Centre, Opposition vow support; Kerala rolls out red carpet for investors

KOCHI: Keralas renewed push to transform itself into a major investment destination got off to a promising start with the Union and state governments joining hands to underline the states achievements and development plans on the opening day of Invest Kerala Global Summit (IKGS) 2025 on Friday. The changes we have brought about now are not incremental but substantial. Kerala is taking a big step towards the goal of achieving the status of an investment hub. The state government believes it has a major role to play as facilitator and catalyst. We have adopted a holistic view and are paying equal attention to all aspects from policy formulation to last-mile implementation, said Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. He was inaugurating the two-day summit at Lulu International Convention Centre in Bolgatty. Taking his cue from the CM, Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, who spoke at the event virtually, announced 896 km of new roads - encompassing 31 road projects worth Rs 50,000 crore. The Adani Group has promised Rs 30,000 crore in the next five years, including an additional investment of Rs 20,000 crore in Vizhinjam port, while healthcare major Aster DM Healthcare announced Rs 850 crore investments over the next three years. Kaynes Technology India, a Mysuru-headquartered integrated electronics system design and manufacturing company, said it will invest Rs 500 crore in Kerala to set up its manufacturing campus in or around Thiruvananthapuram. Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal expressed the Centres full solidarity and support to the states investment push. Entrepreneurship is in the blood of Keralites, he said. Centre will always ensure Kerala is not left behind: Union Minister Goyal The USD 4 trillion Indian economy will be developed into a $35 trillion economy by 2047, and the Union government will always ensure Kerala is not left behind, Union minister Piyush Goyal said. Saying that Keralas investment scenario was on the cusp of history, the CM asserted that debate and criticism should be aimed at achieving progress, and not the other way round, alluding to the recent controversy triggered following Congress MP Shashi Tharoors article praising Keralas achievements that appeared in TNIE last week. Kerala aims to have 15,000 startups by 2026: CM Pinarayi Vijayan When criticism becomes the end and not the means to achieving improvement, it ceases to be constructive, Pinarayi said, adding, Nevertheless, tangible achievements speak for themselves and with information at their disposal, the public can appreciate the progress achieved by the state. Pinarayi said Kerala was witnessing progress and change for the better in its investment arena. It is at this juncture that this summit is taking place, bringing together global investors, visionaries in the field, and experts and policymakers, with the aim to explore Keralas investment potential, he said. The share of manufacturing sector in gross state value added, which was 9.8 per cent in 2014-15, has risen to 11.5 per cent in 2023-24, Pinarayi said.Besides developing infrastructure, the government has given high priority to providing uninterrupted electricity by expediting the completion of power highways, said the CM. Let me share with happiness and pride that Kerala is a state without power cuts, he said. The CM also tried to allay fears of unavailability of land, saying the government has declared in the budget that no investor will return without investing due to non-availability of land, and highlighted the land pooling system the government has come up with. At the event, Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan promised the Oppositions steadfast commitment to the development of Kerala. Regardless of political affiliations, our collective goal is to propel Kerala into a future of economic prosperity and industrial excellence, he said. First day, good show Investment blitz Rs 50,000 crore by Centre for 31 road projects. Rs 30,000 crore by Adani Group over next 5 years. Rs 850 crore by Aster DM Healthcare in 3 years. Rs 500 crore by Kaynes Technology India, Mysuru, to set up manufacturing campus. Positive notes Entrepreneurship is in the blood of Keralites. The union government will always ensure that Kerala is not left behind - Piyush Goyal, Union Commerce Minister. Oppn is taking an initiative for the start of a new culture. We are giving our full support in all aspects to make Kerala investment-friendly - V D Satheesan, Leader of Opposition. With investors from diverse industries and countries coming together, this platform (Invest Kerala Global Summit) is set to shape Keralas next phase of industrial growth - P Rajeeve, Industries Minister. Nations present on Day 1: The UAE, Bahrain, Australia. Union government offers complete support to Kerala in garnering investments: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari

IN PHOTOS: Scorching heat leaves Thiruvananthapuram reeling

Kerala is witnessing an unusual rise in temperatures in February, with the India Meteorological Department predicting two to three degrees above normal temperatures across the state. The soaring heat, even before the official onset of summer, has disrupted daily life, prompting the state government to issue a high alert. In response, working hours have been restructured, and the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority has advised residents to avoid direct sun exposure between 11am and 3pm. Authorities have also urged people to stay hydrated and take necessary precautions against heat-related illnesses. High temperatures can lead to serious health issues including heatstroke, heat exhaustion and dehydration. According to experts, the heatwave-like conditions are likely to persist, and the summer is going to be harsh. A bird nesting on a barren tree at Kazhakoottam in Thiruvananthapuram A man rests under a boat to escape from the scorching sun at Perumathura in Thiruvananthapuram Tourists use hats and shawls due to the reeling heat at Papanasam beach A student having free drinking water from a hotel on MG Road in Thiruvananthapuram A migrant labourer rests under the shade at Kallambalam in Thiruvananthapuram Foreign tourists enjoy tender coconut water at Papanasam beach seeking relief from the heat A boy trying to sell an umbrella to a foreign tourist at Papanasam beach in Thiruvananthapuram

Kerala Railway Division Withdraws Order Banning Soft Drink, Mouthwash For Loco Pilots

The Thiruvananthapuram division of the Southern Railway has withdrawn a circular that had banned the consumption of certain dietary items that produced false breathalyser test reports, impacting crew deployment and smooth train operations.

Traffic regulations over the weekend in Thiruvananthapuram

Ward delimitation: delimitation commission begins two-day public hearing in Thiruvananthapuram district

Ragging horror in Kerala continues, demand for a strict action from administration

Another case of ragging has been reported in Kerala where a first year BSC biotechnology student of a government college in Thiruvananthapuram was allegedly assaulted by seven members of SFI, the student wing of Keralas ruling SPI (M). The members, all final-year students named Alan, Anandan, Velu, Salman, Shravan, Pardhan and Immanuel have been suspended from the college on Tuesday and a case has been registered against them. After the complaint of the first year student named Binz Jose, the Anti-ragging cell of Kariavattom Government college submitted a report which led to the suspension of the SFI members. As per the complainant, there was a clash between the seniors and juniors in the campus on February 11 in which a first year student got injured. This led the SFI members barging into the hostel looking out for the student who filed the complaint. When they couldnt find him, they took hold of Jose taking him to a room of SFI used for organizational activities. The seniors attacked Jose with sticks and stones at the campus before locking him in the room. They started beating him, and forced him to kneel down on his knees in front of them for an hour. When asked for water, the student was given a bottle by one of the members after spitting in it. He was beaten up further after refusing to drink. The anti-ragging cell checked the CCTV footage, verifying the allegations. The matter was then handed over to the police. A case has been registered under the Section 4 of Kerala Prohibition of Ragging Act and other sections of BNS for unlawful assembly, rioting, wrongful restraint among others. There is already a public outrage in the state over the physical assault of juniors by senior students at Kottayam Government Nursing College. Earlier, a college student named Sidharthan died by suicide on February 18, 2023 in Wayanad, Kerala. He allegedly faced ragging, leading him take his life. SFI was criticized back then also, for its members involvement in the case. The incidents recently have triggered a political row where other political parties are demanding for the disbandment of SFI. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor also expressed his concern over the incident, calling it appalling. He took to X, One more case in todays news, this time from Thiruvananthapuram. Appalling. Evil clearly lurks not far from the surface of our society. The challenge for responsible adults is to stamp it out and also to instil the behavioral standards that alone will guarantee the survival and progress of our civilization. Kerala Minister of Higher Education and Social Justice, Dr. R Bindu has said that they are planning to form a state level anti-ragging cell in order to prevent ragging activities in campuses. She even stated that they have sought reports from Directorate of Collegiate Education and will ensure strict action in this regard. Until this happens, six more students from third-year have been booked for ragging a first-year BBA student in campus on February 14. The incident is of Holy Cross Institute of Management and Technology at Erhanipalam in Kozhikode city, Kerala. The Nadakkavu Police has registered a case against them on Tuesday, based on the victims complaint. The incident occurred after a cultural event, where the first-year student was asked to remove sunglasses he had worm for the programme. When he refused to do so, the seniors started beating him and kicking him. Two students have been suspended and disciplinary action was taken against the others. Its not that the incidents are only in recent times, ragging has existed in various institutions since long. Its just that a few are brought to attention and get reported. The rising ragging cases demand strict action and a serious attention towards these, until more students face brutality and lose their lives.

Adani Group to invest Rs 30,000 cr in Kerala in next 5 years

Kochi: Adani Group will invest Rs 30,000 crore in Kerala in the next five years, a top executive said on Friday. The diversified group that is developing the Vizhinjam port and operating the airport at Thiruvananthapuram, will be developing a logistics and e-commerce hub as well as expanding its cement manufacturing capacity in the state. 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 .

Adani Group to invest 30,000 crore in Kerala over next five years: Karan Adani

Investments will include 5,500 crore to expand operations of Thiruvananthapuram airport and another 20,000-crore additional investment in Vizhinjam port

Telangana deputy CM Bhatti bats for states autonomy in education sector

HYDERABAD: Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka criticised the new University Grants Commission (UGC) guidelines, likening it to a system where one is forced to pay the bill in a restaurant without being allowed to choose their meal. Speaking at the National Convention on Higher Education organised in Thiruvananthapuram, Vikramarka said that the Centre, while expecting states to provide funds and run universities, was depriving them of any role in the appointment of vice-chancellors as well as admissions. If this situation is allowed to continue, then the states would be confined to cutting ribbons at the inauguration of buildings, he said sarcastically. Vikramarka said that the education sector was in the concurrent list and it was not the monopoly of the Union government. States should build educational institutions and systems suitable for their people and social setups. There would not be many similarities between any two states, he said and added that no state could provide quality education without autonomy. All states should emphatically convey their opinion on such an important priority subject without merely confining themselves to the discussions alone, he added. When states stand united with a common objective, the Centre must listen. States are not mere administrative units but lifelines for the progress of the country, he added. Right to choose right path Stating that the Telangana government was ready to organise the next conference in Hyderabad, Vikramarka stressed the need to formulate an action plan on behalf of states. States have the right to choose the right path. If the right decision is not taken, states would have to face serious consequences in the future, he cautioned. Special challenges Only states know students aspirations, their pulse and special challenges to be overcome. Delhi cannot run the education sector with a remote control. The Centre should formulate policies in tune with the requirements of states. If it believes in the spirit of federalism, then it should discuss it with the states, he added. Vikramarka also made a PowerPoint presentation, seeking more autonomy for states in education and health sectors. He recalled that in Rajasthan vs Union of India, the Supreme Court noted that India was bound by the federal Constitution. In Kesavananda Bharati vs State of Kerala, the court noted that federalism was the basic feature of the Indian Constitution, he pointed out. Eliminating the role of state governments in the appointment of vice-chancellors and search committees, and amending the eligibility criteria of vice-chancellors were a matter of serious concern, he said Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan, Kerala Higher Education Minister R Bindu, Karnataka Minister for Higher Education MC Sudhakar, Tamil Nadu Minister for Higher Education of TG Chezhian, Punjab education minister Harjot Singh Bains and prominent educationists attended the convention.

Keep hands off our staff, KSRTC warns fellow road users

KOCHI: Taking a strict stance against the rise in attacks on its employees, the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has warned fellow road users against such behaviour. The state-run carrier even kicked off a social media campaign citing the recent swift police action against certain car riders who manhandled a KSRTC driver at Cheranalloor. Weve got an in-house mechanism to punish, after proper inquiry, those who do wrong. However, the safety and security of our employees and passengers are of paramount importance to us and we will leave no stone unturned in instances like the one in Cheranalloor, reads the poster used in the KSRTCs social media campaign. The carrier has even put up WhatsApp numbers and email IDs on its buses to enable passengers and people to submit complaints against an irresponsible crew member. One can even shoot videos and send it via WhatsApp. Still, instances of attacks against KSRTC employees and buses, often due to road rage, are on the rise, said a senior KSRTC official, explaining the reason for the campaign. The KSRTC has warned of strict action against perpetrators of such attacks. Despite mechanisms for submitting complaints against the staff, it is unfortunate that instances of (people) taking law into hands and attacking KSRTC staff on duty and obstructing services are continuing unabated. KSRTC will go ahead with stringent legal action against such people, reads the poster. On February 15, a group in a car intercepted a KSRTC bus and assaulted the driver and conductor in broad daylight at Cheranellor. The attack happened around 12.10pm in front of the Kairali Ford showroom in Cheranalloor. We filed a police complaint and an FIR was registered against the attackers within hours. It has been decided to strictly follow an earlier circular which directs pursuance of legal action against perpetrators, however influential they are, and not arrive at any compromise at any cost. Even if a mirror is damaged, the attacker will face a non-bailable case, the KSRTC official said. Meanwhile, the carriers social media post went viral within minutes, with many questioning the controversial incident involving a KSRTC driver and Thiruvananthapuram Mayor Arya Rajendran.

Rising costs leave kidney patients in lurch in Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In increase in the cost of treatment and medication has left kidney patients in the state facing a severe crisis. The unavailability of essential medications at Karunya Pharmacies force them to pay up to Rs 20,000 a month to obtain the medicines from private outlets at inflated prices. The shortage is especially critical for peritoneal dialysis patients, including children, whose access to vital dialysis fluids is dependent on government supply. The patients complained that the treatment expenses for transplantation and dialysis have shot up after hospitals began refusing to accept insurance claims under the Karunya Arogya Suraksha Yojana (KASP) because of mounting dues. While the number of government hospitals is insufficient, empanelled private hospitals are declining to perform dialysis under the insurance scheme. The cost of dialysis alone ranges from Rs 20,000 to Rs 30,000 per month, placing a heavy burden on families. Dialysis patients, who require treatment every alternate day, are struggling. T T Basheer, chairman of the Pratheeksha Organ Recipients Family Association (PORFA) Charitable Trust, emphasised the catastrophic financial impact kidney disease has on poor families. Hospitals that once offered discounted dialysis and transplants are now turning us away, he said. Over a four-year period, the number of dialysis patients has surged dramatically, from 43,740 in 2020 to 2,18,410 in 2024 a five-fold increase. Studies suggest that for every 10 lakh people, there are approximately 8,000 kidney patients. More than 80% of these patients come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, making the crisis not merely a health issue, but a social one as well. The cost of medicines at Karunya Pharmacies is about one-third of the market price, but the supply has become increasingly irregular. For peritoneal dialysis patients, the vital fluid lasts just a month, with no guarantee of future availability. Currently, the fluid is only available at taluk, district, general, and medical college hospitals. The empanelled hospitals are discouraging treatments under KASP with the dues reaching Rs 1,300 crore. The scheme is accessible in 197 state government hospitals, four central government hospitals, and 364 private hospitals across the state. A health department official said the issue will soon be resolved as the finance department allocated Rs 300 crore for KASP earlier this week. The drug supply has been affected as the Kerala Medical Services Corporation Limited (KMSCL) owes 693.7 crore to the pharmaceutical companies. Despite complaints from patients, Health Minister Veena George informed the assembly that the mounting dues did not affect the drug supply.

Kerala, TN, Karnataka, Telangana adopt joint resolution against UGC draft rules, demand withdrawal

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala government-sponsored national convention on UGC draft regulations, 2025, attended by ministers of three other non-BJP ruled southern states, has passed a 15-point resolution mainly demanding the withdrawal of the regulations that diminishes the role of the states and goes against the federal spirit of the Constitution. Inaugurating the convention, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said the regulations can only be viewed as part of an effort to undermine democratic values in higher education and to place the sector under the control of those promoting religious and communal ideologies. Pinarayi said the regulations infringe upon the powers of the states in legislating higher education and thus undermine the federal foundations of the country. The Chief Minister said the Union Government and UGC were trying to exclude state governments from their administration of universities. It cannot be the case that states will not have any real control over the universities established by laws enacted by State assemblies and run using the states financial and administerial resources, he added. Leader of the Opposition V D Satheesan who appreciated the governments efforts in organising the convention, reminded that the UGC should function within its Constitutional mandate. Higher Education Minister R Bindu who presided over the event said the draft regulations not only violate constitutional provisions but also threaten to dilute academic quality in state universities. Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka said the draft regulations have left states as mere onlookers in their own universities. Similar views against the transgressions of the Union government and the UGC were echoed by MC Sudhakar and Govi Chezhiaan the higher education ministers of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu respectively.

