Wayanad Prakruthi Samrakshana Samiti reiterates its opposition to the Wayanad twin tunnel project, alleging that it is driven by commercial interests
Comprehensive womens policy on the cards in Kerala: Minister Bindhu Krishna
The policy aims at combating violence against women and enhancing support throughout their lives.
Pluto movie review: A sci-fi comedy that sticks to usual alien narratives
Sci-fi films are not something that happens often in the Malayalam film industry which has relatively smaller budgets, with the subgenre of sci-fi comedies appearing even less frequently. Even the rarity of the genre does not really work to the advantage of Pluto.
Court remarks that the matter will be taken very seriously if there is any further delay; earlier, it had warned that contempt proceedings would be initiated if the direction to fast-track the probe within the prescribed time was not followed
Kerala High Court seeks response of CBI and State govt. in plea against cashew import scam accused
Petition seeks to bar K.A. Ratheesh, former managing director of the Kerala State Cashew Development Corporation and one of the accused in the 600-crore cashew import scam, from holding key government posts
Kerala HC seeks response from Payyannur MLA in election petition alleging malpractice
The petition alleged that V. Kunhikrishnan had committed election malpractice by spreading false propaganda against his rival candidate
CBI names six accused in chargesheet in Kerala Wadakkanchery Life Mission scam case
Santhosh Eappen, managing partner of Unitac Builders, has been arraigned as the first accused, his construction firm Sane Ventures the second accused, and the Life Mission project the third accused. Swapna Suresh named and sixth accused
Kerala Police Officers Association comprising ASIs, SIs and Inspectors challenges its dissolution
The move comes close on the heels of the Kerala Police Association (KPA) securing a stay from the High Court on the State government order restructuring police associations
Kerala HC sets aside report in favour of ADGP S.Sreejith
Court asks Vigilance Additional Chief Secretary to reconsider the complaint of Motor Vehicle department officer Dipin Edavana against the Additional Director General of Police
Protest held at NHAI office demanding flyover at Nileswaram in Keralas Kasaragod
Protesters allege that the proposed seven-metre-high embankment at Nileswaram Market Junction is unscientific and would divide the town besides creating severe traffic bottlenecks
Police find no homicide angle in Nilambur newborns death
Preliminary post-mortem examination indicates that the death was not caused by a criminal act
Registration mandatory for drones weighing above 250 grams
All drones weighing more than 250 grams must be registered through the Digital Sky portal and obtain a unique identification number
Unscientific allotment of Plus One batches in north Kerala could create a crisis, says KSTA
Many government higher secondary schools facing a fall in student intake were overlooked while new Plus One batches were allotted to aided schools in their vicinity, alleges KSTA
Kerala government in a quandary over DGP appointment
The prospects of ADGP S. Sreejith for the post have suffered a setback after the Kerala High Court quashed a clean chit in connection with allegations that he had undertaken a foreign trip without obtaining prior government permission
UDF moving ahead with PM SHRI to please BJP, alleges CPI State secretary Binoy Viswam
He says the Centres reply in the Rajya Sabha makes it clear that the claims of the Chief Minister and Education Minister that the State had received money by signing the PM SHRI agreement are false
Uniform portal for migrant worker data to be launched in Kerala
SP warns youth against social media scams
Screenwriter Shibu Chakravarthy recalls filmmakers enduring legacy; KPAC Lalitha also honoured at Wadakkanchery event
Pier anglers in Keralas Thiruvananthapuram await restoration of Valiyathura Pier
Gilbert Raju, a 42-year-old orally challenged fisherman, is among the many awaiting government reconstruction of the heritage structure to continue using it to reel in fish
Cultural academies in Kerala must become more people-centric, says Minister Vishnunadh
Minister promises early appointment of governing bodies, revival of Koothambalam, uninterrupted ITFoK funding and stronger support for Keralas cultural institutions
Alleged mastermind in fake loan app scam brought to Kerala
Bamboo drive at Yakkara temple in Keralas Palakkad seeks to promote climate resilience
Palakkad municipal chairperson P. Smithesh inaugurated the event by planting a bamboo sapling
Tushar Gandhi urges Kerala to quash cases filed against student protesters
In a letter addressed to Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan and Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala, he says its disgraceful students are being prosecuted in Kerala, where a Congress-led government is in power.
