Macaque taken from Kovai vet dies at Vandalur zoo

CHENNAI: The baby bonnet macaque rescued from the Vellore Division and admitted to the veterinary hospital at the Arignar Anna Zoological Park at Vandalur, died on Wednesday, the zoo authorities said in a statement. While the female macaques health had shown gradual improvement, it appeared dull over the past two days. Experts from Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (Tanuvas) were consulted, and appropriate treatment was administered. However, despite efforts, the animal succumbed on Wednesday, the statement said. The macaque, which had been admitted to the zoo hospital on October 26, was suffering from hind limb paralysis and had an abrasion wound on its back. Hematology tests revealed moderate anaemia. Special care was provided, including appropriate bedding to aid wound healing and prevent further injuries. The animal underwent physiotherapy and passive range-of-motion exercises, along with necessary medications, under continuous monitoring by the zoos veterinary team, the statement said. The monkey had been under the care of a Coimbatore-based veterinarian for around 10 months after which the forest department took control of the monkey and placed it at the Arignar Anna Zoological Park. The veterinarian, Vallaiappan, had petitioned the court for interim custody of the animal, which he had treated for various ailments due to dog bites at Sholingur in Ranipet when he held an animal camp there. Stating that the monkey should be considered government property under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, the high court dismissed the writ petition and refused to grant him custody last week.

SACON team from TN's Anaikatti discovers new frog species in Meghalaya during two-year study

COIMBATORE: A team of scientists from SACON (The Slim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History) in Anaikatti, has discovered a new frog species during a two-year study in Meghalaya. They have named the species as Raorchestes asakgrensis, after the Eman Asakgre Community Reserve in the Garo Hills of Meghalaya, where it was discovered, to honour the people who supported them. The team, consisting of R S Naveen, S R Chandramouli, S Babu, PV karunakaran and HN Kumara, conducted surveys at 13 sites in the Garo and Khasi Hills between October 2020 and January 2022. The discovery was published in Herpetozoa, the international peer-reviewed open-access journal of the Austrian Herpetological Society, on November 18. We conducted nocturnal visual encounter surveys to locate calling individuals of bush frogs, as they are most active at night. Once located, the frogs were captured and photographed. Then began the tedious task of describing the species, said R. S. Naveen, one of the authors. The team also rediscovered two more species Ixalus garo and Ixalus kempiae in Garo hills during their study. These species, originally described in the early 20th century, had remained enigmatic due to the lack of comprehensive descriptions in their original documentation. The original descriptions of these two species lacked information on several morphological characters, genetic material, and photographs of the species in life. The absence of such information posed challenges in the field identification of these species, noted S Babu, a scientist. With our rediscovery, we hope to provide a clearer understanding of these species, which will aid in their conservation and recognition. he said. The discovery and rediscovery underscore the rich biodiversity of the Garo and Khasi Hills, highlighting the need for continuous exploration and documentation in North East India. The team stressed that the involvement of local people, with their deep knowledge of the area, is crucial in identifying and conserving unique species in biodiverse regions.

CCMC to survey illegal advertisement hoardings, punish violators

COIMBATORE: The Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation (CCMC) has removed illegal hoardings and banners along the Kavundampalayam flyover on Mettupalayam Road and in other parts of the city several times in the past. But they have resurfaced, leaving motorists worried about safety. CCMC Commissioner M Sivaguru Prabakaran said the civic body will crackdown on violators on Thursday. Motorists say advertisement hoardings, placed atop iron railings erected on the buildings alongside the Kavundampalayam flyover pose significant risks, especially at night.The banners are not just an eyesore; they are dangerous distractions for motorists. When driving on a flyover, any visual disruption can lead to accidents, said R Parthiban, a motorist from Urumandampalayam who regularly uses the route. Authorities must prioritise safety and penalise those responsible for allowing this, he added. N Natarajan, an activist, echoed similar view emphasising the need for stricter enforcement. Despite clear guidelines and previous action, the illegal installations continue to appear. Building owners must be held accountable. The railings should be removed entirely to prevent further misuse. While on the one hand the flyover is shrouded in darkness due to the absence of street lights, on the other hand officials allow illegal banners, he said In the past, CCMC conducted multiple drives to remove unauthorised banners and hoardings. However, their resurgence points to gaps in enforcement and the absence of sustained deterrents. Besides posing a safety threat, the banners raise questions about compliance with the High Court orders on unauthorised advertisements in public spaces. Activists argue that such violations reflect poorly on the citys governance and overall urban planning. The recurring nature of this problem indicates negligence on multiple fronts. This cannot be allowed to continue, Natarajan added. Speaking to TNIE, CCMC Commissioner M Sivaguru Prabakaran said, I held a meeting with officials on Tuesday with regard to the illegal flex banners and hoardings installed across the city. The officials suggested taking an assessment of the total number of illegal advertisement banners and then take necessary action. However, Ive instructed the officials not to wait for assessment and take immediate action. We will regularise hoardings and remove illegal ones simultaneously. Along with illegal flex banners, iron railings and other supporting structures will be removed. People who put up illegal banners will be dealt with strictly. We shall be imposing hefty fines against them. The work will begin from Thursday.

Coimbatore district needs a new combined court complex

Coimbatore corporation removes encroachments on Sundakkamuthur Road

Coimbatore to get hockey turf worth 9.67 crore by April, says minister Senthil Balaji

Social activist allege assault in Coimbatore, police register case

Stakeholders call for measures to expedite release of Coimbatore Master Plan

Coimbatore Corporations plastic waste collection centre catches fire

BJP MLA's event featuring lottery barons son sparks political speculation

PUDUCHERRY: Puducherry BJPlegislators and independent MLAs roping in the son of a lottery baron who is currently under theEnforcement Directorate radar as chief guest for a recent event in Puducherry has sparked off political concerns in Puducherry. Jose Charles Martin, the son of Coimbatore-based businessman Santiago Martin aka lottery king participated as Chief Guest at an event hosted by Kamaraj Nagar BJP MLA,A. John Kumar to felicitate Class 10 and 12 toppers residing in the constituency. Two other BJP MLAs-VivilianRichards (son of John Kumar) and P.M.L. Kalyanasundaram and three Independents supporting the party in the Assembly- M. Sivasankar, P. Angalane and Gollapalli Srinivas Ashok also participated. The holding of such an event in which three legislators, all of them turncoats, and the Independents after their open rebellion following BJPs defeat in Puducherry Lok Sabha seat and also against the AINRC-BJP government at various times (both in the Assembly and outside)has set the tone for political concerns. Two of these MLAs have been aspiring for ministerial berths and have been pushing for it even at Delhi, while the other four have been aspiring for chairman posts in quasi-government bodies, but with little success. With Assembly elections slightly over a year away, the MLAs do not want to remain dependent on the party for the fulfilment of their aspirations and are exploring independent political avenues. One legislator hinted that switching to other established parties, like the Congress or Dravidian parties, would not benefit them as senior leaders would again dominate key positions, once the party comes to power. Amidst reports of Martin nurturing political ambitions and set to enter the political arena, the MLAs see this as an opportunity. This is indicative of Charles distributing gift boxes pasted with his photograph to the successful students in the Kamaraj Nagar event and Richards going to the extent of offering the Kamaraj Nagar Assembly seat to Charles to contest in the next Assembly polls. Speculation is rife on the formation of a new political outfit, starting with a trust focused on social service and subsequently evolving into a party. If they succeed in winning a few seats, they will be in a position to bargain for ministerial and other positions with the political party that gets majority seats, said a political observer. Money has been playing a key role in winning elections despite all curbs by the Election Commission and this have given confidence to succeed, said a political observer. The development is also watched closely by BJP ally AINRC, Congress and other political parties, as they also see a threat from ambitious party men who may see this as a new opportunity to switch over to gain power and position. So far BJP has not reacted to the development, while PPCC President V Vaithilingam has said that this new group is a B team of the BJP and a new strategy to capture full power in the UT.

