Police seize 16 kg ganja in Villupuram, Chennai man held
CMDA can now give final approval for high-rise buildings in Chennai Metropolitan Area
The G.O. states the change has been introduced to simplify the approval process for such developments while retaining the existing scrutiny and committee review mechanisms
Educators urged to inspire critical thinking in students
Participating in the staff orientation programme organised by Andhra Loyola College, former Rector of Chennai Loyola College stresses that students should cultivate a deep mind and soul
434 booked for drunk driving during three-day special drive in Chennai
The police also registered 130 cases for speeding and rash driving, and 2,385 motorists were booked for helmetless riding
Rugby Premier League: Mohit Khatri Aims for Back-to-Back Titles with Chennai Bulls
New Delhi, June 15: The Chennai Bulls, winners of the inaugural Rugby Premier League (RPL), are determined to defend their title this season. This league has provided domestic players the opportunity to compete alongside and learn from some of the worlds best athletes. Team vice-captain Mohit Khatri views this competition as a significant turning point ... Read more Rugby Premier League: Mohit Khatri Aims for Back-to-Back Titles with Chennai Bulls
Private hospital in Chennai launches paediatric ENT care centre
Advanced Centre for Paediatric ENT Care will treat conditions such as hearing loss, airway abnormalities, recurrent ear infections, and sleep-disordered breathing, which often go unrecognised in children
Chennai Bulls Sandhya Hopes Rugby Premier League Inspires Next Generation Of Girls From Rural India
The Rugby Premier League: From a tea garden in West Bengal to becoming one of the most recognisable faces in Indian women's rugby, Sandhya Rai's journey has built on resilience, family support and an unwavering belief in the opportunities the sport can create. As the Rugby Premier League (RPL) prepares to launch its second season and introduce a women's competition for the first time, Rai hopes the tournament's visibility will inspire young girls from small towns and rural communities to dream bigger. The Rugby Premier League, an initiative of Rugby India spearheaded by Rahul Bose, is the world's first franchise-based rugby sevens league. Founded in 2024 to boost the growth and popularity of rugby sevens, the competition debuted in 2025 with six city-based men's teams. The 2026 edition marks a significant milestone with the addition of a women's tournament featuring four teams. Despite her achievements, Sandhya believes many people misunderstand the financial realities faced by rugby players in India. I feel we have come from a village; we are playing well, and you must have seen us on social media. There are a lot of articles about how well we have done. But even in West Bengal, we are not that supportive. So, if I'm playing so well or doing so well, I feel like I don't yet have enough financial support, Sandhya told IANS in an exclusive interaction. She pointed out that even successful athletes often remain vulnerable to setbacks, saying, If theres hype that a player is doing well and reaching heights, she would have to start everything again if theres an injury setback. And people also tell me that Sandhya, you have a lot of money, you play at such a high level. Non-rugby players, my friends from the game, tell me that you play so well, you must have a car, a bungalow, everything. But they don't know that we haven't reached that level yet. Thats what happens. For Sandhya , one of the biggest challenges facing women's rugby in India remains the lack of support systems, particularly for young athletes dealing with injuries, financial hardships or societal pressures. For example, in my village, many girls play rugby. And a lot of them have left rugby because of a lack of support. And as I mentioned, when a player has an injury, if she doesn't get mental support, if shes okay but cant get rehab, if she doesn't get mental support, if she is not strong, then a lot of players give up, she said. The issue extends beyond injuries. Sandhya recalled several talented players whose careers ended prematurely due to family pressures and a lack of opportunities in the sport. For example, I have friends who got married at an early age. I mean, they used to play very well, but because their parents didn't support them and our government didn't support rugby, fame, or money. So, they gave up. Their parents used to tell them that you are just playing rugby, and nothing is happening, you are not getting anything. So, they were forced to get married, she stated. She added that some of those players were among the athletes who inspired her own rugby journey. I mean, they used to play very well. If they had played now, they would have stayed with me in RPL, because they used to play better than I did. And that was also a great inspiration for me. I mean, I started playing rugby after seeing them play. While Sandhya acknowledged the challenges, she creditted her family for helping her stay in the sport during difficult periods. It was very good for me because my parents supported me a lot from day one. At one point, I didn't feel like playing rugby. At another point, I didn't feel like going to tSandhya ning, so I missed a lot of sessions. But my parents sent