Factory row to heat up poll battle in four panchayats in Kozhikode

Emergency life support training launched for police officers in Kozhikode

Local body polls: UDF completes seat-sharing in Kozhikode Corporation

Kerala local body polls: UDF finalises seat-sharing in Kozhikode Corporation

Of the 76 divisions in the Corporation, the Congress will contest in 49, while IUML will contest in 25. Communist Marxist Party will contest in two divisions

Kerala local body polls: UDF not to have open ties with Welfare Party

KOZHIKODE/MALAPPURAM: Apparently fearing a backlash from Hindu and Christian voters, the UDF has decided not to go for an open state-level alliance with the Welfare Party of India, the political wing of Jamaat e Islami in the local body elections. However, there are indications that the front will have local-level understanding with the WPI. DCC president K Praveen Kumar said that the UDF has decided that seat sharing will be done only among the constituents of the front. Asked whether the IUML was taken into confidence while taking the decision, he said it was the opinion of all the constituents of the UDF. To a question, he said Congress in Kozhikode is not a separate entity and hence the decision is the same for the party in all parts of the state. Meanwhile, IUML state general secretary P M A Salam told TNIE that the UDF has directed its local leadership to form ties with the WPI wherever it benefits the front. The UDF has no official alliance with the WPI at the state level. However, the situation is different in local body elections, where we need the support of smaller parties to ensure the fronts victory. Both the IUML and the UDF have instructed local leaders to cooperate with the Welfare Party wherever necessary. That is what is being reflected in Malappuram. The WPI is not supporting the League specifically; their support is for the UDF as a whole, he said. UDF has been gearing up for an alliance with the WPI. Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan had given a clean chit to the party, saying there is a shift in the Jamaat ideology. Muslim Youth League president Panakkad Syed Munavvar Ali Shihab Thangal also echoed similar sentiments.

Mystery lingers as a peaceful protest takes a violent turn in Kozhikode

The residents of Ambayathode village in Kozhikode, who have been peacefully protesting for six years against a poultry waste treatment plant, were recently caught in the middle of an arson and police action that resulted in heavy damage to property and injuries to many people. The dust has settled somewhat, but the villagers complaints about pollution persist. Mithosh Joseph attempts to get to the bottom of the issue

Kozhikode must enhance infra to become top tier-two city

IIM CAT 2025 admit card was not released on 5th November as scheduled: When will it be out?

The IIM CAT 2025 admit card was not released on 5 November as scheduled, disappointing over 2.95 lakh registered candidates. IIM Kozhikode clarified that admit cards will now be available from 12 to 30 November 2025 on the official CAT website. The exam will be held on 30 November across three sessions and 170 cities. Enhanced security measures, including mobile jammers, are in place. Candidates can also access the revised mock test from 12 November to familiarise themselves with the exam interface.

Haritha Karma Sena members break stereotypes with ramp walk

KOZHIKODE: Kozhikode witnessed a celebration of confidence, dignity, and empowerment on Wednesday as members of the Haritha Karma Sena with the city corporation stepped on to a fashion ramp a first-of-its-kind initiative, under the Kerala Solid Waste Management Programme (KSWMP). The event, held at the Muhammad Abdurahman Sahib Memorial Jubilee Hall, turned the spotlight on the citys frontline waste warriors, honouring their contribution through a glamorous platform usually reserved for models and celebrities. Deputy Mayor C P Musafir inaugurated the programme, while Dr S Jayashree, chairperson of the health standing committee, presided over the function. The ramp walk competition was designed to boost the morale of Haritha Karma Sena members and celebrate their role in maintaining city hygiene. Thirty-seven participants confidently walked the ramp in two themed rounds traditional Kerala attire and traditional Indian attire, each representing dedicated teams from across the city. The transformation of the participants into showstoppers was guided by the faculty members and students from the costume and fashion designing department of the Holy Cross College. Faculty members Sree Lakshmi Anil, Sneha Santhosh and Navya P M led the grooming and styling sessions, supported by enthusiastic student volunteers. All of this was made possible with minimal preparation time, said a volunteer. Bringing professional credibility to the judging panel were Remya Krishnan of Prakriti Boutique and VLCC School of Beauty faculty members Priyanka A N and Aleena Ajayan. What these participants achieved demands immense self-belief. They are true role models, said judge Aleena. In the Kerala traditional category, Reetha C K claimed first place while Thanooja Murali secured the runner-up position. In the Indian traditional category, Madana Moorthy emerged winner with Haritha K finishing runner-up. This event gave me an opportunity to be part of history, said Madana Moorthy, radiating pride.

Uproar in Kozhikode Corporation Council over appointment of temporary sanitation workers

Congress to contest in 14 divisions in Kozhikode district panchayat

Scrub typhus detected in expat, 1st known case from non-endemic area

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A Gulf Keralites impulsive decision to return home to treat a persistent fever turned out to be life-saving after he was diagnosed with scrub typhus a potentially fatal infection that requires early treatment. This has become the first documented case of scrub typhus contracted in the Gulf and diagnosed in India, according to a case study published in the peer-reviewed journal Mass Gathering Medicine. The report warns that scrub typhus, once thought to be confined to parts of Southeast Asia and the Western Pacific, may now be emerging in the Middle East and recommends testing for the disease in patients with unexplained fever, even in non-endemic areas. The disease was detected in a 52-year-old Thiruvananthapuram man, who had been living in Dubai. After four days of high fever, chills, vomiting, and severe fatigue that did not respond to broad-spectrum antibiotics, he flew to Kerala and went straight from the airport to a super-specialty hospital in Thiruvananthapuram. Some types of fever can only be cured back home, he told doctors, echoing a common belief among his expatriate friends. The disease is seen rarely in the Gulf, making diagnosis there unlikely. However, scrub typhus is familiar to hospitals in Kerala, with nearly 1,000 cases reported annually. The patient was diagnosed within three days and responded quickly to the antibiotic, doxycycline, making a full recovery. In Dubai, scrub typhus is rarely recognised, and though doxycycline is available, doctors may not think to use it since the disease is not commonly reported there, explained Dr A Althaf, professor at Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram, and co-author of the report. The patient had been in Dubai for the past year, so its almost certain the infection occurred there. This case reminds us that doctors should consider scrub typhus in fever cases, even from areas where its not usually found, he said. Dr Althaf, who diagnosed Keralas first scrub typhus case in Nedumangad in 2003, noted that the disease has a 50% mortality rate if untreated, but is easily curable with early doxycycline therapy. Scrub typhus, first reported in India in 1932, is caused by the bacterium Orientia tsutsugamushi and spread by mite bites. Globally, about one million cases occur each year. According to the states health data, 70% of cases occur in Thiruvananthapuram district, though Kozhikode, Wayanad, Idukki, and Kollam also report the disease. In 2024, the state recorded 981 cases and 19 deaths. So far this year, 699 cases and 13 deaths have been reported. Know the disease Infection caused by bacteria named Orientia Tsutsugamushi Bacteria enters human body through the bites of larval mites Incubation period: 6-20 days Symptoms: High grade fever, chills and rigorous, myalgia and body ache, intense headache. Throat pain, dry cough and chest pain Diagnostic findings: Eschars (less than 1cm in diameter) in concealed and moist areas of the body (groins, armpits) Scrub antibody test: IgM Elisa Prevention: Protective clothing and use of insect repellents

Film awards: Min defends jury, even Vedan remark

KOZHIKODE: As criticism mounts over the exclusion of childrens films and child actors in the 55th Kerala State Film Awards, Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cherian on Tuesday defended the jurys decision. However, it was his even Vedan remark at a public function in Kozhikode that drew attention. During the event, he said, This is a small department. But I announced the fifth award under this government with pride. There hasnt been a single complaint so far. Only applause. When Mammootty received the award, there was even more applause, Cherian said. He continued by lauding Mohanlal as a historic figure in cinema. He then said even Vedan was accepted. When reporters later asked what he meant, Cherian said his remarks should not be misinterpreted. He explained that his intention was to highlight how the award was given to a newcomer who is not a professional lyricist, despite Kerala having many established songwriters. He also urged the media not to distort his words for controversy. The omission of awards in the childrens category has sparked debate, with critics arguing that the jury ignored the next generation of talent. Young actor Devananda publicly criticised the decision, saying the jury turned a blind eye to children and that denying awards is not the right way to encourage childrens films. Filmmaker Vinesh Viswanathan, director of Sthanarthi Sreekuttan, also expressed disappointment, calling the decision disheartening. Saji said the jury had evaluated all submissions and concluded that there were no films or performances deserving of awards in the childrens category this year. He added that the jury itself expressed regret over the situation.

How a school helped its students develop hygiene, safety habits

When teachers at Government Upper Primary School, Manassery, in Kozhikode found that many children were coming to school without even brushing their teeth, they started a Habit lab to instil good habits in them

Early local body push by Congress to regain lost ground in elections

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a strategic move ahead of the crucial assembly election, the state Congress has done the unthinkable - announcing a 47-member candidate list for the Thiruvananthapuram corporation while finalising the names for the remaining five corporations and other local bodies. Both the CPM and BJP are yet to release their candidates list, making Congress the first to make a decisive start in the local body election preparation. In a surprise decision, the party has fielded former MLA and KPCC general secretary K S Sabarinathan, as the mayor candidate in the Thiruvananthapuram corporation. The leadership has projected this as a model to be followed in other corporations. In Kochi corporation, KPCC general secretary Deepti Mary Varghese will contest, while in Thrissur corporation KPCC secretary John Daniel is on the list. These decisions are the outcome of the brainstorming session held in Wayanad under the banner Mission-2025, a KPCC office-bearer said. For the first time, the party has entrusted six seniors with the charge of corporations - Opposition leader V D Satheesan (Ernakulam) three former KPCC presidents - Ramesh Chennithala (Kozhikode), K Muraleedharan (Thiruvananthapuram), K Sudhakaran (Kannur), working president P C Vishnunath (Kollam) and AICC secretary Roji M John (Thrissur). The 2020 local body election results were disastrous for the party as we lost five corporations except Kannur. In Ernakulam and Thrissur, we lost power because of rebels. Having lost two consecutive assembly elections, this local body election is a do or die battle for Congress, said a senior leader. According to party sources, the current blueprint was proposed by AICC general secretary K C Venugopal during the Mission 2025 session in Wayanad. Venugopal reportedly advised the state leadership to field former MLAs and senior leaders in the local body elections. Apart from Sabarinathans name, he also suggested that former minister V S Sivakumar contest in the Thiruvananthapuram corporation, said a leader who attended the meeting. The party has given top priority to strengthening its base in the Thiruvananthapuram corporation, where it currently has only eight councillors. If we fail to perform well here, it will have a direct impact in the southern districts in the assembly election, said a senior office-bearer. To prevent the emergence of rebel candidates, the leadership has directed the district Congress presidents and KPCC leaders not to propose any names other than those recommended by ward committees.

