Sabarimala gold row: Justice K T Sankaran reaches hill shrine, to prepare inventory of valuables

The Kerala High Court had earlier ordered a probe after noticing a reduction in the weight of gold-clad copper plates of the Dwarapalaka (guardian deity) idols in the temple

Renovation of Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium in full swing ahead of Messis visit

KOCHI: With football fever gripping Kerala ahead of Lionel Messi s much-anticipated visit, the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium in Kaloor is being renovated on a war footing to host the exhibition match featuring world champions Argentina. The Reporter Broadcasting Company, the official organiser of the event, estimates the renovation work to cost a whopping `70 crore. Speaking to reporters in Kochi on Friday, Reporter MD Anto Augustine said the stadium is being upgraded to meet FIFA standards so that it can host international matches in the future. The pitch will be upgraded to international quality, and a state-of-the-art lighting system will be installed. Sports Minister V Abdurahiman along with officials visited the stadium on Friday to oversee preparations. Once completed, the revamped stadium will be able to accommodate around 50,000 spectators. New VIP galleries and pavilions are being added, while structural strengthening of the ceiling and safety upgrades are underway. Repair work is also progressing around the stadium premises. However, it remains to be seen if the work will be completed at such short notice, given that the Argentina-Australia match is scheduled on November 17. The project, which has been taken over from the GCDA, is being executed under the supervision of chief secretary Dr A Jayathilak. Ticket prices and sale details are expected to be announced in a day or two. The organisers have said that any figures on ticket prices circulating on social media are fake and that the official rates will be revealed shortly.

ADGP Ajith Kumar appointed as chairperson of Bevco

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state government has appointed Excise Commissioner ADGP M R Ajith Kumar as Beverages Corporation chairperson. However, he will continue to hold the post of excise commissioner. He was earlier appointed as director in the board of directors of the Beverages Corporation. Harshita Attaluri will continue as the MD of the corporation. She had earlier served as the corporations chairperson as well.

Son asks for cash to buy luxury car, father attacks him with an iron rod in Thiruvananthapuram

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A 28-year-old man who demanded Rs 50 lakh from his father to buy a luxury car was seriously injured after his father retaliated during a violent scuffle at Kunnumpuram in Vanchiyoor on Friday morning. The accused, identified as Hridhik, allegedly attacked his father, Vinayanandan, with a knife after the latter refused to give him the money. Police said that as Hridhik continued to threaten his father, following which the enraged parent struck him on the head with an iron rod he found nearby. Hridhik, who sustained severe head injuries, was rushed to the Thiruvananthapuram MCH, where he underwent an emergency surgery. His condition remains critical. Vanchiyoor Police have registered a case of attempted murder against the father.

CSIR-NIISTs eco-restoration project to revamp Padmatheertham pond

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The centuries-old Padmatheertham pond , adjacent to the Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple, that has been facing numerous woes including indiscriminate algal bloom, fish death and foul odour, is set to get a new lease of life. The revival comes through an eco-restoration project proposed by the CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST). The institute will implement a nature-based treatment system using floating wetlands and ex-situ purification units to restore water quality and ecological balance. According to CSIR-NIIST director C Aandharamakrishnan, the project also involves continuous monitoring for over a year and it is expected to become a model that can be replicated for the conservation of other urban water bodies as well. During the preliminary analysis, scientists at CSIR-NIIST found numerous external infiltration into the pond that had caused excessive algal bloom in the water body. According to Krishnakumar B, Chief Scientist & Head, Environmental Technology Division, CSIR-NIIST, the infiltration has to be controlled to reduce algal bloom and the resultant death of fish and foul odour. Finding out the multiple sources of infiltration in the large water body is practically impossible. That is when we thought of the approach to introduce engineered floating wetlands, Krishnakumar told TNIE. Our aim is to enhance the natural purifying property of the pond, he explained. The project involves a two-pronged approach. First, the floating wetlands will be introduced into the pond. These engineered wetlands are basically plants that have known water purifying properties that will absorb excess nutrient input into the pond and arrest the algal bloom. Secondly, the existing algae will be filtered using a physical method.

Kerala will attain nutritional security by 2031: Minister G R Anil

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala will attain nutritional security by 2031, Food and Civil Supplies Minister G R Anil said. He was speaking after presenting a vision document on nutritional safety at the Vision-2031 event organised at Kanakakunnu auditorium here on Friday. The programme on nutrition was one of the 33 seminars organised by the state government as part of Vision 2031 to receive ideas on Keralas future development. Food security is one of the cornerstones of the world renowned Kerala Model, said Finance Minister K N Balagopal. The farm and land reforms initiated by the state helped in achieving high human development indices.

