In Frames: Long-playing vintage tuning hands

R. Sundaravadanan, fondly known as Stylus Mani, repairs and refurbishes styluses and turntables at his home workshop in Thiruvananthapuram, keeping the music of the past alive

Young filmmakers spark dialogue at 17th IDSFFK with stories of art, struggle, and culture

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The second day of the 17th International Documentary and Short Film Festival of Kerala (IDSFFK) turned into a vibrant space of dialogue and discovery, as nearly 20 young filmmakers interacted with audiences, sharing the stories behind their films and the struggles of bringing them to life. Organised by the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy, the week-long festival, which opened on Friday at the Kairali Theatre in the capital, will showcase over 300 films from across the world. Among the early highlights was the intriguingly titled short film What Does Watermelon Laugh When Its Murdered, directed by Aniket Joshi and Avigyan Dasgupta. The Kolkata-based duo used their film to explore the challenges of filmmaking while weaving in the painful realities of the Gaza conflict. We tried to convey that art always has a place, even in difficult times, Aniket told the audience. Both filmmakers believe such festivals open up conversations and help nurture new forms of cinema. Mihir Agarwal, a film enthusiast from Delhi and a recent graduate of the Pune Film Institute, said the event reshaped his vision. He said that the experience could inspire many first-time viewers to return next year as creators. The day also saw a captivating screening of Thakidu, a short film by Malvika Vipin, a fashion design graduate from Mumbais ISDI School of Design and Innovation and trained bharatanatyam dancer. Centred on the traditional ritual art form theyyam, her film stood out for its striking visuals and rhythmic composition. Audiences, many of them students and budding cinephiles, shared the same excitement. For many, the festival became a lively forum where ideas on cinema, culture, and politics came together.

Havent received any complaints against Rahul Mamkootathil: Shafi Parambil

KOZHIKODE: MP Shafi Parambil has said that he had not received any complaint from anyone against Rahul Mamkootathil , who resigned from the post of Youth Congress state president over allegations of sexual misconduct. Rahul resigned immediately after the controversy erupted, he told reporters in Vadakara. There is no FIR or any other finding against him, Shafi said. The MP said the resignation is an important step at this point of time, adding that the CPM or BJP didnt show such a gesture when their leaders were embroiled in similar situations. The Congress leadership didnt want to emulate what other parties did in similar circumstances and accepted Rahuls decision to step down from the party post, he said. Shafi said raising a hue and cry after the resignation is only meant to silence Congress workers from raising voices against the government. We will continue the fight against the government. Congress workers will not lose their energy to fight against the government because of the controversy. he said. Shafi also discounted the allegation that he escaped to Bihar without addressing the Rahul issue. He said the decision to join Rahul Gandhis yatra was taken much earlier. Moreover, party leaders including the KPCC president had reacted to the developments, he said.

Kerala Lottery Result Today, August 24 Live: Samrudhi SM-17 Bumper Winning Numbers

Kerala Lottery Result Today Live Updates, 24-08-2025: Heres Guessing Numbers for Samrudhi SM-17 for Sunday, August 24. Check the full list of winning numbers from 3 pm.

Make air travel more accessible: CM Pinarayi Vijayan

KOCHI: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday called for making air travel more accessible to the public by reducing travel and operational costs. Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the Kerala Aviation Summit, organised by Kochi Airport and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, he said that planned interventions are required for the development of the aviation sector. Policies and incentives are necessary to promote industries in the aviation sector. Air travel needs to be popularised. And for that we need to intervene to reduce the cost of travel and operations and make air travel affordable and accessible to everyone. The transportation facilities connecting airports should also be improved to help those who choose airways, he said. Airports have played a significant role in promoting Keralas tourism sector. The transportation facilities in the state, including airways, and connectivity with major airports, have made Kerala a major tourist destination. Strengthening air transport will attract more tourists to the state, he added. CM also inaugurated the Airport Public Health Office (APHO) Health Centre at Kochi Airport, the yellow fever vaccination, and the quarantine centre for the prevention of diseases. Minister K Rajan handed over the keys of the health centre to Dr S Senthilnathan, DDG, Health Services. Industries Minister P Rajeev, MP Benny Behanan, chief secretary Dr A Jayathilak, and others attended the function. The two-day summit, the first of its kind, aiming to make Kerala an aviation hub and attract investments in the sector, will conclude on Sunday.

Motorcycle Diaries: Scaling new heights at 57!

UDUPI : Age is just a number for this passionate biker. At 57, Vilma Crasto Carvalho, a freelance corporate trainer from Bengaluru, rode to the Siachen Glacier Base Camp, considered one of the toughest rides, this Independence Day. Her passion for Himalayan motorcycle rides began in 2021. Though she was injured after a fall in her first attempt to Ladakh, Vilma did not give up. In 2022, she rode to Khardung La, the second-highest motorable road in the world. This was special for her as she did it with her daughter Cherish. The mother-daughter duo conquered Umling La Pass in 2023 along with a team from Kerala. Since then, Vilma had been chasing the dream of making it to the Siachen Glacier Base Camp. She flew from Bengaluru to Leh early this month and joined six other riders. Our plan was to reach the base camp on Independence Day. We took a road that helped us explore some little-known terrains of Ladakh, Vilma told TNSE. After crossing Zanskar and Gurkhon valleys, we reached Titar, one of the last villages near the India-Pakistan border. From there, we rode to Padum in Zanskar Valley via Kargil. The toughest ride to Siachen starts here. This route demands physical endurance and mental toughness, she said. While crossing a stream 60km from the base camp, she fell and suffered minor injuries. For a moment, I thought I wouldnt make it to the base camp. But we resumed our journey after attending to my injuries, she said. The team reached the base camp at noon and celebrated Independence Day as well as their success. We covered around 1,300 km in eight days as we could ride for only 150km for nine hours a day because of the harsh terrain. Low levels of oxygen affected not only us, but also our bikes, she said. Vilma (second from left) with other riders at the Siachen Glacier Base Camp Ace spiker! Apart from her passion for biking, Vilma was also a state-level volleyball player during her college days. As a freelance corporate trainer now, she guides engineering, CA and MBA graduates in Bengaluru. Vilma, who grew up in Kundapur, learnt how to ride bikes from her elder brother, who owned a Yezdi motorcycle, in the late 1980s. The turning point came for her in 2015 when her son, who turned 18, asked for a motorcycle as a birthday gift. I agreed reluctantly and took him to a showroom. As he had no driving licence, I took the motorcycle for a test ride. After buying the bike, my passion only grew stronger, she said. Vilma set her sights on Himalayan bike expeditions when she was in her late 40s after reading an article about the success of a Bollywood actress in adventure biking. She encourages women, especially those in their 50s, to dream big and realise it.

