Amid row, NHAI gives nod for toll hike at Paliyekkara

KOCHI: Amid raging debates over collection of toll when passage remains uncomfortable for motorists, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has granted in-principle approval for a toll hike at the Paliyekkara plaza on the Thrissur-Ernakulam section of NH 544, which is likely to take effect from September 10. While toll collection remains suspended after a High Court order , a senior NHAI official said the concessionaire can implement the increased rates once the judicial clearance is obtained. We havent hiked the toll as such because the court has suspended it. What we did was to start the procedure by publishing a newspaper notice (of the toll hike). Weve clearly written in the notice that the same is subject to court order. The toll fee at Paliyekkara plaza is hiked by a marginal amount every year around September. If the court extends the suspension again, no toll will be collected, a senior official with the NHAIs Palakkad Project Implementation Unit (PIU) told TNIE. Should the court give the nod to resume toll collection, commuters will be forced to pay an additional Rs 5 to Rs 15 for one-way passage. While NHAI has termed the toll hike as a routine annual exercise, with the paper publication, it has in effect given the concessionaire Guruvayoor Infrastructure Private Limited the nod to collect toll in line with the increased rates on the resumption of toll collection. Earlier, the HC had suspended toll collection at Paliyekkara till August 26 based on a plea, citing heavy congestion and contract violations on the part of NHAI which commenced construction of new underpasses without making any alternative arrangements. Contract company cannot hike rates without court order Though NHAI filled up the potholes along the service roads at the key choke point of Muringoor, the patchwork did not last even a couple of days. The central agency then temporarily tarred the service roads at the construction locations, including Amballoor, Muringoor, and Chirangara. However, the High Court extended the interim order, suspending toll collection till September 9 as there was no easing of traffic congestion on the stretch as fresh potholes began to pop up. The court also directed the Interim Traffic Management Committee to conduct another inspection on the congestion issue. Weve tarred the service roads. If fresh potholes are formed, were filling the same with cold mix packets, the technique used during the rainy season. There is nothing else we can do now, the official said. The High Court had suspended the toll collection while hearing the petitions filed by Congress leaders Joseph Tajet and Shaji Kodankandath. As our petition (WP(C)28609/23) against the increase in toll rates on September 1 every year remains before the Kerala High Court, the contract company cannot increase the rates without a court order, said Joseph Taget, Congress Thrissur district president and the leader of opposition in the district panchayat. In the petition, we said that toll rates should not be increased and that toll collection should be stopped until the construction work and the remedial work mentioned in the safety audit are completed. The court gave the suspension order after considering the report of a committee which included the district collector, which said the work hasnt been completed and the road is unsuitable for smooth movement, he pointed out.

20 tourists from Kerala stranded in Kalpa after landslide hits Himachal

KOCHI: A trip to Spiti, in Himachal Pradesh, has turned nightmarish for a group of 20 tourists from Kerala. The holidaymakers, including five from other states, are stranded in Kalpa, 216km from Spiti, with roads blocked or washed away in landslides following heavy rains in the state . The group, which reached Spiti on August 25, has sought help to reach Shimla, from where they would be able to continue their journey to Delhi and then home. Jisan Sam Oommen, a member of the group and a social media influencer, said, The main issue is the absence of hospitals nearby. Some of the members are at the risk of running out of everyday medicines. Kalpa is remote village with no medical facility. In the event of an emergency, we will have no one to rely on, Jisan, who is from Kochi, told TNIE. The group, comprising friends and acquaintances from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat, had visited Spiti and was on its way to Delhi to catch the flight back home when the landslides struck. We had left our accommodation in Kalpa and travelled nearly 50km when we were told that a landslide had washed away the road ahead. We were notified by locals that it would be wise to stay in Kalpa. So we returned to our hotel and have been staying there since, he added. Himachal's Bada Bhangal village cut off after Kalihani river changes course due to landslides Jisan said that three members of the group are from Tamil Nadu and two from Rajkot, in Gujarat, besides the 20 from Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Kasaragod, and Malappuram districts. One member of our group has been dependent on ambulance support throughout the journey. With rains persisting and more landslides reported, we have no idea when the roads will be cleared. He added that BJP leaders Rajeev Chandrasekhar and Shone George had called them and assured help. Himachal govt to evacuate 3,000 stranded Manimahesh pilgrims amid heavy rains and landslides

INTERVIEW | My mom was constantly destroying me, stitching me back: Arundhati Roy

KOCHI: A rock star of a book. Thats how acclaimed author Arundhati Roy describes her latest work, Mother Mary Comes to Me. The intimate memoir has a towering personality at its core: her late mother Mary Roy. In an exclusive interview to TNIE , Arundhati opens up about grieving, the battle that marked her relationship with Mrs Roy whose not-nice stuff was, in some ways what made her great and how the book is an honest attempt at writing about an extraordinary person. Excerpts Was writing the memoir a way of coming to terms with your grief? Not really. I think that kind of grief takes time, whether you write about it or not. I wrote the book because I feel that Mrs Roy deserves a space in literature, as all of herself, not just as some nice or great person. In some ways, what made her great was also the not-nice stuff. God of Small Things was also very personal. Do you feel exposed when you write about your life? I dont care. Because she didnt care. Sure, my brother and I absorbed a lot of her darkness. But she never could have done the things she did, or I could never have done the things I have done or written, if we were continuously polling public opinion. Theres a uniqueness to the relationship between a mother and daughter. There is warmth, there is pain, and everything in between. Many daughters grapple with it... A lot of mothers, too. I feel this book is about a daughter who was actually the mother, a daughter who became an adult and dealt with her as an adult. Sure, it was hard for me. But it was hard for her, too. When the feminist movement was rising in the west, the way of undermining it was to demonise the mother. And here, the way of putting so much pressure on women is to make the mother into a divine goddess, provided she behaves according to the norms that society lays out. This prevents someone from being able to breathe or make mistakes. We should stop resorting to the cliches about mothers and daughters. Theres this scene you describe in Mother Mary. You ask your mother a silly question, which angers her, and sets in motion her habit of mimicking you. Immediately, she also says, Your father and I love you double. It is like two different personas... That was a constant process of destroying me and then stitching me together, tearing me up and stitching me back again. That was very much a part of the battle of our relationship. But, the fact is that I just held on to the stitching-me-together part. And if I hadnt left when I did, I might have been destroyed. But, I left. Did the relationship change in the final years of her life? It didnt change much. Even in the last years, I could never come home for long before the darkness began to take over. But when her health was failing, it was important to her that I show up. The minute I did, she would be angry. It was quite hard to manage. She was already physically helpless. And she was always the kind to use that to control people. You moved from Kerala to Delhi long ago. How will you describe your relationship with Kerala now? When she was alive, my relationship with Kerala was more or less my relationship with her. After she passed away, it has changed. I can come here, hang around, and meet other people. It has become much easier in some ways. I have spent a lot more time here in the last three years than since I turned 16. I feel such a great affection for this place. Even though I dont live here, I couldnt not think of it as home. Were you listening to the Beatles when coming up with the title Mother Mary Comes to Me? Obviously. Nobody talks much to me about how this... this is a rock n roll book. It is from the bands song Let It Be and I have said this in the dedication: For Mary Roy, who never said Let It Be. Very early into writing the book, the song came and landed on my wrist like a butterfly. There wasnt going to be any other title. Why after her death? I was shocked and humiliated by my reaction to her death. Its not like I was young or she was. From the time I was a child to now, as she had asthma, you could never talk to her. You just had to hold it in. I never said anything or reacted to anything, ever. By the time I was beyond all that emotional blackmail, I never wanted to defeat her. I always wanted her to go out like a queen. Which is what she did, and I wanted to write about this extraordinary person, in the most honest way possible. Your mother has changed the lives of many women in Kerala. And its here that you are releasing the book. Is this a full-circle moment? Its a sign of love and respect. Even a sign of believing in the intelligence of people, that they dont want some hagiography. In the book I write about when she and I visited an older Syrian Christian womans home. And that woman said to her: Mrs Roy, what will we do with these rights you want us to have. Why are you trying to destroy our community? I wanted to tell her: wait a minute, she is not just fighting for equal rights for women. She is fighting for the right not to be a perfect mother, not to be an obedient woman. We have to be able to give ourselves that space to be bad as well. I wanted to give her that space here. Arundhati Roy reads from her memoir, Mother Mary Comes to Me, in a room full of 'beloveds' in Delhi

160 sets of twins, triplets gather for state summit

KOCHI: The Town Hall in Kochi hosted a unique event on Sunday as around 160 pairs of identical twins and triplets assembled for the third edition of their state summit. Organised by the All Kerala Twins Association and the All Kerala Twins Community, the event aims to bring together twins and triplets and ensure their welfare. The summit -- attended by people ranging from 70-year-olds to children -- made for a vibrant occasion as the siblings, dressed in similar clothes, performed various art forms. Ernakulam MP Hibi Eden inaugurated the meet. The community of twins and triplets was formed in 2018, after Viswas Vavolil, a Ranni native, set forth a social media initiative. The community has more than 800 pairs of twins and triplets as members. Sujin Sajan, the vice-president of the community, said the aim is to bring together siblings from across the state and to work towards the welfare of the community. We started as a small group. Now we have around 1,500 members and have organised three annual summits. These summits will help us create a sense of solidarity among the members and work for their welfare. It is also a platform for us to network and showcase our talents, Sujin said.

Intel failure? Absconding woman lands from UK, renews passport and flies back

KOCHI: Casting a shadow over the functioning of the states intelligence unit, a woman accused in multiple cheating cases involving a total of Rs 4.27 crore with two non-bailable warrants, a chargesheet filed as absconding, and a police lookout circular against her name allegedly managed to travel from the UK to India to renew her passport and then return. The accused Haseena Beevi aka Haseena Suneer belongs to Pathanapuram in Kollam district and is the director of the Malayalam film Prakashante Metro. Instead of acting on the lookout notice and non-bailable warrants (NBWs), the authorities allowed her to travel despite repeated complaints and alerts from our side, complainant Sunil G R Nair, who resides abroad, told TNIE. It appears that individuals with vested interests may have facilitated her escape. He has accused Haseena of swindling Rs 1.17 crore from him. Haseena, holding a two-year UK visa, arrived in Kerala on June 6 this year as the visa condition requires her to leave the UK every six months, he said. After learning of the fraud and her disappearance, I filed a complaint with the Kerala police chief on July 4 and a case was registered at the Museum police station on August 3, he said. A friend and representative of the complainant, Manoj K Varghese, said that Sunil, suspecting an attempt to renew Haseenas passport, had alerted the Regional Passport Officer (RPO) in Thiruvananthapuram that she was chargesheeted in a Rs 2.5-crore cheating case filed by the Vadanappally police. Copies of the complaint were sent to the Intelligence ADGP, district police chiefs, and ACPs of Kollam and Pathanamthitta, along with relevant documents, he said. Additionally, Sunil lodged a complaint with the Alappuzha district police chief (DPC), noting Haseenas other residence in Nooranad and the possibility of passport renewal using that address. Despite these alerts, Haseena successfully renewed her passport, changing her address from Pathanapuram to Nooranad while hiding all the pending criminal cases. We then filed another complaint with the Alappuzha DPC and ADGP Intelligence, alerting them that the accused had renewed her passport while the non-bailable warrants were pending. The following morning, she was apprehended by Nooranad police from her residence but was produced before the judicial first class magistrate, Kayamkulam, only for frauds of Rs 25 lakh and Rs 20 lakh, without informing the court of the non-bailable warrants, Manoj said. He alleged that Nooranad police failed to seize Haseenas passport despite her criminal history, enabling her to flee to the UK with her renewed passport on July 25. Meanwhile, Nooranad police refuted the accusations, stating there were no irregularities on their part. Once a case is filed, the police are the complainants. There were no vested interests in the proceedings. Acting on the complaint, we promptly apprehended the accused and produced her before the court under the cases registered against her in judicial first class magistrate court, Kayamkulam, where she was granted bail, said an officer with Nooranad police station. The police are awaiting details from the Regional Passport Office, Kochi, to determine if the accused renewed her passport using forged documents, he added. According to Sunils complaint, Haseena and her friend Biju Gopinath, who hails from Kumarapuram in Thiruvananthapuram, cheated him after promising him a partnership in a UK-based restaurant called Thattukada.

INTERVIEW| 'I once sought clearance for mission to eliminate Dawood,' recounts Filmmaker Major Ravi

The Heckler & Koch MP5 submachine gun and Glock 17 pistol from his commando days still remain close-to-heart buddies for Major A K Ravindran (retd), better known as Major Ravi. Known for his military valour, war films, and outspoken socio-political views, he comes across as a unique mix of a hardened fighter, ace storyteller and a maverick politician. In a freewheeling, three-hour interaction at TNIE s Kochi office, Major Ravi revisited his childhood struggles, Army days, NSG operations, the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case, his filmmaking journey, politics, and his admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi Lets start with your childhood, the making of the soldier As a child, I was not great at studies. I was a typical village boy. School was about freedom from the suffocation at home for me. We were brought up in a strict environment at home. At school, there was freedom. In fact, I used to hate holidays. At my house, the atmosphere was that of a typical orthodox joint family. I was like Appu in M T Vasudevan Nairs Nalukettu. Often, I had to sleep after having just rice porridge, as my mother had to bear the wrath of her mother-in-law. Naturally, the children feel the brunt. I never had the freedom to play freely with my cousins. I wore a vallikalasam and just hung around at home. Because of my fathers temper, my mother suppressed everything and never complained to him. Was your father in the military? No, my father managed the familys farming activities while his brothers were in the military. He handled the familys 100-odd acres of agricultural land in Pattambi (Palakkad). My childhood friends were the boys who came to look after the cows. Thats why I find it hard to relate to the disparity that Vedan (the Malayalam rapper) sings about. My friends were Krishnan, the blacksmiths son, and Kuttappa, the son of Kunnumel Shankaran. There was no caste or colour discrimination. My mother raised me that way. When I looked at the elders in the house, none had high education. Many had joined the Army in their early years. So I felt I too could join the Army once I completed Class 8, and I could earn a living with that salary. That was my modest ambition. My goal was simple: escape from home. I eventually left home after failing Class 9. While my fathers brothers were in the Army, my mothers elder brother was in the Navy. He helped his nephews join the navy. So, initially, I thought I could also join through that route. But because of family rivalries, that did not happen. So I took a train to Bombay. I had only Rs 16 in my pocket. I spent three nights at VT (Victoria Terminus) station. I sat in a corner with my small suitcase, staring into a vacuum, with no clue what lay ahead. What happened then? I didnt know Hindi or English. I used to follow anyone wearing a mundu, thinking they might be Malayalis who could help me. Like a hapless dog that would look up to people for some affection. But nobody cared in those days Im talking about 1975. I was exhausted. And thats when I realised what real hunger meant. For three days, I survived on robusta bananas. I was down with dysentery. Fortunately, from my suitcase, I found an address from my fathers diary: Kuttan Nair, Menons Mess, Koliwada. Around 11pm, I boarded a suburban train without a ticket. As luck would have it, the ticket-checker caught me and put me with a group of ticketless travellers, most of them migrant workers. I still remember asking them: Will we get food in jail? I was that famished. And then I saw God in human form. A tall man in a white suit, looking like Sai Baba, extended his hand towards me. I was frail, weighing 37kg. He lifted me over a fence, hit on my back and told me to run. Trudging down a street, I bumped into a Malayali. He guided me to Menons Mess. At the restaurant, a relative Kuttan Mama was sitting at the counter. I was meeting him for the first time. When I introduced myself, he was shocked. Bursting into tears, I whimpered that I was hungry. He immediately shouted for food to be brought, though the shop was about to close. I remember the smell of sambar and fried fish. That, to date, remains the tastiest meal I have ever had. Later, he arranged a place at a nearby chawl for me to sleep in. Soon I started working at the eatery cleaning tables, picking up plates and, at times, manning the counter. During that time, one day, I stopped a man who was leaving without paying for the food he ate. I held back one of his gang members. Everyone rebuked me for doing so. That man stared, smiled and left. It was much later I discovered from a newspaper article that he was Karim Lala, an underworld don. Those days, Kuttan Mama would say he would send me to the Gulf once I turned 18. Sometimes I wonder had that happened, maybe Id have become a don more dreadful than Dawood (laughs)! What led you to the Army? About a month after the Karim Lala incident, an uncle of mine told me about an Army recruitment drive. I went, and surprisingly, I was the only one who matched the requirements 52 kg weight (thanks to the mess food!), height, chest all perfect. I was selected and joined a unit in Nashik. Over the next three years, I started studying seriously. When others would go for drinks at night, I would study in peace. I cleared Class 10, then pre-degree and later enrolled in Punjab University. I then attempted the officer test, and cleared it on my first attempt. Later, I got into the NSG again on the first attempt. Which operation did you get the gallantry medal for? I have been in several operations. In fact, I could have applied for more. For medals and awards, one often has to do a lot of paperwork. I was never interested in that. Many people realised I was the one leading the NSG team involved in the hunt for Rajiv Gandhis killers only after the web series The Hunt was released recently. Even some batchmates called me up to confirm if the Captain Raveendran in the series was based on me. For the Rajiv Gandhi operation, I didnt get a medal, though it was one of the biggest and riskiest operations. I never sought one. And I have no complaints. Thats how I have lived my life. Could you tell us about NSG operations in Kashmir? Our base was in Manesar, about 40km from Palam airport. There are three squadrons, and one is always on alert. A team consists of 30 men and an officer. I have been part of ops in Kashmir and Punjab. Our first operation was in February 1989, when Rubaiya Sayeed was kidnapped. I had just arrived after my marriage when we got the alert to go to Kashmir. I left my wife at the military mess. We were thrilled about the opportunity for action. Now, if you ask me to kill someone, I would think twice. But back then, I was duty-bound. We waited for three days, but we knew we wouldnt get permission to attack. We had identified the hideout in Kupwara, but Mufti Mohammed Sayeed, who was the home minister at the time, did not allow it, saying his daughter would get hurt. It was his policy of releasing four terrorists that eventually led to the Kandahar hijacking a chain reaction. Once you bend in front of these terrorists, it creates more problems. Look at the US policy they dont talk. Thats what Modiji is doing now with surgical strikes. Now, the adversaries fear us. Earlier, we would go for diplomatic talks. In Pahalgam, Modi gave full freedom to the armed forces. What is the most memorable operation you have been part of? All were memorable but the most challenging one would be the Rajiv Gandhi operation. I only realised it now. We had to stop the terrorists from consuming cyanide. One had split seconds. I had to move stealthily and grab the cyanide before they even realised what was happening. Are the depictions in the Hunt accurate? The series has totally neglected one person. Radha Vinod Raju, the person who raised NIA. He was a Kochi native. He was a DIG during the CBI inquiry. He was the mastermind of the operation in terms of coordination. Moreover, there are several discrepancies in the series. Amod Kanth, one of the officers shown, had said he would sue the makers. One scene shows you threatening LTTE tigress Nalini with rape No, nothing of that sort had happened. But I just let it pass. I did dial up (director) Nagesh Kukunoor. He said his father was unwell, and that he would call me back. But he has not done so. Several militants whom you had apprehended were pardoned and released from prison It is not the right of Rajiv Gandhis wife to pardon the militants. Around 22 policemen had lost their lives. Was their wives opinion sought when deciding to let these militants go? Is this country a monarchy? Did they ask us? Furthermore, why did SIT not question the politicians? During this case, the order was not to interrogate any of the politicians. Why was it so? You tell me, who killed Rajiv Gandhi? I ask this question even now. I dont think it was linked to him sending the IPKF to Sri Lanka. It was a smokescreen. Are you hinting at an internal conspiracy? You have to ask questions. Indira Gandhi, Sanjay Gandhi, Madhavrao Scindia, Rajesh Pilot, YSR Why and how did the lives of these leaders end in gruesome ways? The public needs to ask these questions. These incidents seem to be something right out of the pages of a Sidney Sheldon novel. A power play seemed to be taking place. You were once close to the Congress. Now you are with the BJP. How did that happen? I was apolitical for a long time. I, however, couldnt accept communism that had anti-national elements. As for the Congress, I didnt have any problems with them. I had shared many platforms with Congress leaders. Mullappally Ramachandran had once called me to meet him. However, after I left, the meeting turned into big news. When the media asked me for a comment, I remarked that I was not happy with the Pinarayi government, and the Congress seemed to be the only alternative in the state at that time. The media, however, presented the interpretation that I had joined Congress. I began getting calls from Delhi after the news broke. You should understand that I had been associated with RSS from my childhood. So many wondered what happened. To clarify, I am still a BJP man, but no official position now. When Rajeev Chandrasekhar became the BJP state president , I met him and told him that I am not interested in any position. But I assured him that he could count on me whenever the party needed me. Otherwise, I hate jostling on stage for visibility. You said earlier, BJP couldnt come to power in the state and hence the Congress was the only choice... Has the situation changed now? Yes, but the BJP needs to do many more things here. For instance, there needs to be enhanced booth-level work. Its a conducive climate in the state. But if you dont play well like the reaction in the nuns issue. There is no need for show offs or drama. That said, many common people here still act foolishly. If Pinarayi announces a kit or something, they will forget everything and vote the Left again to power. The Congress is standing on loose ground. One cant even watch the mobile because of the sleaze coming out these days How do you view the current Congress leadership in Kerala? I cannot tolerate its present leadership in Delhi. In Kerala, I like the earlier leadership. like V M Sudheeran, Mullappally Ramachandran and others. Current ones like V D Satheesan are the new generation. Shashi Tharoor is an intellectual man. He should be used in Kerala. Maybe the BJP could do that he is ready. Is Shashi Tharoor coming to the BJP? Have you talked to him? No, I didnt. But then there has been a lot of talk about it. His posturing nowadays is not in line with the Congress. Will you be contesting in the upcoming assembly elections? No. I wont stand as a candidate if you ask me to do so on the eve of the election day. Now only seven months are left for the election. What the BJP should do now is that it should allocate the seats now and ask the candidates to start working there. That they wont do. Last time, they asked me to contest from Ernakulam. I didnt. I didnt have any interest. What could I do in just 15 days? How is your relation with the Delhi circles of BJP? I dont do anything for my benefit. If some anti-national things happen here, I alert the top leadership. Thats all. My last personal request to the Centre was permission for a clandestine mission to kill Dawood Ibrahim. Ten former commandos were willing to join me. We had a clear plan. But then the Covid struck, and the mission did not take off. Recently, there were suggestions that the military training should be given to the RSS cadre. You run one academy Agniveer academy. Your opinion on mandatory military training? Its very difficult to have such a system in this country, because we have a huge population, 140-145 crore. Agreed the same will help cultivate discipline, patriotism, etc. But we are already providing the same through NCC programmes. Many children pass out of NCC and join the army. Now the four-year Agniveer course is there. When it was first suggested, there was a lot of opposition. But take the case of my academy. Of the 580 candidates who appeared for the test, 547 made it. The problem is not that, but the intrusion of the drug mafia. It is a huge challenge. Does the new generation have a weaker sense of patriotism? No. But there is a small segment not limited to any religion or caste that is consumed by fanaticism, anti-India attitudes. I dont know what they gain out of it. Maybe they crave attention, and think they will get noticed by making such statements. But the youth has got a lot of patriotism. On one occasion, a group of handsome students, mainly Muslim children, from Kannur and Kozhikode came up to me when they met me at the LuLu Mall and started taking pictures. I asked them why they were here and they replied they were appearing for the NDA test the next day. So the country is undergoing a change. If someone says something, then the outburst comes: Go to Pakistan. Thats not right. If someone makes an anti-national remark, asking him to go to Pakistan is not what we should do. Instead we should try to change them. How did 'Keerthi Chakra' happen? I have been a film buff since childhood. I used to envy Prem Nazir sir, Sathyan Sir, Madhu sir. When I was in the military, I used to look at the mirror and think, I look good, and I can act in movies. Also, I was part of drama and other events. Once I came back, I started working with Priyan chettan (filmmaker Priyadarshan). He used to give me small roles. He didnt accept that I am an actor. Then I started assisting him in ads. I started understanding the basics of the craft. I had been planning 'Keerthi Chakra' since 2000, with Biju Menon as the lead. Biju brought a producer. But it did not work out. After two years, I felt I should present this to Mohanlal. So I went to Kanhangad and narrated the story to him. Then destiny took over. There is a poignant song on Kashmir in the film. Was it something you held in your heart? Yes. It was based on my memories from Kashmir, my interactions with the local community. Even now, the song is played there in tourist places. They say it is Major Saabs song. Many boat operators of Dal Lake call me often. I made Kailash Kher re-render the song as his initial take lacked pathos. Moved by my vision for the song, he eventually refused to accept remuneration. He left taking just one rupee from me. Empuraan row: Mohanlal issues apology for 'distress' caused, assures to remove controversial portions Your views on 'Empuraan' stirred a controversy what actually happened? I still maintain that Lal had not watched the film before its release. The issue is over. They got publicity. Then there was a statement that I degraded her (Mallika Sukumarans) sons movie. Even now, I say, technically, he did a good job. But they shouldnt have portrayed the scene (the riot) in the beginning the way it was. It was misleading. They should have shown how it all started from the train (the Godhra train burning incident). That was what I found to be problematic. Was Mohanlal really upset after watching the film? Obviously. I know him well. He was targeted. I took on that attack. Everyone attacked me. And I was okay with that. Some people attract you in a special way. Take Narendra Modi. He is a non-corrupt, committed person. I will die for him. Similar is the case with Mohanlal. I am close to Mammukka as well. I was hurt when I heard he was unwell. But I keep a distance with him out of respect. I have shouted at people who criticised him too. Are you making a film on the Galwan standoff? I had planned such a film. But in the Malayalam industry, many producers lack commitment. I am currently working on a film titled Hanara, which is set along the Line of Control. It tells the story of an Indian soldier who becomes emotionally drawn to a girl from the Pakistani side. As the mystery unfolds, deeper themes are explored. I want to raise a question do we really need these lines between nations? Despite being a BJP leader, the way you talk sometimes seems detached from politics I am not detached, I am just talking like a human. There is no detached tone, I am always with the BJP. Now, a lot of people from probable alliance parties especially those who may have a mind block towards the Lotus symbol have been approaching me, asking me to take initiative for a third front formation. If I get the blessings from Amit Shah ji and the PM, I will consider that. Meanwhile, I will keep speaking my mind freely. And people will take me up in the air (referring to trolling). Then I come down and say something then again go up in the air. That keeps happening. And I am quite okay with that by now (laughs). (With inputs from Kiran Prakash, Rajesh Abraham, Manoj Viswanathan, S Neeraj Krishna, Krishna Kumar K E and Harikrishna.)

