National Post Day: Meet R Padmanabhan, who has been sending postcards to kith and kin for over two decades

On National Post Day (October 10), meet R Padmanabhan from Manacaud in Thiruvananthapuram who sends postcards with birthday and anniversary messages daily

Tax, non-tax revenues up, says CAG

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Even as the state recorded modest increase in tax and non-tax revenues, overall revenue receipts declined in 2023-24, partly due to the dip in central grants, the CAG report on state finances, that was tabled in the assembly on Thursday, showed. The states own tax revenue increased by 3.28% from Rs 71,968.16 crore in 2022-23 to Rs 74,329.01 crore in 2023-24. Non-tax revenue increased by 8.12% along with a 19.07% increase in the states share from central taxes and duties. However, grants-in aid from the Centre decreased by 55.92% -- from Rs 27,377.86 crore in 2022-23 to Rs 12,068.26 crore in 2023-24. The total revenue receipts, sum total of tax revenues, grants in aid and central tax share, declined 6.21% from Rs 1,32,724.65 crore to Rs 1,24,486.15 crore. The report called for all-out efforts by the government to realise revenue arrears. There were huge arrears of revenue amounting to Rs 24,462.50 crore as on 31 March 2024 pending collection of which Rs 6,880.85 crore was outstanding for more than five years, it said. The revenue expenditure, on the other hand, posted a modest 0.48% growth, of Rs 675.41 crore, over 2022-23. Analysing the previous five years, the report put the revenue expenditures annual growth rate at 8.03%. It rose from Rs 1,04,719.92 crore in 2019-20 to Rs 1,42,626.34 crore in 2023-24. The report also highlighted the issue of off-budget borrowings. The state government, through public sector undertakings, raised Rs 10,632.46 crore as off-budget borrowings, which did not flow into the consolidated fund of the state but are required to be repaid and serviced through budget, it said. The outstanding liability was 37.84% of GSDP as against the limit of 33.70% prescribed in the Kerala Fiscal Responsibility Act, the report said. Revenue Receipts Year-on-year figures for 2023-24 Total revenue receipts down 6.21% Own tax revenue rises 3.28% Non-tax revenue up 8.12% Share from central taxes jumps 19.07% Grants-in aid from Centre drops 55.92% Revenue expenditure inched up 0.48% Source: CAG report on state finances

Yesteryear film producer P Stanley dies

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Yesteryear film producer and writer P Stanley, 81, died here on Thursday after a cardiac arrest. Stanley had also donned the roles of assistant director and scenarist in the film industry in Madras, along with A Vincent and Thoppil Bhasi, for over three decades. He was the assistant director of around 25 films, notable among them being Velutha Kathreena, Enippadikal, Asuravithu, Thulabharam, Nadhi, Ashwamedham and Nizhalattam. Stanley also produced films such as Thoovanathumbikal, Mochanam, Varadakshina and Theekkali. He was also the distributor of films such as Rajan Paranja Kadha, Tholkkan Enikkun Manasilla and Wayanadan Thamban. The son of first time Communist leader Polycarp, Stanley was born in 1944 in Kollam. He completed his schooling from Craven School. Stanley also underwent training in journalism and film director from Don Bosco Institute, Madras. He founded Sithara Printers in Kollam in 1944 and shifted to Madras in 1966. He came back to Kerala in 1990 after undergoing a heart surgery and has been residing at Nalanchira in Thiruvananthapruam.

Much-awaited NH 66 to be reality by Jan, says Public Works Minister Riyas

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The highly-anticipated national highway project, NH 66, will be inaugurated in January. Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari will inaugurate the completed stretches of the 678-km-long highway, state Public Works Minister P A Mohamed Riyas said on Thursday. The decision was taken during a meeting that Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Riyas held with Gadkari earlier in the day. After the meeting, Riyas told reporters that over 450 km of the highway project is already over. At the meeting, it was decided that a number of other projects, including the Palakkad-Kozhikode Greenfield Highway, which would reduce travel time between the two cities to one-and-a-half-hours from the current 3-4 hours, would also be inaugurated in January. NH66 dream project of Keralites: Public works min Asserting that NH 66 was a dream project of Keralites, Riyas said the state had pointed out certain issues related to its development. Construction along more than 450 km of NH 66 has been completed. Of the 16 reaches of the NH in Kerala, the government aims to complete maximum reaches by January. At some places, work is not progressing at the required pace due to the lackadaisical attitude of the contractors. The state wants strict action taken against them. To speed up the project, the number of workers has been increased at certain places, he said. Gadkari has promised that efforts will be taken to complete all reaches by January itself. An urgent meeting of contractors and officials will soon be held in Delhi to speed up construction. Taking into consideration Keralas special interest in NH development, Gadkari has agreed to write off `237 crore in lieu of land acquisition, Riyas said. Decisions regarding completion of the Thiruvananthapuram outer ring road project, the Kollam-Shenkottai Greenfield Highway inauguration, one-time improvement of NH 744 and DPR revision of Edamon-Kollam stretch, among others, were also taken at the meeting. During his Kerala visit in January, Gadkari will assess the progress of the construction along the remaining portions. Pointing out that the NH project had been abandoned in 2014, Riyas said attributed its completion to the stand taken by the state government. There were regional level issues along Kasaragod-Taliparamba, Azhiyooor-Vengalam, Vadakara and Thiruvananthapuram, but those have been addressed. As far as the state government is concerned, the project should be completed in a time-bound manner, Riyas said.

Congress pinning hopes on D K Shivakumar's magic in Kerala too?

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Will there be a D K Shivakumar effect in the Kerala assembly election as had happened in Telangana? The question has popped up with the appointment of Harsha Kanadam, a protg of the Karnataka deputy CM, as chairperson of the Congress state war room in Thiruvananthapuram to oversee its campaign and strategy formulation. It doesnt mean Shivakumar will be directly involved in Congress election strategy planning, but there are enough straws in the wind that suggest the ace strategists possible deep involvement in the process. Shivakumar had played a pivotal role in the campaign and Congress subsequent return to power in Telangana, a leader from Karnataka told TNIE. He held no official positions, but was camping in Telangana to oversee the campaign and drawing up strategies. In the last Lok Sabha election also he helped the Congress in Kerala, he said. Of the five states going to polls next year Assam, West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, the high command pins high hopes on Kerala to wrest power. Helping Congress wrest power 1st priority: Harsha However, the disunity within the state leadership with a group of senior leaders eying the CM post has been a concern for some time. Harsha Kanadam would take charge after meeting the leaders at the war room in Delhi. My first priority is to help Congress wrest power in Kerala, Harsha told TNIE. We will be connecting to the people at the grassroots with technology. This will be done by taking into confidence local leaders and with the guidance of senior leaders. I will be accessible to all workers, he added. Harsha was an AICC observer in Haryana, Maharashtra and Delhi assembly elections. The Congress high command is of the opinion that unless the party came to power in maximum number of states, particularly in south India, its future would be bleak.

Prithvi Shaw, Jalaj Saxena Named In Ankeet Bawane-led Maharashtra Ranji Trophy Squad

Maharashtra Ranji Trophy: India batter Prithvi Shaw and seasoned domestic all-rounder Jalaj Saxena have been included in Maharashtras 16-member squad for the upcoming Ranji Trophy 2025-26 season, which begins on October 15. The state selectors appointed Ankeet Bawane as the full-time captain for the campaign, with Maharashtra set to face Kerala in their opening fixture in Thiruvananthapuram from October 15-18. Shaw, who switched from Mumbai ahead of the season, is aiming for a fresh start after a turbulent period that saw him lose his place in the red-ball setup. His move to Maharashtra is seen as a significant step in trying to revive his red-ball career. Meanwhile, Saxena, one of the most consistent all-rounders in domestic cricket, joins the squad after a long stint with Kerala, where he played a key role in their run to the Ranji final last season. He was part of the team that played a warm-up match against his old team, Mumbai, in which he got into a heated confrontation with Musheer Khan, raising his bat to nearly hit Musheer. Shaw is in good form as he scored 181 against Mumbai. India international Ruturaj Gaikwad, a regular feature in Maharashtras setup and a former captain, is also part of the squad. The selectors have leaned on experience, picking Pradeep Dadhe over young fast bowler Rajvardhan Hangargekar. In the previous Ranji season (2024-25), Maharashtra finished fifth in Elite Group A, managing two wins, two draws, and three losses from seven matches. India international Ruturaj Gaikwad, a regular feature in Maharashtras setup and a former captain, is also part of the squad. The selectors have leaned on experience, picking Pradeep Dadhe over young fast bowler Rajvardhan Hangargekar. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Maharashtra squad: Ankeet Bawane (c), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Prithvi Shaw, Arshin Kulkarni, Siddhesh Veer, Saurabh Nawale (wk), Mandar Bhandari (wk), Jalaj Saxena, Vicky Ostwal, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Mukesh Choudhary, Pradeep Dadhe, Hitesh Walunj, Siddharth Mhatre, Harshal Kate, Rajneesh Gurbani. Article Source: IANS

CAG flags serious lapses in Keralas Integrated Financial Management System

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India has unearthed major deficiencies in the implementation of the Integrated Financial Management System Kerala (IFMS-K), a key e-governance project meant to modernise the states financial administration. The audit watchdog's report exposed weak planning, poor documentation, and several system-level lapses that undermined the objectives of transparency and efficiency in financial management. According to the CAG, the absence of a Service Level Agreement (SLA) between the government and the implementing agency weakened the projects foundation. Critical documentation related to change requests and actions taken was unavailable, making the government dependent on the system integrator. The report also found that, contrary to the envisaged Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) model, the National Informatics Centre (NIC) developed modules in a piecemeal manner over eight years, with review meeting decisions being the only reference for further development. The audit revealed that the department lacked essential records related to data migration, including pre- and post-migration reports, exception reports, and confirmations from treasuries. No acceptance test plan was prepared, there was no secure testing environment, and no professional third-party agency was entrusted with final testing. Out of 251 functional requirements, 100 were not developed. The CAG noted that the Kerala Treasury Code, Kerala Financial Code, and Budget Manuals were not amended to align with the re-engineered processes. The Budget 2.0 application lacked adequate validation controls, allowing additional authorisation of funds beyond savings and failing to reflect expenditure revisions made by the Accountant General. Similarly, the system lacked mechanisms to restrict reappropriation of excess savings or to analyse probable savings within grants. Serious flaws were also observed in the Expenditure Module and the Human Resources application (SPARK). Due to the absence of sanction orders in the system, treasuries continued to rely on physical documents. SPARK contained inconsistent and invalid data, undermining its purpose. The Accounts and Audit Module allowed unprofessional backend access that enabled manual editing of stored procedures, while the systems inability to reconcile GST transactions led to unreconciled balances. The Core Treasury Savings Bank (TSB) module was found to have critical deficiencies, including non-migration of accounts, lack of controls for closing inoperative accounts, and negative balances in 3,136 accounts. The absence of KYC data and weak signature verification processes increased the risk of errors and possible malpractices. Other serious findings included the use of an unlicensed version of DB2 for the State Budget application, the lack of a Database Administrator, and the absence of a Business Continuity or Disaster Recovery Plan. The system also permitted multiple logins across applications, creating security vulnerabilities. The CAG made 46 recommendations to strengthen IFMS-K. It urged the government to fix timelines for completing pending functionalities, develop a Requirement Traceability Matrix and Performance SLA to monitor progress, and introduce automated tools to calculate and claim interest and damages from banks for delayed credit of government funds. The report concluded that the IFMS-K, launched to improve financial discipline and transparency, continues to suffer from weak project governance, inadequate documentation, and poor system controls issues that must be urgently addressed to safeguard public financial management in the State.

Kannur airport on threshold of transformation as land acquisition and road upgrades gain pace

A recent high-level meeting in Thiruvananthapuram decided to assign special officers to expedite land acquisition for the Chorukkala-Bavuparamba-Mayyil-Kololam-Mattanur Airport Link Road.

Husband strangles ailing wife, jumps to death from hospital in Thiruvananthapuram

Police suspect financial distress behind the incidents

ASHA workers 'disappointed' as committee recommends hike in their honorarium

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Recommending an increase in the monthly honorarium for ASHA workers, the government-appointed Haritha V Kumar committee has proposed a hike of Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,500. The report suggests that workers with over 10 years of service be granted a Rs 1,500 raise, while others receive Rs 1,000 more. Ensuring the timely disbursal of honorarium by the 10th of every month was among the major recommendations. The report made no mention of the ASHA workers' persistent demand for a Rs 5 lakh retirement benefit. The workers, currently on protest, have also been demanding a raise in their monthly honorarium to Rs 21,000. The committee was constituted six months ago to examine the scope for revising honorarium rates. However, the report was not officially released by the government. The reports contents surfaced only after an RTI application was filed. Terming the report disappointing, ASHA workers said it reflects an anti-worker and anti-women stance, especially surprising since four out of the five members in the panel are women. The protest, which will complete eight months on Friday, is expected to intensify. On October 22, ASHA workers plan to march to Cliff House, the Chief Minister's official residence, demanding direct intervention and resolution. Thousands of ASHA workers from across the state will join the march, said the KAHWA members. Hundreds rally at Kerala Secretariat in support of ASHA workers' protest for fair wages

Thiruvananthapuram Regional Cancer Centre rejects reports of wrong drugs given to patients

RCC director clarifies that while there was some confusion due to label mismatch in a consignment of drugs, the issue was detected by pharmacy staff at the time of opening the consignment, and distribution of medicines to patients was stopped

World Mental Health Day: The spaces in Thiruvananthapuram that provide mental health support and guidance

October 10 is World Mental Health Day. We look at three spaces in Thiruvananthapuram The Orange Room, Kappiness and Navem that offer assistance to people dealing with mental health issues

Three Congress MLAs suspended from Kerala Assembly after protest

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala Assembly on Thursday suspended three Opposition members in connection with the ruckus that broke out earlier in the day. The suspended legislators, all from the Congress party, are Roji M John, M Vincent, and Saneesh Kumar Joseph. They have been suspended from attending the remaining period of the current session. The session, which was originally scheduled to end on Friday, has been cut short. In effect, the suspension applies only for Thursday. The Opposition is currently staging a protest, disrupting the Assembly session, seeking the resignation of Devaswom Minister V N Vasavan and Travancore Devaswom Board president P S Prasanth in connection with the alleged missing of gold-plated copper plates at Sabarimala.

