Board officials say that a final count of violators will become clear only after studying the report submitted by local bodies sharing the banks of the river. Violators include industrial and commercial units, apartment and residential complexes, and hotels
Political Showdown in Kerala Assembly as Speaker Elections Approach
Thiruvananthapuram, May 21: The stage is set for a significant political contest in the Kerala Assembly. All three major fronts have decided to field candidates for the Speaker elections scheduled for Friday. The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) currently enjoys a comfortable majority in the house. In the 140-member assembly, the ruling party holds 102 ... Read more Political Showdown in Kerala Assembly as Speaker Elections Approach
Kerala: Newly elected MLAs administered oath of office
In an event marking the start of the 16th Kerala Legislative Assembly, newly elected legislators swore their oaths on May 21. The oath-taking ceremony was conducted in alphabetical order.
Ex-Kerala Finance Minister Thomas Isaac questions UDFs empty treasury claim
Isaac says UDF White Paper should clarify matters on revenue arrears, GST revenue from gold sales, and Integrated Goods and Services Tax settlement
Kerala lottery results today: Kerala State Lottery Karunya Plus KN-624 results for Thursday, 21 May 2026, have been officially declared. Ticket holders can now check their numbers for the 1 crore first prize and other attractive cash rewards.
Kerala govts decision to set up dedicated Senior Citizens Welfare department hailed as timely
In Kerala, ageing and social transformation challenges, such as issues of isolation and poor mental health of the elderly, are also overshadowed by the staggering burden of chronic multimorbidities among the aged
BJP to contest Kerala Speaker election, fields Gopakumar
Thiruvananthapuram: The BJP, which won three seats in the Kerala Assembly for the first time, will field its candidate in the election for the Speakers post, state party president Rajeev Chandrasekhar said on Thursday, May 21. The party has decided to field B B Gopakumar, the newly elected MLA from the Chathannoor seat in Kollam 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 .
Newly elected MLAs sworn in as 16th Kerala Assembly convenes
Pro Tem Speaker G. Sudhakaran administers oath to MLAs-designate over a three-and-a-half-hour-long ceremony
Kerala CM Satheesan Again Uses Menon Surname During Swearing-In
The controversy erupted after some social media users compared Satheesan's latest oath as chief minister with the oath he took as a legislator in 2021
Thiruvananthapuram, May 21: Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan paid tribute to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on his death anniversary. He described Gandhi as a gentle, affectionate, and visionary leader, stating that his martyrdom is a heartbreaking event in the countrys history that will be remembered for generations to come. While addressing a memorial service ... Read more Kerala CM V.D. Satheesan Pays Tribute to Rajiv Gandhi, Remembers Him as a Gentle and Visionary Leader
Students eagerly await the Kerala Plus Two Result 2026. The Directorate of Higher Secondary Education will release the results on May 26 at 3 PM. Access will be available on official websites like keralaresults.nic.in and dhsekerala.gov.in. Candidates need their application number and date of birth. Results can also be accessed via DigiLocker, SAPHALAM app, and SMS.
The Kerala Plus Two result, initially slated for May 22, 2026, has been postponed to May 26 at 3 PM due to glitches in the marks-entry software. This delay is causing uncertainty for students and parents as undergraduate admissions are approaching. Nearly 4.5 lakh students appeared for the examinations this year.
BJP to contest Kerala Speaker election for first time, fields newly elected MLA Gopakumar
The Bharatiya Janata Party is stepping into uncharted territory by nominating B B Gopakumar, an MLA from Chathannoor, for the Speaker's chair in Kerala's assembly election, which takes place this Friday. This nomination represents a pivotal moment for the BJP in the state.
