'Healthy competition' helps Tanya Chaudhary set national record in hammer throw
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 11 (IANS) A healthy competition with fellow trainee Anushka Yadav proved beneficial for Tanya Chaudhary of Uttar Pradesh as he set the national record in women's hammer throw in the Indian Athletics Series Final in New Delhi. It was like the fulfilment of a dream for Tanya, and the fact that she set a new mark just before the upcoming Asian Games was like icing on the cake as the 22-year-old took the spotlight on the opening day of the meet on Thursday. Day One of the prize-money meet saw two national records being set in the hammer throw, with Tanya achieving the feat that she has been chasing for the past three years. Tanya achieved her quest by improving the national record in the womens hammer throw as she hurled the iron ball to a distance of 68.35m, improving the national record of 65.25m, which was set by Sarita Singh in 2017. My previous personal best is 63.91m. I have done 65m-plus two or three times (at the inter-university level), but those were not official. Now, I am able to do it (break the national record). It is a new beginning, she said. Normally, I used to be nervous. But I was focused on my technique today. Tanya, who trains along with Anushka at the same ground at Bhagpat in Uttar Pradesh under different coaches, said the healthy competition helped her move forward. We both are from the same ground. So, there is healthy competition between us. So, it is good for both of us to move forward. Though Tanya could not breach the Asian Games qualifying mark, she has made it to the team for the mega event in Aichi-Nagoya in Japan and is looking forward to continuing the momentum in Japan. It was because of injury. Now I feel I will do better. I had multiple injuries at the same time: a hamstring injury and a stress injury in the femur bone. The injuries were going on since January. In the men's section, Delhis Nirbhay Choudhary recorded a throw of 71.02m, which was better than the previous national record of 70.73m set by Neeraj Kumar in 2016. The other major attraction for Indian athletics fans was the successful return to action by Avinash Sable in the men's 3000m steeplechase. Sable, representing Maharashtra, won the steeplechase in a time of 8 minutes 32.39 seconds in his first race in the distance in more than a year. Spotlight was also on 400m runners as the top six finishers in the mens race clocked below 46 seconds. Top three in the womens 400m race also dipped below 53 seconds. I will do better and win a medal at the Japan Asian Games, said Vishal TK, winner of the gold medal and national 400m record holder, in the post-race interaction. Maharashtras promising sprinter Harita Bhadra, winner of the womens 100m dash, said the Indian Athletics Series Final was good preparation for the Asian Games. It was a good experience for me to race in the 100m dash with the top sprinters, Harita added. Odishas Animesh Kujur won both the 100m and 200m dash in the mens section. Results: Men: 100m: Animesh Kujur (Odisha) 10.21 seconds, Gurindervir Singh (Punjab) 10.32 seconds, Rushiprasad Desai (Maharashtra) 10.33 seconds. 200m: Animesh Kujur (Odisha) 20.59 secs, Jishnu Prasad (Kerala) 20.63 secs, Abhay Singh (Madhya Pradesh) 21.04 secs. 400m: Vishal TK (Tamil Nadu) 45.36 seconds, Jay Kumar (Uttar Pradesh) 45.50 seconds, Manu TS (Kerala) 45.68 seconds. 800m: Mohammed Afsal (Kerala) 1:46.40 secs, Prakash Gadade (Maharashtra) 1:46.56 secs, Krishan Kumar (Haryana) 1:46.73 secs. 1500m: Rahul Baloda (Rajasthan) 3:39.89 secs, Yoonus Shah (Uttar Pradesh) 3:40.37 secs, Sunil Dawar (Madhya Pradesh) 3:43.68 secs. 110m hurdles: Krishik M (Karnataka) 13.65 secs, Muhammed Lazan (Kerala) 13.84 secs, Manav R (Tamil Nadu) 13.85 secs. 400m hurdles: Santhosh Kumar (Tamil Nadu) 50.08 secs, Ruchit Mori (Gujarat) 50.61 secs, Subhas Das (West Bengal) 50.73 secs. 3,000m steeplechase: Avinash Sable (Maharashtra) 3:32.39. Shubham Bhandare (Maharashtra) 8:50.31, Vikash Dalal (Haryana) 8:50.43. Shot put: Tajinderpal Singh Toor (Punjab) 20.64m, Samardeep Singh Gill (Madhya Pradesh) 19.59m, Karanveer Singh (Punjab) 19.51m. Hammer throw: Nirbhay Choudhary (Delhi) 71.02m (NR, previous best 70.73m), Damneet Singh (Punjab) 68.12m, Ashish Jakhar (Haryana) 67.51m. Javelin throw: Rohit Yadav (Uttar Pradesh) 81.10m, Manoj Kumar (Tamil Nadu) 80.73m, Yashvir Singh (Rajasthan) 80.40m. Pole vault: Dev Kumar Meena (Madhya Pradesh) 5.40m, Reegan G (Tamil Nadu) 5.30m, Ramratan (Rajasthan) 5.10m. High jump: Aadarsh Ram (Tamil Nadu) 2.18m, Aaditya R (Madhya Pradesh) 2.15m, Basant (Rajasthan) 2.15m. Long jump: Mohd Atta Sazid (Haryana) 8.01m, Arya S (Karnataka)7.90m, Sarun Payasingh (Odisha) 7.61m. Triple jump: Karthik Unnikrishnan (Kerala) 16.43m, Gailey Venister (Tamil Nadu) 16.04m, Vishal Bahadur (Jharkhand) 15.85m. Women 100m: Harita Bhadra (Maharashtra) 11.22 seconds, Abinaya Rajarajan (Tamil Nadu) 11.31 seconds, Giridhrani R (Tamil Nadu) 11.35 seconds. 