Kodungaiyur incinerator plan faces renewed scrutiny over climate costs
A recent study questioned the carbon intensity of electricity generated by such facilities
PMK welcomes Tamil Nadu Cabinet nod for Social Justice Survey, urges early start
In a statement, PMK president Anbumani Ramadoss said the survey had been a 47-year-long aspiration of the party and was necessary to safeguard Tamil Nadus 69% reservation system
Former MLA Muthukumar surrenders in bribery case involving ex-Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi
The Supreme Court on Wednesday dismissed his anticipatory bail petition, following which he surrendered on Thursday morning
Was he arrested for exposing inflation?: Stalin slams Vijay govt over professors detention
Deputy Mayor M. Magesh Kumaar cited the protocol followed during the Prime Ministers visits, when the State government is informed in advance, to counter social media claims that the Mayor had deliberately boycotted the Chief Ministers visit to Ripon Buildings
The decision was taken at the Cabinet meeting chaired CM Vijay at the Secretariat in Chennai on Thursday
CM Vijay tells ministers to prioritise basic needs, ensure transport tenders
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 29 (IANS) Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay on Thursday directed ministers to prioritise peoples basic needs, ensure transparency in government tenders and remain committed to an administration free of corruption and commissions. Chairing a Cabinet meeting at the Secretariat in Chennai, CM Vijay emphasised that ministers should understand public grievances and focus on addressing everyday concerns, particularly drinking water shortages and inadequate road infrastructure. His instructions came during discussions on a range of issues, including industrial investment proposals, electricity supply, implementation of government schemes and the fulfilment of election promises, according to reports from the meeting. The Chief Minister outlined three priorities for his Cabinet: responding to public needs, maintaining transparency in tender procedures and ensuring integrity in ministerial functioning. He asked ministers to give precedence to matters that directly affect peoples lives. Drinking water supply and road facilities figured prominently in his directions. CM Vijay stressed that ministers should remain aware of the requirements of the public and work towards meeting essential needs. On government contracts, he called for transparent tender processes and asked ministers to exercise care in matters relating to the award of tenders. He also urged them to uphold a commitment to functioning without corruption or commissions. The Cabinet reportedly discussed proposals concerning permissions for companies planning to establish new businesses in Tamil Nadu, as well as approvals sought by existing enterprises seeking to expand their operations. Power supply was another major subject of discussion, with electricity outages bringing attention to measures aimed at strengthening supply reliability. Proposals to promote battery energy storage projects were reportedly considered as part of these deliberations. The discussions also covered steps required to implement government programmes, progress towards delivering election commitments and targets set for individual sectors. These formed part of the broader review of the administrations development priorities. Other subjects reportedly taken up included the law and order situation, the provision of land pattas to poor families through the Revenue Department and a proposed social justice survey. While reports indicated that these issues featured in the Cabinets deliberations, details of specific approvals, financial allocations and implementation schedules were not immediately available. The Chief Ministers directions placed public service and administrative accountability at the centre of the meeting, with an emphasis on ensuring that ministers respond to basic civic requirements while maintaining integrity in government decisions.
Tamil Nadu Tops Inflation Charts: Chennai
Chennai and Tamil Nadu residents are facing mounting pressure on household budgets, with several essential food commodities costing significantly more in Chennai than in Delhi, even as Tamil Nadu records the countrys highest retail inflation rate among major states. According to the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), Tamil Nadus retail inflation rose to [] The post Tamil Nadu Tops Inflation Charts: Chennais Costly Kitchen Sees Rice Nearly 70% Costlier And Potatoes More Than Double Delhi Prices appeared first on The Commune .
Indian National Racing Challenge 2W Returns to Chennai with 130 Entries
The Indian National Racing Challenge 2W is back in Chennai with 130 entries competing from October 30 to November 1, showcasing young talent. Indian National Racing Challenge 2W Returns to Chennai with 130 Entries
130 entries set for INRC 2W Round 3 in Chennai
Chennai The MRF Indian National Racing Challenge 2W 2026 returns to the Madras International Circuit (MIC) this weekend, with 130 The post 130 entries set for INRC 2W Round 3 in Chennai appeared first on Bilkul Online .
