Ninety-seven per cent of the work of the bridge has been completed, and the balance work of painting, junction improvement and lighting works will be completed by December 1, says Highways Minister E.V. Velu
WE to organise entrepreneurship conference in Madurai on November 21
Income Tax officials plant 2,500 saplings in Madurai district
INDIA constituent parties stage protest against SIR in Madurai
The parties are not protesting against the SIR as such. But, they all are opposed only to the hurried manner in which it is being implemented for completion in one month, says Pon. Muthuramalingam
Dog bites girl; mother attacked for questioning dog owner in Madurai
T.N. CM Stalin flags off 80 pink patrol vehicles to strengthen womens safety in urban areas
The new vehicles will be used for patrolling in cities such as Tambaram, Avadi, Salem, Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Tiruchi, Tirunelveli, and Madurai
Guneet Mongas Sikhya Entertainment joins hands with Karthik Subbaraj for new Tamil feature
The Oscar-winning banner behind The Elephant Whisperers teams up with the Jigarthanda director for a project that began filming in Madurai
Kerala private buses halt services to TN, Karnataka over unlawful tax
KOCHI: Thousands of commuters, including students and software employees, are set to be affected as nearly 600 luxury private buses operating between Kerala and neighbouring states like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka will suspend services from Monday evening. We are forced to suspend the operations from 6pm on Monday due to continuous harassment, seizure of vehicles, and imposition of unlawful state-level taxes and heavy fines by Tamil Nadu and Karnataka authorities, said AJ Rijas, Kerala state president of Luxury Bus Owners Association. According to the association, an estimated 4,000 people travel daily in these luxury buses to major hubs like Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Madurai. The busy Kochi-Bengaluru sector alone sees about 80 bus services each day. The core of the dispute centres around the All India Tourist Permit (AITP) framework. Kerala bus operators argue that their AITP, issued under the Central Motor Vehicles Act, exempts them from paying any additional state taxes, provided the national permit fee is paid. Despite this, they claim Kerala-registered tourist vehicles are being stopped, heavily fined, and detained in the neighbouring states, actions they deem a clear violation of the AITP Rules. Meanwhile, bus owners associations in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Puducherry have also decided to suspend all inter-state services from Monday. According to the associations, the steep road taxes levied by various states have made operations financially unviable. I used to travel to my home and back at least thrice in a month due to the work-from-home facility allotted by my employer. We usually depend on private buses since the travel plans are often chartered at the last minute. Many like us will be hit hard by the suspension of services, said Sangeeth S, a software employee working in Bengaluru and hailing from Kochi. Call for min, transport commissioner to step in For over a year, Tamil Nadu has been collecting tax arbitrarily, causing repeated financial stress and harassment. The situation has become untenable and unsafe due to the threat of financial loss and vehicle seizure, forcing the association to suspend services as a compelled measure, not a voluntary protest, said Rijas. The association appealed to the Kerala transport minister, the transport commissioner, and the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways to immediately intervene and resolve the matter, urging for a uniform implementation of the AITP framework across all southern states. The service suspension by Kerala operators comes on the heels of a strike initiated by private bus owners in Tamil Nadu on Saturday. The Tamil Nadu Private Omni Bus Association (TOBOA) has indefinitely suspended its 110 services to Kerala, protesting the stringent inspection drives conducted by the Kerala motor vehicles department (MVD) to curb tax evasion. TOBOA president Anbalagan claimed the Kerala MVD is illegally seizing buses and imposing excessive fines, resulting in stranded passengers. This protest follows a recent MVD action in Kochi, where 30 Tamil Nadu-registered buses were seized and nearly Rs 70 lakh in fines were imposed for tax evasion. Kerala MVD officials, however, maintain that their joint operations are necessary to ensure road safety and compliance with tax laws, targeting tax evasion as well as traffic violations like speeding and the use of air horns. The reciprocal suspension of services by operators in both states has created a travel deadlock, placing immense pressure on state governments to find an amicable and cooperative resolution to ensure interstate luxury bus operations can resume quickly, said Maneesh Sasidharan, LBOA general secretary.
