Blind Cricket Asia Cup: Defending Champions India Name Probable Squad
Blind Cricket Asia Cup: The Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) on Saturday named India's probable squad of 24 players for the 2026 Asia Cup in Dhaka as the defending champions look to bag a second title. The Men's Asia Cup 2026 for the Blind is the second edition of the tournament and returns after a decade-long gap due to logistical constraints. India's probable team of 24 will be reduced to a final 17-member squad after a national coaching and selection camp, which will include cricket training, fitness and conditioning sessions, tactical preparation, and practice matches. Meanwhile, the selection committee and coaching staff will analyse the 24 players on different aspects like performance, fitness, skills, and team combinations before a final squad list is announced. India won the inaugural Asia Cup in 2016 after defeating Pakistan in the final in Kochi, Kerala. Speaking on the return of the continental showpiece, CABI chairman Dr Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar emphasised that it is a 'significant moment'. The return of the Men's Blind Cricket Asia Cup after ten years is a significant moment for the entire blind cricket fraternity. We hold very special memories of the inaugural Asia Cup in Kochi in 2016, when India defeated Pakistan to become the first champions. Ten years later, we are excited to begin our title defence in Bangladesh. These 24 probables represent some of the finest blind cricketing talent from across India, and we look forward to selecting a strong, competitive team that will carry onto the field, he said. fraternity. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Naresh Tumda, Sanjay Kumar Shah, Debaraj Behera, Ashok Reddy, Praveen Kumar Sharma, Mukesh Kumar Rawat, Sayanth K B, Golu Kumar, Dunna Venkateshwarao, Rambir Singh, Lokesha, Manish Kumar, Nakula Badanayak, Deepak Singh Rawat, Snehith S Kumar, Irfan Diwan, Bhaskar K, Durga Rao Tompaki, Sunil Ramesh, Sukhram Majhi, A Ravi, Dinesh Rathva, Deepak, and Gambheer S Chauhan. Article Source: IANS
CIAL deploys robotic assistance for passenger convenience and travel ease
Cochin International Airport has introduced a passenger assistance robot service. This robot offers directions and real-time flight information to travelers. It also showcases Kerala's rich cultural heritage and local artworks. Future plans include deploying more robots in check-in areas and for deliveries. Pune-based Kinetics Robotics developed this innovative assistance robot.
'Attack on CPI-M, not me': Vijayan breaks silence on ED move
Digital Desk | Kozhikode, Sep 12 (IANS) Kerala's Leader of Opposition and former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday broke his silence on the Enforcement Directorates move seeking registration of a corruption case against him, his daughter Veena Vijayan and son-in-law and former minister Mohammed Riyas, describing it as the latest in a decade-long onslaught against the CPI-M and alleging that central agencies were being used to politically target opponents. Meeting the media for the first time after the ED forwarded its 25-page letter to the state police chief seeking registration of a case over the CMRL-Exalogic transactions, Vijayan said the present move appeared to be a joint and combined operation targeting the Left following the change of government in the state. He questioned what he called a new ED narrative that the money received by Exalogic from CMRL was a gratification for favours allegedly extended to the company during his tenure as Chief Minister. Which of the two narratives is right? he asked, pointing out that the ED had also alleged that CMRL had suffered losses and had received undue benefits. If CMRL had suffered losses, he asked, how could it simultaneously have received undue benefits from the government? Vijayan maintained that he had done nothing as Chief Minister to benefit CMRL and challenged the investigating agencies to show evidence of any such favour. He recalled that a case filed by Congress MLA Mathew Kuzhalnadan in 2024 raising allegations relating to the CMRL-Exalogic issue had failed to find merit in the allegations, and claimed that the Supreme Court too had given the issue a clean chit. Why again is the ED taking the same route? he asked, alleging that a new script was being prepared to implicate him. Vijayan said he had remained under attack since the CPI-M-led LDF came to power in 2016, with allegations surfacing even during the devastating floods and later over the gold smuggling case. Despite what he termed wild allegations, the people had returned the LDF to power in 2021, marking the first time a government had won a consecutive term in Kerala. But after the UDF came to power in 2026, he said, the nature of the attack had changed, with the ED now joining what he described as a coordinated campaign against the Left. He also rejected reports that Veena had admitted wrongdoings before the ED, calling the claim a blatant lie. Vijayan said central agencies were being used to haunt political adversaries and questioned Congress leaders in Kerala over similar criticism voiced by Karnataka Chief Minister D.K.Shivakumar. This is not a personal attack on me. It is an attack on the CPI-M, he said, alleging that the RSS agenda was to finish off the party. Refusing to be cowed down, Vijayan said he would fight the matter legally and politically. He also cautioned that no one should assume they were outside the reach of the ED. The credibility of an agency is paramount. It should not be used to target people. At the moment, they are trying to terrorise people, he said. Vijayan said he decided to address the media after hearing of the EDs latest move while travelling, but had to postpone the press meet because of voice problems. His intervention comes on the eve of the extended CPI-M State Committee meeting, adding a new political dimension to a probe that has already put the former Chief Minister and his family under renewed scrutiny.
Kerala CM Seeks Legal Changes To Tackle Piracy, AI Challenges
Keralam Chief Minister V D Satheesan has called for changes in existing laws to strengthen copyright protection and address emerging challenges posed by artificial intelligence (AI).
Keralam Power Crisis: Govt, Oppn Trade Charges Over Shortage
The Congress-led UDF government and opposition on Saturday traded charges over the ongoing power crisis in Keralam, with Electricity Minister Sunny Joseph blaming the previous LDF government for the situation.
Food Prices At Kerala Multiplexes Face Government Checks After Complaints, 25 Violations Detected
Officials found 25 violations during the inspections, including differences in the actual weight of food products, poor quality of food being served and more.
Karnataka Seizes 680 Bags of Subsidized Fertilizer Destined for Kerala
Karnataka authorities have seized 680 bags of subsidized fertilizer worth 18 lakh, suspected to be illegally sent to Kerala. Karnataka Seizes 680 Bags of Subsidized Fertilizer Destined for Kerala
Keralam power crisis: Government, Oppn trade charges over shortage
Kerala's ruling UDF and opposition LDF governments are exchanging accusations regarding the current power shortage. Electricity Minister Sunny Joseph blamed the previous LDF administration for cancelling a long-term power purchase agreement. CPI(M) leader Pinarayi Vijayan rejected these claims, citing legal issues with the original deal. He stated the LDF government managed power availability effectively without imposing cuts. Both sides point to past decisions impacting the state's present energy situation.
