HR and CE Departments marriage hall at Edappadi in Salem lies in disuse

Industries Minister inspects land identified for textile park in Salem

PM Modi accorded Guard of Honour at Kuwait's Bayan Palace

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday, received a ceremonial Guard of Honour at Bayan Palace, Kuwait, in the presence of Kuwaiti Prime Minister Mohammed Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah.

Watch: PM Modi accorded Guard of Honour at Kuwaits Bayan Palace

Kuwait City: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday, received a ceremonial Guard of Honour at Bayan Palace, Kuwait, in the presence of Kuwaiti Prime Minister Mohammed Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah. The occasion marked a significant moment in PM Modis two-day visit to the Gulf nation, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 43 years. Also Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Pope slams 'cruelty' of strike killing Gaza children

The pontiff made his remarks a day after the rescue agency in Gaza said an Israeli air strike had killed seven children from one family. Yesterday they did not allow the Patriarch (of Jerusalem) into Gaza as promised, the pope told members of the government of the Holy See. Yesterday children were bombed. This is cruelty, this is not war. I want to say it because it touches my heart. In a statement, an Israeli foreign ministry spokesman described the pope's remarks as particularly disappointing as they are disconnected from the true and factual context of Israel's fight against jihadist terrorism -- a multi-front war that was forced upon it starting on October 7. Enough with the double standards and the singling out of the Jewish state and its people, he added. Cruelty is terrorists hiding behind children while trying to murder Israeli children; cruelty is holding 100 hostages for 442 days, including a baby and children, by terrorists and abusing them, the Israeli statement said. This was a reference to the Palestinian Hamas militants who attacked Israel, killed many civilians and took hostages on October 7, 2023, triggering the Gaza war. Tougher line Gaza's civil defence rescue agency reported that an Israeli air strike had killed 10 members of a family on Friday in the northern part of the territory, including seven children. The Israeli military told AFP it had struck several terrorists who were operating in a military structure belonging to the Hamas terrorist organisation and posed a threat to IDF troops operating in the area. According to an initial examination, the reported number of casualties resulting from the strike does not align with the information held by the IDF, it added. Violence in the Gaza Strip continues to rock the coastal territory more than 14 months into the Israel-Hamas war, even as international mediators work to negotiate a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas Palestinian militants. Francis, 88, has called for peace since the war started. In recent weeks he has hardened his remarks against the Israeli offensive. In late November he said he invader's arrogance... prevails over dialogue in Palestine, a rare position that contrasts with the tradition of neutrality of the Holy See. In a recently published book the pope called for a careful study as to whether the situation in Gaza corresponds to the technical definition of genocide, an accusation firmly rejected by Israel. Since 2013 the Holy See has recognised the State of Palestine, with which it maintains diplomatic relations, and it supports the two-state solution. The October 7, 2023 Hamas attack resulted in the deaths of 1,208 people, most of them civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures. Hamas militants also took 251 hostages, of whom 96 remain in Gaza, including 34 the Israeli military says are dead. Israel's retaliatory offensive in Gaza has killed at least 45,206 people, a majority of them civilians, according to figures from the Hamas-run territory's health ministry that the United Nations considers reliable.

Kidnapped businessman rescued in Salem

Rs 10L given to Mettur thermal plant accident victims

DHARMAPURI: Tourism minister R Rajendran on Friday handed over solatium of Rs 10 lakh to each of the two workers who died and and Rs 2 lakh each to the five injured after a coal bunker in the Mettur thermal power plant collapsed trapping a group of contract workers under the debris on Thursday evening. Fire and rescue services personnel rescued five workers alive from the debris while P Venkatesh (50) and Palanisami(28) were found dead five hours after the accident. On Friday, family members of the deceased refused to accept the bodies and demanded government jobs. Though officials held talks with the families, the protest continued for over seven hours. Meanwhile, minister Rajendran and Salem collector Brindha Devi visited the five injured workers in hospital and inquired about their health. The minister handed over cheque for Rs 2 lakh to each of them. Later, they visited the family members of the deceased and handed over cheque for Rs 10 lakh from the CM General Relief Fund and held talks with the family members after which they gave up on the protest. The private firm that recruited Venkatesan and Palaniswami gave solatium Rs 7.5 lakh each to their families. The DMK provided Rs 1 lakh each to families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 each to the injured.

Tamil Nadu shares wish list with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman at pre-budget meet

CHENNAI: Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu on Friday put forth the state governments wish list to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman at a pre-budget meeting chaired by her at Jaisalmer in Rajasthan. He requested the GOI to include many new railway projects, reiterated the demand for relief assistance for Rs 6,675 crore for areas hit by Cyclone Fengal, funds for the Metro Rail project and Samagra Shiksha Abhiyaan. Underscoring the need for new railway lines in industrial areas to catalyse industrial development in the state, Thennarasu requested that the following railway projects in Tamil Nadu should be included in the upcoming budget: Fourth line between Tambaram and Chengalpattu; Tiruppattur Krishnagiri Hosur New line; Madurai Thoothukudi via Aruppukkottai (143.5 Kms); Minjur Tiruvallur Sriperumpudur Oragadam Singaperumalkoil Maduranthagam; semi-high speed railway corridor to connect Chennai Salem Coimbatore with extensions like Salem-Hosur Bengaluru and Coimbatore Ernakulam. Thennarasu also sought approvals for metro rail projects for Madurai and Coimbatore apart from Rs 10,000 crore for metro rail phase-2 in the current year and Rs 16,000 crore in the ensuing year. He also reiterated the states demand for disbursal of Rs 2,152 crore towards Samagra Shiksha Abhiyaan. Referring to the havoc played by Cyclone Fengal, the minister said, The funds under the State Disaster Response Fund are inadequate to meet the immediate relief and long-term restoration needs. So, the GOI should release Rs 6,675 crore under NDRF to meet the temporary and permanent relief and restoration requirements in the aftermath of Cyclone Fengal. He said an elevated road between Tambaram and Chengalpattu (NH-32) and from Chengalpattu to Tindivanam should be included in the budget.

For thousands of Jews, Israel still doesn't feel safe after Oct. 7 attacks. So they're leaving

London: Leaving Israel is easier, Shira Z. Carmel thinks, by saying it's just for now. But she knows better. For the Israeli-born singer and an increasing number of relatively well-off Israelis, the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack shattered any sense of safety and along with it, Israel's founding promise: to be the world's safe haven for Jews. That day, thousands of Hamas militants blew past the country's border defenses, killed 1,200 Israelis, and dragged 250 more into Gaza in a siege that caught the Israeli army by surprise and stunned a nation that prides itself on military prowess. This time, during what became known as Israel's 9/11, the army didn't come for hours. Ten days later, a pregnant Carmel, her husband, and their toddler boarded a flight to Australia, which was looking for people in her husband's profession. And they spun the explanation to friends and family as something other than permanent relocation is the easier-to-swallow term acutely aware of the familial strain and the shame that have shadowed Israelis who leave for good. We told them we're going to get out of the line of fire for a while, Carmel said more than a year later from her family's new home in Melbourne. It wasn't a hard decision. But it was very hard to talk to them about it. It was even hard to admit it to ourselves. Thousands of Israelis have left the country since Oct. 7, 2023, according to government statistics and immigration tallies released by destination countries such as Canada and Germany. There's concern about whether it will drive a brain drain in sectors like medicine and tech. Migration experts say it's possible people leaving Israel will surpass the number of immigrants to Israel in 2024, according to Sergio DellaPergola, a statistician and professor emeritus of Hebrew University in Jerusalem. Thousands of Israelis have opted to pay the financial, emotional, and social costs of moving out since the Oct. 7 attack, according to government statistics and families who spoke to The Associated Press in recent months after emigrating to Canada, Spain, and Australia. Israel's population continues to grow toward 10 million people. But it's possible that 2024 will end with more Israelis leaving the country than coming in. That's even as Israel and Hezbollah reached a fragile ceasefire along the border with Lebanon and Israel and Hamas inch toward a pause in Gaza. Israels Central Bureau of Statistics estimated in September that 40,600 Israelis departed long-term over the first seven months of 2024, a 59 per cent increase over the same period a year earlier, when 25,500 people left. Monthly, 2,200 more people departed this year than in 2023, CBS reported. The Israeli Ministry of Immigration and Absorption, which does not deal with people leaving, said more than 33,000 people have moved to Israel since the start of the war, about on par with previous years. The interior minister refused to comment for this story, a spokesperson said. Other clues, too, point to a notable departure of Israelis since the Oct. 7 attacks. Gil Fire, deputy director of Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, said that some of its star specialists with fellowship postings of a few years in other countries began to waver about returning. Before the war, they always came back and it was not really considered an option to stay. And during the war we started to see a change, he said. They said to us, We will stay another year, maybe two years, maybe more. Fire says its an issue of concern enough for him to plan in-person visits with these doctors to try to draw them back to Israel. Michal Harel, who moved with her husband to Toronto in 2019, said that almost immediately after the attacks the phone began ringing with other Israelis seeking advice about moving to Canada. On Nov. 23, 2023, the couple set up a website to help Israelis navigate moving, which can cost at least 100,000 Israeli shekels, or about $28,000, Harel and other Israeli relocation experts said. Not everyone in Israel can just pack up and move overseas. Many of those who have made the move have foreign passports, jobs at multinational corporations, or can work remotely. People in Gaza, where local health officials say more than 45,000 people have been killed, have even less choice. Harel reported that the site has received views from 100,000 unique visitors and 5,000 direct contacts in 2024 alone. Aliya the Hebrew term for immigration, literally the ascent of Jews into Israel has always been part of the country's plan. But yerida the term used for leaving the country, literally the descent of Jews from Israel to the diaspora, emphatically has not. A sacred trust and a social contract took root in Israeli society. The terms go or went like this: Israeli citizens would serve in the military and pay high taxes. In exchange, the army would keep them safe. Meanwhile, its every Jews obligation to stay, work, and fight for Israels survival. Emigration was a threat, especially in the early years (when) there were problems of nation-building, said Ori Yehudai, a professor of Israeli studies at Ohio State University and the author of Leaving Zion, a history of Israeli emigration. People still feel they have to justify their decision to move. Shira Carmel says she has no doubt about her decision. She'd long objected to Netanyahu's government's efforts to overhaul the legal system and was one of the first women to don the blood-red Handmaid's Tale robes that became a fixture of the anti-government protests of 2023. She was terrified as a new mom, and a pregnant one, during the Hamas attack. This was not the life she wanted. Meanwhile, Australia beckoned. Carmel's brother had lived there for two decades. The couple had the equivalent of a green card due to Carmel's husband's profession. Basic logic, she says, pointed toward moving. They were able to catch a free flight out on seven hours' notice. And yet. Carmel recalls the frenzied hours before the flight out in which she said to her husband in the privacy of their bedroom: My God, are we really doing this? They decided not to decide. They packed lightly. But weeks in Australia became months, and the couple decided to have the baby there. They told their families back in Israel that they were staying for now. We don't define it as forever, Carmel said on Tuesday. But we are for sure staying for the foreseeable future.

