Awareness programme on IURWTS implementation in Greater Kochi area on August 11

The project aims at reviving six canals in the city at a cost of 3,716.10 crore

Four Malayalam films set for Onam release as industry hopes for box office revival

KOCHI: With four Malayalam films scheduled to be released this Onam season, industry stakeholders have their fingers crossed, eager for strong box office performances. Given that cinemas in the state have been struggling for footfall since Mohanlal-starrer Thudarum went off the screens, film buffs too are waiting to see another Mollywood blockbuster. Lined up for release are Hridayapoorvam , Odum Kuthira Chaadum Kuthira , Lokah , and Maine Pyaar Kiya . Industry insiders believe that these films, with proven as well as fresh faces headlining them, have the potential to attract audiences. Hridayapoorvam is a much-anticipated film. A Fahadh Faasil film too is set for release. Also, the audiences now dont look for names and stars. If the content and story are good, they will come to the cinemas. We expect a good box office collection for the upcoming films, producer and theatre owner Liberty Basheer told the TNIE . The Mohanlal-Sathyan Anthikad combos Hridayapoorvam is set for release on August 28 while Odum Kuthira Chaadum Kuthira starring Fahadh and Kalyani Priyadharshan, Lokah featuring Naslen and Kalyani Priyadarshan, and Hridu Haroon-Preity Mukhundhans Maine Pyaar Kiya will be released on August 29. These films are of four different genres, said K Vijayakumar, president of the Film Exhibitors United Organisation of Kerala (FEOUK). The audience will also have an opportunity to watch different films on various subjects. Also, we have high expectations for Rajinikanths Coolie , which is set for an August 14 release. Balti , starring Shane Nigam, too was slated to be released ahead of Onam, but it has been postponed. For the past few months, the cinemas in the state have been struggling as there arent any hit films. Mohanlals Thudarum , which was released in April this year, was the last superhit Malayalam film. The box office collection of Ronth was relatively better. We expect the Onam releases to breathe life back into cinemas in Kerala, Basheer added. After Thudarum , the cinemas in Kerala have been empty, pointed out Vijayakumar. The other language films released recently havent been able to bring in audiences. The new films will hopefully solve the financial crisis cinemas are currently facing, he said. Tovino Thomas Ajayante Randam Moshanam , Antony Vargheses Kondal , and Kishkindha Kandam starring Asif Ali and Vijayaraghavan were the Onam releases last year.

Difficult to stay away from stage, Kalamandalam Gopi set for a comeback

KOCHI: Four months after announcing his decision to retire from the stage, Kalamandalam Gopi, the doyen of Kathakali, is all set to return to the stage. He will be performing as Kuchela in Kuchelavritham at Evoor Major Sri Krishna Temple near Kayamkulam on September 14, Ashtami Rohini Day. After retiring from stage I have been receiving invitations from kathakali lovers across the state. But I am not able to perform as I cannot stand for more than five minutes due to acute pain in my knees. I accepted this invitation as the programme is on Ashtami Rohini day, the birthday of Lord Krishna and the character is that of Kuchela. I cannot perform Pacha (Satvika) roles as it is difficult to wear the heavy headgear and elaborate costumes. The role of Kuchela is simple as the only costume is a dhoti. The character has to walk through the aisle and can sit beside Krishna for the rest of the play, said the 88-year-old artist. Born at Kothachira in Palakkad district in 1937, Kalamandalam Gopi, has been celebrated as the evergreen hero of kathakali and has been active on stage for seven decades, popularising the traditional artform and winning fans across the globe. After graduating from Kalamandalam at the age of 20, Gopi joined the institution as a teacher and retired as principal in 1992. He has been honoured with Padma Shri, Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, Kerala Sangeet Nataka Akademi Award, Kalamandalam Fellowship and the Kalidas Samman (2011). He acted in three movies and renowned director Adoor Gopalakrishnan has made a documentary on his life. His last performance was at Kottakkal Viswambhara temple in April 2024, where he played the role of Kuchela. The last elaborate performance was at Guruvayur Sree Krishna Temple where he portrayed Bahuka in Nalacharitham. It is difficult for an artist to stay away from stage. I want to continue but health issues are causing difficulties. I wont say the programme at Evoor will be my last performance, but I have not accepted any other invitation. I have some age-related difficulties and cannot travel often, said Gopi Asan.

Artificial intelligence cannot replace human factor, says IIM-Kozhikode director Debashis Chatterjee

KOCHI: AI cannot replace humans in terms of leadership as it requires humanitarian qualities, said IIM-Kozhikode director Debashis Chatterjee. He was speaking at the Mindful Leadership Masterclass on the topic Explore the essence of the human factor in an AI world. In an era, that is increasingly being defined by predictive algorithms, it is a leaders responsibility to preserve the human factor. The corporates need a dedicated reflection time to cultivate high-potential leaders who can navigate uncertainty and create value in ways AI cannot replicate, he said. The author and columnist talked about how mindfulness and self-awareness play a major part in effective leadership at the event held in JW Marriott Hotel, Kochi. He added that while AI can play by the rules and logic -- with the incorporation of abundant data -- use traditional technical skills and make analytical decisions, a human mind is needed to understand the context of things, work with insights, think critically and serve accordingly. Ultimately, what the advent of AI does is that it will push us to a point where one gains the ability to function with their intuitive senses, beyond all data, in every case. Algorithm does not have awareness, he said. The class conducted by IIM-K, was attended by leaders and over 150 professionals from a wide spectrum of institutions in Kochi, including Air India, Cochin Shipyard Limited, Cochin International Aviation Services Limited (subsidiary of CIAL), Steel and Industrial Forgings Limited (SIFL), Kerala Electrical & Allied Engineering Co Ltd (KEL), Travancore Cochin Chemicals Ltd (TCC), FACT, Federal Bank, ESAF Bank, KSIDC, and KSEB. The event also featured the release of Chatterjees latest book One Minute Wisdom, on transformative coaching for life, learning and leadership.

KSRTC to deploy AI-based software for bus scheduling to curb bunching, cut losses

KOCHI: The KSRTC, which often catches flak for bus bunching where two or more buses on the same route travel closely together thereby affecting revenue has decided to take the help of artificial intelligence (AI) to solve the problem. The state-run carrier is set to implement an AI-based software to manage its bus schedules. Were in the process of purchasing software that supports AI. The primary review and technical examinations are all over. Itll be for the first time in the country, an AI-based software is used for bus scheduling by a transport corporation, said Transport Minister K B Ganesh Kumar. From now, no new services will be deployed on the decision of an individual, but on the basis of the suggestion by the software. The ticketing machine data and the duty patterns of staff will be fed into the software. For instance, if the timing of a bus coming from Ernakulam and another from MC Road clashes when they arrive at Angamaly, the software will suggest a minimum time gap. Either the schedule of the bus from Ernakulam will be preponed or that coming from MC road will be delayed to avoid bunching. Through this, the corporation can cut daily loss by half, the minister said. CM to inaugurate biggest fleet modernisation The KSRTC is purchasing a total of 340 new buses for which the finance department has issued administrative sanction for allotting `108 crore, announced in the last budget. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will launch the new buses at a function in Thiruvananthapuram on August 21. The KSRTC is turning all its super class buses into air-conditioned ones by deploying new modern vehicles, especially on interstate routes like Bengaluru. The new buses include all categories -- Super Deluxe, Super Fast, Fast Passenger and Ordinary buses. Two new categories are also being introduced -- link buses that will be operated with takeover permits of private buses and mini-buses (8m long) to operate in rural areas, the minister said. Monthly loss cut by L10 cr Its various reformations have helped the KSRTC reduce its monthly loss by `10 crore. The average daily collection has increased to `7.45 crore. With new buses coming in, we expect the daily collection to rise to `8.5 crore, which will enable the corporation to record daily operating profit for the first time in its history, he said.

Messi Kerala visit row escalates as govt, Argentine FA trade blame; Opposition alleges waste of Rs 130 crore

KOCHI: The Messi-in-Kerala dream has spiralled into a full-blown slugfest, with the Argentine Football Association (AFA) and the state government trading blame over the collapse of the plan. On Saturday, reports claimed AFA official Leandro Peterson had accused the Kerala government of breaching the contract, a charge dismissed by Sports Minister V Abdurahiman as baseless, insisting that if the team skipped the October visit, it would be the AFA in breach. The fresh twist has emboldened the Opposition Congress to go on the offensive, demanding that the government explain how a high-profile project, for which sponsors say they paid Rs 130 crore and the state spent lakhs on foreign trips, has spiralled into confusion, contract disputes and allegations of public money being wasted. Abdurahiman had dampened football lovers hopes earlier this week, saying the visit by the Argentina team was unlikely to happen as planned. As per some media reports, Leandro denied his side had breached the contract by postponing the tour to next year and instead pinned the blame on the Kerala government, though without detailing the alleged violations. The minister dismissed the reports and reiterated that Kerala was not interested in hosting the team next year. Govt should come clean, says Cong If Argentina fail to visit Kerala in October, we will see it as a breach of contract and a case of cheating. We are actively trying to bring the team here as per the contract. When a country signs the contract and accepts the money in this, what else do we have to say, he told reporters in Malappuram. Meanwhile, the row has given the Congress fresh ammunition. KPCC chief Sunny Joseph demanded that the government come clean. The state government should give a reply as they are being accused. Lakhs of rupees have already been spent. Now the AFA itself has made things clear. The people of the state should know the facts, he said. The project, unveiled with much fanfare in November 2024, was meant to showcase Kerala as a global sporting destination. The plan was for the world champions to play two international friendlies in the state during the October 2025 FIFA international window. However, cracks began to show early with delays in paying key charges for the agreement and reports in the international media that Argentina would instead play in China in October. While the sports minister has repeatedly claimed no government funds have been spent on the project, an RTI reply revealed that `18-lakh state-funded delegation travelled to Spain in 2024 to meet Argentina officials. This has added fuel to the political fire over what was once billed as Keralas biggest sporting spectacle, and is now threatening to become one of its most embarrassing own goals.

KPCCs walkathon against drug menace held in Kochi

100 years of solace: Tripunithura Govt Ayurveda College sails into centenary year

An abundance of medicinal plants and a long lineage of expert practitioners have made Kerala a sanctum of Ayurveda. And nowhere is this made more profound than at the Government Ayurveda College, a century-old institution in Puthiyakavu near Tripunithura, Kochi. A cluster of Nalpamaram arayal, pearl, atthi and itthi (resin-bearing ficus trees used in skin treatments) adorns the colleges entranceway. Their presence, and even their fragrance, is symbolic of its rich Ayurvedic heritage. While the college is indeed 100 years old, it began very modestly elsewhere in Tripunithura, the stronghold of the erstwhile Cochin kingdom, says Dr Jayan Damodaran, an associate professor. This new campus was set up only in 1973. Students Satyam Singh and Lavanya G N on the campus Royal connection Records from the state archives reveal that the then ruler of Cochin, Raja Sri Rama Varma, had directed that formal education in Ayurveda begin as a subsection of the Sanskrit College in Tripunithura in 1926. Many members of the Cochin royal family were Ayurveda scholars, and Raja Sri was especially so. He was a student of Kokkara Namboodiri and an expert in venom treatment (Vishavaidya). Under him, Ayurveda education and propagation reached a high point, Dr Jayan notes. Professors Dr Sunil John, Dr Noble T M and Dr Jayan Damodaran An era of change By 1959, however, the limitations of space and the impracticality of fitting Ayurvedic learning into a Sanskrit syllabus led to the establishment of a dedicated college. It then began operating from the Royal Guest House on the Hill Palace premises. A new course, Diploma in Ayurvedic Medicine (DAM), was also introduced around this time. It had a more unified syllabus, recalls Dr Sethu Raj, another associate professor. The following decade brought two pivotal developments: in 1960, the transfer of a hospital in Tripunithura under the Indigenous Medicine Department to the college for clinical training; and later, the acquisition of land at Puthiyakavu for a new campus. This new campus was inaugurated on April 9, 1973, by the then President of India, V V Giri. The pharmacy and the mens hostel were also shifted here subsequently, Dr Sethu adds. The curriculum soon evolved further. A Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine course was introduced. Later, with the addition of a 60-bed hospital wing and a surgery facility, it became the Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery, says Dr Jayan, who himself studied here during this transformative period. The college campus Student intake, which began at just 30 per batch, gradually increased. Now its 63. More courses were added, and the campus grew in step, he says. In the late 1990s, the government acquired more land nearby and expanded the grounds. One of the houses acquired was converted into a pharmacy lab, Dr Sethu points out. Today, far removed from the bustle of the city, the campus is an oasis of quiet lush with greenery, equipped with a library, a gym, a playground, and hostels. Its student body, too, reflects this growth: once dominated by locals from Ernakulam, it now draws learners from across India and abroad. Many prefer Kerala because this is truly the heart of Ayurveda. Here, unlike elsewhere, the tradition has stayed close to its roots. During the Mughal period, North India absorbed Unani influences, but we stuck to herbal preparations. Panchakarma is practised in its purest form here. That alone sets us apart, Dr Jayan says. The college campus The big leap The most striking leap came in 2005, when the then-president A P J Abdul Kalam inaugurated a new 480-bed hospital. The facility handles everything from piles and fistula surgeries to leech therapy for gangrene and treatments for diabetes-related complications. Leech therapy is one of our strengths. Modern medicine often suggests amputation for gangrene. But with leech therapy, blood circulation is restored, skin regains normal colour, and the limb is saved, Dr Jayan explains. In keeping with its growth, the college also reached out to the community, adopting Thiruvaniyoor and Ambalipuram panchayats, and organising regular medical camps across the city and the larger Ernakulam district. Ayurveda, reminds Dr Sunil John, another associate professor, is rooted in nature. The body, after all, is made of five elements earth, fire, water, wind and sky. Treatments vary according to constitution, so no two treatments are alike. Modern research struggles with this variability, but it is Ayurvedas strength. Thats why the WHO itself has set up a research centre for Ayurveda in Gujarat, he adds. Dr Jayan chips in, saying, Ayurveda to Kerala is what oil is to the Gulf. If marketed right, it could generate thousands of crores in revenue. But we need better facilities to attract more medical tourists. Deluxe rooms, hygiene, and trained staff. Our treatments are excellent, but our infrastructure lags. Dr Sindhu C, college principal Grand plans As the centenary year dawns, the college is preparing a grand, year-long celebration. The chief minister and the health minister are expected to inaugurate the programme, which will feature cultural and literary events, seminars, and exhibitions across all the 14 departments. A medicinal plant showcase, drama festivals, student sports, and more public medical camps are also on the anvil, says Dr Sunil. The first preparatory meeting for the centenary was held this Tuesday under the chairmanship of Industries Minister P Rajeeve. But above all, the college hopes for a new academic block. The current building was designed for 30 students. Intake has doubled, and departments have expanded. Space is tight. Weve proposed it to the government, but funding is a challenge, says Dr Sindhu C, the college principal. Design of the proposed academic block For now, the college has begun steps to set up an alumni association, hoping to tap the expertise and networks of past students who have established themselves across the globe in the UK, the US, Australia, the Gulf and beyond. Its one of the initiatives weve outlined for the centenary year, says Dr Jayan. Dr Sindhu also highlights challenges that persist. The potential of Ayurveda is huge. We see that reflected in Kerala today. A lot of new centres and treatment facilities have mushroomed. But that has not translated into either acceptance or recognition of our facilities and programmes, despite our legacy, she says. Asked whether the location was a handicap, Dr Sindhu responds, Definitely not. Were close to the airport and the metro. Tripunithura is part of our legacy, and being slightly removed from the city is advantageous. What is clearly lacking is publicity. But no matter the current inadequacies, like the Nalpamaram at its gates, the Government Ayurveda College has weathered the elements and decades of change, and as always, it remains firmly rooted in its path of growth.

Promoting Satan: Muslim scholars decry Labubu craze

KOZHIKODE: Labubu those quirky, sharp-toothed plush dolls turned the global in thing of 2025 in no time. Created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung and China-based Pop Mart, the dolls have found fans across the world, including India, with celebrities like Lisa from K-Pop group Blackpink and singer Rihanna also flaunting them on social media. However, a section of Muslim religious scholars from Kerala has raised alarm over the craze for the spiritually dangerous dolls, terming them a modern revival of ancient demonic imagery. This Labubu craze is promoting Satan, declared Rahumathulla Qasimi Mutthedam, a religious scholar. It is nothing but a reincarnation of kuttichathan. Weve always known an evil spirit masked in cuteness. Turning a blind eye to such symbolism is spiritually careless, he said. Qasimi said the dolls eerie features bulging eyes, sharp teeth and mischievous grin are not harmless quirks but reflective of ghostly beings long warned about in Islamic and Kerala folk tradition. The recent viral theory connecting Labubu to Pazuzu, an ancient Mesopotamian demon made infamous by The Exorcist, has intensified the debate. However, not all legal or cultural minds in Kerala are on board with the religious condemnation. There is no law against collecting dolls. Associating a cartoon character with Satan is not only irrational, its dangerous, said Advocate Naseer Ali, a Kozhikode-based civil rights lawyer. Fine to caution, but coercion unacceptable We are treading into the territory of moral panic. Whats next? Banning Halloween? Burning storybooks, Ali asked, while emphasising that the campaign against Labubu threatens to conflate mythology with legal discourse and risks targeting harmless personal expression under the guise of spiritual purity. Ali said, In a plural society, not everyone shares the same spiritual symbols or fears. Its fine to caution, but coercion or public shaming is not acceptable. However, scholar Abdul Kareem from Kozhikode said: These are not merely toys. They carry symbolic power. We may not believe the dolls are evil, but belief is not the only issue. Exposure matters, he warned. Mariya Faisal, a 19-year-old collector in Kochi, felt differently. Labubu is like a secret handshake, said Mariya. Youre either in the club, or youre not. Its art, not evil. Still, religious scholars urge fans to consider what they are glorifying, she said. Exorcism, ban Influencers across the globe have staged mock exorcisms of the dolls, while videos of Labubu dolls being burned have circulated on TikTok and Instagram. In some areas of Russia and Iraqs Kurdistan region, the dolls have been banned. $10,000 resale value Labubu was first introduced in 2015 through Hong Kong artist Kasing Lungs illustrated book series The Monsters. In his own words, Labubu is a mischievous but kind-hearted forest elf with no ties to any demonic tradition. Rare Labubu figures command resale prices upwards of $10,000.