Madurai needs a robust waste management mechanism
Over 5,600 candidates appear for police constable recruitment written examination in Madurai city
Water released from Vaigai dam for ayacutdars in Madurai district
Kolu Kondattam contest winners felicitated in Madurai
Vaiko to undertake padayatra against drug use and alcohol consumption
He says he will start the programme on January 2, 2026 from Tiruchi and conclude it in Madurai, covering 175 km
Buoyed by success of packages, KSRTC budget tourism to spread wings outside state
KOTTAYAM: As the KSRTC vertical Budget Tourism Centre (BTC) completes four years, tourism packages have turned out to be a significant revenue generator for the the transport utility. Buoyed by the success of intra-state packages, BTC is poised to introduce inter-state packages. As part of the expansion of BTC, the state government launched special buses exclusively for tourism packages last week. The budget tourism initiative, launched in November 2021, has recorded steady revenue growth, from Rs 13.54 crore in the first year to Rs 33.06 crore until October this year, marking a whopping 245% increase in revenue. The corporation aims to raise it to Rs 40 crore by the end of December. Currently, BTC offers around 1,600 packages through nearly 80 KSRTC depots out of total 93 across the state. The number of scheduled trips have risen to 1,200 trips per month. Inter-state packages As BTC prepares to launch inter-state services, the number of packages and schedules will increase accordingly. BTC officials confirmed that the service to Tamil Nadu will commence soon, and its formalities have been completed. Earlier, BTC packages could only operate to destinations where KSRTC had secured route permits outside Kerala. Now, permission has been granted to organise packages across Tamil Nadu, by securing contract carriage permits for six days, Suresh Kumar, BTC coordinator at Kilimanoor depot, told TNIE. The BTC authorities are planning to conduct trips to destinations like Ooty, Kodaikanal, Thanjavur, Kumbakonam and Mahabalipuram. However, obtaining special permits from Tamil Nadu is a complex process, as destinations must be notified in advance and the complete list of passengers should be uploaded online before applying for the permit. Hence, the authorities have to announce the trip in advance. For instance, the Kilimanoor depot has announced a Madurai-Rameshwaram-Kodaikanal trip scheduled for December, with bookings opening in October. Exclusive buses for BTC packages The KSRTC has also allocated specially refurbished buses exclusively for BTC packages, which were launched by Transport Minister K B Ganesh Kumar last week. KSRTC chief traffic manager R Udayakumar said BTC will get 150 buses, with 10 already distributed to various depots. We plan to provide buses to all depots operating BTC packages in a phased manner. Initially, buses will be provided to BTCs that operate highest schedules. We plan to provide buses to all depots within two months, possibly after the Sabarimala pilgrimage season, he said. The refurbished buses are equipped with facilities like mobile charging units beside each seat. Meanwhile, there is an unofficial directive that brand new buses need not be given to BTC. The employees have also raised concerns of a lack of adequate deluxe buses for inter-state services. For inter-state travel, air buses with push-back seats, and semi-sleeper facilities are needed. The lack of such buses is likely to affect inter-state packages, an official said. Travel to Technology for children BTCs also operates travel to technology packages for school children, in a tie-up with schools. We have already operated 167 trips for children so far this year. Mostly, the trips are planned by clubbing an industrial unit or historical monument and a tourism destination We have arranged as many as 90 such packages across the state, Udayakumar said. KSRTC budget tourism cell to roll out Kuttanad Safari initiative soon
Blood donation camp organised in Madurai
Indigenous equipment causing technical problems for BSNL 4G services: Madurai MP
Dont hold inquiry into civil disputes: Madras HC to cops
MADURAI: The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court recently told the state police not to entertain or conduct inquiries in disputes, which are civil in nature such as those involving money, property or contracts. Justice B Pugalendhi gave the direction while hearing a batch of petitions filed by several persons seeking direction to the police not to harass them under the guise of inquiry in civil disputes between them and other private individuals. The judge noted that the court is repeatedly witnessing several such applications alleging harassment by the police in civil matters. It appears that the police have forgotten their responsibilities and duties and are indulging in this type of kattapanchayats. It is regrettable to note that these applications are being entertained and the police are working as asset recovery agents for collecting money, he criticised. The police cannot and should not intervene in purely civil disputes, unless the complaint contains prima facie allegations disclosing criminal elements such as cheating, criminal breach of trust, misappropriation, or criminal intimidation, backed by specific factual details, the judge said. Despite several judgments passed by the SC and high courts and also the circulars issued by the director general of police against such practices, the police continue to conduct such inquiries without any FIRs in the name of current paper inquiry, which refers to verifications on petitions received from public and forwarded to them by higher officials. Any action taken without generating a corresponding record, whether by way of a CSR number, petition register entry, or any other formally maintained docket, cannot be countenanced under law, the judge observed. Permitting such undocumented inquiries, particularly in cases that are later closed as civil in nature, opens the door to arbitrary conduct, including the possibility of coercion, inaction, or collusive compromise at the police station level, all without judicial or administrative scrutiny, he added. HC stays status quo order of single judge in MRC case Chennai: A division bench of Justices S M Subramaniam and Mohammed Shaffiq on Wednesday stayed an interim order of status quo passed by a single judge and all further proceedings regarding the Madras Race Club (MRC) land case. The division benchs order was passed on a petition filed by the TN revenue secretary seeking to stay the proceedings. Senior counsel P Wilson appeared for the revenue secretary. The single judge had ordered status quo on a petition filed by MRC which challenged the possession of the land taken by the revenue department.
