Vloggers throng sacred groves for Theyyam shoots, prompt photography ban
KANNUR: As theyyam season has returned to the sacred groves (kavu) of north Malabar, the clash between ancient ritual and modern media has reached a flashpoint. Vloggers and social media influencers are swarming the courtyards to capture reels and videos, prompting the temple administrations to restrict photography and videography inside the thirumuttam the most sacred ritual space. This years season began on October 27, and was marked by an untoward incident at a Kuthuparamba kavu where overcrowding led to a scuffle. The explosion of Theyyam videos on social media and the rise of special tour packages offered by travel agencies have brought in large groups of visitors, worsening the crowding in smaller kavus. Temple administrations say the restrictions were inevitable. Many vloggers, they claim, encroach upon the ritual area to shoot, posing serious safety risks -- particularly during performances involving fire. Several kavus have now begun including videography restrictions in their festival notices. Earlier, devotees and theyyam enthusiasts came to the groves with devotion and a love for the art. They followed every tradition and respected the sanctity of the place. But times have changed its now the age of Kantara, said theyyam enthusiast and theyyam calendar maker Prabhakaran Kovoor, referring to the influence of films that romanticised folk rituals. After such films, vloggers started visiting the sacred groves to shoot videos and post them on social media with mass movie songs. These reels get millions of views, which attracts even more vloggers, creating chaos, he added. Theyyam artists demand safer rituals as calls grow to reform dangerous traditions in Malabar A vlogger shooting Kandanar Kelan theyyam According to Prabhakaran, the problem is not limited to local influencers. Many travel agencies have started bringing foreign tourists to witness theyyam, but their guides often have no understanding of the rituals. They charge H3500 per head in theyyam package for the local tourists. For foreigners might go way higher. The guides associated with these agencies casually lead foreigners into the thirumuttam, and some even step into the ritual space to take record. A complete ban could hurt theyyams global reach, but there must be restrictions, he said. Certain theyyams like the Kandanar Kelan involve dangerous acts of fire and require large open spaces. When vloggers encroach upon the thirumuttam area we will not have enough space to perform. We have to put severe physical effort before each theyyam performance. Sometimes we cant even pass urine for hours due to heavy costumes. While performing with fire, we are taking extra risk. If we do not get enough space to perform it would lead to accidents, says theyyam artist Shanu Peruvannan. Traditional theyyam photographers, who have long documented the art for research and preservation, are also upset. Since we understand the sanctity of these groves, we maintain distance and take photos without disturbing the performance. But these new-age vloggers barge even into the makeup rooms to get exclusive visuals. This trend has to stop, said Priyesh M B, a theyyam photographer. However, not everyone supports a total ban. Santhosh Vengara, a travel agent who has brought foreign tourists to theyyam festivals for over two decades, believes the art form must remain accessible. Theyyam is a magnificent art that deserves global attention. Instead of banning photography outright, temple administrations should regulate it. They can issue passes to a fixed number of photographers and allocate specific areas for filming. This would help preserve order while generating revenue for the kavus and the artists, he suggested.
First wife must be heard for registration of Muslim mans second marriage, says Kerala HC
KOCHI: The Kerala High Court has held that the first wife of a Muslim man should be heard before registering his second marriage in accordance with theKerala Registration of Marriages (Common) Rules 2008. Justice P V Kunhikrishnan said the first wife cannot be a silent spectator to the registration of her husbands second marriage, though the Muslim Personal Law permits men a second marriage in certain situations. He said if a Muslimman wants to register his second marriage under the Kerala Registration of Marriages (Common) Rules 2008, when his first marriage is in existence and the first wife is alive, the woman should be given an opportunity of hearing. The court said in such situations,religion is secondary and constitutional rights are supreme. Let the Muslim women also get an opportunity of hearing when theirhusbands remarry, at least at the stage of registering thesecond marriage, said the court. Refer parties to court if 1st wife raises objection The HC observed that 99.99% of Muslim women will be against their husbands second marriage when their relationship is in existence. They may not disclose the same to society, it said. The court issued the order on a petition filed by Muhammad Shareef of Kannur and his second wife, challenging the decision of the Thrikkaripur grama panchayat secretary to not register the marriage between them. According to the petitioners, they are Indian citizens and followers of the Muslim customary law. As per the Muslim Personal Law, a man is entitled to have four wives at a time. Therefore, the registrar is bound to register the second marriage, in accordance with thelaw. The second marriage happened with the consent of the first wife, stated the petition. The court declined to accept the plea to register the second marriage as the mans first wife was not a party in the proceedings before the High Court. I dont think the Holy Quran or the Muslim Law permits an extramaritalrelationship with another woman when his first wife is alive and his first marriage with her is in existence, and that also, without the knowledge of his first wife, the single judge said. The Holy Quran is silent about the consent of the first wife forthe second marriage of a Muslim man when the earlier marriage isin existence. However, it does not prohibit the option of obtaining consent from the first wife, or at least informing her before hemarries again, the court said. Equality in gender is a constitutional right of everycitizen. Men are not superior to women. Gender equality is not a womens issue, but a human issue, said the court. It pointed out that a Muslimman cannot march over his first wife for registering his second marriage in accordance with the Kerala Registration of Marriages (Common) Rules 2008, without giving notice the first wife, when her maritalrelationship with him is in existence. However, if thesecond marriage occurs after pronouncing talaq to the firstwife, there is no question of giving notice to the first wife. Ifthe first wife objects to the registration of the second marriage of her husband, alleging that the second marriage is invalid, theregistrar shall not register the second marriage, and the parties should be referred to the competent court to establish the validityof the second marriage as per their religious customary law, the court said.
Striking a chord: B'luru designer duo reinvents Indian matchbox art
A chubby cherub flies around with sparklers in his hands as Baby Youre My Firework in retro typography floats above, one of Raja Ravi Vermas muses holds a sliced watermelon declaring Make Art Not War, and a saree clad woman confidently rides a motorbike as the accompanying text reads Bullet Rani. These are all miniature pieces of art painted in bold colours and drawn in a style thats familiar. While todays matchboxes may stick to a few standard designs with the brand prominently displayed, a few decades ago, matchboxes had a huge range of art and messaging adorning them. Designers Kevin Thomas and Sonal Nagwani are trying to revive this art form through their quirky and collectible matchboxes. We realised matchbox art was fading compared to its heyday in the 1900s when people used to collect and make them for all kinds of reasons the alphabet ones (with A for Apple, B for Ball, etc) were used to teach children, tuberculosis awareness was spread through them, and religious drawings were kept in pooja rooms at home. They were also used as advertising for soaps, oils, beedis, even handloom promotions, explains Thomas, adding that as a utility item, they reached every home, democratising art. Kevin Thomas and Sonal Nagwani Maachis, the project Thomas and Nagwani started after quitting their startup jobs, seeks not only to preserve this art form but revitalise it by making it relevant to todays youngsters. We wanted to bring in nostalgia and turn their attention to something meaningful, says Thomas. He explains their process, saying, We go through the archives of collectors that we know and find designs that can connect with something in the present. For example, the swathantra matchbox is a vintage one about the freedom movement. We reinvented that design to Happy Pride for Pride Month. We also try to find things that have local relevance like the Anti Nazar matchbox based on the belief in the evil eye. Their designs feature a mix of phrases from pop-culture (Baby Youre My Firework and Patakha Guddi referencing songs, one about making a wish at 11:11, etc), and more socially aware designs like one based on the story of Nangeli, a woman from Kerala who cut off her breasts to oppose the tax levied on lower caste women covering their breasts. We try to keep a balance of fun designs, forgotten history, and political ones. We dont want a harsh tone but play with satire. Thats how the factory-made matchboxes of the past were too; you would see a lot of funny, nationalism-driven or protest-oriented imagery along with artistic designs, he notes. The boxes are not made of cardboard but of wood, intended as reusable collectibles. Having started the project last year, Thomas and Nagwani had a low-key presence until a reel gained attention on Instagram, now the video has over one million views and the account has nearly 55,000 followers. We were doubtful about whether people would connect with our art. But when it [the video] started getting attention, we gained a community that could support us. It opened many doors for collaborations. There are many matchbox collectors with huge collections of 20,000 to 50,000 matchboxes, but they are mostly on Facebook groups and arent able to go beyond that circle. We wanted to open that world up, says Thomas. Since then, theyve collaborated with indie artistes like Peter Cat Recording Co. for matchboxes based on them and local visual artists. Weve also expanded into enamel hand-painted artwork collaborating with Surabhi, an artist from Kannur. Enamel painting itself is a fading art form, so it felt meaningful to revive and support it alongside matchbox art, adds Thomas.