No headway in Sabari Rail project as Centre, state trade blame

KOCHI: The Angamaly-Erumeli Sabari Rail project remains stranded with the state and central governments continuing to trade blame. While the state government points to the Union railway ministrys failure to lift the freeze order as a hindrance to the initiation of the land-acquisition process, the Centre accuses the state of trying to wiggle its way out of sharing the project cost. The meetings that a high-level railway team held with state officials had raised the hopes of people who are awaiting compensation for properties that have been identified as falling in the path of the project. Speaking to TNIE, Keralas Minister for Railways V Abdurahiman said, How can we initiate land acquisition for a project that has been frozen? The team that had arrived in July to discuss the project had vowed to expedite the process. The promise has not been kept. The minister said the revenue department will require documentary evidence to start the acquisition process. Without documents, landowners can object citing the freeze, he added. Recently, a letter was issued to the district collectors of Ernakulam, Idukki, and Kottayam seeking proposals for land acquisition. The minister pointed out how the Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has been droning on about the delay in land acquisition whenever MPs from the state raise questions on the status of the project. But the fault lies with them. We have never refused to share the project cost. We dont believe in entering into a tripartite agreement with the RBI and the railway ministry. We will bear our share, Abdurahiman said. We had planned to start land acquisition in July, he added. Under the tripartite agreement, RBI would meet Keralas share of the project cost if the state failed to pay and deduct the amount from the central share due to Kerala under various schemes. However, the state government has consistently refused to sign the agreement, citing concerns that the projects financing would be calculated as part of the states borrowing. According to K V Thomas, the states special representative in New Delhi, it seems the stalemate can be broken only if the prime minister and the chief minister meet personally. The project, extending 111.48km from Angamaly to Erumeli, was originally proposed in the railway budget of 1997-98. It was envisaged to establish a crucial transport link to Sabarimala temple, benefiting pilgrims and contributing significantly to the economic development of the hilly regions of Ernakulam, Idukki, Kottayam, and Pathanamthitta districts. In a meeting held in June, the minister invited the district collectors of Idukki, Kottayam, and Ernakulam to present the current status of land acquisition and associated activities within their respective jurisdictions. The Idukki collector informed that 33.77 hectares of land would be required for the project in the district. In a presentation, the collector said that from Rs 128 crore eight years ago, the fair value of land is expected to increase two to three times. It was emphasised that a new package with a revised estimate needs to be prepared, including contingency charges and establishment charges to account for the potential hike in land value. The Kottayam collector reported that 163 hectares of land had already been acquired, with the process having commenced in 2008. He proposed reopening the land acquisition office and requested funds for the same. The alignment of the railway line also required revision, it was pointed out, with Rs 1,99,62,330 currently available for the project. The Ernakulam collector mentioned that the social impact assessment (SIA) study was under way. To support the ongoing land acquisition activities, it was proposed to establish dedicated offices with contractual staff to ensure timely progress.

Wayanads 30-year dream takes wings

KALPETTA: Wayanads three-decade dream of reliable road connectivity will take a definite step closer to reality on Sunday when Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurates the construction of the twin tunnel linking Anakampoyil, Kalladi, and Meppadi -- a project that promises to end the districts crippling isolation and unlock new avenues of growth. For years, heavy rain, road accidents, or even minor landslips on the Thamarassery ghat road have cut Wayanad off from the rest of Kerala. The plea for an alternative route has echoed for decades. Local residents believe the twin tunnel will not only end this crippling isolation but also open new doors for development. Even over the past few days, we struggled when landslips forced a closure of the ghat road. No other district in Kerala faces such isolation. Some people oppose the project citing environmental issues but those concerns shouldnt stop our basic development. We dont have good hospitals or schools, nor railways or an airstrip. If the ghat road closes, our only fate is helplessness, said Minhaj Khalid of Kalpetta. He said successive governments ignored the demand for almost 30 years. When the first Pinarayi government announced the twin tunnel, we thought it would remain just a promise. Today, we are hopeful, he added. Tourism and trade groups are equally enthusiastic. The twin tunnel will transform accessibility and boost tourism. At Meppadi, where the road ends, most families survive on tourism, said Wayanad Tourism Association secretary Saifulla K Hassan. Traders see the project as an economic turning point. It will ease the movement of goods, especially coffee, tea, banana, pepper, cardamom, fruits, and vegetables, strengthening the Bengaluru-Mysuru-Kochi industrial corridor, said Jojin, a member of the Wayanad Vyapari Vyavasayi Ekopana Samithi. Kerala's twin tunnel road faces criticism over ecological impact Twin-tunnel road preparation works in progress at Meenakshi Bridge Experts say the project is safe and scientifically sound. The twin tunnel will pass through charnockite rock, which is highly stable, said John Mathai, a former scientist with the National Centre for Earth Science Studies. The main challenges will be at the soil-rich endpoints and ensuring proper ventilation for the 8-km stretch. Overall, this is the safest and most environmentally viable solution. Expanding the Thamarassery ghat road is no longer possible without risking its stability. The tunnel will also leave the top forest layer untouched. The Anakampoyil-Meppadi twin tunnel, one of Keralas largest infrastructure projects, will stretch 8.73 km from Marippuzha in Kozhikode district to Meenakshi Bridge in Wayanad district, including 8.11 km of double tunnels. The alignment will feature six curves, two main bridges, and three minor bridges across the Iruvazhinji river, with cross-passages connecting the tunnels every 300 metres. The project requires 33 hectares, of which 5.7 km is forest and 2.9 km private land. The tunnels will be equipped with modern systems including ventilation, firefighting, radio, telecommunication, surveillance, lighting, and emergency response facilities. The Konkan Railway Corporation Limited, the special purpose vehicle (SPV) for the project, said the construction of the tunnel will begin first on the Wayanad side. The Wayanad entrance will be at an altitude of 851 metres above sea level at the Meenakshi Bridge in Kalladi. The construction is expected to take four years, with the twin tunnel initially opening as a two-lane road before being upgraded to four lanes. Progress will be monitored by an expert committee every six months, and officials have assured compliance with environmental and safety standards. PROJECT DETAILS Cost: Rs 2,134 crore Total length: 8.753km (Anakkampoyil in Kozhikode to Kalladi in Wayanad) Estimated construction time: 4 yrs Travel time saving: 30-45 minutes between Kozhikode and Wayanad; up to 1 hour for Bengaluru-bound travellers Purpose Bypass Thamarassery Ghat to reduce congestion and improve safety Environmental concerns Landslide-prone terrain, disruption to elephant migration routes, impact on biodiversity Legal challenge Wayanad Prakruthi Samrakshana Samithi petition in HC against environmental clearance Environmental clearance conditions Landslide hazard micro-mapping, vibration and weather monitoring, wildlife corridors, species monitoring, periodic audits

Kerala Journalist Nandakumar booked for posting obscene content against CM Pinarayi Vijayan

KOCHI: Kochi city cyber police registered a case against journalist T P Nandakumar aka Crime Nandakumar for posting a social media video allegedly containing obscene content against Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. Nandakumar, a native of Mankav in Kozhikode, now residing in Kochi, has been charged with attempting to incite a riot under the Indian Penal Code (Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita), as well as violating Sections 67 and 67(a) of the Information Technology (Amendment) Act, 2008, which address offences related to the publication or transmission of obscene material in electronic form. The suspect posted the video on his Facebook page and YouTube channel on Friday, accompanied by an obscene thumbnail and caption, said Shemeer Khan P A, SHO, Kochi city cyber police. We came across the video, with a caption linking CM with a controversial woman involved in a sensational scam, during cyber patrolling. We filed charges upon determining that the video was intended to disrupt social fabric and incite conflict between groups, he said. He added that further charges may be slapped on the accused after a detailed investigation. Nandakumar was earlier booked and later arrested in a similar defamatory case in 2024 by the Kochi city police for defaming CM on social media in connection with the SilverLine semi high-speed rail project.

Janadhipathya Rashtriya Party, led by C K Janu, leaves NDA

KOCHI: Janadhipathya Rashtriya Party (JRP), the political party led by tribal activist and Muthanga agitation leader C K Janu has decided to leave the National Democratic Alliance led by the BJP. The state committee of JRS, which met in Kozhikode on Saturday decided to leave the front unanimously. Leaders of the BJP in Kerala were surprised by the decision and said Janu has not communicated anything in this regard. The JRP has been an alliance partner of the BJP in Kerala since 2016, but they did not give us the kind of respect we deserve. I have raised our grievances before the BJP leadership many times but they ignored us completely. When the state committee met on Saturday, all members unanimously demanded that we should leave the NDA, Janu told TNIE. Denying rumours that she was planning to align with one of the two major fronts, Janu said the decision is to stand as an independent party.

Kochi-Muziris Biennale 2025 | Will curator Nikhil Chopra start a new chapter for the Peoples Biennale?

Indias biggest contemporary art event has had a bumpy ride recently from budget issues to last editions inconvenient delay. Can curator Nikhil Chopra help regain goodwill, and will the sixth outing be the best of them all?

Onam rush: Kochi Metro, Water Metro to run extra services

Bank employees in Kerala protest against beef ban in canteen

A Canara Bank branch in Keralas Kochi city organised a beef protest by eating meat in public, after the newly appointed regional manager allegedly imposed a ban in the canteen. The protest was staged on Friday, August 28, outside the office. The Bank Employees Federation of India (BEFI) had initially planned a protest outside the 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 .

Lok Samvardhan Parv conjures a mini-India under a single tent in Kochi

A mini India, it seems, has been conjured into existence under the white canopies set up in Marine Drive ground, where the fifth edition of the Lok Samvardhan Parv is currently under way. A flagship initiative of the Ministry of Minority Affairs, the 10-day exhibition, which kickstarted on August 26, has weaved together the essence of all the distinct corners and cultures of the country. The festival is a celebration of crafts, culture and community. It is designed to provide artisans, craftspersons, weavers, culinary experts, and entrepreneurs from minority communities with market linkages and exposure, says an official connected with the Parv. The festival has brought together over 100 artisans and 15 culinary experts from across the country. Among them was Abdul Kalam, a fifth-generation artisan from Lakshadweep whose family is engaged in building wooden boats. Now, we have branched out to handicrafts as well. We make miniature boats and an assortment of decorative items from coconut shells, says Abdul. Then, there was Syed Abdul Hannan from Channapatna toy village in Karnataka with his wooden lacquerware, all of which he says was handmade and coloured using vegetable dye. We wanted to make these toys completely safe for children. So no nails or sharp edges, and certainly no chemicals, says Syed, who hails from a family of artisans. Delhi-based Mohammed Rafeeqs stall was next and it boasted an eclectic display of metal art works, and Sinde Sreeramulus, which came after, handmade leather puppetry and decorative art pieces from Andhra Pradesh. We have priced it for all customers, from Rs 200 to Rs 2,000, he says. Snaps from the festival Snaps from the festival Snaps from the festival Snaps from the festival Elvina Sequeira and Queenie Furtados stall was a standout among the many stalls that people have come to associate with handicrafts. Here, a wide collection of crochet works were on display coasters, ear rings, table mats, bookmarks, and more. Crocheting in Goa is something that everyone inherits from their mothers, grandmothers. We have brought that legacy to Kochi, says Elvina. Tameshwar Dewomgons bamboo works in the next stall were a thing of wonder. This one, he says, pointing to a seemingly ordinary bamboo stick, makes the sound of rain. And indeed it does. As to how he built it, he says, everyone in my village does. Aren Jamir and Kevi both hailing from Nagaland had two stalls that presented in full display the majesty of tribes from the far-eastern state. This is our first time to Kochi. The people are so warm and welcoming here. We feel at home, they say. Snaps from the festival Snaps from the festival Snaps from the festival Snaps from the festival Also on display were traditional crafts ranging from zari and chikankari of Uttar Pradesh, phulkari embroidery of Punjab, madhubani paintings of Bihar, and blue pottery of Rajasthan, to pashmina weaving from Ladakh, Bastar iron craft from Chhattisgarh, and Keralas own nettipattam making. This is the first time the Lok Samvardhan Parv is being held in Kerala. But many who manned the stalls said the timing could have been better thought-out. Weve been open for the past four days, but very few people have come. The rain is indeed a big damper, says Laxman Singh Netam, who had several iron miniatures on display at his stall. This was echoed by several others. We hope even more people will come now that Onam season is shifting into full gear, says Mujeeb Khan from Channapatna. The festival also boasts an extensive culinary showcase featuring traditional foods, spices, pickles, bakery products, herbal preparations, and coastal delicacies. Alongside the exhibition, there are also cultural performances and live demonstrations that highlight the rich artistic heritage of minority communities. At its core, the Parv is not just an exhibition but a celebration of Indias diverse cultural heritage. It strengthens cultural bonds while fostering sustainable livelihood opportunities, the official adds. The exhibition is open from 10am to 7pm, and concludes on September 4. Entry is free and open to the public.

