Ajith Kumar's next film 'Dare Devil' to go on floors from November 2
Digital Desk | Chennai, Sep 16 (IANS) Director Adhik Ravichandran, who is directing actor Ajith Kumar's upcoming Tamil film titled 'Dare Devil', on Wednesday announced that shooting for the film will commence from November 2 this year. Taking to his X timeline to share the update on the film, a day before his birthday on Thursday, the young director, who is known to be a fan of actor Ajith Kumar, wrote, My Sirs Advance Birthday Gift to me. Yes, we are rolling the dice from November 2. #AK sirs #DareDevil. #Shalini mam @Braveheartsprod @anirudhofficial sir @SureshChandraa sir @AbinandhanR @editorvijay @supremesundar #Subbhunaarayan @itsanuvardhan @kayoas13 @valentino_suren @AMBANINSK. The director also shared a brand new poster of the film on the occasion that confirmed that Ajith Kumar would be playing the character of Dare Devil in the film. The new poster featured Ajith Kumar seated on a chair, sporting a serious look and having dice in his hand. Interestingly, the film is being produced by Ajith Kumar's wife Shalini Ajith Kumar under the banner of Brave Hearts Production. 'Dare Devil', which is being eagerly awaited by Ajith's fans, boasts of a sound technical team. The film will have music by one of India's top music directors Anirudh Ravichander. Cinematography for the film is to be handled by Adhik Ravichandran's trusted cameraman Abhinandan Ramanujam, who had also been the Director of Photography for the director's earlier film with Ajith Kumar, 'Good Bad Ugly'. Similarly, editing for this film too is to be handled by Vijay Velukutty, who had also served as the editor in Adhik Ravichandran's 'Good Bad Ugly'. Stunts for 'Dare Devil' are to be choreographed by well known stunt choreographer Supreme Sundar. Dances in the film are to be choreographed by the immensely popular Kalyan Master. The responsibility of designing costumes for the film has been entrusted to Anu Vardhan while sound design will be handled by Suren.
A sea-facing life in Chennai: Murugavel Janakiraman, founder and CEO of Matrimony.com
Privatise Chennai airport at earliest, air passengers say
GRT Jewellers launches 431 crore open offer for remaining TBZ stake
The Chennai-based jeweller is expanding its footprint as it moves to consolidate ownership of the legacy jewellery brand and enter northern markets.
One National Park: Bringing Businesses Closer to Chennais Talent Ecosystem
Chennai Corporation collects 6.60 lakh in fines from 20 Bulk Waste Generators for violations
Under the rules, buildings with a built-up area of 20,000 sq.m. or more, institutions consuming at least 40,000 litres of water a day or establishments generating 100 kg or more of solid waste daily are classified as BWGs
Chennai Port sets record for highest single-day pig iron exports
The latest shipment surpassed the ports previous single-day record of 13,208 tonnes handled on July 30, 2026
DRA invests 159 crore to acquire land parcel in South Chennai; plans premium residential development
The estimated gross development value will be around 1,200 crore
Anna Theatre: another cinema landmark in Chennai bites the dust
Anna was a standalone theatre with minimal seating, perhaps around 300, a contrast to the tent-poles that Alankar and Wellington obviously were
Digital Desk | Chennai, Sep 16 (IANS) Director Ashwath Marimuthu, who is now directing Tamil superstar Rajinikanth's next film 'Dharman', on Wednesday shared that he was back with Superstar Rajinikanth for the third schedule of the film. Taking to his X timeline to share a BTS clip of Rajinikanth and Raashi Khanna shooting for the film, director Ashwath Marimuthu wrote, Back with Thalaivar for Dharman 3rd schedule #superstar @RKFI. The video clip he posted showed Rajinikanth, seated with his back facing the camera, having a conversation with Raashi Khanna. It may be recalled that the unit of the film had wrapped up its second schedule of shooting only on September 4 this year. Raaj Kamal Films International, the production house of veteran actor and parliamentarian Kamal Haasan, had taken to its social media timelines to drop the update with a video clip. It had said, Dharman 2nd Schedule Wrapped. Swag Mode: ON. One of the scenes in the video clip released showed Rajinikanth as a senior medical faculty lecturing junior doctors. For the unaware, the unit had begun the second schedule of the film on August 13 this year. The makers, at the time of announcing the commencement of the second schedule, had said, The deadly doctor. #Dharman Schedule 2 Begins, and this one's legendary. #KettaPaiyanSir. #SuperstarRajinikanth #KamalHaasan. The film has triggered huge excitement among fans ever since the makers announced the project. In June this year, the makers had dropped a making video that showed how the team had arrived at Superstar Rajinikanth's look in the film. Taking to his X timeline, director Ashwath Marimuthu shared a brand new poster of Rajinikanth from the film and wrote, We heard you !! Ithan hair styleu (This is the hair style)!! Ithan looku (This is the look)! Sexy work @kabilanchelliah. Earlier, Raaj Kamal Films International, the production house of actor Kamal Haasan which is producing this film, shared a glimpse video and wrote, THE OG SWAG. #Dharman. The Making of the First Look. The video featured a shot of the accessories that were kept for Rajini to choose from. It also showed director Aswath showing the exact pose in which he wanted the Superstar to stand. The video also showed Kamal Haasan accompanying Rajinikanth and the two legends of Tamil cinema exchanging pleasantries. For the unaware, Rajinikanth plays a doctor who takes on criminals in Dharman. Actor, producer and parliamentarian Kamal Haasan, while announcing the title of the film, had said, Dharmame vellum! (Only Dharma will win) #Dharman #Thalaivar173 #SuperstarRajinikanth @rajinikanth #Mahendran @Dir_Ashwath @anirudhofficial @anbariv @RKFI @turmericmediaTM @magizhmandram. The title poster of the film that was released on the occasion showed Rajinikanth in an operation theatre in a hospital holding a scalpel, even as he seemed to have one leg placed over the body of a slain rowdy sheeter. The film is to have music by Anirudh. Cinematography for the film is by Niketh Bommi and editing will be by Pradeep E Raghav. Stunts in the film are being choreographed by National Award winning duo Anbariv. The film is being produced by Kamal Haasan and R Mahendran and co-produced by S Disney.
