Patanjali inks MoU with SRM Centre
Excelsior Correspondent HARIDWAR, May 3: Two renowned organizations of the country-Patanjali Research Foundation and SRM Centre for Clinical Trials and Research, Chennai on Friday signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for analysis and research work on Ayurvedic medicines and for their clinical trials. On this occasion Acharya Balkrishan, general secretary of Patanjali Yogpeeth along with chief scientist of Patanjali Research Foundation, Dr. Anurag Varshney and Dr. Nitin M Nagarkar, Dr. Satyajit Mahapatra and Dr. Sarasvati Tripathi from SRM Centre for Clinical [] The post Patanjali inks MoU with SRM Centre appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
How to get bejewelled balloters to the booth
South Bengaluru, south Chennai, south Delhi, south Mumbai, south Kolkata. There is something special about the southern parts of Indian metros that makes the affluent stay there. Quite the contrast from the laggard Global South. The problem with what we might call Indias Urban South is that they dont like lifestyle disruptions like voting at elections. We have seen that this year in the constituencies of Chennai South and Bengaluru South, both of which saw less than 55 percent voters showing up. I am tempted to bet their Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai counterparts may try to match them in low turnouts. Not even the talk of a never-proposed but much-disposed inheritance tax may shake them from their electoral slumber, unless you think out of the ballot box. About 15 years ago, a friend listed in jest 10 reasons why Mumbai Souths elite voters didnt show up to vote in 2009. Two reasons stood out: no valet parking, and they didnt want to stand in the same queue as their household help. Youve got to say bye-bye to voting if you spot your bai out there. In the best tradition of Indian-style innovation, I am thinking of ways to end such apathy. While at that, I am also intrigued by the tendency of Indians in general and the affluent in particular to splurge or lose money through various endeavours while hating the thing called tax. Its not a condition peculiar only to India. The Beatles sang in their 1966 song, Taxman : Now my advice for those who die (taxman) / Declare the pennies on your eyes (taxman) / Cause Im the taxman / Yeah, Im the taxman / And youre working for no one but me (taxman). Even before the Fab Four, Bollywoods Kishore Kumar sang in 1954: Kuchh income tax le jaata hai / Kuchh beewi udaati hai (Some money is taken away by income tax / and some blown up by the wife). Later, in 1970, when tax raids happened on film stars, he sang: Nagad naayan ke sab yaar / In sabke pichhe pad gaya income tax / Are bam-bam naache Kishore Kumaram (Everybody is a friend of the god of bucks / The income tax is after their backs / and Kishore Kumar dances bam-bam). But then, tax and voting are different things for celebrities. These days movie stars vote in style. Queues are bent for them so they can do the celeb act: posing for cameras in designer shades with ink on their forefingers. For all we know, they might be imagining showing a middle finger to politicians, but what we see is what we think we get. But stars and tycoons need to be treated with deference to make them part with cash. The poor can be made to part with cash through offerings made to astrologers and priests in exchange for the fulfilment of their wishes. The middle class can be had with get-rich-quick schemes in everything from unreliable chit-fund schemes to dud shares, and if they are techno-hip, through cyber frauds and crypto scams. The truly rich wont fall for all this. Some of them got rich in the first place by partly or wholly trying some of the tricks mentioned above (occasionally described in boardrooms as strategy). We need to reverse-swing this whole business with some designer jugaad . We need to take a leaf out of their books and charm them into doing unto the taxman what some of them do unto their clients and, sometimes, shareholders or bankers. What I suggest to counter electoral apathy in the Urban South is a Premium Voting Lounge, much like those fancy corners in airports or plush hotels. You have to pay so that you dont have to stand in queues, certainly not with your helps. You have sofas in air-conditioned waiting areas. The electronic voting machines flash a welcome message after a welcome drink. And yes, you can pose for a selfie with your EVM and pay a service charge (GST extra). Valet parking, of course, is included. There you have it. Farmhouse parties in Delhi and bashes in Malabar Hill will never be the same again. Page 3 smiles and Instagram videos will complete the picture. Bejewelled balloters will happily part with a lakh or two if they are told that voting is not an act of duty but a style statement. I can imagine Ms Chopra in South Delhi doing a pre-election photoshoot as well. If she is complimented later about having lost weight, she might even reply: You see, I have been exercising my franchise. Diamond and platinum brands are well advised to sell this idea to the powers that be. Fingers are meant to hold expensive rocks, not just press an EVM button. An election symbol can now be transformed into a status symbol. If the Unique Identification Authority cooperates, designer Aadhaar cards with filter-fixed photos wont be a bad idea either, though immigration officials may object. The wealthy are not fools who part easily with their money. They would rather pay for a holiday home they will never stay in, or do a 50-50 deal with a suitable deity than pay inheritance tax. The government is well advised to hire consultants of the premium variety to do something about this. Smart consultants dont come cheap. (Views are personal) (On X @madversity) Madhavan Narayanan | Senior journalist
BJP Blames DMK Government for Water Shortage
Chennai: Placing the blame for the entire set of water woes in the State on the DMK government, BJP State president K Annamalai urged the government to act now, during the summer months, to desilt dams, drainage systems and other water bodies, beside removing encroachments, and not to enact dramas after floods cause devastations during the monsoon season. In a statement on Friday, Annamalai accused the State government of only being concerned about advertising itself without bothering to lay even a single brick to build the 1000 check dams that it had promised to construct when it came to power. Since the check dams had not come up, rain water was not being saved, leading to water shortage during the summer months, he said, adding that when there was a flood in River Cauvery in 2022, over 600 TMC feet of water went to waste by flowing into the sea. He also alleged that the DMK government had not taken efforts to get the States due share of Cauvery water from Karnataka and pointed out that the neighboring State released only 78.76 TMC feet water in 2023-24 when it should have given 177 TMC feet. Referring to the Shenbagavalli dam renovation plans and the implementation of the Aanaimalai Nalluru scheme, Annamalai said the DMK government had done nothing about it, besides allowing encroachments of lakes and ponds.
CHENNAI : The opening partnership between Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana has come a long way since 2019, the year Verma made her international debut at the age of 15. They recently became only the second opening pair to cross 2000 runs in international cricket, behind Australia's Alyssa Healy and Beth Mooney. The duo has seen each other's growth as batters and has contributed to many of India's wins over the years. However, there is still scope for India to maximise the potential of this duo. A glance at the career strike rates of these two inside the powerplay and outside of it makes a very interesting read. Verma is known to be aggressive from the get-go and that is reflected in her powerplay strike rate of 135.2. Mandhana, on the other hand, because she is mostly letting Verma make most of the powerplay, has a strike rate of 117.2 (since Verma's debut in 2019). That number might look less compared with Verma's strike rate, but it is still amongst the top four players with a minimum of 50 matches since 2019. The other two players ahead of Mandhana are Healy and Danni Wyatt of England. The roles get reversed after the end of the powerplay overs. The more Mandhana bats, the better her strike rate gets. Her strike rate from 7-11 overs remains the same, but whenever she has batted between 12-16 overs, she has scored with a strike rate of 148.3. The more Mandhana stays at the crease, the more she makes of her opportunities. For Verma, though, the more she bats outside of the powerplay, her strike rate starts to decline. From 135.2 in the first six overs, it goes down to 124.4 if she lasts till the 11th over. It becomes increasingly harder for her to bat after the 12th over as her strike rate dips to 114.4. Again, just like Mandhana in the powerplay, these are not bad numbers at all, but strategic planning could make a difference between scoring 150, which has been the consistent batting first score of the side, to consistently going towards 170+ scores. If India allows Verma to make most of the powerplay fielding restrictions, with her usual flair without thinking too much about what she can do after the powerplay and lets Mandhana hold the fort without eating too many balls at the other end, India can set a foundation on which the middle order can thrive. With that clarity of roles for the openers, the middle-order, and a quality finisher like Richa Ghosh, India can then look to post a total that's outside of the opposition's reach. For this to work, the middle order has to come to the party as early as possible. However, for now, the support staff has the chance to assign that role clarity starting from the openers so the dependency on the pair could gradually go down.
Tiruninravur lake to be made a drinking water source for Avadi, Chennai
IPL 2024: Bumrah sparks in fading Mumbai as KKR win at Wankhede after 12 years
CHENNAI: On Thursday, both T Natarajan and Sandeep Sharma, the two best Indian pacers not named Jasprit Bumrah in this year's edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), showcased their wares to perfection. On Friday, it was Bumrah's turn to show exactly why he's the undisputed figurehead. Coming into the game against the Kolkata Knight Riders, it was safe to suggest that the Mumbai Indians weren't themselves. Speculation had been rife that a leadership change had led to a divided house. Batters punching below their weight, spinners being ineffective and overseas bowlers not pulling their weight... You get the drift; it has not been a good campaign. But that principle doesn't apply to Bumrah, whose artistry shined once again. Under a floodlit Wankhede, he was divine. It was rather poetic that he started his innings the way he finished yorker targeting the stumps. When you watch a yorker in real-time, it can look deceptively simple. In reality, it's an extremely hard skill to master because of the margins at play. In his column for the International Cricket Council's (ICC) website in 2017, Shane Bond had written: One of the things I keep getting asked is whether bowling the yorker is becoming a dying art. I don't think so it is just that the yorker is being used differently, and bowlers are also experimenting with a range of slower balls. The yorker is not just one of the most difficult balls to bowl, the margin for error is also extremely small. Therefore, it becomes vital to use that weapon judiciously, the Kiwi speedster wrote. The margin is about 30 centimetres from approximately 22 yards out during your delivery stride after running in. Misalign it by a few centimetres on either side of that 30-cm mark and you will travel. Not if you are Bumrah, though. The control he has on the yorker is unusual for it's almost always on the money. The few times he fails to hit the mark, it's usually a low full toss, another difficult ball to get away. Over the last few matches Sunil Narine has played, bowlers have tried to home in full onto his pads. Some have overpitched it, others have conceded wides. Not the 30-year-old. His first ball to Narine is full and straight and the opener just about got an inside edge. He followed it up with another yorker that the West Indian squeezed away for a single. His next two balls to the southpaw were different; one was going away with the angle and the other was a bouncer, which pinged his helmet. There's a set pattern to how Bumrah has been used this year. One over in the powerplay, one in the middle phase and two at the death. If ever Pandya had to break that pattern, it was now. Kolkata, on a fresh but two-faced strip, had lost half their side for 57 just after the powerplay. The visitors used 'break glass in case of emergency' option Manish Pandey as an Impact Sub to steady a boat in danger of being shipwrecked. He last played in this format last year. Alas, Pandya stuck to the template and allowed Pandey and Venkatesh Iyer to stitch an 83-run stand. When he brought back Bumrah in the 14th over, they had already grown in confidence as Pandey ramped him for a six over third man. His third spell, though, splattered the stumps a few times, as both Mitchell Starc and Venkatesh had lost their stumps to deliveries out of a video game (magical, basically). He also snaffled Ramandeep Singh to return with figures of 3/18 in 3.5 overs. The problem, though, came from other sources. He has taken 17/274 across 11 games while averaging 16.11 at an economy of 6.25. The others have not been fit for purpose: Pandya (8/297 at 37; 11), Gerald Coetzee (13/341 at 26.2; 10.17), Nuwan Thushara (4/156 at 39; 10.40), and Piyush Chawla (5/222 at 44.4; 9.25). The other bowlers have frequently neutralised Bumrah's brilliance. It happened against Kolkata too. The others combined to concede 150 in 15 overs. Brief scores: Kolkata 169 all out in 19.5 overs (Venkatesh 70, Manish 42; Bumrah 3/18, Thushara 3/42, Hardik 2/44) beat Mumbai Indians 145 all out in 18.5 overs (Suryakumar Yadav 56; Mitchell Starc 4/33).