89% children under age of two in Kerala exposed to screens, says study

KOZHIKODE: At a busy government vaccination clinic in Kollam, a mother rocks her 18-month-old son on her lap. He squirms and fusses. But no lullaby or toy is forthcoming. Instead, she reaches into her bag and pulls out a smartphone. Instantly, the child goes quiet, eyes locked onto the screen. Around her, other parents follow suit, enacting a silent ritual now woven into everyday parenting in Kerala. A concerning new study by the Kerala chapter of the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) reveals that screen exposure among infants and toddlers in the state has reached alarming levels, with nearly 89.1% of children under the age of two regularly using screens. Despite repeated warnings over the last decade from experts that mobile phones should not be employed to induce children to eat, sleep, or calm down, mobile-fed parenting continues unchecked in many Kerala households. The study was conducted by Dr Manoj Mony, a neonatologist with the Kerala Health Services and Kollam district president of IAP. His research examined children, all below the age of two, who were brought to government health facilities for routine 18-month vaccinations. It also evaluated the socio-demographic backgrounds of families and educational levels of parents to understand how digital exposure takes root in early childhood. The findings are unequivocal. Infants from families where mothers had only a high-school education showed 100% screen exposure, while children of mothers with PG degrees showed significantly lower exposure, though still high, at 80%. Children in joint-family households showed higher screen exposure (91.5%) compared with nuclear-family households (78.9%). According to Dr Manoj, this likely reflects differences in care dynamics, where shared caregiving and household routines sometimes lead to greater reliance on screens as a distraction. One of the most worrying find is the use of mobile phones while feeding. Nearly seven in 10 parents reported using screens during feeding time, a habit many assume is harmless but which paediatric experts strongly warn against. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends zero screen time for kids below 18 months, except for video calls. For children between 18 and 24 months, high-quality content may be introduced, but only with parental participation and supervision. Yet, Keralas numbers show the cultural shift toward digital parenting is spreading rapidly, even among educated families who are otherwise aware of health guidelines. We are seeing toddlers who are fed on videos, and who cannot eat without watching a screen, Dr Manoj tells TNIE. Parents say it is the only way to keep the child calm. But what we are sacrificing is far greater, speech development, emotional bonding, curiosity, social recognition, and fundamental learning through human interaction. He described instances where children of parents returning from the Gulf appeared socially withdrawn, made little eye contact, and display language delay -- symptoms many parents feared were early signs of autism. Parents Google symptoms and panic. They say their child looks autistic. But after we stop screens and reintroduce real-world interaction, many of these children drastically improve, he said. Autism is a pathological state. But what we are increasingly seeing is screen-induced developmental delay, a preventable social crisis. The study was supervised by Dr Jeena from the department of community medicine at Parippally Medical College Hospital. The findings were officially released by Kollam district medical officer Dr M S Anu. It is positioned as a pilot project and calls for a larger statewide initiative to assess digital habits among Keralas young children.

Manavamaitri Sangamam in Kozhikode on Nov. 4

Rare brain infection reported in Ernakulam

KOCHI : After the northern and southern regions, central Kerala has reported its first case of amoebic meningoencephalitis. The disease was confirmed in a Lakshadweep native, who is working at Edappally in Ernakulam, on Friday. The patient is currently is undergoing treatment at a private hospital in the city. The health condition of the patient is satisfactory, said an official with the Ernakulam District Medical Office. According to the official, the first two test samples of the patient had returned negative, while a third microscopic test confirmed the disease. Amoebic meningoencephalitis, a rare central nervous system infection caused by free-living amoebas found in freshwater lakes, has claimed 33 lives in the state so far this year. The disease develops several days after exposure to contaminated water sources and may cause death within one or two weeks of infection, mostly because of its rapid onset and delayed diagnosis. Emphasising the importance of preventive measures in this scenario, Indian Medical Association (IMA) Kerala State Research Cell convenor Dr Rajeev Jayadevan said that people should avoid getting water into their nasal passages as the amoeba uses the nose as a shortcut to enter the brain. Nobody should intentionally introduce water into the nose. People who develop symptoms of the condition should seek medical attention immediately and share any possible exposure history with their doctor, he said. He also linked the higher number of cases reported in Kerala to the states enhanced diagnosis protocols. Among six lakh cases of brain infection reported across India every year, a small percentage are caused by amoebae. More cases of amoeba are being identified in Kerala because our healthcare system conducts additional tests in cases where brain infection is suspected, he added. Kerala has reported 153 cases so far, with most detected in the Kozhikode, Malappuram, Thiruvananthapuram, and Kollam districts. Of these, 65 cases and 12 deaths were reported in October. The first case of this year was reported in February, with the Kozhikode and Malappuram districts recording a sharp surge in August and September. Meanwhile, the state health department has initiated a multi-district field study with the cooperation of the National Institute of Epidemiology (NIE), Chennai, to investigate the causes of amoebic meningoencephalitis (amoebic brain fever), focusing on Kozhikode district in the initial phase. SYMPTOMS Fever Vomiting Headache PREVENTION Do not wash your face or bathe using stagnant water Ensure water does not enter the nose Stay hydrated and keep surroundings clean

Delays, shortage of specialists pull patients away from Kerala's govt hospitals

KOLLAM: For five years, 56-year-old Krishna S (name changed) from Wayanad has been battling a kidney ailment. Her treatment began at the Kozhikode medical college hospital in 2020 and continued smoothly for three years. But when the nephrologist treating her was transferred to Kottayam, her treatment was disrupted. With no nephrologist available in Wayanad, I had no choice but to follow my doctor to his private clinic in Kozhikode. He visits once a week and I travel over two hours for every session, which costs around Rs 25,000 to Rs 30,000, Krishna said. Similar is the case with Kollam resident George Kunjumon, 75, who developed a lump at the back of his neck. His surgery was postponed multiple times at the district hospital due to staff shortage, he said. The doctors advised surgery to remove the lump, but it was postponed several times because of a shortage of staff. I later went to a private hospital but couldnt afford the cost. Now I have decided to live with the condition as long as my health allows, George said. The experiences of Krishna and George highlight a troubling trend while Keralas government hospitals are witnessing record outpatient (OP) numbers, their wards are growing emptier. Both had initially chosen government hospitals for treatment but later abandoned them because of delays and a lack of specialists. In 2023-24, outpatient visits under the department of health services (DHS) touched a record 11.2 crore, even as inpatient (IP) admissions continued to fall. Only 7.56 lakh patients were admitted to DHS facilities last year, compared to 8.92 lakh in 2022-23 and 15 lakh in 2019-20. Surgical procedures show a similar slide. The states public hospitals performed 1.29 lakh major surgeries in 2017-18, but the number dropped to 55,000 during the Covid pandemic (2020-21). The figures have since recovered only partially 89,775 surgeries in 2023-24, down from 1.05 lakh in 2022-23. Health experts pointed out that the data exposed a deeper fault line in the states healthcare system underutilised infrastructure and eroding public trust. Government hospitals are now preferred mainly for consultations, which explains the rise in OP numbers. But when it comes to serious issues or surgeries, people avoid them due to long delays. In many hospitals, the equipment exists but not the doctors. For instance, orthopaedic surgeries often get postponed because either the surgeon or anaesthetist is unavailable, said a senior health department official. Dr B Ekbal, former senior neurosurgeon, said the figures reflect an acute shortage of human resources in government hospitals. Over the years, technology and equipment in our public hospitals have improved significantly. But human resources such as doctors, nurses, and paramedical staff have not kept pace. Because of this shortage, staff are forced to work overtime. In many hospitals, posts are filled through transfers, creating further gaps. Many specialists begin duty as early as 6.30am and continue till 7 m. It is only their commitment that keeps our health system running. The government must urgently recruit more personnel, Dr Ekbal said. He also stressed on the need for better infrastructure. Public hospitals still lag behind in basic facilities such as rooms for bystanders and toilets. Risks like the tragedy at Kottayam MCH, where a woman died after a dilapidated toilet building collapsed, lurk elsewhere too. The government must prioritise safe spaces, he said.

Water resources report calls for district-specific management planning

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Rainfall in Kerala in 2024 showed marked differences across districts, with northern regions receiving heavy monsoon showers while several central and southern districts experienced deficits. The findings in the report Kerala Water Resources Assessment 2024, prepared by the Centre for Water Resources Development and Management (CWRDM), highlights that early southwest monsoon rainfall is decreasing in south-central districts while northern districts are seeing increasing rainfall in September. These spatial and seasonal variations underscore the need for district-specific planning for reservoirs, irrigation schedules, flood and landslide preparedness, and urban drainage systems to ensure climate-resilient water and agriculture management across the state. CWRDM executive director Manoj P Samuel told TNIE that the study was done by analysing district-wise monthly rainfall data from 1970 to 2024. Theres a shift in the pattern, and though Kerala is receiving rain, it isnt distributed evenly. These shifts in the rain pattern have direct implications for reservoir rule curves, irrigation advisories, flood and landslide risk management, and urban drainage planning, Manoj said. The state requires district-specific strategies, he pointed out. In 2024, Kasaragod and Kozhikode recorded over 3,800 mm of rainfall, with the southwest monsoon contributing up to 81% of the total, while Wayanad, Idukki and Ernakulam saw totals exceeding 3,500 mm. Central districts such as Kottayam and Thrissur received around 3,200-3,750 mm and southern districts including Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam recorded lower totals between 2,078 mm and 2,675 mm, reflecting a more balanced contribution from both monsoons. We have presented analyses for each district so that the stakeholder agencies can plan accordingly. For instance, districts with lower rainfall could face drought and action can be taken accordingly, Manoj said. He said CWRDM has done a grassroot-level study to identify water-stressed local bodies in the state. There are around 286 drought-affected wards in the state. For water, agri mgmt Spatial and seasonal variations underscore the need for district-specific planning to ensure climate-resilient water and agriculture management across the state