Power cuts in Kerala hand Left its first major weapon against Satheesan govt
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 12 (IANS)For nearly a decade, power cuts had largely vanished from Kerala's political discourse, depriving the opposition of a potent issue to target the government. But a week of prolonged night-time outages has abruptly altered the landscape, placing the Congress-led government of Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan under its first serious political pressure. The Congress government, which assumed office in May, had until now managed to avoid controversies capable of significantly denting its political standing. The power crisis, however, has emerged as a major challenge, bringing both the government and Power Minister Sunny Joseph under intense public scrutiny. Television channels have been flooded with complaints from consumers, many of whom say they have not experienced such frequent power disruptions in the past decade. The public discontent has provided fresh momentum to the Left's social media ecosystem, which has been quick to highlight the outages through memes, posts and comparisons with the previous LDF administration led by Pinarayi Vijayan. The irony has not gone unnoticed. Left-leaning social media handles had been attempting to corner the new government ever since it took office but struggled to find an issue that resonated widely. The power cuts have now handed them precisely the opportunity they were looking for. The Satheesan government and Joseph have sought to attribute the crisis to decisions taken during the previous LDF regime, particularly the cancellation of a power purchase agreement initiated under the Oommen Chandy government. Critics, however, have countered that Kerala did not witness such outages when the Vijayan government demitted office in April, raising questions about the timing of the crisis. Seeking to project a long-term solution, Joseph on Saturday said the government was considering an attractive tariff mechanism for households willing to feed stored electricity back to the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB). The government is also examining community battery systems linked to solar power and subsidies for households installing their own storage facilities. According to the minister, electricity demand has increased by around 1,000 MW, driven partly by the growing adoption of electric vehicles, while coal shortages have further aggravated the situation. Kerala currently generates only about 25 per cent of its power requirement, and delays in launching new power projects have compounded the challenge. Adding a sharper political edge to the debate, former Power Minister M.M. Mani alleged that the government could be exaggerating the crisis ahead of purchasing expensive power from external sources, hinting at possible vested interests in such deals. Meanwhile, the dominant Left narrative on social media remains straightforward: had Vijayan remained in office, Kerala would not have faced the current situation. For Satheesan, the issue has rapidly evolved from a power sector concern into the first significant political storm confronting his government, one that the Opposition appears determined to exploit to the fullest.
680 bags of subsidised fertiliser seized in Karnataka, Kerala diversion suspected
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Sep 12 (IANS)Karnataka's Agriculture Department has seized 680 bags of subsidised fertiliser worth around Rs 18 lakh near Siruguppa in Ballari district, with preliminary investigations indicating that the stock was being diverted to Kerala, officials said on Saturday. The department's vigilance squad conducted a late-night raid on Thursday, following directions from Agriculture Minister P.M. Narendra Swamy to intensify action against the illegal trade and diversion of agricultural inputs. According to the department, officials intercepted a lorry near Siruguppa and seized 680 bags of fertiliser suspected of being transported illegally outside Karnataka. Preliminary findings suggest that the subsidised fertiliser had been procured from a distributor and was being moved to industrial units in Kerala. A police complaint has been lodged in connection with the case. The department said the crackdown forms part of a wider drive to curb the sale of substandard seeds and pesticides, as well as the illegal stocking and black-market sale of fertilisers. According to the department, agricultural inputs worth a total of Rs 2.88 crore, including seeds, fertilisers and pesticides, were seized during the past month. A total of 49 cases have been registered in connection with the violations. The department said 113.05 quintals of seeds valued at Rs 50.22 lakh were seized during the period. Of these, seeds worth Rs 50.13 lakh were found to have been sold without valid licences. Paddy and maize seeds were seized in Chikkaballapur, Hassan and K.R. Pet in Mandya district. The department also seized 487.8 metric tonnes of fertilisers valued at Rs 1.89 crore. Among the major seizures was 86.2 metric tonnes of subsidised urea worth Rs 51.52 lakh, which had allegedly been stocked for transportation for non-agricultural purposes. The urea was seized in Kalaburagi and Ballari districts. In another case, 139.02 metric tonnes of mixed fertilisers valued at Rs 86.49 lakh were seized for being stocked without a valid licence. A case has been filed before a court in Davanagere district in connection with the seizure. The department also seized 2,640 litres of bio-products valued at Rs 9.12 lakh and 662.9 litres and 2,492 kg of pesticides worth Rs 49.46 lakh. Officials also seized pesticides worth Rs 32.24 lakh, comprising 375 litres and 1,982 kg, in Koppal, Raichur and Vijayapura districts. The pesticides were allegedly being sold without being included in the relevant licence and included expired products. The Agriculture Department said vigilance and enforcement operations would continue across the state to prevent the illegal diversion and sale of agricultural inputs and ensure that farmers receive quality seeds, fertilisers and pesticides.
PM Modi holds bilateral talks with Malaysia's Anwar Ibrahim at Hyderabad House
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 12 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Malaysian counterpart, Anwar Ibrahim, held a bilateral meeting at Hyderabad House in New Delhi ahead of the 18th BRICS Summit. During this meeting, both leaders discussed ways to strengthen cooperation in defence, trade, digital technologies, semiconductors, etc. The Malaysian PM arrived in New Delhi on Friday to attend the 18th BRICS Summit. He was warmly received by the Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, at the airport. Extending a warm welcome to Malaysian PM Ibrahim, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated on X, India and Malaysia share close and longstanding ties, marked by growing cooperation across trade, investment, digital economy, defence and security. The visit builds on the momentum of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Malaysia earlier this year. As BRICS chair in 2026, India will host the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on September 12-13, bringing together leaders of BRICS members, partner countries and outreach invitees. BRICS comprises Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates. BRICS partner countries are: Belarus, Cuba, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, Uzbekistan and Vietnam. Meanwhile, during his visit, the Malaysian PM will travel to Kerala to meet India's Grand Mufti. I and the Malaysian delegation departed for New Delhi, India, to attend the 18th BRICS Leaders' Summit. I am also scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with the Prime Minister of India, the President of Russia, Iran, and Kazakhstan, as well as the Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Ibrahim posted on X. My itinerary in India also includes a visit to Kerala to meet the Grand Mufti of India to exchange views on community development, education, and religious affairs. Following the Diplomatic Mission in India, I will then proceed to Male, Maldives, to undertake an official visit at the invitation of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. May all matters be facilitated and this visit bring tangible benefits to the people and the nation, he added.