ASHA workers from across Kerala hold Maha Sangamam

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Thousands of ASHA workers from across the state gathered in front of the Secretariat on Thursday for Maha Sangamam. The workers are demanding an increase in their monthly honorarium from Rs 7,000 to Rs 21,000, along with retirement benefits and the clearance of pending payments. Protesters expressed anger at the governments decision to hike the salaries of PSC members and grant travel allowances to Delhis special representative K V Thomas while ignoring their long-pending demands. Political analyst Joseph C Mathew inaugurated the protest and said that people with a conscience in the state stand with the ASHA workers. He pointed out that ASHA workers played a major role during the Wayanad floods and the Covid-19 pandemic, yet were left with nothing more than words of gratitude. While the Health Minister collected awards for the states pandemic response, ASHA workers were overlooked. Freezing orders and shelving decisions for future governments to ignore is unfair. These women didnt gather here on a whim, they came because raising their voices is the only way to secure their rights, said Joseph. ASHA workers allege that while the government claims a financial crunch, it finds funds for high-ranking officials. We are being pushed to the edge. Is it only protests led by certain unions that get attention? The finance minister says theres no money, yet lakhs were distributed as salaries just yesterday, the protesters said. MLA Anoop Jacob urged the government to meet the ASHA workers demands and adjust their pay according to inflation. He criticised the states approach as dismissive and said that the budget has brought nothing but disappointment for frontline workers like ASHAs, MGNREGA labourers and Anganwadi staff.

Vice-Chancellors skip convention on UGC draft regulations in Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Falling in line with the governors informal directive, vice-chancellors (VCs) of state universities stayed away from the national convention on UGC draft regulations-2025 organised by the state government on Thursday. Barring Sushama L of Malayalam University, all other VCs gave the event a miss. Governor Rajendra Arlekar had reportedly advised them not to attend an event seen as a political message against the draft regulations of the UGC. Sushama reportedly has allegiance to a pro-Left teachers union. Interestingly, MG University VC C T Aravindakumar said to be loyal to a Left union, also skipped the meet. Initially, the governor was not opposed to the VCs attending the event. It was the controversial directive from the higher education secretary, asking universities to arrange a specific number of people for the event and to bear its expenses that led to his intervention, said a source. Though the directive was amended after Arlekars intervention, it still had the contentious provision that universities should foot the bill. This prompted the governor to give an informal directive to the VCs to stay away from the event, sources said. Higher Education Minister R Bindu said the VCs would have participated if they had the propriety to utilise a forum that was meant to discuss the draft regulations.

On summit eve, Kerala governments reforms pitch to woo global investors

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Sending a positive message to prospective investors who will attend the two-day Invest Kerala Global Summit that begins in Kochi on Friday, the state government on Thursday announced major reforms to boost the states ease of doing business initiative. The measures include doing away with the need for obtaining panchayat licence for a section of industrial ventures. Local Self-Government (LSG) Minister M B Rajesh told reporters that the reforms aim to modernise existing rules especially in the industrial and commercial sectors. The plan is to revise the Kerala Panchayat Raj (Licensing of Factories, Trades, Enterprises and other Services) Rules, 1996, to streamline licensing procedures and encourage entrepreneurship. Rajesh said the LSG department implemented 47 reforms in 2024, including changes in regulations and procedures. He said the reforms played a crucial role in improving the states ranking in ease of doing business. One of the key indicators of this ranking is the quality of service delivery in municipalities and corporations where the state has achieved the top position. The K-SMART system is expected to play a crucial role in boosting ease of doing business. Since inception, K-SMART has been developed with a business-friendly approach, incorporating timely changes. The rolling out of K-SMART in panchayats by April will further boost the business-friendly environment in the state, Rajesh said. The new reforms, which aim to foster entrepreneur-friendly environment, includes hassle-free licence for modern enterprises, classification of businesses into Category 1 (factories and similar industries) and Category2 (commercial, trade and service enterprises), permission to use upto 50% of residential building for commercial activities, revision of norms to promote small homemade businesses and other commercial services operated from residences and more. Rajesh clarified that panchayats only need to have information about establishments classified under Category 1 in the industrial sector, and no licence is required to operate such establishments. However, for non-industrial Category 1 enterprises, prior approval from the panchayat is necessary. Rajesh emphasised that panchayats do not have the authority to deny permission for such businesses. Instead, they should grant approval while specifying necessary conditions. On the allegation that the amendments aimed at helping establish breweries in the state, Rajesh said the reforms had nothing to do with the Elappully brewery row. This has nothing to do with breweries. That is not the subject before us and I do not intend to answer such questions, he said.

Invest Kerala Global Summit: Getting bizzy with the future

Kerala means business. That will be the states message at the two-day Invest Kerala Global Summit, which begins in Kochi on Friday. While the Left government may be under pressure to show concrete outcomes at the end of the investor meet on Saturday, the real difference the event aims to bring about is a change in the outside worlds perception of Keralas business environment. Basically, the Invest Kerala Global Summit is a strategic campaign to communicate that ours is an investor-friendly place. We [the state] have a past, and the past is history, says V K Mathews, executive chairman of the IBS Group. We are different now, and for that, we have made changes for the better. And the summit is a platform to convey this message. Workers gives final touches to an interactive touch wall set up at the venue Mathews, who founded IBS nearly three decades ago in Thiruvananthapuram with just 55 employees, has grown the company into one of the largest IT product firms in the country, with around 3,000 employees and over 200 clients worldwide. He points out hosting a grand summit alone will not draw big-ticket investment. Lets not fool ourselves, he says. No company, including IBS, will make investments just because theres an investment summit. IBS has invested in 11 countries, and thats not the way we make decisions. People attend investor summits to know more about a place. C J George, founder of Geojit Financial Services, echoes this view. The investor summit is a big platform for messaging. The current environment appears conducive for investment in Kerala, he says. The social infrastructure is at the highest level, including the ease of doing business, irrespective of the political controversy (that followed a recent article by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor in TNIE praising Kerala). George, who founded the stockbroking company in Kochi in 1987, now employs over 3,000 people across the country, including about 1,000 to 1,200 in Kerala. Geojits success has been remarkable, considering that stockbroking is mostly operated from Mumbai. Notably, Geojits key functions, such as its data centre and risk management, are located at its Kochi head office. We get good-quality talent here. We never had any problems, he says, declaring a strong vote of confidence in the state as an investment destination If you ask me to start another company, I would do so in Kerala. Notably, several business leaders highlight that they are happy in Kerala as hartals, trade union issues and strikes do not haunt them anymore. Generally, there is a peaceful environment, says one of them. Another success story from the state, Paul Thomas, MD and founder of ESAF Small Finance Bank, notes a paradigm shift in Kerala: societys evolving approach towards business. In my view, there is an overall positive environment for business in Kerala. As a society, we have started celebrating entrepreneurship, he says. I believe Kerala is well on its way to becoming a global hub for innovation. The states startup ranking is prime testimony that we are growing in the right direction. Initiatives such as Invest Kerala can help build the state into a prosperous, sustainable, and inclusive economy. According to Viju Jacob, managing director of Kochi-based Synthite, the worlds largest oleoresins (spice extracts) maker, the Invest Kerala summit is a key moment in the states economic development. I have been watching the massive drive led by (Industries Minister) P Rajeeve and his team to transform the state into a business- and industry-friendly destination, he says. Canopies arranged near the expo venue About 80 to 90 per cent of the worlds oleoresins comes from India, and Kerala accounts for its entire production. Within this sector, the state dominates globally, with about 40 per cent of the world market held by Synthite. Other major Kerala-based players include Plant Lipids, Mane Kancor Ingredients, and Akay Group all headquartered in Kochi. First, second, third, fourth, and fifth in oleoresins are all from Kerala, Viju points out. He adds that dwelling on the past would lead nowhere. Everyone has a past, present, and future. Looking at the future, this government is undertaking a massive drive to increase businesses in Kerala, he says. The government appears to be seeking to convey the message that the old Kerala is a thing of the past. They want to assert that this is a new Kerala, and this is our new and changed approach that the government will support businesses and industries wholeheartedly for the states development and job creation. Lets not look at the past when someone is ready to make the change. Will we see big-ticket announcements? I see that a lot of work, including the roadshows, has been done, says George of Geojit. Delegations from Kerala met many business people and industrialists. They were given presentations, approvals were made easier, particularly, if the investment is of significant amount. So, there is an expectation of some announcements of new investments at the Summit. He believes IT, electronics, precision electronics, and industry that dont need huge tracts of land are the sectors that could attract investments in Kerala. Sectors that are non-polluting and environment-friendly, he adds. According to Mathews of IBS, the existing companies may announce their expansion plans at the summit. In two days, we are not only seeing and interacting with the state ministers and bureaucrats, but also engaging the other potential investors, he says. There will be more information sharing. Each company has their own investment strategy departments. They will study the possibilities and make the decisions. Viju, meanwhile, reveals that Synthite is looking to expand into supplements. We will make that expansion in Kerala, he says. Green sheen A key factor that business leaders point out is that the state is suitable for environment-friendly industries. The militant labour and environment activism that the state witnessed during the early 1980s ensured that there was little scope for polluting industries here. Looking back, this suited the geography of the state, which has high population density. And, this proved to be a blessing in disguise. This is a point that Rajeeve always makes. We now have clean air, abundant supply of water, he highlights. A message that is clearly intended at the pollution situation in Delhi, and the water crisis that Bengaluru faced recently. We have to showcase our success, our advantages, and we have to do a lot of campaigns to change the perception of the state, Mathews sums up. This is not the first time that Kerala is hosting a global investor summit. In 2003, the A K Antony government had held the Global Investor Meet. Later, the Oommen Chandy government held events such as Emerging Kerala Global Connect in 2012. Government officials, however, are confident that this one will be different. When you look at Keralas transformation five to ten years from now into a major business-friendly destination, this summit will be regarded as a major transition point, a bureaucrat asserts.

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh unveiling the plaque to inaugurate the new upgraded neurosurgery and cardiovascular surgery block at Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST),Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday. Also seen are Shashi Tharoor, V.Murlidharan and S.Gopi.

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh unveiling the plaque to inaugurate the new upgraded neurosurgery and cardiovascular surgery block at Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST),Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday. Also seen are Shashi Tharoor, V.Murlidharan and S.Gopi. The post Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh unveiling the plaque to inaugurate the new upgraded neurosurgery and cardiovascular surgery block at Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST),Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday. Also seen are Shashi Tharoor, V.Murlidharan and S.Gopi. appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Opposition-ruled southern States oppose UGCs proposed guidelines

Convention in Thiruvananthapuram sees growing call for withdrawing draft UGC Regulations, 2025

Thiruvananthapuram Division commemorates 100 years of electric traction

Modi Govts New Initiatives To Make Quality Healthcare Affordable, Accessible: Dr Jitendra

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, Feb 20 : Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated today the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY) driven upgraded Super specialty Neurosurgery and Cardiovascular Surgery state-of-the-art Building Block at Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences & Technology (SCTIMST) here and emphasised that the Modi Govts new initiatives are aimed at making quality healthcare affordable, accessible across sections of society. The Minister described the institute as a model of synergy between science, technology and medical advancements, aligned with Prime [] The post Modi Govts New Initiatives To Make Quality Healthcare Affordable, Accessible: Dr Jitendra appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

UDF will not allow brewery plant, says Kerala Congress leader

Thiruvananthapuram: Strongly criticising the state cabinets decision to permit a brewery project in Palakkad, Leader of the Opposition V D Satheesan on Thursday stated that the Congress-led UDF will not allow its establishment under any circumstances. Addressing a press conference, the Congress leader said the UDF strongly opposes the cabinets decision and registered its protest. 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 .

Kerala CM Vijayan reacts to UGC draft regulations 2025

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday said that the draft UGC regulations of 2025 not only diminish the role of state governments in higher education, but in reality sideline them. The CM said that under the draft regulations, the states have no role in appointment of vice chancellors (VCs) and assistant professors in 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 .

National Women Journalists conclave calls for quick resolution to cyber attack plaints

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The National Women Journalists conclave called for the government to resolve cyber attack complaints quickly. The panel discussion on Women in Social Media noted that women who raise their voices face backlash on social media that is far more intense than the resistance they encounter from their families or the society. The two-day conclave, organised by the Information and Public Relations Department, concluded on Wednesday. The conclave was a platform for discussions on contemporary issues concerning women in the media. A report will be prepared including the recommendations from the event, held at the Tagore Theatre in collaboration with the Kerala Union of Working Journalists. On the second day, journalists Rana Ayyub and Anita Pratap took part in chat sessions. Rana Ayyub spoke about the need for more women journalists to take up investigative journalism and said that journalists should continuously stand up for the marginalised. Anita Pratap noted that independent and fearless journalism is facing perilous times. She highlighted that with the rise of privatisation, independent journalism struggles to survive and when power and wealth combine, fearless journalism becomes nearly impossible. The discussion featured Womens Commission Chairperson P Sathidevi, Meena Kandasamy, Manila C Mohan, Smitha Haridas, N Sushmitha and Shabna Ziyad, with Cultural Affairs Department Director Divya S Iyer as the moderator. During the concluding open discussion, participants demanded the creation of spaces for women journalists to come together and for establishing facilities like creches to help journalists who are parents. The discussion included Sridevi Pillai, Sophia Bind, Saritha S Balan, Mathu Saji, Vineetha Venad and Anupama G Nair, with Saraswathi Nagarajan moderating. A photo exhibition held alongside the conclave drew attention, featuring around 80 photographs taken by women journalists and photographers. Approximately 200 representatives, including journalists from media organisations across the state and journalism students from various colleges, took part in the conclave. Social media backlash The National Women Journalists conclaves discussion on Women in Social Media noted that women who raise their voices face backlash on social media that is far more intense than the resistance they encounter from their families or the society

Complete redevelopment work at Central station in 2 years: Union Minister of State for Railways and Jal Shakti

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Union Minister of State for Railways and Jal Shakti V Somanna inspected the facilities and development work at Thiruvananthapuram Central and South railway stations as part of his visit to the state capital on Tuesday. Reviewing the work at the Central station, he told the officials to complete the redevelopment work within two years and advised that time overruns should be avoided and modern methods used for speedier construction. He inspected the Vande Bharat Express at the station, interacted with passengers and appreciated the team for the cleanliness and maintenance standards of the station. He later addressed a public gathering at the South (Nemom) railway station and said that the station should be developed as a major hub to decongest Thiruvananthapuram Central station. He stressed that improving the terminal facilities at Nemom would greatly benefit operational efficiency in the region. He directed that long-term traffic needs be assessed and detailed planning be done. The minister appreciated the efforts to provide connectivity from the national highway to the railway station at Thiruvananthapuram Central as part of the ongoing work.He also interacted with patients and staff at the Divisional Railway Hospital. Manish Thaplyal, divisional railway manager, Thiruvananthapuram division, Shaji Zachariah, chief administrative officer, construction organisation, Southern Railway and Shobha Jasmine, Chief Medical Superintendent Divisional Railway Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram Pettah, were present.

Uphold SFIs legacy, CM advises delegates at Kerala state conference

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Inaugurating the delegates meet of the SFI State Conference at the Central Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram on Wednesday, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan urged student members to remain steadfast in upholding the organisations long-standing principles. While encouraging them to continue its positive work, he also cautioned them against exaggerating minor issues, and stressing the importance of staying on course. Continue the good work. Lets avoid mistakes. Stand firm and fight against whats wrong, while preserving the legacy of the SFI, said Pinarayi. The chief minister reminded the delegates of the SFIs role in taking strong stances on both national and state issues. He also highlighted attempts to rewrite history to fit the narrative of the ruling party, which had distanced itself from the freedom struggle. Pinarayi also acknowledged the significant sacrifices made by the student wing. Over 500 delegates and 71 state committee members are participating in the SFI conference. The new SFI committee will be formed on Friday.

Kerala Tourism depts caravan park plan at Ponmudi hill station dropped

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The ambitious plan of Kerala Tourism to launch caravan tourism at Ponmudi Hill Station has been dropped with the Tourism Department failing to find suitable land for setting up the park. The tourism department announced its plan to open caravan parks under PPP (Public Private Partnership) mode in three prime destinations -- Bolgatty, Bekal and Ponmudi -- to promote caravan tourism in the state. The plan was to develop the park with private investment at revenue land in Ponmudi. According to official sources, the land identified for the park is not suitable as a caravan park requires more area. The land parcel is inadequate for setting up a caravan park, which should be able to accommodate five to six caravans. The land we considered has the capacity to accommodate hardly two caravans. Hence, we have decided to explore other less-explored destinations in Thiruvananthapuram, said a source. Launched in 2021, Keravan Kerala (caravan tourism) failed to make any traction in the tourism industry owing to a lack of caravan parks. Recently, the tourism department entered into an Memorandum of Understanding with the Kerala Start Up Mission (KSUM) to breathe a fresh lease of life to caravan tourism - a new travel concept introduced by the Tourism Department that enables visitors to stay overnight at less-explored destinations across the state. However, lack of caravan trails and parks was the main reason why the initiative failed to take off as anticipated. After the collaboration with the KSUM, an Expression of Interest was invited to set up parks at the locations. The plan to set up the caravan park at Ponmudi has been dropped and the tourism department is yet to finalise another destination in the district. We are waiting for the new destination, said an official of KSUM. Ponmudi was one of the top choices for the caravan park because of the trekking and hiking opportunities at the destination. Limited accommodation options at Ponmudi was also one of the reasons for considering the location, which is a popular ecotourism destination in the state. The available land falls under the forest area, where development activities are not allowed.