Webinar on autism and neurodiversity to be held on May 5
Janhvi offers guests to stay at Sridevi's home for free
The late Bollywood icon Sridevi, who is known for her timeless performances on screen, had a dream to transform her Chennai seaside home into a luxurious hotel. Now, Airbnb is making this dream a reality through their new 'Icons' category, with Sridevi's daughter Janhvi Kapoor offering guests the opportunity to stay at the iconic property.
IPL-17: Deepak Chahar to miss Chennai Super Kings next match
The 31-year-old, who walked off in pain in the third ball of the Kings chase, stayed back in the city and underwent a scan on Thursday.
Firstsource to acquire Chennai-based QBSS for $328 cr
This acquisition will help Firstsource expand its revenue cycle management capabilities targeting the US healthcare industry
Chennai: The hustle and bustle at the Chennai airports domestic terminal has increased of late as more and more people are taking flight from the city in view of the broiling heat with various airlines operating a plethora of special summer services to different destinations like Thoothukudi, Madurai, Coimbatore, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata. Those leaving for destinations within the State like Madurai and Coimbatore are mostly headed to salubrious hill stations like Kodiakanal and Ooty and the others, too, are travelling with families with different places to take a break from the sultry weather that is becoming unbearable day after day. According to airport sources about 40 special flights are being operated from Chennai over and above the regular services, leading to the heavy rush since morning hours at the airport. Apart from the heat, many politicians are also leaving the city with families in the aftermath of the Lok Sabha elections, sources said. Also many families are visiting the hometowns across the State in view of the summer vacation for schools and colleges, adding to the crowds at the airport and prompting the airlines to cash in on the increased demand for tickets. Hitherto, only three onward and three return flights were operated to Thoothukudi, the airport that caters to the people in the southern districts of Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli and Kanyakumari. But now four plus four flights are being operated. Similarly the demand for seats in the flights to Trichy, the city in the central part of the State that connects many towns and villages in several districts, has gone up and six flights are taking off from Chennai every day as against the four before the onset of the summer. To Coimbatore, too, the number of daily flights have been increased from 6 to 8 and for Madurai it is 7 now as against the earlier 5 and many of those passengers are leaving for destinations in the hill stations near them. Similarly, many people are also taking holidays in Bengaluru and Hyderabad in the States of Karnataka and Telangana, impelling the flight operators to raise the number of services. So Bengaluru now has 11 flights as against the earlier 8 and Hyderabad has presently 14 services one way while it used to be 10 plus 10 otherwise. Even people travelling to faraway destinations in the country and abroad has increased phenomenally with a thrice a week direct flights being introduced for Durgapur from mid-May. Similarly, even international airlines like Air France have increased their weekly flights between Paris and Chennai from 3 to 5. Indigo Airlines has also announced the introduction of a direct flight from Chennai to Bangkok, a favorite destination for tourists from all over the world, from May 15 and Air Mauritius has reintroduced its direct flight from Mauritius to Chennai after a gap of four years. Since flights to Singapore, Malaysia, London and other international tourist spots have also increased from Chennai that saw an introduction of about 40 additional or new flights, this May will see an additional 400 flights taking off from Chennai, airport sources said. The increase in number of flights had come as a boon for travelers as they were able to get seats to their favoured destinations and also did not have to cough up huge amounts as premium charges.
Patanjali, Chennai-based institution to jointly conduct clinical trials of Ayurvedic medicines
Patanjali Research Foundation and Chennai-based SRM Centre for Clinical Trials and Research will now jointly conduct clinical trials on Ayurvedic medicines. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the two institutions to this effect here on Friday.
Take steps to resolve water crisis: Annamalai
Patanjali And Chennai's SRM To Collaborate On Ayurvedic Medicine Trials
Patanjali Yogpeeth general secretary Acharya Balkrishna said the MoU will prove to be a milestone in the history of Ayurveda.
Social media rejoices the recent inquiry made by a news reporter during actress Jyotika visit to Chennai for her films promotion. Reporters asked her why she hadnt voted, and her The post You Can Be Outstation Or For Work Or Sick, We Can Vote Online Also: Alleged Actress Jyothika Gives Reasons For Not Voting appeared first on The Commune .
Press freedom is in tatters under BJP: Stalin
Chennai: Governor R N Ravi, Chief Minister M K Stalin and Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly Edappadi K Palaniswami were among those who conveyed their greetings on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day on Friday with Stalin flagging the low ranking for India in the Press Freedom Index under BJP rule. On #WorldPressFreedomDay, let's confront the harsh reality: under BJP rule, India's press freedom is in tatters, Stalin said in his message on X, referring to the murders of journalists like Gauri Lankesh and Kalburgi, along with constant intimidation of journalists like Siddique Kappan, Rana Ayyub, and many others who dare to speak truth to power. The BJP rule painted a sorry picture for press freedom, he said, adding: As we celebrate the role of the press in democracy, let's reaffirm our commitment to upholding the values of free speech and ensuring journalists can work without fear or oppressive censorship. The Governors message on X said, Lets unite to combat the increasing menace of fake news and misinformation, ensuring a more resilient and informed society. Extending his warmest greetings to the media fraternity, Ravi said press freedom was vital for successful democracy, the bedrock of which was an informed citizenry and transparent governance. Our press upholds high standards of professionalism, playing crucial roles in strengthening our democracy and contributing to the well-being of our people and development of our nation, he said. Palaniswami, in his message, said press freedom should ensure that media persons expressed their basic rights. He hailed journalists as those who formed the fourth pillar of democracy and as those who revealed the truth. Stalin, in another statement released to the media, said World Press Day was being observed since 1993 to raise awareness on the importance of Freedom of Press, enshrined under Article 19 of the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The UN announced March 3 as World Press Day to mark the anniversary of the Windhoek Declaration, a statement of free press principles put together by African newspaper journalists at Windhoek in Namibia in 1991, he said, adding that in Tamil Nadu press freedom was well protected. Listing out the several measures taken by the DMK government for the welfare of media persons ever since it took office in 2021, starting with the government recognizing journalists as frontline workers and extending financial assistance. The setting up of a journalists welfare board with 3,223 members, the institution of the annual award for journalists in the name of M Karunanidhi with a prize money of Rs 5 lakh were among the many things that he mentioned.
Grand Trunk Express train wont reach Chennai Central for three more months
Katpadi - Jolarpet train cancelled
Taj Coromandel Chennai Invites Guests to Celebrate Its 50 Year Legacy of Excellence Travel And Tour World
Silver dividend can increase Indias GDP by 1.5 pc: ADB
Chennai : Indias GDP can increase by 1.5 per cent if the growth potential generated by untapped work capacity in older people or silver dividend is utilized, finds the Asian Development Bank. Currently, India's 97 per cent of older workers areengaged in informal work. Silver dividend or the growth potential generated by untapped work capacity in older people can increase the GDP of Asian countries by 1.4 per cent. In emerging economies with aging populations, the effect may also be sizable. It may raise GDP in India by 1.5 per cent, Viet Nam by 1.1 per cent, and Thailand by 0.9 per cent, found a study by ADB. Skills development and lifelong learning can make older workers more attractive to employers. By providing training programmes tailored to older adults, several economies in Asia enable them to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the rapidly evolving job market. They should have the opportunity to work in jobs that are less physically demanding and do not jeopardize their health. It also requires that jobs offer schedule flexibility, possibly allowing them to transition toward retirement. However, an overwhelming majority of older workers in Asia work in the informal sector. In economies with available data, an average 94 per cent of people aged 65 and above are informally employed, often in precarious circumstances. Work informality among older workers is particularly high in South Asia: 92 per cent in Sri Lanka, 97 per cent in India, and 99 per cent in Bangladesh. The share of informal workers in the older category, especially women, is substantially higher than the average for all ages. Women who work informally are overrepresented in manufacturing as family workers and domestic helpers. Further, older workers typically work in agriculture, which generally offers poor-quality jobs that can cause job strain. end
Fear of defeat has gripped PM Modi: TNCC
Indian Women Team To Host South Africa For All Format Series; Bengaluru And Chennai Set To Be Venues Times Now
TN: Pregnant woman falls from moving train, dies
Cuddalore: A pregnant woman accidentally fell from a moving train between Ulundurpet and Vriddhachalam in Tamil Nadu and died, police here said on Friday. The woman was identified as Kasthuri (22) from Tirusulam, Chennai who was travelling in the Kollam Express with her husband Suresh Kumar and other relatives for her baby shower function in Tenkasi district. The woman, who was seven months pregnant, had complained of nausea and rushed to the washroom. However, she slipped and fell from the train on Thursday night, a senior police official said. Her relatives pulled the chain immediately after she fell off the train in a bid to save her. But they couldn't locate her body. They preferred a complaint with the police immediately after reaching Vriddhachalam railway station. The police located her body about a kilometre away from Ulundurpet, he said.
India set to host South Africa women for Test, ODIs, and T20Is in June-July
India set to host South Africa women for Test, ODIs, and T20Is in June-July India will play host to South Africa women's team for one Test, three ODIs and three T20Is across June and July. The one-dayers and T20Is will be played in Bengaluru, a Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) official informed, while the Test match will be played at Chennai. The ODIs will be held at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium from June 16, while the one-off Test will start at the MA Chidambaram Stadium from June 28. The teams will then return to Bengaluru for the T20Is on July 5, 7 and 9 and they will precede the women's T20 World Cup to be played in Bangladesh in September-October. The white-ball format matches were originally a part of the ICC Future Tours Programme (FTP) in late 2023, but they had to be pushed ahead because of the 50-over ICC Men's World Cup held in India last year between October and November. However, the Test match is an addition to the fixture and a part of the initiative by BCCI and Cricket South Africa (CSA) to give more impetus to women's cricket in the traditional format. It may be recalled that India had played a Test each against England and Australia at Mumbai in December last year. India had beaten England by a massive 347 runs, the largest in women's Test cricket, and Australia by eight wickets in those matches.
Tragic Accident: Pregnant Woman Loses Life After Falling from Train
Tragic Accident: Pregnant Woman Loses Life After Falling from Train A pregnant woman accidentally fell from a moving train between Ulundurpet and Vriddhachalam and died, police here said on Friday. The woman was identified as Kasthuri (22) from Tirusulam, Chennai who was travelling in the Kollam Express with her husband Suresh Kumar and other relatives for her baby shower function in Tenkasi district. ''The woman, who was seven months pregnant, had complained of nausea and rushed to the washroom. However, she slipped and fell from the train on Thursday night,'' a senior police official said. Her relatives pulled the chain immediately after she fell off the train in a bid to save her. But they couldn't locate her body. They preferred a complaint with the police immediately after reaching Vriddhachalam railway station. The police located her body about a kilometre away from Ulundurpet, he said. A case has been registered.