Tamil Nadu Ex-School Education Minister Charged In Rs 100-Crore Bribery Case
The Central Crime Branch of the Chennai Police, which conducted the searches, charged Anbil Mahesh under provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act.
Yuvan Shankar Raja interview: On his first symphonic concert featuring his background scores
Ahead of his upcoming Chennai concert Walking Through the Rainbow, Yuvan Shankar Raja talks about bringing his film scores to the symphony stage, composing background music without words, his father Ilaiyaraajas influence and why sometimes the best way out of a creative block is dessert.
Guwahati, September 16: Filmmaker Rima Das acclaimed feature Village Rockstars 2 is set for a nationwide release on September 25, bringing the award-winning Assamese film to audiences in Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad and Pune. The announcement follows its earlier theatrical run in Assam and its screening at MAMI Independent. A continuation of Das 2017... The post Assam Filmmaker Rima Das Village Rockstars 2 to Release Nationwide on September 25 first appeared on Northeast Today .
DRA buys 10-acre Chennai land parcel for Rs 159 crore to develop housing project
Realty firm DRA has acquired a ten-acre land parcel in Chennai for Rs 159 crore. This acquisition is part of the company's expansion plans and will develop a housing project. The new project is estimated to generate revenue potential of Rs 1,200 crore. The company has developed many real estate projects over the past forty years. Realty firms are acquiring land for housing projects amid strong demand for homes.
Sridevi's Chennai Property Case Lands In Top Court, Kapoors' Claim Contested
The petitioner has challenged a Madras High Court order that had dismissed her suit against Sridevi's husband Boney Kapoor and their daughters Janhvi Kapoor and Khushi Kapoor.
Reclaiming porombokke: Who gets to shape the commons?
Join a diverse group of practitioners and community voices in Chennai to explore porombokke the shared spaces, knowledge and cultural resources that shape everyday life, and who gets a say in their future.
Delhi To Varanasi In Under 4 Hours: India's High-Speed Rail Blueprint Takes Shape
Proposed high-speed rail corridors could significantly cut travel times across India, reducing the Delhi-Varanasi journey to 3 hours 50 minutes, Varanasi-Siliguri to 2 hours 55 minutes, Chennai-Bengaluru to 1 hour 13 minutes, and Mumbai-Pune to just 48 minutes.
India's Data Centre development pipeline through 2030 reaches 3,860 MW
India's data centre pipeline is projected to reach 3,860 MW by 2030. This expansion requires nearly $29.9 billion in development capital for the country. APAC data centre capacity will grow 2.7 times by 2030. Mumbai leads with 890 MW operational capacity and significant upcoming supply. Other markets like Hyderabad and Chennai are also seeing substantial development.
Raids on Anbil Mahesh pure political Vendetta to mask govt's critical failures: MK Stalin
Fishermen Raise Concern Over Mass Idol Immersion in North Chennai
The Tamil Nadu Fishermen Trade Union Federation highlighted the concern over protecting turtle nesting sites and coastal ecosystems- threatens to redirect thousands of idols directly to beaches in north Chennai
I am a TamPunj and would not live anywhere else but Chennai
Udhayanidhi Stalin panel paralysed: Staff crunch hits autonomy report drafting
Chennais Smart City Experiment Good in Parts
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Chennai CCB Raids Former TN Minister Anbil Maheshs Residence
The allegations include an alleged Rs 888 crore cash-for-jobs scam, in which money was allegedly collected from candidates in exchange for government jobs
TVK govt to launch expanded Kamaraj breakfast scheme on September 22
Digital Desk | Chennai, Sep 16 (IANS) The Tamil Nadu government will launch the expanded Perunthalaivar Kamaraj Breakfast Scheme for students of Classes 6 to 8 on September 22, following the postponement of the programme that was originally scheduled for Thursday. Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay will inaugurate the expanded scheme after returning from his official visit to London, where he is holding meetings aimed at attracting fresh investments to Tamil Nadu. The programme was initially scheduled to be launched on Thursday, coinciding with the birth anniversary of social reformer Periyar. However, the government deferred the inauguration as the Chief Minister was unavailable due to his overseas visit. Social Welfare Secretary Pallavi Baldev has written to all District Collectors informing them about the revised launch date and directing the administrations to make the necessary arrangements for implementing the programme. The scheme will be introduced across Tamil Nadu, except in Chengalpattu and Tiruppur districts, where Assembly by-elections are currently underway. The exclusion of the two districts is understood to be linked to the Model Code of Conduct in force for the elections. After the TVK government assumed office, the Chief Ministers Breakfast Scheme was renamed the Perunthalaivar Kamaraj Breakfast Scheme in honour of former Chief Minister K. Kamaraj, who played a pioneering role in expanding school education and introducing welfare measures for students in Tamil Nadu. The breakfast programme, which had initially covered children studying in primary classes at government schools, is now being extended to students from Classes 6 to 8. The expansion is expected to benefit a large number of pupils, particularly those belonging to economically disadvantaged families. The government believes that providing nutritious breakfast to students before classes begin will improve attendance, reduce classroom hunger and help children concentrate better on their studies. Officials have been instructed to ensure proper coordination among the Social Welfare Department, School Education Department, local bodies and school administrations. District Collectors are expected to supervise preparations, including the identification of beneficiaries, supply of food materials, kitchen facilities, hygiene standards and the timely distribution of breakfast. Detailed instructions regarding the inauguration and implementation of the expanded scheme are likely to be communicated to schools before September 22. Ministers, elected representatives and senior officials are also expected to participate in launch programmes organised in different districts. The statewide rollout will mark one of the governments major education and child welfare initiatives since taking office.
