Making Diwali One of a Kind(ness)
Deepavali countdown: the packer is now the shopping services provider too
As Deepavali approaches,shops that traditionallypacked and shipped sweets, dresses and other festive items brought to themby customers, to addresses within India and abroad, might now be shopping for those items before having them packed. These are customers who would be strapped for time and expect the packing and shipping services provider to take care of the shopping component as well for an additional fee. K.M. Gani of Mylapore-based Queens Abroad Packers weighs in on this trend
TN govt makes GPS mandatory for mineral trucks, halts permits from today
Digital Desk | Chennai, Nov 1 (IANS) Trucks transporting minerals in Tamil Nadu will no longer receive transport permits or transit passes without AIS 140-compliant GPS devices, with the state government enforcing the requirement from Sunday after the final extended deadline expired on October 31. The geology and mining department announced the decision on Saturday, making installation of the prescribed tracking devices and their integration with its online portal mandatory for vehicles engaged in mineral transportation across the state. The department also warned of enforcement action against violations. Vehicles found carrying minerals without GPS devices and valid permits would be inspected and seized, while criminal proceedings would be initiated against their owners, according to its release. The requirement forms part of the governments efforts to prevent illegal quarrying and unauthorised movement of minerals. By linking mineral-carrying vehicles to its digital system, the department seeks to strengthen oversight of transportation and curb movement outside the permit framework. Under the directions, operators must install GPS devices that comply with the AIS 140 standard and connect them to the Mineral Management System, known as MIMAS. Fitting a device alone does not fulfil the requirement; integration with the departments portal is also necessary. The latest deadline followed a series of extensions granted for compliance. The original deadline for installing the devices was March 31, 2026. The government subsequently planned to stop issuing transit passes to vehicles without the required equipment from September 1. However, the compliance deadline was extended to September 30 and then again to October 31, allowing vehicle owners additional time to install the devices and complete the portal-linking process. That period has now ended, bringing the permit restrictions into effect. The November 1 measure directly links access to transport documentation with compliance with the GPS requirement. Owners seeking permits or transit passes for mineral-carrying trucks must therefore ensure that their vehicles meet both the installation and online integration conditions. The announcement combines restrictions at the permit-issuing stage with action against vehicles found transporting minerals in violation of the requirements. The departments warning makes clear that owners could face criminal proceedings in addition to seizure of their vehicles. With the extended deadline over, the department has placed responsibility on vehicle owners to complete the prescribed GPS installation and MIMAS integration before seeking the documents required to transport minerals legally.
Another cyclone threat over Bay of Bengal; heavy rain forecast in TN
Digital Desk | Chennai, Nov 1 (IANS) A low-pressure system over the southeast Bay of Bengal and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands region is expected to intensify into a cyclonic storm within 24 hours, the Meteorological Department said, forecasting rain across several parts of Tamil Nadu over the next three days. The forecast indicates moderate rainfall across the northern coastal belt, the Western Ghats districts and several interior districts on Sunday. Heavy rain is expected in isolated areas of Nilgiris, Tiruvallur, Cuddalore and Villupuram over the following two days, while other parts of the state could receive lighter showers. According to the department, Tamil Nadus northern coastal districts and districts along the Western Ghats are likely to receive moderate rain on Sunday. Similar conditions are forecast for Madurai, Tiruchirappalli, Namakkal, Salem, Erode and Karur. Elsewhere in the state, light rain is likely at one or two places. The forecast points to variations in rainfall across Tamil Nadu, with moderate showers expected in the specified coastal, hill and interior areas and more limited rainfall in the remaining regions. For Monday (November 2), the department has forecast heavy rainfall in Nilgiris and Tiruvallur districts. Some places elsewhere in Tamil Nadu are likely to experience light to moderate showers during the day. Cuddalore and Villupuram are expected to receive heavy rain on both Monday and Tuesday, November 2 and 3. These two districts, therefore, feature in the heavy-rain forecast for two consecutive days as the weather system over the Bay of Bengal develops. Moderate rainfall is also likely at one or two places in the Western Ghats districts and northern Tamil Nadu during the forecast period. Other parts of the state may receive light to moderate rainfall, according to the department. In Chennai, skies are expected to remain partly cloudy on Sunday. Light to moderate rain, accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning, is likely in some parts of the city. The forecast indicates localised showers rather than rainfall across the entire city. The district-wise outlook places the immediate focus on moderate rain on Sunday, followed by heavier spells in selected districts from Monday. Nilgiris and Tiruvallur are covered by Mondays heavy rain prediction, while Cuddalore and Villupuram could experience heavy showers through Tuesday. The anticipated intensification of the Bay of Bengal system forms the backdrop to the departments latest rainfall outlook for Tamil Nadu.