MCH officials level fresh charges against Dr Haris

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A fresh attempt to undermine Dr Haris Chirackals credibility has emerged, with medical college authorities levelling new allegations based on questionable inspections of the urology department heads office while he was on leave. Thiruvananthapuram Medical College principal Dr P K Jabbar claimed to have uncovered a new purchase bill for equipment that had previously been reported missing from the urology department. The principal suggested that the equipment had been purchased recently after a probe committee had identified it as missing. Dr Haris countered these findings, clarifying that the newly discovered box contained two nephroscopes, not the moscilliscope flagged by the committee. A Kochi-based medical devices company had been consulted for repairs two months ago. The service engineer returned the equipment, as it was too costly to repair, along with a delivery challan dated August 2. According to Dr Haris, the principal mistakenly identified this delivery challan as a bill. The situation was further complicated by the fact that the companys engineer had incorrectly labelled the returned nephroscopes as a moscilliscope on the challan. Dr Haris emphasised that the moscilliscope was never lost and expressed concerns about his office being locked with a different lock during his absence. I was called by someone in a top position in the department to settle the issue and make compromises. But the press meet came soon after that, Dr Haris said. The moscilliscope is used for prostate surgery, while a nephroscope is used for treating kidney stones and detecting tumours. The press meet was held on Friday even as Dr Haris has raised concerns about attempts to frame him. Both Dr Jabbar and superintendent Dr Sunil Kumar, who briefed the media, appeared to be receiving instructions from higher authorities over the phone, giving the impression that the entire situation was orchestrated. Dr Kumar openly acknowledged the pressure he faced amid the controversy.

WCC lauds woman actors for fighting injustices in industry

KOCHI: Women in Cinema Collective (WCC) has lauded actors Urvashi and Swetha Menon and producer Sandra Thomas for fighting injustices in the Malayalam film industry, even as it condemned statements by Adoor Gopalakrishnan on women and Dalit filmmakers. We congratulate Urvashi and Sandra Thomas for speaking up and expressing their opinions. Urvashi is protesting against the Central government for the way film awards were determined. We also condemn the stance taken against women who are coming to the forefront of film organisations, including Swetha Menon. All of them are symbols of tireless women who do not remain silent in the struggles they face in their careers and personal lives but rather move forward strongly, stated WCC. The collective also criticised Adoor for his statements about new women and Dalit filmmakers at the film policy conclave held in Thiruvananthapuram last week. Through his commentsalit directors in Malayalam cinema, Adoor Gopalakrishnan has once again revealed his upper-caste, caste, and gender-based perspective to the public. WCC strongly condemns Adoors approach and stance, the statement said.

Sabari Rail project hits hurdle as Centre, Kerala government differ over cost sharing

KOCHI: The Angamaly-Erumely Sabari Rail project has hit a deadlock again, with the Centre and the state government not coming to an agreement regarding the funds. Things seemed to get on track when a team from the Railway Ministry, comprising officials from the Railway Board, arrived in the state capital towards the end of July to hold discussions with the representatives of the state government to iron out the technicalities associated with the project. It was hoped that the land acquisition would begin soon. However, things have gone back to square one, as is evident from the statement made by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in the Lok Sabha, who blamed the state government for delaying the land acquisition process. He was replying to queries raised by MP Hibi Eden. The Union minister said, The project was sanctioned in 1997-98. Work on Angamaly-Kalady (7 km) and long lead works on Kalady-Perumbavoor (10 km) were taken up. However, further works on this project could not be taken forward due to protests by local people against land acquisition and fixing of the alignment of the line, court cases filed against the project, and inadequate support from the state government. He pointed out that the estimated cost of the project has been updated to Rs 3,801 crore and submitted to the state government in December 2023. He added that in August 2024, the state government communicated their conditional consent. The state government has been requested by the Railways to submit unconditional consent for sharing the cost. The state government had also been requested to enter into a tripartite MoU among itself, the Ministry of Railways, and the RBI for the project. However, the state government, in a memorandum submitted on June 3, 2025, notified that it didnt agree with the tripartite agreement, he said. The Union minister said in a recent meeting with the Chief Minister of Kerala, the state government has been requested to acquire land using their share of 50% of the project cost. Once the land is acquired, work can proceed, he added. However, K V Thomas, Keralas special representative in New Delhi, blamed the Central government for playing politics. The Centre is more interested in pursuing the Chengannur-Pampa elevated rail project. We are not against the project, but it should not happen at the cost of the Angamaly-Erumely Sabari Rail project. Though the state government had proposed realising the funds for its share of the project cost through KIIFB, the Centre wants to include the amount in the total borrowing limit of the state. That cant be agreed! he added.

Onam rush: Early birds to benefit as fares remain relatively less

KOCHI: As the Onam season approaches, Malayalis based in major cities like Bengaluru and Chennai are navigating a complex travel landscape. This year, unlike in last, early planners are reaping the benefits of lower fares on flights and private buses, though travel experts warn this temporary relief may not last as the festival nears. The perennial struggle for long-distance train tickets, however, remains a persistent and unresolved issue. According to industry insiders, the current ticket fares for both air and road transport are notably more affordable than last years holiday surge pricing. For travel on high-demand days like August 29, when the Onam vacation begins, luxury private bus fares hover around Rs 2,500, a significant drop from the Rs 3,500 to Rs 5,200 they commanded during the same period last year. Similarly, flight tickets are available for around Rs 3,000, thanks in part to a greater number of special services. IndiGo alone has announced 24 extra round-trip flights to metros like Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Mumbai from Kochi, said a Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL) spokesperson. However, travel experts are cautious about the trends longevity. Biji Eapen, national president of the IATA Agents Association of India, warns that while a current growth slowness benefits those booking early, prices on monopoly routes like Kochi-Chennai will inevitably rise. The ticket prices will now go up as the festive season arrives, Biji said. The dynamic is most visible in the pricing for return journeys. While outbound bus fares on August 29 average around Rs 2,500, the average fare for the return trip on September 7 soars to roughly Rs 3,500. Operators like Hilight Roadlinks and Kallada (Suresh Group) are charging close to Rs 4,000 for a single trip, despite seats being available. This is in contrast to flights on the same day, when fares to Bengaluru start from as low as Rs 2,800. In a bid to offer a more affordable alternative, both the Kerala and Karnataka state road transport corporations have announced special services with fares starting from Rs 950. Yet, for many, the fundamental problem lies with the Railways which remains the preferred mode of transport due to its comfort, safety, and lower cost. Jibin Sabu, an IT professional in Bengaluru, highlights the dismal ratio of demand to the number of train services available. While railway authorities claim to have introduced 10 special trains (48 services) to meet the holiday rush, with over 75,000 bookings already registered, frequent travellers argue this is far from adequate. Thomas Simon, a prominent advocate for better train services, points out that the total number of trains needs to be more than double the current count to effectively manage passenger traffic. He and others, like Ramesh Menon, a frequent traveller to Hyderabad, stress the urgent need for more daily superfast trains to key cities like Mumbai and Hyderabad, where a large number of Malayali students and professionals are forced to travel in overcrowded general compartments. They also criticise the Railways perceived reluctance to optimise existing services, like the Sabari Express, to free up slots for additional trains. Trends longevity According to industry insiders, the current ticket fares for both air and road transport are notably more affordable than last years holiday surge pricing For travel on August 29, when the Onam vacation begins, luxury private bus fares hover around Rs 2,500, a significant drop from the Rs 3,500 to Rs 5,200 during the same period last year Flight tickets are available for around Rs 3,000, thanks in part to a greater number of spl services Travel experts are cautious about the trends longevity. They warned that while a current growth slowness benefits those booking early, prices on monopoly routes like Kochi-Chennai will inevitably rise as the festive season arrives

How these Kochi professionals quit their jobs to open specialty restaurants

For these professionals-turned-restaurateurs, who helm some of Kochis popular specialty restaurants, cooking and serving food is a labour of love.

ED conducts searches in Kochi

Firm accused of routing investor deposits through mule accounts and virtual layers; 3.9 crore frozen as part of probe into suspected forex fraud and fund diversion

Vigilance raid uncovers massive corruption in Kerala sub-registrar offices

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Wing has uncovered massive irregularities in sub-registrar offices across the state during a statewide raid covering 72 offices. In a statement, Vigilance officials said they recovered Rs 1.46 lakh in cash from 13 agents who had arrived at various offices to pay bribes to officials. Additionally, Rs 37,850 was seized from the record rooms of seven sub-registrar offices, and an unaccounted Rs 15,190 was recovered from four officials. Verification of UPI applications linked to officials revealed that 19 officials across various sub-registrar offices had unlawfully received a total of Rs 9.67 lakh through UPI transactions from document writers. The drive, codenamed Operation Secure Land, was launched on Thursday evening following credible information that corruption was rampant in sub-registrar offices. During the operation, unaccounted cash of Rs 8,500 was seized from an official of the Kazhakootam office. In the Konni office, Rs 11,500 was seized from an agent, while Rs 24,300, hidden between registers in the record room, was also recovered. In the Pathanamthitta office, Rs 6,500 kept in a similar manner was seized, and an official in the Chengannur office was found to have received Rs 2,000 from a document writer via UPI. In the Devikulam office in Idukki district, an officer was found to have received Rs 91,500 from a document writer. In the Peermade office, Rs 700 in unaccounted cash was found in the record room. In the Kochi office, two officials had received Rs 18,800 from document writers, while in the Thripunithura office, two officials had received Rs 30,610 via UPI as bribes. At the Chalakudy office, an agent was found with Rs 4,600 meant for officers, while in the Kodungallur office, an agent was caught with Rs 6,400, and an official was found holding Rs 1,590 in unaccounted cash. From the Malappuram office, an agent was nabbed with Rs 21,600, and an officer was found to have received Rs 1.06 lakh from two document writers over UPI. In the Manjeri office, an agent was caught with Rs 1,100, while Rs 4,700 was seized from the Nilambur office record room, where three employees had received Rs 1.03 lakh via UPI from document writers. From the Perinthalmanna office, an agent carrying Rs 26,000 was caught. In the Ponnani office, three agents were nabbed with Rs 7,860. In the Kuttipuram office, an agent was held with Rs 5,950, while an officer was caught carrying Rs 4,500, and another had received Rs 1,000 via digital payment platforms. From the Feroke office, an agent was caught with Rs 20,000, and an officer had received Rs 59,225 via UPI from a document writer. In the Koyilandy office, an officer had received a kickback of Rs 4,750. In the Kozhikode office, an agent was caught with Rs 15,130 meant for officials. In the Kuttiady office, an agent was held with Rs 5,600, while an officer was found to have received the same amount as a bribe via UPI. From the Kalpetta office, an officer had received Rs 1,250 via UPI from a document writer. In the Mananthavady office, an agent was caught with Rs 11,315, and an officer had received Rs 1,410 as a bribe. In the Sulthan Bathery office, an officer had taken Rs 3.37 lakh from document writers. In the Badiyadka office in Kasaragod, an officer was found to have received Rs 1.89 lakh as a bribe from document writers.

Global capability centers : Opportunities in tier 2 cities

Global Capability Centers or GCCs are now looking at Tier 2 cities in India. Metro cities have become expensive. Talent is saturated there. Cities like Mohali, Jaipur, and Kochi are attractive options. They offer cost advantages and a growing talent pool. Excelsior India suggests focusing on talent development. Collaboration between industry and academia is important.

Sreejith Jeevans Rouka opens an experiential store in Kochi

The new store is playful and personal as it celebrates his grandfathers house and his sustainability codes

Act against Bajrang Dal for attack on nuns, priests in Odisha: Catholic Congress in letter to PM Modi

KOCHI: The Catholic Congress, the official lay organisation of the Syro-Malabar Church, has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, demanding urgent action against those responsible for the recent assault on Christian nuns and priests in Odisha. In a strongly worded letter, Fr Philip Kaviyil, Global Director of the Catholic Congress, condemned the attack and the delay in punitive measures. The incident in Odisha in which Christian nuns and priests were attacked and publicly humiliated by members of the Bajrang Dal, while they were engaged in peaceful religious and humanitarian work, is deeply concerning, he wrote. On Wednesday, two Malayali nuns Elesa Cheriyan and Moly Lious and two priests Fr Lijo Nirappel and Fr V Jojo were allegedly assaulted by Bajrang Dal activists while returning from a prayer service following a death in Jaleswar, Balasore district. Describing the attack as a brazen act of violence, the Catholic Congress said it was not merely a targeted assault on individuals but a direct attack on Indias constitutional values. This is a blow to religious freedom, human dignity, and the rule of law. It is both heartbreaking and alarming that such hate-fuelled acts occur in broad daylight and often go unpunished, said Fr Kaviyil. Three, including two nuns, held for human trafficking in Chhattisgarh He expressed anguish over the cruel and disrespectful treatment meted out to the clergy and women religious. These actions have wounded not only the Christian community but the soul of our democracy, he noted. The Catholic Congress urged the Prime Minister to condemn the attack in clear and unambiguous terms, ensure the arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators irrespective of affiliations, and guarantee protection for priests, nuns, and Christian institutions, especially in sensitive areas. We seek a firm response that sends a clear message that mob violence and religious extremism will not be tolerated under any banner, the letter stated. Fr Kaviyil warned that silence in the face of such injustice only emboldens those who spread hate. We appeal to your sense of justice and constitutional duty. We still believe in the promise of India a nation where every citizen can live without fear, practice their faith, and serve society with dignity, he added. Chhattisgarh court grants bail to two Kerala nuns in human trafficking-religious conversion case

Blenders demand pushes up good liquoring tea prices in Kochi auctions

Exporters to the Middle East and CIS countries active, upcountry buyers lend support

Kerala HC stays FIR proceedings against actor Swetha Menon; questions procedure in obscenity case

KOCHI: Expressing doubts about the procedural correctness of the lower court, the Kerala High Court on Thursday stayed further proceedings in the FIR registered against actor Swetha Menon for allegedly making financial gains through her roles in movies featuring vulgar and obscene content. I find prima facie substance in the contention of the counsel for the petitioner that before forwarding the complaint for investigation under Section 175(3) of BNSS, the requirements therein, of calling for a report from the police and making enquiry, ought to have been complied with. Considering the short duration between filing and forwarding of the complaint to the police, it appears that no such procedure was followed, said Justice V G Arun. He also directed the Registry to call for a report from the Chief Judicial Magistrate Court, Ernakulam, regarding the procedure adopted before forwarding the complaint to the police for investigation. The court issued the order on a petition filed by Swetha Menon seeking to quash the FIR based on a complaint filed by Martin Menacherry, of Ernakulam. Swetha Menon is a candidate in the upcoming election for president of AMMA (Association of Malayalam Movie Artists) to be held on August 15. The FIR charges offences under Sections 3 and 5 of the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956, and Section 67(A) (Publishing or transmitting material containing sexually explicit acts) of the Information Technology Act, 2000. Advocates Unni Sebastian Kappen and M Revikrishnan, representing Swetha Menon before the High Court, submitted that the case is an abuse of the process of the court, as the allegations are ex facie absurd and improbable. The prosecution alleged that the accused, to secure monetary gain, appeared in several films and advertisements that contain obscene visuals. The complainant, Martin Menacherry, claimed that the visuals of the accused in these films and advertisements, which are available in public domain, are obscene and vulgar. By appearing in such advertisements and acting in films, the accused allegedly gained financial benefits. The complainant also alleged that the actor appeared in a vulgar manner by acting in a condom advertisement years ago and by acting in films like Paleri Manikyam, Rathinirvedham, Kalimannu, and more. The complainant further alleged that by searching the Internet, one could find photos of the accused, which, according to him, are obscene. The petition by Swetha described the complaint as unfounded, baseless, and absurd, pointing out that the allegation that the accused is securing financial gain by running pornographic websites is made without an iota of material to prima facie justify such a claim. The films in which the petitioner appeared are all duly censored and certified, and have been available in public domain for several years. It is crucial to note that the character portrayed by the petitioner in the movie Paleri Manikyam, which the complainant claims is obscene, earned her a Kerala State Award for Best Actress, stated the petition.