Online, and very much on point

Social media is often painted in unflattering hues as a distraction, a vanity fair, or even a necessary evil that eats into time, focus, and mental peace. Doomscrolling, performative perfection, the endless chase for likes they are scorned at for pulling the young away from purpose. Yet, a growing number of students are flipping that narrative. For them, social media isnt merely a pastime but a tool to learn, connect, stay informed, and build networks that could shape their futures. Take the case of Plus-I student Vrithi K, who aspires to become a psychologist. In an age when AI is taking over everything, I feel psychology will be a good stream to focus on, she says. I follow some interesting handles on Instagram, such as that of Psychology Today. Besides what I learn at school, through social media I get to know about various sub-streams, must-read books by global experts, debates and discussions, etc. As guided by my parents and teachers, I am careful not to get carried away by whatever I see there. For Plus-II student James Joshua, it was his brothers wise counsel that changed his approach to social media. I was a normal teen of my times, hooked to platforms such as Instagram and Facebook just for fun. My brother once told me I need to also work to keep the fun I have now going. He suggested I get into a space where there are serious discussions and networking, says James. I am keen to do the integrated management course from IIM after Class 12. Hence, I look out for courses that can add to my credentials. I also interact with seniors who are already on the track about preparation. I also post whatever activity that could add to my profile, along with articles I read on topics of interest. Seventeener Melvin Biju John, meanwhile, is a YouTube fan. I enjoy watching PUBG videos, he chuckles. Fun aside, he uses the platform along with Instagram, Pinterest and Reddit to explore robotics and electrical DIY projects. I follow a lot of European and American handles. An Indian account that I learn a lot from is TheWrench. I want to pursue a career in robotics. I follow music handles, too, as I love singing. Children, even as young as high-schooler Azaan Adil, are now using social media to nurture their interests with permission from parents, of course. I mainly watch content related to football. Then, I watch technology, especially robotics. I want to become an engineer when I grow up, he says. Even at a more serious level, there is a growing tribe of those who use social media to link up with experts and influencers in the field of their liking, says Jyotiraditya T, an aerospace engineering graduate from IIST in Thiruvananthapuram. For example, several students of IIST who communicate with space scientists, professors, and even Nasa and Isro, he says. The scale of networking it offers is social medias brightside. It all boils down to how one uses the platforms. While Instagram and YouTube remain the favourite among the 13 to 24 age group, a formal platform witnessing a quiet transformation is LinkedIn. It has for long been viewed as a space for professionals, job-hunters, and career climbers rather than the peppy young. That notion, however, is changing fast. India now ranks second among LinkedIn users, at 150 million next only to the US according to early 2025 data from the platforms own advertising records. Over 55 per cent of these users fall in the 2534 age bracket. Those aged 18 to 24 now make up over 25 per cent. Notably, in India, a growing number of Gen Zs are signing up as soon as they turn 16, the platforms minimum permissible age. Professional coach Praveen Kamalamma says the shift can be attributed to greater exposure to career awareness. As in the case of Maidhili N M, who is headed to Pune for a design course. She says it was trainers at some workshops at her school who encouraged her to create a LinkedIn account. We were told that it was ideal for networking and promoting our work, she says. Praveen notes the peer influence factor as well. For instance, there are students now opening or associating with startups. Many of them are celebrated on social media, he says. This could be motivating for others. There is a visible shift in approach even on casual platforms such as Instagram and Facebook. I would not say all are that way. But there is an increasing number of teens who are getting serious about what they want to do in life and how they want to do it. Internship and scholarship opportunities are another draw. I opened an account recently, as the Shraman Fellowship I was applying to needed a LinkedIn profile. I guess its easier for both parties to communicate this way, says Dwaipayan S, a first-year college student. Swizzle Shweta, an aspiring data scientist, took to LinkedIn while still in school. Now a college fresher, she actively follows developments in the data world and keeps an eye on how conversations and work are evolving. Things are moving so fast, and I did not want to be left behind. And I wasnt one of a kind. At least 85 per cent of my school friends had a LinkedIn profile. We wanted to know whats happening in the professional world, how entrepreneurs are, whats happening in the job market, she says. We use Instagram accounts for exploring and experimenting with design and AI, etc. But our LinkedIn accounts are kept professionally sacrosanct. Joy Mitra, dean of academics at IISER, Thiruvananthapuram, believes the trend signals a healthy, purposeful mindset among todays youth. At least a section of it. When we were growing up, we never asked for the purpose of things we did. But now, youngsters question everything. This may have its negatives, but I see its positive side as having a focused approach to what they want to do, he adds. Their understanding and engagement with social media should also be viewed in the same light. They are purposeful. They look for chances on how to take that purpose forward and capitalise on them. For such students, their social media profiles are like baby steps into the world of professionalism. (With inputs from Supriya) Students, Take Note Take care not to mix social and professional content. Avoid using absurd Gen Z lingo. Do not to go too personal. Sharing personal anecdotes related to growth and learning is a welcome, but disclosing sensitive info, launching into personal tirades, and being partisan should be avoided. Watch out for scammers, phishing attacks, data breaches. Take care to share content carefully and comment carefully too, as a digital footprint is harder to erase and could leave a lasting first impression. Do not ignore old-school groundwork. Use social media platforms as add-ons.

From fanmail in blood to soldier's mouth-written letter

There are many things we learn to value only with time. Like the simple delight of opening a letter and feeling the touch, and maybe catching a whiff, of the person who wrote it. This old-world charm is now being relegated to collective nostalgia. Letter-writing, today, is a rarity especially among the urban population. However, for people in remote corners, where digital connectivity still falters, the humble post office continues to be a vital bridge to the world outside. Moreover, despite the ease of instant communication, reports suggest dependency on postal services remains formidable. About 1.5 billion people worldwide about 28% of the adult population still access basic financial services through postal networks. World Post Day (October 9) marks the establishment of the Universal Postal Union in 1874 in Bern, Switzerland. In India, the postal service has long been woven into the fabric of everyday life even romanticised in films and literature. India celebrates National Post Day on October 10 every year, commemorating the founding of the Indian Postal Service in 1854. Notably, India still holds the record for having the largest postal network in the world, with 1,64,987 post offices 1,49,164 rural and 15,823 urban. But the times have brought about a digital shift. Streamlining, officials say, has become necessary. The Telegram service, which once carried both joy and heartbreak across the nation, has quietly faded away. So too has the Book Post. More recently, plans have been set in motion to merge the Registered Post facility with Speed Post. Several rural post offices now offer emailing facilities, helping people use technology with the support of postal staff. More such changes are on the way. But it is also important to analyse the requirements of the people because there is still a population that waits for the postman, says an India Post official. About 90 per cent of Indias post offices are in the rural areas. A walk into any post office today reveals how much has changed. The once-familiar blue inland letters and postcards are now rare. The red post boxes symbols of trust and anticipation stand mostly as silent milestones. Some, however, still keep the tradition alive. Like Mohanachandran Nair, who is part of a philately club. Waiting for the postman remains exciting because it means a freshaddition to my collection of stamps, he says. I still send snail mail to exchange stamps. There are others who hold on to letters not as correspondence, but as keepsakes of emotion and memory. Jaya B Vasudevan keeps her mothers letters in a small metal box. Her words bore love. She is no more. Reading them induces a unique joy laced with multiple emotions and feelings, including the pain of separation, she says. Booster Posts One letter that I have kept safe is a handwritten one from V N Rajan, a former IG, who is no more. He was quite old when he wrote to me, lauding my work as Kochi Commissioner. The prose was beautiful, in impeccable memory. I still have it with me. Another letter that I treasure is one from my father when I was at the National Police Academy. He wrote to me at a time when I was feeling drained by the tight regime. His words, written on a postcard, urged me to stand up, bear the drill, and come out stronger. There are many other letters too that I hold dear like the one from a mother whom we helped to regain her childs custody. Her estranged spouse had been illegally keeping the child. I will never forget that letter of gratitude either. Loknath Behera, former state police chief and MD of Kochi Metro Rail Loknath Behera P.O. @ my Lake District Letters opened a world of imagination to me. We used to live in Mannanthala, and the post office was near Mar Ivanios College. My father worked in Chennai and his correspondences were through letters. He would also send money through post. I have fond memories of waiting for those letters and the money order. Every Saturday, I would visit the post office to check for his letters. I would also take the opportunity to wander through the wilderness surrounding the college. Those were precious moments time seemed to stand still as I delved into my thoughts and felt nature fill me from within. I used to call the pond and hillside near there my Lake District. I also fondly cherish the reply I received for a poem I had written for Malayalanadu, as well as letters written to me by doyens such as M T Vasudevan Nair, O N V Kurup, and Hridayakumari Teacher. K Jayakumar, former chief secretary of Kerala K Jayakumar Jail-time notes Letters were my doors to the world, especially during the years I spent in jail. My mother used to write to me regularly when I was in the Central Jail, Thiruvananthapuram. Her words were full of strength she wrote about how I should be, about political developments, but never about the tough times or the emotional turmoil she herself was going through. I still recall those words, and can sense how she must have steeled herself to write them. I too would write back to her. On release, I took home all the letters that she had written to me. Much later, after she passed away, I compiled them into a book titled Letters from a Mother to a Daughter. Ajitha, social activist and former Naxal leader Ajitha Mouth-written letter Indian Navy veteran and defence analyst I was a student of Sainik School, Kazhakuttam, before leaving for the NDA in 1981. My friend M P Anilkumar was also with me. He later joined the Air Force while I joined the Navy. In June 1988, I came to know that Anilkumar had met with an accident and had become a quadriplegic. But his spirit was indomitable, and he continued to communicate through letters. One day, a common friend and I received a letter in Anilkumars beautiful handwriting. We were overjoyed, believing he had fully recovered. But later, we learnt that he had been so determined to write that he had developed the skill of writing with his mouth. He later went on to participate in a competition called Turning Point, where he wrote an essay titled Airborne to Chairborne also written with his mouth. It won a prize and was later included in several school textbooks. He also contributed several articles to international magazines on strategic affairs before passing away at the age of 50. That letter still remains vivid in my mind. It first brought elation, then pathos, and now, when I look back at his life, immense pride. That letter was a manifestation of an extraordinary spirit. Commodore G Prakash (retd), Indian Navy veteran and defence analyst Commodore G Prakash Fanmail in blood The word post reminds me most about fanmail. I was in school when I began acting. Some cinema magazines had given my address, and I was bombarded with bags of fanmail. Some of the letters and post cards I received were written in blood. That left me a little troubled. Any talk of post and letters evoke those memories. Lenaa, actor & author Lena Indira gandhis urgent telegram The day was August 8, 1984. It was about 3.55am IST, and I was in Los Angeles for the Olympics. Just minutes earlier, at about 3.30am IST, I had missed the bronze medal in the 400m hurdles by just 1/100th of a second. After the race, I went for the dope test, where I was handed a telegram that read: Usha, you have not failed. May the Supreme bless you to reach far greater heights in the future. We will support you as a nation in all such endeavours. It was from then prime minister Indira Gandhi. She had written to me immediately after the event, and the message was delivered to me within minutes. It was a deeply touching moment. It continues to inspire me as I coach future athletes. Indira Gandhi passed away that October. That telegram is still with me among my most precious keepsakes. P T Usha, member of Rajya Sabha and president of Indian Olympic Association PT Usha Traditional pen-pal experience on your smartphone In the age of instant messaging, Slowly takes a deliberate step back. The app, launched in 2018 by a Hong Kongbased team, is built on a deceptively simple idea: to mimic the motions of traditional letter writing in a digital world. Instead of instant delivery, each message takes hours or even days to reach its recipient, depending on the geographical distance between them. A note sent from Kochi to Copenhagen, for instance, might take 15 hours to arrive. This delay is by design. In fact, it is the whole point of the app. Slowly pairs users from across the globe based on shared interests, language, etc. Once connected, they exchange messages that feel closer to letters than texts. Or you can opt to pair with just your friends. For Slowly, this throwback to the pen pal era has cultivated a quiet, global community. Users can also collect virtual stamps from different countries, adding a small ritualistic pleasure to the exchange. For many, this experience is akin to posting a letter adorned with a rare stamp. The app is available on App Store and Google Play By Ronnie Kuriakose

UDF protests continue for fourth day in Kerala assembly over alleged Sabarimala gold theft

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Legislative Assembly witnessed high drama for the fourth consecutive day as the Opposition United Democratic Front (UDF) persisted with its protest over the alleged gold theft at Sabarimala. Leader of the Opposition VD Satheesan renewed calls for the resignation of Devaswom Minister VN Vasavan. He also criticised Speaker AN Shamseer for deploying watch and ward staff to block protesting members from reaching the dais, and condemned a controversial remark made by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan about a UDF legislator the previous day. Despite the uproar, the Speaker and treasury benches remained firm in their decision to proceed with Question Hour, breaking from the earlier practice of suspending proceedings amid protests. When opposition members attempted to approach the dais, Shamseer instructed watch and ward personnel to seize their protest banner. Amid the disruption, Transport and Agriculture Ministers continued to respond to questions raised by MLAs. Parliamentary Affairs Minister MB Rajesh took aim at the Opposition Leaders approach, defending the Chief Ministers contentious comment by asserting it was not directed at any individual.

Kerala to offer free KSRTC travel for cancer patients undergoing treatment across state

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a significant move aimed at easing the burden on cancer patients, the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) will now provide free travel for those undergoing treatment anywhere in the state, including at private hospitals. Transport Minister KB Ganesh Kumar made the announcement in the Assembly, stating that the facility will be available on all bus classes below Super Fast class. The KSRTC board is expected to formally approve the decision in its meeting scheduled for Thursday. KSRTC introduced 50% travel concession for cancer patients undergoing treatment in government hospitals in 2012. But it was limited to ordinary and city fast. Transport Minister said that KSRTC has improved passenger experience by enhancing amenities. We have air-conditioned waiting rooms, provided clean toilets and enhanced the food safety to attract passengers, he said. According to him the number of passengers travelling in KSRTC has increased by 22 lakh compared to last year. KSRTC has also increased its revenue by 26 crore in the same period.

Bio Connect 3.0 to begin in Thiruvananthapuram today

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Bio Connect 3.0, a two-day international conclave that is expected to generate investments of around Rs 200 crore in the life sciences sector, will begin in the capital on Thursday. The event, to be inaugurated by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, will be presided over by Industries Minister P Rajeeve. Health Minister Veena George and secretary of the Central Technology Development Board Rajesh Kumar Pathak will be among the guests. Timothy Rowe, founder of the Cambridge Innovation Centre, will attend as the guest of honour. Bio Connect 3.0 is being jointly organised by the Kerala Life Sciences Industries Park (a subsidiary of KSIDC under the Industries Department) and Bio360 Life Sciences Park. The third edition will feature dedicated sessions on nutraceuticals, medical devices, AI & health, and ayurveda. Leading research institutes and companies from across India will showcase their latest technologies at the conclave. With the theme Connecting Science to Business, the event aims to position Kerala as a hub for innovation in the health and biotechnology sectors. Over 700 delegates and more than 75 exhibitors from India and abroad will take part in the conclave. The Bio Economy Report prepared specifically for Kerala will also be released during the event. Global and national organisations such as Samsung HME, Haier Biomedical, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Agappe Diagnostics, and MagGenome will participate, making the conclave a key platform for exploring new investment and business opportunities in Keralas growing life sciences ecosystem. Around 50 delegates, including several international participants, visited the Bio360 Life Sciences Park on Wednesday as part of an ecosystem tour. The visit was followed by an interactive session with Vishnuraj P, chairman of the Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation, where participants gained insights into Keralas thriving life sciences ecosystem and upcoming investment opportunities in the sector.

Dummy duo lands in jail after cops step up the game in Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: When Gopakumar (name changed) found himself in a financial crunch, he decided like many people to sell his land in the city for an influx of money. He approached several real estate brokers, but when the efforts proved futile, Gopakumar placed a classified advertisement in the newspaper. This proved helpful. Within days, he received a call from a man who introduced himself as Joshi. The latter expressed interest in purchasing the land Gopakumar owned and requested for a meeting at the site. Believing the inquiry to be genuine, Gopakumar agreed to the meet and expressed his wish to complete the sale quickly due to his urgent financial need. The two decided on the next day to see the property in Aluva . Joshi, along with one of his friends, met Gopakumar the next day. However, the land deal didnt work out due to disagreements over the price, says an officer with Ernakulam Rural Police. Instead, Joshi revealed that he was also a property broker and lured Gopakumar with offers of large loans and promises of doubling his investment on a commission basis, taking advantage of his urgent need for money, the officer adds. After gaining Gopakumars trust, Joshi and his gang collected a total of Rs 15 lakh in cash from him. In return, they handed over Rs 30 lakh, which was later identified to be dummy notes used in film shoots. Based on a complaint filed by Gopakumar, the Ernakulam district police chief M Hemalatha ordered a detailed investigation to prevent more people from falling prey to the scam. In addition, a special investigation team was formed under Basil Thomas, SHO of Muvattupuzha police station. During the detailed investigation, which involved tracking mobile numbers, identifying linked individuals, and analysing related data, the SIT apprehended the prime accused, Joshi. His real name was found to be Mani. He is a native of Vazhoor, Kottayam. The second accused and Manis close accomplice, Sajith Kumar, had gone into hiding. However, the 50-year-old, who goes by the name Deepak in the crime network, was tracked down to his hideout in Thiruvananthapuram, following leads from his mobile phone and vehicle data, along with tip-offs. Sajith is a native of Chirayinkeezhu. Beyond the real estate fraud schemes, the accused were involved in various other scams, including nagamanickyam (mythical gemstone believed to come from a cobras head), iruthalamuri (two-headed snake), and palladium and iridium scams, says Basil. Mani is named in around 35 cases, while Sajith has multiple cases registered against him in the capital city, and Kollam and Ernakulam districts. Detailing the modus operandi, Basil explained that the fraudsters duped individuals by making friendly calls to those who advertised property for sale in the media. When visiting the site, they would avoid making a deal citing various reasons. Exploiting the victims urgency for money, the fraudsters claim that they have strong connections in the film industry and assert that many celebrities hold large sums of unaccounted money, which needed to be laundered. They would offer to arrange funds for the victim at a commission like Rs 15 lakh to secure Rs 1 crore. Once the victim agrees, the fraudsters arrive with a suitcase full of cash. Most of the bundles contained dummy notes, but not easily discernable. Hence many fall prey to it. But thanks to the police, both the accused have been caught. They are remanded in custody. Case diary This weekly column brings you exciting, intriguing police stories, straight fromthe crime files

Kerala expands V-Park project: New sites identified across state

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Keralas innovative V-Park project, which transforms idle spaces beneath flyovers into vibrant recreational zones, is set for a major expansion. The tourism department has now granted administrative sanction for new V-Park sites across several districts as part of the next phase of the initiative jointly developed with the public works department under the states design policy. Tourism Minister P A Mohamed Riyas informed the Assembly that a list of 77 bridges has been prepared under the V-Park project. He said that 19 bridges have been finalised for the next phase. For the second phase, four agencies have been granted NOCs (No Objection Certificates). The project will include walkways, open gyms, play areas, performance stages, food kiosks, gardens, seating areas and parking facilities beneath bridges, the minister said. Discussions have also been held with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to utilise spaces beneath bridges on national highways. Efforts are underway to address parking shortages across the state, he added. The minister added that a draft policy titled Gender-Inclusive and Responsible Tourism has been prepared to make Kerala a hub for gender-inclusive and women-friendly tourism. The plan aims to transform tourist destinations into women-friendly spaces, ensure womens participation in tourism and provide financial support for women-led tourism enterprises. As part of this, destination safety studies and gender audits have been conducted. Post Covid, there has been a noticeable rise in solo and group travel among women, the minister noted. The governments goal is to create networks and support systems to ensure safe travel experiences for women travelling both alone and in groups, he said. Minister V Sivankutty told the Assembly that the advent of AI technology poses a potential threat to IT sector jobs, but it will not completely eliminate employment opportunities. Instead, it will transform work patterns. He said the government intends to focus on reskilling and upskilling initiatives to help workers adapt to the new environment.