SIR of voters list begins in Kannur; writer T. Padmanabhan fills first enumeration form
Early local body push by Congress to regain lost ground in elections
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a strategic move ahead of the crucial assembly election, the state Congress has done the unthinkable - announcing a 47-member candidate list for the Thiruvananthapuram corporation while finalising the names for the remaining five corporations and other local bodies. Both the CPM and BJP are yet to release their candidates list, making Congress the first to make a decisive start in the local body election preparation. In a surprise decision, the party has fielded former MLA and KPCC general secretary K S Sabarinathan, as the mayor candidate in the Thiruvananthapuram corporation. The leadership has projected this as a model to be followed in other corporations. In Kochi corporation, KPCC general secretary Deepti Mary Varghese will contest, while in Thrissur corporation KPCC secretary John Daniel is on the list. These decisions are the outcome of the brainstorming session held in Wayanad under the banner Mission-2025, a KPCC office-bearer said. For the first time, the party has entrusted six seniors with the charge of corporations - Opposition leader V D Satheesan (Ernakulam) three former KPCC presidents - Ramesh Chennithala (Kozhikode), K Muraleedharan (Thiruvananthapuram), K Sudhakaran (Kannur), working president P C Vishnunath (Kollam) and AICC secretary Roji M John (Thrissur). The 2020 local body election results were disastrous for the party as we lost five corporations except Kannur. In Ernakulam and Thrissur, we lost power because of rebels. Having lost two consecutive assembly elections, this local body election is a do or die battle for Congress, said a senior leader. According to party sources, the current blueprint was proposed by AICC general secretary K C Venugopal during the Mission 2025 session in Wayanad. Venugopal reportedly advised the state leadership to field former MLAs and senior leaders in the local body elections. Apart from Sabarinathans name, he also suggested that former minister V S Sivakumar contest in the Thiruvananthapuram corporation, said a leader who attended the meeting. The party has given top priority to strengthening its base in the Thiruvananthapuram corporation, where it currently has only eight councillors. If we fail to perform well here, it will have a direct impact in the southern districts in the assembly election, said a senior office-bearer. To prevent the emergence of rebel candidates, the leadership has directed the district Congress presidents and KPCC leaders not to propose any names other than those recommended by ward committees.
Man, stabbed by relative, succumbs to injuries at Kelakam in Kannur
Three-month-old baby found dead in well in Keralas Kannur; case registered
Three Karnataka pharmacy students drowned to death in Kannur
KASARAGOD: Three pharmacy students from Karnataka who were on a leisure trip to Kannur drowned near Payyambalam beach on Sunday. The deceased are Afnan Ahmed, 26, from Hole Narsipur in Hassan district, Mohammed Rehanuddin, 26, from Bidar, and Mohammed Afroz, 25, from Hiriyur in Chitradurga district. They were among eight DPharm students from Al Ameen Pharmacy College in Bengaluru, who were in the state for the weekend. The students first went to Wayanad, and reached Kannur on Saturday night where they stayed in a resort at Payyambalam. Around 11am on Sunday, they decided to venture into the sea. Sources in the police said the trio entered the sea first, and the rest followed. One of the deceased did not swim and started drowning. The other two rushed to help him but were swept away. The remaining five raised an alarm, following which fishermen in the area and lifeguards on the beach rushed to rescue them. Afnan and Rehanuddin were pulled out of the sea and rushed to a nearby hospital where doctors declared them dead. Personnel from the Kannur fire station rushed to the beach and recovered the body of Afroz after a two-hour search.
Covid death relief only for 500 docs kin: RTI
NEW DELHI: Only 500 families of doctors who succumbed to COVID-19 during the first and second waves have been compensated by the government so far, latest RTI data has revealed. Though the union government has always maintained that they dont have data on the total number of doctors who died during the pandemic, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has put the number at nearly 1,600. According to the RTI, the government has paid compensation to 500 families of doctors so far. The latest figure of families of doctors who have been compensated so far comes in the backdrop of the Supreme Courts order of October 28, which observed that Society will not forgive us if we dont take care of our doctors and dont stand for them. The apex court was considering a plea that raised the issue of the eligibility of private doctors under the governments insurance scheme, Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package (PMGKP), announced on March 30, 2020. The SC, which heard the matter after nearly two years, underlined the need to support doctors who put themselves on the line during the COVID-19 pandemic, even if they were working in private hospitals, and lost their lives during the pandemic. According to Dr KV Babu, who has been pursuing the issue since 2022, although the government does not have data on the number of doctors who are beneficiaries of the insurance scheme, a rough estimate indicates only 500 doctors families have received compensation so far. As per the scheme, insurance coverage of `50 lakh would be provided to healthcare providers, including community and private health workers, who succumbed to COVID-19. In his RTI, filed on September 22, Dr Babu had asked for the total number of beneficiaries under the scheme who died of COVID-19 and the amount disbursed to them from March 30, 2020, to date; the total number of doctors who are the beneficiaries and the amount disbursed to them till now and state-wise data from Delhi and Kerala. To the RTI queries from the Kannur-based ophthalmologist, The New India Assurance Company Ltd., which is disbursing the compensation, stated that the total number of claims settled by them for all health workers under the scheme is 2,294. Total amount disbursed is `1147 crores up to 11 June 2024. We were directed by the Ministry to hand over all the pending original PMGKP claim documents to the concerned department of the Ministry. Accordingly, we have handed all original files to them on 12th June 2024. They will handle all the pending as well as future claims. Hence, data is not available as on date, said the insurance company.
Three Pharma students from Karnataka drown in Kannur
Three Medicos Drown Off Kannur Coast
The incident occurred around 11 am when a group of eight students entered the sea for a swim.