TN Crime Branch raids places linked to ex-Minister Anbil Mahesh in private school bribery case
Digital Desk | Chennai, Sep 16 (IANS) Central Crime Branch (CCB) police are conducting searches at properties linked to former Tamil Nadu School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi as part of an investigation into allegations of large-scale bribery connected with approvals granted to private schools. Police teams began searches at Poyyamozhis residence in Tiruchirappalli and an apartment on Greenways Road in Chennai. The operation is understood to be linked to an ongoing case concerning the alleged collection of bribes in return for securing government recognition and various statutory clearances for private educational institutions. Poyyamozhi served as School Education Minister during the previous DMK government. A prominent leader of the party, he was twice elected to the Tamil Nadu Assembly from the Thiruverumbur constituency and subsequently inducted into the Cabinet. He, however, lost his seat in the 2026 Assembly election. The searches mark a significant development in the investigation being handled by the Chennai Central Crime Branch. Authorities are examining whether money was collected from private school managements by promising to facilitate official approvals through government departments. Details of documents or electronic devices seized during the searches were not immediately available. The investigation had earlier led to the arrest of P.D. Arakumar, founder-president of the Tamil Nadu Private Schools Association and a DMK functionary. Police alleged that Arakumar had collected more than Rs 100 crore from private school operators after claiming that he could obtain government recognition and other mandatory legal permissions for their institutions. Arakumar was arrested by the Chennai Central Crime Branch and remanded in judicial custody. Investigators have since been examining financial transactions, communications and other records linked to the alleged collection of money. The searches at the former ministers properties are believed to form part of efforts to trace the wider network and determine whether public officials or intermediaries were involved. Officials have not yet issued a detailed statement specifying the evidence that prompted the searches or clarifying Poyyamozhis status in the case. No information was immediately available on whether he had been questioned during the operation. The searches were continuing, with police yet to disclose when they began. The allegations remain under investigation, and no court has established wrongdoing by the former minister. Further details are expected after the CCB completes the searches and examines any material recovered from the two locations.
TN bypolls: Nominations close today for Madurantakam, Dharapuram seats
Digital Desk | Chennai, Sep 16 (IANS) The filing of nominations for the October 6 bypolls to the Madurantakam and Dharapuram Assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu ends on Wednesday, with candidates from major parties expected to submit their papers before the deadline. The two seats are set to witness five-cornered contests involving the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), the DMK, the AIADMK, Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) and the Left parties. The nomination process began on September 9 at the offices of the Revenue Divisional Officers. TVK candidate P. Sathyabama and AIADMK nominee Bhanumathi are expected to file their papers in Dharapuram on Wednesday. The candidates of the CPI and NTK are also scheduled to submit their nominations. In Madurantakam, the AIADMK and CPI(M) nominees are expected to enter the fray. Nomination activity gathered momentum on Tuesday after the process resumed following three consecutive holidays from September 12 to 14. In Madurantakam, Chengalpattu district, 14 candidates filed their papers during the day, raising the total number of nominations in the constituency to 18. TVK candidate and former MLA K. Maragatham Kumaravel submitted her nomination papers accompanied by party general secretary and Minister N. Anand. DMK candidate Paranthaman filed his papers in the presence of former Minister T.M. Anbarasan, former MLA Sundar and senior party functionaries. Janakiraman entered the contest as the NTK candidate. Independent candidate Satish Kumar, a palm-tree climber, attracted attention when he arrived carrying the equipment used in his occupation. He said the gesture was intended to highlight the lives and concerns of workers engaged in his profession. Nomination filing was equally brisk in Dharapuram in Tiruppur district, where 15 candidates submitted their papers on Tuesday. The latest filings took the total number of nominations received in the constituency to 17. DMK candidate Sukanya, an advocate from Thalavaipattinam, filed four sets of nomination papers. After garlanding a portrait of former chief minister C.N. Annadurai, she proceeded to the RDO office with former Ministers M.P. Saminathan and N. Kayalvizhi and other party representatives. She handed one set of papers to Returning Officer Felix Raj, while her husband, Manivasagam, submitted another set on her behalf. Election officials will scrutinise the nominations after filing closes. The final list of contestants in both constituencies will be announced following the deadline for candidates to withdraw their nominations.