400m: Aishwarya Mishra (Maharashtra) 52.51 secs, Prachi (Uttar Pradesh) 52.75 secs, Poovamma MR (Karnataka) 52.76 secs. 800m: Lili Das (Uttarakhand) 2:03.41 secs, Pooja (Haryana) 2:04.02 secs, Gowthami J (Tamil Nadu) 2:05.63 secs. 1500m: Thota Sankeertana (Chhattisgarh) 4:37.95, Nikita Sharma (Himachal Pradesh) 4:38.62 secs, Pragati (Haryana) 4:39.88 secs. 100m hurdles: Nandhini Kongan (Tamil Nadu) 13.30 seconds, Anjali C (Kerala) 13.33 secs, Pragyan Prashanti (Odisha) 13.37 secs. 400m hurdles: Anu Raghavan (Kerala) 57.23 secs, Sinchal Kaveramma (Karnataka) 59.91 secs, Tanu Chaudhary (Uttar Pradesh) 1:01.47 secs. 3,000m steeplechase: Praul Chaudhary (Uttar Pradesh) 9:22.49, Prachi Devkar (Maharashtra) 10:28.35, Susmita Tigga (Odisha) 10:33.94. Pole vault: Nitika (Madhya Pradesh) 4.10m, Baranica Elangovan (Tamil Nadu) 4.10m, Karthika V (Tamil Nadu) 4.10m. High jump: Pooja Singh (Haryana) 1.81m, Reet Rathor (Uttar Pradesh) 1.81m, Supriya SB (Karnataka) 1.78m. Triple jump: Lasha Ilango (Tamil Nadu) 13.76m, Niharika Vashisht (Punjab) 13.24m, Bhairabi Roy (West Bengal) 13.06m. Long jump: Ancy Sojan (Kerala) 6.76m, Shaili Singh (Uttar Pradesh) 6.65m, Bhavani Yadav (Andhra Pradesh) 6.42m. Hammer throw: Tanya Chaudhary (Uttar Pradesh) 68.35m (NR, previous best 65.25m), Anushka Yadav (Uttar Pradesh) 66.34m, Kulvinder Kaur (Rajasthan) 59.13m. Shot put: Manpreet Kaur (Haryana) 17.19m, Krishna Jayashankar (Tamil Nadu) 16.61m, Srishti Vig (Delhi) 15.99m. Discus throw: Seema Kaliramana (Haryana) 56.52m, Priya (Haryana) 54.82m, Nidhi Rani (Haryana) 54.16m. Javelin throw: Annu Rani (Uttar Pradesh) 57.50m, Rashmi K (Andhra Pradesh) 57.22m, Uma Choudhary (Rajasthan) 52.89m. Prize money: Total cash awards: R 65 lakh. 1st: R 1 lakh, 2nd: R 50,000, 3rd: R 25,000, 4th: R 20,000, 5th: R 15,000, 6th: R 10,000.
Staff member assaulted after cremation site mix-up at Keralam crematorium
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The News Mill
A wake-up call to keep the mind hale and hearty
On World Suicide Prevention Awareness Day, the Keralam chapter of the Indian Psychiatric Society launched Susmitham Mind Your Mind, Mental Health Matters, a campaign aimed at making mental health conversations more open so that the stigma around mental health that prevents people from seeking timely professional help is dispelled
A wake-up call to keep the mind hale and hearty
On World Suicide Prevention Awareness Day, the Keralam chapter of the Indian Psychiatric Society launched Susmitham Mind Your Mind, Mental Health Matters, a campaign aimed at making mental health conversations more open so that the stigma around mental health that prevents people from seeking timely professional help is dispelled
'I Want to Hear the National Anthem at Asian Games'
Kerala's Ancy Sojan clinched the women's long jump title at the Indian Athletics Series Final, expressing strong confidence for the upcoming Asian Games where she aims to win gold and experience the national anthem on the podium.
Odisha Police traces 101 missing children in 17 states under 'Operation Anweshan'
Digital Desk | Bhubaneswar, Sep 10 (IANS) The Odisha Police has rescued 101 missing Odia children in 17 states under its Operation Anweshan campaign, conducted between August 28 and September 8, said Shyni S, Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) of Crime Against Women and Children Wing (CAW & CW), on Thursday. The special drive was executed by the CAW & CW of Odisha Police in collaboration with the state Women and Child Development (W&CD) Department, with a focus on tracing missing children outside the state. As part of the operation, as many as 17 specialised teams were deployed to several states and Union Territories where Odia children are frequently found. These states include Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Haryana, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, New Delhi, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal. The police teams conducted field-level searches, verified the leads, and coordinated with the local authorities as well as various Child Care Institutions (CCIs) during the operation. According to the CAW & CW, the 101 traced children comprise 54 boys and 47 girls. The youngest among those rescued was a three-month-old infant found institutionalised alongside her minor mother, while the child institutionalised for the longest duration had spent more than five years away from home. The Odisha Police also noted that out of the total traced children, 83 (46 boys and 37 girls) were found lodged in Child Care Institutions, while seven others, including six boys and one girl, were rescued from commercial labour sites. Another 11 children, consisting of two boys and nine girls, were traced against missing person cases already registered in Odisha. West Bengal accounted for the highest number of recoveries with 30 children, followed by Karnataka with 11, and Jharkhand and Tamil Nadu with 10 each. All the traced children have either returned or are in the process of being repatriated to Odisha for their formal reintegration and rehabilitation. Mrinalini Darswal, Commissioner-cum-Secretary of Odisha W&CD Department, proactively supported the efforts of police in this campaign, while the legal-cum-Probation Officers from the department provided necessary support during the campaign.