Frozen or retorted, packaged Onasadya blazes new trail

KOCHI: Onam without Onasadya? For Malayalis, that would be unthinkable. And this thought has opened up a new market in the food sector. Onasadya both frozen and retorted are now being shipped across the globe, enabling Keralites to enjoy the delights of home. According to industry sources, the market has been expanding ever since the first pack of Onasadya was launched in 2020. Brijith Krishna, founder of Eatery Malabarikas, told TNIE, For us, the major market for ready-to-eat products is the UK. We entered the Onasadya market just this year, having been doing R&D for the past four years. In Kerala, the concept of ready-to-eat or retort-packed food has not yet become popular, unlike in the West where it is common, he pointed out. The defence forces too use retort-packed food. It is safe. Now, things are looking up. In the past two years, I have seen a jump in the ready-to-eat Onasadya market from 1% to 6%. That is a quantum jump, Brijith said. He cited the long Onam celebrations overseas as a reason. For example, in the UK, the celebrations extend up to two months, he pointed out. Explaining the retort process, Brijith said, Unlike freezing, which first freezes food at a temperature of -40 degrees Celsius and then at -18 degrees Celsius at cold chain supplies, retorting involves sterilising the food packets at a very high temperature and pressure in a machine similar to an autoclave to kill all the microbes. The food is treated to an out-of-the-world experience, ensuring a longer shelf-life. Brijiths company products of which have found customers even in northeast India has brought out a retort-packed Onasadya that serves a family of four. It will be 30 to 35% costlier than a normal sadya because of the cost accrued in packaging. Our Onasadya pack, that costs `1,800, has 23 items. The entire process of preparing the sadya begins a month ahead of the festival, factoring in the time taken for shipping, he added. Strengthening Brijiths statement regarding the increasing popularity of packaged sadya, Manoj T P, senior manager (sales), Tasty Nibbles, said, We have a growing clientele not only abroad (exporting to 27 countries) but also within the country. Besides the complete Onasadya pack, we also have retort-packed items that can be bought individually. Tasty Nibbles was the first company in the state to use retort technology in the food industry. He said the company has supplied sadya to military and paramilitary personnel serving in far-off places like Uri (Jammu and Kashmir) and Agartala (Tripura). We have three ranges of the sadya. One is priced at `1,999, serving four. It has 1kg of rice and 17 side dishes. Then there is a pack that costs `1,499, which can serve two people and has 12 side dishes, while the `999 pack has only two curries, he said. Besides the retort-packs, frozen Onasadya too has many takers. According to Rony Tom, managing director of Jacame, there has been a significant jump in the number of customers since the company first brought out the sadya five years ago. Our main markets are in the UK, Australia, Austria, Italy, Germany, and Switzerland. This year, we supplied 50,000 packs of frozen Onasadya, Rony said. The company provides the sadya in two variations. One pack that serves a family of five and the other that can serve two persons. Of the 50,000 packs that were exported, 30,000 were the ones for five people, he pointed out. Jacame had also launched frozen Vishu sadya, cakes for Christmas, and Passover specials like indri appam and vellappam. Rony said the company expects a marked increase in the number of Onasadya packs next year. We expect the numbers to touch 75,000. Thats because people, especially professionals, find getting packaged sadya easier than cooking a full-course meal from scratch, he added. In the case of frozen Onasadya, the entire preparation begins by May as transportation takes months, with these products shipped in temperature-controlled containers. What then about the market after Onam? The companies said individual products like curries, chips, and other items are the major revenue sources. As for the US tariff issue, the industry insiders felt it would adversely affect the food export industry in India. Happiness in packets A few companies bringing out packed (frozen and retorted) Onasadya Retort - Tasty Nibbles, Eatery Malabarikas Frozen - Jacame, Daily Delights, Ajmi Flours India, Bleeko Imports and Exports Market size has increased from 1% to 6% over the past two years Target customers - Malayalis living in the UK, Canada, the US, European countries, and Australia, among others

Deadline to issue 3D notification on land acquisition for Kochi Bypass ends

Delay in publishing the notification may lead to an increase in the cost of land acquisition and that of raw materials for the NH project that is estimated to cost 6,000 crore

Seedlings, songs & sisterhood: A visual journey with Kochi's paddy workers

Its a misty morning, and there is a spray-like drizzle. Kamalu Veyathullam sits beside a tree, waiting for her comrades-in-arms to begin their days work. Her friends Leela, Radha, Shantha and Mahila can be seen walking from far away along a narrow road. All are armed with raincoats and plastic covers, carrying water and other essentials for the day. Excited chatter soon fills the air, punctuated by a few leg-pulling jokes that make everyone laugh out loud. Amid the chitter-chatter, they change into their workwear an old shirt, a lungi, and a headgear fashioned from folded raincoats. The scene reminds one of frames from a cinema. A paddy field where Malayali women labourers toil for the yield. Quite a rarity these days. Farming generally is on the decline. And nowadays, everyone is hiring migrant labourers, says Kamalu as she descends into a slushy field. In fact, here in the picturesque Karumalloor panchayat, only one farm owner has hired local hands. Paddy is farmed thrice a year here. We are hired for the njaru nadal (sowing seedlings) and harvesting, says Thankamani. A woman rests during a break Swaying to Kamalus folk song in the background, the women begin their work. They rhythmically pick and sort the njaru for sowing. During the monotonous task, these women sing, socialise, share their worries, gossip (of course!), and exchange updates about recent marriages, deaths and other events in the village. Its a sweet sisterhood. Leela proudly says the team participated in an event marking Mahatma Ayyankalis birth anniversary on Thursday. Radha was a star in kaikottikali, she laughs. For a days work, which lasts from 8am to 2pm, the women earn Rs350. Besides the farm work, they also rely on MNREGA for employment. Rajamma, the oldest in the group, says she goes for road work too. The frail woman, who doesnt know her exact age, adds that she does not have the privilege to rest at old age. Karumalloor panchayat member K M Laiju, who owns the five-acre paddy field, watches on with a smile from the roadside. He informs that the vast paddy fields in the area have been featured in several films. Mohanlal-starrer Ividam Swargamanu, Dileeps Two Countries are examples, he says. I have heard that some scenes of Mammoottys Pramani were also shot here. A woman worker removes net covering the seedlings Thankamani shouts from the field that scenes of a teleserial were shot here recently. We might soon appear on TV, she laughs. On his decision to hire a local workforce, Laiju says its a personal choice not every farmer can afford to emulate. I am in agriculture purely out of passion. My primary source of income is an automobile workshop. Thats not the case with most of the others. I always try to hire local help for most of the tasks. I feel its money well-spent giving back to the local ecosystem. Shashi K K, a traditional farmer who owns a 3.5-acre field nearby, says not many in the region can do that because of the economic implications. If I hire only the local workforce, it will take several days to complete several stages of sowing or harvesting. But if I hire migrant labourers, they finish the work at a faster pace in a couple of days, he explains. By 10.30am, breakfast arrives. Its appam with egg curry today. Come, have some with us, insist Kamalu and her friends, gathering under a tree. Soon, as they sip on steaming tea, it starts to rain. That does not deter the women. They head back to the field. Breaking into a folk song, they once again begin sorting the seedlings. Nattucha nerathu nattam thirinju nadakana kandappo, Ponorum varunnorum nokkanu parakkam porinithupore Kamalu Women busy at work Workers set out to the paddy field Workers prepare to plant seedlings Workers taking a break A worker having breakfast A woman washes mud off a 'njaru' bundle Shashi K K tilts a paddy field, where the women will

Over 100 pairs of twins, several triplets to assemble in Kochi for meet-up on August 31

How this little bookshop in Kochi is showcasing independent publishers and works of artists

The two-month-old Mehrab Book Shop in Kochi is the perfect place to hangout in the company of thought-provoking titles brought out by indie publishers

How a Kochi restaurant is promoting jackfruit dishes through the year

At Baruma Food Court, an initiative of the Mithrakukam Trust, jackfruit dishes are prepared all through the year, irrespective of seasonal availability

Kochi-based collective of independent filmmakers debut music video of the single, Rest of the days, by Lef II Riot

The music video of the rock single Rest of The Days by glam metal band Lef II Riot marks the debut of a collective of independent filmmakers, Banger Farm Films

Exciting matches see low footfall in KCL

Its the 13th over. Kochi Blue Tigers star player Sanju Samson is on the crease. The bowler takes his position and makes his move. Sanju swings, connects. Several pairs of eyes, around 1,000, follow the ball as it goes high, looking as it is trying to kiss the skies. People hold their breath Will the ball be caught? Or will the Keralite add another sixer to his name? The crowd erupts as they get their answer seconds later. The ball has sailed over the fence. Its a maximum. Amid the cheers, a child shouts, Sanju, Sanju! Whistles rent the air. The Kerala Cricket League match between Kochi Blue Tigers and Adani Trivandrum Royals on Thursday had all the ingredients of an exciting contest. The only thing that could be termed a dampener was the low attendance. Families, people of different age groups, were part of the crowd that came to witness the exciting match at the Greenfield Stadium. However, the numbers was nowhere near what the organisers had anticipated. The authorities say the afternoon match on Thursday saw close to 1,000 people. We expected a higher turnout, as our key players were here today, says an official. This has been the theme of this edition of the KCL. Exciting matches, low footfall. There was one match in this edition in which the audience strength did go as high as 11,000, says an organiser. However, those who were among the crowd used every ounce of their lung power to ensure no six or four went by without cheers and whistles. The numbers were low, but the spirits were high. The league officials expect the footfall to pick up in the stadium in the coming days. Onam holidays are round the corner. We speculate a higher turnout in the coming days, says an official. Soon, a fan village, comprising mini-games and a cafeteria for the fans, will come at the venue, the authorities confirm. Coming back to the match, the crowd was awestruck when Sanju took the crease. Though many missed Sanju in the previous match, he gave back all the love that came his way through his heavy hitting, scoring 62 runs from 37 balls, with four boundaries and five sixes. His innings was instrumental in raising the teams score to a massive 191. In what was nothing short of a thriller, Kochi Blue Tigers won by a small margin of nine runs. With middle-order batters Sanjeev Satheesan (70 off 46) and Abdul Basith (41 off 27) shining, Trivandrum players gave rough spells to Kochi bowlers in the second innings, making the match unpredictable till the last over.

Subdued buying affects tea prices at Kochi auctions

Continuous rain in high rages reported to have affected the quality of teas

Skill summit in Kochi on August 29, 30

Demand-supply gap: Soaring flower prices put a damper on festivities

KOCHI: With festivities having commenced on Tuesday with the dawn of Atham, Keralites are on a frantic purchasing spree, with flowers being at the top of their Onam shopping list. For the next few days, colleges, government and private offices and cultural organisations will be organising Onam celebrations, with the main attraction being competitions for making the traditional Onapookkalam or floral carpets. This is the most lucrative season for traders as Malayalees will be splurging on festive necessities these days. However, the soaring prices of flowers during the festival season have posed a concern to both traders and customers. Though traders in the city buy flowers from Thovalai and Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu during Onam, the prices remain high due to heavy demand. As Vinayaka Chathurthi fell on Wednesday, temple officials and organisers of festivities have been purchasing flowers in huge quantities, which has added to the demand. During the past two festive seasons, marigold prices remained low as farmers in the district had cultivated the flower for the Onam market. However, many including farmers in Karumaloor, Alangad, Kadungalloor and Veliyathunadu did not grow the flowers this year as they had suffered huge losses due to heavy rains in 2024, resulting in the spike in prices. On Monday, Marigold was sold for Rs 250 per kg. The shop owners said the rates will remain high for the next couple of days. The farmers in Alangad panchayat were not keen to cultivate marigold this year as they had suffered losses last year. We have formed a 500-member farmers producer company where we are planning to create value-added agricultural products. Only a few farmers have cultivated flowers and vegetables for Onam this year. These products are being sold at the Agrifest at Kalamassery from August 26, said CPM Karshaka Sangham Alangad panchayat vice-president K P Mohamed Iqbal. We have cultivated marigold in a 10-cent plot and will be selling the flowers at the rate of Rs 200 per kg. My family has been growing flowers for the Onam season for the past three years. However, we could not cultivate them in huge quantities this year, said Noushad, a cultivator from Chirayam. At Thadiyakadavu in Veliyathunadu, a five-member Kudumbashree unit led by Faseeja cultivated marigold in 50 cents of land. Last year, we cultivated marigold in 1.5 acres of land but there was no profit as the rain destroyed the plants. We had to pluck the flowers in the morning and take them to Paravur where the traders gave us Rs 50 per kg. It was a bitter experience, said Faseeja. Her friends Sainaba, Laila, Sunitha and Shamla had been tending the plants with care, expecting reasonable prices. Flower prices soar as festive season begins, supply dwindlesin Tamil Nadu

First pier cap of Kochi metros Pink Line launched near Infopark

Concern over delay in sourcing 1,200-crore loan from Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank

DPR study on extending Kochi metro to Angamaly begins

The study marks the beginning of the fulfilment of the long-pending demand to connect the metro to the international airport and extend it further to Angamaly, says KMRL managing director

Man who fled home leaving child with 26 dogs in Kochi yet to be traced

Youth allegedly stabbed to death, 3 held in Kochi

Sanju Samson Continues Strong Asia Cup Preparation With Another Fifty In KCL

Dubai International Cricket Stadium: Amidst chatter on whether Sanju Samson will retain his place in Indias playing eleven for the upcoming Asia Cup, the wicketkeeper-batter has continued his prolific preparation for the multi-nation event by hitting a quickfire fifty in the ongoing Kerala Cricket League (KCL). Against Trivandrum Royals on Thursday, Samson hit a sparkling 37-ball 62 for Kochi Blue Tigers (KBT), laced with four boundaries and five sixes at a strike rate of 167.57. Samson had earlier scored 89 off 46 balls against Thrissur Titans and slammed a match-winning 121 off 51 balls against Aries Kollam Sailors in the competition. His aggregate in the league stands currently at 285 runs in four innings coming at an average of 71.25 and a strike rate of 182. Samsons good performances comes at a time when his place in Indias playing eleven is not a sureshot guarantee. The return of Shubman Gill, who is Indias vice-captain for the competition and Jitesh Sharma being the second keeper-batter after having a great showing in Royal Challengers Bengaluru winning IPL 2025, means scrutiny is on Samsons position. But the wicketkeeper-batter is ensuring that he stays in touch with the game and post strong knocks to be in the reckoning for a spot in Indias playing eleven. Since his T20I debut in 2015, Samson has scored 861 runs in 38 T20I innings at an average of 25.38. The return of Shubman Gill, who is Indias vice-captain for the competition and Jitesh Sharma being the second keeper-batter after having a great showing in Royal Challengers Bengaluru winning IPL 2025, means scrutiny is on Samsons position. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score They will then face Oman at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi on September 19. India has won the Asia Cup eight times, including emerging victorious in T20I edition of the competition held in Bangladesh in 2016. The 17th edition of the Asia Cup, set to happen in the UAE from September 9-28, marks Indias first T20I outing since winning the home series against England by 4-1 in January. Article Source: IANS

Actor Lakshmi Menon booked in abduction case

KOCHI: Kochi city police have registered a case against Malayalam actor Lakshmi Menon in connection with an incident where an IT professional was allegedly kidnapped and assaulted. The case was filed following a complaint by the victim, Aliyar Shah, a resident of Aluva, and the emergence of CCTV footage showing the actor and her associates blocking the complainants car and creating a commotion on the road. The incident occurred around 11.45pm on Sunday near the Ernakulam Town North overbridge, and the complainant approached the police around 3 am on Monday, said a source with the Kochi city police. According to the complaint, the actor and her friends had visited a bar near Marine Drive in Kochi. A minor altercation reportedly broke out between the actors group and the complainants group which included three others, one of whom was a woman, following a verbal dispute inside the bar. After the argument, the complainant and his friends left the bar in their car. However, the actor and her friends allegedly followed their vehicle, intercepted it near the overbridge, and forcibly pulled Aliyar out. The group then took the youth inside their car, drove him towards Aluva, allegedly assaulted him inside the car, and eventually dropped him off near Paravoor Junction. Acting on the complaint, a case has been registered under several sections. Three individuals Midhun, Aneesh, and Sona Mol were arrested and later remanded after being produced before the court, said the police. The officer added that the actor is currently absconding. Meanwhile, in a counter-complaint, the accused alleged that the complainant and his friends had misbehaved with the women in their group, threw beer bottles at them, and physically assaulted them.

20 years on, 74-year-old Kerala mother denied justice in sons murder

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM/ KOCHI : Prabhavati Amma was crestfallen on Wednesday. She could not believe the police officers convicted for the brutal custodial torture and murder of her son Udayakumar 20 years ago would walk free. I feel no one has a heart anymore. Even the (Kerala) High Court has no heart. If it did, it would not have spoken these words and let them walk free, the 74-year-old, emotional and livid, told the media hours after the HC acquitted former civil police officers K Jithakumar and S V Sreekumar and set aside their death sentence in the murder of Udayakumar in police custody at Fort police station in Thiruvananthapuram in 2005. Sreekumar passed away during the pendency of the case. The court, which also set aside the conviction and three-year imprisonment awarded to three other cops T K Haridas, T Ajith Kumar and E K Sabu said a flawed and tainted investigation by the CBI eventually led to the failure of the prosecution case. A scrap shop worker, Udayakumar, then 28, and his friend Sureshkumar were picked up by Jithakumar and Sreekumar from Sreekandeswaram park in the capital on September 27, 2005. They were taken to Fort police station, and later to a CIs office. As per the CBI, Udyakumar was subjected to third degree torture on the allegation that the Rs 4,000 found in his possession was stolen. Accused must be punished, says mother That night, Udayakumar lost consciousness. He was declared dead at Thiruvananthapuram Medical College Hospital around 11.40pm. The autopsy found serious injuries on his body, including those inflicted through uruttal (rolling iron rod over the body) and assault. Prabhavati, who lives in Nedungad, Karamana, said, There were 22 wounds on his thigh and the court saw it with their own eyes. Now the court says they are not guilty, she said. Alleging foul play, she said her only demand is that the accused be punished and those released now must be sent back to prison. The case, initially probed by the crime branch-CID was taken over by the CBI. The CBI court in 2018, sentenced the accused cops. The HC said the evidence showed the approvers had said they acted under fear of being arraigned by CBI. It said the high-handed and wholly illegal procedure of converting an eyewitness who had no real connection with the incident into an approver, of indiscriminately arraying all witnesses and coercing them at gunpoint into becoming approvers, among others, led to the failure of the prosecution case. The evidence adduced before the court...is not sufficient to hold the accused guilty, it said. Adv P K Raju, the deputy mayor, said the HC verdict will be challenged in the Supreme Court.

At 58%, migrant workers dominate Kerala's fisheries sector as natives keep away

KOCHI: The marine fisheries work force of Kerala is dominated by migrant labourers and the representation of Kerala fishermen is recording a steady decline as youngsters are sailing away from the traditional sector, says a study by the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI). The new generation of traditional fishermen are not interested in pursuing livelihood in the sector due to low income, depleting resources and uncertainty caused by climate-related issues. According to the study, around 58% of the workforce in the fisheries sector are migrant workers. About 55 to 60% of the workers in the mechanised fishing boats are migrant labourers. In the post harvest processing sector around 50% are migrants while the marketing sector also has 40% workers from other states. The study found that Munambam harbour in Ernakulam district has the highest concentration of migrant labourers in Keralas mechanised fishing sector, accounting for 78%. While workers from Colachel in Tamil Nadu dominated the work force of mechanised fishing boats till 2020, they prefer to operate from harbours in their native place now. An increasing number of workers from West Bengal, Odisha and Assam started entering the field in the post Covid period. Presently, around 43% of the migrant workers are from Tamil Nadu while 31% are from West Bengal, 13% from Odisha and 10% from Assam. Budget 2024: Benefits only for shrimp farmers; marine fisheries sector in Kerala feels disappointed A native fisherman earns an average income of Rs 30,000 per month, but the livelihood is often affected by suspension of fishing operation due to bad weather. Native workers in the marketing sector earn an average income of Rs 28,000 while that of post harvest workers is around Rs 20,000. While a migrant fishermen earns a monthly wage of Rs 25,000, migrants in marketing and post harvest sector earn an average income of Rs 14,000 and Rs 11,000 respectively. There is uncertainty about the future of the sector as youngster are migrating to other sectors in search of better earnings and job security, said CMFRI principal scientist Shyam S Salim who piloted the study. There are around 600 mechanised boats operating from Munambam harbour of which 400 are deep-sea fishing vessels. These vessels undertake long fishing trips which extend to more than 10 days. The boats have 16 crew members of which 10 or more are migrant labourers. Children of native fishermen prefer jobs in other sectors. The families are ready to spent more on education of their wards, said Gireesh a boat owner at Munambam. Despite their dominance, migrant workers remain highly vulnerable, facing exploitation, health risks and lack of social security, the study found. Meanwhile, a workshop organised by the CMFRI proposed urgent policy interventions for fisher labour welfare, including better housing, health coverage, education support, and livelihood diversification measures. 78% Highest concentration of migrant labourers in Keralas mechanised fishing sector at Munambam harbour in Ernakulam district Migrant workforce Mechanised fishing boats : 55 to 60% Post harvest processing sector: 50% Marketing sector: 40%

Actor Lakshmi Menon, three others booked for alleged abduction of Kochi techie

A senior officer of Kochi City Police confirmed to The Hindu that actor Midhun has been arraigned as the third accused in the case, whose sole name is mentioned in the FIR

Actor Rajesh Keshav Is On Life Support After Collapsing During Kochi Live Event

Filmmaker Prathap Jayalakshmi has shared his health update in a Facebook post

Actor & TV anchor Rajesh Keshav battles for life after on-stage collapse, rushed for emergency surgery

Popular actor and television presenter Rajesh Keshav, known as RK, is in critical condition after suffering a cardiac arrest during a live event in Kochi. The 49-year-old collapsed on stage while hosting a program, prompting immediate medical attention.