TPuram Metro: Sreekaryam flyover service road work to commence soon

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Work on the Sreekaryam flyover, a key preparatory civil work part of the ambitious Thiruvananthapuram metro rail project, is gathering pace, with the laying of the service roads set to begin soon. According to sources, around 90% of the stormwater drain construction has been completed. Giving impetus to the much-awaited project, the chief secretary-led high-level committee constituted to examine and finalise the alignment for the project being implemented by the Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) had its first round of meetings recently. KMRL managing director Loknath Behera told TNIE that the committee had sought additional details after the meetings. We have given the committee all the details and information they demanded. The committee will be deciding and recommending the alignment to the government, Behera said. Three main corridors are under consideration for the metro rail: Kazhakkoottam to Pappanamcode, Kazhakkoottam to Killipalam, and Palayam to Civil Station. KMRL, the special purpose vehicle (SPV) appointed to implement metro projects in the state, had submitted a proposal several months ago suggesting six different alignments for the conventional metro. The Sreekaryam flyover project got the green signal from the state government in 2016 and the foundation stone was laid in January 2025. An official with KMRL said 90% of the stormwater drain construction has been completed. We had to build retaining walls in many places. The construction of the service roads will begin soon. It is one of the busiest stretches in the capital with a huge traffic volume and we want the service road to be ready to ensure smooth commuting. We are hoping to start piling work for the main flyover by December, the official said, adding that the shifting of utility lines is progressing fast. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan informed the Assembly on Wednesday that the preparatory work for the metro project is progressing and that the alignment finalisation and DPR approval are pending. As per the revised Metro Rail Policy of 2017, a detailed project report (DPR) has to be prepared based on the comprehensive mobility plan and alternative analysis report submitted by KMRL. These documents are currently under the state governments consideration. Once they are approved and the Centre grants approval, the final DPR will be readied and further steps can be taken, the chief minister said.

Left government has failed to protect workers rights: Congress leader Chennithala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala on Wednesday accused the Left government in Kerala of abandoning its own ideology and failing to safeguard workers rights. Inaugurating the Headload Workers Leaders Meet organised by the INTUC-led Headload and Loading Workers, Chennithala said the Pinarayi Vijayan government has adopted positions that deny workers even the right to organise and bargain systematically. He alleged that the states labour welfare boards have never been in such a poor state, accusing the government of slashing welfare pensions, blocking DA hikes, and delaying salaries and benefits. This government treats workers as weak and dispensable, he said. The meeting, held ahead of regional conferences of porters at 14 centres in the district, raised demands for enhanced welfare board benefits, timely fund disbursal, and implementation of ESI and other welfare schemes. INTUC district president V R Prathapan and other trade union leaders also spoke.

CM Pinarayis remark triggers body shaming row

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: As the Opposition protests disrupted assembly proceedings for the third straight day on Wednesday, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayans remark mocking the short stature of one of the UDF MLAs ignited a body shaming controversy, with the Opposition demanding withdrawal of the unsavoury remark and an apology from him. The chief ministers remark came shortly after the Opposition staged dramatic protests and later boycotted the proceedings. Referring to a scuffle between members of the Opposition and the watch and ward staff, the Chief Minister used a colloquial language to point out the irony of a short-statured MLA attempting dramatic protests that were beyond his capacity. Parliamentary Affairs Minister M B Rajesh too lashed out at the Opposition alleging that the UDF was using Uma Thomas, a woman MLA who was still undergoing treatment after a mishap, as a human shield to attack the chief minister. Leader of the Opposition V D Satheesan said the remark amounted to body shaming. The chief minister has made a politically incorrect statement, he said.

Beyond Silicon Valley: Global corporations expand GCC footprint in India

Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, and Pune are the top GCC hubs in the country, while cities like Coimbatore, Ahmedabad, and Thiruvananthapuram are emerging destinations.

Railway week celebrations: Thiruvananthapuram division wins efficiency shields, individual awards

Keralas first literary travel festival, Yaanam, in Varkala will celebrate destination and literature

The festival to be held at Varkala, Thiruvananthapuram, from October 17 to 19 is the first edition of the annual roving festival to be held across the State in the coming years

Gold plating row: CM Pinarayi terms Opposition's assembly protests as 'unprecedented', 'shameful'

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has termed the Opposition's protests in the Assembly over the 'missing' gold claddings at the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple as unprecedented and shameful. The Chief Minister's critical remarks came after the Opposition protests disrupted Assembly proceedings for the third straight day on Wednesday. Pinarayi alleged that the Opposition was shying away from a discussion on the issue as they were afraid that the facts would turn against them. He also flayed a section of the Opposition MLAs for attacking the Assembly watch and ward, including women personnel as part of their protests. The Opposition is interpreting our decorum as weakness. This is unacceptable, the Chief Minister said and urged the Speaker to convey his stance clearly to the Opposition. The Chief Minister asked the Opposition what their actual demand was that warranted repeated disruption of Assembly for three days. He said the Opposition could have exercised democratic means to raise the matter in the House. Instead, they chose to block the Speaker's view, which was unprecedented in the Assembly's history. UDF stages protest, uproar disrupts assembly for third day over Sabarimala gold row They tried to create a smoke screen even though the government repeatedly said it was ready to discuss facts. Even a meeting called by the Speaker to resolve the deadlock was boycotted. It's a clear message that they do not want any consensus on the matter, Pinarayi said. The Chief Minister said the government had informed the High Court that it was in favour of a serious investigation on the issue. The High Court then ordered constitution of a Special Investigation Team into the allegations. Now, when the SIT has begun probe, the Opposition is demanding that there should be a CBI inquiry. There is politics behind this demand, he said. Asserting that the LDF government has never protected the gulity, Pinarayi said strict action would be taken if anyone is found to have commited any wrongdoing.

UDF stages protest, uproar disrupts assembly for third day over Sabarimala gold row

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala Assembly on Wednesday witnessed yet another day of protest with the proceedings disrupted for the third consecutive day as the Opposition escalated the protest over Sabarimala gold row. Within moments after the kicking off of the day's proceedings, the Opposition MLAs stormed the well of the assembly shouting slogans and holding placards demanding the resignation of Devaswom Minister V N Vasavan and dissolution of the Travancore Devaswom Boards (TDB). Opposition leader V D Satheesan told the assembly that the opposition will not take part in the assembly proceedings demanding the resignation of Devaswom Minister V N Vasavan . Speaker A N Shamseer slammed the opposition terming their protest as anti democratic. He accused the opposition for undermining the dignity of the assembly by displaying unruly conduct in front of the students who came to watch the assembly proceedings. Amidst the protest, the speaker continued the question hour proceedings while the opposition refused to retreat. The speaker was forced to adjourn the proceedings and take a break at around 9.50 am. Gold-cladding row exposes lack of inventory on offerings at temples Gold plating row: TDB feels heat as new documents surface

Thiruvananthapurams hip-hop community returns in full force with Blockout

Back in 2017, a small group of rappers, including names now familiar, like Thirumali, Rakz Radiant, and Jay Stellar, gathered at Manaveeyam Veedhi, laid down their verses on a single track, and unwittingly kindled Keralas first hip-hop cypher. Since then, Thiruvananthapuram has been dubbed the unofficial hip-hop capital of Kerala. Notably, the states first and only hip-hop protest also took place here in 2019, when rappers, breakers, and poets turned a demonstration outside the Secretariat into a performance after a schoolgirl in Wayanad died from a snake bite in her classroom. After the pandemic, the momentum faded to a lull. But over the past couple of weeks, the citys popular hangouts such Manaveeyam Veedhi and Shankhumukham have been throbbing again with beats, movement, and colour. Breakers spin on the pavement, graffiti blooms on walls, and rappers trade verses, drawing curious onlookers and opening up new conversations about Keralas hip-hop culture. Well, these cypher events are just the opening act of a large-scale hip-hop movement, Blockout, set to bring rappers, dancers, DJs, and graffiti artists together under one roof. The journey to Blockout began when Dev, one of the citys hip-hop pioneers, recently posted an old cypher clip on social media, with the caption Where are all the artists? It went viral. From Kowdiar Park to Jawahar Nagar, the city once pulsed with B-boys, graffiti crews, and beatmakers creating out of pure instinct, recalls Dev. But when hip-hop became mainstream, some artists started imposing unwritten norms on what the sound and pattern should be. The true essence got lost, and many of those active for years drifted away because there were fewer platforms like before. That social media post, however, unexpectedly brought many people back together, and even newbies popped up. That inspired us to conceive this event. An open call for artists drew more than 500 entries. The team picked 10 standout acts, uncovering the new Trivian Underground. We are not calling established artists, but budding ones who deserve a platform. All, including the headliner, are from the city, says Dev. Joining the conversation, Blockout co-founder Naren says: Hip-hop is a form of expression with four core elements MCing, DJing, B-boying, and graffiti. When the mainstream started chasing just hustle rap, trends and commercial styles, many raw artists lost out chances to showcase their talent. This is our way of reviving the original subculture. The event, taking place at Sri Mulam Club on November 2, will feature the four core elements, the duo adds. The lineup will include one surprise headliner, three main acts (Dev, Rakz Radiant, and Rio Ralphy), guest performances representing Keralas underground zest, and the Top 10 new-wave artists. Selections were made from the citys underground cliques local groups with distinct sounds, styles, and stories. Each clique brings its own flavour: Thekkside Connection from Nedumangad and Malayinkeezhu delivers Malayalam flows and native percussion, South Coast from Shankhumukham, Bheemapalli, and Thumba channels trap and drill energy, while Kowdiar Park Crew mixes new-school production with old-school lyricism. Blockout is a huge opportunity for the artists, says Rakz. Thiruvananthapuram has had a vibrant hip-hop culture long before the scene turned commercial in Kerala. Street cyphers and B-boy sessions have been happening for over a decade. After the pandemic, however, that energy waned. Blockout is the big bounce back, a revival of the raw community spirit. Founders of the Blockout, Naren and Dev Ahead of the main show, Blockout restarted the tradition of Cypher Saturdays where artists get-together at popular spots. Like a warm-up. The next four cyphers are planned for upcoming Saturdays, and the next one potentially will be at CET or on Technopark premises. I have been following Malayalam hip-hop for a while. This is the first event in Kerala that can be called a hip-hop festival, says Strix, one of the participating artists. Being part of this stage at this point in my career is special, and even the cypher events helped me connect with others with similar interests. Mutual respect and chances for collaboration have already emerged in that way. Response from the public and online has been encouraging, says Dev. Earlier, we faced the issue of stereotypical perceptions and stigma around hip-hop cyphers. It used to be difficult to convince the authorities, he adds. This time, as we explained clearly what we were planning to do, city officials and even the mayors office gave us a go-ahead. They are helping us stage what will be the biggest hip-hop event in Trivandrum in years. Such support means a lot. For Dev and Naren, this is only phase one. With sights on expanding beyond Thiruvananthapuram to the rest of Kerala, Blockout aims to give artists a platform, a community, and a support system to keep creating. They also plan to organise workshops to connect rappers, dancers, and visual artists across the state. Three Cs. Thats hip-hop in a nutshell: collaboration, camaraderie, competition. And Blockout is trying to tick all the boxes. For updates: @blockout.tvm Whats a cypher? A cypher is a gathering where hip-hop artists, rappers, dancers, and beatboxers show their skills and creativity. Each participant brings a unique style, making every session distinct and unpredictable. Its essentially a space for artists to express themselves and share ideas. The name comes from the word cypher, meaning zero, as the artists and onlookers usually form a circle. Its also linked to decipher, because the lyrics often carry hidden, cryptic subculture messages. Cyphers are said to have begun in the streets of Harlem in the 1960s, pioneered by the group Five Percent Nation. It became popular in India through works like Gully Gang Cypher.

Kerala sees sharp drop in caste clashes, crime rates; tops nation in chargesheet filing: NCRB report

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Slashing caste and communal violence, the state recorded only one clash in 2023, sharply down from 26 in 2016 and far below the national tally of 475, the NCRB Crime in India Report noted. The report reveals a 20% decline in cognizable crimes since 2016. From 7,07,870 cases that year, the number has fallen to 5,84,373 in 2023. Violent crimes too have dipped by 25%, dropping from 13,548 incidents in 2016 to 10,255 this year. Leading the nation in chargesheet filing, the state has outperformed all other states with a 95.1% rate in IPC cases, far above the national average of 72.7%. Chargesheet filing in cases against Scheduled Castes rose from 62.9% in 2016 to 81.6% in 2023. For Scheduled Tribes, the rate climbed from 79.9% in 2017 to 85.1% this year. The states pendency rate for unresolved cases stood at just 11.4%, nearly 30% lower than the national average of 29.2%. In 2016, the states rate was 13.6%. The state reported a success rate of 96% in tracing missing women and 95.9% for children.

State govt committed to ensuring safe and secure migration, says Kerala CM

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday reaffirmed the state governments commitment to ensure safe and transparent migration for Malayalis across the world. He was speaking after inaugurating the Global Mobility Conclave organised by Office of the Protector of Emigrants under the Ministry of External Affairs in Thiruvananthapuram. Citing the findings of the Kerala Migration Survey 2023, the chief minister said migration patterns are undergoing a major transformation. Earlier, most expatriates lived in Gulf countries. Now, the share of Gulf migration is declining as more youth move to nations such as Germany, the UK, and Australia, he said. Pinarayi pointed out that this geographical shift is accompanied by changes in the professional profile of migrants. While IT and healthcare once dominated migration trends, we are now seeing increasing representation in management and academia. The survey also shows that 11% of expatriates are students -- an encouraging sign of Keralas global growth, he said. Highlighting Keralas long-standing initiatives for expatriate welfare, the chief minister said the state has always been ahead in supporting its diaspora. Three decades ago, we became the first state in India to form a department dedicated to expatriate affairs. That initiative evolved into NORKA Roots, which today connects with almost every non-resident Malayali, he said. Warning against the activities of illegal recruitment agencies, the CM stressed strict action against those exploiting job seekers. At the conclave, Arun Kumar Chatterjee, secretary of Ministry of External Affairs, announced that a new Passport Seva Kendra will soon be established at Tavanur in the Ponnani Lok Sabha constituency. With this, Kerala will have either a Passport Seva Kendra or a Post Office Passport Seva Kendra in every Lok Sabha constituency, he said.