Orange alert for 11 districts in Kerala on July 31
SHRC orders strict enforcement of rules for protection of mangroves, wetlands in Kannur
SHRC directs the Collector and the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests to coordinate with departments to ensure effective protection of mangroves, wetlands and riverbank ecosystems in the district
KGMOA, IMA condemn attempted assault on doctor in Keralas Attingal
Medical officers forum alleges that Attingal municipal chairperson unnecessarily intervened in the functioning of the hospitals emergency department, obstructed the doctors official duties, and issued him death threats
Kerala High Court Criticizes Government Over Delay in Media Trial Investigation of Actor Dileep
Kochi, July 30: The Kerala High Court has sharply criticized the state government for its failure to expedite the investigation into the media trial involving actor Dileep Kumar, also known as Pulsar Suni, in connection with the infamous actress assault case from 2017. Justice Jobin Sebastian expressed strong displeasure, stating that despite repeated opportunities, the ... Read more Kerala High Court Criticizes Government Over Delay in Media Trial Investigation of Actor Dileep
Kerala High Court Questions Governments Appointment of Accused Bureaucrat
Kochi, July 30: The Kerala High Court has sharply criticized the state government for retaining a senior bureaucrat facing trial in an alleged 600 crore cashew development scam in key government positions. The court raised concerns about how an accused official in a major corruption case could be entrusted with significant responsibilities in important government ... Read more Kerala High Court Questions Governments Appointment of Accused Bureaucrat
Narayanan describes the space sector reforms in India as a 'transformational milestone' that has opened unprecedented opportunities for private participation
Calicut varsity to review annual exam fee hike
This comes in the wake of complaints that many students were finding it difficult to cope with the hike
Watch: Tamil Nadus stone transport ban: Whats happening? | Focus Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu has imposed a temporary ban on the interstate transport of rough stone, M-Sand and construction aggregates, raising concerns in Kerala over delays to key infrastructure projects. Heres an in-depth explainer on why the restriction was introduced, why Kerala depends on Tamil Nadu for stone, and what could happen next.
UDF announces subcommittee to formulate liquor policy for 2026-27 fiscal year
The ruling front needs to strike a balance between Keralas fiscal requirements and the social and political sensitivities surrounding the production of low-strength alcohol. Initial attempts had drawn criticism from Muslim and Christian forums and also from within the Congress
Kerala: Bengal man receives call from Pakistan, taken into custody
Kozhikode: A 35-year-old man from West Bengal was taken into custody in Keralas Beypore area on Thursday, July 30, after he allegedly received a phone call from a Pakistan-based number, police said. The man is being interrogated by central agencies. An officer at the Beypore police station said that during police questioning and an examination 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 .
The labour codes had been passed by Parliament. Even though labour was on the Concurrent List, the State had limitations in overruling Central statues, says Minister
The Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) makes it cheaper, quicker and easier to do business between India and U.K., says Ms. Choudhury
Anil Akkara seeks transfer of all Vigilance files to CBI in Kerala LIFE Mission case
Former MLA says parallel investigations weaken the probe; urges State to withdraw Supreme Court plea and extend full cooperation to the CBI
UDF drops opposition to PM SHRI, cites crucial federal funding for school education in Kerala
UDF convener Adoor Prakash says governments are in perpetuity, and some actions taken by the previous LDF dispensation cannot be undone by the incumbent government, given the fiscal commitments involved
Pala municipal council in Kerala to elect new chairperson on August 19
Diya Binu, one of the youngest chairpersons of an urban local body in the country, was voted out on July 21 after a no-confidence motion moved by the Opposition-led LDF was passed with the support of four Congress councillors
Health Minister orders 10-year review into medicine procurement and management in Kerala
K. Muraleedharan issues directive after it emerges that a considerable quantity of medicines procured for government health institutions has expired unused, resulting in financial losses to the exchequer. KMSCLs role in procurement of medicines to be examined in detail
Minister Bindhu Krishna to inaugurate scheme to enhance workplace safety on August 3
Har Din Surakshit, Ease of Doing Business Licensing, and Unregistered Factory Registration schemes aim at enhancing workplace safety, reduce industrial accidents, and streamline factory compliance
Elderly man killed in gaur attack in Kulathupuzha
This tragic incident underscores a growing wildlife crisis in Kulathupuzha, where previous attacks on residents have raised serious concerns about the Forest departments management and response to the ongoing threat posed by encroaching wildlife.