Not just Bollywood. Kumbh Mela viral sensation Monalisa soon in south movie. All about her Malayalam film

Monalisa Bhosle, who rose to fame as the 'Kumbh Mela beauty,' is set to make her Malayalam cinema debut in Nagamma, opposite actor Kailash. The film, directed by P. Binu Varghese, recently held its pooja ceremony in Kochi, marking a significant step in Monalisa's journey from selling flowers to pursuing a promising film career.

Hindu outfits threaten protest against Kerala governments plan to hold global Ayyappa summit at Sabarimala

KOCHI: Raising doubts over the Kerala governments motive behind organising a Global Ayyappa Summit in Sabarimala, Hindu organisations in the state have threatened a united protest against the move. The government has decided to hold the meet at Pampa on September 20 to unite devotees worldwide and showcase the states cultural heritage. Recalling the governments support to young women activists who tried to desecrate the temple in 2019, leaders of the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP), Sabarimala Karma Samithi and Kerala Kshetra Samrakshana Samithi said the devotees will raise an offensive to foil any attempt to bring activists to the hill shrine. VHP state president Viji Thampi on Tuesday said he would explore legal options to stop the summit. A secular government organising a congregation of members of a particular religion amounts to violation of the principles of the Constitution, Viji said. Ayyappa devotees will stand united to spoil any bid to violate practices If the aim is to celebrate the platinum jubilee of the Travancore Devaswom Board, the event should be held in Thiruvananthapuram. We suspect it (the summit) is an attempt to facilitate activists to enter and desecrate the temple. We will not allow a repeat of 2019, when the government facilitated two women to enter the temple with police protection, he told reporters. Viji said Bindu Ammini, the activist who entered Sabarimala temple in 2019, has declared she will participate in the meeting. There are reports the government will facilitate darshan for the 3,000 delegates arriving to attend the meeting. We fear it is another attempt to desecrate the temple. Ayyappa devotees across the country will stand united to spoil any attempt to violate age-old temple practices, he said. Viji Thampi said the devaswom minister (V N Vasavan) personally invited Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin and his son Udayanidhi Stalin who are known for their anti-Sanatana Dharma stand to the summit, which makes the governments intentions clear. The programme will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who is an atheist. Bringing such people to Sabarimala exposes the governments intentions, the VHP state president said. Stalin on Tuesday announced he would not be attending the summit. Sabarimala Karma Samithi convener S J R Kumar alleged that the government had been trying to destroy Sabarimala temple since 2018 and the Ayyappa Sangamam was a continuation of the attempts. Ayyappa devotees and Sanatana Dharma followers across the country will join hands to stop the attempt to destroy Hindu places of worship. There will be strong protests and the state government will be solely responsible for the outcome, he said. Kerala Kshetra Samrakshana Samithi president M Mohanan and Sabarimala Ayyappa Seva Samajam state president P N Narayana Varma also participated in the press meet.

Once worlds spice hub, Kerala braces for Trump tariff jolt

KOCHI: From Vasco da Gamas landing in Calicut in 1498 to the Dutch and the British setting up forts and factories along its coast, Keralas spices once lured the world. But today, the states spice capital, Kochi, home to four of the worlds largest value-added spice extractors, is staring at an uncertain future as the United States slaps a punitive 50% tariff on Indian spice exports beginning August 27. The blow is significant. Synthite Industries, Plant Lipids, Mane Kancor and Akay Group all headquartered in and around Kochi together command about 70% of the global market for spice oleoresins and natural extracts. Their customers include the worlds biggest FMCG, food & beverage, nutraceutical and flavour & fragrance brands. Together, they turn Indian spices into billion-dollar exports. But there is a twist. Despite Keralas historical legacy as the land of pepper, nutmeg and cardamom, these companies no longer depend on local farms. Instead, their tankers bring in raw materials from Vietnam, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and even Guatemala, process them in high-tech factories in Kerala, and re-export them to the world. Our production is grossly insufficient for internal consumption, admits Viju Jacob, executive chairman of Synthite Industries, which alone clocks nearly $500 million in revenues. We are importing pepper from Vietnam, Indonesia and Sri Lanka, adding value, and then exporting it. Except cardamom and nutmeg, almost everything else comes from outside. That model is now at risk. India, US hold 2+2 Intersessional Dialogue: new 10-year defence pact amid trade and tariff tensions Tariff Trouble For companies that run on wafer-thin margins with raw materials forming nearly 75% of their costs the 50% US duty could be a deal-breaker. Even if you say its the US consumer who will bear the burden, your competitive advantage is gone, warns Geemon Korah, CEO of Mane Kancor. If we sell at $10 today, with tariffs it becomes $15. The consumer will buy the same product from another source at $12. Customers have already asked us to hold back shipments until there is clarity. India has built itself into the worlds processing hub for spices, thanks to Kochis expertise, ecosystem and manpower. But with tariffs tilting the playing field, other producing nations may leapfrog. If raw materials are anyway coming from Vietnam or Indonesia, why wouldnt companies simply set up factories there? asks Korah. That is exactly what the Kerala majors are now considering moving parts of their operations abroad. We cannot put all our eggs in one basket, Korah says. This has been a wake-up call. We have to look beyond India. Losing Ground at Home Even without tariffs, Kerala has been losing its edge. Pepper, once branded black gold, is now cultivated more in Karnataka than in Kerala, where rising labour costs have crippled production. Vietnam, producing five times more pepper than India, has become the worlds supplier. Indian pepper is flavourful, but Vietnam sells at $2,000 a tonne cheaper, says veteran exporter Kishor Shamji. Domestic demand is over 100,000 tonnes, but India produces only 75,000 tonnes. The gap is filled with imports some even from Sri Lanka and Myanmar. Trump Tariff: TN textile hub feels the heat; hopes for early respite That irony stings: the very land that drew conquerors for its spices is now importing them to sustain its global spice trade. Global Giants, Local Roots The Kerala cluster remains formidable. Synthite controls about 40% of the global oleoresin market, Plant Lipids 20%, Mane Kancor 20%, and Akay about 5%. Together, they have put Kochi on the world map of food ingredients. Multinationals have taken note. French flavour giant Mane acquired Kochis Kancor in 2016. Danish natural colour major Oterra bought Akay in 2022. The sector is deeply integrated with global supply chains, and the US still 30% of the market cannot be wished away. It is very easy to say, go find other markets, Korah says. But the US is the largest consumer economy in the world, ten times Indias. No industry can afford to ignore it. Trump Tariff: Indias textile loss is gain for Pakistan, Bangladesh, Turkey, Vietnam, Egypt & Italy What Next? For now, exporters are holding back consignments, waiting to see if Washington blinks. We hope the US is just flexing muscles and will roll tariffs back once the standoff ends, another big exporter told TNIE. But behind the bravado is worry. These Kochi-based firms, which turned Kerala into the Silicon Valley of spice extraction, may now be forced to spread their factories across Vietnam, Indonesia and Africa. For a state that once ruled the global spice trade, the shift is both poetic and painful. Kerala may have given the world its first taste of pepper, but in the 21st century, the worlds pepper may no longer need Kerala. Keralas Spice Extract Giants: Quick Facts Global Market Share (Oleoresins & Natural Extracts) Synthite Industries (Kolenchery): 40% Plant Lipids (Kolenchery): 20% Mane Kancor (Angamaly): 20% Akay Group (Kochi): 5% Together: ~70% of global market Raw Material Dependence Imports: Pepper, chilli, turmeric, coriander from Vietnam, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Myanmar Domestic: Mainly cardamom & nutmeg The Tariff Shock US share of market: ~30% (down from 50% a decade ago)

Kerala races against time to ready Greenfield Stadium as Messi, Argentina squad set to arrive in November

KOCHI: Lionel Messi is set to land in Kerala this November with Argentinas World Cup-winning squad. But as the fans wait with bated breath for the arrival of footballs biggest icon, a frantic race has begun: can Kerala get a stadium ready in time? All eyes are on Thiruvananthapurams Greenfield Stadium, which is almost finalised as the venue, according to Anto Augustine, managing director of Reporter Broadcasting Company, the official sponsors of the Messi project. Right now, we have almost finalised the Greenfield Stadium in Karyavattom as the venue. Kochi is not in consideration. The government will take the final say soon, Anto said, adding that ticket rates and Argentinas opponents will be announced within a week. But the venue, primarily a cricket ground, presents a challenge. With hard cricket pitches in its centre, football experts have pointed out that laying a world-class football turf in under three months will test Keralas limits. Former India captain Jo Paul Anchery warns, It is very difficult to play football on grounds that have cricket pitches. I have experienced this in the 90s at Kaloor (Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi). Such scenarios have to be dealt with wisely. Others are more optimistic. To maintain a turf properly, we need only around 45 days. Since we now have around three months, the Greenfield Stadium can be developed... thats what we all believe, said former India international and Kerala State Sports Council president U Sharafali, pointing out that the state does have other football-ready venues, though none match Greenfields capacity. Meanwhile, Kochi once Keralas footballing Mecca, proud host of the FIFA U-17 World Cup matches in 2017 is watching from the sidelines. While the Nehru Stadium has the playing surface, safety and security concerns -- with the venue functioning as a commercial complex with numerous shops and offices on non-match days -- are spoiling its chances. K Chandran Pillai, chairman of the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) which owns the Nehru Stadium, is clearly miffed. Initially, there was a discussion with GCDA regarding the arrival of Messi. The minister had directly spoken to me as the chairman to discuss the possibilities of using the stadium. Now, we see announcements in the press that the match has been moved to the Greenfield Stadium. We havent been informed about it at all, he said. Pitching Kochi as the natural choice, Pillai added: Our turf is one of the best in the country. If there are more things to be perfected in terms of safety and security, we are willing to do it as needed. I think, ultimately, the government will have a rethink to see the vast possibilities in Kochi as the commercial centre of the state, with the accessibility and other factors required to host such an event. We have proved that we can hold any kind of international matches, including FIFA standard matches, here. So, does Kerala gamble on the Greenfield, and its race-against-time transformation, or does Kochi with its proven pedigree but patchy upkeep make a dramatic last-minute comeback? One thing is certain: Messi magic is on its way. The big question: can Kerala get its act together before the greatest footballer of this generation steps on its soil?

Woman police officer held in alleged embezzlement case in Kochi

Hybrid ganja worth Rs 4 crore seized at Kochi airport

KOCHI: The Customs Air Intelligence Unit on Tuesday intercepted a Thrissur native who flew in from Bangkok at the Kochi airport by a Malaysian Airlines flight and seized 4.1 kilograms of hybrid ganja, that has an estimated market value of Rs 4 crore. The customs officers acted on a tip off and intercepted the passenger Seby Shaju, a native of Irinjalakuda, who had arrived from Bangkok via Kuala Lumpur by Malaysian Airlines flight MH 0108. The passenger was subjected to a detailed examination at the exit based on profiling. The scrutiny of his check-in baggage led to the recovery of 4.1 kgs of hybrid ganja, a Customs official said. The passenger, an offender with multiple cases registered against him, including under the Kerala Anti-Social Activities (Prevention) Act (KAAPA), has admitted to his involvement in smuggling activities. There is a spurt in the smuggling of hybrid ganja into the state via airports. The same has resulted in calls for setting up modern baggage checking systems at airports in addition to the existing X-ray machines. The other day, hybrid ganja worth Rs 13 crore was seized from a Kozhikode native based on information received by the intelligence wing of the Kerala police. Similarly, a group of students from Malappuram, studying in Karnataka, attempting to smuggle 10 kgs of hybrid cannabis from Singapore via the Thiruvananthapuram airport, was also apprehended following a tip-off. Over the past year, the AIU wing of the Cochin Customs has seized a total of 101 kgs of ganja across 20 cases. The operation on Tuesday was led by Chief Commissioner S K Rahman, while the successful interception was executed by Assistant Commissioner Paul P George and team.

Medical experts voice for clear diagnosis, flu vax schemes in Kerala

KOCHI: the number of communicable diseases cases, including dengue and influenza, reported across Ernakulam, is showing no signs of abating. There has also been a significant rise in the number of people seeking treatment for fever. In July, the Cusat campus was shut down after two students tested positive for H1N1, and three were diagnosed with chicken pox. Dr N Narayanan, a city-based paediatrician said these diseases spread mostly in the monsoon season as a result of humidity, which allows the viruses to survive longer. In western countries and the US, the diseases spread in the winter season. In Kerala, the spread happens during the monsoon. Also in June, children return to schools and colleges after their summer break. They spend their time indoors, interacting with each other. This allows for the faster spread of influenza and other diseases, he said. With a clear diagnosis, treatment can be more targeted and effective, said Dr Rajeev Jayadevan, convenor of Indian Medical Associations (IMA) Kerala research cell. Antivirals, if administered early, help reduce the severity of influenza. In the case of dengue, early diagnosis allows for timely supportive care and proper monitoring. People who are presented with symptoms like fever and fatigue should isolate themselves and seek medical help, if required, to avoid worsening of the condition, he added. Since the number of flu and pneumonia cases is rising, the IMA has emphasised vaccination for adults. Flu vaccines need to be administered every year, as the strains keep mutating. With a growing senior population, vaccination programmes should be a part of the states public health strategies, said Dr Jacob Abraham, president of IMA Kochi.

Hidden mental health woes among Kerala diabetics

KOCHI: Despite being one of the most common chronic illnesses in India, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is often discussed only in terms of blood sugar control, diet, and medication. Yet, beneath the surface, an equally critical factor silently influences patient outcomes mental health. A recent study by my centre, Metnoia NewHealth Diabetes and Lifestyle Diseases Research Institute, uncovered alarmingly high levels of depression, anxiety, and stress in patients with uncontrolled diabetes, even when they exhibit no outward symptoms. The findings point to a hidden crisis, one that demands urgent attention from healthcare providers, families, and policymakers. The study has been accepted for publication in the International Journal of Diabetes and Technology. A research team headed by psychologist Nova K focused on 65 individuals, 34 men and 31 women aged between 45 and 60 years. All participants had elevated HbA1c levels, a clear indicator of poor long-term glycaemic control. None reported mental health problems, but we suspected there might be more beneath the surface. This is one of the first prevalence studies of its kind in Kerala, focusing specifically on asymptomatic diabetic patients. The team used the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) to measure psychological well-being, alongside standard blood tests. The data was striking: 30% of patients had severe depression 25% experienced severe anxiety 15% reported severe stress Many were dealing with more than one of these conditions simultaneously. When we compared the results with HbA1c levels, the link was unmistakable those with higher psychological distress consistently had poorer blood sugar control. This was not simply a coincidence; it was a warning. What this means is clear: mental health plays a critical role in diabetes management. Ignoring it can make controlling the disease far more difficult, even for patients who appear physically stable. What needs to be done Integrate routine mental health screening into the care of patients with uncontrolled diabetes, regardless of whether they report emotional symptoms. Tools such as DASS-21 are efficient, validated, and easy to implement in any clinical setting. Indias diabetes burden is growing at an alarming rate, and the hidden mental health crisis that accompanies it could quietly undermine treatment efforts. By recognising the mind and body as interconnected systems, we have a better chance of improving not just numbers on a lab report, but the lives of the people behind them. Mind and body Got health concerns you want to share with a doctor? Are you looking for credible answers regarding symptoms, medicines or lifestyle disorders? Write to us on cityexpresskoc@newindianexpress.com, and we will get healthcare professionals to answer them. The writer is founder of Metnoia NewHealth Diabetes and Lifestyle Diseases Research Institute in Kochi.

Water metro will transform our tourism: Goa minister Subhash Phal Desai

KOCHI: The water metro project will transform Goas transportation and tourism sectors, the states Water Transport Minister, Subhash Phal Desai, said on Monday. He was speaking after holding discussions with Kochi Metro Rail Corporation (KMRL) authorities over the projects implementation. Goa has over 90km of inland waterways and numerous popular tourist islands that are currently inaccessible by road. Connecting these islands with the water metro will pave the way for development of the entire region by substantially boosting the tourism potential, the minister, who is leading a Goan delegation, noted. Desai, who also held a one-to-one with KMRL managing director Loknath Behera, said he is looking forward to the feasibility report. Members of the delegation, which included director of Goas river navigation department Vikram Singh Raje Bhosle, also took a ride on the Water Metro from High Court to Fort Kochi.

Marigold blues! Growers add veggies to Onam mix

KOCHI: Last year, Shaji C B watched helplessly as his marigold fields turned into a cautionary tale. Flowers bloomed in abundance, and the market was flooded. Everyone was growing flowers, he recalled. Kudumbashree, self-help groups, and even residents associations were growing them. Kudumbashree units even made use of barren land to cultivate marigold. This was on top of the inflow from neighbouring states. The result: Prices crashed, profits wilted, and farmers like Shaji were left to lick their wounds. This Onam, however, he has scaled down drastically just 100 marigold plants stand where rows once stretched. He isnt alone. Data with the agriculture department shows that land under flower cultivation in the state largely marigold has shrunk from 793.83 to around 724.13 hectares over the past year. Officials say last years glut and poor planning forced a rethink. Many farmers took huge losses as they were unable to sell flowers that bloomed after the Onam season. They were forced to sell at very low prices of around Rs 30-60 a kilo, said Pramodh Madhavan, assistant director (planning) of the agriculture department. This year, though, caution has been the buzzword. Apart from climate setbacks and a plague of African snails, farmers are diversifying to cushion risks. Once it rains, the heads of the marigold flower droop, weighed down by rain drops. This leads to the flower heads breaking or rotting, Pramodh explained. To counter that, the department is pushing mixed cultivation, encouraging farmers to grow vegetables like green chilli, brinjal, or okra alongside marigold. And farmers are listening. A fellow farmer who grows flowers on a large area has planted okra and brinjal intermittently, said Shaji. Sujith, another grower, confirmed the trend. With output declining, flowers will command a better price this year. The climate, too, has been inclement this year, which has impacted the production of flowers. Vegetables, though, are doing better. Shaji C B Still, marketing remains a thorn. Wholesalers are reluctant to buy from us since our flowers cost more compared to those arriving from neighbouring states, Shaji said. In Alappuzha, however, the scene looks brighter. Flower cultivation still commands good acreage. Our office itself supplied over 60,000 saplings. Then there are private nurseries from where farmers procure saplings, said Arun P K, district agriculture officer. The other varieties that are being grown this year are globe amaranth in red, white, and purple. Vegetables like snake gourd, cucumber, green chilli, okra, and ridge gourd are being grown alongside. So, while the fields of marigold may have thinned this Onam, Keralas flower farmers are hedging their bets hoping vegetables will save them from another withering season.

Kerala Crime Branch takes over probe into Athira jewellery investment scam

KOCHI: Crime Branch wing of the Kerala police has taken over the probe into cases registered against Kochi-based Athira Gold and Silks, which allegedly duped several people by running gold schemes and taking investments, said Crime Branch sources here on Monday. According to officials, the Crime Branch's Economic Offence Wing (EOW) Ernakulam Unit started re-registering cases last week. An officer with the Crime Branch EOW stated that around 15 cases, first registered at Ernakulam Central Police Station, have been taken over, and FIRs in the remaining cases will be taken over in the coming days. He said that around 50 cases have been registered against Athira Gold and Silks in the Ernakulam Central Police Station alone. Apart from this, the investors had also lodged complaints at various police stations within the Ernakulam Rural Police limits. Currently, we are re-registering the FIRs in the cases transferred by the local police. The investigation will commence after the initial procedures are completed. The owners of the jewellery firm will be questioned again. They were arrested by the police earlier, the officer said. Police arrested the proprietors of the firm, RJ Antony, RJ Joseph, RJ Johnson, and RJ Joby, in February this year. They later secured bail from the Kerala High Court, the officer said. Athira Gold and Silks was operating a multi-storey jewellery shop at Kerala High Court Junction in Kochi. The company also had branches in the coastal areas of Ernakulam and Thrissur districts. According to police officials in Ernakulam Central Police, Athira Gold and Silks accepted investments by promising returns of up to 12 per cent interest. Additionally, it offered a gold scheme that allowed customers to invest money and purchase gold ornaments at the current market price in the future, according to the police. A police official said that, attracted to the schemes, several retired employees have deposited their savings with the firm. Similarly, several people have deposited the money for their children's weddings. Over 500 investors have already approached the police, and fresh complaints are expected, he added.