Chennais speciality coffee kiosks reshape the citys caf culture
Compact coffee counters are springing up across Chennai, taking advantage of lower rents and leaner operations. Will the friendlier prices, experimental brews and chatty baristas change how the city drinks its cappuccinos?
Anirudh Ravichander-Kavya Maran Wedding: Inside Vintage-Inspired Wedding Invite
Anirudh Ravichander and Kavya Maran's vintage-inspired wedding invite has caught attention, with designer Ranjani Iyengar revealing its making. The couple reportedly plans to wed in Greece in November, followed by a Chennai reception on November 21.
Todays Gold Rate in India October 29: Gold prices up in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru
22, 24 carat Gold prices remain steady across metro cities on October 29
Chennai Metro Misses Another Deadline As Six Arcot Road Stations Slip To March 2027
With fresh paddy arrivals at Red Hills, rice prices to stabilise soon: Tamil Nadu Food Minister
Starry wedding with a touch of Kollywood
TVK leader Christopher arrested for sexually harassing college student after offering lift
In Kanyakumari, a member of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam has been arrested for allegedly sexually harassing a college student. The student accepted a ride home, and after dropping off a friend, the accused reportedly made inappropriate advances while driving. After discussing the incident with her parents, she bravely reported it to the police, who are now investigating the case thoroughly.
Vijay opens electrical labs at 30 ITIs, 40 more planned
Stalin Accuses Vijay Government of Law and Order Collapse in Tamil Nadu
AIPTMMK president sacks Sasikala from party
Precautionary measures avert loss due to Cyclone Arnab in Yanam
Oppn boos minister for blaming household soap for river foam
Chennai to repair 678 rain-damaged roads amid mounting complaints of potholes, waterlogging
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 29 (IANS) Rain-battered roads across Chennai are set for renovation, with Rs 130.19 crore allocated to repair 678 roads amid mounting complaints from motorists over potholes, damaged surfaces and waterlogging that makes daily travel hazardous. Tenders have been invited to improve roads covering 148.10 kilometres across the Greater Chennai Corporations 15 zones under the Chief Ministers Urban Development Scheme. Renovation work will begin once the tender process is completed and contracts are finalised, according to the announcement. The proposed works come as continuing rain has exposed the extent of damage to the citys road network. Corporation statistics indicate that potholes have developed at 8,110 locations, with repair work reportedly underway at 5,350 of them. For motorists, particularly two-wheeler riders, the deterioration has made navigating several stretches difficult. Rainwater collecting on damaged roads conceals potholes, leaving road users unable to judge their depth or avoid them safely. Residents have sought early repairs, pointing to the difficulties posed by uneven surfaces and water-filled depressions. The demand for restoration has gained urgency during the rainy spell, when submerged potholes become harder to identify. The corporation maintains more than 30,000 roads, including major thoroughfares, bus routes and neighbourhood streets. Damage across these different categories affects both traffic movement on busy corridors and access within residential areas. The announced renovation programme covers 678 roads. Details provided about the proposed works include repairs to 595 bituminous roads and 58 cement roads. The overall package spans all 15 zones, extending the planned improvements across the city. The allocation is intended to restore damaged stretches through a tender-based programme. However, the announcement links the commencement of renovation to the completion of procurement formalities and the award of contracts, without specifying a starting date. Meanwhile, the corporations reported pothole repair work remains significant for commuters using affected roads during the rain. The figures indicate that repairs are underway at a substantial number of identified locations, although they do not establish how many have been completed. With rainwater continuing to obscure damaged surfaces, residents immediate concern remains safe passage through affected stretches. The forthcoming road renovation programme will address a wider network of damaged roads, while the pace of ongoing pothole repairs will determine how quickly motorists experience relief from the difficulties described across the city during the current rainy spell.
Anirudh Ravichander, Kavya Marans Wedding Invitation Goes Viral?
The wedding is reportedly scheduled to take place in Greece on November 10 or 11, 2026, while the reception is expected to be held in Chennai on November 21.