K R Narayanans bust at Raj Bhavan to be unveiled by President Droupadi Murmu

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: President Droupadi Murmu will unveil the bust of former president K R Narayanan at the Raj Bhavan premises on October 23. Governor Rajendra Arlekar, his predecessor and Bihar Governor Arif Mohammed Khan and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will be present on the occasion. The 4.5-feet long bust was built after former president Ram Nath Kovind wrote to the then Kerala Governor Khan in 2024 suggesting that Narayanan should be honoured in a befitting manner in the Kerala Raj Bhavan. Sculptor Sijo Idukki was entrusted with the construction under the supervision of former Fine Arts College principal K Narayanan Kutty. As per plan, Murmu will arrive in the state on October 22 and will stay at the Raj Bhavan after visiting the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple.

Munambam residents welcome Kerala High Court's ruling on Waqf land issue

KOCHI: The Kerala High Court verdict that Munambam land is not waqf property has come as a great joy for the more than 600 families who had been agitating for the past one year, demanding the restoration of their revenue rights. The happiness was writ large on the faces of the agitators on the premises of Velankanni Matha Church at Kadappuram as they celebrated the verdict by sharing sweets. Justice is served, Joseph Benny, convenor, Munambam Land Protection Council, told TNIE. According to him, the residents had lost the revenue rights to their lawfully bought land on January 13, 2022. We knocked on all doors seeking help. However, when we didnt get any, we launched a relay hunger agitation on October 13, 2024. With only days left for the completion of a year of agitation, the verdict arrived like a God-send gift, he added. As for the continuation of the agitation, Joseph said that Industries Minister P Rajeeve has called a meeting on Saturday. Members of our core committee will meet him and then come up with further decisions based on the talks with the minister, he added. He highlighted how the residents now looked forward to the early restoration of their revenue rights. Meanwhile, the Kerala Region Latin Catholic Council (KRLCC) hailed the HC verdict. The decision of the High Court division bench to unequivocally declare that Munambam land is not a waqf, completely overturning the High Court single bench order, is welcome and hopeful, said KRLCC president Archbishop Varghese Chakkalakkal. In the wake of the new order of the division bench, Archbishop Chakkalakkal urged the government to take further steps to immediately restore the revenue rights of the Munambam people. The Syro-Malabar Church also sought the immediate restoration of the revenue rights of Munambam residents. Spokesperson Fr Tom Olikkarott said, The Syro-Malabar Church will stand with the people of Munambam in their struggle, he added.

MP Shafi Parambil injured as CPM, Congress clash in Perambra

KOZHIKODE: A violent clash broke out between CPM and Congress workers in Perambra on Friday. The police resorted to lathicharge and fired tear gas shells to control the situation. Vadakara MP Shafi Parambil suffered injuries on his nose amid police action that included the use of tear gas and baton charge to control the situation. Shafi, who was later admitted to a private hospital in Kozhikode for treatment, has to undergo a surgery. Eyewitnesses said, chaos unfolded when UDF and CPM supporters came face-to-face near Perambra town. The police intervened as heated arguments turned violent and they resorted to lathicharge and tear gas firing to disperse the protesters. Several UDF activists also suffered injuries, sources said. The violence is believed to have stemmed from the ongoing tensions related to student union elections at Perambra CKG Memorial Government College. The unrest began on Wednesday after clashes between SFI and MSF activists over the UDF-backed UDSFs victory in the college union elections. The police had since declared a local hartal to restore order, but the situation remained volatile. On Friday, both the UDF and CPM announced separate demonstrations in the town the UDF in protest against police action and the CPM in retaliation for the alleged attack on Perambra panchayat president V K Pramod during Thursdays hartal. As the two groups processions advanced toward each other, confrontations reignited, leading to stone pelting, chaos, and police action. Meanwhile, the Perambra police stated that nearly ten police personnel were injured in the clash, but the UDF workers who were attacked denied the polices claims. Traffic movement in Perambra came to a standstill, and local shops were forced to shut down as the clashes intensified. Police officials later confirmed that additional forces had been deployed to prevent further escalation and maintain law and order in the area. District authorities have launched an inquiry into the incident and appealed for restraint from both political fronts. Meanwhile, leaders from both the UDF and CPM traded accusations, blaming the other for instigating the violence. Kozhikode DCC president Praveen Kumar alleged that the police deliberately targeted and assaulted Shafi Parambil. He said the DySP stopped the UDF protest claiming that CPM workers were standing nearby with weapons. Praveen Kumar added that both he and MP Shafi Parambil had reached the spot only to pacify the party workers. Congress Working Committee member Ramesh Chennithala strongly condemned the brutal police assault on Vadakara MP Shafi Parambil in Perambra. He demanded immediate and strict action against the police officers who led the attack. Chennithala stated that the police brutally assaulted Shafi Parambil and others while they were trying to restore peace in Perambra.