Digital Desk | Chennai, Sep 16 (IANS) Director Tamizharasan Pachamuthu, who is to direct actor Dhanush's upcoming film, tentatively titled #D56, has now responded in a humorous fashion to rumours doing the rounds on the Internet that claimed that his film had been titled 'Padaiyal'. Quoting a tweet put out by a person who claimed that his film's title was 'Padaiyal', Tamizharasan Pachamuthu wrote, PADAIYAL - nalla irukke...nan yen yosikkaama ponen.. Sari ok Pesama A Tamizharasan Pachamuthu Padaiyal nu pottudren.. Nandri. (Padaiyal - sounds nice... now, why did I not think of it?... Okay, I'll simply put it as 'A Tamizharasan Pachamuthu Padaiyal... Thanks). Rumours are doing the rounds on the Internet that the film's launch ceremony would happen in Madurai on Thursday. Rumours also suggest that the film will be high on action so much so that its makers were expecting to get an 'A' certificate from the Censor Board at the time of its release. However, there has been no official confirmation on any of these claims being made on social media. Director Tamizharasan Pachamuthu had in March this year announced that he had begun the recce for the film. Taking to his X timeline, the director had posted a monochrome picture of himself seated in a temple. He wrote in Tamil, Kelambiyaachu (Have started) #Recce #D56. Well known production house Dawn Pictures, which is producing the film, was quick to show its admiration for the industrious nature of the director. It quoted the tweet of the director and added fire symbols to indicate it was both impressed and excited. For the unaware, director Tamizharasan Pachamuthu is best known for his critically acclaimed superhit film 'Lubber Pandhu', which featured Harish Kalyan, Attakathi Dinesh, Swaswika and Sanjana Krishnamoorthy in the lead. The film, which came in for widespread praise from all categories of audiences, also featured actors Kaali Venkat, Bala Saravanan, Geetha Kailasam, Deva Dharshini, Jenson Divakar and TSK in pivotal roles. The film, which started off as just a simple sports drama that revolved around the egos of two cricket lovers playing gully cricket in a small town, silently evolved into something much more significant and showed how sport could help people overcome the deep-rooted differences that caste and wealth brought.
Chennai fishermen oppose Tamil Nadu Secretariat project, warn of statewide protest
The News Mill
Free movement of Deer in Chennai impresses Kashmiri media delegation
Chennai, Sept 15: The sight of deer and other wildlife moving freely in and around Chennai has left a visiting media delegation from Jammu and Kashmir pleasantly surprised, with senior journalists describing it as a striking example of peaceful coexistence between humans and wildlife. The 13-member media delegation, visiting Chennai under a press tour organised by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Srinagar, observed deer and barasingha moving freely in their surroundings during their visit to various locations The sight prompted discussions among the journalists about wildlife conservation, protection of natural habitats and the need to develop greater public sensitivity towards animals. The journalists said that the unhindered movement of wildlife in areas frequented by people reflects a degree of tolerance and awareness that can play an important role in conservation. CNS Media Group Chief Editor Rashid Rahi said the experience was both fascinating and thought-provoking.
IIT Madras sets 5% target for J&K students in next BS admission cycle
Chennai, Sep 15: For students in Jammu and Kashmir, the next IIT Madras admission cycle could come with a specific target: at least 5 per cent of students in its BS programme from the Union Territory. Speaking to Jammu and Kashmir media delegation in Chennai as part of a PIB press tour, IIT Madras Director Kamakoti Veezhinathan said the institute would work with the media to take information about its online programmes to students in Jammu and Kashmir, including those in villages. My request from you is that you, in Jammu and Kashmir, talk about this BS programme. We will keep a target that in the next admission, at least 5 per cent students must come from Jammu and Kashmir. We will work with you, he said. The emphasis on villages was part of a larger point Veezhinathan made about the role of technology in widening access to education. Referring to IIT Madras outreach programmes, he said the institutes experience had shown that academic ability was not confined to cities. Our intelligence is everywhere. Intelligence is not just in cities, he said. Veezhinathan said the institutes experience in Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka had shown the importance of local media in taking information about its BS programme to students. He urged journalists from Jammu and Kashmir to similarly take the programme to villages. The BS programme is one part of IIT Madras larger attempt to take education outside its physical campus. The institute has also developed programmes for school students and an initiative called Vidya Shakti, under which teaching support is provided to students in government and other schools through technology. Veezhinathan said Vidya Shakti is currently being implemented across 10 states, including Ladakh, with lessons delivered through internet-connected systems and teachers and faculty members helping students in their mother tongue. The larger challenge, he said, was to take such interventions to places where students may have the ability but lack access to teachers or specialised courses. The institute has also expanded its online degree offerings following changes brought about by the National Education Policy, Veezhinathan said. The BS programme allows students to pursue a degree without being physically present on the IIT Madras campus.