Aviation growth story piggybacking on foreign travel: AAI report
NEW DELHI: The growing desire for international travel continues to fuel Indias aviation growth story. According to the latest data released by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) for the first half of the current financial year, foreign travel has surged by nearly 7% compared to the same period last year. The Air Traffic Report, made public on Wednesday, shows that 3.95 crore passengers travelled abroad from India between April and September 2025, up from 3.69 crore during the same period in 2024. Overall passenger traffic grew by 2.6%, with 20.21 crore people flying in the six-month period this year compared to 19.69 crore last year. Domestic air travel recorded a modest 1.6% increase, with 16.25 crore passengers this year versus 15.99 crore in the previous fiscal period. The total Air Traffic Movements (ATMs) arrivals plus departures rose by 2.8%, reaching 15.77 lakh in AprilSeptember 2025 compared to 15.35 lakh last year. Thanks to airlines regularly announcing new international routes, several relatively smaller airports such as Surat, Coimbatore, Guwahati, Jaipur, Varanasi, Mangaluru, Kannur, Bagdogra, Pune, Indore, and Udaipur have registered strong double-digit growth in international passenger traffic. Among them, Bagdogra and Coimbatore posted remarkable increases of 51% (13,492 flyers) and 50.5% (1,60,597 flyers), respectively, in AprilSeptember 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. Among major airports, Bengaluru recorded an impressive 28.9% surge in international traffic, handling 34,58,308 passengers in the first half of the current financial year. Hyderabad showed substantial growth of 19%, while Mumbai registered a 5.6% increase. Delhi, however, saw a slight 0.5% decline. Domestic Travel Trends Sindhudurg Airport reported the highest growth in domestic passenger traffic, with an 84.1% increase and 21,936 flyers over the previous financial year. Other airports that recorded notable growth include Kishangarh (65.7%, 59,421 flyers), Darbhanga (64.3%, 3,86,174), Gorakhpur (57.5%, 5,62,596), Cuddapah (53.9%, 33,973), and Pithoragarh (56.5%, 8,215). Airports such as Tiruchirappalli (55.6%), Tirupati (42.9%), Jeypore (42.1%), Bilaspur (38.1%), Rajahmundry (33.7%), and Kurnool (22.9%) also posted impressive domestic growth figures. Among major airports, both Delhi and Mumbai reported negative growth in domestic travel. The closure of Terminal 2 at IGIA and changes in flight schedules significantly impacted Delhis numbers, which dropped by 5.8% to 2,64,91,445 passengers, compared to 2,81,07,645 last year. Mumbai saw a 0.8% dip, handling 1,91,02,987 passengers. Meanwhile, Hyderabad registered strong domestic growth of 11.3% with 1,26,64,800 flyers, while Chennai saw a 5.1% increase with 83,79,339 passengers.
Sidelined tribes join hands for rightful share of reservation in Kerala
KALPETTA: With local-body and assembly elections nearing, a wave of tribal unity is sweeping the state. For the first time, Keralas most marginalised tribal communities are coming together to challenge decades of exclusion from the benefits of reservation and political representation. The Kattunayakan, Adiyan, Paniya, Urali, and Vettukuruman communities have formed a powerful front the KAPUV Tribal Welfare Society to demand what they call their rightful share in the states reservation and political systems. Reservation for tribal communities in Kerala government jobs is just 2%. There are 35 communities, yet only a few well-off groups like the Kurichiya, Mullukuruma, Malayaraya, Ulladar, Mavilar, and Karimbala have enjoyed its benefits for decades, said Manikuttan Paniyan, executive member of the society. He added that while some communities have access to land, education, and jobs, the poorest tribes remain trapped in deprivation. A Paniya, Adiya, or any other minority tribe child has to fight hunger just to reach school. Most drop out before Class 10. And if one of us makes it to college, our opportunities are taken away by those who already have everything, Manikuttan said. The society argues that inequality extends beyond education and employment -- into the political system. Since 1967, the LDF, UDF, and NDA have together fielded 28 candidates in Wayanads two scheduled tribe (ST)-reserved assembly constituencies -- Mananthavady and Sultan Bathery. Of them, 24, or 85%, were from just two communities: Kurichiya and Kuruma. Paniya tribal settlement in Sultan Bathery No Paniya, Urali, Adiyan, or Kattunayakan has ever been fielded by any front in five decades, Manikuttan pointed out. The two tribal ministers in Keralas history CPMs O R Kelu and Congress P K Jayalakshmi are Kurichiyas. The rest of us remain voiceless. At the grassroots, too, representation is almost absent. We, the Paniyas, are the largest tribal group in Wayanad with 69,116 members, constituting 45% of the population, yet we have no single representative in local bodies. Even for a reserved ward that includes several Paniya settlements, parties bring in Kurichiya candidates from outside, said Manikuttan, echoing the frustration of many settlements. Formed two years ago, KAPUV is now mobilising across Wayanads tribal heartlands -- from Noolpuzha to Pulpally, Thirunelly, and Edavaka -- ahead of local-body elections. The group plans to field independent candidates from marginalised tribes if mainstream parties continue to ignore their demand for fair representation. We deserve the recognition and opportunities that others get, Manikuttan declared. We are done being invisible. If political parties continue to sideline us, we will boycott the polls. The upcoming local-body elections will be our first step, and we are ready to stand on our own. Major social awakening Experts see this as a historic shift in Keralas tribal politics. According to Dr Hareendran P, assistant professor and former head of the department of rural and tribal sociology at Kannur University, the disparity within tribal groups has deep historical roots. The Kurichiya and Kuruma communities were traditional landowners. They held large tracts of land and lived agrarian lives, while the Paniyas and Adiyas were agricultural labourers working for them. Even after Independence, the hierarchy persisted. The Kurichiyas retained their land and advanced economically, while others remained landless, he explained. The new consolidation is a major social awakening, Dr Hareendran stressed. For the first time, smaller tribes like the Paniya, Adiya, and Kattunayakan are joining forces to demand sub-reservation and fair representation within the ST quota. This movement isnt about excluding others; its about ensuring those left behind finally get a chance to rise. Adivasi Gotra Maha Sabha state coordinator M Geethanandhan also called for long-term legislative action. A comprehensive reservation act is the only solution, he said. It should be passed by Parliament to ensure each tribal community gets representation according to its population. At the same time, all tribes should be able to compete within the common reservation pool. Kerala has implemented the reservation system strictly, but its not enough. The Paniya, Adiya, and other marginalised communities deserve special consideration and support, including targeted training for better education and jobs. After years of being invisible in the corridors of power, Keralas most marginalised communities are no longer asking to be heard -- they are demanding it.
First Keralite to win Olympic medal Manuel Frederick passes away at 78
KOCHI: The first Keralite to win an Olympic medal, former national hockey team goalkeeper Manuel Frederick passed away in Bengaluru on Friday. The 78-year-old was under treatment for cancer for some time. Frederick, who hails from Kannur, was a member of the Indian team that won bronze at the 1972 Munich Olympics, defeating the Netherlands. A recipient of the Dhyan Chand award for Lifetime Achievement in Sports and Games in 2019, he played for the national team for seven years, from 1971 to 78. Born on October 20, 1947, he played in the Bombay Gold Cup at the age of 17 and the penalty specialist helped his team win 16 national championship matches in tiebreakers. He was part of the national team in two significant World Cups as well, with India finishing runners-up in the 1973 World Cup in the Netherlands and earning fourth place in the 1978 Argentina World Cup. Fredericks name remains etched in the sports history of Kerala as the first and only olympic medallist from the state until 2021, when P R Sreejesh, who followed the same path, secured his first Olympic bronze. I know him from a very small age and had met him during my school days itself. I had seen his medal as well then, said Sreejesh, as he remembered the legend. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, in his condolence message, said: He was one of the best goalkeepers in the sport during the 1971-78 period when they never even used helmets for defence. He was someone who was great at defending penalties as well. The mortal remains will be buried in Bengaluru on Saturday, said family members.
