slopes, especially during the monsoon season. The state and union-level expert appraisal committees too have raised concerns about the potential disruption of elephant migration routes, which could push wildlife into villages and lead to more frequent conflicts. The petitioners in High Court have questioned the validity of the environmental impact assessment (EIA) report prepared by the Konkan Railway Corporation, pointing out that the corporation is neither accredited by the Quality Council of India nor authorised to conduct EIAs for large infrastructure projects. The proposal submitted by the state government for environmental clearance is full of fake data, alleged N Badhusha, president of the Samithi. The area is home to numerous species, including the critically endangered Banasura Laughingthrush. Chembra Peak and several elephant corridors also lie above the proposed route. Any construction activity, including excavation using heavy machinery, is banned in the area. To address the risks, the environmental clearance granted earlier this year came with more than two dozen conditions. These include detailed mapping of landslide hazards, installation of automated weather and vibration monitoring systems, strict adherence to blasting safety guidelines, and the creation of wildlife corridors. The monitoring of rare and endemic species such as the Banasura Laughingthrush has been mandated, along with regular environmental audits. Opponents say the Forest Rights Act of 2006 has not been fully complied with and warn of irreversible damage to biodiversity. Vishnu Das, director of the Wayanad-based Hume Centre for Ecology and Wildlife Biology, pointed out that widening the ghat road would have been a better solution. The tunnel road construction will inevitably have ecological impacts. The government has promised to use advanced drilling machinery to minimise the damage, but accessibility issues should also be considered. Our suggestion was to widen the ghat road to ease traffic, he said. At the same time, the project promises to benefit the local populace dependent on tourism. Accessibility constraints have largely affected Wayanads overall development. At Meppadi, where the tunnel road ends, people depend on tourism for livelihood, Wayanad Tourism Association secretary Saifulla K Hassan said. Public Works Minister P A Mohamed Riyas, in a recent Facebook post, had described the project as a bright path for Wayanad and the direction towards the future of Kerala.

None of four sites proposed by Kerala for AIIMS approved by Centre under PMSSY

Kinaloor in Kozhikode, Kattakada taluk in Thiruvananthapuram, Kottayam, and Ernakulam were among four sites proposed by the State; upgradation of medical colleges and SCTIMST approved under a separate component of the scheme

Fitness condition of tuition centres to be reviewed in Kozhikode

Panchayat-level committees will be formed under the supervision of child protection committees to complete the process and initiate further action

Two painting workers killed as motorcycle rams lorry in Keralas Kozhikode

Accident took place at Balussery on Thursday night

Special trains between Mangaluru and Thiruvananthapuram North ahead of Independence Day weekend

KASARAGOD: Kasaragod Southern Railway announced special trains between Mangaluru Junction and Thiruvananthapuram North to clear the rush of passengers during the Independence Day holidays. According to a statement from the zonal railway, Train No. 06041 Mangaluru Junction Thiruvananthapuram North Bi-Weekly Special Express will leave Mangaluru Junction at 7.30 p.m. on Aug. 14 and 16 (Thursday & Saturday) and reach Thiruvananthapuram North at 8.00 a.m., the next day. Train No.06042 Thiruvananthapuram North - Mangaluru Junction Bi-Weekly Special Express will leave Thiruvananthapuram North at 5.15 p.m. on August 15 and 17 and reach Mangaluru Junction at 6.30 a.m. the next day. The trains will have a coach composition of 01- Two-tier AC Coach, 02- Three-tier AC Coaches, 17-Sleeper class Coaches, & 02- Second Class Luggage cum Brake Vans. These trains will stop at Kasaragod, Kanhangad, Payyanur, Kannur, Thalassery, Vadakara, Kozhikode, Tirur, Shoranur, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam, Cherthala, Alappuzha, Ambalapuzha, Haripad, Kayamkulam, Sasthankota and Kollam.