One Lakh Cops Protect Over 37,000 Vinayaka Idols in Tamil Nadu
18,000 police on protection duty in Chennai, immersion on September 19, 20
Dakshina Chitra offers assistance for replicating heritage museum model in J&K
Chennai, Sep 15: Director of Dakshina Chitra Heritage Museum Sharath Nambiar has assured all possible assistance and guidance if the museums unique heritage conservation model is replicated in J&K. Interacting with a group of Kashmir-based journalists visiting Chennai as part of a PIB Srinagar tour, Nambiar said every region, including J&K, should have such a facility as it can help preserve traditional heritage and culture while also generating employment opportunities and promoting tourism. He said the Dakshina Chitra model goes beyond preservation of traditional structures and lifestyles, as it also provides livelihood opportunities to local communities and creates an additional attraction for tourists. Nambiar said tourist groups from Kashmir had visited Dakshina Chitra in the past, while some cultural groups from the region had also participated in cultural events organised at the heritage museum. However, he said no formal requisition had so far been received from J&K authorities for replicating the Dakshina Chitra model in the Union Territory. We will be pleased to assist in replicating this model in J&K if the local authorities and government intend to do so, Nambiar said. The Madras Craft Foundation, a self-reliant organisation dedicated to preserving the traditional lifestyle, culture and architectural heritage of South India, has created a unique living heritage space, Dakshina Chitra Heritage Museum, near Chennai. Established in 1996 on a relatively small piece of land, the museum has now completed 30 years of preserving and showcasing the traditional way of life of southern India. It is regarded as one of the first and unique initiatives of its kind in the country, bringing together the traditional architecture and lifestyles of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana at one location. The museum has adopted an innovative approach to heritage conservation under which traditional houses from different parts of South India are carefully documented, dismantled and reconstructed at Dakshina Chitra. When a family volunteers to hand over its traditional house for preservation, every aspect of the structure is meticulously documented before it is safely dismantled. Materials including flooring, bricks, wood, steel and other architectural elements are transported to the museum and reused to reconstruct the house in its original form. Dozens of traditional houses have been reconstructed at the museum, with several of them dating back centuries. These structures offer visitors a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle, architecture and social practices of earlier generations, including the use of clay pottery, traditional household articles and religious practices. Curator of Dakshina Chitra Heritage Museum Lakuma Chebrolu, while interacting with a group of Kashmir-based journalists visiting the museum as part of a PIB Srinagar tour, said the initiative was not limited to preservation of heritage but was also creating livelihood opportunities for local communities, particularly women. She said a significant portion of the museums workforce comprises women, who are engaged in various activities associated with the preservation and functioning of the heritage centre. Dakshina Chitra has thus emerged as a distinctive model of heritage conservation, combining traditional architecture, cultural preservation, community participation and livelihood generation under one roof.
IIT Madras ready to extend blockchain technology, career counselling support to J&K
Chennai, Sep 15: Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has expressed its willingness to assist the Jammu and Kashmir government in using blockchain technology to establish the authenticity of local products and help curb adulteration and counterfeiting. Director IIT Madras Prof V Kamakoti said the institute has recently signed an MoU with the Uttar Pradesh Government for an initiative based on blockchain technology, under which a QR code can be generated for products to establish their authenticity and help prevent adulteration and counterfeiting. Interacting with journalists from Kashmir during a PIB tour of Chennai, Prof Kamakoti said IIT Madras is ready to extend the technology to Jammu and Kashmir if the UT Government approaches the institute with a formal request. Replying to a question from a Greater Kashmir correspondent on the challenge of adulteration and counterfeiting of Kashmiri products such as carpets and saffron, he said the technology was still at an early stage but IIT Madras was willing to assist J&K in developing and implementing it. Prof Kamakoti also highlighted the institutes innovative School Connect Programme, through which career counselling and guidance are provided to school and college students, familiarising them with national and international educational and career opportunities. He said IIT Madras could extend the School Connect initiative to Jammu and Kashmir as well, provided the UT Government or School Education Department approaches the institute. The IIT Madras Director also spoke about Vidyashakti, another initiative under which trained teachers provide academic guidance and support to students. He said the programme could also be introduced in Jammu and Kashmir subject to a formal request from the UT government and signing of an MoU. Rashmi Udhay Kumar from Communication Office of IIT Madras said that any education institution of Jammu and Kashmir can approach the institute through mail address school-connect@study.iitm.ac.in with a request for School Connect programme. SETTING NEW BENCHMARKS IN R&D-BASED EDUCATION IIT Madras is setting new benchmarks in research and development-based education by combining its extensive on-campus academic programmes with innovative outreach initiatives aimed at making quality higher education accessible to students across the country. Prof Andrew Thangaraj of the Department of Electrical Engineering, IIT Madras, said the institute is not only offering hundreds of courses on campus but has also developed outreach programmes for students who could not secure admission through the conventional JEE route. Through funnel-type programmes, students from across the country can enrol in university-level courses and pursue quality education, Thangaraj said while interacting with a group of journalists from Kashmir and Varanasi currently visiting Chennai as part of a PIB tour. He said the National Programme for Technology Enhanced Learning (NPTEL) is one of the major outreach initiatives of IIT Madras. The programme, launched in 2014, offers certified online courses, with examinations conducted offline. Under the SWAYAM platform, more than 10,186 courses have been offered, recording over 4.16 crore enrolments without fees, while 57.2 lakh certificates have been issued so far. The institutes other outreach initiatives include BS programmes in Data Science and Applications, Management and Data Science, Electronic Systems, and Aeronautics and Space Technology, providing learners with opportunities to pursue specialised programmes through flexible modes of education. Meanwhile, the IIT Madras campus also reflects its emphasis on environmental sustainability. The green campus has extensive forest cover, while bicycles are widely used by students and staff for internal movement, helping reduce vehicular pollution and maintain a cleaner environment. Interacting with journalists, another official of the institution said that IIT Madras is contributing in every sector of the country including space sciences, maritime and shipping industry, defence sector with engineering and technology remaining the core of all practices.
RTP Global elevates Smita Goel to COO, Asia
VOC Port sets record with largest-ever container vessel
Kamarajar Port begins preparations for 1,200-cr IPO
Transient.AI secures investment from Nasdaq Ventures
Clear pending renewal applications quickly, private schools urge govt
Rainfall to intensify in interior places, likely to keep temperatures moderate in T.N.