Death toll in fire at house in Coimbatore climbs to three as two siblings succumb to burns

Encroachments removed on Tiruchi Road, Kamarajar Road in Coimbatore

Coromandel to focus on developing fertilizer value chain amidst geo-political unrests

Chennai: Coromandel International, the fertilizers and crop protection products company of Murugappa Group, is focused on developing a strong fertilizer value chain amidst the disruptions in the global market. The company will reduce import dependence and enhance the raw material sourcing capabilities and invest in backward integration, S Sankarasubramanian, MD & CEO, Coromandel International told Sangeetha G in an interview. 1. The government has been reducing subsidies for fertilizers. The fertilizer subsidy allocation for 2024-25 is Rs 1.64 lakh crore, which is 13 per cent lower than the revised estimate of Rs 1.89 lakh crore for 2024. How is this affecting the sector as well as your company? The government's reduction in fertilizer subsidies, with the allocation for 2024-25 at Rs 1.64 lakh crore (13% lower than the revised estimate of Rs 1.89 lakh crore for 2024), is impacting the sector in multiple ways. The Government of Indias Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS) policy, which subsidizes key plant nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potash, plays a vital role in keeping fertilizers affordable for the farming community. The reduction in subsidy rates for Kharif 2024, compared to last year, is largely attributed to the decline in global commodity prices. However, during the first half of the year, the demand fundamentals for the industry remained strong. This includes factors such as above-normal monsoon rainfall, higher reservoir levels, and a correction in Minimum Support Prices (MSPs) which led to improved crop sowing. Additionally, the timely announcement of subsidy rates and subsidy payouts by the government helped the industry plan raw material procurement ahead of time, resulting in improved production numbers for Phosphatic fertilizers. While the geopolitical situation, particularly with China, impacted DAP imports, the industry swiftly adapted by increasing the use of NPK fertilizers. During the Kharif season, NPK consumption rose by 18 per cent, supporting balanced crop nutrition. Sustained availability of fertilizers at reasonable farmgate prices is likely to boost agricultural output, with the first advanced estimates projecting a 6% increase in Kharif foodgrain production, reaching 165 million tons. As a company, Coromandel focuses on promoting balanced nutrition and offering differentiated, value-added products that contribute to improved yields for farmers. These products cater to the growing demand for more efficient and sustainable farming practices, enhancing crop productivity. Coromandel has consistently grown its volumes, and during the Kharif season, our market share has increased from 15 per cent to 17 per cent. 2. How are you strengthening your business in a reducing subsidy scenario? We have focused on developing a strong fertilizer value chain by enhancing our raw material sourcing capabilities and investing in backward integration. Our approach to reducing import dependence has led to the expansion of intermediate capacities and improved infrastructure. In 2019, we increased our phosphoric acid capacity at Visakhapatnam with a second plant, followed by a state-of-the-art sulfuric acid plant in 2023. This year, we laid the foundation for new phosphoric acid and sulfuric acid plants at Kakinada, making all our fertilizer sites backward integrated. Additionally, we have entered mining operations in Senegal to secure a steady supply of rock for our phosphoric acid plants. Our captive power and water generation facilities, alongside these strategic investments, ensure cost-effective operations that meet global standards. With a robust supply chain, diversified sourcing, and long-term contracts for critical raw materials, Coromandel has a competitive edge. This integrated approach makes our operations more sustainable and efficient, even amidst volatile commodity prices. 3. The availability of fertilizers globally has been a major issue since the Russia-Ukraine war. What was the impact of this on your business? The Russia-Ukraine war caused significant supply chain disruptions, leading to price volatility and shortages of key fertilizer raw materials like potash, phosphate, and ammonia. Prices peaked in 2021, making it difficult for the fertilizer industry to maintain production and imports. However, by the second half of 2023, raw material prices began to normalize. Coromandel successfully ran its plants at full capacity, thanks to strategic long-term supply contracts and recent investments in intermediate capacities. Additionally, the timely subsidy support from the Government of India helped ensure efficient sourcing of raw materials and continuous fertilizer supply to farmers during this period of volatility. 4. In H1, the revenues of the company were down. Can you explain the reasons behind this? Revenue in H1 was impacted by commodity price volatility and a corresponding reduction in subsidy rates. However, Coromandels fertilizer business grew by 7% in volume, with plants operating close to full capacity. Additionally, the company saw strong performance in its Crop Protection business, driven by new products and higher volumes in both domestic and international markets. The companys 800 retail stores also contributed positively, with strong engagement in the farming community and technology-driven interventions. 5. Coromandel had commissioned a Nano DAP plant in Kakinada. How do you see the future of nano fertilizers in India? How are you preparing yourself for this opportunity? The future of Nano DAP in India is promising, with increasing focus from both the government and industry on efficient farming practices. Nano fertilizers, such as the Nano DAP produced at Coromandel's Kakinada plant, enhance nutrient efficiency, offering optimal delivery and absorption for plants. This technology has the potential to replace conventional fertilizers while improving crop yields. At Coromandel we have invested in the Research and Development of Nano Fertilisers through a team of agile scientists at our R&D centre Monash Academy at IIT Bombay where Gromor Nano DAP was developed. Extensive field trials at over 3,000 locations across India have demonstrated its effectiveness across various crops. Collaborations with leading ICAR Institutes and agricultural universities have further validated its efficacy. We have also established a Nano Technology Centre in Coimbatore to advance nano applications in agriculture. Our sales team is actively educating farmers on the benefits of nano fertilizers, and we are leveraging our existing distribution network to train farmers on their use. We are planning to commercialize Nano Urea and are working on other variants to expand our offering. 6. Coromandel has been at the forefront of bio-pesticides. Tell us something about the benefits of this and your plans in this segment? Bio-pesticides play a key role in integrated pest management (IPM), helping farmers reduce reliance on conventional pesticides. They are eco-friendly, minimizing soil and water contamination, and offer safe and effective alternatives for crop protection with a lower ecological footprint. Coromandel offers a range of biopesticides, including Azadirachtin-based products, which are produced at the worlds largest manufacturing facility in Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu. We are also setting up a captive neem plantation to enhance our sourcing capabilities. Through fermentation and microbial R&D, along with collaborations with research institutes, we are expanding our product portfolio to include bio-fertilizers, microbial crop protection solutions, and plant-based extracts. These products have received positive feedback from customers, and we are using our Mana Gromor Retail stores to promote IPM practices. Additionally, Coromandel is the largest player in the organic fertilizer market, with a sales volume of around 2 lakh tons. 7. Tell us more about your export business, especially products like mancozeb and azadirachtin. Coromandels export business primarily focuses on Crop Protection and Bio-pesticide products, which are sold in approximately 80 countries, with strong presence in Latin America, Africa, and Asia. We hold around 850 product registrations globally. Mancozeb, a broad-spectrum fungicide, is one of our flagship products and a key contributor to export revenues. Azadirachtin, a biopesticide derived from neem seed, is exported to developed markets such as the US, Canada, and Europe. We are focused on expanding our global footprint, particularly in Brazil and Southeast Asia, and have established subsidiaries in the Philippines and Vietnam. In the biologicals segment, we are exploring strategic partnerships in developed markets to expand our portfolio. Our proposed Multi-Product Plant in Ankleshwar, dedicated to new-generation molecules, will cater to export market demands, with product registrations already in progress.

Indian Racing Festival 2024: Naga Chaitanya, John Abraham And Arjun Kapoor Join The Thrill In Coimbatore

Naga Chaitanya was at the Kari Motor Speedway in Coimbatore to support his team, the Hyderabad Blackbirds. at the Indian Racing Festival (IRF). He was joined by actors John Abraham and Arjun Kapoor.

Better facilities, connectivity need of hour to cater to rising Kovai IT sector

COIMBATORE: While employees and industrialists have welcomed the move to enlarge office space in IT companies, with over 11 lakh sq ft of additional space created by government and private parks, they emphasise that the development of infrastructure and connectivity should be on a par with rising employment opportunity in the sector. Sources said the citys existing IT spaces will get additional office space following inauguration of the 2.17 lakh sq ft Elcot IT Park. The upcoming project of Elcot Parks will also have an office space of 3 lakh sq ft on Villankurichi road. Apart from this, almost 6 lakh sq ft of office space will be put to use through private institutions such as KPR IT Park at Neelambur bypass, SVB IT Park and L&T Park on Kochi Bypass near Chettipalayam. Employment for over 85,000 is expected to be generated through developing office spaces. R Gokul, an IT employee from Chettipalayam said, The development of office spaces for IT firms definitely helps Coimbatore economically. Along with an increase in workforce in the sector, facilities should be improved. For instance, there is no proper public transportation connectivity for IT employees. Currently, big and small companies are providing work-from-home options 2-3 days a week due to lack of office space. However, with extra office space, work-from-home options will come down in 2025 as most companies, including mine, are prepared to work in the office full-time. Hence, it is a need of the hour to improve public transport. M Karthikeyan, president of Codissia said, We have been demanding the state and central government to increase infrastructure facilities to the city in light of the growth of IT sector. With an increasing workforce, families of employees will also migrate to the city. This should be considered while planning the city for the next few decades. We have also advocated for the development of infrastructure and connectivity during the meeting with the recent finance commission. J Sathish, Director of Kongu Global Forum, said, To improve connectivity, the government of India should expedite the works for outer bypass roads and expansion of airports. Even now, we lack train and air connectivity. Coimbatore Junction, North Coimbatore Junction and Podanur Junction should be improved to accommodate more trains. Also, metro works should commence without further delay.