Infant dies in Thiruvananthapuram, mother taken into custody
Mother, a Vilavoorkal native, allegedly said she had killed the child. Police yet to establish motive.
Nearly 90 kg ganja seized in Thiruvananthapuram
BUDS school at Karode must be reopened immediately: Child Rights Commission
The commission directed that the school be provided an electricity connection so that it can be made operational.
Continuing power outages in Keralam throw peoples lives into disarray
Load shedding has been arranged between 6.30 p.m. and 1 a.m., with back-to-back power outages disrupting daily routines of people
BJP slams Congress, Karnataka govt for defying Vande Mataram legislation
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 10 (IANS) BJP National Spokesperson and Rajya Sabha MP Sudhanshu Trivedi on Thursday slammed the Congress and its government in Karnataka for going against a legislation passed by Parliament that stipulates rendering all the paragraphs in Vande Mataram as penned by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee when sung at any government programmes or official functions. Pointing out that state songs in Opposition-ruled states like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu also mention bowing before the motherland, he sought to know if raising issues over the National Song does not mean surrendering before extremist and secessionist forces. Congress stands alienated from its alliance partners on the issue of singing Vande Mataram, with only the Muslim League standing in its support, alleged the BJP leader. Trivedi was referring to the Congress recently criticising even its ally National Conference over the singing of the full version of the National Song at the inauguration of the International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir. National Conference leader and state Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reacted, saying it is now a statutory requirement and has to be followed. Trivedi also hit out at the Karnataka government for passing an order directing that only the first two stanzas of Vande Mataram be sung at official events in the state. Every citizen of India knows that no state Assembly can pass a law against a legislation passed by Parliament, he stressed. This (state order) is not illegal and comical but also mirrors the inherent character of the Congress party that it wants to keep the Constitution in its pocket, he charged. He also recalled a comment from Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) National General Secretary Elyas Muhammad Thumbe that they had an understanding with the Congress during the 2018 Karnataka Assembly elections to avoid a split in minority votes. Since he made this statement in the 2023 state polls, the BJP has targeted the Congress for alleged links with the controversial outfit. Adding that the Congress party has denied this, Trivedi pointed out that SDPI, the alleged political arm of the banned Islamist organisation Popular Front of India (PFI), first spoke of contesting 100 Assembly seats, then 54 and then contested in only 16 seats and fought so valiantly that it lost all, and even had their security deposit forfeited. This, he insisted, strengthened doubts about a tacit poll understanding between the two. Trivedi pointed to Karnatakas song hailing the state as mother, as did the state song of Tamil Nadu. This dichotomy shows the opposition is not over social or religious issues, but rather goes to show total surrender before extremism and secessionism and the Muslim League, he claimed. He also took a swipe at the state leadership of the Congress in Kerala, where the party is now in power, heading an alliance. In Kerala, incumbent Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan on 7 February, 2026, according to media reports, gave a statement that he has no reservation about getting the support of JamaateIslami there and is openly running a government with the Muslim League, he added. The Congress party has taken a rigid stance on singing only the first two paragraphs of the song at all party events, citing it as a decision made in 1937 as advised by Rabindranath Tagore. This has been a subject of controversy, with the BJP terming it an act of appeasement and a violation of law.
She flays the Congress over its stand on the EDs move against CPI(M) leaders, including Pinarayi Vijayan
Police intensify manhunt for escaped Bangladeshi national in Kochi
He was one of the six Bangladeshi nationals arrested for allegedly staying in Kochi without valid travel documents
Alleged jinn show at healing centre inMalappuramsparks outrage
Hindi Row Erupts At NCW Workshop: 8 Kerala MLAs Walk Out
A fresh language row has erupted at a National Commission for Women workshop for women legislators in Haryana, with eight Kerala MLAs walking out alleging that the sessions were conducted almost entirely in Hindi. The legislators said their concerns over linguistic diversity were ignored and criticised the content as too basic for elected representatives. The walkout has reignited the politically sensitive debate over Hindi and regional languages, with the Kerala MLAs raising slogans on protecting the Constitution and respecting India's diversity.