Thiruvananthapuram corporation to designate zones, introduce space limit to curb street vending

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The city corporation is gearing up to introduce a comprehensive plan to regulate street vending through designated vending zones and strict space limits. The operators of fast food trucks had approached the chief ministers office seeking intervention after the recent eviction of as many as 23 unauthorised food stalls along key stretches such as Sasthamangalam, Vellayambalam and Vazhuthacaud. Subsequently, they were directed to resume operations, mandating adherence to traffic safety norms. On Tuesday, the food trucks on these stretches resumed operations. We gave our complaint to the CMs office and a direction was issued permitting us to resume operations on certain conditions. Our operations should not disrupt pedestrian movement and traffic, Food Truck Owners Samiti district president Shahul Hameed said. Meanwhile, the city corporation has decided to formalise street vending across the city to ensure livelihood protection, while also regulating unchecked vending in view of the complaints from the residents, traffic police and major establishments on encroachment of footpaths and roads. The civic body has restricted space to 35 sq ft for food vendors and 30 sq ft for other street vendors. The move aims to curb encroachment, ensure pedestrian safety, and protect the rights of traditional vendors under the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act. A top official of the corporation said that around 3,353 vendors, who are in the survey list approved by the Town Vending Committee, will be issued official vending certificates, granting them legal recognition and operational rights soon. Junior health inspectors and overseers in each ward have been directed to conduct field inspections to verify that the stalls conform to the space limits before the licenses are issued. The vending zones have already been vetted and cleared by the technical and town vending committees, and the proposal will soon be tabled at the council for final approval, he said. The official said that many people with enough capital are looking at street vending as a financially viable option as the investment is limited.

Vigilance raids uncover widespread irregularities in building permit approvals across Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Surprise inspections by the vigilance wing of the local self-government department (LSGD) found widespread irregularities in granting building permits and occupancy certificates, including unnecessary delays, rule violations and approvals without proper verification. The inspections, held on September 16 and 17, covered the main offices of the Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam corporations, 20 municipalities, and 26 panchayats. A total of 225 officials, organised into 48 teams led by internal vigilance officers, conducted the checks during which the irregularities were revealed. Since April 2023, the government has implemented an online system to simplify building permit procedures for low-risk constructions such as residential buildings up to 300-sq-m area and 7m in height. Permits in this category can be granted based on the applicants self-declaration and certified documents from licensed surveyors. Some licensed surveyors, however, submitted plans not in compliance with the regulations, and officials delayed file processing, causing further delays.

Kerala bans sale of all drugs produced by controversial cough syrup maker

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The health department has banned the sale and distribution of all medicines manufactured by Sresan Pharmaceuticals, a Kanchipuram-based company behind the deadly cough syrup, in the state. The decision comes in the wake of licence cancellation proceedings initiated by the Tamil Nadu Drugs Controller against the company, said Health Minister Veena George. The state has also halted the sale of another cough medicine named Respifresh TR (60ml syrup, Batch No. R01GL2523), manufactured by Rednex Pharmaceuticals Pvt. Ltd., Ahmedabad, Gujarat, after the Gujarat Drugs Controller reported that the medicine failed to meet prescribed quality standards. The Kerala State Drugs Control Department has taken immediate action, suspending distribution of the syrup across the state. Five distributors in Kerala were handling the product, and all have been instructed to stop its supply immediately. Authorities have warned that strict action will be taken against any pharmacy or vendor found selling the banned medicine. People in possession of Respifresh TR are advised not to use the medicine under any circumstances, said the minister. Officials confirmed that the drug is not supplied through government hospitals. The minister has also directed officials to take stringent action if medicines for children under the age of 12 are dispensed without a valid prescription.

Congress demands Vasavans resignation

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Sensing a golden opportunity once again in Sabarimala, in view of the gold plate row, Congress will hold a series of programmes and padayatras (foot march) to mobilise masses against the Left government demanding the resignation of the devaswom minister. KPCC president Sunny Joseph on Tuesday told media that apart from the October 9 protest meeting in Pathanamthitta, the party will take out four padayatras across the state led by senior leaders. AICC general secretary K C Venugopal will inaugurate the October 9 protest meeting. Like the 2018 Sabarimala protest, KPCC has asked all mandalam committees to light the protest flame and organise marches. The four padayatras will start from October 15. While former KPCC president K Muralidharan will lead the padayatra which will start from Kasaragod, CWC member Kodikkunnil Suresh will lead the second yatra commencing from Palakkad. The third yatra from Thiruvananthapuram will be led by UDF convenor Adoor Prakash and the fourth will be led by Benny Behnan from Muvattupuzha. The KPCC president also demanded that considering the opposition demand the CM should ask the High Court to order a CBI inquiry under the monitoring of the court.

Kerala Tourism eyes windfall as foreign tourist season kicks off

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala is gearing up for the peak foreign tourist season, with the first wave of chartered flights already touching down in Goa. Industry stakeholders say the state is set to welcome significant arrivals from Russia, Uzbekistan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Norway and Denmark, even as concerns loom over the ongoing diplomatic tensions between India and the United States. The US ranks second to the UK in foreign tourist inflow to Kerala, contributing 13.33 percent of total arrivals. Travel operators fear that strained ties between the two countries could affect the numbers this year. In 2024, Kerala recorded 738,374 foreign tourist visits, marking a 13.76 percent increase compared to the previous year. Sheik Ismail, senior vice president of Concord Exotic Voyages, said that chartered flights have started arriving in Goa and extension tours are being planned to Kerala. He said that there are already bookings from Russia, Uzbekistan, Belarus and Kazakhstan and other European countries and tourists will start arriving in Kerala this month. This year bookings are more from these places compared to previous year. We did a lot of marketing at the personal level in these countries. High domestic flight rates from Delhi to airports in Kerala is the biggest challenge. Chartered flights have started arriving in Goa, said Sheik Ismail. The strained diplomatic ties between the USA and India are likely to backfire during the tourism season. Jacob Thomas, director operations at Marvel Tours, said that they are anticipating a 15 % to 20 % decline in overall business. The Israeli market is currently down and there has been very little movement or new booking from the US market, which is a key contributor. Tourist movement from Australia is lower compared to last year, he said. He said that there are significant shifts in booking patterns. Traditionally the bookings were done in advance and in the recent past booking happens on short notice. Also the foreign arrival season has shrunk to four months from November to February, said Jacob Thomas. According to industry insiders, the Indian diaspora in the US is unlikely to come down this year owing to the ongoing issues between India and the US. Top 11 countries accounted for approximately 69.13% of the total foreign tourist visits to Kerala in 2024: UK - 14.55% USA - 13.33% Germany - 6.24% France - 6.12 % Malaysia -5.55% Oman - 5.20% Australia - 4.32 % Maldives - 4.1 % Saudi Arabia - 4.05% UAE - 3.35% Canada - 2.32%

UDF to tread cautiously on Sabarimala issue

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM : The UDF has decided not to overplay the Sabarimala gold plate row, opting instead for a calibrated response, unlike its aggressive stance during the Sabarimala agitation after the Supreme Court order permitted women of all ages to enter the shrine. Though the UDF liaison committee meeting held on Tuesday endorsed the protest programme and four padayatras (foot marches) across the state announced by Congress, UDFs role has been minimised to a days programme. UDF leaders will join the four padayatras of Congress at Chengannur on October 18 and from there they will march to Pandalam. At the meeting, the leadership came to the conclusion that being a sensitive issue of faith, the front should tread carefully. The leaders also opined that Sabarimala is a shrine attached to lakhs of believers and any attempt to politicise the issue will backfire. The state leadership will give instructions to the lowest level about the way they should handle the subject and what should be said about it and what should not be, a leader told TNIE. The UDF will be focusing on exposing the corruption and lapses by the TDB and the LDF government. The front leaders also cautioned not to allow it to assume a communal dimension. The UDF will handle the subject only at the micro level considering the fact that it is a sentimental issue of people who consider Sabarimala as sacred. We will project it as the state governments corruption, another leader said.

Setback to C K Janus bid to join UDF

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: C K Janus political party Janadhipathya Rashtriya Party suffered a setback on Tuesday after leaders showed a cold response towards its effort to enter the UDF. At the UDF meeting, chairman VD Satheesan told leaders that he has received a letter from Janu requesting the front to accept its request to be part of it. However, senior Congress leaders K Muraleedharan and Ramesh Chennithala cautioned UDF leadership against taking any decision. They pointed out that Janus party was once a member of UDF and later broke away from the front to join the saffron fold, saying it is not right to welcome a party which had deserted the UDF without any reason. Satheesan told the meeting that he had informed the leaders about the development. Muslim League leader P K Kunhalikutty told the Congress to take all the parties into confidence on seat-sharing in line with the local body election. It was also decided that winnability would be the primary consideration and rebels would not be entertained.

Amoebic meningoencephalitis confirmed in Thiruvananthapuram

Two cases confirmed at Attingal and Varkala in last two days

Report identifies capital city as emerging strategic hub for GCCs

Report points at Thiruvananthapurams transformation into a strategic epicentre for the digital economy, driven by its IT ecosystem

Congress, BJP up the ante in political wrangle with LDF over misappropriation of Sabarimala temple artefacts

Youth Congress workers clash with the police in front of the TDB office in Pathanamthitta. BJP Yuva Morch and and Hindu Aikya Vedi workers attempt to storm the TDB headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram. Both parties have warned to intensify protests for CBI probe

Students introduce English to tribal elders

Thiruvananthapuram district panchayats GOTEC programme encourages students to use language as a tool for connection and empowerment

CM Pinarayi Vijayan holds high-level meeting on Argentina football team's visit to Kerala in November

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday convened a high-level meeting to review preparations for the visit of the Argentina football team, which is scheduled to play a friendly match in the state next month. The match featuring the Lionel Messi-led team will be held at the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium in Kochi in November, a statement from the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) said. The renovation works to upgrade the stadium to world-class standards will be completed soon, the statement added. The CMO said intense security arrangements will be put in place for the event, and the possibility of holding a fan meet was also discussed during the meeting. The meeting decided to make adequate arrangements for parking, health facilities, clean water supply, electricity, waste management and related needs. GOAT's own country: Ahead of Messi's arrival, Kerala readies itself for more than just a football match The chief minister suggested that various departments should coordinate their work in this regard. An IAS officer will be appointed to coordinate matters related to the match, and a committee headed by the Chief Secretary will oversee arrangements at the state level, the statement said. At the district level, the collector will coordinate preparations. The high-level meeting, held at the chief minister's conference hall, was attended by Sports Minister V Abdurahiman, Industries Minister P Rajeev, LSGD Minister M B Rajesh and other senior officials, the statement added. India a passionate football nation, honour to return: Lionel Messi

Safe immigration to be ensured, says Chief Minister

Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurates the global mobility conclave in Thiruvananthapuram on October 7.

Kerala Assembly disrupted for second day over Sabarimala gold theft allegations

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala Legislative Assembly witnessed continued chaos for the second consecutive day on Tuesday, as Opposition MLAs disrupted proceedings demanding the resignation of Devaswom Minister V.N. Vasavan over alleged irregularities concerning the gold-clad copper plates at the Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa temple. The protests erupted as soon as Question Hour began, with Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan insisting that the minister step down following revelations of alleged gold theft linked to the temple. Ministers P. Rajeeve and M.B. Rajesh countered the Oppositions demand, accusing the UDF of disrespecting the judiciary, even after the Kerala High Court ordered a probe into the matter. Speaker A.N. Shamseer initially attempted to proceed with Question Hour amid the ruckus, but was ultimately forced to suspend it as UDF members shouted slogans, waved placards, and raised banners directly in front of the Speaker's podium. When the House reconvened during Zero Hour, the Opposition intensified their protest. Slogans such as Chor hai, Chor hai, LDF Chor hai (They are thieves, the LDF are thieves) echoed through the Assembly chamber, as MLAs blocked the Speaker's view with banners accusing the government of gold theft. Gold-cladding row exposes lack of inventory on offerings at temples Raising the High Court's interim findings, Satheesan described the revelations as shocking. He alleged that the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), the managing body of the temple, had compromised the sanctity of the Sabarimala shrine and defrauded millions of devotees by allegedly selling the gold-plated covering of the Dwarapalaka (guardian deity) idols at a high rate. Our strong demand is that the Devaswom Minister must resign immediately. The TDB should be dissolved, and the government must announce these decisions at once, Satheesan declared. However, Law Minister P. Rajeeve rejected the demand, stating the government had already welcomed the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe ordered by the High Court. He accused the Opposition of refusing to trust the judiciary. The LoPs position is that he wont even accept the Honourable Court, Rajeeve said, labelling the protest a political drama. Parliamentary Affairs Minister M.B. Rajesh echoed the criticism, claiming that the UDF was afraid of debates, institutions, and judicial scrutiny. Their protest in the House is proof of that, he added. TDB gets Rs 3 crore sponsorship for Ayyappa Sangamam Despite repeated requests from Speaker Shamseer for the Opposition MLAs to return to their seats, the protest continued. The government is prepared for a debate. The SIT has already been formed. So why are you still protesting? Shamseer asked. Eventually, Question Hour was suspended again, and the session paused temporarily. Monday's sitting had also been adjourned due to a similar uproar over the Sabarimala controversy. On Monday, the Kerala High Court had directed the formation of a Special Investigation Team to probe the alleged irregularities related to the reduced weight of gold cladding on the Dwarapalaka idols at the shrine. The directive came after an interim report from the TDB Vigilance team, which launched a preliminary inquiry following the idols' return from a Chennai-based firm where they were electroplated in 2019, a project sponsored by businessman Unnikrishnan Potty. Despite the ongoing protest, the Assembly managed to pass three bills and refer two others to the subject committee without debate. Before adjourning the House for the day, the Speaker urged the Opposition to avoid prolonged disruption, stressing that important legislation was pending. (With inputs from PTI)

President Murmu to visit Sabarimala temple on Oct 22

Thiruvananthapuram: President Droupadi Murmu will visit the Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa temple on October 22, the final day of the Thulamasa Pooja darshan, Kerala Devaswom Minister V N Vasavan has said. The state government had been informed of the Presidents plan to offer prayers at the hill shrine in the evening. She will later travel to Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Dispute over temple land: Former councillor alleges encroachment

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Raising allegations of encroachment, former Thampanoor ward councillor R Harikumar has triggered a controversy over a plot of land and a building near the Sree Bala Subramanya Temple in Thampanoor. The Congress leader alleged that it has been encroached upon by the ONV Samskarika Samithi. However, Devaswom officials have denied any encroachment, stating that the land is under a valid rental agreement. According to Harikumar, the approximately five cents of land, which is under the Travancore Devaswom Board, was once a kanjippura of the temple. Later, it became a CITU office. Around five years ago, the-then devaswom executive officer converted it into a cultural space named Thidambu. None of these are functioning now. The ONV Samithi has now placed its board along with Devaswom Employees Welfare Society, said Harikumar. He has demanded an investigation and added that a complaint will be filed with Devaswom minister V N Vasavan. An RTI application has also been submitted to obtain related documents, he said. In response, assistant devaswom commissioner S Arun said that the land in question has been rented out to the Devaswom Employees Welfare Society, which pays a fixed monthly rent to the Board. The property has not been encroached. We will conduct an investigation into the board installed by the ONV Smaraka Samithi, he said.

View education as a tool for social change: Guv

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Education should be seen as a tool for social transformation and not merely as a tool to secure employment, Governor Rajendra Arlekar said on Monday. He was delivering the convocation address at the Digital University Kerala (DUK) here. Addressing the students, the Governor called upon them to look beyond personal achievements and reflect on their role in nation-building. You will be judged by what you are doing for society, he said. The purpose of education requires re-calibration. Is a degree meant only for a job or to simply enjoy life? Education must go beyond that and inspire service to society, he said. Commending the achievements of DUK, he described it as the pride of the state and among the best in the country. Citing an example from Goa, he spoke about the benefits of digitisation. The Governor said that when the legislative assembly in Goa went paperless, many trees were saved from being felled. Digitisation not only enhances efficiency but also protects our environment, he added. The Governor encouraged students to become job givers rather than job seekers, and to embrace risk as a path to prosperity. Indian youth often look for guaranteed poverty instead of risky prosperity. Take risks, innovate, and lead, he said. Referring to the prime ministers vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, Arlekar expressed confidence that todays youth would play a vital role in transforming India into a developed nation by its centenary of independence. He concluded by urging the students to find meaning in their degrees and medals by contributing to the nations journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047.