Controversial Akkulam glass bridge likely to be opened during Onam

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The controversial Akkulam glass bridge touted as the longest bridge and a key adventure infrastructure in the state is ready for opening. The expert panel constituted by the state government has given safety clearance for the glass bridge, which had sparked concerns after cracks appeared even before its inauguration last year. Ratheesh C S, president of VYBECoS (Vattiyoorkavu Youth Brigade Entrepreneurs Cooperative Society) the agency that implemented the project said that it has officially informed the state government and the tourism department that the bridge is ready to be opened for the public. We did all the safety upgrades suggested by NIT and one of their main recommendations was to give beadings for the glass panels. We completed the work and the expert team visited and gave clearance. We are hopeful that the government will throw open the glass bridge during Onam season, said Ratheesh. The glass bridge was constructed by VYBeCOS under the BOT (Build Operate Transfer) model. Designed as a key attraction of the Akkulam Adventure Tourism Park, the glass bridge promises visitors a sweeping view of the park and Akkulam lake. Adding to the thrill, the walkway features special effects such as artificial mist, simulated rainfall, and even an illusion of cracking glass aimed at heightening the adrenaline rush for adventure seekers. VYBECoS has proposed a fee between Rs 100 and Rs 200. A final decision on the rates will be taken by the government. The rates will be different for children and adults. Besides this we have requested the government to extend the operational hours until 8 pm. We have given LED lighting for the bridge which is very attractive during the night. The experience will be different during the night, said Ratheesh. The bridge was constructed at a cost of Rs 1.2 crore and as per expert recommendation, around 25 to 30 people can use the bridge at a time.