me on purpose so that I would be involved in rugby and not do other bad things, she stated. Sandhya admitted that she nearly quit rugby altogether because of the physical nature of the sport, saying, To tell you the truth, at one point I stopped playing rugby. After a while, I stopped playing rugby. I didn't enjoy it because it was a contact game, and I used to get scared. However, a breakthrough opportunity changed her perspective. Then my parents pushed me a lot, and I got selected for the club team. When I went abroad, I became more interested in rugby after the tour. You can go abroad by playing rugby. You get jerseys. We get to travel! So when I got all this, I became more interested. After that, I couldn't leave it. Sandhya, a former captain of India's Under-18 side and former vice-captain of the senior women's national team, has emerged as one of the leading ambassadors for women's rugby in the country. Widely recognised for overcoming humble beginnings, she was also shortlisted among Asia's top rugby players and featured as one of the continent's Unstoppable rugby ambassadors. Recognition at the continental level only reinforced a mindset she had developed long before awards and accolades arrived. When I was in the top 15, not the top 32, I was in the top 15. And I mean, I already believed I was unstoppable. Because of my attitude, she said. Yet Sandhya was quick to emphasise that her success was built collectively rather than individually. I wasn't alone. I had my teammates who helped me. If I had done it alone, maybe I wouldn't have been able to. But we didn't leave each other. We played rugby. We avoided everything. And then we just kept playing. The title of unstoppable that I won, I don't want to take it all alone. I want to give it to the whole team. Because of them, I was able to do it, she mentioned. With the women's Rugby Premier League set to be broadcast and followed across the country, Sandhya hopes the tournament can become a catalyst for change, much like women's cricket inspired a new generation of athletes. This is a very big thing. RPL. I mean, when women watched womens cricket, we used to watch them alongside other big players. Then we used to think we should do something like this too. Because of the tournament's reach, she believes young girls will finally be able to see a clear pathway into rugby. Because RPL is something we'll see everywhere. We'll see it on TV. We'll see it in my village. The kids will see us. So I want them to see us and get inspired. I want them to see us and be motivated to play here too. Those who don't play rugby can also come here and play with us. I also want to play on that ground with those big players. So my motivation is to play well so that the people from my village get motivated and tSandhya n with me. And they can also come and play with us. Asked about the figures who have shaped her career, Sandhya named former India captain and current team physio Vahbiz Bharucha as her biggest inspiration. Vahbiz Bharucha. Shes from the Maharashtra team and is our captain. I used to watch her play with the team, lead the team, and encourage everyone to move forward. Whether she won or lost, I learned a lot from her. Asked about the figures who have shaped her career, Sandhya named former India captain and current team physio Vahbiz Bharucha as her biggest inspiration. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As women's rugby takes a historic step forward through the Rugby Premier League, Sandhya hopes her story can serve as proof that talent can emerge from anywhere. More importantly, she hopes the next generation of players from villages and small towns will find opportunities that many of her peers never had. Article Source: IANS
CA Has Evaluated The Idea To Host BBL In India And Sees Long-term Benefits: IPL Chair Arun Dhumal
Tamil Nadu Cricket Association: Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Arun Dhumal believes Cricket Australia's decision to launch the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) season in India could have benefits that extend beyond commercial gains, saying the move has the potential to contribute to cricket's growth in emerging markets at a time when the sport is preparing for its Olympic return. An official announcement from Cricket Australia and the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) is pending, though the BCCI has reportedly given the necessary approvals after a delegation inspected the venue for the opening match of the 2026-27 BBL to be staged at Chennai's MA Chidambaram Stadium. Speaking on the rationale behind Cricket Australia's decision, Dhumal pointed to India's enormous fan base and the opportunities it creates for the global game. When you look at the scale of interest that exists in India, there is tremendous potential to create opportunities that help the game grow beyond traditional markets, Dhumal told IANS. India's influence on world cricket has grown steadily over the past two decades, with its vast audience driving television viewership, digital consumption, and commercial investment across the sport. Dhumal suggested that initiatives such as the BBL opener in Chennai should also be viewed through the broader lens of cricket's global development. The IPL chairman linked the move to cricket's inclusion in the Olympic