Safety concerns over stadium in Kannur mount ahead of football league
The ground will serve as the home venue for Kannur Warriors FC, which will play its first Super League Kerala match here on November 7
State-wide crackdown nets 263 in cyber financial fraud cases
The Ernakulam Rural police recorded the highest number of arrests in the drive, nabbing 43 suspects. Malappuram came second with 30 arrests, followed by Kannur City and Kozhikode City
The protesters shouted slogans demanding the Ministers resignation, holding him responsible for the alleged gold theft in Sabarimala
Portable ABC unit launched at Thiruvananthapuram's Nedumangad
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a bid to enhance stray dog management and control its population, the state has launched the first-ever portable ABC centre on Wednesday at Nedumangad municipality in Thiruvananthapuram. Inaugurating the unit, Animal Husbandry Minister J Chinchurani announced that seven more portable ABC units in Kollam, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, and Kannur districts will be implemented this financial year. This is the first step towards finding a sustainable solution to the stray dog menace that has become a growing public concern. The government has earmarked Rs 12 crore in this years budget to expand the portable ABC model, which will help implement sterilisation and vaccination programmes efficiently, without any hindrances often faced by static centres, said Chinchurani. The Nedumangad municipality has provided the land, water, and electricity facilities for the unit which is equipped with an air-conditioned operation theatre. The unit will initially sterilise stray dogs in the municipality, with a team of two veterinary surgeons carrying out 7 to 10 sterilisation surgeries per day over the next 45 days. The government has fixed a rate of Rs 2,200 per animal. Municipality chairperson Sreeja C S said it was a matter of pride that Nedumangad became the first local body in the country to launch a portable ABC centre. This innovative model will make stray dog management more practical, humane, and efficient, she said. Sterilised dogs will be housed in 35 specially designed cages near the centre for four to five days after surgery, during which they will receive medical care, food, and anti-rabies vaccination before being released back to their original locations.
Kerala set to roll out Time Bank for elderly care; pilot from today
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In an effort to create a support network for senior citizens, the Kerala Development and Innovation Strategic Council (K-DISC) is preparing to roll out the Time Bank initiative across the state. The project allows people to volunteer their time to assist the elderly and earn time credits that can later be redeemed when they need help themselves. The initiative offers a range of services, including driving, cooking, laundry, shopping, cleaning, medication reminders and companionship. The pilot will run from today in Elikulam panchayat, Kottayam, where around 7,000 persons have been identified for assistance. The digital platform for the project was developed by students of Wayanad Government Engineering College. Volunteers record their service hours through the website, and the saved time is credited to their account for future use. Based on the success of the pilot, K-DISC plans to collaborate with the social justice department to expand the project statewide. The panchayats will receive links to register elderly users and volunteers. Initially, the system will function through a website, and later it will be converted into a web application. Based on the feedback from users, we will make interface changes to make it more user-friendly. The panchayat has already identified the elderly population in need of support, said M P Gilesh, project guide and professor of computer science at Thrissur Government Engineering College. Senior citizens can register on the Time Bank website by entering their name, email ID, gender, phone number, address, and police verification details. Once verified by the admin, users can access their account and update their profile, including location and service preferences. The select services feature allows them to choose the type of help they need whether its cooking, driving, companionship, or medication reminders and schedule the time and date. The system then displays the nearest available volunteers, and once one is selected, a request is sent. The profile also includes an emergency call feature. With one click, the nearest palliative care centre is alerted, receiving the persons details and initiating a call for urgent assistance. Volunteers undergo a similar registration process, including mandatory police verification. After approval, they can specify the services they are willing to offer and update their location. The rate elder feature allows them to provide feedback on their interactions. Volunteers receive notifications of requests from elders and can accept or decline them. Once accepted, they must enter a start and end OTP which is sent to the elderly persons email. The system then records the time served, which volunteers can track through their dashboard. Each volunteer is also issued an ID card. Institutions can register on the platform as well. They can add volunteers, track active services, and monitor requests through the notifications tab. Administrators can view all registered elders and volunteers, along with completed and pending services. Deepa P Gopinath, a consultant with K-DISC, said Thalassery block, in Kannur, has also expressed interest in adopting the model, with local engineering colleges expected to help with implementation. Through this initiative, K-DISC aims to build a culture of compassion and interdependence where time, not money, becomes the currency of care. We want geriatric care to be treated as a serious academic and social responsibility. This initiative is an effort in that direction. Kerala has already seen how powerful voluntary work can be during natural calamities. Districts such as Kottayam, Idukki, and Pathanamthitta face serious challenges in geriatric care. After the local-body elections, around January or February, we plan to engage with the newly elected members to take this forward in a structured manner, said P V Unnikrishnan, member secretary, K-DISC. register and avail services Senior citizens can register on the website by entering their name, email ID, gender, phone number, address, and police verification details Once verified by the admin, users can access their account and update their profile, including location and service preferences The profile also includes an emergency call feature. With one click, the nearest palliative care centre is alerted
Two multi-level parking centres to be opened in Kannur city on Nov. 1
The fully-automated parking centres were built at a cost of 12.4 crore under the AMRUT project
67th Kerala School Sports Meet: Hosts TPuram crowned champions as sun sets on eight thrilling days
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Eight thrilling days of action came to a close with hosts Thiruvananthapuram being crowned champions of the 67th Kerala School Sports Meet on Tuesday. The meet saw record-breaking performances, tight competitions across categories and emotional highs that carried the spirit of sportsmanship. A total of 17 new records in athletics and 17 in aquatics made this edition the one with the most record-breaking events. Spread across 12 venues, the event hosted nearly 9,000 competitions in close to 40 events. The meet went ahead as scheduled despite rain delays and venue changes, with some events like tug of war shifting thrice before finding ground. Hosts Thiruvananthapuram led from the first day, kept its dominance till the end and won the race for the Golden Cup. The meet also introduced new events, including kalaripayattu, yoga and fencing, with good participation witnessed from across the state. For the second time, inclusive events were held, but special educators pointed out that many venues still lacked ramps and basic facilities for the participants. Two new events, Cricket and Bocce were introduced for children with disabilities. Another highlight was the participation of female students from Gulf countries. The 15th district earned one silver medal and three points overall. The opening day saw in the pool as four new records were set. Aquatic events were the first to complete crowning the capital district. Thiruvananthapuram also won the games section. Track and field events were no less thrilling. Malappuram secured the athletics lead. J Nivedkrishna of Palakkad and Adithya Aji of Malappuram finished as the fastest runners in senior 100m categories. Deva Priya Shaibu of Idukki broke a 1987 record in sub-junior girls 100m by clocking 12.69 seconds. Athul T M of Alappuzha smashed a 1988 record in junior boys 100m, finishing in 10.81 seconds. One of the most emotional moments came from Kozhikodes Devananda V Biju of St Joseph HSS, who won the junior girls 200m while recovering from appendicitis. She broke the eight-year-old record with a timing of 24.96 seconds. General Education Minister V Sivankutty announced that a new house would be built for her family. The government will facilitate building of new houses for 50 participants, he said. More records fell in hurdles and discus throw events. A grand victory procession was held in the city to welcome the Chief Ministers Cup, a 117.5-sovereign gold trophy for the overall champs, for the first time in the events history. Despite a few age-related controversies, where questions were raised about a participants eligibility in certain categories and a probe is on, the meet stood out for the promise of a brighter sporting future. Roll of honour Overall Champions: TPuram (1,825 points) 1st runner-up: Thrissur (892 points) 2nd runner-up: Kannur (859 points) Best school (Athletics) 1. Ideal EHSS, Kadakassery (Malappuram): 78 points 2. VMHS, Vadavannur (Palakkad): 58 points 3. Navamukunda HSS, Thirunavaya (Malappuram): 57 points Best sports school (Athletics) 1. GV Raja Sports School, TPuram: 57 points 2. CSH Wayanad & SAI Kollam: 8 points 3. MA College Sports Hostel, Keerampara & SAI Thalassery: 5 points Toppers Athletics: Malappuram (247 points) Games: TPuram (1,107 points) Aquatics: TPuram (649 points)
Congress high command issues stern warning to Kerala unit
NEW DELHI/TPURAM: Worried over the deepening factional feud within the Congress in Kerala, the partys central leadership has bluntly told the state leaders to mend their ways and project a united front before the people ahead of the crucial local body and assembly elections. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi held closed-door one-on-one meetings with state leaders, sources said. Incidentally, AICC general secretary (organization) K C Venugopal and general secretary in-charge of Kerala Deepa Dasmunshi did not attend the meetings, they said. A leader told TNIE that he has conveyed to the leadership that the open fights between top leaders are impacting the prospects of the party in the upcoming elections. Another leader said he discussed the disquiet in the party over the recent Youth Congress rejig. State party chief Sunny Joseph, Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan, senior leader Ramesh Chennithala, Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor, Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Kannur MP K Sudhakaran were among the leaders who were present. Sudhakaran told reporters after the meeting that a section of leaders is responsible for spoiling the atmosphere of unity in the party. When asked about Sudhakarans remarks, Kharge responded that everything cant be discussed with the media. Satheesan reportedly informed the leadership of his resentment in the delay in publishing the new list of KPCC secretaries. UDF convenor Adoor Prakash expressed dissatisfaction over the lack of consultation when the KPCC general secretary list was prepared. According to sources, the leadership is increasingly concerned over the divide within the state unit and conveyed that it could have serious consequences for the partys poll prospects. However, Kharge told reporters that there was no factionalism in Kerala and the party will return to power in the state. We are holding discussions with all leaders. Later, we will meet younger leaders. After collecting the feedback, we will process it and see what is to be done, he said. Dasmunshi said there are many points to be noted and discussed for the upcoming elections. I am happy that the high command has taken every small issue into consideration. It shows that they are so serious about Kerala, she said. There is no factionalism in the Congress in Kerala. Its all created by the media, the LDF and the BJP. All are unitedly standing for the Congress, she added.