The great Tamil literary epics Sivagamiyin Sabatham , Parthiban Kanavu , and Ponniyin Selvan stand as monumental works that weave intricate webs of power, betrayal, love, and destiny. Set against the backdrop of ancient Tamil kingdoms, they bring to life a vast array of characters kings and spies, warriors and poets each entangled in conspiracies that often lead to their downfall or tragic fulfilment. These stories, with their grand historical scope and moral complexity, have long captivated generations of readers drawn to their depth and drama. Yet, their dense narrative layers, historical detail, and philosophical undercurrents have also made them less accessible to children and young readers, who might find their weighty prose and intricate plots daunting. A year ago, singer Suchitra Ramadurai took on the ambitious task of reimagining these three vast novels each blending history and imagination into a form that welcomes younger readers. The result is a retelling that introduces the timeless heroes, political intrigue, and cultural richness of Tamil history to a new generation, allowing them to engage with these classics. As a child, the stories were told to Suchitra by her grandmother from memory. A few years ago, she says she realised that many children were drawn to the two-part film Ponniyin Selvan and that they reacted the same way she had as a child when those stories were told to her. Since the legacy is also carried by two more books, she decided to write all three books for children and young adults. Suchitra says, The writing by Kalki is very lyrical and ballad-like, and I first decided to opt for modern storytelling. The next question I asked myself was What approach do I want to take? For condensing the story, she explains, I decided to first lop off all the embellishments. I retained the storys plot points in all three books and retained all the important characters. Though in Ponniyin Selvan , one big sacrifice I had to make was Vanathi. She is a very important character in the original text, but in my book, her presence is limited to being Kundhavais friend. I had to make the sacrifice because I wanted it to be an adventurous account, a very Pirates of the Caribbean -like storytelling, and Vanathis parts didnt add up. While she wrote Ponniyin Selvan as a story that unfolds around Vandiyadevan and Sivagamiyin Sabatham around Paranjothi, she had to retain a voice-of-god narration for Parthiban Kanavu since she didnt see any scope for a narrator. Despite the omissions, she strongly believes that the books preserve the essence of the epic. She, however, justifies the absence of illustrations as a deliberate choice to leave everything to the readers imagination. This, she explains, is especially fitting for the first book, since in most readers minds, the characters already take the form of the actors who portrayed them so convincingly in the 2022 film. Published by Brunt Crumb Books, all the three books are available to read, free of cost, for Kindle Unlimited users. E-books are available for download worldwide, and the paperbacks are priced at Rs 887 each.
CM Stalin unveils Winners Trophy for Hockey Mens Junior World Cup
The World Cup matches will be held in Chennai and Madurai from November 28 to December 10, according to an official release.
Court Restores Conviction Of Man Earlier Jailed For Cruelty Towards Wife
The Madurai BenchoftheMadrasHighCourthas reinstated theconvictionofan86-year-oldmanfor subjecting hiswifetomental and economiccruelty, reversing a previous acquittal.
Door-to-door enumeration for SIR process begins in Madurai district
A postgraduate student in Coimbatore was abducted and gang-raped by three men after they attacked her boyfriend and broke their car's windshield. The suspects, identified as daily wage workers from Madurai, were later apprehended by police after being shot. The survivor is reportedly in deep shock.
Tiruchi Hospital Licence Cancelled Over Organ Transplant Racket Claim, Court Objects
The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has set aside the Tamil Nadu government's order cancelling the organ transplant licence of Tiruchi's Cethar Hospital.
Minister PTR launches Simbli, Indias AI Innovation Platform in Madurai
Sewage flow turns Madurais waterbodies into drains
Residents must cultivate the habit of keeping their surroundings clean and refrain from dumping garbage into waterbodies and the Corporation must take action to address the discharge of urban drainage into these tanks and channels, says Secretary of the Madurai District Farmers Association
The Swachh Survekshan 2025 report highlights India's ongoing struggle with urban cleanliness. Bengaluru ranks among the dirtiest cities due to poor waste management, while cities like Chennai and Madurai show declines despite efforts.
Minister heads gram sabha meeting at Aalathur panchayat in Madurai
Chennai sizzles: Mercury soars to 35.5C, breaking 26-year record
CHENNAI: The city recorded its hottest November day on Saturday, with Nungambakkam registering a maximum temperature of 35.5C, surpassing the previous record of 35.4C set on November 2, 1999. As per standard procedure, the days temperature is calculated based on observations taken between 8:30 a.m. of the previous day and 8:30 a.m. of the current day. Accordingly, the 35.5C reading was recorded between 8:30 a.m. on October 31 and 8:30 a.m. on November 1. According to weather bloggers, the rise in temperature is due to dry inland winds and a lack of moisture, as no active weather systems are currently over Tamil Nadu. There have been no easterly winds from the Bay of Bengal, which usually bring moisture, for the past four days. Cyclone Montha has moved away from the state, a low-pressure area lies near Gujarat, and the next cyclone is expected to move towards Myanmar. As a result, Tamil Nadu is now experiencing only westerly and northwesterly windsdry winds from inland areas. Consequently, not just Chennai, but several other cities, including Madurai and Vellore, have recorded higher-than-usual temperatures, said weather blogger Pradeep John. He added that the hot conditions are likely to persist until Monday, after which evening thunderstorms may develop in some parts of the state. Meenambakkam, Vellore, and Madurai airports recorded their second-highest temperatures for November. Meenambakkam touched 35.4C, just below the record of 35.6C set on November 2, 1999. Vellore recorded 35.6C, next only to the all-time high of 35.8C logged on November 13, 1970. At Madurai airport, the temperature rose to 37C, below the record 39.4C recorded on November 13, 2005. In Madurai city, the day temperature reached 36.4C, the third-highest for November. In Nungambakkam, the temperature was 4.5C above normal, while Meenambakkam recorded a 4.4C deviation. Other districts also reported significant deviationsKarur Paramathi recorded the highest at 5.4C, followed by Nagapattinam (5C), Vellore (4.8C), and Madurai airport (4.9C). An official from the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) said that such high deviations are not alarming, as they are generally considered normal when maximum temperatures remain below 40C.