Sabarimala gold plating row: Travancore Devaswom Board files complaint with state police chief

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has formally handed over a complaint to the State Police Chief seeking further investigation into the findings of the boards vigilance wing on the missing gold at Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa temple . Earlier in the day, the High Court had directed the vigilance to submit its report to the board for handing over to the police. The investigation will be conducted by the Special Investigation Team formed by the High Court recently. The SIT will begin its probe by quizzing Unnikrishnan Potti and 10 TDB officers indicted in the report, it is learnt. According to the vigilance, the officers colluded with Potti in the handover of the gold-cladded panels to Potti and the replacement with gold-plated panels. S Jayasree, former secretary of the TDB, is alleged to have facilitated the smooth handover of the materials to Potti, according to the vigilance. The then board presided by A Padmakumar issued an order for conducting the maintenance work under the sponsorship of Potti and monitoring by officers led by the then devaswom commissioner. The subsequent implementation order issued by Jayasree, however, gave a freehand to Potti, according to the vigilance. The report has recommended further investigation and action against all the officers. The vigilance spared the present board members and officers for the 2025 maintenance work, again under the sponsorship of Potti. Thantri and melshanthi to face probe in Sabarimala gold plating row The only lapse was the non-communication of the maintenance work to the special commissioner assigned by the High Court. Smart Creations, the company where the repair works were done, gave a statement to the vigilance that Potti misappropriated the gold derived from the panels brought for maintenance in 2019, according to the report. TDB welcomes Kerala HC directive Welcoming the HC order , the TDB said the courts decision vindicated the position taken by the government and the board. The board had asked the HC to order a comprehensive investigation and bring the accused before law. The board wants the people who defrauded the wealth of Sabarimala and those who facilitated it to be punished, said a statement issued by the board. It sought everyones cooperation for the arrangements for the upcoming Mandalam-Makaravilakku pilgrimage at Sabarimala.

18 child marriages reported in 10 months, half of them in Thrissur

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Highlighting a worrying backslide that demands immediate response, Kerala in 2024-25 reported the highest number of child marriages compared to the preceding two years. Data from the women and child development (WCD) department reveals that 18 incidents of child marriage took place in the fiscal until January 15, 2025, compared to 14 in 2023-24 and 12 in 2022-23. Thrissur had the worst figures, reporting 10 of the 18 cases this year. Malappuram followed with three child marriages, while two incidents were reported in Palakkad. Thiruvananthapuram, Alappuzha, and Wayanad reported one incident each. A look at the numbers also revealed a decline in child marriages prevented over the years. In 2022-23, officials stopped 108 child marriages. This dropped to 52 in 2023-24 and to 48 between April 2024 and January 2025. As many as eight child marriage attempts were foiled in 2022-23 under the states Ponvakk scheme, which offers Rs 2,500 reward to those providing information about the crime. Seven cases in 2023-24 and 10 in 2024-25. However, the rise in actual occurrences shows that despite efforts, more cases are slipping through. WCD officials said the rise in reported cases can partly be attributed to more active reporting and stronger surveillance. Prevention efforts are ongoing across districts, with specific instructions issued for targeted interventions in areas with high case numbers. To better understand the root causes, a detailed study on early marriages in the state is being conducted in coordination with the department of demography at the University of Kerala, said a WCD official. In 2022-23, Palakkad and Malappuram led in child marriages, together accounting for 11 of the 12 incidents reported. In 2023-24, Thrissur entered the scene with four incidents with Malappuram, while six incidents were reported in Palakkad. In 2024-25, Thrissur has recorded more than half of the states total. While Malappuram has been a major contributor to child marriages, it has also led in prevention efforts, foiling 56 attempts in 2022-23, 21 in 2023-24 and 17 in 2024-25. Idukki stood out too, preventing eight child marriages in 2024-25 and reporting no occurrences. In contrast, Thrissur prevented only three attempts. An expert said the after-effects of the pandemic, economic instability in certain households, and the lingering social acceptance of early marriage in some rural pockets could be among reasons. While awareness campaigns are growing, even among the upwardly mobile middle class, there is a tendency to restrict women to domestic roles. This mindset often extends to promoting early marriages for daughters. Though the states financial status has improved, studies such as Kerala Padanam 2.0 highlight this persisting pattern. The influence of outdated religious practices, shallow political awareness, and the rise of online platforms that help such practices can also be contributing factors, noted an expert, wishing anonymity. J Sandhya, a social activist and former member of Kerala State Commission for Protection of Child Rights said many of the incidents could be runaways too and that parenting styles, social media influences are major contributing factors. Children are easily manipulated, and social media often has an exploitative side that worsens the problem. Ultimately, parenting plays a crucial role, she said.