India to host South Africa women for a Test, three ODIs, T20Is in June-July
India to host South Africa women's team for Test, ODIs, T20Is in Bengaluru, Chennai. Matches rescheduled due to ICC Men's World Cup. T20Is precede T20 World Cup in Bangladesh.
Top House Construction Company In Bangalore And Chennai: House Construct
In the realm of construction, where innovation meets craftsmanship, one name towers above the rest: House Construct. With a rich legacy spanning 26 years, this esteemed construction company has left an enduring mark on the skylines of Bangalore and Chennai.
MS Dhoni gives signed jersey to CSK's star pacer
In a heartwarming gesture, MS Dhoni presented his signed jersey to Chennai Super Kings pacer Mustafizur Rahman. Mustafizur shared his excitement on social media by posting a photo with the legendary cricketer and including a touching message. Chennai Super Kings are currently placed fifth in the points tally, with a balanced performance in the tournament so far.
India is a rich country culturally and geographically. The culture and civilization here make it an ideal country but the geographical position of India makes it richer than other countries. India is a geographically rich country. It has huge ancient hills and mountains and there is also a desert there. There are lush green forests and animals here and there is the beauty of rivers and lakes. But along with this, India is also a peninsula which is surrounded by huge, beautiful seas on all three sides. Adding to the beauty of India, these beaches have the power to fascinate anyone. Witness the beauty and vastness of India, these beaches provide a unique view with the waves crashing on the golden shining sand in front of the blue sea. The amazing view of the rising and setting sun from the beaches is seen only in India. The beaches of India are also the pride of India where lakhs of tourists come every year and get lost in the beauty of these beaches. These beaches of India present a dignified presentation of India. Top beaches of India India has a stunning coastline stretching over 7,000 km from south to west, bounded by the Bay of Bengal, the Indian Ocean, and the Arabian Sea in the east. This amazing coastline boasts some spectacular natural beauty. These beaches give you a wonderful trip to explore the exhilarating sea world with its unique and beautiful flowers and creatures. Among the beaches in India, there are some that you must visit at least once in your life. Golden sand, crashing waves, lush green trees, and vast sea are waiting for you, so let us know about these beautiful beaches of India- Arambol Beach There are many beautiful and spectacular beaches in Goa and thousands of domestic and foreign tourists visit these beaches every day, but if you want to explore the offbeat beach in August, then you should reach Arambol Beach. Present in North Goa, it attracts a lot of tourists. Many programs also take place from time to time on the banks of this beautiful beach. Many people also come here to enjoy water sports. Nightlife here is also very colorful. Gokarna Every day thousands of domestic and foreign tourists come to visit South India. In such a situation, if you want to explore the South Indian offbeat coastline in August, then you should reach Gokarna. Gokarna of Karnataka is considered a famous destination for its beautiful and beautiful beaches. In Gokarna, you can explore Om Beach, Kudle Beach, Gokarna Beach, and Paradise Beach. You can also visit here with family, friends, and partners. Bangaram Beach Lakshadweep is a very beautiful and beautiful tourist center of the country. Lakshadweep is also considered very popular all over the world for its beautiful beaches. In such a situation, if you want to explore any offbeat beach of Lakshadweep, then you should reach Bangaram Beach. There is a crowd of tourists on the banks of Bangaram Beach during the day and it remains lively till night. It is said that as the evening approaches, the seawater appears blue. Here you can also enjoy water activities. Apart from Lakshadweep Bangaram Beach, you can also explore Agatti Island. Kovalam Beach Kovalam beach, located in Kerala, 40 kilometers away from Chennai, on the way to Mahabalipuram, is a village known as Kovelong. Kovalam Beach, running along the Malabar Coast, has a long stretch of white sandy beaches and is one of the most popular sea beaches in Kerala. Kovalam, located at a distance of 16 km from Thiruvananthapuram, actually has 3 beaches separated by a rocky landscape. Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and beaches make Kovalam the center of the sea coast. Ayurvedic massage centers, wooden raft rides, and shopping shops have also been built on this beach. The calm water here is considered ideal for swimming. The best time to visit here is considered to be from September to March. Varkala Located off the coast of Alleppey and Kovalam, Varkala is one of the premier beaches in India. An ideal spot for photography, the curved stretch of rock and the beauty of the sun will take your breath away. It is at a distance of 50 kilometers from Thiruvananthapuram and 37 kilometers from Kollam. Varkala is fast becoming a popular wellness center with its many Ayurvedic massage and therapy centers. With its help, you can also remove your fatigue of many days. Palolem beach If you are looking for dolphins, then the Palolem Beach of Goa is one of the best places in India where your dolphin-watching wish can be fulfilled. This beach is located in South Goa. It is 76 kilometers away from the capital Panaji. There are coconut trees on the banks of this beach which attract tourists from all over the world. Palolem Beach is located at a distance of 37 kilometers from Marama Goa. It is called a beach like heaven and it is about 1 mile long. At this place, white sand is spread in the shape of half half-moon. This most beautiful and picturesque beach of Goa, Palolem Beach is covered with a thick forest of coconut palms. Baga Beach Baga Beach is the most popular and usually crowded beach. Baga Beach is located in North Goa. It is 16 kilometers away from Panaji, the capital of Goa. People enjoy all kinds of water sports here parasailing and windsurfing, scuba diving, etc. Baga Beach attracts tourists with its brown sand and palm trees that come very close to the water's edge. Along with this, it is also a place for many people to enjoy the sun rays lying on the sand bed under the sun, this beach is considered to be an ideal beach for fishing, lying in the sun, and paddle boating. Not only this, Baga Beach is known for parties, nightlife, and seafood. It has good restaurants and hotels near it. This beach attracts tourists with its brown sand and palm trees. Alleppey Beach The shining sand and clear waters of Alleppey Beach make it one of the most prominent places to visit in Kerala. Alleppey Beach is very popular among nature lovers and tourists. The beautiful view of sunrise and sunset from here makes your journey memorable. You can spend memorable moments with your family and friends along the banks of Alleppey Beach. Many special places around Alleppey Beach make your travel experience even more pleasant. Marari Beach Marari Beach is counted among the most prominent beaches of Kerala. If you are fond of spending time amidst nature then Marari Beach is the ideal tourist destination for you. There is also a small village in between which attracts a lot of tourists coming here. Here you can understand the art, culture, and lifestyle of South India very well. The experience of watching sunrise and sunset from Marari Beach is very pleasant. Marari Beach Travelers and Nature Lovers. Here by the beach you can spend a memorable time with your family and friends. (PC: Lifeberrys)
Live Chennai: Remembering Uma Ramanan: A Tribute to Tamil Playback Singer Extraordinaire,Renowned Indian ... livechennai.com
Ilaiyaraaja's journey from a concert, denying favoritism. Uma records 'Manjal veyil'. Collaborations with Ramanan, Deepan Chakravarthy shine. Duets with Yesudas, Unni Menon praised. Uma's legacy lives on through her exceptional voice.
Watch: Dhoni signs jersey, writes message for 103-year-old CSK fan
The 103-year-old CSK superfan S Ramdas received an autographed jersey from MS Dhoni and the moment was captured in a video that the Chennai franchise shared on social media. Ramdas, a former British Military servant, gained recognition after a video that showed him expressing his love for cricket and enjoying watching T20 matches.
India to host South Africa for a multi-format women's tour in June-July
South Africa will play three ODIs, one Test and three T20Is in Bengaluru and Chennai
IIT-Delhi alumnus fulfills mothers pledge to donate body
Brought home my Virtus 1.5L GT DSG: Impressions post 2,000 km
BHPian adith97 recently shared this with other enthusiasts. Choice of car I was looking to buy my first new car as my old car, which was my father's Duster, had become too old. I wanted to buy a sedan because growing up, we had City & Verna in our family which I absolutely loved driving. Comfort & performance wise, I feel sedans are the best. Plus I just got married & it is a small family, just me & my wife. This is the best time to have a sedan. I can always upgrade to an SUV once my family grows.Unfortunately today there aren't many options in the C segment. We only have Virtus, Slavia, Verna and City. I shortlisted Verna & Virtus after the first round of test driving. I am 6ft 3in height & I was worried sedans won't fit me. But except City, both Virtus & Verna were quite comfortable. I had to keep the seat at its lowest position. Verna feels a lot more spacious inside & has a ton of features like ADAS, lane keep assist, collision warning etc etc, which honestly I don't care for. Virtus, on the other hand, is a lot less spacious. Two people can sit comfortably in the second row, not more than that. Three for short distances only. I selected the 1.5L turbo petrol engine in both the cars. I did two more test drives on both the cars. I requested for a long test drive the third time on a highway & that sealed my decision. Virtus on highways is an absolute beast! Once you hit that sport mode, the car just pulls you like anything. Pair that with the DSG gearbox with almost instantaneous shifts, it makes you want to reach illegal speeds. The car asks you to press more. The handling, cornering, brakes are top class. Verna is almost equally good but Virtus was a level above. My only concern was the DSG DQ200 gearbox which has had a lot of issues in the past but it seems they have refined it to make it more reliable. My driving use was 60% highways, mostly trips to Chennai from Bangalore & 40% city, office commute 2-3 days a week. So it made sense to go for 1.5L TSI engine & DSG automatic because I was fed up of driving a manual in Bangalore traffic. Variant Virtus has two lines- one for the 1L TSI engine called Comfort line & one for the 1.5L TSI engine called Dynamic Line. Within these two lines, they have variants. In Dynamic Line, there are primarily two variants - GT & GT Plus. The only important difference is that GT comes with 2 airbags while GT Plus has 6 airbags. Apart from that, GT Plus also has sunroof (I don't like them), ventilated seats, electric adjustable seats, rain sensing vipers, automatic headlamps, cruise control etc. Virtus has 5 star safety rating with 2 airbags itself. So I went ahead with GT variant itself as I don't care for any of the other features. Dealership Experience I bought the car at KUN Volkswagen dealer, JP Nagar. The experience was decent. They were not very proactive in following up. I always had to call them up & follow up for everything.I bargained a lot with them to get discounts. I told them that I would take insurance outside, after which they reduced it significantly all the way from around 80k to 40k. This included bumper to bumper zero depreciation, Engine protect, Cost of consumables, Return to invoice, NCB etc.I also sold my Duster to KUN motors, for which I bargained too & got a 20K exchange bonus. I thought the price was a little low compared to if I had sold outside in Cars24 or Spinny. But the process was smooth & hassle free, the amount directly went as downpayment. So I just did it.I also got extended warranty & standard accessories free as well.Another thing I checked was the road tax between KA & TN. I thought if it was significantly less, I would get it registered in TN. But turns out, it is pretty close to KA & the difference was a mere 10K. It wasn't worth it, so I did it in KA itself.The car was in stock already & was handed over to me in two weeks. I had told them that I would buy only if the car was in stock & that I would go to another dealer if I had to wait. I didn't like waiting for the car.I requested for a PDI before the car was sent to registration, which they allowed. The sales person rushed me during the PDI as he had other work but I took my sweet little time to do it.The delivery was done smoothly with no issues, with a cake & the car reveal.Driving/Ownership Experience - 2000kms It has been one month since the delivery & I have driven almost 2000Kms. ProsVehicle performance is amazing. It is a joy to push this 1.5L beast of an engine. As mentioned above, it clocks high speeds without breaking a sweat. Handling, cornering is amazing. I keep wanting to take it out for a drive.Gear shifts are instantaneous with DSG gearbox.Amazing brakes. Gives you confidence to go at high speeds.Silent cabin.Good steering control.Amazing ground clearance for a sedan. Never had to worry about the bottom hitting the road.5 star safety rating. You can feel the build quality with the door thud.Decent mileage. Better than expected really. As an experiment, I drove light footed & maintained 100Km/hr through one long drive. I got 17kms/l. Generally I get around 10 in highways, which is mainly due to the speeds I go at.Huge boot space is very practical.Looks gorgeous. I think this is the best looking car in this segmentAC is very effective. Looks like they have fixed the AC issues now. It is effective even in Chennai.Fabric seats are really comfortable.Red themed interior looks classy. Ambient red lighting looks cool as well. Lot of space is nice.Warning sound after 120 is not that intrusive. With music, you won't even hear it.Infotainment system with Android auto is good & useful.Volkswagen app is nice. Tells the location of the car as well as if the engine is switched on or off. Has a theft informing system too.Music system is good.Vehicle has built a reputation as an enthusiast car. Whenever I tell anyone that I have bought Virtus, they are always surprised & say what a good car it is.ConsDSG gearbox in bumper to bumper traffic is a pain. There is the known DSG lag at low speeds plus it gets real confused between 1st & 2nd gear. It is also known to heat up a lot in such traffic. I think people who primarily drive inside cities should think a lot before getting DSG.Transitioning to automatic has been frustrating at times. This is a personal issue. After being a manual driver for the past 10 years, with the DSG issues mentioned above, I feel like I have no control over the car. It is just driving itself. I guess, with time, I will get used to it.Automatic start stop system is absolute rubbish. I always switch if off as soon as I start. It is tuned so aggressively that the engine switches off even for speed breakers.I feel the suspension is a little stiff. Not sure if it is just me.There is a small noise that comes from the brake pedal when I disengage it. I asked the service person at VW & they said that it is expected. But I am pretty sure it wasn't there initially.My wife calls this car he kidnap car. It is because the lock/unlock functionality for all the doors is with the driver. The passengers can't unlock their doors themselves.Boot door doesn't stay put. You have to open it all the way up for it stay put. Have gotten hit a couple of times already.Occasionally android auto gets disconnected. But this has been very very rare.Overall, I am very satisfied with the car so far & I can't wait to keep driving it. Read BHPian comments for more insights and information.