DMK seeks Presidential reference to SC on SIR deletions
TN govt engages CSIR, NGRI for seismic study of Mullaperiyar dam
Stalin targets TVK over raids, says Vijay masking law and order collapse
Chennais Alliance Franaise to host dark comedy Necks and Glasses
How much do you know about serial killers? And how much should we? Catch Necks and Glasses, a dark comedy play in which a killer narrates his story to the audience through a monologue
AIADMKs poll setbacks, internal rebellion loom over Nov 1 district secretaries meet
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 29 (IANS) AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami has convened a meeting of district secretaries on November 1 amid mounting pressure over the partys defeat in the 2026 Assembly elections, fresh bypoll setbacks and an unresolved rebellion involving senior leaders. Although no agenda has been announced, the meeting assumes significance as the partys general council and executive committee must be convened by December. Discussions could indicate how the leadership intends to address demands for an organisational review and an assessment of successive electoral failures. The November 1 gathering will be the first meeting of district secretaries since the AIADMK finished third in the Madurantakam and Dharapuram Assembly bypolls earlier this month. The losses were particularly damaging because the party had won both constituencies in the April Assembly elections. Those reverses compounded the disappointment of the Assembly polls, in which the AIADMK secured only 47 seats and failed to return to power. Its subsequent inability to retain the two constituencies has intensified dissent and renewed questions within the organisation about its electoral strategy and leadership. Senior functionaries, including former Ministers C.Ve. Shanmugam and S.P. Velumani, have been pressing for meetings of the partys decision-making bodies to discuss its continued defeats. Their demands have acquired greater significance following the latest results, with dissatisfied leaders stepping up consultations. The internal crisis erupted after the Assembly elections, when a group of 25 AIADMK legislators defied the leadership and supported the TVK government during the confidence vote in May. Palaniswami subsequently removed several dissenting leaders from organisational positions and appointed replacements to influential district posts. Although some senior leaders later received other responsibilities, their former district secretary positions were not restored. Velumani, for instance, was appointed deputy general secretary but did not regain control of the Coimbatore suburban south district unit. The changes left the dispute over district-level influence unresolved. The factional divide also surfaced during the bypoll campaign, with Shanmugam, Velumani and former minister P. Thangamani absent from the partys star-campaigner list. Their exclusion underscored the continuing differences between the leadership and dissident camp ahead of a crucial electoral test. Against this backdrop, attention will centre on whether Sundays meeting opens the way for a substantive review of the defeats and preparations for the general council. Any decisions on organisational responsibilities or reconciliation could shape the partys immediate response to its electoral and internal challenges.
Shekhar Ravjiani says next chapter will have double the effort, double the mehnat: 50, here I come
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 29 (IANS) Music composer and singer Shekhar Ravjiani is all set to enter a new chapter of his life as he prepares to turn 50 next month. Turning to Instagram, Shekhar expressed gratitude as he reflected on his journey and to everyone who has stood by him over the years. She said he is looking forward to creating, learning, growing and living with renewed hunger and enthusiasm. Turning to the caption section, he wrote: Crazy to think that a month from now, I hit the half-century mark. To everyone who has showered me with love, stood by me, and genuinely cared along the way, Thank you! Youve made these years special in more ways than you know. These 50 years have been a great warm-up. The lessons, the highs, the lows, the music, the people, the love .all of it has brought me here. And now for the next chapter double the effort, double the mehnat, and an even greater hunger to create, learn, grow and live.Health is good. Mind is good. Heart is great. 50, here I come. Lets go!! Shekhar became a part of the duo VishalShekhar. The duo produced many Bollywood songs, and they were judges at Sa Re Ga Ma Pa in 2007 and 2010. He has sung the tracks Tujhe Bhula Diya, Bin Tere and Meherbaan. On the work front, Shekhar initially worked in advertising and composed jingles before entering the Hindi film industry. He participated in the singing reality show Sa Re Ga Ma Pa in 1997, and later eventually joined hands with Vishal Dadlani to form Vishal-Shekhar. The duo made their film debut with Pyaar Mein Kabhi Kabhi in 1999, and went on to become one of the prominent music-composing teams in Hindi cinema, working on films including Jhankaar Beats, Dus, Bluffmaster, Om Shanti Om, Bachna Ae Haseeno, Dostana, Chennai Express, Bang Bang!, Sultan, Tiger Zinda Hai, War and Pathaan, amongst many others. Shekhar has also established himself as a playback singer, with songs such as Tujhe Bhula Diya, Bin Tere, Meherbaan and Zehnaseeb among his popular tracks.