Unnathi scholarship opens up new vistas for underprivileged students in Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: For 24-year-old Abhi Kiran, every step towards his dream of studying abroad felt weighed down by his familys struggles. The son of a taxi driver, he grew up knowing that higher education overseas was a privilege far beyond his reach. With the family property already mortgaged, even the thought of taking a loan seemed improbable. It took the state governments Unnathi scholarship programme to turn his despair into hope and open a door he believed would stay forever closed. After my bachelors in chemistry, this scholarship gave me the chance to pursue a masters in environmental science and management in the United Kingdom. This opened the path for me to secure a job recently. Without this support, higher studies would have been unthinkable. Today, I am in a position to support my family. This scholarship can truly change the lives of students from underprivileged backgrounds and bring hope to their families, said Abhi. Abhi is one of 1,000 students from the scheduled caste and scheduled tribe communities who, since the launch of the states merit-based Unnathi Scholarship for Overseas Studies in 2023, have benefited from the programme. According to officials, most of the selected students received around Rs 25 lakh each, making Unnathi one of the most substantial scholarships offered in the country. For many, the scheme has been life-changing. The scholarship was nothing short of a turning point for Erattupetta native Neethu Chandra. A botany graduate who had spent years preparing for the civil services, she was uncertain of her future until she applied for the scholarship. My mother is a government clerk, and my father a contract employee. I received nearly Rs 22 lakh as scholarship, which enabled me to complete my MBA in the UK. Without it, pursuing higher education abroad would have been impossible for my family. Today, I am employed with the UKs health department. This support not only made foreign education a reality for me but also transformed my life and gave me the strength to support my family, the 29-year-old said. Requesting anonymity due to personal reasons, another beneficiarythe daughter of a street vendor who is now settled in Australiarecounted how the programme helped her escape crippling debt. After completing my degree, my family pressured me to get married, but I chose a different path. I left home and started working as a food delivery worker in Kochi, hoping my small savings would help me pursue higher studies. However, even basic accommodation was a struggle, and banks refused loans that would only push families like mine into debt. What the marginalised truly need are scholarships, not loans. This scholarship changed my life and gave me hope, she said. Minister for Welfare of SCs, STs and Backward Classes O R Kelu said the schemes success highlights the value of targeted government support. We are glad that so many students from disadvantaged backgrounds have been able to pursue world-class education. The scholarship is not just about individual success; it is about giving families and communities a chance to progress. We are also collecting feedback from beneficiaries to design more schemes that address their real needs, he said. For recipients, the Unnathi initiative has been more than financial aid. It has opened doors once thought closed, breaking social and economic barriers and proving how a single opportunity can bring lasting change. Rs 25 lakh Officials said most of the selected students received around Rs 25 lakh each under the Unnathi Scholarship for Overseas Studies, which was launched in 2023

Make air travel more accessible: CM Pinarayi Vijayan

KOCHI: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday called for making air travel more accessible to the public by reducing travel and operational costs. Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the Kerala Aviation Summit, organised by Kochi Airport and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, he said that planned interventions are required for the development of the aviation sector. Policies and incentives are necessary to promote industries in the aviation sector. Air travel needs to be popularised. And for that we need to intervene to reduce the cost of travel and operations and make air travel affordable and accessible to everyone. The transportation facilities connecting airports should also be improved to help those who choose airways, he said. Airports have played a significant role in promoting Keralas tourism sector. The transportation facilities in the state, including airways, and connectivity with major airports, have made Kerala a major tourist destination. Strengthening air transport will attract more tourists to the state, he added. CM also inaugurated the Airport Public Health Office (APHO) Health Centre at Kochi Airport, the yellow fever vaccination, and the quarantine centre for the prevention of diseases. Minister K Rajan handed over the keys of the health centre to Dr S Senthilnathan, DDG, Health Services. Industries Minister P Rajeev, MP Benny Behanan, chief secretary Dr A Jayathilak, and others attended the function. The two-day summit, the first of its kind, aiming to make Kerala an aviation hub and attract investments in the sector, will conclude on Sunday.

Corruption almost nil in Kerala, most taxpayers are honest

Shaik Khader Rahman, chief commissioner of Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) and Customs, Kerala, has been successful in increasing GST revenue and reducing litigations in the state. An IRS officer with 32 years of service, he has won accolades by reducing smuggling and developing IT architecture for tax officers, besides serving as a defence counsel in the Tax Tribunal. In an interaction with TNIE, he shares his thoughts on a wide range of issues connected to commerce in Kerala. Excerpts Whats your first impression of working in Kerala? Keralas work culture is slightly different from the rest of India. People here are very intelligent and knowledgeable. The work culture, its different from that of Mumbai. The same Malayalis who are working in Mumbai are the best in the country (laughs). Here, it took me a month to understand the ethos. Peoples attitudes are also good, just that you have to understand them. The north Indian feudal system wont work here. I didnt have any difficulty in gelling with the people here. What problems do you find here in terms of tax collection? The revenue growth in Kerala from 2023-24 to 2024-25 is only 5%. If you look at the last three years, the total revenue collected from excise taxes is around Rs 26,000 crore. But the entire GST in this state is only Rs 18,000 crore. I have around 1.67 lakh taxpayers. I get 60% of the revenue, which is Rs 18,000 crore, while the Kerala government -- which has 2.16 lakh taxpayers -- gets below Rs 15,000 crore. So, the first task I focused on with my team was to increase revenue. T he GST regime was expected to benefit Kerala, a consumer state. But tax collection was not robust... The number of industries in Kerala is low. We only have services here. Of the Rs 18,000 crore GST revenue, nearly 75% comes from services. Since there are only a few industries, the revenue from the supply of goods is lower. For tourism and hotel purposes, the place of service is the place where the hotel is located. If a Delhi-based company conducts an event here, they may engage an event manager, and the CGST, IGST invoice is issued to that company. Thus the money goes out. How does the Centre distribute money? The SGST revenue goes to the state. But the IGST money is deposited in the consolidated fund of India and 60% of the revenue comes back to the state. The GST Council has a formula. Every three to four months, they distribute IGST. The central government takes time to distribute. What should Kerala do to increase GST revenue? Kerala has some great positives. The states land records are very good and the people are educated. Kerala has won awards for fastest GST registration and settling disputes. The lawyers here are very good and disputes are resolved faster. We managed to resolve most disputes within 3-4 months. However, there is no growth in GST registrations. My concern is how to expand the tax base. Weve dispelled the fears of those in the informal sectors through interactions and trade facilitation meetings. Kerala has commodities like spices, coir, seafood, and cashew. We are planning to approach traders through commodity boards, listen to them, and solve their problems. Around 40% of the problems can be resolved through negotiations. We dont file a case against them, but nudge them to take GST registration. Another great thing about Kerala is that corruption is almost nil in the state. Once the tax base widens, believe me, Kerala will undergo a transformation. At least from the point of view of indirect tax, it will become Kerala 2.0. We expect a 20% increase in GST registration in the next three months. Whats the indirect collection for the state in value terms? We have set a target of Rs 53,610 crore for the departments of customs, central excise, and GST. Last year, the GST collection was Rs 18,371.25 crore and the target for the GST department this year is Rs 20,940 crore. The GST collection in 2024-25 was Rs 17,773 crore, and the growth rate was only 3.4%. Now, for the first four months, my growth rate is 15.7%. The GST growth rate in north Kerala is 20% and that of south Kerala is 27%. However, the growth in central Kerala is only 5%. If I can maintain a growth rate, the GST collection for the year will be Rs 21,126 crore. Why is there such a drastic difference in GST collection? North Kerala has a lot of potential but remains untapped. There are well-established industries in south Kerala. Though central Kerala is known as the financial capital of Kerala, it doesnt have the tax base. Where are the industries and the taxpayers? The only industries are BPCL, which is giving central excise revenue, and Cochin Shipyard. Does it mean the industries in central Kerala are non-compliant? No, they are complying. Around 85% of the taxpayers in Kerala are honest. None of them intentionally avoid tax. I have worked in many states, and compared to my experience in those states, I can confidently say that intentional evasion of tax is very low in Kerala. It is not that the taxpayers in central Kerala are not paying. The revenue from BPCL goes to the central excise department. Does the state receive a share of the central excise revenue? The state receives a share of the central government revenue through the Finance Commission. The state receives the entire amount collected through state GST and 60% of IGST. Apart from that, a share of central GST also comes to the state. What are Keralas strengths and weaknesses in GST? People in Kerala tend to litigate a bit. I tell chartered accountants and cost accountants that, in case of a dispute, they can pay the disputed tax along with interest and 15% of the disputed amount as penalty. No show cause notice will be issued. As they are not attempting to avoid tax intentionally, there wont be any penalty. Im trying to make people understand, Lets not litigate. Is litigation high here? No. Im bringing pending litigation to zero. Litigations, per se, are not high in Kerala. I went to the Thrissur Chamber of Commerce and they said it was the first time a chief commissioner had come to talk to them. I also visited the Kozhikode Chamber of Commerce and held discussions. People understand that when the department is coming two steps forward to shake hands, (it is best to) seize the opportunity. Where does the 20% increase in GST revenue come from? During the first five months, the additional revenue came from existing taxpayers. Ive only sown the seeds to increase the number of taxpayers and Im sure it will grow within the next three months. Which sectors are you targeting? Tourism, rental properties, hotels, restaurants, etc. Rs 20 lakh per year is not a big amount and every restaurant is earning more than this amount. Theres huge potential in the rental sector. Have you carried out any study in that regard? No. Im meeting representatives of the coir sector in Alappuzha, rubber sector in Kottayam and the cashew sector in Kollam. I tell them: We will facilitate your exports by putting up a fast-track channel. The exporters can seal the cargo at their factory. Its a one-time permission, valid lifelong. And then you can move the container to whichever customs station you want. In the customs sector, we get a revenue of hardly Rs 4,000 crore because revenue comes from imports, not exports. But Kerala is also one of the worlds biggest exporters of spices and cashew. Cashew was once the pride of Kerala. But today, Vietnam is number one. And Keralites who have shifted to Vietnam are running the business there. They moved out due to inadequate care and support. Exports can move through courier, post, or regular cargo. The director general of foreign trade (DGFT) has set an exports target of Rs 300 billion in the coming years, of which Rs 200 billion should come via e-commerce. Kerala, especially north Kerala, is ideally placed for this. Handloom, agriculture, handicrafts, artefacts... everything can be displayed online. Kerala has four international airports and two-thirds of its passenger traffic is international. You also have four notified minor ports: Azhikkal, Beypore, Kollam, and, of course, Cochin (Kochi). And now Vizhinjam. So, the exporters can use the nearest customs station to file the shipping bill, complete customs clearance, and then move the cargo to the major port. But there are reports that many exporters in Kerala are depending on the Mangaluru port? True. Exporters told me Kochi is too far and too costly for them, so they prefer Mangaluru. In fact, footwear exporters from Kozhikode are even sending cargo via Mumbai! Which means Kerala is losing revenue. Thats why I have been pushing for the use of minor ports. Whether or not a major shipping line calls there, our customs stations are available. Unfortunately, customs preventive units are only focused on anti-smuggling. Smuggling by boat from Dubai is history now, but our staff mindset hasnt changed. We are now training and re-orienting them. I told my officers: Your role is not just preventive. You can multitask. At Beypore, Azhikkal, Kollam... you can process shipping bills, allow clearance, and connect to the central server. Exporters dont need to go to Kochi every time. What are the advantages of Vizhinjam? Once Vizhinjam port becomes fully operational, south Kerala will transform into a true blue economy. Logistics operators, marine services, and shipping stakeholders will come. Our customs office was ready well ahead of the inauguration, and it is the second biggest after Kochi. But the import and export of cargo hasnt started. Operators say they dont have road connectivity. I told them they can move goods by barges to the nearest port, like Kollam. Im sure this is going to happen in the next three months. Vizhinjam port is strategically located and well get connectivity to the Far East, Southeast Asia, Europe, and the US. The freight charges are expected to decrease by 40%. Is Vizhinjam port a game changer? It is a game changer. Blue economy will rule south Kerala. My vision is that my customs stations should be ready to provide service. If you dont want customs clearance for your cargo at Vizhinjam, you can take it to Kollam by availing Sub Manifest Transhipment Permit (SMTP). The importer can produce the bill of entry and pay the duty to take the cargo. Who carries it to Beypore, Im not sure. The problem with Beypore is that the draft is low. Any study on exporters shift to Mangaluru? I have the data on exporters from Kozhikode and Kannur going to Mangaluru. I interacted with those in Kozhikode. They used to import dates through Beypore and palm oil through Azhikkal port. I told them, If you kill the trade in Kerala, other states will flourish. From Kochi, people are going to Mumbai. Exporters complain that labour cost and turnaround time are high in Kochi. Cant these problems pose challenges to Vizhinjam too? Vizhinjam can overcome that as it can handle a huge number of transshipments. How will the opening of Vizhinjam affect the Vallarpadam terminal? Vallarpadam is fighting for survival and will have to cut costs heavily. They have already decided to expand their business. I have offered them all support. We have worked out a plan with them too. And how to manage the draft problems at Azhikkal and Beypore are issues the state government has to address. I interacted with the chief secretary and other officials on these issues. Im very happy with the way the state government is cooperating to solve GST issues. Kozhikode airport was infamous as a gold-smuggling hub. Whats the status now? (Laughs) Now, there is no gold smuggling. I agree Kozhikode had a bad reputation. But the number of cases has come down recently. After March 24, we havent witnessed any gold smuggling at Kochi, Kozhikode, Thiruvananthapuram, or Kannur airports. The cases have come down at all airports. We havent seen any gold smuggling rackets or institutional arrangements for smuggling. There are sporadic incidents. It isnt profitable to smuggle gold now, at this rate. Which airport has the largest number of cases? As per the earlier data, it is Kozhikode. Still, I want to defend Kozhikode. The perception has to change. There are allegations that customs officers are involved in gold smuggling... I know there were some disputes between the customs and the police in the past. Because some people managed to escape without being caught by the customs department, does it mean that we are supporting smuggling? We cannot perform 100% checking. Can police say that customs knowingly allowed a person to escape? We have a good relationship with the police, why do you want to spoil it? Whats the economics behind gold smuggling? Is it only to evade tax? I dont know about Kerala. But in Mumbai, there are some people who buy gold abroad and send it through carriers, who are mostly genuine passengers. They send 10 consignments. The rate at which it is available is Rs 100. If I land in India, the rate will be Rs 124. Bringing gold in huge quantities was profitable due to the huge difference in duty. Now, the rate of profit is very low because the rate of duty has come down. If I catch them, I will get a 20% reward from the government. And the punishment for smuggling? One is that the entire gold goes to absolute confiscation. A penalty is imposed. Then we launch prosecution. There are two kinds of proceedings. One is quasi-judicial proceedings, where we adjudicate, and the entire gold is taken over. The other is criminal proceedings. He (the carrier) may be sentenced to three years imprisonment. He will be jailed and will have to pay a penalty. Is there no provision to pay the duty and get the gold back? No. We dont have the option to release the gold on payment of duty. In the airport, we dont collect revenue. You are allowed to take baggage and jewellery. If you are bringing 10 laptops, it will be considered a commercial trade. Hence, we will confiscate, impose duty, and clear them. In the case of gold, generally, absolute confiscation is done. If you have something to declare, you can. What happens to the confiscated gold? We had a huge stash of gold. Thanks to an initiative by the finance minister, theres no gold in customs warehouses now. As per the new procedure, we can dispose of the gold. The SPMCIL (Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India Limited) picks up the gold from our godowns, values it, and converts it into gold bars. It is delivered to the Reserve Bank of India for sale at market rate. Has there been any increase in drug trafficking through the sea? There hasnt been any report of smuggling at seaports. It isnt profitable. Whats your opinion on the customs department in Kerala? Many people have a wrong perception about the customs department. My experience is that Kerala customs is the best. There is absolutely no corruption. In Delhi and Mumbai, the officers have political and other pressure. Here, when I ask them to serve at the airport, they refuse. I couldnt understand why. After one month, I realised there is no corruption here, which is why people dont want to go to the airport. They are reasonably honest. Will GST rationalisation affect Keralas lottery income? The state government is the biggest taxpayer in Kerala. The lottery system here is state-run, and hence, the government pays a huge amount in GST. The rate of duty for the state-run and private lotteries is fixed. Earlier, there used to be a huge difference in the tax for the public sector and private sector. Of course, the rate of duty is high. And because of this, the state government has been listed as a taxpayer with the central government. It pays huge GST to the central government. Hence, lotteries are a huge revenue source for the GST department. Kerala is one of the largest consumers of jewellery. The annual consumption is around 750 tonnes. But GST collection is below Rs 1,500 crore. Many say there is a huge underlisting. Have you investigated that? Invoices are raised for business-to-business transactions. We have e-invoices. Thats done systematically. Business-to-customers is one area where some revenue leakage might happen because the customer wants cost reduction. The government launched a campaign emphasising on the need to obtain a bill for every purchase. Some economists say the consumption in white goods is not reflected in the tax... I partially agree with that. Considering the level of wealth in Kerala, there could be some leakage here and there. The DGGI needs to be alerted and sensitised about this. The more trade facilitation you do, you know its like a balance. Before we search any office or shop, we have to obtain permission from senior officers. What about the proposal to have an e-way bill to transport gold? Kerala was the first state to ask the GST council for it... The e-way bill was not applicable for jewellery and gold ornaments in India, but Kerala asked for it and it has been implemented. It is mandatory only in Kerala. The state government is responsible for it and we dont make e-way bill cases. The GST for banana fritters is 18% while other sweets and savouries are charged just 5%... The rate issues are political decisions. It is to be streamlined, rationalised, or corrected by the GST Council. You have to approach the finance minister of the state who attends the GST council. Food items, per se, are sensitive issues. TNIE team: Cithara Paul, Rajesh Abraham, Rajesh Ravi, Manoj Viswanathan, Harikrishna B T P Sooraj (photos) Pranav V P (video)

Indian seafood industry to tap alternative markets as US tightens tariff noose

KOCHI: In a bid to overcome the penalty tariff imposed by the US administration , the Indian seafood industry is planning to explore alternative markets and diversifying the products, said Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) chairman D V Swamy at a press meet in Kochi on Saturday. Noting that the countrys marine sector had overcome the US sanctions in the post-Pokhran scenario, Swamy said, We have to change our export strategy from single species, single destination, single market dependence to diverse products and diverse destinations. India has identified alternative markets in Russia, United Kingdom, Australia, Norway, Switzerland, China, West Asia and South Korea. The situation is changing and evolving and we cannot comment on its impact now. Ecuador, which has only 10% tariff, will not be able to replace Indian products in American market as we have a strong presence there. Ecuador has to meet the market demands in Europe and China. The exporters have raised concerns as buyers in the US and China have asked to hold consignments. We will take up the demand for increase in working capital, and moratorium on loans with the finance ministry, he said. Trump drops the tariff hammer The US and China are currently the major importers of Indias seafood, with America being the largest market of frozen shrimps (3,11,948 tonnes), while China imports 1,36,164 tonnes of Indian seafood. In 2024-25, India shipped 16,98,170 tonnes of seafood worth `62,408.45 crore (US $7.45 billion), with frozen shrimp sustaining its prominence as the top exported item in terms of quantity and value. Frozen shrimp (44%), frozen fish (20%), frozen squid, frozen cuttlefish, chilled items and live fish are the major seafood commodities exported by the country. Andhra Pradesh tops the chart with an export value of US $2,536.77 million, followed by Tamil Nadu (US $840.11 million) and Kerala (US $829.42 million). MPEDA director Ram Mohan M K and joint director (training) SKandan were present at the press meet.