Women face fresh hurdles in bids for leadership in Kerala film bodies; allege targeted moves, misogyny

KOCHI: Even after the Hema Committee report, the Film Policy Conclave, and countless panel discussions on womens empowerment, women in the Malayalam film industry continue to face formidable roadblocks when attempting to lead. The latest controversies surrounding the elections to the Kerala Film Producers Association (KFPA) and the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) make it brutally clear the industrys core remains resistant to female leadership. Several women candidates including prominent names like Shwetha Menon, Sandra Thomas, Kukkoo Parameswaran, and Pushpavathy continue to be at the receiving end of targeted allegations and procedural hurdles, just as they step up to contest for top positions. These developments show how male-dominant film bodies are, said producer Sandra Thomas. The way these allegations and cases have been raised against women candidates in AMMA and KFPA is the same. These operations are controlled from the same place by the same people who are controlling the associations and the cinema industry. On Monday, Sandras nominations for both president and secretary of KFPA were rejected on the grounds that she had produced only two films under her current banner, Sandra Thomas Films, a technicality that many say is selectively applied. Meanwhile, actor Shwetha Menon, contesting for AMMA president post, is now facing a police case a move her supporters describe as calculated. According to screenwriter and Women in Cinema Collective (WCC) member Deedi Damodaran, the intent to push women out is not new but it is more visible than ever. Now, what has happened is these attempts have become more evident and visible to the public. We see how Sandra, Shwetha, Kukkoo, and Pushpavathy are struggling. Those men who try to stop women and dominate over them are exposed. They cannot hide their dominant nature. Allegations against women candidates include accusations that Kukkoo secretly recorded conversations among association members, and a fresh case against Shwetha Menon, which has cast a shadow over her campaign. The case against Shwetha was unnecessary. I find these allegations to be an election strategy, said actor Mala Parvathy. There is a group of members trying to win over the other. But we dont know what exactly happened in Shwethas case. Actors including Mohanlal and Mammookka (Mammootty) want women to head the association. These issues are not specifically about men or women. But like any other space, there is an in-built misogyny, and it is reflected in the association. Kukkoo, who had contested last year too, faces recurring attacks. And for Sandra Thomas, the pattern is unmistakable. Around a month ago, Listin filed a defamation case against me. These people, who are at the top of these associations, believe that they cannot be touched. The case against Shwetha has a political motive behind it. These men cannot accept women heading the film bodies, she said. The battles are mounting, but women continue to push forward. But for now, leadership in Keralas film industry remains a hill women are still struggling to climb.

Kerala HC orders weekly hygiene checks at Sabarimala eateries during Mandala-Makaravilakku season

KOCHI: The Kerala High Court has directed the Vigilance wing of Travancore Devaswom Board to conduct regular inspections at least once in every week at all the hotels, restaurants, tea stalls, etc, during the Mandala-Makaravilakku season in Sabarimala. The Chief Vigilance Officer of the Travancore Devaswom Board should submit a report in this regard to the Special Commissioner, Sabarimala Devaswom. We are bewildered and dismayed, when we are informed about the way in which the beverages and food were prepared in a pilgrim place like Sabarimala where a large number of devotees visit in a day during the Mandala-Makaravilakku season, stated the Bench. The court issued the order on the petition filed by Akhila Bharatheeya Ayyappa Seva Sangam of Kottayam seeking a directive to conduct regular inspection of places vending food and beverages in connection with Sabarimala pilgrimage in and around Erumely during Mandalam-Makaravilakku season and to ensure that food and beverages served there is hygienic and no noxious substances or water is being used or distributed to pilgrims, even free of cost. The petitioner also alleged that a person named Abdul Shameem has been vending lemon water, tea, coffee and juices in the most unhygienic and unhealthy manner, unauthorisedly tapping water from a toilet complex. We are disturbed to note that the person has run the shop for about two weeks using the dirty water from a toilet complex in an unhealthy and unhygienic condition, unnoticed by any of the authorities deployed in Sabarimala, during the festival season, said the Division Bench.

Kochi police hunt for rapper Vedan after woman doctor files rape complaint; music event postponed

KOCHI: The Kochi city police said that they are actively searching for rapper Hirandas Murali aka Vedan after a a young woman doctor filed a rape complaint against him. Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Kochi city police commissioner Putta Vimaladitya said that they are currently monitoring Vedans whereabouts. We are monitoring Vedans current location. An anticipatory bail application has been filed by him in the High Court. We are examining all legal angles, and appropriate action will be taken, said Vimaladitya. He added that the investigation is going on and witness statements are being collected. However, he declined to answer questions about whether Vedan is officially considered absconding or if the investigation team has located him. Meanwhile, in the light of the controversy, Olam Live, a music event featuring Vedan, originally scheduled for Saturday at the Bolgatty Palace in Kochi, has been postponed by the organisers Soda Lime Productions. Although other artists like Fejo, Gabri, Hrishi, and M C Couper were also set to perform, Vedan was our headliner. After speaking with his manager, we were informed that he is unavailable, which led us to postpone the event, said Vineeth, owner of Soda Lime Productions. He added that approximately 1,000 tickets had already been sold, and all ticket holders have been notified of the postponement. They can either request a refund or use the same tickets for the rescheduled event, said Vineeth.

Kerala posts 6.19% growth in FY25, slowest in South India, amid fiscal, external pressures

KOCHI: Call it a double whammy. Kerala recorded an economic growth rate of 6.19% in real terms in the 2024-25 fiscal, as per the revised estimates of the Union Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MOSPI) for various states. The states latest Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) growth not only declined from 6.73% recorded a year ago in FY24, but it was also the lowest in South India. Significantly, Keralas GSDP for 2023-24 is an upward revision from 6.52% reported by the state economics and statistics department. Indias GDP growth rate was 6.3% in 2024-25. Among southern states, Tamil Nadu posted a robust 11.19% growth in 2024-25 and is the fastest growing state economy in the country. Andhra Pradesh (8.21%), Telangana (8.08%), Karnataka (7.37%) and Odisha (6.84%), were also ahead of Kerala As per MOSPI, Kerala GSDP for 2024-25 at current prices (nominal GSDP) grew by 9.97%, lower than the projected growth of 11.7% over 2023-24 in the budget early this year. The states nominal GSDP stood at Rs 12,48,533 crore against the budget projection of Rs 13,11,437 crore. Nominal GSDP refers to the total value of goods and services produced within a state, measured in the prices of the current year. This means the values are not adjusted for inflation and reflect the actual market prices prevalent during 2024-25. K Ravi Raman, expert member, Kerala State Planning Board, said the states long-term growth trajectory shows improvement its GSDP was only growing at 4.26% in 2014-15. This reflects economic resilience at national and state levels, he said. India recorded its highest-ever GST collection in 2024-25, with revenues nearly doubling compared to 2020-21, he said. Timely, targeted initiatives essential K J Joseph, director of Gulati Institute of Finance and Taxation (GIFT), Thiruvananthapuram, said the marginal decline in 2024-25 reflected a combination of domestic fiscal constraints and external economic pressures. The tightening of borrowing limits imposed by the Union government significantly reduced Keralas fiscal flexibility, resulting in a cutback in capital expenditure, which is crucial for stimulating growth. At the same time, productive sectors especially agriculture, and construction saw slower expansion in the previous fiscal compared to the national average, he said. Additionally, global economic uncertainties and disruptions in migration and labour markets in Gulf countries affected remittance flows and external demand. Given Keralas structural dependence on overseas incomes, such external shocks have a direct bearing on household consumption and economic activity, contributing to the moderated growth trajectory, said Joseph. Going forward, the stalemate in India-US tariff negotiations poses a serious challenge not just for the country but for Kerala economy too, reckoned Ravi Raman. The situation may disrupt production dynamics, reduce employment and ultimately lower GST collections, which are vital for both Union and state revenues. Kerala, which benefits significantly from exports such as marine products and IT services, stands particularly vulnerable. Unless we redraw international division of labour and reorient our trade strategies, we will have to face the consequences of stagnating exports, falling revenues and economic stress at the state level. Timely and targeted initiatives are essential to shield Keralas economy from these external shocks and to maintain sustainable growth, said the Planning Board member.

Kitex to launch US kidswear brand Little Stars in India after US imposes 50% tariff on exports

KOCHI: Facing the heat after the imposition of a 50% tariff on Indian goods and supplements by the United States, Kitex Garments, a Kerala-based garment manufacturer, is set to introduce its US brand in the domestic market. Little Stars, the brand exclusively for newborn babies and childrens clothing in the US, will be introduced in India soon. Addressing the media, Sabu Jacob, the MD of Kitex Garments Limited, said that by strengthening their presence in the Indian market, they will be able to address any challenges that may arise due to high tariffs on exports to the US. This will also protect the interests of Indian consumers and investors. With the arrival of Little Star, Indians who want the best for their children will be able to get clothes that meet American quality, safety, and fashion at an affordable price, he said on Thursday. The imposition of 50% tariffs on Indian exports to America by the US government recently will severely affect sectors such as leather, chemicals, footwear, gems and jewellery, textiles and others. Sabu Jacob also opined that by introducing US-based Kitexs own brand, Little Star, to the Indian market, it is also an opportunity to make high-quality clothing that meets international standards easily available to newborns and toddlers in the country. Studies suggest that the newborn baby clothing market in India is expected to reach around Rs 1.46 lakh crore by 2030. The birth rate in India is six times the birth rate in the US. The birth rate in India is around 24 million. Accordingly, the demand for newborn and childrens clothing in India is also increasing, said Sabu. He added that the company will look for digital and offline opportunities to establish its presence in the Indian market. In this changing environment, the role of digital channels is crucial to establish a strong presence in Indias retail sector and to meet the needs of consumers. Thus, Little Star will be featured on multiple online platforms. The chain will be expanded to all cities in India through e-commerce and then across the country through retail platforms and e-commerce platforms, he said. Kitex Garments is a leading producer that exports newborn and childrens clothing to countries such as Europe and the US. Through the expansion, the Kizhakkambalam-based company expects an additional revenue of Rs 1000 crore in the next two to three years.

Kochi metro reports significant increase in operating profit

Probe in rape case against Vedan in preliminary stage, says Kochi City police chief

District Police Chief (Kochi City) Putta Vimaladityasays accusations of financial transactions are also being probed and that relevant sections will be invoked in the event the police get hold of any evidence to substantiate these

Actor Shwetha Menon moves Kerala HC to quash FIR over alleged obscene content

KOCHI: Actor Shwetha Menon on Thursday approached the High Court seeking to quash the FIR filed against her for allegedly making financial gains through her roles in movies featuring vulgar and obscene content. Shwetha Menon is a candidate in the upcoming election for President of A.M.M.A (Association of Malayalam Movie Artists), to be held on August 15. The FIR charges offences under Sections 3 and 5 of the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956, and Section 67(A) (Publishing or transmitting material containing sexually explicit acts) of the Information Technology Act, 2000. Advocates Unni Sebastian Kappen and M Revikrishnan, representing Shwetha Menon before the High Court, submitted that the case is an abuse of the process of the court, as the allegations are ex facie absurd and improbable. The prosecution alleged that the accused, to secure monetary gain, appeared in several films and advertisements that contain obscene visuals. The complainant--Martin Menacherry of Ernakulam--claimed that the visuals of the accused in these films and advertisements, which are available in the public domain, are obscene and vulgar. By appearing in such advertisements and acting in films, the accused allegedly gained financial benefits. The complainant also alleged that the actor allegedly appeared in a vulgar manner by acting in a condom advertisement years ago and by acting in films like Paleri Manikyam , Rathinirvedham , Kalimannu , and more. The complainant further alleged that by searching the internet, one could find photos of the accused, which, according to him, are obscene. The petition by Shwetha described the complaint as unfounded, baseless, and absurd, pointing out that the allegation that the accused is securing financial gain by running pornographic websites is made without an iota of material to prima facie justify such a claim. The films in which the petitioner appeared are all duly censored and certified, and have been available in the public domain for several years. It is crucial to note that the character portrayed by the petitioner in the movie Paleri Manikyam , which the de facto complainant claims is obscene, earned her a Kerala State Award for Best Actress, stated the petition.

Kerala HC drops case against ADGP Ajith Kumar

KOCHI: The Kerala High Court has deprecated the actions of ADGP M R Ajith Kumar for travelling in a tractor carrying luggage for police personnel to Sabarimala and back to Pampa on July 12 and 13, respectively. However, the court closed further proceedings in the suo motu case initiated based on a report from the Special Commissioner of Sabarimala. The report stated that Ajith Kumar had violated the courts earlier order. On November 25, 2021, the High Court mandated strict action against those using tractors meant for transporting goods to Sannidhanam. The bench expressed strong disapproval, stating, We deprecate in the strongest terms the actions of such a senior officer in the police department. However, since an explanation had been obtained from the officer by the DGP, and criminal charges had been registered for the violation, the court concluded that issuing directions to the Chief Coordinator and the Devaswom Board to prevent such incidents in the future would be sufficient, thereby closing the case.

Kochis double-decker defies monsoon, set to double trips

KOCHI: While heavy monsoon showers have led to the cancellation of certain regular KSRTC passenger schedules, a different story of resilience and thriving tourism is unfolding on the streets of Kochi. The newly-launched KSRTC open-top double-decker tour bus is proving to be a resounding success, operating without fail and even during heavy rain, as enthusiastic visitors embrace the monsoon experience from its top deck. Far from being a deterrent, the rain has become a unique selling point for the evening site-seeing tour. The visitors come with plastic raincoats specifically to enjoy the monsoon showers. So we operate the double-decker city tour service on all days even during heavy rain to facilitate them to enjoy the monsoon, says Sunil Kumar, the KSRTCs Ernakulam Budget Tourism Cell coordinator. The willingness to embrace the weather has created a memorable and distinctly local experience for tourists. From the vantage point of the top deck, passengers can take in the citys iconic sights as the monsoon washes over the landscape, creating a magical, rain-drenched view of Marine Drive, CoPT Walkway and Goshree bridges among other sites. Its a different feeling when we view things from the top. We travel in the open top double-decker to enjoy panoramic views and an elevated perspective. If it rains, that will be an altogether different experience. The children, especially, like the trip, said Ravi Prakash, a resident of Elamakkara who took the ride on Tuesday. Night tour by Onam Encouraged by this overwhelming response, the authorities are now set to significantly expand the service. Currently, the bus runs a single trip in the evening from 5 pm to 7.40 pm, which has been consistently packed with passengers. By the time of Onam, the KSRTC plans to double the number of trips to cater to the surging demand. The most exciting addition to the schedule will be a new night trip, which is set to run from 8 pm to 10.30 pm. We expect a substantial surge in demand with the Onam season ringing in. We will soon introduce a night trip to facilitate visitors to enjoy the nightlife of Kochi, Kumar added. This new service will allow passengers to see the city in a different light its streets illuminated, its waterfront sparkling, and its bustling energy continuing well after sunset. The refurbished bus has 39 seats in the upper deck and 24 seats in the lower deck. Tickets have been priced at Rs 300 per person for the open-top upper deck, while those travelling in the lower deck are being charged Rs 150 per person. The success of the open-top bus is not just about a scenic tour; its about a fresh perspective on urban transport and tourism. As Kochi continues to grow as a major tourist destination, the double-decker bus, braving the rain and embracing the night, is poised to become one of the citys most beloved attractions, offering an unforgettable ride to all.

Maa Care Stores to offer healthy snacks in schools in Kerala

KOCHI: Nutritious snacks, drinks, stationery, and sanitary napkins all within easy reach of schoolchildren are now a reality with the Kudumbashrees Maa Care Store project, which is being rolled out across schools in the state. First launched in Kasaragod and Kannur, the initiative was implemented in Ernakulam district, with its constituency-level inauguration held at the Kuttampuzha Government Higher Secondary School in Kothamangalam on Wednesday. The event was inaugurated by MLA Antony John. The Maa Care stores, set up within school premises, are aimed at helping children access healthy food and essential items without having to step out of campus. The project is being implemented in collaboration with the general education department. Apart from improving student welfare, it also opens up livelihood opportunities for Kudumbashree members, who run and manage the kiosks. The initiative is designed to reduce the chances of students interacting with strangers or consuming unhealthy snacks and substances from outside. With positive feedback from Kasaragod and Kannur, the project is now being extended to schools in districts like Idukki, Pathanamthitta, and Malappuram. The kiosks are either set up in school compounds or inside unused classrooms. Both students and teachers can buy items from these kiosks at affordable prices. Women from neighbourhood groups have been trained to run the kiosks. They can also avail themselves of financial help through Kudumbashree schemes like the community enterprise fund, linkage loans, and panchayat project funds.