Kozhikode jiving to healthier beat with coffee-brew parties

KOZHIKODE: For years, Kozhikode has been jovially branded as the city that sleeps early a place with no pubs, no dance floors, and no serious nightlife. But that reputation is brewing away, quite literally. The city is now witnessing a refreshing development: Brew parties, featuring international coffee blends, live DJs, and dance floors, all proudly under the tag No Alcohol, No Smoke. At some popular venues and cafs, weekend nights are transforming into vibrant caffeine-fuelled gatherings. Youngsters, professionals, and even families are choosing cappuccinos over cocktails, sipping freshly brewed specialty coffee sourced from Coorg, Ethiopia, Colombia, and Wayanad, while dancing to lights and beats. Its an entirely different vibe, energetic but clean, says 27-year-old software engineer Afiya Rahman, who attended one such event at a beachfront caf. You still get the music, the lights, and the crowd, but without the hangover or cigarette smoke. Local cafs and entrepreneurs are embracing the cultural shift by curating signature brews and setting up DJ decks to create immersive sensory experiences. The aroma of coffee blends with house, trance, and Malayalam indie music, giving Kozhikode a newfound rhythm and a nightlife identity rooted in wellness, creativity, and community. This movement isnt just about nightlife, its part of a global rise in coffee raves. Originally trending in cities like Amsterdam, London, and Paris, the idea spread to Mumbai, Bengaluru, Lucknow, Hyderabad, and Indore, before landing in Kozhikode, A coffee rave is simple, high energy, zero alcohol, zero smoke, just beats, brews, joy, and movement. Casual clothing, DJs spinning upbeat electronic sets, baristas pulling espresso shots instead of tequila, and dancers vibing between french presses, these events are inclusive, safe, energetic, and community-driven. The roots trace back to Europes pre-work bakery raves, dance floors tucked between croissants and cold brews, a concept that exploded on social media and inspired cities worldwide. One of the earliest champions of the movement in the city is Shahal Ali, founder of Underblu Coffee, who has already conducted five successful editions. We didnt start this as a coffee rave. It began as a community space, a place to interact, work, share, and give underrated artists a platform to perform. A year ago, people didnt really accept it. Our first meet had only about 20 people. Today, we get more than 150 participants. Its a cultural shift. We didnt use posters or ads, we grew organically by talking about coffee culture, introducing people to real coffee, taste notes, and brewing styles. Our plan is to host this every month, Shahal said. We wanted to show that fitness and wellness can be celebrated in a vibrant, positive way, without alcohol or drugs, says fitness coach and social media influencer Rahib, popularly known as Bheegaran.Coffee energises, connects people, and fuels movement, making it the perfect companion for a fitness-driven lifestyle.

Amoebic fever: ICMR-NIE team completes field visits in Kozhikode

Migrant worker dies as wall collapses in Kozhikode

The two others, who sustained minor injuries, are undergoing treatment at the hospital

Start, Camera, IFFK

A trip to Thiruvananthapuram towards the end of the year has now become a ritual for movie lovers. All for one of the most cherished film festivals in the country, the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK). This year, it is all the more special as IFFK is turning 30. With the general body meeting of the states biggest film event scheduled for this week, the authorities are discussing how to make this 30th edition even more special. With the capital gearing up to step into the big world of cinema in a month, let us delve into the history of IFFK, and how it has shaped Malayali viewfinders! The early days The tale of IFFK, in a way, is tied to the history of world cinema. While the world celebrated the centenary of World Cinema in 1994, the 100th anniversary of the public screening of the Lumire Brothers first film, discussions began in Kerala too. It was the veteran filmmaker K G Georges idea that we should do something towards the centenary of cinema, which led us to the idea of IFFK, says V R Gopinath, one of the festival coordinators. However, the plan was a one-time event, never an annual ritual, he adds. With the support of K Jayakumar, the then-cultural secretary and Kerala State Film Development Corporation (KSFDC) director, the first IFFK soon became a reality. The first edition held in Kozhikode in 1994 generated curiosity among Malayalis. Even the headload workers found time to watch the films, Gopinath recalls. People were concerned in the earlier years about whether the crowds would come to see the films. However, our audience surprised us, recalls editor Beena Paul. A crowded screening at the 29th IFFK held at Tagore Theatre in 2024. American director Joe Fab interacts with students during IFFK 2008. Following the success, the authorities decided to hold the second edition in Thiruvananthapuram in 1995. Then after a break of two years, the fest returned in 1998, a landmark year in the history of IFFK. The third edition of the festival was hosted, once again in Thiruvananthapuram by the KSFDC but in the first half of the year. A new body, the Chalachithra Academy, was also formed in the second half of the year. In the third edition, we started bringing in foreign delegates to showcase Malayalam cinema before the world, says Gopinath. The concept of awards for Afro-Asian films, inclusion of separate categories for Malayalam and Indian cinema, etc, too began that year, he adds. After gaining the accreditation of the International Federation of Film Producers Associations, IFFK found a space in the world map. It soon became one of the festivals with maximum participation in Asia. The early 2000s saw a quality jump, both in the organisation and the nature of the festival. It was a bit later, in 2003, that Thiruvananthapuram became the permanent venue of the fest. Impact on Malayalam cinema The more you get exposed to something, the better you become, says Beena. And that is exactly what happened in Malayalam cinema. IFFK has a major role in whatever Malayalam cinema has achieved today. Many young filmmakers gained the courage to tackle different types of stories thanks to the exposure to global cinema the fest gave them, says the former artistic director of the festival. More than in cinema, it has shaped the way Malayalis think, much beyond the criticised American or commercial points of view, she believes. Changes do not happen overnight, but over years. When we see different narratives, our perspectives change. Maybe that is the reason why Malayalis have a relatively positive attitude towards the LGBTQIA+ community too, Beena comments. Delegates at Tagore Theatre during IFFK 2017 Actor Shabana Azmi with IFFK Lifetime Achievement Award winner and Hong Kong filmmaker Ann Hui during 29th IFFK at Nishagandhi auditorium Though the school of thought is extremely different between mainstream and parallel cinema, many directors regularly attend the film festivals, especially to watch international films. People would be surprised when they know that firebrand filmmaker Joshiy and veteran screenwriter the late T Damodaran have attended IFFK screenings, says Chalachithra Academys Festivals deputy director Shaji H. According to the former chairman of the Chalachitra Academy, director Kamal, the festival has increased the viewing quality of the audience, too. It exposed Malayalam cinema to the changes in world cinema. There are many new generation directors who have commented that IFFK is their film school, he says. The new generation Forget the banners. How does one understand that IFFK has begun in the capital city? A crowd dressed in versatile outfits, once tagged as un-classy, that you do not see on a normal day, graces the streets. Youngsters establish an autonomous republic this time, smiles Shaji. Otherwise a conservative society, the city adjusts to the new styles. It had been only in the last decade or so that the IFFK started seeing younger heads among the audience, he adds. Earlier, we had a crowd mostly composed of middle-aged people, but the increased participation of students in the festival has brought in multiple changes. Though the senior viewers were initially sceptical, and to a point even averse to the presence of these young folks, the trend tends to fade these days. Many people say that the youngsters come here to show off, but I dont think so, he adds. Back in the days, film festivals in other parts of the country had an elitist attitude. However, IFFK democratised that space by providing passes for everyone, and making such films more accessible to the public, Beena adds. Another key aspect is the increased participation of women in the festival. The initial editions saw middle-aged males forming the major chunk of the crowd. Now, more women are stepping forward, which itself is a breaking of multiple taboos, Shaji says. Even the open forum discussions have become part of the film culture. The discussions here can have topics varying from cinema and sports to even heated political debates. All these practices have definitely shaped Malayalis, Malayalam cinema, and Malayalis perception of cinema. Even at a time when almost every cinema in the world is available at your fingertips, people still gather at the festival halls. Soon, the halls will open once again, the projector will start, and thus will begin the biggest film celebration of Kerala.

IT busts Rs 330 crore crypto hawala racket run by Malappuram flower exporters

MALAPPURAM: The Income Tax (IT) Investigation Wing has unearthed a major hawala racket involving cryptocurrency transactions worth around Rs 330 crore allegedly operated by two Malappuram natives under the guise of a flower export firm, officials said on Saturday. An IT official said the Investigation Wing in Kochi has been conducting searches over the past three days at various locations in Malappuram and Kozhikode districts as part of the probe. The investigation was launched against a firm owned by two Malappuram natives who have been exporting flowers to Indonesia for several years, the official said. According to investigators, the duo received payments from Indonesia via cryptocurrency channels rather than traditional banking systems. To conceal the money trail, they allegedly created multiple crypto wallets under the names of different individuals, including students. One person reportedly managed operations in Malappuram and Kozhikode, while the other is currently based in Saudi Arabia. Preliminary estimates suggest that transactions worth around Rs 330 crore were routed through cryptocurrencies, though the exact figure will be determined after examining the digital wallets, officials said. The IT Department is expected to refer the case to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for further investigation under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), as the transactions constitute violations of foreign exchange regulations.

Kozhikode Corporation Council demands Election Commission to withhold SIR

The motion was unanimously supported by the UDF and LDF councillors, while the six BJP councillors opposed it

Debate rages over supreme leader of Kerala Muslims

KOZHIKODE: Social media has been witnessing a curious debate between supporters of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) and Samastha Kerala Jem-Iyyathul Ulama: Who is the Supreme leader of the Muslim community in Kerala? Supporters of IUML president Panakkad Syed Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal assert he is the unquestioned leader, considering his acceptance among all sections of society. However, the rival faction argues that Samastha president Syed Muhammad Jiffiri Muthukoya Thangal is on the high pedestal as he is a scholar, which is more important for a religious community. While the debate is confined only to social media handles, leaders from both the camps are deliberately maintaining distance from the controversy. A fresh round of debate began following a Facebook post by the general secretary of Samastha Kerala Sunni Students Federation, O P M Ashraf, who said such a debate is, in fact, an insult to Sadiq Ali Thangal. Certain people are conducting a campaign that Sadiq Ali Thangal is the supreme leader of the Kerala Muslims and is above Samastha mushawara (consultation body) and other Sunni organisations, he said. Ashraf reminded those trying to attack Samastha raising the name of Sadiq Ali that it was the Sunni organisation that held him in high regard. He said the Confederation of Islamic Colleges (CIC), which boasts of love for the Panakkad family, has not yet implemented the agreement signed by Sadiq Ali Thangal. The group supporting Sadiq Ali Thangal recalls the legacy of the Panakkad family and its contribution to the community and Kerala society. Samastha centenary fete: IUML leader elected committee chairman They point out that scores of people from different religions flock to the houses of the Panakkad family, which attests its wider acceptance. The rival group alleges that Sadiq Ali has deviated from the accepted norms of the Samastha by attending the programmes of the Jamaat-e-Islami and the Mujahids. According to them, he lacks religious knowledge stipulated for a scholar though he is the quazi of several mahals. Islamic preacher Rahmatullah Qazimi had stated that though both Sadiq Ali Thangal and Jiffiri Thangal belong to the descendants of Prophet Muhammad, the latter should be revered most as he is a scholar, and the community should be guided by a leader who has deep knowledge of religion. In a related development, IUML leader Mayin Haji has been elected chairman of the coordination committee constituted for the conduct of the centenary celebrations of Samastha, which will be held in Kasaragod from February 4 to 8, 2026. He was inducted in the committee as there were allegations that IUML supporters were deliberately omitted from the committees constituted for the celebrations. In a press release issued in Kozhikode on Thursday, Jiffiri Thangal said the committee was formed as the current coordinator K Moyinkutty has lots of responsibilities. He said a decision to reinduct suspended mushawara member M P Musthaful Faizi will be taken after receiving his explanation. The news about the issue that appeared in the media is misleading, the release said.