Call on KIIFB road toll only after detailed discussions

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The LDF will hold detailed discussions before finalising toll on KIIFB roads. The LDF meet on Wednesday didnt go into detailed discussions, as the project details are yet to be finalised. The CPI, which is not very keen on the decision, has expressed certain reservations in this regard. The concerns will be addressed during detailed discussions. The LDF convener pointed out that to realise the capital spent for KIIFB, toll or user fee will have to be imposed in the future. Now its only at the proposal stage and no concrete decisions have been taken, said a source. The issue of allowing private universities in the state too came up at the meet. Since a piece of legislation has already been made, theres no scope for reversal. However, the government gave its assurance to ensure both social justice and fee relaxation for the deserving. JOINT STIR WITH UDF AGAINST UNION GOVT NEGLECT The LDF is open to joint agitations with opposition UDF against the Union government decision on sand mining, said LDF convener T P Ramakrishnan. The LDF welcomed UDF stance in the matter. The central decision to allow sand mining along the Kerala coast and forest regions, is aimed at helping corporates. The LDF is open to the idea of joint agitations with the UDF in the matter, said Ramakrishnan adding that the ruling front will hold discussions with the opposition. The LDF will organise a major protest against Union governments neglect towards the state on March 17. In the state capital, the Left Front will take out a protest march and hold a dharna in front of the Raj Bhavan, while in other districts march will be held at assembly constituencies.

Rejecting opposition from CPI & RJD, LDF gives nod to brewery

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Rejecting stiff opposition from its allies CPI and RJD, the Left will move forward with the brewery project at Palakkad. The LDF meet on Wednesday discussed the contentious issue threadbare, in view of strong dissent from the two Left parties, and issued its nod for the project. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan made it categorically clear that the government has already taken a decision, allowing a liquor company to set up its brewery unit at Elappully, and hence will not go back from the earlier stance. The LDF meeting, which was held at CPI headquarters MN Smarakam after a long time, witnessed detailed discussions after two parties raised objection. At the meeting, CPI state chief Binoy Viswam demanded that the brewery project be abandoned, as it would lead to groundwater depletion, especially in a district like Palakkad, which always faces major water shortage. The CPI pointed out that rainwater alone will not be sufficient for the project. The party raised strong opposition against the brewery being set up at Elappully. While the CPI was opposed to the project being set up at Elappully, the RJD pointed out that allowing a brewery unit would be against the Left manifesto that had advocated abstinence from liquor by reducing its availability. Since society faces major issues due to excess alcohol consumption, reasonable restrictions are required, they felt, sources said. Varghese George of the RJD further pointed out that sanctioning the brewery would amount to violation of the Land Reforms Act and the Paddy and Wetlands Act. While the CPI and the RJD opposed the decision, all other constituents were in support of the decision. CPM state secretary M V Govindan pointed out that it would help generate employment and revenue. Responding to the concerns, the chief minister said a cabinet decision has already been taken, ministerial decisions have also been taken and the permit was issued. Now, the government cannot go back from its earlier stance. It was an industry-friendly decision taken by the government. Theres no reason for concerns over drinking water depletion, he said. Briefing the media after the meeting, LDF convener T P Ramakrishnan said that producing the states required quantity of spirit in the state itself, was part of the governments liquor policy. Its an administrative decision taken by the government. Voice of dissent CPI state chief Binoy Viswam demanded that the brewery project be abandoned He said it would lead to groundwater depletion, especially in a district like Palakkad, which always faces major water shortage

More Congress leaders back Tharoor amid row over praise for Left govt

KOCHI: As the controversy surrounding the article written by Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor continues to simmer with senior leaders lambasting him for praising the Left government, the general feeling within the Congress is that the controversy was unfortunate and disappointing. As a senior leader of the Congress put it, leaders went overboard without reading or digesting the arguments put forth by Shashi Tharoor. The general feeling in the party is that Congress leaders should shed arrogance and be patient to divergent views within the party. Shashi Tharoor is not just another leader of the party. He is an intellectual and has influence beyond the party network. People take his opinion serious and even the political enemies cannot ignore them. It is better for the Congress to ignore the row as the AICC leadership and KPCC president have set it to rest. It is an election year and we should be cautious while airing our opinion, said a senior leader. Some leaders reacted without understanding the article. The belief that the role of Opposition is to blindly oppose the government is outdated. The youth in the state want opportunities and as responsible politicians we should stand with them. We should support positive steps and should act as a corrective force pointing out the governments flaws, said a Youth Congress leader. The article analyses the startup ecosystem in Kerala and the welcome change in fostering business environment in the state. Tharoor suggests to adopt an investor protection act so that investors can be assured that their capital is safe. He also advises that Kerala will have to update laws, slash regulations and streamline government processes for Rajeeves claim of sanction in two minutes to become true. He also comments that the attitude of Communists only holds when they are in power and that they will return to their bad old ways if they lose the next state elections. A senior leader close to the Opposition leader said the issue was over and there was no need to debate over it.

AICC secretary Mohan plays down controversy over TNIE article

PALAKKAD: A senior AICC leader has sought to downplay the controversy surrounding Congress leader Shashi Tharoors recent article , emphasising that the Thiruvananthapuram MP wrote the article in his capacity as a columnist.Reacting to the developments,P V Mohan, AICC secretary in charge of Kerala-in-charge of Kerala, clarified that the party respects Tharoors right to express his views, given its democratic values. However, he expected that during the closed-door interaction, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi conveyed concerns raised by leaders from the state to Tharoor, who reportedly understood their reservations. In the article, titled Changing Kerala: Lumbering Jumbo to a Lithe Tiger, published in TNIE, Tharoor highlighted the Kerala governments achievements in fostering a positive start-up ecosystem and introducing new industrial policies. The article sparked a political debate after Industries Minister P Rajeeve shared it on social media, thanking Tharoor for acknowledging the governments initiatives. The ruling CPM viewed this as a rare moment of bipartisan appreciation, while several Congress leaders reportedly expressed discomfort over Tharoors praise of the Left governments policies. While refraining from pinpointing specific issues, Mohan hinted at multiple flaws in Tharoors article, suggesting that party members were dissatisfied with certain aspects of its content.

Kerala governor nudges govt to amend directive on meet against UGC draft norms

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The governor has conveyed to the chief minister his disagreement over a contentious directive issued by the higher education secretary to the vice-chancellors (VCs) on participation in Thursdays state-sponsored national convention against the UGC draft regulations. Following the intervention of Rajendra Arlekar, the government made a token amendment to the directive, besides altering the title of the event, dropping the word against. After a few VCs informed him of the unprecedented directive asking them not only to attend the convention, but also to ensure participation of teachers, non-teaching staff and students and meet the expenses from the varsity funds, Arlekar rang up Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, and conveyed his disagreement. The governor told the CM that the directive amounted to a transgression into the autonomy of universities. The impropriety in VCs attending the convention, that opposes a regulation of the UGC, was also pointed out to the CM, said a source. Pinarayi directed the higher education secretary to look into the matter. The government issued an amended directive late on Wednesday night, only removing the number of attendees stipulated from each university and other higher educational institutions. The onus of funding continued to rest on the institutions. Interestingly, while the old directive had mentioned the event as National higher education convention against UGC draft regulations, 2025, the new order removed the words against UGC draft regulations. The event was referred to as UGC draft regulations, 2025-National Higher Education Convention in the amended communication to varsities and other institutions. Guv asks VCs to give meet a miss VCs of several state universities are unlikely to participate in the convention. The governor is learnt to have asked the VCs to stay away from the event. Higher Education Minister R Bindu was unavailable for comment. A senior official in the higher education department said there was no impropriety in the VCs attending the event. The state assembly has unanimously passed a resolution against the latest UGC draft regulations. In such a scenario, the objection of the VCs of universities ,funded by the state government, appears to be strange, the official added. It is for the first time that the state government is directing universities to spend its funds and mobilise its staff and students to host a convention against the countrys apex body in the higher education sector, pointed out a Vice-Chancellor preferring anonymity. Controversial directive Universities and other higher educational institutions directed to provide duty leave and issue participation certificates to the attendees of the convention Kerala University asked to ensure participation of 400 people for the event Other varsities and institutions also assigned a specified number of people to be brought for the convention.

T'Puram corporation bans burning of waste near roadside trees

In a major victory for environmentalists in the capital, the citizen group Tree Walk has succeeded in its campaign against the harmful practice of burning waste under trees. The Thiruvananthapuram Corporationhas issued a circular prohibiting the burning of dry leaves and waste beneath roadside trees, following persistent efforts by the group. For the past two years, Tree Walk has been raising concerns about the damage caused to trees, particularly a large ficus tree at PMG Junction. This tree, providing much-needed shade and supporting small vendors and farmers, was under threat due to waste being burned at its base. The circular, issued by themunicipal secretary, instructs health inspectors to ensure sanitation workers do not engage in waste burning near trees. Additionally, workers will be educated on the environmental hazards of this practice, and violations will result in strict action. The circular has been forwarded to key officials, including the public health officer, Clean City managers, and senior public health inspectors. We have been trying for years to stop this harmful practice. We sent numerous requests and photographs to authorities, says Anitha S, a coordinator of Tree Walk. This proves that consistent and persistent efforts can bring about real change, she adds. To mark the achievement, Tree Walk members will gather atPMG Junction under the ficus tree on Thursday at 5pm and will organise a cleanliness drive to reinforce the message.

Kerala's Aakri App in Forbes list of promising startups

American business magazine Forbes has featured Kochi-based Aakri App on its list of Top 100 Promising Startups, earning a significant milestone for the firm that provides a one-stop solution for waste disposal. Incubated under the Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM), six-year-old Aakri has successfully processed over 10,000 tonnes of garbage. The app was earlier selected under IDFC First Banks Leap to Unicorn project. Operational in Kochi, Thrissur, Kozhikode and Thiruvananthapuram, Aakri aims to expand in all 87 municipalities and six corporations across Kerala. The platform is spearheading efforts in scientific sanitary waste disposal, an area that has long been neglected, according to its founder C Chandrasekhar. Aakri has received numerous accolades for its contributions to sustainability and waste management. It won the JCI Social Impact Award 2023, K. 2023 Best Startup Award, Yuva Prathibha Vivekananda Award 2023, Lulu Sustainability Digex Award and more in the recent years. The startup aims to tackle the shortage of biomedical incineration plants in the state. It is planning to set up two major biomedical treatment facilities in Kerala.

Calicut University staff union comes down on V-C

The Vice-Chancellor reportedly did not grant official permission to anyone from the university to attend a State government-sponsored conclave in Thiruvananthapuram

Mohanlals next film to be helmed by Anoop Menon

Mumbai: Malayalam superstar Mohanlal has announced his next project with actor-turned-filmmaker Anoop Menon. Produced by Timeless Movies, this yet-to-be-titled drama is expected to be shot extensively in Thiruvananthapuram, Kolkata, and Shillong. Sharing a photograph with the team, Mohanlal wrote on his IG, Delighted to announce my next film, a dramatic journey traversing love, longing and []

Art director Ravees exhibits his oil paintings in Thiruvananthapuram

Beauty is Truth, an art exhibition by Kuzhithurai Ravees, is on at Vyloppilly Samskrithi Bhavan

The first ever German Shepherd Speciality Show in Thiruvananthapuram showcases dogs from across the country

Over 140 dogs participated in the show organised by the German Shepherd Dog Confederation India Travancore chapter

Kerala government revises salaries of PSC chairman, members

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Left government in Kerala on Wednesday decided to revise the salaries and benefits of the chairman and members of the Kerala Public Service Commission (PSC). The decision was taken by the state Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, an official release said here. As per the new decision, the chairman's salary will be equal to the maximum amount in the super time scale of district judges. The members will receive a salary matching the maximum amount in the selection grade scale of district judges. The government made this decision after reviewing the salary structure of PSC Chairmen and members in other states, the release said. In addition, the Cabinet also decided to revise salaries and allowances of presiding officers in industrial tribunals. They will now receive pay and benefits similar to judicial officers in the subordinate judiciary, the release added.

Kerala government approves Rs 35 crore project for new bridge at landslide-hit Chooralmala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala government has approved a Rs 35 crore project to rebuild the Chooralmala bridge in Wayanad district which was destroyed in the devastating landslide last year. The bridge will be rebuilt with enhanced security features from Chooralmala town to Mundakkai road, state Finance Minister K N Balagopal said in an official release here on Wednesday. The bridge connecting Meppadi with Mundakai and Attamala is being rebuilt with improvements to ensure it can withstand future disasters. It will be built at a level higher than the maximum water level recorded in the area during the disaster last year, the release said. The total length of the bridge will be 267.95 meters and will be 107 metres above the river and 80 meters long on both banks, it said. The Chooralmala bridge in Wayanad was washed away in the devastating landslide on July 30 last year that claimed over 200 lives.

Techie held in Manvila while peddling MDMA

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Excise sleuths on Monday night arrested a 27-year-old data engineer working in a leading IT firm while he was smuggling a commercial quantity of MDMA. Midhun Murali, a native of Murukkumpuzha and residing on rent near Kulathoor, was arrested at Manvila with 32g of MDMA, an excise source said. A minor quantity of ganja and `75,000 he had reportedly gained from drug peddling were also seized. The excise sleuths said Midhun has been under their radar for sometime after they managed to ascertain his involvement in drug business. Interestingly, Midhun never used drugs but focused on peddling as he found it a lucrative business, said an excise officer. The MDMA seized from Midhun was meant to be sold to the Technopark employees. According to excise sources, they have been aware of the rise in drug use among Technopark employees. However, the practical difficulties in conducting a full-fledged operation inside the Technopark premise have come up as a handicap, said the source. There are rackets that exclusively peddle drugs among IT professionals. They work like a well-oiled machinery and have even gotten their members working inside Technopark. Its tough to crackdown on these rackets as we cannot conduct enforcement operations within the campus. As of now, we take action against the IT professionals involved in drug abuse and peddling when they are outside the campus, said an excise officer. Some of the employees are actively engaged in drug peddling. They operate on a law profile. Its not just low-income earners who are into peddling. Highly-paid employees are also involved, the officer added.

Kerala Health Minister Veena George calls to ensure gender justice and equality in media

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Stressing that media organisations must ensure gender justice and equality, Health and Woman Development Minister Veena George said that women journalists, who advocate for justice for others, must not overlook the injustices they face within their institutions. She was speaking at the inauguration of the National Women Journalists Conclave, organised by the Information and Public Relations Department in collaboration with the Kerala Union of Working Journalists (KUWJ) at Mascot Hotel on Wednesday. Despite an increase in womens representation, female journalists continue to face numerous challenges within media institutions and in society. Therefore, gender equality and justice in the media sector must be discussed seriously. This conclave, attended by renowned women journalists from across the country, is expected to facilitate such discussions. The number of women in media, especially in visual and audio-visual platforms, has increased. But, their presence in decision-making roles remains inadequate, said the minister. She added that media professionals, who bring societal injustices to light, should not find themselves helpless in their workplaces and that it is essential to check how many media institutions have internal committees mandated by law. She pointed out that only 10 media institutions, including two mainstream ones, have completed the registration so far. By March 2025, all media institutions must establish internal committees as per the PoSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) Act and register them on their websites, said the minister. Journalist Maya Sharma emphasised that media institutions should adopt women-friendly policies and ensure gender equality in workplaces. She said that society still has discrimination in job opportunities and that needs to change. Opportunities should be provided based on merit, she added. Journalist Rana Ayyub noted that sidelining journalists with a specific label is an anti-democratic approach. The media industry often fails to acknowledge the talents of highly capable professionals. Women are subjected to intense criticism on social media without being considered equals. The recommendations of Keralas Hema Committee are commendable and should be followed by other states as well. In a progressive state like Kerala, more women should step forward in all fields, including the chief ministerial position, said Rana Ayyub. The event also featured a documentary on M Haleema Beevi, states first woman journalist, produced by the Information and Public Relations Department.