50 per cent of NH 66 work in Kerala to be over by March 2026

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is likely to complete the six-laning work on more than half of the 644-km NH-66 stretch across Kerala by March 2026, with four key stretches covering about 145 km expected to be opened to traffic by the end of this year, senior officials said. But quicker travel is likely to come at a price. Once the entire work is completed, NH 66 will feature a total of 13 toll plazas in the state 11 finalised while two more are under consideration, the officials said. The first of the new plazas at Mambuzhappalam in Pantheerankavu is set for trial this week. Three of the toll booths will come up at Eramalloor (AroorThuravoor elevated highway), near Kripasanam in Alappuzha (ThuravoorParavoor stretch), and Ochira (ParavoorKottukulangara). The toll rates are still being finalised, while existing plazas on the highway are functional at Thiruvallam, Kumbalam and Thiruvangad. Among the four stretches set for December launch, the 39-km ThalappadyChengala stretch in Kasaragod, executed by ULCCS, has already been opened to traffic. The other three stretches likely to be completed by end of this year are RamanattukaraValanchery (39.68 km; 99.36% complete), ValancheryKappirikkad (37.35 km; 98.65%), and VengalamRamanattukara Junction (28.4 km; 80%). Widening work on six other stretches together covering 202 km including those from Chengala to Neeleshwaram, Neeleshwaram to Thalipparamba, and Thalikulam to Kodungallur, are expected to be completed by March 2026.

NH-66 widening on the fast lane in northern Kerala; south lags

KOCHI: The six-laning of NH 66, Keralas most ambitious infrastructure project, has split the state into contrasting halves. In the north, smooth, shining highways are taking shape at remarkable speed, while southern stretches especially through Alappuzha and Thiruvananthapuram struggle against delays, disputes and design controversies. The drive on these new express corridors will soon come at a cost. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) plans to set up 11 toll plazas across the entire length of NH-66, with two more under consideration. The first of the new plazas, at Mambuzhappalam in Pantheerankavu (Kozhikode), is set for trial this week. Northern Kerala surges ahead A success story is unfolding in northern districts. The 39-km Thalappady-Chengala stretch in Kasaragod, developed by Uralungal Labour Contract Cooperative Society (ULCCS), is open to traffic the first completed leg of the project. South of it, the 37-km Chengala-Nileshwaram and 40-km Nileshwaram-Taliparamba stretches, executed by Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Ltd (MEIL), are powering ahead. The main carriageway from Chengala to Taliparamba will be ready by October-end or the first week of November, said V K Abdul Nizar, liaison officer for MEIL projects in Kerala. In Malappuram, where construction once drew national attention after a 250-m elevated portion collapsed at Kooriyad in May, work has rebound impressively. The Ramanattukara-Valanchery (39.68 km) and Valanchery-Kappirikkad (37.35 km) stretches are 99.5% complete. Malappurams section, executed by KNR Constructions under the hybrid annuity model, is being celebrated for both its pace and visual appeal. The Vattappara viaduct in Valanchery Keralas longest at 2 km is already being hailed as one of the most scenic drives in the state. A 116-camera surveillance grid, including 60 rotating 360-degree cameras, is now live along the corridor, with control rooms at Vettichira and Kuttippuram overseeing real-time traffic. Work progressing on Vengalam-Azhiyur segment Kozhikodes contrasting tale Kozhikode presents a study in contrasts. The VengalamRamanattukara (28.4 km) stretch part of Kozhikode bypass is almost ready, boasting multiple flyovers, smart junctions and a digital traffic monitoring network. Forty-six CCTV cameras feed into a central control hub at Mampuzha toll plaza. On either ends, toll booths at Mambuzhappalam North and Koodathumparaeach with five lanes on each sidestand ready. Meanwhile, the Azhiyoor-Vengalam (40.8 km) stretch has become a symbol of delay and discontent. Handled by Adani Infrastructure and sub-contracted to Wagad Infraprojects, work has barely crossed 45% completion. The Taliparamba-Muzhappilangad (30 km) stretch in Kannur, managed by Hyderabad-based Vishwa Samudra Engineering Pvt Ltd, is 78% complete. Engineers here are battling wetlands using prefabricated vertical drains (PVDs) a specialised technique to stabilise soft soil and extend the roads lifespan. The southern struggle If the north is cruising, the south is crawling. The Kadambattukonam-Kazhakoottam (30 km) stretcharguably the toughest segmenthas managed just 41% progress. Disputes with contractors, material shortages, and repeated protests demanding design tweaks have pushed the finish line to July 2026. In central Kerala, the KodungallurEdappally (26 km) reach is 64% done after months of delay caused by red soil scarcity an issue now resolved through a tie-up with Cochin Port Trust. The AroorThuravoor elevated corridor (12.75 km) is at 74% completion and likely to finish by June 2026. (With inputs from Shainu Mohan, Lakshmi Athira, Jithul Narayanan &Arockiaraj J) Know your working model Of the stretches, the Thuravoor-Paravoor (38.38 km), Paravoor-Kottankulangara (37.5 km) and Kadambattukonam-Kazhakoottam (29.83 km) are being built on the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) model. Work on the rest of the stretches is being undertaken on the Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM). In EPC, a single contractor is responsible for the entire project, from the initial design and engineering to the procurement of materials and final construction. HAM blends aspects of the EPC and Build, Operate, Transfer (BOT)-annuity models The cost-sharing equation The state government is bearing 25% of the land acquisition cost for the widening of NH-66 from Kasaragod to Thiruvananthapuram, except Thalassery-Mahe bypass and Nileshwaram ROB. As per the NHAIs annual report 2023-24, against a deposit of J1,919.78 crore received from the Kerala government, NHAI has spent J1,702.03 crore on land acquisition alone.