State-wide crackdown nets 263 in cyber financial fraud cases

The Ernakulam Rural police recorded the highest number of arrests in the drive, nabbing 43 suspects. Malappuram came second with 30 arrests, followed by Kannur City and Kozhikode City

Urbanisation posing challenges in Kozhikode

Researchers from Kerala identify rare scrub typhus case in Dubai-returned man from Thiruvananthapuram

According to official figures, around thousand scrub typhus cases are reported each year in Kerala, 70% of which are from Thiruvananthapuram and the rest are from Kozhikode, Wayanad, Idukki and Kollam

Priyanka Gandhi terms voter list revision a fraud, vows to oppose EC move

MALALPURAM: Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi on Wednesday said the party would strongly oppose the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voters lists proposed by the Election Commission. She said the Congress had opposed the move both inside and outside Parliament and would continue to do so. We are strongly opposed to it. Its only a way to commit fraud and cheat in elections. We have seen that before. We have seen what they have done in Bihar and how they have implemented the SIR over there and if that is what they are going to do in every state, it is an affront to democracy and we have to fight it, Priyanka told reporters. The Election Commission is planning to carry out SIR of voter lists in many states, including Kerala, and we will strongly oppose it, she added. The Wayanad MP arrived at the Kozhikode Airport early Wednesday morning to a warm reception from party leaders and workers at the start of her two-day visit to her constituency. At 11 am, she inaugurated the newly constructed building of the Rajiv Gandhi Memorial Government Ayurveda Dispensary at Vadakkumuri in Urgattiri grama panchayat, under Eranad constituency. She later inaugurated various development projects at CHC Chungathara in Nilambur.

CM Pinarayi Vijayans mini-budget raises questions over fiscal sustainability

KOCHI: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayans surprise announcements on Wednesday, a sweeping welfare package that many are already calling a mini-budget, have set off a fresh debate over the states fiscal resilience. The slew of measures, including a hike in welfare pensions and honorariums, may offer relief to millions, but they also raise a pointed question: Can Kerala afford it? The package is massive in scope. The government has raised the monthly welfare pension to Rs 2,000, benefiting around 62 lakh people. Honorariums for ASHA and Anganwadi workers have gone up by Rs 1,000. In a first-of-its-kind measure, all women, including trans women, from poor households aged between 35 and 60 will receive a Rs 1,000 monthly pension. Another Rs 1,000 monthly grant will go to five lakh youths enrolled in skill development programmes or preparing for competitive exams. Finance Minister K N Balagopal described the decisions as carefully considered and fiscally responsible, asserting that the government has factored in financial implications. We have deliberated deeply on the fiscal front. The government is confident of delivering on these promises, he told mediapersons in Thiruvananthapuram. Yet, economists are split on whether Keralas coffers can handle the added weight. Conservative estimates place the annual outlay for the new measures at around Rs 18,000 crore, roughly a 10% jump in revenue expenditure. Welfare pensions alone could account for Rs 13,000 crore. This looks like a mini-budget without matching revenue sources, said Rudra Sensarma, professor of economics at IIM Kozhikode. While it brings welcome relief to households in an inflation-hit state, much of the package adds new recurring commitments. Unless the next budget focuses sharply on revenue mobilisation, Kerala risks slipping into an unsustainable fiscal hole. Sensarma suggested that the government might need to consider tougher fiscal options such as raising lottery prices, hiking excise duties, revising user charges for transport, and monetising PSU land to restore fiscal balance. But Prof K N Harilal, economist at the Centre for Development Studies (CDS) and head of the State Finance Commission, believes Keralas fiscal position is stronger than it appears. The worst is behind us, he said. The last few Finance Commission reports were severely unfavourable to Kerala, but we have managed to stabilise the situation. If the Centre provides even minimal justice in transfers and grants, the state can easily sustain this welfare and development momentum. Harilal pointed out that Keralas share of central transfers in total revenue receipts is only 25%, compared with the national average of nearly 50%. When we spend Rs 100, we get only Rs 25 from the Centre, he noted. Despite this, we have implemented the pay commission, completed major projects like Vizhinjam Port and the national highways, and brought down our fiscal and revenue deficits. Indeed, the numbers back his claim of slow recovery. According to the latest CAG report, Keralas own tax revenue rose 3.28% in 2023-24 to Rs 74,329 crore, while non-tax revenue grew by 8.12%. The states share of central taxes and duties also saw a 19% rise. However, grants-in-aid from the Centre plummeted by 56%, pulling down total revenue receipts by 6.21%. Harilal argues that Keralas approach balancing welfare with infrastructure investments remains sound, provided that the central government does not adopt a hostile stance and the upcoming 16th Finance Commission treats the state fairly. Our revenue mobilisation capacity is improving. With modest central support, we can meet additional obligations and sustain ongoing development works, he said. Keralas finances, battered in the early years of the LDF government by the pay commission payouts, GST compensation loss, and a halt in revenue deficit grants, have gradually found firmer ground. The government managed to hold back part of the DA arrears to create fiscal space while keeping big-ticket projects on track. Four years on, the situation looks less dire. But with welfare expansion now at full throttle, the states ability to keep the fiscal deficit under control will depend on how effectively it can mobilise fresh revenue and how generously New Delhi chooses to treat it. ASHA workers to get S1,000 hike TPuram: The cabinet has approved an increase of D1,000 in the monthly honorarium of ASHA workers. According to the announcement, a total of 26,125 ASHA workers across the state will benefit from the hike. The move is expected to cost the government an additional D250 crore annually. The cabinet has also decided to clear all pending arrears owed to ASHA workers. Womens Security Scheme A new pension of Rs 1,000 per month for women (including trans women) from poor families not already covered under any welfare pension. A total of 31.34 lakh women aged 35-60 from AAY (yellow card) and PHH (pink card) households are the beneficiaries Connect to Work Scholarship for Youth K1,000 per month for youth (18-30 years) with annual family income below I1 lakh. 5 Lakh students who have completed Plus Two/ITI/Diploma/Degree and are pursuing skill courses or preparing for competitive exams Kudumbashree ADS Operational Grant 19,470 Area Development Societies (ADS) under Kudumbashree to receive K1,000 per month as an operational grant Annual cost: K23.4 crore Revised, increased benefits Social Welfare Pension: From K1,600 to K2,000 per month Annual cost: K13,000 crore DA/DR for government employees & pensioners: An additional 4% hike from November salary/pension 11th Pay Revision arrears: 3rd and 4th instalments to be paid within this fiscal year. Honorarium hike Anganwadi workers/helpers: K1,000 per month (66,240 beneficiaries) Literacy Mission instructors: K1,000 per month Midday meal cooks: K1,100 per month Pre-primary teachers & ayahs: K1,000 per month Guest lecturers: Up to K2,000 per month Rubber subsidy Minimum support price for rubber increased from K180 to K200 per kg from November 1 Additional financial approvals Pending pensions for construction and Anganwadi Welfare Boards to be cleared Scholarships: SC/ST/OBC/post-matric/pre-matric students K303.8 crore total Fishermens children: K25 crore Khadi workers & institutions: K44 crore (income support), K58 crore (rebates) Mixed marriages assistance: K77 crore total (SC/ST/general) Wild animal attack compensation: K16 crore Health support: Cancer, leprosy, TB patients to get timely financial aid KMSCL:K914 crore for uninterrupted medicine supply Supplyco: K110 crore for market intervention dues Road repair projects:K1,000 crore to be released by Dec 31 Social Security Mission arrears: K146.48 crore (for various welfare schemes) Pravasi Welfare Board Pension: K70 crore

Work Near Home centres for techies, freelancers coming up across Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The government is set to roll out Work Near Home (WNH) centres across the state to help IT professionals, startups and freelancers log in to modern facilities closer to their homes. The first such centre is nearing completion Kottarakkara and will launch operations soon. The initiative aims to let techies and professionals in knowledge-based sectors work from modern, well-equipped centres in small towns and rural areas. The Kottarakkara centre, established in a BSNL-owned building near the Ganapathy temple, is being built for around Rs 5 crore. The government leased the two-storey building, which now features state-of-the-art amenities, including conference and meeting rooms, a cafeteria, private and shared office spaces, Wi-Fi connectivity, CCTV surveillance, parking, toilets and drinking water. All rooms are fully air-conditioned and powered by solar energy. The Kottarakkara centre can accommodate around 180 professionals. The response has been very encouraging, said Finance Minister K N Balagopal. The government has earmarked Rs 50 crore to establish similar centres in every district. Private players coming forward with similar initiatives will be lent full support, he said. Senior officials said work on similar projects will soon be launched in Kalamassery (Ernakulam) and Ramanattukara (Kozhikode). The aim is to set up such facilities in small towns and villages so that people can access affordable, high-quality workspaces near their homes and help spread the growth of the IT sector beyond major cities, said an official. Freelancers and startup founders have welcomed the project, calling it a major boost for professionals in non-urban areas. Having access to a shared workspace would help me attend online meetings in a professional setup. If such centres come up across districts, it will be a great help for freelancers, said Simon Antony, a freelancer from Kaduthuruthy. Manu Kumar, who runs a security tech startup in Ernakulam, said, The rent and operational costs in cities are too high. If the government provides such shared spaces in smaller towns, it will fuel an IT boom in many places and make it easier for our staff to find affordable accommodation nearby, he said.

Bihar election gives migrant workers added impetus to head home from Kerala

KOCHI: Im travelling to attend my brother-in-laws wedding, and to vote, says Dipesh Kumar, as he arranges packets of milk in a small grocery store near the Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat) in Kalamassery. For the 35-year-old from Khagaria district of Bihar, who has lived in Kerala for the last 12 years, the journey home next week will serve a double purpose. He and three family members will take the train early next month a trip that will coincide with both the wedding on November 24 and the two-phase Bihar assembly election on November 6 and 11. I dont follow politics very closely these days, but when I go home, I make sure to vote, says Dipesh, who has worked at the store for 10 years. His brother-in-law, Hardeb Kumar, who works with him at the shop, chips in: The Jan Suraaj Party [of Prashant Kishor] will take votes away from both the NDA and the Mahagathbandhan. For thousands like Dipesh and Hardeb, such trips are an annual ritual made more compelling this year by the twin pull of Chhath Puja and the election. The four-day Chhath festivities, which ended on October 28, saw one of the largest seasonal migrations in the country, with millions of Biharis returning home. Those who go home for Chhath Puja usually return only after one or two months. Sometimes, even major infrastructure projects in Kerala slow down because Bihari workers travel home during this period, says Benoy Peter, executive director of the Centre for Migration and Inclusive Development (CMID). Dipesh Kumar, a native of Khagaria, has been employed in a grocery store near Cochin University for the past 12 years Though workers from Bihar make up only about 7% of Keralas four-million-strong migrant population, they are concentrated in key sectors construction, footwear, iron and steel, and ship welding. There are large clusters of Bihari workers in industrial pockets such as Binanipuram, near Kochi, and the footwear belt of Kozhikode. A study by CMID pegged the price of democracy that these migrant workers pay at nearly Rs 2,600 crore: the cumulative loss to 40 lakh Bihari migrants across India who travel home for the elections, factoring in 15 days of lost wages at Rs 400 a day and an average travel cost of Rs 600 per person. Political participation among migrant Muslims from Bihar is often driven by social and bureaucratic pressures, Benoy points out. In the wake of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, Muslims are compelled to travel home to prove their existence and identity, he explains. Sometimes, community leaders or local candidates also issue special summons urging people to return and vote. The same applies to Hindu workers, though to a lesser extent, if theres political mobilisation in their constituencies. For Dipesh, however, the motivation is family and duty. Were going mainly for the wedding, he says, pausing before adding with quiet pride, But well also make sure to vote. After all, its our right. When the ballot boxes are opened in Bihar on November 14, the echoes will be heard far away in Kerala, too, in the silent construction yards and shuttered shops left behind by those who went home to be counted.