Corruption almost nil in Kerala, most taxpayers are honest

Shaik Khader Rahman, chief commissioner of Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) and Customs, Kerala, has been successful in increasing GST revenue and reducing litigations in the state. An IRS officer with 32 years of service, he has won accolades by reducing smuggling and developing IT architecture for tax officers, besides serving as a defence counsel in the Tax Tribunal. In an interaction with TNIE, he shares his thoughts on a wide range of issues connected to commerce in Kerala. Excerpts Whats your first impression of working in Kerala? Keralas work culture is slightly different from the rest of India. People here are very intelligent and knowledgeable. The work culture, its different from that of Mumbai. The same Malayalis who are working in Mumbai are the best in the country (laughs). Here, it took me a month to understand the ethos. Peoples attitudes are also good, just that you have to understand them. The north Indian feudal system wont work here. I didnt have any difficulty in gelling with the people here. What problems do you find here in terms of tax collection? The revenue growth in Kerala from 2023-24 to 2024-25 is only 5%. If you look at the last three years, the total revenue collected from excise taxes is around Rs 26,000 crore. But the entire GST in this state is only Rs 18,000 crore. I have around 1.67 lakh taxpayers. I get 60% of the revenue, which is Rs 18,000 crore, while the Kerala government -- which has 2.16 lakh taxpayers -- gets below Rs 15,000 crore. So, the first task I focused on with my team was to increase revenue. T he GST regime was expected to benefit Kerala, a consumer state. But tax collection was not robust... The number of industries in Kerala is low. We only have services here. Of the Rs 18,000 crore GST revenue, nearly 75% comes from services. Since there are only a few industries, the revenue from the supply of goods is lower. For tourism and hotel purposes, the place of service is the place where the hotel is located. If a Delhi-based company conducts an event here, they may engage an event manager, and the CGST, IGST invoice is issued to that company. Thus the money goes out. How does the Centre distribute money? The SGST revenue goes to the state. But the IGST money is deposited in the consolidated fund of India and 60% of the revenue comes back to the state. The GST Council has a formula. Every three to four months, they distribute IGST. The central government takes time to distribute. What should Kerala do to increase GST revenue? Kerala has some great positives. The states land records are very good and the people are educated. Kerala has won awards for fastest GST registration and settling disputes. The lawyers here are very good and disputes are resolved faster. We managed to resolve most disputes within 3-4 months. However, there is no growth in GST registrations. My concern is how to expand the tax base. Weve dispelled the fears of those in the informal sectors through interactions and trade facilitation meetings. Kerala has commodities like spices, coir, seafood, and cashew. We are planning to approach traders through commodity boards, listen to them, and solve their problems. Around 40% of the problems can be resolved through negotiations. We dont file a case against them, but nudge them to take GST registration. Another great thing about Kerala is that corruption is almost nil in the state. Once the tax base widens, believe me, Kerala will undergo a transformation. At least from the point of view of indirect tax, it will become Kerala 2.0. We expect a 20% increase in GST registration in the next three months. Whats the indirect collection for the state in value terms? We have set a target of Rs 53,610 crore for the departments of customs, central excise, and GST. Last year, the GST collection was Rs 18,371.25 crore and the target for the GST department this year is Rs 20,940 crore. The GST collection in 2024-25 was Rs 17,773 crore, and the growth rate was only 3.4%. Now, for the first four months, my growth rate is 15.7%. The GST growth rate in north Kerala is 20% and that of south Kerala is 27%. However, the growth in central Kerala is only 5%. If I can maintain a growth rate, the GST collection for the year will be Rs 21,126 crore. Why is there such a drastic difference in GST collection? North Kerala has a lot of potential but remains untapped. There are well-established industries in south Kerala. Though central Kerala is known as the financial capital of Kerala, it doesnt have the tax base. Where are the industries and the taxpayers? The only industries are BPCL, which is giving central excise revenue, and Cochin Shipyard. Does it mean the industries in central Kerala are non-compliant? No, they are complying. Around 85% of the taxpayers in Kerala are honest. None of them intentionally avoid tax. I have worked in many states, and compared to my experience in those states, I can confidently say that intentional evasion of tax is very low in Kerala. It is not that the taxpayers in central Kerala are not paying. The revenue from BPCL goes to the central excise department. Does the state receive a share of the central excise revenue? The state receives a share of the central government revenue through the Finance Commission. The state receives the entire amount collected through state GST and 60% of IGST. Apart from that, a share of central GST also comes to the state. What are Keralas strengths and weaknesses in GST? People in Kerala tend to litigate a bit. I tell chartered accountants and cost accountants that, in case of a dispute, they can pay the disputed tax along with interest and 15% of the disputed amount as penalty. No show cause notice will be issued. As they are not attempting to avoid tax intentionally, there wont be any penalty. Im trying to make people understand, Lets not litigate. Is litigation high here? No. Im bringing pending litigation to zero. Litigations, per se, are not high in Kerala. I went to the Thrissur Chamber of Commerce and they said it was the first time a chief commissioner had come to talk to them. I also visited the Kozhikode Chamber of Commerce and held discussions. People understand that when the department is coming two steps forward to shake hands, (it is best to) seize the opportunity. Where does the 20% increase in GST revenue come from? During the first five months, the additional revenue came from existing taxpayers. Ive only sown the seeds to increase the number of taxpayers and Im sure it will grow within the next three months. Which sectors are you targeting? Tourism, rental properties, hotels, restaurants, etc. Rs 20 lakh per year is not a big amount and every restaurant is earning more than this amount. Theres huge potential in the rental sector. Have you carried out any study in that regard? No. Im meeting representatives of the coir sector in Alappuzha, rubber sector in Kottayam and the cashew sector in Kollam. I tell them: We will facilitate your exports by putting up a fast-track channel. The exporters can seal the cargo at their factory. Its a one-time permission, valid lifelong. And then you can move the container to whichever customs station you want. In the customs sector, we get a revenue of hardly Rs 4,000 crore because revenue comes from imports, not exports. But Kerala is also one of the worlds biggest exporters of spices and cashew. Cashew was once the pride of Kerala. But today, Vietnam is number one. And Keralites who have shifted to Vietnam are running the business there. They moved out due to inadequate care and support. Exports can move through courier, post, or regular cargo. The director general of foreign trade (DGFT) has set an exports target of Rs 300 billion in the coming years, of which Rs 200 billion should come via e-commerce. Kerala, especially north Kerala, is ideally placed for this. Handloom, agriculture, handicrafts, artefacts... everything can be displayed online. Kerala has four international airports and two-thirds of its passenger traffic is international. You also have four notified minor ports: Azhikkal, Beypore, Kollam, and, of course, Cochin (Kochi). And now Vizhinjam. So, the exporters can use the nearest customs station to file the shipping bill, complete customs clearance, and then move the cargo to the major port. But there are reports that many exporters in Kerala are depending on the Mangaluru port? True. Exporters told me Kochi is too far and too costly for them, so they prefer Mangaluru. In fact, footwear exporters from Kozhikode are even sending cargo via Mumbai! Which means Kerala is losing revenue. Thats why I have been pushing for the use of minor ports. Whether or not a major shipping line calls there, our customs stations are available. Unfortunately, customs preventive units are only focused on anti-smuggling. Smuggling by boat from Dubai is history now, but our staff mindset hasnt changed. We are now training and re-orienting them. I told my officers: Your role is not just preventive. You can multitask. At Beypore, Azhikkal, Kollam... you can process shipping bills, allow clearance, and connect to the central server. Exporters dont need to go to Kochi every time. What are the advantages of Vizhinjam? Once Vizhinjam port becomes fully operational, south Kerala will transform into a true blue economy. Logistics operators, marine services, and shipping stakeholders will come. Our customs office was ready well ahead of the inauguration, and it is the second biggest after Kochi. But the import and export of cargo hasnt started. Operators say they dont have road connectivity. I told them they can move goods by barges to the nearest port, like Kollam. Im sure this is going to happen in the next three months. Vizhinjam port is strategically located and well get connectivity to the Far East, Southeast Asia, Europe, and the US. The freight charges are expected to decrease by 40%. Is Vizhinjam port a game changer? It is a game changer. Blue economy will rule south Kerala. My vision is that my customs stations should be ready to provide service. If you dont want customs clearance for your cargo at Vizhinjam, you can take it to Kollam by availing Sub Manifest Transhipment Permit (SMTP). The importer can produce the bill of entry and pay the duty to take the cargo. Who carries it to Beypore, Im not sure. The problem with Beypore is that the draft is low. Any study on exporters shift to Mangaluru? I have the data on exporters from Kozhikode and Kannur going to Mangaluru. I interacted with those in Kozhikode. They used to import dates through Beypore and palm oil through Azhikkal port. I told them, If you kill the trade in Kerala, other states will flourish. From Kochi, people are going to Mumbai. Exporters complain that labour cost and turnaround time are high in Kochi. Cant these problems pose challenges to Vizhinjam too? Vizhinjam can overcome that as it can handle a huge number of transshipments. How will the opening of Vizhinjam affect the Vallarpadam terminal? Vallarpadam is fighting for survival and will have to cut costs heavily. They have already decided to expand their business. I have offered them all support. We have worked out a plan with them too. And how to manage the draft problems at Azhikkal and Beypore are issues the state government has to address. I interacted with the chief secretary and other officials on these issues. Im very happy with the way the state government is cooperating to solve GST issues. Kozhikode airport was infamous as a gold-smuggling hub. Whats the status now? (Laughs) Now, there is no gold smuggling. I agree Kozhikode had a bad reputation. But the number of cases has come down recently. After March 24, we havent witnessed any gold smuggling at Kochi, Kozhikode, Thiruvananthapuram, or Kannur airports. The cases have come down at all airports. We havent seen any gold smuggling rackets or institutional arrangements for smuggling. There are sporadic incidents. It isnt profitable to smuggle gold now, at this rate. Which airport has the largest number of cases? As per the earlier data, it is Kozhikode. Still, I want to defend Kozhikode. The perception has to change. There are allegations that customs officers are involved in gold smuggling... I know there were some disputes between the customs and the police in the past. Because some people managed to escape without being caught by the customs department, does it mean that we are supporting smuggling? We cannot perform 100% checking. Can police say that customs knowingly allowed a person to escape? We have a good relationship with the police, why do you want to spoil it? Whats the economics behind gold smuggling? Is it only to evade tax? I dont know about Kerala. But in Mumbai, there are some people who buy gold abroad and send it through carriers, who are mostly genuine passengers. They send 10 consignments. The rate at which it is available is Rs 100. If I land in India, the rate will be Rs 124. Bringing gold in huge quantities was profitable due to the huge difference in duty. Now, the rate of profit is very low because the rate of duty has come down. If I catch them, I will get a 20% reward from the government. And the punishment for smuggling? One is that the entire gold goes to absolute confiscation. A penalty is imposed. Then we launch prosecution. There are two kinds of proceedings. One is quasi-judicial proceedings, where we adjudicate, and the entire gold is taken over. The other is criminal proceedings. He (the carrier) may be sentenced to three years imprisonment. He will be jailed and will have to pay a penalty. Is there no provision to pay the duty and get the gold back? No. We dont have the option to release the gold on payment of duty. In the airport, we dont collect revenue. You are allowed to take baggage and jewellery. If you are bringing 10 laptops, it will be considered a commercial trade. Hence, we will confiscate, impose duty, and clear them. In the case of gold, generally, absolute confiscation is done. If you have something to declare, you can. What happens to the confiscated gold? We had a huge stash of gold. Thanks to an initiative by the finance minister, theres no gold in customs warehouses now. As per the new procedure, we can dispose of the gold. The SPMCIL (Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India Limited) picks up the gold from our godowns, values it, and converts it into gold bars. It is delivered to the Reserve Bank of India for sale at market rate. Has there been any increase in drug trafficking through the sea? There hasnt been any report of smuggling at seaports. It isnt profitable. Whats your opinion on the customs department in Kerala? Many people have a wrong perception about the customs department. My experience is that Kerala customs is the best. There is absolutely no corruption. In Delhi and Mumbai, the officers have political and other pressure. Here, when I ask them to serve at the airport, they refuse. I couldnt understand why. After one month, I realised there is no corruption here, which is why people dont want to go to the airport. They are reasonably honest. Will GST rationalisation affect Keralas lottery income? The state government is the biggest taxpayer in Kerala. The lottery system here is state-run, and hence, the government pays a huge amount in GST. The rate of duty for the state-run and private lotteries is fixed. Earlier, there used to be a huge difference in the tax for the public sector and private sector. Of course, the rate of duty is high. And because of this, the state government has been listed as a taxpayer with the central government. It pays huge GST to the central government. Hence, lotteries are a huge revenue source for the GST department. Kerala is one of the largest consumers of jewellery. The annual consumption is around 750 tonnes. But GST collection is below Rs 1,500 crore. Many say there is a huge underlisting. Have you investigated that? Invoices are raised for business-to-business transactions. We have e-invoices. Thats done systematically. Business-to-customers is one area where some revenue leakage might happen because the customer wants cost reduction. The government launched a campaign emphasising on the need to obtain a bill for every purchase. Some economists say the consumption in white goods is not reflected in the tax... I partially agree with that. Considering the level of wealth in Kerala, there could be some leakage here and there. The DGGI needs to be alerted and sensitised about this. The more trade facilitation you do, you know its like a balance. Before we search any office or shop, we have to obtain permission from senior officers. What about the proposal to have an e-way bill to transport gold? Kerala was the first state to ask the GST council for it... The e-way bill was not applicable for jewellery and gold ornaments in India, but Kerala asked for it and it has been implemented. It is mandatory only in Kerala. The state government is responsible for it and we dont make e-way bill cases. The GST for banana fritters is 18% while other sweets and savouries are charged just 5%... The rate issues are political decisions. It is to be streamlined, rationalised, or corrected by the GST Council. You have to approach the finance minister of the state who attends the GST council. Food items, per se, are sensitive issues. TNIE team: Cithara Paul, Rajesh Abraham, Rajesh Ravi, Manoj Viswanathan, Harikrishna B T P Sooraj (photos) Pranav V P (video)