De-addiction centre at CMCH to focus on high screen time among kids

COIMBATORE: Coimbatore Medical College Hospital (CMCH) has planned to open a dedicated de-addiction centre to provide treatment for people struggling with alcohol and drug addiction. The centre will cater to men, women, and mostly children addicted to digital screens. Sources said that the de-addiction centre was previously part of the psychiatry ward in the centenary block of CMCH. However, during Covid-19 pandemic, the centre was used for regular use and it turned into a de-addiction centre whenever patients sought treatment. But due to a lack of awareness and availability, the centre could not reach many in need. As addiction to alcohol and drugs continue to rise, establishing a dedicated de-addiction centre is essential. Following the governments fund allotment, the hospital administration has begun renovation works, which will soon open as a specialised de-addiction facility. A Nirmala, CMCH Dean, told TNIE, A fund of Rs 12 lakh has been allocated for renovation of the de-addiction centre under the National Health Mission (NHM). Unlike regular centres, this facility will provide both physical and psychological treatment. It will focus on alcohol addiction as well as drug addiction. In addition to treatment, the centre will include recreational facilities designed to support the patients psychological well-being. She added, The facility has been designed to accommodate 20 patients with 15 beds for men, three for women, and two for children. Patients will receive care from both psychologists and sociologists. The centre will aim to help children overcome issues related to digital and drug addiction. Children becoming addicted to internet and mobile games pose a threat to society and is a challenge for parents. If children do not receive timely support, these can negatively impact their future. Recognising the need for timely intervention and counselling for both children and adults, we have been planning to start a de-addiction programme, she said.

Parking area to be created on lake bund for CMCH visitors

COIMBATORE: The Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation (CCMC) has proposed a plan to create a parking area on the Valankulam Lake bund for vehicles coming to the Coimbatore Medical College Hospital (CMCH), as unauthorised parking outside the hospital has led to traffic congestion on Trichy Road. Police and social activists want both the hospital and CCMC to find suitable parking options, either inside or outside the campus. To address these concerns, the civic body hired a private consultant to identify potential solutions. The consultant recommended utilising the empty land on Valankulam Lake bund, which is opposite to the CMCHs new block. In July, the CMCH restricted private vehicle entry into the campus, allowing only doctors and hospital staff to park inside the campus. This has resulted in significant traffic snarls and pedestrian inconvenience outside the hospital as vehicles now park on the roadside, on the 300-metre stretch between Lanka Corner and Classic Tower signal. Only one lane is usable due to parked vehicles on both sides. Ambulances frequently get stuck as well. The city traffic police permit single-row parking on the roadside but impose fines on those who park beyond this. The issue was raised with Health Minister Ma Subramanian during his recent visit on November 12. He said that a consultant has been appointed to resolve parking issues and assured that action would be taken. The consultant has identified a potential parking space on the Valankulam lake bund. District Collector Kranthi Kumar Pati said the CCMC has appointed a consultant, who has identified an empty space behind the bus stand and opposite to CMCHs new block. After receiving a detailed report, we will take further action, he said. The collector also mentioned plans to construct a foot-over-bridge to facilitate pedestrian crossing in front of the CMCH. The collector has also assured that he will instruct police to deploy additional personnel to manage traffic and install a pelican signal to improve pedestrian crossing in front of CMCH.

Tamil Nadu to implement biometric attendance for university staff to curb unauthorised absences

CHENNAI: To check unauthorised absence of faculty members and administrative staff, the higher education department has directed the universities to install biometric attendance marking systems on campuses. In a circular issued to registrars of all universities, the department said many teaching and non-teaching staff of the universities are coming to office late and leaving early without permission of the authorities concerned, with some also remaining on unauthorised absence from duty. Such activities will bring an unpleasant impression on the institution and may lead to bitter relationships between students and staff, it said. The department has also directed the universities to take measures to implement onboard e-office systems for submission of files, personal information systems. It has also directed the universities to update and maintain the university website on a regular basis. V Thangaraj, president of Tamil Nadu All Government college UGC Qualified Guest Lecturers Association, said the move will help check exploitation of guest lecturers in universities. Guest lecturers are paid little but are burdened with work. In many universities and government colleges, the permanent faculty members dont come regularly or remain on unauthorised leave, and the guest lecturers are forced to do their share of work. After biometric attendance system is introduced, we hope that this practise will be eliminated, he said. Bharathiar University Registrar (in-charge) Rupa Gunaseelan told TNIE the university it will introduce the biometric attendance system on its campuses within two weeks. In another development, the higher education department has issued a G.O. stating teachers of government colleges, who retire in mid of the year will be retained until May 31, 2025, until closing of the academic year for the benefit of the students. However, the benefit will not be extended to principals, librarians, physical education, and teachers included in the administrative work. In the middle of the year, it will be difficult to make alternative arrangements for a retiring teacher. Hence, it has been decided to allow them to continue till completion of academic year, said an official of higher education department. (With inputs from N Dhamotharan @ Coimbatore)

Kadalapparai residents demand safe ration shop as wild elephants threaten dilapidated facility

COIMBATORE: Residents of the picturesque Kadalapparai in Valparai municipality have raised concerns over the dilapidated condition of the ration shop in their area. The structure, which lacks proper walls and doors, is held up only by a few boulders. Since wild elephant menace is also common in the area, the residents want the authorities to either shift the provision store to a safer location or renovate the existing facility. Kadalapparai is surrounded by a private tea estate, where families of over 300 employees reside. The District Supply Department distributes provisions to these families from small shelters constructed by the estates. However, the locals said these shelters were constructed using boulders and had sustained damage over the years owing to elephant attacks. R Nishanth, a local resident, said the shelters walls and doors are completely broken. Despite the dilapidated condition, the staff continue to distribute provisions from here. After distribution, the remaining stock is taken back to a safe place. The only solution is to operate a full-time ration shop here by installing a secure steel container for storing the rations, since the demand for these supplies is high in our region, he added. Recently, residents had got into an argument with officials and ward councillor over the condition of the building. The councilor for Ward 18, P Jayanthi, who manages ration distribution said she had been demanding a safe shop in the region for the past four years. The existing shelters are not safe and could easily be completely destroyed by elephants. Since we have no alternative location, we have been distributing rations from the same building. Steel containers may be the only solution for this issue. We have informed the tahsildar about the situation and requested the official to arrange a safe place to store the rations, Jayanthi said.

32 Jodhamal students qualify for National Skating Cship

Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 19: Thirty two young skaters of Jodhamal Public School have qualified for the upcoming 62nd National Roller-Skating Championship 2024, scheduled to be held at Mysore, Bangalore and Coimbatore from December 5 to December 15, 2024. Jodhamal students selected to represent J&K include Kaavish, Sahraj Singh, Ransher Singh Wazir, Hriday, Nalinaksh, Samaira Mahajan, Naisha Verma, Pavit Gupta, Ayraa Vishishth, Hazel Suri, Shiva Gupta, Tabish Haider Chib, Bhavnoor Kour, Gunvika, Aahan Sharma, Gurjas Singh, Shawni Sharma, Anandini [] The post 32 Jodhamal students qualify for National Skating Cship appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

World Sanitation Day observed in Coimbatore

Coimbatore corporation begins planting palm seeds on Noyyal riverbank

Birders fear decline in migratory shore birds at tanks in Coimbatore

Repair works begin on Pollachi-Palakkad overbridge in Coimbatore

Six arrested for murder near Coimbatore

Coimbatore Corporation invites public opinion on Open Defecation Free status

Aliyar PHC in Coimbatore running without doctors

VCKs Coimbatore functionary held for harassing woman police officer

Tamil Nadu requires Centres support to develop industrial infrastructure, say industry associations in Coimbatore

Non-functional streetlights on Coimbatores Tidel Park Road pose safety hazards

Coimbatore Corporation preparing DPR for relaying damaged roads

`A film on motorsports? Why not?` says Naga Chaitanya at Indian Racing Festival

Naga Chaitanya spoke to Mid-day exclusively at the Kari Motor Speedway in Coimbatore on Sunday where he was present to cheer for his team, the Hyderabad Blackbirds at the Indian Racing Festival (IRF)

Kovai suburbs transform into it hubs: The rise of Vilankurichi and Saravanampatti

Coimbatore's suburbs, Saravanampatti and Vilankurichi, have transformed into bustling IT hubs over the past two decades, attracting major companies and generating thousands of jobs. This growth has spurred real estate demand and urban development, but historians emphasize the need for balanced growth across the city.

District admin gives away financial assistance worth Rs 3L to 29 students via Uyarvukku Padi scheme

COIMBATORE: The district administration gave away financial assistance worth Rs 3.32 lakh to 29 students who joined higher education institutions this year, through the Uyarvukku Padi scheme. Official sources said the Uyarvukku Padi camp, which aims to ensure students take up higher education, was held in five phases at various places in the district. About 1,035 students took part in the camp and 385 students joined courses such as arts and sciences, polytechnic, ITI, nursing, skill-based training, etc in government and private institutions this year. Meanwhile, some students who lost one or both parents, struggled to pay tuition fees at colleges. Considering this, District Collector Kranthi Kumar Pati took measures to pay the students tuition fees through NGOs. The collector on Monday, handed over financial assistance worth Rs 3.32 lakh to 29 students at his chamber, sources added. A female student who did not wish to be named told TNIE that she completed school studies at the Municipal Girls Higher Secondary School in Mettupalayam. I was preparing for NEET, but performed poorly. After this, I stayed at home for a month with no idea about what to take up for higher studies. When I met my biology teacher, he guided me to join a Physiotherapy course. After attending the Uyarvukku Padi camp under the Naan Mudhalvan scheme, I have now enrolled at a private college in Mettupalayam, she said. The tuition fee came up to Rs 1 lakh which was difficult for me. My teacher helped me to pay a part of the fee through sponsorship and now, the district administration has given a financial assistance of Rs 20,000. This has been huge support for my studies, she said.