Court Allows Hindu Community Feast On Ground Long Used For Easter Events
The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has allowed a Hindu group to conduct Annadhanam (community feast) on a public ground in Tamil Nadu's Dindigul district.
Law and order: Swift action by Madurai district police prevents two possible murders
Unearthing Keeladi: The ancient Tamil city beneath the fields
Imagine digging into a quiet village field and finding signs of a whole city that existed more than 2,000 years ago. Thats what happened in Keeladi a small village near Madurai that is now rewriting what we know about ancient Tamil civilisation.
A New Dawn for Arthritis: New Treatment Options to Reclaim Your Mobility
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis. It leads to joint pain and disability, particularly in older adults. OA occurs when cartilage-the cushion for the joints-deteriorates. This deterioration causes bones to rub together, resulting in pain, stiffness, and swelling. OA typically affects weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and spine but can also impact smaller joints, such as those in the hands. Aging is the primary risk factor, but obesity, past injuries, and repetitive stress from activities also contribute. Dr Shyam L - Director & HOD Orthopaedics at Raksha Hospital, Madurai As OA progresses, it can lead to reduced mobility and bone spurs, further limiting movement. Although there is no cure, treatmentsincluding medications, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and surgerycan help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Modern medicine offers a range of effective options to help you regain mobility and reduce pain. What is Arthritis? Arthritis is a broad term for over 100 distinct types of joint disorders. Osteoarthritis is the most prevalent. It occurs when protective cartilage gradually deteriorates, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. In India, many people suffer from arthritis and face challenges in finding effective treatment options. Fortunately, doctors have more tools than ever to help patients manage arthritis and regain mobility. Spotting the Symptoms If you're dealing with arthritis, youre likely familiar with its symptoms. Key signs include: Joint Pain : Often worsens with activity and may ease with rest, making daily tasks difficult. Stiffness : Particularly noticeable after inactivity or upon waking. Swelling : Joints may appear swollen and feel tender to the touch. Limited Movement : Simple tasks like climbing stairs may become challenging. Managing osteoarthritis requires a tailored approach. Treatment depends on the severity of your symptoms. The goal is to control pain, improve joint function, and enhance mobility. Surgical Options: When to Consider Surgery When lifestyle changes and medications aren't enough, surgery may be necessary to restore mobility. One well-known treatment for severe osteoarthritis is joint replacement surgery, particularly for the knees and hips. During total knee or hip replacement, the damaged joint is replaced with an artificial one, improving movement and reducing pain. Robotic-Assisted Surgery Robotic-assisted joint replacement can be a reassuring option. This technology transforms surgical precision, allowing surgeons to achieve alignment previously unattainable. This results in less damage to surrounding tissue and quicker recovery times. Robotic-assisted surgeries are minimally invasive, meaning smaller incisions and faster recovery. Patients often experience less post-surgery pain. The Gold Knee: A New Standard for Knee Replacements For those needing knee replacement surgery, consider the Gold Knee. Coated with Titanium Nitride, the Gold Knee is designed to be durable, wear-resistant, and biocompatible, making it safe for patients with metal allergies. With robotic technology guiding the procedure, the Gold Knee can be placed with exceptional precision. This results in a longer-lasting and more comfortable knee replacement. Why Consider Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement Surgery? Robotic-assisted surgery transforms knee replacements, offering precise, personalized treatment. This advanced technology ensures a perfect implant fit, improving alignment and providing a more natural joint feel. With less tissue damage, patients enjoy faster recovery and reduced post-operative pain. This allows them to resume daily activities sooner. Dr Shyam L - Director & HOD Orthopedics at Raksha Hospital, Madurai emphasizes the effectiveness of TKR, Conventional knee replacement is highly effective for most patients. Many have benefited from this approach, which uses proven techniques to provide lasting relief. While recovery may take time, patients can expect significant improvements in mobility and quality of life . As he is an expert in robotic-assisted surgeries, highlights advancements in this technology, Robotic-assisted TKR is a game changer for patients with unique knee structures. This precision minimizes tissue damage and reduces pain. It enables patients to regain mobility much sooner than traditional surgery . A 63-year-old retired teacher who suffered from severe knee pain chose robotic-assisted TKR. I was hesitant at first, but my recovery was quicker than expected. Within weeks, I was walking without pain for the first time in years. It feels like a new lease on life . Conclusion: Take Action Today Robotic-assisted surgery enhances patients' quality of life. With advancements in treatment options, individuals with arthritis can regain mobility and enjoy a more active lifestyle. Arthritis doesnt have to define your life. Many individuals in India over the age of 40 are affected by osteoarthritis, highlighting the pressing need for effective management strategies. From lifestyle changes to advanced treatments like robotic-assisted surgeries and Gold Knee implants, numerous solutions are available to help manage joint pain. This World Arthritis Day, lets raise awareness about these innovations. Consult your healthcare professional for personalized treatment plans. Empower yourself to reclaim mobility and pave the way for a healthier, more active lifestyle.