Methamphetamine Drug Network In Chennai Busted, Two Arrested
The Chennai North Zone police have cracked down on a methamphetamine distribution network operating in Old Vannarpettai, following a tip-off. Methamphetamine, an expensive and highly addictive drug. Acting on the The post Methamphetamine Drug Network In Chennai Busted, Two Arrested appeared first on The Commune .
Indian students display affection for RCB on Graduation day in USA
Despite winning a single trophy, the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has won millions of hearts with their efforts in the tournament. RCB has a fan base of 13.8 million on Instagram and is the second most followed handle of any IPL team only next to the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Fans across the globe, often express their love for the franchise and its star player, Virat Kohli, in unique ways.One such recent instance took the internet by a storm. A Fan-girl and a fan-boy had demonstrated their affection for the team during their graduation ceremony in the USA.The students while receiving their transcripts showed their support by displaying the flag and jersey of RCB. RCB is not just a Team, RCB is an Emotion for every fan! pic.twitter.com/nwshpEZkgS Virat Kohli Fan Club (@Trend_VKohli) May 1, 2024 A Virat Kohli fan page on X posted the video of the act, quickly catching the attention of netizens. Commenting on the post the fangirl KohLikitha wrote, That's me, fellas Thank you for posting this! The Royal Challengers Bengaluru is at the last spot in the points table, winning only 3 of the 10 games played in the ongoing IPL.
2.40 Crore Unaccounted Cash Seized In East Godavari
Police seized unaccounted cash of `2.40 crore from a private, inter-state bus in Gopalapuram, East Godavari on Thursday. Devarapalli circle inspector (CI) P. Bala Suresh said the cash was found in two bags with a bus passenger, Ayyala China Chennaiah, a resident of Kurnool. Chennaiah said that some unidentified person gave him the money to give it to another man in Rajamahendravaram. The bus was going from Hyderabad to Visakhapatnam. CI Bala Suresh said the money was found during a routine check at the interstate check post near Gopalapuram. The cash was handed over to treasury department officials.
Survey Finds Majority of Indians Are New to Podcasts
Survey Finds Majority of Indians Are New to Podcasts India has emerged as the third-largest market for podcast listeners globally even as around 78 per cent of people surveyed got to know about this media recently, a report said on Thursday. According to the report, around 82 per cent of respondents were initially unaware of podcasts, highlighting a significant opportunity for awareness-building efforts. ''78 per cent of consumers discovered podcasts less than a year ago, indicating a recent surge in interest,'' the report, The Podcast Pulse: Unveiling Indias Podcast Landscape, stated. India has surged to become the third-largest market for podcast listeners globally, yet only 12 per cent of Indians are currently engaged, leaving a vast untapped audience waiting to be explored, the report prepared by UNPAC Research (OPC) in support of Ideabrew Studios said. Authenticity and vulnerability in podcast conversations are highly valued by listeners, fostering a deeper connection with hosts and content, it said. The report is based on responses from 2,170 individuals across 10 cities in India, including Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Indore, Patna, and Jaipur, the report gauged awareness and listenership statistics. Additionally, detailed interviews with 1,800 active listeners provided invaluable insights into their behaviour and preferences. Sheetal Choksi, Director, UNPAC Research said that the Podcast Pulse is a comprehensive report on podcast consumption in India. Regional podcasts are identified as a driving force in shaping the industry's future, offering audiences a more relatable and culturally resonant listening experience, he added. The Unpac Research (OPC) Pvt. Ltd. is a full service qualitative research agency. Ideabrew Studios is a podcast production and full-service content solutions company.
Hardik Stands 'head And Shoulders Above' Anyone As Fast-bowling All-rounder In T20 WC: Tom Moody
Nassau County International Cricket Stadium: Tom Moody, the former Australia mens all-rounder, believes Hardik Pandya currently stands head and shoulders above other contenders for the fast-bowling all-rounder slot in the Indian team going to participate in the Mens T20 World Cup next month. Pandya's inclusion, as the deputy to skipper Rohit Sharma in the 15-member India squad came as a surprise to many, considering he has been unable to leave a huge impact with bat and ball while captaining Mumbai Indians in IPL 2024. But with many players in India not having the skillsets he has; Pandya is now on the verge of playing his fourth T20 World Cup for India when they open their campaign against Ireland at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York on June 5. Name me three other people who can do what Hardik Pandya is doing. That's the bottom line. That skill of being a genuine all-rounder who can bat in your top six and potentially bowl four overs for you is very rare in India at the moment. Yes, there are a few others that play domestic cricket and are okay, but not in international cricket, which is a different standard. So I think he stands head and shoulders above anyone who is competing for that particular role. I think Ajit Agarkar has recognised that that is the case and we have to give him a longer rope with regards to his recovery, with regards to his form, and everything else, because he is a very precious commodity in this country, said Moody to Star Sports. S Sreesanth, the former India fast-bowler and a member of the 2007 T20 World Cup winning side, also backed Pandya to come good in the mega event. We have seen what he can do on the field minus this year's IPL. The way he's been batting and the way he's been bowling, for the country, he even led the country in one series and we won. It was asked to Rohit about that and he said sometimes I'm the captain and sometimes I'm not. But that doesn't change the teams aura and atmosphere. So, it's one good thing that Hardik Pandya comes in and bats, especially when he's chasing and Virat is on the other side, I think the combination they create is great. And Hardik can take the new ball or the old ball, especially against Pakistan, but it's not only against Pakistan, we are going to play a lot of different teams, so it's an opportunity for Hardik to forget what he's done in this IPL and maybe, you never know, there are a few matches left and he may just come up. Moody also felt selecting Shivam Dube for the World Cup is a smart move from the Indian team, and wishes for him to bowl more frequently in his training session during his IPL 2024 campaign for the Chennai Super Kings. Dube bowled an over against Punjab Kings and had figures of 1-14. I'd be incredibly surprised if Dubey hasn't been doing his bowling workloads, which is basically, not bowling out in the middle in competition but bowling at practice and bowling in pre-games, getting his number of balls up per week to make sure that his body is conditioned to bowling. Even though he might not have to bowl in match situation, but he's got the bowling, so its not like he hasnt bowled for two months and then suddenly called upon to bowl in a World Cup tournament. So, he'll be up and ready physically for the opportunity. So, to me, Shivam Dubey is a smart pick, he concluded.
Here's What 2024 Lok Sabha Elections Schedule: Seven Phases from April 19 to June 1
The 2024 Lok Sabha elections are set to unfold in seven phases, spanning from April 19 to June 1, with results expected on June 4. The Election Commission has revealed the schedule, highlighting that April 19 will witness the highest number of constituencies, totaling 102, while the fifth phase, on May 20, will see the lowest number at just 49. Here's a breakdown of the election phases across different states: Single Poll Date (22 states): Arunachal Pradesh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Andhra Pradesh, Chandigarh, Delhi, Goa, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Kerala, Lakshadweep, Ladakh, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Puducherry, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, Telangana, Uttarakhand, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, and Daman & Diu. Two-phase Voting (4 states): Karnataka, Rajasthan, Tripura, Manipur Three-phase Voting (2 states): Chhattisgarh, Assam Four-phase Voting (3 states): Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand Five-phase Voting (2 states): Maharashtra, Jammu & Kashmir Seven-phase Voting (3 states): Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal The Lok Sabha Election 2024 schedule is as follows: Phase 1 (April 19): 101 Seats Phase 2 (April 26): 89 Seats Phase 3 (May 7): 94 Seats Phase 4 (May 13): 96 Seats Phase 5 (May 20): 49 Seats Phase 6 (May 25): 57 Seats Phase 7 (June 1): 57 Seats Each phase covers various states and Union Territories, ensuring a comprehensive electoral process across the nation. In the first phase on April 19, a total of 102 seats will be contested across several states and Union Territories: Arunachal Pradesh: Arunachal West, Arunachal East Assam: Sonitpur, Kaziranga, Jorhat, Dibrugarh, Lakhimpur Bihar: Aurangabad, Gaya, Nawada, Jamui Jammu & Kashmir: Udhampur Madhya Pradesh: Sidhi, Shahdol, Jabalpur, Mandla, Balaghat, Chhindwara Maharashtra: Ramtek, Nagpur, Bhandara-Gondiya, Gadchiroli-Chimur, Chandrapur Manipur: Inner Manipur Meghalaya: Shillong, Tura Mizoram: Mizoram Nagaland: Nagaland Rajasthan: Ganganagar, Bikaner, Churu, Jhunjhunu, Sikar, Jaipur Rural, Jaipur, Alwar, Bharatpur, Karauli-Dholpur, Dausa, Nagaur Sikkim: Sikkim Tamil Nadu: Thiruvallur, Chennai North, Chennai South, Chennai Central, Sriperumbudur, Kancheepuram, Arakkonam, Vellore, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, Tiruvannamalai, Arani, Viluppuram, Kallakurichi, Salem, Namakkal, Erode, Tiruppur, Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Pollachi, Dindigul, Karur, Tiruchirappalli, Perambalur, Cuddalore, Chidambaram, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, Thanjavur, Sivaganga, Madurai, Theni, Virudhunagar, Ramanathapuram, Thoothukkudi, Tenkasi, Tirunelveli, Kanniyakumari Tripura: Tripura West Uttar Pradesh: Saharanpur, Kairana, Muzaffarnagar, Bijnor, Nagina, Moradabad, Rampur, Pilibhit West Bengal: Cooch Behar, Alipurduars, Jalpaiguri Chhattisgarh: Bastar Uttarakhand: Tehri Garhwal, Garhwal, Almora, Nainital-Udhamsingh Nagar, Hardwar Andaman & Nicobar: Andaman Nicobar Islands Lakshadweep: Lakshadweep Puducherry: Puducherry These elections aim to engage citizens in the democratic process, allowing them to exercise their right to vote and shape the future of their nation. Congress Announces Candidates for Lok Sabha 2024, Rahul Gandhi to Contest from Rae Bareli Congress KL Sharma to Contest against BJP's Smriti Irani in Amethi Trinamool Congress Accuses Congress Leader of Promoting BJP Agenda
Janab, kaise ho? Pak voice on Indian radio
During the Kargil war, Indian soldiers in Dras faced radio message interruptions from Pakistan. Lt Colonel Sada S Peter recalls the psychological warfare by Captain Karnal Sher Khan. Brigadier M P S Bajwa praised Khan's heroism at Tiger Hill.