Social policing in Kerala schools to focus on backbenchers, holistic development

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The best brains of the nation may be found on the last benches of the classroom. That was former president and Missile Man of India Dr APJ Abdul Kalams take on students dubbed as backbenchers for lagging behind in academic and co-curricular activities. While the state government is toying with the idea of making changes to seating arrangements in classrooms in a bid to do away with the concept of backbenchers, an innovative programme that focuses on the holistic development of under-performing students, has come to the limelight. The programme is now being considered for implementation in state schools under the police departments social policing initiative. Named Agni Paravakal, the programme draws inspiration from Kalams autobiography Wings of Fire. It is the brainchild of Fazil E, a teacher of MMO Vocational Higher Secondary School, Mattancherry in Kochi, and was first introduced in the school in 2021 with the support of a few NGOs and the city police. The programme aims to bring backbenchers to the forefront of life through special sessions spanning over 100 days. It includes a five-day residential camp and 95-day training sessions conducted during holidays and after-school hours. High school students , especially those from underprivileged backgrounds, were chosen for the programme. The idea was to re-orient their overall attitudes and help them adopt a positive outlook towards life, said Fazil, a former national award-winning NSS state programme co-ordinator for VHSE schools. The special sessions were held by mentors, motivational speakers, public personalities and subject experts from various fields. The students personality development, self-esteem building, public speaking skills, sports and healthy habits were the focus areas. Transport Commissioner Nagaraju Chakilam, who served as city police commissioner in Kochi and later Thiruvananthapuram, was actively involved in the programme as its chief mentor. Students of Thycaud Government Boys HSS in Thiruvananthapuram, at a crafts workshop as part of the initiative Nagaraju was also instrumental in getting a similar programme launched in Thycaud Boys HSS in Thiruvananthapuram focusing on students with academic or behavioral challenges, offering mentorship, motivation, and confidence-building. The programme keeps in mind the distinct socio-cultural background of each student while addressing the gaps in areas where they are found lagging behind, Nagaraju said. Agni Paravakal has been helpful in preventing children from dysfunctional families and those living in risky social environment from falling into criminal tendencies and substance abuse, the official said. Recently, State Police Chief Ravada A Chandrasekhar convened a meeting of various stakeholders to discuss the possibility of introducing Agni Paravakal as a new social policing initiative in state schools. Once it is on-boarded and treated as a programme, it will get the same level of recognition and budgeting like the hugely successful Student Police Cadet (SPC) initiative. Talks with the General Education Department are in the final stages, said a senior official. Wings of Fire Named Agni Paravakal, the programme draws inspiration from Kalams autobiography Wings of Fire. It aims to bring backbenchers to the forefront of life through special sessions spanning over 100 days

No toll for a month as NHAI faces HC heat on Paliyekkara in Kerala

KOCHI: The Kerala High Court on Wednesday suspended the collection of user fee at the Paliyekkara toll plaza for a month citing total apathy by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) in addressing public grievances, including traffic congestion caused by the construction works started by the authority. In that period, the Union government should take steps to address the peoples grievances, the court said. Residents in and around Paliyekkara, which lies on the Edappally-Mannuthy stretch of NH 544, hailed the order. Every year, they hike toll rates while no maintenance is being done. The HC order is a welcome step, said Sareesh, a resident of Puthukkad. A Division Bench comprising Justice A Muhamed Mustaque and Justice Harishankar V Menon issued the order on the petition filed by Congress worker Shaji J Kodankandath of Chembukavu, O J Janeesh of Mala and others against the toll collection. We note with concern the total apathy displayed by the NHAI in addressing the grievances raised, despite multiple opportunities having been made available to them from February 2025. Although the issue was repeatedly brought to their attention, no meaningful steps were taken to pursue redressal with the Central government. Hence, the collection of toll shall remain suspended until the Central government, in consultation with the NHAI, chief secretary and concessionaire, takes appropriate remedial action, the bench said. The Centre argued the issue is confined only to 4.8km and there are no other obstructions in remaining 65 km stretch. NHAI would earnestly take steps to resolve this issue at the earliest, it said. The public is obliged to pay user fee for using the highway, the bench said, adding it casts responsibility on NHAI to ensure smooth traffic without any barrier created by it or its agents (the concessionaires). NHAI ignored grievances of public: HC This relationship between the public and NHAI is bound by the tie of public trust, and the moment it is breached, the right to collect toll fees cannot be forced on public, it said. The HC said the NHAI ignored public interests and took their grievances lightly. The court cannot substitute the role of administrative authority of the Centre in deciding how fees be regulated or reduced in a situation like this; but at the same time the court can clearly hold that there is breach of public trust and the National Highways Authority cannot levy the fees till the grievances are addressed upholding the interest of the public, stated the order. On April 28, 2025, Thrissur District Collector Arjun Pandian had suspended toll collection at Paliyekkara as the NHAI failed to stick to the directions issued by the district administration. The police had also taken a stand against the NHAI and contract company, as managing traffic became tough for them.

Two-year-old undergoes liver transplant surgery at Kochi hospital

Kerala human rights panel directs strict action against private bus drivers

KOCHI: In the wake of two deaths in nine days caused by private buses racing recklessly on the city roads, Kerala State Human Rights Commission chairperson Justice Alexander Thomas directed all authorities concerned to take strict, vigilant, and effective measures to prevent another death. Justice Thomas demanded that those responsible for the death of Abdul Salim, 43, an employee of an online food delivery company, be brought to justice and strict punishment be ensured. The Ernakulam district police chief has been asked to appoint an officer not below the rank of assistant commissioner to conduct an investigation into the incident, the judge directed. The rights panel action comes in a case registered suo motu by the commission based on a newspaper report. The assistant commissioner should inquire into whether a case has been registered against the private bus driver responsible for the death of Abdul. The police also need to investigate the circumstances leading to the accident, and whether any other cases have been reported against the same bus in the past, said the judge. The police have also been directed to submit the report before the commission. The commission should be informed of the details of the cases registered by the police in connection with private bus accidents due to speeding, negligence, etc., for the past year. A report on the preventive measures taken by the police to avoid accidents by private bus drivers should also be submitted to the commission, directed Justice Thomas. The commission has asked the RTO to submit a separate report. He also directed that the RDO on behalf of the district collector and the assistant commissioner, transport commissioner and RTO on behalf of the district police chief should appear in person at the sitting to be held at the Rest House at Pathadipalam on September 1 and present the facts.

No official word on cancellation, says Messi project sponsor

KOCHI: Reporter Broadcasting Company, the official sponsors of the state governments Messi project on Tuesday rejected reports that the Argentina Football Association had called off their Kerala visit. Sports Minister V Abdurahiman had said Messi was not coming to Kerala for the two exhibition matches scheduled in October. However, Anto Augustine, the MD of Reporter Broadcasting Company, said, We have not received any official intimation that the Kerala tour in October is called off yet. The information we received recently was the offer to play in September 2026, instead of October this year, for which no official confirmation was made. The sponsors said a total of Rs 130 crore was transferred to the AFA as part of the agreement on June 6, 2025. They sent official confirmation that the money has been received and that they are moving to the next step on June 12. Now after two months, if they do not stick to the plan, we will see it as a breach of agreement, he said Anto added that the intention was to bring the current world champions to Kerala, and an agreement to bring the team in 2026, after the World Cup gets over, would make no sense. Messi and Cos Kerala visit turning into messy affair

Bindhus brother blames police inaction for Cherthala murders

ALAPPUZHA: Praveen Padmanabha Pillai, brother of the missing Cherthala woman Bindhu Padmanabhan, has alleged that some of the top police officials in Alappuzha district had delayed the investigation into the case filed by him at the Pattanakkad police station in 2017 after his sisters disappearance. Praveen, who is settled in Italy with his family for more than three decades, told TNIE over phone that the failure of the police officials in charge at the time led to the murders of innocent women, including his sister. During the 2015-16 period, I enquired about my sister with the people in our native place. Nobody had an exact answer because we hadnt been in good relations. When I visited my village in 2017, a real estate broker from Kochi arrived and enquired about my sister. He also revealed that a property in Edappally was sold with forged documents, which led to my investigation into the case, Praveen said. He found that all documents used to sell the property owned by Bindhu were forged. Sebastian was the mastermind behind it. I presented all documents to prove it. But the Pattanakkad police were not ready to investigate the case. Later, I submitted a petition to the chief minister and the state police chief. Subsequently, the police launched an inquiry. Grim turn in women missing case in Kerala; Is Sebastian a serial killer? The local police tried to make it a dispute between my sister and I, and they tried to close the case. Later, the crime branch took over the case but they didnt examine all facts behind her disappearance. So, I deeply suspect some dark hands in the department helped Sebastian commit the crime, Praveen said. He said he contacted Sebastian in 2017. He said my sister was alive and would come the next day. He also brought an autorickshaw driver to me. The driver told me that he took her to Sebastians house and that she gave him `500 as auto fare. Sebastian is behind the murders and he has courtiers to execute them. The autorickshaw driver was such a courtier, but the police were not ready to examine Sebastians accomplices, Praveen alleged. He said Sebastian, after the sale of Bindhus land in Edappally for Rs 1.5 crore, deposited around Rs 50 lakh in his wifes account with a cooperative bank in Kottayam. The police did not investigate the source of the income. Two years ago, the police filed a chargesheet relating to the document-forging case, but the chargesheet did not mention the money he had collected after selling the property. Had the police examined the leads I showed, the case could have been unravelled easily, Praveen said.

Rights panel orders probe into death of two-wheeler rider in Kochi

Kochi honey trap case takes a twist as police file sexual harassment case against petitioner after accused womans complaint

Grim turn in women missing case in Kerala; Is Sebastian a serial killer?

ALAPPUZHA: Is Sebastian C M (65), Chengumthara house, Pallippuram, Cherthala, a serial killer? Did he kill women for money and over other motives? The crime branch team suspects that he had killed four women in the past two decades. Bindhu Padmanabhan, 46, of Kadakarapilly, Cherthala; Jane Mathew (Jainamma), 48, Athirampuzha, Kottayam; Ayisha, 56, Varanad, Cherthala; and Sindhu, 43, Vallakunnathu, Cherthala South Panchayat in Cherthala are missing, and the investigators are on a task to ascertain the role of Sebastian, the prime suspect. When the investigators probed the truth behind the missing, Sebastian is found to be a cool man, accompanying the investigators just misleading and giving false statements. The mysterious missing case ended up with Sebastian after the Kottayam Crime Branch(CB) wing started an investigation into the disappearance of Jainamma in February this year. More charred human remains found from Sebastians property in Kerala Husband and brother of Jainamma approached the High Court and gained an order to investigate the case. When the local police started the missing case and later handed it over to the CB, they connected the link with Sebastian, who had already been under the scanner of the Alappuzha CB over the disappearance of Bindhu. The call records of Sebastian and Jainamma made the lead into the investigation. They identified the tower location of Jainamma at the time of the missing at Pallippuram. It was the same tower location of Sebastian was in. In the detailed investigation over their phone calls, they found that Sebastian and Jainamma had connections. Finally, the team discovered burned body parts of a woman from the Sebastian's residence on July 28, shedding light on the mysterious disappearances. When the police planned to conduct a DNA comparison with the test of the body parts and Jainammas relatives, the story of missing persons unravelled. Ayesha had been missing since 2012 from Varanad and she had connections with Sebastian. She had connections with Sebastian, too, for purchasing land to construct a house. She also owned gold ornaments and cash, only to disappear in a fine morning. Another woman, Sindhu, went missing on October 19, 2020. She left home after saying that she was going to the temple, but she never returned home. The Crime Branch Alappuzha is also investigating the disappearance of Bindhu, who went missing in the 2010-2013 period. The Pattanakkad police started a probe based on a complaint filed by Bindhus brother, Praveen Padmanabha Pillai of Padmanivas, Alumkal Junction, Kadakkarappally, in September 2017. He was settled in Italy for many years. The case was initially investigated by local police and later handed over to the CB. As per the complaint of Praveen, his 46-year-old (in 2017) spinster sister, who owned assets worth crores of rupees, had gone missing under mysterious circumstances in August 2013. Police officers investigating the missing women case. According to him, a few real estate brokers, including Sebastian, and Jaya alias Mini, a native of Karuppamkulangara near Cherthala, had taken possession of her assets after forging documents. Bindhu stayed alone at her home, Padma Nivas, after the death of her parents. She sold ancestral properties worth crores of rupees that she had received from her parents. Bindhu had also owned land at Edapally in Ernakulam. Later, it was sold, but the documents used to sell the property were found forged. For the preparation of the land documents, a driving license, SSLC book, and the power of attorney of Bindhu were produced in the registrars office, but all the documents were fake. Praveen had collected the details of the land dealings from the Edapally sub-registrar office, which led to the mysterious missing case. Later, Sebastian, a real estate broker as pertaining to this case, was arrested by the local police. He told the police that he had created fake documents in the name of Bindhu. T Mini, alias Jaya, the second accused in the case, had surrendered before the court. She had confessed to the police that she had signed documents pretending as Bindhu for selling the properties. Though the local police questioned Sebastian and Jaya, they did not get any clue about Bindhu. The mystery behind the disappearance of Bindhu deepened with the suicide of S Manoj, 46, Thaikkoottathil house, Pallipuram, an auto driver, who was a close friend of Sebastian and Bindhu. Manoj was found hanging in his house on June 28, 2018, when the police directed him to appear for questioning. In the initial stage, the local police looked at the case as a land dispute, and later it developed into a mysterious missing case. Praveen Padmanabhan, Bindhu's brother, told TNIE over the phone from Italy, that the failure of the police led to the murders of innocent women, including my sister. In 2017, I inquired about my sister; she was in our native place at the time. When all it started, nobody had an exact answer, as we had not been in good relations. When I was in our native place , a real estate broker from Kochi, reached my village and inquired about my sister. Information regarding a property in Edapally being sold after forging documents came to light, and it led to my investigation into the case, he said. Later, I found that all documents utlised to sell the property owned by my sister were forged and Sebastian was the mastermind behind it. I presented all documents to prove it. But the Pattanakkad police were not ready to investigate the case. Later, I submitted a petition to the Chief Minister and the state police chief, then the police started an inquiry into the case. Local police tried to make it look like a dispute between my sister and me, and they tried to close the case. Later, CB took over the case, but they did not examine all the facts behind the missing pf my sister. So I deeply suspect that dark hands in the police behind the missing, they are helping Sebastian to commit the crime!, Praveen said. When I contacted Sebastian in 2017, he said that my sister was alive. He told me that she will come the next day. He also presented an auto driver in front of me. He told me that he brought her to Sebastian's house, and that she gave Rs 500 as auto fare. Sebastian is behind the murders. He has courtiers to execute the murders. The auto driver is one such a courtier, But, the police were not ready to examine his accomplices, Praveen said. After the sale of my sister's land in Edapally for Rs 1.5 crore, Sebastian deposited around Rs 50 lakh in the account of his wife in a cooperative bank in Kottayam. But the police did not investigate the source of income. If the police had examined the leads I pointed to, the case could have been unravelled easily then, Praveen said.

Fresh crop arrivals rein in copra, coconut oil prices

Wholesale prices in Kochi drop to 379 and 240 a kg for copra; stockists pare inventories

Kerala rains: Rivers and dams swell; IMD issues red alert in three districts

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Torrential overnight rains lashed Kerala, leading to widespread waterlogging and a significant rise in water levels across several rivers and dams on Tuesday. In response to the continuing downpour, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for Ernakulam, Idukki, and Thrissur districts, warning of extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 20 cm within 24 hours. An orange alert was issued for five districts, indicating very heavy rainfall between 11 and 20 cm, while the remaining six districts were placed under a yellow alert, forecasting heavy rain between 6 and 11 cm. Several dams used for power generation and irrigation, particularly in Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, and Wayanad, reached the third stage of alert, signalling rising water levels that may require further precautionary measures. In Kochi, the impact of the rains was felt starkly when a private taxi, guided by a navigation app, plunged into an open canal that had been obscured by floodwaters. The driver escaped unharmed, according to police. The incident highlighted the dangers posed by unmarked infrastructure and poor visibility during extreme weather, as much of the city remained waterlogged following the heavy rains.

App-Based Cab Falls into Canal on Flooded Kochi Road

The vehicle fell into the canal and was three-fourths submerged in the water, according to visuals on TV channels

Taxi using navigation app plunges into canal along waterlogged road in Kochi

KOCHI: A private taxi plunged into an open canal along a rain-flooded road near Petta in Kochi on Tuesday morning, while the driver was using a navigation app to reach a passenger, police said. The incident occurred around 7.30 am amid heavy waterlogging caused by overnight rains. The vehicle, operated by a popular app-based ride-hailing service, was nearly three-fourths submerged in the canal, as seen in visuals broadcast on local TV channels. Fortunately, the driver managed to escape unhurt. According to Maradu police, the canal runs parallel to the road and is usually difficult to spot, especially when the area is flooded. The car has been pulled out, an officer confirmed. Local residents, who assisted in recovering the vehicle, said the canal is uncovered and during heavy rains, the surrounding area becomes completely submerged, making it nearly impossible for unfamiliar drivers to distinguish the road from the canal. The incident has raised concerns over poor infrastructure and the lack of safety barriers along flood-prone stretches of road.