On a Saurashtrian food trail in Madurai
Saurashtrians in Madurai who are in the food business, selling karupatti appam, paruppu poli, puttu, and pongal, keep the city fed with simple vegetarian food that is also easy on the pocket
Delay in completing whitetopping work in HBR, Kammanahalli troubles residents
BENGALURU: Shops are shut, business is down 50% and 400 families face the risk of flooding. All this because of a delay in completing the whitetopping work in HBR 1st Block and Nehru Street in Kammanahalli. Anand, a resident of Nehru Street at Aravind Nagar, said the 1.5 km stretch was taken up for whitetopping one-and-a-half years ago, but the work is still not complete. One hotel and six shops were shut, while restaurants have said their business has slumped by 50%. The residents here are also facing issues of allergic reaction due to pollution from the ongoing work, he complained. A Ramu, Manager, Madurai Pandi Mess, said his eatery was doing good business for the last five years, but since the work began, chairs are empty at his outlet even at 2 pm. My hotel saw a 50% slump in daily business since January. Hope the contractors and engineers finish the job early, he said. Shopkeepers said some bikers ride on this stretch, risking their lives. Four months ago, a biker allegedly died after slipping and crashing against the material dumped on the site. Captain Dayalu Arasappa from the Resident Welfare Association, HBR Layout, said that in September 2024, the whitetopping work from Ammas Pastries Junction to Outer Ring Road in HBR was initiated. It has been 13 months, but only one side of the road is concretised. Workers have dumped the concrete and scrap next to the storm water drain opposite Kacharakanahalli Lake. The Footpath work is also pending. The entrance to houses on the main road have gone down by nearly 2 ft because of the concretisation work. Residents are finding it difficult to enter and exit. The footpath too is above the ground up to two feet, further inconveniencing the residents. The major stormwater drain too has been clogged because of this work. One moderate to heavy rain, some 400 families living for the last 30-40 years will be inconvenienced, said Dayalu. An engineer said the project will be completed next month. The challenge is that after completing the concrete work for 50-100 metres, the portion has to be cured for 21 days. No heavy vehicular traffic is allowed as the concrete gets damaged. The 1.8 km stretch of Nehru Street will be completed by November-end and traffic will be allowed, said the engineer. On HBR Main Road, the engineers have set December as the deadline to the agency to finish the work and threatened to hold back payments. Our work was delayed by six months because of the work taken up by the BWSSB. Once it completes the work, the levelling and settling alone will take 90 days, and only then can we proceed to take up whitetopping, said engineers.
Vice President offers prayers at Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple in Madurai
The vendors have been instructed to dump waste in the dustbins installed on the premises and fines would be imposed if waste was dumped in the open outside the market. An adequate number of conservancy workers would be deployed to clear the waste dumped in the dustbins, the court was informed.
In 2021, a raid was conducted by the Thideer Nagar Police in Madurai, who claimed to have recovered 24 kg of ganja from one of the accused near Melavasal
Farmers raise complaints over irregularities in DPCs
A major demand made by the farmers was weighing of sugarcanes in Madurai district itself before they were sent for crushing to Thanjavur
Chennai sees steady showers, gusty winds as severe cyclone Montha nears Andhra coast
CHENNAI: Chennai, especially the Northern part of the city, and its suburbs received steady showers accompanied by winds on Monday night and early Tuesday as severe cyclonic storm ' Montha ' moved closer to the Andhra Pradesh coast. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said rainfall will gradually subside over north Tamil Nadu from Wednesday as Montha makes landfall and weakens over Andhra Pradesh. According to the IMD, Montha lay centered at 8.30 am on Tuesday over the west-central Bay of Bengal, about 160 km south-southeast of Machilipatnam, 240 km south-southeast of Kakinada, and 320 km south-southwest of Visakhapatnam. The system is likely to cross the coast between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam, near Kakinada, as a severe cyclonic storm by Tuesday evening or night, with wind speeds reaching 90100 kmph gusting to 110 kmph. Cyclone Montha disrupts flights at Chennai airport; multiple services cancelled The cyclones outer rain bands brought rains to Chennai through the night, accompanied by thunder and winds. The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) recorded 47 mm of rainfall in Nungambakkam and 35.2 mm in Meenambakkam between 8.30 am Monday and 5.30 am Tuesday. Automated weather stations showed higher readings of 106.5 mm at Ennore Port, indicating heavy rain along with 49 mm at Chennai AWS and 42.5 mm at Puzhal. Several low-lying areas, especially around Madhavaram, Ennore, and Puzhal, reported waterlogging, while winds uprooted branches and disrupted traffic early in the morning. Elsewhere in Tamil Nadu, rainfall was scattered and moderate. Valparai in Coimbatore district recorded 22 mm, while Virinjipuram in Vellore logged a sharp 85 mm. Other stations, including Pondicherry, Cuddalore, and Madurai, saw light showers. Fishermen have been strictly advised not to venture into the sea along and off north Tamil Nadu and south Andhra coasts.