Coal bunker at Mettur thermal plant crashes, one dead, five rescued

COIMBATORE: A coal bunker at Mettur Thermal Power Plant in Salem collapsed on Thursday evening, burying a group of workers under more than 500 tonnes of debris and coal. After an hour-long operation, five workers were rescued alive, while one was found dead. Search operation is under way to locate others who may have been trapped inside. The bunker or storage container had 500 tonnes of coal load, sources said. Though these bunkers can handle a coal load of up to 625 tonnes, their load-handling capacity decreases with time and all these structures are nearly 30 years old, sources said. Superintendent of Police Gautam Goyal told TNIE Around seven to eight people were caught under the debris. Five of them were rescued alive. One worker P Venkatesh (50) of Mettur was found dead. The search operation is on to rescue others. The coal-fired plant comes under the control of Tangedco. It has four units and each unit produces 210 megawatts (MW) of electricity every day. Coal is crushed in the grinding mill on the ground floor and sent to a 52m high bunker through an 18m feeder. Each unit has five bunkers named from A to E. On Thursday, around 5 pm, when a group of workers were at the grinding mill, the third bunker (D) collapsed allegedly unable to hold the weight after it was loaded with around 500 tonnes of coal. The collapsing bunker damaged the feeder and fell on the grinding mill where the workers were working. Production was stopped immediately. Police and fire and rescue services teams rushed to the spot. Five workers, M Gowtham (20), A Thiruchendur Murugan (28), C Sreenivasan (44), C Srikanth (24) and P Manoj (27), were rescued and taken to Mettur Government Hospital in ambulances. Manoj was later referred to Government Mohan Kumaramangalam Medical College Hospital in Salem. Personnel engaged in rescue operation at Mettur Thermal Power Plant on Wednesday

Ungalai Thedi Ungal Ooril scheme: District Collectors conduct inspections in Salem, Namakkal

Israel tourism ministry allocates NIS 230M for 55 projects

The Israel Ministry of Tourism (IMOT) has announced an investment of NIS 230 million to support 55 tourism projects across the country, contributing to a total development budget of NIS 410 million. The initiative is aimed at enhancing public tourism infrastructure and creating unforgettable experiences for domestic and international visitors. A notable allocation of NIS 22 million will be directed to Judea and Samaria, marking the highest budget for the region in the past five years. Additionally, NIS 65 million will be used to upgrade infrastructure in northern Israel. Tourism Minister Haim Katz stated, Even as we address the needs of 130,000 evacuees, we are planning for the future, investing in infrastructure to enhance the visitor experience. The focus on Judea and Samaria will make the regions rich Jewish heritage more accessible and realize its untapped tourism potential. Key projects include the development of heritage centers, promenades, parks, attractions, biking trails, and accessibility improvements. Some highlights are the Qasr al-Yahud baptism site, a walk-on-water experience in Ginossar, upgrades to the Cave of the Patriarchs Plaza, and the establishment of an archaeological park in Beit El. Additional initiatives include ecological promenades in Kfar Aza, laser shows at the Eilat marina and the Knights Halls citadel, and nighttime tours in Katzrin. Renovation efforts will also target Safeds Old City alleys, the Akhziv Promenade in Mateh Asher, and Jerusalems illuminated monuments. A Chazon Ish Heritage Center will be established in Bnei Brak, alongside several other regional projects. The investment in Judea and Samaria includes accessibility upgrades to the Cave of the Patriarchs, development of the Jeremiah Route in Wadi Qelt, and construction of a tourist reception center in northern Samaria. Ministry Director-General Dani Shahar emphasized, These projects were evaluated for their ability to attract visitors, align with government policies, and offer unique tourism products. The infrastructure will ensure memorable experiences across Israel. Nearly 98 local authorities submitted 119 applications, requesting a total of NIS 1.6 billion in funding. IMOT carefully selected projects based on their potential to boost tourism and enhance regional development.

Tamil Nadu govt sanctions Rs 178 crore for 34 bridges across districts

Tamil Nadu's government has allocated Rs 177 crore to construct 34 bridges across various districts. This initiative will replace flood-damaged infrastructure, improve connectivity, and fulfill public requests submitted via the 'Ungal Thoguthiyil Muthalamaichar' program. Salem district will receive the most bridges, with six planned.

Corruption behind bars: only three cases against TN prison employees in eight years

CHENNAI: The state governments anti-corruption agency, Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) has registered 2,400 cases against government officials since 2016, but only three of them are against employees of the Prisons department, official data shows. The latest case in the prisons department was registered last week against a jail superintendent, former jailor and an administrative officer of Madurai central prison after a nudge by the Madras HC. The other two cases were in 2018 - against an official of Salem prison and Puzhal prison. DVACs own statistics published on its websites erroneously show an even worse figure, indicating it has registered only one inquiry against a prison official in the last eight years. This comes at a time when complaints of corruption in prisons are being raised regularly; in 2020, a DIG reportedly sent a circular to all heads of jails with a list of corrupt practices, warning them of action. In comparison, the DVAC has probed at least 350 police personnel for corruption since 2016 while the number is several times higher in rural development, revenue and registration departments. Activists and experts working with prisoners say this is definitely not because of lack of corruption. KR Raja, an advocate and prison reforms activist from Madurai, said bribes are rampant in prisons department, especially for postings and transfers. Nobody bothers about prisons as there is a perception that people inside jails are sinners and hence dont deserve any justice. If public funds are swindled from a scheme for farmers or the rural poor, officers will be afraid of a public outcry, Raja said, remarking correctional services had become corruption service. Henri Tiphagne, advocate and executive director of NGO Peoples Watch, said prisons is a closed system with no auditing by external agencies. The prison manual prescribes official and non-official visits. But that doesnt happen. Apart from the IPS officer at the top, rest all are drawn from the prison cadre. One person cant reform the system, he said. Echoing the same sentiments, advocate S Valliammal said if DVAC were to perform a surprise check, the entire prisons official setup would be tipped off when the sleuths enter the premises. Raja prescribed regular inspections by the district collectors, SPs and other officials to prisons to bring in greater transparency. Tiphagne recommended periodic audits. DVAC sources declined to comment when contacted.

Israeli Demolitions Rip through Palestinian Area of Jerusalem

Jerusalem: Tired and sad, Palestinian activist Fakhri Abu Diab stood amid the rubble of his home in Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem, just a narrow valley away from the famed domes of the Old City. In early November, bulldozers from the Israeli-controlled Jerusalem municipality tore down his house in the Silwan neighbourhood for a second time, citing unauthorised construction. They want to expel us from the area, said the 62-year-old, who has organised protests against the demolitions in Silwan's Al-Bustan area. The destruction of homes built without permits -- which campaigners say are nearly impossible for Palestinians to obtain due to Israel's restrictive planning policy -- has roiled East Jerusalem and the rest of the occupied West Bank for years. Abu Diab's house was among around 115 Palestinian residential properties marked for demolition by the Jerusalem municipality, which controls both the city's Jewish-majority western part and its Palestinian-majority east, occupied by Israel since 1967. They want to erase our presence and drive us out, Abu Diab told AFP. But we will stay in Al-Bustan, even in a tent or under a tree. The municipality says it aims to address illegal construction, allow the construction of proper infrastructure and new public buildings for the neighbourhood's residents, as well as to create green space. But Israeli rights group Ir Amim said Israeli authorities often abuse the designation of areas in east Jerusalem as national parks or open spaces. The group, fighting against demolitions, said the practice is designed to suppress Palestinian development while enabling the seizure of their lands for Israeli interests. The status of Jerusalem remains one of the most contentious issues in the Israel-Palestinian conflict. Israel conquered east Jerusalem, including the Old City, in the 1967 Arab-Israeli war, and swiftly annexed the area. Silwan begins at the foot of the Old City walls where the Bible says the City of David was located after the Israelite king conquered Jerusalem from the Jebusites. Today, hundreds of Israeli settlers live among nearly 50,000 Palestinians in Silwan. The settlers' homes are distinguished by Israeli flags flying from rooftops and windows as well as ubiquitous security cameras. Meanwhile, Palestinians in east Jerusalem face a housing crisis, unable to build without permits amid a rapidly growing population. Abu Diab's house was first demolished in February. He rebuilt it, but it was destroyed again in November. This time, they wore me out, he said, visibly exhausted. The original house was built in the 1950s. I was born, raised, married and raised my children here. But now, Abu Diab said that even my children had to rent outside Silwan. Now, next to his flattened home, Abu Diab lives in a caravan, which is also under threat of demolition. He and some of his neighbours rejected an offer from the municipality to relocate to another Palestinian neighbourhood in northern Jerusalem. Near the ruins of Abu Diab's home, 42-year-old day labourer Omar al-Ruwaidi sat by a fire with his son, surrounded by the rubble of his own demolished home and those of four of his brothers. About 30 people, including 12 children, are now homeless, he said, his voice heavy with exhaustion. We've been battling this in court since 2004 and have spent tens of thousands (of Israeli shekels), but to no avail, said Ruwaidi. Several families who received demolition orders declined to speak to AFP, citing a fear of retribution. According to Ir Amim, demolitions in east Jerusalem have surged to unprecedented levels since the start of the Gaza war, which was sparked by a surprise Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. Between January and November 2024, 154 homes were demolished across the area, the group said. On November 13, bulldozers destroyed the Al-Bustan Association community centre, whose director said it served 1,500 Palestinian residents, mostly teenagers. The association provided various services to its members, including skill-building, capacity enhancement as well as sports and cultural training, said director Qutaiba Ouda. It was a safe haven and a cultural lifeline in a neighbourhood with no community centres. Ouda lamented the loss, saying that the Israeli authorities did not just destroy a building, but our memories, dreams and hard work. Following the demolition, France, which had supported activities at the association, demanded an explanation from Israel. Kinda Baraka, 15, was among those who frequented the association. It was our safe space, she said. When it was destroyed, I cried a lot. It felt like they could come and demolish my home next. Baraka said she believed the demolitions aimed to push out Palestinians in favour of settlers. Ruwaidi echoed those fears but remained defiant. We will not leave Silwan. Outside Silwan, we cannot breathe,hesaid.

Food safety officials slap fine on canteen in Salem Collectorate

Israel's Tel Aviv Revenge Coming Soon? Iran Blamed for Orchestrating Houthi Attacks, US Hits Yemen

Israels defence establishment is said to have lost patience with the Houthis and may be ready to act, as per The Jerusalem Post. This after the Yemen-based group claimed to have struck a military target near Tel Aviv on Dec. 16 with Palestine 2 hypersonic missile.The Israeli army is planning to strike Yemen in response to recent Houthi missile and drone attacks, Israeli public broadcaster Kan reported. Kan reported that the Israeli army recognised the escalating attacks from Yemen, claiming that it is eing orchestrated by Iran. The Kan report also indicated that the Houthis are escalating attacks in a bid to take he lead in what remains of Iran's evil axis in the region. Iran is activating the Houthis, among other things, due to the availability of their capabilities, the Kan report said. n18oc_world n18oc_crux0:00 INTRODUCTION2:24 HOUTHI ATTACKS ORCHESTRATED BY IRAN3:52 US TRIKES HOUTHI COMMAND AND CONTROL FACILITY