Kollam district administration cracks down on illegal waste dumping
A total fine of 5,25,350 has been imposed and 106 cases registered in various local bodies within the district.
Varayattumudy in Keralas Idukki emerging a thriving habitat of Nilgiri tahrs
The Nilgiri tahr population on the hills has risen significantly, with nearly 150 tahrs recently sighted, up from around 50 in 2022. Forest dept. completes eco-restoration project across 22.5 hectares, ensuring better food availability for the animals
S.Sreejith emerges front-runner for Kerala DGP post after M.R. Ajith Kumars suspension
Sreejith, a 1996-batch IPS officer, is the next senior-most officer in the line of succession after Kumar, who is under suspension and Suresh Raj Purohit, who is on Central deputation
The viral Chuvarbot 2.0 secures productisation grant from Kerala Startup Mission
The graffiti painting start-up, which garnered social media attention during the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections, has secured a grant of 12 lakhs from the Kerala Startup Mission. The product, currently in its prototype stage, is set to launch by the end of 2026
West Bengal Man Taken Into Custody in Kerala After Receiving Call From Pakistan
An officer at the Beypore police station said that during police questioning and an examination of his mobile phone, only one call from a Pakistan-based number was found, and no other suspicious material came to light
Humans often travel to reconnect with places and past memories. Familiar destinations reduce cognitive load and mental effort for travelers. These places become extensions of personal identity and evoke strong emotions. Nostalgia significantly increases travelers' intentions to revisit cherished destinations. Repeat visits offer emotional restoration and psychological comfort to many.
Pinarayi Vijayan accuses UDF-led Kerala govt of starving local bodies of Plan funds
Opposition Leader inaugurates LDFs protest march from Martyrs Column to Secretariat against government slashing Plan fund allocation for local body institutions
The case pertains to events on February 19, 2003, when armed police and forest officials moved into the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary to evict hundreds of landless indigenous families
Zee Music Company expands South India footprint with multilingual music rights acquisitions
Zee Music Company has acquired music rights for upcoming films across South India. This expansion includes Malayalam, Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada language productions. The company also secured rights for the hip-hop reality show Kerala Underground. Acquired music rights are scheduled for release this year and in 2027. This move strengthens their multilingual catalogue and pan-India growth.
Protesters complain police have failed to track a motorcycle rider who attacked a tanker lorry and its crew at Thondayad on July 29
Where do Indian States stand on menstrual leave policies? | Explained
As the Kerala and Madras High Courts examine demands for menstrual leave, only five States have adopted menstrual leave policies, while India has no national law on the issue
Kerala HC stays Additional Chief Secretarys order restructuring police associations
Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas admits petition by Kerala Police Association which contended that the order violated KPAs fundamental right to form associations under the Constitution
Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan Cleared of 2018 Flood Fund Controversy
Thiruvananthapuram, July 30: The Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB) has officially closed an eight-year-old investigation against Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan. This case was linked to allegations of fundraising in the UK for rebuilding homes after the devastating floods in Kerala in 2018. State Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala announced the decision on Thursday, stating that ... Read more Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan Cleared of 2018 Flood Fund Controversy
Kerala rains: IMD sounds orange alert for five districts on July 30
Registrar issues notice warning SFI-led university union that financial assistance sanctioned for conference, scheduled to be held on campus from August 3 to 6, will be withdrawn. It says unions actions amounted to violation of varsitys order prohibiting political content
Police say the action is aimed at depriving the accused of assets allegedly amassed through illicit trafficking and disrupting financial incentives sustaining organised drug networks
Centre denies financial aid for Keralas Port City project citing lack of feasibility study, DPR
In a communication to Kerala government, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal state the memorandum did not include a feasibility study, techno-economic report, or DPR for projects listed in proposal
An Instagram video sparked debate about MBBS doctor salaries in Kerala. The user claimed low pay and limited government vacancies exist. Concerns were raised about the growing number of medical colleges in the state. Students were advised to explore alternative healthcare careers. Social media users offered differing views on doctor distribution and pay.