Rs 634 crore cash-for-jobs scam: DVAC raids 25 locations linked to DMKs KN Nehru
New Weather System in Bay of Bengal May Bring Heavy Rain to Chennai on November 1-2
A new weather system in the Bay of Bengal could bring heavy rainfall to Chennai on November 1-2, with uncertainty surrounding its intensity and path. New Weather System in Bay of Bengal May Bring Heavy Rain to Chennai on November 1-2
Sainath, Chandra in Indian Disabled Cricket Team
Sainath and Chandrabhan earned national recognition through their selection to represent India in the Physical Disability Cricket Tournament against Sri Lanka, scheduled to be held in Chennai from Saturday to November 2
WRD steps up estuary dredging to improve flood water discharge during monsoon
Given Kavya Maran's association with the Indian Premier League franchise Sunrisers Hyderabad, the reception could also see guests from the cricketing fraternity
Gold prices extended their decline on October 29, with Comex gold slipping to $4,051 per ounce in early trade. In India, 24K gold stood at Rs 1,44,000 per 10 grams, while silver was priced at Rs 1,94,990 per kg.
CPM Leader Alleges Unlawful Detention Of Economist A Kalaiyarasan In Chennai
The CPM leader called the alleged treatment of the academic intolerable and questioned whether Tamil Nadu was turning into a police state.
TVS Motor Company to demerge consumer finance business
CD Mani arrested for threatening to kill prison warder
Police said Mani is a history-sheeter listed at the Teynampet police station
Persons with disabilities can now travel for free in government buses with UDID card
Premium FSI increase under consideration, says CMDA
The official said that they were mulling raising the permissible limit, potentially to five or above, but no approval had been given
Chennai Metro Rail misses deadline yet again, 6 stations on Arcot Road to open in March 2027
An official says the construction will be completed in January and signalling work will take another two months. A source, however, says it will be difficult to complete signalling work even by March
Four arrested for cheating people of 1.92 crore by promising TNHB flats
Murder-for-hire ad scribbled on Chennai bus lands rowdy in jail
Tamil Nadu News: Congress MP Tilak Targets Vijay | 17 Theni Jail Escapees Caught
In todays edition of The Tamil Nadu Brief by NDTVs Sam Daniel, chilling videos of a murder in Chennais Adyar and a machete attack and robbery in Royapettah raise questions over public safety. Separately, Congress MP Christopher Tilak targets Chief Minister Vijay over Tamil Nadus law and order situation, urging him to focus on policing as he holds the Home portfolio. The DMK too steps up its criticism of the TVK government. In Theni, all 17 undertrial prisoners who escaped from sub-jail have been arrested, triggering a statewide prison security audit and plans for armed guards at watchtowers. Plus, 3,000 students and volunteers join a colourful Beggar Free India campaign in Erode.
Cops whisk away, humiliate economist over fake social media post
Tamil Nadu Orders Prison Security Audit After Theni Jailbreak Exposes Lapses
Chennai Metro Phase II: How Hitachi Rail's 1,620 crore contract will power driverless trains
Hitachi Rail's CBTC system automatically manages train movement, including acceleration and braking. It also calculates suitable operating speeds in real time, allowing trains to run at intervals of up to 90 seconds.
Tamil Nadu Forest Department Forms Eco-Committees to Protect Vedanthangal
Freshworks acquires IT incident platform Robusta Dev
TN allows MLAs to fund anganwadi centres under MLACDS
Diwali 2026: Tamil Nadu govt announces one more holiday
DMK councillor arrested over controversial remark on Karur stampede
In a video that went viral on social media, the councillor was heard saying, If we had finished him off at Karur on that day, we wouldnt be in this situation today. The remark was allegedly directed at Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, in an apparent reference to the stampede in Karur
DMK seeks President Droupadi Murmu's intervention over SIR, demands action against CEC
Sundram Fasteners Q2 consolidated profit up 13%
Former Tamil Nadu minister Anbil Mahesh seeks bail; CCB demands his custody
Dy Chief Whip attends legislators programme at Mahabalipuram
Shillong, Oct 28: Meghalaya Assembly Deputy Chief Whip Ronnie V Lyngdoh attended the concluding session of the two-day Legislators Leadership programme, which concluded on Wednesday at Mahabalipuram, Chennai. Organised by the Tamil Nadu Speakers Office in collaboration with Meghalaya Legislative Research Forum, the programme brought together legislators for expert sessions on constitutional values, legislative duties, [] The post Dy Chief Whip attends legislators programme at Mahabalipuram first appeared on Highland Post .