Gold, silver prices today, 1 November: Check retail price of 18K, 22K and 24K gold and 999 Fine silver on Sunday in your cities Delhi, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai.
Nearly 4.90 lakh to compete for 846 posts in TNPSC preliminary exam today
Digital Desk | Chennai, Nov 1 (IANS) Nearly 4.90 lakh candidates are appearing for the Tamil Nadu Public Service Commissions (TNPSC) Group 2 and Group 2A preliminary examination on Sunday, with around 579 aspirants competing for each of the 846 vacancies in state government departments. The examination will be held as scheduled at 1,647 centres across Tamil Nadu. A total of 4,89,885 candidates have applied and been authorised to take the test, reflecting the intense competition for recruitment to the two categories of government posts. Chennai alone accounts for 51,721 candidates, with 173 examination centres designated in the city. This represents more than a tenth of the total number of aspirants permitted to appear statewide. The three-hour examination will begin at 9.30 a.m. and conclude at 12.30 p.m. Candidates will answer 200 multiple-choice questions carrying a maximum of 300 marks. The question paper will comprise three components, covering general knowledge, aptitude and language proficiency. Of the 200 questions, 75 will be from general knowledge and 25 from aptitude. The remaining 100 questions will be from General Tamil or General English. The language component thus accounts for half the questions in the preliminary examination, while general knowledge and aptitude together make up the other half. Candidates will have to complete all sections within the stipulated three-hour period. The recruitment exercise seeks to fill a combined total of 846 vacancies under the Group 2 and Group 2A categories across various departments of the Tamil Nadu government. The large applicant pool places the average competition at approximately 579 candidates for every available position. Candidates can download their hall tickets from the commissions official website, www.tnpsc.gov.in. They have been advised to reach their allotted examination centres on time and carry their hall tickets along with all other required documents. With the examination beginning at 9.30 a.m., aspirants should plan their travel accordingly and check the location of the centre allotted to them. The hall ticket provides the details needed to identify the venue and attend the examination. For candidates across the state, Sundays preliminary test marks a key stage in the recruitment process for the advertised government vacancies. The commission has reiterated that the examination will proceed according to the announced schedule, with candidates expected to follow the instructions issued for their appearance at their respective centres.
Devotees worried over conduct of Kandasashti festival at Kandakottam temple
SRIHER hosts national conference on qualitative nursing research
Police search for POCSO accused who went missing from hospital
Ayur AI Integrative Diabetes Centre launched in Chennai
DMK MLA quizzed for over two hours over remarks against CM
Youth dies after car hits motorcycle in Kotturpuram
Madhan succumbed to his injuries at the Government Royapettah Hospital
SRM Prime hospital lights up in pink for breast cancer awareness month
Cab driver arrested for abusing elderly woman and throwing her luggage on road
Inauguration of Bharat Sangeet Utsav held
GCC is also exploring the establishment of dedicated paediatric dialysis facilities for children in the 1018 years age group at Valluvarkottam
Citys golu displays honoured at Kolu Kondattam contest
Minister distributes welfare assistance at grievance redressal camp in Egmore
Sinkhole at Kolathur due to Chennai Metro Rails tunnelling work
Opposition slams TVK govt for repeated prison escapes across Tamil Nadu
DMK womens wing protests reflect public anger against TVK govt: Stalin
K.V. Thiruvengadam memorial oration delivered in Chennai
VISThe Hindu U-15 inter-school football tournament draws to a close
Metrowater launches second phase of RWH awareness campaign
Cyclone looms, but wait for widespread rain continues in Tamil Nadu
Weather system to bring isolated heavy rainfall over a few north coastal districts; November rain most likely to be below normal in T.N., says IMD
Tamil Nadu releases 10.70 crore for continuation of NULM activities
NGT asks MAWS, GCC to explore incinerators for bio-mined waste
NGT asks MAWS and GCC to explore the possibility of using incinerators, similar to those operating in Gujarat and other States, particularly to process bio-mined waste to handle bio-mined waste
Three arrested for robbing man at knifepoint after meeting on social networking app
ED attaches assets worth 85.19 crore of Dream Makers Global in financial fraud case
PG medical round 1 counselling begins
Runaway schoolgirls from Vellore rescued in Chennai
Plea in Madras high court against extension of special officers tenure for rural local bodies
TNPDCL to seek coal-based power in fresh tenders after costly gas bids
Three IPS officers from Tamil Nadu chosen for Home Ministers Medal for Excellence in Investigation