Bison kills 68-year-old at Kulathupuzha in Kerala
Incident ignites fresh outrage among local residents who have long warned of escalating wild gaur menace in their backyards
Kerala HC seeks States response on actor Ansiba Hassans petition against Magistrates order
HC admits petition by Ansiba Hassan challenging order of Judicial First Class Magistrate Court, Ernakulam, which refused to register a case based on her complaint against a video allegedly containing sexually coloured and defamatory statements made against her
Spices Board mulls indoor saffron cultivation in Kerala
She proposed closer collaboration between the Agriculture Department and the Spices Board for implementing joint programmes
Keralas UDF govt clears CM V.D. Satheesan of corruption charges in Punarjani foreign fund case
Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala says previous LDF governments case against Satheesan was politically motivated
Renacon Launches RENAFLEX Fibre Cement Boards, Advancing Sustainable Construction in India
Renacon , the flagship building materials brand of the Renaatus Group, Erode recently announced the launch of RENAFLEX Fibre Cement Boards (FCB) in Renaatus Product Private Limited, marking a significant milestone in the company's evolution from a manufacturer of green building materials to a comprehensive building solutions provider. Venkatesh Pakala (Dy CEO, RENAATUS Procon); Manoj Poosapoan (JMD, Renaatus Group); P. Selvasundaram (CMD, Renaatus Group); Basto Collins (Sr VP, Renaatus Product) Backed by an investment of INR 350 crore, Renacon has established a world-class integrated manufacturing facility at Naidupeta, Andhra Pradesh, dedicated to the production of AAC Blocks, Rapid Wall Panels and Fibre Cement Boards. Built in a record 12 months, the facility introduces globally benchmarked Laminar Flow Technology to India, delivering precision-engineered, sustainable building materials designed to meet the growing demands of modern construction. Speaking at the launch, Mr. P Selva Sundaram, Chairman and Managing Director, Renaatus Group , said, " The launch of RENAFLEX represents a defining milestone in Renacon's journey towards becoming a complete building solutions provider. Our INR 350 crore investment reflects our long-term vision of combining advanced manufacturing, innovation and sustainability to create world-class products for India's construction industry. By bringing globally proven Laminar Flow Technology to India, we are delivering Fibre Cement Boards that offer superior strength, precision, durability and consistency while supporting faster, safer and greener construction. As India accelerates infrastructure development under Vision 2047 and the 'Make in India' initiative, RENAFLEX will empower architects, developers, contractors and homeowners with high-performance building materials that are built for the future." The launch further strengthens Renacon's expanding portfolio, which already includes Renacon AAC Blocks—South India's largest and one of the most preferred AAC block brands—manufactured across three facilities in Tamil Nadu with a combined annual production capacity of one million cubic metres, along with Rapid Wall AAC Sandwich Panels and Renafix Drymix Products. With India's construction sector increasingly embracing sustainable and high-performance building materials, Renacon expects RENAFLEX to play a significant role in enabling modern dry wall solution considering labour shortage by adding to the faster construction, safer and environmentally responsible construction across residential, commercial and industrial projects. This can assist in building government housing schemes like Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana 2.0 scheme targeting 1 crore additional houses and Affordable Rental Housing Complexes scheme for quicker completion. With India's AAC market growing at a CAGR of 10–12% since 2010 and projected to expand by nearly 15% annually over the next five years, Renacon expects RENAFLEX to play a key role in accelerating the adoption of advanced Fibre Cement Board systems and driving the transition towards faster, greener and more sustainable construction across India. We are looking at 100% utilization of the existing plant in Naidupeta by March 2027 which will help Renaflex gaining a good share in Fibre cement board market in a year and half time. Asia's Largest Integrated AAC and Fibre Cement Board Manufacturing Facility The new Naidupeta facility has an annual production capacity of 60,000 metric tonnes of Fibre Cement Boards, making it Asia's largest integrated AAC and Fibre Cement Board manufacturing facility. The project is expected to generate employment direct and indirectly for more than 1000 people, while strengthening domestic manufacturing under the Government of India's " Make in India " initiative. At the heart of the manufacturing process is Laminar Flow Technology, an advanced production system that ensures: Superior flexural strength Excellent impact resistance Zero undulation for exceptionally smooth surfaces High dimensional accuracy and consistency Enhanced durability for long-term performance The facility manufactures both Type A (High Density) and Type B Fibre Cement Boards, along with RENAFLEX Elegante Designer Fibre Cement Boards, specially developed for architects and designers seeking premium aesthetics for wall cladding, façades and interior décor. The high-density boards are engineered for demanding exterior applications requiring exceptional strength and weather resistance. Engineered for Green, Fire-Rated and Sustainable Construction RENAFLEX Fibre Cement Boards are precision-engineered for modern interior and exterior construction systems, combining durability, safety and sustainability. Key features include: Fire resistance