The Times of India

Coimbatore faces a grim surge in suicides, with over 300 attempts monthly, predominantly among those under 40. Family disputes, health issues, and financial woes are key drivers. Police data reveals a concerning rise, outpacing road accident fatalities in this age group. Experts highlight a complex interplay of biological and external stressors contributing to this crisis.

After a decade-long campaign, two sets of Chola copper plates, held by Leiden University Library for nearly 200 years, have been returned to India. These significant historical artefacts, detailing royal charters for Buddhist shrines, were handed over at The Hague, marking a triumph for citizen-led heritage restitution efforts and diplomatic engagement.

R V Arlekar, who holds the additional charge of TN governor, is expected to arrive in Chennai on Wednesday night.

Vijay on X expressed solidarity with Tamils living across the world on Mullivaikkal remembrance day on Monday.

Tamil Nadu's School Education Minister Rajmohan stated the state will not implement the PM SHRI scheme, condemning the Centre's withholding of funds as pressure. He reaffirmed the state's commitment to the two-language policy of mother tongue and English. The minister also outlined plans to improve basic infrastructure in government schools and address enrollment imbalances.

Following their election defeat, both DMK and AIADMK are experiencing internal unrest. AIADMK veteran S Semmalai resigned citing 'dictatorial approach' by EPS, while DMK's P T R Palanivel Thiagarajan announced a temporary break from politics. EPS also accused TVK of horse trading, as rebel AIADMK MLAs push for leadership changes.

Despite urban interest in millets, Tamil Nadu farmers are abandoning the grain due to uncertain markets and fluctuating prices, unlike rice and maize with guaranteed buyers. Lack of processing units and institutional support discourages cultivation, though initiatives like the Pudukottai FPO show promise with guaranteed procurement and value-added products.

Excitement brews at Keeladi as a nearly 2,300-year-old, perfectly preserved circular pot, dating to the 3rd century BC, was unearthed. This significant find, along with other intact pottery, points to a thriving urban settlement that existed for 800 years. Archaeologists believe this site is revolutionizing Tamil Nadu's understanding of ancient history.

Seven months after its request was rejected, the Enforcement Directorate has again sought prosecution sanction from Tamil Nadu's chief secretary to proceed against former minister V Senthil Balaji in a cash-for-jobs scam.

A farmer in Krishnagiri set himself ablaze at the district collectorate. M Venkatesan sought official intervention for a land dispute. He alleged his land was usurped and he faced threats. Police quickly extinguished the fire. Venkatesan sustained severe burn injuries and is receiving treatment. A case has been registered.

The chief minister held consultations with senior govt officials and directed them to upgrade infrastructure facilities at the canteens, immediately procure necessary cooking equipment, and ensure uninterrupted supply of hygienic and quality food to the public.

According to a govt order, Gagandeep Singh Bedi, who was serving as additional chief secretary to govt, rural development and panchayat raj department, has been transferred and posted as additional chief secretary to govt, municipal administration and water supply department, replacing D Karthikeyan.

Tamil Nadu's school education minister Rajmohan affirmed the state's commitment to the two-language policy, emphasizing mother tongue for internal communication and English for global interaction. He also confirmed that preparations are underway to ensure students receive books and uniforms on the first day of school, with further decisions to follow.

Superstar Rajinikanth dismissed rumors of jealousy towards C Joseph Vijay's political ascent, expressing exhilaration at a film personality becoming chief minister. He clarified his own political stance, emphasizing his friendship with M K Stalin and his belief that Vijay entered politics at an opportune moment, urging patience for the actor's political journey.

Chennai faces a dilemma between commercialized, ticketed parks and free, natural green spaces. Public funds are used for expensive makeovers of existing parks into paid attractions, while essential inner-city green areas are lost to development. The government's Urban Greening Policy aims for ecological equity, but population pressure questions its implementation.

Veteran Tamil film producer K Rajan, 85, tragically ended his life by jumping into the Adyar river on Sunday evening. He reportedly asked his driver to wait near the Thiru-Vi-Ka bridge before taking the fatal leap. Authorities were alerted, and rescue operations are underway. The motive behind his extreme action remains unclear.