Thantri and melshanthi to face probe in Sabarimala gold plating row

KOCHI: The report submitted by the chief vigilance officer of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) to the High Court on Friday regarding the missing gold-cladded panels at Sabarimala flags lapses on the part of nine staffers, including a former devaswom commissioner, which indicates that these officials will have to face investigation. The special investigation team will probe the role of all, including thantri Kandararu Rajeevaru, the then melsanthi V N Vasudevan Namboothiri and administrative officer Murari Babu, who signed the mahazar dated May 18, 2019, that mentioned the gold cladded door frames as mere copper plates. The order issued by the HC says: the gold-clad copper plates covering the door frames require gold plating, and specifically records that the copper plates were earlier gold-clad. The executive officer requested that orders be issued to hand over the door frames to Unnikrishnan Potti. But the devaswom commissioner in his communication dated March 6, 2019, recommended to the TDB that the copper plates be handed over to Potti. The items were described merely as copper plates, contrary to the executive officers description of the items as gold-clad copper plates. As a result, in the board decision also the door frames are referred to as copper plates. The court observed that this discrepancy is a matter of serious gravity. Prima facie, serious lapses and derelictions on the part of board officials are apparent and this warrants thorough investigation on all aspects and fronts. Pursuant to the boards decision, the TDB issued an order directing the handing over of the copper plates covering the side frames to Unnikrishnan Potti. Probe suggests further misappropriation of gold in Sabarimala Sreekovil: Kerala HC The mahazar dated May 18, 2019, was signed by Kantararu Rajeevaru, Vasudevan Namboothiri, watcher S Jayakumar, guard P J Rajeesh, assistant engineer Sunil Kumar K, administrative officer B Murari Babu, H A R Shankaranarayanan, smith V M Kumar, LDC R Bijumon, and AEO D Jayakumar. According to former director general of prosecution Advocate T Asaf Ali, the charges against the thantri, melsanthi and officials are serious as they had changed the description of the panels with a deceitful intention to cause undue gain. The charges may include theft, criminal breach of trust, entrustment of articles with bona fide intention and making the property for their own use contrary to the stipulations contained at the time of entrustment, he said. Original Sabarimala gold coverings sold as divine trophies?

Kerala defeats Meghalaya in NSG Football final

Excelsior Sports Correspondent Srinagar, Oct 10: The 69th National School Games 2025 for Football concluded today here with Kerala lifting the trophy after a commanding 2-0 win over Meghalaya in a thrilling grand finale. The five-day tournament, organised by the Directorate of Youth Services and Sports (YSS) J&K under the aegis of the School Games Federation of India (SGFI), featured intense competition among under-19 football teams from across the country. Kerala sealed their place in the final after a hard-fought [] The post Kerala defeats Meghalaya in NSG Football final appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Alleged robbery at Kundannur firm: seven arrested; 20 lakh recovered

Officials inspect gutted shops at Taliparamba; report to be submitted to govt.

P.E.B Menon laid to rest

Kochi Corporation to host mega job fair

Kozhikode Coprn. to hand over upkeep of stadium to KFA

The stadium had been maintained by Gokulam Kerala FC since 2023 while serving as its home ground in the I-League. However, the club recently had a fallout with the Corporation over an alleged breach of contract

Cops Use Tear Gas As Congress-Led UDF, CPI(M) Workers Clash In Kerala

A violent confrontation erupted in Kerala's Perambra on Friday evening between workers of the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) and CPI-M, forcing police to use lathi charge and tear gas to disperse the crowd.

P.A. Mohammed Kunju passes away

Guide wire retrieval: Medical College cardiologists examine woman

Two weeks ago, a medical board constituted in the issue had said that attempts to retrieve the guide wire which has become fused with the vein could be dangerous

Shafi Parambil sustains injuries in police action at Perambra

Police use grenades, tear gas and lathis to diffuse tension between UDF and LDF workers

Govt. hands over land for centre for innovation on life sciences

Snehitha to launch campaign to prevent sexual crimes against children

ED questions Muthoot Group MD in investors fraud case

Kochi: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday questioned George Alexander Muthoot, the managing director of the Kerala-based Muthoot Group, in a money-laundering case linked to an investors fraud case, official sources said. The Kochi zonal unit of the ED has filed a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), taking cognisance of a 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 .