Kerala fast turning into hub for hybrid ganja smuggling

KOCHI: Thanks to the Union governments decision to reduce the import duty on gold from 15% to 6%, gold smuggling through airports has seen a steep decline. However, Kerala is witnessing a spike in the smuggling of another contraband: hybrid ganja. From nil in 2022-23, 89.11 kg of hybrid ganja was confiscated in 2024-25 from airports in the state. This jumped to 129.68 kg in the first seven months of the current year. There has been a decline in gold smuggling, but the bigger concern for Kerala is the smuggling of drugs. Earlier, a state in the Northeast was infamous for drug consumption. But the picture has changed and Kerala is fast turning into a hub for consumption and transaction of hybrid or hydroponic ganja. Hydroponic ganja is the weed grown in lab conditions without soil. Its narcotic content is more than 40%. It comes mainly from Thailand. Every week we report two or three seizures at airports in the state, Chief Commissioner of Customs and Central GST (Kerala and Lakshadweep) Shaik Khader Rahman told TNIE. He said detections are only the tip of the iceberg and the actual volume of weed smuggled into the state could be much larger. We can only estimate volumes by analysing published data. The value of 1kg of hydroponic ganja in the international market is around `1 crore. Other major airports like Mumbai have also reported a spike in the smuggling of hydroponic ganja. As most of the ganja originates from Thailand, we have started checking flights from that country thoroughly. Now smugglers have changed their modus operandi. In some cases smugglers fly in from Dubai, said Rahman. Kerala: Hybrid weed smuggling outpaces gold after customs duty reduction Customs to introduce sniffer dogs to check baggage Considering the increase in volumes of hybrid ganja being smuggled into the state, the customs department has decided to introduce sniffer dogs to check baggage. Kochi airport already has two canines and the customs department has requested the Customs K9 establishment, under the Directorate of Logistics, to provide eight more dogs. We have forwarded the request and expect deployment of the dog squad within two months. We are planning deployment of two dogs each along with handlers to Thiruvananthapuram, Kannur, Kozhikode and Kochi airports, he said. We are eyeing the labrador, German shepherd and cocker spaniel breeds for the purpose.

It's official: Messi-led Argentina to play a friendly in Kerala in November

KOCHI: On one moment, off the next the Messi-coming-to-Kerala saga has kept fans on edge for nearly a year. Now, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has confirmed that Lionel Messi and Argentina's World Cup-winning will come to Kerala between November 10 and 18, 2025. Information about the 2025 international friendlies that will face the national team led by Lionel Scaloni: In FIFA date for the month of October, between the dates 6th and the 14th, will be played in the United States, and for the month of November, between 10th and 18th, in Luanda (Angola) and Kerala (India). Rivals to be determined, according to the official AFA announcement on X. Adding to this, AFA India posted on X: The Argentine National Team will visit Kerala this November as part of its international friendlies! A project we began over a year ago in Madrid with the Kerala Govt now opens a new chapter in AFA's global expansion. The announcements mark the strongest signal yet that Kerala will host Messi, after months of wrangling over finances and scheduling. Reports of delayed sponsor payments, and even allegations from the state that AFA was attempting to shift the tour to October 2026, had earlier cast doubt on the project. The Messi-ah of the beautiful game Kerala Sports Minister V Abdurahiman, who has spearheaded the effort since November 2024, confirmed that the venue will be the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram. Official confirmation has been received via official mail that the Argentina team, which won the Qatar World Cup, including Lionel Messi, will arrive in Kerala for a friendly match during the November 2025 FIFA International Window, he posted on X. This is a historic moment. The two options we had were either October or November. In between, they tried to push it to next year, but we stayed adamant in our demand as we aim to bring the 2022 World Cup winners here. India could get to see more of Messi The minister added that several top-50 FIFA teams had expressed interest in playing the friendly, with Australia emerging as the frontrunner. Other teams that are in the fray to play against Argentina are Saudi Arabia and Qatar. The officials are also trying to bring a Brazilian team. For Kerala, where the ArgentinaBrazil rivalry is woven into football folklore, Messi's presence would be nothing short of momentous. The last time Argentina played in India was in 2011 when they faced Venezuela at Kolkota's Salt Lake Stadium. FIFA World Cup: Creator and his creation Adding to the buzz is Messi's separate stand-alone trip to India in December 2025. From December 12 to 15, the Argentine captain is expected to visit Kolkata, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and New Delhi, where he will also meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi. That means India could see Messi twice in two monthsfirst in Kerala with Argentina, and then across four cities as part of a personal tour.

Aviation summit highlights potential of air taxis for Keralas urban mobility

Panel discussion on the first day of a two-day summit in Kochi explores the potential of air taxis, including helicopters, seaplanes, and eVTOLs for urban mobility

Adani Group Breaks Ground On Rs 600-Crore Logistics Park In Kochi

The project is being developed under the Invest in Kerala programme, with Gupta crediting Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan and the state government for creating an investor-friendly environment.

Fans wait with fingers crossed as Messi, Argentina 'set' for Kerala in November

KOCHI: On once, off the next the Messi-to-Kerala saga has kept fans on edge for nearly a year. Now, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has confirmed that Lionel Messi and Argentinas World Cup-winning squad are scheduled to play two international friendlies at the Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram, between November 10 and 18, 2025. Yet, going by past uncertainties, supporters are celebrating with cautious optimism. FIFA date for the month of October between 6 and 14 will be played in the United States. For the month of November between 10 and 18 will be played in Luanda, Angola and Kerala, India (rivals are to be determined), the AFA announced on X. The announcement marks the strongest signal yet that Kerala will host Messi, after months of wrangling over finances and scheduling. Reports of delayed sponsor payments, and even allegations from the state that AFA was attempting to push the tour to October 2026, had cast serious doubt on the project. Kerala Sports Minister V Abdurahiman, who has championed the effort since first announcing talks in November 2024, said earlier: This will be a historic moment not just for Kerala, but for the whole country. Generations of football fans have dreamt of watching Lionel Messi play in India, and it is finally happening. The Thiruvananthapuram fixtures are expected to draw record crowds, with tens of thousands of fans set to converge on Greenfield Stadium. For Kerala, a state where the ArgentinaBrazil rivalry is woven into football folklore, Messis presence would be nothing short of momentous. Adding to the buzz is Messis stand-alone trip to India in December 2025, reported last week. From December 12 to 15, the Argentine captain is expected to visit Kolkata, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and New Delhi, where he will also meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This means India could see Messi twice in two monthsfirst in Kerala with his national team, and then across four cities as part of a separate tour. For now, the ball is firmly in play. If all goes according to the latest script, November in Thiruvananthapuram will deliver the night Kerala fans have dreamt of for decadesMessi in their midst, in blue and white, under the floodlights of Greenfield.

Messi's Argentina To Play FIFA Friendly In Kerala This November

The match will take place between November 10 and 18, and it could happen in Kochi.

Wrongly nabbed, man alleges custodial assault

KOCHI: A man suspected of theft was allegedly subjected to brutal assault by police officials in Muvattupuzha, raising serious questions about the spirit of Janamaithri policing. Amal Antony, 35, of Vallikkada, was allegedly assaulted brutally by cops after he was taken into custody over suspicion of stealing an inverter battery from a flower shop in Muvattupuzha town. He was later released without any charges as the police found he was not guilty. The incident took place around noon on August 12, while Amal was having lunch at home with family. A team of about five to six police personnel arrived, parked their vehicle some distance away and behaved as if they were targeting a dangerous criminal, said Jiju, a resident. He said the team surrounded the house and allegedly dragged Amal out before taking him into custody. Amal alleged he was beaten up inside the police jeep on the way to the station. According to Jiju, the police might have suspected Amals involvement based on CCTV footage that showed him passing through the area with a battery on his scooter. It was only when details of the battery in the bill provided by the flower shop owner did not match the one that Amal had sold that his innocence was proved. The family has filed a complaint with the Ernakulam rural police chief, Jiju said. Kochurani, Amals mother, said her son works hard to feed his family and lives a peaceful life without causing trouble to anyone. They just had a baby, and it cant sleep even a minute without electricity. We had an inverter, but its battery had to be replaced. So, Amal took the old battery away, to either sell it or exchange it for a new one. Unfortunately, the same day, a complaint was filed of a battery theft from a nearby shop. Amal happened to pass by the area with the battery, and the police wrongly assumed he was the thief, Kochurani told TNIE. We told the police a thousand times that he was not a thief. However, they seemed more interested in the shop owners complaint and were determined to frame my son, Kochurani alleged. The police denied allegations of assault or mistreatment. We apprehended the person based on a complaint. He tried to evade arrest by running, and was taken into custody after a brief chase. At no point was he physically harmed. We have CCTV footage of him entering and leaving the police station without injury, said Basil Thomas, Muvattupuzha SHO. He said the arrest took place on August 12, but the person reportedly sought treatment two days later, and the formal complaint filed on August 21. We have evidence suggesting the person issued threats against police personnel demanding money, Basil said.

Amit Shah unveils BJPs Mission 2026 for Kerala

KOCHI: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday presented Mission 2026, a 21-point strategy for the BJP to secure power in Kerala in the 2026 assembly elections. Addressing the partys state-level office-bearers at Hotel Renai in Kochi, he said the BJP will present a development agenda before the people, which will offer a solution for the overall development of the state. The development alternative presented by Amit Shah offers a solution for the development, economic and security challenges faced by Kerala, BJP state general secretary M T Ramesh told media persons. The ultimate goal of the party is to form an NDA-led government in Kerala and the party will use the local body elections as the launch pad of the poll strategy, he said. Shah said the Kerala government failed to act on multiple internal security reports by central agencies. At the meeting, Shah called upon the state leaders to work at the grassroots unitedly. He said there was not short cut to victory and everyone should toil hard to achieve the goal. The BJP wins elections through hard work, not surprises. The same strategy will be implemented in Kerala too, he said. Shah said the Kerala government failed to act on multiple internal security reports by central agencies. Many organisations, including SDPI, are involved in extremist activities in the state. Though the Union government warned about such activities, the state government has not acted on such reports. Both the LDF and UDF are not serious about issues concerning national security, Shah alleged.

Kerala Aviation Summit 2025 to begin today

KOCHI: Taking a decisive step in shaping its aviation future, Kerala is hosting its first gathering of industry players. The two-day Kerala Aviation Summit 2025 will commence on Saturday at the Taj Cochin International Airport Hotel, Kochi. It is being jointly organised by Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI). The summit will serve as a platform to attract investment, foster innovation and lay out the states vision of becoming a global aviation and logistics hub. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will be the chief guest of the inaugural session to be held at 5.30pm. Industries Minister P Rajeeve will preside over the ceremony. Over two days, the summit will host eight panel discussions on critical themes such as drone integration, urban air mobility, and the role of seaplanes and helicopters in strengthening regional connectivity, with experts highlighting transformative opportunities in the sector. Sessions will also explore future-ready passenger services like biometric travel, AI-driven systems, and digital solutions, alongside discussions on cargo expansion, regional airport development, and renewable energy adoption. The second day will focus on tourismaviation linkages and innovations in air cargo logistics. The summit will conclude on Sunday at 12pm. The event comes at a time when the state government has prepared a draft aviation policy, outlining strategies for infrastructure development, regional air connectivity, drone usage, and emerging technologies in air travel. With this policy framework in the background, the summit will bring together policymakers, industry leaders, airline representatives, technology experts and investors to chart out Keralas aviation roadmap. The chief minister will also inaugurate the new Airport Health Office building at CIAL on Sunday.

Cop found drunk while on duty at Kochi airport

A department-level inquiry is under way

PM Modi, Amit Shah attack Oppn for criticising Bill seeking dismissal of tainted politicians

GAYAJI(BIHAR)/KOCHI, Aug 22: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah today attacked the political parties for opposing the Constitution (One Hundred And Thirtieth Amendment) Bill 2025, with Modi asserting that the practice of people in seats of power running governments from jail should be stopped. The attack by Modi and Shah over the controversial Bill came amidst fierce criticism by the opposition parties, including the Congress, which has termed the Bill as WMD weapon of mass [] The post PM Modi, Amit Shah attack Oppn for criticising Bill seeking dismissal of tainted politicians appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Govt has created an ecosystem to counter terrorism in J&K: Shah

Local recruitment in terrorist cadre now zero KOCHI, Aug 22: India will not compromise its farmers or wider national interests in any trade deal with the United States, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Friday, after Washington slapped new tariffs on Indian goods. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp Modi ji (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) has made it clear that any trade deal will not go above the interests of India, Shah said at a conclave in Kochi. [] The post Govt has created an ecosystem to counter terrorism in J&K: Shah appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

When Kochi's farmers welcomed Kadamban Moothan, the dancing deity

An eager crowd gathers as Veliyathunadu Junction, about 15km from the busy Kalamassery town, wakes up to a beautiful sunrise on Friday. Some trickle down the verdant fields, others round up at nearby tea stalls and grocery shops. They are waiting to welcome their beloved Kadamban Moothan. One can sense his arrival from a distance. The atmosphere changes. A pleasant breeze sweeps through the rustic locale. Birds coo and chirp in chorus, and the orangish-red sun peeps from the horizon. Kadamban Moothaan cheerfully calls out his arrival to the soil, the plants, the farmlands, and the farmers. The fictional agrarian deity comes dancing to the tune of folk songs, clad in full regalia made of dried grass, mats, sack pieces and a crown of straw. His face is painted green and golden yellow, evoking the lush paddy fields and flourishing farmlands. Farmers of Veliyathunadu with the actors of the street play As he ebulliently stomps the ground and the ecstatic crowd dances around him, the viewer is transported to the golden agrarian days we now read about only in storybooks. The fictional deity, who is the central character of a street play, was conceived by the Organic Theatre from the hinterlands of Thiruvananthapuram. Founded by S N Sudheer, a thespian and former television producer, the collective aims to promote sustainable agriculture and remind us about the intricate relationship between humans and soil. We have been performing in several places, from Thiruvananthapuram to Idukki and more. This is our fourth performance in Kalamassery, says Sudheer as he takes off the Moothan crown, panting after a spirited performance in the middle of a junction. He explains that the title Kadamban Moothan is derived from the idea of a motivational figure who inspires one to cross kadambakal (hurdles). This is Moothans fourth visit to Kalamassery. He has now become a darling force among the farmers here. Kadamban Moothan walks down a paddy field in Veliyathunadu Anyone can be the Moothan, anyone can don this crown and inspire generations to stand barefoot on this soil and enjoy the fruits of their toil. There are no religious, caste or gender barriers. One just has to be willing, Sudheer smiles. This year, Mani, a tribal woman from Thiruvananthapuram, is part of the play. She dons the dual roles of an elderly village woman and the palm reader in the play. She dances through all the musical portions, and is thrilled to see a big audience on a busy weekday morning. I come from Amboori, a tribal hamlet in the Agasthyakoodam valley, she says, obliging selfie requests from the crowd. Besides Moothan and the roles played by Mani, there is a farmer-father, his singer-daughter, and a villain named Idamthalan in the play. The story revolves around how the greedy Idamthalan machinates to uproot the farmer family from the soil. Then, Moothan comes to the rescue, vanquishing evil. Idamthalan is all around us and inside us. Its that part of our mind that makes us greedy, forget our roots, says Sanatha, who plays the daughters character. A scene from the street play The performances were thoroughly professional. They are unfazed by the incessant honking of vehicles on the busy street and perform with conviction. They underscore the need to respect the land, love the soil and remind everyone that we are all, at the end of the day, Mother Earths offspring. This year, Moothan & Co. has a tale of caution for Veliyathunadu, now known for flourishing mushroom farming along with traditional elephant yam, paddy, tapioca, spinach and snap melon (pottu vellari). We seek to remind people not to lose sight of the goal while chasing profit and fame, says Vijayan M P, the coordinator of Krishikkoppam Kalamassery. The goal is a self-reliant and self-sufficient Kalamassery, where we produce all the vegetables we need ourselves, and always remain pro-agriculture. People watching the street play As the one-hour drama reaches its thrilling climax, with village leaders and elders dancing to folk tunes alongside the characters, Moothan prepares to leave for the nearby village of Kunnukara. The venue is the Thenthuruthi Kavu temple, a serene space by a plantain farm. Here, too, people await eagerly. This time, Moothan carries a bunch of plantains on his shoulder and a cluster of pagoda flowers (Krishna kireedam flower) in his palm, calling out to the villagers to rejoice in their success while resisting greedful temptations. They sing, share stories, and dance. To the hope that as cities flourish, so will our farmlands, and our profound relationship with the earth. A scene from Kunnukara A scene from Veliyathunadu Residents of Kunnukara dance with Kadamban Moothan & Co. A scene from the play A scene from the play

Former Kochi Deputy Mayor Everest Chammany passes away

Amendment needed after Delhi CM continued to govern from jail, says Amit Shah

Kochi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday defended the 130th Constitutional Amendment Bill, saying it was needed to uphold political morality after Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal continued to hold office from prison before losing power in recent assembly elections. In the past 75 years, many Chief Ministers and Ministers have gone to jail, 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 .

Meet VFX designers Lavan and Kushan who are part of some of the biggest films in South India

Kochi-based VFX designers Lavan and Kushan Prakashan were part of the VFX team of the Telugu film Hanu-Man, which won the National Award in the AVGC category. Three other films they were involved in also won big recognition at the National Awards

Are Keralas seaplane ambitions set for takeoff?

For a state blessed with an extensive shoreline and a plethora of water bodies such as lakes, rivers and backwaters, operating seaplane services would be beneficial in boosting Keralas tourism prospects and aiding in its mission to become an aviation hub in the country. Though various proposals were mooted over the years, nothing concrete materialised until very recently. In 2024, a seaplane conducted a trial flight from the Kochi backwaters to Mattupetty dam near Munnar under the UDAN (Ude Desh ka aam Naagrik) scheme. Now, in yet another significant development, it has come to light that the state will be getting its first-ever seaplane service from Kochi to Lakshadweep. Ahead of the Kerala Aviation Summit this weekend, TNIE takes a look at the seaplane tourism possibilities in spots such as Kochi and Kovalam. A top official with the Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) says, The project will be managed by the Union government. We hear that it is likely to be implemented before the end of the year. Under the project, a 22-seater plane will be operated by Spice Shuttle, a subsidiary of SpiceJet, from Kochi to Lakshadweep. As per sources, the service is designed for the general public and tourists. A trip from Kochi to Lakshadweep is expected to cost `12,000. Tickets at a subsidised rate of `2,000 to `4,000 would be provided under the UDAN scheme, says the official. It is understood that SpiceJet has been given approval by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to operate in this sector. A similar model of the proposed Kochi-Lakshadweep seaplane, manufactured by De Havilland Canada, had been used to conduct the trial flight from Kochi to Mattupetty on November 11, 2024. According to a top tourism official, the much hyped seaplane project, which got wings after more than 10 years since it was first proposed way back in 2013 by the then Oommen Chandy government, is still on. It has not been shelved. The state government has received more than seven proposals from various interested parties to conduct the service. However, we have been told to draw up an operational policy framework by the DGCA to get the green signal to start the tendering processes, says the official. Several more routes have been proposed, such as Kochi-Wayanad and Kochi-Idukki. The other places that are being considered for the future expansion of the project are Kovalam, Ashtamudi Lake, Kumarakom, Idukki Dam, Punnamada, Malampuzha Dam, Banasura Sagar Dam, and Bekal. Though Kovalam is in the list, how the project would be planned remains to be seen, says Ajai Kumar K S, a tour leader and travel writer under the tourism Ministry. Kovalams inclusion is no surprise, but landing a seaplane here could be an issue as waterbodies like Veli or Akkulam lakes are not wide enough. That said, Neyyar dam is a possibility, he says. In 2022, KSEB had mooted an ambitious project that would have seen it operating seaplane and/or helicopter services between its dams and reservoirs. But nothing materialised. The seaplane project has its share of opposition too, as environmentalists have raised concerns that it could cause significant ecological disruption in environmentally sensitive areas.