Dog vaccination could save more lives than routine child PrEP in Keralam, says study
The comprehensive vaccination of dogs, combined with improved post-bite treatment and efforts to close gaps in PEP, could reduce rabies deaths by 83% compared to the current strategy, the study says
Back to my era: PT Usha revisits her iconic track days amid viral 80s trend
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 12 (IANS) Four decades after she became one of the defining faces of Indian athletics, legendary sprinter and Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President P.T. Usha took a nostalgic trip down memory lane on social media, sharing photographs from her track days as she joined the ongoing fascination with all things 1980s. Heard the 80s are trending again, so I thought Id take you back to my era, Usha captioned the post, accompanying it with photographs from the period that established her as one of Indias most celebrated athletes. These photographs provide a glimpse of the time when Usha, famously known as the Payyoli Express, was setting new records on the track. She participated in three Olympic Games: Moscow in 1980, Los Angeles in 1984, and Seoul in 1988, and made history as the first Indian woman to reach an Olympic athletics final. In the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, she narrowly missed winning a medal in the 400m hurdles, finishing fourth. Her accomplishments went far beyond the Olympics. Usha secured India's first athletics medal at the 1982 Asian Games and then shined at the 1986 Asian Games in Seoul, claiming four gold medals. Ushas journey didn't conclude after she left competitive athletics. She transitioned into sports administration, dedicating herself to fostering the next wave of Indian athletes. Additionally, she has been involved with the Usha School of Athletics, an institution committed to developing young track-and-field talent in Kozhikode, Kerala. Her public profile grew in 2022 when she was nominated to the Rajya Sabha. In December, she was elected unopposed as president of IOA, making her the first woman to lead the nation's top Olympic organisation. Usha remains in the IOAs leadership position as the organisation gears up for a significant governance transition ahead of the upcoming elections later this year. Her current duties go well beyond the athletics track, covering the management and representation of Indian sports at major international events. The 80s trend has gained renewed popularity on social media recently, with users exploring the decade through vintage photos, fashion, music, and pop culture icons. Instead of just reminiscing, this trend repurposes old photographs to help younger users, who mostly know the era through archives and nostalgia, reconnect with that period. For Usha, however, the 1980s are not merely a retro aesthetic. They represent the years in which she established herself as a trailblazer, a legacy she has carried from the track into Indian sports administration.
1980s AI Photo trend: 5 ChatGPT prompts to create Kerala-style retro images
A social media trend uses ChatGPT to recreate photos in 1980s styles. Users are now focusing on regional aesthetics, specifically 1980s Kerala and Malayali culture. Prompts request authentic family, wedding, college, and studio portraits from the period. These images incorporate traditional clothing, jewellery, and home settings from Kerala. The AI maintains recognizable facial features while adding retro photographic elements.
Gujarat, UP, MP, Mizoram achieve 100 pc HPV vaccination coverage
Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Mizoram have achieved 100-per cent coverage of their respective identified target populations under the National HPV Vaccination Campaign, while Bihar, Andhra Pradesh and Assam have crossed 90-per cent coverage, the Union health ministry said on Friday. Karnataka has achieved more than 85-per cent coverage, while Chhattisgarh, Sikkim, Kerala, Telangana 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 .
JK Congress chief criticises CM Omar Abdullah over Vande Mataram remarks
Jammu and Kashmir Congress chief Tariq Hameed Karra on Friday criticised Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for saying that failure to comply with the Centres direction on singing the full version of Vande Mataram could land Kashmiris in jail, calling his remarks highly unfortunate and detached from reality. Earlier, while reacting to the controversy over the full version of the national song being played at a film festival, Abdullah asserted that it was a statutory requirement, and questioned whether the Congress wanted Kashmiris to be jailed. In response, Karra pointed out that Keralam had decided to sing only the first two stanzas and that no one was put behind bars. Omar Abdullah sahib's comment is detached from reality and, therefore, highly unfortunate, he said. Differences among the alliance partners cropped up after Congress slammed the ruling National Conference over the full rendition of the national song played at the inauguration of the International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK) here. Abdullah defended the move, saying that the issue was needlessly politicised. The chief minister had said that legally, wherever the national anthem is played, all six stanzas of Vande Mataram have been made mandatory. This is not just for Jammu and Kashmir; it applies across the entire country. In states governed by Congress, the same will happen at government functions. This is now a statutory obligation, he said. Does Congress want Kashmiris to be thrown in jail on this issue? he added. The CM said his party had not adopted the full song and has no objection if the Congress revokes it in the future once it comes to power. When Congress comes to power, and I pray they come to power as soon as possible, they can revoke this in Parliament. Let them do it, we have no objection. In fact, as a party, we have never adopted Vande Mataram, and we won't adopt it in the future either. But whatever our legal and statutory obligations are, we have to fulfill them, he said. Pushing back at the CM's assertion, Karra questioned why Abdullah had framed the controversy around the general population. How did the people of Jammu & Kashmir come into the picture when our expectations were clearly and exclusively from the Government of Jammu & Kashmir? Karra asked, asserting that the public had no role in the debate and that the onus remained squarely on the government to stand upright. Karra drew parallels with other non-BJP-ruled states to challenge the chief minister's stance on statutory compliance. But since Omar Sahib has raised the issue, it begs two questions: One, did a single person in Kerala go to jail when its government chose to sing only the first two stanzas of Vande Mataram at the Independence Day parade? And second, are we wrong to expect our Hon'ble CM to be equally capable of standing up for secular and inclusive values as the CMs of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and now even Karnataka and Telangana have done by limiting Vande Mataram to first two stanzas at state events? he asked. Karra said the IFFJK was a state event organised jointly by the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), J&K, and the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), and it was inaugurated by Chief Minister Abdullah himself. So, who else was or wasn't present is irrelevant, it is a superfluous detail meant only to distract from the core issue, he added.
Best of BS Opinion: Why AI should worry us more than nuclear weapons
Today's opinions examine AI as a global security and jobs risk, Kerala's new government, India's vulnerabilities within Brics and the valuation challenge in family-business succession.