Kerala Assembly: BJP to contest Speaker election, fields B.B. Gopakumar
Election to the Speaker's post will be held on Friday
Kannur University launches accident insurance cover for students
A total of 17,343 students from Kannur, Kasaragod and Wayanad districts enrolled from 2025 onwards will be covered under the scheme
Eviction drive at Malayidomthuruth in Kerala: Police register case against over 50 persons
Case registered based on a complaint filed by senior lawyer Jayapalan M.K, who led Advocate Commission that tried to carry out the eviction drive
Kerala Govt Forms First-Ever Artificial Intelligence Ministry
The move marks a significant shift in the states governance structure, with the AI portfolio placed under the Industries and Commerce department
Kerala Cabinet Meetings Mark Historic Progress, Says Kodikunnil Suresh
Thiruvananthapuram, May 21: Congress MP Kodikunnil Suresh has termed the first and second cabinet meetings of the Kerala government as historic. He stated that several significant decisions have been made in the interest of the public during these meetings. In an exclusive interview with a news agency on Thursday, he noted that the government is ... Read more Kerala Cabinet Meetings Mark Historic Progress, Says Kodikunnil Suresh
Kerala MLAs arrive for swearing-in on foot, bicycle, vehicles
Newly elected MLAs reached the Kerala Legislative Assembly for their swearing-in ceremony -- some on foot, others by cycle, and many in vehicles. The BJP MLAs walked to the Assembly after paying tributes. A Congress MLA arrived on a bicycle, honouring his father's campaign style. Most legislators were seated by 9 am for the proceedings.
Kerala Assembly: MLA-designates arrive for swearing-in on foot, bicycle, vehicles
Congress MLA-elect from Puthuppally Chandy Oommen, son of former Kerala CM Oommen Chandy, arrived on a bicycle wearing a shirt with an image of his father on it
Defeat of delimitation Bill is south Indias loss: Nara Lokesh
The vote against Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill has placed southern States at a disadvantage Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh stand to lose representation after the next Census, Telugu Desam Partys newly appointed working president says, blaming politics, not policy for the Bills failure; he addresses concerns over upcoming resource-intensive data centres and explains why his government is incentivising larger families
Kerala CM recommends portfolios for new cabinet, Governor approves
According to the Lok Bhavan, Satheesan will handle 35 departments, including Finance, Law, General Administration and Ports, while senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala was designated as Minister for Home, Vigilance, and three other departments
Doctor cant enrol as advocate without cancelling registration: HC
Supreme Court upholds bail for man booked under UAPA
Case relates to the attack on a Kerala professor, whose arm was chopped off
Watch: From Home to Finance: Key portfolios in V. D. Satheesans Cabinet
Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan has announced the portfolio allocation for the newly formed Congress-led cabinet, assigning key ministries including Home, Health, Industries, Education and Public Works among Congress, IUML and alliance leaders.
Eviction attempt triggers high tension at Dalit settlement in Kunnathunadu
The move follows a Supreme Court verdict four years ago in favour of a private individual in a land dispute involving 2.65 acres allegedly falling within 19.30 acres of puramboke land
Journalist K.G. Parameswaran Nair passes away
Private bus operators express concern over free travel for women on KSRTC
Seven Indian Super League clubs, including East Bengal, were granted the AIFF Club Licensing Premier 1 licence with sanctions for the 2026-27 season, while the applications of several top-flight sides, including Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Kerala Blasters FC, were rejected
Watch: Why WHO is worried about Ebola outbreak | Above the Fold | 20.05.2026
In todays episode, we look at the WHOs highest-level alert over the Ebola outbreak in Central Africa, PM Modis meetings with Giorgia Meloni, Vladimir Putins high-stakes Beijing visit, the Supreme Courts remarks backing caste enumeration in Census 2027, and Keralas decision on K-Rail SilverLine project and more.