Tamil Nadu education dept hesitant to take action against bribe charges

COIMBATORE: The Tamil Nadu Primary School Teachers Federation (TNPSTF) has raised an allegation that even with necessary evidence, the educational officers in the district hesitate to take departmental action against a clerical staff member, who received a bribe regarding salary benefits from a teacher. A member of the federation told TNIE, A clerical staff of the Block Education Office at Anaimalai near Pollachi asked a bribe of Rs 3,000 from a secondary grade teacher working at a school in the same block, to disburse three months arrears for selection grade, through the treasury office.Due to delay, the teacher was forced to pay the money to the staffs account. Seeking action against the clerical staff, a teacher and members of TNPSTF petitioned the educational officers along with evidence. Following this, the previous District Educational Officer (DEO) (in charge) issued a notice both seeking an explanation and making inquiries. Even after 20 days, departmental action has not been taken against the staff. Although we submitted a reminder, the present DEO for primary education is also hesitant to take action, he alleged. Sources said as a clerical staff is a member of an office staff association, the same association heads are allegedly influencing top educational officers in Chennai urging them not to take action. As a result, officers are apparently hesitating to take departmental action. When asked about it, DEO for primary school at Pollachi KA Thangarasu told TNIE that the an inquiry is underway and departmental action would be taken soon. When questioned about the delay, he declined to comment.

Two Congress groups tussle at Coimbatore airport, exchange insults

COIMBATORE: A heated exchange broke out between Congress functionary Mayura Jayakumar and INTCU functionary Selvan at the Coimbatore International Airport on Sunday night in which the duo abused and threatened each other using unparliamentary words. In view of this, Congress functionaries led by Selvan filed a petition with the City Police Commissioner on Monday demanding action against Mayura Jayakumar. All India Congress Committees General Secretary K C Venugopal arrived at the airport to return to Delhi after participating in a party programme in Kerala. Local Congress party officials gathered at the airport to welcome him. In this, a team of Congress party workers headed by Congress functionary Mayura Jayakumar and another team headed by Coimbatore Selvan, the head of the trade union wing of the Indian National Congress also welcomed Venugopal. At that time, both sides complained about each other to Venugopal. As a result, a dispute broke out between both teams. Later, KC Venugopal advised both teams to coordinate with each other and left for Delhi. Both Mayura Jayakumar and Kovai Selvan who came out of the airport, got into a heated argument again and exchanged insults. Following this, a quarrel broke out between both sides and police and CISF personnel stationed at the airport dispersed them. This incident sparked a furore among passengers at the airport. A video of the incident has gone viral on social media. In this situation, Kovai Selvan and his group of supporters on Monday submitted a petition with the Coimbatore City Police Commissioner V Balakrishnan demanding action against Mayura Jayakumar for allegedly threatening, abusing and trying to assault him at the airport. Police personnel are investigating the matter.

Soil testing for Avinashi flyover extension in Coimbatore begins

COIMBATORE: Two weeks after the Chief Ministers announcement on the extension of Avinashi Road elevated flyover, the Special Projects wing of the National Highways Department in Coimbatore has started soil testing works. Officials will be taking samples from about 100 places in the 5-km stretch and will prepare a detailed project report (DPR) based on test results. Touted the longest flyover in state , the Avinashi Road Elevated Expressway project was officially sanctioned in August 2020 and works began on December 3, 2020. The flyover which is 10.01 km long and 17.25m wide starts from Uppilipalayam near the police quarters and ends at the Goldwins near the KMCH. The 4-lane elevated flyover which is being constructed by the Special Projects wing of the State Highways Department at a cost of `1,621.30 crore is set to be completed by January 2025. With 305 pillars and eight entry and exit ramps, the highways department has completed about 83% of the project work. However, officials have only finished constructing stormwater drains for 5,700 metres out of 20,200 metres on both sides. Based on public and industrialists demand, Stalin during his visit to Coimbatore on November 6 announced that the flyover would be extended for 5 km from Chinniampalayam to Neelambur for Rs 600 crore and this announcement which was a major demand, was rejoiced by locals. A senior official from the National Highways Department, said, We have started soil testing work to identify depth of hard rock surface and type of foundation that can be laid for the flyover works among others. The soil testing will be carried out in 100 places on the 5 km stretch at a distance of 50 metres from each spot. The testing will continue for about a week. After completing the tests, we will take the samples to the labs for testing.

17 private college students denied grad certificates in row over tuition fee

COIMBATORE: Students from a private Arts and Science College sought the Collectors intervention in getting their original graduation certificates from the institution as the management refused to provide them their certificates, demanding them to pay their fees. In a petition by 17 students, who recently completed B Com from Nyruthi Arts and Science College at Kariampalayam in Annur Taluk to Collector Kranthi Kumar Pati, they said that the college is denying to provide them their original certificates without paying their tuition fee which they already paid prior their exam. They said, When we tried to pay our final year term fee online, there was an error. Hence, all 17 of us from the same department paid the fees to a professor from our department through GPay and incash as he asked us to do it before appearing for the exams. The college principal and administration know about it. Now, after the exam, when we went to collect our certificates, the management demanded us to pay Rs 22,000 including term fee of Rs 12,000 and Rs 10,000 as a penalty and when we told them that we had already paid the money to the professor, they said that the professor did not pay the amount to them. We lodged a complaint with the Annur police station as they said that they can issue certificates only on payment of fees. However, no action has beentaken up so far. On receiving the petition, the collector instructed the joint director of college education to investigate the matter. When TNIE contacted K Kumaravel, the principal of the college, he said, Administration did not know about the students handing over the amount to the staff. We allowed the student to write the exam on a compassionate basis with the condition that they pay their fee while receiving their certificates. The staff who allegedly collected the amount from the students has not come to work since August. We could not reach him as his phone was switched off. Hence, we terminated him. His certificates are with us. We have received complaints against him from the students. We are about to file a complaint against him to the police.

Rs 12 cr, bank deposits of Rs 6 cr seized from Santiago Martin: ED

CHENNAI: The Enforcement Directorates searches at 22 premises linked to lottery baron Santiago Martin across six states, including TN, last week led to recovery and seizure of Rs 12.41 crore unexplained cash and freezing of bank deposits of Rs 6.42 crore, the agency said on Monday. Various digital devices, incriminating documents, records of huge investment in immovable properties in Coimbatore Chennai, Mumbai, Dubai and London and huge investments in share markets were found, the agency said in a release. Searches were held in connection with an investigation against Martin and his entity M/s Future Gaming and Hotel Services Private Limited and other associates. Four printing presses where lottery tickets have been printed were also covered by the operation. ED initiated the investigation based on an FIR registered by Meghalaya Police on complaint by the Director of Meghalaya State Lottery and Kerala Police FIRs taken over by the CBI. The main allegations against the group are that they illegally captured the lottery market by not allowing others to operate, selling fake lottery tickets, manipulating winning prizes and purchasing big prize winning tickets against cash payment for converting black money into white leading to huge loss to the exchequer and general public. The agencys investigation has further found that over 90% of the business of the company is in the lottery tickets with face value of Rs 6 against which most of the prizes are below Rs 10,000 which is non-taxable. No proper record is maintained by the company regarding prize winners or sold and unsold tickets. Lottery schemes are designed by the company in such a way that substantial profit goes to the company and the organising state gets a very small portion of revenue. The searches were conducted in West Bengal, Karnataka, UP, Meghalaya and Punjab apart from TN. In the previous probe in the matter in EDs Kochi zone, it was found that Martin and his company had acquired around Rs 920 crore in lottery business from proceeds of crime.

Orientation programme for journalists held in Coimbatore

How two sleepy suburbs in Coimbatore transformed into thriving tech hubs

Coimbatore couple arrested for orchestrating tenants murder

29 students in Coimbatore given 3.3 lakh under Uyarvukku Padi scheme

Soil testing begins for elevated corridor project on Avinashi Road in Coimbatore

Sundaram Home Finance targets solid growth in west TN; opens new EB branch in Pollachi

Buoyed by its early success in Coimbatore, where it had opened a branch last year, the company has now opened a new Emerging Branch (EB) in Pollachi

Retired anganwadi workers stage protest in Coimbatore

National-level Lok Adalat in Coimbatore district on December 14

Viral video: Congress functionaries abuse each other at Tamil Nadu's Coimbatore airport, lodge police complaints

A verbal clash erupted between two factions of Congress functionaries at Coimbatore airport, leading to police complaints. The altercation, captured on video, involved AICC Secretary Mayura S Jayakumar and former PCC member Kovai Selvan. The incident occurred after AICC General Secretary K C Venugopal's departure, prompting both individuals to file complaints against each other.