Kerala banks hit record credit highs
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 10 (IANS) Kerala's banking sector has recorded strong growth, with credit to agriculture and MSMEs touching record levels even as total deposits crossed Rs 10.84 lakh crore, the State Level Bankers Committee (SLBC) said. The banking sectors performance was reviewed at the SLBC meeting for the June 2026 quarter held here. Total deposits with banks in Kerala stood at Rs 10,84,241 crore at the end of March 2026. This marked an annual growth of 13 per cent. Total advances rose 11 per cent to Rs 7,81,043 crore, while the credit-deposit ratio stood at 72.04 per cent. This was well above the 60 per cent benchmark prescribed by the Reserve Bank of India. Agricultural credit emerged as one of the major drivers of growth. It touched an all-time high of Rs 1,76,142 crore, representing a 16 per cent annual increase. Credit to micro, small, and medium enterprises also reached a record Rs 1,08,948 crore. This grew 13 per cent during the year. The figures indicate a significant expansion of institutional credit to two key segments of Keralas economy. NRI deposits provided another major boost to the banking sector. They stood at Rs 3,35,440 crore, registering a 17 per cent annual growth. The SLBC said there had been significant improvement in both credit and deposit mobilisation compared with the previous financial year. The committee stressed the need to further increase credit flow to priority sectors. Agriculture, MSMEs, self-employment ventures, and other productive sectors will receive particular attention. They also called for greater banking support to emerging sectors such as healthcare, advanced manufacturing and renewable energy. The meeting was told that Invest Kerala Desks are being established at various locations to help attract and facilitate high-value investments in the state. Implementation of crop insurance was also reviewed. The committee stressed the need to widen coverage and ensure greater participation by eligible beneficiaries. The performance of banks under schemes including PM Surya Ghar, PMFME, Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, PMEGP, and PM Vishwakarma was also reviewed. The SLBC said it would continue to coordinate with the state government, the RBI, NABARD and member banks to improve institutional credit delivery and support Keralas development priorities.
Green protocol for Ganeshotsav in Keralams Palakkad
District administration says the manufacture, sale and use of idols made from plaster of Paris, plastic, thermocol and toxic chemical paints have been banned
Pinarayi disputes Keralam CMs claim on personal staff
Three Tamil Nadu natives die after inhaling toxic gas at a waste treatment plant of a hotel in Kattappana in October 2025. KSHRC takes up the matter in public interest
CPI(M)s extended Keralam State committee meeting in Kozhikode from Sept. 13
Party general secretary M.A. Baby will open the conference, Polit Bureau members to attend
Joint safety inspection finds gaps on national highways in Keralams Thrissur
District Collector directs NHAI and departments to urgently address deficiencies on NH 66 and 544
M.A. Baby hits out at ED, accuses it of acting as BJPs extended department
CPI(M) general secretary says the agency has made a big mistake by targeting the party. Mr. He criticises Congress leadership in Keralam, particularly Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, for attaching importance to the ED action
SIT to question all 16 Kerala PSC members in Planning Board appointment probe
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 10 (IANS) The Special Investigation Team probing the controversial appointment to the Kerala State Planning Board is moving into the next phase of its investigation. The SIT has decided to question all 16 members of the Kerala Public Service Commission. The questioning is expected to begin next week, and PSC Chairman M.R. Baiju will be the last to be questioned, according to sources. The move comes after the SIT completed the first round of its probe, where the investigation had focused on officials connected with the appointment process. Two PSC officials have already been found to have allegedly erred in the process. The SIT has sought action against them in connection with the case registered over the appointment. The decision to question all the members of the PSC marks a wider phase of the investigation. The SIT is expected to examine the role of the commission as a whole in the selection and appointment process. It will also seek to ascertain how the decision was taken and whether the prescribed procedures were followed. The PSC's Planning Board appointments had triggered questions over the manner in which the candidate was selected through the PSC process. A case was registered following allegations of irregularities in the appointment. The SIT had subsequently examined officials and documents relating to the selection. The first round of questioning helped the investigators identify alleged lapses on the part of two PSC officials. The questioning of the 16 commission members is expected to help the SIT establish whether the alleged lapses were confined to officials involved in the process or whether there were wider issues in the decision-making process. The Chairman has been kept for the final round of questioning. The move is significant as the investigation now reaches the highest level of the commission. The SIT is also expected to examine the statements of the commission members against the documents and records already collected. The latest move indicates that the SIT is now seeking to establish the complete chain of events behind the appointment.
KTU Deputy Registrar suspended over Pookode lake beautification project in Keralam
The action is in connection with a vigilance case registered over alleged financial irregularities in the lake beautification project in Wayanad
Profcon to focus on education, careers, social issues
The conference will cover higher education and career opportunities, overseas education, social media use and students role in society.
Greenfield highway back in focus in Keralam as Vizhinjam begins EXIM operations
The 257-km corridor was conceived as an alternative to the increasingly congested MC Road, connecting the high ranges of central Kerala with a faster freight link to the international port. Poonjar and Kanjirappally MLAs urge the Chief Minister to revive the project and take up the matter with the Centre.
Lorry driver from Keralam abducted, robbed of 50,000 in Salem
Assailants take him to Madaiyankuttai burial ground and, along with two more persons, assault him and tie him up
Four from West Bengal held with 71 kg ganja in Keralam
They were arrested in a joint operation at the Palakkad railway station; last week, six Odisha natives were arrested with 53.453 kg of ganja at Olavakkode
Kerala Teacher Removed from Duty Over Alleged Mistreatment of Sick Student
Teacher accused of verbally and physically mistreating sixth-grade student; inquiry committee to submit report within three days.
Ahead of Sabarimala pilgrimage season, TDB to ramp up Aravana production
Board is targeting a buffer stock of over 45 lakh Aravana tins ahead of the opening of the pilgrimage season in November
Two 14-year-old Kerala girls built a robot that digitises ancient palm-leaf manuscripts
Nursing officer arrested under POCSO Act for assaulting minor at hospital in Keralam
The incident occurred in the early hours of September 8. According to the complaint, the teenager had entered the hospital elevator to go to a ward when Migdad stepped inside with her and committed the assault
Stronger family bonds key to fighting suicides, says Health Minister
The Minister observed that parents and children must spend quality time communicating and sharing their concerns.
