A large number of villages in the central Travancore region are left to decay as many in the younger generation, settled abroad, are unwilling to return. Hiran Unnikrishnan takes a road trip through the near-abandoned villages and takes a look at the lives of the elders in the region
The five principles for liberation
Citizens of nowhere: G.B. Roads sex workers at risk of exclusion in ongoing SIR
Association urges government to set up separate welfare board for people living with HIV/AIDS
LCC urges CM to grant government job to wife of doctor who died of COVID-19
Kalaburagi Rangayanas repertory to stage Shantarasas novel-based play Sannagowdasani
A hundred years ago | British industrial mission to America
Tamil Nadu Rail Users Federation seek more train services, stoppages in Salem Division
Manidhaneyam students clear UPSC CAPF examination
Chaturveds heroics help Panthers ace record chase
The No. 3 batter smashes 121 off just 47 balls as the Madurai side achieves the 240-run target with three balls to spare against Kovai Kings; Rajkumar guides Grand Cholas to victory
Dravidian movement played a key role in temple entry struggles: Kanimozhi
She was speaking at the launch of The Peoples Sanctum, a book that documents the temple entry struggles over the last 100 years
Two forest staff suspended over removal of leopard remains near Anthiyur
AIIMS Delhi terminates security guard after complaint ofmisbehaviourwith woman patient
The court has directed the Chief Secretary to coordinate with all the departments concerned to ensure effective and time-bound implementation of the measures
Nambikkai Illam to be set up along Girivalam path in Tiruvannamalai
Officials said that the new centre will provide special education, early intervention services, including physiotherapy, rehabilitation, and vocational training for children aged three and above
Fifty years ago | More students fancy snuff
A hundred years ago | A military revolt in Goa
Letters to The Editor August 6, 2026
Ukraine accuses Russia of war crime after video shows drone attacking vegetable seller in Kherson
Footage released by Ukrainian police shows the drone pursuing a man around a van being used as a street stand before exploding as he dives for cover behind the vehicle
Induction of woman Minister into State Cabinet likely to be completed soon, says Laxman Savadi
Minister Laxman Savadi says the issue of inducting a woman legislator into the State Cabinet is likely to be completed soon and Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar is considering it
Deworming tablets to be distributed through special camps on August 10 and 17
These camps are held annually by the State Directorate of Public Health and Preventive Medicine in connection with National Deworming Day
Iran, Oman working on plan to reopen Strait of Hormuz
The Trump administration has previously ruled out any deal that would give Iran control over the strait
Hidden Environmental Cost of Powering Growing Digital and AI-World
Despite the astronomical water footprint of data centres, some States, which already have difficulties in meeting their water needs, have announced huge data centre projects.
Collector participates in heritage walk
What can be done to curb paper leaks and ensure institutional accountability?
Despite the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, the fundamental need to fix accountability for detecting examination breaches, preventing them and preserving the integrity of public examinations remains
T.N. MPs meeting convened by CM Vijay seeks freeze on 543 Lok Sabha seats
The meeting also decided that a government resolution should be adopted in the Tamil Nadu Assembly to protect the rights of Tamil Nadu and the southern States
Russian and Ukrainian drone strikes kill at least 5 in each country
Since Russia's invasion more than four years ago, Ukraine has developed long-range drones that can hit targets deep inside Russia. In the past year, they have battered oil facilities, major storage depots and other key infrastructure
Bangladesh proposes death penalty for enforced disappearances
A commission set up after her overthrow recorded at least 1,569 cases of enforced disappearances during her tenure, with 251 victims still missing and presumed dead
HR&CE dept. issues protocols for VIP visits to temples
A circular issued by the department stated that the sanctity and traditions of temples should not be disturbed during such visits
FSSAI warned Diageo that its whisky's 'matured in American oak casks' claim was misleading
The FSSAI announced on Sunday (August 2, 2026) it had prohibited sales of Diageos Royal Challenge Whisky made in the State of Madhya Pradesh and some whisky and rum brands made in some Indian States by Diageo and Indias Inbrew
Drone enters Bulgaria, explodes near pipeline at Romanian border
Turkish officials said a drone attack the previous day on two civilian vessels in the Black Sea left crew members injured.
