Accused awarded death sentence in Ambalamukku murder case

Kanyakumari native Rajendran fatally stabbed Vineetha at the nursery she was working in the capital and stole her gold chain weighing 4.5 sovereigns. He is the prime accused in a 2014 triple homicide in Tamil Nadu

Death sentence for TN native in Ambalamukku Vineetha murder case

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Additional Sessions Court here on Thursday awarded capital punishment for the Tamil Nadu native, who was found guilty in the Ambalamukku Vineetha murder case. The court ruled that the case fell in the rarest of the rare category and hence Rajendran, a native of Thovala in Kanyakumari district, was not entitled to any leniency. As the judge pronounced its verdict, Vineetha's parents and two minor children were present in the court.The court also imposed a fine of Rs 8 lakh on Rajendran, of which half should go towards the children of the deceased. The court went by various reports it had received from government agencies on the mental condition, conduct and behaviour of the accused. The court had sought these reports after the prosecution argued that Vineethas murder fell in the rarest of the rare category and hence capital punishment should be awarded to the 40-year-old. Special prosecutor M Salahudeen argued that Rajendran is a serial killer and three out of his four victims were women. The district collectors report said Rajendran is a psychopath engaged in killing with little chance for reformation. It also supported the prosecutions argument seeking the noose for the accused and stated that, His extermination is the only course of action to save innocent people from a tragic end. The police too filed a similar report stating that Rajendran is a hardcore criminal and cannot be rehabilitated. Meanwhile, Rajendran sought clemency, citing that he has to look after his 70-year-old mother. He also said he did not commit the crime as alleged by the prosecution and hence he did not have any remorse. The defence counsel asked the court to consider the age of the accused before handing over the punishment, but the court did not pay any heed to that. The case was probed by a team led by then City Police Commissioner G Sparjan Kumar and comprising then Cantonment A C V S Dinaraj, Peroorkada Inspector V Sajikumar and others. Special public prosecutor Salahudeen, Devika Madhu, Fasna J and Chithra O S appeared for the prosecution. The court appreciated the investigating team, prosecutors and forensic team for the achievement.

In the realm of resistance

In Tamil literature today, questions of caste, gender, and power have fought against the resistance and rightfully taken the spotlight. P Sivakami, former IAS officer, writer and activist, has spent her life charting this transformation. Hailed as the first Dalit woman novelist, she has written novels, short stories, poetry collections and myriad essays that unsettle complacency and demand justice. As a part of Vaanam Art Festival, the Neelam Cultural Centre presented her with the Verchol Dalit Literary Award, this month, in recognition of her fearless voice. As her novels win acclaim in Tamil and English, Sivakami explores the politics of translation, the resistance faced by Dalit women authors and the urgent need for self-critique within literary and political circles. In a conversation with CE, Sivakami reflects on her bureaucratic career, departure into grassroots activism, founding movements for land rights, womens equality and subaltern arts. Excerpts follow: Reflecting on your debut novel and the literary landscape, do you believe Tamil literature has become more receptive to Dalit and feminist narratives? Certainly. Many Dalit writers and poets are now addressing caste, gender, and their intersections. Their works are increasingly published and well-received, particularly when translated into English. Writers like Imayam, though he doesnt identify as a Dalit writer, gain recognition as Dalit literature in translation. Authors such as Raj Gauthaman, Bama, and Kanyakumari-based poet ND Rajkumar have also been translated. This indicates a positive shift in reception. Youve highlighted the lack of critics for subaltern literature. Why do you think this gap exists? Sadly, theres a dearth of critics engaging deeply with these works. Publishers seldom send books to media outlets, and when they do, coverage is delayed or absent. Even media platforms overlook such literature. Reviews are rare, leaving these narratives without the critical discourse they deserve. Could you elaborate on your process of transcreating Tamil novels into English? To clarify, my English works are original pieces inspired by my Tamil novels, not direct transcreations. Publishers like Penguin and HarperCollins approached me for the manuscript before Id even completed it. My priority is ensuring the work reaches audiences, regardless of the publisher. Your fiction often critiques Dalit patriarchy. Has this drawn resistance within Dalit literary circles? Initially, yes. Women writing about Dalit issues were marginalised. However, once their works gained traction through English translations, acceptance grew. Today, the intersection of caste and gender is widely acknowledged as inseparable in Dalit writing. P Sivakami What prompted your transition from bureaucracy to activism and founding a political party? It was an ideological, not emotional, shift. During my 28 years in the IAS, I conducted awareness camps, edited a magazine, and documented tribal oral histories. Over time, my passion for grassroots work whether with tribal communities or trans rights outweighed bureaucratic constraints. I chose to dedicate myself fully to advocacy outside the system. Puthiya Kodangi has nurtured a lot of writers. How would you define subaltern literature today, and has its scope evolved since the magazines inception? Puthiya Kodangi has consistently centred on land rights, globalisations impact on marginalised communities, and critiques of party politics. It blends philosophy, anti-caste activism, and creative writing poetry, novels, and translations. Over 25 years, it has addressed Tamil language preservation, Dalit employment, and constitutional safeguards for tribal land. While public discourse now engages these issues, the magazines mission remains unchanged. Campaigning for Dalit and tribal land rights, what resistance have you faced from the state or society? Our activism targets systemic failure, not individuals. For instance, in Gudalur, powerful entities illegally occupy Panchami lands meant for Dalits. Though courts ruled in our favour, implementation stalls. Similarly, tribal lands under the Fifth Schedule are exploited by non-tribal buyers despite legal protections. Governments neglect these issues due to the communities lack of political clout. Without subaltern voices in policy, execution remains lax. Youve emphasised self-critique in writing. What personal challenges have you faced in your literary journey? Early works faced dismissal as romanticised or appeasing caste Hindus. My debut novel, criticised for idealism, was later revised to include a critical authorial perspective, which resonated better. Publishers occasionally dropped my work for critiquing Dravidian politics, but others stepped in. Academia remains hesitant. My English works are syllabi staples abroad, but Tamil counterparts are discouraged for research in local universities. How has your identity as a Dalit woman shaped your understanding of feminist politics in India? Women are subjugated because of caste and gender, both are inextricable. Ambedkar had stressed it, Uma Chakravarti echoes the same sentiment. Liberation requires annihilating caste through inter-caste marriages and solidarity. Any feminist politics ignoring caste is incomplete a reality evident to any critical thinker. What narratives remain underrepresented in Tamil literature regarding caste, gender, or bureaucracy? Non-Dalit writers seldom acknowledge castes role in their lives. They portray families as caste-neutral, ignoring systemic complicity. This subjectivity perpetuates caste norms. Even celebrated authors like Pudhumaipithan romanticise caste hierarchies, revealing a lack of critical objectivity. As an advocate of marginalised voices, how does it feel to be recognised by platforms like Vaanam Art Festival, which aligns with your mission? Literary awards often have political undercurrents. Mainstream accolades favour those disavowing Dalit identity. Vaanam, however, explicitly celebrates marginalised voices, a rarity. I have been ignored in the literary festivals conducted by the government. While no award is apolitical, platforms prioritising subaltern narratives deserve appreciation for amplifying silenced perspectives.