DMK demands judicial probe into Theni jailbreak and dismissal of minister Nirmal Kumar
Right to protest is freedom of expression, says Madras HC; allows agitation at graveyard
Case against Sekarbabu, MP and eight others
Man hacks to death rowdy in drunken brawl, arrested
An argument broke out between the accused and the victim when they were in an inebriated state, which then escalated into a dispute. Enraged by this, The accused brutally hacked the victim with a knife, who died on the spot
Following Coimbatore students death, schools told to clampdown on caste conversations on campus
L&T begins expansion of Chennai AI infrastructure campus with 52 MW data centre
New facility adds to existing, operational 30 MW centre as Vyoma.AI targets over 250 MW of data centre capacity across India
Protests Erupt in Tamil Nadu Following Arrest of Former Minister Anbil Mahesh
Protests in Chennai after the arrest of former minister Anbil Mahesh lead to police action against two DMK leaders for obstructing officials. Protests Erupt in Tamil Nadu Following Arrest of Former Minister Anbil Mahesh
Chennai History-Sheeter Hacked to Death in Broad Daylight in Adyar
The deceased, V. Maithreyan of Mylapore, was returning to a relatives house in Thiruvanmiyur after appearing at the Mylapore police station
Everyone Was Shocked: Du Plessis Recalls Smith Replacing Dhoni As RPS Captain
Faf Du Plessis: Former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis said everyone in the Rising Pune Supergiants (RPS) dressing room was shocked on hearing that MS Dhoni was removed as the sides captain and replaced by premier Australian batter Steve Smith ahead of the 2017 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Du Plessis, who was in the squad then, also said Smith handled the role admirably despite being new to leadership. Dhoni was stripped of the RPS captaincy before the 2017 IPL season began. It was a decision taken by the franchise owner, Sanjiv Goenka, at that time. Smith, who was early in his Australian captaincy career, took charge with Dhoni playing under him, and guided the Pune-based franchise to the 2017 IPL final, where they lost to Mumbai Indians by one run. It was also RPS's last game of the tournament. MS Dhoni was removed as captain of Rising Pune Supergiants after the end of the 2016 IPL season, and thats the biggest move you can make in a tournament of that stature. We hadnt won a couple of games, and the owner at the time made the decision to change the captain. Everyone was shocked after that call. MS Dhoni as captain was gone, and Steve Smith was the new captain. That was pretty early on in his leadership career. He wasnt experienced, but he did a good job. It was tough having MS Dhoni as your number two there, especially after hed just been removed as captain. Smith led the team to the final, and we lost that final, which we should have won. We were that close. Winning that final would have made Smith an IPL-winning captain in just one season of captaincy. That says a lot about him, du Plessis said on Cricinfos Cricketers on Cricketers show. RPS and Gujarat Lions were brought in as stand-in franchises for two seasons after Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) were suspended over their team officials' involvement in illegal betting, following the 2013 IPL spot-fixing and betting scandal. Smith led the team to the final, and we lost that final, which we should have won. We were that close. Winning that final would have made Smith an IPL-winning captain in just one season of captaincy. That says a lot about him, du Plessis said on Cricinfos Cricketers on Cricketers show. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Veteran civil servant Syed Munir Hoda passes away at 76
In a career spanning over 35 years, he held various positions, including Member-Secretary of the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority and Transport, Health and Home Secretary
CM Vijay to present Rs 17 cr reward to honour Tamil Nadu's para athletes on Thursday