Alliance rift deepens over Vande Mataram row: J
Says Omars comment detached from reality Did anyone go to jail in Kerala? Srinagar, Sep 11: Jammu and Kashmir Congress chief Tariq Hameed Karra on Friday criticised Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for saying that failure to comply with the Centres direction on singing the full version of Vande Mataram could land Kashmiris in jail, calling []
Tensions Rise Between Kerala PSC and Crime Branch Over SIT Inquiry
A potential clash emerges as Kerala PSC members refuse to cooperate with a Crime Branch inquiry related to exam irregularities. Tensions Rise Between Kerala PSC and Crime Branch Over SIT Inquiry
Pawan Kalyan Participates in Rituals at Triprayar Temple in Kerala
Andhra Pradeshs Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan visited Triprayar Temple, participating in various religious rituals and ceremonies. Pawan Kalyan Participates in Rituals at Triprayar Temple in Kerala
Alleged gold fraud: suspect at large arrested from Malappuram
He had been on the run for over a month following the incident
Youth in Keralams Kozhikode held for alleged bid to record visuals from hospital toilet
The man had reportedly arrived at the hospital as an attendant to his father, who was undergoing treatment
Congress questions NC govts stand on Vande Mataram
Srinagar, Sept 11: Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee president Tariq Hameed Karra on Friday hit back at Chief Minister Omar Abdullah over his remarks on the Vande Mataram controversy, saying the CMs response was detached from reality and that the issue was about the conduct of the government, not the people. Reacting to Omar Abdullahs comments, Karra wrote on X, that expectations had been directed clearly and exclusively towards the Government of Jammu and Kashmir and questioned why the people of J&K had been brought into the debate. The public has nothing to do with this debate. It is the government that is expected to stand upright, Karra said, arguing that the controversy should not be shifted from the government to the people. He said the CMs remarks raised two questions, including whether any person in Kerala had been jailed when the state government chose to sing only the first two stanzas of Vande Mataram at an Independence Day parade. Karra also questioned whether people were wrong in expecting the J&K Chief Minister to uphold what he described as secular and inclusive values, citing the examples of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Telangana, where he said state events had limited the rendition to the first two stanzas. Are we wrong to expect our Honble CM to be equally capable of standing up for secular and inclusive values? Karra asked. Taking his argument further, the PCC chief brought the recently concluded International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir into the controversy, rejecting what he termed an attempt to dilute the responsibility of the government by referring to who was or was not present at the event. Karra said IFFJK 2026, titled Rang-e-Cinema, was a state event jointly organised by the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), J&K, and the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), and was inaugurated by Omar Abdullah himself. Who else was or wasnt present is irrelevanta superfluous detail meant only to distract from the core issue, he said. The PCC chief maintained that the central question was not about the attendance of individuals but about the position taken by the government at an official event. His remarks come amid a political debate over the rendition of Vande Mataram at the IFFJK inaugural event, with opposition parties questioning the governments handling of the matter and seeking clarity on the decision. Karra said the government could not evade scrutiny by invoking the presence or absence of members of the public, insisting that accountability for a state-organised event rested with the administration.
SHRC orders NHAI to ready underpass near Edappally in two months
Four arrested with 10 kg of suspected MDMA in Kochi
Did anyone go to jail in Kerala? Cong hits back at Omar amid Vande Mataram row
Satheesan says that he is willing to publish the entire list of personal staff of Chief Minister and Ministers during the 2021-2026 period, including their addresses and other details
Police seize 68 kg of ganja in Salem, arrest six from Keralam
Recognise human potential beyond business opportunities: Sashikumar Sreedharan
Managing director of Google Cloud (India), speaking at the 4th convocation ceremony of Digital University Kerala, says that products and services are evolving into experiences in a smart and increasingly digital world
The Kerala CM is using his time to build a UDF legacy. But for him, life may not be this tranquil forever plain politics
Kerala Government Implements Major Administrative Reshuffle
Kerala government announces extensive administrative changes, appointing new district collectors and creating a special post for Sabarimala. Kerala Government Implements Major Administrative Reshuffle
Keralam Power Minister left in dark during KSEB conference speech
The News Mill
Mother allegedly kills 18-month-old daughter by slitting her throat in Keralam
The News Mill
Kerala woman charged with two murders after friend stabbed, another run over in US
Kerala woman charged with two murders after friend stabbed, another run over in US
SFI alleges police vendetta after leaders handcuffed in court
The SFI leadership has alleged that the police action was contrary to theState Police Chiefs guidelines and questioned the need to handcuff the two student leaders.
Congress BRICS 'rift': Udit Raj calls for results, not automatic opposition
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 11 (IANS) Congress leader Udit Raj on Friday questioned the practical usefulness of the BRICS summit and called upon the Centre to clearly explain the economic and strategic benefits India has derived from such international platforms. Amid differing views within the Congress on the BRICS event, Udit Raj, on party colleague Shashi Tharoors praise for India hosting the summit, said that being in the Opposition does not mean criticising the government on every issue, but an event should be praised only if it delivers tangible benefits to the country. On the contrasting positions of former Union Minister P Chidambaram and Tharoor, Raj told IANS that it should not be viewed as a contradiction within the party. While Tharoor described hosting BRICS as a prestigious opportunity, Chidambaram, as an economist, questioned the actual economic benefits. Hosting the summit is rotational, and prestige alone is not enough, he noted. Citing the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, Udit Raj argued that major events prove beneficial only when they deliver lasting gains to tourism and the economy. Speaking to IANS, Raj said international conferences like BRICS may be important, yet the government must spell out concrete outcomes. Did they increase FDI (foreign direct investment), attract foreign investment, or prevent the exit of foreign institutional investors from the stock market? Merely discussing GDP figures or hosting major events does not benefit the public, he remarked. He also questioned the ground-level gains from previous conferences, including the G20, and asked what real economic returns India received in exchange for its financial contribution to BRICS. Udit Raj further targeted the governments foreign policy, stating that issues concerning Indian students and skilled workers abroad, as well as Indias global image, need stronger attention. Referring to recent tensions with Pakistan, he said India must secure broad diplomatic support on international platforms during times of crisis. The usefulness of BRICS, he added, should be assessed by the extent of such support. He claimed Indias tourism sector has not received the desired boost. On womens reservation, he recalled that the Bill was passed in 2023, but its implementation was linked to delimitation. The Congress had supported early enforcement and accused the BJP of creating a false impression about the partys stand. Regarding the Hindi controversy in Kerala, Udit Raj backed the state governments objection, saying forced imposition of a language could hurt regional sentiments. Languages and identities of southern states must be respected, he emphasised. On Prime Minister Narendra Modis gift of a book to Russian President Vladimir Putin, Raj said such gestures are symbolic in diplomacy. The real test of foreign policy, he stressed, lies in the actual outcomes of meetings and agreements rather than photographs or symbolic gifts.