The award recognises police officers across the country for their professionalism and exceptional contributions to investigation
Stray dogs bite at least 20 commuters at Chennai Central in two months
Rising road levels worsen monsoon woes in citys western suburbs
Chennai to have 36 new parks, 11 playgrounds by 2031
Engineer held for assaulting traffic cop in row over right turn at junction
Tamil Nadu CM Vijay is completely out of touch, lacks independent decision-making: EPS
Jensi Kanabar's Strong Showing In Chennai Open Qualifiers
Fourteen-year-old Indian wild card Jensi Kanabar displayed a strong performance against fifth seed Weronika Falkowska of Poland in the Chennai Open qualifying round, eventually losing in three sets. Other Indian players also exited the qualifiers. The article also details the main draw ceremony, top seeds, and Indian wild card entries for the main event.
Civic apathy detracts from SBI Colonys charm in Chromepet
A scenic, well-kept residential neighbourhood near Purushothaman Nagar in Chromepet is being let down by indiscriminate garbage dumping, sewage in an open canal and potholes on a key link road
Civic apathy detracts from SBI Colonys charm in Chromepet
A scenic, well-kept residential neighbourhood near Purushothaman Nagar in Chromepet is being let down by indiscriminate garbage dumping, sewage in an open canal and potholes on a key link road
WTA 250 Chennai Open: A chance for Vaishnavi, Maaya and Sahaja to show their mettle
Indias Jensi Kanabar, Zeel Desai, Shrivalli Bhamidipaty, and Diya Ramesh bowed out in Qualifying
Cemetery in Park Town to honour grave diggers
As in the previous year, the church will be having a small event to honour cemetery workers
Co-founded by Coimbatore-based Aravindan R. and Abirami D., DoctorNet India bridges the information and empathy gaps in healthcare
Solar power generation sets October record for first time in Tamil Nadu
Chennaiyin FC and Kerala Blasters Battle to Goalless Draw in ISL Clash
Chennaiyin FC and Kerala Blasters played to a 0-0 draw in an intense ISL match, showcasing strong defensive performances from both sides. Chennaiyin FC and Kerala Blasters Battle to Goalless Draw in ISL Clash
Two NCB Chennai officers receive Union home ministers medal
Coimbatore prisoners escape triggers fresh row over Tamil Nadu jail security
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 31 (IANS ) An undertrial prisoner escaped from police custody while being escorted into Coimbatore Central Prison late on Friday night, triggering fresh criticism of Tamil Nadus prison security arrangements following similar incidents in Chennai and Theni. The prisoner, identified as Raghavan, had been arrested by Annur police in connection with a robbery case and sent to judicial custody by a local court. Police subsequently brought him to the Coimbatore prison complex to complete his admission. The escape occurred while officers were escorting him between the prisons two main security gates. His handcuffs were reportedly removed as he was being taken from the outer entrance towards the inner gate. Raghavan allegedly seized the opportunity to break away from his escorts and flee. Race Course police have registered a case and launched a search for him. The incident has brought the handling of prisoners during their transfer from police custody to prison authorities under scrutiny. This was reportedly Raghavans second attempt to evade custody. He had earlier escaped while being arrested in Annur but was caught shortly afterwards. His latest escape has intensified questions about the precautions taken by the personnel escorting him. The incident follows recent escapes at Puzhal Central Prison in Chennai and Thekkampatti Sub-Jail in Theni, prompting opposition leaders to demand accountability and stronger security measures across the states prisons. PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss condemned the repeated incidents and attributed the Coimbatore escape to negligence by security personnel. Describing such escapes as unacceptable, he demanded strict action against officials responsible for lapses. Ramadoss also urged the government to strengthen security arrangements at all prisons, citing the Chennai and Theni incidents as evidence of the need for corrective measures. AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami criticised the government in a post on X, comparing the succession of prisoner escapes to a television serial. He alleged that the administration had failed to prevent such incidents from recurring despite assurances about improved security. Palaniswami also questioned the effectiveness of official warnings, pointing out that the Coimbatore incident occurred just hours after the Chief Minister cautioned prison personnel against negligence. The opposition criticism centred on whether repeated warnings and promises were translating into effective safeguards. Both leaders pressed the government to address security failures, with Ramadoss specifically demanding disciplinary action and tighter measures statewide.