Kerala rains: Heavy rain leaves many areas in Kochi inundated

Keralas oil sardine catch bounces back

KOCHI: Though Kerala recorded a marginal 4% decline in marine fish landings in 2024, the states oil sardine catch showed a steady increase for the third consecutive year. As per the annual fish landing data released by the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), the state recorded total fish landing of 6.10 lakh tonnes in 2024, compared with 6.33 lakh tonnes in 2023. However, oil sardine catch, which dropped to 3,297 tonnes in 2021, has been recording a steady increase over the past three years, disproving concerns that the species, a staple in the state, is migrating from the coast. In 2022, the oil sardine catch stood at 1,10,270 tonnes, which rose to 1,38,980 tonnes in 2023. Indian oil sardine topped the list of most caught species in the state with 1.49 lakh tonnes in 2024, registering a slight increase of 7.6%. Though the stocks of oil sardine seem to be increasing gradually, the unusual behaviour of the species has surprised scientists. In the first six months of 2024, the species almost disappeared from the coast raising concerns among fishermen. From January to March the catch of oil sardine was only 12,000 tonnes and the landing from April to June was 3,525 tonnes. There was a steady decline in oil sardine landing during the first half of 2024 and the price in local market skyrocketed to `450 per kg. However, around 80% of the oil sardine catch, close to 1 lakh tonnes, came from October to December. This was due to an unusual multiple spawning and recruitment. Usually, the spawning happens during the monsoon season. It may be the land runoff triggered by extended rainfall and favourable ocean currents that have acted as the stimulus. But as the landing increased, the price of the species nosedived to `20 to `30 per kg, said principal scientist P Jayashankar. CMFRI director Grinson George said, The decline in oil sardine catch during the first half of 2024 could be due to the impact of marine heat wave and the adverse impact of Indian Ocean Dipole and El Nino. However, the catch increased during the latter half. It proves that there has been steady recruitment. According to principal scientist U Ganga, multiple spawning and recruitment ensured the steep rise in oil sardine catch in the last three months of 2024, but the size of the fish was small and fishermen said it was not tasty. This may be because the oil sardine caught during the period were juvenile. The reason for change in taste may be because of a lack of nourishment. However, now the sardine stocks are healthy and this year we have found that the population of gravid females is healthy, said Ganga. Fish landings in state Total in 2024:6.10 lakh tonnes 2023: 6.33 lakh tonnes Major species caught, in 2024 Oil sardine: 1.49 lakh tonnes Indian mackerel: 61,490 tonne Penaeid shrimp: 44,630 tonnes Anchovy: 44,440 tonnes Threadfin bream: 33,890 tonnes Species with rise in landing* Oil sardine: 7.6% Lesser sardine: 37% Anchovy: 27% Lizard fish: 60%

Kerala to unveil its first neurodivergent-friendly coworking hub in Kochi

KOCHI: A flexible workspace that is inclusive and is a brand in itself that is how the 48,000-sq-ft coworking facility i by Infopark at Ernakulam South metro station has been envisaged. Billed as the states first neurodiversity-friendly coworking facility, it boasts world-class amenities and will support 580-plus professionals. The facility which is expected to be officially inaugurated in September is also being seen as a boon for space-strapped Infopark. In a world where 20% of the total population is neurodivergent, a workspace that takes into account their needs is very important. Each floor of this facility has been designed based on the neurodiversity-friendly concept of Spectra, which is being adopted globally in workplace design. It has an area of about 48,000 sqft and offers 582 seats, high-speed internet, 100% power backup, 24/7 security, along with a wide range of services such as professional reception, cafeteria, office pods, and meeting zones, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said in a post on X. This is the model for the workspace of the future and will be scaled across the state to boost innovation and employment, the post said. Another important feature of i by Infopark is the rental system that helps in arranging the office space in keeping with business needs. It is primarily targeting gig workers, freelancers, multinational companies, IT/IT-related firms, and companies looking to set up global capability centres in Kerala. It also addresses the issue of space constraint at Infopark, said Susanth Kurunthil, CEO of Infopark. Once the project proves successful, the government plans to start similar centres across the state, the CM posted. Susanth said, The workspace is spread across the 3rd to the 9th floors of the metro station complex. The goal is to position Infopark as the premier choice for businesses seeking a dynamic, supportive, and strategically located workspace solution in Kochi, with a unique emphasis on inclusive and neurodiversity-friendly design. Once the facility is well accepted, Infopark will envisage constructing more such facilities across Kerala. Explaining the facilitys neurodiversity-friendly design, he added, The Spectra concept is built on the idea of variation in human brains being biologically normal and adaptive, fostering unique perspectives, and greater innovation. Neurodiversity reflects the idea that variations in human brains are normal and adaptive. Our design aims to support individuals with conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and Tourette syndrome, among others. Each floor is thoughtfully designed with a specific sensory focus, creating a symphony of senses to enhance comfort and productivity for all occupants, he added.

Messis Kerala visit called off as Argentina pulls out of 2025 match deal

KOCHI: The uncertainty has ended, on a sour note. Superstar Lionel Messi and his Argentina team will not play in Kerala this year. Having reassured football fans several times over the past eight months that the world champions would play in Kerala, Sports Minister V Abdurahiman on Monday finally conceded that the much-hyped visit is not happening. While the Argentina Football Association has expressed willingness to consider the March 2026 window, the state government has decided not to accept that arrangement, the minister said. What we agreed for was a match here in 2025. But in a recent communication, the AFA has breached the agreement, Abdurahiman told the TNIE . He said the state government had reached an agreement with the AFA to have Messi and company playing in Kerala this October, the Argentine football body has conveyed that the deal is not possible anymore. This has happened after the transfer of funds required in line with the agreement, the minister said. He said the initial communication was made as the AFA sent an invoice via email, offering the October international break. The agreement was made almost six months ago and we were awaiting clearances from the finance department, Reserve Bank of India, and the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs. After that, we successfully transferred the funds. Last week, we received the communication indicating the postponement, the minister said. Further, he said the state government has officially conveyed to the Argentine Football Association that a 2026 window is unacceptable. AFA liable to give compensation in case of financial loss: Abdurahiman If we face any financial loss in this deal, they (AFA) will be liable to give a compensation, the minister said. He clarified that while the AFA cited scheduling conflicts, the sponsor insisted that the match could only be held in October. In November 2024, Abdurahiman had first announced that the world champions would play two international friendlies in Kerala in October, 2025. But in May this year, reports said Argentina had agreed to play matches in China during the October window. In June, the minister put a positive end to the speculations by confirming that Messi and his men would be visiting Kerala this year. For good measure, just a few weeks ago, AFA marketing director Leandro Peterson also announced in a press meet in Dubai that Argentina would visit Kerala ahead of next years FIFA World Cup, rekindling hope among fans. On Monday, Abdurahiman was visibly frustrated while responding to reporters queries on the matter on the sidelines of the inauguration of Centre for Sports Dentistry at KMCT Dental College, Kozhikode. Adding to the controversy, there are strong indications that the AFA will not refund the first installment of the contract amount paid by the sponsor. The Argentine association reportedly maintains that a breach of contract occurred, placing the onus on the other party.

Kerala HC dismisses habeas corpus petition after woman appears before court

The petitioner claimed that he had married the woman, who was traced by the police at Maradu in Kochi, in 2022 after meeting her through a matrimonial website

Kerala slams Centres move to permit offshore atomic minerals mining

KOCHI: The Kerala government has strongly opposed the Union Governments decision to allow private sector participation in offshore atomic minerals mining, warning of severe consequences for national security, the marine ecosystem, and the livelihoods of coastal communities. Industries Minister P Rajeeve criticised the Offshore Areas Atomic Minerals Rules, 2025, which permit exploration and mining of radioactive minerals like thorium and uranium in Indias Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), including by private and potentially foreign agencies. This is a unilateral move by the Centre. Despite the fact that atomic mineral-rich seabeds lie off Keralas coast, no consultation was held with the state. Its a clear violation of federal principles and an encroachment on constitutional rights, the minister said in a statement. The new rules, he said, grant the Centre and its agencies exclusive control over licensing, completely bypassing the states. The powers vested with the Union under these rules will allow private players and foreign contractors to exploit deep-sea atomic mineral reservesposing a direct threat to national security, Rajeeve said. Offshore mining rules are threat to coastal livelihoods Keralas coastline, along with parts of Odisha and Tamil Nadu, is known for its rich deposits of beach sand minerals that contain thoriumcrucial for Indias nuclear energy ambitions. Rajeeve said the rules would disproportionately impact Kerala, home to public sector undertakings involved in beach sand mineral processing. This will jeopardise not just the operations of these PSUs but also the thousands employed by them, he said. Equally alarming, according to the state, is the environmental damage that deep-sea mining can cause. Offshore atomic minerals mining will severely disrupt fragile marine habitats, destroy fish stocks, and collapse food chains, the minister warned. It will directly affect the livelihoods of lakhs of traditional fishers who depend on these waters. He accused the Centre of ignoring Keralas repeated objections while moving forward with plans to permit exploration and mining in areas adjacent to the states maritime boundaries. The sudden notification of these rules, without dialogue or transparency, is unacceptable, he said. Calling the move an injustice to coastal states, Rajeeve demanded the complete withdrawal of the Offshore Areas Atomic Minerals Rules, 2025. The Centre must understand that this is not merely a matter of resource exploitation it is a question of environmental protection, constitutional rights, and human survival, he said. Rahul Gandhi writes to PM seeking cancellation of tenders for offshore mining in Kerala, Gujarat, Andaman

Two motorcyclists killed in separate road accidents in Kochi

Skyesports announces pan-India Gaming Mahotsav starting from Chennai

Skyesports has announced Gaming Mahotsav, a nationwide festival series blending gaming with culture and entertainment. Starting with Gaming Thiruvizha in Chennai on August 30-31, the festival will travel to six Indian cities, including Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Kochi and Pune. The event features cosplay, comics, live performances, LAN tournaments, and regional art, aiming to foster hyperlocal communities.

Kerala sets up co-working space at metro station in Kochi, targets IT/ITeS players

Kochi is getting a new co-working space at Ernakulam South metro station. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will soon inaugurate 'i by Infopark'. The seven-story building has space for over 550 professionals. Infopark manages the facility. The aim is to reduce commute times. Kerala plans to expand this model across the state. The co-working space targets IT companies.

1st-ever green hydrogen ferry all set for Varanasi voyage

KOCHI: The future fuel is here! The first-ever green hydrogen ferry in the country, built by the Cochin Shipyard Ltd, has received the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) approval, paving the way for the deployment of the 50-passenger capacity vessel that boasts of zero pollution, in Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. It has completed the six-month trial runs in Varanasi. The news is significant as the Kochi Water Metro, which currently uses electric-hybrid passenger ferries manufactured by the CSL, has ambitious plans to shift to the zero-emission green hydrogen fuel in future. The shift to green hydrogen vessels is now under active consideration and discussions are progressing with the Cochin Shipyard. While we decided against hydrogen ferries initially due to their huge operating cost and difficulty in sourcing, discussions have now been revived, with ANERT (Agency for New and Renewable Energy Research and Technology) extending a subsidy scheme as well, said a source with Kochi Metro Rail Ltd. When the green hydrogen proposal was first made two years ago, the cost of the future fuel, considered a potential replacement for fossil-based ones, was `960/kg. Industry sources said this has now more than halved. Reliance has commissioned a pilot hydrogen refuelling station (HRS) in Jamnagar. The cost of hydrogen comes to Rs 360/kg, a source said. Another positive development is the availability of hydrogen fuel in Kochi, as a green hydrogen plant and fuelling station, the first in south India, is coming up near Kochi airport at Nedumbassery. It is jointly developed by Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL) and Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL). While BPCL is entrusted with the building and operation of the 1,000-kW plant, CIAL contributes land, water and green energy resources. The plant will have a capacity to produce 80 kg of green hydrogen daily. Water, heat by-products With the indigenous vessel receiving IRS clearance, it is set to start operations in the Kashi-Prayagraj section. The ferry, utilising a hydrogen fuel cell powered battery system, runs on Low-Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane Technology (LT-PEM). By implementing the technology, the only by-products will be water and heat. The vessel can operate at a speed of 6.5 knots. Its operation is silent and, since there are no moving parts, maintenance requirement is low. The use of hydrogen as a fuel source eliminates greenhouse gas emissions, making the vessel a model for green and sustainable maritime transportation, a CSL official said. The vessel has five hydrogen cylinders carrying 40 kg of hydrogen, supporting eight hours of operation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had flagged it off on February 28, 2024. The hydrogen boat has the same design as that of the water metro ferries. We lowered the battery capacity and installed a hydrogen fuel cell to generate electricity, the official added. CSL is also constructing two Sea Shuttle Feeder Container Vessels running on green hydrogen. In zero emission mode, each vessel is expected to achieve around 25,000 tons of CO2 reduction per year. 50-passenger capacity The 50-passenger capacity vessel is set to start operations in the Kashi-Prayagraj section Utilising a hydrogen fuel cell powered battery system, it runs on Low-Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane Technology (LT-PEM) The vessel has five hydrogen cylinders carrying 40 kg of hydrogen, supporting eight hours of operation

Interactive session on Future of mobility in Kochi

The session aims at focusing on key mobility issues of the city from a futuristic point of view

Sanoo Mash, the beloved teacher, gets a dignified farewell

KOCHI: Hundreds of people including prominent figures from the states political and cultural spheres gathered at the Town Hall to pay last respects to M K Sanoo in Kochi on Sunday. The celebrated critic had passed away on Saturday aged 97. The mourners described him as Malayalams private pride and as a person who could speak on any topic under the sun, reflecting his widespread impact. The consensus was that his presence enriched literary functions and cultural events and that gatherings would never be the same without him. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan, and Ministers M B Rajesh, V N Vasavan, P Rajeeve, and R Bindu paid homage to Sanoo Mash, as he was affectionately called, at the Town Hall. Mayor M Anilkumar, MPs Hibi Eden and K C Venugopal, MLAs T J Vinod and K J Maxy, Ernakulam Collector N S K Umesh, writer Sunil P Ilayidom, political leaders M V Govindan, M A Baby, M Swaraj, Vaikom Viswam, C N Mohanan, A Satheesh, Gopi Kottamurikkal, V M Sudheeran, A N Radhakrishnan, Jose Thettayil, bureaucrat Muhammed Haneesh, actors Devan, Siddique, and Renji Panicker, District Police Chief Putta Vimaladithya, Gokulam Gopalan, Sreedharan Pillai, and Varapuzha Archbishop Joseph Kalathiparampil were among those who paid their last respects. It is an irreplaceable loss, CPM state secretary Govindan said. People like Sanoo Mash are born, maybe, once in a century. We were lucky to have him with us and will have to wait for an eternity to get another stellar personality like him, Family members pay homage at his house in Kochi He recalled meeting Sanoo for the first time when he had come for a conference associated with the AISF. He welcomed everyone with open arms. He was a person who studied, imbibed, and practised the teachings of Sree Narayana Guru, Govindan added. Satheesan remembered Sanoo as a teacher revered by every student in Kochi. That was so till his death. He was a teacher who showered all of us with love. For me, he was the number one orator in Malayalam. I have heard no other oration that can be considered better than his, the Congress leader said. He said Sanoo spoke calmly without histrionics but with authority. His speeches were infused with knowledge that he gleaned from the vast number of books he had read, Satheesan said. CPM general secretary Baby spoke about how he first met Sanoo during an elocution competition at St Josephs College, Devagiri. There would be no one in the Malayalam literary scene who hasnt become a student of Sanoo Mash in their hearts, he said. In Sanoo Mashs death, Kerala, especially Kochi, has lost a person who had been a big part of the socio-cultural scene, said actor-screenwriter Renji Panicker. As a writer and critic, he had been trying to refine Malayalis sentimentality. He had the ability to shake the thought process of his listeners, he said. When the mortal remains of Sanoo Mash was consigned to flames at the Ravipuram crematorium, Kochiites also bade goodbye to a person who played a huge part in improving life in the city through his work as a member of the Justice V R Krishna Iyer Movement. Im frail, but I want to continue writing: M K Sanoo

Non-motorised transport projects in Kochi remain incomplete

Only 70 % of works completed on the arterial Kaloor-Kadavanthra Road

Kochi bids adieu to M.K. Sanoo

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan paid their homage to the late writer

Palakkad Nipah control room winds down ops

KOCHI: The control room set up at the Government Medical College, Palakkad, as part of the Nipah virus containment efforts, has officially ceased operations. The control room was established on July 3, following the confirmation of Nipah infection in the district. The district administration stated on Saturday that the coordinated response by various departments played a crucial role in successfully containing the outbreak. Key departments such as the district administration, district medical office (Health), homoeopathy, ayurveda, forest and wildlife, civil supplies, police, and animal husbandry were involved in the containment operations. Their collective efforts significantly contributed to halting the spread of the virus, said a press release issued by the Palakkad district collectorate. The district collector however has urged for continued public vigilance to prevent any future outbreaks.

Malayali boy in Irelands U17 cricket team

KOCHI: Thodupuzha native Johan George has been selected to represent Ireland in the U17 Cricket Squad. Johan, who currently lives in Bettystown, County Meath in Ireland, will play in the upcoming Celtic Cup in Stormont. Son of Pallikunnel George, Pallikunnel House in Muthalakodam, Johan was born and raised in Ireland. He had been playing cricket since the age of 5. He has played as a youth in higher divisions at the club level and in the interprovincial level. An all-rounder specialised as a left-hand batter and a leg spinner, he was also a part of Cricket Ireland Winter training squad for the past few years.

M K Sanoo: His voice and words illuminated Keralas literary, social spheres

KOCHI: A follower of Sree Narayana Guru, M K Sanoo always believed in equality and social justice. The prolific writer, orator, activist and teacher, who passed away on Saturday, penned more than 70 books and was a constant presence in Keralas social and cultural sphere. Sanoo, who taught at Maharajas College for decades, had a wealth of students who went on to excel as writers, politicians, bureaucrats and actors. Gurudevan taught us that humaneness should be our religion and I have followed his preachings all my life. Maybe, the ideology is ingrained in my blood, Sanoo had once said. The 97-year-old, who suffered a hip-bone fracture after he tripped and fell in his house Sandhya in Kochi on July 25, breathed his last at a hospital around 5.35pm on Saturday. The body will be brought to his house at 8am on Sunday, and will be kept for public homage at the Ernakulam Town Hall from 10am to 4pm. The funeral will be held at Ravipuram crematorium at 5pm. Born to M C Kesavan and K P Bhavani of Thumpoli in Alappuzha on October 27, 1927, Sanoo was deeply influenced by the teachings of Guru. Growing up facing discrimination in a casteist society, Sanoo was a liberal in thoughts and raised his voice for the rights of the underprivileged. He was elected to the state assembly from Ernakulam as a Left-backed independent in 1987, but politics was never his forte. I am a supporter of the leftist ideology, but I always wanted to stay away from politics. My friends convinced me to contest the election, but later I realised that politics was not my cup of tea. Leaders of all political parties visit me, he told TNIE in an interaction two years ago. A voracious reader, Sanoo was has authored books on a wide range of topics, including literary criticism, childrens literature, interpretations, travelogues, biographies and essays. Sanoo started his career as a Malayalam lecturer at Sree Narayana College in Kollam in 1955 and later shifted to Maharajas College in 1957. His students revered him as their guide and mentor. He retired from service in 1983 and was elected president of the Progressive Literary Writers Forum in 1984. He also served as the president of Kerala Sahitya Akademi and the director of Kerala University Sri Narayana Study Centre. Though a leftist, Sanoo was against using literature for propaganda. Literature is not for politics, revolution or religion. It has its own autonomy, he used to say. He upheld reformation, liberalism His first book Anchu Sasthra Nayakanmar was published in 1958. In 1960, he brought out Kattum Velichavum, a literary critique. Though he was calm and composed in his speech, his criticism was sharp and was revered in the literary circle. He used to speak and write about reformation and liberalism. He was regarded as one of the best orators in Malayalam in the league of Joseph Mundassery and Sukumar Azheekode. Over his illustrious career, Sanoo was honoured with National Sahitya Akademi Award, Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award, Ezhuthachan Award, Vayalar Award, Padma Prabha Award and Childrens Literature Institute Award. M K Sanus wife N Ratnamma passed away in 2023. He is survived by sons, M S Ranjith and M S Harris; daughters M S Rekha, M S Geetha and M S Seetha, sons-in-law C K Krishnan, Dr Prasanth Kumar and P V Jyothi, and daughters-in-law C V Maya and Mini Harris.