Why Wayanad Is Kerala's best kept secret to a stress-free, phone-free vacation

Wayanad is situated in the Western Ghats of Kerala and is a peaceful and refreshing destination. It is famous for its immense biodiversity, pleasant climate, and picturesque natural beauty. It also serves as an escape from the commotion of daily life, giving visitors a much-needed break from their phones. This place is the perfect destination for a digital detox while being surrounded by nature.

Onam 2025: Date, History, Significance And Traditions Of Keralas Grand Festival

During Onam, Kerala comes alive with colourful traditions, festive feasts and celebrations to welcome the legendary mythological King Mahabali.

Indian seafood industry to tap alternative markets as US tightens tariff noose

KOCHI: In a bid to overcome the penalty tariff imposed by the US administration , the Indian seafood industry is planning to explore alternative markets and diversifying the products, said Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) chairman D V Swamy at a press meet in Kochi on Saturday. Noting that the countrys marine sector had overcome the US sanctions in the post-Pokhran scenario, Swamy said, We have to change our export strategy from single species, single destination, single market dependence to diverse products and diverse destinations. India has identified alternative markets in Russia, United Kingdom, Australia, Norway, Switzerland, China, West Asia and South Korea. The situation is changing and evolving and we cannot comment on its impact now. Ecuador, which has only 10% tariff, will not be able to replace Indian products in American market as we have a strong presence there. Ecuador has to meet the market demands in Europe and China. The exporters have raised concerns as buyers in the US and China have asked to hold consignments. We will take up the demand for increase in working capital, and moratorium on loans with the finance ministry, he said. Trump drops the tariff hammer The US and China are currently the major importers of Indias seafood, with America being the largest market of frozen shrimps (3,11,948 tonnes), while China imports 1,36,164 tonnes of Indian seafood. In 2024-25, India shipped 16,98,170 tonnes of seafood worth `62,408.45 crore (US $7.45 billion), with frozen shrimp sustaining its prominence as the top exported item in terms of quantity and value. Frozen shrimp (44%), frozen fish (20%), frozen squid, frozen cuttlefish, chilled items and live fish are the major seafood commodities exported by the country. Andhra Pradesh tops the chart with an export value of US $2,536.77 million, followed by Tamil Nadu (US $840.11 million) and Kerala (US $829.42 million). MPEDA director Ram Mohan M K and joint director (training) SKandan were present at the press meet.

Edamalakkudy tribespeople forced to carry childs body through dense forest

IDUKKI: Residents of Edamalakkudy on Saturday evening were forced to carry the body of a five-year-old boy in a coffin on their shoulders through 10 km of dense forest to reach their settlement. This heart-rending incident has once again exposed the neglect faced by the states first tribal panchayat. In the absence of a motorable road, the arduous journey, through paths frequented by wild animals is the only way to reach the childs remote settlement in Koodalarkudi. Karthik, son of Moorthi and Usha, was rushed to a hospital in Mankulam on Friday with high fever. As his condition worsened, he was referred to Adimaly Taluk Hospital, but the boy tragically died on the way. After completing post-mortem examination at the Idukki Medical College Hospital on Saturday, the tribal settlers set off from Idukki MCH at 4 pm and reached Anakkulam in Mankulam by 6 pm. From Anakkulam, it takes more than 10km of heavy trekking through the forest to reach the settlement in Koodalarkudi. They may reach the settlement by around 9 pm with the body. The route is unsafe and frequented by wild animals. Yet, the settlers have no other choice, district panchayat member C Rajendran told TNIE. He added that the lack of a motorable road has once again forced residents to take up such a perilous journey. Special package promisedfor Edamalakkudy The incident has reignited anger among tribal residents, who allege that years of government promises on road connectivity have remained unfulfilled. The construction of a concrete road from Pettimudi near Munnar to Societykudi, sanctioned in 2023 with Rs 13.7 crore assistance from the tribal department, has made little headway. A road is available to Societykudi. However it is non-motorable. The construction work of the road which began in 2023 is still pending. Hence the tribal people depend on the forest route to reach nearby hospitals. If the road work is competed, the residents could use ambulances to take ailing persons to hospitals in Munnar and back. The absence of road facilities result in delayed medical assistance to the sick. Even the work on the first stretch of 7 km up to Idalippara is incomplete, and work on a further 4 km to Societykudi is yet to begin. Contractors cite hurdles in transporting materials and frequent forest department-related objections for the delay, but for the tribals, the price is far too heavy. Since the road is unfinished, settlers of remote areas like Koodalarkudi are compelled to carry the sick and the dead on their shoulders through jungle paths, Rajendran said. Muthuvan Adivasi Samudaya Sangham president Palaraj complained of a looming health crisis. If patients need hospitalisation, they too will have to be carried the same way. The government will be directly responsible if more lives are lost, he said, seeking the chief ministers intervention.