Madras High Court imposes blanket ban on use of 28 plastic items in Western Ghats

CHENNAI: The Madras High Court has imposed a blanket ban on 28 plastic items, including PET bottles, cups, tumblers, plates, carry bags and plastic films used for food wrapping in the Western Ghats ranging from the Nilgiris to the Agathiyar Biosphere in the Kanniyakumari district. The ban comes as a lasting measure to protect the environment and ecology of the pristine Western Ghats. A special division Bench of justices N Sathish Kumar and D Bharatha Chakravarthy passed the orders recently on the petitions seeking to ban the plastic bottles and other such products that harm the environment in the Nilgiris. The manufacture, storage, supply, transport, sale, and distribution of the 28 items are banned throughout the Western Ghats, sanctuaries, and tiger reserves, starting from the Nilgiris up to the Agathiyar Biosphere in Kanyakumari District, which includes the Nilgiris and Kodaikanal hill areas, the Bench said in the order. The banned items include plastic pet bottles used for packaged water, mineral water and juice, plastic sheet/cling film used for food wrapping, sheets used for spreading on dining table, plastic thermocol plates, plastic coated paper plates, paper cups, tea cups, tumbler, plastic coated carry bags, non-woven carry bags, water pouches, packets, straw, flags and plastic carry bags of all sizes and thickness and cutlery items made of plastics. Upon a complete reading of the 2018 and 2024 GOs on the ban on plastic items, and the earlier orders of this court dated September 25, 2019 and recognising the serious necessity, we reiterate and hold that these items shall stand banned for manufacture, use, sale and transportation, it said. The Bench said the shop owners, vendors or any other persons involved in distributing snacks, biscuits or any other consumables packaged in multi-layered wrappers, foils, multi-layered covers, sachets, pouches or other non-biodegradable packaging materials shall cut open the packages and transfer the contents to biodegradable paper covers made of butter paper which do not contain plastic materials. Alternatively, they may use natural products made of leaves, kora grass and earthen mud, it said. The Bench directed the local bodies to provide disposable paper cover free of cost to the traders. It also directed the authorities to ensure supply of potable water through water ATMs and RO plants in public places. It mooted a deposit return system for providing reusable cups, tumblers, food containers, tiffin carriers and ever-silver bottles to the tourists and the general public upon payment of Rs. 20 to Rs. 50 and the amount can be refunded upon returning these items. Innovative approaches, such as developing a tourist bag kit made of cloth as an extension of TN governments Meendum Manjappai scheme, can be introduced; the kit will have reusable bottles, cloth bags for purchases, cutlery along with saleable eco-friendly straws, napkins and small food storage containers, it said. Calling upon the authorities concerned to create awareness on the ban of the 28 plastic items and on alternative materials, the Bench said a special mobile application or website can be created with the involvement of the local community. It asked the authorities to implement the measures in the Nilgiris and Kodaikanal scrupulously and then swiftly expand to encompass all other hill areas in the Ghats, sanctuaries and tiger reserves. The court noted that senior counsels Chevanan Mohan, T Mohan and advocates M Santhanaraman and Rahul Balaji, assisting the court as amicus curiae, submitted a memo recommending steps for effective enforcement of the ban. Recollecting the directions issued already for banning PET bottles and other plastic items in the Nilgiris and Kodaikanal, the Bench said the usage of PET bottles and plastic wastes generated are increasing day by day. The Bench also said that the plastic waste is strewn everywhere throughout the Ghats, posing a grave threat the environment, and the local flora and fauna.

TTDs Divya Kshetrams hit by staff crunch

TIRUMALA: The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), one of Indias wealthiest temples, faces a severe staff shortage. With over 108 employees retired as of March 31, 2025, and an estimated 500 more expected to retire by June, maintaining existing temples has become challenging. This shortage poses significant concerns as TTD plans to construct Divya Kshetrams (Srivari Temples) in every state. The lack of essential staff, particularly Archakas trained in Pancharatra and Vaikhanasa Agama, crucial for temple operations, raises questions about the feasibility of the expansion. While TTD is optimistic about simultaneous construction and recruitment, some experts urge the temple board to prioritize addressing the staff crunch over new temple construction. The staff shortage at TTD has reached a critical point, forcing the organization to rely heavily on local volunteers for sensitive tasks like Hundi counting at outside temples. A recent incident exposed this vulnerability when a staff member was suspended in March for allegedly manipulating foreign currency denominations in a Hundi, amounting to Rs 6.5 lakh, with an ongoing police investigation. Experts suggest that the staff member exploited the situation due to being indispensable amid the staff shortage, highlighting the risks of relying on overextended personnel. Furthermore, TTD has been slow to develop a comprehensive manpower deployment and recruitment strategy, particularly for crucial roles such as Archakas trained in Pancharatra and Vaikhanasa Agama, Veda Parayanadars, Paricharakas, temple kitchen (Potu) staff, and sanitation, security, and musical staff. TTD is grappling with a significant staff shortage, with 108 employees retired as of March 31, 2025, and an estimated 500 more expected to retire by June. The lack of new recruits has impacted not only temples but also guest houses, Public Amenities Complexes, and other support facilities. Notably, the TTDs staff strength has dwindled from 16,600 employees two decades ago to around 5,000 currently. The temples taken over from the AP Endowments Department, such as those in Vontimitta, Devuni Kadapa, and Valmikipuram, are facing a severe resource crunch, relying heavily on TTD funding and facing periodic pressure for increased allocation. Unclear path ahead for Divya Kshetrams Moreover, TTD temples in Jammu, Rishikesh, Kurukshetra, and Delhi are struggling with a shortage of Archakas, raising concerns about expanding to foreign lands due to traditional restrictions like those imposed by the Vaikhanasa Agama, which prohibit temple priests from crossing oceans. The Divya Kshethrams initiative was first formally announced in 2015 with letters sent to several state governments, proposing the construction of Lord Venkateswara temples. Constructions were completed in a few locations such as Kurukshetra, New Delhi, Kanyakumari, Chennai, Rampachodavaram and Seethampeta, but many of them continue to operate with insufficient staff. TTD had previously expanded into major urban centres such as Chennai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and New Delhi to improve access to darshan tickets, accommodation, and spiritual outreach. However, many of these information centres have either shut down due to the rise of online services or have been converted into small temples or Kalyana Mandapams. An example is the Chennai information centre, which also has a Dhyanamandir. The Chennai centre has never been officially designated as a temple, but the locals treat it as one. It has become one of the top revenue-generating sub-temples via Hundi collections, despite running with a skeletal staff. Meanwhile, letters have been sent to Chief Ministers and administrators of 18 states and Union Territories, including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, Kerala, Goa, and Sikkim. Chief Ministers of several states have responded positively to TTD Trust Board Chairman BR Naidus request for land allocation to build temples in their respective capitals. Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu is also said to have discussed this matter during a recent review with the board. However, according to a senior TTD officer, a clear financial and administrative policy is still pending. Key questions remain: Who will bear construction costs? How are donor roles defined? And what are the operational obligations once a temple is established? In case of Navi Mumbai, an MoU exists with a private donor, but most proposed locations have no such clarity. Legal, administrative and cultural hurdles Legally, TTD is governed by the TTD Act, which has limited clarity or flexibility when it comes to constructing temples outside AP or India. Amendments may be necessary if the institution is to continue its out-of-state or international expansion. Further, while TTD is registered under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), approval from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs is essential for each project and is only valid for five years. With political leadership changes in those states, continuity may not be guaranteed.