Kerala drums up support against draft UGC regulations

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Ministers from Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana and Punjab will be the chief guests of the national convention to be hosted by the Kerala government in the state capital to garner the support of various states against the UGC draft regulations, 2025. Higher Education Ministers M C Sudhkar of Karnataka, Govi Chezhiaan of Tamil Nadu, and Harjot Singh Bains of Punjab and the IT Minister of Telangana Sreedhar Babu are the dignitaries. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will inaugurate the event at the state legislative assemblys Sankara Narayanan Thampi Hall at 10.30am on Thursday. The conclave comes close on the heels of the assembly unanimously passing a resolution demanding to roll-back the UGC draft regulations. Higher Education Minister R Bindu told reporters on Tuesday that the convention is being organised as a national-level resistance against the attempts of the Union government and the UGC to usurp the powers of the states in the higher education sector through excessive centralisation. The event, to be presided over by Bindu, will be attended by senior officials of other states, besides MLAs from the ruling and opposition parties. Revenue Minister K Rajan and Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan will deliver the keynote address at the convention. Ministers Roshy Augustine, K Krishnankutty, A K Saseendran, Ramachandran Kadannappally, K B Ganesh Kumar, and deputy leader of Opposition P K Kunhalikutty will be present. Secretaries of various departments, agencies of the higher education department, teachers and students will also attend. Academic and economist Prabhat Patnaik, who is heading a committee appointed by the state government to study the impact of the draft regulations, will speak on the occasion. Bindu said the UGC draft regulations have far-reaching ramifications on the countrys higher education sector and would deprive states of its powers as well as rob universities of their autonomy. The regulations allow the Centre to reap benefits from the higher education sector for which majority of the spending is done by the states. Four states unite Ministers from Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, and Punjab will attend Keralas national convention opposing UGC draft regulations, 2025 Convention aims to resist centralisation in higher education, addressing concerns about UGCs control over state powers CM Pinarayi Vijayan will inaugurate the event

Alappuzha tops Keralas labour wage chart, Palakkad lowest: Govt report

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Alappuzha could well be called a labourers paradise in Kerala where skilled and unskilled workers get higher wages. A report on the wages of ten categories of labourers released by the economics and statistics department recently showed that Alappuzha topped the list for the most. The daily wages for unskilled male and female labourers in Alappuzha were Rs 975 and Rs 925 respectively as against state averages of Rs 837.5 and Rs 742.9 respectively. While a class-II carpenter in Alappuzha gets Rs 1,175 per day, his counterparts in neighbouring Kottayam and Pathanamthitta districts get only Rs 975 and Rs 950. The state and national average wages were Rs 976.8 and Rs 504.3 respectively, stated the Annual average market price of building materials and labour wages 2022-23. Considering all 10 types of labourers, wages of most of them are the highest in Alappuzha district, while in Malappuram and Thiruvananthapuram the wages of all the workers are above the state average. The level of industrialisation and economic activity in a district can influence construction labour wages, the report said. Wages were the lowest in Palakkad district, mainly due to the availability of cheap labour from neighbouring Tamil Nadu. Masons continued to be the highest-paid category, Rs 1,112.5 per day. They were followed by carpenter class-I, Rs 1,102.7, and plumber class-I, Rs 1,031.3. Wages of workers in all categories increased over the previous year, the report said. The highest percentage increase was seen in the wages of unskilled female workers (5.85%) and the lowest was for unskilled male workers (4.22%). On average, unskilled male workers earned 14.5% more wages than their female counterparts. The report also throws light on the gender disparity in wages. The state average wage for male unskilled labourers was Rs 837.5 while that for females was Rs 742.9. The highest wage difference between male and female was observed in Palakkad, Rs 200. It is notable and welcoming that in 10 districts, the wage difference is equal to or less than 100 and in the capital city, male and female unskilled workers are equally paid, the report said. Kerala provides the highest wages to labourers in the construction sector. For example, the wage of a mason in Tamil Nadu, the state with the second highest wage for this category, was 24.53% less than that in Kerala.

Kerala to set up state-level anti-ragging mechanism, says Higher Education Minister

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A state-level anti-ragging mechanism will be instituted to address the growing concerns of ragging in higher educational institutions in the state, Higher Education Minister R Bindu has said. The minister told reporters here on Tuesday that a state-level mechanism to tackle ragging was required as the existing three-tier system at the level of colleges, universities and the UGC was found to be insufficient to address the issue. Bindu said stringent measures will be adopted to curb such practices and protect students. The higher education department has been instructing all institutions under its jurisdiction to establish anti-ragging cells, she said. Referring to the recent incident of ragging at Government College, Karyavattom, the minister said swift action was taken by the anti-ragging cell of the institution in response to the incident. She added that many colleges have successfully put in place such anti-ragging panels. The minister urged students to boldly report incidents of ragging to either the anti-ragging cell or the principal of the institution. She added that the government intends to convene a meeting of principals from colleges under the higher education department to create more awareness about the anti-ragging systems that are in place in these institutions.

Sidharthan death: Chennithala seeks CMs apology

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala, in an open letter to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on the first death anniversary of 20-year-old veterinary science student Sidharthan, said the state was witnessing increasing incidents of ragging as the government failed to take action against the accused SFI activists. He also urged Pinarayi to tender a public apology to the parents of Sidharthan, a student of Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, who was found hanging in his hostel in Pookode, Wayanad, on February 18, 2024. Chennithala said the CBI chargesheet mentioned the brutal physical assault and public trial Sidharthan underwent, and said it should be suspected that Sidharthan was hanged. Your government has been eagerly attempting to ensure all protection to the SFI workers behind the brutal attack. Isnt it evident that all these attempts were made with the knowledge of the CPM and the police force under your control, asked Chennithala. He said the Left governments attempts to protect the SFI workers involved in the ragging case would be shameful for cultural Kerala. Only because you protected the accused, just because of their SFI leanings, that incidents of brutal ragging as in Kottayam, are repeated, alleged Chennithala.

Seniors beat up junior, gave him water after spitting in it at Thiruvananthapuram college

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kazhakootam police have booked seven students of Government College, Kariavattom, who are allegedly affiliated with the SFI, for ragging a junior student and torturing him in the SFI unit room. The sections pertaining to ragging were added against Alan, Velu, Salman, Sravan, Anandan, Parthan and Prince, who were earlier booked under other charges for attacking first-year students on January 11. After the ragging charges were levelled against the seniors, the college authorities on Tuesday suspended them. The police said senior students attacked juniors on January 11. Abhishek , a first-year student, was also injured in the attack and he chose to file a complaint with the police following which seven seniors, all third-year students, were booked. In order to avenge this, the seniors came searching for Abhishek. However, Abhishek managed to evade them and in a fit of rage the assailants preyed on Abhisheks friend Binz, a first-year biotechnology student. As per the complaint filed by Binz with the police, he was slapped and beaten by the gang when they saw him on the campus. He was then taken to the unit room where the seniors assaulted him brutally. According to Binzs father Jose, his son was going for badminton practice when the gang forcefully took him away. He was taken to the unit room and was made to kneel down. They slapped him first and then threatened to beat him with a cricket stump if he got up from the ground. They attacked him with sticks and tore up his T-shirt. They then told him to go out of the room half-naked. When he pleaded for drinking water, one of the seniors passed on a water bottle. But before Binz could take it, Velu got hold of the bottle. He spat in the water and then forced Binz to drink it, he said. Binz was later taken to Nedumangad Taluk Hospital as he hailed from Vencod, which is close to Nedumangad. After ascertaining the reasons for the injury, the doctor alerted the police following which the police recorded the statement of Binz. Meanwhile, the anti-ragging cell of the college conducted an inquiry and concluded that Binz was subjected to ragging. They came to this conclusion after perusing the CCTV visuals as well as statements of the students. The college principal alerted the police that ragging indeed took place following which additional charges were levelled against the senior students.

Royal neglect: Government school building with 200-year-old legacy in Tamil Nadu lies in shambles

KANNIYAKUMARI: The main building of Kalkulam Government Higher Secondary School inside Padmanabhapuram fort that has a tale of over 200 years to tell has been lying in neglect. Urging the government to restore its past glory, residents, former students and heritage lovers said the school building was once used as a coin manufacturing unit by the erstwhile Travancore kings. Sources said Padmanabhapuram was originally known as Kalkulam, was the capital of both erstwhile Venad and Travancore kingdoms. The sprawling Padmanabhapuram Palace complex was constructed within the ancient Kalkulam fort and was the administrative headquarters of the Venad kingdom. Padmanabhapuram Town Congress president VK Hanukumar told TNIE the main building of the school was constructed by erstwhile Travancore rulers. Earlier, it was called Malayalam School, he said, adding as the building is now in a dilapidated condition, the classes and the office have been shifted out of the main building. He said monkeys have damaged the tiles of the giant heritage building. Though we have given representation to the authorities to preserve the heritage of the building, no action has been taken, he said. A 70-year-old community leader, V Parameswaranpillai from Padmanabhapuram, said the school had produced many bright students. He claimed the Kammattom the coin minting was held in the building before the Travancore kings shifted their capital to Thiruvananthapuram in the present Kerala. V Narayanan Nair, a retired senior government official from Padmanabhapuram also said that before the capital was shifted to Thiruvananthapuram, the building had housed the coin minting unit. Anitha S Natarajan, Convenor of Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), in Kanniyakumari said, It is our responsibility to ensure that the heritage buildings are preserved. A senior education department official acknowledged as the building is in a dilapidated condition, it required maintenance. When contacted, PWD Heritage wing officials told TNIE they inspected the site and had sent a proposal to the 16th finance commission for allotting funds for the renovation of the building. The expert committee would visit the site and examine its heritage and send the report to the heritage committee, they added.

Rahul, Tharoor thaw on TNIE column

NEW DELHI/THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Amid the row over Congress MP Shashi Tharoors recent column in this newspaper backing the CPM-led Kerala governments development initiatives, senior leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday held a 30-minute one-on-one meeting with the four-time MP from Thiruvananthapuram, who has come under fire from the partys state unit. Sources said the Congress top leadership has decided to stand with Tharoor, who managed to convince Rahul about the facts in his column. Both leaders also agreed to meet more frequently. This is the first such meeting between Rahul and Tharoor in about three years and is seen as a reconciliatory effort on the part of the central leadership. Tharoor has been trying for an appointment with Rahul ever since the latter contested for Congress president in 2022. It required a n article for that to happen, a close confidant of Tharoor said in half jest. Changing Kerala: Lumbering jumbo to a lithe tiger However, the development is seen as a blow to the state leadership. Leader of Opposition V D Satheeshan, his predecessor Ramesh Chennithala, and senior leader K Muralidharan had buried their differences and united to condemn Tharoor. Sources said Tharoor raised the issues of non-cooperation from the Kerala leadership and lack of inclusiveness in discussions at the national level. Speaking to reporters later, AICC general secretary (organisation) K C Veugopal said all is well in the party and that Tharoor shares the partys views. Tharoor declined to comment on his meeting with Rahul Gandhi. It was a long-pending request I had made for a meeting to discuss various issues. Since it was a meeting where only the two of us were present throughout, it would not be appropriate for me to say anything more, he said.

Tandava trance: The resurgence of natya rajas

'Choodare is a Kshetreya padam (composition) that speaks about the emotional upsurges of a woman who is insecure about another woman in a relationship with Krishna. She carps, gossips, and mentally rebukes the other woman for getting close to Krishna when she could not. This padam is a well-known piece, extensively performed on Bharatanatyam stages. A recent revisited staging of this padam by Bengaluru-based Bharatanatyam exponent Parshwanath Upadhye introduced a refreshing and enjoyable role change. Instead of a woman expressing insecurity about another woman, the performance featured a man attempting to woo and then criticise a woman for rejecting him and running towards Krishna. The drama was laced with satire, making the staging immensely admirable, though the entire padam now conveyed a male perspective rather than the original female version. Aditya and Parswanath The padam and its structure were not changed. What was adapted was the story to suit a male perspective, says Adithya P V, who teams up with Parshvanath to form one of the most sought-after Bharatanatyam duos today. With this, we aimed to break stereotypes showing that men, too, can be lovelorn, insecure, and prone to gossip, just as women are in situations depicted in the padam. It was about challenging stereotypes. The duo performed at the ongoing Nishagandhi Dance Festival in Thiruvananthapuram on the opening day. This years festival saw a notable presence of male dancers, including Kathak veteran Pandit Rajendra Gangani, Kathak dancer and choreographer Hari, budding Bharatanatyam exponent Arjun Subramanian from Vellinezhi, Manipuri exponent Thingom Brojen Kumar Singha, and Odissi maestro Lucky Prajna Pratishta Mohanty. The number of male dancers in festivals such as Nishagandhi is encouraging. Even the Music Academy (in Chennai) featured a significant number of male performers, showing how classical dance is gaining popularity among men, says Adithya, who hails from Kannur. He notes that a growing number of young men are aspiring to take up classical dance as a career, despite families discouraging them. We, too, faced such odds while growing up. People assumed that a man dancing would be effeminate. But that notion has been proven to be incorrect, he asserts. Sunil Nellayi Classical dance guru Sunil Nellay had experienced this first-hand. I was part of the RLV batch of 1982, when there were no male students. I was the first male to receive a course certificate in classical dance from the state government, he recalls. The idea that men would become like women if they learnt dance was perpetuated by certain films that portrayed it degradingly. Also, there was a period when softer emotions and lasya were given more prominence in dance. But one must remember that nritya also has an equal element of vigour or tandava, which presents itself in varying hues. A man, Sunil adds, need not become woman-like to express the femininity one assumes is required in dance. Think about it who is the author of the Natyashastra, the magnum opus on dance philosophy and technique? Bharata Muni. And who is the God or ultimate guru of dance? Shiva, the epitome of masculinity, stresses Sunil, who runs Nellay Nruthanjaly dance and music school in Kochi. Then how can classical dance be effeminate? It is the way it was wrongly practised by some and, of course, the narratives in films and popular media are to blame. The wrong belief that dance was inherently feminine led many male performers to imitate women while dancing, says veteran Bharatanatyam guru Abdul Manaf, who is better known as Manu Master. A man should remain a man, and a woman, a woman, while performing. The stage does not distinguish between genders, he adds. On stage, a performer is a performer, and the role must be executed with finesse while staying true to oneself. Unfortunately, personal identity often overshadows the character being performed, leading to performances that align with stereotypes. Unnikrishnan L P It is pertinent to note that, historically, male performers dominated the classical dance scene as gurus until a few decades ago, says Shailaja N, a dancer researching the influence of ancient Indian dance on temple architecture. Look at Kelucharan Mohapatra, who could recreate Vrindavan with his art. Or Dhananjayan, who infused Bharatanatyam with the power of Kathakali. Or the Manipuri and Sattriya dancers, she highlights. Even Kathak dancers have performed on lovelorn musical pieces like thumris. Male dancers have always played a significant role in the evolution of classical dance. It was only between the late 1960s and early 2000s that the perception changed. Somehow, people started viewing dance as a feminine pursuit. The rise of social media and performances by ace dancers such as actor Vineeth Radhakrishnan and the Parshvanath-Adithya duo have helped break this stereotype. Inspired by them, there are many like Unnikrishnan L P, who runs the Lalithambika Sangeeta Natya Koodam in Thiruvananthapuram, who have taken up Bharatanatyam. Unnikrishnan started learning the art at 34. Parshwanath-Adithyas performances helped me understand the grammar of dance and how men can embrace it. Their training in Kalari brings a certain poise and strength to their performances, which motivated me to learn, he says. Actor and dance exponent Vineeth with (from left) Vinu Paul, Kalidas and Vishnu Amarnath, a student with disability Unnikrishnans art centre now hosts an increasing number of male dancers who perform regularly. Lalithambika Sangeeta Natya Kala Koodam, in fact, is planning a workshop on traditional padams (compositions) that depict the male perspective of passion and angst in the coming days. The passage of time has also brought the change, says Manu Master. I discourage my male students from imitating women while emoting softer elements like lasya (feminine grace). They should remain true to themselves and interpret the character naturally. When a man performs lasya, he does not need to become woman-like, he explains. Similarly, when women perform male roles in Kathakali, they embody the character without mimicking a man. The character takes dominance, but they do not lose their identity. Manu Master believes social media is playing a crucial role in shaping contemporary dance by taking performances from deeply trained artistes to a wider audience. Awareness of tradition, spirituality, and the arts rooted in these values is also increasing nowadays, he says. Actor Vineeth, however, credits cinema for inspiring his dance journey. Especially Kamal Hassan. His performance in Sagara Sangamam inspired many, including me, to pursue dance without the fear of being perceived as feminine, he says. Kathak legend Gopi Krishnas choreography in the film highlighted the beauty of masculinity. I was also fortunate to learn under esteemed gurus and to watch veterans like Vempati Chinna Satyam and Dhananjayan master perform in my hometown, Thalassery. This exposure, along with my formal academic training, shaped my journey. Vineeth, too, notes that the number of male dancers who choose to learn later or pursue performance is growing. There is more exposure and awareness now. This is why we see many men delve into the divine depths of classical dance actually as a means to accentuate the real masculinity within.

Kerala college suspends 7 amid ragging outrage

Seven final-year students at Kariavattom Govt College in Thiruvananthapuram have been suspended for assaulting a first-year biotechnology student. The 19-year-old victim filed complaints with police and college authorities. The accused were charged with various offenses including unlawful assembly, rioting, and possessing lethal weapons. This incident follows other ragging cases in Kerala.

The Hindu roundtable on growth strategies for Thiruvananthapuram on February 20

Local self-government minister MB Rajesh to inaugurate the event featuring a wide array of personalities

Union Minister of State for Railways reviews rail projects in Thiruvananthapuram

While acknowledging the efforts put into the development at the Thiruvananthapuram Central railway station, the Minister emphasised the need to complete the redevelopment works within two years

Thiruvananthapuram Corporations Plan expenditure at 48.45% with a month remaining in the financial year

Congress closes chapter on Tharoors article praising Keralas entrepreneurial growth

Thiruvananthapuram: The national leadership of the Congress party on Tuesday stated that the controversy surrounding party leader Shashi Tharoors article, which praised Keralas entrepreneurial growth under the Left government, is a closed chapter. AICC General Secretary (Organisation) K C Venugopal said that the party had spoken to Shashi Tharoor on the matter, and he had 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 .