78 women, girls still untraced in Kerala; police to intensify efforts after Cherthala murders

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Even as shocking details emerge from Cherthala, Alappuzha, about serial missing and murder cases involving women, official statistics reveals that a total of 78 girls and women remain untraced in the state. In the wake of the Cherthala episode, state police have decided to redouble efforts to resolve as many missing cases as possible. Special teams will be formed, if required. According to police data accessed by TNIE, eight girls and 70 women remained untraced as of June this year. Some of the cases are long-pending and the department has instructed district police chiefs to closely scrutinise every case, sources said. Additional effort will be made to track those missing, they added. A senior officer with the law and order wing said the department has a robust mechanism to deal with cases of missing women and children. If local police fail to solve a case within six months, it is reviewed by the district police chief. Cases pending for a year are reviewed by the range DIG. There are enough auditing measures to assess the efficiency of the investigation in each case. We will ramp up our efforts to crack pending cases, the officer added. The missing girls are from Kollam Rural, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Ernakulam City, Ernakulam Rural, Thrissur Rural, Malappuram and Kozhikode City (one each). Ernakulam Rural (10) has seen the most number of women gone missing, followed by Thiruvananthapuram Rural (nine), and Alappuzha (seven). In the year to date, 3,678 women and girls have been reported missing in the state. The most number of cases were from Thiruvanathapuram Rural (403) -- involving 50 girls and 353 women. Of the total, 394 were traced, while nine women are still missing. Alappuzha reported the second most number of women and girls missing. As many as 282 persons -- 50 girls and 232 women -- have gone missing from the district. Of these, 49 girls and 225 women were located. Malappuram is third with 253 individuals -- 64 girls and 189 women -- reported missing this year. Of these, 249 -- 63 girls and 186 women -- were traced. Since 2022, 26,197 women and girls have been reported missing from the state, of which 25,979 were traced. When the numbers were adjusted against each other, 218 people were found unaccounted for. Police sources explained that in many missing cases, the subjects were later found to be dead. Such persons are not counted as having been traced. A senior police officer told TNIE that the number tends to be high in the state because cases as registered as soon as relatives of those missing file complaints. Most of the women and girls reported missing elope or leave their homes for some reason. They are mostly traced and let off after being produced before a magistrate. Only a very few people vanish into thin air; we are worried about their fate, the officer said.

Kerala to get first Malayalam encyclopaedia on IUML with Dawnpedia project

KOZHIKODE: In a state as multifaceted as Kerala, where every community weaves its unique thread into the grand tapestry, stories often lie untold. Now, a monumental endeavour Dawnpedia is in the works to bring such narratives to light. This is not merely a book or a digital archive. Rather, it is the first-ever comprehensive Malayalam encyclopaedia dedicated to the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) which has shaped millions of lives and stood as a formidable pillar within the countrys democratic landscape. IUML national general secretary P K Kunhalikutty released the Dawnpedia logo recently. IUMLs core mission has always revolved around empowering the Muslim community by fostering their political identity and guiding them along democratic and secular paths, thereby enabling their active participation in nation-building. Dawnpedia, conceptualised by a group of party members, is envisioned as a comprehensive platform for anyone seeking to understand the IUML in its entirety. The project aims to serve as an invaluable resource for researchers, students, and academics keen on conducting in-depth studies into minority politics. The encyclopaedia will delve into how the IUML has effectively utilised its organisational strength and participation in power for the betterment of society and the nation. Arif P K, founder of the initiative and the general secretary of IUML, Kuttikattoor region, said, We are trying to create a database for IUML where all its details are mentioned. By January 2026, we will be able to complete all the content works related to Dawnpedia. Since the announcement of the initiative, several people have come forward to share their researched content related to the Muslim League. A dedicated team will cross-check the content before publishing it on the platform, he said. Further, Arif said: A key aspect of any movements vitality lies in its leadership, and the Muslim League has consistently been blessed with an array of era-defining leaders. Dawnpedia will dedicate significant sections to profiling these influential figures. This includes those who have shone brightly in national and state leadership roles, their close associates who excelled at district and constituency levels, and those who worked tirelessly to strengthen the partys roots at the local level. Their contributions will be documented as profiles detailed sketches of their invaluable roles in the partys journey. As a first-of-its-kind initiative, we are attempting to make it an indispensable tool for understanding the complexities of minority politics and the enduring legacy of the Indian Union Muslim League, he said.

Slack enforcement brings motorcycle stunts back to roadsin Kozhikode city

Weekend road shows featuring luxury motorcycles fitted with banned silencers are also on the rise

Ignored by authorities, landslip victims of Vilangad an aggrieved lot

A year into the series of landslips that ravaged their lives, 120 families of Vilangad in Kozhikode district are waiting for relief and reconstruction activities to take off in their village. Aabha Raveendran meets some of the survivors of the disaster, who believe that the Wayanad landslides, which claimed a large number of lives and left a trail of destruction, have overshadowed their plight

More film festivals likely in Kozhikode in coming years

Kerala State Chalachithra Academy is proactively considering the demand, says its Secretary C. Ajoy; Mayor Beena Philip mentions that steps will be taken to arrange at least 25 screens in the city in two years

