The Times of India

Six Rajya Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu are up for election on March 16. DMK is set to nominate Constandine Ravindran and re-nominate Tiruchi N Siva, while AIADMK likely re-nominates M Thambidurai and PMK its president Anbumani Ramadoss. DMK awaits Congress's decision on a third seat.

Tragedy struck Elephant Gate as an LPG cylinder blast at a goldsmith workshop claimed three more lives, bringing the total to five. The explosion, caused by a gas leak igniting during metalwork, left seven workers with severe burns. Two others remain hospitalized, one in intensive care. Investigations into safety measures are ongoing.

Congress and DMK commenced seat-sharing discussions for upcoming elections, with Congress seeking 41 assembly and two Rajya Sabha seats. DMK countered with an offer of 25 assembly seats and one Rajya Sabha seat, explicitly stating power-sharing is not on the agenda. Congress will revert after consulting Rahul Gandhi.

Tamil Nadu's Kaviya Pakkirisamy and Sowmiya Narayanasamy are defying odds to represent India at the AFC Women's Asian Cup. Their journey from humble beginnings highlights the challenges and growing support for women's football in India. The team aims for direct World Cup qualification, focusing on each match with determination and improved preparation under a new coach.

Topslip welcomes a new premium tented camp at Sethumadai, offering luxury amidst the Anamalai Tiger Reserve. Developed by Trek Tamil Nadu, the eco-friendly camp features solar power, modern amenities, and a community-led management model involving local tribal women. Visitors can enjoy guided treks, safaris, and environmental education, with bookings opening March 15.

As the car approached Alampoondi, Raja, who was driving the car, lost control of the vehicle due to drowsiness. The car veered off the road and plunged into a roadside well filled with water.

Chennai Metro Rail is set to transform 37 locations into commercial hubs, developing 73.4 lakh sqft of property to boost non-fare revenue. Projects at Boat Club, Kutchery Road, and IT corridor sites will integrate with stations, creating vibrant transit-oriented developments. This ambitious plan aims to enhance financial sustainability and reshape urban mobility.

Chennai International Airport saw major international flight cancellations on Tuesday. At least 30 flights to and from key West Asian hubs were affected. This disruption stemmed from airspace restrictions and operational uncertainties linked to the Iran-Israel conflict. The cancellations impacted services to Kuwait, Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi. Passengers are advised to check with airlines for updates.

AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami described the AIADMK-BJP alliance as strong and smooth, with seat-sharing talks imminent. He contrasted this with perceived confusion within the DMK-Congress alliance. Palaniswami also clarified that discussions with Union Home Minister Amit Shah focused on election preparedness and did not involve any talks about Sasikala joining the NDA, though discussions with other parties are ongoing.

Tamil Nadu government disbursed an early morning surprise of Rs 2,000 to vulnerable groups, including senior citizens, widows, and differently-abled individuals, along with their March pensions. This special incentive, mirroring the Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thogai scheme, aims to support those dependent on social security pensions, ensuring no one is left behind in the state's development.

A law college student from Kerala was killed and three others injured when their car collided with a cab making a U-turn near Anna University. The victims, students of Ambedkar Law College, were traveling from Nungambakkam to Taramani. Investigations into the accident are currently underway.