PETA India offers mechanical elephants after deadly attacks in Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram: After a series of elephant attacks in Kerala left five people dead, many injured, and property damaged at temple and mosque festivals in a span of 10 days, an animal rights organisation is stepping in with a unique offer. The organisation, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India, is sending letters to 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 .

Seven seniors booked for ragging junior student in SFI unit room in Thiruvananthapuram

THIRUVANTHAPURAM: Kazhakootam police have booked seven third-year students of Kariavattom Government College for ragging a first-year student and subjecting him to inhumane torture. Based on a complaint of first-year Biotechnology student Binse Jose, police charged case against Velu, Prince, Ananthan, Parthan, Sravan and Salman under relevant sections against ragging. Binse in his complaint had alleged that the group tortured him after taking him to the SFI unit room. He was forced to be on his knees and was beaten up. When he asked for water, the group spat on the water and gave it to Binse, the complaint read. The anti-ragging committee of the college reportedly found that the ragging allegation was true and forwarded it to Kazhakootam police. There were clashes between two student groups and the police had registered cases against them, which include the ones who are now accused of ragging Binse. The college authorities will take disciplinary action against the accused.

Haritha Kerala Mission reclaims 2,742.44 km of watercourses in Western Ghats

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: As part of Lets Secure Western Ghats, an initiative that aims to mitigate mudslides and landslides in vulnerable areas in the Western Ghats by retrieving stalled watercourses, Haritha Kerala Mission jointly with the local bodies has reclaimed around 2,742.44 km of the watercourse network. The Haritha Kerala Mission has completed the mapping of natural watercourses and drainage systems of 216 out of 230 grama panchayats. 4,6531.63-km-long canal networks have been identified in the 230 panchayats. According to officials, this year priority will be given to retrieving watercourses in grama panchayats of Idukki and Wayanad districts that are most vulnerable to landslides and mudflows. With the majority of interventions for rejuvenation required in forest areas, the Haritha Kerala Mission recently held meetings with the forest department to get the necessary permissions. It is learned that many streams in forest areas are blocked by fallen trees and such hindrances can be removed only with the permission of the forest department. Assistant coordinator Abraham Koshy of Haritha Keralam Mission said that in many places streams have been diverted for construction activities. Our aim was to complete the mapping by 2024 but owing to adverse weather we couldnt do the mapping as per schedule. However, we have begun parallel efforts to retrieve the courses in many panchayats already. Systematically tracing and reclaiming the whole watercourse networks of Western Ghats to channelise rainwater is crucial for the growing landslides and mudflows in these regions, said Abraham Koshy. This year we will be giving top priority to disaster-prone panchayats in the Wayanad and Idukki districts. Around 13,604 km of watercourses have been identified in Idukki district and Wayanad has around 5280.86 km. We are preparing an action plan to implement the initiative in these two districts and there are budget allocations to execute it. Besides this, we are looking for other possible funds under other schemes, he added. People engaged in reinstating the stalled watercourses in Kollam district Retrieving the stalled watercourses, ensuring smooth flow of water through channels and restoring and revitalising the entire watercourse system are the primary objectives of the initiative. We have identified the network of natural streams and drains using satellite imagery and our volunteers, mainly the student community, go there and locate the hindered watercourses and mark the current plight of the waterway in the software, said Abraham Koshy. In Kollam, there are around seven panchayats in Western Ghats, of which watercourses have been retrieved in three panchayats Alayamon, Yeroor and Thenmala. The work has been completed. District coordinator of Haritha Kerala Mission S Issac said that many small streams have been retrieved and rejuvenated as part of the initiative. In all, 52 streams in Alayamon panchayat, 175 streams in Yeroor panchayat and 62 streams in Thenmala panchayat have been cleared. Watercourses and natural drains mapped as part of the initiative Total districts: 8 Total grama panchayats: 216 Kollam: 3,341.81 km (385 .086 km retrieved) Pathanamthitta: 5,778.99 km (96.73 km retrieved) Kottayam: 4,443.61 km (68.9 km retrieved) Idukki: 13,604 km Ernakulam: 2,263.01 km (566.37 km retrieved) Palakkad: 6,649.57 km (1,372.19 km retrieved) Kozhikode: 2,406.19 km (3.65 km retrieved) Wayanad: 5,280.86 km (77.4 km retrieved) Kannur: 2,762 .71 km (171.9 km retrieved)

Congress unlikely to act against Tharoor despite praise for Left government

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Though disgruntled with Shashi Tharoor for his open praise of the Left government, the Congress is unlikely to initiate any disciplinary action against the Thiruvananthapuram MP. The high command is unhappy with Tharoor praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi , while the state leadership is up in arms against him for his article in The New Indian Express that praised the LDF government for its handling of the states industrial climate. However, the party feels taking action against Tharoor or seeking explanation from him at this point would not be prudent in the long run. The leadership does not want the controversy to grow to disproportionate dimensions. Congress mouthpiece in Kerala writes editorial criticising Tharoor's remarks AICC general secretary K C Venugopal and KPCC chief K Sudhakaran called up Tharoor and conveyed the party position and asked him to stick to the party line. Sudhakaran told reporters that he had spoken to Tharoor and gave him the right advice. Shashi Tharoor expressed his opinion. Individuals can have opinions. But party decision is official line, he said. On senior leader M M Hassan asking Tharoor to step down from the Congress Working Committee, Sudhakaran said its for the high command to take such a call. Tharoor's praise for Kerala sparks Congress infighting, left support Its learnt the state leadership informed Tharoor that the statistics based on which he formulated his opinions were incorrect. It also feels Tharoor should not have made such an observation at a time when the party is trying to take on the Left government. However, since he has clarified his position, there is no need to act against the MP, it feels. Being an author and columnist, he expressed his opinion on a matter. When the party said it has a different view, Tharoor somewhat corrected his position, acknowledging the contributions of Oommen Chandy and P K Kunhalikutty. Now, action is unlikely against him, said a senior leader. Some feel Tharoor was trying to bolster his progressive image.

Reply sought on plea to lay new road to reach Tiruchendur temple

MADURAI: The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court on Monday sought response from the state highways department on a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) petition seeking direction to repair the 40 km bitumen road between Thoothukudi and Tiruchendur, and also lay a new two-way bypass road for the stretch for the benefit of devotees visiting the Tiruchendur Subramaniya Swamy temple. In his petition, the litigant SMA Pon Gandhimathinathan of Thoothukudi stated that the aforesaid bitumen road is commonly used by people to reach the Tiruchendur temple and the Thoothukudi harbour. It also leads to Valli Cave in Kanniyakumari as well as Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala. However, the said road is in a dilapidated condition for years now. Though patchworks are done every year during the Kanda Shasti festival season, they do not last long and the road once again gets damaged, making it an accident-prone area, he added. A bench comprising Justices J Nisha Banu and S Srimathy directed the government counsel to get reply from the authorities concerned and adjourned the case to next week.

Satheesan dismisses Tharoors claims on Keralas industrial growth

KOCHI: Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan dismissed again on Monday Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoors claims regarding the Left governments new industrial policies in an article appeared in TNIE . While the leader refrained from directly responding to Tharoors remarks, he pointed out that the claim that Kerala ranks top in ease of doing business was baseless as the World Bank had discontinued the index in 2021. Going by the governments argument, three lakh new industrial innovations were established recently. Even if these industries invest Rs 1 lakh each, the industrial sector in the state should register a profit of Rs 30,000 crores. However, as per the statistics, the GDP contribution of the state has been stagnant at 3.8% in recent years, Satheesan told reporters. He also cited data from the Kerala Single Window Interface for Fast and Transparent Clearance which states that 64,528 enterprises received permission to start functioning under the state government. However, this figure includes both retail and wholesale businesses. The Union governments decision to classify retail and wholesale businesses under MSME contributed to this rise, said Satheesan. He further said, It is correct that Keralas startup ecosystem recorded a 254% compound annual growth rate, far exceeding the global average of 46%. However, the data compares the changes between 2019 and 2021, a period impacted by the pandemic. We all know what the actual situation was during that time, he said.

Barton Hill, the abode of a visionary engineer who transformed Thiruvananthapuram

Located on one of the citys many rolling hills, Barton Hill carries the legacy of Walthew Clarence Barton, the first chief engineer of Travancore. The Hill was where his bungalow was; a grand structure built in the 1860s with wooden floors and ceilings, and offering a view of the Shankhumukham beach. Today, the area houses the Government Engineering College and the Government Law College, institutions that continue the spirit of learning and innovation that the British engineer embodied. Barton was PWDs first chief engineer. There was a European tradition where most high-ranking officials used to live on top of the hills, says historian M G Sasibhooshan. He was the chief engineer who constructed the Kerala Secretariat, which was then called Huzoor/Hajoor Kacheri. Before the Secretariat, that place had the bungalow of Lieutenant Horsley. With the establishment of the Secretariat, Travancore, which was primarily a pilgrim city, transformed into an administrative capital. The trio of Ayilyam Thirunal, Madhava Rao, and Clarence Barton are the makers of modern Travancore. The Secretariat building, which remains the administrative nerve centre of Kerala, was conceptualised and designed by Barton. The foundation stone was laid by Maharaja Ayilyam Thirunal in 1865, and the construction was completed in 1869. Incorporating elements of Roman and Dutch architecture, the original structure housed the Travancore Royal Durbar Hall, where the King would meet his council of ministers every month. Bartons other contributions to Travancores infrastructure were remarkable. His designs led to the construction of Arts College, University College, the Mental Hospital, and the citys old drainage system, as well as several structures in Kollam. The famous suspension bridge across the Kallada river at Punalur, initiated under Barton in 1871, was later completed by engineer Albert Henry in 1872 and opened to traffic in 1879. However, Bartons tenure was not free from controversy. His preference for Gothic-style architecture, a trend popular in Britain at the time, was met with criticism. Gothic revivalism was characterised by long pillars, tapering roofs, a clock tower, and central Durbar halls, explains Sasibhooshan. There was a constant debate between the proponents of Travancores vernacular architecture and Bartons Gothic style. Eventually, he was replaced in the designing of the Napier Museum by Robert Chisholm, who attempted to incorporate Venetian windows and elements from Padmanabhapuram Palace into the museums architecture. M G Sasibhooshan, historian Barton was PWDs first chief engineer. He helmed projects such as the Kerala Secretariat. With its establishment, Travancore, which was primarily a pilgrim city, transformed into an administrative capital The topography of Barton Hill also holds historical significance. The area surrounding it, known as Gundukaadu, has an intriguing past. The name Gundukaadu comes from the tradition of cracking bombs called gundu every hour to mark the time, says Sasibhooshan, adding to the rich historical narrative of the place. It is also neighboured by Kunnukuzhi, which is aptly named as it is wedged between MG Road Hill and Barton Hill. Commemorating Bartons legacy, historian Vellanad Ramachandran pointed out, It is also a divine providence that at present, the place houses an engineering college, where the first PWD engineer of Travancore stayed and did many things for modern Travancore, he says. Barton Hill is an important part of Thiruvananthapurams landscape. The hill remains deeply intertwined with the history of Travancore and the vision of a man who helped shape its modern identity.

Kerala to provide homes to families in extreme poverty list

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state government has initiated steps to provide homes to homeless families in the extreme poverty list. As per the Economic Review 2024, a total of 15,091 people in the extreme poverty list do not own a house. As many as 58,273 individuals in the list do not have sufficient income, 40,917 had health issues, and 34,523 people do not get sufficient food. Most of the people in the extreme poverty list are from the scheduled caste/scheduled tribe communities, fisherfolk, and workers in the pottery and handicraft. The report said local self-governments had an important role in addressing the issue of extreme poverty. The LSGs should devise livelihood programmes for them, it said. Meanwhile, Revenue Minister K Rajan asked officers to expedite the process of giving title deeds to families in the extreme poverty list. The deadline set by the state government to uplift the families is November 2025. According to the revenue department, 5,000 families in the extreme poverty list are landless. They will be given title deeds within March. The department has undertaken a massive programme to provide title deeds to all deserving families. As many as five lakh title deeds will be given during the tenure of this government. So far, the government has provided 1.80 lakh title deeds.

German elections: German nationals cast postal votes in Thiruvananthapuram

Congress mouthpiece in Kerala writes editorial criticising Tharoor's remarks

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Veekshanam Daily, Congress party's mouthpiece in Kerala, on Monday published an editorial criticising Congress leader Shashi Tharoor -without naming him- for praising the entrepreneurial growth of the state under the left government. It urged him not to betray the expectations of thousands of party workers ahead of the upcoming local body elections. The strongly worded editorial stated that an anti-incumbency wave was prevalent in the state and that attempts to suppress it by those responsible for fuelling it represented a 'distorted' political practice. The editorial came a day after Tharoor clarified that he had not praised the CPI(M)-led government in Kerala but had merely highlighted the state's progress in the startup sector. On Sunday, Thiruvananthapuram MP claimed that his article published in The New Indian Express contained no political references and that his focus was solely on Kerala's entrepreneurial and innovation-driven growth, intending to showcase the state's development in that specific area. However, the party mouthpiece appeared to have effectively rejected his clarifications. The editorial warned that if the Congress-led UDF failed to win the local body elections despite favourable conditions, it would be a major setback for the front. It described any move to undermine its electoral prospects as idiculous. Titled Ahimsa Award for the Executioner?, the editorial further argued that when the Congress was actively opposing the shortcomings of the LDF government inside and outside the Assembly, it would be suicidal to weaken the party from within. Alleging that it was the ruling CPI(M) which had made Kerala a graveyard of industries, the editorial further said it was ridiculous to give citation to the Left government in the name of industrial growth. The state witnessed the growth and development of modern and significant industrial establishments during the rule of former Chief Ministers like R Sankar, C Achutha Menon, K Karunakaran, A K Antony and Oommen Chandy, it said. IUML rejects Tharoors praise of LDFs industrial, startup growth The article lavishly praised on what it called the futuristic interventions made by former Industry ministers of Kerala including P K Kunhalikutty, T V Thomas, K A Damodara Menon and so on. It also sought to know what specialty was brought by the present Industries Minister (P Rajeeve), compared to his predecessors. To praise those who destroyed the agricultural and industrial sectors of the state was equally ridiculous as giving ahimsa award' for an executioner. The article detailed various protests and agitations led by the CPI(M) against industrial projects in the state in the past. It also mentioned significant projects brought out by Congress Chief Ministers like A K Antony and Oommen Chandy and the stiff opposition shown by the Left party against them. The mouthpiece also criticised Tharoor's positive remarks on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent US visit. Modi hugging President Donald Trump and receiving assurance in trade-military treaties was not a great thing, it said. The editorial also termed the development as mere gesture by two administrators to improve their image. At the time thousands of Indians are in the US prisons with an apple and a bottle of water in their hands, it said, apparently referring to the illegal immigrants who were deported to India. Tharoor's clarification on these matters followed a political storm triggered by his article in The New Indian Express , where he praised Kerala's entrepreneurial growth under the LDF government. While his party questioned the basis of his claims, the CPI(M) welcomed Tharoor's views. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Sunday attacked the opposition stating that Tharoor's article had debunked the false propaganda spread by the Congress-led UDF against Kerala. However, responding to the issue, KPCC president K Sudhakaran accused the Left government of inflating small enterprise figures, but did not mention Tharoor's name. Tharoor plays down praise for LDF govts industrial policy in TNIE article, credits previous UDF govt

Congress mouthpiece in Kerala writes editorial criticising Tharoors remarks

Thiruvananthapuram: Veekshanam Daily, Congress partys mouthpiece in Kerala, on Monday published an editorial criticising Congress leader Shashi Tharoor -without naming him- for praising the entrepreneurial growth of the state under the left government. It urged him not to betray the expectations of thousands of party workers ahead of the upcoming local body elections. The strongly 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 .