Delhi AQI Close To 200 As Mumbai, Hyderabad Slip Into 'Unhealthy' Zone; Kolkata's Air Worsens
Kolkata, Chennai and Bengaluru remained in the poor category, with Bengaluru recording the lowest AQI among the six major metros.
Indian National Racing Challenge 2W: Chiranth Vishwanath notches brilliant win in Super Sport race
Chennai Bengalurus Chiranth Vishwanath breezed to a brilliant win in the premier Super Sport 301-400cc Open class, upstaging pole-sitter, Petronas The post Indian National Racing Challenge 2W: Chiranth Vishwanath notches brilliant win in Super Sport race appeared first on Bilkul Online .
Adkar, Yamalapalli Lead Indian Charge At Final Chennai Open
India's top-ranked player Vaishnavi Adkar and Sahaja Yamalapalli are set to compete in the WTA 250 Chennai Open, facing tough international opponents in the first round. Seventeen-year-old Maaya Rajeshwaran Revathi also has a challenging draw. This marks the final edition of the Chennai Open as the WTA 250 slot moves to Manila next year. Meanwhile, all four Indian players in the qualifying rounds were eliminated.
Chennai Open's Last Edition This Year: Vijay Amritraj
The WTA 250 Chennai Open will have its last edition this year after India lost the tournament slot to the Philippines, but the Tamil Nadu Tennis Association (TNTA) is working to bring three to four WTA 125 events to the country in January-February 2028, Indian tennis legend Vijay Amritraj .
Chennai Open Gone, India Plans New Tennis Tournaments
The WTA 250 Chennai Open will conclude this year as India lost its slot to the Philippines. Indian tennis legend Vijay Amritraj revealed that the Tamil Nadu Tennis Association is now aiming to host three to four WTA 125 events in January-February 2028 to provide more opportunities for Indian players. The move was influenced by Chennai's monsoon season and the rise of a Filipino tennis star.
Tamil Nadu CM Vijay announces 3% DA hike for 16 lakh employees, pensioners ahead of Deepavali
No GPS, no permits: Tamil Nadu bars mineral transport vehicles without tracking devices from Nov 1
Repeatedly adding fresh layers of bitumen and raising road levels must be avoided, Commissioner G.S. Sameeran said
Repeatedly adding fresh layers of bitumen and raising road levels must be avoided, Commissioner G.S. Sameeran said
ED uncovers Rs 400 crore fund diversion by Dream Makers Global, attaches assets worth Rs 85 crore
Can higher FSI reshape Chennais real estate market and skyline?
From housing affordability to urban infrastructure, the benefits and challenges of allowing more construction
Rs 30 per kg rice gets no takers in fair price shops, claims PMK chief Anbumani
Chennai's subsidized rice scheme at Rs 30 per kg has reportedly seen poor sales figures recently. PMK president Anbumani Ramadoss indicated that only 114.80 tonnes of rice have been sold in two weeks. He attributed this low reception to the quality of rice distributed through ration shops. Ramadoss urged the Tamil Nadu government to procure rice from private mills to improve quality.
Chennaiyin FC will host Kerala Blasters FC in their first home match of the ISL 2026-27 season on Saturday. Check the match time, venue, predicted lineups and live streaming details.