NMC ask medical institutes to observe August 12 as anti-ragging day

NEW DELHI: The National Medical Commission (NMC) on Thursday asked all medical institutes to observe August 12 as anti-ragging day. In a public notice, the NMC asked the medical institutes to follow it up with a week-long anti-ragging week from August 12 to 18. The notice was issued following an advisory by the University Grants Commission (UGC) on July 22 to observe these two events. In the past few months, medical colleges have reported a series of ragging incidents, some of which led to the deaths of students. As per NMC, 122 medical students, including 64 MBBS and 58 postgraduates, died by suicide due to various reasons till last year. The latest ragging incident was reported from Kerala in February. Eleven second-year MBBS students were suspended for ragging first-year students at the Government Medical College, Kozhikode. The junior students had lodged a complaint saying that they were physically and mentally harassed by their seniors. The NMC had issued a stern warning after a series of ragging incidents rocked medical colleges last year. Taking note of these incidents, which also led to a student taking the extreme step, the NMC asked them to implement robust anti-ragging mechanisms, failing which, strict action would be taken against them. Last year, a first-year student, Anil Methania, passed away after allegedly being subjected to a ragging incident by senior students in the medical college in Gujarat. According to reports, he was forced to stand for three hours as part of an introduction by third-year students. After enduring the prolonged standing, Anil collapsed and lost consciousness. Apart from the Gujarat incident, a BDS student of Narayana Dental College allegedly died by suicide by jumping from the fifth floor of the college building in Chintareddypalem near Nellore City in Andhra Pradesh in August last year. The deceased's family alleged that Pradeep took the extreme step as he was unable to bear the ragging and sexual harassment at the hands of his seniors. Attaching the UGC advisory, NMC Secretary Raghav Langer said that to prevent ragging, the Commission has framed regulations on curbing the menace of ragging in higher educational institutions (HEIs). These regulations are mandatory, and all institutions are required to take necessary steps for their implementation in toto, including the monitoring mechanism, as per provisions in the above regulations, and ensure their strict compliance, he said. He added that the UGC has taken several proactive steps, including effectively launching media campaigns and awareness activities to prevent ragging. The secretary added that videos on anti-ragging are also uploaded on the UGC website for use by HEIs.

Morals, markets merge in Malappuram marriage

KOZHIKODE: Marriages can end up mirroring markets in terms of volatility. But this seemed a union made in heaven -- that had its bedrock in faith and sound financial sense! A wedding ceremony in Parappanangadi, Malappuram, has triggered a conversation that has extended beyond the stock issues. It has opened the gates to a larger social and religious dialogue, thanks to the unconventional mehr involved -- ethical investment. The groom, Farsind, the son of prominent Islamic scholar and comparative religion expert M M Akbar, gifted his bride not the traditional ornaments or cash, but financial shares. And, this novel gesture, rooted in both personal conviction and religious adherence, has sparked admiration, debate and curiosity. In Islamic custom, the mehr is a gift from the groom to the bride -- and it forms an integral part of the marriage contract. While it often takes the form of gold or cash, religious scholars have long supported the idea that mehr can be anything of value, provided it is agreed upon by both parties. Minha, the bride, had no interest in gold, said Akbar. She preferred something with lasting value and spiritual integrity. As a family, we respected that. The decision was made after consulting both the bride and her father, Habeeburahman, who were both aligned in their preference for a more ethically grounded mehr. The mehr comprised 614 shares of four companies -- Hyundai Motors, Godrej Agrovet, Nava Ltd, and Genesys International -- chosen for their alignment with Sharia principles. It didnt take long for the couples wedding clips to go viral. The video of the family accepting shares struck a chord with netizens and religious communities alike. While many applauded the move as a step towards financial literacy and ethical living, it also triggered scrutiny and speculation, especially about the nature of the investments. Business integrity and operational transparency taken into consideration Akbar emphasised that the family deliberately avoided mutual funds due to doubts regarding their strict adherence to Sharia. This is not a verdict born of deep academic research, he admitted. It is based on the Prophets guidance to avoid what is doubtful in permissibility. Farsinds choice was not made lightly. After extensive research, the groom selected companies believed to operate within the boundaries of Sharia. Akbar noted that todays digital tools allow for close monitoring of investments. If any of these companies were to veer into impermissible activities, we could promptly divest. That kind of transparency is crucial. The companies were chosen not only for profitability but also for business integrity and operational transparency qualities that aligned with the spiritual values the family wished to uphold. This move, Akbar said, was not a critique of traditional practices. Gold has its place in our culture. But the mahr is the brides right, and if she chooses something else, it is only fair to honour her wishes. While many have hailed the move as a modern yet religiously rooted reform, others have expressed concern. Speaking to TNIE, Islamic researcher Safwan Baramy Al Hikami pointed out that despite Akbars intentions, the selected stocks do not necessarily fall under Sharia-compliant investments, as outlined by the Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions (AAOIFI). These standards require that a companys non-halal income should be below 5% of its total revenue, and that interest-based debts and assets should not exceed 30% of market capitalisation, Safwan explained. Without thorough financial screening, its difficult to declare these shares Sharia-compliant. Regardless of where one stands on the religious debate, the incident has sparked a larger dialogue about rethinking age-old practices, promoting financial independence for women, and engaging more deeply with the ethical dimensions of Islamic law in the modern world.