Half-priced dreams, full-priced nightmares: Kerala's ongoing battle with scams

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Malayalis have fallen prey to yet another scam. This time, the lure was a dream offer - scooters at half price, supposedly funded by the CSR initiatives of major corporations. The scam, which initially surfaced with a suspect named Ananthu Krishnan, a 28 year old, has now roped in politicians and other prominent figures. Complaints and cases have been filed in large numbers across districts. Preliminary estimates suggest a fraud worth Rs 1,000 crore, with even top leaders under suspicion. This is not an isolated incident. From Ponzi schemes to fake antiques, Keralites have consistently found themselves at the receiving end of elaborate frauds. According to professor of psychiatry at Government Medical College, Arun B Nair, the Malayali psyche is a mixture of competitive spirit, lack of internal sense of discipline and an attitude of showing off affluence. Keralites engage in comparison from a very early age and resort to quick and easy ways to get rich in order to show off. Despite being highly educated, we often exhibit a herd mentality when it comes to financial investments. If a friend or a neighbour vouches for a scheme, they tend to believe it without doing independent verification, he said. This was evident in the recent CSR scam, where word-of-mouth endorsements played a major role in drawing in thousands of victims.He also highlighted the 'fear of missing out' (FOMO) as another factor. When a scheme offers quick and seemingly assured returns, people rush to invest before properly assessing its legitimacy, added the doctor. One of the earliest organised financial scams in the state called 'Aadu Thekk Mangium', revolved around promises of profits from goat farming and the cultivation of teak and mangium trees. Investors were promised five times their money in five years. Some promised to invest their money in goat farms and others in high-yielding trees. Those who committed the fraud even identified some places and took the investors there. However, the net result was that they went away with many lakhs of rupees.Thousands fell for it, only to realise later that the promised returns were a mirage. Then came Total 4 U. Sabarinath, the mastermind behind Total 4 U, managed to pull off a 200 crore investment scam at the age of just 19 by offering 20% return to investors. His companies, including Tot Total and I-Nest, lured thousands with the promise of unrealistic returns before collapsing spectacularly. His first ventures were Ernest, SJR and Total solutions which were opened at Medical college in Thiruvananthapuram, Capital towers, Statue and Punnapuram. Investors were promised doubling of their money and 20% agent commission. After the business collapsed, Sabarinath was arrested from Nagercoil on August 1, 2008. Next came the Highrich Online Shoppe Pvt Ltd scam that resulted in the embezzlement of Rs 1,693 crore. Around 1,69,000 people were deceived after investing Rs 10,000 each in hopes of high returns. The case also uncovered massive tax evasion worth Rs 126 crore. As part of its money chain operation, the company rolled out digital coupons. The coupons could be bought for either Rs 700 or Rs 10,000. By adding more people to the chain, investors received a commission. Money collected was mostly utilised for redistribution to members as incentive/commission in typical Ponzi scheme format. The rest of the money was siphoned off as profit by the company and its promoters. In the Popular Finance Scam, Rs 1,000 crore was swindled from investors. Thomas Daniel, managing partner of Popular Finance, had routed the deposits of the public through hawala channels to Dubai and Australia on the pretext of financing imports. The imported items included old computers, Chinese mobile phones, health drinks and shrimp for which no documentary evidence was available. He also used the funds to buy 50 per cent shares worth Rs 1.7 crore of a Dubai-based company, Carry Cart Trading LLC. The payment of Rs 1.7 crore was made through hawala channels. Many scams succeed because they are endorsed by political leaders, religious figures, or well-known personalities. Once a trusted figure vouches for an initiative, people rarely question it. The promise of high returns with minimal effort remains an irresistible bait. Many victims are middle-class people looking for a quick way to multiply their savings. Despite the state's high literacy rate, financial literacy, legal literacy, cyber literacy and mental health literacy remains relatively low, added Arun B Nair. People fail to recognise the hallmarks of a Ponzi scheme or an investment scam. Many scamsters operate for years before they are caught. By the time legal action is initiated, much of the stolen money has already disappeared. A senior officer from state police's economic offences wing, who requested anonymity, pointed out that scammers in the state are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Unlike older scams that relied purely on verbal assurances, modern fraudsters use social media, fake legal documents, and endorsements from celebrities and politicians to add credibility to their schemes, he said. The officer also noted that many scam victims hesitate to file complaints initially. People often wait too long, hoping they will eventually get their money back. By the time they realise they have been duped, the scam has already expanded to other regions, he added. The root causes range from blind trust and herd mentality to the allure of easy money. Unless there is a collective effort to address these vulnerabilities, scams will continue to flourish in the state. The next time an investment scheme seems too good to be true, perhaps its worth remembering the state's long history of financial frauds.

Hopes sky high as work on Poovar fishing harbour project commences

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a transformative move for the fishing community in southern Kerala, the fisheries department has embarked on the construction of a Rs 343-crore harbour at Poovar. Located on the sea-facing side of the estuary between Vizhinjam and the Tamil Nadu border, the new harbour is set to revolutionise fishing activities for over 25,000 fishermen living between Kollamcode and Adimalathura. Construction of a breakwater has already begun, with tetrapod casting under way at the site. The initial phase involves building a 65-metre section of the breakwater, which will eventually extend to 1,450 metres. This part of the project requires 16,000 tons of boulders and 610 tetrapods, with a Rs 5-crore allocation made in the current budget. Currently, local fishermen rely on favourable weather conditions to safely land their boats on the beach. During periods of coastal erosion, they are forced to take their boats to the Vizhinjam harbour, 20 kilometres away, incurring an additional cost of Rs 2,000 to 3,000. The new Poovar harbour, with sufficient draft (depth), will facilitate the operation of deep-sea fishing vessels and help ease congestion at both Vizhinjam and Neendakara harbours. The fishing industry in the region is poised for a significant shift towards mechanised boats. The primary challenge has always been the lack of infrastructure. This harbour will catalyse infrastructure-led development in the area, said Mohamed Ansari M A, chief engineer, harbour engineering department. The sea depth in the area is 10 metres, well-suited for deep-sea fishing, which requires only a 6-metre draft. The project includes the construction of an 800-metre-long harbour with a 350-metre basin and a 1,450-metre-long breakwater, nearly half the size of the one at Vizhinjam International Port. The breakwater alone is projected to cost Rs 200 crore. Other infrastructure developments include a wharf, auction hall, roadways, and perimeter fencing. The first phase will focus on building a 200-metre berth, with the final design awaiting modification based on approvals from the Union government, which will contribute 60% of the cost. The final plan for the project will be submitted to the Union government for approval in April, with the help of the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT). Weve opted for a sea-facing harbour design rather than one within the estuary to avoid the issues we faced at Muthalapozhi harbour, explained G S Anilkumar, executive engineer, harbour engineering department, Thiruvananthapuram. Project Highlights Rs 343cr Estimated cost Benefits 25,000 fishermen from Kollamcode to Adimalathura All-weather harbour eliminates the need for boat diversion to other ports Eases congestion at Vizhinjam harbour Supports deep-sea fishing vessels Includes the construction of a 1,450-meter long breakwater Funding split: 60% Centre, 40% State

University Amendment Bill 2025: Kerala Governors stand to prove crucial

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A proposed Bill that enhances powers of the higher education minister as pro-chancellor in universities is likely to face choppy waters in the Raj Bhavan. Two earlier Bills aimed at removing the governor from the chancellor post and to create an upper-hand for government in vice-chancellor selection had failed to get Presidential assent. Given this scenario, the stance to be adopted by the new Governor, Rajendra Arlekar, on the proposed University Amendment Bill, 2025, will be crucial when it comes up before him for assent. Planned to be tabled in the current session of the legislative assembly, the Bill has provisions to make universities comply with directives issued by the pro-chancellor who is also empowered to seek explanation on various matters from the varsities. Till date, the higher education ministers have been playing more or less a titular role as pro-chancellors of varsities. As per university rules, the pro-chancellor shall perform the duties of the chancellor only in his absence or during his inability to act. The Amendment Bill, that gives greater powers to the pro-chancellor, can end up in legal tangles as it could be pointed out as direct government interference in the autonomy of universities, said a source. The provisions to curtail the emergency powers of vice-chancellors have been included reportedly to place curbs on academics who are presently discharging VC duties in various universities. Majority of the present VCs have been handpicked by the former chancellor (governor) Arif Mohammed Khan during his prolonged spat with the government. According to sources in the higher education department, the Bill also has provisions to place curbs on the decisions taken by the vice-chancellors in emergency situations, especially when the Syndicate is not in session. The VC will have to give written explanation to the Syndicate for such decisions. The Bill proposes review of the VCs decisions taken in emergency situations by the university tribunal. During instances of stand-off between the vice-chancellor and the Syndicate, the matter is usually referred to the chancellor. The Bill empowering the university tribunal to decide on the matter instead of the chancellor indirectly curtails the role of the latter, pointed out a former Raj Bhavan official. Most of the VCs-in charge have been on a collision course with Left-dominated Syndicates and also the government ever since they assumed charge. The Bill is widely seen as the governments panacea to resolve the current standoff in varsities that has led to an administrative crisis.

Digital University of Keralas app helps livestock farmers track zoonotic diseases, prevent culling

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: At a time when zoonotic diseases are a common occurrence in the state, a web- based spatial design support system, an innovation developed by the Digital University of Kerala (DUK), has changed the lives of livestock farmers. Earlier, when a zoonotic disease was detected in an area, the other livestock surrounding it had to be killed to control the spread of disease. However, thanks to DUKs innovation, the Bhumika App, livestock inspectors could get the details of affected livestock. Also, when a disease is detected, the animal husbandry department could issue warning to other farmers to take precautionary actions. Inspectors visiting homes in each panchayat collect farmers information like the ID card number provided by the animal husbandry department and the number of livestock. Through this App, the officials can get details of around 3,000 farmers around a 3-km radius of a particular livestock farm. If a zoonotic disease is detected, the department officials could necessitate ring vaccination, DUK assistant professor, GeoSpatial Analytics, Dr T Radhakrishnan, told TNIE. The Bhumika spatial design system was used to locate livestock farmers who fell victim to the Chooralmala and Mundakkai landslides in Wayanad. The DUK is now trying to provide a Temperature Humidity Index (THI) of each farm for the farmers through App. As per the THI parameter, if the THI index is above 88% on a farm the animals could develop stress and it reaches 90%, death could happen. To know the real-time THI data, the farmers would have to install sensors. And an alert will go to the farmers mobile phone if THI is above normal rate, Radhakrishnan said.

In a first for Kerala, nun takes charge as medical officer at govt hospital

KOCHI: Sr Jean Rose of the Sisters of the Destitutes earned the distinction of becoming the first nun to take charge as a medical officer in the state when she joined the Family Health Centre (FHC) at Marayoor in Idukki district last December. Having settled into the job, Dr Jean Rose told TNIE that the posting fulfilled her desire to help the marginalised. The FHC under the Marayoor block caters to the medical needs of around 25 tribal hamlets, Sr Dr Rose said. The centre caters to around 200 outpatients every day. We are also responsible for the health and well-being of the tribal population of the hamlets. She did her MBBS and MD at the St Johns Medical College Hospital in Bengaluru, specialising in anesthesiology. Her case is different from the usual practice of Christian religious persons with medical degrees entering church-owned hospitals or institutions. Id like to thank the initiative of my former superior at the convent, who retired as a nurse from the Kozhikode Medical College, for motivating me to appear for the Public Service Commission (PSC) exam. I cleared the PSC and was appointed at this centre, the nun said. Dr Rose had earlier worked with the Kattapana Taluk Hospital, a church-owned private hospital for 10 years, and at KIMS in Thiruvananthapuram. According to her, a lot of programmes are being implemented to ensure that the tribal people get medical attention. We are involved in the immunisation drive that sees us trek more than 18km into the forest to immunise infants. However, it is tough dealing with the tribal people as they tend to disappear into deep forest when they see outsiders. But we are slowly getting them to acquiesce with the help of anganwadi teachers and government officials, she added.

Two flights bound to Thiruvananthapuram diverted to Madurai airport

New tigress at Thiruvananthapuram zoo on the mend, remains in quarantine

The eight-year-old as yet unnamed tigress was caught by the Forest department from Pulpally in Wayanad after it began straying into human habitations and preying on livestock

40 km of hill highway completed in Thiruvananthapuram

Tharoor plays down praise for LDF govts industrial policy in TNIE article, credits previous UDF govt

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: After his praise for the LDF government's new industrial policy in an article in ' The New Indian Express' triggered a controversy, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor came up with two Facebook posts acknowledging the contributions of the previous Congress-led governments in the industrial sector. Tharoor said the controversy over his article has left him surprised as he had stated his views as an MP only on the change in the state's industrial climate owing to the growth of start-ups. The four-time MP said he was proud to say that it was former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy of the Congress who paved the way for such a transformation. It was owing to the creation of the Startup Mission and Startup Village by former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy that such developments happened. The present (LDF) government has naturally taken it forward, Tharoor said. Stating that his article was not a comprehensive assessment of the state's total economic situation, Tharoor said the state was still facing a grave economic crisis. Increasing unemployment, the exodus of youth to foreign countries, the crisis in the agriculture sector and the record debt of the state were issues that would need a lot of time to address However, if any hopeful change is seen in any sector, it would be petty not to acknowledge it, Tharoor said, justifying his views expressed in the column. The Congress MP said his views were based on the 2024 Global Startup Ecosystem Report and the statistics provided in it. Tharoor urged his critics to first read the article before commenting on the matter. He added that his article did not touch upon politics but was only focused on how to overcome the economic crisis that the state was facing. In an earlier Facebook post, Tharoor had acknowledged the contributions of former Industries Minister and Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) leader PK Kunhalikutty in the state's industrial sector. It was during the tenure of former Chief Minister AK Antony that a first-of-its-kind Global Investment Meet was held in the state under the leadership of the then Industries Minister PK Kunhalikuty, the Thiruvananthapuram MP said. Both the national and state leadership of the Congress had reacted sharply to Tharoor's article . Meanwhile, the CPM leadership came out in support of him.

Shashi Tharoor defends his article on Keralas growth

Thiruvananthapuram: Defending his recent article in an English daily that stirred a political controversy, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has clarified that not highlighting the industrial advancements made during the previous UDF regime was not intentional. In a late-night Facebook post in Malayalam, he said: The main focus of my article was the figures presented by 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 .