Kerala govt to provide life insurance coverage to students of Classes 1-10

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Marking another ambitious leap in the states education sector, Kerala is all set to provide life insurance coverage to close to 35 lakh school students. An in-principle decision has been made to provide insurance coverage to students from Classes 1 to 10, studying in government, aided, and unaided state syllabus schools. The state government will remit the insurance premium for all students falling under the scheme set to be rolled out from the next academic year. The move comes in the wake of repeated accidents in schools, with the latest being the electrocution of a 13-year-old boy, Mithun, at the Thevalakkara Boys High School in Kollam. Last week, Finance Minister K N Balagopal and General Education Minister V Sivankutty met to discuss the matter in detail. We held preliminary discussions in this regard. The scheme will be examined by the education department. I hope we can present this in the upcoming budget session, Balagopal told TNIE. On the ministers instruction, the insurance department carried out a preliminary analysis of the project potential. A datasheet on how this can be implemented -- including the options and premiums for accidental death and in-patient and out-patient consultations following an accident -- had already been provided to the education ministers office, said insurance department joint director Bushra S Deepa. Health issues, other than those related to accidents, will not fall under the purview of the scheme, as per the current plan. Inclusion of students studying in central syllabus schools, hasnt been confirmed as of now, Bushra said. She added that if funds are ready, there are insurance companies in the public sector with whom the department has co-insurance connections to facilitate the process. The government will ensure the scheme remains in the public sector, said a senior official with the education department.

Kerala CM condemns attack on CJI, blames RSS hate politics

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has condemned the attempted attack on Chief Justice of India (CJI) B R Gavai inside the Supreme Court on Monday, stating that the incident reflects the venom of hatred nurtured by the Sangh parivar. Trying to hurl a shoe at the CJI and accusing him of acting against Sanatana Dharma is a result of communal propaganda, he said. This cannot be brushed aside as an emotional outburst by a disturbed person. It is a reflection of the hatred spread by the Sangh Parivar, the CM said. He said that when communal fanaticism dares to target even the CJI, it exposes the grave danger of this divisive politics that must be confronted. What happened today in the SC is a reminder that the communal frenzy which did not hesitate to shoot Mahatma Gandhi has not waned one bit, he said. 'No remorse, God provoked me to do it,' says lawyer who attacked CJI

Amid Opposition protest, six bills referred to subject panels without discussion

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Amid protests by the Opposition, the government on Monday introduced six bills in the assembly including a draft legislation to regularise undisputed and lawfully held excess private land. All six bills were referred to the subject committees concerned without discussions. One of the bills was the Kerala Excess Land in Private Holding (Regularisation) Bill 2025, which aims to provide a certificate of ownership to individuals in possession and enjoyment of excess land, when land records are authenticated through the digital survey going on in the state. Revenue Minister K Rajan, who introduced the bill, called it revolutionary, and said it aimed at simplifying land ownership and avoid unnecessary litigation. It would also free people from red tape by allowing them to apply for ownership of excess land they possessed, he said. Another bill referred was the Kerala University of Digital Sciences Innovation and Technology (Amendment) Bill 2025 that mainly aims to alter the composition of the search committee to select vice-chancellors and to make the provisions in conformity with UGC regulations. University Laws Amendment Bill, No. 3 and 4, that allow VCs to convene meetings of the respective varsitys executive committee/syndicate/board of management/governing council on the request of one-third of its total members in writing was also referred to the subject committee. The Malayalam Language Bill 2025, which mandates use of Malayalam for all official purposes, and the Kerala Right to Public Service Bill 2025 relating to electronic service delivery and higher penalty for failure to provide public service were also referred to the subject committee.

TDB gets Rs 3 crore sponsorship for Ayyappa Sangamam

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) received sponsorship offers worth Rs 5 crore for the recently-held Global Ayyappa Sangamam, of which Rs 3 crore has already been credited to the exclusive savings bank account opened for the purpose. The event incurred total expenses of around Rs 5 crore, which can be met in full through the sponsorships, said TDB president P S Prasanth. We have already received Rs 3 crore and the sponsors include establishments like banks. The money is collected in a savings bank account opened in the name of the Devaswom accounts officer. All directions by the High Court regarding the maintenance of accounts are being followed, Prasanth told TNIE. Kerala High Court orders SIT probe over Sabarimala gold plating row The TDB had earlier announced that the entire expense for the conclave would be met through sponsorships. This assurance was made at the HC as well. The court, in its order dismissing a batch of petitions challenging the meet, had directed the TDB to maintain fairness and transparency in fund collection. The board was also asked to submit a detailed account statement. However, the boards transfer of Rs 3 crore, under the head religious convention and discourses, sparked row. But Prasanth said it was a temporary adjustment to make certain non-deferrable payments. The amount will be returned to the fund when the sponsorship amount is received in full.

Frustration mounts in Kerala Congress as AICCs Deepa Dasmunsi slams delay in party reorganisation

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Upset at the prolonged delay in the reorganisation of state Congress, AICC general secretary in charge of Kerala Deepa Dasmunsi openly admitted before Kerala leaders that she has had enough. I am totally dissatisfied. What is the reason for the delay. Its unnecessary, she reportedly told the political affairs committee (PAC) meeting held on Monday. Multiple Congress sources who were present at the meeting confirmed to TNIE that Deepa was very upset at the unnecessary delay. However, she did not respond to queries from this paper. Meanwhile, according to party insiders, the AICC is likely to announce the new list of KPCC vice-presidents and general secretaries on Tuesday. The AICC considers Tuesdays and Saturdays auspicious for taking decisions, a senior leader said. Though there was demand for a total revamp, including that of KPCC secretaries, state party chief Sunny Joseph clarified that as they could not reach a consensus, it would be announced later. Former KPCC presidents Ramesh Chennithala and K Sudhakaran had approached the high command after the state leadership raised objections to the list the two leaders had submitted. It is learnt that Ramesh had submitted around 30 names and Sudhakaran 20 names. However, the leadership is of the view that it could not accommodate the full list. Almost all leaders who spoke at the meeting echoed the AICC general secretarys opinion, and urged the leadership to end the uncertainty and complete the reorganisation soon. The responsibility is with the leadership. It shows their incapability to implement a decision. They have been preaching about the reorganisation for some time, said a leader. Shanimol Usman and Benny Behnan were reportedly scathing in their criticism. Senior leaders P J Kurien and K Muraleedharan expressed dissatisfaction over accommodating tainted leaders in the new list. Kurien said he was not consulted before preparing the list from his district, pointing out that some tainted leaders names are included. Muraleedharan sarcastically told the meeting, It is said that in the new list there are names of leaders who had helped me in Thrissur in the last Lok Sabha election. I have no issue with it. I am also of the opinion that you should give them seats in the coming assembly election, so that I can also help them back. Sashi Tharoor, who participated in the PAC after a gap, said though this government is very unpopular among the people, that is not sufficient. We all know how unpopular they are. However, we could tell the people what we would do if we came to power, he said. Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan, agreeing with Tharoor, assured him that his proposal would be considered. Satheesan, however, came under fire for lack of communication with the Nair Service Society (NSS) on the Agola Ayyappa Sangamam. Leaders including Muraleedharan, Kurien, V S Sivakumar, Benny Behnan said the party leadership should have taken into confidence the NSS, which had always stood with the Congress and the UDF. For the first time, Satheesan revealed that the Congress had informed the NSS about the party position on Ayyappa Sangamam. It was a CPM programme. The government had organised it at the fag end of their term to manipulate believers. We as a political party took the position not to collaborate unless the government answers our questions, he said. Satheesan further clarified that the Congress was not in a fight with the NSS.

Kerala clears liberal policy for investments in the state

Boost for environment-friendly, low polluting units By P. Sreekumaran THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala has blazed yet another trail by approving an environmental, social and governance (ESG) policy to implement a governance framework for investments in the State. By doing so, Kerala has become the first State in the country to formulate such a policy, which [] The post Kerala clears liberal policy for investments in the state appeared first on Northlines .

Governor Arlekar stresses role of education in social transformation at DUK convocation

He addressed the third convocation ceremony at the Digital University Kerala (DUK) in Thiruvananthapuram on Monday.

Kerala Scrap Merchants Association to take out rally in Thiruvananthapuram on October 8

They are seeking full tax exemption on waste under GST and withdrawal of LSGDs proposal to allocate recyclable waste materials exclusively to Haritha Karma Sena.

Kerala bans sale of medicines to children under 12 without prescription amid cough syrup scare

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala Health Department on Monday ordered that no medicines should be given to children under 12 without a doctors prescription, a move taken in the wake of concerns over certain cough syrups. The state has also set up a three-member expert panel to study the use of cough medicines in children and asked it to submit an urgent report, Health Minister Veena George said after a high-level meeting here. The panel includes the state drugs controller, the child health nodal officer and the state president of the Indian Academy of Paediatrics. Its findings will help formulate new guidelines on cough syrup use in children, the minister said in a statement. Issuing a strong directive on providing medicines to children under 12 without a prescription, George said that medicines should not be dispensed even using an old prescription. Directions have been issued to the Drugs Controller in this regard, and awareness efforts will also be strengthened. Since medicines for children are prescribed according to their body weight, a medicine given to one child must not be given to another. Doing so could cause more harm than benefit, she said. The statement said doctors informed the meeting that no problems related to cough syrup for children have been reported in Kerala. It added that strong awareness campaigns will be carried out to raise public understanding and address concerns. Directions have been issued to specifically check if there are any related cases. Training will also be provided to paediatricians and other doctors with the cooperation of the IAP, the statement said. Inspections are being conducted in the state under the leadership of the Drugs Control Department. Following reports that issues were found outside Kerala in the SR-13 batch of Coldrif syrup, its sale has been suspended in the state by the Drugs Control Department. That batch of medicines had been distributed in Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, and Puducherry. In Rajasthan, problems have also been identified with a cough syrup from another company. Fourteen children recently died in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh, from suspected renal failure linked to the consumption of a 'toxic' cough syrup. It has been confirmed that the sale of these problematic batches has not taken place in Kerala. Coldrif medicines are sold in Kerala through eight distributors. Their supply and sale have now been stopped, the statement said. The meeting was attended by the Additional Chief Secretary of the Health Department, NHM State Mission Director, Drugs Controller, Director of the Health Department, Director of the Medical Education Department, Additional Directors, District Medical Officers, Child Health Nodal Officer, IAP President, and others.

Bangladeshi artist couple Nabil Rahman and Ayesha Sultanas exhibition in Thiruvananthapuram is an ode to transience

Footnotes, currently on at Neighbour Gallery, displays 38 works by the duo made on a variety of media.

KGMOA slams suspension of doctors over Palakkad amputation case

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala Government Medical Officers Association (KGMOA) has come out strongly against the suspension of two doctors from the Palakkad District Hospital, calling the move unjust and accusing the government of using health workers as scapegoats to deflect public anger. The Health Department suspended Junior Resident Dr Mustafa and Junior Consultant Dr Sarfaraz following preliminary findings of lapses in the treatment of a nine-year-old girl, which allegedly led to the amputation of her hand. The suspension was issued pending further inquiry and possible disciplinary action. In a press statement issued on Monday, the KGMOA termed the action arbitrary and demanded that the government immediately revoke the suspensions. The association argued that the incident involved a rare medical complication and that there was no evidence of negligence or protocol violation on the part of the doctors.The attempt to interpret a rare complication as treatment failure and scapegoat doctors is completely unacceptable, the statement read. Two separate expert committees have reviewed the case and confirmed that the doctors provided all possible care and committed no treatment errors, said Dr Sunil P.K., KGMOA President. The association further noted that the suspension order cited a violation of treatment protocols, but claimed that no formal orthopaedic emergency protocols have been issued by the Health Department so far. KGMOA also criticized the broader state of the public healthcare system, pointing to inadequate staffing, infrastructure, and a lack of clear guidelines as persistent issues. It cited the 2024 CAG report, which flagged deficiencies in Kerala's public health facilities, including non-compliance with Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS) norms. Government doctors are doing their best under extremely challenging conditions. Instead of addressing systemic failures, the government is targeting individuals to contain public backlash, said Dr Jobin G. Joseph, General Secretary of KGMOA. The doctors' body warned that such actions could demoralize healthcare workers and push them towards practicing defensive medicine, ultimately affecting patient care. The association has demanded a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the incident and threatened to launch a state-wide protest if the suspensions are not withdrawn. The controversy stems from an incident involving a nine-year-old girl who visited Palakkad District Hospital on September 24 with a fractured arm. Following the plastering, her condition deteriorated, and she returned to the hospital on September 30. She was then referred to the Government Medical College in Kozhikode, where doctors identified a blood clot and determined that amputation was necessary. The girl's family alleged that medical negligence led to the complication, prompting Health Minister Veena George to order an official probe into the incident after it drew widespread public and media attention.

Sabarimala gold plating row: UDF stages protest in Kerala assembly demanding Vasavan's resignation

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The proceedings of the Legislative Assembly were adjourned for the day on Monday after the Opposition UDF staged a high-pitched protest over the missing gold plating at Sabarimala . As the ruckus intensified, Speaker A.N. Shamseer was forced to suspend the session and later declared the House adjourned for the day after wrapping up the proceedings quickly. Leader of Opposition V.D. Satheesan raised the issue at the very start of the Question Hour , demanding the resignation of Devaswom Minister VN Vasavan in light of the controversy. When the Speaker chose to proceed with the scheduled business, ignoring the protests, UDF MLAs rushed to the well of the House and held up banners reading Temple Thieves, placing them over the Speakers chair and blocking him from view. Despite the chaos, Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal began answering questions. However, as the protest grew louder, he hit back at the Opposition, accusing them of attempting to tarnish the image of the Assembly. Speaker Shamseer also objected to the timing of the protest, stating that a formal notice should have been submitted for an adjournment motion if the matter was to be raised during Question Hour. As the Opposition refused to relent, the Speaker suspended proceedings. 'I was given brass platings': Unnikrishnan Potti refutes allegations over gold-missing row in Sabarimala When the session resumed after a 30-minute break, the protest continued with even greater intensity. Parliamentary Affairs Minister M.B. Rajesh stated that the government was open to a discussion on the issue and accused the Opposition of avoiding debate out of fear. UDF members again displayed banners, covering the Speaker's seat, prompting an angry response from the Chair. Speaker Shamseer questioned the Oppositions decision to protest without submitting proper notice, while Devaswom Minister V.N. Vasavan informed the House that the Devaswom Vigilance was already investigating the Sabarimala gold plating issue .

The Fodder Grass Museum in Thiruvananthapuram showcases different varieties of fodder grass and fodder crops

The museum at Valiyathura, run by the State Fodder Farm, showcases over 20 varieties of fodder grass

Film shoot blocks MG Road for nine hours

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A film shoot caused disruptions to public movement on Sunday as the MG Road stretch in front of the Secretariat remained blocked for nearly nine hours. The shoot of a film produced by Unnikrishnan B and starring Nivin Pauly began around 5 am and continued until 2 pm. Over 1,000 people, including crew members, supporting actors, and technicians, were involved in the shoot. With multiple vehicles, filming equipment, and crowd scenes occupying the road, city police diverted traffic from the Secretariat area in two directions. Deputy Commissioner of Police Farash T confirmed that the film unit had obtained prior permission. They had approached us with a request, and after assessing their requirements, permission was granted. Police personnel were deployed to manage the crowd, he said. However, the incident has triggered debate on whether such blockades violate the Kerala Public Ways (Restriction of Assemblies and Processions) Act, 2011, and recent High Court orders that bar obstruction of public roads for non-essential gatherings. Former State Police Chief Shaikh Darvesh Sahib had in February this year issued a circular reiterating strict compliance with the Act and judicial directions. This followed a contempt petition filed against CPM state secretary M V Govindan for a political meeting that blocked roads in Palayam last year despite police permission. The court had summoned both the political leaders and police officers involved. Blocking a major public road for hours for a private event like a film shoot is a violation. The law does not give blanket power to the police to allow road blockages for non-essential private events. The Kerala Public Ways Act clearly mentions reasonable restrictions. A film shoot lasting several hours does not come under reasonable restrictions. Reasonableness is not just about how the event is managed, but whether the public was informed in advance, said a senior legal expert. Adding to the controversy, discarded plastic containers were found dumped around the Central Stadium premises, under the State Sports Council, after lunch for the film crew was arranged there. Adding to the fire Discarded plastic containers were found dumped around the Central Stadium premises, under the State Sports Council, after lunch for the film crew was arranged there

Israeli tourist moved to mental health facility

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: An Israeli tourist who was attacked on Saturday by a local man in Varkala has been shifted to a mental health facility at Peroorkada after doctors confirmed he was mentally unwell. The man, identified as Zayats Sagi, 46, had been wandering the streets of Varkala for several months without valid travel documents. We dont know when or how he arrived in Varkala. He was not staying at any hotel and had no passport or identity card. He had been living on the streets and carried only two pairs of clothes. He had several pieces of cloth tied around his body as if to cover injuries, said a police officer. The tourist had allegedly snatched the mobile phone of Nandakumar, 46, a native of Tirunelveli in Tamil Nadu, who works with a private water sports agency in Varkala, and threw it into the sea. The tourist snatched Nandakumars phone and ran towards the sea. On being chased, he threw the phone into the water. Nandakumar slapped him in anger, and locals who witnessed the incident alerted the police, said Rural police chief K S Sudarsan. After being taken into custody, a medical team examined Zayats and confirmed he required psychiatric care. He was initially shifted to a mental health centre at Varkala and later shifted him to the Government Mental Health Centre at Peroorkada, Thiruvananthapuram. The police said efforts are being made to contact the Israeli embassy to arrange for his repatriation.