Local bodies in Ernakulam told to open control rooms before monsoon strengthens
MP police challenge actor duos bail application before Kerala High Court
Kerala CM to handle Finance, Law portfolios; Fisheries goes to IUML's Abdul Gafoor
United Democratic Front government notifies Cabinet portfolios on Wednesday evening. Congress leader Roji M. John gets Higher Education, Ramesh Chennithala will hold Home and Vigilance
Kooriyad NH 66 stretch opens after reconstruction
Around 200 metres of the under-construction highway had caved in on May 19, 2025, after the eight-metre embankment gave way under rainwater pressure
P. Jayarajans life a story of resistance against communal forces: Pinarayi Vijayan
6,797 girls aged 14 get HPV vaccine in Kozhikode
CBSEs three-language rule for Classes IX, X sparks concern
Schools allege lack of clarity; say parents are anxious about board decision to make three languages mandatory for class IX from July 1
Conclude probe in microfinance fraud case in a month: HC
University Syndicate cant challenge orders passed by its Chancellor, says Kerala HC
Case in connection with engineer causing approximately 27.50 lakh loss to university. Court observes that case records reveal that the university suffered huge loss and the university and the State should ensure that a proper Vigilance investigation is done
Conference on sustainable water resource management
AIIMS, organ transplant institute, MCH development among Kozhikodes wish list
Centre remains evasive on approval for an AIIMS in Kerala; authorities at the Kozhikode MCH are hoping the new government will address long-pending staff shortage and fast-track major healthcare projects in the district
Thiruvananthapuram City police return 67 recovered mobile phones to owners
Vigilance probe exposes financial irregularities in road project
Malanakara dam shutters opened for major repair works
Maintenance works include replacing shutter screws and installing new rubber seals
Health Minister promises Essentiality Certificate for ESI Hospital
The two girls hailing from West Bengal went missing from their rented house at Vadakara on May 16
Probe into womans death in car blaze takes a new turn
Preliminary forensic findings had raised suspicion over the circumstances leading to the blaze, with investigators reportedly ruling out any major mechanical or engine failure
Drishyam 3 has recorded nearly Rs 25 crore gross in worldwide advance bookings ahead of its May 21 release, according to trade estimates. Starring Mohanlal and directed by Jeethu Joseph, the Malayalam crime thriller has seen strong demand in Kerala as well as overseas markets like the Gulf, North America and the UK.
Man held for cheating woman of 32 lakh, gold and sexually assaulting her
Accused arrested from Ervadi in Tamil Nadu
Shipping delays hit cashew sector in Kerala
Shipping bottlenecks, especially around the critical Strait of Hormuz, have hit the industry from ends, blocking the import of raw cashew nuts and stalling the export of finished kernels
Kerala Cabinet portfolios finalised; CM V. D. Satheesan retains Finance, Law, and Ports
Senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala will handle the Home and Vigilance portfolios, while P. K. Kunhalikutty of the Indian Union Muslim League has been given charge of the Industries and IT departments
Keralas New Cabinet Formed Under Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, 14 First-Time Ministers Appointed
Thiruvananthapuram, May 20: After days of political maneuvering and intense discussions, the allocation of departments in Keralas 21-member United Democratic Front (UDF) government, led by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, has been completed. This marks the formal beginning of a new political chapter in the state. The last Congress-led UDF government in Kerala was established in ... Read more Keralas New Cabinet Formed Under Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, 14 First-Time Ministers Appointed
India and Italy elevated their bilateral ties to a Special Strategic Partnership, focusing on AI, space, and innovation. Meanwhile, Kerala's new cabinet ministers were assigned portfolios, and the WHO warned of a high local Ebola risk in Congo and Uganda, though the global threat remains low. Disturbing reports from Afghanistan reveal families selling daughters due to extreme poverty.
Milma to raise milk price by Rs 4 per litre from June 1
Milma has announced a Rs 4 per litre milk price increase in Kerala, effective June 1. The cooperative's Board of Directors decided to pass on the majority of this hike to dairy farmers, with 83.75% of the increase benefiting them. This revision, previously approved by the government, was delayed due to election code of conduct.
Thripunithura firecracker blast: 10 lakh each relief to families of victims
Compensation sanctioned from Chief Ministers Distress Relief Fund to families of Vishnu A. of Ulloor, Thiruvananthapuram, and Anil S. of Shooranad, Kollam, who were killed in the explosion at a temporary firecracker storage unit in February 2024
Watch: Kerala CM V.D. Satheesans oath sparks caste debate
A political controversy has erupted in Kerala after Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan used his full name Vadassery Damodara Menon Satheesan during his oath-taking ceremony.
Kerala Cabinet full list: CM Satheesan to handle Finance, Ramesh Chennithala gets Home portfolio
Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar has approved the portfolio allocation for the new UDF government, led by Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan. Satheesan will handle 35 departments, including finance and law, while Ramesh Chennithala secures the key home portfolio. The UDF secured a decisive victory in the recent Assembly elections.