All eyes on the night sky: Fancy moons for stargazers

BENGALURU: Stargazers have a string of celestial events to look forward to this April, starting with the sighting of the micro-moon or Pink Moon on Saturday. There are also the Lyrid meteor showers on April 21-22, besides an alignment of planets in the form of a smiley, and a Supermoon. These celestial events have caught the fancy of both ordinary people and experts, and the terms used to describe them have added to the intrigue. While the Pink Moon has its share of fans, the Lyrid meteor showers, which are termed as stars falling from Gods veena, promise to be a spectacle. Similarly, Venus, Saturn and the Moon are expected to align in a particular angle, which appear to be a smiley, on April 25, and the moon on April 27 will be termed the New Supermoon. Experts say these names have been given to build hype and draw attention to these events. However, they agree that these names have piqued interest in the skies, and increased the number of stargazers. Explaining the term Pink Moon or Blushing Moon, an astrophysicist from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics said it does not mean the moon changes colour. The term is from the Farmers Almanac in the USA. It was coined to refer to early spring wildflowers blooming. It is a micro-moon, which appears a bit smaller than the average full moon. This happens when the moon is slightly further away from the Earth than the average full moon, he said. The astrophysicist said people should pay attention to changing time zones of Zero Shadow Day, which started on April 10 in Kanyakumari and will continue till the summer solstice on June 21.Peoples interest in such events has increased over time, which is fantastic, but the names of these various moons are increasingly getting hyped. It leads to more people showing interest in the sky and becoming aware of celestial events, which is to be encouraged. The number of celestial activities have not suddenly increased. Names like Pink Moon are based on local traditions from specific regions, said Niruj Mohan Ramanujam, scientist at Indian Institute of Astrophysics. Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium Director BR Guruprasad said the Lyrid meteor showers and other moon changes occur annually, but awareness is increasing due to these catchy terms. People are also keen to buy telescopes and other equipment for stargazing and to improve their knowledge.

PM Modi To Travel In Train From Chenab Bridge To Katra, Inaugurate Two Vital Bridges Enroute

Rly workers invited for travel in inaugural Vande Bharat Kashmir to Kanyakumari event planned at Railway Station Sanjeev Pargal JAMMU, Apr 11: Before inauguration of Vande Bharat train to Kashmir from holy town of Katra, the base camp of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji shrine on April 19, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will travel from Chenab railway bridge to Katra in train during which he will inaugurate and inspect the highest bridge as well as cable stayed bridge, which have [] The post PM Modi To Travel In Train From Chenab Bridge To Katra, Inaugurate Two Vital Bridges Enroute appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

PM to travel in train from Chenab bridge to Katra, inaugurate two vital bridges enroute

Rly workers invited for travel in inaugural Vande Bharat Kashmir to Kanyakumari event planned at Railway Station Sanjeev Pargal JAMMU, Apr 11: Before inauguration of Vande Bharat train to Kashmir from holy town of Katra, the base camp of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji shrine on April 19, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will travel from Chenab railway bridge to Katra in train during which he will inaugurate and inspect the highest bridge as well as cable stayed bridge, which have [] The post PM to travel in train from Chenab bridge to Katra, inaugurate two vital bridges enroute appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Vineetha murder case: 40-year-old Tamil Nadu native found guilty

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Additional Sessions Court has found a 40-year-old Tamil Nadu native guilty in the sensational Ambalamukku Vineetha murder case . Rajendran, a native of Thovala in Kanyakumari district, was found guilty of murder, destruction of evidence and other allied charges. The quantum of punishment will be awarded on April 21. The prosecution led by special public prosecutor M Salahudeen argued that the case fell in the rarest of the rare category following which the court sought reports from various authorities. The Thiruvananthapuram district collector was directed to file a report as to whether there is any any scope for correction and rehabilitation of the convict and whether there are chances for him not to engage in violence. The court ordered that Rajendran should be examined by a psychiatrist and a psychologist from Peroorkada mental hospital and they should submit a report on his mental health. The victim, Vineetha was stabbed to death Rajendran in February 2022 when a stringent lockdown due to Covid was in play. Rajendran, who was out on bail in a triple murder case registered by Tamil Nadu police, fatally stabbed Vineetha, who was working in an agriculture clinic at Ambalamukku, during a robbery attempt. Chargesheet submitted in Vineetha murder case

Cuddalore Collector urges compliance with 61-day fishing ban from April 15 to June 14

CUDDALORE: District Collector Sibi Adithya Senthil Kumar has appealed to fishermen to refrain from venturing into the sea for 61 daysfrom April 15 to June 14under the annual fishing ban imposed to conserve marine resources. In a press release, the Collector stated that, under the Tamil Nadu Marine Fishing Regulation Act, 1983, the government enforces a seasonal ban each year along the eastern coast, stretching from Tiruvallur to Kanyakumari. The ban prohibits mechanised fishing using trawlers and purse seine nets during this period. Fishermen in Cuddalore district are requested not to engage in fishing with mechanised boats or trawl nets during the 61-day ban period, he said, emphasising that the restriction helps protect fish breeding cycles and ensures the long-term sustainability of marine life. The Collector added that the regulation is issued in the interest of both the environment and the livelihood of future fishing generations. He also warned that strict action would be taken against violators under the provisions of the Act.

Ponmudi hill station gets new guest house

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Offering comfortable accommodation to tourists by developing state guest houses and rest houses is a top priority of the government, as it supports tourism growth, Tourism Minister Mohamed Riyas said on Tuesday. He was speaking at the inauguration of the four-storey government guest house at Ponmudi. Providing world-class lodging facilities is crucial to boosting tourism. Thats why the government prioritised renovating and developing guest houses and rest houses to enhance the overall experience of visitors, he said. Besides Ponmudi, the government is focusing on upgrading guest houses and PWD rest houses in tourist hotspots like Guruvayur, Kanyakumari, Wayanad, Aluva, Munnar and Calicut, Riyas said, adding that the project gains more importance due to the surge in tourist arrivals to the state, which reached record levels in 2024 and is expected to rise this year. He said Ponmudis unique scenic charm has always drawn both domestic and international tourists, and a fully-equipped guest house was always the tourism departments priority. The new facility, which has all the facilities for a pleasant stay, will further enhance the scope of Ponmudi as a prime hill station, Riyas said. The new guest house is a four-storey block spanning 2,590 sq m. It houses 22 air-conditioned rooms, including six suite rooms, along with an AC conference hall and two AC dining halls. There is a spacious parking area, modern kitchen and rooms for drivers of tourist vehicles, too.