Navas was a perfectionist, remember Kalabhavan friends

KOCHI: It was in 1992 that Navas joined Kalabhavan as a member of the ganamela troupe. For the past three decades, he remained an active member of Kalabhavan, even when he was busy with films. He contributed to the growth of the troupe, and the troupe contributed to his career. It was senior artist K S Prasad who introduced him to the troupe. In 1992, I saw him performing in a show near my place. I liked his performance and asked him to join the troupe. I also introduced him to our founder Fr Abel. After he joined, he was always an integral part of the Ganamela group. Later, he joined the Mimix Parade group too, recalled Prasad, an active member of Kalabhavan. For Kalabhavan Prajod, Navas was more like a brother. Navas Ikka and I worked together for Kalabhavan for around seven years. He was so dedicated to art and mimicry. We started doing programmes when senior artists, including Mani Chettan (Kalabhavan Mani), became busy with films. We conducted several stage shows in India, the UAE, and western countries. We learnt and performed together. Later, we started getting opportunities in cinema and became busy with films, but we maintained our friendship. Whenever he came to our place to participate in a show, he used to call and meet his friends. As an artist and a human, he was perfect, he says. It was endless practice that made Navas a perfect mimicry artist, according to artist Baiju Jose. He was a perfectionist and practised multiple times to make the role perfect. Navas Ikka was with the Mimix Parade group when I was pursuing a fine arts course in Kalabhavan. I used to see him practising even when there was no one around. I wondered why he was doing that. When I started performing with him on stage, I realised why he practised many times and how it had helped him, said Baiju. Family members pay tributes. Though Navas became active in the film industry, he used to attend the troupe as part of events and activities. Recently, we organised a mimicry workshop in Kochi. Even amid his busy schedule, he came to attend the event. In a programme, he recalled that he came to the film industry through me. He was respectful towards everyone and led a decent life. He was a family man and was concerned about everyone around him, added Prasad. Prajod added that Navas has contributed to the Mimicry Artists Association. Navas Ikka had been active in the association from the very beginning. He had been in the forefront in organising artists and used to call everyone to meet and organise events. He ensured that the mimicry artists stayed together and worked as a group, he added. The members of the troupe also held a meeting on Saturday to commemorate the artist. Hundreds pay last tributes Hundreds gathered at Aluva Town Jama Masjid to pay their last tributes to actor and stage artist Kalabhavan Navas, who passed away on Friday. Azzeez, actor and artist, stood beside the mortal remains with tears in his eyes. Azzeez was with Navas for the shooting of the Prakampanam film in Chottanikkara till Friday evening and said bye to Navas as he left for his hotel room to check out. Navas and I were part of two different troupes. But we maintained a good friendship. He was set to leave for the UK ahead of Onam this year, and I told him to celebrate his time there. I never expected to hear of his demise now. I also share a good relationship with his family. He is younger to me, and I have always considered him as a young brother, said Harisree Martin. Actors and filmmakers Saikumar, Bindu Panickar, Ramesh Pisharodi, Joy Mathew, Kishore, Siddique, Devan, Sharaf U Dheen, Lal, Suresh Krishna, and others also paid tributes to Navas. The funeral was held at 5.30 in the evening after public viewing at Aluva. Navass wife, Rehana, and brother, Niyas, are also active in films and television programmes.

M K Sanoo: A vital cog in Kochis civic and cultural life

KOCHI: A prominent presence in Keralas literary landscape, M K Sanoos legacy is also deeply intertwined in the socio-cultural fabric of Ernakulam assembly constituency, which he represented as a CPM-backed independent from 1987-91. A teacher by profession, Sanoo Master shaped generations of young minds in the hallowed halls of Maharajas College. His tenure as a professor at the institution not only influenced countless students but also positioned him at the very heart of the citys intellectual ferment. Students, artists, and political figures of all ideologies would regularly converge at Sandhya, his residence at Karikkamuri Cross Road, making it a vibrant hub for open-ended discussions and progressive ideas. Though his roots were in Alappuzha, Sanoo Master chose Kochi as his home and the primary stage for his public life. He was an influential teacher, who played a key role in shaping up many prominent careers like former defence minister A K Antony and famous cine actor Mammootty. I too was his student at the Malayalam department of Maharajas college, back in 1977. I still recall his encouraging me when I attempted to write a song with the Ravi Varma paintings as theme, noted poet and lyricist R K Damodaran told TNIE . More than just an observer, Sanoo Master was an active participant in the citys developmental and cultural movements. His association extended beyond literary circles, as seen in his active support for initiatives such as the Krishna Iyer Movement for the Kochi Cancer Centre. He played a key role in the state government taking up the Kalamassery Medical College Hospital from the cooperative sector. He was also a constant presence at the Chavara Cultural Centre. ... irreplaceable void. It was Mash who wanted a cancer centre for Kochi the most. He led from the front, along with Justice Krishna Iyer, and finally got the nod for building the key institution. However, as the Cancer Center is about to become a reality, its very hard to realise that the great figure is not here to see his dream becoming true. Whenever I could get the opportunity to spend time with him, he asked this one question without fail every time, when will the cancer centre start functioning from a new building, said Dr Balagopal P G, director of Cochin Cancer Research Centre. His civic engagement was further cemented when he was elected Ernakulam MLA, a role he used to champion social causes. He was also a founding member of Mithram, a school for the mentally handicapped in Mulanthuruthy, showcasing his commitment to inclusive social work. He edited a work titled Kochi 2000 for Kochi corporation, showing his direct involvement in the citys civic and cultural life. Ernakulam lost a great personality, a secular face who was above party politics. As a peoples representative of Ernakulam, I enjoyed a great support from him. This is a huge loss for Ernakulams socio, cultural, and literary field, said T J Vinod, Ernakulam MLA.

Kochi professor placed under virtual arrest, swindled out of Rs 1.19 crore

KOCHI: A 77-year-old retired college professor in Kochi lost Rs 1.19 crore to cyber fraudsters who impersonated Mumbai cyber cell officers. Based on the professors complaint, the Elamakkara police have registered a case and launched an investigation. Police said after receiving Rs 60 lakh from the sale of a property last week, the victim was contacted by someone claiming to be from an international courier firm on July 21. The caller informed him that a parcel sent in his name from Mumbai to Bangkok had been intercepted with narcotic substances including MDMA. The call was then transferred to someone claiming to be from the Mumbai cyber police. The person, who introduced himself as Cyber Cell Inspector Vijay Paul, told the professor that he had been virtually arrested and warned him not to disconnect the call or speak to anyone else. The caller began interrogating the professor, accusing him of using his bank account to launder drug money. Though the professor explained that the Rs 60 lakh was from a property sale, the fraudsters said they didnt believe his version. Claiming the funds needed to be verified, the fraudsters convinced him to transfer the entire Rs 60 lakh, promising it would be returned after the investigation. Believing them to be real cyber police officers, the professor transferred Rs 60 lakh to the account of a Santosh the same day. The fraudsters then demanded that the remaining amount in his bank accounts should also be transferred. The victim transferred Rs 28 lakh and Rs 15 lakh on July 23 and 25, respectively, to an Abhi Vishwakarmas account. Rs 20,000 was transferred to the bank account of a Deep Singh. On July 28, the victim transferred Rs 15.85 lakh to Santoshs account. When the fraudsters asked for more money, the professor approached his brother for a loan. The brother, who was aware of the earlier property deal, questioned the need for more funds. Suspicious, the brother sent his son to the professors house. At the house, the son came to know about the cyber fraud incident and told the victim about similar fraud incidents.

Hyderabad: Excitement Builds for NMDC Marathon

The youngest registered runner is just 9. Runners from cities like Kochi, Coimbatore, Nasik, Vizag and others are taking part but Bengaluru recorded the highest entries at 683.

Writer, critic M K Sanu passes away at 98

KOCHI: Writer, literary critic and orator Prof M K Sanu passed away in Kochi on Saturday. The 98-year-old author, who allegedly suffered a hip bone fracture after he tripped and fell at his house Sandhya at Karikkamuri, breathed his last at a private hospital at 5.35 pm. The body will be brought to his house at Karikkamuri at 8 am on Sunday and will be kept for public homage at Ernakulam Town Hall from 10 am to 4 pm. The funeral will be held at Ravipuram Crematorium at 5 pm. A teacher by profession, M K Sanu was a voracious reader and penned around 70 books, including literary criticism, childrens literature, interpretations, travelogues, biographies and essays. As a lecturer in Malayalam at Maharajas College in Kochi, he earned a wealth of students who revered him as their guide and mentor. His students include writers, bureaucrats and filmstars like Mammootty. Born as the son of M C Kesavan and K P Bhavani of Thumpoli in Alappuzha on 27 October 1927, Sanu was deeply influenced by the teachings of Sree Narayana Guru. Growing up in a casteist society and facing discrimination, Sanu remained a liberal in thought and consistently raised his voice for the rights of the underprivileged. He was elected to the state assembly from Ernakulam as a Left independent in 1987 but was not interested in politics. I am a supporter of the leftist ideology, but I always wanted to stay away from politics. It was my friends who convinced me to contest the election in 1987 but later I realised that politics is not my cup of tea. Leaders of all political parties visit me, he had told TNIE in an interaction two years ago. M K Sanu, who retired from government service in 1983, was elected the president of the Progressive Literary Writers Forum in 1984. He also served as the president of Kerala Sahitya Akademi and the director of the Kerala University Sree Narayana Study Centre. He was honoured with several awards, including the National Sahitya Akademi Award, Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award, Ezhuthachan Award, Vayalar Award, Padma Prabha Award and the Childrens Literature Institute Award. His important works include Changampuzha Krishna Pillai Nakshatrangalude Snehabhajanam , Basheer , Ekantha Veedhiyile Avadhoothan , Asthamikkatha Velicham , Urangatha Maneeshi , Mrithyunjayam , Kavya Jeevitham , Irulum Velichavum , among others. His autobiography Karma Gathi was published in 2010. M K Sanus wife, N Ratnamma, passed away in 2023. He is survived by his sons M S Ranjith (Retired, Cochin Port), M S Harris (Manager, Energy Management Services, Dubai); daughters M S Rekha, M S Geetha (Retired Head of Hindi Department, St Pauls College Kalamassery), M S Seetha (Retired, Social Justice Department); sons-in-law C K Krishnan and Dr Prasanth Kumar; and daughters-in-law C V Maya, P V Jyothi and Mini Harris.

M.K. Sanoo, the man who fought for Kochis causes

No headway in land acquisition for Ayyankuzhi families after BPCL-Kochi fire

Recent accidents involving private buses in the city highlight the need for a lasting solution to curb the menace

A week after a college student was killed when a speeding private bus rammed into his scooter near the busy Town Hall Junction, a vexing question echoes across Kochis bustling streets: Who will bell the speeding private buses? The chilling incident, preceded by the death of another bus driver in a collision at Kundannoor, has once again brought into focus the alarming frequency of mishaps involving private buses. For years, the city has been terrorised by rashly driven private buses. In fact, there are many who are scared to take out their two-wheelers due to their menacing presence and intimidating manouevres. The publics frustration is compounded by a predictable cycle of inaction. After a tragedy, enforcement agencies spring into action, book errant drivers and seize a few buses. Like the crackdown we saw on Thursday. Bandaid measures, at best. Notably, in 2022, the High Court had directed the installation of speed governors in private buses. The judge also instructed the city police commissioner and regional transport officer to ensure that private buses stick to the left lane and do not honk unnecessarily. It did have a positive effect. But the discipline and decency lasted only for a few weeks. It is clear that Kochi needs a comprehensive, lasting strategy that moves beyond temporary crackdowns. Loknath Behera, former city police commissioner and now MD of Kochi Metro, advocates for continuous monitoring systems using modern surveillance technology like CCTV cameras. Kochis public transport network should be modernised by inducting technologically advanced buses that look good. I am not saying private buses should be done away with. But the bus transport system can be more organised with the aid of technology, he told TNIE in a City Dialogues session. Urban areas like Kochi have seen population booms. Officers often have to multitask they would like to have at least 10,000 more police personnel to meet the workload. But no government can afford to recruit at that scale. Hence, we must rely on technology like CCTV cameras. Now, it is said a single camera is equal to 10 policemen. K G Radhakrishnan, secretary of the Ernakulam District Residents Association Coordination Council, recommends effective use of AI cameras to instil a sense of discipline. He also highlights that its high time the existing routes and schedules were rationalised. The existing schedules were formed decades ago. The buses often speed to stick to the schedules. Despite promises, the authorities are yet to initiate the revision process, he points out. Echoing the issue of racing, Transport expert Dijo Kappen suggests the Indore Model to end competition among private buses. The Indore model uses a gross cost contract, under which a public authority manages fare collection and service planning, while private operators are paid a fixed amount for running and maintaining the buses, he explains. The primary issue is the lack of proper training and monitoring of drivers, opines R Dhanuraj, chairman of the Centre for Public Policy Research. Private buses operate in the public domain. There should be a system to provide proper training to bus drivers, he says. Some years ago, a limited liability partnership system, where buses were grouped into small units or companies for efficient operations, had been mooted. But it didnt take off. Such a system would ensure accountability. Dhanuraj also emphasises the need for thorough background checks. Authorities and operators must be careful in vetting drivers before hiring them, he says. What about enforcement? City Police Commissioner Putta Vimaladitya says enforcement alone cannot resolve the issue when the system itself is flawed. He too highlights the main problem of bus timings. Add to that other structural problems like lack of bus bays, narrow roads, and poor lane discipline, he says. Enforcement is getting stricter, but unless these issues are solved, we will see no real improvement. Asked about the delay in revising the bus schedules, the officer says, Its a matter involving many departments. These things take time to sort out. The Motor Vehicle Department, meanwhile, maintains that some systemic changes are in the pipeline. The transport minister has assured us that the timetable revision will be implemented soon. That will solve a major part of the issue, says Biju Isaac, RTO (Enforcement), Ernakulam. Another challenge is the heavy vehicle density in the city and rampant violation of lane discipline. The results we aim for require a collective effort from all stakeholders. Bus operators take No driver purposefully creates any accidents as it is portrayed. Of course, there are cases where bus drivers are at fault. However, thats not always the case. Reckless driving of small vehicles also causes accidents. Then, roads are bad and the traffic is heavily congested. These issues should also be looked at, says K B Suneer, president of the Private Bus Operators Association. Kochis transport system at a glance Major public transport modes in Kochi are city buses, autorickshaws and ferry boats operated mainly by private operators. A total of about 650 buses are operated on about 160 routes originating from 60 locations across the city. Buses make up for about 14% of the vehicular traffic and carry 73% passenger volume. Long-term plans should include providing a mass rapid transit system, introduction of a suburban rail traffic system, independent goods corridors and improvement of inland water transport system. (Source: Draft city mobility plan prepared by KMRL)

Little Soi: A gateway to the Orient in Kochi

Pan-Asian cuisine is not alien to the Kochi palate. From street stalls to fine dining, menus almost always feature a section devoted to it. In recent years, this love has sparked a rise in restaurants dedicated solely to Asian flavours. Among them is Little Soi, tucked into the heart of Panampilly Nagar. Recently, the restaurant unveiled a trial menu. We arrived early on a rainy Sunday evening to find the place unusually calm, almost empty. In Kochi, this often signals a struggling spot, but here it was a brief lull before the evening crowd. Within the hour, the space was buzzing with conversation. The interiors are well done and well-lit. The colours, while primarily dominated by red and black, too, feel fitting for the Pan-Asian vibe. Interiors of Little Soi, Panampilly Nagar In drinks, we started with Mystic Dragon, a dragon fruit and hibiscus tea refresher with mint and ginger juice, and 0% ABV Mojito, a zesty blend of mint, lime, and lemon juice. I thought the beverages leaned on the sweeter side. I hope more choices with distinctive flavours would be added to the menu for a wholesome experience. The refreshers available at Little Soi It was also this time that we registered that the music playing there was a curious choice. Pop hits, including repeats of Katy Perry tracks, gave the space, despite the oriental decor, the energy of a mall cafe rather than the atmosphere of a Southeast Asian street corner. However, any reservations we had vanished with the arrival of sushi, the highlight of the evening. We tried the Ebi Dynamite Roll, a prawn tempura uramaki topped with asparagus and cucumber pickle. This was one part of our starters. The other: pan-grilled minced chicken and leek gyoza dumplings. The much-talked-about dynamite sauce, introduced as a signature element, paired well not just with sushi but also with the fried chicken. The latter, too, we learned, had quickly become a hot favourite among guests. Ebi Dynamite Roll The starters had indeed set a high bar, so much so that when the Suan La Mixed mushroom soup arrived, we found it paled in comparison. But then came the more appealing Soi Polo Chicken Bangkok fried chicken topped with golden fried herbed garlic and served with spicy dipping sauce. These were very relishing and overshadowed the Sichuan chilli fish in both taste and presentation. Chicken Tsukune Still, the main courses were well-balanced both in seasoning and portion sizes. The notable mention among them was the Chicken Tsukune, fragrant hibachi fried rice topped with grilled minced chicken dumpling. Another popular choice, we learnt, is the Okinawa Ramen, a soba noodle ramen in mild dashi stock with optional ajitama egg and meat or tofu. Dessert provided a strong finish. The Vietnamese coffee cheesecake was rich and creamy, delivering a sweetness that balanced out the sharper notes of the meal. It is so supreme that it may even be worth it to make a trip to Little Soi for just that. While we didnt try any Matcha variants on the day, the fact that Little Soi imports their Matcha powder from Japan hints at quality. We promised to return for the Matcha Brownie. Vietnamese Coffee Cheesecake The team on the floor, including Lal Zam from Mizoram and Tonkay Bahadur Thapa from Darjeeling, kept the atmosphere friendly and approachable, ensuring that the bustle never tipped into chaos. In all, Little Soi offers Kochi diners an accessible take on Southeast Asian flavours. For those seeking a lively evening with varied Asian-inspired dishes, it is a spot worth trying. Remember: sushi, fried chicken, and desserts.