NMM urged to release grants for Tamil Universitys manuscript conservation centre
ISL: Chennaiyin FC extend contract of goalkeeper Samik Mitra until 2027
MRF Q4 Results: Profit Rises 16%, Misses Estimates
Consolidated net profit of the Chennai-based tyre-maker rose 16% year-on-year to Rs 396 crore in the quarter-ended March.
PHOTOS: Ram Charan and Dil Raju return to Hyderabad after Game Changers Chennai schedule - PINKVILLA
PHOTOS: Ram Charan and Dil Raju return to Hyderabad after Game Changers Chennai schedule PINKVILLA
Heavy Metal Contamination in Kochi Backwater Fish Threatens Public Health
Heavy Metal Contamination in Kochi Backwater Fish Threatens Public Health Heavy pollution from industries in Greater Kochi is getting into the water, which is then getting into fish and shellfish, making them dangerous to eat because they have harmful metals, according to a new study. The study by the Department of Marine Technology, Cochin University for Science and Technology (CUSAT), and the National Centre for Coastal Research, NIOT Campus, Chennai, revealed heavy metal contamination in various species of fish and shellfish in the Cochin Estuarine System (CES) in backwaters from Aroor in Ernakulam-Alappuzha border to Eloor, the industrial belt of Kochi. The report published in the international science journal Springer said that at least three metals, zinc, cadmium, and chromium, exceeded the toxicity threshold outlined in the sediment quality guidelines, and cadmium and lead exceeded the standards of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India and the Food and Agriculture Organisation. The presence of cadmium in the muscle tissues of fish and shellfish considerably increases the cancer risk in humans. ''The carcinogenic risk index indicates that cadmium may lead consumers to a chronic cancer risk,'' the report said. All the dissolved metals in the backwaters in Kochi showed higher concentrations compared to all other estuaries in the world, the report said. However, the people of Ernakulam and Alappuzha districts, who are major consumers of the catch from the backwater, can breathe easy now as the study revealed that the estimated daily intake is very low compared to the permissible intake limits, and thus the potential health hazard from most of these metals were found to be low. But the study, titled 'Bioaccumulation of heavy metals in seafood resources from the southwest coast of India: human health risk assessment and importance of seafood security', pointed towards possible long-term risks, especially due to the intake of metals like cadmium and lead. It also urges the administration to take immediate steps to prevent contamination of the water resources in the Cochin backwaters. The water resources in Kochi, the commercial and industrial hub of Kerala, face increasing pressure from commercial and industrial activities, with approximately 95 per cent of red-category industries concentrated in Greater Kochi, located within the northern side of the estuary. Furthermore, contaminants from the adjoining Periyar River exacerbate coastal water pollution, posing a threat to fishery resources and other marine life. According to a study by the NGO Greenpeace in 2003, the lower Periyar has been described as a cesspool of toxins with alarming levels of heavy metal pollution. Various studies have underscored the severity of heavy metal pollution in the water and sediment of this area, according to the report. The Cochin Estuarine System stands out as one of the largest estuarine systems, which sustains exceptional biodiversity and functions as a crucial breeding and nursery habitat for diverse fish and shellfish species. It constitutes the northern segment of the Vembanad estuary, designated as a Ramsar site in India, with an annual fish landing of 3906.33 tons. Fishing has been a vital source of livelihood for the residents along the estuary. But, the contamination of the water resources in the area is posing a greater health risk to the people, as the bioaccumulation of heavy metals in fish has almost reached its threshold level. ''The health risk index indicates that consumers are in close proximity to experiencing the synergistic effects of heavy metals, and the most influential heavy metal during risk analysis was cadmium,'' Neethu Xavier, lead author of the paper, told PTI. She said that the study recommended a regular monitoring programme for all the heavy metals across a broader range of fish species within the study region. According to the study, the heavy metal zinc is most consumed, followed by copper, magnesium, nickel, chromium, lead, and cadmium in fish and shellfish. For the analysis, the study sourced all the study materials from the commercial fisheries catch in the area, representing native edible species with high consumer demand in Kerala. The study, which divided the Cochin Estuarine System into three zones, found that the northern zone has the highest metal accumulation compared to the central and southern zones. This aligns with previous findings of elevated metal concentrations in sediment and water on the northern side of the estuary, the study said. The presence of heavy metals in fish tissues was higher during the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon periods. The contamination was reduced during the monsoon season. During the monsoon season, substantial rainfall and an increase in the water flow reduced the metal concentration in backwaters and rivers, the study said. ''The results indicate the need for regular monitoring and risk assessment of heavy metals, especially lead, cadmium, and chromium, in seafood resources across coastal areas to ensure food security,'' Neethu Xavier said. She said the study has not categorically talked about addressing the solution but broadly indicated the need for urgent action to contain the pollution of the water resources in the Cochin Estuarine System and reduce heavy metal contamination of fish and shellfish.
My role is to carry on till 13th-14th over so that Klaasen gets license to bang: Nitish Reddy
HYDERABAD: Entrusted with the task of shepherding Sunrisers Hyderabad's middle-order, young Nitish Reddy has been doing the job with aplomb at a time when he is seen by many as a future India all-rounder, thanks to his ability to bowl lively medium pace. Opting to bat in the IPL game against table-toppers Rajasthan Royals here on Thursday, Reddy (76 not out) and Travis Head (58) produced explosive fifties, while Heinrich Klassen made an unbeaten 19-ball 42 to power SRH to 201 for three. Experienced seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar then did the star turn with a sensational final over as SRH pulled off a heist, stunning RR by just one run in a last-ball thriller to keep their playoff hopes alive. Nitish, 20, stated that his role was to rebuild the innings after quick wickets. From the last two matches, we are losing quick wickets and I have to go. My role is to carry on till the 13th and 14th over so that Klaasen gets a license to bang. There is no point in Klaasen and Samad coming early, but not getting to score freely, said Nitish at the post-match press conference. The all-rounder hailed Bhuvneshwar after the veteran pacer bowled a brilliant final over to help Hyderabad seal a dramatic win. Nitish said he was hopeful that Bhuvneshwar would be able to defend 13 runs in the last over. I was looking at who was going to bowl. When I saw Bhuvneshwar was going to bowl, I got the confidence that he was going to pull it off. During his prime, he had done it so many times. I did not think we were going to win, I thought either we'd lose or tie. But that last-ball wicket, I felt so happy, Nitish said. During his explosive knock, Nitish smashed RR's in-form Yuzvendra Chahal for two fours and two sixes in the 13th over. Nitish said that he backed himself to attack the seasoned leg-spinner. Reddy also said the victory against RR, following losses to Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Chennai Super Kings, is important. Beating RR will boost our confidence, they are at the top of the points table, he concluded. IPL 2024: Sunrisers Hyderabad edge Rajasthan Royals in one-run thriller Not in my best form: Parag Rajasthan Royals batter Riyan Parag returned to the top five in the Orange Cape race after striking his fourth fifty of the season. The 22-year-old Parag slammed 77 off 49 balls but could not help his side chase down the target set by SRH. Despite his breakout season with the franchise, Parag said he was not in his best form since he could not finish the game. I got a lot of areas to improve. I am not in my best form, I would have finished the game otherwise. I got a lot of areas to perfect. I try to learn from my mistakes and not repeat them. Is it my best innings? No. I would say that if I get a hundred, Parag told reporters. The Assam player said the loss was dramatic, adding that his team made a few errors. It is never good to end on the losing side. We did a lot of things right. We will focus on them more rather than dwelling on our mistakes. We are at a good position in the points table. Just one bad game I guess. We made a few errors in two-three overs and it cost us the game. That is how T20 is, IPL is, he said.
'Had his problems...': Ex-India opener on Rohit's big concern
Rohit Sharma's performance in IPL 2024 has been inconsistent, despite a promising start and a century against Chennai Super Kings. In his last three innings, he has struggled to reach double figures, raising concerns about his form ahead of the T20 World Cup. Former India opener Wasim Jaffer has provided an in-depth analysis of Rohit's struggle as a batter.
Nitish Reddy: Aim to Set Base Before Klaasen Unleashes on Opposition
Nitish Reddy: Aim to Set Base Before Klaasen Unleashes on Opposition Entrusted with the task of shepherding Sunrisers Hyderabad's middle-order, young Nitish Reddy has been doing the job with aplomb at a time when he is seen by many as a future India all-rounder, thanks to his ability to bowl lively medium pace. Opting to bat in the IPL game against table-toppers Rajasthan Royals here on Thursday, Reddy (76 not out) and Travis Head (58) produced explosive fifties, while Heinrich Klassen made an unbeaten 19-ball 42 to power SRH to 201 for three. Experienced seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar then did the star turn with a sensational final over as SRH pulled off a heist, stunning RR by just one run in a last-ball thriller to keep their playoff hopes alive. Nitish, 20, stated that his role was to rebuild the innings after quick wickets. ''From the last two matches, we are losing quick wickets and I have to go. My role is to carry on till the 13th and 14th over so that Klaasen gets a license to bang. There is no point in Klaasen and Samad coming early, but not getting to score freely,'' said Nitish at the post-match press conference. The all-rounder hailed Bhuvneshwar after the veteran pacer bowled a brilliant final over to help Hyderabad seal a dramatic win. Nitish said he was hopeful that Bhuvneshwar would be able to defend 13 runs in the last over. ''I was looking at who was going to bowl. When I saw Bhuvneshwar was going to bowl, I got the confidence that he was going to pull it off. ''During his prime, he had done it so many times. I did not think we were going to win, I thought either we'd lose or tie. But that last-ball wicket, I felt so happy,'' Nitish said. During his explosive knock, Nitish smashed RR's in-form Yuzvendra Chahal for two fours and two sixes in the 13th over. Nitish said that he backed himself to attack the seasoned leg-spinner. Reddy also said the victory against RR, following losses to Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Chennai Super Kings, is important. ''Beating RR will boost our confidence, they are at the top of the points table,'' he concluded. Not in my best form: Parag ================= Rajasthan Royals batter Riyan Parag returned to the top five in the Orange Cape race after striking his fourth fifty of the season. The 22-year-old Parag slammed 77 off 49 balls but could not help his side chase down the target set by SRH. Despite his breakout season with the franchise, Parag said he was not in his best form since he could not finish the game. ''I got a lot of areas to improve. I am not in my best form, I would have finished the game otherwise. ''I got a lot of areas to perfect. I try to learn from my mistakes and not repeat them. Is it my best innings? No. I would say that if I get a hundred,'' Parag told reporters. The Assam player said the loss was ''dramatic'', adding that his team made a few errors. ''It is never good to end on the losing side. We did a lot of things right. We will focus on them more rather than dwelling on our mistakes. We are at a good position in the points table. Just one bad game I guess. ''We made a few errors in two-three overs and it cost us the game. That is how T20 is, IPL is,'' he said.