TN Congress leader Kumari Ananthan passes away at 92

CHENNAI: Veteran Congress leader and writer Kumari Ananthan, who was renowned for his Tamil prowess and oratorical skills, passed away late on Tuesday night at a private hospital in Chennai, where he was being treated for age-related ailments. He was 92. Ananthan, born in in Kumarimangalam in Kanyakumari district, was naturally drawn to the Congress party since his father, who was a villu pattu exponent, took part in the freedom struggle. He added Kumari to his name out of love for his place of birth. His association with late Congress leader and Chief Minister K Kamaraj made him the organiser of Youth Congress. He was elected to the Lok Sabha in 1977 from Nagercoil constituency. It was Ananthan who first insisted and obtained the right to ask questions in Tamil in Parliament. He was later elected as an MLA four times. Kumari Ananthan with CM Stalin in 2017 The Tamil Nadu government honoured him with the State governments highest honour of Thagaisal the Thamizhar award in 2024. He was conferred the Kamarajar Award by the State government in 2021. He is survived by his daughter Tamilisai Soundararajan, senior leader of the BJP, who earlier served as Governor of Telangana and Lieutenant-Governor of Puducherry. His younger brother, the late H Vasanthakumar, founded the popular Vasanth & Co chain of stores and was elected from the Congress to the Lok Sabha from Kanniyakumari, a constituency the entrepreneur's son Vijay Vasanth now represents. Ananthan floated his own party called Gandhi Kamaraj Desiya Congress in 1980, but it was not successful. Later he launched Thondar Congress in March 2001 and after an electoral defeat, he merged the outfit with the Congress. The books he penned include Neengalum Pechaalaraagalam (You can also become an orator), Sembanai Naadu, Paarathira Paadiya Bharathi, Nilaitha Pughaludaiyor. Kumari Ananthan with his daughter Tamilisai Soundararajan

This Glass Bridge In Kanyakumari Must Be On Your Bucket List. Here's Why

The 77-meter-long and 10-meter-wide glass bridge at Kanyakumari was inaugurated in 2024.

Tamil Nadu braces for rain and thunderstorms; IMD issues warnings for several districts

The IMD has issued warnings for rain, thunderstorms, and lightning in parts of Tamil Nadu, predicting moderate rainfall in several districts. Heavy rains have caused waterlogging and traffic disruptions, especially in Tiruppur and Kanyakumari. Other districts like Nilgiris and Coimbatore are also affected. Kerala and Puducherry are similarly experiencing rain and lower temperatures.

Kannada actor Asiya Firdose: Acting is an art, a skill

The actor, who has become a household name with Kannada serials such as Kanyakumari and Shravani Subramanya, talks about serials, films and her passion for acting

Celebrating 'Bemisaal Bihar' Across India: BJP-Led NDA Plans Events To Showcase State's Culture

Eye on Bihar elections: The week-long programme will begin with the celebration of Bihar Diwas on March 22. The BJP will send its MPs and ministers for the celebration from Kashmir to Kanyakumari

DMK's Fortress Chennai Is Slowly Becoming BJPs Third Stronghold In Tamil Nadu After Coimbatore And Kanyakumari

Heavy Rainfall In Tamil Nadu For Next Two Days: IMD Issues Orange Alert In Four Districts

The IMD has issued heavy to very heavy rain alert for the districts of Tuticorin, Tirunelveli, Tenkasi and Kanyakumari in the next two days.

Women Contingent calls on LG

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 9: A delegation of Women Contingent who are participating in the All-Women Self-Drive Expedition from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, today. The delegation briefed the Lieutenant Governor on their 10-day expedition traversing 3,700 kms across the country. The Lieutenant Governor extended his felicitations and best wishes to all the participants. The post Women Contingent calls on LG appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Three arrested as DRI, ICG intercept vessel en-route to Maldives, seize 30 kilograms of hashish oil

NEW DELHI: In a joint operation with Indian Coast Guard (ICG), the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) on Sunday announced that it has seized 29.954 kg hashish oil worth nearly Rs 33 crore from a tug-barge vessel sailing towards Maldives and arrested three in connection with the case. Officials in the revenue intelligence agency said that the operation was conducted on the intervening night of March 7-8 following actionable intelligence input developed by DRI officers. The DRI officers and ICG sailors based on the input identified a tug vessel towing a barge laden with rock boulders, which had departed from Tuticorin Old Port in which Tuticorin-based gang covertly loaded significant quantities of hashish oil onto the barge mid-sea during its voyage to the Maldives, with the assistance of a crew member from the vessel. A senior official said, At the behest of the DRI, the ICG intercepted the vessel on March 5, 2025, in mid-sea off the Kanyakumari coast and escorted it back to Tuticorin New Port. Following the arrival of the vessel at the Tuticorin New Port, three persons were apprehended including the individual responsible for placing the narcotic drug and his accomplice, the official said, adding that the crew member involved in sharing the vessels location with the gang was also detained for further investigation once the vessel docked. Rummaging of the barge vessel led to recovery of two bags containing 29 plastic packets with description of food items printed on it, but on their examination it was found to contain black-coloured liquid paste like substance, which on testing with the field test kit resulted positive for Hashish Oil, the official said. In total, 29 packets weighing 29.954 kg of Hashish Oil, valued at Rs 32.94 crore in the illicit international market, were recovered and seized under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. The three accused persons have then been arrested and remanded to judicial custody.

Tamil Nadu Rain Alert: Heavy Rainfall Expected In These Districts; Check School Holiday Updates Here

The affected districts include Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, Tenkasi, Thoothukudi, Virudhunagar, and Ramanathapuram.

The Bold Route: K2K

A daring journey led by women, traversing from the breathtaking landscapes of Kashmir to the vibrant shores of Kanyakumari, embodying strength, empowerment, and the spirit of exploration

Tamil Nadu Rain Updates: Heavy rainfall | #WATCH | N18S

Tamil Nadu Rain Updates: Heavy rainfall was reported in several isolated areas of Tamil Nadu on Friday night, including Thoothukudi and Kanyakumari, causing streets and roads to become waterlogged. n18oc_shortsNews18 Mobile App - https://onelink.to/desc-youtube

Curvv.ev Makes History

Records the fastest EV Drive from Kashmir to Kanyakumari of 3,823 KM in only 76 hours and 35 minutes

Tamil Nadu Rain Alert: From Kanyakumari To Chennai, Heavy Showers Likely In 10 TN Districts

TN rain alert: The prediction is particularly worrisome for farmers with the harvest season in full swing in the delta districts

Andamans to Arunachal: Amazon Pharmacy facilitates medicine access across India

Amazon Pharmacy delivers medicines across 100% serviceable pincodes across the country, subject to availability and regulatory requirements, ensuring that customers even in the remotest areasPort Blair and Havelock in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Leh in Ladakh, Kanyakumari, and even Roing in Arunachal Pradeshhave access to essential medication.

Thiru. MA. Subramanian, Hon'ble Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Government of Tamil Nadu Addresses the Yoga National Conclave - 2025

Dr. C. N. Maheswaran, I.A.S., Managing Director of Tamil Nadu Salt Corporation Limited, Chennai and Dr. A. M. Moorthy, Advisor, IYA-TNSCC and Director of Sports Medicine and Yoga, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chrompet, Chennai, facilitated the gathering. Thangalakshmi, State Coordinator, of Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari for Tamil Nadu and the Treasurer of Indian Yoga Association, Tamil Nadu State Chapter Committee welcomed the gathering and Dr. R. Elangovan, Secretary, Indian Yoga Association, Tamil Nadu State Chapter proposed the vote of thanks.