Coimbatore NGO turns debris dumping site near Kurichi tank into mini forest

The project, supported by ZF Wind Power Coimbatore through a CSR contribution of 5.92 lakh, has seen the planting of 1,500 saplings since June 24, 2023

Off the cuff | Kids say the darnedest

Looks like honesty runs in the family! School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhis son stole the show at an awards ceremony, not for his innovative project (which he admitted to barely working on!), but for his candid comments. While dear old dad champions the two-language policy, junior Anbil casually revealed he opted for French over Tamil at his fancy private school. Cue the collective gasp! Netizens were quick to point out the irony, with comments like, Maybe he can teach his dad a thing or two about transparency. But hey, at least the kids honest, right? Guardian of Fort Station loos Forget Dolby Atmos, this Chennai toilet attendant has a voice that could rival any superstar! Meet Selvi, the fearless guardian of the pay-and-use loos at Fort Station. Trying to sneak out without paying? Shell unleash a roar thatll send you running back into the stall. Dei nillu, nethikku nee kasu kodukkale le? (Stop, you didnt pay yesterday right?) is her signature catchphrase, delivered with the clarity of a seasoned orator. But Selvis not just about tough talk. She takes pride in keeping those toilets sparkling clean, using her hard-earned cash to buy phenyl and ensure a hygienic experience. Clearly, this is one superwoman you dont want to mess with! Colours reserved Health Minister Ma Subramanians Coimbatore hospital visit went south faster than a dosa in a hot pan, thanks to a tablecloth. Seems the red and yellow fabric at his press conference tickled a reporters funny bone, with its resemblance to the TVK flag. Officials, in a frenzy worthy of a Kollywood comedy, swapped the cloth quicker than you can say Amma idli. But alas, mobile phones captured the swap, and the video went viral. The irony? Had they left it unchanged, nobody would have noticed. Talk about a self-goal! Maybe next time, they should just drape the table with a veshti safe, and controversy-free Red carpet to red alert CPM dropped a bomb on DMKs unity charade! Firing a salvo at its supposed ally, the comrades have slammed the DMK government for dancing to the tune of Samsung in a crucial labour dispute. The charge? That the governments advocate is acting as Samsungs stooge, delaying justice for workers and leaving unions out in the cold. Is this the pro-labour DMK we were promised? Looks like someones seeing red... Insurance for post Lights, camera, corruption? A rising star in a famous actors new party is accused of forcing new members to buy LIC policies, rocketing himself up the charts. But wait, theres more! He and another leader allegedly pocketed Rs 5,000 to Rs20,000 per person by promising cushy party posts in exchange for cold, hard cash. All this while the actor himself claims you cant see corruption with the naked eye. Perhaps hes up for an eye test. (Contributed by Nimisha S Pradeep, R Kirubakaran, Kumaresan S, M Saravanan, Subashini Vijayakumar; compiled by Dinesh Jefferson E)

Farmers to stop BPCL pipeline works from today

COIMBATORE: The members of the Tamil Nadu Farmers Protection Association have decided to stop oil pipeline works carried out by BPCL at Sulur on Monday. Members took a decision at the marriage hall in Sulur on Saturday, where the police kept them after arrest for staging a road roko since Friday night, by refusing to leave the hall. Eesan Murugasamy, founder president of the association who led the protest, said, We had requested the district administration to stop works for one more week in order to to meet the industry minister and industry secretary in Chennai, however, our demand was not accepted. Therefore, we have decided to stop works on Monday. According to Eesan, their demand is to lay the pipeline along the roadside and not through the agricultural land. The pipeline is being laid for 340 km up to Bengaluru from Coimbatore. Out of 340 km, the pipeline will be laid for 270 km along the roadside. However, the remaining 70 km pipeline from Irugur (Coimbatore) to Muthur (Tirupur district) is planned to be laid within agricultural land. The company is again laying the pipeline, similar to the works carried out on agricultural lands between Sulur and Karur 30 years ago. The company claims they are using the area covered by existing lines to lay the new pipeline. However, we will not allow this, and the existing lines too will be shifted to the roadside, as we face setbacks in land valuation. Government agencies refuse to provide loans and land gets fragmented, affecting cultivation, said Eesan.

Conservationists breathe new life into water channel in Coimbatore

COIMBATORE: Members of Kovai Kulangal Padhukappu Amaippu, along with Coimbatore Corporation and other departments, transformed the banks of Kurichi Lakessurplus water channel into a Miyawaki forest from a dump yard. The banks of Kurichi Lakes surplus water channel were turned into a dumpyard by miscreants and the stretch of land on both sides of the channel was piled with construction debris and other wastes. This had started slipping into the channel blocking the water flow. Given this, the water resources department decided to change the situation by requesting Kulangal Padhukappu Amaippu an NGO to help them convert the place into a garden. Hence, a team of volunteers led by the NGOs coordinator R Manikandan with financial assistance from ZF Windpower Pvt Ltd, and watering assistance from Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation (CCMC) planted over 1,500 tree saplings, including 48 native tree species. Manikandan told TNIE, After the debris was removed and the land was cleared of garbage piles, we dug about five feet holes and dumped water hyacinths that were removed by the CCMC from the waterbodies as manure and then began our tree plantation drive on June 24, 2023. The CCMC also helped in watering the saplings. With over a year and half passed, the whole place has now transformed into a Miyawaki forest and has been maintained well by our volunteers. The place that looked like barren land before has turned into a lush green blanket after the plantation drive by volunteers and environmentalists.

Farmers association demand daily update on fertiliser stock via Uzhavan app

COIMBATORE: The Farmers Association (non-political) urged the agricultural department to update fertiliser availability in each primary agricultural cooperative societies (PACS) and private retails shops through the Uzhavan app daily. In a letter sent to the Agricultural Department by Farmers Association (non political), they said that farmers could not get an update of fertiliser availability periodically. To control diverting fertilisers, which are supplied by the government at subsidised rate for agricultural purposes, to the black market, we have been demanding to update availability of fertilisers at PACS and private retail shops through the Uzhavan App which was developed by the agricultural department for providing such essential information to farmers. After consistent demands, the department has started updating fertilisers availability in the retail market through the application for the past two years, said P Kandhasamy, general secretary of Farmers Association (non political). He said that this was lacking as the information is only being updated once in ten days. If the department updates details every day, irregularities would be prevented in fertiliser trade and it would benefit farmers who are in need, he added. An agricultural department official said, We have taken up the farmers concern to higher authorities as the application is updated from Chennai. We update the details of stock in the district daily and maintain records.

Three AP tourists disturb spotted deer in Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, fined Rs 15k

COIMBATORE: The Masinagudi forest officials imposed a total fine of Rs 15,000 against three tourists from Andhra Pradesh, for disturbing a group of spotted deer on Masinagudi-Theppakadu road inside Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (MTR) on Saturday. On Saturday evening, after receiving a tip-off from fellow tourists, the team led by Masinagudi forest range officer N Balaji, traced their vehicle registration to the Theppakadu elephant camp. The group had parked their car at the entrance and went inside. Officials said they have imposed a fine of Rs 5,000 against S Suresh, N Abdulla, and R Nagaraj (name changed). The trio had parked their car on the roadside and one of them went inside the forest, where a large number of spotted deer were grazing, while the other stayed to film the antics. Due to this, the deer panicked and went deep into the forest. Another tourist captured the incident and conveyed it to forest checkpost staff, who in turn, informed the range officer. We have inspected their mobile phones and their motive is not to make reels. They simply danced after approaching very close to a bevy of spotted deer. They were not inebriated, said the range officer. The official added that one could notice an abundance of spotted deer along with gaur wild elephants and other animals on the 7-km stretch between Masinagudi and Theppakkadu. Parking a vehicle on the roadside and taking pictures of animals is prohibited as it will disturb the animals free movement and also cause traffic congestion, the official further said.

Over 3K child marriage complaints in TN last year; 1,995 were stopped

CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu received a total of 3,049 child marriage complaints in 2023, with an average of nearly eight cases being reported to social welfare department on a daily basis. While 1,995 of these marriages were successfully stopped, 1,054 were carried out. Despite over a thousand marriages being reported, only 808 first information reports (FIRs) were registered, majority of which were for marriages that had already taken place, a petition filed under RTI Act revealed. Dindigul district led the state in the number of complaints received (175 cases), while Namakkal recorded the highest number of child marriages conducted (117). Western districts occupied at least three spots in the top five for both the highest number of marriage complaints reported and the most child marriages conducted. Followed by Namakkal, most marriages were conducted in Erode (62), Cuddalore (56), Dindigul (54) and Coimbatore (46). As regards the districts where most complaints were received, Dindigul was followed by Namakkal (171), Theni (161), Cuddalore (150) and Salem (143). In Tiruchy district, 103 complaints were received of which 48 marriages were conducted. However, only four FIRs had been registered. We see a significant number of child marriages among marginalised communities and tribal groups in districts like Erode. Many of these go unreported, and it is crucial that special attention is given to these regions, said G Karuppasamy of READ NGO, which works with children in Erode. Activists also claimed that the actual number of child marriages in Tamil Nadu is likely to be much higher. Child marriage is not just a legal violation but an emotional, physical and psychological abuse which deprives children of their childhood. Activists have stressed on the need for better coordination across departments and a microscopic approach to eradicate the menace. The state, however, is yet to release a standard operating procedure to tackle the issue. A committee was formed in 2021 to address gaps in the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Child Marriage Rules, particularly around the roles of stakeholders and government departments. Child marriages stem from complex social, cultural and economic factors. Authorities have to identify and address the specific causes in each block and district which report high number of such marriages, Karuppasamy said. He added that the centre has been cutting budget allocation for childrens welfare in the past 10 years and the burden on the state is increasing. While initiatives like Pudhumai Penn have been introduced to encourage education of girls, activists said a comprehensive study is needed to understand the root causes of the issue. However, the State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, which can proactively undertake studies, is non-functional at present. Appointing dedicated child marriage probation officers in high-risk districts and ensuring that village child protection committees are properly funded may also help. Health professionals also emphasised the importance of age-appropriate, comprehensive sex education as a key measure. A girls reproductive system is fully developed only by the age of 21. Early pregnancies, especially before 21, carry a higher risk of health complications for the mother and the child, said KS Jeyarani Kamaraj, an obstetrician and gynecologist. Providing young girls with education about sexual health has been proven to reduce the incidence of early pregnancies and improve overall health outcomes, she added.