The India Meteorological Department is expecting the monsoon to begin retreating from parts of the country from September 19
AI Sanskrit Heritage Model launched at Madras Sanskrit College
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that such efforts could make our literary treasures more accessible to everyone anywhere in the world at any time
Union Minister urges youth to prioritise nation and take up responsibility to lead
She says that as educated individuals, youngsters need to understand and analyse what is happening in their area and why, recognise their role and the contributions they can make to the nation. The graduating students need to be aware of the countrys current situation, the Minister adds
Commuters want a mix of AC and non-AC coaches in suburban trains
The idea of having both air-conditioned and non air-conditioned coaches in a trainwas already discussed but it was found to be not feasible, says a senior official from the Southern Railway
Wifes wherere you? calls bust highway robbery gang
HC bins plea challenging Sengottaiyans election
Kathiravan elected new Bar council chairman
IIT Madras to launch AI studio to build AI and data science companies
Tamil Nadu races to vaccinate 7 lakh girls before HPV doses expire
Biomining on in Chennai, yet waste keeps piling up
History-sheeter returning from court hacked to death in public by gang
Lecturer drowns at sea off Ennore
Biker dies after falling off flyover
A tale of two states ... and a palace
Jayakumar opposes Foreshore Estate secretariat plan, warns it may become hospital
DMK seeks privilege motion against law minister
Left to make TVK MLAs defection key poll plank
DMK postpones Mupperum Vizha as Stalin falls ill
Fishermen urge Tamil Nadu government to drop the plan to build the Secretariat at Foreshore Estate
Monkey enters T2 terminal at Chennai airport
A team from the Forest Department is inspecting the area to identify any possible entry points, and prevent future occurrences
PIB Media Delegation Visits IIT Madras, Holds Talks With Director
SRINAGAR: A media delegation from Srinagar on a five-day exposure tour of Chennai visited the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) on Tuesday and held discussions with its director Prof V Kamakoti and senior faculty members. During the interaction, the delegation was briefed on research and technology initiatives being undertaken by IIT Madras through []
DMK seeks action against TN law minister Nirmalkumar for breach of privilege
Stalin gets time to respond to TM minister Aadhav Arjuna's defamation claim
Digital Desk | Chennai, Sep 15 (IANS) The Madras High Court on Tuesday agreed to give DMK President M.K. Stalin more time to respond to a defamation petition filed by Tamil Nadu Minister Aadhav Arjuna over a social media post. The case will next be heard on September 22. On Tuesday, senior counsel P. Wilson, representing Stalin, informed Justice Govindarajan Thilakavadi that a counter-affidavit had to be filed and requested an adjournment. The judge accepted the request and deferred the hearing. The legal action concerns content allegedly shared by the DMK IT Wing after narcotics valued at Rs 258 crore were seized in Chennai and Ramanathapuram. Arjuna accused the wing of attempting to associate him with the trafficking investigation. The minister said the post wrongly identified the alleged operator of the narcotics network as his close relative. Denying any link with the accused, he described the claim as baseless and deliberately misleading. The minister alleged that the material circulated online was fabricated and malicious and had been published as part of a deliberate campaign aimed at damaging his reputation and public standing. He said the post had caused him considerable personal distress and subjected him to unwarranted suspicion and criticism. In his petition, Arjuna argued that Stalin, as President of the DMK, exercised overall control and supervision over the partys organisational activities, including the functioning of its IT Wing, and consequently should be held responsible for the allegedly defamatory content published through the partys social media platforms. Arjuna has sought a direction to remove the disputed posts from all digital and social media platforms. He has also requested the court to order the respondents to publish an unconditional apology in both Tamil and English. Apart from seeking a permanent injunction restraining the respondents from publishing or circulating similar allegations in the future, Arjuna has asked that the electronic devices allegedly used to create and upload the posts be surrendered. The petition seeks Rs 1 crore in compensation for the damage to Arjunas reputation, personal injury and mental distress. He maintained that the publication adversely affected both his public image and personal life. As Stalin is yet to submit his defence, the court did not consider the merits of the rival claims on Tuesday. Further proceedings are expected after the counter-affidavit is placed on record at the next hearing.
T.N. government notifies Mental Healthcare Regulations
The regulations prescribe minimum standards including for infrastructure, staffing, professional qualifications, and patient care for mental health establishments, and also lay down provisions for patient safety and rights
Monkey causes scare at Chennai airports international departure terminal
Tamil Nadu secures Rs 15,300 crore investments during CM Vijays visit to London
Digital Desk | Chennai, Sep 15 (IANS) Tamil Nadu secured investment commitments worth more than Rs 15,300 crore during Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijays visit to London, with the projects expected to generate over 10,000 jobs across the State. Memoranda of understanding were signed between Guidance Tamil Nadu, the States investment promotion agency, and global companies in Vijays presence. The proposed projects cover manufacturing plants, global capability centres, research and development facilities, and engineering and logistics operations. The largest commitment came from Samvardhana Motherson International Limited, which plans to expand its design, engineering, manufacturing, integration and logistics facilities in Tamil Nadu. The group proposes investments of about Rs 11,000 crore, potentially creating nearly 7,000 jobs, in collaboration with its joint ventures and technology partners in the United Kingdom and Europe. Wilson Power Solutions, a UK-based manufacturer of high-performance transformers, will invest Rs 300 crore in the next phase of its transformer manufacturing operations in Tiruvallur district. The expansion is expected to create 400 jobs and strengthen Tamil Nadus capacity in advanced power and distribution equipment manufacturing. Two agreements were concluded for global capability centres. Swedens Sigma Technology Group, through its Indian subsidiary Shriya Solutions, will expand centres in Chennai and Tiruchirappalli, targeting 600 high-value jobs in embedded systems, electrification and industrial digitalisation. Ernst & Young will support the establishment and operation of another capability centre under a build-operate-transform-transfer model. Located in the announced GCC corridor on Chennais Mount-Poonamallee Road, the centre is expected to attract around Rs 1,000 crore and create more than 2,000 high-value jobs. A European automotive components manufacturer submitted a letter of intent expressing interest in choosing Tamil Nadu for its first manufacturing plant in India, with a proposed investment of Rs 3,000 crore. The State government assured the company of assistance in establishing its operations. Vijay separately met Hinduja Group executives, who briefed him on the progress of the groups investments, including projects covered by a Rs 2,500-crore agreement signed at the Vetri Tamil Nadu Investors Summit in August. The Chief Minister invited British and European companies to invest in Tamil Nadu and promised full government support. State officials held discussions with companies from aerospace, defence, chemicals, logistics, manufacturing, financial services, retail and legal services.