Sluice gates of Vaigai dam opened to irrigate 1.36 lakh acres in three districts
People living near the riverbank in the five districts of Theni, Sivaganga, Dindigul, Madurai and Ramanathapuram asked to be alert and stay safe
Guru puja of Marudhu Brothers performed in Sivaganga, Madurai
A large number of people, and leaders of various political parties and organisations pay their respects to the freedom fighters at their memorial at Kalayarkoil near Sivaganga
Central team visits three DPCs in Madurai district
Dubai-Bound SpiceJet Flight Diverted To Chennai After 'Technical Issue'
A Dubai-bound SpiceJet flight from Madurai was diverted here on Monday following a echnical issue, airport sources and the airline said.
Dubai-Bound Spicejet Flight From Madurai Makes Emergency Landing In Chennai: Report
SpiceJet flight SG23 from Madurai to Dubai made an emergency landing in Chennai due to a suspected technical snag. All 160 passengers and seven crew landed safely.
Tahsildar dies while travelling in TNSTC bus near Madurai
Rozgar Mela brings job opportunities to 116 candidates in Chennai on Friday
In Tamil Nadu alone, nearly 334 candidates received offer letters in similar events organised by the Postal Department at Tiruchi, Coimbatore, and Madurai on Friday.
Police launch probe into theft of diamonds from Madurai man in Tiruchi
The Gandhi Market police in Tiruchi have initiated an investigation into the theft of 404 diamond pieces from K. Selvaraj, a 69-year-old diamond retailer from Madurai.
Madurai-based travel company owner ends life in Salem
Meenakshi Super Speciality Hospital Sets Benchmark with India's First LEED Platinum Certification
LEED, by the U.S. Green Building Council, certifies buildings for sustainability, energy, water efficiency, and healthy indoor environments. Meenakshi Super Speciality Hospital is Indias first hospital to earn LEED v4 Platinum, excelling in energy/water efficiency, sustainable materials, and indoor environment quality. Meenakshi Super Speciality Hospital, Madurai, has set a new benchmark as Indias greenest hospital, earning the prestigious LEED Platinum Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). It is the first healthcare institution in the country to receive this global recognition for excellence in energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. Meenakshi Super Speciality Hospital Sets Benchmark with Indias First LEED Platinum Certification LEED, which stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is a green building certification system developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). Buildings can achieve one of four certification levels: Certified, Silver, Gold, or Platinum. The LEED Platinum distinction is the highest rating for sustainable design and operations globally, awarded to buildings scoring 80 points or more (Certified: 4049 points, Silver: 5059 points, Gold: 6079 points). Meenakshi Super Speciality Hospital scored 83 points under LEED v4 Healthcare, demonstrating outstanding performance in energy and water efficiency, sustainable material use, waste management, and creating a healthy indoor environment for both patients and caregivers. Congratulating the hospital on this achievement, Thiru Maa. Subramanian , Honble Health Minister of Tamil Nadu , said, This is not only a badge of honour for the state but also a proud moment for the entire nation. It demonstrates that a healthcare institution from our state can stand shoulder to shoulder with global leaders, setting benchmarks in sustainability, innovation, and excellence. I am very happy that with this certification, Madurai joins an elite league of hospitals worldwide - including those in the USA, Spain, Turkey, Taiwan, and Saudi Arabia that have achieved LEED Platinum recognition. This milestone was made possible under the visionary leadership of Dr. S. Gurushankar, whose pioneering efforts have placed Tamil Nadu at the forefront of green healthcare." In his comments, Dr. S. Gurushankar , Chairman, Meenakshi Mission Hospital & Research Centre said, Green building practices are more important than ever due to rising energy demands and environmental challenges. For hospitals, they ensure sustainable, energy-efficient facilities that support patient well-being. LEED-certified designs reduce energy and water consumption, improve indoor air quality, and create comfortable environments that aid recovery and staff performance. This achievement reflects the dedication of architects, engineers, doctors, nurses, and staff, and shows that Tamil Nadus healthcare infrastructure can meet global standards. Meenakshi Super Speciality Hospital, Madurai, now stands as a symbol of excellence, inspiring future healthcare projects across the state and nation.