TPuram set to retain golden glory @ School Olympics
As the golden cup of the ongoing Kerala State School Sports Meet was taken on a grand procession through the capital city, there were not many who doubted where the trophy would finally come to rest. After all, the host district Thiruvananthapuram had displayed such a stellar performance from the very first day of the meet, especially in aquatics and game events. Now, with less than one-tenth of the events to be complete, they were head and shoulders above the rest in the overall points table. The golden waters The waters of Dr BR Ambedkar International Aquatic Complex, Pirappancode, were indeed a gold mine for the host district. It earned a total of 649 points a staggering lead of 500 points to the first runner-up Thrissur (149) to emerge as the winners of the aquatics championship. Of the total 103 competitions held, Thiruvananthapuram struck gold in 73. Notably, 10 of the 16 new meet records set belonged to teenagers from the district. The performances of Aajushi Avantikaa S A of MVHSS Thundathil and Sreehari B of GVHSS Pirappancode were especially remarkable. Together they set six records between them and amassed 30 points in the sub-junior girls and senior boys categorically, respectively. The other notable performers were: Ebba Adila S and Vrinda R S (three gold medals each in junior girls category); Mongam Yagna Sai (three gold medals in junior boys), Vidhya Lekshmi R and Dhakshina Bijo P (three gold medals each in senior girls), and Kausthubnath J (three gold medals in senior boys). Of the top 10 performing schools in aquatics, eight were from the capital, including the top scoring MVHSS Thundathil. Save for sub-junior boys category, the city also topped in all others at the sports meet. Game on! While aquatics ensured a safe margin for the capital, it is the performances in game events which contributed significantly towards the increase of said margin. The players gained over 110 gold medals, ensuring that Thiruvananthapuram has a clear lead in four of the six categories (except sub-junior and senior girls). The host district won gold in hockey, tennis, badminton and kho-kho in both the boys and girls categories. Medals were also earned in boxing, judo, taekwondo and fencing. The performance of St Josephs HSS in gymnastics was notable, especially that of its two talents: Harigovind G R and Minhaj S Saj. Between them, they won five gold and one silver medal in the events sub-junior and senior boys categories, respectively. Domination With 37 gold, 13 silver and 20 bronze medals, GV Raja Sports School (240 points) was the standout performer at the meet. Overall 1. TPuram 1,810 points (202 gold, 145 silver, 170 bronze) 2. Thrissur 870 points (90 gold, 54 silver, 107 bronze) 3. Kannur 843 points (81 gold, 76 silver, 85 bronze) Games (*ongoing) 1. TPuram - 1,107 points 2. Kannur - 798 points 3. Thrissur - 694 points Athletics* 1. Malappuram - 187 points 2. Palakkad - 167 points 3. Kozhikode - 76 points 4. TPuram - 54 points 5. Ernakulam - 46 points Top schools of TPuram 1. GV Raja Sports School - 256 points 2. MVHSS Thundathil - 118 points 3. St Josephs HSS - 115 points 4. GVHSS Pirappancode - 72 points 5. SAI TPuram - 60 points
Congress reopens office in Anthoor, CPM stronghold
KANNUR: After a gap of four and a half decades, the Congress mandal committee office was reopened in Anthoor on Sunday. The new office, located in Bakkalam, was inaugurated by DCC president Martin George. Though there was a Congress office in the area earlier, it had remained inactive for years due to threats and political pressure, party workers said. Anthoor, known as a stronghold of the CPM, has long been under the partys control, making the reopening of the Congress office a significant move for local Congress members. Martin said the inauguration of the new Congress office in Anthoor was in line with the All-India Congress Committees directive to establish party offices in every mandal and ward. He noted that the party has been revitalising its structure in the region, with a new mandal president appointed just last month. The reopening of the office after 45 years thus marks not only a political revival but also a symbolic reclaiming of space that had long been silenced by violence and fear.