Revanth urges Centre to expedite Hyderabad-Pune bullet train
Hyderabad: Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Friday, October 30, urged Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to expedite the Hyderabad-Pune bullet train project. Reddy sought early approval for alignments for the project that would connect Hyderabad with Pune, Chennai and Bengaluru. In a meeting with Vaishnaw at the Rail Bhavan in New Delhi, Reddy Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
DMK women cadre protest across Tamil Nadu over price rise, law and order
DMK MP Kanimozhi accused CM Vijay of seeking childrens support to mobilise votes without ensuring their safety
Todays Gold Rate: Gold prices down in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru
22, 24 carat Gold prices down across metro cities on October 31
Exciting Job Openings at Airports Authority of India: Apply Now!
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has announced 18 consultant vacancies in Chennai, available for one year on a contractual basis. The application deadline has been extended to November 10. Candidates with various qualifications, including degrees in Psychology, Engineering, and Law, are encouraged to apply. The selection process includes document verification and interviews, with salaries ranging from 70,000 to 1,50,000. This is a great opportunity for those looking to advance their careers in the aviation sector.
Vande Bharat is the fastest train from Chennai to Madurai, but it runs 17 minutes late on average. Vaigai is eight minutes late. Tejas Express arrives 12 minutes early. A six month check shows speed is not everything, and the viral Vaigai claim does not tell the full story.
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 31 (IANS) Well known Tamil film director Mithran R Jawahar, who has produced the web series 'Notebook 90s - Kadhal Flashback', says that he wanted to revisit an era that holds a special place in people's hearts with the series. Says Mithran R. Jawahar, Through our collaboration with Sony VIZHA and Sony LIV on Notebook 90s Kadhal Flashback, I wanted to revisit an era that holds a special place in our hearts. The 90s had a unique warmth in the way we experienced friendships, family and relationships. With the show, I hope to bring back those memories and remind viewers of the simple moments that made that time so special. If Notebook 90s makes viewers think of an old friend or look back on their own memories with a smile, that will mean a lot to me. For the unaware, the web series, which has been produced under the creative vision of filmmaker Mithran R. Jawahar, has been directed by Sadhasivam and written by Neelan. Sources in the know say that 'Notebook 90s Kadhal Flashback' will look to recreate the warmth and simplicity of the 90s through a tender school-day love story filled with friendship, innocence, nostalgia and the unforgettable emotions of growing up. Set in 1990s Trichy, the series follows Gautham (Muzzamil Elias) and Gayathri (Yuva), whose story begins with a playful school-day prank and unexpectedly blossoms into first love. What follows is a journey through the excitement of a first crush, the awkwardness of expressing your feelings, the joy of discovering that they may be reciprocated, and the misunderstandings and heartbreak that make young love feel all the more intense. Sources claim that at its heart, 'Notebook 90s Kadhal Flashback' will celebrate a time when school corridors could hold a hundred possibilities and one small moment could become a memory you carried for years. Adding an emotional touch to the narrative is Bhavana, who will be seen making a special cameo appearance as the older Gayathri, connecting those memories of youthful romance with the present. The show is to premiere on November 23 at 7:30 PM on Sony VIZHA and Sony LIV.
TNPSC group 2, 2A prelims on Nov 1; nearly 4.89 lakh candidates for 846 posts
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 31 (IANS ) Nearly 4.89 lakh graduates have applied for the Tamil Nadu Public Service Commissions (TNPSC) Group 2 and Group 2A recruitment examination, which will be held on November 1 to fill 846 vacancies across state government departments. Confirming that the preliminary examination will proceed as scheduled, the commission said the three-hour test would take place from 9.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. at designated centres across Tamil Nadu. Candidates have been advised to arrive at their allotted centres well before the examination begins, allowing sufficient time to complete entry formalities and avoid last-minute delays. The recruitment covers 43 vacancies under Group 2, comprising interview posts, and 803 vacancies under Group 2A, which consists of non-interview posts. With applications approaching five lakh, competition for the government positions is expected to be intense. In Chennai alone, 51,721 candidates are expected to appear for the preliminary examination. Examination centres have also been arranged across other parts of the state to accommodate applicants from various districts. Extensive security and monitoring arrangements are being put in place to ensure the smooth and orderly conduct of the examination. Preparations cover centres throughout the state, including those handling large numbers of candidates in Chennai. Hall tickets for the examination were released on the commissions official website on October 21. Applicants can download them through their One-Time Registration (OTR) page by entering their application number and date of birth. Candidates should carefully check the examination venue and instructions printed on their hall tickets before travelling. Having the document ready in advance and identifying the allotted centre will help them plan their journey for Sundays examination. The preliminary test marks the first stage of recruitment for the notified Group 2 and Group 2A posts, with applicants competing for opportunities in government service across a range of Tamil Nadu departments.