While the countdown for the return of the brown-headed and black-headed gulls to their breeding grounds has begun, here is a late-season display of kleptoparasitism by a brown-headed gull at the Muttukadu-Covelong backwaters. And this event took place on May Day, dedicated to those earning their livelihood by the sweat of their brow
Concerned about pacer Deepaks injury: Fleming
CHENNAI: Even as Punjab Kings beat Chennai Super Kings by seven wickets to get to eight points, the home teams position in the points table hasnt changed. Super Kings are still in the top four (it could change if Sunrisers Hyderabad beat Rajasthan Royals), but they have bigger things to worry about after the loss against Punjab. While dew factor once again played its part as Chennai tried to defend 162 on a humid evening at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, what also dented CSK hopes of a win was Deepak Chahar walking off after just bowling two balls. Plus the absence of Matheesha Pathirana due to a niggle and Tushar Deshpande due to a flu. Although Richard Gleeson had a good debut, CSK bowling has a lot to worry about. Chahar doesnt look good. The initial feeling wasnt good, now were hoping for positive news when the physio and doctor have a look. Sri Lankan boys (Theekshana, Pathirana) are off for their visas, were hoping that their process is smooth and we get them back for the next game up north. Gleeson was good, and was one of the positives. Losing Mustafizur (after the next game) is a blow, there is a lot going on, isnt it? Tushar has got a bit of flu going on, so we missed him on Wednesday. So we had to make some changes, but thats part of it. We have got resources, they just havent got game time to be comfortable with their roles, Fleming said after the loss. One of the talking points of the game was the shuffle in the CSK batting order with Shivam Dube coming in at No 3 and Ravindra Jadeja at No 4. Dube was a big part of that (six-hitting) and losing him today with their spinners was a great wicket for them (Punjab). In terms of a left-arm spinner and a leg-spinner, it was a great matchup for Dube. We have seen him do really well this season but they won that one nicely and that then created pressure on our ability to continue to hit sixes and it was tough. Another thing is that it is a biggish ground, so if there is any kind of assistance, its hard square-wise to get boundaries. And they bowled well, they protected it well. Made it difficult for us, pointed out the former New Zealand captain. We have spoken about the unpredictability of wickets (at Chepauk). Today the first ball bounced and hit Jinks (Rahane) in the helmet. Just trying to get a gauge on how it will play. Unfortunately were batting first a lot, which makes it difficult to gauge what a competitive score is. We got a couple of 200s, so that was on the mind today but it was a bit sticky. What was a good start in the first six overs then became difficult. We tried with the lefties, obviously Dube and then Jadeja was also an aggressive role which didnt work, and Sameer Rizvi as well. We just couldnt get anything through the middle, he added.
Gave Up Canadian Visa For India Dream, Harpreet Brar Is Now An IPL Star
Harpreet Brar has been one of the best bowlers for Punjab Kings in the ongoing IPL 2024 till now against during the match against Chennai Super Kings.
Early starts & options: Rohits gamble
CHENNAI: While India captain Rohit Sharma did not reveal much on what kind of combinations the team would play at the T20 World Cup, he made one thing clear. I definitely wanted four spinners, Sharma said at a press conference in Mumbai on Thursday. It has been one of the key debates since the squad for the global event, set to be played in the United States and West Indies, was announced on Monday. The Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee had named four frontline spinners Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel and Yuzvendra Chahal leaving out Rinku Singh, who was expected to play the finisher role. Sharma, while addressing the topic, said that he doesnt want to elaborate as other teams would be watching. The reason for four spinners is this, which Im not going to say in public. But I wanted four spinners for sure. With two of the spinners being allrounders who can bat, Axar and Jadeja, and two attacking spinners Kuldeep and Chahal it gives you the balance in the spin department. Based on the team composition of the opposition, we can decide what we want to play with. Weve played a lot of cricket there (Caribbean). We know what the conditions are like. With morning starts at 10-10.30 AM, theres a little bit of technical aspect involved in this, he said. Without trying to read too much, it seems like the predominant focus is on the latter stages of the tournament in West Indies despite India playing their entire league stage in the USA. India will travel to the Caribbean only for the Super8 games and knockouts. With things not clear how the conditions would be for day matches that begin at 10.30AM local time (8PM IST), Sharma wanted all the options available when it came to the spin department. After all, when India toured West Indies in 2023, they played three spinners in all five games. This is why someone like Rinku had to miss out. It (not picking Rinku) is probably the toughest thing we have had to discuss. He has done nothing wrong, not even Shubman Gill for that matter. It is not his fault that he missed out. Its about combinations, Agarkar explained. A couple of wrist spinners were included to give Rohit (Sharma) more options. There are two keepers, we needed an extra bowler. Its just unfortunate. Hes in the reserves, so that tells you how close he came into being in the 15. But at the end of the day, you can only pick 15 players in the squad, he added. If India do pick three spinners, whether they will be able to accommodate Shivam Dube whom they have picked for middle-overs hitting in the XI is another question. In the middle overs we wanted someone to come and play that role where he can play freely without worrying about who is bowling and who is not. We picked Shivam Dube based on the IPL and a few games before the IPL as well. But for him to feature in the XI, India may have to go with Jasprit Bumrah, Pandya, Dube and spinners sharing the load. The issue, though, is that Dube has bowled only obe over. Honestly, if we need Shivam to bowl a few overs, he will bowl a few overs. Hardik as well, he has been bowling regularly in the IPL. Whenever its been required, he has come and bowled. Like Ajit (Agarkar) said, hes come and played all the games, fitness wise, there are no issues. Rohit still has the option of asking for changes until May 25 if he and the selection committee feels so. But for now, Rohit has got the team he wanted. How far can they go? Only time will tell.
Madharavam to Nallur NH to be relaid at Rs 38 cr
CHENNAI: In the wake of repeated complaints over the poor condition of the Madharavam-Nallur stretch of Chennai-Kolkata National Highway, the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) has decided to relay the 9.6-km section at Rs 38 crore. As the four-lane NH stretch couldnt be widened to six lanes due to space constraints, the NHAI proposed the construction of a six-lane elevated corridor there three years ago. The project is estimated to cost Rs 1,700 crore. However, the project was delayed as approvals had to be secured from multiple levels, including the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. The state government had already agreed to waive off royalty for mines and minerals which will have to be procured during construction of the elevated corridor. However, the construction may take more time. Meanwhile, to address the complaints of pits and potholes on the stretch, the section will be relaid at Rs 38 crore. This work will also comprise the construction of stormwater drainage on the service road, said an official from NHAI. Motorists and locals have been complaining of the poor upkeep of the NH from Madhavaram to Nallur toll gate, for the past few years. The stretch was filled with potholes and the accumulation of mud on the road led to two-wheelers skidding often. The NH carries about 80,000 vehicles a day. Initially, the project to widen the 43.34-km stretch between Chennai Madhavaram and Tada into a six-lane road was commenced in February 2009. However, due to issues with land acquisition, only less than 50% of the work could be completed by 2015. This prompted the contractor to opt out of the project, causing further delays. The project which recommenced in 2017 is now nearing completion. Except the Madhavaram-Nallur section, about 95% of the 33.5-km NH has been widened to six-lane. The ongoing construction of two six-lane flyovers at Kavaraipettai and Elaiyur is in its final stages and will be completed in a few months, added the official. S Ramkumar, a regular commuter on the road, said, Vehicles often get stuck for nearly two km on the stretch due to the parking of two-wheelers and four-wheelers on the NH carriageway near the fish market at Kavangarai.
At crunch time, bowling woes for Chennai Super Kings
CSK faces bowling crisis with injuries to key players. Mustafizur Rahman departs for international duty, adding to the team's challenges. Fleming remains hopeful for a turnaround as CSK strives for improvement in the upcoming matches. During Wednesday's seven-wicket defeat to Punjab Kings here, Super Kings were forced to operate on thin bowling resources.
EVM strong rooms in Chennai declared red zones
CHENNAI: Following orders of Chennai City Police Commissioner Sandeep Rai Rathore, places where the Electronic Voting Machines (EVM) are stored have been declared as red zones and flying of drones and other unmanned aerial vehicles will be prohibited in these areas until June 4. The EVMs that were used for Lok Sabha elections in the three constituencies in the city have been stored in strong rooms at Loyola College in Nungambakkam, Queen Marys College in Mylapore and Anna University in Guindy. It may be noted that flying of drones and other unmanned aerial vehicles is already banned under CrPC section 144 in Chennai. The DMK had petitioned the Election Commission of India (ECI) three days ago seeking steps to designate the areas housing strong rooms drone no-fly zones, besides ensuring uninterrupted CCTV surveillance of the rooms. The partys appeal came in the backdrop of an incident regarding CCTV cameras malfunctioning for approximately 20 minutes in the strong room containing EVMs for the Nilgiris parliamentary constituency. The DMK had expressed concern that drones can be used to interfere with the functioning of CCTVs.
Doctors remove 5-cm-long LED bulb from boys lungs in Chennai
CHENNAI: Doctors at Sri Ramachandra Hospital in Porur saved the life of a five-year-old boy by removing an LED bulb from his lungs through bronchoscopy. The boy was playing with the 5-cm-long and 2-cm-wide bulb when he accidentally swallowed it. Instead of passing through to his intestine, the bulb entered his lungs, said Dr R Madhu, Head of Department, Paediatric Surgery at Sri Ramachandra Hospital. The doctor said that foreign objects entering the lungs are common, but in his experience of around 30 years as a surgeon, this was the first time he saw a person swallowing an LED bulb. It was a very challenging case, because we were cautious not to catch on the glass side of the object. If we break the bulb, then the glass pieces would spill into the lungs. So, we had to rotate it carefully and hold the metal side of the bulb to remove it, said Dr Madhu. According to the press release, the boy was taken to a hospital with a cough and breathing difficulty last Friday. The boy was taken to another hospital and following two failed attempts to remove the bulb, the doctors recommended an open chest surgery. The parents were not convinced with the idea of a major surgery, so they brought the child to Sri Ramachandra Hospital. Dr Madhu and his team took a CT scan of the child and found an LED bulb deposited in the breathing tube branch, segmental bronchus. With support from anaesthesia paediatric surgeons headed by Dr Aruna Parameswari, the doctors removed the LED bulb safely through bronchoscopy. The child was subsequently discharged.