Migrant worker held on charge of vandalising village office

The alleged incident took place on Friday evening when the employees were at work

Kerala fast turning into hub for hybrid ganja smuggling

KOCHI: Thanks to the Union governments decision to reduce the import duty on gold from 15% to 6%, gold smuggling through airports has seen a steep decline. However, Kerala is witnessing a spike in the smuggling of another contraband: hybrid ganja. From nil in 2022-23, 89.11 kg of hybrid ganja was confiscated in 2024-25 from airports in the state. This jumped to 129.68 kg in the first seven months of the current year. There has been a decline in gold smuggling, but the bigger concern for Kerala is the smuggling of drugs. Earlier, a state in the Northeast was infamous for drug consumption. But the picture has changed and Kerala is fast turning into a hub for consumption and transaction of hybrid or hydroponic ganja. Hydroponic ganja is the weed grown in lab conditions without soil. Its narcotic content is more than 40%. It comes mainly from Thailand. Every week we report two or three seizures at airports in the state, Chief Commissioner of Customs and Central GST (Kerala and Lakshadweep) Shaik Khader Rahman told TNIE. He said detections are only the tip of the iceberg and the actual volume of weed smuggled into the state could be much larger. We can only estimate volumes by analysing published data. The value of 1kg of hydroponic ganja in the international market is around `1 crore. Other major airports like Mumbai have also reported a spike in the smuggling of hydroponic ganja. As most of the ganja originates from Thailand, we have started checking flights from that country thoroughly. Now smugglers have changed their modus operandi. In some cases smugglers fly in from Dubai, said Rahman. Kerala: Hybrid weed smuggling outpaces gold after customs duty reduction Customs to introduce sniffer dogs to check baggage Considering the increase in volumes of hybrid ganja being smuggled into the state, the customs department has decided to introduce sniffer dogs to check baggage. Kochi airport already has two canines and the customs department has requested the Customs K9 establishment, under the Directorate of Logistics, to provide eight more dogs. We have forwarded the request and expect deployment of the dog squad within two months. We are planning deployment of two dogs each along with handlers to Thiruvananthapuram, Kannur, Kozhikode and Kochi airports, he said. We are eyeing the labrador, German shepherd and cocker spaniel breeds for the purpose.

Theft suspect allegedly escapes from police custody, nabbed

Bike catches fire on fuel station premises

Pressure Builds, Kerala Congress MLA Accused Of Misconduct Refuses To Resign

Having stepped down as the Kerala Youth Congress president following allegations of misconduct against women, Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil is now facing growing calls for resigning from the state Assembly as well.

Hoteliers seek govt. intervention to check price rise

Manipulated charity videos blur the line between fake and genuine cases

Law enforcement agencies remain largely unaware of a significant number of these crimes. Inter-State lobby suspected to be behind fake videos

Thiruvananthapuram wins overall championship in transgender fest

Ernakulam, Malappuram bag second and third positions; event concludes in Kozhikode

Make air travel more accessible, affordable: Pinarayi Vijayan

Kerala has the potential to become a civil aviation hub, the Chief Minister said

Seven persons under treatment for amoebic meningoencephalitis in Kerala

Studies planned on other types of amoeba; Naegleria fowleri, or brain-eating amoeba found to have been causing infections in State since 2016

Kerala womens commission to probe allegations against Mamkootathil

Early Onam gift for Messi fans

Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman confirms that Argentine football legend Lionel Messi will come to the State with his World Cup-winning team in November

It's official: Messi-led Argentina to play a friendly in Kerala in November

KOCHI: On one moment, off the next the Messi-coming-to-Kerala saga has kept fans on edge for nearly a year. Now, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has confirmed that Lionel Messi and Argentina's World Cup-winning will come to Kerala between November 10 and 18, 2025. Information about the 2025 international friendlies that will face the national team led by Lionel Scaloni: In FIFA date for the month of October, between the dates 6th and the 14th, will be played in the United States, and for the month of November, between 10th and 18th, in Luanda (Angola) and Kerala (India). Rivals to be determined, according to the official AFA announcement on X. Adding to this, AFA India posted on X: The Argentine National Team will visit Kerala this November as part of its international friendlies! A project we began over a year ago in Madrid with the Kerala Govt now opens a new chapter in AFA's global expansion. The announcements mark the strongest signal yet that Kerala will host Messi, after months of wrangling over finances and scheduling. Reports of delayed sponsor payments, and even allegations from the state that AFA was attempting to shift the tour to October 2026, had earlier cast doubt on the project. The Messi-ah of the beautiful game Kerala Sports Minister V Abdurahiman, who has spearheaded the effort since November 2024, confirmed that the venue will be the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram. Official confirmation has been received via official mail that the Argentina team, which won the Qatar World Cup, including Lionel Messi, will arrive in Kerala for a friendly match during the November 2025 FIFA International Window, he posted on X. This is a historic moment. The two options we had were either October or November. In between, they tried to push it to next year, but we stayed adamant in our demand as we aim to bring the 2022 World Cup winners here. India could get to see more of Messi The minister added that several top-50 FIFA teams had expressed interest in playing the friendly, with Australia emerging as the frontrunner. Other teams that are in the fray to play against Argentina are Saudi Arabia and Qatar. The officials are also trying to bring a Brazilian team. For Kerala, where the ArgentinaBrazil rivalry is woven into football folklore, Messi's presence would be nothing short of momentous. The last time Argentina played in India was in 2011 when they faced Venezuela at Kolkota's Salt Lake Stadium. FIFA World Cup: Creator and his creation Adding to the buzz is Messi's separate stand-alone trip to India in December 2025. From December 12 to 15, the Argentine captain is expected to visit Kolkata, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and New Delhi, where he will also meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi. That means India could see Messi twice in two monthsfirst in Kerala with Argentina, and then across four cities as part of a personal tour.

Firefighters free students finger stuck in bus window guard in Malappuram

Couple held for womans murder in Alappuzha

SMA conference inaugurated in Thiruvananthapuram

Stakeholders urged to evolve sustainable financing mechanisms so that equity in care and access and justice can be offered.

Low-pressure area to trigger heavy rain in Kerala next week

Central and north Kerala likely to witness heavy rain for three to four days, triggered by the low-pressure system

NHAI to appoint new consultancy to fast-track NH 183 expansion

Move comes after the earlier agency, appointed in 2016, failed to complete the assigned work within the stipulated timeframe. The new consultancy will be given a definite timeline to complete the project, ensuring no indefinite delays, says Kottayam MP

Cochin, Kannur airports top in passenger experience

Thiruvananthapuram, a PPP-run airport, and Calicut International Airport, Karipur,an AAI-run airport, both with score of 4,82 need to do more

Expert panel reviews NH traffic bottlenecks in Thrissur, directs NHAI to speed up work

Panel, formed after High Court directive, expresses dissatisfaction with the slow progress of the construction, suggests corrective measures

IDSFFK 2025: Anthology From Ground Zero lends faces and stories to the unfolding tragedy in Palestine

Tarring begins on NH 544 alternative road at Muringoor after protests and court orders

From Friday night, traffic towards Ernakulam was diverted through Aloor after blocking vehicles at Kodakara. Alternative route being prepared since construction of seven underpasses has resulted in severe traffic blocks on the NH

Body of woman found in waste pit in Kothamangalam identified

The victim has been identified as Santha, 61, of Kunnathuthazham, who had been missing from Vengoor near Perumbavoor since August 17

Centre announces pilot project to boost livelihoods of fish farmers in Kerala's Kuttanad

Union Fisheries Minister George Kurian announced a pilot project in Kuttanad to boost local fish farmers' livelihoods. The initiative introduces modern and traditional aquaculture, including integrated and cage fish farming, alongside eco-friendly methods. Fish Farmers Producers' Organisations will be established, and extensive training will be provided, fostering start-ups and creating employment in post-harvest activities.