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2nd T20I: The Calmer You Are In The Middle, The Better You Get Every Day, Says Ishan Kishan
MA Chidambaram Stadium: Ishan Kishan believes that learning to stay calm at the crease has transformed his approach to batting, as the East Zone captain reflected on his recent Duleep Trophy campaign after guiding his side to the title at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Kishan believes moving away from the fear of failure and allowing his instincts to take over has helped him become more effective in the middle. I think initially there were a lot of thoughts going on in my head. You have to get runs for your team, you have to make everyone proud, you have to take care of your place in the team. So you bat accordingly, and when you think about this, I think a fear of failure comes into your game. So you start thinking about, I dont want to lose my wicket, which also initiates the fact that you wont be trying so many good shots, Kishan told broadcasters ahead of Indias second T20I against Afghanistan. His central message, however, remained rooted in simplicity and composure. But at the end of the day, I think Ive just realised that if youre in the middle, if youre calm, youre just trying to watch the ball and not the bowler, and youre just playing your shots. So, everything is taken care of, and you just have to keep it simple because at the end of the day when youre playing at this level, obviously you have all the skills and everything. Its just the mindset, which is the most important thing. So the calmer you are in the middle, the better you get every day, he added. Kishan, who led East Zone to their first Duleep Trophy triumph in 13 years, said his current method is built around reacting to the delivery rather than deliberately searching for scoring areas. I think Im not over-trying to play shots. Im not thinking about playing shots. Its just that my bodys reacting to it. So Im just focusing more on my hand-eye coordination. Its not that Im thinking about a particular area where I want to hit. Its just about watching the ball till the last moment, understanding what the bowler is trying to do and where my run-scoring options are, Kishan stated. The wicketkeeper-batter also explained how his thinking during a match has changed. He recalled his approach during the Duleep Trophy when East Zone still had plenty of work to do despite being ahead in the contest. My job was to understand that (the) match is not over until its over. There was still one day left, so I had to get those big runs coming because we were two wickets down and I know one partnership could make the shoulders down (in the third innings), but its important to just be there, spend some time, so that they lose interest in the game and we are on the upper hand. For Kishan, the same principle now extends beyond batting. He said he remains keen to contribute in the field when he is not keeping wickets, while acknowledging that his catching needs further attention. Hundred percent. I have been athletic throughout my life, and I feel Im very good when Im fielding as well. But still I have dropped a few catches in the past few games, so Ill have to work a lot on my fielding as well. He added that fielding opportunities can have a major bearing on matches, particularly when chances go down early. Because at this level, sometimes you drop catches and you dont realise it because the batsman did not score so much. But if you drop someone good from a good team, like you drop him around fourth or fifth over and he ends up getting runs, it will be a huge difference for us. He added that fielding opportunities can have a major bearing on matches, particularly when chances go down early. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories So Im just trying to work more on my fielding and wicketkeeping as well. So whenever you get an opportunity to keep or field, youre just there, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
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Covids true toll, cervical cancer kit, MODY discovery & more |HealthWrapby The Hindu | Ep 01
This week on Health Wrap by The Hindu, we explore how new data and emerging technologies are reshaping public health in India and beyond. The latest maternal mortality figures from the Registrar General show a steady national decline, yet states such as Madhya Pradesh, Assam and Uttar Pradesh continue to report alarmingly high numbers, highlighting the urgent need for equitable access to maternal healthcare. Meanwhile, Indias COVID-19 death toll is under renewed scrutiny, as Civil Registration System data reveals 15.5 lakh excess deaths in 202021figures that contrast sharply with earlier international estimates. In a breakthrough for womens health, the US FDA has approved an at-home HPV screening kit, reflecting a shift towards decentralised diagnostics that could hold relevance for India. Scientists in Chennai, in collaboration with researchers in the US, have identified a new subtype of MODY, a rare genetic form of diabetes, reinforcing the call for wider genetic screening. A migraine drug is also showing promising results in reducing depressive symptoms, offering new hope in the overlap between neurological and mental health. As we approach World Hypertension Day, new data from the ICMR shows nearly one in three Indian adults suffers from high blood pressureyet more than half are unaware of their condition. These developments underscore the importance of accessible data, inclusive care, and innovation-led health systems that leave no one behind.