NH central line norms: Keralam to seek relaxation of SC order
Supreme Court has prohibited construction of residential buildings within 40 metres and commercial ones within 75 metres from the central line of national highways
Power crisis: Keralam CM chairs emergency meeting, issues directive for immediate measures
KSEB chairperson and managing director says the board will expand the system used to notify consumers in advance about power restrictions. He says States peak demand touched a record 5,400 MW on Thursday, whereas it recorded a lower average demand of 4,224 MW in September last year
Power crisis: Keralam CM chairs emergency meeting, issues directive for immediate measures
KSEB chairperson and managing director says the board will expand the system used to notify consumers in advance about power restrictions. He says States peak demand touched a record 5,400 MW on Thursday, whereas it recorded a lower average demand of 4,224 MW in September last year
J&K Cong. chief flays Omar over Cong. wants to see Kashmiris go to jail over Vande Mataram remarks
Tariq Hameed Karra says 'no one jailed in Kerala, Tamil Naidu'
Bureaucratic reshuffle in Kerala, new Collectors for three districts
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 11 (IANS) The Kerala government on Friday undertook a major reshuffle of IAS officers, bringing about changes in the leadership of three districts and several key departments and public sector institutions, besides creating a special Additional District Magistrate post for Sabarimala ahead of the forthcoming pilgrimage season. Anju K.S. has been appointed as Thiruvananthapuram District Collector, replacing Anu Kumari, who has been transferred as Special Commissioner, GST. Anju, who was Director of State Lotteries, will continue as Chairperson of the Vizhinjam Port Rehabilitation Monitoring Committee. Fisheries Director Chelasini V. has been appointed Wayanad District Collector, while Food Safety Commissioner Sreedhanya Suresh will take charge as Kasaragod District Collector. The present Kasaragod Collector, Arjun Pandyan, has been appointed Director of Agriculture Development and Farmers' Welfare. The government has created an ex-cadre post of Additional District Magistrate (Sabarimala) to coordinate the functioning of various departments and agencies in Sabarimala, Pampa, and Nilakkal during the 2026-27 Mandala-Makaravilakku season. Dileep K. Kainikkara has been appointed to the post. Ernakulam District Collector Priyanka G. has been given the additional charge of CEO of the Kochi Metropolitan Transport Authority, while Thrissur Collector Shikha Suresh has been given the full additional charge of Director General of the Kerala Institute of Local Administration (KILA). Industries Director Arun K. Vijayan IAS has been appointed Director of General Education. General Education Director Snehil Kumar Singh has been transferred as Industries and Commerce Director and will also hold additional charge as Managing Director of the Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC) and the Kerala State Information Technology Infrastructure Ltd (KSITIL). Sachin Kumar Yadav has been appointed Director of Kerala State IT Mission and given the additional charges of Technopark CEO and K-FON Managing Director. Dr Renu Raj has been given additional charge as State Mission Director of the National Health Mission, Project Director of e-Health and Managing Director of the State Health Agency. NHM Mission Director Anu S. Nair has been appointed Food Safety Commissioner and given additional charge as Managing Director of the Kerala Medical Services Corporation Limited (KMSCL). Sabin Sameed has been appointed PRD Director, while Akhil V. Menon will be Director of Sports and Youth Affairs and also Secretary of the State Sports Council. Sumit Kumar Thakur has been given additional charge as KTDC Managing Director. Dr Sreeram V. has been appointed Joint Secretary and OSD in the Forest and Wildlife Department. --IANS
Inspections in multiplexes in Keralam to continue
Food and Civil Supplies Minister announced ongoing inspections at multiplexes to combat the persistent issue of food overpricing and inaccurate quantities. Following numerous complaints, State authorities have conducted 35 surprise inspections, resulting in 25 cases registered for violations.
Kerala government issues directives to tackle electricity shortfall
The News Mill
Kerala High Court affirms tender process for demolition of Chanderkunj Army Towers
High Court dismisses two petitions filed by competitors challenging the award of the contract to Edifice Engineering.
Complete works on priority ahead of Sabarimala pilgrimage season, says Keralam Chief Minister
Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan attends review meeting
Malayinkeezhu police record arrest of woman for alleged murder of infant daughter
Investigators are exploring potential motives linked to domestic issues and Christys mental health, particularly postpartum depression, as they seek custody to gather further evidence.
Peak demand, swap arrangements worsen power situation in Keralam
While the State anticipated a peak demand of 4,850 MW in September, soaring temperatures have pushed the demand up to 5,450 MW, forcing the KSEB to impose power cuts
Tussle on cards as Kerala PSC members decide to oppose SIT questioning
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 11 (IANS) A tussle between the Kerala Public Service Commission and the Crime Branch appears to be on the cards as the recruitment panel's members are unlikely to appear before the Special Investigation Team for questioning in the Kerala State Planning Board examination irregularities case. The 16 serving members, including Chairman M.R. Baiju, are learnt to have decided not to appear at the Crime Branch headquarters in response to the notices which will be issued to them soon. The PSC is instead preparing to challenge the manner in which the members have been summoned, once they get the notices. The members and the Chairman are expected to write to the Home Secretary. They will point out that they hold constitutional posts and that the status and dignity of the constitutional institution have to be protected. The Commission is also seeking legal opinion from senior advocates on the validity of the notices. The issue could now develop into a larger legal confrontation between the constitutional body and the investigating agency. The Crime Branch, however, maintains a different position. Government legal circles point out that an investigating officer has the authority to decide where witnesses or suspects should be questioned, and a notice can be issued under criminal procedure based on the requirements of the investigation. Being members of a constitutional institution does not, by itself, provide exemption from criminal procedure, legal sources said. The SIT, headed by Crime Branch SP Zacharia, has decided to question the PSC members. The latest development comes as the SIT prepares to recommend cancellation of two controversial appointments made to the Kerala State Planning Board. The appointments are part of the wider investigation into alleged lapses in the examination and evaluation process. The probe had earlier found serious lapses on the part of two PSC officials, one of whom has superannuated. The state police chief has recommended departmental action against the two officials. The SIT is now examining whether the lapses were merely administrative failures or whether there was a deliberate conspiracy to favour particular candidates. The move to question the PSC members marks a significant expansion of the probe. The present PSC has 16 serving members against a sanctioned strength of 21. All the present members, including the Chairman, were appointed during the tenure of the previous Pinarayi Vijayan government. The political backdrop could therefore add another dimension to the developing controversy. No one has so far been formally named an accused in the examination case. But with the PSC resisting the questioning and the SIT preparing recommendations on the two Planning Board appointments, the investigation is entering a crucial phase. What began as a probe into examination lapses could now turn into a legal and institutional face-off.