Modern abattoir to open in Thiruvananthapuram on August 30

Central team visits Kuttanad

Chief Minister calls for exploring Willingdon Islands potential as a global tourism hub

Cochin Port Authority urged to take the initiative to examine development possibilities and formulate appropriate projects, as the island, created in 1928, gears up for its centenary celebrations

Corporation to blacklist contractors for delays in civil works

Allied college holds 6-day faculty development programme

Free parking space proposal on government land in limbo in Kozhikode

Trump tariffs: India should explore the option of decoupling from the U.S. and diversifying its export destinations, says Biswajit Dhar

Trade policy expert suggests India diversify its exports and engage with developing countries amid U.S. tariff policies.

Aviation summit highlights potential of air taxis for Keralas urban mobility

Panel discussion on the first day of a two-day summit in Kochi explores the potential of air taxis, including helicopters, seaplanes, and eVTOLs for urban mobility

Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan lays foundation stone for Adani Logistics Park in Kerala

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated the Adani Group's logistics park in Kalamassery, a Rs 600 crore project spanning 70 acres. This initiative, born from the Invest Kerala Global Summit, aims to boost the state's industrial growth by offering integrated logistics facilities and generating numerous direct and indirect jobs.

Onam campaign: Mona Lisa gets a Malayali make-over on Kerala Tourisms social media posts

Keralas Tourism social media post gives Leonardo da Vincis Mona Lisa a Malayali make-over, featuring the lady of the iconic painting attired in Keralas traditional off-white kasavu saree and her hair adorned with jasmine flowers

Travancore Cements resumes operations with three-phase restoration plan

PMSSY block of Kozhikode MCH to be partially reopened from Aug. 24

IDSFFK 2025: Shonali Boses documentary A Fly on the Wall on assisted suicide is life-affirming

Expert team clears roof truss for P&T apartment complex after stability check

Interim report by the team finds overall structural performance meets safety and serviceability criteria as per AISC manual; solar panels planned to address residents complaints over rising power bills

No complaint received against Rahul Mamkootathil, says Deepa Dasmunshi

AICC general secretary calls controversy a closed chapter as CPI(M) and BJP step up demand for MLAs resignation

Stalins presence at Ayyappa devotees meet will be an insult to Hindus: BJP

BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar slams CPI(M)-DMK alliance over Sabarimala issue; also demands resignation of Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil

National Mental Health Survey-2 to cover 5 districts, four urban areas in Kerala

NMHS 2 aims to estimate prevalence of mental disorders, psychosis, assess disability and care pathways, examine socioeconomic impact, and characterise mental disorders in vulnerable populations.

Centre to revive diversified fish farming in Kuttanad

Modern and traditional aquaculture practices like integrated fish farming, cage fish farming, the sustainable one fish one paddy initiative, and biofloc fish farming to be implemented

Its official: Messis Argentina to play in Kerala

Greenfield Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram to host the friendly in November; the World champion is also expected to engage in a fan meeting

Mistakes alleged in school first-term exam question paper; SCERT says thrust on application-oriented questions

It is official: Messis Argentina to play friendly international in Kerala

Argentine Football Federation stated that their national team would be playing in Kerala in November. It will be played at the Greenfield Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram

Kerala approves fresh DA, DR hike for state employees, pensioners

The Kerala government has sanctioned a new dearness allowance instalment. This is for state employees and teachers. Pensioners will also receive dearness relief. The revised payments will be effective from September 1. University Grants Commission and other staff will benefit. This decision will increase the state's annual spending. The government shows commitment to employees and pensioners.

Logistics park will enhance Keralas industrial-friendly status: CM

The facility, which will come up on a 70-acre site near the HMT industrial area, will have an investment of about 600 crore in the first phase

Dharmaraj Adat is CU Senate nominee for V-C search panel

If I wanted to kill you, how much time do you think I need?: Fresh audio clip deepens Rahul Mamkootathil row

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The controversy surrounding Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil deepened on Saturday after a fresh audio clip surfaced, allegedly featuring a conversation between him and a woman who has accused him of sexual misconduct. In the phone conversation, which has been circulating on social media, the woman is heard resisting the MLAs alleged demand. When she raises concerns about her safety, a male voice, claimed to be Rahuls, responds: If I wanted to kill you, how much time do you think I will need? The woman, refusing to yield, questions his morality, saying he is thinking only about himself. The man purportedly replies that if she keeps the child, his life will be destroyed. At one point, he insists on meeting her, to which the woman retorts, asking if it is to kill her. The emergence of the clip comes days after Rahul stepped down as state president of the Youth Congress amid the escalating scandal. The MLA, however, has not yet resigned from the Assembly , even as pressure mounts on him from within and outside the party. According to sources, Rahul also cancelled a press conference he had earlier announced he would attend on the same day the audio surfaced. The row began earlier this week when actress Rini Ann George alleged that a young leader of a prominent political party had misbehaved with her . While she did not initially name anyone, protests by the BJP and the CPI(M)s youth wing quickly pointed fingers at Rahul Mamkootathil. The controversy deepened when writer Honey Bhaskaran accused him of inappropriate Instagram exchanges and derogatory remarks. Both women later clarified that they had not filed formal complaints, but the allegations triggered a political storm. Mounting street protests and demands for his resignation placed Mamkootathil under pressure, leading to his decision to step down as Youth Congress president, though he insists he has committed no illegality. No complaint at all, yet he resigned within 24 hours': V D Satheesan on allegations against Rahul Mamkootathil

Case registered after writer alleges online abuse over complaint against Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil

Following a complaint by writer Honey Bhaskaran, Kerala cyber police have registered a case regarding online abuse she faced after accusing Congress leader Rahul Mamkootathil of misconduct. Bhaskaran reported a surge of cyberattacks and insults after her Facebook post, prompting swift action from authorities.

Sikkil Gurucharan displays consummate mastery over Carnatic music in Palakkad

Carnatic vocalist performs at Chembai Music College and IIT Palakkad in events organised by SPICMACAY

KSEB in a fix over new pole rental rules

KSEB faces financial loss due to new telecom rules, seeks amendment or compensation from State government.

