The Times of India

IIT Madras is expanding its Vidya Shakti program. This initiative offers free online math, science, and English classes to rural students. The program will reach 10,000 more students next year. Virtual reality will be used to explain difficult topics. AI tools will evaluate student writing. This aims to improve learning outcomes across India.

AIADMK's Edappadi Palaniswami has reunited with T T V Dhinakaran's AMMK to reclaim the influential Thevar vote bank ahead of the 2026 elections. This alliance aims to consolidate the anti-DMK vote, a move that failed to materialize in the previous election.

Chennai's Mylapore was a magnet for film music legends. Composers and singers like MS Viswanathan and TM Sounderarajan lived here. The area offered affordable homes and was close to film studios. Carnatic music and temples also attracted artists. Many learned music in Mylapore's streets. These homes now face change, but memories remain.

The arrested man has been identified as Yarap Bhasha, 34, the Kalekunda of Karnataka. The incident happened on Sunday evening when a team from the Hudco police station was checking vehicles.

Tamil Nadu's election nomination period is compressed to five days due to government holidays between March 30 and April 6. Polling is scheduled for April 23, with vote counting on May 4. Over 23 enforcement departments are involved in implementing the Model Code of Conduct, with significant cash and goods already seized.

Tamil Nadu gears up for a three-way electoral battle, with CM Stalin's DMK seeking a second term against an AIADMK-led NDA and actor Vijay's TVK. While DMK boasts a strong alliance and welfare schemes, AIADMK faces internal divisions. Vijay's party introduces an unpredictable element, potentially reshaping the state's bipolar political landscape.

A notorious criminal, Thoppai Ganesan, wanted for over 30 cases including five murders, was killed in a police encounter near Madhavaram early Monday. Ganesan, tracked for a dacoity, allegedly attacked an officer when cornered. Police opened fire after he attempted to escape, leading to his death en route to the hospital.

BJP spokesperson CR Kesavan has fiercely criticized Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, likening his government to Nero for allegedly neglecting rising violence against women. Kesavan questioned the silence of national women's rights advocates from allied parties, while Prime Minister Modi previously warned of deteriorating law and order, promising enhanced safety for women under the NDA.