Lapses in voters list: Professionals Congress in Kozhikode files plaint with poll panel

Regional IFFK to kick off in Kozhikode on August 8

The much-awaited four-day event will conclude on August 11 with screenings at Kairali, Sree, and Coronation cinemas

Kozhikode NCC group wins overall title at IGTSC

Kerala rains: IMD downgrades red alert to orange for Kannur, Kasaragod as rainfall weakens

Yellow alert for Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Wayanad districts on Wednesday where isolated heavy rain is likely

Heavy rain, flash floods trigger landslide fears in Kozhikode uplands

Kozhikode to host Varnapakittu transgender arts fete from August 21

Partial re-opening of PMSSY block of Kozhikode MCH likely this week

Kozhikode to host transgender arts festival

Temple in Kozhikodes Panniyankara can now claim the legacy of three Chera kings

Registration in progress for RIFFK in Kozhikode

Festival to feature 58 films in various categories

Abandoned fibre boats to be cleared for harbour extension works

Harbour Development Society to review the process with the support of the Fisheries department in Kozhikode district

Woman found electrocuted in Kozhikode

Electric traps set up to ward off wild animals suspected to be the source

A school trip closer to nature

Interval, a novel project designed by the Kozhikode-based womens group World of Women (WOW), intends to take school students on a journey to reconnect with the earth, people, and themselves through immersive experiences beyond the classroom

Student from Kozhikode on a mission to conquer Mount Everest

Sarah Joseph chosen for Kozhikode Corporations literary award

The literary award will be formally presented to Sarah Joseph at an event scheduled to be held here in mid-August

Police launch a champions league to support anti-drug campaign in Kozhikode

Over 200 schools, 300 residents associations, and 40 colleges in the city will host competitions as part of the anti-drug campaign and mark them on a leader board. The winner of the Commissioners Ever-Rolling Trophy for Anti-Drug trophy will be announced at the end of the campaign based on the total leader board score

Rapper Vedan moves Kerala High Court seeking bail in rape case

Case was registered after a young woman doctor approached Kochi DCP with a complaint that Vedan sexually assaulted her in Kochi and Kozhikode on multiple occasions from 2021 to 2023 on the assurance of marriage

HC: stop excessive soil extraction at Chelanoor in Kozhikode for NH 66 work

NH-66 widening: local action committees in Kozhikode seek re-evaluation of damage to service roads

They allege that a recently carried out field inspection by National Highways Authority of India officials failed to understand public concerns

CPI(M) forms human chain against bid to defame Kozhikode MCH

IT Hub for Kozhikode has become a pipe dream, says MP

The reply given by the Union Minister of State for Electronics and IT on the status of the project was vague, he says

Auto driver held for alleged sexual assault of minor girl in Kozhikode

CAT 2025 registration begins from August 1

IIM Kozhikode designated as coordinating institute for CAT 2025. Registration process will remain open till 5 p.m. on September 13

Vendors divided over reconstruction of Central Market in Kozhikode

CAT 2025 application process begins on this date at iimcat.ac.in: Keep these documents ready to register online

IIM Kozhikode has announced CAT 2025, setting the stage for MBA aspirants. Registration opens August 1, 2025, and closes September 13, 2025, on iimcat.ac.in. The exam is scheduled for November 30, 2025; candidates should prepare documents like mark sheets and certificates. Admit cards will be available from November 5, 2025.

Kozhikode, Wayanad get brief respite from heavy rain

Cong., IUML express concern over draft voters list

Kozhikode DCC to approach HC over alleged discrepancies in the draft voters list for local body polls; names of a large number of voters missing in list, says Local Government Members League