Adani Ports unveils 70-acre logistics park in Kochi worth Rs 600 cr

Adani Ports is investing Rs 600 crore to develop a 70-acre logistics park in Kochi, Kerala. This project, under the Invest in Kerala initiative, aims to transform the state into a major logistics and industrial hub. The development signifies a crucial advancement in strengthening Kerala's infrastructure and economic capabilities.

Pressure mounts, but Rahul Mamkootathil to continue as legislator

Despite no formal complaints being filed against him, he had voluntarily stepped down from the position of the Youth Congress State president, says Mamkootathil. However, he emphasised that there was no circumstance that warranted giving up his MLA seat

BJP slams Kerala govt for inviting Tamil Nadu CM Stalin to Global Ayyappa Sangamam

The Bharatiya Janata Party criticized the Kerala government. The criticism is for inviting Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin to a religious event. The event is the Global Ayyappa Sangamam. It will be held in Pathanamthitta next month. BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar made strong comparisons. He linked the invitation to controversial past events.

Muthalamada resort owner held for locking up tribal man

CPI gears up for State conference in Alappuzha

T.N. Prathapan alleges district administration blocking records on Suresh Gopis vote additions

Congress leader alleges that State government also had a role in this fraudulent vote-adding process

Shafi Parambil parries queries on allegations against Rahul Mamkoottathil

The Congress MP, who was at Vadakara town on Saturday, dismisses media reports and social media campaigns accusing him of keeping a silence over the issue

Adani Group begins work on 600cr logistics park in Kerala

The Adani Group has commenced work on a new logistics park in Kalamassery, Kerala.

Ganapati & Onam festivals: Central govt employees in these states to receive salary in advance; check dates

The central government will disburse August 2025 salaries, wages, and pensions early for its employees and pensioners in Maharashtra and Kerala. Maharashtra employees will receive their payments on August 26, 2025, ahead of Ganapati, while Kerala employees will receive theirs on August 25, 2025, before Onam. These payments are considered advances, subject to adjustment in subsequent salary cycles.

Tribal man locked, starved and beaten for five days in Kerala

A 54-year-old tribal man was allegedly confined, assaulted, and starved for nearly a week by his employer and colleagues for drinking liquor in Keralas Pallakad district. Chambukkuzhi Vellayan, a resident of Moochakundu, belongs to the Eravallan community. He was employed as a daily wage labourer at a private firm near Muthalamada village. On August 17, Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Mahila Morcha stages cradle protest in Thrissur demanding resignation of Rahul Mamkootathil MLA

Kerala Lottery Result Today 23-08-2025 LIVE: Karunya KR- 720 Bumper Draw DECLARED Rs 1 Crore First Prize Winner Announced, Check Full Winners List

Kerala Lottery Result Today Live Updates, 23-08-2025: Heres full list of winning numbers for Karunya KR- 720 lottery for Saturday, August 23.

Exciting weekend @ IDSFFK

A curious crowd is thronging the Kairali Theatre, which is hosting the 17th edition of the International Documentary and Short Film Festival of Kerala (IDSFFK), organised by the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy from August 22 to 27. The festival was inaugurated by Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cherian. It was followed by the screening of the opening film From Ground Zero, a collective work of 22 Palestinian filmmakers that showcases the untold stories of the Gaza genocide. IDSFFK 2025s film list unfolds as an interplay between reverence for the past and a fresh, youthful defiance, its centrepiece being a tribute to the cinematic legend Ritwik Ghatak on his birth centenary. Being screened are two of his lesser-known, short works: There Flows Padma, The Mother River (1971) and Fear. The Campus Competition section, with 10 short films by student directors, is also attracting a crowd. However, it is the long documentary section that is the main attraction for the delegates. All the titles are enticing I am Revathi, Bhabotosh and his Rocket factory, Dalit Subbiah-Voice of the Rebels and Turtle Walker, says Aman S. Festival Winners package with chosen films that have bagged international awards is also on the radar of many. Some like First Summer and I am Glad Youre Dead Now seem enticing, says Prajwala Sunder. She adds that the categories this year seem well-sorted and poignant. For example, The Room of Our Own on the FTII students and the Annecy anime package. The festivals other events include discussions, Meet the Directors, and master classes, making it a learning ground for students and aspiring filmmakers. Vincent Pulickal

Meet N Harikesan Nair from Thiruvananthapuram, recipient of the Kerala State Farm Awards for the best nutrition garden

Fruits, vegetables, medicinal plants, herbs, cash crops, flowers, paddy and more thrive in N Harikesan Nairs organic nutrition garden at Manacaud in Thiruvananthapuram

Complaint against woman for filming Instagram reels at Guruvayur Temple pond

The accused, identified as Jasmin Jaffar, reportedly shot videos on the temples sacred pond steps, where rituals like aarattu are held, and in the temple corridors, before posting them on Instagram

No complaint at all, yet he resigned within 24 hours': V D Satheesan on allegations against Rahul Mamkootathil

KOCHI: Allegations against Rahul Mamkootathil MLA will be thoroughly investigated, and action will be taken without looking at anyones face, Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan said on Saturday. His remarks come two days after Mamkootathil stepped down as state president of the Youth Congress, and amid speculation on whether he will also resign as MLA. Satheesan pointed out that there was not even a single formal complaint against Mamkootathil, yet he relinquished his party post within 24 hours of the allegations surfacing. We will conduct a serious inquiry into the charges and take action without compromise. Those who are now protesting and making noise should do some self-reflection on what they themselves have done in similar situations. If they want to march, it should be to Cliff House (the Chief Ministers official residence), not to my house. In Kerala, no one protects accused persons more than the Chief Minister himself, he said. CPI(M) stands by rape accused MLA Mukesh, alleges Congress involved in sexual discrimination On Congress MP V K Sreekandans controversial remarks against the complainant, Satheesan said: His statement was politically incorrect. I called him and conveyed my protest, and he has since corrected his mistake. In Congress, there is no space for belittling complainants. That is wrong. Congress workers who abuse women complainants on social media will also face action. Taking a dig at rival parties, the LoP said: Bringing a rooster to a protest may be a joke, but the fact is CPM leaders are the ones running poultry farms. If you want to protest, do it there. The BJPs former Chief Minister is still holding a high post despite being an accused in a POCSO case. So BJP leaders need not come and give us lectures. The Congress has a decision-making process, and we will act accordingly. We will also hear the version of the accused. CPM and BJP have no moral right to comment on this matter.

Kerala CM lays foundation stone for Adani Logistics Park in Kerala

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated Adani Group's logistics park in Kalamassery, a significant stride in the state's industrial advancement. This project, stemming from the Invest Kerala Global Summit, spans 70 acres with an initial investment exceeding Rs 600 crores. The park aims to bolster Kerala's industrial infrastructure and foster new business prospects in the region.