Moisture resistance Termite resistance High dimensional stability Smooth and consistent finishes Long service life Faster installation with reduced maintenance The boards are suitable for a wide range of applications, including: Interior partitions False ceilings Façades Mezzanine flooring Roof underlay Wet area installations Duct covering Prefabricated structures Furniture Modular interiors Manufactured using environmentally responsible processes, RENAFLEX supports sustainable construction by reducing environmental impact while improving durability, operational efficiency and lifecycle performance. The product aligns with green building certification frameworks such as IGBC and GRIHA, helping developers deliver environmentally responsible and energy-efficient buildings. With increasing emphasis on fire-rated construction across commercial, industrial and public infrastructure projects, RENAFLEX is well positioned for applications in commercial buildings, hospitals, educational institutions, industrial facilities, site offices, security cabins and residential developments. Fibre Cement Boards have already gained widespread acceptance across Europe, the United Kingdom, the United States, China and Australia for their strength, durability and sustainability. Through RENAFLEX, Renacon aims to bring these globally benchmarked standards to the Indian construction industry. Expanding Across India and Global Markets Renacon will initially focus on the southern markets of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka and Kerala, before expanding into international markets across Europe, the Middle East and Africa and 50% of the business to come from exports for Renaatus Products Private Limited. The company expects growing demand for prefabricated construction, sustainable building materials and fire-rated building systems to drive strong growth in both domestic and overseas markets. About Renacon Renacon is the flagship building materials brand of Renaatus Procon Private Limited, headquartered in Erode, Tamil Nadu. The company manufactures AAC Blocks, Rapid Wall AAC Sandwich Panels, Renafix Drymix Products and RENAFLEX Fibre Cement Boards, delivering innovative, sustainable and high-performance building solutions for modern construction. The Renaatus Group has executed several landmark infrastructure projects across India and overseas, including Rajahmundry Airport, Chennai Central Tower—one of Chennai's tallest commercial developments—and the Gan International Airport Project in the Maldives. The Group has also launched its flagship residential development, VARAM in Coimbatore, further strengthening its commitment to creating world-class infrastructure and sustainable communities. Participants in the Press meet: Mr. P Selva Sundaram, Chairman and Managing Director, Renaatus Group Mr. Manoj Poosappan, Joint Managing Director, Renaatus Group Mr. Venkatesh Pakala, Dy, CEO, Renaatus Procon Private Limited Mr. Basto Collins, Senior Vice President, Renaatus Products Private Limited
Officials say Kerala government is legally examining VACB report to Home department in 2025 which stated that the NGO violated Rule 19 of FCRA by allegedly failing to maintain records of foreign donations for Punarjani project and of utilisation of endowments from abroad
Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast across many parts of India on Friday. The India Meteorological Department has issued warnings for widespread showers and gusty winds. Northern, central, eastern, northeastern, western, and southern regions will experience active monsoon conditions. Isolated very heavy to extremely heavy showers are anticipated in several specific areas. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are also likely in numerous locations nationwide.
Mollywood hails Centres crackdown on movie piracy network
Centres against against websites and Telegram channels allegedly hosting or distributing copyright-infringing content has given a major push to anti-piracy campaign by Malayalam film industry
Remembering the Wayanad Tragedy: Two Years Later, Survivors Honor Their Lost Loved Ones
Wayanad, July 30: Two years have passed since the devastating natural disaster struck Wayanad, Kerala. The calamity obliterated the hillside villages of Chooralamala and Mundakkai. Even after two years, the shadow of grief looms over the survivors. On July 30, 2024, a landslide officially claimed the lives of 330 individuals, including 32 who were initially ... Read more Remembering the Wayanad Tragedy: Two Years Later, Survivors Honor Their Lost Loved Ones
Kerala CM Satheesan: Sangh, a Section of Media Owe Manmohan Singh an Apology
The Supreme Court on Wednesday closed a criminal case against Singh in a coal block allocation case while setting aside a summoning order passed against him
Kochi households face higher biomedical waste collection fee as Corporation set to trim subsidy
Under the new regime, the Corporations subsidy burden will fall from 28 per kg to just 8, while the user fee will rise from 12 per kg to 20 for non-subsidised households
T.G. Mohandas case: 27 AIYF activists booked for protest march to Hindutva ideologues house
AIYF activists charged with unlawful assembly and creating danger or obstruction in public way or line of navigation
KEAM Engineering rank list 2026 released at cee.kerala.gov.in; counselling process to begin soon
CEE Kerala has published the KEAM Engineering Rank List 2026 for admission to undergraduate engineering programmes for the 202627 academic session. Eligible candidates can access their rank cards through the official portal using their login credentials. The merit list has been prepared after normalising qualifying examination marks, and shortlisted candidates will proceed to the upcoming counselling process.