Union govt gives nod to fund Kerala College Sports League on pilot basis

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Marking a major milestone in the states sports sector, the Union government has decided to fund the Kerala College Sports League from the next edition. The state sports departments proposal seeking financial assistance has been approved by the ministry of youth affairs and sports, officials confirmed. The Kerala College Sports League has been incorporated under the Khelo India scheme, through which Rs 32 lakh will be provided on a pilot basis. The state had sought a total of Rs 5.39 crore from the ministry for the conduct of competitions in five disciplines -- football, basketball, cricket, volleyball, and badminton -- as part of the multi-sport league. The sports department has received information that they will receive Rs 32 lakh for the organisation of one league-format event, based on the success of which further funding discussions will be initiated. The ministry will also explore the possibility of extending similar measures to other parts of the country, sources said. This achievement is the result of the collective efforts of many stakeholders and our dedicated team, who worked tirelessly to shape this concept, said Sports Director Vishnuraj P. The idea of organising a sports league took shape during the International Sports Summit Kerala held last year, he added. Currently, sports competitions for college students follow a knockout format because of a paucity of funds, said Additional Sports Director Pradeep C S. However, this provides them only a do-or-die opportunity -- one failure, and you are out of the tournament. But organising these competitions in a league format serves to develop a new sports culture, Pradeep added. The first season of the College Sports League football matches, organised for the 2024-25 academic year, was wrapped up this August. The second season, which will see decentralised, three-tier competitions -- at the district, zonal and state levels -- will begin this November, said Sports Kerala Federation (SKF) Chief Operating Officer K Ajayakumar. Football will be our pilot project to utilise the central fund, he said. Colleges with sports councils connected to the state sports department can register teams in the league and brand them with sponsorship deals, he pointed out. With the league aiming to introduce talented college players to mainstream football, rather than limit it to a university-level competition, the authorities are trying to host home and away matches as well. This will also help develop a regional spirit for the sport and the participating teams, Ajayakumar added. Going forward, the department plans to conduct them as leagues spread throughout the academic year. 5-discipline league The state had sought a total of I5.39 crore from the ministry of youth affairs and sports for the conduct of competitions in five disciplines football, basketball, cricket, volleyball, and badminton as part of the multi-sport league The state sports department will receive I32 lakh for the organisation of one league-format event, based on the success of which further funding discussions will be initiated The ministry will also explore the possibility of extending similar measures to other parts of the country

Kerala govt preparing for KTU & DUK V-C appointments

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Amid the controversies in the higher education sector, the state government is preparing to appoint new vice-chancellors at the A P J Abdul Kalam Technical University (KTU) and the Digital University of Kerala (DUK). The interview to select the appointment panel of the vice-chancellors is scheduled this week. The development comes at a point when the governor has filed a review petition in the Supreme Court against its order to form search committees for V-C appointments, which contradicts the UGC regulation and the verdict from the apex courts full bench. SC-appointed retired judge Sudhamshu Dhulia will chair the search committee. Other members of the committee -- four each, suggested by the government and the governor -- are from outside the state. The higher education department has received over 60 applications to attend these interviews. The interview for KTU is scheduled on October 8 and 9 and that of DUK on October 10 and 11, at the Mascot Hotel in Thiruvananthapuram.

Congress set to announce jumbo KPCC panel

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Congress is preparing to announce a jumbo committee for its state unit, the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC). The final list is likely to be released by Tuesday, though the announcement of district presidents is set to be delayed because of the continuing disputes. The KPCC president has already submitted the reorganisation list to the Congress general secretary in charge of the state, Deepadas Munsi, and national general secretary (organisation) K C Venugopal. On Friday, Venugopal travelled to Delhi to meet Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, who is recuperating after a pacemaker implant. Party insiders suggest the list will be released this week, if Venugopal happens to be in Kerala, to avoid a scramble for posts. He is expected to hold last-minute consultations with senior leaders before making the announcement. This time, the total strength of KPCC is set to rise from 62 to 75 members. Apart from KPCC president, three working presidents had earlier been appointed by the AICC. The number of general secretaries may be doubled from 23 to 40 while the number of vice-presidents could rise from four to eight. The KPCC executive is likely to expand to 50 from 22. The treasurers post, vacant at present, is expected to go to Leader of Opposition V D Satheesans close aide Jyoti Kumar Chamakkala, unless there is a last-minute reshuffle. However, the most contentious issue relates to KPCC secretaries. Though the number will be increased to 90 from 77, both former KPCC presidents Ramesh Chennithala and K Sudhakaran have submitted separate lists. In view of the dispute, there are chances that particular list will be announced later. Rejecting criticism against the formation of a jumbo committee, a senior leader said: With two crucial elections ahead, the party needs more leaders to work at different levels. We also have to accommodate outgoing DCC presidents, KPCC secretaries, and leaders from the Youth Congress and the Mahila Congress. Some of them may also contest the elections. Meanwhile, disputes continue over the Thiruvananthapuram and Kottayam district presidents. In Thiruvananthapuram, while Satheesan backs Chempazhanthi Anil, Manacaud Suresh is emerging as a favourite. T Sarath Chandra Prasad is also under consideration. In Kottayam, Satheesans nominee, district UDF convener Philson Mathews, faces strong opposition from MLA Chandy Oommen and the A group which favours retaining either incumbent DCC president Nattakam Suresh or choosing a consensus candidate. The Congress leadership is also considering announcing new DCC presidents separately in districts where consensus has been reached.

Kerala police to take legal opinion on Sabarimala gold-missing case

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state police have decided to seek legal opinion before taking a call on its course of action in the missing of gold-plated panels from Sabarimala dwarapalaka idols. So far, the police have received three complaints on the matter, said a senior police officer. An officer told TNIE that legal advise needs to be obtained since there were some confusion in the whole episode. The complaints received were of varying nature and raised various demands. One of the complainants demand is to probe the incidents that took place in Sabarimala from 1990s. Hence, we decided to seek legal opinion on the complaints and take further action based on it, the officer added. The officer did not accept or deny the scope of the state crime branch taking over the probe once a case is registered, but sources said being a specialised agency, the CB might be roped in owing to the gravity of the issue. Currently, the devaswom vigilance is conducting the probe and expected to file its report before the High Court soon. The state government will also inform the court about its readiness to conduct the probe by the local police or the Crime Branch. As per the Travancore Devaswom Boards documents, the dwarapalaka idols were among the properties that were layered with gold in 1999. Records showed that 30.3kg of gold was used for the gold covering the sanctum, including the dwarapalaka idols, roof, steps and certain portions of the wall in 1999. The gold plating was sponsored by businessman Vijay Mallya. Congress to cash in on Sabarimala gold plate row However, when the plates covering the idols were sent for maintenance to Chennai in 2019, the entries in the register did not mention any gold. They state that 14 copper panels were sent for repair. The maintenance was sponsored by priest-turned-businessman Unnikrishnan Potti, the central figure in the current controversy. The Chennai-based company, which did the repair work, said recently that it received pure copper panels for gold plating. Devaswom vigilance to file report soon Currently, the devaswom vigilance is conducting the probe and expected to file its report before the High Court soon. The state government will also inform the court about its readiness to conduct the probe by the local police or the Crime Branch.

TDB vigilance interrogates Potti for 2nd consecutive day

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Unnikrishnan Potti, the controversial sponsor of the gold plating at the Sabarimala temple, was questioned by the vigilance wing of the Travancore Devaswom Board for the second consecutive day on Sunday. It is learnt that officers sought information about his financial dealings. Potti, a priest-turned-businessman, was entrusted by the TDB in 2019 and this year with the gold plating of the panels covering the dwarapalaka idols on either side of the sanctum of the temple. Potti is learnt to have told the vigilance that he did not misuse the panels to make money. There were allegations that Potti collected money by exhibiting the panels at Bengaluru and Chennai. According to Potti, he received copper plates for gold plating in 2019, a claim that has put the TDB in a fix. For the panels given to Potti were supposedly gold-plated ones donated by businessman Vijay Mallya in 1999. During interrogation, Potti said he did the gold plating in 2019 using his money and some donations from friends. After the interrogation, Potti told reporters that truth will prevail. Everything will be proven before the High Court, he said. Potti did not respond to specific questions regarding his involvement.

BJP alleges gold heist, announces protest march to CMs office

PATHANAMTHITTA: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national executive committee member P K Krishnadas has alleged that what took place at Sabarimala was nothing short of a gold heist and announced that the party will stage protest marches to the Chief Ministers Office in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday and to the Pathanamthitta Civil Station on Wednesday. Addressing a press conference at the BJP district office, Krishnadas alleged that crucial documents related to the temple were smuggled out ahead of the recently concluded Global Ayyappa Meet. He demanded a CBI probe into the incident, stating that the corruption linked to the gold-plating works at Sabarimala extends beyond Kerala and involves multiple states. Since this is a multi-state corruption network, a central agency inquiry is essential. If the state government has nothing to hide, why should it hesitate to seek a CBI probe? he asked. Sabarimala Karma Samithi lodges theft complaint related to gold cladding row Krishnadas demanded the resignation of the devaswom minister and the dissolution of the Travancore Devaswom Board, holding them responsible for the alleged loot. Criminal charges must be filed against those who headed the Devaswom Board and the minister who was in charge at the time. Such a massive theft could not have taken place with just one priests involvement. The government and the Board are trying to scapegoat the priest to save themselves, he said. Calling the episode a disgrace to a globally revered pilgrimage centre, Krishnadas said the scandal revealed the extent to which sponsors, intermediaries, and officials colluded under the guise of sponsorship. Meanwhile, he also clarified that BJP leader K Surendran had skipped the recent state committee meeting in Kollam due to health reasons. Change is inevitable in Kerala. The NDA will record a massive victory in the upcoming elections, Krishnadas added.

Doctors issue clarification on safe use of cough syrups in children

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) Kerala chapter has clarified the guidelines on the use of cough syrups in children, following an advisory issued by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), Government of India. The DGHS had recently cautioned against the use of cough syrups in children below two years of age, stating that most acute cough illnesses in this group are self-limiting and do not require medicines. In its statement, IAP Kerala said that combination cough syrups and cold medications should not be prescribed to children under two years. Their use in older children, the academy noted, should be strictly based on clinical evaluation, proper dosing, the shortest effective duration, and close medical supervision. It added that bronchodilators may be given in cases of bronchoconstriction, such as asthma or wheezing disorders, with inhaled forms through a metered-dose inhaler and spacer which are considered both effective and safe. The use of antihistamines may be appropriate in children above six months of age in conditions like allergic rhinitis with cough, the statement said. Centre holds high-level meeting on cough syrup deaths to strengthen drug quality assurance However, the academy stressed that non-pharmacological measures such as hydration, rest, saline nasal drops and supportive care should remain the first line of treatment in most cough illnesses. Parents were strongly advised not to self-medicate their children and to seek proper medical consultation. We urge all healthcare providers to adhere strictly to these guidelines and ensure that parents are sensitised about rational and safe practices in the management of childhood cough, said IAP Kerala president Dr Riaz I and secretary Dr Gopimohan R in the statement.

TDB Vigilance questions Potti for the second dayover Sabarimala temple artefacts controversy

After a 4-hour questioning at at the TDB headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram, the priest who occasionally worked at Sabarimala says he is the victim of a media witch-hunt

TDB questions Unnikrishnan Potti over misuse of Sabarimala artefacts for private worship

Officials said the ongoing vigilance probe notably covered the recovery of two gold-plated coverings reported missing from Sabarimala from the residence of Mr. Pottis sister in Thiruvananthapuram last month

Special drive by Thiruvananthapuram rural police unearths loan sharks in capital

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A special drive by the Thiruvananthapuram rural police identified loan sharks as five cases were registered and many documents were seized from different parts of the capital district. The special drive was carried out to control unreasonable high interest rates and curb illegal money lending activities following the orders of Rural SP K S Sudarshan. The drive, carried out on Friday covered multiple police station limits including Kallambalam, Pangode, Palode, Kilimanoor, and Kadakkavur. During the operation, police seized a range of items used by illegal financiers including property documents, currency notes, promissory notes, blank cheques, RC books, stamp papers, and other related materials. In Kallambalam police station limits, three property documents, currency worth Rs 2,50,000 and a contract paper were seized from the house of Sreej, a native of Njekkad. In Pangode police station limits, officers recovered currency totalling Rs 2 lakh and 21,000, two cheques, two revenue-stamp papers, and a transaction record book from the residence of Prabhash from Thengumkodu. In Palode police station limits, police seized Rs 60,000, two stamped papers, one revenue-stamp sheet, and a diary containing details of financial transactions from the house of Sunil Kumar from Kurupuzha. In Kilimanoor, five RC books, 20 blank cheques, and three promissory notes were recovered from the house of Manesh from Malayamadam. At Kadakkavur, five blank cheques, four stamped papers, one promissory note, and one Aadhaar card were seized from the house of Franklin George, a resident of Kadakavur. The police said that the raids are continuing and further action is expected as part of ongoing efforts to bring loan sharks and illegal lenders under strict control. The special drive was conducted in the wake of repeated incidents of harassment by loan sharks.

Thiruvananthapuram to be free of extreme poverty by month-end

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Thiruvananthapuram is set to be free of extreme poverty by the end of this month, lifting 94.86 per cent of identified families out of the category. Out of the 6,250 families identified under the extreme poverty eradication programme, 5,929 have been brought out of distress. Among the identified families, 1,219 needed only shelter-related support. Of them, 332 were given new houses, while house renovation works are progressing for 505 families. Another 284 families who lacked both land and housing have been allotted land through local body schemes and support from the Chittilappilly Foundation, with house construction currently underway. Authorities used four main criteria to identify families: access to food, healthcare, shelter, and income. Once listed, they were linked to services through their respective local bodies. Food support was extended to 2,658 families, while 2,891 received healthcare assistance. Palliative care and medical devices were also provided based on need. Kudumbashrees Ujjeevanam scheme covered 343 families with additional social and financial support. All families were issued essential identity documents such as Aadhaar, voter ID, ration card, and bank account access. Over 13 major documents were arranged for each family that lacked them. Efforts also focused on educational continuity. Children from these families who cleared class X were given opportunities to pursue further studies near their houses. Free bus passes and learning materials were distributed by local self-government institutions. So far, 24 local bodies here Andoorkonam, Aryanad, Aryankode, Balaramapuram, Chenkal, Chirayinkeezhu, Elakamon, Kallara, Karakulam, Karavaram, Karumkulam, Kattakada, Kilimanur, Kottukal, Manikkal, Mudakkal, Nellanad, Poovar, Thirupuram, Uzhamalackal, Vellanad, Venganoor, Vettoor and Vilavoorkal have been officially declared free of extreme poverty.

CPM betraying Hindu beliefs, says BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar has accused the CPM of betraying Hindu beliefs and Ayyappa devotees, calling their actions unforgivable. In a statement on Saturday, Chandrasekhar said, First, in 2018, they tried to destroy the culture of Sabarimala. Then we saw the arrest of Ayyappa devotees protesting against them. Now, they have organised an Ayyappa Sangam to deceive the people. All this has happened while gold is being stolen from the Sabarimala temple. He further accused CPM, under the leadership of the chief minister, of being corrupt, shameless, arrogant and discriminatory towards Hindus, adding that nothing is sacred to them; even corruption and theft in temples are tolerated. Chandrasekhar also claimed that both the CPM and Congress were competing to see who is ahead in corruption and urged independent agencies to investigate the alleged crimes of the state government thoroughly.