Four special police teams arrest 10 cybercrime suspects across five States
Of those arrested, six were apprehended in Tamil Nadu and Kerala, two in Maharashtra and two in Gujarat; a detailed investigation is under way to identify and arrest other persons involved in these cases
Russia to supply 105 regional jets to India, Pinnacle Air and Air Kerala among buyers
Russia is set to supply a total of 105 Il-114-300 regional aircraft to Indian operators, in a series of agreements announced alongside the Innoprom exhibition in New Delhi. The deals involve three Indian aviation companies,...
Tiger Nandu euthanised at Thrissur Zoological Park in Keralam
The tiger, which had been rescued from Wayanad, was suffering from advanced oral cancer and had become unable to eat
UDF government in Keralam to choose a path of heedfulness in calibrating a legal and political response to the ED report recommending the registration of a case against former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, his daughter T. Veena and son-in-law and former Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas in the CMRL-Exalogic pay-off case
Bobby Sabu Smashes 39-Year-Old Record
Kerala Police officer Bobby Sabu has broken a 39-year-old triple jump record at the 47th Kerala Police State Athletics Meet with a 15.93-metre effort. This achievement follows his recent gold medal win at the All India Police Duty Meet, marking a significant milestone in his athletic career.
Water crisis: KWA to boost Aluva WTP output; Kochi to get additional 10 MLD water
According to KWA officials, new motor pump sets will be installed at the WTP
Senior Kerala journalist has no respite from trolls even after passing away
Digital Desk | Kochi, Sep 10 (IANS) Death is supposed to be the great leveller. Political differences, professional rivalries and personal disagreements are expected to end when a person passes away. But in the case of 54-year-old senior journalist Jijo John Puthenzheth, even death did not appear to command that basic respect. Jijo suffered a cardiac arrest and passed away on Wednesday morning. The social media reaction to the news of his death has left many in Kerala deeply disturbed. Beneath posts reporting the passing of the senior journalist, known for his sharp and often critical reports, a section of social media users chose to abuse and vilify him. The comments were not merely political criticism. They targeted a man who was no longer there to answer back. Jijo, a senior journalist with Malayala Manorama's Kochi unit, was particularly known for his investigative reports and his coverage of politics and governance. Some of his reports were critical of the Left and the CPI-M. That was part of his job as a journalist. It was also part of the reason why he had his share of critics. But criticism of a journalist's work is one thing. Turning his death into an occasion for political abuse is quite another. The reaction has triggered strong resentment across sections of society. Many have questioned whether Kerala, which has long prided itself on its social values, political awareness and sense of decency, has reached a point where even a death cannot rise above political hostility. Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan's condolence message offered a striking reminder of the journalist behind the byline. Satheesan said he had started for office that morning (Wednesday) after reading the byline Jijo John Puthenzheth, only to learn of his death after a Cabinet meeting. He said it took him time to come to terms with the reality that Jijo was no more. For Satheesan, Jijo was not merely a senior journalist. He was a fellow townsman and a close friend. He recalled meeting him just days before his death and said their conversations on various issues had been a regular part of his political life. Jijo's professional standing was equally significant. His journalism had won national recognition, including the Ramnath Goenka Award in 2015. He had brought out several reports that attracted national attention in investigative journalism. That is the Jijo who deserves to be remembered. Not the caricature created by political hostility on social media. There may be sharp disagreements with a journalist's reports. There may be anger over what he wrote. There can be arguments over his politics or his methods. But there should be a line that cannot be crossed. Death should be that line. In Jijo's case, sadly, even that line was crossed. And that perhaps says less about the journalist who died and much more about the society that watched it happen.
Keralam Minister promises hi-tech upgrade for Forest department
Shibu Baby John says the department will be modernised with advanced technology, equipment and vehicles to meet the changing needs of forest protection
Supreme Court agrees to hear plea seeking national policy for welfare of private school teachers
New Delhi, Sep 10 (PTI) The Supreme Court on Thursday agreed to hear a petition seeking a direction to the Centre to formulate a comprehensive national policy and appropriate statutory framework for ensuring the welfare, social security and post-retirement protection of private school teachers in the country. A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta issued notice to the Centre, all states and Union Territories and others, including the National Council For Teacher Education, seeking their responses on the plea. The bench posted the petition, filed by Kerala-based petitioner Ligimol George, for hearing after four weeks. The plea, filed
Offshore floating platform proposed along Keralam coast to protect coastline, harness clean energy
Project aims at mitigating impact of rough sea conditions while harnessing renewable energy from waves, winds and solar radiation, along with promoting sustainable blue economy development
The travel group, with over 300 members, undertakes trips in KSRTC buses to spots that are not in the itinerary of Budget Tourism Cell of the Corporation
India, Russia hold talks on joint production of civil passenger planes
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 10 (IANS) Indias Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu on Thursday held discussions with Russia's Industry and Trade Minister Anton Alikhanov on joint manufacturing of civil passenger aircraft to meet Indias demand for regional air connectivity. With the immense potential of regional connectivity, there is a strong opportunity for India and Russia to take our relationship from buyer-seller to joint manufacturing and deeper industrial cooperation, Naidu said in a post on X. He further stated that IndiaRussia ties continue to grow, with aviation emerging as a key pillar of the strategic partnership. Public sector aerospace company Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL) and Russias United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) previously signed an initial agreement for the licensed joint production and support of the Superjet (SJ-100) civil commuter aircraft in India, with localisation talks reportedly nearing completion. Discussions and proposed deals cover potential deliveries and arrangements for 105 regional turboprop aircraft to Indian operators, including Pinnacle Air, Air Kerala, and Sleek Aviation. Russia displayed its regional SJ-100, MC-21, and Il-114-300 aircraft at the Innoprom event here to target India's expanding regional connectivity needs. The growing aviation engagement comes as Russia seeks to deepen industrial cooperation with India beyond traditional defence platforms such as the MiG and Sukhoi fighter jets. The proposed aircraft deals indicate a possible expansion of India-Russia aerospace ties into civil aviation, regional connectivity and aircraft manufacturing. Innoprom India, being held from September 9 to 11 in New Delhi ahead of the BRICS summit, has brought together more than 120 Russian and Indian companies. Brazilian plane manufacturer Embraers global head of government relations, Jose Serrador Neto, also held a meeting with Naidu to discuss the companys Make in India plans and the growing opportunities for collaboration. The confidence of global OEMs in Indias growing aerospace ecosystem and reliance on Indian manufacturers as key suppliers for global aviation supply chains is encouraging, an official statement said.