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 28 (IANS) Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay will present prizes worth Rs 17 crore to winners of the Chief Ministers Trophy competitions on Thursday at a ceremony that will also honour Tamil Nadus medal-winning athletes from the Para Asian Games in Japan. The event, scheduled from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Chennai, will bring together sporting achievers from the state-level competitions and the international arena. Sports Development Minister Aadhav Arjuna announced that the Chief Minister would meet and congratulate the para-athletes during the felicitation programme at the Nehru Indoor Stadium complex. Their recognition will form part of the ceremony alongside the distribution of prizes to the trophy winners. Tamil Nadus contingent returned from Japan with 15 medals, comprising three gold, five silver and seven bronze. Of the 13 athletes who represented the state at the Games, nine finished among the medallists, giving the contingent a strong showing at the competition. The medal tally reflects success across all three podium positions. Bronze medals accounted for the largest share of Tamil Nadus haul, followed by silver and gold. With nine athletes contributing to the total, more than two-thirds of the state's participants secured medals. Thursdays programme will recognise these performances while also celebrating the achievements of athletes competing closer to home. The ceremony places the states para-sport medallists alongside winners emerging from the Chief Ministers Trophy competitions. The trophy competitions began on October 15 and are being conducted across Tamil Nadu in 45 sports. Around 32,000 athletes are participating, highlighting the scale of the sporting programme and its reach across a wide range of disciplines. The Rs 17 crore in prizes will be distributed to winners of these competitions. The presentation will mark an occasion for the state to acknowledge their performances and encourage sporting talent through recognition of competitive achievement. By including both sets of achievers in the programme, the government is bringing attention to participation in State competitions as well as medal-winning performances overseas. The ceremony forms part of Tamil Nadus efforts to promote sporting talent and recognise excellence across disciplines. For the para-athletes who competed in Japan, the event will provide an opportunity to meet the chief minister and receive recognition for their contribution to the states 15-medal tally at the Games.
Cyclone Arnab: 12 flights between Chennai and Andhra Pradesh cities cancelled
Korean webtoons and Bengali tales find their way to Tamil audiences
In this edition of Tubewatch, we look at Love Always, a Hotstar Specials Tamil original series based on the Korean webtoon Here We Go Again, some Bengali titles, and a new 13-episode game show that seeks to make Thirukkural engaging for younger audiences
Tamil Nadu environment minister blames household soaps for river foam; TTV Dhinakaran hits back
Stalin Condemns Daylight Murder of Youth in Chennai, Slams TVK Govt
Sharing a news clip of the incident on social media, Stalin alleged that the current administration has left public spaces completely unsafe
Meet the Chennai children who travelled to London and returned with six Guinness records
Former DMK Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi seeks bail in alleged 100-crore bribery case
He also challenged his arrest, alleging non-compliance with mandatory arrest procedures
Former DMK Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi seeks bail in alleged 100-crore bribery case
He also challenged his arrest, alleging non-compliance with mandatory arrest procedures
Todays Gold Rate, October 2: Check gold rates in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai
22, 24 carat Gold prices up across metro cities on October 2
Todays Gold Rate: Gold prices up in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru
22, 24 carat Gold prices up across metro cities on October 28
Todays Gold Rate, Octobet 17: Check gold rates in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai
22, 24 carat Gold prices up across metro cities on October 17
Ranjani Iyengar of Pink Whistle Man has revealed the creative process behind Anirudh Ravichander and Kavya Marans wedding invitation. The handcrafted wooden keepsake box features intricate carvings, hand-painted details and an understated white-and-blue palette chosen by the couple. Their wedding celebrations are reportedly planned in Greece on November 10 and 11, followed by a Chennai reception on November 21, with prominent political, business and entertainment guests expected.
TN govt revises auto-rickshaw fares, fixes minimum charge at Rs 50
Chennai The Tamil Nadu government has revised auto-rickshaw fares for the Chennai Metropolitan Area and other parts of the state, The post TN govt revises auto-rickshaw fares, fixes minimum charge at Rs 50 appeared first on Bilkul Online .
