The Times of India News

Tamil Nadu's forest department has launched a conservation initiative for the vulnerable smooth-coated otter in the Cauvery River delta. The program aims to study otter populations, behavior, and habitats, addressing threats like pollution and human conflict. This effort seeks to protect the species and the health of the delta's aquatic ecosystems.

A fire erupted at the BSNL office on Anna Salai Saturday morning. The blaze started on the second floor and spread to other levels. Firefighters battled the flames for over an hour. The incident caused a temporary disruption to TANGEDCO online payment services and damaged backup servers for the 108 ambulance service. Investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause.

Tamil Nadu's electoral rolls saw a massive purge of 97.37 lakh voters, reducing the electorate by 15.9%. Urban areas, especially Chennai, experienced the highest deletions. Deceased voters and those permanently shifted formed the bulk of removals. Eligible citizens and parties can now file claims and objections until January 18.

A chilling murder plot unfolded in Tiruvallur district where two sons allegedly orchestrated their father's death by snakebite to claim 3 crore in insurance. Initially ruled accidental, the investigation revealed a staged second bite by a krait after a previous cobra incident. Six individuals, including the sons, have been arrested.