Adaptive reuse: Magari transforms 80-year-old Kochi mansion into design store

Magaris new store revives Papali House, blending heritage warmth with contemporary furniture design

Amit Shah accuses opposition's VP candidate Justice Reddy of 'aiding' Naxalism

KOCHI: Union Home Minister and senior BJP leader Amit Shah on Friday accused the Congress-led alliance's Vice-President candidate Justice B Sudershan Reddy of supporting Naxalism, saying if he had not delivered the Salwa Judum judgement, extremist Left movement in the country would have ended before 2020. He was speaking after inaugurating the Manorama News conclave organised by Malayala Manorama group here on Friday. Shah said that, with the Congresss choice of candidate for the Vice-President post, the partys chances of winning in Kerala have further diminished. Sudershan Reddy is the person who helped Naxalism. He gave Salwa Judum judgment. If the Salwa Judum judgement had not been given, the Naxal terrorism would have ended by 2020. He is the person who was inspired by the ideology that gave Salwa Judam judgment, Shah said, referring to 2011 SC judgement on Salwa Judum, during a question answer session as part of the conclave. In December 2011, Justice Reddy of the Supreme Court ruled that using tribal youths as Special Police Officers--whether called 'Koya Commandos', Salwa Judum, or by any other name--in the fight against Maoist insurgents was illegal and unconstitutional. He also ordered that they be immediately disarmed. Shah said Kerala has faced the brunt of Naxalism. People of Kerala will certainly see that the Congress party, under the pressure of Left parties, is fielding a candidate who supported Naxalism and used a pious forum like the Supreme Court, the Home Minister said. INDIA bloc VP candidate: Jurist behind many landmark rulings and ex-chairman of Telangana caste census committee The ruling NDA has picked Maharashtra Governor C P Radhakrishnan, a seasoned BJP leader from Tamil Nadu with an RSS background, as its vice-presidential candidate . Shah responded to a question regarding the three recently introduced bills in Parliament, which the BJP describes as anti-graft legislation. There is nothing further to address on this matter. I have asked the people of the country in Parliament: do they want the Prime Minister to run the government from jail? What kind of debate is this? It is a question of morality. Now they are asking why it was not included in the Constitution earlier. When the Constitution was drafted, it was not anticipated that people who had been to jail would continue to hold elected office, he said. The Home Minister referred to the arrest of Arvind Kejriwal on graft charges while he was Chief Minister of Delhi, and to his refusal to resign after being jailed. Now, there was an incident where a Chief Minister ran the government from jail. So, should the Constitution be amended or not? There was also a BJP government in power, but we never faced such a situation, Shah said, indicating that if Kejriwal had resigned following his arrest, this new bill would not have been introduced. He also took a dig at Rahul Gandhi, claiming that the Congress leader had torn up an ordinance introduced by the Manmohan Singh-led UPA government in 2013, which sought to provide relief to MPs and MLAs who had been disqualified or convicted of a crime. At the time, the ordinance was brought in to help Lalu Prasad by Manmohan Singh. Rahul Gandhi, in the name of morality, tore up a cabinet-cleared copy of the ordinance in public. The same Rahul Gandhi is now seen embracing Lalu ji at Gandhi Maidan, Shah said. Regarding the 'vote theft' allegation, the Home Minister maintained that after Rahul joined the Congress leadership, he saw constitutional matters with doubt. On the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), a major overhaul of the electoral roll conducted by the Election Commission of India (ECI) in Bihar ahead of the 2025 Assembly elections, Shah accused the Congress of creating unnecessary controversy over the exercise. He claimed that the Congress had the opportunity to raise objections at the constituency, district, and state levels, but had not submitted any complaint on SIR so far. Regarding the implementation of SIR in other states, he said that it was for the Election Commission to decide. The EC has decided to conduct SIR across the country. In Bihar's voters' list, there were 22 lakh people who had died. There is a possibility that bogus votes would be cast. So, should their names be removed or not? It is a matter of common sense, he said.

No right to rest until India reaches the pinnacle, says HM Shah

Kochi, Aug 22: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said that under Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership Indias economy has moved up sharply, and called upon the people of the country to put in their utmost effort to take it to the top in every field in the world. He, however, expressed regret that [] The post No right to rest until India reaches the pinnacle, says HM Shah appeared first on Northlines .

No Right To Rest Until India Reaches The Pinnacle, Says Amit Shah

Kochi, Aug 22: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said that under Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership Indias economy has moved up sharply, and called upon the people of the country to put in their utmost effort to take it to the top in every field in the world. He, however, expressed regret that Kerala remains where it was 11 years ago, and blamed the stagnation caused by Communist ideology as holding back the southern state. Speaking after inaugurating [] The post No Right To Rest Until India Reaches The Pinnacle, Says Amit Shah appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Cusat launches Indias first MTech in Synthetic Biology and Biomanufacturing

KOCHI: Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat), in partnership with the CVJ Centre for Synthetic Biology and Biomanufacturing, on Thursday launched Indias first-ever MTech programme in Synthetic Biology and Biomanufacturing a landmark step towards shaping the countrys future in biotechnology. This cutting-edge, two-year postgraduate programme places India firmly on the global map of advanced biotech education, equipping students to design organisms, engineer biological systems, and scale biomanufacturing processes that drive the worlds fastest-growing bioeconomy. This forward-looking programme bridges engineering and biology in a way never attempted before in India, said Dr M Junaid Bushiri, vice-chancellor, Cusat. Through our collaboration with the CVJ Centre, we are offering students world-class training, exposure, and career pathways that will prepare them to lead the bio-revolution. The MTech curriculum blends genetic and metabolic engineering, computational biology, and bioprocess design with hands-on training in state-of-the-art labs. Students will undertake research projects and industry internships both in leading Indian companies and international partner labs ensuring direct exposure to real-world applications.

New power of attorney rule to let Keralites abroad start homestays in state

KOCHI: Until now, an archaic rule had prevented women from starting a homestay business in their houses, which were owned by their husbands who either worked abroad or in other states. But, soon that will change. Bringing hope to many homemakers who can earn a livelihood from the comfort of their home, a meeting of high-level officials of the Local Self-government Department, under the chairmanship of the director of tourism, Shikha Surendran, has decided to permit a wife or a husband to run a homestay on the basis of the power of attorney signed by their respective spouses. Speaking to TNIE, M P Sivadathan, president of the Kerala Homestay and Tourism Society (K-HATS), said that in the past, if a person wanted to start a homestay, they couldnt do so simply because the person under whose name the house was registered worked abroad or in another state. It has been a long-standing demand of K-HATS that an opportunity should be provided to the wife or husband to start a homestay if they have the necessary power of attorney from their spouses, who own the house. So we had approached the Tourism Department with the request, he said. It is welcome that the meeting of the high-level officials decided upon our request and will be issuing a government order in this regard, he added. Another issue K-HATS had raised was the difficulty of getting a licence for a serviced villa from some LSGDs in the state. Currently, if an application is made through K-Smart, as per the rule licence should be given for serviced villas. But some panchayat and municipality secretaries are creating issues. They are holding back the licenses, making flimsy excuses. More than a hundred applicants are waiting to get licenses for serviced villas even after completing all the formalities, said Sivadathan. At the meeting, the local self-government officials agreed to issue a new GO in this regard. At the meeting, it was decided to immediately issue a special order directing the panchayats to issue certificates to those who have applied for a license to run serviced villas. It has also been decided to It has been decided to send the information regarding the homestays and serviced villas that have obtained the Tourism Departments c; classification to the LSGDs. During the meeting, the tourism director informed that no property without the Tourism Departments classification should conduct business in the name of homestay, he added.

Form panel to make interim traffic management plan for clogged NH stretch: Kerala High Court

KOCHI: The Kerala High Court on Thursday directed that a committee be constituted to formulate an interim traffic management plan for the congested EdappallyMannuthy National Highway stretch near the Paliyekkara toll plaza. The Bench noted reports of a 12-hour block on the stretch and observed that a permanent solution must be found to address the issue. The court said: A monitoring committee should be in place to ensure that traffic is not affected. Perhaps because there is no toll at present, all commuters are opting to use this road. It also questioned why authorities could not restrict the movement of lorries during daytime, at least between 9 am and 6 pm, and suggested that heavy vehicles be diverted through alternative routes. The court directed the committee to hear the views of MPs, MLAs, and local authorities, even if they are not members of the body, before taking a final decision. It clarified that it would be within the committees discretion to decide whether daytime restrictions on lorries or diversions for heavy vehicles were necessary. The committee was asked to convene immediately and submit its suggestions by August 26. The court stated that it would consider extending the interim order suspending toll collection on the NH stretch. On August 6, the Bench had suspended toll collection at the plaza till September 6.

Advocate files police complaint against Rahul Mamkoottathil

KOCHI: Amid ongoing allegations against MLA Rahul Mamkoottathil , a formal complaint was filed against him at the Ernakulam central police station on Thursday evening. The complaint was filed by advocate Shinto Sebastian, who called for criminal proceedings against Rahul in the wake of alleged abortion claims through the media. Moreover, he also filed a complaint with the State Commission for Protection of Child Rights alleging that Rahul coerced a woman into undergoing an abortion. The complaint stated that a recently surfaced phone conversation between Rahul and the woman suggests he subjected her to both mental and physical abuse. It claims that multiple serious offences have been committed, falling under several grave sections of the law. The complainant highlighted that forcing someone to undergo an abortion is a punishable offence under Indian law and urged the authorities to register a case and initiate legal proceedings against the culprit. It was also stated that, given Rahuls political influence, he is likely to destroy crucial digital evidence. In response, Kochi city police stated that the complaint lacks clarity and that they are examining the legal aspects before proceeding further. We received a written complaint on Thursday evening. However, it lacks clarity, particularly because the woman involved has not filed any formal complaint so far, said the SHO of Ernakulam Central police station.

CPM, BJP mount attack on Congress over Rahul Mamkootathil misconduct allegations

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Even as Rahul Mamkootathil stepped down as Youth Congress state president, the CPM and the BJP have mounted attacks on the Congress for protecting the young MLA. While demands have come from various corners for Rahuls resignation as Palakkad MLA, the Yuva Morcha took out a protest march to Cantonment House, the official residence of Opposition Leader V D Satheesan. The Congress leadership cannot evade responsibility with respect to the sexual harassment allegations against Rahul, said CPM state secretary M V Govindan. The CPM leader said the Congress should respond to the allegations. Notably, the CPM didnt demand Rahuls resignation from the post of MLA. Its for the Congress leadership to decide whether the person facing such grave allegations needs to quit just the post of Youth Congress chief, said Govindan. The CPM leader said the Congress should seriously look into the allegations. Referring to the remark by a young actor that she had brought the issue to the attention of Satheesan one-and-a-half years ago, Govindan said, It seems the Opposition Leader failed to take the right stance in the matter. In such a serious matter, the Congress leadership chose a cold approach, he said. Meanwhile, Yua Morcha took out a protest march to Cantonment House in the evening, demanding Rahuls resignation as MLA. The Congress leader who have been all preachy about political morality, should seek Rahuls resignation, demanded Yuva Morcha general secretary Gokul Gopinath. The activists also burnt the effigies of Satheesan and Rahul. Despite a series of harassment complaints, Rahul Mamkoottathil continuing as MLA amounts to an insult to democratic society, said LDF convener T P Ramakrishnan. The Congress leaders who failed to take action against the leader, even after the issue was brought to their attention, too are equally guilty in the issue, Ramakrishnan said. Padmaja demands MLAs resignation Hours after Rahul Mamkootathil resigned as the Youth Congress Kerala president on Thursday, BJP leader Padmaja Venugopal said in Kochi that Rahul should step down as the Palakkad MLA too. Padmaja, the daughter of former chief minister K Karunakaran, said Rahuls was facing the curse of her mother, whom he had allegedly insulted in the past. Had he attacked my father, I could have tolerated it. But he targeted my mother, a woman who never stepped into politics. What he is facing now is the result of the curse from a poor womans heart, said Padmaja, adding that an MLA should be a person people feel safe inviting into their homes. If thats not the case, how can such a person continue in office, she asked. Training her guns on the Congress, Padmaja said, Though they took action against Rahul, it was more about saving face than standing by justice. Though there are no official factions in the party like I or A, leaders continue to favour those who serve their personal interests. Theres no sincerity left. Padmaja said the actor who had accused a young leader of inappropriate behaviour came out publicly only after filing a complaint with the party authorities. She alleged similar negligence in her case. The leadership claimed they never received any complaints. However, I had submitted a letter clearly naming those who conspired to defeat me, she said, referring to her losses in previous elections.

Cochin Shipyard to build hybrid-electric vessels for UK company

KOCHI: The Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL) conducted the keel-laying ceremony for a state-of-the-art hybrid service operation vessel (SOV) for North Star Shipping (Aberdeen) Ltd, UK. The ceremony was officiated by North Star Shipping chief technology officer James Bradford, who laid the keel in the presence of North Star Shipping special projects division head Michael Reid, director, finance, Jose V J, executive director Harikrishnan S and CSL officials. North Star Shipping is a pioneer in the offshore renewable vessels segment, committed to developing sustainable energy solutions in response to the global movement towards an environmentally friendly future. The 68m hybrid-electric SOV is designed in collaboration with VARD AS, Norway. The VARD 4 07 SOV is first of two SOVs being constructed by CSL for North Star. Built under the classification of DNV, the vessels are equipped with a hybrid electric system powered by lithium-ion batteries, fitted with electric cycloidal propulsion for enhanced manoeuvrability and modern walk to work gangway arrangement enabling safe and efficient personnel transfers in offshore environments. Once commissioned, the vessel is set to transform service, maintenance, and operational tasks in the offshore wind sector. It will serve as a multifunctional platform, combining accommodation, logistics, and maintenance capabilities. Key features Battery hybrid power management system DP2 class dynamic positioning system Capacity for 54 personnel, including specialised technicians and crew, with high standards of comfort on-board Dedicated facilities for wind turbine maintenance, ensuring efficient and safe operations Integrated warehouse and logistics centre, streamlining the supply chain and reducing downtime Advanced walk-to-work systems, enabling safe and reliable personnel transfers to offshore installations

Daughter of accused granted bail in womans death case in Kochi

New York-based theatre director Erin B Mee talks about her tryst with Kerala

On a balmy August evening, the halls of Lokadharmi Naadakaveedu in Vypeen, Kochi, buzzed with anticipation. Budding actors, theatre enthusiasts and students gathered for a rare opportunity: a workshop led by Erin B Mee, the acclaimed American director and founder of This Is Not a Theatre Company. Erin, whose career spans classical and experimental theatre in over 36 countries, is currently associate professor (drama) at The New York University Tisch School of the Arts. She was in Kerala recently to introduce her methodology: Viewpoints, a system of actor training that has reshaped ensemble performance in contemporary theatre. TNIE met Erin on the sidelines of this workshop to discuss her journey in theatre, the allure of immersive forms, her Kerala connection and more Erin B Mee Early years Im not sure when I first became interested in theatre, she begins. It was a slow process, starting in childhood. Growing up in New York, I could see Broadway musicals and experimental theatre. In high school, I saw Kerala Kalamandalam perform at the Asia Society on Park Avenue here and experienced Kathakali for the first time. That was transformative. For Erin, theatre has always been about exchange. What excites me is the interaction between performers and audience, between performers themselves, and even among audience members, she says. This, she also points out, is encompassed in Rasa theory, a cornerstone of Indian aesthetics which posits that art aims to evoke specific emotions or rasas in the audience. The exchange is of emotion, information, energy theatre thus is immediate, alive and deeply communal. This innate interest runs deep in the family. Erins father, Charles L Mee, became a renowned playwright, and her mother, Suzi Mee, had been an actress once. We exchanged stories and ideas at home, and my father took me to see all kinds of theatre, she says. Eventually, she adds, I realised theatre was something I wanted to pursue. And so I did. A montage of Erin B Mee's productions Tryst with India & the world Though Erin was involved in plays during college, the real formative experience began when she began developing new plays for a small theatre in New York, and later, at the Guthrie Theatre and the Public Theatre. I absorbed a little from here, a little from there, she recalls. I loved working on new plays but was also drawn to the rhythms and approaches useful in Greek drama, Shakespeare, and musicals. Each influenced my work in different ways, says Erin, who has directed plays in over 36 countries. Her connection to India began with a trip in 1991, initially intended as a break from her intensive work in New York. A friend suggested I attend a week-long festival organised by Kavalam Narayana Panicker in Thiruvananthapuram. I saw Koodiyattam, Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Bharatanatyam, Kalaripayattu, Theyyam, and a Sanskrit play by Bhasa. I was instantly captivated by a physically expressive, non-realistic style that was profoundly moving, Erin recalls. Over time, she studied these forms in depth and developed collaborations with Indian artists. A Fullbright fellowship soon followed, allowing her to work closely with Panickers company, Sopanam. During this time, she directed an adaptation of Faust. Ive enjoyed these collaborations immensely with Panicker, Mahesh Dattani, Chandra Dasan and several others. Artists in India, I noticed, approach work differently than in the US, and its endlessly enriching to observe and learn, she says. On her return to New York, not only did she carry shards of new learnings, but she had with her sheets of Malayalam and Indian plays, notably Panickers Ottayan and Girish Karnads Hayavadana, which she directed at the St Marks Theatre in 1992 and 1993, respectively. Girish Karnads Hayavadana @ New York This is Not a Theatre Company era In 2013, Erin founded This is Not a Theatre Company, a name inspired by Belgian surrealist painter Ren Magrittes work, Ceci nest pas une pipe (This is not a pipe). Under this banner, she explores immersive, site-specific and interactive theatre. We experiment with what is real, what is not real, and what theatre itself can be, Erin explains. Some projects have been in swimming pools, on ferries, and even based on Dadaist techniques of chance. The audience is often a co-creator. In Pool Play, audiences sat at the edge of the pool with their feet in the water for an exploration of Americas relationship with the swimming pool. Ferry Play, a site-specific audio play for the Staten Island Ferry, was included in The New York Times list of top ten fringe shows (2015). Later, in A Serious Banquet, Erin attempted to create a cubist theatre piece, inspired by painting and literary techniques. Her fascination with immersive theatre stems from its multi-sensory nature. Proscenium theatre primarily engages sight and sound. You sit in a chair, and you listen, and you watch, she says. On the other hand, immersive theatre, Erin points out, lets you also touch, taste and smell, which are deeply connected to memory and emotion. When the goal is to move people, these senses are invaluable. This, too, is rooted in her study of Rasa theory, she adds. Workshop @ Lokadharmi Naadakaveedu in Vypeen, Kochi Viewpoints & visits Erins current focus is Viewpoints, a methodology adapted from dance by Mary Overlie and later developed for theatre by Anne Bogart and the SITI Company. Viewpoints trains actors to create immediate connections among themselves and with the audience, working physically in an ensemble and participating actively in creating a production, she says. It is a philosophy and a practical tool, encompassing nine aspects of performance: tempo, duration, kinesthetic response, repetition (time), shape, gesture, architecture, spatial relationship, topography (space). Viewpoints is a philosophy of movement, a method of actor training. It is about speaking together in the languages of time and space, Erin explains. The workshop in Vypeen delved deep into this tool. The visit was not entirely work. I come back every year. For family. My husband is from Kerala, and we have extended family here, Erin says. And, of course, the commitment, curiosity, and depth of the artists I collaborate with here. These continue to draw me back. Her visits also act as a bridge, a catalyst, encouraging a perennial exchange of ideas and concepts. In 2017, Pool Play was introduced to audiences here during the International Theatre Festival of Kerala. Erin has also expressed an interest in doing more work here. On AI & its impact on art But how will theatre be in the future? Would it remain as we know it, or like many things, would AI shape that too? Probably not, Erin says. I had my students write plays using AI as an experiment. And they were terrible. Terrible! They were so bad, banal and boring that I dont actually think AI threatens anything artistic at the moment, she says. But she adds, I dont know what will happen with future upgrades though. Regardless of changes, Erin posits that creativity will still endure. AI cant do what actors and playwrights can. In the case of theatre, Im certain it will continue to thrive because of its communal and embodied nature, she says. To anyone interested in pursuing it, Erins advice is simple. I encourage immersion, curiosity, and continual practice.

Fuel extraction from sunken vessel MSC Elsa 3 to be completed by September 25

KOCHI: The extraction of fuel from container vessel MSC Elsa 3 , which sank into the depths of the Arabian Sea, 14.6 nautical miles off the Alappuzha coast, has reached an advanced stage and the task is expected to be completed by September 25, the Director General of Shipping (DGS) said in a release on Thursday. The depth of the sea where the ship has been located is 51 metres. The fuel extraction from the sunken vessel commenced on August 20 with saturation diving operations using advanced 'Diving Support Vessel (DSV) Southern Nova'. Specialized divers have been mobilised and preliminary activities have begun, marking a significant step in the process of fuel extraction and wreck management. The operation was suspended on July 12 due to adverse weather conditions experienced at the site due to South West Monsoon. A support vessel, 'Offshore Monarch, is assisting the Diving Support vessel in the fuel extraction at the site. Additionally, a tug, 'Canara Megh', has been deployed to monitor operations and enforce a one nautical mile exclusion (No-fishing) zone around the wreck site to ensure safe diving activities. Entry of fishermen has been banned in the one nautical mile radius around the site of operation. Despite challenging underwater conditions, the salvage team has successfully initiated the diving phase, which will continue in a phased manner, subject to weather and sea currents, the DGS said. As per the plan submitted by the SMIT Salvage firm engaged by the ship owners and the Protection and Indemnity insurer North Standard, the tentative timeline for oil removal and associated activities is set for completion by 25th September 2025. However, the progress remains weather-dependent. Environmental surveillance of the area is also being maintained through aerial, coastal and satellite monitoring in coordination with the Indian Coast Guard and State pollution control authorities. While no oil spills have occurred so far from the sunken vessel, precautionary measures remain in place, with response equipment on standby to address any eventuality. As many as 66 containers and other debris of MSC Elsa 3 have washed ashore the Kerala Coast till date, which have been safely removed by the Marine Emergency Response Centre (MERC) team appointed by the owners. No other containers or debris have been sighted along the coast at present. The shore-side cleanup efforts by the MERC team to remove the plastic nurdles along the Kerala and Southern Tamil Nadu Coast progressed very well with the help of more than 500 volunteers per day. So far, 655 tons of plastic nurdles have been collected from the coastal areas and kept segregated for disposal, he said.