Pakistan Pulls Out of Junior Hockey World Cup in India
FIH said Pakistan's replacement team for the November 28-December 28 event, to be held in Chennai and Madurai, will be announced soon
Two held for dangerously handling crackers on Deepavali day in Madurai
Madurai experiences scattered rain
RPF observes Police Commemoration Day in Madurai
CSR Funding Shifts Beyond Metros: Industrial Hubs Up 120%, Tier-2 Cities 55%
CSR's Next Act: How the Coming Decade Will Redefine Corporate Impact , the seventh edition of Sattva Consultings annual State of CSR in India report, CSR inflows to industrial hubs have grown 120% and to Tier-2 cities by 55% over the past three years, signalling a structural reorientation in India Incs social investments. Sattva Consulting launches its Annual State of CSR report, highlighting Indias shifting corporate giving landscape Tier-1 city districts still absorb nearly 30% of total CSR funding, with neighbouring clusters accounting for another 3%. Yet, the once-dominant grip of metros is loosening. Cities with populations between one and two million have nearly doubled their CSR share (from 13.5% to 16.2% between FY 2022 and FY 2024), while industrial districts now attract 7.4% of total CSR allocations, up from 4.4% two years ago. The pace of growth in these regions has outstripped the overall 30% rise in CSR spending nationally, according to the report. Corporate India is clearly looking beyond traditional centres of philanthropy, said Srikrishna Sridhar Murthy, CEO & Co-founder, Sattva Consulting . From Vadodara to Madurai, were seeing companies anchor their giving where they operate - industrial clusters, manufacturing corridors, and smaller cities. This shift is deeply encouraging for the vision of Viksit Bharat, a future where development capital flows to every district, not just a few. Its an important step towards localising impact. The report notes that while CSR funding has become more geographically diverse, equity in distribution remains limited. Over the past three years, 193 districts have absorbed three-quarters of all district-level CSR funding, and nearly 90% of this money flows into areas with low poverty levels. Only three of Indias 54 high-poverty districts feature among the top CSR recipients. Funding in Aspirational Districts has risen threefold over the past decade, from 1.3% of total CSR inflows in FY 2015 to 4.5% in FY 2024, driven by a steady rise in private-sector participation. Larger corporates, particularly in BFSI, energy, and mining, are beginning to channel a growing share of their CSR outlay, around 5%, towards these underdeveloped regions. Public-sector companies continue to play a pivotal role, directing 11% of their CSR budgets to Aspirational Districts, nearly three times the private-sector average. The geography of philanthropy is shifting, and the opportunity ahead demonstrates deepening, not just diversifying of Indias CSR footprint , added Krishna . The annual State of CSR report is the most comprehensive analysis of CSR spending in India. It draws from MCAs annual report of 21,489 companies and includes analysis of their individual annual reports. Among other insights from the report, the study finds that global firms punch above their weight, delivering higher impact through focus and scalability, while Indias large corporations and PSUs drive breadth and depth through significant local investments. It also notes that non-NGO partners are on the rise, with nearly one-fifth of all CSR funding in FY 2024 channelled through institutions such as universities, hospitals, and incubators, and over 60% of large corporates now implementing flagship programmes through their own foundations. About Sattva Consulting Sattva Consulting is a global impact consulting firm from India. Since 2009 we have been engaging with communities, business and government to achieve societal impact at scale. We believe that Civil society, Business and Government all have a critical role to play in building an equitable and sustainable world, and we actively partner with all stakeholders to enable impact through our advisory & orchestration services, knowledge and data platforms which we have built as public goods for the ecosystem and collaborative solutions and partnerships. www.sattva.co.in .
Heavy Rain Batters Tamil Nadu, 8 Districts On Red Alert; Flood Warning In Madurai | Check Forecast
Tamil Nadu Rain: The Meteorological Department predicted extremely heavy rainfall in the coastal districts of Tamil Nadu on Wednesday. Check weather update here.
Madurai wakes up to continuous drizzle
DRM inspects arrangements made to manage crowd at Madurai Railway Junction
Police Commemoration Day observed in Madurai
Deepavali ends with no major accidents in Madurai
Continuous rain in Madurai keeps civic body workers alert
A farmer from Alanganallur hopes that this monsoon that has set in early will give him a bumper crop.
DGP appointment row: second contempt petition moved against Tamil Nadu government
In his petition, Madurai-based rights activist Henri Tiphagne says the action of the State was violative of the guidelines laid down by the Supreme Court in the Prakash Singh case
Extended weekend, operation of special trains prevents overcrowding at Madurai bus stand
With the State government declaring a holiday on October 21, most of the employees and students had four to go to their hometowns for Deepavali and return to work
Number of seasonal flu cases declines as weather improves in Madurai district
Madurai district administration calls for noiseless, smoke-free Deepavali
Limited choice of waterbodies for clay extraction hits Manamadurai potters
Madurai native gets life imprisonment for murder
Mayor Indrani Ponvasanths resignation approved by Madurai Corporation Council
picture by G Moorthy
In a city of shops and modern tastes, Meet the women of Madurai who turn the festive spotlight on homemade sweets as they continue to make and sell traditional sweets and savouries straight from their homes Homemade sweets continue to steal the festive spotlight.