Kashmir linked to Kanyakumari through Railway Line: Prez Murmu

New Delhi, Jan 31: Kashmir has now been connected to Kanyakumari through a railway line as the Udhampur-Baramulla-Srinagar Rail project is complete, President Droupadi Murmu said on Friday. Addressing the joint sitting of Parliament, the president highlighted the achievements of the Railway Ministry. The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link project has been completed, connecting the nation from [] The post Kashmir linked to Kanyakumari through Railway Line: Prez Murmu appeared first on Northlines .

Kashmir Linked To Kanyakumari Through Railway Line: President Murmu

New Delhi, Jan 31: Kashmir has now been connected to Kanyakumari through a railway line as the Udhampur-Baramulla-Srinagar Rail project is complete, President Droupadi Murmu said on Friday. Addressing the joint sitting of Parliament, the president highlighted the achievements of the Railway Ministry. The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link project has been completed, connecting the nation from Kashmir to Kanyakumari through a railway line, Murmu said. Under this ambitious project, the Chenab bridge has been constructed, which is the highest railway bridge [] The post Kashmir Linked To Kanyakumari Through Railway Line: President Murmu appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

BJP emerges richest party with Rs 7113-crore fund balance, Congress has Rs 857 crore: EC data

NEW DELHI: The BJP, which claims itself as the biggest political party in the world, has a whopping cash and bank balance of Rs 7,113.80 crore against the principal opposition Congress party's Rs 857.15 crore as on March 31, 2024, according to figures provided to the Election Commission. The BJP spent as much as 1,754.06 crore during 2023-24 when Lok Sabha elections were announced, a whopping 60 per cent rise than Rs 1,092 crore spent in 2022-23. In comparison, the Congress spent as much as Rs 619.67 crore during 2023-24, against Rs 192.56 crore in 2022-23. The Lok Sabha elections were announced on March 16, 2024. According to the figures provided to the EC in their annual audit reports, the BJP has received voluntary contributions through the now banned electoral bonds of Rs 1,685.69 crore during 2023-24, against Rs 1294.15 crore in the previous year. The ruling party has also shown having received other contributions to the tune of Rs 2,042.75 crore during the year, against Rs 648.42 crore in the previous year 2022-23. In its audit report to the EC, the Congress has shown having received total contributions of Rs 1,225.11 crore during 2023-24, including Rs 1129.67 crore through grants, donations and contributions. This also includes Rs 828.36 crore received through electronic bonds during the year ended March 31, 2024, which have now been banned by the Supreme Court. During the year, the BJP spent Rs 591 crore in advertisements, including Rs 434.84 crore in the electronic media and Rs 115.62 crore in printed material. The ruling party also spent Rs 174 crore during 2023-24 on aircraft/helicopters, against Rs 78.23 crore in 2022-23 and gave financial assistance of Rs 191.06 crore to its candidates during the year in question, against Rs 75.05 crore in the previous year. The BJP spent Rs 84.32 crore on meeting expenses in 2024 and Rs 75.14 crore on organising morchas, rallies, andolan and call centre expenses in 2023-24. The Congress, on the other hand, spent as much as Rs 207.94 crore on the electronic media and Rs 43.73 crore on printed material during 2023-24. The opposition party also spent Rs 62.65 crore on aircraft/helicopters during 2023-24 and gave financial aid of Rs 238.55 crore to its candidates. It also spent Rs 28.03 crore on publicity expenses and Rs 79.78 crore on social media expenses during the year ended March 31, 2024. The party also stated in its audit report that it spent Rs 49.63 crore on the Bharat Jodo Yatra 2, led by former party chief Rahul Gandhi during 2023-24, against Rs 71.84 crore spent on Bharat Jodo Yatra undertaken by him from Kanyakumari to Kashmir during 2022-23.

Cyclists On Kashmir-Kanyakumari Expedition For Pollution-Free India Leave Jammu

JAMMU, Jan 19: Five cyclists from Mumbai, who have started a Kashmir to Kanyakumari expedition, to spread the message of a pollution-free India left Jammu Sunday morning, expressing happiness they were able to cycle on snow. Jammu Zone Additional Director General of Police Anand Jain received the cyclists aged between 54 to 67 years before flagging them off with good wishes for their onward journey during which they plan to cover 4080 kms in 40 days. Satish Jadhav [] The post Cyclists On Kashmir-Kanyakumari Expedition For Pollution-Free India Leave Jammu appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

With Train to Kashmir, Rs 450 Cr earmarked for Jammu Tawi Rly Station upgradation

Remodeled yard slated to be commissioned on March 6;Number of platforms will increase from 3 to 7 Jammu, Jan 18: As the train is all set to connect Kashmir with Kanyakumari, Northern Railway has decided to invest approximately Rs 450 crore in the modernization and redevelopment of Jammu Tawi Railway Station. The ambitious project aims [] The post With Train to Kashmir, Rs 450 Cr earmarked for Jammu Tawi Rly Station upgradation appeared first on Northlines .

Cross-Country Cycle Expedition Flagged Off From Kashmir

Srinagar, Jan 16: A 4,000km cycle expedition from Kashmir to Kanyakumari began from here on Thursday to promote a pollution-free India. The expedition with several participants from Maharashtra, including two sexagenarians, was flagged off by the Deputy Inspector General, Central Kashmir Range, Rajiv Pande from the iconic Lal Chowk here. The cycle rally will travel across the country to Kanyakumari, covering a distance of 4,048 km. One of the cyclists, Satish Jadhav, 67, said he wants every citizen of the [] The post Cross-Country Cycle Expedition Flagged Off From Kashmir appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Kashmir to Kanyakumari: Cross-country cycle expedition flagged off

Srinagar: A 4,000 km cycle expedition from Kashmir to Kanyakumari began from here on Thursday, January 16, to promote a pollution-free India. The expedition with several participants from Maharashtra, including two sexagenarians, was flagged off by the deputy inspector general, Central Kashmir Range, Rajiv Pande from the iconic Lal Chowk here. The cycle rally will 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 .

Green signal to train on Katra-Reasi track

Srinagar, Jan 15:The dream of connecting Kashmir to Kanyakumari through railway is becoming a reality as Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) has authorized the opening of the newly constructed 17 km long Katra-Reasi rail track for public carriage of goods and passenger traffic, railway officials said. A seven-page authorization letter by CRS Dinesh Chand Deshwal, [] The post Green signal to train on Katra-Reasi track appeared first on Northlines .

Kashmir To Kanyakumari By Train Soon As Newly Constructed BG Line Gets Railway Authorisation

This comes nearly a week after conducting a two-day statutory inspection of the Katra-Reasi section of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway link.