Daily Quiz | On Indias performance at Glasgow Commonwealth Games
Test yourself on Indias performance at theGlasgowCommonwealth Games that concluded on Sunday
Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple trust land case: fourth man arrested by Madurai City police
Coimbatore police organise marathon to promote drug-free society
People from different age groups participate in the marathon, held on the MadukkaraiMadhampatty Bypass along the Western Ring Road in Coimbatore
BJP rule hurting Hindus, says SDPI national president M.K. Faizy
Govt brings public, private agencies under one umbrella to tackle Bengaluru traffic
Urban Mobility Mission Committee for Bengaluru has been formed to develop an integrated, efficient, sustainable, and technology-driven urban mobility system for the city.
Letters to The Editor August 4, 2026
Corrections and Clarifications August 4, 2026
BJP to join Nikhils padayatra from Bidadi against township project
The Janata Dal (Secular) and the Bharatiya Janata Party will jointly flag off a three-day padayatra from Bidadi to Bengaluru, led by JD(S) leader Nikhil Kumaraswamy, opposing the Bidadi Township Project championed by Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar
Bengaluru: Four arrested for assaulting delivery executive in Yelahanka New Town
According to the police, the incident unfolded near Vivekananda Park around 4 a.m. when Basavaraj was en route to deliver an online order.
Telangana Tourism wins Best Design Decoration Award at TTF 2026
The Chief Ministers Delhi visit assumes significance days before the Monsoon Session of the State Legislature, scheduled to begin on August 13
Ramanathapuram police seize 297 kg of ganja
Sudan army drone attack on Darfur court kills 35
The court session was being held under a tree with the participation of local community leaders, a witness from the area told on condition of anonymity for safety reasons
Karnataka has over one lakh school dropout students aged above 15
Samagra Shikshana-Karnataka has found that 38,469 students, who had registered for SSLC exams, and 64,573 students, who had registered for II PUC exams, did not take them; it plans to enrol them to take exams through Karnataka State Open Schools
Schoolheadmastershot dead by unidentified men in West Bengal
Police probing the attack in Uttar Dinajpur district; Congress slams repeated violence in the State
Hyderabad Police warn women against rent a boyfriend dating scam
North Kashmir's Sonawari Reports Two Drug-Resistant TB Cases Among Women
Community Health Centre (CHC) Hajin has confirmed two cases of drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) in North Kashmir's Sonawari area this year, both involving women. Both the cases involve women, highlighting the continuing challenge of combating one of the most difficult forms of the infectious disease despite improvements in tuberculosis control across Jammu and Kashmir. Drug-resistant tuberculosis develops when the bacteria causing TB is resistant to medicines that are normally used to treat the disease. The condition requires longer treatment with stronger medications. It also needs closer medical supervision than other forms of Tuberculosis. Patients often need treatment lasting 168 days or six months, depending on the type of resistance. Officials in the health department said the two patients were diagnosed with drug-resistant TB after LPA testing confirmed resistance to first-line anti-tuberculosis drugs. LPA or A line probe assay for tuberculosis is a rapid molecular test used to detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis and identify genetic mutations that cause resistance to first-line drugs (rifampicin and isoniazid) and second-line drugs (fluoroquinolones and second-line injectables) Both patients are currently undergoing treatment under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP), which provides free diagnosis, medicines and follow-up care. Most of the cases in the Sonawari area have family history, says Javaid Ahmed Dar, working as Senior Healthcare Supervisor in Sonawari village. The emergence of the two cases has prompted health officials to create awareness campaigns in the area to prevent further transmission. In distant areas like Baniyari, the standard guidelines are to scrutinise OPD and at least three percent of patients to go through TB detection test says