Traffic regulation in Madurai ahead of Deepavali
Fire at ATM destroys equipment in Madurai
Mayors resignation reflects party high commands discontent with Madurai DMK
DMK functionary says CM Stalin is disappointed with the functioning of the party in Madurai
Mayors resignation reflects party high commands discontent with Madurai DMK
DMK functionary says CM Stalin is disappointed with the functioning of the party in Madurai
Muthoot Aurum Crosses Two Million Gold Coin Sales Milestone Across India
Muthoot Aurum Private Limited (MAPL) , the Precious Metals Division of The Muthoot Group, has crossed a major milestone with the sale of over two million gold coins, pendants, and bars of 24 Carat 999.9 purity to customers across India. Muthoot Aurum CEO Andrew P X and team jointly presented a commemorative coin to George Alexander Muthoot, MD, The Muthoot Group To mark the occasion, a ceremony was held at the Muthoot Finance Head Office where the two-millionth gold coin was ceremonially presented to Shri George Alexander Muthoot , Managing Director, The Muthoot Group. The event was attended by Shri George M. George , Deputy Managing Director; Shri K.R. Bijimon , Executive Director; and Mr. Paul Andrew P.X. , Chief Executive Officer, Muthoot Aurum . Also present were Regional Business Development Officers from Delhi and Madurai - Mr. Sumit Kumar and Mr. Murugesan - along with senior representatives from across India. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. George Alexander Muthoot, Managing Director, The Muthoot Group , said, This milestone reflects the deep trust our customers place in the purity and integrity of the Muthoot brand. Gold has always symbolized prosperity and emotional value in Indian households, and through Muthoot Aurum, we are proud to make this timeless investment accessible to every segment of society, with assured purity, transparency, and convenience. This achievement underscores our continued commitment to delivering excellence, while expanding our reach through customer-centric offerings. Since its inception in 2006, Muthoot Aurum has been helping customers invest in certified gold through 24kt 999.9% True Gold coins and, since 2022, through its exclusive jewellery line Indivara, offering 22kt BIS HUID-certified ornaments. With over 7,000 Muthoot Group outlets nationwide, Muthoot Aurum ensures customers have convenient access to genuine gold products and flexible purchase options through easy instalment schemes and digital platforms. Through its dedication to purity, craftsmanship, and ethical practices, Muthoot Aurum continues to be one of Indias leading and most trusted gold coin and jewellery brands, delivering value and reliability to millions of households across the country. About Muthoot Aurum Private Limited (MAPL) Muthoot Aurum, a part of The Muthoot Group, enables customers to invest in gold through 24kt 999.9% pure gold coins under the brand True Gold and exquisite 22kt BIS HUID-certified jewellery under the brand Indivara . With a legacy of trust, purity, and customer focus, Muthoot Aurum reaches customers across India through over 7,000 Muthoot Group branches and digital platforms.
Madurai Mayor Resigns Amid Alleged Rs 200-Crore Property Tax Scam
Madurai Mayor and DMK leader Indrani Ponvasanth has resigned from her post amid allegations of a multi-crore property tax scam.
There is no effective and structured waste disposal system hence the fruit vendors, having no designated waste disposal area, are throwing waste outside the market premises, says the petitioner
87,000 unaccounted money seized from Corporation office in Madurai
Impleading victims parents is key to bail inPOCSO Act cases, says Madurai Bench
At the same time, the court has said it will be crucial to ensure that the victim is not made a party in any proceedings or applications. When the victims family orde factocomplainant are impleaded, their identity and details should be protected
Teenage boy found dead in Madurai
Indian team to play in Junior World Cup Hockey match in Madurai on December 3
CJ given warm welcome at Madurai Bench
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin inaugurates mega food parks in Villupuram, Theni districts
The Chief Minister also opens Aran Illams homes for transpersons established in Shenoy Nagar in Chennai and in Anna Nagar in Madurai at 43 lakh
Officials to keep close watch on 27 places vulnerable to marooning in Madurai district: Collector
T.N. Minister inaugurates Fire and Rescue station for Arunachaleswarar temple
TNFRS officials said that it was a fire accident that gutted over 30 shops along the East Tower side of the Sri Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple in Madurai in February 2018 that mooted the idea of setting up fire and rescue stations meant exclusively for historical temples in the State.
Countdown for DMK governments time in office has begun, says Nainar Nagenthran
He begins Tamilagam Thalai Nimira, Tamilanin Payanam campaign at Madurai
IndiGo Aircraft's Windshield Cracks Before Landing In Chennai, Fliers Safe
A crack in the windshield of an aircraft belonging to the largest domestic airliner, IndiGo, carrying 76 passengers from Madurai was detected by the pilot ahead of its landing at the airport here on Saturday, authorities said.
Court Orders CID Probe Into Alleged Custodial Death Of Man In Tamil Nadu
The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court today ordered a probe by the Crime Branch-CID (CBCID) into the alleged custodial death of a 30-year-old man, Dinesh Kumar, in Madurai.
SC questions HC order for SIT probe into Karur stampede
The Supreme Court questioned the Madras High Court's principal bench for ordering an SIT probe into the Karur stampede, bypassing the Madurai bench's jurisdiction and the original petition's focus on rally protocols. Justices Maheshwari and Anjaria also queried Tamil Nadu on permitting the rally despite denying others and the unusual midnight postmortems. TVK sought a retired SC judge's supervision for the probe, citing concerns over state officials' impartiality.
PUCL demands CMs intervention into death of youth in Madurai