If Hinduism is Talibanised, world would be destroyed: Sri M

You are not a conventional spiritual leader. You are married, have conducted padayatra from Kanyakumari to Kashmir, and have been a mediator when political killings happened. What makes you different from other spiritual leaders? What you said is one of the factors that makes me distinct (smiles). But theres a slight correction to saying that Im not seen as a conventional spiritual person. I have a parampara. My guru was from Nath Sampradaya (Gorakhnath). In Nath Sampradaya, there are married and unmarried persons. My guru asked me to lead a normal life. Who is Sri M in reality? A spiritual leader, mystic or a social activist? If you ask that in depth, there is no Sri M, there is only the soul. My birth name was Mumtaz Ali Khan. The first letter starts with M. When I was given deeksha in Nath Sampradaya, a Nath name was needed. So I was called Madhukar Nath. He (guru) used to call me Madhu. That also starts with M. But what makes me happy is that the M in Sri M means manushyan or manav (human being). I am a human being and I am free of all other definitions. Sri was prefixed by someone. Even if you call me M, Im happy. If Im addressed as Mr M, Ill be the boss of James Bond (laughs out). In your autobiography, it is said that you undertook a journey at the age of 19. Why did you have to travel to the Himalayas to seek your spiritual purpose? At the age of nine, my guru placed his hands over my head. It was after that episode that spirituality manifested in me and changed my life. Till the age of 19, I was in Thiruvananthapuram and met a lot of spiritual leaders. But I did not think of accepting any of them as my guru. So, after hearing about gurus and yogis in the Himalayas, I was attracted to go there. I left without informing anyone. I had to face a lot of difficulties. Finally, I found Babaji at Vyasa guha. I was with him for three and a half years. Was the journey to meet your guru predestined? No. I dont encourage the word predestined as it denotes a fatalistic life. There is a blueprint that is predestined. But man has a brain and freedom to work within that blueprint. If there is a blueprint for 10 persons to go towards spirituality, only one person may go. Its our decision. If not, whats the use of the brain if everything is predestined? So, isnt there destiny? Destiny means what you make of your life. My statement can render astrologers jobless. But this is my belief. People say Guru Babaji is still there. Is that true? We call him Sri Guru Babaji in our parampara and not mahavatar. Yes, I believe so. In our parampara we dont consider him a human being. Any human should die once born. This is a being who was not born from the womb of a mother. He is actually a mayaroopam in our language, a body created for a specific functionality. Whenever he feels the function is complete, he would dissolve it. So he exists even now. There have been many godmen around us. Is Sri M one of them? There will be attempts to make me one but I wont allow it as there is no need for it (laughs out). What makes you different from them? Do I look like a godman? There are two dangers associated with godmen. One, the personality itself will be full of ego and will start thinking that whatever one says is right. Secondly, ones personality becomes more important than ones teachings. This is equally dangerous. I have told people that it is not me but what I say that is important. Names like Sri M, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar... arent all these a part of making the person godmen? Nobody is willing to call me M. Sri is actually a short form for Sriman (Mr). It was a royal family in Delhi that first used to call me Mr M. Their niece suggested calling me Sri M and the name stuck. Now it is very useful as it can be used as a pen-name (smiles). Most spiritual leaders relinquish their ties with families but you maintain family relations. How is that possible? Very difficult (laughs out). Its a tightrope walk. To maintain a family along with spirituality is very difficult. I was ready to take up sanyasa. But Babaji advised against it. He asked me to get married and experience problems faced by commoners. In my opinion, marriage has the capacity to cut the ego. If one moves to sanyasa without experiencing grihastha, he may later become distracted by some attractions. It is difficult to handle it unless you are exceptional. You were born in a traditional Muslim family. What attracted you to Hinduism? Rebirth is a theory for many but an experience for me. My life changed when Babaji placed his hand over my head. He didnt ask me to change. But when I introspected, I liked ancient Hinduism which provides for questioning, probing and accepting. In Upanishads, you can see dialogues. Nobody asks you to believe in something. There is another stream which asks you to believe only in one god. Suppose if I cannot believe it, there is no answer for it. Also, we may feel their arguments are contradictory. Then I thought there should be something else. And I started meeting swamis in the area. I also read spiritual books from the public library. I got attracted to this stream (Hinduism) because, in it, we learn through dialogues. But I havent changed my name. Is your name still Mumtaz Khan? Yes. I didnt feel the need to change it. Are you saying that you were attracted by the freedom in the Hindu religion? Yes. But that is my fear as well. If Hinduism is Talibanised, the world would be destroyed. There is a possibility for that. How do you view casteism? Isnt casteism the big bane of Hinduism? Yes. Casteism developed much later in Hinduism. Who authored Brahmasutra and Mahabharata? It was Veda Vyasa, whose mother was a fisherwoman. One should be judged by his life not by birth. Today, there are many Brahmins whose lifestyle is worse than anyone else (smiles). But Mahabharata is full of caste references Yes, there are caste references in the Mahabharata, but it was the social norm at the time. However, it is no longer necessary. When people achieve success in a certain field, they often try to pass it on to the next generation, which can lead to a system resembling caste. This happens in many areas, even business. Brahmins were universally respected. So they tried to perpetuate their position, making it hereditary instead of focusing on qualities. The varnashrama system, however, was originally based on qualities. Even when you say this, a Dalit cannot be a priest in Sabarimala... Its a difficult issue to address, and ideally, the criteria should be based on quality, not birth. I dont deny the role of genetic factors, but I believe that I may be more qualified than some Brahmins despite being outside the traditional hierarchy. Do you foresee a possibility of an India without caste? If the caste system ever ceases to exist in India, then it will become a true Hindu Rashtra. When I talk about Hindu, dont think of it as a political statement about a Hindu Rashtra. Its about understanding the essence of Hindu teachings. My definition of Hindu is a Sanatani definition. Your arguments seem contradictory when you say that some people are qualified for something... Theres no contradiction. People qualify themselves by practising and learning at home. They know the requirements and what needs to be done. Its difficult to train someone from outside the system because they havent been exposed to it from a young age. You once said Marxist ideology would have been different had Karl Marx read the Upanishads. What exactly did you mean? Marxs Das Kapital has no spiritual aspect, it is strictly economic. Had Marx read the Upanishads, there would have been a spiritual element in his philosophy. The dialectical aspect is fine, but it should not be reduced to materialism alone. How do you see the equation of Marxist leaders and yoga? Some time ago, Marxist leaders approached me with a request to teach their cadre yoga. But they didnt want to associate with orthodox centres. Yoga, as a practice, can be done even without being a believer. I agreed to teach them. They named the approach Chethana Yogam, and some of the cadre started practising it. About 1,000 volunteers even demonstrated their practice at an event in Kannur. Whats the difference between Communist yoga and normal yoga? No difference (laughs). The probable difference is they wouldnt say any chants of Ganesha or other deities before the commencement of the yoga. They would just do it. Some practices require the chant of om. They asked me if it was necessary. I told them if its difficult to chant om, they need to just say ooooo instead (laughs out). There are many who do it. Has CM Pinarayi Vijayan shown interest in learning yoga? I cant comment on that (smiles). Swami Vivekananda called Hinduism the mother of all religions. From what you say, Hinduism has different streams of thought. How much of a common ground or source do you feel all religions have? Islam speaks about formless God and Hinduism also has nirakara sankalpa? There is a correction. The Allah that Islam speaks of and the Parabrahma in Vedanta are not one and the same. There is a conceptual difference. In my opinion, Swami Vivekananda must have used the word religion as a general term, and not as a specific term. Second, Swamiji appreciated all schools of thought. Jains may or may not admit they are Hindus but they are also part of the whole structure. Buddhism may seem different, but basically, it is the same stream. These things are all rooted in ancient wisdom or teachings. Why do you say Allah is different? Because the concept is different. I have studied both. Allah is formless (nirakara) but is not without attributes (nirguna). Formless Allah gets angry and all. It is contradictory, but that is the concept. It is not Advaita although people think Allah is the only God, which means it is Advaitic. Allah is defined as a concept which is the only truth and nothing else is true. But Advaita is a concept which says everything is rooted in the same truth. In Advaita, according to Adi Shankara, the Supreme Brahman is the only truth. That truth you cannot contact, you cannot pray to it, you cannot worship it, and it does not have any attributes (nirguna). It has no personal qualities... nothing you can do to it. When you quieten your mind totally, when all ripples of thought cease fully, what remains is the Brahman. That concept and the concept of Allah is very different. In the science vs spirituality debate, science is logic and spirituality is faith. How can a person with a scientific mind be spiritual? Because spirituality is not non-scientific, and religion may appear to be based on faith. There are many things that the ordinary brain, in its present capacity, can explore. The most intelligent person quickly realises the limitations of so-called ordinary thinking. There are other modes of thoughts and experiences that are outside the systemic thoughts and experiences we have built up. The most intelligent person should understand the limitations of psuedoscientific thought and then go beyond it. Can spirituality and science go together? It should go together. There was a time it was moving together, and that has to come back.. And we need to be careful about pseudoscience. You have spoken about a particular verse in your book and also about naga loka. You claim to have met the naga. How does this relate to science? The only reason is science too has a prejudice. They are not ready to accept something which is beyond what they have defined as science. The definition of science has to be changed, just as our understanding of humanity, religion and spirituality must change with time. Some say your autobiography reads like a fantasy novel Yes, I tell kids that if they enjoy reading Harry Potter, they should read my book too (laughs out). Sometimes, truth is easier to understand through fiction because our minds struggle to conceive such possibilities otherwise. But lets keep an open mind. Unlike many sadhus who use intoxicants like ganja or ayahuasca, I dont consume any narcotics or alcohol. Everything I have seen and experienced is real for me, at least. Reality can be subjective. What is real for one person may not be real for another. You were born into a Muslim family but later followed a Hindu spiritual path. How do Islamic religious organisations perceive you? They are generally very angry with me. However, as I dont actively challenge them, they leave me alone. But they cannot accept my choices. In Shariah Islam, changing ones faith is considered blasphemy and is punishable by death. I have received threats, but I dont care. You were among those who played a key role in restoring peace in Kannur. How did that happen? When our padayatra was passing through Malappuram and Kannur, I was warned. But I decided to walk. On my right side were RSS workers, and on my left, CPM workers. That may have been a first in the history of Kerala. After the padayatra, I decided to make an attempt to bring peace. When I met some leaders, I knew that everybody was interested in stopping violence. I met the top brass in RSS in Delhi. On the Left partys side, the onus was on the district secretary, P Jayarajan. I met him. We held three meetings in Kannur with the top leaders of CPM and RSS, including Pinarayi Vijayan, Kodiyeri Balakrishnan and Gopalan Kutty. We settled the issue and held a peace walk through Kannur, with all of them participating. The RSS is celebrating its 100th year of its formation. Your views on RSS... Many people harbour a lot of misunderstanding about RSS. Take the instance of the recent discussions around Gyanvapi Masjid (in Varanasi). What did RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat say? He said there is no need to excavate everywhere (under each mosque) to look for Shiva Linga. This is a message. All said and done, RSS is hundred percent nationalist. For them, the country is everything. If it is being threatened politically, physically or culturally, they object. It may be right or wrong, but they object. Thats my experience. Is that the reason you face opposition from Muslim fundamentalist groups? It could be. If there is one text, one scripture and one teacher, then there are chances of more such instances. But if we take this side (Hinduism), it offers variety. It isnt based on just one. Having one has its advantages, but there are disadvantages too. People who do namaz five times a day will do so irrespective of whether its a railway station or a bus stand. Their strength is that millions of people do namaz facing one direction at the same time. Will our people (Hindus) openly chant a gayatri mantra or sandhya vandanam? Our strength (that of Hinduism) is that we are ready to acknowledge that we need not always head in one direction. Im not saying that either of these needs to change. Theres something in between these two. We need to arrive at a consensus. You have stated that two women have majorly influenced your life your mother and your wife. Can you elaborate? Ive only one regret in my life my mother suffered a lot when I wandered around. Since there was no communication for three and a half years, they didnt even know whether I was alive. So, I still have a connection with my mother through my mind. My wife is a simple person. Theres a theory that whatever we experience in this life is because of our karma in past lives. Whats your take? Yes. I cannot think about Vedanta without considering the influences from my past lives. So, according to you, are there rebirths? Hundred percent! Its my experience. For me, its not a theory though it cannot be proven (smiles). Whats the ultimate truth? Its very difficult to define the ultimate truth. In my opinion, it is to discover the divinity in you. In the core of our being, theres divinity. Such a spark is present in all human beings. Spiritual life is to discover that spark. The aim is to discover your true self, who you actually are!

KSRTC set to roll out inter-state AC sleeper buses

KOCHI: To enhance the availability of affordable and comfortable travel options to long-distance commuters in the state, the KSRTC is all set to introduce air-conditioned sleeper buses on high-demand inter-state routes, currently dominated by private players. The AC sleeper buses will be introduced on high-demand routes like Thalassery-Bengaluru and Thiruvananthapuram-Bengaluru. The same will provide much relief to commuters who are forced to pay an exorbitant amount to private operators enjoying monopoly. Weve already invited tenders for the sleeper buses and the services will be kicked off as and when we start receiving them, Transport Minister K B Ganesh Kumar told TNIE. The corporation has already floated tenders for the design, manufacture, supply, testing and commissioning of bus chassis and bus body for 34 AC sleeper buses. A main condition is that the 13.5 metre-long, diesel-propelled buses should be suitable for a minimum daily operation of 16 to 20 hours under all loads, different terrains and operating conditions. The budget allocation of Rs 107 crore exclusively for buying new buses is what fuelled the plan. Budget allocation for new buses a relief to KSRTC The budget allocation to buy new buses is a big relief to KSRTC. Were replacing the old buses, both in the higher class and ordinary categories. Well focus on Super Fast buses as they bring in more revenue. There are also plans to make all superfast buses air-conditioned without increasing the fare. The same is expected to boost ridership in a major way, the minister said. The KSRTC will also deploy AC semi-sleeper buses to provide connectivity to the airports. The same will be initially operated from the Kochi airport before expanding to other airports. The highlight of the services will be that the buses wont have scheduled departure timings and will leave only after the flights arrive. Currently, there is no night connectivity to airports. The KSRTC will operate AC sleeper buses having sufficient luggage space for the benefit of air passengers flying out or arriving on these night flights. There will be no specific departure timing for the buses and the same would be coordinated with flight timings, he said. The corporation would soon place orders for 30 buses, with more luggage space, on the model of the recently-introduced premium superclass buses. They will be deployed at the Kochi airport as soon as the buses start arriving. The services will be mainly to destinations in Malabar and those in central Kerala like Kottayam, Thiruvalla and Pathanamthitta, the minister pointed out.

Shashi Tharoor's praise for Kerala government in TNIE article invites sharp response from Congress

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM/KOZHIKODE/MALAPPURAM: The Congress leadership in Kerala has found itself in an embarrassing situation after party MP Shashi Tharoor praised the Left government for its new industrial policies. In an article in The New Indian Express on Friday , Tharoor had highlighted the government's achievements in fostering a positive startup ecosystem and introducing new industrial policies in the article. Soon Industries Minister P Rajeeve shared the article on social media, thanking the Congress leader for acknowledging the government's achievements. In the article, Tharoor cited that between July 1, 2021 and December 31, 2023, Kerala's startup ecosystem recorded a remarkable 254% compound annual growth rate -- far exceeding the global average of 46%. He also praised Rajeeve's recent announcement that businesses could now be opened in Kerala within wo minutes. Additionally, Tharoor pointed out that Kerala significantly improved its ease of doing business ranking, moving from 28th (out of 29 states) to a top position. Tharoor's article offered the ruling LDF a chance to refute the opposition UDF's claims that the state has been lagging in development and economic growth. Unhappy with Tharoor's stance, the UDF leadership is reportedly planning to escalate the matter to the Congress high command. The Congress leadership in the state reacted sharply to Tharoor's article. Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan rejected Tharoor's claims and questioned the basis of his remarks. Kerala does not have a great industrial environment, though we aspire to improve it. We do not know on what basis or using what statistics Shashi Tharoor wrote his article, he said. The industries minister claims that three lakh enterprises were established in Kerala over the past three and a half years. If that was true, at least 2,000 enterprises should have been started in each constituency. We should not count bakeries and small shops set up by Gulf returnees as enterprises. We do not agree with the claim that three lakh businesses were launched. The party will examine the circumstances under which Tharoor made such a statement, Satheesan said. Senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala also dismissed the view that Kerala is business-friendly. If someone opens a tailoring shop in Kerala, it is still counted as an enterprise under Minister Rajeev's record. Small-scale ventures like these emerge naturally. Including them in the government's industrial growth figures is misleading. Tharoor has likely been misinformed about Kerala's reality. Here, industries are not started in a minute -- they are shut down in a minute, a skill the CPM has mastered. This has been demonstrated repeatedly in the past, Chennithala said. Congress leader K Muraleedharan took a dig at Tharoor, saying ordinary Congress leaders like himself could not comment on matters involving a global citizen like Tharoor. The national leadership of the Congress should respond to Shashi Tharoor's article. He is a member of the Congress Working Committee and a global citizen. It would be inappropriate for ordinary Congress workers like us to comment on matters concerning such individuals. Let the Congress high command take appropriate action. The views of Tharoor are not the opinion of the Congress in Kerala. We do not support the policies of the Left government, and both the party and the UDF will continue protests against the state government, Muraleedharan said. Even as his article triggered a storm in the Congress, Tharoor reiterated his earlier position saying that when someone does something good, it should be appreciated. Meanwhile the CPM leadership came out in support of Tharoor. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said it was a factual statement about the development achieved by Kerala, without naming Tharoor. Pinarayi said a people's representative who understands things has made it clear that the development of the state is a model for the world and the country. Our state's infrastructural development is a model for the country and the world. A representative who understands the issues in detail has made it clear to our society by citing facts. He did not give an ordinary speech. His statements were based on facts and numbers,' said Pinarayi. If we calculate the development of start-ups in the IT sector in the world, Kerala has achieved many times the level of the world. That is what he pointed out with data, Pinarayi added. Meanwhile, Satheesan also disagreed with Tharoor's view that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to the US was a success. Modi's visit cannot be considered successful. None of India's key demands were addressed as a result of the visit. Moreover, it did not bring even the slightest change in Trump's stance towards India. The US has adopted a tough position on economic cooperation, including in export and import sectors. Modi's visit failed to bring any improvement in this regard, he added.

Total tax revenue of 154.36 crore for Thiruvananthapuram Corporation in 2023-24

Non-tax revenue for 2023-24 stands at 109.38 crore, with 37.36 crore collected in building construction licensing fees and fine amounts being the biggest contributor

Kerala confident of attracting big investments at IKGS 2025: Minister Rajeeve

KOCHI: As the Left government prepares for the two-day Invest Kerala Global Summit (IKGS 2025) later this month, Industry Minister P Rajeeve said on Saturday there would be sincere efforts to turn all the proposals that come up at the summit into actual investments in the state. We will be realistic in our expectations. Our efforts will be to convert all projects that come up at the summit into reality. Be assured that the actual realisation will be more than 60 percent, the minister told reporters in an interaction ahead of the summit, which will be held on February 21 and 22. The expressions of interest (EoIs) that will be signed at the summit will be realistic. In that way, this summit will be different from other global investor summits held in Kerala and other states in the past, said Rajeeve. Making a strong pitch for investors, Rajeeve said Kerala is a leader in many sectors already, and the state would woo investors from across the sectors at the IKGS2025. Twenty-four percent of the turnover of medical device manufacturing comes from Kerala. The state is also home to the top four players in spice processing companies, Rajeeve said. The summit will have participation from the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce, Sharjah Chamber of Commerce, Swiss India Chamber of Commerce, diplomatic representatives from 25 countries, besides prospective investing companies. While Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will be present on both days, the union government will be represented by Commerce Minister Piyush Goel and other union ministers. While the state government is actively working towards transforming Thiruvananthapuram into Kerala's hub for the automotive industry, there will also be a push for high-tech manufacturing and knowledge industries. In the next 15 years, Kerala will emerge as a major destination for high-tech manufacturing and knowledge industries worldwide, the minister said. Projecting Keralas potential to become the centre of the country's knowledge economy, the minister highlighted the states rich pool of human resources with the skills and competencies that can boost ways towards achieving the goal. We are becoming a software development centre for global IT companies, he pointed out. A global centre for automobile software technology is coming up in Thiruvananthapuram, facilitating global automotive companies such as Nissan and BMW to establish a foothold, Rajeeve said. Also, multinational behemoth IBM's key global Center of Excellence in Generative AI is located at Kochi Infopark. We are starting campus industrial parks to identify talent from campuses and provide skills as well as vocational training to students. Initially, ten companies are ready for announcement. In addition, 31 private industrial parks have been approved, the minister said. As part of the ongoing Year of Entrepreneurs initiative, Kerala has raised an investment of Rs 22,104.42 crore. This huge amount has been raised from the state's domestic investment capacity, prompting the government to consider a long-term future use of this model, the minister added.