Keralam Forest department agrees to diversion of forestland for Sathram airstrip
Designed to provide flight training for roughly 1,000 NCC Air Wing cadets, construction of the Sathram airstrip originally commenced on May 21, 2017; in July 2022, heavy rains triggered a landslip that washed away a section of the facility
Profcon calls for vigil against drugs, cultural decay on campuses
The three-day conference, being organised by the Wisdom Islamic Students Organisation State committee, urged parents, teachers and heads of educational institutions to take preventive measures against ideologies promoting the use of alcohol and drugs.
Consensus on signing PM SHRI scheme eludes UDF govt. in Keralam
Ruling front seeking to balance scepticism among its constituents about the scheme against its monetary benefits, which envisage federal funding ranging from 1,400 to 2,000 crore for school education.Education Minister says Centre has asked the State to take a decision and the UDF should reach a consensus soon. KPCC president says UDF is awaiting the UDF-appointed Cabinet subcommittees report
CPMs Kozhikode Meet: Crisis Talks After Historic Defeat
CPMs Kerala state committee will meet in Kozhikode amid calls for introspection and reform following the Lefts defeat after a decade in power.
Keralam launches Indias first Elder-Friendly Office Certification
EFOC is aimed at enhancing accessibility for senior citizens in government offices. The initiative will evaluate institutions based on five key domains, awarding Gold, Silver, or Bronze certification. The pilot phase is expected to begin within this financial year.
Keralam Electricity Ministers speech cut short by power failure
The incident occurred during the KSEB Officers Federation meeting, forcing him to abandon his address. A video of the episode has since gone viral
Title deed distribution key to 100-day programme, says Keralam Revenue Minister
A total of 1,175 title deeds were distributed in Thrissur district as part of the State governments 100-day action programme
SFI Kannur district secretary taken into police custody
Joel Thomas taken into custody in connection with case registered over alleged violence during protest in Thiruvananthapuram
Uproar over Vande Mataram rendition in Palakkad municipality in Keralam
The dispute began when Congress councillors demanded that a separate resolution be introduced on the singing of the national song
Konkani language activist and author dies
15 kg panchaloha idol stolen from Kunnamkulam temple
Thief covered CCTV camera with silk cloth; theft discovered when temple opened on Friday morning
Kerala High Court Criticizes Government Over Delays in SNDP Microfinance Fraud Case
The Kerala High Court has reprimanded the state government for delays in prosecuting the SNDP microfinance fraud case, questioning motives behind the setbacks. Kerala High Court Criticizes Government Over Delays in SNDP Microfinance Fraud Case
UAPA Accused Alan Takes a Jab at Pinarayi Vijayan Over Old Tea Comment
Alan revives Pinarayi Vijayans old tea remark amid ongoing investigations involving the former Kerala CM and his family. UAPA Accused Alan Takes a Jab at Pinarayi Vijayan Over Old Tea Comment
Hyderabad to purple paradise: Rare flower is back after 12 years
Every now and then, nature pulls off a spectacle so rare that it stops us right in our tracks. Up in the misty, tea-covered hills of Keralas Munnar, a quiet transformation happened after twelve years. Entire hillsides, usually wrapped in lush greenery, are now blanketed in soft shades of purple, and travellers are rushing to 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 .
India administers over 80 lakh HPV vaccine doses under national campaign since Feb
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 11 (IANS) India has crossed a significant milestone in its efforts to prevent cervical cancer, with over 80 lakh doses of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine administered under the National HPV Vaccination Campaign since its launch in February 2026, an official statement said on Friday. Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Mizoram have achieved 100 per cent coverage of their respective identified target populations, the statement from Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said. Bihar, Andhra Pradesh and Assam have crossed 90 per cent coverage, while Karnataka has achieved more than 85 per cent coverage. Chhattisgarh, Sikkim, Kerala, Telangana and Odisha have crossed 60 per cent coverage. The nationwide drive, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in February 2026, offers voluntary, singledose HPV vaccination free of cost to 14yearold girls at government health facilities with parental consent. As per Registrar General of India (RGI) 2021 estimates, approximately 1.2 crore girls constitute the annual cohort of 14-year-olds who are expected to benefit from the initiative each year. The progress in Assam and other Northeastern States also demonstrated the role of integrated community health networks and coordinated field-level action in expanding access across geographically diverse areas. Healthcare providers, including paediatricians, gynaecologists and experts from institutions such as AIIMS, along with teachers and frontline health workers including ASHAs and ANMs, have supported awareness and mobilisation efforts across states and districts. The campaign has also leveraged Indias digital health infrastructure through the U-WIN platform, enabling programme managers to monitor vaccination coverage at the district level, identify coverage gaps and missed beneficiaries, and support more effective programme planning and resource allocation. Currently, 87 per cent of upper-middle-income countries, 78 per cent of lower-middle-income countries and 54 per cent of low-income countries have adopted HPV vaccines in their National Immunization Programmes. All vaccination sessions under the campaign are conducted under the supervision of trained medical officers at government health facilities. Government health facilities are also linked with 247 healthcare facilities for appropriate management of rare Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI). This mechanism ensures timely assessment, monitoring and management of any vaccination-related adverse event. With the campaign progressing towards its final phase, the focus remains on reaching the remaining eligible beneficiaries and ensuring that no eligible girl is left behind, the ministry said. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare continues to work closely with States and Union Territories, healthcare professionals, frontline health workers and communities to strengthen awareness, facilitate access and support effective implementation of the HPV Vaccination Campaign, the statement noted.