Salary from private sector employment cannot be excluded in Creamy Layer assessment: Kerala HC
While one petitioners father was earning 1.12 crore annually, another ones father was employed in multinational bank in the UK
Kerala Civil Police Officer suspended over custodial assault leading to bus drivers death
Suspension order issued by District Police Chief (Kollam Rural) after a preliminary inquiry revealed severe lapses in protocol
Levin Paulose, a young student from Kerala, gained widespread attention for his innovative creations. He builds functional robots and devices using discarded household items and scrap materials. His creations include a water fetching device and an automatic curry stirrer. A humanoid robot built from cardboard has particularly impressed many viewers. The Chief Minister of Kerala also praised Paulose for his remarkable ingenuity.
Power engineers oppose 11 kV self-certification policy, cite public safety risks
The Jammu and Kashmir Electrical Engineering Graduates Association (JKEEGA) has sought the immediate withdrawal of S.O. 193 of 2026, contending that the governments decision to enhance the notified voltage limit for self-certification of electrical installations from 650 volts to 11 kV could compromise public safety, weaken statutory oversight, and undermine the role of the Electrical Inspection Wing. The association has also called for the notification to be kept in abeyance until a comprehensive technical, legal, and safety review is undertaken. In a detailed representation addressed to the Additional Chief Secretary, Power Development Department, JKEEGA stated that the recently issued notification, which implements provisions under the Central Electricity Authority (Measures Relating to Safety and Electric Supply) Regulations, 2023, appears to have been issued without a comprehensive technical impact assessment, structured stakeholder consultation, or any demonstrable evaluation of the safety implications associated with permitting self-certification of electrical installations up to 11 kV. The association said the issue was deliberated extensively during separate meetings of its Guidance Councils in Kashmir and Jammu, chaired by General Secretary Er. Pirzada Hidayatullah and President Er. Sachin Tickoo, respectively. Following detailed technical discussions, both councils unanimously adopted resolutions opposing S.O. 193 and resolved to seek its immediate withdrawal and a comprehensive review. Copies of the resolutions have also been submitted to the government for consideration. According to the representation, electrical installations operating at 11 kV constitute high-voltage systems that involve significantly greater risks to human life, public property, and the integrity and reliability of the electricity network. JKEEGA argued that such installations require rigorous and independent statutory scrutiny by the Electrical Inspection Wing to ensure compliance with prescribed safety standards. It cautioned that extending the scope of self-certification to 11 kV would substantially reduce independent statutory oversight and weaken the safeguards envisaged under the Electricity Act, 2003, and the CEA Safety Regulations, 2023. The engineering body further maintained that no material has been placed in the public domain to indicate that the enhancement of the notified voltage threshold from 650 volts to 11 kV was preceded by any comprehensive technical feasibility study, safety audit, risk assessment, or comparative analysis of regulatory practices followed by other states. It said a policy decision having far-reaching implications for public safety and regulatory governance should have been preceded by a transparent consultative process involving all stakeholders, including the Electrical Inspection Wing, Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL), Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (JPDCL), Jammu and Kashmir Power Transmission Corporation Limited (JKPTCL), engineering associations, technical experts, and consumer representatives. JKEEGA also expressed concern over the practical implications of the notification, observing that certification of high-voltage installations under the revised framework would largely depend upon Chartered Engineers possessing the prescribed qualifications and experience. Given the limited availability of such professionals in the Union Territory, the association apprehended that statutory certification may become concentrated in the hands of only a few individuals, leading to avoidable administrative, technical, and ethical concerns while simultaneously diminishing the institutional role of the Electrical Inspection Wing. While acknowledging that improving the ease of doing business is a legitimate policy objective, the association asserted that it cannot override the paramount considerations of public safety, statutory oversight, and regulatory accountability, particularly in matters involving high-voltage electrical infrastructure. The representation also highlighted