Kerala HC orders probe into sexual misconduct charges against Kollam family court judge

KOLLAM: The Kerala High Court has ordered an inquiry against V Udayakumar, Judge of the Family Court, Chavara, after a woman complainants accused him of sexual misbehaviour. The High Courts Administrative Committee (AC) directed the Registrar to conduct the probe and submit a report, which will be considered by the committee on Tuesday. The inquiry was initiated after a woman litigant submitted a written complaint to the Principal District Judge, Kollam, alleging that the sexual misconduct occurred inside the judges chamber in the court complex. Following the complaint, Udayakumar was transferred as presiding officer of the Motor Accidents Claims Tribunal, Kollam. However, he has not assumed charge and has gone on leave, according to sources. The Registrar will submit the report in a day or two. Based on the findings, the Administrative Committee will decide on further action. So far, no police complaint has been filed in connection with the incident, a source said.

Adani Group conducts ground-breaking for 600 crore logistics park in Kerala

Congress hints at more stringent action against Rahul Mamkootathil

Mamkootathils resignation first phase, says Satheesan; Shafi Parambil responds to accusations that he is shielding his close confidante

Param Sundari row: When Bollywood went beyond mullapoo, Mohiniyattam and laal colour ki sari to represent Malayalis

Jahnvi Kapoors Malayali character in Param Sundari, Thekkapetta Sundari Damodaran Pillai, is the latest addition to the list of misrepresented characters from Kerala

Minister urges Palakkad MLA, facing sexual misconduct allegations, to stay away from govt-convened meeting

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: As pressure mounts on Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkoottathil to step down from his post following allegations of sexual misconduct, General Education Minister V Sivankutty has urged him to stay away from an official meeting to constitute the organising committee of the State School 'Shatrolsavam' (Science Fair) to be held in Palakkad on Monday (August 25). Rahul, in his capacity as Palakkad MLA, was scheduled to chair the meeting. The science fair is slated to be held in Palakkad district in November. Taking into account the prevailing situation and also in the interests of the general public, that includes women and children, I hope he stays away from the meeting to ensure its smooth conduct, Sivankutty said in a Facebook post. Sivankutty said his cabinet colleagues MB Rajesh and K Krishnankutty, MLAs from Palakkad district, heads of local bodies in the district and senior officials of the General Education department will participate in the meeting as per schedule. Rahul had stepped down from the post of Youth Congress state president on Thursday in the wake of protests following allegations of sexual misconduct against him.

Good news for fans, Lionel Messi to play in India for first time, know date, schedule, more

India will witness one of the biggest sporting events that will see the G.O.A.T of football, Lionel Messi, playing in India for the first time. Argentina, Messi's team, will play a FIFA friendly match in Kerala, India.

Student-designed website 'Yaathraakoottu' helps decode bus routes in Thiruvananthapuram

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: For commuters in the state capital, the very sight of those compact red-and-white electric buses of KSRTC, that easily negotiate busy city roads and help them reach their destinations on time, brings immense relief. Regular passengers may easily recollect the route number and the corresponding colour codes assigned to them. However, visitors and tourists to the city are often left clueless. Now, help is at hand for them. A website, fully designed by Keerthana Sara Kiran, a second year Computer Science student of LBS Institute of Technology for Women in Thiruvananthapuram, is gaining popularity among commuters as a helpful guide on KSRTC's extensive fleet of city circular service buses in the capital. Named 'Yaathraakoottu', the website presently hosted on the domain ' yaathraakoottu.vercel.app ', has exhaustive information on routes and timings of the buses in English, Malayalam and Hindi. It is a valuable source of information especially for visitors to the capital city from other states and abroad. The circular service using electric buses was introduced in the capital in August 2022 and specific route numbers and colour codes were assigned to them. In places such as East Fort and Thampanoor, we often see people from other states and tourists trying to inqure about their stops with the conductor and other commuters. The tri-lingual website is aimed mainly at them, said Keerthana, who designed the website on her own in less than a month. The website has the search option for visitors to get a list of circular buses running in the specific route. Also available is a list of the entire circular fleet and their corresponding routes numbers and colour codes. The queries can be in any of the three languages. Work is on to rectify a few glitches especially in the search with Hindi words, the student said. Keerthana's college helped her in getting the website hosted on a free platform Vercel. Transport Minister KB Ganesh Kumar, who was impressed by Keerthana's novel initiative, said the transport department would provide help in getting the website hosted on a public domain for wider reach. The Minister said he would discuss with the KSRTC chairman and managing director on how assistance could be provided for the website which is of much help to commuters, said a senior official at the Transport Minister's office.

Kerala man who reported tribal assault at farm-stay goes missing

PALAKKAD: The Kollengode police have registered an FIR based on a complaint filed by Adivasi Samrakshana Sangham state president Mariyappan K, alleging that his relative and tribal person, 75-year-old Thirunavukkarasu, went missing around 11 pm on Thursday. Thirunavukkarasu was the person who discovered that 54-year-old Chambukkuzhi Vellayan, a member of the Eravallan tribal community and a resident of Moochakundu in Muthalamada, had been allegedly locked for five days inside a farm-stay named Western Gateways, located beside the Oorkkulam forest in Muthalamada. Vellayan was allegedly confined, starved, and assaulted by the owner and employees of a farm-stay. Thirunavukkarasu immediately informed Vellayan's plight to the tribal activists and peoples representatives who later rescued Vellayan from confinement with the help of Kollengode police. However, Thirunavukkarasu went missing soon after he reported the incident involving Vellayan to the local residents and tribal activists. He could not be seen anywhere when we were rescuing Vellayan, Mariyappan told TNIE. The complainant further alleged that the farm-stay owner, identified as Prabhu, was behind Thirunavukkarasus disappearance, claiming that the latter was aware of all the illegal activities taking place at the farm-stay. We received the complaint on Friday late night and we have registered an FIR under section 57 (attempt to locate missing person) of the Kerala Police Act, 2011. We have already started the investigation, said a source from the Kollengode police station. Prabhu and a couple of his labourers are still absconding, said police. A case has been registered for attempt to murder and violations under the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act against Prabhu. Meanwhile, police have taken Prabhus mother Ranganayaki into custody in connection with Vellayans case. According to Kalpana Devi, former president and currently the member of the Muthalmada grama panchayat, Vellayan had gone to the farm-stay on August 17 (Sunday) for daily wage work. While there, he consumed liquor from a bottle kept on the premises. This allegedly angered the resort owner Prabhu, who, along with his employees, detained Vellayan inside a room at the farm-stay. Vellayan told the rescuers that he was given food only once a day, but beaten and kicked frequently. For nearly five days, he was kept locked inside the farm-stay. After rescuing, Vellayan was admitted to the Palakkad district hospital in the wee hours of Friday and he was discharged late in the evening the same day. Minister for welfare of scheduled castes, scheduled tribes and backward classes OR Kelu sought an immediate report from the Director of the Scheduled Tribes Development Department in the Vellayans incident. The State Commission for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes has also sought a separate report from the Palakkad district police chief immediately.

Adani Group Breaks Ground On Rs 600-Crore Logistics Park In Kochi

The project is being developed under the Invest in Kerala programme, with Gupta crediting Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan and the state government for creating an investor-friendly environment.