Railway Safety Commissioner Gives Green Signal To Train Ops On 17 Km Katra-Reasi Track

JAMMU, Jan 15: The dream of connecting Kashmir to Kanyakumari through railway is becoming a reality as Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) has authorised the opening of the newly constructed 17 km long Katra-Reasi rail track for public carriage of goods and passenger traffic, railway officials said. A seven-page authorisation letter by CRS Dinesh Chand Deshwal, give green signal for the opening of the newly constructed broad-gauge line between Katra and Reasi stations for public carriage of goods and passenger [] The post Railway Safety Commissioner Gives Green Signal To Train Ops On 17 Km Katra-Reasi Track appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

On first anniversary of 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra,' Congress says Manipur 'still awaits visit by PM Modi'

NEW DELHI: Launching a vitriolic attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not visiting violence-hit Manipur, the Congress on Tuesday said that he has found time, inclination and energy to go all over the world but has not seen it necessary to reach out to the distressed people in the northeastern state. The Congress' outburst came on the first anniversary of the lunch of the 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' that began in Manipur. The Congress had launched Rahul Gandhi-led 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' from Manipur on January 14 last year aiming to put the spotlight on issues such as unemployment, price rise and social justice. A Congress' rally at Shivaji Park in Mumbai had marked the culmination of the 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra', which was carried out in hybrid mode in the run up to the Lok Sabha polls. Today, exactly a year ago, the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra was launched by the Indian National Congress from Manipur. The BJNY followed in the wake of the historic Kanyakumari to Kashmir Bharat Jodo Yatra and covered 6,600 kms going through 15 states, culminating in Mumbai on March 16, 2024, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said in a post on X. Today, exactly a year ago, the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra was launched by the Indian National Congress from Manipur. The BJNY followed in the wake of the historic Kanyakumari to Kashmir Bharat Jodo Yatra and covered 6,600 kms going through 15 states, culminating in Mumbai on March pic.twitter.com/D42FwEoCf5 Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) January 14, 2025 Manipur still awaits a visit by the Prime Minister, who has found the time, inclination, and energy to go all over the world - but has not seen it necessary to reach out to the distressed people of Manipur, he added. The prime minister has steadfastly refused to meet with political leaders of Manipur, including his own party legislators and the CM himself, Ramesh alleged. The agony of Manipur has continued unabated since May 3, 2023. Just a few days back the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Education, Women, Children, Youth, and Sports was asked to put off its proposed study tour to the state, he said. The Congress has been attacking the prime minister for not visiting Manipur besides slamming the Centre for its handling of the situation in the ethnic strife-torn northeastern state. More than 220 people have been killed and thousands rendered homeless in ethnic violence between Imphal Valley-based Meiteis and adjoining hills-based Kuki-Zo groups since May 2023. CPI calls for Biren Singh's resignation, says apology for Manipur ethnic strife is 'not enough'

Irate woman vandalises ATM

Hyderabad: Madhuranagar police are on the look-out for a home-maker who vandalised an ATM after she allegedly failed to con a bank employee during counting of notes. According to the police, the accused is a 35-year-old resident of Rahmathnagar. The accused was given `7 lakh in cash after she sold her property in Suryapet. She went to a bank in Vengal Raonagar to deposit the money in her account. The cashier counted the money and told the woman that `21,000 was short. The woman lost her temper and the staff called the police. The woman then went to the ATM deposit machine and threw a rock it, damaging the screen. 400 auto drivers at traffic awareness programme Hyderabad :As part of the National Road Safety Month, Hyderabad police organised a traffic awareness programme for 400 autorickshaw drivers, near Ambedkar statue on NTR Marg on Saturday. At the meet, it was decided that police would paste traffic awareness stickers on the back of the vehicles till the programme ends on January 31. City traffic additional DCP P. Viswa Prasad, who was invited as a chief guest, addressed the gathering. You should be the real heroes of Hyderabad. Do not park on roads, bus stops, don't allow extra passengers, do not demand extra money with passengers, Vishwa Prasad said. He also requested them to keep boards carrying school children when carrying school children during school timings for safety. 210 vehicles seized in crackdown Hyderabad: State transport officials have seized 210 vehicles of private operators for illegally transporting passengers from Telangana to Andhra Pradesh using unregistered private cars/buses and breaking a number of rules. We have coordinated with zonal teams of LB Nagar, Shamirpet, Rangareddy, Hayathnagar and formed special joint teams, said district deputy transport department officer Sadanandam. The authorities were on the look-out for overloaded vehicles, those without inter-state permits, and yellow plate vehicles without fitness certificates. Apart from this, our teams are also checking the buses coming from Chennai, Thiruvananthapuram, Puducherry, Mangaluru, Mysuru, Kanyakumari, Bengaluru to Hyderabad, he added. During the normal days, the ticket cost in a private sleeper bus from Hyderabad to Vijayawada is around `1,800, during the festive seasons it is `4,200. This is against the law, G. Srinivas, a passenger said. The private cars that used to charge `300 to Suryapet are now raising their fare to `900 taking advantage of the Sankranti demand. The government should take the issue seriously and stern action should be taken against the private bus owners, M Gayatri, a passenger said. We have focused on those who are charging high charges from passengers during the Sankranti festival. Today will be focusing more on the permitting capacity and admitting passengers beyond the permit, a officer said.

Train link in J&K to be extended to border dists: Sinha

SRINAGAR: Ahead of direct train connectivity between Kashmir and Delhi, the train service in J&K will be further extended to border town of Uri and Kupwara in north Kashmir and border districts of Poonch and Rajouri in Jammu region. It will connect the Line of Control (LoC) with the rail link. Lt Governor Manoj Sinha said Detailed Project Report (DPR) is under consideration for new railway lines. For Jammu and Kashmir, Indian Railways is spearheading a new era of development and integration. The prestigious Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) will seamlessly connect Kashmir to Kanyakumari which will boost tourism, trade, and employment opportunities in the region, Sinha said. He said several transformative projects are in the pipeline for Jammu and Kashmir. The extension of the rail link to the border town of Uri and border districts will generate employment for the locals and improve connectivity. The link to Uri and border districts would also help in the mobility of the troops deployed at the LoC and other forward areas of J&K. It would help with quick transportation of troops and military hardware. The L-G also said that DPR is also under examination for the new line between Pathankot-Leh (664kms), Bilaspur-Manali-Leh (489kms) and doubling of Baramulla-Banihal line. By linking key towns and regions, these projects promise to unlock the regions untapped potential and boost local economies, he said. Meanwhile, CM Omar Abdullah said creation of Jammu Railway division is a historic moment. He allayed fears of Jammu that it would suffer losses due to direct train connectivity between Kashmir and Delhi. I want to assure people that rail connectivity to Kashmir will benefit Jammu. It will increase trade, tourism and connectivity of Jammu, he said. Maintaining that trade and industry in J&K would benefit from train connectivity, Omar said job opportunities will increase with the new railway division in Jammu.