India Top Market in Asia For Israel Tourism

Tel Aviv in Israel is the Vegan Capital of the World and Deccan Chronicle spoke to Amruta Bangera, Director of Marketing at Israel Ministry of TourismIndia to find out what is drawing tourists to Israel. Excerpts Q: What are the statistics on Indian visitors to Israel, and what factors are driving this growth? To everyones surprise, we have had around 9,100 visitors from India from January to November, and globally, 9.5 million people have visited Israel. This shows how dedicated people are to this promising destination. The destination itself is a major factor, with its beauty attracting visitors consistently from Jan to May. We have had a group hosted by the ministry, and the amount of love people have shown is tremendous. This is a very mutual and natural organic thing happening, even before we launch our campaign. Tel Aviv Q: Can you tell us about the proposed e-visa program for Indians? We will be launching the e-visa program pretty soon, in the next couple of months. This shows how important the Indian market is for us. The Israel Ministry of Tourism believes in the Indian market and wants Indians to visit. India will be the first country to implement the e-visa program. Q: What is the current visa process like for Indians to visit Israel? The current visa process involves applying through the consulate or embassy in Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai, or Kolkata. You download the form from the visa website, apply, and submit it to the relevant consulate. The visa is issued within 10 business days, provided all documents are correct as per the checklist. Its not a difficult process, just submit the documents and you will get the visa. Q: What are the Israeli experiences that you think will appeal to Indian visitors? Israel and India have a great connection, with cultural similarities and a love for food. Its a win-win situation, with both countries exchanging cultural experiences. I have seen many youngsters wanting to visit and explore new destinations. We are trying to reach the masses, and we understand that information needs to come from local newspapers and media to trickle down to the masses. Negev Addax Dafna Tal Q: What are the culinary similarities between Israel and India? The most challenging thing for travelers is often vegetarian food options. But Israel is known for its vegan restaurants, with over 144 options in Tel Aviv, the vegan capital of the world. We cater to all kinds of vegan and vegetarian food, including falafel, hummus, and shakshuka, making it easy for travellers. Cheese Tasting - Galilee Q: Considering the sensitive situation in the area, what kind of safety measures are in place for tourists? Safety has always been our priority. You hardly hear of any discomfort to tourists, except when rules are not followed. Areas with tension, like northern borders, are restricted, but the rest of the country is safe. We ensure tourists avoid sensitive areas, and those who have visited have returned safely with amazing stories Q: What are the most visited places in Israel by Indians? Israel is a tiny destination, covering it from north to south takes only 6-7 hours by drive. You can experience snow and desert within this radius. Popular spots include the old city of Jerusalem, Tel Aviv for partygoers, Eilat for beaches, Haifa for gardens, Nazareth for religious significance and the Dead Sea for therapeutic benefits. We also have a kibbutz, promoting eco-tourism and sustainable tourism. White Water Rafting In Galilee Itamar Grinberg Q: How is Israel planning to attract more Indian tourists? We are trying to get the message out that Israel is open for tourism. We are meeting with airlines like Air India to increase flight frequencies. We are also working on addressing safety concerns and introducing E-Visa to ease travel. We will be launching a campaign soon, once the timing is right. Q: From which countries have you seen a surge in tourism? Currently, the US and UK are leading, but on the Asian front, India is the second-largest source market. Q: What is drawing Indians to Israel? Its been an organic and natural process thats drawn people to Israel. We have done a great job in getting the information out and educating travel agents and tour operators about the destination. We participate in seminars, webinars, exhibitions, and road shows to promote Israel as a beautiful destination, not just for holy land, leisure, or ice, but also for adventure tourism. Q: How accessible is Israel from India? Air India used to fly directly from Delhi to Israel, taking 6.5 to 7 hours. Now, there are connecting flights with one-stop, taking around 9-10 hours, with connections in Dubai, Gulf, or Addis Ababa. Q: What is the dress code like in Israel? Theres no dress code in Israel, except in Jerusalems temples and certain areas where modest dressing is required. Elsewhere, you can wear whatever you feel fit, from shorts to dresses, especially at the beaches.

Tamil Nadu drafts sustainable land use policy to tackle urbanisation, climate change

CHENNAI: Twenty years after the state government devised a Draft Tamil Nadu Land Use Policy 2004, the State Planning Commission (SPC) has prepared a draft Sustainable Land Use Policy of Tamil Nadu (SLUP) keeping in mind multi-sectoral challenges in planning land use and new problems due to changing economic structure and environmental exigencies. The draft submitted to Chief Minister MK Stalin on Monday points out that Tamil Nadu appears to be shifting towards horticulture crops, and Dindigul, Krishnagiri, Salem, Erode, Tiruchy, Dharmapuri, Tiruvallur and Namakkal are prominent districts for horticulture and floriculture. Hence, potential parcels of lands for horticulture should be identified and farmers in those regions should be encouraged through special schemes, the plan said. The draft underscores the importance of a holistic spatial land use planning instead of piecemeal allocation of land for development projects. The policy is closely aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), addressing critical issues such as deforestation, rapid urbanisation, and water scarcity through integrated land management. The policy underscored the need to factor in climate change and vulnerability assessment in land use planning and regulation in the context of global warming and climate change. The policy has recommended evolving a special land use strategy to address urban expansion and outgrowth. The state should review the contemporary relevance of previous regional plans and revise or prepare new regional and sub-regional plans, which should be prepared for 15-20 years with a review and revision every five years on a rolling basis. The policy said unnecessary pooling of land into land banks should be avoided. While converting land to industrial corridors and estates, suitable attention must be paid to the existing natural ecosystem and resources so that fragile ecosystems are not put under pressure. The policy said the state should formulate a Pasture Land and Grazing Policy and assess livestock scenarios in terms of economic, social and nutritional resources, given the changing circumstances, including lifestyles and agricultural practices, by 2025. In the industries and services sector, attention should be given to setting up new industrial hubs in areas that are identified as unused and fallow (land use remains unaltered for more than 3 to 5 years) by using technologies like remote-sensing. The draft also said land use planning is a potential disaster reduction and mitigation tool. The SLUP introduces a zoning system that categorizes land into four primary zones: Development, Conservation, Agricultural, and Transition. The draft noted that land use patterns in Tamil Nadu have undergone tremendous transformation due to urbanisation and industrialisation, and these changes are associated with ecological changes. The rapid urbanisation, converting vacant parcels of land and waterbodies for urban requirements and unscientific approaches towards the development of cities has led to multiple issues like flooding, groundwater shortage and urban heat islands, the draft policy underscored.

Netanyahu denies agreeing to Palestinian statehood in talks with Saudi Arabia

Netanyahu denies agreeing to Palestinian statehood in talks with Saudi Arabia Jerusalem: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed that he would not permit the establishment of a Palestinian state, rejecting reports that Israel had agreed to a path toward Palestinian statehood as part of efforts to normalise relations with Saudi Arabia. Prime Minister [] The post Netanyahu denies agreeing to Palestinian statehood in talks with Saudi Arabia appeared first on Mangalorean.com .

Collector inspects Mecheri block in Salem

Man murdered in property dispute in Salem

Syed Ata Hasnain | Will Syrian implosion spur a fresh Iran Mideast drive?

For a fairly long time, the world appeared to be fixated on the understanding that Iran and Syria acted as almost one nation in the pursuit of strategic security and foreign policy. As one of the main supporters of Bashar al-Assad in Syria, the ayatollahs of Iran secured considerable strategic advantage through the territory of the Levant under Syrias control. Russian President Vladmir Putins support to Iran and Syria added to their comfort and the Russian military presence in Syria, despite the demands of the Ukrainian battlefield, only reflected how serious Mr Putin was about his foothold in the Middle East and the relationship with the Iran-Syria combine. The progressive hollowing out of the Bashir Assad administration and the corruption and lack of professionalism in the Syrian Army over the years perhaps never occurred to Russia due to the complete focus of attention on the Ukraine front. Even Iran was so totally obsessed with the successful run of strengthening Hezbollah that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Irans master of proxy war strategy, failed to detect that its hold over Syria through the Syrian Army had been largely diluted. Was the emaciation of the Syrian civil and military capability a deliberate non-military strategy followed by an external power is yet not known, but the advantage which now accrues is not to any one side but to several forces. Among those are the United States, Turkey, Israel and the radical Sunni elements that have vied for space in the Levant. Except for the US and Israel, none of the others have a joint interest. The ones at the greatest disadvantage from the run of recent events are Iran and Russia. The Jerusalem Post wrote: Irans loss is staggering. Assads fall toppled the crown jewel of the arc of resistance that Iran spent over 35 years constructing as a counter-balance to Israel and American influence in the region. The removal of this cornerstone has effectively dismantled the arc. It is said that when a revolution occurs and takes the world by surprise, you should always be prepared for a counter-revolution. So, is there a possibility of a counter-revolution in the making? The factors at play and the strategic environment both do not indicate this and for several reasons this reading should be assumed correct. Hamas actions in Gaza triggered a chain of events which Iran misread as an opportunity. It activated its proxy strategy by ratcheting up the degree of engagement of Israel, but in the bargain, 15 months later, stands only to count its staggering losses. The entire leaderships of Hamas and Hezbollah were wiped out, and that of the IRGC itself dented. The complete supply chain for moving of military resources and wherewithal to the main proxy Hezbollah is now completely disrupted. The fall of Bashar Assad and the neutralisation of Syrias Army is also a result of several factors, with the final nail being the chain reactions set after the Hamas attack of October 7, 2023. Clearly, Mr Putin did not accord high enough priority to the Middle East in the run of the ongoing two major wars in the world Ukraine and Gaza-Lebanon. That ensured that the strategic advantage Russia gained by the support to Iran, Syria and Bashir Assad was never prioritised. However, Mr Putin, never prone to sentimentality, is attempting to regain lost ground. He first described the HTS as terrorists, but shortly thereafter the Russian foreign ministry was referring to HTS as the armed Syrian opposition; a clear overture to the new ruling authority in Syria, one of the reasons why he refused to meet Assad and only granted him asylum. For how long is this asylum too is anybodys guess. This is the quasi-counter revolution in the making, if at all; the overturning of the US-Israel advantage gained as a result of the Syrian meltdown. Clearly, Mr Putin cant do much alone, the Russians do not have that kind of bandwidth about the Middle East. They need the services of Iran and perhaps some of its proxies. However, can HTS, which is a Sunni radical organisation, come to work with Iran for any strategic advantage. Provided that HTS is not a proxy of either the US or Turkey, there is always the possibility of it working in close cooperation with Iran. It should be remembered that Hezbollah is a Shia organisation in ideological affinity with Iran, but Hamas has no such connection. It is a Sunni Islamist organisation with roots in the Muslim Brotherhood. Hamas ideology is deeply rooted in Sunni Islamic principles, advocating for the establishment of an Islamic state in historical Palestine. However, Hamas has received support from Iran due to shared strategic interests, particularly in opposing Israel. This alliance is more pragmatic than ideological, as their theological differences remain significant. Iran has provided funding, weapons, and training to Hamas, especially during times of isolation from Sunni Arab states. Despite this cooperation, Hamas and Iran maintain distinct religious and ideological frameworks. Two other issues bear significance in the aftermath of the Syrian implosion. The rule of the ayatollahs since 1979 has appeared unwavering but sporadic instances of resistance to the theological rule have often occurred. The people of Iran do not entirely support the ayatollahs. Failure on the strategic front spurs the buildup of resistance in the streets. That is what Iran will be concerned about because movements such as those contemplated here need a cause and a leadership. The cause may be there in plenty, its a dynamic leadership and even external support which could cause a threat to the status quo. The United States under incoming President Donald Trump may exercise caution about external involvement but Iran remains an anathema and Mr Trump has a particular aversion to the ayatollahs. US strategic circles in consort with Israel and perhaps Saudi Arabia (only to a limited extent) could sense this as opportunity. On the other hand, Irans long-term strategy revolves around the creation of a strong Shia crescent from Syria to Yemen taking in the majority and minority Shia populations into its fold. Over the last few years this had developed exponentially. The sudden downturn of the rising tide may spur Iran towards greater energisation of its efforts for achieving the crescent. That is where the clash could once again occur, re-energising the sectarian divide within Islam, with the world riding atop and once again deeply affected by that re-emergence.