Muthoot Finance Ranked India's No. 1 Most Trusted Financial Services Brand for 10th Consecutive Year
Muthoot Finance Ltd., India’s largest gold loan NBFC, has been ranked as the No. 1 Most Trusted Brand in the Financial Services category in TRA Research’s Brand Trust Report 2026, marking its 10th consecutive year of achieving this distinction. The TRA Brand Trust Report is one of India’s most comprehensive syndicated studies on consumer trust, evaluating brands across sectors based on a robust framework that combines both rational and emotional drivers of trust, ultimately influencing buying intent. Mr. Alexander George Muthoot, Joint Managing Director, Muthoot Finance This continued recognition reflects Muthoot Finance’s strong legacy of trust, customer-first approach, and consistent focus on delivering reliable, transparent, and accessible financial solutions to millions of customers across India. As India’s largest gold loan NBFC, the company has built deep-rooted relationships across urban and rural markets, supported by its extensive consolidated branch network of over 7,500 branches and presence across 29 states and union territories , reinforcing its position as a dependable and widely accessible financial partner. The company now serves over 2.5 lakh customers every day across India, reflecting its deep reach and strong trust among households. Commenting on the achievement, Alexander George Muthoot, Joint Managing Director, Muthoot Finance , said, "Being recognised as India’s most trusted financial services brand for the 10th consecutive year is a matter of immense pride and responsibility for us. This milestone is a reflection of the unwavering trust our customers have placed in us across generations, and it inspires us to continue raising the bar in everything we do. At Muthoot Finance, trust is not just a value, but the foundation of our business. We have consistently focused on delivering transparent, customer-centric financial solutions while embracing innovation to meet evolving customer needs. As we move forward, we remain committed to strengthening this trust, expanding access to credit, and empowering individuals and businesses across India to achieve their financial goals." As a pioneer in formalising the gold loan segment in India, Muthoot Finance has played a pivotal role in transforming gold loans from an informal borrowing option into a structured, transparent, and widely accepted financial product. This recognition further reinforces how gold loans are increasingly being perceived as a smart, reliable, and trustworthy credit solution , particularly for households seeking quick and secure access to funds. Muthoot Finance has also been certified as a Great Place to Work for five consecutive years by the Great Place to Work Institute, reflecting its sustained focus on employee wellbeing, a culture of trust, and a supportive, people-first work environment. The company was also recently recognised among the Top 50 India’s Best Workplaces™ in BFSI 2026 by Great Place to Work. Muthoot Finance, which recently completed 15 years since its IPO , is also the first listed company from Kerala to cross a market capitalisation of Rs. 1 lakh crore and is a constituent of the NIFTY Next 50 . The company is also classified as an Upper Layer NBFC . In addition, Muthoot Finance has undertaken extensive initiatives in CSR, and ISR, investing approximately Rs. 500 crore since 2014 and impacting over 5 million lives across India. Muthoot Finance’s sustained leadership in the TRA Brand Trust rankings underscores its ability to build long-term relationships with customers by combining trust with service excellence and innovation. The recognition also highlights the company’s continued efforts in strengthening its brand equity while adapting to changing customer expectations and market dynamics.
Keralas UDF governments 100-day action plan from June 1
Directives issued to all departments to take necessary steps for implementation of all promises in UDFs election manifesto by 2031
K.V. Thomas quits as Keralas Special Representative in New Delhi after new UDF govt takes over
Thomas clarified that his tenure naturally came to an end when the term of former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan ended
N.S.K. Umesh to be Kerala Chief Ministers Officer on Special Duty
Umesh will continue to hold the post of Director of General Education till another person is appointed
We did not know: Kerala CM V.D. Satheesan responds to Vande Mataram controversy
Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan clarified the full Vande Mataram rendition at the UDF swearing-in was a Lok Bhavan decision. He and his colleagues were unaware of the full song being sung. The CPI(M) criticized the move as inappropriate for a pluralistic society. The BJP countered, accusing the CPI(M) of insulting the national song to appease radical groups.
CPI(M) Leaders Criticize Pinarayi Vijayan After Kerala Election Defeat
Thiruvananthapuram, May 20: In a significant shift within the CPI(M), the partys internal dynamics have erupted into open criticism following a disappointing performance in the recent assembly elections. Former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and state secretary M.V. Govindan are facing backlash during district committee meetings. Party insiders are particularly shocked by the intensity and personal ... Read more CPI(M) Leaders Criticize Pinarayi Vijayan After Kerala Election Defeat
Kerala lottery results today: Kerala State Lottery Dhanalekshmi DL-53 results for Wednesday, 20 May 2026, have been officially declared. Ticket holders can now check their numbers for the 1 crore first prize and other attractive cash rewards.