Pa Ranjith's 'Vettuvam' to hit screens for Pongal next year
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 31 (IANS) Director Pa Ranjith's upcoming action drama, 'Vettuvam', featuring actor Arya in the lead, will hit screens for Pongal next year, its makers have now announced. Director Pa Ranjith took to his social media timelines to make the announcement. He wrote, The forces of #Vettuvam are set to unleash their madness and mastery. Jan 2027 | #VettuvamFromPongal. The director had, earlier this month, disclosed that the film would be about the struggle for power between different groups. He had also disclosed that all the actors, who featured in the film, had undergone proper martial arts training to play their characters. Arya plays a character called Dharmarajan in the film while Shabeer Kallarakkal plays a character called Sembiyan. Kalai Arasan plays Veera Varman and Dinesh plays Nandhan. Actress Sobhita Dhulipala plays a character called Radhi in the film. The film has triggered interest because of it being actress Sobhita Dhulipala's first Tamil film after her wedding. 'Vettuvam', which will talk about the sharing of power, has music by G V Prakash. The film was in the spotlight in July last year after a stuntman died while performing a car stunt for the film. The news left the unit shocked and devastated. Pa Ranjit's production house Neelam Productions, which is producing the film, had then said that the death of the dearly loved stunt man had sent them all into shock and heart break. Pa Ranjith, after the demise of the stuntman, had posted a statement in which his production house, Neelam Productions, said, On the morning of 13th July, we lost unexpectedly a talented stunt artist and a long time colleague Mr. Mohan Raj on the sets of our film 'Vettuvam' in Nagapattinam district of Tamizh Nadu. Our heart is broken for his wife, children, family and all who knew and loved Mohan Raj Anna as a colleague and a friend. Stating that a day that had started out with detailed planning, caution, clarity in execution, prayers and all their good will had ended in the unexpected death of the stuntmen, the production house said that the news had has sent them all into shock and heart break. Mohan Raj Anna was valued and respected by his colleagues in the stunt team and all of us in the crew. He was a veteran in performing stunts whose planning, clarity and execution we all relied on. We relied on the expertise of our Stunt Director Dilip Subbarayan and followed every protocol, every detail that was needed to make this safe. That inspite of all of our preparations and precautions, we ended up losing a man who had unparalleled experience and achievements, who made his family, colleagues and directors proud with the quality of his work has affected us deeply. He will have our respect, love and adoration always, the production house had said. Stating that Mohan Raj's death was devastating, the production house said that it deeply mourned the loss of Mohan Raj Anna as a husband, a father, an incredible stunt artist and a graceful human being. He wanted to be remembered for his work as a fabulous stunt artist and thats how he will always stay in our memory, it had said.