Minister lays stone for additional Siddha buildings at Salem hospital

Villagersstage protest demanding public path in Salem

Within Days Hamas Says Gaza Ceasefire-Hostage Deal Closer Than Ever As Netanyahu Dials Trump

An unnamed Hamas leader is quoted by the Saudi Asharq News outlet saying that a ceasefire and hostage release deal is unprecedently close at hand. The member of the Palestinian armed group added that the US, a close ally of Israel, must now put pressure on the PM Benjamin Netanyahu to secure a deal. The source added that Hamas has submitted a proposal showing great flexibility. It stipulates a gradual end to the war and a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces, and guarantees from international mediators, the leader said. 00:00 - INTRODUCTION 01:31 - CEASEFIRE-HOSTAGE DEAL LIKELY BY DEC. 2506:26 - TRUMP SIGNALS: 'NOT NOW' FOR WEST BANK ANNEXATION07:51 - JERUSALEM ON HIGH ALERT FOLLOWING SECURITY WARNINGn18oc_world n18oc_crux

Farmer beaten to death in Salem

Israel approves plan to expand settlements in occupied Golan

Jerusalem: The Israeli government has approved a plan to expand settlements in the Golan Heights, a Syrian territory currently occupied by Israel, according to a statement by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus office. The $10.81-million plan, unanimously approved by the Cabinet, is being advanced in light of the war and the new front with Syria, Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Israel to close embassy in Ireland due to extreme anti-Israeli policies: Foreign Minister

Jerusalem: Israel announced Sunday that it will close its embassy in Ireland, attributing the decision to the Irish governments extreme anti-Israeli policies. In a press release, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar accused Ireland of actions and rhetoric against Israel, which he stated are rooted in the delegitimisation and demonisation of the Jewish state, along with Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

348 free buses for women operate in Salem district, says Minister

Over 12,000 Palestinians held by Israel in West Bank since Oct 7, 2023

Jerusalem: Israeli occupation forces (IOF) have detained at least 12,100 Palestinians, including 795 children and 440 women in the occupied West Bank since the beginning of the Israel and Hamas war on October 7, 2023. In astatement, the Palestinian Prisoners Club said that a majority of the arrests took place in the governorates of al-Khalil Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Minor girl tries to end life in Salem

SIM card, ganja seized from inmate in Salem Prison; video goes viral

79 water bodies attain their full capacity, and 70 still remain dry in Salem district

In the Salem district, there are a total of 349 water bodies, including lakes and tanks.

SCR to run Sabarimala special train services from Dec.19

Hyderabad: The South Central Railway (SCR) is running Sabarimala special trains covering several important pilgrimage destinations enroute from December 19 to January 24. These trains are planned for the benefit of Ayyappa devotees visiting the Sabarimala shrine from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. The devotees travelling by these special trains can conveniently plan to visit enroute pilgrimage centres of important temples in Kerala. The temples included in the circuit are the Sastha temples at Pandalam, Kulathupuzha, Aryankavu, Achankovil and Erumeli. Other famous temples covering enroute stations are Golden Temple at Vellore, Annamalaiyar Temple at Tiruvannamalai, Ranganatha Swamy Temple at Srirangam, Mariamman Temple at Samayapuram (Tiruchirappalli), Meenakshi Amman Temple at Madurai, Arulmigu Subramaniya Swamy Temple at, Thiruparankundram (Madurai), Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple at Palani (Dindigul), Andal Temple at Srivilliputhur (Virudhu Nagar) and Sri Krishna Temple at Punalur etc. Train No. 07175 / 07176 Secunderabad - Kollam - Secunderabad specials (four services): These Special trains will stop at Moula-Ali, Cherlapalli, Nalgonda, Miryalaguda, Nadikude, Piduguralla, Sattenapalli, Guntur, Tenali, Chirala, Ongole, Nellore, Gudur, Renigunta, Katpadi, Vellore, Tiruvannamalai, Villupuram, Vriddhachalam, Ariyalur, Srirangam, Tiruchchirappalli, Dindigul, Madurai, Virudunagar, Tenkasi, Sengottai and Punalur stations in both the directions. Train No. 07173 / 07174 Kakinada Port Kollam Kakinada Port specials (six services): Enroute, these special trains will stop at Kakinada Town, Samalkot, Rajahmundry, Nidadavolu, Tanuku, Bhimavaram Town, Akividu, Kaikaluru, Gudivada, Vijayawada, Tenali, Chirala, Ongole, Nellore, Gudur, Renigunta, Tirupati, Chittoor, Katpadi, Jolarpettai, Salem, Erode, Tiruppur, Podanur, Palakkad, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam, Ettumanur, Kottayam, Tiruvalla, Chengannur and Kayankulam stations in both the directions. Train No. 07177 Vijayawada Kollam Special (three services): These special trains will stop at Guntur, Narasaraopet, Donakonda, Markapur Rd, Giddalur, Diguvametta, Nandyal, Koilakuntla, Jammalamadugu, Proddatur, Yerraguntla, Kadapa, Rajampet, Renigunta, Tirupati, Chittoor, Katpadi, Jolarpettai, Salem, Erode, Tiruppur, Podanur, Palakkad, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam, Ettumanur, Kottayam, Tiruvalla, Chengannur and Kayankulam stations. Train No. 07178 Kollam Kakinada Town Special (three services): These special trains will stop at Kayankulam, Chengannur, Tiruvalla, Kottayam, Ettumanur, Ernakulam, Aluva, Thrissur, Palakkad, Podanur, Tiruppur, Erode, Salem, Jolarpettai, Katpadi, Chittoor, Tirupati, Renigunta, Rajampet, Kadapa, Yerraguntla, Proddatur, Jammalamadugu, Koilakuntla, Nandyal, Diguvametta, Giddalur, Markapur Rd, Donakonda, Narasaraopet, Guntur, Vijayawada, Eluru, Tadepalligudem, Rajahmundry and Samalkot stations. Train No. 07175 / 07176 Secunderabad - Kollam - Secunderabad Specials (six services): These special trains will stop at Moula-Ali, Cherlapalli, Nalgonda, Miryalaguda, Nadikude, Piduguralla, Sattenapalli, Guntur, Tenali, Chirala, Ongole, Nellore, Gudur, Renigunta, Katpadi, Vellore, Tiruvannamalai, Villupuram, Vriddhachalam, Ariyalur, Srirangam, Tiruchchirappalli, Dindigul, Madurai, Virudunagar, Sivakasi, Rajapalaiyam, Tenkasi, Sengottai and Punalur stations in both the directions. Train No. 07179 Kakinada Town Kollam Special (two services): These special trains will stop at Samalkot, Rajahmundry, Tadepalligudem, Eluru, Vijayawada, New Guntur, Tenali, Chirala, Ongole, Nellore, Gudur, Renigunta, Tirupati, Chittoor, Katpadi, Jolarpettai, Salem, Erode, Tiruppur, Podanur, Palakkad, Thrissur, Aluva and Ernakulam Town, Ettumanur, Kottayam, Tiruvalla, Chengannur and Kayankulam stations. Train No. 07180 Kollam Guntur Special (two services): These special trains will stop at Kayankulam, Chengannur, Tiruvalla, Kottayam, Ettumanur, Ernakulam Town, Aluva, Thrissur, Palakkad, Podanur, Tiruppur, Erode, Salem, Jolarpettai, Katpadi, Chittoor, Tirupati, Renigunta, Guntur, Nellore, Ongole, Chirala and Tenali stations. Train No. 07181 Guntur Kollam Special (three services): These special trains will stop at Narasaraopet, Donakonda, Markapur Rd, Giddalur, Diguvametta, Nandyal, Bethamcherla, Dhone, Gooty, Anantapur, Dharmavaram, Kadiri, Madanapalle, Piler, Pakala, Chittoor, Katpadi, Jolarpettai, Salem, Erode, Tiruppur, Podanur, Palakkad, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam Town, Ettumanur, Kottayam, Tiruvalla, Chengannur and Kayankulam stations. Train No. 07182 Kollam Kakinada Town Special (one service): These special trains will stop at Kayankulam, Chengannur, Tiruvalla, Kottayam, Ettumanur, Ernakulam Town, Aluva, Thrissur, Palakkad, Podanur, Tiruppur, Erode, Salem, Jolarpettai, Katpadi, Chittoor, Pakala, Piler, Madanapalle, Kadiri, Dharmavaram, Anantapur, Gooty, Dhone, Bethamcherla, Nandyal, Diguvametta, Giddalur, Markapur Rd, Donakonda, Narasaraopet, Guntur, Vijayawada, Eluru, Tadepalligudem, Rajahmundry and Samalkot stations. Train No. 07185 Kollam Guntur Special (two services): These Special trains will stop at Kayankulam, Chengannur, Tiruvalla, Kottayam, Ettumanur, Ernakulam Town, Aluva, Thrissur, Palakkad, Podanur, Tiruppur, Erode, Salem, Jolarpettai, Katpadi, Chittoor, Pakala, Piler, Madanapalle, Kadiri, Dharmavaram, Anantapur, Gooty, Dhone, Bethamcherla, Nandyal, Diguvametta, Giddalur, Markapur Rd, Donakonda and Narasaraopet, stations. Train No. 07183/07184 Narsapur Kollam - Narsapur Special (Four services): These special trains will stop at Palakollu, Bhimavaram Jn, Bhimavaram Town, Akividu, Kaikaluru, Gudivada, Vijayawada, Guntur, Narasaraopet, Markapur Rd, Giddalur, Diguvametta, Nandyal, Koilakuntla, Jammalamadugu, Proddatur, Yerraguntla, Kadapa, Rajampet, Renigunta, Tirupati, Chittoor, Katpadi, Jolarpettai, Salem, Erode, Tiruppur, Podanur, Palakkad, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam Town, Ettumanur, Kottayam, Tiruvalla, Chengannur and Kayankulam stations in both the directions. These special trains consist of first AC, 2AC, 3AC, sleeper class and general second-class coaches.

DREU recognised as southern railway union

CHENNAI: The Dakshin Railway Employees Union (DREU) has gained recognition in Southern Railway after a 11-year gap. This follows union elections held from December 4 to 6, where both DREU and the Southern Railway Mazdoor Union (SRMU) secured over 30% of the votes needed for recognition. Out of 76,653 eligible voters, 68,478 employees participated. Employees (excluding officials) from six divisions Chennai, Madurai, Tiruchy, Salem, Thiruvananthapuram, and Palakkad cast their votes, along with staff from the headquarters and various workshops. The SRMU, the sole recognised union since 2011, received 26,258 votes (38.5%), while the DREU secured 26,151 votes (38.34%). This translates to 34.26% for SRMU and 34.12% for DREU out of the total electorate, granting both unions official recognition and negotiation rights with the railways on policy matters. R Elangovan, former vice president of DREU, outlined the unions priorities: restoring the old pension scheme, ensuring transparency, reducing night shifts for loco pilots from four to two per week, and enhancing safety.

Low-level bridge washed away in Salem

27 complaints on child marriage received in November, says Salem District Collector

Relief delayed for 22 years, Salem court seizes govt property

SALEM: The staff of the Salem district court confiscated properties from the revenue department office located inside the collectorate on Thursday as the department failed to provide compensation to 17 residents of Amani Kondalampatti village whose lands were acquired 22 years ago for a railway gauge conversion project. According to sources, 17 people of Amani Kondalampatti village in Panamarathupatti block in the district gave up six acres of land for the Salem-Karur broad gauge conversion work in 2002. The district administration has yet to provide compensation to them. The aggrieved landowners approached II Additional District Session Court, seeking directions to the district administration to provide compensation. After hearing the petition, the court ordered the district administration to provide compensation as per the 2002 market value. However, the district administration delayed the compensation. Subsequently, the court ordered the confiscating the office properties of the revenue department. On Thursday, court staff confiscated more than 20 almirahs, chairs, fans, desks and ACs. They plan to auction them. Karumalai, a land owner. Broke down as he narrated his ordeal and said officials should take steps to issue the compensation at the earliest. According to him, the 17 landowners have to get a minimum of Rs 2 lakh to ma aximum of Rs 49 lakh. We are running pillar to post to stay in a decent house as we gave up ancestral property for the railway development work. We do not have money to give proper education to our children, said Karumalai.