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 28 (IANS) Vellore DMK councillor Teeta Saravanan was arrested by Puzhal police in Tamil Nadu's Villupuram on Wednesday for allegedly making threatening remarks against Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, while referring to the 2025 Karur stampede. A special police team apprehended him at the residence of ACK Premkumar, deputy organiser of the DMKs Central District Youth Wing in Villupuram. Premkumar was also arrested for allegedly sheltering the councillor, who had been the subject of a police search following his remarks. The arrests followed the circulation of a video purportedly showing Saravanan making the comments outside Puzhal Central Prison. His reference to the Karur tragedy, in remarks directed at the Chief Minister, drew widespread criticism and prompted police to identify him and initiate action. The incident occurred when former School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi was brought to the prison after his arrest in a case involving bribery allegations. DMK supporters had gathered outside the prison and were raising slogans against the Tamil Nadu government. During the gathering, Saravanan allegedly said: If only we had finished him off back in Karur, would things have reached this state? He reportedly repeated the remark to another person standing nearby. The comments were subsequently circulated on social media, bringing the Councillors conduct under scrutiny. Puzhal police registered a case against Saravanan under four sections, including provisions relating to obstructing public servants from discharging their duties, intimidation and disturbing public peace. Three special teams were constituted to locate him after he allegedly went into hiding. According to the report, Saravanan attempted to mislead the authorities by claiming that he was travelling to Bengaluru. However, police eventually traced him to Premkumars residence in Villupuram, where the special team took him into custody. Premkumars arrest was linked to the allegation that he had provided shelter to Saravanan during the search. The report identified him as a functionary of the partys youth wing in Villupurams Central District. The police action centres on Saravanans alleged remarks outside the prison and the offences registered in connection with them. The video formed the backdrop to the subsequent police search.
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 28 (IANS) PMK leader Dr Anbumani Ramadoss has urged the Tamil Nadu government to release funds in advance every month for the Vettri Payanam free bus travel scheme, warning that transport corporations are struggling to meet essential operating expenses. In a statement, he alleged that delayed compensation for the expanded scheme had left the corporations facing a revenue shortfall of about Rs 25 crore, affecting purchases of diesel, tyres and spare parts. Anbumani said daily operating receipts, excluding government subsidies, had fallen from an average of Rs 21 crore to between Rs 7 crore and Rs 8 crore. Citing trade unions, he said total daily income, including subsidies for other schemes, had declined from Rs 47 crore to Rs 22 crore. The expanded Vettri Payanam scheme was launched on October 2, widening the free travel facility previously offered under the DMK governments Vidiyal Payanam programme. According to figures cited by Anbumani, the earlier programme covered 7,714 city buses, while the expanded scheme now enables about 84.32 lakh women to travel daily on 12,695 buses. He said the corporations operated 19,283 buses across the state. Compensation for the earlier scheme was estimated at Rs 3,599 crore last year and increased to Rs 3,999 crore this year, he said. The expansion had raised the estimated daily revenue foregone from around Rs 10 crore to Rs 25 crore, he added. Highlighting the immediate funding gap, Anbumani said the corporations spent Rs 16.17 crore daily on diesel and Rs 2.35 crore on maintenance, totalling Rs 18.52 crore. Daily fare collections of around Rs 8 crore were insufficient to cover these expenses, he argued. He further claimed that the corporations had accumulated Rs 150 crore in dues to oil companies since the expanded scheme began. Buying diesel on credit over the past 25 days had also cost them approximately Rs 3 crore in foregone discounts, he said, citing a two per cent concession for cash payments. The shortage of funds was forcing operators to use retreaded tyres and previously used spare parts, he alleged. Warning that continued financial strain could bring transport operations to a standstill, Anbumani reiterated that advance monthly funding was essential to sustain the free travel scheme and ensure uninterrupted bus services. He urged immediate government intervention to address the cash shortage.
Tamil Nadu Revises Auto-Rickshaw Fares: Minimum Charge Set at Rs 50 for First 1.8 Kilometres
The Tamil Nadu government has issued a formal notification revising the fare structure for contract carriage auto-rickshaws operating across the Chennai Metropolitan Area and other regions throughout the state. Under the updated guidelines issued by Principal Secretary A. Karthik under Section 67(1) of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, the minimum fare has been fixed at [] The post Tamil Nadu Revises Auto-Rickshaw Fares: Minimum Charge Set at Rs 50 for First 1.8 Kilometres appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
No Batting Coach For CSK In IPL 2027
Chennai Super Kings will not have a batting coach for IPL 2027, following an overhaul of their coaching staff after recent disappointing results.