Kerala Clinches Gold in 69th National School Games Football Finale

SRINAGAR: Kerala lifted the football trophy of the 69th National School Games-2025 with a 2-0 win over Meghalaya in the final, as the week-long sporting spectacle concluded on a grand note in Srinagar on Friday. The tournament, which commenced on October 6, showcased a thrilling display of skill and sportsmanship from U/19 age group young []

International conference on advancements in maternal and fetal health from October 11

Ranji Trophy: Azharuddeen To Lead Kerala; Samson Returns To Red-ball Setup

Kerala Cricket Association: Kerala have named Mohammed Azharuddeen as their new captain for the upcoming Ranji Trophy season, replacing Sachin Baby, who led the team to the final last year. The 29-year-old wicketkeeper-batter will lead a 15-member squad that features a mix of experienced names and fresh faces for their opening fixture against Maharashtra, as announced by the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) on Friday. Batter B. Aparajith, who joined Kerala this season, has been appointed vice-captain, marking a new leadership combination for the side. The announcement signals a shift in strategy as Kerala looks to build on their strong 2024-25 campaign, where they reached the final for the first time in the states history under Sachin Babys leadership. The squad also sees the return of Sanju Samson, who has been included in the red-ball setup after nearly a year. Samson last featured in a first-class match against Karnataka in October 2024, but his availability will be limited. The wicketkeeper-batter is expected to miss the next three rounds of the tournament after being named in Indias T20I squad for the upcoming tour of Australia. His presence, however brief, is expected to provide a major boost to the Kerala batting lineup. Meanwhile, fast bowler Basil Thampi, one of Keralas leading pacers in recent seasons, has been left out of the squad due to an injury that prevented him from attending the preparatory camp. In his absence, the pace attack will be led by M.D. Nidheesh and N.P. Basil, with Edhen Apple Tom and Ahammed Imran adding depth. The selectors have rewarded young all-rounder Abhishek P. Nair with his first senior team call-up. The 22-year-old left-handed opener and right-arm medium pacer impressed head coach Amay Khurasiya during the training camp with his versatility and composure. Former Pondicherry player Ankit Sharma will represent Kerala this season as a guest player, strengthening the teams middle order. The selectors have rewarded young all-rounder Abhishek P. Nair with his first senior team call-up. The 22-year-old left-handed opener and right-arm medium pacer impressed head coach Amay Khurasiya during the training camp with his versatility and composure. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Kerala squad: Mohammed Azharuddeen (captain), B. Aparajith (Vice-captain), Sanju V. Samson, Rohan S. Kunnummal, Vathsal Govind, Akshay Chandran, Sachin Baby, Salman Nizar, Ankit Sharma, M.D. Nidheesh, N.P. Basil, Edhen Apple Tom, Ahammed Imran, Shoun Roger and Abhishek P. Nair. Article Source: IANS

Human-wildlife conflict mitigation measures reviewed

Authorities to identify specific wildlife species and the regions most prone to human-wildlife conflict

Drug peddlers assets confiscated

Bioeconomy sector in State grows at 12% per year: study

Kerala Bioeconomy Report 2025 released by State Industries Minister

Kozhikode cyber police nab key suspect in alleged 1.2 crore financial fraud

The suspect was detained after police analysed and collected digital evidence related to the fund transfers against him

Stray dog bites off part of womans ear in Guruvayur

Pallium India appeals to WHO for special palliative care strategy for Global South

On the occasion of the World Hospice and Palliative Care Day on October 11, low and middle income countries, including India, are nowhere near the goal of Universal Health Coverage, including palliative care, set for 2030

KSHEC launches data collection for second KIRF rankings

Do not sideline environment for the sake of development: Medha Patkar

Vision 2031: higher education seminar to be held in Kottayam on October 18

After Ministers tirade, Keralas MVD officials flock to vehicle flag-off event; dept. work gets disrupted

Transport Minister Ganesh Kumar had cancelled the scheduled flag-off of 52 vehicles on Sept. 29 citing low attendance at the venue

Congress and BJP accuse former TDB president and CPI(M) leader Padmakumar of entrusting Ayyappas sacred objects to his son for restoration

Padmakumar says the TDB had placed on the official record the transfer of the sacred objects to his son for repair. He says the entrusting of the overhaul was transparent and not surreptitious as alleged by the Opposition parties.