programme, a development many administrators believe could accelerate the sport's expansion into newer territories. Cricket's inclusion in the Olympics is another major step because it will introduce the sport to audiences that may not have followed it before, he said. Cricket is set to return to the Olympic Games at Los Angeles 2028, ending a gap of more than a century since its lone appearance at the 1900 Olympics. Administrators across the cricketing world have frequently highlighted the Games as a platform to attract new fans and unlock opportunities in non-traditional markets. Dhumal also indicated that Cricket Australia would have carefully assessed both the sporting and commercial implications before taking the unprecedented step of staging a BBL match outside Australia. I'm sure Cricket Australia has evaluated the opportunity and idea to host BBL in India carefully and sees long-term benefits for its domestic competitions, he mentioned. Cricket is set to return to the Olympic Games at Los Angeles 2028, ending a gap of more than a century since its lone appearance at the 1900 Olympics. Administrators across the cricketing world have frequently highlighted the Games as a platform to attract new fans and unlock opportunities in non-traditional markets. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It will mark the first time a fixture from Australia's premier T20 competition will be played in India, and the initiative is being viewed as a major step in the league's international expansion strategy and an attempt to strengthen its presence in one of cricket's most significant markets. Article Source: IANS
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day marked
Around 2,000 persons, including school and college students and members of the general public, took a Let us respect our elders pledge at a ceremony organised by Dr. V.S. Natarajan Geriatric Foundation
Police open fire to thwart robbery attempt on Chennai-Vijayawada train in Bapatla
A manhunt is under way, with 10 special teams formed to trace the gang and one suspect detained for questioning
Outrage Over the Rape and Murder of a Three-Year-Old in Tamil Nadu
Chennai, June 15: A shocking incident has emerged from Tamil Nadu involving the rape and murder of a three-year-old girl. Tamilisai Soundararajan, a senior leader of the BJP in Tamil Nadu and former Governor of Telangana, has expressed her deep concern regarding this tragic event. In an interview, Soundararajan stated, This is a deeply painful ... Read more Outrage Over the Rape and Murder of a Three-Year-Old in Tamil Nadu
Vijay-Sangeetha divorce hearing deferred again, new date out
Chennai: The divorce case of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) President C. Joseph Vijay and his wife Sangeetha was adjourned once again on Monday after neither of them appeared before the Chengalpattu Family Court. As the matter came up for hearing, both Vijay and Sangeetha remained absent, and their counsel represented Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Man arrested for stalking college student in Washermenpet
This seller of newspaper and magazines bets bigon print
Pandianlatches on to his magazine store despite dwindling sales
YOCee invites applications for Student Reporter Programme
Those in the age group of 11 to 17 can apply for this one-year programme
Opposition leader Udhayanidhi Stalin condemned the brutal sexual assault and murder of a three-year-old girl, highlighting a deteriorating law and order situation in Tamil Nadu. He criticized Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay for failing to protect children and women, citing several recent incidents. Stalin demanded immediate action and warned of protests if such crimes continue.
3-year-old girl dies after rape by guest worker near Chennai
A horrific incident unfolded in Gummidipoondi where a three-year-old girl was sexually assaulted and later died. A 19-year-old guest worker, Bipin Manjhi from Bihar, has been arrested. The crime has ignited protests, with locals demanding swift justice and a thorough investigation, suspecting potential accomplices. The community is now calling for enhanced security measures.
Tamil Nadu CM Vijays Divorce Hearing Set for Today in Chengalpattu Court
Chennai, June 15: The Chengalpattu Family Welfare Court is scheduled to hear the divorce petition filed by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and TVK leader C. Joseph Vijay and his wife, Sangeeta. This case has garnered significant public attention, especially with recent reports suggesting attempts at reconciliation between the couple. Sangeeta filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable ... Read more Tamil Nadu CM Vijays Divorce Hearing Set for Today in Chengalpattu Court
How spirituality helped define Giri Tradings 75-year journey
TN, which dominates EV production, Must build strengths in batteries, semiconductors, software and components
Ironing out gaps in grid-scale energy storage ecosystem
Residency Hotels to invest 600cr in 3 new luxury hotels
Nirmala Sitharaman inspects BengaluruChennai Expressway works near Devanahalli
The BengaluruChennai Expressway has been identified as a priority corridor under the ChennaiBengaluru Industrial Corridor. The project originates at Hoskote near the junction of NH-4 and NH-207 in Karnataka.