All about Anirudh-Kavya's wedding: Greece vows, Chennai party and PM Modi as guest
All about Anirudh-Kavya's wedding: Greece vows, Chennai party and PM Modi as guest
TVK eyes 85 pc local body seats to strengthen grassroots link; allies seek greater share
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 28 (IANS) Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijays Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) is preparing to contest the local body elections, with its leadership seeking around 85 per cent of seats and proposing to leave the remaining 15 per cent to its allies, according to party functionaries. The elections, likely to be in January 2027, are being viewed within the party as a test of its grassroots strength, particularly in rural areas, and its ability to draw support from women, workers, young people and other sections of the electorate. However, the proposed allocation could pose a challenge during seat-sharing negotiations. Allies, including Congress and the Muslim League, are expecting a larger share of seats and opportunities to secure mayoral positions, the functionaries said. Some alliance partners are also considering demands for control of certain municipal corporations and municipalities. TVK, meanwhile, wants to retain control of all municipal corporations, making the distribution of leadership positions another potentially contentious issue. Senior party leaders and ministers are expected to hold discussions with the allies to persuade them to accept the proposed 15 per cent allocation. The partners, citing their support for TVKs rise to power, are determined to press for greater representation. Alongside the alliance negotiations, TVK has begun identifying candidates capable of taking on the networks of the DMK and AIADMK. Party functionaries said ministers, legislators and district secretaries would lead election preparations. Information is being gathered on constituencies where TVK has strong prospects, with local influence and sustained public engagement expected to guide candidate selection. Positions in corporations, municipalities and panchayats are considered crucial to the partys future expansion. The leadership believes a stronger presence in these institutions would help consolidate its organisation and strengthen connections with communities. Preference is expected to be given to people who have worked for the party and those with an established support base in their localities. Functionaries acknowledged that CM Vijays popularity alone might not be sufficient to secure victory in elections where candidates accessibility and relationships with residents carry weight. The party therefore intends to field candidates who maintain direct contact with people in rural and urban neighbourhoods and understand local concerns. Its preparations reflect an effort to combine CM Vijays appeal with locally influential candidates, while managing allies expectations over seats and civic leadership posts. The proposed seat-sharing formula remains subject to discussions with alliance partners.
Battery storage policy, industrial proposals likely on TN cabinet agenda tomorrow
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 28 (IANS) A policy aimed at strengthening Tamil Nadus renewable energy storage infrastructure is likely to come before the state Cabinet when it meets under Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay at the Secretariat on Thursday. Industrial proposals and administrative decisions are also expected to figure in the governments third Cabinet meeting. The discussions assume significance amid the intensifying northeast monsoon, with authorities working to tackle power outages and maintain electricity supply across the state. The proposed Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) policy would promote facilities capable of storing renewable electricity for use when required. Officials said battery storage could help cushion fluctuations in solar and wind power generation, enabling the electricity network to deliver a more dependable supply. Prepared with support from a consultancy firm, the draft has undergone several revisions over five months. A senior TNEB official said the utility studied policies introduced in Gujarat, Rajasthan and other major states before making changes to the proposed framework. While the proposal has been submitted for Cabinet consideration, officials said approval had not been confirmed. Another senior official said consultations had been held with solar and wind power developers on the policy and its implementation. Once introduced, it would facilitate applications for new renewable energy projects, the official added. Tamil Nadus expanding renewable energy capacity has sharpened the need for storage infrastructure. Solar and wind generation depend on weather conditions, making it necessary to balance their contribution to the grid with electricity demand. Welcoming the proposed policy, Renewable Energy producers sought changes to ease the financial burden on developers. A member of the association, Kumardas, suggested that the state consult the Union government on allowing duty-free imports of BESS equipment, citing the high cost of battery systems and the limited availability of such infrastructure in India. Seeking relief for smaller developers, he proposed exempting solar installations of 5 MW or less from compulsory BESS provisions. He said their daytime output would ordinarily be consumed during the same period, offering limited scope for storing electricity. Beyond energy and investment, ministers are likely to discuss law and order against the backdrop of the Theni district jailbreak. The proposal to establish a new Secretariat at Foreshore Estate, which has encountered stiff opposition, could also be taken up during Thursdays meeting.
When DMK flexed its muscle during Indira Gandhis visit to Tamil Nadu in 1977
On October 29, 1977, when Indira Gandhi visited Madurai, the DMK members, who were staging blackflag protests, threw stones, sticks at the former Prime Minister; in Chennai, two persons were killed when the police opened fire at the protesters who turned violent on Mount Road
The Madras Gate at Pondicherry
A look back at the once-powerful fort of St. Louis in Pondicherry, which had been the French answer to Madras Fort St. George