Kerala HC seeks report on steps taken to ensure safety of doctors, staff at hospitals

Tighten security measures at hospitals, especially at entry points, submits counsel for Indian Medical Association

Vision 2031 outlines roadmap for Keralas transition from food security to nutritional security

Seminar lays stress on tackling nutrition and health challenges by leveraging the States public distribution system

Sewage pollution: notices issued to apartment units yet to submit affidavit before PCB

Seven apartment units along the Thevara-Perandoor and Edappally canals were issued notices as they had failed to respond to an earlier directive to submit an undertaking requesting a reasonable time to set up sewage treatment plants

Union Minister reviews redevelopment works at Kozhikode railway station

The redevelopment of Kozhikode railway station aims to transform it into a modern, passenger-friendly terminal equipped with upgraded infrastructure, enhanced amenities, and improved aesthetics in line with Indian Railways vision for world-class stations

TDB welcomes High Court order, lodges complaint with police

Kochi Spice Coast Marathon to be held on October 26

Political conspiracy behind controversies dogging Sabarimala, says Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan

Says the allegations were intended to torpedo Left Democratic Front (LDF) governments bid to forge a consensus among stakeholders, including devotees and Hindu social organisations, for the shrines development into a major international spiritual destination

Doubling of coastal railway line to be executed in three phases, says K.C. Venugopal

The first phase will cover the doubling of the 14-kilometre stretch from Ambalappuzha to Alappuzha

Man critically injures son during dispute over new bike

Over 1.4 lakh jobs provided through Vijnana Keralam scheme: Minister Rajesh

Vijnana Keralam program creates 1,41,323 job opportunities, with 55,913 women employed; partnership with Reliance Jio for 10,000 jobs.

Motorable road to Koodallarkudy within reach now

The initial application for NOC from Forest department was rejected because of errors. Once the residents reapply, the NOC will be granted for the road connecting Koodallarkudy and Anakkulam, say officials. The initial phase of the work will be included in MGNREGS

Civil Supplies CID foils bid to smuggle 25 tonnes of ration rice to Kerala

New list of 94 home guards prepared to optimise traffic management in Kozhikode

The selection process was completed under the leadership of a district-level panel headed by District Police Chief (Kozhikode city) T. Narayanan

Kerala government ignores findings of Forest officials to pave way for widening of National Highway between Neriamangalam and Valara

The State Chief Secretary has filed a fresh affidavit in the Kerala High Court after retracting its earlier position that the disputed land parcel is an integral part of the Malayattoor Reserved Forest.

Keralas MSMEs, NBFCs key to industrial growth, says Finance Minister KN Balagopal

The summit focused on Keralas role in national growth and financial inclusion, bringing together policymakers, banks, and financial experts

One in eight children in south Asia has faced sexual assault, says new study

University of Edinburgh study, released at c0c0n 2025, says India, Pakistan and Bangladesh received reports of nearly 4.5 million child sexual abuse materials in 2024.

Pulse polio immunisation drive in Kerala on October 12

The mobile booths being planned around migrant labour camps and tourist centres will function on October 13 and 14.

Avihitham movie review: Senna Hegdes indie rediscovery indicts prying eyes

Sans any big stars and propelled by the strength of its narrative, Hegde returns to his roots and sort of rediscovers his indie mojo in Avihitham

Catholic Nasrani Association seeks introduction of Church legislation

Alert sounded in Kuttanad over leaf folder, stem borer infestations

Kerala Police propose National Victim Identification Framework to check online child sexual abuse

A proposal released at c0c0n 2025 cybersecurity conference says that once the national database is established, it can be linked with the Interpols international child sexual exploitation database

Establishing identity of cyber criminals remains a key challenge, says Union Home Secretary

Govind Mohan, inaugurating c0c0n 2025, calls for indigenous solutions to tackle rising incidents of cybercrime