Brewing joy and forging bonds with cutting chai

A good cup of chai (tea) can work wonders. And if it is Mumbais masala cutting chai with a friend or colleague then it can even form unbreakable bonds! From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, you will always find a chai shop along the road. After all, a lot can happen over a piping hot cup of cutting chai. For the uninitiated, cutting chai is strong masala tea simmered for long and then served in tiny glasses or kulhad (clay cups). Be it college students, poor labourers or seasoned politicians, the humble cutting chai has a crucial role in blurring party lines, forging bonds and striking timeless conversations. No prizes here, if you are also thinking of Chai pe Charcha! Stuti Bid reminisces of the times when she would wait for her college lectures to finish and she would dash for a cup of cutting chai with a friend or two. She avers, The day feels incomplete without that one cutting chai. On a serious note, a cup or glass of cutting chai has been a great way of connecting with people from all walks of life. Cutting chai plays a special role in my life as a symbol of warmth, connection and meaningful conversations, says Fauzia Chaudhary, a social worker from Mumbai. For Fauzia, the shared cups of chai have become more than just a hot sipping. They have become moments that have strengthened relationships and created lasting memories adds Fauzia. Swarali Kulkarni, a food & Travel blogger says, For most of us cutting chai with a snack, biscuit or even sutta (quick smoke) is an emotion. Whether you have a good day or a bad day at work, a cup of cutting chai with some close pals can act wonders. It acts as a conversation starter and social blender. These shared cups of chai have become moments that have strengthened relationships and created lasting memories. Fauzia Chaudhary, social worker, Mumbai

Jammus Business Interests Will Not Get Harmed: Omar Abdullah

Srinagar: Dispelling the apprehension about the new railway link that connects the Kashmir Valley with the countrys railway grid harming the business interests of Jammu, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said on Monday that it, in fact, will benefit the entire Jammu and Kashmir and even Ladakh. The new Jammu Railway Division will be beneficial to all. We anticipate significant benefits, including a surge in trade and tourism, and we will ensure that Jammu reaps the rewards of this development as well, the Chief Minister said while speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the newly carved out rail division at Jammu. He added that Jammu will not suffer economic losses due to the direct rail link to the Kashmir Valley, but a new railways division will create jobs, enhance trade, and boost tourism in the entire erstwhile state of J&K. Terming the launch of the Jammu Railway Division as a historic moment for J&K, the Chief Minister said that to have their own railway division has been a long-standing demand of the people of the erstwhile state and today, that dream has been fulfilled. Reassuring the people of Jammu that the new division will benefit them economically, Mr Abdullah said, With its control and coordination to be based in Jammu, local recruitment will be prioritized. This will bring employment opportunities to the region, benefiting our youth and boosting the local economy. He added, Also, the commissioning of the Srinagar-Katra rail line will revolutionize travel in the regionthe connectivity would resolve long-standing challenges such as disruptions in winter flights and exorbitant airfares (on the Srinagar route). J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha while speaking on the occasion said that connecting the Kashmir Valley with Kanyakumari through the railway network was a dream which has come true under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said Jammu is set to become one of the finest railway stations in the world, with the region being elevated to the status of a new railway division. This will greatly improve connectivity and create new job opportunities in J&K and I am grateful to the Prime Minister and the Union Railway Minister for their focused efforts toward the development of the Union Territory, he said. He said that by the end of this month, the Kashmir Valley will be fully connected to the national railway grid, marking a transformative moment for the region. The railway network will become the lifeline of J&K, driving economic progress and industrialization in the region. Enhanced connectivity means more opportunities, more jobs, and a brighter future for the people of J&K, he said. He added that, under the leadership of Prime Minister Mr. Modi, projects worth Rs 40,000 crore are being executed in J&K to further enhance the railway network whereas surveys for new railway lines are also underway, aimed at boosting connectivity within the region and to other parts of the country. Union Minister of State for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences Jitendra Singh said that the inauguration of the new Jammu Railway division is a historic milestone as it would effect significant positive changes in the rural heartlands of Kashmir Valley and ensure broader development of the entire region. He said that the first train had arrived in J&K in 1972 and that the gap of over fifty-two years between that milestone and Mondays achievement raises important questions. He asked, Was it due to administrative inefficiency, a lack of political will, or certain elements opposing the integration of Kashmir with the rest of India through rail connectivity? However, he also said, Perhaps it was destiny that we had to wait over fifty years, until the advent of Prime Minister Modijis leadership, to witness this moment as it is under his guidance that this dream, once considered impossible, has now been fulfilled.

Railway Division Inauguration| PM Modi-led Govt making dreams come true: LG Sinha

Jammu, Jan 06:Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today hailed the PM Modi-led government for turning dreams into reality, Speaking at inaugural ceremony of new Jammu Railway Division here, LG Sinha, according to the news agency, said, Connecting Kashmir with Kanyakumari through the railway network was a dream for decades, and today, under the [] The post Railway Division Inauguration| PM Modi-led Govt making dreams come true: LG Sinha appeared first on Northlines .

PM Modi Led Govt Making Dreams Come True: LG Sinha

Jammu, Jan 6: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday said that Kashmir getting connected with Kanyakumari through a railway network was a dream and it has come true. Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of new Jammu Railway Division, here, LG Sinha, according to the news agency said, The government led by PM Modi is making dreams of people come true within the stipulated time and to Kanyakumari rail connectivity is yet another landmark achievement. LG Sinha expressed [] The post PM Modi Led Govt Making Dreams Come True: LG Sinha appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Katra-Srinagar train likely to chug after Jan 20

Northern Railway announces timings; Vande Bharat express to leave Delhi at 7 PM arrive in Srinagar at 8 AM Srinagar, Jan 3: The Katra-Srinagar train is likely to chug on the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) after January 20. Officials said that final preparations are being made to connect Kashmir with Kanyakumari through a railway network. [] The post Katra-Srinagar train likely to chug after Jan 20 appeared first on Northlines .

Vande Bharat sleeper train achieves peak speed of 180 km per hour: Centre

The Ministry of Railways on Friday announced that Vande Bharat sleeper train has achieved a peak speed of 180 km per hour in its multiple trials in the last three days. The trials will continue till this month end before this world class travel for long distance travel is made available to the rail commuters across the nation, a statement by the railway ministry claimed. Sharing a video of a successful trial in Kota Division, Union Minister of Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw on X mentioned the speed in his post. Vande Bharat (Sleeper) testing at 180 kmph pic.twitter.com/ruVaR3NNOt Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) January 2, 2025 The video shows a nearly full to brim glass of water adjacent to a mobile on a plain surface inside a Vande Bharat sleeper train. The Water level remaining static can be seen in the video as the moving train achieves near constant peak speed of 180 km per hour exhibiting the element of comfort in the high-speed rail travel. The post came after 3 days of successful trials, which concluded on January 2, in which a Vande Bharat sleeper train in its loaded condition touched the peak speed. On Thursday, during a 30 km long run between Kota and Laban in Bundi district of Rajasthan, the train reached a peak speed of 180 km per hour. A day earlier, i.e. on the first day of 2025, in a 40 km long trial run between Rohal Khurd to Kota, Vande Bharat sleeper train touched the peak of 180 km per hour. On the same day, peaks of 170 km per hour and 160km per hour were achieved on Kota-Nagda & Rohal Khurd-Chau Mahla sections. These trials will continue for the month of January under the supervision of RDSO, Lucknow. Once these trials are over, the train will be evaluated by the Railway Safety Commissioner at the maximum speed. Only after passing the final stage, Vande Bharat trains will be officially certified and handed over to Indian Railways for induction and regular service With these successful trials, rail commuters can hope for world class travel experience in long distance travel like Kashmir to Kanyakumari, Delhi to Mumbai, Howrah to Chennai and many other routes also, the statement said.