Minister Prasad intervenes to take back student at KAU who opted out owing to fee hike

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Agriculture Minister P Prasad instructed the Kerala Agricultural University to take back a student, who had availed of a transfer certificate due to a fee hike. V S Arjun, a first-year BSc Agriculture (Hons) student at the College of Agriculture, Vellayani, decided to opt out of his studies after his yearly fees increased threefold. However, the student commented that every student who dropped out of the course due to the fee hike deserves the same benefit as him, and he does not wish to be separately sponsored. Commenting that discussions are going on to explore possibilities to support financially backward students, the minister said that further arrangements will be made if the student community feels that they are not enough. We have enough provisions to financialy support students, either through university grants or the vice chancellors scholarship fund. No student should be denied education owing to lack of money, informed the ministers office. However, Arjun remarked that he does not wish to continue in the college here. A Kozhikode-native who avails the e-grants for fee support, Arjun, said that their disbursement is often untimely. I have to pay the fees first, which will be repaid later. But it is unclear when this will be done, he said. Stating that there are many students who struggle to pay the fees, he commented that he does not want an exemption. Not to disrespect anyone, but I dont want anyones sympathy. I took this move for other students of my college, he added. He also pointed out that proper placements are not offered to agricultural courses, another reason for him to discontinue the course. Arjun also urged that a fee system affordable for all students should be set up in the university. Arjun took admission to the college earlier this year. However, the fee hike came as a shock, following which he availed TC from the institution on October 24. Upon knowing the issue, Minister Prasad directed the university to take the student back on Tuesday morning. Earlier, SFI had staged protests against Vice Chancellor, B Ashok, against the fee hike.

67th Kerala School Sports Meet: Hosts TPuram crowned champions as sun sets on eight thrilling days

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Eight thrilling days of action came to a close with hosts Thiruvananthapuram being crowned champions of the 67th Kerala School Sports Meet on Tuesday. The meet saw record-breaking performances, tight competitions across categories and emotional highs that carried the spirit of sportsmanship. A total of 17 new records in athletics and 17 in aquatics made this edition the one with the most record-breaking events. Spread across 12 venues, the event hosted nearly 9,000 competitions in close to 40 events. The meet went ahead as scheduled despite rain delays and venue changes, with some events like tug of war shifting thrice before finding ground. Hosts Thiruvananthapuram led from the first day, kept its dominance till the end and won the race for the Golden Cup. The meet also introduced new events, including kalaripayattu, yoga and fencing, with good participation witnessed from across the state. For the second time, inclusive events were held, but special educators pointed out that many venues still lacked ramps and basic facilities for the participants. Two new events, Cricket and Bocce were introduced for children with disabilities. Another highlight was the participation of female students from Gulf countries. The 15th district earned one silver medal and three points overall. The opening day saw in the pool as four new records were set. Aquatic events were the first to complete crowning the capital district. Thiruvananthapuram also won the games section. Track and field events were no less thrilling. Malappuram secured the athletics lead. J Nivedkrishna of Palakkad and Adithya Aji of Malappuram finished as the fastest runners in senior 100m categories. Deva Priya Shaibu of Idukki broke a 1987 record in sub-junior girls 100m by clocking 12.69 seconds. Athul T M of Alappuzha smashed a 1988 record in junior boys 100m, finishing in 10.81 seconds. One of the most emotional moments came from Kozhikodes Devananda V Biju of St Joseph HSS, who won the junior girls 200m while recovering from appendicitis. She broke the eight-year-old record with a timing of 24.96 seconds. General Education Minister V Sivankutty announced that a new house would be built for her family. The government will facilitate building of new houses for 50 participants, he said. More records fell in hurdles and discus throw events. A grand victory procession was held in the city to welcome the Chief Ministers Cup, a 117.5-sovereign gold trophy for the overall champs, for the first time in the events history. Despite a few age-related controversies, where questions were raised about a participants eligibility in certain categories and a probe is on, the meet stood out for the promise of a brighter sporting future. Roll of honour Overall Champions: TPuram (1,825 points) 1st runner-up: Thrissur (892 points) 2nd runner-up: Kannur (859 points) Best school (Athletics) 1. Ideal EHSS, Kadakassery (Malappuram): 78 points 2. VMHS, Vadavannur (Palakkad): 58 points 3. Navamukunda HSS, Thirunavaya (Malappuram): 57 points Best sports school (Athletics) 1. GV Raja Sports School, TPuram: 57 points 2. CSH Wayanad & SAI Kollam: 8 points 3. MA College Sports Hostel, Keerampara & SAI Thalassery: 5 points Toppers Athletics: Malappuram (247 points) Games: TPuram (1,107 points) Aquatics: TPuram (649 points)

Kozhikode is now extreme poverty-free district

Minister for Forests and Wildlife A.K. Saseendran makes the announcement

Field studies in Kozhikode to identify reasons for surge in amoebic meningoencephalitis in Kerala

Health dept. and scientists at ICMR-National Institute of Epidemiology will continue field studies in Malappuram, Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam too, which account for a significant number of the amoebic infections reported in 2024, 2025

Wells refill as the groundwater level rises by 1.6m in Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The groundwater level in Kerala has risen by an average of 1.6m this year, according to a preliminary assessment made by the state groundwater department last month. The finding is based on monthly data collected from 819 observation wells across the state, including 446 open wells and 373 borewells, over the past 10 days. Officials attributed the increase to consistent rainfall and groundwater recharge initiatives implemented by the state government since 2020. The government has initiated several efforts to ensure groundwater recharge through various initiatives. This, along with good rainfall, has contributed to the rise, a senior official with the groundwater department told TNIE. The Annual Extractable Groundwater Quantity (AEGQ) has also shown steady improvement from 5 billion cubic metres in 2023 to 5.13 billion cubic metres in 2024. Officials expect the figure to continue increasing this year as well considering the rain and the indications in the preliminary report. Preliminary data indicate that groundwater levels have risen across most districts, with Kasaragod recording the highest average rise of 3m, followed by Kannur, Wayanad, and Kozhikode, where levels increased by 2m each. Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Kottayam, Malappuram, Palakkad, and Thrissur reported an average rise of around 1 metre. However, the department noted that a few regions have reported a slight drop in groundwater levels. A noticeable decline was observed in open wells in Kazhakoottam (Thiruvananthapuram), Tirurangadi (Malappuram), and Kanhangad (Kasaragod), while borewells in Kollam corporation (Kollam), Konni and Ranni (Pathanamthitta), Areekode (Malappuram), and Parakkadavu (Ernakulam) also showed lower levels. Though the exact extent of decline is not available, sources said the drop is estimated to be between 0.5 and 1m. The expert team of the groundwater department is carrying out a detailed assessment in these areas to identify the reasons behind the variation. There can be multiple reasons for the drop over-extraction by industries, lack of conservation efforts, or population growth in certain regions. The preliminary findings help us identify areas that require more attention. The detailed report, expected by the end of this year, will recommend measures for sustainable management of groundwater resources, a senior scientist said. Officials stressed that the conservation and recharge efforts must continue to sustain the positive trend. Deeper relief Average rise: 1.6 metres in groundwater level across the state Highest increase: Kasaragod (3 m), followed by Kannur, Wayanad, and Kozhikode (2 m each). Areas with decline: Slight drop (0.5-1m) in parts of Thiruvananthapuram, Malappuram, Pathanamthitta, Ernakulam, and Kasaragod districts. Next step: Detailed study under way; final report expected by the end of the year to guide groundwater management policies (Data source: 819 observation wells -- 446 open wells and 373 borewells -- under groundwater department, Kerala)

Keralas 1st film society-owned cinema continues to celebrate motion pictures

KOZHIKODE: Standing tall as Keralas first film society-owned cinema hall, the Phalke Film Society Theatre in Puthiyappu, Vadakara, continues to nurture and celebrate the spirit of cinema, eight years after it first opened its doors. More than a screening space, this cultural landmark has become a living symbol of the states deep-rooted cinephile traditions, a place where films are not merely watched, but experienced, discussed, and loved. The society traces its origins to 1986, when a group of passionate film lovers came together with a vision to democratise movie culture in the region. Their first screening, John Abrahams Amma Ariyan, set the tone for a movement that combined artistic curiosity with political and social consciousness. What began as a small gathering of idealists has since evolved into a thriving hub of cinematic learning and appreciation. The space, which can seat 60 viewers in AC comfort, was once part of the societys library but was transformed into a theatre to expand its outreach. True to its democratic ethos, the society runs screenings free of cost, making world cinema accessible to everyone. We inform our regular viewers about screenings through our WhatsApp group, said Preman M, secretary and the driving force behind the society. Every Friday at 6pm, we screen mostly foreign films, while the remaining days are reserved for students, Kudumbashree units, and other organisations that approach us with requests. This theatre belongs to the people who love cinema. The theatre recently hosted a film appreciation camp that drew movie lovers, students, and artists from across the district. The theatre recently hosted a film appreciation camp that drew movie lovers, students, and artists from across the district. The event featured insightful sessions led by film educator Premachandran P and actor Jobhish V K, both of whom praised the societys commitment to serious cinema. Students of Maharajas College, Meppayil; Puthoor Government HSS; Puthuppanam BEd Centre; and JNM School participated in the camp. Together, they watched the classic short film An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge and engaged in animated discussions on its themes, narrative form, and visual style. Regular screenings at the theatre feature films from Ritwik Ghatak and Jean-Luc Godard to Justin Chadwick, Luis Mandoki, and Lola Doillon, reflecting the societys international outlook. Currently, the theatre is showcasing Chadwicks 2011 biographical drama The First Grader, which tells the inspiring story of Kimani Maruge, an 84-year-old Kenyan farmer who enrols in primary school after the government introduces free education. The film has been screened multiple times due to its powerful social message, a theme that resonates strongly with the societys belief in lifelong learning and inclusivity. Looking ahead, the team plans to produce a documentary chronicling the history of the Phalke Film Society.