GCC takes up stormwater drain works worth 56.73 crore
The Commissioner also reviewed desilting operations being carried out using an amphibious machine in Korattur North Avenue Road and along the surplus water canal connected to Korattur Lake
DMK MLAs set to meet on June 17
Aadhav dares Udhayanidhi for a debate on Ambedkar, says AIADMK and DMK will soon merge
Locals seek relocation of Tasmac outlet near church, shrine in Adyar
CPI seeks transfer of Salem sexual assault case to CB-CID
Malfunctioning signal near Ambattur triggers wrong-side driving, traffic congestion
Four persons found dead along railway tracks across city
GCC officials to inspect functioning of streetlights
Railway Board likely to give approval for CMRL takeover of MRTS in four to six weeks
Sources said a joint proposal was sent to the board recentlyand no further delay is expected; the MoU between Southern Railway and State government will be signed after the approval is granted
Some fuel outlets cap diesel at 195 litres per customer after order from Centre
Flight from Kenya makes priority landing in bid to save infant with heart condition
Villivakkam Lake and link pondset for year-round water supply
Experts at conclave discuss advances insports injury care
New syllabus for Classes 1-3 rolls out accessible textbooks and interactive worksheets
72.36L DA case: CBI books former SBI staffer, wife
20-cr gold coin scam: Police woman supended
TMC quits NDA, Vasan says party needs independent space to rebuild
Jaywalker trips over median, runover by truck
Tamil Nadu Government to Introduce New Policy for Sivakasi Fireworks Industry
Chennai, June 14: The Tamil Nadu government is formulating a comprehensive policy aimed at transforming the Sivakasi fireworks industry into a major global exporter. This initiative will particularly focus on assisting local manufacturers in competing against Chinese products in international markets. Industry Minister S. Keertana stated that the initiative will encompass boosting exports, ensuring worker ... Read more Tamil Nadu Government to Introduce New Policy for Sivakasi Fireworks Industry
Farmers find new customers at Nabards mango fest
They managed to sell all their produce at Mambazha Mela, an effort to bring together 16 farmer-producer organisations that produce and process mangoes
ECR, OMR, Tambaram to get piped water supply by next year
400 MLD Perur desal plant 66% complete
8 years later, Villivakkam Lake gets another deadline of Sept
214 temples to get non-hereditary trustees
Man, son drown while fishing in farm well near Madurantakam
New Delhi, June 14: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced on Sunday that the Bengaluru-Chennai Expressway project will significantly improve connectivity to key industrial and logistics hubs, boosting economic activities and infrastructure development in the region. During her visit to the expressway corridor as part of the Pragati Path Yatra Darshan program in Devanahalli, Karnataka, Sitharaman ... Read more Bengaluru-Chennai Expressway to Enhance Connectivity to Major Industrial Hubs: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman
Edu officials to chart district, school-wise plan to boost performance
Minister warns transport contractors against fleecing Tasmac salesmen
Come up with scheme for biogas generation in Tamil Nadu: Plea at Madras High Court
Litigant insists that an expert committee must be constituted before coming up with a biogas policy and a pilot project must be conducted in Greater Chennai Corporation
'Will soon announce my political journey': Actor Raghava Lawrence hints at entering politics
Actor-choreographer Raghava Lawrence has hinted at a political entry, seeking fan opinions on his potential public service. He expressed a desire to serve selflessly and contribute to public welfare, stating an important announcement regarding his future plans will be made soon. Lawrence also praised the current Tamil Nadu government's performance.
CBSE Class 9 students in Chennai yet to get textbooks for this year
Some schools have received their English and Science textbookswhile most have not received their subject books; an NCERT book supplier says the situation will likely ease by next week
Tamil Manila Congress quits BJP-led NDA, cites party strengthening
The Tamil Manila Congress (TMC) has exited the BJP-led NDA, as announced by party president GK Vasan. Vasan stated the decision was made to focus on strengthening his own party, emphasizing no differences with alliance partners. The withdrawal was finalized during the TMC's executive council meeting in Chennai.
Training of field workers for Census 2027 to begin in Chennai on June 15
The first phase of training for field trainers is expected to be conducted in Chennai Corporation offices at five locations from June 15 to June 17.
Tamil Nadus Fishing Ban Ends Today, Fishermen Prepare to Return to Sea
Chennai, June 14: The fishing ban in Tamil Nadu, which lasted for 61 days, is set to end today. Thousands of fishermen are gearing up to resume their fishing activities. The central government imposed this ban from April 15 to June 14 to protect fish populations during their peak breeding season and to ensure the ... Read more Tamil Nadus Fishing Ban Ends Today, Fishermen Prepare to Return to Sea
Tamil Nadu weather: Cyclonic system to bring rains to northern TN
Moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorm and lightning is likely to occur over Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Chennai, Tiruvannamalai, Perambalur, Ariyalur, Pudukkottai, Cuddalore, Villupuram and Kallakurichi districts and Puducherry.