INTERVIEW | I dont mind activist tag, but I am an artist first: Rima Kallingal

Rima Kallingal, one of the anchors of the Women in Cinema Collective, is now trying her best to balance the artist and activist modes in her personality. The actor, also an acclaimed dancer, reflects on her journey from stage to screen, the evolving space for women in Malayalam cinema, and her hopes for meaningful change, in a freewheeling conversation with TNIE . She opens up about the Me Too movement, the impact of the Hema Committee report, and why more women behind the camera can truly reshape the industry. Excerpts Your next project, Theatre, is ready for release. What can you tell us about it? The film follows a mother and daughter living on an isolated island, whose lives suddenly go viral on the internet. Their story spreads across the world, opening up questions about truth, perception, and social media. In this post-truth era, we wanted to explore how narratives form and spreadwithout judging, but by observing. The film invites discussion, not conclusions. What made you want to be part of this movie? Mainly, my character. The story resonated with my own experience of living both before and within the social media era. Weve all seen how blurred reality has becomewhats real, whats myth. Thats also the films tagline. You have taken a strong position against perpetrators. How did you decide to work with Sajin Baabu who was once accused in the Me Too movement? Honestly, Im selfish... I needed this film. As an artist, I need work even while fighting other battles. Another reason was that Sajin was the only person who publicly admitted wrongdoing and apologised during the Me Too movement. Thats a step forward, even if it isnt the end of the problem. I wasnt directly affected, so its not for me to forgive. But I saw his acceptance as significant. I cant create my own industry; I need to keep working. Actors, especially women, are often powerless in such choices. Still, I do feel guilty... but also pragmatic. Was this a lesson learnt? Definitely. By 2020, I became more pragmatic. I realised I simply need work to survive. In this industry, people with serious charges continue to win awards. The system protects them, not us. Its easy to sideline women who raise questionswere seen as difficult. But as creators, we have to keep imagining new spaces and keep going, even from the margins. Are you concerned about backlash for your choice? Yes. Its ironic that those who speak up are the only ones held accountable. Everyone else carries on. We become the problem, the ones under the scanner. But I know where my real responsibility lies and Ill continue doing what I believe in. You lost many opportunities in recent years. How did you deal with that? I was lucky to have Mamangam, my own space where I made all the decisions. My team of over a decade held me together. After the pandemic, we revived our creative energy through Neythe, a contemporary dance tribute to Chendamangalam weavers. Still, it was a difficult timemany of us faced severe lows and depression. Artists are always insecure but this silence was painful, especially when colleagues drifted away. Did this distancing start after your marriage or your association with WCC? Both (laughs). Many producers openly said they wouldnt work with WCC members. Directors discussed scripts with me. But once producers came in, Id be replaced. Even today, people deny that such discrimination exists. Denial is easyit keeps you likeable. I could do that too, but I chose otherwise. The struggle was real. I was once carefree and full of dreams, but the stress was immense. Thankfully, therapy, medication, and supportive circles helped us cope. Every new woman entering cinema today knows her rights. Was there ever a point when you decided to quit all this fighting? Never. Not once. Im proud of all of us for standing our ground. Weve no regrets only gratitude. Today, Im in a much better space, with clarity and far less chaos. Do you think you succeeded in bringing change to the industry? Yes. Every new woman entering cinema today knows her rights. We created a handbook explaining how to raise concernssomething I never had. Back then, we normalised everything, even double-meaning jokes that made us uncomfortable. Someone had to start the conversation, and we did. Now, women know theres someone to talk to. I wish Id had that support when I began. Its true that youve created awareness, but the mindset of isolating vocal women still exists... Yes, but only for now. The next generation will question everything. Change is slow but certain... definitely within my lifetime (laughs). As Arundhati Roy says, On a quiet day, I can hear her breathing. Though Ritu is celebrated today, it wasnt fully accepted then. How significant is that film in your career? Everything about Ritu is precious to me. The way Shyam (Shyamaprasad) sir hand-held all of us newcomers is priceless. Before all that, how did your interest in cinema begin and what kind of films were you exposed to early on? I grew up in Ooty and Salem, so I watched a lot of Tamil films... Kamal Haasan, Rajinikanth. Later, in Thrissur, I discovered Malayalam cinema. But I was mainly a stage performer; dance was always my dream. Cinema happened by chance. I was part of Thaka Dhimi and was a Miss Kerala runner-up. Abrid Shine, then with Vanitha (Malayalam magazine), saw me and offered a photoshoot, which led to (director) Lal Jose calling me for a look test. That film didnt take off but the same night Syamaprasad sir called me for Ritu. I auditioned and signed the contract the same day. It all felt unreal. Nothing was planned, everything was a happy accident. How did your passion for dance begin? My parents enrolled me for dance probably to tire me out (laughs). I had too much energy. I loved both dance and sports. I was even sports captain, but had to choose. I trained in bharatanatyam from childhood but couldnt pursue a solo career because its expensive. I discovered my love for group performances... kaikottikali, oppana... and the thrill of creating something together. Since you have always enjoyed being part of groups, how has an organisation like WCC influenced or changed your life? WCC changed me more as a person than as an artist. The women there are my strength. Im standing on their shoulders. They taught us how to find words for our experiences. That sisterhood, that assurance that someone will answer your call, means everything. It gave me belonging, hope, and faith that well find our way forward. What inspired the creation of the new space, the Progressive Filmmakers Association? Frankly, it happened by accident (laughs). We were just discussing the idea of creating a new, inclusive space and made a draft document. Then (director) Anurag Kashyap shared it online by mistake, and it went viral! It wasnt meant as a reaction or a union... just a fresh space for collaboration. It simply got out of hand. A perception is created of Rima as an activist rather than an artist. How do you deal with that? Its natural. There are many artists but very few who are both artists and activists, so all questions come to us. If everyone had spoken up, we wouldnt stand out. Not everyone feels safe to speak, and I dont blame them. The world isnt built for us. Every day is a struggle, especially for women. Im privileged to have a voice and I dont mind the activist tag, but I dont want that alone to define me. I work hard for my art and give it my soul. Even if its overlooked, Ill keep reminding everyoneIm an artist first. You once won a state award, yet people forgot you... It isnt the audience, its the industry that forgets. Wherever I go, I only feel love. Trolls existed, but they dont affect me now. I dont even need to respond anymore. Trolls existed, but they dont affect me now. I dont even need to respond anymore. After Lokahs success, Nyla Usha said the female superhero emerged from the efforts of Rima, Parvathy, and others The credit goes to the whole Lokah team... Dominic, Nimish, Santhy... and Dulquer for producing it on a big scale. Weve collectively created a space where such films can exist. The audience here values good cinema, regardless of gender. The real bias lies within the industryfemale-led films face smaller budgets though audiences pay the same. If the craft suffers, it isnt the viewers fault. We need equal financial and distribution support. Cinema itself is powerful... Im powerful only because of it. When did you realise this was your true passion? When I lost it. When film offers stopped, I felt a deep void. Earlier, I was moving from one character to another, always surrounded by creative people. Suddenly, it all ended... I cried myself to sleep, not knowing what hit me. Thats when I realised how much I needed this. Neythe made me see that it isnt just about films. I need a creative outlet. I simply cant stay still. You once said marriage didnt change Aashiqs life but completely changed yours Yes. Much of it comes from invisible conditioning passed down through generations. I realised I was role-playing... seeking validation for keeping a perfect home. It took time to see that the institution itself doesnt work for me. Its built by men, for men. I regret signing that paper. Love doesnt need official approval... Ill still love wholeheartedly, with or without it. Is it a problem between two liberal-minded people like you? (Laughs out) No, not between us. The problem is with marriage as an institution... it adds nothing and brings pressure instead. We love each other more now. We only signed because our parents wanted it, but its a trap of conditioning. Will Aashiq say the same about being married? No, hell have his own take. But we understand each other. Both of us are strong-headed, yet love holds us... not the certificate. Aashiq and I are very different. Hes into tech and AI while Im old school. I still write by hand and dont even know how AI works (laughs). We disagree creatively at times, and thats fine. Marriage hasnt erased our individuality. Were two people who just happen to share one signature (laughs). You once said Malayali audiences are very knowledgeable about cinema. Does that benefit artists and filmmakers? Absolutely. That awareness keeps us alert, its a healthy kind of fear. Our viewers can forgive technical flaws but never dishonesty in writing or performance. Theyll call it out, and that honesty is precious. Some say you continue to be successful only because of filmmaker Aashiq Abu... (Laughs) I dont need to. My journey speaks for itself. I arrived in Thiruvananthapuram with one suitcase, then to Kochi for Miss Kerala with the same one. I auditioned, worked, and built everything on my own. I met Aashiq in 2014, but Ive been in films since 2008. I never had a manager... I handled everything myself. When M T Vasudevan Nair offered me Sharathe Ammini (character in Neelathamara), my father told me to do it for free (laughs). Thats the kind of start I had. You were trolled for your fish fry comment, though everyone knew you were speaking about the system. Have peoples mindsets changed, especially online? Many girls told me, Thank you for the fish fry statement. Now we use it at home too! (laughs). It gave them a language to express something. Thats enough for me. You cant change the world, but you can communicate. I just used the space I have to speak my mind. Trolls dont matter. I said what I wanted to say. A role you aspire to do? I want to do mad, physical comedy. I saw Shobhana chechis performance recently... her comic timing was brilliant! We havent seen women get such space in cinema, except maybe Urvashi chechi. Id love to do full-fledged comedy. How do you choose your films? I go by instinct. If something instantly excites me, I do it. I cant approach cinema with pros and cons; it has to spark something inside. Most of your characters have been strong women. Do you feel typecast? Yes, thats the sad part. Even when I try something light, people cant see me that way. Those who meet me in person find me very different. Some even tremble while doing my makeup! (laughs) Strength and opinion are often mistaken for intimidation. Thats how the world sees women. You also said youd like to play a romantic role Yes, Im a very romantic person... but I cant say that openly (laughs)! I have many sides, but people love putting you in boxes like calling you an activist. Does the activist label feel like a burden? Not at all. Im proud of what I stood for, though it cost me a lot emotionally. Ive felt lonely and struggled, but I dont regret it. If wanting change and believing things can get better make me an activist, then yes, I am one. You once said you want to write and direct because only when you stand behind a project can you make changes. Could you explain that? True change happens only when you step into the creative space. When women start writing and directing from lived experiences, cinema transforms. Like when Shanti, Revathi chechi, or Ratheena made Puzha... those layers came from truth. We need more women behind the camera. The issue isnt talent, its trust. Once the industry begins investing in women, everything will shift. Are you exploring writing yourself? Yes. Cinema still feels magical to me, and I want to write and direct some day. But I often struggle with imposter syndrome. The Hema Committee report gave the Malayalam film industry a bad name. How do you see that? Its like how Kerala was reported on most during Nipah or Covid outbreaks... because were aware and vocal. Problems exist everywhere but we discuss them openly. That isnt shameful... thats progress. The question is, where do we go from here? Theres talk of a before and after Hema Committee. Do you see it that way? Definitely. Earlier, we didnt even know whom to approach if something went wrong. Now, every film set has an Internal Committee. Whether people use it or not is another matter. I expected more, but change takes time. Were dismantling centuries of patriarchy and that wont happen overnight. Still, things are shifting. Theres a growing demand for women leaders in the industry. Whats your expectation? I dont expect instant change. But for the first time, were seeing things through a new lens not just a male one. That itself is progress. I admire Shwetha (AMMA president)... shes bold and fearless. Im excited to see what she brings. 22 Female Kottayam (2012) made a strong impact. But back then, you werent seen as an activist. What are your memories of the film? After its release, I was branded a feminist. I seem to get a tag after every film! 22FK upset a lot of men... that showed its impact. It started a conversation I deeply believed in. Around that time, my TED Talk also happened, and together, they shaped how people saw me. But I dont mind such labels... they come from standing by what I believe in. I want to explore comedyand romancefrom a womans perspective. Youve also done lighter, conventional roles Nidra, Ezhu Sundara Rathrikal, August Club, Happy Husbands... Those roles were equally enriching. They reflected real women I see around me. Playing characters unlike myself helped me understand people better and develop empathy. Its a challenge, but one I enjoy. How do you see male gaze as a creator? It depends on the directors intent. If I were shooting an intimate scene, Id want to see how I view it as a woman. Like Anjalis scenestheyre intimate yet human. Its about context, not exposure. The audiences reading matters as much as the creators intent. We often discuss the male gaze. But doesnt the female gaze exist too? Of course. Were all sexual beings, women included. We have light and dark sides and I want to own both. We shouldnt be bound by the kulasthree image. Men must also learn to see women as we truly are. Social media has helpedwomen like Mathimol are unapologetic and bold, creating amazing work with just their phones. Its liberating to watch. When women turn directors or writers, people assume their films will be serious or about empowerment. What kind of stories would you like to tell? I want to explore comedyand romancefrom a womans perspective. Theres so much humour and tenderness in our stories that we havent shown enough. TNIE team: Cithara Paul, Supriya Sukumaran, Vignesh Madhu, Vivek Santhosh, Anna Jose, Manisha V C S, Harikrishna B, A Sanesh (photos) Pranav V P (video)

Kerala bans Coldrif cough syrup sale

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state government on Saturday banned the sale of Coldrif cough syrup across the state following reports of quality concerns. Health Minister Veena George, in a press release issued here, said that the State Drugs Control Department has stopped both the distribution and retail sale of the syrup. The action comes after reports from other states flagging problems in batch SR-13 of the medicine. Preliminary investigations by the State Drugs Control Department revealed that this particular batch had not been sold in Kerala. The department has directed the drug control officials to ensure that Coldrif syrup is not distributed or sold in the state. Currently, eight distributors supply the medicine in Kerala, and all have been directed to stop sales. Medical stores too have been instructed not to sell the syrup, the release said.

Congress to cash in on Sabarimala gold plate row

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Sensing an opportunity to politically corner the Left, which has been basking in the glory of the global Ayyappa meet, the Congress is planning to take up the gold plate row in a big way. Determined to trigger a debate over the gold plate row, the Congress will hold a protest meeting called Prathishedha Jyothi in Pathanamthitta on October 9. The event, where the party plans to rally the believers, will be inaugurated by AICC general secretary K C Venugopal. The party plans to organise similar protest meets in other parts of the state too. KPCC president and MLA Sunny Joseph said in Kannur that the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) president, who has failed to protect the properties of Sabarimala, is unfit to continue in the position. He alleged that the gold plating at Sabarimala has been replaced with copper instead of gold, resulting in a loss worth crores of rupees. He further accused the government of taking a biased stance by shielding those involved in the wrongdoing instead of ensuring accountability. The ongoing investigation into the gold plate controversy is inadequate, he said, calling for a probe under the supervision of the High Court. Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan has called for the immediate resignation of the devaswom minister and the TDB president, citing serious allegations of gold theft at Sabarimala. At the inauguration of a public meeting organised by UDF district committee in Aluva on Saturday, Satheesan demanded a central agency probe under the supervision of the High Court to investigate the alleged misappropriation of gold donated by Ayyappa devotees. He raised questions about the handling of 30kg of gold donated by the UB Group, asking how much of it remains and why no probe was conducted into the reported shortfall. He also questioned why the individual responsible for the alleged theft was invited back, accusing the TDB of engaging in fraudulent practices, as observed by the High Court. The event was chaired by UDF chairman Dominic Presentation, with UDF convener Adoor Prakash, MP, delivering the keynote address. GLOBAL AYYAPPA SANGAMAM HELD TO CONCEAL MISUSE OF TEMPLE WEALTH: KC ALAPPUZHA: AICC general secretary and Alappuzha MP K C Venugopal on Saturday alleged that the state government organised the Global Ayyappa Sangamam to conceal corruption and misuse of temple wealth. Inaugurating a special convention of the UDF in Alappuzha, Venugopal said the associates of businessman Vijay Mallya had clarified that the Dwarapalaka idol he donated was gold-plated. It was during the tenure of the Pinarayi Vijayan government that the gold vanished and turned into copper, he said. Referring to the recent controversy involving the Travancore Devaswom Board, he asked who Unnikrishnan Potti was and how he became involved in temple affairs.