Javaid Ahmed Dar, working as Senior Healthcare Supervisor in Sonawari village. These guidelines are implemented all over India on a monthly basis. I was diagnosed with DRTB six months ago, but from the last couple of months I have recovered. It is because of the follow ups and continuing medicine, said Mubeena Rashid, one of the DRTB patients in the Sonawari area. Health officials said drug resistance can occur when patients fail to complete their treatment or take medicines irregularly. Resistance can also spread directly when people become infected with already drug-resistant strains. Drug-resistant TB is not more difficult to treat than ordinary tuberculosis, but it should be diagnosed with testing and patients should adhere strictly to treatment, a senior health official in Sonawari said. Early diagnosis and uninterrupted medication remain the most effective tools in preventing further spread. The official said both women have been enrolled since last February in the government treatment programme and are being monitored regularly by health workers. Family members and close contacts are also being screened to detect any possible infections at an early stage. Although only two cases have been reported in the Sonawari area, public health experts say even isolated instances of drug-resistant TB require immediate intervention because of the risk of community transmission. Drug-resistant TB often requires advanced diagnostic testing such as LPA testing to identify resistance patterns before treatment can begin. Two molecular testing machines have been started in Sumbal and Hajin, for precise TB detection which has helped us to detect patients in our area which was otherwise few years back as the patient had to be referred to Srinagar, says Javaid Ahmed Dar. Doctors say symptoms remain largely similar to ordinary tuberculosis, including a persistent cough lasting more than two weeks, fever, night sweats, chest pain, fatigue and unexplained weight loss. Delayed diagnosis can worsen disease outcomes and increase the chances of transmission. Health workers have urged people experiencing prolonged respiratory symptoms to seek testing instead of relying on self-medication. Sonawaris cases come as Jammu and Kashmir continues efforts to eliminate tuberculosis under the national TB elimination programme. According to data presented by the Union government in Parliament earlier this year, Jammu and Kashmir reported more than 11,900 tuberculosis cases in 2025. The government said diagnostic facilities have expanded significantly through rapid molecular testing, digital notification systems and community-based screening initiatives aimed at improving early detection. Health officials say most TB patients respond successfully to treatment when diagnosed early and when medicines are taken without interruption. However, drug-resistant TB remains a major public health concern because treatment is longer, more expensive and medically complex. Experts warn that stigma surrounding tuberculosis continues to discourage some patients from seeking timely diagnosis or disclosing their illness, increasing the risk of delayed treatment and continued transmission. Sometimes Patients dont cooperate I recently witnessed a case where a patient refused to accept that he had been detected TB positive, but after counselling and tracing disease in family history, he was put on medication, says Javaid Ahmed. TB is a treatable disease, and drug-resistant TB is also curable with the right medicines and proper follow-up, a health official said. People should not hide symptoms or discontinue treatment once they start feeling better. Under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme, patients receive free medicines, diagnostic tests and nutritional support, while healthcare workers provide regular counselling to improve treatment adherence. Authorities in areas have appealed to residents to cooperate with screening teams and complete their prescribed treatment if diagnosed with tuberculosis. However many patients say they dont receive government allowances. On this Javaid Ahmed Dar said, DRTB patients need to send Aadhaar with an account to receive timely allowances, which many patients don't do, because it was not needed before. But now the Government tracks the trail of funds and patients need to do it. So they can receive allowances.