Now, book a private train from Kerala
KOCHI: In a first, private trains will be available for tourists from Kerala to destinations such as Goa, Mumbai and Ayodhya. To begin with, the private train journey from the state to Goa will begin next month. The facility is being launched by SRMPR Global Railways, a Chennai-based tour operator, in partnership with the Kochi-based Princy World Travel Limited. An individual or a group of 600 passengers can book a private train journey to the three prominent destinations from Kerala, said officials. The inaugural journey is set to depart from Thiruvananthapuram on June 4 to Madgaon in Goa. The four-day tour package is available in three categories: 2-tier AC at Rs 16,400 per person, 3-tier AC at Rs 15,150 per person and non-AC sleeper at Rs 13,999. The package includes stay, food and sightseeing. Services like off-board travel and excursions by buses, stay at hotels, tour guides, meals and travel insurance are provided along with these train journeys and allied onboard services. Though the Indian Railways introduced the concept of private players operating tourist trains on theme-based circuits under the Bharat Gaurav Tourist Trains around a couple of years back, this is the first time that a private company is getting into this segment from Kerala. Earlier, such private train tours were launched from states such as Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. For instance, the government of Karnataka in association with IRCTC operates private trains to Kashi Prayag, Gaya and Ayodhya. Similarly, private trains are operated between Coimbatore and Shirdi. Plan to import private trains from Germany According to officials of Princy Tours, the trains are purchased by SRMPR from the Indian Railways to operate exclusively for tourism purposes. From Kerala, there are mainly three tour packages Thiruvananthapuram to Mumbai and Thiruvananthapuram to Goa (four-day package) and Thiruvananthapuram to Ayodhya (eight-day package), said Devika Menon, director of Princy World Travel Ltd. Plans are on to operate around 12 trains from Kerala. Once the initial three routes gain maximum traction, new routes will be introduced, she said. This train is being introduced on a trial basis.The SRMPR group will import special trains from Germany to run them privately. Hopefully, the trains will arrive by this year's end, she said. The trains have limited stops and only those who have booked the tickets can enter the train. A total of 60 staff, including the paramedical team and pantry are available onboard, said Devika Menon. The train is equipped with CCTV cameras and WiFi. As per the initial plan, the tourist train will operate to the specific destinations with a weeks gap. We have received the slots to operate from June to September. The dates for Mumbai and Ayodhya will be released soon, she said. The trains will have boarding from Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Kozhikode, Kannur and Kasaragod from Kerala.
Guts, guns & a goat: A commander recollects his days and nights at the Kargil war
25th anniversary of Kargil war, Indian Army's Operation Vijay, marked by epic battles. Lieutenant Colonel Sada S Peter shared untold stories. Kargil victory celebrated in Delhi.
The weekly Tirhut Express and Muzaffarpur-Howrah Jansadharan Express running between Muzaffarpur and Kolkata will be renamed as Amrit Bharat Train. Its preparation was going on for two years but Chennai Coach Factory has increased the production, hence this train will be run for the convenience of the passengers. Regarding its preparation, Sonpur DRM has given [] The post Amrit Bharat Train: Two new Amrit Bharat trains will run on this route, check route and other details first appeared on informalnewz .
Tangedco employees bear the brunt amid staff shortage
Tamil Nadu has been setting records in power demand once every few days this summer. Despite the jump in consumption, Tangedco has managed to avoid major disruptions. This has been made possible by the power utilitys workforce which is short-staffed yet kept on its toes round the clock to ensure residents arent inconvenienced by the searing heat. Though legislation demand that 8-hour duty should be ensured, some foremen claimed their work hours get extended by 50%. S Ezhilan (55), a foreman in Chengalpattu, told TNIE, Employees like me work 10 to 12 hours every day due to inadequate staff strength. Nevertheless, we are ready to do it because we have a responsibility, and uninterrupted power supply has to be ensured. Explaining challenges in summer, Ezhilan said working on power lines, transformers, and electricity poles gets tougher. Sometimes, we spend sleepless nights owing to heavy workload. If the power utility fills vacancies, burden on the staff can be reduced by 50%, he said. Some wiremen said they receive a minimum of 15 to 20 calls every day in summer against the usual average of 10 calls during other seasons. R Velmurugan, a wireman from Vellore, said, I have seen some of my friends faint while at work owing to pressure. Nothing can be more nightmarish to a wireman than climbing iron poles when the heat shows no sign of abating. U Muthaiah said he has to climb 10 to 15 poles and a few transformers every day under the blazing sun. Concrete poles are hotter, but we somehow manage it. Climbing iron poles, however, peels the skin off our palms. Power utilisation is significantly higher at night and transformers frequently trip. We have been working till 2 am every day in the recent days to ensure residents sleep peacefully, he said. As part of a series on the condition of workers toiling under the sun, TNIE takes a look at the lives of electricians and AC mechanics R Murali (46), who is working as a line inspector at SS Colony substation in Madurai, said as per norms 15,000 EB services should be managed by five wiremen, five helpers and one line inspector (supervisor). However, only five employees are managing such an area. I went home at 4 am on Thursday after rectifying issues in some transformers, and had to report to duty again at 8 am. A transformer generally receives 11,000 volts power, and a lot of concentration is needed while repairing it. Working under extreme stress makes a person vulnerable to serious accidents. Safety gear supply is also limited. Over 10,000 contract labourers have worked in Tangedco across the state without salaries for over 10 years. They dont receive compensation or benefits including insurance given by the government, for accidents at work spot. The government should come forward and regularise such staff, Murali said. Fatal accidents on duty is not uncommon among line inspectors when they work long hours, R Kalimuthu, who is employed at Tatabad section office in Coimbatore, said. There have been several deaths in the past. If consumers avoid power wastage by switching off electrical appliances when they leave a room, frequent issues in transformers owing to increased demand can be curtailed. This will, in turn, reduce work burden on field staff, he said. Apart from Tangedco staff, even electricians working privately, especially air-conditioner technicians, have been doing overtime this summer. R Sivanesan, an electrician from Chinthamani in Tiruchy for 30 years, said his day starts at 7 am and stretches for 12 hours. Our work is difficult and dangerous. However, until last year, we used to get low salaries (Rs 450 a day). Now we get Rs 550 to Rs 600. Rain or shine, we have to go to work to feed our family, he said. A Balamurugan, a 30-year-old AC technician from Ramanathapuram who resides in Salem, said he has been in this job for 11 years, earning up to `900 a day. Working in summer gets challenging while installing outdoor units at a height without adequate safety gears. However, there are still many AC technicians like M Saravankumar who earn only Rs 300 a day, work without weekly break and also face hostile homeowners. (With inputs from S Guruvanmikanathan @ Chennai, Thinakaran Rajamani @ Tenkasi, Jeyalakshmi Ramanujam @ Madurai, N Dhamotharan @ Coimbatore, K Shakthivel @ Salem, Rajalakshmi Sampath @ Vellore and P Thiruselvam @ Tiruchy)
...Never Going To Be Enough: Ex-India Star Slams Dhoni's Act vs PBKS
MS Dhoni faced a bit of criticism after he denied Daryl Mitchell a single during the final over of Chennai Super Kings' innings during the IPL 2024 match against Punjab Kings.
You Weren't Batting With Mustafizur: Dhoni Faces Heat Over On-Field Act
MS Dhoni faced a bit of criticism after he denied Daryl Mitchell a single during the final over of Chennai Super Kings' innings during the IPL 2024 match against Punjab Kings.
Abstract art depicts an artists subliminal thoughts, understood by a viewer who is willing to read forms in formlessness, silence in cacophony and somehow searching for tangibility in the artists visceral realm. The ongoing art show, Ores Of Trance, is about an open-ended discussion about the works of eight abstract artists who have intuitively assimilated unforeseen elements to invoke new layers of depth. The show, curated by eminent artist TK Harindran, features contemporary artists such as Akhilesh, Bhagwan Chavan, P Gopinath, Hemraj, Rashmi Khurana, Shobha Broota, Shridhar Iyer, and Yusuf. Let us witness each artists deep, solitary and meditative engagements with time, matter and space, says Harindran at the start of the gallery walkthrough, while pausing before the works of Yusuf. The Gwalior-born National Award-winning artist works with scattered and geometric forms with a restrained use of colours. In his Untitled, meticulous use of lines commands attention. The work vaguely depicts a broken window, criss-crossed by wooden frames where parts of it are weathered by time as if reflecting a fragmented state of mind. Yusuf uses the lines simply but strongly in a way that they neither attack the viewer nor make a statement. He has negated colours or too many elements to emphasise the patterns of lines, says Harindran. While the broken window is one way to interpret his work, Yusuf tells us that there is no reference point in abstract art. In figurative works, form is prominent and the line is secondary, but in mine, the line takes prominence as I let them wander according to my imagination. Jatra by Shridhar Iyer Of calm and storm While Yusufs work evokes a state of cerebral disorientation, in sharp contrast, Delhi-born artist Shobha Brootas Untitled produces a meditative effect. Her mixed media artwork features a rich red canvas woven with a deceptively simple thread work. Broota is a classical singer as well. So, just like music is based on the repetition of certain notes, her art is driven by the rhythmic repetition of geometric patterns. A long gaze at her minimalist works allows one to look deeper inwards and move beyond the ephemeral feelings, Harindran adds, as we stand before a work where the eye goes to its tiny squares. We move towards Delhi-based artist Shridhar Iyers stormy canvas, Jatra. Its wave-like effect, suggestive of a whirlwind, and a splatter of vital colours, purple, pink and red, seem to express mental tumult. The painting is like a tempest of thoughts unleashed upon the viewer much like Japanese artist Hokusais paintings that are visually striking and evocative with sea wave-like images. Theres a certain level of immediacy with which Shridhar draws the turmoil of the human mind on the canvas, says Harindran about the leading abstract artist who has previously exhibited at Perth, Melbourne, California, Paris and London. Between The Palm Trees/The Reflections by Bhagwan Chavan Culture in the roots The exhibition also reminds us of the primordial. In Bhopal-based Akhileshs Black Is Missing, absurd objects, human-like figures and bizarre signage serve as conduits to the primeval way of life in the Stone Age. Harindran points out that the inspiration comes from the rock-shelter paintings of Bhimbetka. Akhilesh wants to remind us of the start of the civilisation the aborigines. Its elements recall Egyptian hieroglyphs from the pharaonic civilisations. He wants to show how we are disconnected from our origins in the embrace of a new way of life steeped in superficiality, Harindran adds. Another artist, P. Gopinath, takes the viewer subliminally to regional culture. The Kerala-born artist, a founder member of the Cholamandal Artists Village in Chennai, is inspired by the rustic life. Vignettes of village life of Tamil Nadu are traceable in the artists Untitled works that show biomorphic forms of the bull that draw on the states Jallikattu Bull Festival and architectural forms. He makes the viewer ponder on lost language, people, culture, festivity and tribal history. But hes not making an in-the-face statement, its more an intellectual assertion, Harindran adds. In art, we tend to correlate subject matter to a definitive place, community or time. Gopinath, however, feels his works do not have a subject. Instead of figures, colours take prominence in my work, going beyond just a filling agent, he points out. Rashmi Khuranas Unrecited Melodies-II Unravelling the hidden As we walk around the room, Delhi-based self-taught artist Rashmi Khuranas work beckons us to look at her not-so-rosy artwork, Unrecited Melodies-II. After pulping papier-mch, the artist has crumpled them into balls, and layered them onto the canvas to mimic a soul in catharsis. The canvas is therefore a burst of colours and textures where electrifying pinks, purples, browns and magentas coalesce to express anguish. Her petals are not delicate, but violent, broken and detached. The composition can be seen as a way of venting, maybe a painful memory, based on her experiences of life its open to interpretation, says Harindran. The walkthrough ends with Hemraj and Bhagwan Chavans works, Eternal Reminiscence and Between The Palm Trees/ The Reflections respectively. They underline the power of abstract art to take the viewer into the depths of the human psyche. The artworks portray the subconscious thoughts of the artists, played in the moment of creation. They reflect the ebb and flow of their lives where some use lines, others use brush strokes, papier-mch or threadwork to depict it. Ores Of Trance is on display till May 20 at the new address of Gallery 1000 A, Daryacha building, Hauz Khas.