Wells refill as the groundwater level rises by 1.6m in Kerala
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The groundwater level in Kerala has risen by an average of 1.6m this year, according to a preliminary assessment made by the state groundwater department last month. The finding is based on monthly data collected from 819 observation wells across the state, including 446 open wells and 373 borewells, over the past 10 days. Officials attributed the increase to consistent rainfall and groundwater recharge initiatives implemented by the state government since 2020. The government has initiated several efforts to ensure groundwater recharge through various initiatives. This, along with good rainfall, has contributed to the rise, a senior official with the groundwater department told TNIE. The Annual Extractable Groundwater Quantity (AEGQ) has also shown steady improvement from 5 billion cubic metres in 2023 to 5.13 billion cubic metres in 2024. Officials expect the figure to continue increasing this year as well considering the rain and the indications in the preliminary report. Preliminary data indicate that groundwater levels have risen across most districts, with Kasaragod recording the highest average rise of 3m, followed by Kannur, Wayanad, and Kozhikode, where levels increased by 2m each. Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Kottayam, Malappuram, Palakkad, and Thrissur reported an average rise of around 1 metre. However, the department noted that a few regions have reported a slight drop in groundwater levels. A noticeable decline was observed in open wells in Kazhakoottam (Thiruvananthapuram), Tirurangadi (Malappuram), and Kanhangad (Kasaragod), while borewells in Kollam corporation (Kollam), Konni and Ranni (Pathanamthitta), Areekode (Malappuram), and Parakkadavu (Ernakulam) also showed lower levels. Though the exact extent of decline is not available, sources said the drop is estimated to be between 0.5 and 1m. The expert team of the groundwater department is carrying out a detailed assessment in these areas to identify the reasons behind the variation. There can be multiple reasons for the drop over-extraction by industries, lack of conservation efforts, or population growth in certain regions. The preliminary findings help us identify areas that require more attention. The detailed report, expected by the end of this year, will recommend measures for sustainable management of groundwater resources, a senior scientist said. Officials stressed that the conservation and recharge efforts must continue to sustain the positive trend. Deeper relief Average rise: 1.6 metres in groundwater level across the state Highest increase: Kasaragod (3 m), followed by Kannur, Wayanad, and Kozhikode (2 m each). Areas with decline: Slight drop (0.5-1m) in parts of Thiruvananthapuram, Malappuram, Pathanamthitta, Ernakulam, and Kasaragod districts. Next step: Detailed study under way; final report expected by the end of the year to guide groundwater management policies (Data source: 819 observation wells -- 446 open wells and 373 borewells -- under groundwater department, Kerala)
Cyclone Montha likely to bring heavy rainfall in Kerala; orange alert for three districts
An orange alert warning of very heavy rainfall has been issued for three districts Kozhikode, Kannur, and Kasaragod on Monday, while the rest of the State, except for Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam, has been put on yellow alert
Heavy rains lash Kerala; fishermen dies in Alappuzha, IMD issues orange alert for northern districts
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Heavy rain accompanied by strong winds lashed several districts across Kerala on Monday, causing waterlogging in low-lying areas, officials said. In Alappuzha district, a fisherman died after his boat capsized near the Arthunkal coast following strong winds. Police identified the deceased as Paul Devasia, a native of Arthunkal. He had gone out fishing early in the morning, and though other fishermen rescued him from the water, he later died, police said. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Kozhikode, Kasaragod, and Kannur districts, indicating the possibility of rainfall between 115.6 mm and 204 mm within 24 hours. A yellow alert has also been issued for Wayanad, Malappuram, Palakkad, Thrissur, Ernakulam, Idukki, Kottayam, and Alappuzha districts, where rainfall between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm is likely. The IMD further warned of strong winds across all districts in the state. Officials said heavy rain was reported in the northern districts since early morning, leading to waterlogging in parts of Kozhikode city, where water entered several shops near the KSRTC bus station. Intense rainfall was also reported in the high-range regions of Malappuram and Kannur, while strong winds battered coastal areas. Rain intensified in the central Kerala districts, including Ernakulam and Alappuzha, during the morning hours, authorities added. Fishermen have been cautioned against venturing into the sea owing to rough weather conditions.
1 killed, 18 injured as tourist bus overturns on MC Road in Keralas Kottayam
The bus, travelling from Thiruvananthapuram to Kannur, overturned while negotiating a curve around 2 am. 49 people were onboard at the time
One killed, 49 injured as tourist bus overturns in Kerala's Kottayam
KOTTAYAM: A woman passenger died and 49 others were injured after a tourist bus lost control and overturned at Cheenkallel here in the early hours of Monday, police said. The deceased has been identified as Sindhu, a native of Peravoor in Iritty, Kannur district. According to the police, all passengers were from Iritty and were returning home after visiting Kanyakumari and Thiruvananthapuram. The accident occurred around 1 am when the bus, while negotiating a curve on the MC Road stretch near Cheenkallel Church, lost control, overturned, and crashed into a tree. All 49 passengers on board were taken to a private hospital in Monippally and the Kottayam Medical College Hospital. Sindhu, who was rushed to Monippally, succumbed to her injuries. Police said around 18 passengers sustained serious injuries, though their condition is stable. The overturned bus was later removed using a crane to clear the traffic disruption. Kuravilangadu police have registered a case against the driver, Vinod, for negligent driving and causing death by accident. The body of the deceased will be handed over to relatives after postmortem, police added.
Thiruvananthapuram airport to increase flight operations by 22%; Bengaluru top on list
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is increasing flight operations by 22 per cent, taking weekly air traffic movements to 732 from 600. The surge in services comes into effect with the winter schedule, which began on Sunday and runs until March 28, 2026. There has been a growing demand for air travel from Thiruvananthapuram, particularly to metro cities and popular international destinations. Domestic operations will see the most notable rise, with several new routes being introduced and existing ones expanded. New services to Navi Mumbai, Mangaluru, and Tiruchirapalli are set to begin soon. Flights to major cities such as Bengaluru, Delhi, Mumbai, Kochi and Kannur will also increase. Weekly domestic air traffic movements will rise from 300 to 406, registering a 35 per cent increase. Bengaluru will top the list with 92 flights per week, followed by Delhi with 84 and Mumbai with 70. Chennai will have 42 weekly services, while Hyderabad and Navi Mumbai will have 28 each. Kochi will be connected with 26 weekly flights, followed by Tiruchirapalli with 12, Kannur with 10, Pune with eight and Mangaluru with six. International operations are also set to grow, with weekly movements rising from 300 to 326, which is a 9 per cent increase. Flights to major Gulf and Southeast Asian destinations will expand, strengthening Thiruvananthapurams role as a major travel hub for expatriates and tourists alike. There will be 66 weekly flights to Abu Dhabi, followed 56 to Sharjah and 28 to Dammam. There will be 24 services each to Kuwait and Mal, and 22 each to Dubai, Muscat, and Kuala Lumpur. Doha will have 20 weekly flights, Singapore 14, Bahrain 10, Colombo eight, Riyadh six, and Hanimaadhoo four. The winter schedule, in effect until March 28, 2026, will be one of the busiest operational phases for Thiruvananthapuram International Airport.
ADM Naveen Babus death: Family files defamation suit for making false bribery allegations
PATHANAMTHITTA: The family of Additional District Magistrate Naveen Babu who was found dead at his official quarters last year has filed a defamation suit against two persons for making false bribery allegations, a relative said. Naveen ended his life after allegedly being publicly humiliated by former Kannur district panchayat president PP Divya. The defamation case has been filed against Divya and TV Prasanthan, an applicant for a petrol pump licence who had levelled bribery allegations against Naveen. The family has accused both of defaming Naveen by making false allegations and has sought a compensation of Rs 65 lakh.
State School Sports Meet: Palakkad pulls off consecutive senior boys tug-of-war titles
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: After a gruelling contest that stretched 8.43 minutes, Palakkad bagged the gold in the senior boys tug-of-war at the State School Sports Meet, toppling Kannur in an event that they have had a firm grip on over the years. It marks the second consecutive year that Palakkad dominated the category. However, the event was not without controversy. Participants raised concerns over the frequent change of venues. Originally scheduled at the Central Stadium, competition was shifted to College of Agriculture, Vellayani, following heavy rain. On Friday, fixtures were disrupted as the ground turned soggy. They were later completed indoors at the Central Stadium on Saturday. The final was intense. Had it been held at Vellayani, we would have been at a disadvantage, said Jamshad K, coach of the Palakkad team. Kannur is determined to come back stronger next time. Palakkad are a strong team and their preparation showed in their game. Though we managed to retain the cup in the senior girls category, it was tough here. We only practise during the season, said Kannur coach Sreeraj K K. Three months of strenuous practice paid off, said Palakkad captain Suriyan V S, who is also the youngest member of the team. Kannur assistant coach Pranav P added that they were worried their efforts might be in vain when the venue was shifted to Vellayani. In the senior girls category, Kannur beat Malappuram for the title. Idukki picked up the bronze. On Friday, Palakkad picked up the junior boys title. The Vellayani ground was soggy from the rain. The fixtures in the junior events were difficult for all teams. Had it been held in Vellayani, it would not have been fair, said Palakkad junior team manager Megha C P.