UGC issues another notice against prophetic medicine varsity in Kozhikode

Cyber Shield active in Kozhikode city to fight online investment frauds

Cyclone Montha likely to bring heavy rainfall in Kerala; orange alert for three districts

An orange alert warning of very heavy rainfall has been issued for three districts Kozhikode, Kannur, and Kasaragod on Monday, while the rest of the State, except for Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam, has been put on yellow alert

Heavy rains lash Kerala; fishermen dies in Alappuzha, IMD issues orange alert for northern districts

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Heavy rain accompanied by strong winds lashed several districts across Kerala on Monday, causing waterlogging in low-lying areas, officials said. In Alappuzha district, a fisherman died after his boat capsized near the Arthunkal coast following strong winds. Police identified the deceased as Paul Devasia, a native of Arthunkal. He had gone out fishing early in the morning, and though other fishermen rescued him from the water, he later died, police said. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Kozhikode, Kasaragod, and Kannur districts, indicating the possibility of rainfall between 115.6 mm and 204 mm within 24 hours. A yellow alert has also been issued for Wayanad, Malappuram, Palakkad, Thrissur, Ernakulam, Idukki, Kottayam, and Alappuzha districts, where rainfall between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm is likely. The IMD further warned of strong winds across all districts in the state. Officials said heavy rain was reported in the northern districts since early morning, leading to waterlogging in parts of Kozhikode city, where water entered several shops near the KSRTC bus station. Intense rainfall was also reported in the high-range regions of Malappuram and Kannur, while strong winds battered coastal areas. Rain intensified in the central Kerala districts, including Ernakulam and Alappuzha, during the morning hours, authorities added. Fishermen have been cautioned against venturing into the sea owing to rough weather conditions.

After Messi fiasco, Kerala Sports Minister says Salman Khan will open racing event in Kozhikode

KOZHIKODE: Amid the growing debate over whether Argentinas national football team will play in Kerala in the near future, Sports Minister V Abdurahiman has made a new announcement Bollywood superstar Salman Khan will inaugurate an international-level bike race at the EMS Municipal Stadium in Kozhikode. The minister shared the news while addressing a gathering at Pookkottur, Malappuram, during the inauguration of a traditional cart race on Sunday. He also mentioned that the government is considering approval for such local racing events. Addressing the media, Abdurahiman said there is still hope that Argentina will visit the state. He clarified that efforts are continuing to make the event possible and that the doors are not completely closed for the world champions visit. According to the minister, the delay in getting FIFAs approval for the renovation taken up at Kochis Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium was the main reason behind Argentinas scheduled November visit falling through. The teams Kerala visit was announced based on the assumption that the Kaloor stadium renovation would be completed on time, he said. Adding that a new date will be considered for the match, Abdurahiman, in a sharp remark, alleged that certain individuals from Kerala had sent e-mails attempting to obstruct Argentinas visit. On Salman Khans visit, the sports minister said Kozhikode will host a Supercross, a racing event unlike any seen in the region before. This international bike race spans three countries, and in India, it will be inaugurated by one of the most loved celebrities Salman Khan, Abdurahiman said. The Indian Supercross Racing League Grand Finale will take place on December 20 and 21 in Kozhikode. Salman Khan, who serves as the brand ambassador of the league, will attend the event along with several other prominent figures.

Kerala School Sports Meet: Thiruvananthapuram closes in on Golden Cup

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: With just two days left before curtains fall on the 67th Kerala State School Sports Meet, host Thiruvananthapuram is moving closer to the overall championship, cruising past 1,500 points, far ahead of its rivals. The district retains its lead with 175 gold, 126 silver and 147 bronze medals, taking its point tally to 1,557. Thrissur is in second place with 740 points, winning 79 gold, 42 silver and 84 bronze medals. Palakkad, owing to a strong performance in athletics, is third with 669 points, having bagged 53 gold, 70 silver and 76 bronze medals. Stellar performances in both games and aquatics were crucial in Thiruvananthapurams rise. The district secured the championship trophy in aquatics, which concluded on Saturday, with 73 gold, 63 silver and 46 bronze, totalling 649 points. In games, Thiruvananthapuram continues to shine, leading with 95 gold, 58 silver and 98 bronze medals, accumulating 855 points. In athletics, Palakkad remains dominant. It has secured 20 gold, 13 silver and eight bronze medals for a total of 162 points. Malappuram follows with 149 points, while Kozhikode stands third with 75. For the first time in the history of the meet, kalaripayattu was featured, with events held at the Central Stadium on Sunday. A meet record was also set in athletics by Sreehari Karikkan of GV Raja Sports School in junior boys hurdles.

State govt. on a mission to create new Kozhikode, says Minister

Event included a video presentation of the achievements of the State government and the Kozhikode Corporation, a report presentation, and the release of the Corpn.s progress report

Kozhikode to be declared extreme poverty-free district on Oct. 28

A survey conducted in 2021-22 under the aegis of various local bodies identified 6,773 families as extremely poor and provided them with assistance including food, health support, employment, and safe accommodation

Nearly 2,000 held in NDPS cases in past 10 months in Kozhikode

The police reportedly seized 3,353.5 grams of MDMA and 123.6 kg of ganja, along with substantial quantities of hashish oil, ecstasy pills, and brown sugar

VACB to launch week-long anti-corruption drive from Oct. 27 in Kozhikode city

Separate awareness programmes will be held for the public, students, and officials from various government departments to promote integrity and transparency in service

School Sports Meet: Records pour in on Day 4

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Marking the end of the fourth day, a total of 25 new records were set in a single day in the State School Sports Meet. Thiruvananthapuram has established a strong lead from the beginning. The host district tops the charts with 165 gold, 122 silver, and 138 bronze medals, amassing 1,472 points. Thrissur trails in second place with 694 points, having secured 76 gold, 38 silver, and 78 bronze medals. Palakkad stands third with 615 points, including 47 gold, 66 silver, and 73 bronze medals, while Kannur follows with 603 points. In aquatics, the competitions concluded with Thiruvananthapuram claiming the crown with 649 points. Thrissur managed 149 points to take second place, while Ernakulam earned 133 and Palakkad 49. In athletics, Palakkad continues its strong run with 16 gold, 11 silver, and six bronze medals, totalling 134 points so far. Malappuram follows with 112 points, Kozhikode with 73, and Kannur with 29. Out of 402 completed game events, Thiruvananthapuram has collected 799 points. Kannur holds the second position with 572 points, and Thrissur ranks third with 530.

How a Kozhikode school became a model for Kashmirs education revival

A state school in Srinagar is on its way to replicate the extraordinary transformation of a govt girls school in Nadakkavu, Kozhikode. Hope blazes in Kashmiri students, like chinar leaves.