Malayalam actor and mimicry artist Kalabhavan Navas found dead in a hotel room

Malayalam actor and mimicry artist Kalabhavan Navas tragically passed away at the age of 51 in a hotel room in Chottanikkara, as confirmed by Kochi police. Known for his comical roles in films like 'Hitler Brothers' and 'Detective Ujjwalan,' Navas's death has prompted an outpouring of condolences from colleagues and fans, including Kerala BJP chief Rajeev Chandrasekhar.

Malayalam actor Kalabhavan Navas found dead in Kochi hotel room, police suspect cardiac arrest

The incident came to light on Friday evening when the staff of the hotel, where Navas (51) was staying for a film shoot, alerted authorities.

SEZ rent disputes wont come under Rent Control Act, rules Kerala High Court

KOCHI: In a significant ruling, the Kerala High Court has held that rent-related disputes involving units operating within Special Economic Zones (SEZs) cannot be brought before regular rent control courts. It quashed proceedings initiated by the developer of SmartCity-Kochi before the Munsiff Court, Ernakulam (Rent Control), ruling that such matters must be dealt with under the SEZ Act, 2005. A division bench of Justices A K Jayasankaran Nambiar and P M Manoj allowed a petition filed by Musthafa & Almana International Consultants, a firm functioning in SmartCity-Kochi, challenging the maintainability of the rent control case filed by the developer, SmartCity (Kochi) Infrastructure Pvt Ltd, promoted by Dubai Holding. The lower court had accepted the developers petition under the Kerala Buildings (Lease and Rent Control) Act, 1965, alleging non-payment of over Rs 61 lakh in sub-lease rent and charges. But the High Court observed that the lease agreement between the parties was an outcome of the petitioners SEZ approval and could not be treated as a regular landlord-tenant relationship. The remedy chosen by the developer was not one that was available to it in law, the court said, adding that the issue was integral to the broader question of whether the petitioner continued to qualify as an entrepreneur under the SEZ Act. If the unit has violated lease terms, the court noted, the developer must approach the SEZ Development Commissioner for cancellation of approval. Only then can eviction proceedings be initiated under the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act. The judgment comes at a time when Dubai Holding, one of the main promoters of SmartCity-Kochi, has announced plans to exit the project, and the Kerala government is exploring a takeover of the venture in Kakkanad. Weve argued from the start that this isnt a Rent Control case, said Musthafa Zafeer O V, founder of the petitioner firm. The High Court agreed and dismissed the proceedings initiated before the Munsiff Court, Ernakulam, he said.

Need permit? Roll out new private buses adhering to emission norms

KOCHI: In a move aimed at phasing out rickety private buses, the motor vehicle department (MVD) will henceforth issue fresh permits only to private players willing to operate new buses that adhere to Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) emission norms. New permits will be issued only to new private buses. Weve discussed the matter with major private bus associations which agreed to the condition. A government order (GO) in this regard will be out in a few days, Transport Minister K B Ganesh Kumar told TNIE. The authorities will also curtail the issuance of temporary permits. Many are operating old buses using temporary permits, which is a safety concern. Private operators should now bring new buses adhering to the emission norms set by the Union government, like Bharat VI, the minister pointed out. He said many NRIs have complained of lobbies giving false assurances that temporary licences could be acquired with old buses and new permits received later. That wont happen now, Ganesh said. While Kerala was the first state to limit the shelf life of buses to 15 years, the state later raised the age limit of buses to 20 years, and further to 22, considering the request of private bus owners. That even as the Union government decided to de-register and scrap all vehicles older than 15 years. Geo-fencing to curb speeding The minister said the transport department will soon introduce geo-fencing technology at select points to curb competitive running among private buses. The system will trigger alerts when a bus enters or exits select points or exceeds a speed limit within a specific zone. Often, private buses operate by violating the given schedule and indulge in competitive driving, eyeing more passengers and money. The virtual boundaries will be created using a QR code and chip. The department has been allocated Rs 2 crore from the road safety fund to implement the system, Ganesh said. The initiative will be first introduced in the Palakkad-Thrissur section. Weve held discussions with the three main bus organisations. Two of them have agreed and weve asked the third too to cooperate. If buses violate the time-schedule, the organisation concerned will have to remit the fine, the minister said. When asked whether the measures would be implemented in Kochi, where the issue is rampant, Ganesh replied, Well first introduce them on a trial basis on routes where private buses operate, largely. If the organisations in a particular region refuse to implement it, the department will introduce geo-fencing.

Malayalam cinema steals limelight at 71st National Film Awards

KOCHI: Malayalam cinema had a very fruitful outing at the 71st National Film Awards , with several honours across feature and non-feature categories. Vijayaraghavan and Urvashi were named best supporting actors in the male and female categories a rare double for Mollywood. Urvashi was selected for her performance in 'Ullozhukku'. This is her second national award in the category, having previously won in 2006 for Achuvinte Amma'. Veteran actor Vijayaraghavan was picked for his role in 'Pookkaalam', which also won the editing honour for Midhun Murali. Vijayaraghavan shares the award with Tamil actor M S Bhaskar ('Parking'). 'Ullozhukku', which also stars Parvathy Thiruvothu, was adjudged the best Malayalam film. The jury hailed the film for its intimate character study of a family highlighting patriarchal conditioning and agency through restrained performances. I am very happy to be chosen for the award. I expected an award for 'Ullozhukku' as its director Christo Tomy deserved it. I am also delighted for Kuttettan [Vijayaraghavan]. No one else could have essayed his role [in 'Pookkaalam'], Urvashi told TNIE. I was happy when audiences accepted the film ['Pookkaalam'] and my role. 'Pookkaalam' is one of my favourite films. Now, at this age, I am receiving a national award too for such a film. It only adds to the happiness, Vijayaraghavan said. '2018', based on that years floods, won the production design award for Mohandas. 'Nekal - Chronicle of the Paddy Man', directed and produced by M K Ramadas, received a special mention from the jury.

Amid prayers and pleas, jailed Kerala nuns cling to hope as NIA Court reserves bail verdict

KOCHI: It has been a week since Sr Vandana Francis and Sr Preethy Mary of the Assisi Sisters of Mary Immaculate (ASMI) were jailed on charges of forced religious conversion and human trafficking . On Friday, their hopes of getting bail were crushed when prosecutors vehemently opposed their petition in the National Investigation Agency (NIA) court, to which the case was referred by a sessions court citing jurisdictional issues. This, even after Union Home Minister Amit Shahs assurance that the Chhattisgarh government would not oppose the plea. However, according to peoples representatives from Kerala, there is hope that the court would grant them bail when it issues its judgment on Saturday. Despite the legal uncertainty, the two remain calm and continue to hold on to the hope that a positive outcome will emerge soon, Angamaly MLA Roji M John said. He visited the nuns in jail on Friday, and, according to him, they appeared calm and collected. The nuns know they have not committed any crime and would be exonerated, he told TNIE. Roji pointed out that there are many loopholes in the case. When the nuns lawyer pointed out that no custodial interrogation papers had been filed, the prosecution couldnt rebut it. To date, police have not questioned them. This shows that they dont have anything to ask. All the charges have been fabricated. Hence, we have great hope that the nuns will get bail on Saturday, the MLA said. He accused the BJP of duplicity. They said that the state government wont be pursuing the case and that the prosecution wont oppose the bail plea. But that is not what happened in court on Friday. Joining ranks in prayer These have been difficult days for Sr Vandana and Sr Preethys fellow nuns of the ASMI order. But they are not alone, Sr Isbel Francis, superior general of the ASMI generalate of Green Gardens, Cherthala, told TNIE. Nuns all over the country and even outside have joined ranks. They are observing fast and praying for their fellow sisters, she said. Sr Isbel is presently at the convent in Narayanpur, Chhattisgarh, to extend her support to the jailed sisters. This is our mission convent, with the Assisi Shanti Health Centre, which was started in Narayanpur in 1976, being the focal point. The health centre was later developed into a hospital in 2015. It is the only healthcare facility providing medical and surgical care to the downtrodden and underprivileged in the area. The two sisters had worked at the hospital, she said. Sr Vandana worked as a pharmacist and was the superior at the hospital in Agra, while Sr Preethy is a qualified nurse. Sr Preethy did her nursing course and training with us in Cherthala. Since the day they donned the habit, they have been working tirelessly for the welfare of the poor, she said. This is the first time that the congregation has faced such a crisis, Sr Isbel said. I will be staying here till my sisters come home. I believe that they would get bail very soon, she added. As for the continuation of their work in Narayanpur and the fate of the hospital following the nightmarish incident, Sr Isbel said they will continue with their work and wont back out. If we close this hospital, the poor wont have anywhere to go for medical help, she added.

Rapper Vedan moves Kerala HC seeking anticipatory bail in rape case

KOCHI: Malayalam rapper Hirandas Murali, popularly known as Vedan, approached the Kerala High Court on Friday seeking anticipatory bail in the rape case registered against him based on a complaint filed by a young doctor. In his petition, Vedan claimed that the relationship with the complainant was consensual and voluntary. Vedan submitted that the complaint was a result of personal issues between him and the complainant. He argued that even if the allegations are taken at face value, they do not constitute the legal ingredients of the offence of rape under Sections 376 and 376(2)(n) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). According to the petition, a broken promise of marriage in a consensual relationship does not amount to rape unless it can be proved that the promise was false from the beginning. The rapper further alleged that a group of individuals, led by a woman, are conspiring against him with the intention of extorting money and damaging his reputation.

Kerala buffeted by rising wave of public obscenity, indecency

KOZHIKODE: That began as a routine weekend commute for Sreeja (name changed) from Kottiyam to Kollam on a KSRTC bus quickly devolved into a deeply distressing ordeal. Looking forward to reuniting with her family after a week of work, Sreeja found her journey abruptly interrupted by a man in his early 40s brazenly masturbating across from her, his gaze fixed on her. Despite her profound discomfort, Sreeja, unwilling to let the incident pass, summoned the courage to capture the perpetrators action on video. Her resolve stemmed from a fierce desire to expose a pervasive societal ill where victims, particularly women, are often blamed despite being the ones subjected to harassment. The incident echoed a recent online backlash against two sisters who were viciously trolled for slapping an elderly man who had allegedly groped one of them on a public bus. These alarming occurrences highlight a disturbing trend in Kerala: a surge in public indecency, including public masturbation, flashing, and other obscene acts. Shockingly, instead of condemnation, such acts often seem to garner a perverse acceptance in certain sections of society. District-wise data with the State Crime Records Bureau (SCRB) for May 2024-25 shows Kozhikode leading the way with 193 cases of public nudity and masturbation. It was followed by Ernakulam (157), Thiruvananthapuram (123), Kasaragod (98), Kollam (76), Malappuram (74), Palakkad (67), Alappuzha (66), and Kottayam (54). Pathanamthitta (43), Kannur (35), Idukki (33), Wayanad (29), and Thrissur (24) brought up the rear. Legal loopholes Despite the worrying numbers, a glaring loophole in the legal framework continues to empower perpetrators: the absence of specific laws directly addressing flashing or public masturbation. This legal void often hinders the formal registration of cases. Police sources indicate that while victims sometimes bravely come forward with video evidence, many hesitate to pursue further legal action due to fears of protracted legal battles. The silence surrounding the issue has prevented the enactment of specific legislation. While laws have been amended over the years to address crimes like voyeurism and stalking with specific punishments, public masturbation remains a murky area. The lack of a dedicated law ensures that theres no precise data on the true scale of the problem. However, social media platforms and online blogs are increasingly amplifying voices on the issue -- a chorus demanding urgent attention that cannot be ignored. Rohit Raj, a lawyer based in Kozhikode, emphasised the profound impact of such acts. Incidents of street harassment such as sexually explicit comments, public masturbation, and stalking are unfortunately common, he said. While not physically violent, being masturbated at is deeply personally violating. Public masturbation, unlike private acts, is not protected free expression; it is a grossly indecent act that outrages a womans modesty. He added that such acts encompass indecent exposure, assault, offenses against public order, and violations of womens civil rights. He reiterated that although public masturbation broadly fell under Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 354, 509, 268, 355 -- and their current corresponding sections 73, 77, 285, and 124 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) -- the absence of a specific law leads to under-reporting and very few convictions. Psychological underpinnings Shedding light on the psychological underpinnings of such behaviour, noted psychiatrist Reena Ravi said that individuals suffering from paraphilia are likely to masturbate in public. Paraphilia is a condition characterised by intense fetishes towards unusual objects. When a person with paraphilia masturbates publicly, it inherently harms the object of their fetish, often women. Reena added that public masturbators may also exhibit signs of regression, a psychopathological condition involving behaviour like extreme passivity, social withdrawal, aggression, and open masturbation. Exhibitionism, a form of paraphilia, involves exposing genitals to unsuspecting strangers for sexual arousal. She recounts a case where a man confessed that the presence of a woman made the act more realistic for him, imagining her participation in coitus. Dr Reena acknowledged that exhibitionism, including public masturbation, is a recognised medical condition, but cautions that some individuals may exploit this diagnosis to evade legal consequences. A call for action The issue of public masturbation has been long ignored and strategically sidelined, leading to the trivialisation of womens experiences of sexual harassment, according to Aparna Baiju, a college professor and womens rights activist. She argued that instead of trying to fit these offences into existing categories such as indecent exposure, lawmakers must create a distinct legal category with punishments commensurate with the gravity of the offence. A law should be made that covers indecent exposure, outraging the modesty of a woman, along with other relevant charges for the purpose of punishment, prevention, public protection, and social standards, she asserted. We hear of incidents on social media and from friends all the time, but rarely do they reach the courts, she remarked. She cited the experience of a woman from Kochi who, despite bravely exposing a man named Savad on a bus, endured severe cyber-bullying. While that woman was strong enough to withstand the onslaught, many others suffer in silence. The attitude that public masturbation is not a serious crime further emboldens perpetrators, Aparna said, attributing this to a cultural tendency to bury embarrassing sexual advances under the carpet. She pointed to global examples, noting that public masturbation can lead to a 14-day prison sentence in the UK, and 32 days in Indonesia. Our country can begin by at least talking about why it is wrong and dehumanising, Aparna said. Public spaces belong to all citizens, including women, she added. Sex education, the panacea

'Duty, not charity': Kerala HC slams man for denying maintenance to 100-year-old mother

KOCHI: The Kerala High Court has come to the aid of a 100-year-old woman seeking maintenance from one of her sons by upholding a family court order directing him to pay Rs 2,000 per month to her. Justice P V Kunhikrishnan also slammed the 57-year-old son, saying that if he fails to take care of his mother, he should be ashamed of himself. It is the duty of every son to look after his mother. It is not a charity, the court said and dismissed the man's appeal against the family court order of April 2022. The High Court noted that the man challenged the April 2022 order of the family court after a delay of 1,149 days, in 2025, after recovery proceedings were initiated against him for not paying the maintenance amount. At the time of filing the petition (in the family court), the mother of the petitioner was 92, and now she is aged 100 and waiting for the maintenance from her son! I am forced to say that, I feel deeply ashamed, being a member of this society, where a son is fighting with his mother, aged 100, merely to deny her a monthly maintenance of Rs 2,000, Justice Kunhikrishnan said. The son had opposed the plea moved by his mother in the family court, seeking Rs 5,000 as monthly maintenance from him, claiming that she did not require such an amount and that he would take care of her if she stayed with him. 70 per cent of India's elderly financially dependent, mental health issues and social isolation on rise: Report He had also claimed that his mother had other children who were not taking care of her and the plea in the family court was filed at the insistence of his elder brother, with whom she was currently living. The High Court said it was sad to see that the son was not ready to take care of his mother and was fighting in court to deny maintenance to her by raising different contentions. It said that the petitioner ought to have avoided the situation in which his mother had to move a court to seek maintenance. It further said it was the petitioner's duty to look after his mother, and if he was not doing so, he was ot a human being. A son is indebted to his parents in so many ways, and it is the duty of the son to serve his parents. A mother is her son's home base. Even when he grows up and has a new woman in his life, and gets a new home, he is still her son. No matter your age, you will always need your mother, the court noted. Despite the profound bond between a mother and her son, when the son gets married and starts his own family, he often forgets that his mother still needs him in her life. It takes so little effort to call our mothers, yet we often forget that just hearing our voice can make their day, the High Court said. Man stones elderly parents to death in sleep, arrested in Odisha It further pointed out that when the parents grow old, their tastes, attitudes and temperaments may differ. There will be childish habits in all people when they become old. We should remember that when we were children, our mother showed patience with us, even when we became impatient or upset over simple matters, it said. In the same way, when they become old, we should be patient with them. Old people may show childish stubbornness, and therefore it is the duty of the children to calm them down with understanding and patience. The success of the children depends on that, it also highlighted. Ensure special care, facilities for elderly prisoners: MHA to States, UTs