School Sports Meet: Records pour in on Day 4
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Marking the end of the fourth day, a total of 25 new records were set in a single day in the State School Sports Meet. Thiruvananthapuram has established a strong lead from the beginning. The host district tops the charts with 165 gold, 122 silver, and 138 bronze medals, amassing 1,472 points. Thrissur trails in second place with 694 points, having secured 76 gold, 38 silver, and 78 bronze medals. Palakkad stands third with 615 points, including 47 gold, 66 silver, and 73 bronze medals, while Kannur follows with 603 points. In aquatics, the competitions concluded with Thiruvananthapuram claiming the crown with 649 points. Thrissur managed 149 points to take second place, while Ernakulam earned 133 and Palakkad 49. In athletics, Palakkad continues its strong run with 16 gold, 11 silver, and six bronze medals, totalling 134 points so far. Malappuram follows with 112 points, Kozhikode with 73, and Kannur with 29. Out of 402 completed game events, Thiruvananthapuram has collected 799 points. Kannur holds the second position with 572 points, and Thrissur ranks third with 530.
Isolated heavy showers to continue in Kerala; yellow alert for six districts on October 26
Yellow alert for Kasaragod, Kannur, Wayanad, Kozhikode, Malappuram and Thrissur
School Sports Meet Day 3: Records fall, champions rise
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Capping the third day of the State School Sports Meet with record-breaking performances, Thiruvananthapuram continued its lead with 1,272 points, far ahead of Thrissur with 588 and Kannur with 506. The capital district bagged 145 gold, 104 silver and 124 bronze medals across various events. Palakkad maintained its edge in athletics, leading the category with 80 points after 31 events. Two new meet records were created in athletics. In senior boys 110m hurdles, Malappurams C K Fazalul Haque from Thirunavaya Navamukunda HSS clocked 13.78 seconds, erasing last years record of 13.97 seconds set by Thrissurs Vijayakrishna. In junior girls discus throw, Kasaragods Sona Mohan from Cheruvathur Kuttamath GHSS hurled 38.64 metres, surpassing the previous record of 37.73 metres set seven years ago by Thrissurs Athulya. The race walk event saw Palakkads long-standing dominance come to an end. In junior boys 5km race walk, Ernakulams Aloysius Boban from Karimpara St Stephens HSS won gold, while Malappurams Anwin Ashok and Idukkis Lal Krishnan secured the next spots. Malappuram also swept the top two positions in the junior girls 3km event through Niranjana P and Shikha K. In aquatic events, Thiruvananthapuram leads with 544 points, winning 61 gold, 51 silver and 37 bronze medals. Ernakulam, a distant second, managed 119 points while Thrissur followed with 114. Among schools, Thundathil M V HSS topped the best-performing list. As 82% of the aquatic competitions concluded, Thiruvananthapuram has secured the first place. Records poured in at the pool on Friday. With the days results, the total number of new records at the meet rose to thirteen.
Rain fails to dampen spirit on Day 2 of Kerala School Sports Meet in city
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Despite intermittent rain, the second day of the State School Sports Meet went ahead largely as planned. Minister for General Education and Labour V Sivankutty, speaking at a press meet held at the Central Stadium said that even under adverse conditions, officials managed to conduct and complete the scheduled events on time. As the second day of the week-long event concluded, Thiruvananthapuram topped the overall points table with 967 points, followed by Thrissur with 449 and Kannur with 426. Out of a total of 96 athletic events, 10 have been completed, while 56 of the 103 aquatic events and 324 of the 535 games have concluded. Thiruvananthapuram bagged 109 gold, 81 silver,109 bronze in total; followed by Thrissur with 48 gold, 25 silver and 57 bronze. Kannur is in the third position with 39 gold, 49 silver and 56 bronze. Palakkad leads in athletics with 38 points while Thiruvananthapuram dominated both aquatics and games with 336 and 626 points, respectively. Thiruvananthapuram claimed 38 gold, 33 silver, and 26 bronze medals in aquatic events. Ernakulam followed with 90 points, winning 7 gold, 11 silver, and 4 bronze, while Thrissur stood third with 72 points securing 7 gold, 6 silver, and 12 bronze. A highlight of the day was record-breaking performances in athletics and aquatics. New records in sub junior girls and junior boys were set in athletics. In aquatics, Pirappancode VHSS student Sreehari set a double record. Competing in the senior boys category, he set new records in both the 200-metre Individual Medley (IM) and freestyle events. Sreehari clocked 2:12.55 in the IM and 1:56.78 in freestyle. Meanwhile, participation in shooting events saw a rise this year. 261 students registered and 251 competed across three disciplines; up from around 200 when the event was held in Kochi last year. Officials attribute the growth to improved training opportunities and increasing interest among students, as more schools and academies now offer dedicated coaching. The Vattiyoorkavu range, hosting the event this year, has also upgraded its facilities, expanding from 16 lanes last year to 31,including 15 open-sight manual and 16 electronic lanes. Despite the showers, the enthusiasm of young athletes and the smooth coordination by officials ensured that the meet stayed on course.
Shift tribal students from unfit govt school to safe premises in Wayanad: Priyanka Gandhi
Wayanad(Kerala), Oct 23: Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday urged Kerala Minister O R Kelu to shift the tribal students of an unfit government school in Wayanad to a safe institution within the district. The Congress MP asked Kelu, the state Minister for Welfare of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Backward Classes, to reconsider the decision to relocate them to a school in the neighbouring district of Kannur. Priyanka, the MP from Wayanad constituency, claimed that the governments decision [] The post Shift tribal students from unfit govt school to safe premises in Wayanad: Priyanka Gandhi appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Defending champions Thiruvananthapuram leads on day 1 of school sports meet
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Leading the points table with 668 points, defending champions Thiruvananthapuram sets the pace as the 67th State School Sports Meet got underway across 12 venues in the capital. The first day of the Olympics-model event saw young athletes giving energetic performances in athletics, aquatics, and games. Kannur follows with 388 points, while Kozhikode stands third with 324. With a smooth start to the week-long event, the stage is set for 513 competitions, including 20 inclusive events. Though occasional rains disrupted some events, competitions resumed with the help of efficient on-ground coordination. Thiruvananthapuram bagged 78 gold, 57 silver, 79 bronze on the first day while Kannur got 38 gold, 45 silver and 46 bronze medals. At third position, Kozhikode secured 30 gold, 38 silver and 45 bronze medals. Just one point away from Kozhikode is Thrissur, with with 34 gold, 18 silver and 42 bronze medals, with Ernakulam, Palakkad, Malappuram following behind. Specially-abled athletes put up confident performances across categories as inclusive events, held at five stadiums, concluded on Wednesday. The first day of the sports meet saw a new state record in swimming as Ajith Yadav from Sports Authority of India (SAI), Thrissur, completed the 50m butterfly sub-junior event in 27.99 seconds, breaking the previous record of 30 seconds held by Nikhil A R of SAI, Thiruvananthapuram. P J Johan Julian of Kalamassery Rajagiri HS broke the previous record as well, by completing the event in 28.89 seconds. Addressing the media in the evening, General Education Minister V Sivankutty said that this years edition places special emphasis on digital coordination, green protocol, and athlete welfare. A mobile app developed with IT department support helped complete the athlete verification and data updates.