Baby, grandparents from Kerala die as car rams van in Kovai

COIMBATORE: An elderly couple hailing from Kerala and their two-month-old grandson died after the car collided with a van on the Salem - Kochi Highway near Madukkarai on Thursday. The deceased were identified as Jacob Abraham (60) of Eraviperoor near Thiruvalla in Pathanamthitta district, his wife Sheeba Jacob (55) and Aaron Jacob Thomas. Jacobs daughter Alina Thomas (30) suffered severe injuries and is admitted in a private hospital in Coimbatore. Police said the family was on its way to Bengaluru where Alina is scheduled to write an examination later this month. The family planned to stay with Abrahams son, who is working in Bengaluru, and started from Thiruvalla early in the morning. Abraham was driving the car. The accident took place around 11.30 am near Bodipalayam junction when Abraham jumped the lane on the two-way road and collided into a courier van that was coming in the opposite direction. In the impact, Abraham, his wife and the child died on the spot. Alina, wife of Thomas Kuriakose of Punalur in Kollam district, was rescued from the mangled car and taken to a private hospital by police and local people. Madukkarai police sent the bodies of the deceased to CMCH for post-mortem. The registered a case and took custody of the courier van driver K Sakthivel of Karur.

Aavin to launch Green Magic Plus on December 18

CHENNAI: The state-owned Aavin is set to launch a new milk variant, Green Magic Plus, fortified with vitamins A and D, starting December 18. Initially, the product will be available in the Kancheepuram-Tiruvallur, Salem and Coimbatore cooperative milk producers district unions. The 900ml pack of standardised Green Magic Plus milk, with 4.5% fat and 9% SNF, will be priced at Rs 49-Rs 50. Incidentally, Aavin now sells its standardised milk variant Green Magic which also has 4.5% fat and 9% SNF at Rs 44 per litre. While Green Magic milk has been discontinued in several districts, it is still being sold in Chennai at subsidised prices for cardholders and a minimum quantity supplied to retail shops. According to Aavins Managing Director S Vineeth, this new variant is an additional product aimed at expanding their market beyond Chennai city. To encourage retailers in villages and small towns to store the milk in freezers, a higher profit margin has been set for them, he said. While a section of retailers termed it as an indirect price hike disguised as fortified milk, Vineeth denied the allegations and stressed that the initiative was launched purely to provide milk fortified with additional vitamins for the benefit of consumers. He also mentioned that Magic Plus is the most affordable milk variant in the country, offering a higher protein content. To start with, we will launch a minimum of 5,000 litres of milk, equivalent to one truckload. Depending on public demand, we plan to expand sales to other regions. We have no intention of discontinuing any of our other milk variants, he added. He added that about 31 lakh litres of milk and milk products amounting to Rs 50 crore are sold across the state every day. A milk retailer from north Chennai said, Aavin continues to sell Green Magic milk due to high consumer demand and lower price compared to private brands. To offset losses, Aavin has introduced the same milk under a different name, When asked whether Aavin incurs losses from subsidised milk sales, Aavin MD Vineeth acknowledged that there may be losses due to lower pricing but clarified that these are compensated by the government.

Israel says destroyed over 90 pc of Syrias surface-to-air missile systems

Jerusalem: The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced that it has severely damaged Syrias air defences, destroying over 90 per cent of identified strategic surface-to-air missile systems. In a statement, the IDF revealed that it had been conducting a comprehensive assessment of Syrias situation, taking into account the potential downfall of Bashar al-Assad, Xinhua news agency Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Paraguayan President Santiago Pena inaugurates Jerusalem Embassy

Paraguayan President Santiago Pena inaugurated his nation's embassy in Jerusalem, making Paraguay the sixth country to establish an embassy in the contested capital. Pena expressed satisfaction with the move, highlighting the importance of action over words. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed the decision and discussed potential economic cooperation with Pena. The leaders also signed several bilateral agreements.

Israeli strike in Gaza kills 25 people

Deir Al-Balah: An Israeli airstrike hit the central Gaza Strip on Thursday, killing at least 25 Palestinians and wounding dozens more, Palestinian medics said, as U.S. President Joe Bidens two top national security officials were in the region making a renewed push for an Israel-Hamas ceasefire. The strike on a multistory residential building in the Nuseirat refugee camp was just the latest in a series of Israeli attacks throughout Gaza that killed at least 54 Palestinians since late Wednesday night. Palestinian officials at two of Gaza's remaining medical centers, Al-Awda Hospital in the north and Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in the center, reported together receiving 25 bodies from the Nuseirat strike which also wounded 40 people, most of them children. There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military on the deadly strike. Israel is trying to eliminate Hamas, which led the attack on southern Israel in October 2023 that sparked the war in Gaza. The Israeli military says Hamas militants hide among Gazas civilian population. The U.N. General Assembly's member nations approved a new resolution this week demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza . General Assembly resolutions are not legally binding, although they do reflect world opinion the vote Wednesday was 158-9, with 13 abstentions. Israel strikes all across Gaza Photos from the scene in Nuseirat sent to journalists showed a completely collapsed building with people walking through its mangled and charred remains, smoke rising from piles of belongings strewn over the rubble. Palestinian rescuers were searching for more bodies trapped beneath the rubble. The strikes Thursday evening came as Palestinian medics were still surveying the mornings deadly toll of fierce Israeli attacks, including on Nuseirat camp. Palestinian medical officials had reported at least 28 people killed earlier in the day, including seven children and a woman. One of the strikes flatted a house in Nuseirat, according to Al-Aqsa Hospital in the nearby city of Deir al-Balah, where the bodies were taken. Two other strikes killed 15 men who were part of local aid coordination committees set up by displaced Palestinians and the Hamas-run Interior Ministry, according to health officials at Nasser Hospital in the southern city of Khan Younis. Eight of the men were killed in an attack near the southern border town of Rafah and the remaining seven were killed by a strike in Khan Younis. The committees aim to establish secure aid convoys , which often face challenges such as looting, hoarding and profiteering in their efforts to deliver humanitarian supplies to Palestinians facing the risk of famine . Israel says it allows enough aid to enter and blames U.N. agencies for not distributing it. The U.N. says Israeli restrictions, and the breakdown of law and order after Israel repeatedly targeted the Hamas-run police force, make it extremely difficult to operate in the territory. In Gaza's isolated and devastated north , Awda Hospital said an orthopedic doctor, Saeed Jouda, was shot in the head and killed Thursday morning. The Health Ministry said the doctor was killed by an armed quadcopter drone as he was traveling from Kamal Adwan Hospital to treat patients at Awda Hospital. The two medical facilities are in northern towns where Israel has waged a blistering offensive against Hamas militants since early October, allowing in almost no humanitarian aid and ordering tens of thousands to flee to nearby Gaza City. Experts have warned that the north may be experiencing famine . Biden administration makes final push for a Gaza ceasefire The latest bombardment came as Jake Sullivan, the White House national security adviser, was holding official meetings in Israel as signs emerge that long-stalled negotiations between Israel and Hamas could regain momentum. On Thursday, Sullivan revived hopes for a deal, telling reporters in Jerusalem that Israels ceasefire in Lebanon has helped clear the way for another deal to end the war in Gaza. Sullivan plans to travel next to Qatar and Egypt, key mediators in the ceasefire talks, as the Biden administration makes a final push on negotiations before Donald Trump is inaugurated . Sullivan said Hamas posture at the negotiating table did adapt after Israel decimated the leadership of its ally Hezbollah in Lebanon and reached a ceasefire there. We believe it puts us in a position to close this negotiation, he said. Last month, the U.S. vetoes a Security Council resolution demanding an immediate Gaza ceasefire, objecting that the resolution did not link the truce to an immediate release of hostages taken by Hamas. The councils 14 other members supported the resolution. The war in Gaza began when Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting around 250 people. Some 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, at least a third of whom are believed to be dead. Israels offensive has killed over 44,800 Palestinians in Gaza, more than half of them women and children, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which does not say how many were combatants. The Israeli military says it has killed over 17,000 militants, without providing evidence. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces an international arrest warrant for alleged war crimes in the war in Gaza. The International Criminal Court found there were reasonable grounds to believe that Netanyahu and his former defense minister bear responsibility for the war crime of starvation and the crimes against humanity of murder, persecution and other inhumane acts.

Koneripatty villagers demand bridge across Suvetha river in Salem

Two-day workshop on veterinary anaesthesia concludes in Salem

Heavy rain lashes Salem city - The Hindu

Heavy rain lashes Salem city The Hindu

Salem Railway Division urges passengers not to waste water, light camphor in trains

Heavy Rainfall in Tamil Nadu: Holiday Declared for Schools in Many Districts

Chennai: Parts of Tamil Nadu experienced heavy rainfall on Thursday, with forecasts predicting more showers across the state. According to Tamil Nadu Weatherman, South Tamil Nadu is on alert for heavy rain until Friday, with interior districts expected to bear the brunt of the downpour as a low-pressure system moves from the Gulf of Mannar to the Arabian Sea. South Tamil Nadu to be in Alert today to tomorrow. Chennai some more short intense spells will happen till evening then the rains will fade off. Interior most districts will get rains as the low moves via GoM to Arabia Sea by tomorrow. Coutrallam, Kodai in Tourist spot will get pic.twitter.com/AdVTPhK69u Tamil Nadu Weatherman (@praddy06) December 12, 2024 Short and intense spells of rain are expected in Chennai until the evening, after which the showers are likely to subside. Meanwhile, popular tourist spots such as Coutrallam and Kodaikanal are forecasted to receive heavy rainfall. Districts including Madurai, Virudhunagar, Theni, Tenkasi, Dindigul, Thoothukudi, Ramanathapuram, Pudukkottai, and Sivaganga are likely to experience very heavy rainfall. The Delta region is also expected to witness heavy showers. Additionally, interior districts like the Kongu belt, including Coimbatore, Salem, Erode, and the Nilgiris, are also on alert for heavy rains. #WATCH | Tamil Nadu: Rain lashes parts of Thoothukudi In light of the heavy rain forecast, a holiday has been declared for schools in various districts today including Chennai, Villupuram, Thanjavur, Mayiladuthurai, Pudukkottai, Cuddalore, Dindigul, Ramanathapuram, Thiruvarur, pic.twitter.com/QdoeB9yKsQ ANI (@ANI) December 12, 2024 In response to the forecast, a holiday has been declared for schools in multiple districts, including Chennai, Villupuram, Thanjavur, Mayiladuthurai, Pudukkottai, Cuddalore, Dindigul, Ramanathapuram, Tiruvarur, Ranipet, and Tiruvallur. Authorities have urged residents in affected areas to stay cautious and follow safety guidelines during this period of intense rainfall.