Sakina Itoo reviews welfare measures for Leprosy patients
SRINAGAR, AUGUST 8: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo chaired a comprehensive review meeting at Civil Secretariat here on the welfare and rehabilitation of leprosy patients, with emphasis on dignified healthcare and social security. The meeting was attended by MLA Zadibal, Tanvir Ali Sadiq; Commissioner SMC, Fazlul Haseeb; Director SKIMS, Prof. M.Ashraf Ganie; Principal GMC Srinagar, Dr. Iffat Hassan Shah; Director Health Services Kashmir, CMO Srinagar and representatives of Leprosy patients and Leper Hospital, Bharar. During the meeting, the Health Minister took review of various issues including allotment of government quarters for leprosy-affected families, assessment of reconstructive surgeries conducted over the past two years, and provision of caretakers for patients without family support. Speaking during the meeting, Sakeena Itoo reiterated that the Omar Abdullah-led Government is committed for compassionate healthcare and dignified rehabilitation for every vulnerable section of society. She directed all concerned departments to work in close coordination and timely rehabilitation of Leprosy patients. She directed the concerned officers to ensure immediate allotment of residential quarters to eligible residents without any further delay as well as provision of a dedicated ambulance for the hospital to ensure timely access to medical care. The Minister also directed to provide free medicines, investigations and treatment for all leprosy patients requiring medical care at any government hospital in Srinagar, ensuring they receive quality healthcare without financial burden. Speaking during the meeting, MLA Zadibal Tanvir Ali Sadiq expressed gratitude to Health Minister for taking prompt decisions for welfare for the Leprosy patients. He said that these decisions will go a long way in improving the quality of life, dignity and healthcare of the residents of the Leper Hospital, Bharar.
Vishnu Engineering College transforms into Andhra Pradeshs first private womens university
Vishnu Womens University will focus on emerging technologies, research, innovation and stronger industry and international collaborations, says Chairman K.V. Vishnu Raju
Natyarangam to host its annual dance festival themed on Pancha Bhootham
Five dancers and five musicians come together to explore the myriad facets of the five elements at the Bharatham festival, to be held from August 14 to 18 at Narada Gana Sabha, Chennai.
Calicut varsity to end contract of staff in its self-financing institutions
SFCTSA says the standing committee decision will lead to the termination of services of more than 400 staff, including in teaching and non-teaching sections
Yellow.ai, a Global Leader in Enterprise Agentic AI, to Go Public via $550 Million Merger with Bluerock Acquisition Corp.
VACB in Kerala books former TDB officials over 2.27 crore Sabarimala ghee scam
347 police recruits pass out at Muttikulangara
The recruits included 127 from KAP First Battalion, 110 from KAP Second Battalion and 110 police drivers from the India Reserve Battalion
Srinath stresses the importance of having a pace battery
The Mysore Express feels that having enough overs under ones belt is key to avoiding injuries
Kerala Police intensify search as Arjun Ayanki traced to Edappal in Malappuram
The police say Ayanki visited a private Ayurveda hospital at Edappal
Long-pending Ulakkai Aruvi dam project gets fresh push from farmers to meet future water demands
Elephant kills mahout in Konni
The incident occurred when the deceased approached Priyadarshini, an elephant at the camp, to apply medicine and change the dressing on a wound on its trunk. The elephant attacked him during the procedure.
RISE Centre helping women become successful entrepreneurs, says NTR Collector
G. Lakshmisha visits the SHG Women Entrepreneurs-Self-Employment Expo in Guntupalli, inspects 27 stalls displaying products manufactured by industrial units established with the support of the centre
On August 3, 1936, Jesse Owens won the 100 metres at the Berlin Olympics, the first of four gold medals that cemented his place as one of the greatest athletes in history
BJP misusing Central agencies, alleges MP Mallu Ravi
Anti-party activities will not be tolerated, says TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu
The TDP national president instructs the cadre to highlight the governments good initiative and counter the false propaganda unleashed by the YSRCP
MCR TIMS Sanathnagar inaugural soon, says Health Minister
Chief Minister likely to inaugurate the hospital, says Damodar Raja Narasimha
Host of issues cited as reasons for road accidents involving KSRTC buses
Deployment of inexperienced drivers, mechanical weakening of old vehicles, and lack of rest for the staff have been cited as possible reasons for a series of road accidents involving buses operated by the KSRTC in recent weeks
DSouzas murder was a supari killing over financial dispute, saysHariram Shankar
The three accused had arrived in Mudarangadi about two months ago while A1 Rajus bank account was credited 2 lakh in stages
Flooding in Keralas Kuttanad triggers political controversy
Controversy comes to a head on Saturday when a ministerial team comprising Excise Minister and Agriculture Minister visit the flood ravaged region
Andhra Pradesh govt. offers support to telecom service providers to achieve 100% mobile connectivity
Land without rental charges, subsidised power and viability gap support to be provided for towers in uncovered villages and habitations
UCBs asked to join NUCFDC for tech support, RBI is proactive towards sector: Amit Shah
70% of the UCBs are from Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa and Karnataka.