Kerala rains: IMD withdraws red alert, puts 10 districts on orange alert
Yellow alert sounded for Kasaragod, Kannur, Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram on Wednesday
Security breaches at womens hostels in Kerala call for safety audit
While a man allegedly sexually assaulted a techie woman at a hostel room in Thiruvananthapuram on Sunday, a youth was nabbed in Kannur for reportedly trespassing into a womens hostel at Thavakara in Kannur the next day
Local residents said water levels rose rapidly following hours of intense rainfall in upper catchment areas
Youth arrested for breaking into womens hostel in Keralas Kannur
The police suspect that the youth was under the influence of alcohol
The accused has been identified as PP Rajesh, who represented the fourth ward in the Koothuparamba Municipality in Kannur district
Project to support children of incarcerated persons launched in Kannur
SPRUHA Plus targets children aged between eight and 18 years, offering holistic care through legal, emotional, and educational support
The Kerala Excise Department has announced a provisional shortlist for Civil Excise Officer Trainee positions in Kannur. Candidates who passed the Endurance Test can now check their names. Those listed will proceed to the Physical Measurement and Efficiency Test. Applicants should monitor the KPSC website for further details on the upcoming tests and final selection.
Initiate measures to restore mangroves in Kannur, HC tells govt. agencies
Initiate measures to restore mangroves in Kannur, HC tells govt. agencies
The Kerala Excise and Prohibition Department has released the provisional shortlist for candidates eligible to appear in the Physical Measurement and Physical Efficiency Test for the post of Civil Excise Officer (Trainee) 2025 in Kannur District. Register numbers are listed numerically and do not indicate ranking. Candidates must now prepare for the next stage of selection.
Kannur University faculty chosen for Inherit Fellowship
Two Migrant Workers Killed, One Injured in Lightning Strike in Kannur
The victims from Assam and Odisha were walking back to a quarry when lightning struck suddenly in Keralas Kannur district
Passenger injured in stone-pelting at train in Keralas Kannur
Passenger suffers hand injury when a stone struck him while he was seated by the window. The display screen of his mobile phone is also damaged
Tension at Peralassery in Keralas Kannur as bomb thrown at womans house linked to BJP office
The attack occurred ahead of scheduled inauguration of BJP office on Peralassery temple road on Wednesday
Young Theyyam artiste found dead in Kannur
Amoebic infection confirmed in three-year-old boy in Keralas Kannur
Lab analysis of cerebrospinal fluid samples confirms presence of amoeba species, raising concerns of amoebic meningoencephalitis. The childs condition is reported to be stable
Odisha native succumbs to burns from gas cylinder fire in Keralas Kannur
Four Odisha natives were injured in the fire incident
Man from Tamil Nadu gets new lease of life at Kozhikode MCH
Prashanth, 32, of Tirupathur met with a road accident in Kozhikode while travelling to Sabarimala from Kannur
Suresh Gopi hits back at critics of his Kalungu talks, defends remarks on democracy
Jayarajan brothers are upset and fears that C. Sadanandan will bring development to Kannur, says Suresh Gopi on M.V. Jayarajan and P. Jayarajans criticism against Mr. Sadanandan
Minister Suresh Gopi offers to step down, wants Sadanandan Master to replace him
Kannur: Union Minister Suresh Gopi on Sunday expressed his desire to step down from his ministerial post and recommended BJPs newly elected Rajya Sabha member C Sadanandan Master as his replacement in the central cabinet. Addressing party workers at a function here, which was also attended by Sadanandan, Gopi said the senior leaders nomination to 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 .
IMD predicts heavy rains in Kerala, issues orange alert in 3 districts
The IMD issued an orange alert for Idukki, Kannur, and Kasaragod in Kerala on Saturday, predicting very heavy rains, while Pathanamthitta, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Wayanad received yellow alerts for heavy rain. Thunderstorms and gusty winds up to 40 kmph are expected due to a cyclonic circulation over the southeast Arabian Sea between October 1115.
Orange alert for three districts in Kerala after heavy rain alert
Orange alert for Idukki, Kannur and Kasaragod and yellow alert for Pathanamthitta, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode and Wayanad on October 11
CM to inaugurate new CPI(M) district office in Kannur on October 20
Migrant Workers Injured in Kerala Fire from Gas Leak in Kannur
All of them were admitted to Pariyaram Medical College Hospital for treatment
Four migrant workers injured in cooking gas explosion in Keralas Kannur; two critical
All are Odisha natives
KGMOA observes protest day in Kannur demanding safety of doctors
Kannur airport on threshold of transformation as land acquisition and road upgrades gain pace
A recent high-level meeting in Thiruvananthapuram decided to assign special officers to expedite land acquisition for the Chorukkala-Bavuparamba-Mayyil-Kololam-Mattanur Airport Link Road.
Explosion at Pathayakunnu in Keralas Kannur; windowpanes of houses shattered
Preliminary investigation suggests the explosion may have been an act of arson
Memorial of Kerala CPI(M) worker U.K. Kunhiraman vandalised in Kannur; case against five RSS workers
Elderly man assaulted by group of youths in road rage incident in Keralas Kannur
A video of the assault, recorded by the assailants themselves, has gone viral
CMs clean chit to P.P. Divya in Assembly draws criticism
KSU vice-president, who filed a complaint against former Kannur district panchayat president P.P. Divya alleging corruption, objects to CMs statement in Assembly that the allegations are baseless
Land acquisition for Kannur airport runway to be expedited, says Kerala CM
The process of acquiring 245.32 acres of land at Keezhalur and Kanad is under way, with the valuation of agricultural trees and buildings nearing completion
Koothuparamba MLA K.P. Mohanan attacked during protest at Panoor in Keralas Kannur
The incident occurred when the MLA arrived to inaugurate an anganwadi. The protest was over a garbage issue linked to a dialysis centre
The call, received on the emergency number 112 around 11 p.m., claimed that a bomb had been planted at the station. Soon, the railway police, RPF, bomb squad and dog squad conducted a thorough search of the station and surrounding areas but found nothing
Kerala school performance stopped over costume supporting Free Palestine
A Kolkali (folk art) dance form at a high school in Keralas Kannur district was stopped by the principal after performers wore T-shirts that read Free Palestine. The incident took place at Anjarakandy Higher Secondary School during its youth festival on September 27. The incident was captured on video, which was widely shared online. It 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 .
Tiger sighting at village in Keralas Kannur sparks fear among residents
Local residents have limited outdoor movement and children have stayed away from school amid reports of the animals presence
Youth held for cheating in PSC exam at Kannur
SFI sweeps Kannur University Senate polls, wins seven of 10 seats
Case against five for trespassing into Kannur police headquarters
Kannur Corporation in Kerala launches water Budget
The water Budget is designed to assess water availability and utilisation across the Corporations limits
Golden jackal attack leaves six injured in Keralas Kannur
Bomb threat to Defence Security Corps Records Centre in Keralas Kannur
Threat received via e-mail
Rebels float new front as UDF faces fresh challenge in Kannur Corporation in Kerala
Congress rebels and disgruntled leaders expelled from various parties prepare to enter the fray under the banner Rajivji Cultural Forum
KIIFB sanctions 73.9 crore for land acquisition of Kannur airport link road
Around 7 hectares of land from 1,600 landowners will be acquired for the 22.56-km stretch
11 institutions become carbon negative in Kerala
Kannur Central Jail is the latest institution to join the list. The listing is based on a carbon emission audit carried out by Haritha Keralam Mission
Kannur Dussehra to showcase nine days of colour, culture, and commerce
CPI(M) worker bedridden for years after political violence found dead in well in Keralas Kannur
The deceased had been under treatment since 2009 after sustaining severe injuries in an attack allegedly by BJP workers
Medicinal plant nursery to come up at Kannur Ayurveda Research Centre