a comparative review of the regulatory framework adopted by several states, including Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Gujarat, West Bengal, Bihar, and Chhattisgarh. According to JKEEGA, these states have exercised caution while implementing the discretion available under the CEA Regulations and have retained comparatively lower notified voltage thresholds to ensure continued independent statutory oversight over high-tension electrical installations. The association further pointed out that neighbouring Himachal Pradesh, which has topographical and climatic conditions similar to Jammu and Kashmir, has retained the notified voltage threshold at 440 volts, demonstrating that the CEA Regulations do not prescribe a uniform national threshold of 11 kV. In its representation, JKEEGA urged the government to immediately withdraw S.O. 193 of 2026, suspend its implementation pending a comprehensive technical, legal, and safety review, and constitute a high-level committee comprising representatives from the Power Development Department, Electrical Inspection Wing, KPDCL, JPDCL, JKPTCL, JKEEGA, technical experts, and other stakeholders to examine the implications of the notification. It also sought a comparative assessment of the regulatory frameworks followed in other states before introducing any policy that substantially expands the scope of self-certification. Furthermore, the association requested that any future policy concerning electrical safety and statutory inspection be formulated only after meaningful consultation with all stakeholders and due consideration of technical, legal, and public safety aspects. Reiterating its support for reforms in the power sector, JKEEGA stated that it remains firmly committed to constructive and progressive changes. However, it maintained that such reforms must be founded on sound technical principles, stakeholder participation, statutory compliance, and the paramount consideration of public safety. The association appealed to the government to initiate a transparent, inclusive, and technically informed consultative process to evolve a balanced and consensus-based policy. The association expressed hope that the concerns raised by the engineering fraternity would receive due consideration. However, it warned that if the notification continues in its present form without meaningful stakeholder consultation, JKEEGA would be constrained to register its protest through all lawful, peaceful, and democratic means available under law in order to safeguard public safety, preserve the statutory role of the Electrical Inspection Wing, and protect the legitimate interests of the engineering fraternity. Copies of the representation have also been forwarded to the Advisor to the Chief Minister and the Chief Secretary of the Union Territory.
Murali Shreeshankar Secures Silver Medal in Mens Long Jump at CWG 2026
Glasgow, July 30: Murali Shreeshankar from India clinched a silver medal in the mens long jump final at the Commonwealth Games 2026, achieving a personal best jump of 8.09 meters late Wednesday night (Indian time). The athlete from Palakkad, Kerala, made his best leap in the second round. He started with a jump of 8.03 ... Read more Murali Shreeshankar Secures Silver Medal in Mens Long Jump at CWG 2026
Kerala Tourism to push for driver facilities in star-rating norms for hotels and resorts
Move follows a protest by drivers demanding properly maintained washrooms at luxury hotels
Workshop to draft action plans for welfare of SHGs begins in Kochi
Bangladeshi national arrested in Kozhikode over illegal stay
AKPCTA seeks govt. intervention to end administrative crisis at technical varsity
Association demands that a Syndicate meeting be convened without further delay to approve pending appointments and promotions
City police incinerate 587 kg of suspected ganja, other seized contraband
The suspected narcotic substances were seized over the past one year as part of the ongoing anti-drug crackdown
Reports of CPI(M) forming temple committee baseless, saysJayarajan
CPI(M) leader says reports that appeared in media are part of a deliberate misinformation campaign against the party
Indian Psychiatric Society urges mental health policy revamp
A delegation of psychiatrists met Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan at Thiruvananthapuram and submitted a memorandum seeking reforms in mental healthcare delivery, infrastructure and governance
Expert committee to inspect autonomous colleges in Calicut varsity
Syndicate standing committee on exams to conduct inquiry into 93 students graduating after getting moderation marks in an unauthorised manner
Kerala Headload Workers Act will be modernised, says Bindhu
Dhanlaxmi Bank records 24.91 crore net profit in Q1 of FY 2026-27
Total business reached 35,190 crore as on June 30, 2026, from 29,051 crore as on June 30, 2025, recording 21.13 % growth.
Three arrested for poaching in Vellore
The arrested made as well as sourced country-made explosives through acquaintances in Kerala