Wayanad township houses on schedule, to be completed by Oct 31: Keralam Minister Siddique
He was responding to reporters following a protest by survivors in Kalpetta in Wayanad, who alleged that construction of the township was progressing slowly
DANSAF Arrests Two Men With 90 kg Andhra Pradesh Ganja in Keralam
Police said the accused had allegedly purchased the ganja from Andhra Pradesh and were transporting it to Keralam through Tamil Nadu
Justice A. Badharudeen notes that Backwards Classes Welfare Department had not complied with the courts previous direction to consider the request for sanction to prosecute the official
Bamboo mass flowering and die-off can trigger ecological crisis and wildlife conflict, study warns
Synchronous flowering and die-off can open the door to invasive weeds, fuel wildfires, trigger rodent surges and push elephants into farmland, says Kerala Forest Research Institute study
Teacher temporarily removed over alleged mistreatment of student who collapsed in class in Keralam
ED coercing people to testify against Pinarayi Vijayan, daughter Veena: Mohamed Riyas
The Beypore MLA claims that statements thus procured are then being supplied to media as official press releases
CMRL-Exalogic case: Riyas' friend claims ED forced false statement against MLA
Digital Desk | Kozhikode, Sep 10 (IANS) A close friend of former Kerala minister and CPI(M) MLA P.A. Mohammed Riyas has alleged that the Enforcement Directorate forced him to give a false statement against the legislator in connection with the CMRL-Exalogic monthly payment case. Businessman Hasan Waris has told the ED Director in an affidavit that the statement he gave to the agency on August 18 was made under severe mental pressure and was not voluntary. He has sought permission to withdraw the statement, saying it has no legal validity. Waris alleged that ED officials prepared a statement implicating Riyas and forced him to sign it. He claimed that he was threatened with action against his 22-year-old daughter if he refused to make the statement. According to Waris, the officials told him that his daughter could be made an accused, arrested under non-bailable provisions and kept in jail for years. He also alleged that his request to use his mobile phone to contact his lawyer was rejected. Waris has denied receiving any financial assistance from Riyas or his relatives. He has also denied transferring money to anyone at Riyass direction. The ED, however, has maintained that it has evidence showing that money was transferred to Waris. The development comes after Riyas strongly rejected allegations attributed to the ED in its probe. In a social media post, he described the reports as absurdities, saying that if such claims were part of an ED report leaked to the media, they were deliberately fabricated to tarnish his reputation. Riyas also rejected reports that his wife, T. Veena, had admitted such allegations before the ED. He described that claim as an outright lie. Let those who enjoy feeding on the flesh of living human beings through such absurd information leaked in the name of an ED investigation continue their spectacle, Riyas said. He said he would fight the matter legally. The ED has alleged that Riyas received Rs 20.5 crore during 2024-25 while he was a minister and that the money was transferred to Dubai to establish a company. The agency has reportedly alleged that transactions were routed through the accounts of his associates. Riyas has denied the allegations and termed them politically motivated. The latest allegations by Waris could now put the focus on the circumstances in which his statement was recorded and its evidentiary value in the ongoing investigation. With the ED now handing over a 25-page statement directing the Kerala Police to register a case and the Satheesan government engaged in a hectic legal consultation on the way forward, for Riyas and his father-in-law, former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, the three-day extended state committee meeting beginning on Saturday could well be closely watched. Already the party politburo on late Wednesday has come out with a strong defence of Vijayan; it remains to be seen if the 300-strong extended state committee could well give the thumbs up to both Vijayan and Riyas.
Keralam Sports Minister Vows Probe into Argentina Match Irregularities
It was under the previous government that moves were made to host the Argentina national team's match featuring Lionel Messi in Kochi
Keralam Anti-Terrorism Squad arrests Malappuram man in fresh UAPA case for anti-national links
Arrest follows probe into an offensive comment he allegedly posted under a video featuring daughter of a victim of Pahalgam terror attack
Why two influencers in Kerala landed in legal trouble after posing with flowers for a photo
Samnsung compensation news: A Kerala consumer commission ordered Samsung to refund a customer Rs 22,499 for a faulty mobile phone. The phone stopped working within two months of purchase and lacked effective warranty service. Samsung failed to provide evidence for liquid damage claims excluding warranty coverage. The commission awarded additional compensation for mental agony and litigation costs. The company must pay the customer within thirty days of the judgment.
Keralam soldier Mithilaj who died of heart attack in Bhopal laid to rest with military honours
Mithilaj experienced sudden chest pain during his morning exercise in Bhopal. Though he was rushed to a hospital, he could not be saved.