Plan to set up Judicial City in Kochi gains momentum

Kerala has finalised the design for its ambitious Judicial City project in Kalamassery, a transformative initiative expected to take 1015 years to complete. Planned on 27 acres under HMT Ltd, the sprawling campus will feature a 28-lakh-sqft High Court complex, a judicial academy, and a mediation centre. Although the land is currently under litigation, the state government is confident of receiving legal clearance soon. If not, it is prepared to deposit compensation in court and proceed with the project. The idea of the Judicial City was first proposed by the Kerala High Court administration, which has long grappled with severe space constraints at its current location near Marine Drive in Ernakulam. Expansion at the existing site is no longer feasible due to the lack of adjacent land, pending notification of eco-sensitive zones, and competing development projects such as the proposed Exhibition City. Against this backdrop, in February last year, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and then Kerala Chief Justice Ashish Jitendra Desai endorsed the proposal to relocate the court to Kalamassery a centrally located area with significantly better connectivity. Law Minister P Rajeeve describes the move as long-term but unavoidable. This is not an overnight plan. It is a project for the future, to ensure Keralas judiciary has the space and infrastructure it requires for decades to come, he tells TNIE. P Rajeeve The design is ready. The land issue is being addressed, and if required, the government will deposit the compensation amount in the Supreme Court and move ahead. We have done this before, in the SeaportAirport Road and Sutherland projects on the same tract of land under HMT. We will do it again. Rajeeve informs that the state has already constituted a four-member committee comprising representatives from the government and HMT to expedite discussions. The HMT land lock The PSUs vast land bank in Kalamassery has been a source of umpteen disputes and disagreements for decades. Of the 900 acres originally handed over to HMT in the 1960s, successive state governments have sought portions for public projects. Today, only 27 acres that can be directly sold remain in HMTs hands. Any transfer of additional land requires the Union governments permission. P Krishnadas, secretary of the HMT Employees Union (CITU), acknowledges the long-standing dispute but views the Judicial City as an opportunity for change. HMT-Bengaluru has been selling its land at its Kalamassery unit and taking away the money, while the state has gained nothing, he alleges. If the state can reclaim land for a project of this stature, it will finally benefit the people of Kerala. Metro connectivity, underpass at HMT Junction Connectivity is key for a project of this scale, and the government is planning accordingly. The proposed Judicial City will sit alongside the busy SeaportAirport Road, with plans to decongest the HMT Junction through the construction of an underpass. Equally significant is the proposal to integrate the Judicial City into the Kochi Metro network. We are actively considering metro connectivity to the site, says Rajeeve. This will make access seamless for judges, lawyers, staff, and the public. A feasibility study is on the cards. Advocates object Not everyone is convinced. Sections of the legal fraternity have expressed concerns about relocating from the current location, citing convenience, tradition, and traffic congestion in Kalamassery. Lawyer Nandakumar M R, secretary of the Kerala High Court Advocates Association (KHCAA), points out the legal wrangle over the parcel of land. The matter is before the Supreme Court. Unless the issue is settled, plans to move the High Court to Kalamassery would be premature, he says. KHCAA president Yeshwanth Shenoy has been more vocal. As long as the general body (of KHCAA) continues to have a voice, the High Court of Kerala is not shifting to Kalamassery or elsewhere, irrespective of whether it is the chief minister or the law minister who is interested in it, he had said when the proposal came up in February last year. In fact, the association raised a barrage of criticism in a petition filed in the High Court last year. A tract of land under HMT Ltd. where the Judicial City is proposed. The advocates need to be taken into confidence even while planning such moves: The opposition of advocates solely arises because of the total lack of consultation with the advocates. Judges spend 10-15 years on an average in any High Court, but it is the advocates who spend a lifetime. Yet, no one thought it necessary to consult the association before any decision was made, the petition noted. The advocates do not see any reason for the change, the advocates see wastage of hundreds of crores and also further expenditure of public funds without any adequate reasoning and consider it necessary to hold persons accountable. The association also noted that the 2023 state budget allocated about `2,000 crore for a commercial and residential complex on Housing Board land. The High Court had apparently requested this land for expansion. The intent of the Government is clear that they do not want to part with that land. The land has to have buffer zones and cannot be developed for commercial interests, the petition highlighted. The only development would be for sovereign requirements and the High Court would fully qualify for the same and we suggest that we continue to pursue this land. In any case, there are many other lands around the present building that can be made available to the High Court provided the government has such an intent. Former acting chief justice of the Madras High Court, K Narayana Kurup, also sounds a note of caution. It should not be like transferring the handicap from one leg to another. The existing structure is alright for now. If we are to move, there must be proper parking and wider roads leading to Kalamassery. A detailed study by competent people is essential, he tells TNIE. Rajeeve, however, remains unfazed. Any major initiative will have objections from some quarters. That is par for the course, he says. What matters is the long-term interest of the state and its people. We will address all legal and logistical challenges as we move forward. Notably, the government has already committed `109 crore for land acquisition and has held multiple rounds of consultations with HMT and the judiciary. A site inspection earlier this year by a team of High Court judges, along with senior ministers, further cemented confidence in the project. If completed as planned, the Judicial City will be a first-of-its-kind initiative in India, bringing together judicial institutions, training academies, and mediation facilities under one roof in a purpose-built campus. For Kerala, the Judicial City is more than just the relocation of the High Court. It is a statement of intent: that justice deserves not just dignity in its delivery, but also world-class infrastructure to flourish in.

Documentaries and shorts in focus

Year 2008. Kerala was already the ground for an acclaimed international film festival. Yet, the ministerial meeting, headed by then Cultural Affairs Minister M A Baby, felt there was a space within the cinematic fold that awaited to be unfolded. A space that holds promise enough to mark milestones in the days to come. A space where creativity and visual grammar would thrive in small and short frames. FTII memories: 'An Ode to The Saree'. A sweet from the shorts: 'Basanti Tailors'. Thus was born the International Video Film Festival of Kerala (IVFK). It was held at Kalabhavan theatre and the nearby Trans Towers in the Vazhuthacaud area of Thiruvananthapuram. We had to make makeshift arrangements. Media had to be invited, as they were more tuned towards the IFFK. As for the delegates, we had to go to campuses or use our touring talkies to promote this festival. Yet, we felt this area is where prospects lie, says C Ajoy, secretary of Kerala State Chalachitra Academy (KSCA), who was a programme coordinator in 2008 when the first edition of the International Documentary and Short Film Festival of Kerala (IDSFFK) was envisaged. From Anime series: 'A Walk into the Afterlife'. More of Anime: 'Thaniye' From there, it has been a long and rapturous route for the festival. It is now a grand assemblage of 250 filmmakers and a launch pad for up-and-coming filmmakers. There is a space for all students from film schools who want to showcase their work, internationally acclaimed filmmakers who are committed to this genre, as well as admirers of documentaries and the short versions, he says, adding the day is soon coming when the IDSFFK will break free from Kairali complex, the single-venue it is held at now, and will move to multiple screening venues much like the IFFK. This years festival, marking its 17th edition, features an enticing lineup of 332 films from 54 countries, organised into 29 sections. Aspiring filmmakers, first-time directors, and acclaimed ones are included in the list, which also features some hallmark entries that have made a mark in global venues. One is an attractive package of 18 animation films, as a collaborative effort between Annecy International Animation Film Festival and the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy (KSCA). Newspaper to Novel: 'A Savage Art'. The France-based Annecy festival is said to be the worlds largest animation festival, and IDSFFK will showcase films from its latest edition. Last year, too, we had an officially curated package and showed films screened at Annecy. However, this time, apart from a package on animated films, we are also collaborating with Annecy to show their best pick here, says H Shaji, KSCA deputy director (Festival). Another highlight of the 17th IDSFFK is the interesting pick of 13 films titled A Room of My Own, which is a digital memory project on the women of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune. The package promises a punch, showcasing various facets of women filmmakers. Films here include Koel Sens coming-of-age, a documentary, where she reflects on her campus life in a predominantly male batch, to Ode to a Saree, a short film by Parvati Nayar (Menon), the first woman to study advanced direction at FTII. Campus take: 'Poovu'. IDSFFK 2025s Election Dairies package is a collection of six films that track the 2024 general election from various issues. From queer rights, the redefining of election symbols in Tamil Nadu, to following the campaigns of Keralas Thomas Isaac and West Bengals Mohua Mitra, the clutch delves deep into the heat and beat of the Indian election scene. Another highlight is the package on Cartoon: Newspaper to Novel, chronicling the life of Patrick Oliphant, one of Americas renowned political cartoonists. Apart from these, our regular categories have seen at least a 10 per cent increase in entries. The campus selection is a discerning mix of 10 films. There are films from KR Narayanan Institute, Neo Film School, Kochi, and South Indian Film Academy, also from Kochi, says festival programme assistant Bharath Jayakumar. Election Diaries: 'A State of Hope'. This years edition will also see the Indian premiere of the award-winning documentary Turtle Walker, written and directed by Taira Malaney. The doc follows the life of conservationist Satish Bhaskar, who embarked on a journey across coastlines in the 1970s to save sea turtles from extinction. As one of the few festivals focusing on the documentary and short film genre, IDSFFK is an ideal ground for youngsters to hone their skills, says Shaji. The festival is quickly becoming home to youngsters who are finding their way to being acclaimed filmmakers. Zakariya Mohammed of Sudani from Nigeria fame and Fazil Razak, who made Thadavu are examples, he says, adding that workshops and meets with veterans will be held alongside the festival for up-and-coming filmmakers. Lifetime Achievement: Rakesh Sharma Rakesh Sharma, who will be conferred with the lifetime achievement award this year, feels the trajectory of the festival is also reflective of the growing popularity of the genres. It is a heartening sign. More so because the crowd here are youngsters, who are sensitive to the issues around them and the twists and turns in society. At a time when there is a growing intolerance in the country, this trend is such a welcome sign, says the veteran whose four films Final Solution, Final Solution Revisited, Democracy in Crisis, and Aftershocks are being shown at the festival. The space here is unique because elsewhere, there is a lack of independent voices, Rakesh observes. I learnt from masters such as Shyam Benegal, with whom I worked on Bharat Ek Khoj. And over the years, the medium I chose was documentaries, although the grammar and technique are the same. The genres and subgenres of this stream are now gaining popularity, and people are coming forward to even buy tickets to watch documentaries. The docu-drama genre, being made popular by the OTT stream, is also adding to this, he notes. Premiering: 'Turtle Walker'. Globally, documentaries are seeing a growth spurt, with a generational shift being witnessed in viewership and the demand for informative content. According to TechSci research reports, the global documentary television market was at $11.65 billion in 2022. It predicted a 5.5 compound annual growth rate till 2028. Fuelled by viewer preferences, technological advancements, and great cheer for real-life storytelling, not just the OTT platforms but even global forums such as the International Documentary Festival Amsterdam (IDFA), arguably the largest documentary film festival in the world, are witnessing a huge Indian presence. Premjish Achari, curator and filmmaker, says this interest is a mark of a society that wants to know more. Short films come with the challenge of telling a story in as little time as possible. With social media on the rise, this pattern has surely seen a surge, he says. However, what is more conspicuous is the interest in documentaries, which straddles the world between journalism and films, he adds. That the facts could be explained as a visual story is what probably attracts more viewers, he says. This shows that society is curious to know more, and curiosity is what aids growth, he concludes.

Actor alleges indecent conduct by Congress leader Rahul Mamkootathil

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM/KOCHI : In what could open up a new scandal in state politics, actor Rini Ann George has raised serious allegations of misbehaviour against a young politician, albeit without naming either the leader or his party. While refusing to divulge more details about the leader, the actor indicated that he was recently elected as a peoples representative and that allegations against him had recently surfaced on social media. The said leader has been at the forefront of agitations and television discussions, she said. Addressing the media in Kochi on Wednesday, she said no action was taken against him despite having raised the issue with the office-bearers of his party. It isnt a one-off instance. He is a habitual offender and people around him have even discussed his behaviour. Yet the response remains, Who cares? Rini said. If the party has even a shred of integrity, they should take action. I know many women who were exploited and have experienced such issues. Even if I name the person, I dont think justice would be served, she said. The actor alleged that the leader has been sending her obscene messages over the past few years, starting with a social media interaction nearly three and a half years ago. Rini stressed her intention was not to target any specific party, but to call out problematic attitudes towards women in the political space and society at large. Right from the beginning of our chats, he started texting obscene messages. I was shocked because we hadnt even met in person, Rini said. I warned him initially, and even advised him, saying he had a promising future and should stay away from such behaviour. But instead of stopping, he asked me what had happened to political leaders who were accused of rape cases. We are to be blamed. We elect such people to power. So these young leaders believe they can get away with anything. We need to rethink. Women need to think. We should vote for women leaders, and pro-women leaders should be elected. According to Rini, despite the matter being raised with the office-bearers at the time, the leader went on to receive positions within the party. I was asked to come to a five-star hotel. When I refused firmly, he went silent for a while, only to resume his behaviour later, she alleged, adding that the messages continued until February this year. The actor said she initially chose not to pursue legal action, opting instead to let the matter pass. However, she decided to speak up after learning that several other women, including those within the party, had reportedly experienced similar behaviour from the same person. Rini, who played the female lead in the film 916 Kunjoottan released this year, had earlier shared her experiences in an interview. As of now, she has not filed any formal complaint.

CM Pinarayi Vijayan to inaugurate work of Adani Logistics Park in Kochi

KOCHI: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will inaugurate the groundbreaking ceremony for the Adani Logistics Park in Kalamassery on Saturday. The Adani Group will invest around Rs 600 crore to develop the park on a 70-acre site near the HMT industrial area. Senior officials of the group, including Ashwani Gupta, CEO of Adani Ports and SEZ Ltd, Pankaj Bhardwaj, business head of Adani Agri Logistics Ltd, and Pradeep Jayaraman, CEO of Adani Vizhinjam Port Pvt Ltd, will attend the function. All approvals have been cleared, including long-pending concerns of residents over road access, Industries Minister P Rajeeve said. The project can generate direct employment to at least 1,000 people, besides many more indirect jobs, he said. Officials said Kochis connectivity and proximity to Cochin Port and Vizhinjam makes it attractive for logistics investments. The project site has a controversial past. HMT sold the land to Blue Star Realtors, a subsidiary of real estate developer Housing Development and Infrastructure Ltd (HDIL) in 2004-05 for an IT project. The deal ran into rough weather after HDIL slipped into bankruptcy. In December 2018, Adani Group acquired Blue Star Realtors.

BJP targets 20 per cent local body wards; Amit Shah to monitor poll strategy

KOCHI: Amid the vote theft allegations raised by the Congress and the Left parties, the BJP is toiling at the grassroot level to enrol party sympathisers in the voters list for the upcoming local body elections in Kerala. And the master strategist behind the preparations: Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who is set to visit the state on Friday. Amit Shah ji had given us some assignments during his visit to Thiruvananthapuram in July. He will review the progress of our work on Friday, a senior BJP leader said. This will be a continuous process. He will be reviewing the election preparations on a monthly basis. The BJP has drawn up an ambitious plan to win at least 20% of the local body wards in the state. The party hopes to capture power in Thiruvananthapuram and Thrissur corporations, 25 municipalities including Palakkad, Tripunithura and Pandalam and around 300 panchayats. On Friday, Shah will address a gathering of core committee members, state-level office-bearers, state presidents of Morchas, regional organising secretaries, district prabharis and presidents at hotel Renai in Kochi. State prabhari Prakash Javadekar and assistant prabhari Aparajitha Sarangi will participate in the meeting which will formulate the action plan for election preparations. The BJP lost many wards by fewer than 25 votes in the 2020 Kerala local body elections. Besides, the party had secured the lead in many panchayats in districts like Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha, Thrissur and Palakkad in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. Special attention is being given to these panchayats and the presidents of the partys 30 organisational districts have been tasked with identifying party strongholds and inspiring party supporters to involve themselves actively in the preparations. The election results do not reflect our real influence as many of our supporters are armchair strategists. Besides, thousands have joined the party through our online platform. If we can bring all of them to the polling booth, the result can be amazing. We have reconstituted the ward-level committees and the process of enrolling people in the voters list is progressing, the BJP leader said. The party had gained power in 22 panchayats and two municipalities in the previous elections. It has around 1,200 ward members in the state. Party sources said the preparations for assembly elections will start only after the local body polls. It is learnt that around 20 senior leaders have identified their constituencies and have started preparations at the ground level. Local bodies in Kerala No of panchayats: 941 Wards: 17,337 Municipalities: 87 Wards: 3,241 Corporations: 6 Divisions: 421 Block panchayats: 152 Wards: 2,267 District panchayats: 14 Wards: 346 BJPs power target 300 panchayats 25 municipalities two corporations

Amit Shahs visit: traffic regulations in Kochi

Discontent brewing over move to turn Marine Drive into a street vending zone

Kochi Corporation completes demarcation of areas for street vending carts on around 75% of the proposed vending zone along eastern side of Shanmugham Road, including Marine Drive

Ernakulam teens become first Keralites to play in Minigolf World Championship

KOCHI: Walking out onto the greens at the Neheim-Husten golf course in Arnsberg, Germany, teenagers Aaron DSilva and Paul J Ponmattam on Tuesday etched their names in history as the first-ever Keralites to compete in the Minigolf World Championships. Its really amazing I have been selected for this, Aaron, 17, told TNIE, sharing his excitement ahead of the competition. Having started golfing at the tender age of eight, this mini superstar has slowly worked his way up, winning several accolades at the state and national levels. My father works with CIAL (Cochin International Airport Limited) and he used to take me to the golf course there. It is there that I picked up the passion for golfing, said Aaron, a student of Kendriya Vidyalaya No. 2 in Kataribagh, Kochi. He also represented the country in the Asian Golf Championship held in Thailand last year, giving him the confidence required to compete internationally. My parents are the backbones of this achievement, Aaron said. Paul, 14, a resident of Angamaly, expressed a similar sentiment. He has only been golfing for three years, but has already emerged champion in many competitions. Paul bagged gold at the national minigolf championship held in Salem, which gave him the ticket to his first international event in Germany. Im looking forward to meeting new challenges. Being in an international competition will give me more exposure and experience. Im really excited, said Paul, a student of The Charter School, Pukkattupady. Aaron The championship is slated to run through to August 23. And while the two champs are setting history, their coach at the CIAL Golf Course in Nedumbassery Madesh Krishna is a delighted man. It is indeed a great achievement for the children to be able to participate in such a fantastic competition, Madesh said. Played in rounds of 45 minutes or less, minigolf is a smaller version of traditional golf. It emphasises on putting, that is hitting the ball with a shorter club called putter into the holes from a short distance, while navigating natural and installed obstacles. Minigolf is played in smaller golf courses than the sprawling traditional fields. Madesh pointed out that there are many more talented children doing well in golf. But the expenses involved in attending competitions and a lack of sponsorship are hindrances for upcoming golfers in the state, he added.

Social media erupts in joy as Mammootty returns

KOCHI: The hiatus is over, and Mammootty is back in the limelight. Those close to the actor on Tuesday took to social media to welcome him back after a long absence from the screen and amid speculations regarding his health. Confirming there are no concerns, his personal assistant George S posted on Facebook, alongside a photograph of the superstar with folded hands: I stand before you with folded hands and tears of joy. For everyone who prayed, who stood with me, and consoled me, with endless love, thank you. Earlier in the day, producer Anto Joseph also took to the platform to express gratitude to everyone and God, saying, Prayers from all around the world have been answered. Mohanlal posted a candid photo that had him sharing a light moment with Mammootty. Actors V K Sreeraman and Manju Warrier, besides many others, expressed their joy on social media, leaving fans excited about the return of the megastar. Ministers P Rajeeve and Veena George, Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan and senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala also welcomed his return. Now, the attention is back on Mammoottys upcoming projects: Mahesh Narayanans star-studded Patriot, in which he will share the screen with Mohanlal, and Jithin K Joses Kalamkaval.