Sayani Guptas US feature film debut Arya adds Ross Butler and Marc Evan Jackson as co-stars
Just weeks after her directorial debut Aasmani, a deeply personal short film about a 60-year-old grandmother and her 10-year-old granddaughter and their precious powder blue fiat, that marked her first outing behind the camera, was selected across ten film festivals on multiple continents within a span of two months, Sayani Guptas US feature film debut Arya has added two significant names to its cast. Ross Butler (Riverdale, 13 Reasons Why) and Marc Evan Jackson (Brooklyn Nine-Nine), have been roped in to play key roles alongside Gupta. The dual milestones underline just how expansive her presence has become this year, moving fluidly between acting, directing and producing across Indian and American cinema. In Arya, written and directed by Neil Tuli, Sayani plays the title role, that of a disciplined piano teacher from a well-known and prestigious Indian conservatory who reluctantly takes on an assignment in northern Minnesota, with hopes of rescuing a struggling band program while also fuelling her own career ambitions back home. But her arrival leads to some chaos, and Arya is forced to deal with her own personal insecurities. It's a role that continues Sayani Gupta's pattern of choosing layered, culturally specific characters. Only this time, she carries an entire American indie feature as its lead. Ross Butler and Marc Evan Jackson join a rounded-out cast that includes well-known artists like Arjun Gupta, Adi Roy, Kyra Leroux and Iqbal Theba. Sayani also serves as an executive producer on it as well, alongside Ross Butler. Written and directed by Neil Tuli, Arya serves as his feature directorial debut as well. However, what makes this moment a particularly significant is that it has arrived just as Sayani's directorial debut Aasmani, which she also wrote and produced, began its positive festival run, stretching from Washington DC to Tokyo to Kerala. Taken together, the two projects capture an actor who has spent over a decade building a reputation for depth on Indian OTT and is now stepping into new territory, both as a director whose first film is being appreciated globally and as a lead carrying her first American feature. Also Read: Sayani Guptas directorial debut Aasmani to be screeened at 10 film festivals in 2 months
Petition Filed in Kerala HC Seeking MLA Kappans Disqualification
The petitioner has sought a direction declaring Kappan disqualified from continuing as MLA from Pala with effect from September 1, declaring the seat vacant and directing the Election Commission to initiate proceedings for a bye-election
Ghost net kills another humpback dolphin on Kozhikode coast
Necropsy confirms that it had starved to death after ingesting the fishing net
'You didn't go to have tea': UAPA accused Alan's tit-for-tat reply to Pinarayi Vijayan
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 11 (IANS) Former Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's old 'tea' remark has come back to haunt him. And the person serving it back is none other than young Alan Shuaib. Alan, who was arrested in the controversial Pantheerankavu UAPA case in 2019, on Friday posted a one-line message posted in his social media post apparently aimed at Vijayan, his daughter T. Veena Vijayan and son-in-law P.A. Mohammed Riyas, presently facing the heat from the Enforcement Directorate (ED). All I have to say to Pinarayi Vijayan, Riyas and Veena is You didn't go to have tea. But it carries a long political memory. The remark is a direct recall of words used by Vijayan after Alan and his friend Thaha Fazal were arrested by the Kerala Police in November 2019. The two students were accused of having Maoist links. They were booked under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Their arrests created a major political controversy. Both were known to be CPI-M sympathisers. Sections of the Left also questioned the decision to invoke UAPA against them. When the Kerala government faced questions over the arrests, Vijayan had famously said when asked by the media: They (Allan and his friend) didn't go there to have tea, did they? The case was later handed over to the National Investigation Agency. This too happened during Vijayan's tenure as the Kerala Chief Minister. Alan and Thaha spent a long period in jail before securing bail. Years later, Alan has brought the same tea remark back into the political conversation. Only this time, the cup is being served in the opposite direction. The ED has sought action under the Prevention of Corruption Act against Vijayan, Riyas, Veena and others based on its findings in the CMRL-Exalogic financial transactions. The agency has handed over a 25-page report, along with supporting documents, to State Police Chief Ravada A. Chandrasekhar. Though, Alan did not write a long social media post. He did not spell out his argument. He simply borrowed Vijayan's own words. That appears to be the point. The message has an unmistakable element of political payback. A phrase that Vijayan once used while defending action against two young students has now been turned back on him. The irony is hard to miss. The Pantheerankavu case had once placed Alan at the receiving end of a political storm. Now, years later, he has chosen one sentence to remind Vijayan of that episode. No long explanation. No elaborate political attack. Just tea. And a line Vijayan himself once made famous.
Muneers MLA pension delayed for three months over official error
IUML leaders absence from Youth League event raises eyebrows
Excise arrest youth with 305.396 grams of suspected MDMA in Kochi
The Excise also seized 2,90,000, allegedly gained through drug sales, and a mobile phone from the accused
Eight transformer fuses stolen amid power cuts in Keralam's Palakkad
The police and residents suspect the involvement of anti-social elements behind the incident
Kerala PSC Tracer Final Answer Key 2026 (Out) - Download PDF
Kerala PSC has released the Final Answer Key for the Tracer (Local Self Government) exam held on 17 August 2026, Category No. 633/2025, Question Paper Code 078/2026. Check the complete answer key for all four alpha codes (A, B, C, D), see which questions were deleted, and download the official PDF from keralapsc.gov.in.
Kerala Chief Minister Vows Action Against Cyber Attacks Following Journalists Death
Keralas CM warns of legal action against cyber bullies targeting journalist Jijo John after his death, condemning hate speech online. Kerala Chief Minister Vows Action Against Cyber Attacks Following Journalists Death
Ancient spice route may have shaped Keralams Malabari goats genetic legacy, study shows
Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University researchers have reported the first complete mitochondrial genome of the Malabari goat. The findings provide molecular evidence supporting the possibility that goats moved along the historic Indian Ocean Spice Route
Transformer Fuses Stolen Amid Power Cuts in Keralams Palakkad
Initially we assumed that it was part of the power cut. However, as the electricity connection was not restored even after two hours, we contacted the KSEB office, a resident said
Two visionary students have unveiled Smriti 1.0, a cutting-edge robot aimed at the preservation and digitisation of fragile palm-leaf manuscripts. The machine employs suction and oil to gently cleanse and dry each leaf, while high-tech OCR capabilities convert the ancient writings into digital text. Their pioneering project clinched first place in a national robotics competition, propelling them to represent India at a prestigious international showcase in Puerto Rico.