Supreme Court ruling in K.C. Cinema vs State of Jammu and Kashmir case upheld the right of cinema hall owners to prohibit patrons from bringing outside food and beverages, holding that such restrictions are not against public interest, safety or welfare
Senior journalist K. Kunhikannan passes away
CMRL-Exalogic case: Satheesan govt seeks legal opinion on Vigilance probe against Vijayan, others
Digital Desk | Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 10 (IANS) The Kerala government has decided to proceed cautiously on the Enforcement Directorates (ED) demand for a corruption case against former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and others in the CMRL-Exalogic case, with a Vigilance quick verification likely before any FIR is registered. The move comes amid legal concerns over whether an FIR can be registered solely on the basis of the EDs letter to the State Police Chief. The government is currently engaged in elaborate legal discussions and expects a formal legal opinion before taking a final decision. The ED has sought action under the Prevention of Corruption Act against Vijayan 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. The governments present thinking is that a preliminary verification by the Vigilance would establish whether the allegations in the ED report have sufficient factual and evidentiary basis. Only thereafter would the question of registering an FIR be considered. Legal circles have pointed out that there is no legal bar to registering an FIR if the material discloses a cognisable offence. However, the government is wary of the possibility of the move being challenged in court if an FIR is registered without an independent preliminary verification. A major issue is the evidentiary value of statements recorded by the ED under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. The present ED recommendation is understood to rely significantly on the statement of P. Suresh Kumar, Chief Financial Officer of CMRL and an accused in the ED case. While statements recorded under the PMLA have evidentiary value in proceedings under that law, questions remain over whether the statement of an accused can by itself form the basis of a Vigilance case under the Prevention of Corruption Act. Independent corroborative evidence could therefore become crucial. The ED has also relied on the findings of the Interim Settlement Board in the CMRL-Exalogic matter. The Board has found that CMRL made payments to Exalogic Solutions, owned by T. Veena, on the consideration that she was the daughter of then Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. The fact that the Boards findings have not so far been legally overturned is being viewed by legal experts as significant. CMRL top brass Sasidharan Kartha and others involved in the alleged payments could also come within the scope of any future Vigilance investigation. The government is also mindful of the Kerala High Courts earlier dismissal of Congress leader Mathew Kuzhalnadans plea seeking a Vigilance investigation into the CMRL-Exalogic transactions. The CPI(M) is preparing to challenge the ED allegations both politically and legally. The final decision on an FIR is expected after the government receives the Advocate Generals legal opinion. Meanwhile, the ED, according to sources, has sent notices to the officials of CMRL to appear before it on Monday.
Bali tour never conducted after payment; Kerala panel orders Rs 1.12 lakh payout
A Kerala consumer commission ordered a travel agency to refund Rs 82,500. The agency failed to conduct a Bali tour booked by a customer. This failure constituted deficiency in service and unfair trade practice. The commission also awarded compensation for mental agony and litigation costs. The travel agency must pay the total amount within forty-five days.
Keralas Chief Minister Launches Action Plan for Swift Implementation of Budget Projects
Kerala CM V.D. Satheesan announces a new system for rapid implementation of budget projects and a database for senior citizens needs. Keralas Chief Minister Launches Action Plan for Swift Implementation of Budget Projects
Pinarayi Vijayan Slams ED Allegations as Baseless and Shameful
Keralas former CM Pinarayi Vijayan criticizes EDs allegations, calling them baseless and politically motivated. Pinarayi Vijayan Slams ED Allegations as Baseless and Shameful
IIM-Kozhikode rises 15 places to 54th in FT Masters in Management rankings
The achievement places IIM-Ks flagship postgraduate programme among the worlds top 55 management programmes
Bypolls in three panchayats in Keralams Ernakulam to have little impact on power equations
Kolencherry East of Poothrikka, Madaplathuruth East of Vadakkekara, and Puliyanam East of Parakkadavu will go to the polls on September 28
Petition filed by rival candidate alleges that Akbar engaged in corrupt practices during the election, through the circulation of pamphlets and videos
Six suspected Bangladeshi nationals held in Keralams Kochi
NRI Commission warns against visa, job recruitment scams
Commission received 268 complaints so far this year; nearly 75 considered at adalat; Chairperson urges job-seekers to choose recruitment agencies recognised by NORKA; Commission warns against fake agencies and unauthorised legal advisory institutions
Two Keralam girls to compete at international robotics meet
The team showcased a prototype they developed to preserve and digitise palm leaf manuscripts using robotic techniques
A petrol pump attendant in Kerala's Alappuzha district was seriously injured after a WagonR driver allegedly drove away while the fuel nozzle and hose remained attached. CCTV footage shows the worker being pulled and dragged several metres before falling to the ground.
Indian photographer wins Rs 9.50 crore in Dubai Duty Free draw
Abu Dhabi: United Arab Emirates (UAE)-based Indian photographer Jijo Pulikkathodi had been trying his luck with 17 friends for just four months when their shared ticket landed a USD 1 million (Rs 9.50 crore) prize. The 41-year-old from Kerala won Millennium Millionaire Series 556 with ticket number 4891 in the draw held at Concourse B 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 .