Tamil Nadu rains: Schools closed in Chennai and 14 districts amid heavy rain alert

CHENNAI: Schools in Chennai, Kanchipuram and Tiruvallur are to remain closed after the regions received moderate to heavy rainfall from Wednesday night. The zone-wise cumulative rainfall report by the Chennai city corporation showed that in the 24 hours until 6 am on Thursday, several parts of the city, especially in the North and Central regions, received over 7 Cms of rain. Most of the recorded rainfall came in intermittent heavy spells from Wednesday night to Thursday morning. On an average, the city received 5.3 cm of rain during this period with Kolathur receiving the highest 8.5 cm followed by Nerkundram which recorded 7.9 cm. Greater Chennai Corporations rain gauge stations in Tondiarpet, Perambur, Madhavaram, Basin bridge, Ayapakkam and Aminjikarai recorded over 7 Cms of rain. Thursday is expected to see the last of the rains, brought by the well marked low pressure area over the Bay of Bengal, in Chennai. The India Meteorological Department has flagged the possibility of moderate rain with intense spells of heavy rainfall over Tiruvallur, Ranipet, Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Tiruvannamalai, Villupuram, Kallakurichi, Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, Thanjavur, Pudukottai and Ramanathapuram in its nowcast valid until 10 am on Thursday. Schools closed in 14 districts of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal The districts of Chennai, Villupuram, Thanjavur, Mayiladuthurai, Pudukkottai, Cuddalore, Dindigul, Ramanathapuram, Thiruvarur, Salem, Kanchipuram, Ariyalur, Chengalpattu, Puducherry and Karaikal have declared Thursday holidays for schools due to the severe rainfall. In addition to school closures, colleges in Nagapattinam, Puducherry and Karaikal will also remain shut today. The India Meteorological Department has flagged the possibility of moderate rain with intense spells of heavy rainfall over Tiruvallur, Ranipet, Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Tiruvannamalai, Villupuram, Kallakurichi, Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, Thanjavur, Pudukottai and Ramanathapuram in its nowcast valid until 10 am on Thursday.

Israeli strikes on Gaza kill at least 33 people

Deir Al-Balah: Israeli strikes pounded the Gaza Strip overnight and into Wednesday, with one attack ripping through a home where displaced people were sheltering in the isolated north. The strikes killed at least 33 people including children, Palestinian health officials said. Violence also flared in outside Jerusalem, where an Israeli bus came under fire from a suspected Palestinian attacker late Wednesday, wounding three people including a 10-year-old boy, according to the military and hospital officials. The attack took place on a highway near major Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, and the army was looking for the shooter in the area around Bethlehem. The Israel-Hamas war in Gaza shows no end in sight, even after Israel reached a ceasefire with Lebanons Hezbollah militants and attention shifted to the overthrow of Syrian President Bashar Assad by insurgents. Both the current and incoming U.S. administrations have said they hope to end the war in Gaza before the inauguration in January, but ceasefire talks have repeatedly stalled. The U.N. General Assembly overwhelmingly approved resolutions Wednesday demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and backing the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees that Israel has moved to ban. General Assembly resolutions are not legally binding, although they do reflect world opinion. The votes in the 193-nation assembly were 158-9 with 13 abstentions to demand a ceasefire. Israel and its close ally the United States were in the tiny minority voting against. Israeli strike in north Gaza wipes out 3 generations The strike on the home killed 19 people in the northern town of Beit Lahiya near the border with Israel, according to nearby Kamal Adwan Hospital, which received the bodies. Hospital records show that a family of eight was among those killed: four children, their parents and two grandparents. The Israeli military said it targeted a Hamas militant in the vicinity of the hospital. It said reports about the number of casualties in the strike were inaccurate, without elaborating. The military says it tries to avoid harming civilians and accuses militants of hiding among them, putting their lives in danger. The hospital said another strike near its entrance on Wednesday killed a woman and her two children. The hospital director, Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, said Israeli drones struck nearby residential blocks overnight, causing explosions that sparked panic among the facility's more than 120 sick and wounded patients. We have received distress calls from neighbors and trapped people, but were not able to leave the hospital because of the continued risk, he said. We are witnessing a massive loss of life, with many martyrs in the targeted areas. Another strike in the decades-old Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza killed at least seven people, according to the Awda Hospital. The dead included two children, their parents and three other relatives, it said. Later, the hospital said another attack hit the same camp, killing four people and injuring 16 more. There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military on the other strikes. In Lebanon, where near-daily Israeli attacks have continued despite the ceasefire, at least five people died Wednesday in Israeli strikes in the south, according to Lebanons Health Ministry and state news agency. Elsewhere in southern Lebanon, Israeli forces withdrew from a strategic town and handed it back to the Lebanese army in coordination with U.N. peacekeepers, the two militaries said. It appeared to be the first Israeli pullout from a Lebanese border town captured during the ground invasion. In Syria, the Israeli military estimates it has destroyed 70% to 80% of Syrian military assets in recent days, according to an official speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss an intelligence assessment. The military has said it has carried out hundreds of airstrikes. Evacuation orders in camp after rocket fire Militants in central Gaza fired four projectiles into Israel on Wednesday, two of which were intercepted, the military said. The other two fell in open areas, and there were no reports of casualties. The military ordered the evacuation of a five-block area of the built-up Maghazi refugee camp in central Gaza, saying the rockets had been fired from there. The orders indicated that Israel would soon carry out strikes in the area. The war began when Hamas-led militants stormed into Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting around 250 people, including children and older adults. Around 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, at least a third believed to be dead. Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed over 44,000 Palestinians in Gaza, according to local health officials. They say women and children make up more than half the dead but do not distinguish between fighters and civilians in their count. Israel says it has killed over 17,000 militants, without providing evidence. Thousands more Palestinians have gone missing during the war , some after encounters with Israeli troops. UN says Gaza civilians face utterly devastating situation Israel has been waging a renewed offensive against Hamas militants in Gazas heavily destroyed north since early October. Troops have surrounded Beit Lahiya, Beit Hanoun and the urban Jabaliya refugee camp, allowing in almost no humanitarian aid and ordering tens of thousands to flee to nearby Gaza City. Israeli officials have said the three communities are mostly deserted, but the United Nations humanitarian office said Tuesday it believes around 65,000 to 75,000 people are still there, with little access to food, water, electricity or health care. Experts have warned that the north may be experiencing famine . Sigrid Kaag, the senior U.N. humanitarian and reconstruction coordinator for Gaza, told reporters on Tuesday that civilians trying to survive all across Gaza face an utterly devastating situation. She pointed to the breakdown in law and order and looting that has left the U.N. and many aid organizations unable to deliver food and other humanitarian essentials to hundreds of thousands of Palestinians in need. Kaag said she and other U.N. officials repeatedly ask Israel for access for convoys to northern Gaza and elsewhere, to allow in commercial goods, to reopen the Rafah crossing from Egypt in the south and to approve dual-use items. The Israeli military says it allows in enough humanitarian aid and blames U.N. agencies for not distributing it, saying large amounts of aid have accumulated just inside Gaza's borders. U.N. officials say Israeli restrictions, the breakdown of law and order and ongoing fighting make it difficult to access the aid and distribute it, and have repeatedly called for a ceasefire. The United States, Egypt and Qatar have mediated talks between Israel and Hamas for nearly a year, and diplomats say those efforts have recently gained momentum. But Hamas has said it will not release the remaining hostages without an end to the war and a full withdrawal of Israeli troops. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged to continue the war until Hamas is destroyed and all the hostages are returned and has said Israel will maintain a lasting military presence in some areas.

Shops in Salem down shutters in protest against property tax

Much-married woman from Salem dupes farmer of 7 lakh

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Salem book fair witnesses sales of 1.20 crore

Salem book fair witnesses sales of 1.20 crore - The Hindu

Salem book fair witnesses sales of 1.20 crore The Hindu

Man arrested for allegedly misbehaving with child in Salem

SCR to run additional services for Sabarimala pilgrims

Hyderabad: The South Central Railway (SCR) will run additional services between various destinations for Sabarimala pilgrims in order to clear extra rush. Train No. 07173/07174 Kakinada Port - Kollam - Kakinada Port Specials (6 services): Enroute, these special trains will stop at Kakinada Town, Samalkot, Rajahmundry, Nidadavolu, Tanuku, Bhimavaram Town, Akividu, Kaikaluru, Gudivada, Vijayawada, Tenali, Chirala, Ongole, Nellore, Gudur, Renigunta, Tirupati, Chittoor, Katpadi, Jolarpettai, Salem, Erode, Tiruppur, Podanur. Palakkad, Thrisur, Aluva, Ernakulam, Ettumanur, Kottayam, Tiruvalla, Chengannur and Kayankulam stations in both directions. Train No. 07175/07176 Secunderabad - Kollam - Secunderabad Specials (4 services): These Special trains will stop at Moula-Ali, Cherlapalli, Nalgonda, Miryalaguda, Nadikude, Piduguralla, Sattenapalli, Guntur, Tenali, Chirala, Ongole, Nellore, Gudur, Renigunta, Katpadi, Vellore, Tiruvannamalai, Villupuram, Vriddhachalam, Ariyalur, Srirangam, Tiruchchirappalli, Dindigul, Madurai, Virudunagar, Tenkasi, Sengottai and Punalur stations in both the directions. These special trains consist of 2AC, 3AC, sleeper class and general second-class coaches. Elimination of stoppage at Coimbatore: Train No. 07151 Kacheguda Kottayam Sabarimala Special will not stop at Coimbatore on 2, 9, 16 and 23 January 2025 due to operational reasons. Train No. 07133 Kacheguda - Kottayam Sabarimala Special will not stop at Coimbatore on 12, 19 and 26 December 2024 due to operational reasons.

Man gets 14-year jail under POCSO Act in Salem

Israel PM Netanyahu to testify in corruption trial

Jerusalem: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to testify Tuesday for the first time in his trial for bribery, fraud and breach of trust charges. His testimony will begin in an underground room in the Tel Aviv District Court after being moved from Jerusalem for security considerations. He will then testify three times a []

Israeli PM Netanyahu to testify in corruption trial

Jerusalem: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to testify on Tuesday for the first time in his trial for bribery, fraud and breach of trust charges. His testimony will begin in an underground room in the Tel Aviv District Court after being moved from Jerusalem for security considerations. He will then testify three times Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Burglars strike at pawn shop in Salem, steal items worth 10 lakh

Syrian Islamist Rebels Vow 'March From Damascus To Jerusalem', Iran Sent Plane To Rescue Assad But..