Missing gold controversy does not surprise me: Former CS K Jayakumar

Former Chief Secretary K Jayakumar probably has had the longest tenure in Sabarimala in different capacities, including as special commissioner and chairman of the HC-appointed high-powered committee. One of the key driving forces behind the tagline Kerala - Gods Own Country, he is a rare combination of poetry and bureaucracy. A multifaceted personality, he is a Sahitya Akademi Award-winning poet, versatile lyricist, accomplished administrator, and an acclaimed painter. In a free-wheeling conversation, Jayakumar tells TNIE that the Travancore Devaswom Board has structural problems and explains what needs to be done to protect the sanctity of the hill shrine. Excerpts You had a long tenure at Sabarimala in different capacities. Whats your take on the current controversy over the missing gold? My long tenure at Sabarimala has helped me understand the developmental trajectory and the structural weaknesses in its totality. The current controversy doesnt surprise me. There are structural problems in the (Travancore Devaswom) Board. As a functional entity, the board should be more professional. The staff needs training. The system has to improve and information technology should be applied. We can plug the loopholes in Sabarimala by minimising manual interventions. Sponsorship-related issues led to the recent controversy... Sponsorship is a good thing. But how we channelise sponsorships is important. Who should a prospective sponsor meet? Ideally, we should have a system under which terms and conditions are fixed, like the deliverables by the sponsor and the privileges hed get. TDBs dealing with sponsors is amorphous. Systems should be objective, with an officer in charge of sponsorships. Middlemen arise because TDB doesnt have such a system. Sabarimala can be managed well, if theres an objective and professional system in place. A lot of people would be ready to make contributions to Lord Ayyappa if the money is used well. What are the other administrative weaknesses you noticed at Sabarimala? The temple cannot be run like a government office, as it deals with customs and traditions. Devotees are often impulsive and emotional. We should have the machinery to handle all these. There should be dialogue with devotees, objectivity, and transparency. Theres definitely a need to modernise the boards administration. I hope this crisis will turn out to be an opportunity for modernisation. The board should become efficient through process re-engineering, inducting new people; the general administrative level should be raised. A core question is whether the state is required to administer temples The Travancore Maharaja was the administrator of all these temples. When the princely rule ended, all such temples except the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple (in Thiruvananthapuram), was handed over to the government through a covenant. The covenant says the government shall not directly administer temples. Instead, a board representing the devotees was to be formed, which would hold authority over temple affairs. This covenant is still upheld in letter and spirit. The government isnt directly involved in temple administration; its role is limited to appointing board members. But there are campaigns claiming that the government siphoned off money from Sabarimala Theres a widespread misinformation campaign that money from TDB temples is spent for other things by the government. It is aimed at polarisation and to create confusion. Government does not take a single paisa from the board. Its impossible as well. The board cannot even withdraw its fixed deposits without court permission. Claims of fund diversion by the government are entirely baseless and malicious. Many conspiracy theories are being floated in that regard... They are mere conspiracies. In fact, the government provides financial support to Devaswoms. During my tenure, I introduced a dedicated budget head for the Sabarimala master plan and allocated Rs 10 crore. Beyond that, we neither take money from Sabarimala nor provide additional funds. Such a claim is entirely false. Even during the counting of offerings, strict protocols are followed to prevent any form of theft or misappropriation. The government does not take a penny from Sabarimala. Does TDB use revenue from Sabarimala to support other temples? Yes. A significant portion of the boards revenue comes from Sabarimala. Only a handful of other temples like Chettikulangara and Malayalapuzha generate enough income to sustain themselves. The salaries of Devaswom employees are largely funded by Sabarimala. There were discussions about creating a Sabarimala Trust, similar to the Padmanabhaswamy Temple Trust... Establishing an autonomous trust for the temple could severely impact TDBs financial stability. Any new administrative mechanism must be relevant and meaningful, with a distinct identity. It should offer functional autonomy while preserving the boards rights over the temples revenue. Running Sabarimala costs approximately Rs 100 crore annually. Appointing a senior officer and implementing a standardised framework could significantly improve the management of Sabarimala. Isnt it the Devaswom Boards responsibility to ensure the quality of products distributed from temples, like sandalwood paste? Absolutely. The board bears full responsibility. Temples are run using devotees money and its the boards duty to uphold their trust. They must ensure the sanctity and quality of offerings. Devotees should hold the board accountable. There are demands for greater government control over temple administration. Whats your view? I believe these demands are related to future development needs, which require coordination between departments like PWD and forest. To my knowledge, neither this government nor any previous government has sought direct control over temple administration. It wouldnt be possible anywayit would violate the covenant that governs temple management. The master plan sets a vision for 2040, which is ambitious and challenging. Executing it sustainably is even harder. Is the disappearance of goldunnoticed since 2019 and only surfacing in 2025a failure of the system? Yes, it reflects a systemic failure. Since its a matter under judicial review, I wont comment. What surprises me is how something as valuable as gold was taken out of the temple. It belongs to Lord Ayyappa. Why wasnt it repaired on-site? Both the court and temple manuals clearly state that no items belonging to Ayyappa should be removed from the premises. How effective is the audit system? Id prefer not to comment as its under scrutiny by multiple agencies. Can the public access information about temple assets? Each temple has a thiruvabharana commissioner responsible for ornaments and jewellery, which are stored in secure chambers. Whether these assets are audited or stock-verified regularly, I cant say. Thats what I refer to as systemic failure. There should be annual stock verification for such precious items. Some board members privately complain that excessive court interference curbs the boards autonomy... Autonomy doesnt mean sovereign power. Institutions are always bound by checks and balances. Theres no merit in that argument. Court monitoring provides necessary supervision it isnt judicial activism. The Hindu Religious Endowments Act, which came after the covenant, defines the courts role. It has the legal authority to audit temple assets, which is why it intervenes in places like Guruvayur. The courts are fulfilling their legal obligations. Judicial supervision is beneficialwithout it, things could deteriorate further. Whos responsible for the 2019 lapse? My question is: why was the item allowed to be removed from the site? Can the administrative office alone be held responsible? Nobody suddenly decides to take gold from Sabarimala. There must have been a conspiracy. How could it happen without the boards knowledge? I dont know. It wasnt robberyit was taken out as if it were legitimate. There must have been a process behind it. When intent is bad, consultation becomes conspiracy. When the board takes a decision, can a commissioner record his objections? The Act is a bit vague on this aspect. You have to empower the office of the executive officer, who is the trustee of the faith of crores of people. We have to elevate the office to a higher level. Elevating the system means bringing in professionalism. How transparent are the kanikka (hundi) offerings? It is transparent as it doesnt go to anyones pocket but is sent through a conveyor belt which nobody tampers with. It heads straight to the counting centre. A vigilance officer had said bundles of notes were taken to Thiruvananthapuram... (Dismissively) What all people say! These are many stories for which there is no evidence. The basis of your questions hints theres a dharmic flaw or a deterioration of values. The flaw in public and administrative morality that has affected other sectors has affected TDB too. We should focus on how we can check this systemically. Can the example of Tirupati be emulated in Sabarimala? Thats possible. But there are many problems. Mindsets and attitudes need to change. Tirumala has been a model for many years. Pilgrims comfort is taken care of; they are fed as guests of Lord Venkateswara. But in our temples, our annadanam has a take it or leave it attitude. It is a question of the attitude of Malayalis. The board alone cannot be blamed. But can we compare Sabarimala, a hill shrine located in the forest, to the Tirupati temple? Theres no comparison at all. Maintaining Sabarimala is a big issue. We should remove the defects using the master plan. Thats why we made Nilakkal a base camp. We have a huge parking complex and accommodation facilities there. Sabarimala has a unique character. Devotees climb uphill, facing hardship with devotion. There are attempts to convert it into more of a tourist centre It shouldnt be. Thats the challenge of implementing the master plan that envisages convenience to pilgrims and respect for the environment. Its a forest shrine and therein lies its power. We cant agree to anything that upsets the forests. If that happens, the very character of the shrine is lost. We should in fact plant trees to compensate for the deforestation that happened earlier. Theres a suggestion to keep Sabarimala temple open round the year. Is that practical? Its better not to interfere with customs and ritualistic practices. Recently, there was a plan to relocate bhasmakkulam. Is that part of the master plan? It has more to do with customs rather than the master plan. As per vastu shastra, ponds should be located on the north-east side. But here, its on the north-west side astrologically, not ideal. Many thantris have mentioned this. The shrine comes within the Periyar Tiger Reserve. What kind of construction is allowed in such a sensitive location? Within the 67 acres, we have some freedom to carry out construction, but we cannot cut trees. Will the offices of thantri and melsanthi be relocated? Yes, they have to be relocated. Its a shrine. There shouldnt be any residential area there. The same applies to the executive officers residence too. The master plan too suggests the removal of residential buildings around the shrine. Are we looking at aesthetics too? The high-powered committee has a role here. We should maintain architectural consistency and follow height regulations. The master plan covers zoning and architectural uniformity. I think around 25% of the master plan has been completed so far. Whats causing the delay? There may be delays due to resources. Sponsors havent done much to implement the master plan... they are willing to give money to Ayyappa but not to set up facilities for devotees. There are interested parties. If we handle this professionally, we will get donations. We need a professional toolkit to negotiate with sponsors. There should be a clear procedure to select sponsors. Will these controversies affect the trust of sponsors? We have to wait and see. What kind of system would you suggest to handle sponsorship? A manual for sponsorship is required to remove middlemen and to ensure transparency, thereby allowing those who have money to come forward. We should objectify the deliverables to the sponsor. Whats the system followed currently? Now, everythings done in an informal manner. Even the court insists that nothing be given formally and that everyone be treated alike. I think there should be no space for subjective interpretation. If I am a donor, I should be entitled to certain privileges. If the court doesnt permit it, we should try to convince the court. If we ensure transparency, therell be no issue. Whats your take on special darshan? Ayyappan doesnt encourage it. There are many temples which allow special darshan; I dont agree with it. Was it right to limit the virtual queue? I dont know much about it. The desirability of virtual queue should be revisited. There are certain cases where we have to give some privileges to people like senior citizens or VIPs. All these are currently done informally. Theres nothing wrong with including the donor too. I personally dont prefer any kind of discrimination before Ayyappan. A majority of Devaswom Board employees reportedly belong to a certain caste None of these are legal. Other than the normal reservation criteria in government, Devaswom Boards dont have any additional reservation. According to law, only the reservation policy followed by the government is applicable. What about ooranma rights? Thats only in the Malabar Devaswom Board. It is very limited in Travancore Devaswom Board. Koodalmanikyam also falls under the Malabar Devaswom Board, where the karayma people have certain rights. But these arent legally tenable once a board is formed. We have to convince them that if there is a law in the land, it is applicable to all. You were one of the most popular collectors in Kozhikode. People still talk about your tenure there Becoming a district collector is an opportunity, as you have more freedom. I had a bit more freedom at the time, as the collector was in charge of the corporation too. I got a go-ahead from the then Chief Minister K Karunakaran. I did things which I felt Kozhikode needed. It was a time when Vaikom Muhammed Basheer, Thikkodiyan and M T Vasudevan Nair were active. The friendship and support they extended were a great endorsement of the sincerity of purpose. Speaking of MT, the lyrics of the song Chandanalepa Sugandham were asked to be rewritten multiple times... It took many days. I see it as a sign of MTs care for me, as he wanted me to write the best lyrics possible. MT is a perfectionist. From MT, I understood a great artists sense of benchmark. He would always say, You can do better. You were instrumental in starting IFFK, and also played a key role in branding Kerala as Gods Own Country When we thought about organising the film festival, the KSFDC didnt have money. But we managed to get sponsorship, and the first film festival was held in Kozhikode. Later, the government took it up in the third year through the film academy. It was P A Sreenivasan who brought me into tourism. I wanted Kerala to make an impact and thought of bringing a splashy advertisement campaign. Im happy that I was actively involved in coining the tagline Gods Own Country. Your father (M Krishnan Nair) was a filmmaker who directed three chief ministers MGR, NTR and Jayalalithaa. But its said he didnt want you to enter cinema My father never saw cinema as a bad thing. Many youngsters then used to come into the world of glamour like fireflies and fade away. He didnt want his children to end up like that. My father said he wasnt banning me from films, but was asking me not to hamper my education. After I joined IAS, I started writing songs. He encouraged me. He directed three chief ministers. He was a humble man and never realised the magnitude of that achievement. In which songs did the visualisation do justice to your lyrics? I think a majority of the songs did not do justice to the lyrics. The song Sooryaamshuvoro Vayalpoovilum was portrayed in a relatively better manner... the euphoria has been captured in the shots. Youve also directed a movie... Yes, Varnachirakukal. If I make a movie, it will have a social bearing. If the right kind of producer comes around, I might make a movie. I am not bothered about age. (Laughs). Have you ever fallen into political red-tapism, given the scope for clashes between politicians and bureaucrats? Theres no need for it. Do what is right. Some people may not like what you do because your right may be somebodys wrong. Recently, you spoke against the tendency of one-size-fits-all being imposed upon us... Yes. I recently wrote a poem against this. If we cry, all of us are to cry the same way: one nation - one cry, one nation - one laughter. I may not be an activist. But if somebody has the patience to dwell on my poetry, itll prove rewarding. Youve donned many roles and had an illustrious career. Which one do you cherish the most? I am essentially a poet (smiles). Do you see yourself as a bureaucrat who is a poet or a poet who is a bureaucrat? That is a big predicament I face. Poetry is your very being. I have written film songs and have held high-profile bureaucratic positions, but the stamp of IAS poet is more or less a permanent fixture on me. I dont mind. I am someone who was a poet even before I became an IAS officer.