Heavy Rain Forecast for Tamil Nadus Delta Districts Amid Rising Temperatures
Chennai, June 14: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy rainfall in parts of Tamil Nadus delta region on Sunday. This is due to atmospheric circulation affecting several northern coastal districts, where moderate rain is also expected. According to the weather department, districts such as Thanjavur, Thiruvarur, Nagapattinam, and Mayiladuthurai are likely to experience ... Read more Heavy Rain Forecast for Tamil Nadus Delta Districts Amid Rising Temperatures
Chennai-based company brings down Indias popcorn maize imports, more than doubles domestic output
Gourmet Popcornica has gone all out to build the countrys popcorn value chain, from hybrid seed and farmer partnerships to kernel processing, storage, supply to cinema halls and branded retail products
A second chance for everyday things
As a two-day garment mending workshop by Samposhan ends today, a close look at Chennais repair culture provides cause for some celebration and also reasons to revitalise efforts to promote it
Opening of Chennai airports second cab pick-up point deferred again
Airport Director says the project faces some legal issues and it is being taken up with caution to protect the interest of the public; a trial run for free flow of traffic will be initiated and a study will be taken up
Glitch results in delay in opening of Chennai Metro trains doors
Beyond high temperatures: understanding heat stress in Tamil Nadu
It is no longer only about how high the temperature soars. As Tamil Nadu rolls out a Heat Action Plan and meteorologists track ElNino, attention is shifting towards understanding heat stress and how communities can adapt to a warming future
MAWS Secretary reviews various Metrowaters ongoing infrastructure projects
Armys legendary tanks now at Marina
CBSE Class 9 students yet to get textbooks for this year
Some schools have received their English and Science textbookswhile most have not received their subject books; an NCERT book supplier says the situation will likely ease by next week
Two Brothers Arrested in 30 Crore Finance Company Fraud in Tiruvallur
Madras univ student finds pre-historic sites with rock arts, stone tools near Kovai
Two killed in separate hit-and-run incidents in Tiruvallur
Man held for attempted ATM theft, accomplice on the run
Public access road to city airport satellite terminal on cards
Will Improve Last Mile Connectivity
Woman kills infant daughter, dies by suicide at home
No risk of Tata electronics plant closure, say officials
Teachers group prepares guidebook for morning assemblies
IIT Madras is set to enrol more than 100 foreign students for the first time
Five students from Adi Dravidar, Tribal Welfare schools enter NITs
18 students get admission in Central Institute of Petrochemicals Engineering and Technology; many have secured seats in NIFT and hotel management and tourism colleges across the country
Private hospital in Chennai to launch affordable, multispecialty ICU
Pic by S.R. Raghunathan
The murals that united a neighbourhood
Over 2 decades after artist Kamla Ravikumar painted the walls of a park in Kalakshetra Colony in 2003, she found her work damaged; she repainted the six walls over several months with the help of the neighbourhood children, their parents, students of Stella Maris College, and professional artists
No risk of Tata Electronics plant closure, say Tata Electronics and officials
Teachers prepare guidebook for morning assemblies
Fire guts paint and eye-drop manufacturing units near Vanagaram
Panchetti power substation to be commissioned soon: TNPDCL chairman
Law University to release merit list for five-year integrated programmes this week
Stalin calls TVK govt BJPS photocopy, accuses it of poaching AIADMK MLAs
A scary thud at Thiruvengadam Street
On June 13, an old tree, reportedly unsteady for a long time, crashed damaging a compound wall, a car inside and two other cars outside. Fortunately, no one was injured, reports D. Vinothkumar
Six students from Tamil Nadu's tribal and SC communities have secured seats in premier engineering institutions like NIT Puducherry through JoSAA counselling. Intensive govt-backed training programs proved instrumental in their success.
AIADMK reviews assembly poll loss, denies mass exodus to TVK
Rooting for green cooling solutions
Chennai cannot do without air-conditioners, but their run time can be reduced if one designed their living space green and topped it with soft furnishings that have the visible imprint of nature. Here are roadside conversations with makers of bamboo andvetivercurtains
Buggy rides atEgmoremuseum a big help during summer
When this free service was launched six months ago, it was an instant hit; but the full measure of its benefit was made manifest only during the extreme heat spikes this summer