Purported footage from a mosque in Damascus shows Syrian rebels vowing to march on Jerusalem after ending the Assad familys rule. From here (Damascus) to Jerusalem. Were coming for Jerusalem. Patience, people of Gaza, patience vows an Islamist rebel spokesman. He is surrounded by a group of gunmen who respond with cries of Allahu akbar! (God is greatest in Arabic). The IDF seized control of the buffer zone between Israel and Syria on Dec.8 in what it said was a defensive and temporary measure. Iran told Syrian President Bashar al-Assad that help against a surprise rebel offensive would be limited, if it came at all. 00:00 - INTRODUCTION BLOW TO IRANS AXIS OF RESISTANCE AGAINST ISRAELWILL THIS DESTABILISE TIES BETWEEN SYRIA AND IRAN?n18oc_world n18oc_crux

Jewellery worth 10 lakh stolen from shop in Salem

Middle East latest: Israeli strikes hit Gaza and also target suspected weapons sites in Syria

Israeli strikes killed at least six people in the central Gaza Strip, Palestinian medical officials said Monday, while also hitting suspected chemical and long-range weapons sites in Syria to keep them from rebels who seized Damascus. The U.N. Security Council plans to hold emergency closed consultations on Syria later Monday at the request of Russia, which on Monday said it granted asylum to its longtime ally Syrian leadeashar Assad. Russian President Vladimir Putin personally made the decision to offer asylum to Assad, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. Peskov wouldnt comment on Assads specific whereabouts and said that Putin wasnt planning to meet with him. Israels offensive has killed over 44,500 Palestinians in Gaza since the start of the war, according to local health authorities. They say most of the dead are women and children but do not distinguish between fighters and civilians. The war began when Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting around 250, including older adults and children. Around 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, at least a third of whom are believed to be dead. ___ Here's the Latest: UN human rights chief says Assad and other officials should face justice GENEVA The U.N. human rights chief said Monday that former President Bashar Assad and other top Syrian officials behind possible war crimes should be brought to justice. Volker Trk also said any transition process in Syria should not be separated from the need for accountability for alleged war crimes that took place in its civil war that began in 2011, leaving hundreds of thousands dead and millions fleeing their homes. Trk, the U.N. high commissioner for human rights, also noted that Syria has not ratified the International Criminal Court statute, but the court in The Hague could have jurisdiction if the new Syria decides to ratify it -- an allusion to whoever the new leadership of Syria becomes. Turk said there were serious grounds to believe that Assad and others in serious leadership positions in his government may have committed atrocity crimes, and as a result, yes, they should be brought to justice. Russia grants political asylum to Assad, Kremlin says MOSCOW The Kremlin said Monday that Russia has granted political asylum to former Syrian President Bashar Assad. Russian President Vladimir Putin has personally made the decision to offer asylum to Assad, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. Such decisions certainly cant be made without the head of state, Peskov said in a conference call with reporters. It was his decision. Peskov wouldnt comment on Assads specific whereabouts. He said that Putin wasnt planning to meet with Assad. The Kremlin spokesman said that Moscow has been doing everything needed to ensure the security of its military bases in Syria. He said the future of the Russian bases will be a subject for discussion with the new authorities. For now, we are witnessing a period of transformation and extreme instability, so it will obviously take time and require a serious conversation with those who will have power, he said. The developments have surprised the world, and we werent an exclusion, Peskov said when asked whether the Kremlin was surprised by Assads quick demise. UN human rights chief calls for accountability over violations in Syria GENEVA The U.N. human rights chief, Volker Trk, says any political transition in Syria must ensure accountability for perpetrators of serious violations during the countrys civil war, and guarantee that those responsible are held to account. Speaking Monday to reporters in Geneva, Trk said Syrians took to the streets a day earlier with much hope and much anxiety for the future after President Bashar Assad quit power and left the country. The rights chief said reform of the security apparatus in Syria will be important for the transition, which must also ensure that the tragedy of missing people is addressed. He suggested that Assad himself should be held to account. We will need to make sure that those who are responsible for these violations be it on the side of the previous government, the president, and others but also all others who are responsible for violations, that they are brought to account, Trk said. Turkish foreign minister says Ankara hopes for an inclusive government in Syria ANKARA, Turkey Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said Monday that Ankara hopes the fall of the Syrian government will usher in a new era where different ethnic and religious groups can live peacefully under an inclusive new government. Fidan also said his country hopes that a new Syria would maintain good relations with its neighbors and bring stability to the volatile region. The developments in Syria yesterday have given us a glimmer of hope, Fidan said in a speech to Turkish ambassadors. We expect international actors, especially the United Nations, to reach out to the Syrian people and support the formation of an inclusive government. The minister said Turkey would continue to support Syrias territorial and political unity and work toward the countrys prosperity, security and stability. But Fidan said it was important that the Islamic State group and Kurdish militants do not take advantage of the situation, adding that Turkey would work with determination to prevent Syria from turning into a haven for terrorism. Turkey, which has reached out to its Syrian brothers during difficult times, will also be by their side, as the new page opens in Damascus, Fidan said. We believe that the Syrian people will also make good use of this golden opportunity. Israel says a drone that appears to have originated in Yemen hit a city in central Israel TEL AVIV, Israel The Israeli military said Monday that a drone that appeared to have originated in Yemen slammed into a city in central Israel. Video posted by Israeli news sites showed a large burst of smoke erupting from a high-rise apartment building. The military said sirens were not sounded to warn of the incoming drone. There were no immediate reports of injuries. Iran-backed militants in Yemen have been attacking Israel since Hamas assault on southern Israel in October 2023. Their drones have at times evaded Israels sophisticated aerial defense system. Turkey-backed forces take full control of Syrian city from U.S.-backed and Kurdish-led force ANKARA, Turkey The Turkish-backed forces known as the Syrian National Army launched an offensive against the Syrian Democratic Forces in the northern Syrian city of Manbij on Dec. 6, days after expelling SDF fighters from the city of Tal Rifaat. Turkish security officials said Monday that control of Manbij has been secured, without providing further details. The officials provided the information on condition of anonymity, in line with Turkish regulations. Turkey views the SDF, which is primarily composed of a Syrian Kurdish militia group, as an extension of the banned Kurdistan Workers Party, or PKK, and a terrorist organization. The force, however, has been a key partner of the United States in the fight against the Islamic State group. Separately, the U.S.-backed Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces said in a statement on Monday that a Turkish drone strike in the village of al-Mistriha north of Raqqa in eastern Syria killed 12 civilians, including six children. Top aide to Assad's brother found dead, war monitor says BEIRUT A Syrian opposition war monitor says a top aide to the brother of Syrias ousted president was found dead in his office near the capital, Damascus. The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Maj. Gen. Ali Mahmoud, who was in charge of Maher Assads office, had led a 2018 military campaign in southern Syria. A video that circulated on social media allegedly showed Mahmoud covered in blood while sitting on a chair. His clothes appear to have been set on fire. It was not clear if he was killed by Maher Assad or he committed suicide, the observatorys chief Rami Abdurrahman said. Maher Assad was in charge of the armys 4th Armored Division which played a major role in Syrias conflict since it began in March 2011. Israel says it has struck suspected chemical weapons sites and long-range rockets in Syria JERUSALEM Israels foreign minister says the strikes were to prevent them from falling into the hands of hostile actors. Gideon Saar said Monday that the only interest we have is the security of Israel and its citizens. Thats why we attacked strategic weapons systems, like, for example, remaining chemical weapons, or long-range missiles and rockets so that they will not fall in the hands of extremists. Syrian prime minister says Cabinet working to ensure a smooth transition of power DAMASCUS, Syria Syrias prime minister says most Cabinet ministers who are in Damascus are performing their duties from their offices to promote security and that food and medicine are available to the public. We are working so that the transitional period is quick and smooth, Mohammed Ghazi Jalali told Sky News Arabia TV station on Monday. The government is working with insurgents, Jalali said, adding that he is ready to meet their leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammed al-Golani, who heads the jihadi Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, or HTS. Israeli strikes kill 6 in central Gaza, Palestinian officials say DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip Israeli strikes in the central Gaza Strip overnight killed at least six people, including a woman, Palestinian medical officials said Monday. Among the dead was Raed Ghabaien, who was released from Israeli detention in 2014, according to Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital, where the casualties were taken. He was killed along with his wife when an Israeli strike hit their tent in the central town of Zuweida, the hospital records showed. Two other people were killed in a strike that hit their house late Sunday in the built-up Nuseirat refugee camp. Another two were killed in a strike in the Wadi Gaza area early Monday. An Associated Press journalist counted the bodies at the hospitals morgue. Mourners held funeral services Monday morning for the six dead and nine others who were killed in a strike the previous day in the urban refugee camp of Bureij. Israels offensive has killed over 44,500 Palestinians in Gaza since the start of the war, according to local health authorities. They say most of the dead are women and children but do not distinguish between fighters and civilians. Israel says it only strikes militants and blames Hamas for civilian deaths because its fighters operate in residential areas. The war began when Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting around 250, including older adults and children. Around 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, at least a third of whom are believed to be dead. US Central Command forces launch airstrikes in central Syria TAMPA, Fla. U.S. Central Command says its forces launched dozens of airstrikes targeting Islamic State group camps and operatives in central Syria. The strikes on Sunday were intended to disrupt, degrade, and defeat ISIS, in order to prevent the terrorist group from conducting external operations and to ensure that ISIS does not seek to take advantage of the current situation to reconstitute in central Syria, it said in a statement. The airstrikes hit over 75 targets using B-52s, F-15s, and A-10s, it said, noting that damage assessments were underway and there were no indications of civilian casualties. A Japanese official says Tokyo is gravely worried about the situation in the Middle East TOKYO Japans Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi says Tokyo is watching recent developments in Syria with a serious interest, while hoping for an improvement in human rights conditions for the Syrian people. Japan is gravely worried about a large number of deaths among citizens and strongly concerned about further worsening of the humanitarian conditions, Hayashi said Monday. He added that Japan is hopeful that the latest developments could lead to an improvement in the situation. New Zealand foreign minister calls for peaceful transition in Syria WELLINGTON, New Zealand New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters says his country is closely following developments related to the collapse of former President Bashar Assads government in Syria. This was a regime that perpetrated significant human rights abuses, including repeated chemical weapons attacks, against its own people for many years, Peters said in a statement issued on Monday. Now we need to see a peaceful transition with civilians protected and UN Security Council resolutions upheld. This is critical for moving towards a sustainable and comprehensive political solution.

Israel strikes suspected chemical weapons sites, long-range rockets in Syria

Jerusalem: Israel has struck suspected chemical weapons sites and long-range rockets in Syria in order to prevent them from falling into the hands of hostile actors, the foreign minister said Monday. Syrian rebels reached Damascus over the weekend and overthrew President Bashar Assads government following nearly 14 years of civil war, raising hopes for a []

Call to shift Tasmac outlet located opposite Salem Town Railway Station

CB-CID arrests agent linked to cyber slavery

CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu police have arrested a middleman from West Bengal, who has been identified as an important link in the cyber slavery case involving trafficking of several Indians to scam compounds in Laos, an official release said. The accused Shankar Sarkar (33), liased with Chennai-based agents Abdul Kadher and Syed to send nine people from Tamil Nadu to Laos in 2024, collected $1,000 for immigration clearance from the victims, the release said. Sarkar was working as a technician for Taniyan Group and Jinlong Group, two Chinese companies, from 2022-24 in a scamming compound in Laos. Incidentally, he had landed there after Chennai-based agents Kadher and Shoba promised to send him to Serbia as a kitchen helper, for which he paid Rs 3 lakh. Cyber slavery poses a significant risk to educated job seekers from TN: Protector of Emigrants After being promised a commission by an Ethiopian identified as James, Shankar started recruiting Indians for the scam compounds. Of the $1,000 collected from five victims, Shankar received 2,000 Chinese Yuan as commission. CB-CID issued a look out circular (LOC) against Shankar after identifying his role during the investigation on a complaint by Arun of Salem in July. Syed and Kadher have already been arrested. On December 3, Shankar was detained at the Kolkata airport when he was about to fly to Laos. CB-CID got a transit warrant and remanded him in judicial custody in Salem on Friday, the release added.

Israeli officer killed in anti-tank missile attack in Gaza

Israeli officer killed in anti-tank missile attack in Gaza Jerusalem: An Israeli officer was killed in southern Gaza, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement. According to the statement, the officer, Avraham Ben Pinchas, was a platoon commander in the 46th Battalion of the IDFs 401st Armoured Brigade, Xinhua news agency reported. Israels [] The post Israeli officer killed in anti-tank missile attack in Gaza appeared first on Mangalorean.com .