Goa Aces clinch Indian Racing League title

Goa Aces clinch Indian Racing League title Coimbatore: Raoul Hyman and Gabriela Jilkova not only delivered a 1-2 finish for Goa Aces JA Racing but also helped the team clinch the Indian Racing League Championship as the curtains came down on the 2024 edition at the Kari Motor Speedway, here on Sunday. Going into the [] The post Goa Aces clinch Indian Racing League title appeared first on Mangalorean.com .

Trekking opens fresh avenues for five tribal youth in Valparai

COIMBATORE: A few months ago, the road ahead for C Jayaraman from Koomatti tribal settlement seemed to be leading nowhere. He completed his schooling this year but did not pursue higher education. His father, who had worked as a forest guard, retired last year. Unemployed and unaware of the opportunities, he had idled away hours on the roads in the Manombolly forest range near Valparai. The tribal youths future took a turn for the better when Manombolly forest range officer K Giritharan roped him in, along with four more unemployed youngsters, to work as guides for trekkers. The Tamil Nadu Forest Department has recently introduced 39 trekking routes across the state, including one in Manombolly. Speaking to TNIE, Giritharan said the department has handpicked five youths C Jayaraman, Anandan, Prabhu, Dheena and Prabhakaran from two tribal settlements to provide them a job for improving their livelihoods. With the departments initiative, all five youngsters are set to receive their first monthly salary of Rs 12,500, for working as guides for four hours a day from Friday to Sunday. Giritharan said the officials had learned about the unemployment of the youth through their family heads, during their regular interaction with the people to address their grievances. Four of the five, he said, discontinued their school education after completing classes between 8 and 10. Youngsters given 3-month training from forest dept Manombolly forest range officer K Giritharan said, Now, the youngsters work as guides to the trekkers, explaining to them the Manombolly landscape and its flora and fauna. They are well prepared to manage tourists with the assistance of experienced anti-poaching watchers. The youngsters were provided a three-month training from the forest department and they all picked up so well, he added. Jayaraman said he had always been interested in working only within the forest and expressed his gratitude to the officials for selecting him for the job. Another tribal youth Prabhakaran told TNIE that they all were looking forward to weekends when trekking is allowed. The forest is familiar, but going on journeys with trekkers is a new experience. We alert them about trail spots so they can avoid leech bites and offer them tips to observe the calls of birds, elephants, gaur, lion-tailed macaques, Indian giant squirrels, etc, he said. A woman trekker from last week, Sowmiya, said the trek was well organised and the officials and the guides were supportive.

Arjun Sampath detained in Coimbatore, let off

At 22,311, Coimbatore has the highest beneficiaries under Tamil Pudhalvan scheme

2019 road accident death in Coimbatore turns out to be murder

Orchestrated fatal accident of Coimbatore woman in 2019 uncovered as police crack new murder case

Indu Makkal Katchis Arjun Sampath, 141 others detained for protest in Coimbatore

Wild elephant breaks electric pole near Coimbatore, damages crops

Commuters raise concern over non-functional information boards at bus shelters in Coimbatore

Over 700 participate in road safety awareness rally in Coimbatore

NFIW to stage protest in Coimbatore demanding inquiry on Isha Foundation

TN higher education secretary asks registrar to hold Bharathiar University senate meet

COIMBATORE: During his visit to Bharathiar University (BU) on Friday, Higher Education Department Secretary K Gopal instructed the registrar (in charge) of the university to take steps to convene the senate meeting which had not been conducted for the last six months. Gopal also directed the university officials to prepare the audit reports for the 2022-2023 academic year in 10 days and be ready for the finance committee, syndicate and senate meetings. Sources said the secretary also stressed that the varsity should get a good ranking in all parameters and told heads of the departments to focus on skill-based training, exposure and placements for the students. A senate member and principal of Government Arts and Science College for Women at Puliyakulam, T Veeramani, the senate meeting was not conducted for the last six months due to the lethargic attitude of the university. As per university norms, senate meetings should be conducted twice (June and January) in an academic year. During senate meetings, members would discuss the universitys audit reports, he pointed out. He recalled that the last senate meeting in January was postponed when the issue regarding the universitys regulation on capping a principals tenure to 10 years was raised.

For Tiruchy-Coimbatore motorists, UGD work and bad roads are never-ending trouble

COIMBATORE: As vehicles on Ramanathapuram junction are being diverted due to slow underground drainage (UGD) works by the Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation (CCMC), motorists travelling on Trichy Road have been affected. Though the works have been carried out for over three months, the repair works are yet to be completed by the civic body officials. The UGD pipeline that was recently installed under the Trichy Road near Ramanathapuram junction burst and the road caved in on July 28 and the police immediately placed barricades around it. Later, though the CCMC officials along with the Tamil Nadu Water Supply and Drainage (TWAD) Board officials began the repair works, the stretch near the junction was left completely dilapidated for a long time. Though it has been three months, officials are yet to finish the repair work because the work was suspended for a few days citing Deepavali and other VIP visits. In this situation, officials resumed the repair works a few days ago and have now diverted the traffic at Ramanathapuram junction by closing one side of the road for vehicle movement. This diversion coupled with poor roads in this stretch has made things worse and the snails pace of fixing works has irked motorists as the damaged portion has been causing traffic congestion. When inquired about it, a senior CCMC official from the central zone told TNIE, The pipes which burst are large. Unlike water pipelines, there are big 1,500 mm diameter concrete pipes. So they can only be ordered. We have already ordered the pipes, but the making is getting delayed. Also, we are planning a trenchless method to avoid disturbing the Valankulam stormwater channel built under the road. New installation works can be done quickly. However, such meticulous repair work is a challenging task and time-consuming. However, all the works will likely be completed in about 15 days.

Tamil Nadu: MDMK office razed; members stage road roko

COIMBATORE: An MDMK party branch office was demolished by a resident of Avarampalayalam (Ward 28), who claimed ownership of the land, where the building was built. Sundarrajan hired a JCB to demolish the building on Friday night, creating tension among MDMK functionaries when they noticed only debris on Saturday morning. The building was under the partys possession for 31 years. MDMK District Secretary P Selvaraj, along with party functionaries, reached the spot and staged a road roko demanding the arrest of those who demolished the building. Selvaraj said that three months ago, Sundarrajan who resides nearby had approached them, claiming that the land belonged to him. Selvaraj claimed that Sundarrajan created fake ownership documents and that the land belonged to Narayanasamy, who did not give the land to anyone after their demise. Narayanasamy had the actual ownership of the 4.25 cents of land in Mariyamman Kovil Street. Since his demise, the property has not been transferred to anyone. Out of the total land, our office building was located at 2 cents, and a house was located in the remaining 2.25 cents. The MDMK party has been using it for the last 31 years. We are also paying the electricity bill to Tangedco. The office was active till Friday, he said. Party members approached Peelamedu police and filed a complaint against Sundarraj for demolishing the party office along with another abandoned house nearby.

Tamil Nadu: Tasmac instructs outlets to promote digital payments

COIMBATORE: The Tasmac in the district management has mandated that at least 15% of sales at all Tasmac outlets in the district must be conducted via Point-of-Sale (POS) machines. This aims to minimise overcharging and promote the use of digital payment systems among customers. A circular stating the same was sent to all outlet supervisors. Supervisors are instructed to encourage the use of these machines, by ensuring that no customer is refused digital payment options. Every shop should place a notice, visibly stating All Credit Cards, Debit Cards & UPI Payments are accepted here, the circular said. Employees are prohibited from charging extra for liquor sales made through POS machines and MRP should be strictly adhered to. The machines should be operational throughout the day, the circular added. Currently, 290 Tasmac outlets operate in the district, including North and South Tasmac administrative districts. Employees have expressed concerns that the introduction of digital payments, intended to regulate transactions, may instead encourage increased alcohol purchases among people and alter consumption patterns. During a state-level meeting in Thanjavur on Saturday, the Tasmac Employees State Committee affiliated with CITU condemned these new instructions setting up a sales target. The representatives of the trade union said that no uniform state-wide strategy for implementing electronic payments in liquor sales exists as each district sets its own targets and issues instructions. End-to-end billing system should be properly implemented in Tasmac outlets. Separate counters for billing, cash and sales should be set up at each outlet like Kerala, to rectify irregularities in the sale of liquor, according to the resolutions passed in the meeting.