Seeman open to Opposition support for Ambasamudram bypoll, consensus uncertain
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 31 (IANS) Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) chief coordinator, Seeman, has signalled his willingness to accept support from the DMK and AIADMK for the Ambasamudram Assembly bypoll, fuelling speculation about a common Opposition candidate against the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). The possibility has drawn attention ahead of expected bye-elections in five constituencies: Viralimalai, Karur, Ambasamudram, Perundurai and Tiruchirappalli East. However, no agreement on a joint candidate has been announced, and the principal Opposition parties have yet to clarify their positions. Asked whether he would accept support from the Dravidian parties he has consistently criticised, Seeman responded with humour, saying NTK would welcome it if offered. Would a hungry person refuse biryani, he asked. DMK President M.K. Stalin has deferred any announcement, saying the party would spell out its stand after the election dates are declared. His recent remark at a wedding that the government would not last even six months has intensified political speculation. AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami has not endorsed Seeman as a common candidate. AMMK leader T.T.V. Dhinakaran, meanwhile, has argued that the AIADMK should contest, indicating that Opposition consensus remains uncertain. The discussions come against the backdrop of the ruling partys victories in the Madurantakam and Dharapuram bye-elections. Opposition parties are now weighing their options to prevent gains by the government in the five pending contests. For NTK, the debate coincides with concerns over its electoral performance. Founded in May 2010, the party contested the 2016 Assembly election and subsequently expanded its vote share, securing around eight per cent in the 2024 parliamentary polls and gaining recognition as a state party. However, its recent bypoll performances indicate a decline. Its Dharapuram candidate Divya secured 6,026 votes, or 3.03 per cent, while Madurantakam nominee Janakiraman received 4,950 votes, or 2.5 per cent, in the subsequent bye-elections. Seemans willingness to receive outside backing is being viewed against this weakening electoral position and his unsuccessful Assembly bids in Cuddalore, Tiruvottiyur and Karaikudi. Entry into the legislature would offer him a platform to raise issues and strengthen his political visibility. Nevertheless, accepting support and securing votes are different challenges. Seemans sustained attacks on both major Dravidian parties could complicate cooperation between their cadres and NTK workers. Whether Opposition backing materialises, and whether voters respond favourably, will determine how seriously the proposed common candidature develops before Ambasamudram goes to the polls.
Bengaluru to become fastest-growing city as global companies home in on talent: Savills Exec
Global corporations are increasingly considering diverse locations, particularly India, for talent acquisition and growth. Bengaluru is projected to be the fastest-growing major city by 2035, according to Savills analysis. Other Indian cities like Chennai and Hyderabad are also showing strong potential in terms of GDP growth and population increase. The demand for global capability centers in India is expected to continue rising in the future.
Tamil Nadu projects 6,162 MW power deficit as purchase costs soar
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 31 (IANS) Tamil Nadu faces a power shortage of 6,162 MW in September 2027, with revised projections placing peak demand above 24,000 MW during July-September. The forecast heightens procurement challenges after steep supplier rates forced the cancellation of two tenders within three days. The Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (TNPDCL) submitted the revised estimates at the Southern Regional Power Committees Operational Coordination Committee meeting on October 9. Septembers evening peak requirement is now estimated at 24,350 MW, against the earlier projection of 22,345 MW. Expected availability remains unchanged at 18,188 MW, widening the anticipated shortfall from 4,157 MW. Julys peak requirement has been raised by 2,910 MW to 24,330 MW, while Augusts estimate has increased by 2,985 MW to 24,300 MW. Evening shortages are projected at 5,544 MW in April, 5,592 MW in July and 5,612 MW in August. The revisions follow an unusual demand pattern this year. Tamil Nadu recorded its highest demand of 21,724 MW on July 14 and record daily consumption of 475.477 million units on July 17. Such peaks generally occur in April or May. Officials attributed the prolonged demand to the El Nios impact. Maximum demand in September 2026 reached 21,083 MW, up 14.67 per cent from 18,386 MW a year earlier. Beyond peak-hour shortages, the State expects an overall energy deficit from March 2027. The shortfall is projected at 682 million units in March and 2,394 million units in April. Julys requirement is expected to reach 15,276 million units against availability of 13,100 million units. An energy surplus is projected for October. Procurement difficulties have compounded these concerns. On October 29, Tamil Nadu cancelled a tender covering round-the-clock and peak-hour supplies between November 2026 and January 2027 after bids ranged from Rs 8.50 to Rs 35 per unit. Two days earlier, it scrapped another tender for 1,000 MW during evening hours between November 2026 and May 2027, following quotations of Rs 37-Rs 41.50 per unit. TNPDCL is banking on a tender opening November 6 for supplies between February and July, covering 750-1,200 MW during peak hours and 1,250-2,000 MW round-the-clock. The utility also plans medium and long-term purchase arrangements and expects additional generation from Udangudis second 660 MW unit and the two 660 MW units of the Ennore SEZ project to help meet next years projected electricity requirements.