Attack on Shafi Parambil: Kozhikode DCC seeks action against police officials

All-woman idakka quintet defies odds, searches lifes new rhythms in Kerala

MALAPPURAM: The rhythmic pulse of the idakka rises from a quiet corner of Tirur steady and full of soul. In the glow of the evening lamps, five women stand in a line, their backs straight, eyes focused, and hands moving in unison to create the traditional tempo. What began as a late-life curiosity has now become a mission. After their impressive debut, the five-member, all-woman idakka group is preparing to perform at temples across northern Kerala. Many temples in Kannur, Kozhikode, and Malappuram have contacted us for performances. We are very happy that we have received such opportunities even at this stage of life, says Nirmala Kuttikrishnan, a councillor with Tirur municipality for the past 20 years. Nirmala, 68, now spends most of her days perfecting the beats of the idakka, a rhythm she once only admired from afar. All members of the quintet, including Vasantha, Sarala Krishnan, a retired teacher, Bhama Harikumar, and Ramani Kunnath, are neighbours and lifelong friends. They have lived side by side for decades, sharing festivals, routines, and laughter. We were not ready to settle into our homes and wait for old age and illness, Nirmala says, smiling. But we wanted our later years to be lively. We were part of a thiruvathira group for years, but eventually it lost its spark. That is when we decided to learn to play an instrument. The seed of the idea was planted by Vasantha, 64, a former agriculture department employee. We live near the Thrikkandiyur Shiva temple. The sound of the idakka and chenda has always been part of our mornings. Since childhood, I dreamed of learning the idakka, but life got in the way. Now, we finally have the time and freedom. There is nothing holding us back, says Vasantha. When the idea took shape, it was Bhama who reached out to Dr Balussery Krishnadas, a retired Kalamandalam artist, through Facebook. Many teachers were hesitant to train us because of our age, Bhama, 53, recalls. But Krishnadas sir welcomed us wholeheartedly. He first taught us using wooden blocks to get the rhythm right and later moved us to the idakka. Krishnadas used to travel from Kozhikode once a month to train the group. When he saw our dedication, he began arriving more often, says Vasantha. We practised every day, correcting ourselves, keeping rhythm, and encouraging one another. Once we felt confident enough, we decided to hold our premiere. Their first public performance under the name Sivapadam Sopana Sangeetha Sabha was met with applause and admiration at the Thrikkandiyur temple. As the beats fade into the evening air, their faces glow with quiet pride. Each performance, each practice session, has become more than music; it is a celebration of friendship, determination, and dreams realised, against the odds. In their music, time has no claim, and age holds no limits.

Beena Philip may not contest in local body polls

Kozhikode Mayor says new generation should get a chance

Vikasana Sadassu to collect public opinion on desired development for Kozhikode: Mayor

The two-day Vikasana Sadassu on October 25 and 26 will be held at the New Palayam Market building

Vision 2031: Kerala eyes Indias leading industrial destination tag

KOCHI: Transforming Kerala into Indias premier industrial destination through strategic reforms, dedicated corridors, innovation hubs, and sustainable development initiatives that is the core aim of Vision 2031, the states new industrial road map unveiled on Thursday. Industries Minister P Rajeeve, presenting the document in Thiruvananthapuram, said the plan marks a decisive shift from isolated projects to a holistic growth model. Through coordinated reforms and innovation-driven initiatives, Kerala is preparing to lead Indias next wave of sustainable industrialisation, he said. The vision focuses on strengthening ecosystems, expanding employment, and making the state a hub for knowledge-based and green industries. A major highlight is the creation of industrial townships and special investment regions, conceived as self-contained industrial ecosystems. The government will amend the Kerala Industrial Single Window Clearance Boards and Industrial Township Area Development Act, 1999 to enable single-window approvals and empower dedicated township authorities. To address future skill needs, a Kerala University for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship will be established under the PPP model, connecting education with industry in emerging areas such as robotics, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and renewable energy. The document also envisions strong industry R&D linkages, with Campus Industrial Parks planned to co-locate enterprises and academic institutions for innovation and product development. Regional balance is central to Vision 2031. The Vizhinjam Outer Area Growth Corridor (OAGC) will develop eight integrated economic clusters around the port, while the VizhinjamKollamPunalur Growth Triangle will create a 1,700-acre smart industrial ecosystem. In Kochi, the Global City Project part of the KochiBengaluru Industrial Corridor will proceed independently after the Centres withdrawal of support, promising over a lakh direct jobs. North Kerala will host specialised clusters such as the Aero-Defence and Drone Park near VSSC, a KozhikodeMalappuram Industrial Cluster for Biotech and ESDM, and the Arena Malabar project combining sports, industry, and healthcare. Sustainability anchors the plan through the Green Hydrogen Valley Project, recognised by the World Economic Forum among 12 global initiatives, alongside proposed EV Allied Industrial Parks, Robotics Park, Gem & Jewellery Park, and agro-based clusters in Wayanad and Idukki. At the micro level, the Mission One Lakh MSME Scaling Programme targets 1 lakh nano- and micro-enterprises, backed by 50 campus parks, 100 private parks, and 25 overseas Malayali industrial parks. Cooperative and consortium-led ventures will also be promoted to ensure inclusive participation. Innovation hubs Vizhinjam: Eight integrated growth clusters TPuram: Aero-defence and drone industrial cluster Kochi: Global City smart hub Wayanad: Coffee and agro clusters Kozhikode: Biotech and drone park Idukki: Green hydrogen valley Malabar region: Kerala sports metropolis

MP Shafi accuses police officer of deliberate assault

KOZHIKODE: Vadakara MP Shafi Parambil has kicked off a political storm with the allegation that a police officer, who was removed from service as per the governments claim, was the person who attacked him during the violence in Perambra on October 10. Addressing mediapersons on Thursday, Shafi said Abhilash David, who is currently the inspector of police at Vadakara Control Room, targeted him during the protest march. The Commissioner of Police, Thiruvananthapuram City, had announced that Abhilash was removed from service and this was reported by the media. When we inquired about the person, many police officers in Thiruvananthapuram said the inspector is no longer in service. The government either misled the media or reinstated the tainted officer with ulterior motives, he said. We asked for the details of the dismissed officers under the RTI Act, but we were told that no such information was available with the government, he said. Shafi said the officer beat him on the head and the face. When I turned to the other side, he followed me to attack. We are told that the officer is close to the CPM and a frequent visitor to the partys Vanchiyoor area committee office, the MP said. He said a cell is functioning in Kerala Police with tainted officers as members with the aim of pursuing CPMs political agenda.

Reservation wards in Kozhikode Corporation finalised

UDF boycotts the event alleging a lack of transparency in the entire process

Clash at poultry waste rendering unit in Kozhikode: Police book 321 suspects, including DYFI leader

Special squad formed under the supervision of DIG Yathish Chandra on the look out of more suspects after gathering surveillance camera visuals from the protest spot

Moodadi panchayat in Kozhikode unveils heat action plan

Kerala CM inaugurates new Palayam market in Kozhikode amid protests

Pinarayi Vijayan criticises attitude of opposing projects that are meant for the betterment of society

11 districts in Kerala brace for intense rains on October 21

The IMD has issued a yellow alert for Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode and Wayanad

Heavy rain lashes high ranges of Kerala; orange alert in four districts

Kerala is currently grappling with relentless downpours and fierce winds, resulting in significant waterlogging and widespread traffic disruptions. The high altitudes of Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode are experiencing unyielding rainfall. The Indian Meteorological Department has issued orange alerts for four districts, indicating the potential for extremely heavy rain. It is recommended that residents in flood-prone areas evacuate to safer grounds.

Four districts in Kerala have recurrent summer water stress, says CWRDM study

As much as 24.74% of the wards in Kasaragod, 22.01% in Thiruvananthapuram, 20.72% in Pathanamthitta, and 20.48% in Kozhikode are experiencing water shortage in summer months

De-addiction centre turns nightmare for residents in Kozhikode

Smart mobility project BUSZ set to transform public transport in Kozhikode

BUSZ offers a comprehensive suite of digital tools, including real-time bus tracking, a commuter-friendly mobile app, smart passenger information displays and automated onboard announcement

Rapid Response Team rescues leopard from well after five days in Kozhikode district

The big cat reportedly fell into the well at Koodaranhi on October 14

Kerala braces for potential flooding, strong winds as North East Monsoon intensifies

The IMD has forecast heavy to very heavy rains in North Kerala.It has put Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur and Kasaragod under an orange alert

Food street at Kozhikode beach to be opened on Oct. 20

Sajitha murder case: Palakkad court sentences accused to double life imprisonment

A Palakkad court sentenced Chenthamara to double life imprisonment and a Rs 3.25 lakh fine for the 2019 murder of Sajitha. He was also convicted for killing Sajitha's husband and mother-in-law after being granted bail. Separately, Kochi Police arrested three individuals in Kozhikode for a Rs 25 crore investment cyber fraud, seizing numerous devices and accounts.

Cyber police nab Kozhikode trio for alleged role in 25-crore fraud

The trios arrest comes a month after a woman from Kollam, Sujitha G., was arrested in the case; as many as 250 SIM cards, 40 mobile phones, laptops, and debit cards seized from a flat used by the accused

Kozhikode to be declared extreme poverty-free city today

The Corporation has identified 722 people who need support, says Mayor

Youth held for alleged attack on woman security guard at Kozhikode MCH

The alleged incident took place at Kozhikode Medical College Hospital on October 15

Coastal highway project in Kozhikode gains momentum with plans to float tenders in three months

Coastal highway project in Kozhikode gains momentum with plans to float tenders in three months

Recurrent clashes among migrant workers on the rise in Kozhikode

Decision to reduce width of concourse at Kozhikode railway station sparks protest

Kashmir students visit Kozhikode school to study PRISM model of transformation

Aided school teachers stage protest in Kozhikode

Lathi-charge allegation: Shafi Parambil moves Lok Sabha seeking action against police

Vadakara MP submits petition to Lok Sabha Speaker and Parliaments Privileges Committee with the names of some of the senior police officers in Kozhikode district

Man from Tamil Nadu gets new lease of life at Kozhikode MCH

Prashanth, 32, of Tirupathur met with a road accident in Kozhikode while travelling to Sabarimala from Kannur

Azhikodan Achamthuruthi team wins Kozhikode leg of Champions Boat League

While Palichom Achamthuruthi team bagged the second prize, AKG Podothuruthi A Team bagged the third prize in the championship that was witnessed by a massive crowd that assembled on both the banks of the river Chaliyar

Minor, infant shifted to shelter home in Kozhikode

The move is part of the legal and protective measures initiated for the two after the alleged sexual abuse of the minor girl came to light when she recently delivered the baby, say police

Minor, infant shifted to shelter home in Kozhikode

The move is part of the legal and protective measures initiated for the two after the alleged sexual abuse of the minor girl came to light when she recently delivered the baby, say police

Field survey to identify feasible route for Poozhithode-Padinjarathara bypass completed

The survey to finalise the optimal alignment of the proposed bypass has been completed under the supervision of engineers from the Kozhikode-based Uralungal Labour Contract Cooperative Society

Field survey to identify feasible route for Poozhithode-Padinjarathara bypass completed

The survey to finalise the optimal alignment of the proposed bypass has been completed under the supervision of engineers from the Kozhikode-based Uralungal Labour Contract Cooperative Society

Kozhikode DCC seeks action against DySPs, officers for attack on Shafi

The attack on the MP happened after workers of the UDF and the LDF came face-to-face while taking out separate protest marches, following a conflict over the union election at CKG Memorial Government College and a hartal called by the UDF

IMD predicts heavy rains in Kerala, issues orange alert in 3 districts

The IMD issued an orange alert for Idukki, Kannur, and Kasaragod in Kerala on Saturday, predicting very heavy rains, while Pathanamthitta, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Wayanad received yellow alerts for heavy rain. Thunderstorms and gusty winds up to 40 kmph are expected due to a cyclonic circulation over the southeast Arabian Sea between October 1115.