Upgrade Avinashi, Uthukuli govt hospitals to treat accident victims too, say activists

TIRUPPUR: Social activists and members of various political parties urged the government to upgrade Avinashi and Uthukuli hospitals along the Salem-Cochin National Highway (544) so that accident victims from the NH can be taken there other than Tiruppur, Coimbatore, or Perundurai to consume time. G V Ravikumar, Coordinator of the Avinashi government hospital rescue movement, said, It has been decades since the Avinashi government hospital was established. However, so far it has not been upgraded. Avinashi taluk has more than 1 lakh people, many village panchayats affiliated with it, and 30 km of the Salem-Cochin National Highway stretch goes within the taluk. As road accidents are common on this stretch, victims are taken to Tiruppur or Coimbatore for treatment, which wastes time. As time is a major factor during emergencies, if the Avinashi hospital is upgraded, it will be helpful. He added, As the number of accident and snakebite victims at government hospitals are on the rise, about 200 people have been visiting a government hospital every day. But there is not enough infrastructure here. Beds are limited, there are no doctors for maternity wards and no X-ray technicians. So, the upgradation of Avinashi GH is our long-term demand. We had put this request before the AIADMK government a few years ago. Now we are presenting the same to the DMK government. They should fulfil our demand. Similarly, alleging that the Uthukuli Government Hospital needs a renovation, K Saraswathy, CPIM Uthukuli taluk secretary, said, Doctors at Uthukuli Government Hospital refuse to stitch and treat even minor injuries stating that there are no facilities. They refer victims to Tiruppur Government Medical College Hospital. Due to this many people opt for private hospitals. R Kumar, secretary of Tamil Nadu Farmers Association, Tiruppur, said, Uthukuli Government Hospital does not have emergency treatment facilities. Due to this, accident victims are taken to Perundurai Government Medical College Hospital and those who meet with an accident at Uthukuli and Chengapalli, are referred to Tiruppur. We feel Uthukuli GH is only to refer patients to Tiruppur. A senior health department official from Tiruppur, said, We have not yet received any notification regarding any of the hospital up-gradation from the government. Appropriate steps will be taken after due consultation.

Never too old to click!

COIMBATORE: Tra Arunthavaselvan cross-checked pugmarks again and stood at Sathymangalam Tiger Reserve, waiting for the shy civet cat to show up. Everything was in place - a perfect camouflage using plants, artificially spread soil, serene moonlight, and an accurate aperture. It was a long wait. Twelve days later, this shutterbug finally caught the animal on camera, engraving an unforgettable day in his photography career. For Thuckanaickenpalayam Ramasamy Andavan Arunthavaselvan, popularly known as TRA Arunthavaselvan, ones love for photography cannot be confined to age barriers. At 74, this veteran wildlife photographer (one of the oldest wildlife photographers in Tamil Nadu) finds solace in clicking pictures of birds, reptiles, and insects, spending more time with nature. While most wildlife photographers often have a story to share about what inspired their entry into the world of photographs, Arunthavaselvan somehow missed that gateway. His motivation has always been a sheer interest in capturing moments, and after getting a camera from his cousin, while in Class 9, this diligent worker got hold of his first tool. Growing up in an agrarian family from Thuckanaickenpalayam village near Sathyamangalam, Arunthavaselvan had plenty of opportunities to observe birds and animals keenly. During school days, I used to draw pictures of elephants and birds, and my interest later extended to photography. Subsequently, I started taking pictures of black-naped hares in Chettipalayam near Podanur. In 1965, I went to Mudumalai with my friends, and thats when my camera captured a wild elephant for the first time, said Arunthavaselvan, who went on to purchase a second-hand SLR camera from an Army man later. The septuagenarians collection includes pictures of various animal species, showcasing the diversity of the regions wildlife With the SLR camera, I took a black-and-white photograph of two goats, facing each other, ahead of engaging in a fight near the Maruthamalai temple hill. The picture got me first prize in a photography competition conducted by a Mumbai-based company, recalled Arunthavaselvan, who has now completed over 55 years in this field. After finishing Class 12 at Mani Higher Secondary School, Arunthavaselvan went on to pursue a BA in Politics at Government Arts College, Coimbatore in 1972. He began visiting forests in Karnataka along with TNA Perumal, a wildlife photographer, and learnt the nuances of clicking pictures of insects from another photographer K Jayaram. I was a regular visitor at the photographers club, where I learned about competitions. I won first place for a barn owl photo and an international award for a Brahminy Kite picture. But those were just stepping stones. Now, my latest photo? A scorpion, its pincers gripping a centipede, the struggle frozen forever. Thats what I call a masterpiece, said the septuagenarian. He uses his photography to teach students about the importance of protecting wildlife. I will be happy if school or college students will become involved in taking wildlife pictures in the future, he says. He encourages them to learn about wildlife behaviour using photography to advocate for the environment. He adds, I am spreading awareness for school and college students about wildlife behaviour and how forest flora and fauna play an important role in essential requirements of water and fresh air, etc to the human beings who live outside the forest. So far, he has clicked pictures of as many as 530 bird species by travelling through forests across the country and bagged over 175 awards from various government and private organisations. Unlike colour photography, he says, one ought to be extra careful while taking pictures in black and white due to the use of limited exposure and shutter speed. At present, he is meticulously engaged in writing articles about wildlife in Sangam Literature for various magazines like Sanctuary Asia, Hornbill, Better Photography, Best Photography Today, Diary On The Nesting Behaviour of Indian Birds, and others, appealing to young photographers to acquire knowledge about the behaviour of the birds, big cats, reptiles, and wild elephants before venturing into the forest. He was one of the top 10 wildlife photographers winning cheers at the national-level photography competition organised by the India International Photography Council (IIPC), for six consecutive years (2001-06). If not with a camera, Kunderpallam villagers often spot Arunthavadelvan rescuing and releasing snake birds and raptors, which get caught in fishing nets and fences installed by farmers to protect their crops from wild boar menace. As someone who wishes to blend with nature, this veteran photographer never misses an opportunity to befriend the avian species and capture their beauty through his camera lens, without disturbing their peace. (Edited by Arya AJ) The septuagenarians collection includes pictures of various animal species, showcasing the diversity of the regions wildlife

State highways officials told to speed up rail over-bridge work at SIHS Colony in Coimbatore

Government scheme helps identify early-stage CKD in 941 people in Coimbatore district

Two arrested for stealing 50 sovereigns of gold from locked house in Coimbatore

Farmers in Coimbatore district to stop BPCL from laying oil pipeline from Monday

District Collector urges citizens to participate in electoral roll revision camps in Coimbatore

Coimbatore Corpn. plans 245 crore Reverse Osmosis plant to reduce stress on freshwater sources

Man hacked to death near Coimbatore

Higher education dept to focus on integrating technology

COIMBATORE: The Higher Education Department is focusing on improving learning outcomes and integrating technology to enhance educational experiences, said K Gopal, Higher Education Secretary, on Friday (15.11.2024). Speaking at the 8th edition of the National Higher Education Conclave organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) at Codissa Hall, Gopal said Tamil Nadu has the highest gross enrolment ratio in the country, with nearly 50% of students having access to higher education. The state government is establishing research parks at major universities to foster collaboration between academia and industry on real-world projects, he said. We are now taking the next step by focusing on improving learning outcomes and integrating technology to enhance educational experiences. Gopal outlined plans to implement outcome-based education by aligning curriculum, teaching methods, and assessments with relevant skills and competencies. Technology will play a key role in helping us track students progress and outcomes to meet evolving needs, he said. Tamil Nadu is also working on competency mapping of students through technology. He added that the department aims to ensure students are equipped with the skills that employers seek. Strengthening industry partnerships and promoting experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and industry-led projects, are integral to ensuring that students graduate workforce-ready, he said. The CII Edu-Tech Expo 2024, inaugurated on Friday (15.11.2024), will continue on Saturday (16.11.2024) and Sunday (17.11.2024). R Nandini, Chairperson, CII Southern Region and Founder Trustee, GRG Trust; S Malarvizhi, Chairperson and Managing Trustee, Sri Krishna Institutions; Rajesh Varrier, EVP, Global Head of Operations, Chairman and Managing Director, Cognizant India; and Shankar Vanavarayar, Past Chairman, CII Tamil Nadu were present.