Rapper Vedan moves Kerala High Court seeking bail in rape case

Case was registered after a young woman doctor approached Kochi DCP with a complaint that Vedan sexually assaulted her in Kochi and Kozhikode on multiple occasions from 2021 to 2023 on the assurance of marriage

A Naga musician's note finds harmony in Kerala

In Kohima, Nagalands hilltop capital, music is not an extracurricular pursuit. It is life itself. Every home has a guitar resting in a corner, and melodies are passed down like heirlooms, from parents to children, siblings to siblings, and neighbours to neighbours. For Anovi Shohe, a 33-year-old Naga singer now in Kochi, those strings were the first threads that would lead him from childhood daydreams to founding a choir, the Kerala Singing Ambassadors, in Kochi TNIE catches up with Anovi to discuss his musical journey, the Nagaland music culture, becoming a finalist at the Vienna International Classical Singing, his vision for his ambitious choir project in Kerala, and more The Kerala Singing Ambassadors The first chord My father was a pastor in one of the biggest churches in Asia, he recalls, speaking of his upbringing in a family of ten siblings. The church and music were inseparable. I still remember being a little boy, sitting in the pews, drumming on my knees as the choir sang. Another memory is etched just as vividly: standing on the verandah, a paper microphone in hand, singing his heart out before his parents, his only audience. Even then, I would tell them. I want to be a musician. In Nagaland, the bond with music is communal. Every Naga family has a guitar, Anovi says. Even if we werent formally trained, we learned from each other. You know something, you share it with your friends and neighbours. Thats how I learned. For the youngest in a large family, Anovis path was shaped by his older brothers. One of my brothers dreamed of being a musician, but he couldnt pursue it. So he passed that dream to me, he says. Another insisted that Anovi learn the drums so the brothers could form a band. We played locally, but later, everyone got busy and it stalled. Still, the spark was alive. But, of course, there were many hurdles when he committed to his dream. Like many Indian parents, Anovis family worried about stability. Even in Nagaland, people said I should become an engineer or a doctor. They used to say, How else will you survive? he remembers. Yet, with his parents blessing and his brothers encouragement, Anovi refused to give up. I believed, maybe God had a plan for me. Anovi Shohe The miracle at home His then dream was to study at Trinity College in London, but the cost was daunting. The turning point came when his brothers friend, Lipokmar Tzudir, returned from Manila after training in music and opened The Nagaland Conservatory of Music in Dimapur. It was a miracle, Anovi says. Teachers came from abroad, some even international award winners. Suddenly, world-class music education was at our doorstep. Anovi joined the first batch in 2012, intending to major in violin. But the choir drew him in. I loved the idea of conducting, of leading voices together, he says. He switched to voice (western classical), studying under Philippine teachers, though for years he wasnt allowed to sing in the choir because of its technical differences with classical solo training. Anovis chance finally came in his final year, at a Christmas concert with international visitors. It was tough learning 15 songs at once but unforgettable. He graduated in 2016. Later, he worked in churches and founded The Choral Project, a choir that performed at small and big events, including the famous Hornbill Festival. Proceeds often went into community causes, such as repairing a local school roof. It was never just about music, Anovi says. The Kerala Singing Ambassadors during a practice session The Vienna run In 2019, he took a leap of faith and competed in the Vienna International Classical Singing Competition. I was a finalist. Imagine, a boy from a small Indian city standing beside Europeans in their own tradition, Anovi says, still awed. It was also humbling. I realised how much I still had to learn. But back home, people began to see me as a serious musician. That experience deepened his conviction: music was not a gift for a chosen few. Everyone has music in them, Anovi insists. Some are naturally talented, but with hard work and guidance, anyone can learn. Music is universal. Its in the way we speak, in everyday rhythms. The sad state of affairs in India is that we confine music to Bollywood or Tollywood. Parents dont see its value beyond that. In 2023, while weighing offers abroad, Anovi accepted a role at Crossroads, a music academy in Kochi. Prior to that, in 2017, I had taught at a private school in Kochi for a short period. About five to six months. So the culture here was familiar to me. I used to tell my family that though Kerala and Nagaland are on two corners of India, the way people live and interact is very similar open-minded, friendly, and warm. I have never felt lonely in Kerala. This helped me make my decision, Anovi says. At Crossroads, he teaches voice and the Trinity syllabus, but goes beyond it by encompassing elements of world music, pop, contemporary, etc. Anovi also organises regular recitals. In many schools, music is just a filler subject, one hour a week. That cant build real musicians. We want to change that, he says. The Kerala Singing Ambassadors during a practice session Kerala Singing Ambassadors It was also at Crossroads that Anovi launched his most ambitious project yet: the Kerala Singing Ambassadors, a professional choir with a vision as wide as its name. My dream is that one day, these kids will represent Kerala around the world, he says. Founded last year with about 30 members, the choir already has three arms: the main choir itself, the Tela (Hebrew for Child of God) choir, for children, and the Tabernacle, envisioned for older participants seeking healing and community. Unlike traditional church choirs, their repertoire spans from Christian hymns to love songs, pop to classical. We practice on Fridays, and from the response Im getting, it is taking off well. I always tell my students: dont imitate the voices you hear on YouTube or Spotify. You have one voice, your own. Sing in that voice, Anovi says. According to him, if someone says, You sang beautifully like that singer, thats not a compliment. On the choirs future, Anovi says, Theres huge potential, and points to the example of The Nagaland Chamber Choir, which recently won two gold medals in South Korea, and The Nagaland Madrigal Singers, which triumphed in Australia/New Zealand. These competitions are judged by professional musicians. And to win is a great honour. Thats the standard we aim for. Anovi says. The Kerala Singing Ambassadors during a practice session Beyond music But the choirs mission goes beyond accolades. Our youth are wasting their lives on drugs. We want to give them purpose, a healthy community, Anovi stresses. Choir is not just about singing. Its about building friendships, finding confidence, and healing. The choirs performances are already creating a stir. At a music event earlier this year, audiences stayed seated long after most of the programme had ended, waiting for the Ambassadors to perform. Dressed in black outfits with Kerala motifs, they sang with a maturity that belied their age. The choirs inclusivity is key. Even if you cant sing, you can join, says Anovi. Play an instrument, design costumes, help backstage everyone has a role. Its about building a big, healthy community. To find friends, fight loneliness, and even overcome depression. And the response has been heartening. When students win competitions, their parents send me messages of gratitude, Anovi says. Even playback singers and band members are now coming for training, realising voice technique matters. Talent pool For now, the Kerala Singing Ambassadors rehearse for a performance in Bengaluru. But Anovis dreams stretch further: a full-fledged conservatory in Kerala. Talent is immense here, he says. If we build a conservatory, bring in real teachers, even start an opera house, Kerala could be on the world music map. Why should our kids have to go abroad when we can create that here? Its a vision rooted not only in ambition but in faith. Music has always been part of my life from drumming on a church bench as a child to now leading a choir. I believe it can heal, inspire, and transform. Thats what we want to give Kerala, says Anovi. While I still harbour a dream to become a conductor, my mission now, and perhaps my greatest reward, is to see a student I trained perform internationally.

Kerala woman saves elderly man dangling from moving train at Tripunithura

KOCHI : A potentially fatal fall onto the railway tracks was narrowly averted on Thursday, thanks to the quick thinking and bravery of a woman passenger at Tripunithura station. Usha Suresh Babu, a nutritionist based in Tripunithura, saved the life of an elderly man who was left dangling from the handrail of the AC coach of the Ernakulam Junction Thiruvananthapuram Central Vanchinadu Express. The incident occurred as the train began pulling out of the station. Usha, who was standing at the door of one of the coaches, spotted the man stuck between the moving train and the platform, his body outside, his hand barely visible from inside the compartment. Without hesitation, she clung to him, trying to prevent a deadly fall even as the train gathered speed. Among those who witnessed the scene was Sumi Joy Oliyapuram, Head of the Malayalam Department at Maharajas College, Ernakulam. Recalling the tense moments, Sumi said, Death had to leave without its victim on Thursday. Sumi and her colleague, Santhosh T. Varghese, Head of the Economics Department, had just boarded the train at Tripunithura. I was seated near the door in the AC coach when I heard a cry from outside, said Sumi. I told Santhosh someone was calling for help. He too heard it and rushed to the door. What they saw was alarming, a woman desperately calling out that she couldnt hold on any longer, gripping a man wedged between the platform and the coach. My colleague immediately pulled the emergency chain, said Sumi. A young man from inside the coach joined in and managed to haul the old man up as the train came to a halt. As the train had only just left the station, it stopped quickly, allowing the rescue to succeed. According to Sumi, the rescued man appeared to be elderly and possibly homeless. He looked nomadic, thin, old, shirt torn at the buttons, hair flying, a swollen belly, and emaciated legs, she said. Perhaps it was his slight frame and loose clothing that saved him from more serious injury. Soon after, the trains TTE rushed to the spot. The man, who was bleeding from his sides, was moved to the platform and taken to hospital. The TTE later revealed that the man had earlier been removed from the train at Tripunithura for travelling without a ticket, but had apparently tried to reboard the moving train by entering another coach. The train resumed its journey about ten minutes later after the injured man was attended to. Sumi praised Usha Suresh Babus courage. She knew the man had jumped in illegally, but that didnt stop her from risking herself to save him, she said. The young man who helped pull him in and Santhosh, who didnt hesitate to pull the emergency chain despite possible legal consequences, deserve praise too. Together, they prevented a terrible tragedy.

Sabari Rail land acquisition likely in two weeks, but uncertainty persists

KOCHI: The Angamaly-Erumeli Sabari railway project continues to struggle to get back on track. The state government had announced land acquisition would begin in July. With the month ending, there has been no move in that direction. However, unofficial sources said there is a likelihood of some activity in the next two weeks. We have been apprised of an agreement reached at a meeting between the state government and the railways to revive the project, said Jijo P, member of the Sabari Rail Action Council Federation. Railway officials, from what we understand, have been told land acquisition can start as soon as the project is offered a lifeline. On their part, railway authorities have assured a notification on lifting the freeze would be sent to the government as soon as they return to Delhi, he said, adding that land acquisition could begin within two weeks. Sabari Rail project: Land acquisition process likely to be delayed However, State Railway Minister V Abdurahiman confirmed the government has not received any reports or notifications. With the project getting held up, there is no end in sight to the woes of those whose properties have been earmarked for acquisition. According to M P Viswanathan Nair of Okkal, near Perumbavoor, It has been 27 years since the first survey for the Sabari rail project. I own 15 cents of land and the project alignment runs right through my plot. I am neither able to carry out renovation of my house nor buy property somewhere else to construct a new one, he told TNIE. The situation is no different for Sivan N of Muvattupuzha. I am preparing a compensation suit for the mental and emotional stress caused. We were among the very first to agree to release our land for the project. The residents here, numbering more than 80 families, are now bemoaning their decision, he said.

Actors Baburaj, Jagadish pull out of AMMA elections

KOCHI: Actor Baburaj on Thursday announced he was withdrawing from all the activities of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) forever. He also withdrew his nomination for the post of the AMMA general secretary in the upcoming association elections. I announce that I am withdrawing from the activities of the AMMA forever. The decision was not made out of fear of anyone, the actor, whose nomination had sparked discussions and criticisms owing to him facing sexual assault allegations, wrote on Facebook. Having worked in the association for the past eight years, I have only received complaints of harassment as reward, he said. Actor Jagadish too withdrew his nomination for the AMMA president post. The race for the top post is now between actors Devan and Swetha Menon.

Following Kochi's footsteps, CUMTA exploring water metro between ECR and Napier Bridge

CHENNAI: The Chennai Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (CUMTA) is exploring an ambitious plan to introduce a water metro system, inspired by Kochis pioneering model , as part of efforts to diversify urban mobility and boost the citys tourism appeal. CUMTA special officer I Jayakumar told TNIE that the authority has proposed a water-based transit corridor linking East Coast Road with Napier Bridge. Kochi has shown it can be done, he said. But in Chennais case, the river has to be revived before the boat can sail. The plan, part of the citys Comprehensive Mobility Plan, envisions a 53-kilometre corridor through Chennais coastal and inland waterways. Electric or hybrid ferries may be deployed, but a feasibility study is underway to assess navigability, environmental impact, and cost-effectiveness. The project aims to ease road congestion and promote low-emission transport alternatives. The idea of water transport in Chennai is not new. In the past decade, several proposals have focused on reviving the Adyar and Cooum rivers, Buckingham Canal, and Kosasthalaiyar river. A detailed project report was once prepared under the National Waterways initiative to integrate segments of National Waterway 4 (NW-4) into an inland water transport network. However, past initiatives were derailed by pollution, encroachments, shallow channels, and irregular water flow. Officials now say lessons have been learned. For the water metro to succeed, sustained river restoration, investment in low-draft vessels and terminals, and seamless integration with Chennais metro and bus networks will be essential. The Centres NW-4 initiative, covering 1,078 km across Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Puducherry, has progressed slowly. But officials believe renewed interest in urban water transport could bring fresh momentum to parts of NW-4, especially under a unified mobility strategy.

Parents divided over Sivankuttys school vacation change plan

KOCHI : General Education Minister V Sivankuttys suggestion to shift the annual school vacations from April-May to June- July has parents divided. However, all of them agree that a proper study should be done before taking any step. One of the major concerns raised by parents sceptical of the shift is the high daytime temperature during summer. How can small children withstand such extreme temperatures, asked Dr Sreetha Sreenivas, fellow in Infectious Diseases, Amrita Hospital, Kochi. Forget learning! Having personally faced the unbearable heat and brain fog while taking postgraduate exams in April, I cant help but wonder that if adults cant handle the intensity of the summer, how would small children manage, Dr Sreetha told TNIE. Merrin Tess Jimmy, a parent, said she supports two-month summer vacations. However, in places like the high ranges, especially Idukki, Wayanad and other districts, where monsoon turns brutal, the June-July vacation could be good. For a place like Kochi, the high humidity and temperature in summer make it difficult for children to attend classes, she said. Kerala govts monsoon vacation proposal triggers debate Shibu P Chacko, president of the Parents Teachers Association of Government Girls Higher Secondary School in Kochi, said a proper study is needed before taking a decision. Though I find the suggestion beneficial, it might pose difficulty to children whose parents stay abroad. The yearly arrangements might get disrupted. On the plus side though, we can protect our children from rain-related mishaps if the vacations are in June-July, Shibu said. Some suggested splitting the vacation. It can be so arranged that holiday is given in the hottest month, and in July when monsoon is at its peak. The government should utilise data from the IMD (India Meteorological Department) and shuffle holidays accordingly, said Dr Mangala Dileesh, consultant homoeopath and hospital management professional. Angals Anandan, PTA president of SRV High School in Ernakulam who is in favour of monsoon holidays, said, During a discussion among friends on the ministers suggestion, the general opinion was it would be a very good move. We have been hearing of rain-related accidents involving school buses taking place every year. This can be avoided, he said.

Remote centres outside Kerala force candidates to drop out of NEET-PG

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM/KOCHI: With just two days remaining for the National Eligibility Entrance Test-Postgraduate (NEET-PG), on August 3, many medical graduates are shocked to get examination centres outside the state in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Many candidates had carefully chosen cities near their residences as preferred centres during the application process. However, many were stunned to be assigned locations hundreds of kilometres away. Im not appearing for the exam this time. Ive been allotted a centre in Telangana, and Im eight months pregnant. The travel and stay costs are too high for me and my family, said Dr Kavitha (name changed), a candidate from Thiruvananthapuram. Other young mothers in my batch are opting out too. Weve paid Rs 4,000 for the application, and now were forced to abandon the attempt. Surveys conducted by several junior doctor associations revealed that approximately 1,000 applicants from Kerala were given centres outside the state. The uncertainty over exact venue details only disclosed two days prior to the exam on July 31 adds to the logistical nightmare. If I had received Kollam as my centre, I could reach anywhere nearby without issues. But with a location like Visakhapatnam, I dont even know how close the centre will be to a hotel. How do we plan ahead? said Dr Ashik Basheer, state president of the General Practitioners Association. Candidates have also voiced concerns over inflated travel and accommodation prices. Although NBEMS guarantees at least one exam centre in every district, available slots fill up quickly due to the 20,000 applicants from Kerala. When submitting the application, candidates can choose a preferred city, and if its unavailable, the system assigns a centre near their home address, though theres no guarantee. Historically, slots were allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, but this time, candidates were shocked by what they believe is a random allocation. Dr Vivek K B, state secretary of the IMA Junior Doctors Network, Kerala, urged NBEMS to reopen the portal for centre change, allowing candidates to select more practical options. In the past, the Board cited a shortage of test centres as the reason for allocating centres outside the state. However, in previous years, changes to exam centres were made through court interventions or petitions from MPs. Last year, the exam was held in two shifts. This year, the exam has been postponed following an SC order directing NBEMS to conduct the exam in a single shift. Calls and emails sent to NBEMS by TNIE have gone unanswered. Allotment issues NBEMS guarantees minimum 1 exam centre in every dist but slots fill up fast due to 20K applicants from Kerala While applying, candidates can choose a city, and if its unavailable, the system assigns a centre near their home address Slots are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis

GCDA plans to transfer KK Road to Kochi Corporation after restoration work

While the GCDA can undertake minor repair works, such as filling potholes, large-scale restoration works and resurfacing are not feasible, unlike the Corporation, which has a separate allocation for road maintenance

Administrative sanction for food processing park at Kunnukara in Kochi