Access to information is a fundamental right of every citizen: Keralam Information Commissioner
T.K. Ramakrishnan calls for timely disclosure of information and better file management in government offices
Hassan panel records Ramya Haridas statement in the late-night affray controversy in Keralam
I gave the M.M. Hassan Commission an honest account of what transpired and the circumstances that precipitated the incident. I hope and believe the commission will reach a just conclusion, MLA tells reporters
Govt committed to upgrading 33,000-plus anganwadis: Keralam Minister Bindu Krishna
The Minister inaugurated the district-level launch of the Balyaspandanam project, part of the governments 100-day action plan, and the State-level launch of national nutrition month Poshan Maah at the Jayan Memorial Hall in Kollam
Former Chief Minister says his daughters transactions with CMRL are above board, through banking channels and tax-compliant and that the EDs examination yielded no incriminating evidence.Now, the ED is attempting a new tack to achieve the political aim of its controllers and those who play second fiddle to its masters by sending a brazenly false set of accusations to the SPC
Complete Vengad Gosala project by May 2027: Kerala High Court
Kerala High Court directs Guruvayur Devaswom managing committee to complete the project in three phases by the date
Centre to roll out new law to protect farmers from fake seeds
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 9 (IANS) The Centre is preparing to introduce a new Seed Act aimed at protecting the countrys farmers from the losses caused by fake and substandard seeds by incorporating more stringent punishment for culprits indulging in malpractices, according to an official statement issued on Wednesday. The proposed Seed Act is expected to provide for more stringent legal action against companies and traders involved in the sale of fake, adulterated or substandard seeds, including heavy penalties and imprisonment, it said. Before finalising the proposed legislation, Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan will hold a high-level consultation with senior leaders of major farmer organisations from across the country on Thursday at Krishi Bhawan in the national capital. The consultation, convened by the minister, is aimed at incorporating farmers ground-level suggestions and concerns directly into the draft seed legislation. The government intends to build a robust and effective regulatory framework to curb the activities of seed mafias and protect farmers from fraudulent and poor-quality seeds, the statement said. Poor-quality seeds can wipe out months of a farmers hard-earned income and years of effort and labour. The governments stated position is that the new law must ensure the highest standards of seed quality and a transparent, end-to-end traceability system, while also safeguarding farmers rights over traditional seeds. The consultation on Thursday will bring farmer representatives together from across the country. Senior leadership of the Bharatiya Kisan Sangh, various factions of the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU), the All India Kisan Coordination Committee (AIKCC), the Kisan Mahapanchayat, the Bharatiya Krishak Samaj, the Gaon Kisan Unnayan, and the Society for Independent Farmers Association (SIFA) will participate in the meeting. Ground-level farmer representatives from several states will also put forward their views before the Union Agriculture Minister. These include representatives of the Karnataka Raitha Sangha, the Telangana Raitha Sangha, Maharashtras Shetkari Organisation, Gujarats Khedut Samaj, the National Kisan Progressive Association from Rajasthan and Bihar, Tamil Nadus Vivasayigal Sangam, Jharkhands Pragatisheel Krishi Manch, and a farmers organisation from Kottayam in Kerala, among others. The consultation, being held ahead of the upcoming Parliament session, is expected to mark a significant step towards creating a stronger regulatory framework and protecting Indian agriculture from the persistent threat of fake and substandard seeds, the statement added.
No change in stance on Kanthapurams comments, says Keralam CM
I have taken a clear stand on his statements. In case, there is any change in that, I will inform the media. The comments I made last week are still available on my Instagram and Facebook pages, Satheesan says
No change in stance on Kanthapurams comments, says Keralam CM
I have taken a clear stand on his statements. In case, there is any change in that, I will inform the media. The comments I made last week are still available on my Instagram and Facebook pages, Satheesan says
SFI alleges Congress-RSS understanding behind university appointments
SFI lashes out at police action against activists during a recent demonstration at Kerala University.
Two youths lost in Attappady forest in Keralam rescued in night operation
They had entered the Chenthamala forest without permission to film blooming Neelakurinji; however, they lost their way and got stranded, prompting forest officials to launch a midnight rescue operation
CCI Rejects Complaint Against Free Bus Travel Scheme in Keralam
The Priyadarshini Scheme, which provides free travel in KSRTC buses for all women and transgender persons, came into effect from June
Former Kerala CM Vijayan Loses Temper Over ED Questions
Pinarayi Vijayan reacted angrily to media inquiries about the EDs actions, questioning their persistence during a recent public appearance. Former Kerala CM Vijayan Loses Temper Over ED Questions
Central Government to Collaborate with Kerala for Sports Development
The Central Government plans to enhance Keralas sports ecosystem through the revamped Khelo India program, focusing on talent identification and athlete support. Central Government to Collaborate with Kerala for Sports Development
Central Government to Collaborate with Kerala on Sports Development Initiatives
The central government plans to enhance Keralas sports ecosystem through the revamped Khelo India program, boosting athlete support and talent identification. Central Government to Collaborate with Kerala on Sports Development Initiatives
Chennai Malayali Killed in Sri Lankan Prison Riot Buried in Negombo
The victim, Unnikrishnan S, was from Kerala but had been living with his family in Chennai for more than four decades. He had arrived in Sri Lanka on March 2 and was arrested on allegations of possessing ganja. He was subsequently remanded in Negombo prison, where he was killed during the violence that broke out among inmates on July 5 and 6
The Employment Paradox: Why skilling one crore in AI will not create one crore jobs
India has spent four decades proving that education does not, by itself, create work. Kerala is the evidence. We are now about to test whether training does, and the answer will be decided not by the mission but by whether anyone has built the job at the end of it.