Kerala's Thiruvonam Bumper lottery results out, Rs 25-crore jackpot for ticket number TH 577825

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Ticket number TH 577825 has won the Thiruvonam Bumper lottery 2025 that carries a first prize of Rs 25 crore. The prize went to the ticket sold by lottery agent P Thankarajan (Agent no. T-2356) from Thiruvananthapuram. The lucky ticket was bought from the Palakkad district lottery office. The second prize carries Rs 1 crore each for 20 winners, while another 20 lucky winners will get Rs 50 lakh each as third prize, The fourth prize carries Rs 5 lakh for each of the 10 series of tickets and the fifth prize is Rs 2 lakh for each of the 10 series. Finance Minister K N Balagopal conducted the first draw of the Thiruvonam Bumper at Gorky Bhavan here on Saturday. As tax on lottery tickets was raised from 28 per cent to 40 per cent owing to the latest GST reforms, agents and sellers had sought a postponement of the draw. The Thiruvonam Bumper lottery, priced at Rs 500 per ticket, saw record sales this year. The Kerala State Lotteries Department had printed 75 lakh tickets, of which all tickets except one, which was defective, were sold. Palakkad registered the highest sales of Thiruvonam Bumper with 14.07 lakh tickets.

Five more roads in Kerala soon to be developed into national highways

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In what could boost Kerala's infrastructure development, five more roads in the state will soon be developed into national highways. The National Highways Authority of India has informed the state government that proceedings have begun to develop five more national highway projects in the state. The roads to be upgraded to national highway status include Ramanattukara - Kozhikode Airport road, Kannur Airport Road (Chovva-Mattannur), Kodungallur-Angamaly stretch and Vypeen-Matsyafed Tourist Office Road. In addition to this, a project is being prepared to construct Kothamangalam, Muvattupuzha bypasses on the Kochi - Madurai national highway. Welcoming the decision, Public Works Minister Mohamed Riyas said NHAI has informed that steps have already begun to prepare the project plans for the new national highways. In a Facebook post on Saturday, the minister said the development marks a major step forward in strengthening the state's road infrastructure. He added that the NHAI has initiated the tender process to select an agency to prepare the detailed project documents. The minister noted that the proposal for upgrading additional roads to national highway standards was raised during a recent meeting between Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari in Delhi. Based on this, the state government submitted a detailed proposal, which has now led to the initiation of project documentation for the five new highways. The development of these roads is a long-standing dream of the people, he said. The state government will constantly intervene to ensure that the projects are completed in a time-bound manner, said the minister. The new highways are expected to improve connectivity to airports, ease traffic congestion, and boost regional trade and tourism. According to reports, the 12-km-long stretch from Ramanattukara to Kozhikode airport and the 20 km road from Kodungallur to Angamaly would be developed into four-lane roads.

Aided school appointments: Kerala government softens stance

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The government has softened its stance towards Christian-aided school managements in the wake of the latter's protest over the delay in approving staff appointments, citing implementation of a Supreme Court order on reservation for the differently abled. General Education Minister V Sivankuty, who had adopted a tough line earlier, assured on Saturday that the government has an 'open mind' in resolving the issue through discussions. The concerns of managements have been conveyed to the chief minister, he said in a statement. In March this year, the Supreme Court had allowed teaching and non-teaching posts, other than those earmarked for the differently abled people, to be regularised by the government in aided schools under the Nair Service Society (NSS). The government has maintained that the apex court order was applicable only to the schools under the NSS management. Sivankutty had recently flayed a section of the aided school managements for not reporting vacancies of differently-abled candidates.

For Pinarayis CPM, nothing is sacred, posts BJP Kerala president

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The BJPs statewide outreach initiative, Grihasamparka Yajna, launched on September 25 ahead of the local body elections, has gained unexpected momentum with the Sabarimala gold-plating scandal emerging as a major political weapon against the Left government. Initially, the BJP leadership was concerned over the perceived drift of powerful community organisations like the NSS and the SNDP Yogam towards the Left Front during the recent global meet of Ayyappa devotees. But with allegations of corruption in the gold-plating project at Sabarimala temple coming to the fore, the party now sees an opportunity to not only counter the Left but also consolidate its Hindu vote base, which it had feared was slipping away. BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar on Friday night mounted a direct attack on Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and the CPM, tweeting, For Pinarayi Vijayans CPM, nothing is sacred-even corruption and stealing from temples is ok. He further insisted that the charges must be probed not by a retired judge appointed by the state government, but by an independent agency, reflecting the partys determination to keep the issue in public focus. According to BJP sources, the statement issued by the Pandalam Palace Managing Committee on Friday, demanding a detailed inquiry into the gold-plating scandal, has given the party additional ammunition. The CPM-led government conducted the Ayyappa devotees meeting with a political agenda. The recent controversy has exposed the true nature of the CPM-led government. Our campaign, which aims to reach 50 lakh households, will highlight both the BJPs development agenda and the corruption of both the CPM and Congress. The gold-plating issue has become a key talking point in our campaign, admitted a senior leader. The BJP has, however, been cautious not to directly target the NSS and SNDP Yogam leadership, even as allegations intensify against individuals such as Unnikrishnan Potti. Party leaders said that their fight is against the Left government, not the community organisations. Insiders said that by refraining from attacking the NSS and SNDP Yogam, the BJP is keeping its channels open for potential alignment with both organisations while also ensuring that the narrative stays focused on the alleged corruption under the CPM-led government.

Gouthams gambit: Kerala's 15-year-old making rapid moves up the chess ladder

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: When 15-year-old Goutham Krishna H decided to rub shoulders at the senior national level for the first time, his competitors included 21 chess players ranked above him. Unmindful of the odds, the international master (IM) from Thiruvananthapuram put up an impressive show of talent and grit to emerge as the first runner-up at the 62nd National Senior Chess Championship held recently in Andhra Pradesh. Goutham scored an impressive nine out of 11 points, narrowly missing the title on a tie-break. Had he won, Goutham would have become the youngest champion, a record currently held by grandmaster (GM) Akash Ganesan, and previously by Viswanathan Anand. In round nine, Goutham showcased an exceptional endgame, capitalising on a rare error by GM Abhijeet Gupta, a five-time Commonwealth and former national champion. Gouthams dedication and talent has also qualified him for more international tournaments. And, he wants to get better. I hope to join the ranks of Anand and Akash, who became senior national champions at the age of 16, said Goutham, a Class X student of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Kodunganoor. He currently has an International Chess Federation commonly referred to by its French acronym FIDE rating of 2407 and a GM norm under his belt. Two more GM norms and a rating above 2,500 would earn Goutham the title of grandmaster. In May, Goutham was in supreme form at the third International Chess Tournament in Kuwait. The prestigious event involved 329 players from across the globe, including 30 GMs. Despite being seeded 30th, Goutham demonstrated remarkable poise and panache, securing second place and a cheque for 9,000 US dollars. Goutham, who was crowned national champion in the under-12 category in 2012, displayed keen interest in chess from early childhood. He was initially trained by Anand J S. Later, Sreejith G S, a former chess player and FIDE-certified instructor became his his full-time mentor. Srinath Narayanan, a GM from Chennai, has also taken him under his wings. Unlike many others his age, Goutham is a regular school-going student and balances his passion for chess with his studies. However, he is on the lookout for a sponsor who would fund his training as well as expenses to participate in international events, said Sreejith, who has mentored many young players. Gouthams father Hari is an architect with the public works department and mother Simitha is employed in a private firm. His elder brother Dev Shankar, a former chess player, recently completed his higher studies in Canada.

Kerala government felicitates actor Mohanlal

Titled Malayalam Vaanolam, Laal Salam, the event drew hundreds of Mohanlal fans to the Central Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram

Manohar Parrikars 2017 letter advised against making any change in the organisational structure of BrahMos Thiruvananthapuram unit

With reference to a reported move to delink BATL from BAPL, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently wrote to Shashi Tharoor, MP, that the transfer is in line with the March 2007 order of Kerala govt. handing over KELTEC to DRDO. However, the order was amended in October that year handing over KELTEC to BAPL, the parent company of BATL, a point not mentioned in Singhs letter. Parikkars 2017 letter takes note of this fact

CM Pinarayi slams Centre for ignoring state's demand post Wayanad tragedy

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has accused the central government of denying Kerala the assistance it rightfully deserves following the Mundakkai-Chooralmala disaster . He said the centre has not granted even one-eighth of the relief amount sought by the state. The state requested Rs 1202.12 crore as immediate relief and Rs 2221.03 crore for reconstruction. The chief minister said that the centre has so far sanctioned only Rs 260.56 crore and that this amount is grossly inadequate and does not meet even a fraction of the actual need. The chief minister further said that even though the state had also appealed to the centre to waive the loans of the disaster-affected people , no action has been taken. Instead, Section 13 of the National Disaster Management Act, which facilitates such loan waivers, was removed. Citing this amendment, the centre has now officially informed the High Court that loan waivers for the disaster victims are not permitted under the law, noted the chief minister. Wayanad proposed for countrys first landslide geoheritage site The CM added that Kerala submitted its first memorandum soon after the disaster, on August 17, 2024, and a detailed Post Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) report was submitted on November 13, 2024. He stated that though both submissions were made while Section 13 was still in effect, it was only on March 29 this year that the centre notified its removal. He called the move inhumane and unjust. He also pointed out that it took the centre five months to officially declare it as a disaster of severe nature. This delay blocked international aid possibilities, added the CM. Pinarayi Vijayan said there is rising public anger over the centre's neglect of Kerala. Claiming that, though the people of Wayanad looked up to the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the disaster with hope, it turned out to be a photoshoot managed by PR agencies. He urged the government to respect the rights of the state and its people and to provide the support they are entitled to without further delay. Wayanad landslide rehab: Confusion continues over township beneficiary list

'I was given brass platings': Unnikrishnan Potti refutes allegations over gold-missing row in Sabarimala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Amidst the ongoing gold-missing row in Sabarimala , priest-turned-businessman Unnikrishnan Potti refused the allegations against him. As per the letter given to me, I was provided with brass plates. This is marked in the mahassar also. I can speak only based on what was given to me, he said in Thiruvananthapuram. Unnikrishnan said he is unaware whether it was gold-plated earlier or whether the platings given to him had gold in them. In a new turn of events, the former priest said he had never claimed that the golden peedom was missing. He also said he would be present for vigilance questioning if summoned. He made these comments while talking to the media on Saturday. Speaking about the allegations involving actor Jayaram, Unnikrishnan said the plates were not taken to the actors residence intentionally. We fitted the platings into wooden planks at his house. We didn't think of any legal issue then. It was not mentioned in the provisions either, he remarked. He added that he had not made the items for exhibition display, as mentioned in the media. He also added that there was not much delay when the dwarapalaka idols were taken for mending works. Not 39 days, but only a delay of one week was there, he claimed.

Gang caught with MDMA worth more than Rs 15 lakh

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A major drug trafficking gang has been arrested by the Thiruvananthapuram Rural Dansaf team on Friday. The four-member group was caught with 308 grams of MDMA, worth over `15 lakh in the market. The drugs were seized after two rounds of checking. Initially, 175 grams of MDMA was found hidden on one of the accused, a woman, during a body search. On further inspection, 133 grams more was found. The group had been under secret surveillance for some time. Those arrested are Shami, 32, from Chadayamangalam in Kollam, Muhammed Kalfan 24, Ashiq, 20, and Al Ameen, 23, all from Kaniyapuram. They were nabbed at Chenkavila near Pozhiyoor by the Dansaf team with the help of Pozhiyoor police. The car they were travelling in was also seized. The gang had brought the MDMA from Bengaluru. They were actively involved in drug trade across Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam The gang used rented cars and posed as families on leisure trips to smuggle drugs into Kerala. Small packets of MDMA were hidden in the womans dress. This method helped them avoid checks in other states. Rural District Police Chief K S Sudarshan received a tip-off that a group led by a woman was bringing drugs from Bengaluru. Following this, special police surveillance was set up along the state border. When the group saw the police, they tried to escape through a side road but were caught after a chase. This is a major racket, and we believe more individuals are involved. Further arrests are likely in the coming days. The group is understood to have been supplying drugs in areas including Technopark and Varkala. They have been under our surveillance for the past six months, said Sudarshan. The operation was led by a team including DYSP P K Pradeep of the Narcotics Cell, DYSP Chandradas of Neyyattinkara, Pooziyoor police inspector S P Sujith, Dansaf sub-inspectors F Fayas, Rasal Raj, B Dileep, Prem Kumar, Rajeevan, and police officers Aneesh, Arun, Riyas, Padmakumar, Sunilraj, and female police personnel Sajitha and Asha. Meanwhile, as part of Operation D-Hunt, 1,574 individuals were examined and 57 cases for possession of various narcotics were registered. As many as 59 people were arrested. Seizures during the operation included MDMA weighing 0.044 kg, 2.222 kg of cannabis and 36 cannabis beedis.

Global Mobility Conclave on Oct 7, to set benchmarks in overseas hiring

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Non-Resident Keralites Affairs Department (NORKA) in association with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) will host the Global Mobility Conclave 2025 in Thiruvananthapuram on October 7 as it looks to set new benchmarks in ethical and innovative overseas recruitment. The one-day event, organised in collaboration with the Protector of Emigrants (Thiruvananthapuram & Cochin) at Hycinth Hotel, is expected to bring together voices from the government, international migration bodies, skill agencies and licensed recruitment agents to deliberate on the future of Indias global workforce. The conclave will focus on promoting ethical recruitment practices, exploring emerging global job markets, strengthening the role of recruitment agencies through a unified approach, encouraging use of technology in migrant safety and tracking, and facilitating partnerships between central, state and international stakeholders. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will deliver the inaugural address. Top officials from the MEA and senior officers from Kerala will attend. The conclave will be divided into five major session: Session 1 covering emerging global opportunities will have experts from the International Labour Organisation, International Organisation for Migration, ICMPD and GIZ decode new demand in international job markets. Session 2 will discuss about skilling the migrant, and explore how Kerala can build a future-ready migrant workforce, with inputs from ASAP Kerala, KASE, and ODEPC. Pathways to fair and transparent migration will be the topic for session 3. the panel will address safe migration tools, labour intelligence and migrant tracking systems. Session 4 will see recruitment agents and government officials engage in an open dialogue on strengthening the migration ecosystem. It will be moderated by Shashank Tripathi, Protector of Emigrants. The final session will present actionable takeaways, including a model code of practice for recruitment agencies and the launch of migration forecasting tools The event is expected to bring together voices from the government, international migration bodies, skill agencies and licensed recruitment agents to deliberate on the future of Indias global workforce

Kombans FC announce final squad for Super League, unveil jersey

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Thiruvananthapuram Kombans FC have announced their full squad and coaching team for the Super League season 2. The line-up combines experienced international players with young domestic talent. The teams jersey was unveiled and handed over to franchise owner T J Mathew by former state police chief Jacob Punnoose at the event held on Friday. The team will be led by Head Coach James McAloon, supported by Assistant Coach Kali, Goalkeeping Coach Balaji Narasimhan and Strength and Conditioning Coach Fintan Lane. Lane, an Australian with coaching experience in Europe and the United States, was previously with Copenhagen Celtics in Denmark. In terms of our preparation, our team is prepared to win every game. I think, overall, season 1 was definitely a success and gave us the foundation for what we can build on. Tactically, we need to understand the other teams a little bit better, said the head coach. Brazilian midfielder Patrick Silva Mota will continue as captain. He will be supported by vice-captains Autemar Bispo, Bibin Boban and Salam Ranjan Singh. Bispo is a striker from Brazil, Boban is a Kerala native and National Games hero, and Singh is a former Indian international and ISL champion. The forward line-up includes Paulo Victor Lima Silva and Ronald Makalysten from Brazil, along with attackers Mohammed Shafi, Shihad Nelliparamban, Khalid Roshan and Vignesh Maria. Midfielders include Abdul Badish, Akshay P M, Ragav Gupta, Bibin Boban, Rohen Singh and Muhammed Ashar. The defence boasts of Brazilian players Lury de Carvalho Lima and Filipe Alves, along with Akhil J Chandran, Manoj M, Salam Ranjan Singh, Mohammed Sarif Khan, Shanid Valan, Mohamed Sanooth and Shinu R. Goalkeepers Sreeraj Rajeev, Satyajit Bordoloi and Aaryan Saroha will guard the post.