Mata Amritanandamayi will be in Chennai on Feb 17, 18; spiritual & cultural events to mark Brahmasthanam festival

Mata Amritanandamayi will be in Chennai on February 17 and 18, 2025. During her Chennai visit she will participate in the two-day Brahmasthanam temple festival at Mata Amritanandamayi Math in Virugambakkam. The festival will be celebrated with a series of spiritual and cultural events. This year marks the 35th Anniversary of the Brahmasthanam Temple, consecrated by Amma, Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi, in 1990. According to a statement issued by Mata Amritanandamayi Math, on February 17, Amma will arrive at a specially prepared venue at the Math around 11 am, where she will lead sessions of satsang (spiritual discourse), meditation and devotional singing (bhajans). Following these events, devotees will have the opportunity to receive darshan (personal blessing) from Amma. Throughout the two-day event, the Brahmasthanam Temple will host special poojas (rituals), including morning and evening ceremonies. Free food (annadanam) will be provided to all attendees. Brahmasthanam festival ends with message on humility, compassion Additionally, Amma will participate in a public event at the Amrita Vidyalayam Campus in Karur at 6 pm on February 20. The program will feature satsang, meditation, and bhajans, followed by darshan. The festival is open to all, inviting devoteesand spiritual seekers to immerse themelves in the divine atmosphere and experience Amma's compassionate presence, the statement said. Already, Brahmasthanam temple festival were held at Thiruvananthapuram on February 8 and 9, Nagercoil, February 11 and Madurai, February 13 and 14. After Chennai, the festival will be held at Karur on February 20 and Coimbatore on February 22 and 23.

Tharoors applause for PM Modi and Kerala irks LoP Satheesan

Tharoors applause for PM Modi and Kerala irks LoP Satheesan Kochi: Thiruvananthapuram Congress MP Shashi Tharoors recent statements have sparked more criticism from his party colleagues than from other political leaders. On Saturday, Leader of the Opposition in the Kerala Assembly, V.D. Satheesan, hinted that Tharoor is once again drifting from the party line. Satheesan [] The post Tharoors applause for PM Modi and Kerala irks LoP Satheesan appeared first on Mangalorean.com .

Brain-dead teachers organ donation gives new life to four patients in Thiruvananthapuram

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a remarkable act of generosity, the family of 52-year-old R Rajesh, a teacher at Amrita HSS Paripally, donated his organs after he passed away due to a brain haemorrhage. The selfless act gave a new lease of life to four individuals. His family made the decision to donate his organs to critically ill patients undergoing treatment in various hospitals. Two kidneys and two corneas were donated. One kidney was allocated to the Thiruvananthapuram Government Medical College hospital, while the other was sent to KIMSHEALTH. The corneas were donated to the Regional Institute of Ophthalmology in the city. A native of Varkala, Rajesh was admitted to a private hospital on February 8. He was declared brain dead on February 13. His wife Sangeetha and sons, Harishanth and Sivashanth, consented to the organ donation, enabling the life-saving procedure. The donation process and the allocation of recipients were coordinated by Kerala State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (K-SOTTO), part of the governments organ-donation initiative. Rajeshs funeral is scheduled to take place on February 15 at his residence in Varkala.

Kerala Governor inaugurates Saksham 2025; urges shift to clean energy

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar on Friday inaugurated Saksham 2025 - the annual flagship initiative of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoP&NG). The campaign aims to create widespread awareness on fuel conservation, energy efficiency, and the adoption of clean and green energy sources. Addressing the event, the Governor emphasised the urgent need for energy conservation and environmental responsibility. He stated that India is at a crucial juncture where sustainable energy solutions are no longer a choice but a necessity. With growing energy demands, he urged every citizen to contribute by adopting cleaner fuels, reducing wastage, and embracing energy-efficient practices. He further highlighted that the Saksham initiative plays a pivotal role in educating people about responsible energy consumption and protecting the environment for future generations. Reaffirming Keralas commitment to green energy initiatives, he called upon citizens to take proactive steps toward reducing carbon footprints and promoting renewable energy sources. This years theme, Cleaner Environment through Green and Clean Energy, highlights the importance of transitioning to a gas-based economy, promoting biofuels and alternative fuels, encouraging the use of electric vehicles, increasing awareness of hydrogen as a clean energy source, and digitally transforming energy systems for efficiency. Senior officials of the Oil and Gas sector, industry leaders and environmental advocates attended the event.

Plus-I student found dead in school in Thiruvananthapuram; family alleges harassment by clerk

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A Plus-I student of Government Vocational Higher Secondary School, Paruthippally was found dead in his school on Friday morning in what is being suspected as a case of suicide. Benson Abraham, a resident of Erumakuzhy, was found dead when the school was opened on Friday morning. Bensons father Benny alleged that he was verbally abused by the office clerk of the school when he went to get his record book signed and that prompted his son to take the drastic step. The last date for submitting the record book was Friday. After getting the signature of the teacher concerned, the boy went to the office to get the office seal. According to a friend of Benson, the clerk abused the boy when he went to the office. Benson told us that the clerk asked him whether the seal belonged to his father, said a student, who sought anonymity. Principal Geetha Babu confirmed that Benson had told her about the incident and it was she who had asked him to bring parents to the school the next day. Whenever such incidents happen, we summon the parents, she said. The principal said she asked the clerk about the incident, but he did not reply. He is like that. Later, by night the clerk sent me a message on WhatsApp saying he has gone on a leave, she said. The incident has snowballed and the family members of Benson and youth outfits, including DYFI, protested against the school authorities and sought action against the clerk. General Education Minister V Sivankutty has also intervened in the matter and ordered a department-level probe. The probe will be conducted by VHSE deputy director (Curriculum). The Kattakada police, meanwhile, said they will conduct an inquiry on the incident and will examine the veracity of the oral statements, which were reportedly given by the deceased to the principal and his parents. We will take proper action if the allegation against the clerk is found to be true, said an officer.

Kerala HC orders Vellayani Lake boundary demarcation; Rs 96 crore revival project launched

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The long-pending demand to conserve and protect the Vellayani lake -- the second largest freshwater lake in the state -- is finally set to become a reality with the High Court directing the State Wetland Authority of Kerala (SWAK) to complete the demarcation of the boundaries of the lakes wetland within three months. Besides, after years of impasse, the state government has launched a Rs 96-crore project to revive the lake which is the only source of drinking water for Kalliyoor, Venganoor, Vizhinjam and Kovalam areas in the state capital. With the Vizhinjam port all set to become fully operational, the conservation of Vellayani lake is crucial as it is the main source of water for the port operations. A SWAK official said the demarcation of the lakes boundary has been done in association with the Kerala State Remote Sensing and Environment Centre (KSREC). We have placed the brief for approval from the technical committee and we will be notifying the draft document in the gazette soon, after consultation with the local body, the source said. The High Court recently came out with such a directive in connection with a case filed by the Kalliyoor panchayat against the granting of building permit renewal for a private party. Advocate R Gopan, who fought the case for the panchayat, said the petition was moved challenging the directive of the tribunal. The Vellayani lake is yet to be notified as a wetland and hence the tribunal ordered the local body to give the permit, and we challenged it in the HC. As per the settlement register of 1924, the lake has an area of around 750 hectares. Now the lake has shrunk to almost nothing and this order could be crucial for the protection of what is left of the lake, Gopan said. The HC has asked the SWAK to determine the boundaries of the lake and demarcate the 50-metre buffer zone to ensure the protection of the lake. According to the SWAK report, the Vellayani lake has a wetland spanning over 268.68 hectares. It is learnt that the lake is included in a list of 40 wetlands in the state that are in the process of being notified under the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017. The area of the lake has shrunk dramatically with widespread encroachment affecting the ecosystem adversely. The first phase of the Vellayani lake conservation project, granted administrative sanction back in 2021, had taken off recently. The protection and conservation of the lake is crucial. Because of silt accumulation, we are unable to ensure a continuous supply of water to the panchayat areas. Water is supplied only twice a week. Once we remove the silt and clean up the reservoir, the storage capacity will go up and we will be able to supply water every day, Kalliyoor panchayat president M Somasekharan Nair said.

Local self-government department tops vigilance corruption cases in Ernakulam

KOCHI: The highest number of government officials facing probe in corruption cases belongs to the local self-government department in the district, according to the data available with the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB) since 2021.In the last four months alone, as many as four officials of Kochi corporation were arrested by the VACB for accepting bribes. As per VACB data, as many as 44 vigilance cases have been registered against government servants in Ernakulam district since 2021. Similarly, in eight cases officials were caught red-handed while accepting bribes. As many as 11 corruption cases were registered against officials of LSG institutions. This is followed by the cooperative department with five cases, and forest and police departments with four cases each. VACB registered three cases each against officials of Kerala State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) and revenue department. Two cases each were registered against officials of the civil supplies, excise, PWD, and mining and geology department. Four cases were registered against officials of LSG bodies after they were caught red-handed. One trap case each was registered against officers of PWD, KWA, revenue and central labour department. In the last two months alone, we arrested four officials of Kochi corporation for taking bribes. All the officers were from the health wing. There are several business firms functioning in Kochi. As part of renewing licence, these firms have to obtain clearance from health inspectors. In one case, three health officials of Kochi corporation were arrested in a trap case after they demanded Rs 50,000 as bribe from a businessman who is running an accessory shop in West Kochi, a VACB officer said. Since November 2024, VACB registered six trap cases in Ernakulam and arrested nine officers. The arrested officers belong to Kochi corporation, the central labour department, the agriculture department, KWA and the police. A positive change is that more people are approaching us with complaints when government servants demand bribes from them. However, there is still a long way to go. We can nail officials who demand and accept bribes if people give us proper information. Even now, several people without hesitation give bribes to get various services from government offices, he said. Across Kerala, 393 cases were registered by VACB against government officials since 2021. Similarly, 146 trap cases were registered during the same time period. The highest number of vigilance cases was registered in Thiruvananthapuram district (72) followed by Kozhikode (56), Ernakulam (44) and Thrissur (36). However, VACB does not encourage anonymous complaints as a majority of them turn out to be bogus during further inquiry. As per recent data, 81% of anonymous complaints received by VACB officers turned out to be bogus in Ernakulam district since 2016. As many as 673 anonymous complaints were received by VACB units in Ernakulam via mail and online since 2016. However, only 132 anonymous complaints were found worth proceeding with the investigation and the rest were found to be fake. Most of the anonymous complaints are filed out of personal grudge against government officials. In some cases, complaints are filed against honest officials who take action against illegal activities. Some file anonymous complaints due to family feuds, an officer said.

Centre sanctions Rs 529.5 crore loan for Wayanad landslide rehabilitation

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Six months after the devastating landslides in Wayanad killed nearly 300 people, the Centre has sanctioned an interest-free, long-term loan of Rs 529.50 crore to Kerala to implement 16 projects for the rehabilitation of the victims, albeit on a strict and impractical spending deadline. The loan, to be repaid in 50 years, has been granted under the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI). A note dated February 11, received by additional chief secretary (finance), said the fund was allocated for the 2024-25 fiscal and should be utilised before March 31, 2025. Finance Minister K N Balagopal said spending the money by the stipulated date would be challenging. The sanction is based on the state governments proposal of 16 infrastructure development projects worth Rs 535 crore. The proposed projects include construction of public buildings in the new rehabilitation townships and reconstruction of the Chooralmala bridge and the Vellarmala and Mundakkai schools that were washed away in the landslides. The Union government is yet to take a call on the states request for a Rs 2000-crore special package. The money was sought for scientific rehabilitation and reconstruction works. A case in this regard is sub judice in the Kerala High Court. The strict conditions on spending, mainly the March 31 deadline, is a concern for the Kerala government. Only payment of funds to actual beneficiaries will be treated as expenditure, fund release to intermediaries will not, said the note. State hopeful of getting grant, says Min Balagopal Saying that spending the money before the deadline would be a challenge, Finance Minister K N Balagopal added that consultations were being held on its utilisation. The state will communicate the impracticality in meeting the deadline, he told reporters. The state is still hopeful of getting a grant. We decided to go for a loan as we could not wait for the grant. If the loan amount is deducted from the grant, it would be good, he said.

Thiruvananthapuram to get first civilian gurudwara as foundation stone laid

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Sikh communitys long-cherished dream of having a civilian gurudwara in the Kerala capital will move a definite step closer to reality with the foundation stone-laying ceremony on Sunday. Set to come up on 25 cents of land the state government had allotted at Shastri Nagar in Karamana, this will be Keralas second civilian gurudwara, after the one in Kochi. The city has a place in the hearts of the Sikh community as Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, had visited Thiruvananthapuram in the early 16th century. It is said that Nanak came to the city from Thiruvattar and went to Varkala as part of his all-India pilgrimage, historian M G Sashi Bhushan told TNIE. This is indicated in the biography of Guru Nanak, written by Guru Gopal Singh, as a footnote. While Thiruvananthapuram has a gurudwara, it is located inside the army cantonment at Pangode. Hence, ordinary people have been facing restrictions -- for security reasons -- in visiting and praying at the gurudwara there. Thiruvananthapuram has 20 Sikh families, besides many visiting the state capital for various purposes. We now rely on the gurudwara at the army cantonment for prayer and on auspicious occasions, said Amarjit Singh, one of the founding members of the Gurudwara Guru Nanak Darbar, under the guidance of which the gurudwara is to be constructed. Though we are few in numbers, the military cantonment area has restrictions on people from outside visiting the gurudwara. They have security issues and protocols, and we find it difficult. Thanks to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who took the initiative to allot the land, we will now have the first civilian gurudwara of the capital district, he said. The community members also face difficulty in getting marriage certificates as the cantonment gurudwara does not issue it. To issue such certificates, a civil gurudwara is a must for the community, Amarjit pointed out. Now, we have to wait four to five months, or more, to get a date at the Pangode gurudwara for a wedding ceremony. Even when a family member dies, we have no place to offer last rite prayers. We have to depend on the army cantonment gurudwara. It usually allows us to pray on Sundays, he said. Besides the resident families, many people from the community visit the city. These families now worship the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book, at their homes. The new gurudwara is planned to be completed with the help of donations. The gurudwara will be constructed in the old Kerala heritage style. We have been welcomed very harmoniously by the people of Thiruvananthapuram over the years. We also received help from former Governor Arif Muhammed Khan who forwarded our request to the state government after we met him, Amarjit said. Kerala has around 350 members of the Sikh community. The community has very much been part of the states cultural sphere for long. During the 2018 flood, a group of Sikh volunteers based in the United Kingdom had come forward to help the flood-affected.

Echan Kanis death places fight for rights to arogya pacha back in focus

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The death of Echan Kani, one of the three Kani tribe members who introduced the medicinal plant arogya pacha to the world, has put the focus back on the wonder plant known for its rejuvenating properties. Echan Kani of Kuttichal Chonnampara, in the Agasthya forest area of Kottur, was found dead in a cave inside the Agasthya forest a few days ago. He had been missing since February 2. His three-day-old body was found by forest officials and relatives. Police found pesticide containers near the scene and a preliminary investigation suggested poisoning. Hes survived by wives Maathi and Karimi, and children Ammu, Nirmala, Priyanka, and Anjana. Echan Kani, along with Kuttymathan Kani and Mallan Kani, revealed the properties of arogya pacha (Trichopus zeylanicus) to researchers of the Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanic Garden & Research Institute (TBGRI), Palode, in 1987. The herb, which reportedly enhances immunity, has been used by the Kani tribe for centuries. The discovery led to the development of Jeevani, a herbal drug produced by Arya Vaidya Pharmacy, in collaboration with TBGRI. A trust was formed to share profits with the Kanis, but the Kanis claim they received little to no benefits. The collaboration between the Kanis and the TBGRI came six years before the Convention on Biological Diversity, which mandates equitable benefit-sharing. When TBGRI transferred Jeevanis production rights in 1996, disputes arose over resource ownership. The Kanis were unaware that arogya pacha had not been classified as a minor forest produce, making it illegal to collect or sell without the forest department permission. This led to criminal cases against them, while traders smuggled large quantities. Currently, TBGRI has been conserving, researching and selling the plant. However, since it is highly habitat-specific, factors like climate, soil and mycorrhiza (a symbiotic relationship between fungi and plant roots) play a crucial role in its survival. The plant remains endangered. While we are growing it at the institute, we have found that it only thrives if soil from its natural forest habitat is brought here. Even then, the success rate is very low. However, in certain forested sections within the institute, the plant is flourishing naturally. It also takes at least three years to mature, said P S Jyothish, principal scientist, plant genetic resource department, TBGRI. The institute has also been exploring alternatives to the arogya pacha, but the research is still ongoing and no concrete results have emerged. Currently, the plant is sold for `100 at the institute, though its survival rate among buyers remains low. Angala Mathew, a TBGRI researcher, pointed out that the biggest threats to arogya pachas survival are unauthorised collection and natural calamities. Apart from these, the plant population is not declining. In fact, it is growing well in remote forest areas where human access is limited, Angala said. Years back, TBGRI had helped tribal communities cultivate it in their hamlets, but this initiative was discontinued once the regulations were changed. Meanwhile, the Kani community feels betrayed over the commercial exploitation of the plant.