Hot weather impact | Air thins out, aircraft engine performance degrades: How pilots respond
Chennai's Meenambakkam airport poses challenges for pilots with turbulence, wind shifts, and reduced lift during takeoff and landing. Safety measures include continuous seat belt sign usage and cargo load adjustments for fuel efficiency.
Madras HC: ASI cant endanger archaeological structures
CHENNAI: The Madras High Court has observed that the Archaeological Survey of India and the Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology are the custodians of the archaeological monuments and they cant endanger any such structures. The first bench of Chief Justice SV Gangapurwala and Justice J Sathya Narayana Prasad made the observation while disposing of a petition challenging the construction of certain facilities in the Gangaikonda Cholapuram monument. The bench also said that it is the duty incumbent upon them to protect the archaeological and heritage monuments. They cannot do any act which would endanger the archaeological monument. The petition was filed by A Balaguru, an advocate from Kumbakonam, challenging the construction of a toilet and cafeteria in the protected area of the monument where the thousand-year-old Gangaikonda Choliswarar temple is located. He said the construction would cause damage to the monument and sought orders to restrain the construction activity. The bench directed the ASI and the state department of archaeology to survey the construction and make sure it did not cause danger to the protected monument. It also stated that the debris in the area must be cleared and action be taken to avert dumping of any waste material. Immediate action shall be taken if any garbage found in the area. The court asked the authorities concerned to decide on the petitioners plea to relocate the toilet and the cafeteria outside the protected area.
Three engineering students feared drowned in stone quarry in Chennai
CHENNAI: Three college students who went for a swim in a pool of water collected in an abandoned stone quarry were feared drowned at Keerapakkam near Guduvanchery on Wednesday. Body of one of the victims was recovered on Thursday morning, search is on to trace the other two. Police said the students were part of a five-member group that trespassed into the locked quarry premises. Police identified the victims as Deepak Sarathy (20) of Udumalpet, Mohammad Ismail (19) of Mannarkudi, and Vijaysarathy (19) of Dharmapuri. They were all second-year students of a private engineering college in Kattankulathur. On Wednesday, they had gone to the water-filled quarry with their friends Surya and Abdul. The quarry has been shut for nearly 10 years. There were boards to keep away trespassers but the group climbed over the gate and went inside, a police officer said. The five of them went to the water and started swimming. However, Deepak, Mohammad and Vijayasarathy went into deeper parts and drowned. Three students did not know swimming, say their friends According to their friends, the three did not know swimming, police said. As they started struggling, Surya and Abdul tried to rescue them but could not. They rushed to the local villagers and alerted them. Police and fire and rescue department personnel rushed to the scene. The officer said, A rescue operation went on till late night but none of them were found or rescued. The rescue operation then resumed on Thursday and around 11am, Vijayasarathys body was recovered. Vijayasarathys body was sent to a government hospital for postmortem.
Education dept to conduct special classes for class 10 supplementary exams in Tamil Nadu
CHENNAI: In tune with the efforts to reduce dropouts, the school education department has decided to conduct special classes for class 10 students who have failed or were absent during the public examinations. Under the Thodarndhu Karpom scheme overseen by the integrated education department, these students will be given minimum learning material to pass the examination apart from weekly tests. The classes, conducted by the graduate teachers in the government schools, will start after the announcement of results and continue till the supplementary examination. Government schools have been asked to identify absentees and headmasters have been directed to ensure that these students apply for the supplementary examination. As per the directorate of examinations, nearly 17,500 students were absent for the class 10 examinations. Last year, the department identified 45,000 students who were either absent or failed the examination. Teachers will also update the progress of the students in the Education Management Information System (EMIS) so that the officials can monitor it. The integrated education department will allocate the funds to the district for printing the minimum learning material. The department is also planning to rope in educationists and volunteers to motivate the students to continue their studies. District education officials will be given a block each to oversee the programme. They will also be responsible for bringing these students to the classes, said a department official The districts will also give wide publicity for the scheme so that parents are aware of the initiative, the official added. At the school level, the school management committee members will be used to convince the parents to send their children to these classes and each member will be allotted two students for this. Illam Thedi Kalvi and Vasippu Iyakkam volunteers will also be involved in the initiative, said officials.
Skipper Gaikwad says its all due to dew!
Chennai Super Kings captain and top-scorer Ruturaj feels team fell 50-60 runs short during loss to Punjab Kings as conditions tilted more towards the batting side in second innings
Not even a drop of water in 10 of 90 reservoirs in Tamil Nadu
CHENNAI: With summer heat on the rise, water levels in several reservoirs across the state have continued to decline. Shortage of drinking water has led to protests and concerns in some places, and with the southwest monsoon more than a month away, it may be a daunting task to ensure adequate supply. As of Thursday, the combined water storage in 90 reservoirs across the state stood at 51.992 tmcft, which is just 23.18% of their total capacity of 224.297 tmcft. According to Water Resources Department data accessed by TNIE, 10 out of 90 reservoirs in the state are completely dry, while 15 hover between 1 and 9% of their capacity. Barring Tirunelvelis Vandal Odai, none reach their full capacity. Consequently, people living in several rural areas have already begun to bear the brunt of water shortage. Residents of Keezha Puthur in Tenkasi staged a road blockade this week on the Thirumangalam Kollam national highway demanding drinking water supply to their area. About 100 residents of Piranoor near Shengottai gathered at Tenkasi collectorate, alleging they were receiving drinking water only once in 20 days. In Tirunelveli, Congress district president K Sankarapandian staged a protest by sitting on the steps of an overhead tank condemning drinking water shortage in various areas of Palayamkottai zone. Coimbatore has also witnessed protests in different places. The situation in Coimbatore and neighbouring districts led to Municipal Administration and Water Supply Department secretary D Karthikeyan holding a meeting with officials of Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Nilgiris and Erode districts to ensure water supply. While water supply is regular in most places in Madurai city, residents of extended areas of the corporation are facing difficulties with some pockets getting water once in four days. Residents are forced to purchase water from private players for Rs 13 to Rs 15 a pot. Despite the situation, officials from Tamil Nadu Water Supply and Drainage (TWAD) Board have expressed confidence about managing the situation efficiently. Speaking to TNIE, TWAD Boards Joint Managing Director Anand Mohan said, In April 2023, the board supplied 1,949 MLD water across the state. In April 2024, the supply in fact surged to 2,286 MLD. We have intensified water distribution in drought-affected regions, including the western belts and the delta. During a recent meeting held at the secretariat, Stalin allotted `150 crore to districts facing water shortage, signalling the governments acknowledgement of the situation and commitment to address it. Anand Mohan said efforts are on to pump water from the Upper Bhavani dam to mitigate shortage in Coimbatore. In addition, the TWAD Board is collaborating with municipal and panchayat officials in delta districts to ensure uninterrupted water supply, he said. A senior WRD official raised concern on groundwater levels. While 14 districts have seen no improvement in water table, 23 have witnessed decline compared to last March. The groundwater level in Dharmapuri, which stood at 5.51m last year, has declined sharply to 8.85m. (With inputs from Thinarakaran Rajamani @ Tenkasi, MS Thanaraj @ Madurai and M Saravanan @ Coimbatore)
Classification of 14k hectares as Red Hills catchment area illegal: Madras High Court
CHENNAI: In a significant order, the Madras High Court has declared unconstitutional the classification of 13,720 hectares land spread over 27 villages on the outskirts of Chennai as catchment area of Red Hills reservoir on the grounds of lack of a scientific study and failure to acquire the land within three years of notification. The classification was carried out as per the Second Master Plan for Chennai Metropolitan Area The order was passed by a division bench of Justices SS Sundar and N Senthilkumar recently on two petitions filed by private companies seeking to quash the lock, seal and demolition notices issued to their properties by the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA). The companies, Global Waste Recycling Limited and B T Enterprises Private Limited, challenged the CMDAs orders issued in 2017 to lock, seal and demolish the structures of the firms located at Alamathi village in Sholavaram panchayat union stating that the land comes under the catchment area of Red Hills reservoir. Interestingly, at least one of these companies had obtained planning permission after the notification of the Second Master Plan. The impugned order dated April 26, 2017, is hereby quashed. The classification of limited extent of 13,720 hectares of land as catchment area as per Second Master Plan is declared unconstitutional, the order said. The bench, however, said it is open to the respondent authorities of the government to revise the master plan, taking note of this judgment, and the final report to be submitted by CUBE, strictly adhering to the provisions of the Tamil Nadu Town and Country Planning Act, 1971. CMDA has engaged CUBE (Centre for Urbanisation, Buildings and Environment) to study the impact of urban development on Red Hills catchment area and planning interventions for its conservation and protection and the organisation has submitted an interim report. The respondents shall consult experts and provide necessary infrastructure to ensure protection of waterbodies throughout the area where the jurisdiction of CMDA is extended and to ensure supply of quality drinking water in sufficient quantity, the order added. The court said it had no hesitation to hold that the impugned order lacked wisdom and suffered legal malafides. The bench held that the government or the local body had no right to declare the vast extent of 13,720 hectares as water catchment area if they intended to prohibit any development activity without an intention of acquiring such land. It said if the land, declared as no-development-one, is not acquired within three years from publication of the notice as per section 26 of the Tamil Nadu Town and Country Planning Act, 1971, it is deemed to be released from such reservation. The CMDA has no power to declare or reserve a vast extent of about 13,000 hectares of as no-development-area or restricting development in the Master Plan, without acquiring the land under or without paying compensation, the bench ruled. The court also held that the impugned order is discriminatory as some others were allowed to make profitable rights over the property by holding developmental activity while the petitioners were prohibited from doing so. Therefore, the impugned order was liable to be quashed on the ground of being arbitrary, discriminatory and irrational as the restrictions were imposed without a scientific study or knowledge of any social or economical impact and the possible benefits to the public. Neither the provisions of TN Town and Country Planning Act nor any other provisions permits total prohibition of development affecting the land owners rights if the land is not acquired through proper procedure, the court said. Senior counsel P Wilson, representing B T Enterprises Private Limited, contended that even though the CMDA can reserve the petitioners land in the Second Master Plan as catchment area, the land is deemed to have been de-reserved unless it is acquired within three years under Section 38 of TN Town and Country Planning Act.
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