Kerala Government Cancels Silver Line Land Acquisition, Withdraws Cases Against Protesters
Thiruvananthapuram, May 20: The cabinet led by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan has initiated the formal process to cancel the controversial Silver Line semi-high-speed rail project shortly after taking office. The government announced the cancellation of all land acquisition notifications issued for this project across Kerala. Addressing the media after the second cabinet meeting, Chief Minister ... Read more Kerala Government Cancels Silver Line Land Acquisition, Withdraws Cases Against Protesters
Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan has defended using his caste surname Menon during his swearing-in. He stated he was only mentioning his father's name. This move sparked debate on social media and among Congress leaders. Some see it as a political message to the Hindu community. Satheesan belongs to the Nair community.
Keralas UDF govt scraps K-Rail project launched by LDF
Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan says all land acquired for the project will be de-notified and yellow concrete markers that demarcated the prospective line will be removed
In major development, Satheesan-led new Kerala govt set to scrap Silverline high-speed rail project
Silverline high-speed rail project: The scrapping of SilverLine marks the end of a project that had dominated Keralas political discourse for years and sharply divided public opinion across the state.
Keralas tourism industry sees big opportunity after PMs call
State well positioned to gain from shift to experiential and wellness holidays amid high overseas costs
Brain-eating amoeba: Kerala reports another death from amoebic meningoencephalitis
Deceased is a 73-year-old woman from Kothamangalam in Ernakulam district
Kerala govt has decided to scrap Silverline project: CM Satheesan
The government will also recommend withdrawal of the criminal cases lodged against those who opposed the Silverline project
CPI(M), BJP Spar Over Vande Mataram at Kerala Cabinet Swearing-In
Distancing itself from the row, sources in the new government said they had no role in the programme, as it was fully organised by the Lok Bhavan
Sudhakaran, who has been sworn in as Pro Tem Speaker of Kerala Assembly, says he sees no difference between Pinarayi Vijayan and any other MLA to whom he will be administering the oath of office on Thursday
G. Sudhakaran Appointed Protem Speaker of Kerala Assembly
Thiruvananthapuram, May 20: Veteran legislator and former CPM leader G. Sudhakaran has been appointed as the Protem Speaker of the Kerala Assembly. On Wednesday, Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar administered the oath at the Lok Bhavan. Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan and his cabinet colleagues were present at the ceremony. As Protem Speaker, Sudhakaran will administer the ... Read more G. Sudhakaran Appointed Protem Speaker of Kerala Assembly
Bisleri Introduces Kattalan-Themed Limited-Edition Packs
Bisleri International , India’s leading packaged drinking water brand, has announced its latest limited-edition pack association with the Malayalam film Kattalan starring Antony Varghese. As part of the collaboration, Bisleri has introduced special-edition packs featuring the film’s star cast across its 500 ml, 1 Litre and 750 ml Soda SKUs in Kerala, bringing the excitement directly to consumers. Bisleri Introduces Kattalan-Themed Limited-Edition Packs With Malayalam cinema continuing to enjoy strong cultural influence and a deeply engaged fan base, the collaboration aims to extend the excitement around Kattalan beyond theatres and into everyday consumer experiences. Commenting on the collaboration, Tushar Malhotra, Director of Sales and Marketing at Bisleri International, said, “Entertainment today has evolved into a powerful engagement ecosystem where fandom, culture and consumer experiences increasingly intersect. At Bisleri, we see regional cinema as an important avenue for building sharper cultural relevance and creating associations that feel organic to consumers. Kattalan is an example of how impactful storytelling can drive audience excitement, and this collaboration allows us to participate in that momentum through meaningful and high-visibility consumer touchpoints.” The Kattalan limited-edition packs are available at retail outlets across Kerala, including general and modern trade stores. The association is being amplified through in-store branding, and digital and social media engagement aimed at extending the film’s visibility beyond theatres. About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd . With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country's largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe and healthy water. Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Rev, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform - Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep. The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation, and sustainability. www.bisleri.com .
Kerala Launches Statewide Initiative Canveen to Detect Oral Cancer Early
Kochi, May 20: Kerala has initiated a significant statewide effort to enhance the early detection of oral cancer. This initiative brings together dentists, cancer specialists, and healthcare institutions. It is being hailed as one of the largest community-level monitoring efforts for oral cancer in the state. Officials announced on Tuesday that the program is being ... Read more Kerala Launches Statewide Initiative Canveen to Detect Oral Cancer Early
'Drishyam 3' pre-sales cross Rs 21 crore
Mohanlal's 'Drishyam 3' is generating immense excitement, with worldwide advance bookings already surpassing Rs 21 crore. Kerala leads domestic sales, while overseas markets like the Gulf are showing strong support. The thriller is poised for a massive opening day, potentially exceeding Rs 35 crore globally, as fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter.
