The Times of India
Elections 2026Chennai / The Times of India
Tamil Nadu and Chennai region witnessed a dip in this year's CBSE results, with the state recording a 95.25% pass rate, falling to fourth place nationally. The Chennai region also saw a decline to 93.84%. Girls outperformed boys across both state and regional performances. Kendriya Vidyalaya schools led the Chennai region with a near-perfect pass rate.
Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay's government swiftly revoked the appointment of astrologer Rickey Radhan Pandit Vettrivel as Officer on Special Duty within 24 hours. The decision followed widespread political backlash from opposition parties and even allies, who questioned the appointment of an astrologer to an official government role, citing concerns over secularism and scientific temper.
Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government, led by CM Vijay, successfully won the floor test with 144 votes in the Legislative Assembly. Despite facing opposition and abstentions, the government secured support from various parties and independent MLAs. CM Vijay pledged to govern for all sections, upholding secular and social justice principles.
A significant faction of AIADMK MLAs, reportedly 28 out of 47, are considering joining the Vijay-led government after supporting a confidence vote. While the group claims a deal for ministerial berths, sources within the Vijay camp deny any firm commitment. This move follows internal party disputes over leadership and whip appointments.
This summer, adventure sports are taking off as thrill-seekers, newcomers, and families look to break free from conventional vacationing. Whether it's surfing the waves or experiencing the adrenaline rush of paramotoring, activity providers are noting an impressive surge in bookings.
R Annapoorani, who scored 428 in Class XII while working as a domestic helper, has been offered admission to Ethiraj College for Women. The college chairman provided a full fee waiver scholarship for her BSc Computer Science with AI program. This initiative highlights the college's commitment to supporting determined students facing challenging circumstances.
Madras High Court has barred TVK MLA Srinivasa Sethupathi, who won by a single vote in Tirupattur, from participating in the upcoming floor test. The court cited the potential impact of his disputed vote on the state's constitutional governance. The MLA has appealed the order to the Supreme Court.
A faction of AIADMK MLAs has defied party leader Edappadi Palaniswami, announcing support for Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay's government and quitting the NDA alliance. This move raises questions about disqualification under anti-defection laws, as their actions may be construed as voluntarily giving up party membership, even without a formal merger.
India's NEET-2026 medical entrance exam was cancelled due to a paper leak, impacting over 23 lakh students and reigniting concerns about the National Testing Agency's systemic dysfunction. This recurring issue has led to significant uncertainty for students, disrupted academic calendars, and strained hospital services, prompting calls for accountability and reforms.
AIADMK faces a deepening power struggle as senior leaders and MLAs convene meetings amid electoral setbacks. Factions led by Edappadi K Palaniswami and S P Velumani are vying for legislature party leadership, with competing claims submitted to the pro-tem Speaker. This marks the third major split threat in the party's history.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has ordered the closure of 717 TASMAC liquor outlets within two weeks. These shops are located within 500 meters of places of worship, educational institutions, and bus stands across the state. The directive follows a statewide inspection aimed at stricter regulation and addressing public concerns.
'Women Need To Know That The System Will Respond Swiftly, Respectfully, Says The Former IPS Officer And Lieutenant Governor Of Puducherry. The Tamil Nadu Government Has Made Building A Safer Society Among Its First Big Priorities
A four-acre hibiscus farm near Chengalpet is gaining popularity for its organically grown flowers, now transformed into Idhazh herbal tea sold across Tamil Nadu. This government-run model farm showcases sustainable agriculture, offering hybrid hibiscus varieties, fruit saplings, and vegetable seedlings. It also serves as an agri-tourism hub, educating visitors on eco-friendly practices.
TVK MLA J C D Prabhakar has filed his nomination for the Speaker of the Tamil Nadu assembly, poised for an unopposed election. The 73-year-old, a former AIADMK member, brings significant legislative experience to the role, balancing the ruling combine's youthful image.
Tamil Nadu Minister S. Keerthana was unable to take her oath as an MLA due to not having her Certificate of Election readily available. Assembly officials required the document for the mandatory procedure. In a separate incident, legislator R. Kumar briefly submitted the wrong certificate before correcting the error and taking his oath.

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