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 31 (IANS) Music director Srikanth Deva, the son of late Tamil music director Deva, whose sudden demise earlier this month had sent shock waves across the Tamil film industry, has now penned a note of gratitude on behalf of his family to everyone who had honoured his late father's legacy, saying every gesture of kindness and every word of support would remain in their hearts forever. Taking to his Instagram timeline to pen the note of gratitude, the music director said, On behalf of our family, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who stood by us during this difficult time following the loss of our beloved Deva Sir. He went on to say, Our sincere thanks to all cinema celebrities, actors, directors, music directors, musicians, lyricists, singers, PROs, media channels, journalists, and every member of the media and film fraternity who came forward to pay their respects, offer condolences, and show their love and support. Srikanth Deva added, Your presence, prayers, kind words, tributes and support have given our family immense strength and comfort during this difficult time. We are deeply touched by the love and respect shown towards our beloved father. Your affection is a reflection of the wonderful relationships and memories he built throughout his remarkable journey in the film industry. The music director observed, Every gesture of kindness and every word of support will remain in our hearts forever. Thank you for honouring his legacy and standing with our family. We are forever grateful to each and every one of you. With love, respect and gratitude. For the unaware, eminent Tamil music director Deva, who had scored music for over 400 films in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam and Kannada, passed away at a private hospital in Chennai on October 17. He was 75. The news of the demise of the accomplished music director, who held the title 'Thenisai Thendral', had sent shockwaves across the Tamil film industry and plunged the entire industry into gloom. Deva, who was born on November 20 1950, is credited with having scored music for several blockbusters including Superstar Rajinikanth's 'Annamalai', 'Arunachalam' and 'Baasha'. The music director, who had made his debut in Tamil cinema in the year 1986 with the Tamil film 'Maatukaara Mannaru', was also known for having introduced the popular Gaana form of music to cinema. Deva, who composed several Gaana songs, had also sung several numbers.
CM Vijay suspends top official, orders major transfers after Tamil Nadu jailbreak
Chennai Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has ordered the suspension of the deputy jail superintendent due to security failures. This decision follows a major jailbreak incident in Theni district, where 17 prisoners escaped. The inmates staged a fake medical emergency and overpowered prison guards before their recapture. Stringent action against prison personnel highlights the government's response to security lapses.
Gold, silver prices today, 31 October: Check the latest prices and up-down movement for precious metal investors in Garden City. We also bring retail prices of 18K, 22K and 24K gold and 999 Fine silver across cities Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai.
Chola-era bronze idols of Nataraja, Sivakami unearthed at Nagapattinam
This art festival reveals why the creative economy is as much about audiences as creators
In this photo essay, we showcase more highlights from the Contemporary Now arts festival in Chennai, along with director insights.
The great escape from Theni jail
On October 26, a group of 17 remand prisoners hatched a plan to escape from the Theni district jail under the cover of darkness. All of them were apprehended within 42 hours in a massive search operation involving various Tamil Nadu police teams and drones. But the jailbreak has raised larger questions about prison overcrowding, staff shortages, security, and the need for reform, reports L. Srikrishna
PE-VC funding hit 2026 high of $8bn in Oct on mega bank deal
Veteran Tamil Actor Vatsala Rajagopal Passes Away at 93
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Veteran Tamil Actor Vatsala Rajagopal Passes Away at 93 Veteran Tamil actor Vatsala Rajagopal, known for Roja and Sathi Leelavathi, has passed away in Chennai at 93. The post Veteran Tamil Actor Vatsala Rajagopal Passes Away at 93 appeared first on DESIblitz .
Japans Omron Healthcare opens first India manufacturing facility near Chennai
Japans Omron Healthcare opens first India manufacturing facility near Chennai
Christchurch Mayor Meets Chennai Mayor
The delegation also visited the Integrated Command and Control Centre at the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) headquarters to understand the civic body's urban management systems and modern administrative practices.
Gagandeep Singh Bedi conducts review meeting of Greater Chennai Corporation
He orders officials to inspect commercial establishments that distribute one-time use plastics
Man strangles 14-year-old daughter to death