Covids true toll, cervical cancer kit, MODY discovery & more |HealthWrapby The Hindu | Ep 01
This week on Health Wrap by The Hindu, we explore how new data and emerging technologies are reshaping public health in India and beyond. The latest maternal mortality figures from the Registrar General show a steady national decline, yet states such as Madhya Pradesh, Assam and Uttar Pradesh continue to report alarmingly high numbers, highlighting the urgent need for equitable access to maternal healthcare. Meanwhile, Indias COVID-19 death toll is under renewed scrutiny, as Civil Registration System data reveals 15.5 lakh excess deaths in 202021figures that contrast sharply with earlier international estimates. In a breakthrough for womens health, the US FDA has approved an at-home HPV screening kit, reflecting a shift towards decentralised diagnostics that could hold relevance for India. Scientists in Chennai, in collaboration with researchers in the US, have identified a new subtype of MODY, a rare genetic form of diabetes, reinforcing the call for wider genetic screening. A migraine drug is also showing promising results in reducing depressive symptoms, offering new hope in the overlap between neurological and mental health. As we approach World Hypertension Day, new data from the ICMR shows nearly one in three Indian adults suffers from high blood pressureyet more than half are unaware of their condition. These developments underscore the importance of accessible data, inclusive care, and innovation-led health systems that leave no one behind.
Shah Rukh Khan recently interacted with fans during an #AskSRK session on X, where he spoke about working with two of his popular co-stars, Rani Mukerji and Deepika Padukone. The actor was asked about reuniting with them on screen and shared that he enjoyed working with both actors, referring to them as his best friends. A fan asked Shah Rukh, Reuniting with Deepika and Rani once again how does it feel to share the screen with her this time? Responding to the question, Shah Rukh said, The best ever. It's lovely always to work with my best friends. The best ever. It's lovely always to work with my best friends https://t.co/ww9Gcae6zN Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) September 15, 2026 Shah Rukh Khan shares a long-standing professional association with both Rani Mukerji and Deepika Padukone. While his collaborations with Deepika include films such as Om Shanti Om, Chennai Express, Happy New Year and Jawan, his association with Rani dates back to the late 1990s and early 2000s. The two actors have worked together in films including Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna, Chalte Chalte and Paheli. The reunion with Rani is particularly notable as the actors are returning to the screen together after nearly two decades. Their last full-fledged collaboration was Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna, which released in 2006. Their upcoming reunion has therefore brought back memories of their earlier films and on-screen pairing. Rani and Shah Rukh have shared several memorable moments on screen over the years, making their return together a notable development for fans of their previous collaborations. Deepika, meanwhile, has also become one of Shah Rukh's frequent co-stars, with their films together spanning different genres and periods of his career. Shah Rukh's latest response also highlighted the personal rapport he shares with both actresses. By describing Rani and Deepika as his best friends, the actor reflected on the familiarity and comfort that comes with working with long-time collaborators. The #AskSRK session also gave fans an opportunity to ask Shah Rukh about his upcoming projects and other aspects of his career. His response about reuniting with Rani and Deepika added to the anticipation surrounding their appearances together on screen. Also Read : Shah Rukh Khan drops first dialogue from King: Picture abhi baaki hai, King akela kaafi hai
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Afcom Holdings Signs Long-Term Aviation Fuel Supply Agreement with HPCL
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Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 15 (IANS) An eight-member Indian squash team will head to Japan from Chennai on Friday for the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games, looking to better their five-medal haul in Hangzhou 2022 (held in 2023) while also eyeing an elusive gold medal in singles. India have won 18 medals three gold, four silver and 11 bronze in squash since the sport debuted at the Asian Games in 1998. Although the country has grown into a squash powerhouse in the region, Saurav Ghosals silver (2014 & 2022) in mens and bronze by Dipika Pallikal Karthik (2014 & 2018) and Joshna Chinappa (2018) in womens remain Indias best singles performances in the continental extravaganza. At Hangzhou, the two gold medals were won by Dipika and Harinder Pal Singh Sandhu in mixed doubles and the men in the team event, silver by Ghosal in singles and the two bronze by Anahat Singh and Abhay Singh in mixed doubles and the women in team competition. The squash event at this Asiad will be held between Sept 23 and Oct 2 featuring singles, mixed doubles and mens and womens team competitions, with the singles champions earning direct berths for the sports Olympic debut at Los Angeles in 2028. Womens world No 20 and reigning junior world champion Anahat (third seed) and mens world No 24 Abhay (second seed) will spearhead Indias challenge in singles along with mens world No 38 Veer Chotrani (fourth seed) and womens world No 63 Tanvi Khanna (seventh seed). Joshna, who will become the first Indian sportsperson to compete in seven consecutive Asian Games, will be partnering Velavan Senthilkumar in mixed doubles and are seeded third, with Suraj Chand/ Shameena Riaz (9th seed) forming the second mixed doubles pair. All eight players will feature in the respective mens and womens team competitions. Former womens world No 10 Joshna, 39, has competed in every Asiad since 2002, while Aichi-Nagoya will see Chotrani, Senthilkumar, Chand and Shameena make their Asian Games debut. We have a strong blend of continuity and new talent in both our mens and womens teams, and I believe we have a very strong chance of improving on our medal tally from the last edition, said national coach Harinder Pal Singh Sandhu. The support group also comprises British former world No 1 James Willstrop, former India womens player Surbhi Misra and physiotherapist Dimple Kamalakannan. On the elusive singles gold, player-turned-coach and Arjuna award winner Sandhu said, We know the challenge is immense, but we also believe we have players capable of making that breakthrough. Anahat is now emerging as one of the leading players of her generation. Given her current form, confidence and progress on the international circuit, she certainly looks like one of our strongest prospects. We remain realistic and respectful of the quality of opposition in Asia. Our focus is on taking one match at a time, executing our plans and ensuring that every player is fully prepared for the pressure of the Asian Games.