'Athiradi' BO day 7: Film crosses Rs 51 crore worldwide
Tovino Thomas and Basil Joseph have struck gold with their latest release 'Athiradi,' which has skyrocketed past 51.12 crore in worldwide earnings. The film's first Tuesday saw a net collection of 2.05 crore, with night shows in Kerala buzzing with enthusiastic crowds.
ASHAs to hold victory march in Thiruvananthapuram on May 21
KAHWA members express satisfaction at the positive manner in which the new Kerala government took up their demand for decent wages. ASHAs to hold victory march in Thiruvananthapuram on May 21
DMK Responds to AIADMKs Internal Struggles and Coalition Speculations
Chennai, May 20: DMK spokesperson TKS Elangovan addressed several pressing issues, including actor Vijays absence from the Kerala Chief Ministers swearing-in ceremony, ongoing internal conflicts within the AIADMK, and comments made by superstar Rajinikanth regarding Chief Minister MK Stalin and Vijay. When questioned about Vijays non-attendance, Elangovan stated, I dont know if he fears the ... Read more DMK Responds to AIADMKs Internal Struggles and Coalition Speculations
G.O. issued to set up dedicated department for elderly welfare
Vandana Das murder accused challenges conviction before HC
Tourist Footfall Rises as Visitors Praise Kashmir Experience
Arif Rashid Srinagar, 19 May : Tourists visiting the Kashmir Valley from different parts of India have praised the regions natural beauty, hospitality, and safety, while encouraging others to explore the Valley at least once in their lifetime. Ahmad, a tourist from Kerala, said his first visit to Kashmir had been a memorable experience. During his stay, he visited popular destinations including Sonamarg, Pahalgam, and Dal Lake. This is my first trip to Kashmir and it has been wonderful. The Valley is among the most beautiful places in the world. The people here are polite, honest, and welcoming, he told Rising Kashmir . He said that throughout their five-day stay, they felt safe and secure in every part of the Valley. We never felt insecure during our visit. The people of Kashmir treated tourists with great respect and warmth, he said. Ahmad further said that after returning home, he would recommend Kashmir to his friends and relatives. He suggested that tourists should plan at least a week-long trip to fully explore the Valleys scenic destinations. Kashmir is even more beautiful than Switzerland. Tourists should visit the Valley in every season, as each season offers a different charm, he said, adding that he witnessed a huge rush of tourists in Pahalgam. He also appreciated the cleanliness and natural beauty of tourist spots across Kashmir, saying the Valley offers visitors a chance to truly enjoy nature. Another tourist, Mohammad Anwar, described Kashmir as one of the most beautiful places in the world and said everyone should visit it once in their lifetime. People planning trips to European countries should first explore Kashmir. The Valley is more beautiful and offers an unforgettable experience, he said. Anwar advised tourists to conduct proper research before planning their trip so they could manage their stay according to their budget. He also urged the government to regulate hotel tariffs and cab fares to make Kashmir more affordable for tourists from across the country. If accommodation and transport costs are reduced, more tourists from different states will be able to visit Kashmir and explore its destinations comfortably, he said. Chief Executive Officer of the Doodhpathri Development Authority, Riyaz Ahmad Beigh, said tourist footfall at Doodhpathri has increased significantly after the destination was opened for tourism activities. Nearly 2,500 tourists visit Doodhpathri every day, while the number rises further during weekends, he said. He added that the increasing tourist influx has created livelihood opportunities for local residents engaged in various tourism-related services, including tea stalls, ATV rides, and pony services.
Ernakulam district administration steps up pre-monsoon prepardness
Kozhikode native in Saudi jail to be released after legal formalities
A turning point in the case took place when the Malayali diaspora managed to raise 35 crore, the blood money the victims family had demanded, in May 2024
Conditions Favourable for Further Monsoon Advance: IMD
The IMD stated that the southwest monsoon is likely to set in over Kerala on May 26, with a model error margin of four days.