Ruling BNP authorises PM Rahman to finalise nominee for Bangladesh's presidential elections
According to Article 123(2) of the Constitution, an election to fill the vacant office of the President must be held within 90 days of the post becoming vacant
Minister instructs officers to spread awareness on VB-G RAM G
Satellite portfolio to the rescue
Transferring from satellite to a core portfolio will reduce trading capital. You can transfer the amount from the core back to the satellite once you create buffer capital in the core portfolio
Ajinkya Rahane The eternal crisis-man with a penchant for the big stage
When the mood seized him, which wasnt too often but not rare as hens teeth either, Rahane cut a dashing picture at the crease, powerful off the backfoot and felicitous off the front. Lords and the MCG seemed to bring the best out of him, maybe because he is a strong student of history and knows the prestige attached with performing optimally there
Gold and silver lacked lustre in July
Gold and silver prices remained subdued in July due to geopolitical tensions and interest rate concerns, with negative short-term trends expected
Take dedicated insurance cover for your travel
Most travellers assume they covered their bases once they buy the standard travel cover; when it comes to risks specific to adventure sports, dedicated cover will protect against them
Pharmacies in Krishnagiri asked to be vigilant against dispensing habit-forming drugs
The humble typewriter keeps clacking despite the digital takeover
Manual typewriters might have been out of production for a long time now, but typewriting institutes continue helped by mechanics that keep old machines in circulation. Here are voices from the city that assert that though institutes have steadily dwindled in number since Madras became Chennai, their relevance continues, and that computers cannot replace typewriters in terms of mastering typing skill
APSRTC Regional Manager lauds Simhachalam depot staff for service during Giri Pradakshina festival
Fire in Banjara Hills commercial building triggers six-hour operation, 11 rescued
Lionel Messi's father Jorge dies aged 68
Jorge Messi was his son's first coach in Argentina and his sole companion when he first moved to Barcelona as a child, before later becoming his agent
Government to transform Amaravati, Vizag, Tirupati into mega cities, says Minister
Ponguru Narayana visits the stalls of CREDAI Tirupati Property Expo 2026, says Tirupati is emerging as a favourable hub for development
Deworming tablets to be distributed from August 10
DMK MPs boycott Vijays delimitation meeting; Kanimozhi dubs it political drama
The DMK has made it clear that it would only participate in the meeting if the TVK-led government convenes the all-party meeting on Mekedatu dam, she says
Coimbatore Corporation checks residual chlorine levels in drinking water
Coimbatore Corporation currently receives 362.67 million litres a day of drinking water from the six sources of Siruvani, Pilloor-I, Pilloor-II, Pilloor-III, Aliyar and Bhavani
Tiruchi Corporation steps up disease surveillance ahead of monsoon
The Corporation is monitoring trends through surveillance at about 150 private and government hospitals and 35 testing laboratories; four cases of dengue have been detected in the last eight days
Worker fined for cutting sandalwood tree near Anthiyur
Women organisations protest liquor sales and beach shacks in Visakhapatnam
Bangladesh court grants bail to jailed Hindu rights leader; release from prison unlikely
Mr. Das is a Hindu monk whose arrest in November 2024 on sedition charges for allegedly disrespecting the national flag sparked protests and communal tensions in Bangladesh