Rs 3.62L seized from two RTO border checkposts on Salem-Kochi National Highway

COIMBATORE: The Coimbatore Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) officials seized Rs 3.62 unaccounted cash from RTO checkposts on the Salem-Kochi National Highway near KG Chavadi and booked two on-duty staff members suspecting the money to be bribe on Friday. Based on a tip-off that the staff at the RTO checkposts were collecting bribes from vehicles violating rules, the DVAC officials led by ADSP Divya conducted checks followed by an investigation at the checkpost. During the checks, they intercepted a car near the checkpost in which the Motor Vehicle Inspector (MVI) of the outgoing checkpost Kumar, and the office assistant of the incoming checkpost Roseline were travelling to Salem and conducting checks. During the search, they found Rs 3.21 lakh unaccounted cash from Kumar and Rs 38,000 from Roseline. Another Rs 3,500 were found in a carton box on the sealing table of their office next to the checkposts. As they did not submit any accounts for the money, the DVAC team seized it. Kumar and Roseline have been booked underthe Prevention of Corruption Act.

Indian film producers explore creative collaborations in Israel

Jerusalem, Dec 6: A delegation of prominent Indian film producers held extensive discussions with various stakeholders in the Israeli entertainment industry, seeking collaborative projects and possibilities of utilising each others strengths in various aspects of the creative space. The five-member delegation, comprising of Nitin Tej Ahuja, Chair of the Producers Guild of India (PGI); Rahul []

Israeli air force kills three senior Hamas commanders in Gaza: IDF

Jerusalem: The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Israel Security Agency (ISA) announced on Friday the killing of three senior Hamas commanders in airstrikes carried out in the Gaza Strip this week. The commanders were implicated in the October 7 attack on Israel, which resulted in numerous civilian casualties and abductions, said the statement. Also Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Student arrested for stealing electronic items from his college in Salem

BJP, RSS workers booked for unlawful assembly in Salem

India Backs UN Resolution Calling For Withdrawal Of Israel From Palestinian Territories Including East Jerusalem

Israel not to halt offensive in Gaza: Defence minister

Jerusalem: Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has said that Israel is working toward a hostage deal and will not halt its offensive in Gaza in the meantime. There is a chance that this time we will truly be able to advance a hostage deal, Katz said on Wednesday during a tour in the Tel Nof Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Jewish settlers attack Palestinian towns, clash with Israeli troops

Jerusalem, Dec 4: Jewish settlers mounted a string of attacks on Palestinian towns in the occupied West Bank overnight, burning homes and clashing with Israeli troops. There were no immediate reports of any Palestinian casualties. The Israeli military said Jewish settlers attacked the village of Beit Furik after troops arrived in the area to dismantle []

Low-level bridge across river Thirumanimutharu in Salem washed away in floods

Bus Carrying Sabarimala Pilgrims Crashes Into Lorry, One Dead and 18 Injured in Kerala's Kollam

KOLLAM: A tragic accident took place early Wednesday morning (December 4, 2024) in Aryankavu, Kollam, Kerala, when a bus carrying pilgrims returning from Sabarimala collided with a lorry and fell into a gorge. One person was killed, and 18 others were injured, with three in critical condition. The deceased has been identified as Dhanapal, a resident of Salem, Tamil Nadu. The bus, which was en route from Salem after a pilgrimage to Sabarimala, plunged about 100 meters into a gorge beside a dried-up riverbed. There were 30 passengers aboard the bus, and the injured were rushed to Punalur Taluk Hospital, with some being sent to Thiruvananthapuram Medical College Hospital for further treatment. According to reports, the accident occurred when a cement lorry approached from the wrong side and crashed into the bus around 3:45 am. Locals rushed to the scene and assisted in the rescue efforts. This area has been prone to accidents, with three similar incidents reported in the past three months. We have requested the authorities to station an ambulance here due to the frequency of these accidents, said Suja Thomas, President of Aryankavu Panchayat. The rise in accidents along the routes leading to Sabarimala has raised serious concerns for the transport department and KSRTC, which operates most of the services. The narrow roads, lack of signals, and absence of safety boards are some of the challenges contributing to the incidents. We are working to ensure the safety of pilgrims and have implemented several measures to improve security, said S. Sreejith, the state transport commissioner. In light of the growing concern, the transport department is set to hold a meeting today to discuss urgent safety measures to prevent further accidents. Five MBBS Students Dead in Alappuzha Car Crash Tragic Bus Accident in Maharashtra's Gondia District Claims Nine Lives, 25 Injured

India votes in favour of UNGA resolution on Palestine calling for end to Israeli occupation

UNITED NATIONS, Dec 4: India voted in favour of a UN General Assembly resolution that called for the withdrawal of Israel from the Palestinian territory occupied since 1967, including East Jerusalem, and reiterated the call for achieving a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in West Asia. The draft resolution Peaceful settlement of the question of Palestine tabled by Senegal was overwhelmingly adopted in the 193-member General Assembly on Tuesday. India was among the 157 nations that voted in favour, while [] The post India votes in favour of UNGA resolution on Palestine calling for end to Israeli occupation appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

India backs UNGA resolution on Israel leaving Palestine

India voted in favor of a United Nations General Assembly resolution that called for the withdrawal of Israel from the Palestinian territory occupied since 1967, including East Jerusalem, and reiterated the call for achieving a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in West Asia. The resolution, tabled by Senegal, was adopted with 157 nations voting in favor, while eight nations voted against it and seven abstained.

India votes in favour of UN resolution against Israeli occupation of Palestine

United Nations: India voted in favour of a UN General Assembly resolution that called for the withdrawal of Israel from the Palestinian territory occupied since 1967, including East Jerusalem, and reiterated the call for achieving a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in West Asia. The draft resolution Peaceful settlement of the question of Palestine tabled Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

UN General Assembly pushes for Palestinian state

United Nations: The UN General Assembly on Tuesday called on Israel to withdraw from the occupied Palestinian territories and pushed for the creation of a Palestinian state, convening an international conference in June to try to jumpstart a two-state solution. In a resolution passed by a 157-8 vote, with the United States and Israel among those voting no, and seven abstentions, the Assembly expressed unwavering support, in accordance with international law, for the two-state solution of Israel and Palestine. The Assembly said the two states should be living side by side in peace and security within recognized borders, based on the pre-1967 borders. It has called for a high-level international meeting in New York in June 2025, to be co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia, to breathe new life into diplomatic efforts to make the two-state solution a reality. The assembly called for ealization of the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people, primarily the right to self-determination and the right to their independent state. The United Nations considers the West Bank, east Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip to be unlawfully occupied by Israel. Israel occupied the Gaza Strip in 1967 and maintained troops and settlements there until 2005. Though it has withdrawn, it is still considered the occupying power there. Alluding to recent rulings by the International Court of Justice, the assembly called on Israel to end its unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, as rapidly as possible and halt all new settlement activity. The question of Palestine has been on the UN agenda since the inception of the organization and remains the most critical test to its credibility and authority and to the very existence of an international law-based order, Palestinian envoy Riyad Mansour said. It was a UN General Assembly resolution in 1947 that divided British-ruled Palestine into two states -- one Arab and one Jewish. But only the creation of Israel was proclaimed on May 14, 1948. This triggered a war between Israel and its Arab neighbors.

Two incidents of burglary reported in Salem

Heavy rain lashes Salem; minister inspects Yercaud Ghat Road

Cyclone Fengal: Schools and colleges to remain closed in four Tamil Nadu districts

Schools and colleges in four Tamil Nadu districts remain closed amid heavy rainfall from Cyclone Fengal, with Nilgiris schools shut on December 3. Ranipet, Salem, and Tiruvannamalai have also closed schools. Cyclone Fengal, which made landfall on November 30, weakened but continues to cause torrential rain. Students are advised to check for updates from authorities.

Vijay Shankar, former CBI director who helmed Aarushi murder case and gangster Abu Salem extradition, passes away

The mortal remains of Vijay Shankar who passed away at a private hospital in Noida on December 3, will be donated to AIIMS as per his last wish.

Tamil Nadu: Schools and colleges to remain closed in 4 districts due to heavy rainfall from Cyclone Fengal

Due to heavy rainfall from Cyclone Fengal, schools and colleges in four districts of Tamil NaduNilgiris, Villupuram, Cuddalore, and Puducherrywill remain closed on Tuesday. Other districts like Ranipet, Salem, and Tiruvannamalai will close only schools. Additionally, schools in Kallakurichi and Krishnagiri's specific areas will also be shut.

Israel strikes Lebanon after Hezbollah claims first attack since truce

JERUSALEM: Israel conducted air strikes in Lebanon on Monday after vowing retaliation for an attack claimed by Hezbollah, the militant group's first since a fragile ceasefire between the two sides took effect last week. Both Israel and Hezbollah faced accusations on Monday of breaching the truce, which came into force on Wednesday to end a war that has killed thousands in Lebanon and sparked mass displacements on both sides of the border. While the ceasefire has largely brought fighting to a halt, Israel launched strikes against targets it says were violating the agreement. On Monday, Hezbollah said it had launched an attack targeting an Israeli position in he occupied hills of Kfar Shouba, in a disputed part of the border area between Israel and Lebanon. The Israeli army said that Hezbollah had launched two projectiles towards one of its posts in the area of Har Dov, Israel's term for the disputed Shebaa Farms. After the attack, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Hezbollah of a serious violation and vowed to espond forcefully. We are determined to uphold the ceasefire and respond to any violation by Hezbollah, no matter how minor or serious, he said. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz also vowed a harsh response. Shortly afterwards, the Israeli military said it was striking terror targets in Lebanon. Lebanon's official National News Agency reported strikes on areas of south Lebanon, where Hezbollah has long held sway, that are located around 20 kilometres (12 miles) from the border with Israel. 'Aggressive actions' Earlier in the day, Lebanon's powerful parliament speaker Nabih Berri, had accused Israel of violating the truce. The aggressive actions carried out by Israeli occupation forces... represent a flagrant violation of the terms of the ceasefire agreement, said Lebanon's powerful parliament speaker Nabih Berri, who helped mediate the truce on behalf of ally Hezbollah. The fighting escalated after Israel moved its focus from Gaza to Lebanon in September to secure its northern border from Hezbollah attacks, dealing the Iran-backed Shiite Muslim movement a sequence of stunning blows. Also Monday, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot told Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar in a call of he need for all sides to respect the ceasefire in Lebanon, the foreign ministry said. Saar rejected accusations that Israel had violated the truce. We hear claims that Israel is violating the ceasefire understandings in Lebanon. On the contrary! Israel is enforcing them in response to Hezbollah's violations, which demand immediate action, he said in a statement. He also said Hezbollah had attempted to move weapons in southern Lebanon and their presence south of the Litani river is the most basic violation of the understandings. Under the deal, Hezbollah must withdraw its fighters from areas south of the river, and dismantle its military infrastructure in the south. As part of the agreement, the Lebanese army and United Nations peacekeepers will deploy in southern Lebanon as the Israeli army withdraws over a period of 60 days. 'Threats' A committee involving France, UN peacekeepers, Israel, Lebanon and chaired by the United States is tasked with maintaining communication between the various parties and ensuring violations are identified and dealt with to avoid any escalation. We ask the technical committee formed to monitor the implementation of this agreement where it stands on ongoing violations... that have exceeded 54 breaches, Berri added, urging it to oblige Israel to stop its violations and withdraw from territories it occupies. The United States said Monday it believed that a ceasefire was still holding in Lebanon and that it was looking at potential violations. Israel escalated its campaign against Hezbollah in late September after nearly a year of cross-border exchanges launched by the militant group in support of its Palestinian ally Hamas and its October 7, 2023 attack on Israel. Earlier on Monday, Lebanon's health ministry said an Israeli strike killed one person in the country's south, while the Lebanese army said an Israeli drone wounded a soldier in the east. The Israeli military said it was aware of reports regarding a soldier from the Lebanese military who was injured in one of the strikes and the incident is under investigation. Israel's army said was responding to several acts by Hezbollah in Lebanon that posed a threat to Israeli civilians in violation of the understandings between Israel and Lebanon.