Hair in ice cream, expired stock: multiplexes in Keralams Kollam busted for food safety lapses
Bank delays release of deceased wife's savings to elderly man; ordered to pay Rs 15K
A Kerala consumer commission ordered Bank of India to pay compensation for service deficiency. The bank delayed releasing a deceased woman's savings to her elderly husband. The commission found the bank's procedures unnecessarily burdensome and lacking clear communication. The bank failed to prove its defense regarding an unsigned application. The elderly man suffered financial hardship and mental agony due to the bank's actions.
KPCC president Sunny Joseph says Congress workers should conduct themselves thoughtfully and that party will solve all outstanding differences amicably
Keralams Muttil tree-felling cheating case: trial court postpones framing of charges to September 19
Postponement follows plea by the accused seeking suspension of proceedings until Kerala High Court delivered its verdict
Wild gaur attacks motorist in Keralams Kozhikode
The incident comes days after death of a 40-year-old in a gaur attack at Vilangad
Keralam faces acute power shortage as demand surges
Peak-hour demand has also shifted towards late night as people charge their electric vehicles after returning from work and other activities
Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim to meet Kanthapuram on September 13
A discussion involving prominent personalities from religious, political and social spheres is scheduled as part of the visit. Anwar Ibrahim is also set to visit Madavoor C.M. Valiyullahi Maqam
KSEB working hard to tide over power shortage, says Keralam Electricity Minister
Sunny Joseph says Opposition should not blame the present UDF government, as lapses during LDFs tenure also contributed to the power crisis
Supplyco advances Keralams SDG goals through affordable food, farmer support: Study
The recent assessment highlights Supplycos multifaceted approach in enhancing food security and supporting local farmers, revealing substantial savings for households and a significant impact on poverty reduction and nutrition access across Kerala.
ED WhatsApp trail puts Vijayans daughter Veena, ex-Kerala Minister Riyas under fresh scrutiny
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 11 (IANS) A WhatsApp conversation allegedly involving former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayans daughter T. Veena has emerged as a key piece of digital evidence in the financial crime findings handed over by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to the State Police Chief. The conversation allegedly shows Veena, while staying in Dubai, asking her son in Kerala what name should be given to a company she was planning to start there. The ED has included the WhatsApp exchange in its detailed report to the police. The agency reportedly sees the message as evidence of a move to establish a business entity in Dubai in the backdrop of alleged overseas financial transactions. The police are expected to examine whether the proposed company was actually set up and whether it had any connection with the transactions under investigation. The ED has also reportedly handed over details of a red-covered diary allegedly maintained by Veena, containing entries on money given to various persons in Kerala. Bank records, WhatsApp conversations and documents relating to alleged transfer of funds abroad are also understood to be part of the material submitted to the police. The findings have opened a fresh line of investigation beyond the allegation that Pinarayi Vijayan received Rs 3.28 crore from CMRL. The police will have to establish the source of the alleged funds, the persons involved and the route through which money was allegedly moved abroad before any hawala case can be established. The ED report also reportedly points towards former minister P.A. Mohammed Riyas who is her husband. It alleges that substantial foreign transactions took place during his tenure and that his close associates were used for transferring money to Dubai. However, Riyas has rejected the allegations. He has alleged that the ED threatened Veena and pressured her to implicate Pinarayi Vijayan in the CMRL-Exalogic transactions. He has also denied that his Dubai trips had anything to do with hawala transactions. The Home Department is examining the ED report received by the DGP. The government is expected to take a decision on registration of an FIR after obtaining legal advice and completing its preliminary examination. If a case is registered, the investigation could widen to cover the alleged money trail, the proposed Dubai company, the diary entries, bank transactions and the persons allegedly involved in transferring funds abroad. The developments could revive the political controversy surrounding the financial allegations against the former Chief Ministers family and put Riyas under fresh legal and political scrutiny.
Kerala shocker: Mother allegedly kills 18-month-old daughter in Trivandrum
The deceased child was identified as Ivana. According to the police FIR, the incident took place at a house in Vilavoorkkal village between 3.30 pm and 4.30 pm
As Centre seeks clarity on PM SHRI implementation, Kerala govt goes in huddle
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 11 (IANS) The controversial PM SHRI scheme is back on the table in Kerala, with the Centre writing to the state government for the second time, seeking clarity on its implementation. General Education Minister N. Shamsuddeen confirmed that the Centres fresh letter has been received by the Chief Secretary. He said urgent consultations would be held before the government takes a decision. The Chief Minister will discuss the issue at the government level and within the front and convey the stand. I cannot take a stand on my own, Shamsuddeen said. The minister said the government would consider whether to completely reject PM SHRI or go ahead with it subject to conditions. Its future, he said, would be decided after discussions led by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan. The issue has already figured in discussions within the Congress leadership in recent days. While a section of leaders wanted the government to drop the scheme, CM Satheesan is understood to have pointed out that completely walking away from it may not be easy. The scheme had first triggered a major political storm when the previous Pinarayi Vijayan government was in office. The state eventually signed an MoU with the Centre in 2025. The decision was criticised for being taken without adequate consultation within the LDF. The CPI, the second largest constituent of the Left front, mounted strong opposition, forcing the government to subsequently put implementation on hold and constitute a Cabinet sub-committee to examine the issue. The present government now finds itself in a difficult position. The UDF had opposed the scheme before and after the elections. Satheesan, then Leader of the Opposition, had been particularly vocal against the previous government's move. Shamsuddeen, however, pointed to the financial dimension. Kerala, he said, had around Rs 2,000 crore due from the Centre. Samagra Shiksha Kerala funds were the backbone of the Education Department and had been withheld. We have told the Union Minister that Keralas funds should not be withheld in the name of PM SHRI, he said. The Centre has maintained that Kerala signed the PM SHRI MoU in October 2025. The state subsequently sought to keep implementation in abeyance. With the fresh communication from Delhi, the issue has now moved back to the Centre of the political debate, leaving the Satheesan government to balance its earlier opposition to the scheme against Keralas substantial financial claims from the Centre.