Engineer nabbed in Shillong for sending drugs via post to Tamil Nadu

COIMBATORE: A 24-year-old B Tech graduate, a native of Udumalpet in Tiruppur district, was arrested by the Coimbatore city police on Wednesday for allegedly supplying ganja and synthetic drugs to the college students here. The police seized 1.25 kg of ganja from him. The suspect, D Amrudheen, who was arrested from Shillong, used to run a PG hostel at Shillong in Meghalaya. It is noted that he had smuggled the contraband to Tamil Nadu through a parcel service offered by India Post. After completing his degree, he moved to Shillong in 2023, where he was running a PG hostel and constructing a new hostel. He allegedly started to supply ganja, LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide), and pills to a group of students and drug peddlers through courier or post from Shillong, said Dr R Stalin, Deputy Commissioner of Police (North), Coimbatore city. A police team visited Shillong a few days ago and arrested him with 1.25 kg of ganja in his room on Wednesday. After producing him at a local court in Shillong, he was brought to Peelamedu police station in Coimbatore city on Friday morning. Amrudheen had sent ganja weighing around 4 kg six times through India Post parcel service. The friends who received it here in Tamil Nadu distributed them through their known circle. We alerted the parcel service especially India Post to handle the parcels from the North East states with more consciousness, said R Stalin.

Six private college students among seven held with 1 kg ganja in Kovai city

COIMBATORE: Seven persons including six students of a private college were arrested by the Saravanampatti police on Friday for illegal possession of ganja. The police seized one kg of ganja, seven mobile phones and a knife from them. The arrested youths were identified as P Mathesh (19), S Sanjay Kumar (19), S Hari Narayanan (19), C Aditya (19), U Dushyanth (19), and S Naveen (24), all studying in a private arts and science college at Nava India, and K Dinesh (24). Police said Dinesh had been previously booked for a murder case, three attempted murder cases, and a ganja case in Ramanathapuram district. The youths used to procure the contraband from sellers in Theni. R Stalin, Deputy Commissioner of Police (North) of Coimbatore city said, One of the arrested covered the number plate of his bike with clothes on Thursday. Later, the police team managed to catch him that evening. After a detailed investigation, the police arrested the remaining members of the group. The deputy commissioner also added that a section of students from three private colleges located near SITRA and Nava India in Coimbatore city have been involved in ganja and synthetic drug sales. These three college managements did not take any stringent action against the student. We have sent a letter to the Higher Education Department to take appropriate action against these colleges, the police officer said. He said the city police is planning to conduct a meeting with the parents of the suspects and the college management. If the college managements fails to take stringent action, the police will include the names within the college management as accused in future, Deputy Commissioner Stalin added.

Fuel spill sparks blaze at funeral home; woman dies, three injured

COIMBATORE: A 53-year-old schoolteacher died and three others sustained burns in a fire that broke out during the funeral arrangement of her mother-in-law at her house at KRG Nagar in Ganapathy in Coimbatore on Friday afternoon. Police said two of the three survivors suffered over 60% burn injuries and are critical. According to sources, the fire broke out after the petrol spilled while refuelling a portable generator, kept for operating the freezer box, hit a nearby earthen lamp. According to sources, B Ramalakshmi (83) from KRG Nagar died of age-related illness on Thursday evening. She was living with her son Murugasubramanian (60) and her daughter-in-law Padmavathi (53), who was working as a Tamil teacher at a school in Ram Nagar in Coimbatore. Neighbours, kin broke open window and rescue four Ramalakshmis younger son B Rajeswaran (55), daughter Banumathi (50) and Banumathis husband Ramasubramanian were also looking after the funeral arrangements on Friday. Rajeswaran has visual, auditory and speech disabilities, sources said. Due to power outage, the family rented a portable generator to operate the freezer box. S Sriram (20) of Varadharaj Nagar near Ganapathy brought the generator to their home. According to sources, while Sriram was refuelling the generator, he accidentally spilled petrol onto the earthen lamp kept near the freezer box, sparking a fire. When the fire spread to the petrol can, the youth dropped it in panic and the fire rapidly spread throughout the small house. Padmavathi, Banumathi, Rajeswaran, and Sriram, who were caught inside the house, sustained burn injuries. Ramalakshmis body, however, was saved by the freezer box. Sources said neighbours and a few relatives broke open the house window and rescued the four. Upon information, fire and rescue services personnel from the Ganapathy Fire Station arrived at the spot and doused the fire. Youth dropped can in panic Sources said Sriram was refuelling the generator when he spilled petrol onto the earthen lamp kept near the freezer box, sparking a fire. When the fire spread to the petrol can, the youth dropped it in panic and the fire rapidly spread throughout the small house.

Social activists in Coimbatore demand reopening of railway gate amid stalled ROB works

COIMBATORE: Social activists in the city have demanded the government to expedite Railway Overbridge (ROB) works near Thanneerpandal and have also urged officials to open the railway gate for traffic until construction is completed. The gate has remained closed since 2016, owing to stalled ROB works, forcing motorists to take a long detour. The railway level crossing (LC) gates 4, 5 and 6 at Singanallur SIHS Colony, Neelikonampalayam and Thanneerpandal Road respectively, were witnessing huge traffic congestion. Considering this, the state government decided to construct a flyover across gate 6 at Thanneerpandal Road through the state highways department and the government released a GO (No 210) on October 11, 2006 and gave administrative sanction of Rs 12.65 crore. The bridge will be 549.14m long, 8.5m wide and will have 8 pillars on the southern side and 7 pillars on the northern side of the railway tracks along with approach and service roads. The Southern Railways construction wing completed the construction above railway tracks in 2018. A total of 18,682 sq ft of land was earmarked for acquisition. Among 58 landowners, a majority gave their lands away for the project. However, about five land owners opposing this, filed cases in the Madras High Court. The court came down heavily against landowners and criticised them for stopping a public welfare project. The court went on to dismiss all three writ petitions and a contempt of court petition and imposed a fine of Rs 1 lakh each on the writ petitioners to be paid to the Tamil Nadu State Legal Services Authority, on March 2023. Despite the courts order, landowners of a private school and a factory functioning on the Hopes - Thanneerpandal Road filed a writ appeal again in the High Court. Due to this, works have been stalled again. The LC gate 6 was closed in 2016 for ROB works. All vehicles have been forced to take a long detour via the Tidel Park road. Social activists have urged officials to reopen the gate, until construction works are complete, to ease motorists woes. RTI and social activist V Balasubramanian is demanding the opening of a railway gate that has been closed due to an ongoing road overbridge project. Balasubramanian has petitioned the CMs special grievance cell and plans to send petitions to the Coimbatore MP and Salem Divisional Railway Manager. He argues that since the court has not issued a stay order, highway officials should proceed with the project. Collector Kranthi Kumar Pati said they are aware of the issue and have appointed a special AG to follow the court case, which has been delayed due to listing issues. The landowner who filed a writ appeal is unwilling to compromise, further hindering progress. The collector stated that a recommendation can be sent to the railways department regarding the gate, but the final decision rests with them.

Dy CM Udhayanidhi to lay foundation stone for Rs 9.67-cr international hockey stadium in Kovai

COIMBATORE: Following Chief Minister MK Stalins recent visit to Coimbatore, sources told TNIE that Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin is set to visit the district in the coming weeks and lay the foundation stone for the international hockey stadium that will be built on RS Puram Boys Higher Secondary Schools playground by the Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation (CCMC). On March 13, Stalin announced that a state-of-the-art hockey stadium will be built in Coimbatore. Based on this, the CCMC identified a location and prepared a DPR for the stadium. The civic body decided to construct the hockey stadium at RS Puram Corporation Higher Secondary Schools playground in the citys west zone. The DPR was completed and sent to the DMA (Directorate of Municipal Administration) by CCMC, demanding funds and approval for the project. The DMA has sanctioned `9.67 crore for the stadium. Speaking to TNIE, a senior official of the CCMCs engineering section said, The stadium will be built at an estimated cost of `10 crore with all amenities, including a viewing gallery, parking, restrooms and a turf of international standards. The stadium will be spread across 6,500 sq.metres and will have a gallery that can accommodate 300 spectators in the initial phase. In future, the capacity can be increased. As each game will require around 20,000 litres of water, the CCMC has set up a borewell and a storage tank at a capacity of 1 lakh litres. Drainage has also been constructed and will be further improved to meet international standards. The final call on whether the CCMC or SDAT (Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu) will maintain the stadium will be taken later, the official added. CCMC sources revealed that the deputy CM, who is also the minister for Youth Welfare, Sports Development and Special Programme Implementation, will lay the foundation stone. The CCMC has finalised the contractor and is all set to issue a work order to start the project. The project is expected to be complete in a year. Sources added that Coimbatore in-charge Minister V Senthil Balaji and Municipal Administration & Water Supply Minister KN Nehru are expected to visit the ground identified for the hockey stadium, next week.

Coimbatore farmers protest against petroleum pipelines

Renovated bomb detection and disposal squad office inaugurated in Coimbatore

Man hacked to death by three-member gang in Coimbatore

18 dhabas in Coimbatore sealed for illegal sale of liquor

Coimbatore city is growing rapidly, but lacks connectivity