Kashmir is inseparable part of Indias soul: Amit Shah

NEW DELHI: Asserting that Indias boundary is not determined by geo-politics, Union Minister Amit Shah on Thursday said that the country is integrated from Kashmir in the north to Kanyakumari in the south and from Kamrup in the east to Kutch in the west on the basis of civilization and culture. The Home Minister went on to assert that the historical and cultural integration of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh with rest of India has references in 8,000-year-old ancient texts. Shah made these remarks here during the launch of the book Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh: Through the Ages published by the Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR). Speaking at the event, he emphasised that Kashmir was not just a territorial part of India but an integral part of its civilizational essence. He also referred to historical granths (ancient scriptures) that validate Kashmirs connection to India for millennia, emphasising that the region is inseparable from Indias cultural identity. The Home Minister also reiterated that Article 370 was a temporary provision and its abrogation in 2019 was essential. Post-abrogation, he claimed, separatism and terrorism have significantly declined, and the ecosystem sustaining such activities has been dismantled and highlighted unprecedented infrastructure progress in Kashmir, including new rail connectivity and the construction of Indias longest tunnel as symbols of a new and prosperous era for the region. The Home Minister also commended the ICHR for its meticulous research, which he noted debunked separatist narratives. Shah ended his speech asserting that the abrogation of Article 370 has not only brought peace and development but also reinvigorated a historical truth that Kashmir is an inseparable part of Indias soul and identity. He also reinforced that the regions significance went beyond politics and geography.

Amit Shah Highlights Indias Unique Geo-Cultural Identity At Book Launch

New Delhi, Jan 2: At the book launch of J&K and Ladakh Through the Ages, Union Home Minister Amit Shah delivered a speech, highlighting Indias unique identity as a Geo-cultural nation. In his address, Shah refuted colonial-era myths that had distorted Indias history and stressed the deep cultural ties that unify the country from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, Gandhar to Odisha, and Bengal to Assam. Shah in his speech spoke about the significance of Indias ancient history, stating, The history of [] The post Amit Shah Highlights Indias Unique Geo-Cultural Identity At Book Launch appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

India's first glass bridge opens in Tamil Nadu

Kanyakumarinow boasts Indias first glass bridge, a 77-meter-long, 10-meter-wide architectural marvel inaugurated on December 30 by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin. The Rs 37-crore project marks the silver jubilee of the Thiruvalluvar statue's unveiling by late Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi. , , - pic.twitter.com/EmATLQhPLh M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) December 30, 2024 The glass bridge connects two of Kanyakumari's most celebrated landmarks: the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the 133-foot Thiruvalluvar statue. Designed with a transparent glass surface, it offers visitors stunning, uninterrupted views of the sea and the surrounding landscape, enhancing the areas visual and tourism appeal. Previously, tourists relied on ferry services to travel between the Vivekananda Memorial and the Thiruvalluvar statue. The new bridge not only creates a more scenic and direct route but also adds a unique experiential element to the visit. Chief Minister Stalin shared a video of the bowstring-shaped bridge on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, showcasing its intricate design and panoramic surroundings. During the inauguration, he walked across the bridge, appreciating its construction and the immersive experience it provides. The glass bridge is part of a broader initiative by the Tamil Nadu government to boost tourism and infrastructure in Kanyakumari. By offering a closer connection between two cultural landmarks, the project reflects the state's commitment to creating innovative attractions while preserving its historical and natural heritage. The bridge is expected to draw tourists from across the country and beyond, solidifying Kanyakumaris reputation as a prime destination for cultural and scenic tourism.

77-Metre-Long, 10-Metre Wide: India's 1st Glass Bridge Now Open In Tamil Nadu

The glass bridge in Kanyakumari offers stunning views of the sea and reduces travel time for tourists between Vivekananda Rock Memorial and Thiruvalluvar statue

Tamil Nadu: Glass bridge connecting Vivekananda memorial, Thiruvalluvar statue inaugurated

Kanyakumari: A 77-meter-long and 10-metre wide glass bridge connecting the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the 133-feet high Thiruvalluvar statue off the coast of Kanyakumari was inaugurated by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin on Monday evening. The glass bridge, said to be the first such one in the country, offers tourists an enchanting view of the monuments of the two savants and the sea around. It provides a thrilling experience of walking above the sea, a tourist official said. The project, executed at a cost of Rs 37 crore by the state government, was inaugurated coinciding with the silver jubilee of the unveiling of the Thiruvalluvar statue by late Chief Minister M Karunanidhi. The bowstring arch glass bridge has been designed to withstand the saline breeze. It will be the latest attraction at the Land's End. After the inauguration, the chief minister, accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, state ministers, MP Kanimozhi, and senior officials, walked over the bridge. A laser light show was held at the Thiruvalluvar statue.

Tamil Nadu: Indias First Glass Bridge Inaugurated In Kanyakumari, Connects Thiruvalluvar Statue To Vivekananda Rock

India's First Glass Bridge Inaugurated In Tamil Nadu

A 77-meter-long and 10-metre wide glass bridge connecting the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the 133-feet high Thiruvalluvar statue off the coast of Kanyakumari was inaugurated by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Monday evening.

A journey from Kashmir to Kanyakumari on track

SRINAGAR: The long-awaited train service from Kashmir to Kanyakumari is about to become a reality. This follows the Commission of Railway Safety (CRS) inspecting the 17 km Katra-Reasi stretch of the 65 km Katra-Sangaldan section of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link on January 5, 2025. This is a vital link connecting Kashmir to the rest of the country. PM Narendra Modi is likely to dedicate it to the nation on January 26. Of the 65-km long Katra-Sangaldan, the Reasi-Sangaldan part including Reasi Station has been completed. Only a 17 km stretch between Katra and Sangaldan which has the iconic Anji Khad bridge is pending CRS inspection. All of them together will be inaugurated together by the PM, said K Sainath Reddy, executive engineer of Konkan Railway at Reasi Station. Anji Khad Bridge, which connects two tunnels between Katra and Reasi station is Indias first cable-stayed bridge is 473.35 meters long. Katra is the last railway station on the Jammu side where people get down for the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine. The bridge has support of 96 cables having cable lengths varying from 82 meters to 295 meters, said Sjuo Kumar Deputy Chief Engineer (Bridges) of Konkan Railways. After Reasi, comes Bakkal, and thereafter comes Kanthan Chenab Railway Station. Before the station is Chenab Bridge, the worlds highest railway bridge. The height of this arch bridge is 359 meters above the riverbed. It is taller than the Statue of Unity, which is 182 meters, and the Eiffel Tower, which stands at a height of 330 metres, said RR Mallick, Deputy CE of Chenab Bridge. For the people in the rest of the country, especially those down South, Kashmir is a dream destination, which the majority have heard of or seen only in movies. Given the high cost of air travel, Kashmir visit remains a dream for many. If there is a train to Srinagar, I would go. My heart desires to see Dal Lake in Srinagar, where the famous song from Kashmir Ki Kali was shot, said Swapna from Vijayawada. Qadir, who has been operating a Shikara on the famous Dal Lake in Srinagar for more than 40 years, calls it a welcome development. Afsan, who operates Kashmiri Arts Gallery, a floating shop on Dal Lake said many artisans and craftsmen would benefit. Feroz, who runs a Kashmiri crafts shop in Srinagar, said, Now, we are spending anywhere between Rs 3,000 to Rs 4,000 on cabs. The cost would decrease by one-third, he said. Nisar from Anantnag said the though the new railway connection will bring more opportunities for Kashmir, but there are concerns that those dependent on transportation like cabs, trucks, might suffer from decrease in demand for them.