Keralas BFSI sector packs a national punch: KPMGCII report

KOCHI: Keralas financial sector has emerged as a powerhouse in Indias Banking, Financial Services and Insurance (BFSI) landscape commanding nearly 90% of the countrys organised gold loan market, holding over Rs 3 trillion in NRI deposits, and setting benchmarks in cooperative banking reforms, according to a new report by KPMG in India and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). Titled Improvisation Driving Performance How the Financial Services Sector in Kerala Has Grown to Pack a Punch and Influence the National Narrative, the report was released at the CII Kerala Banking & NBFC Summit 2025 held in Kochi on Friday. It positions Kerala as one of Indias most agile and innovative financial ecosystems, seamlessly blending traditional strengths with digital transformation. Keralas gold-loan-focused NBFCs several of them household names across India collectively hold loan books exceeding Rs 1.2 trillion and have sustained 1215% annual growth despite tighter regulations. Their success, the report notes, lies in marrying traditional underwriting practices with advanced analytics and multi-channel digital platforms, vastly improving rural credit access. In NRI banking, Keralas regional and private sector banks dominate, with deposits crossing Rs 3 trillion in early 2025 and growing at a steady 9.4% CAGR over five years. These institutions have not only built national leadership in remittance management but also created sophisticated, tech-driven service frameworks catering to the states vast global diaspora. The states cooperative banking sector, restructured in 2019 into a unified apex cooperative bank, serves over 1.5 crore customers on a single core banking platform. With more than 27% of its portfolio in MSME and agriculture lending, it has become a model for cooperative banking reform across India, delivering double-digit growth and driving financial inclusion deep into rural Kerala. Kerala stands out as a beacon of this new paradigm, where innovation meets purpose, said Vishnu Pillai, Financial Services Technology Leader and Office Managing Partner Kochi, KPMG in India. By blending traditional financial excellence with cutting-edge digital infrastructure and sustainable finance principles, Keralas BFSI ecosystem is not only powering state-level progress but also helping define Indias financial future. The report also highlights Keralas rapidly expanding fintech ecosystem, now valued at Rs 2,000 crore with over 200 startups and Rs 500 crore in funding since 2018, under the stewardship of the Kerala Startup Mission. Small Finance Banks and private sector institutions based in the state have expanded nationwide, leveraging customer-centric digital services and maintaining asset quality among the best in the industry. The states financial institutions are also embedding ESG principles into their operations, supporting green loans, climate-resilient agricultural finance, and women-led microcredit programmes like Kudumbashree. Describing Keralas BFSI sector as a strategic enabler of socio-economic development, the KPMGCII report says the states mix of innovation, inclusion, and resilience offers a blueprint for national replication. With Indias BFSI sector valued at 91 trillion in 2025, the report concludes that Keralas challenge now lies in building visibility, strengthening cybersecurity, and accelerating policy reforms to make finance available, sustainable, and frictionless for every citizen.

Migrant Workers Injured in Kerala Fire from Gas Leak in Kannur

All of them were admitted to Pariyaram Medical College Hospital for treatment

Kerala HC upholds States appeal against Order quashing Munambam inquiry Commission GO

The case pertained to the land dispute between the Waqf Board and a section of Munambam residents

Chief Minister requests Nadda to sanction a national institute for geriatric care in Kerala

Pinarayi calls for expediting financial clearances required to realise Keralas long-standing demand for an AIIMS at Kinalur in Kozhikode

Shane Nigam's Malayalam film Haal in big trouble, CBFC denies certificate over beef biryani scene, makers approach...

The makers have approached the Kerala High Court against the Censor Board's decision

Gadkari promises completion of NH-66 reaches in Kerala in December

Work on the Palakkad-Kozhikode greenfield highway and Thiruvananthapuram Outer Ring Road will begin in January, Union Minister tells Kerala Chief Minister

Kerala CM tells Centre its fiscal policies imperil States development and social progress

Pinarayi Vijayan says Kerala has apprised Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman that the Centres fiscal policies threatened to imperil the States development and hobble its expansive social security net

Kerala CM Pinarayi meets PM, Union ministers; urges Centre to approve AIIMS, release aid for Wayanad

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Friday said that he had personally met and briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other Union ministers about the financial crisis faced by the state. Reiterating Keralas major financial and development demands, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has urged the Centre to approve an AIIMS for the state and release funds for the Wayanad rehabilitation package, among others. The CM said the state had already identified suitable land at Kinalur in Kozhikode for AIIMS and has sought immediate sanction for the project. The chief minister has also requested the easing of borrowing restrictions and permission for the state to raise an additional 0.5 per cent beyond the existing limit. He pointed out that a shortfall of Rs 5,100 crore in the borrowing limit has delayed welfare schemes and development projects. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman was requested to take steps to ease the states fiscal pressure. He said the state faces a GST revenue gap of Rs 9,765 crore. The state also sought a grant of Rs 2,221 crore from the National Disaster Response Fund for Wayanad rehabilitation and asked that disaster relief assistance not be treated as a loan. The issue of pending IGST recovery worth Rs 965 crore was also raised, the chief minister said. A request to release the pending dues for paddy procurement was also made. The chief minister said that Union Home Minister Amit Shah has assured that the states demands would be considered. Meanwhile, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari appreciated the states efforts on national highway projects and said all stretches of NH66 would be completed by December. He is expected to visit the state soon to review the progress, the CM added.

Centre rejects Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan permit to visit gulf nations: Report

The Union government has reportedly rejected permission for Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayans proposed visit to Gulf countries. According to a report by Mathrabhumi.com, the decision was communicated to the state through the Ministry of External Affairs, though no specific reason was mentioned. The state government has received an official notification informing of the denial, 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 .

EC may roll out all-India SIR in phases, beginning with states where polls due next year

The Election Commission (EC) is set to begin a phased pan-India Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, starting with states where assembly elections are due in 2026, including Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal.

Kerala CM seeks PM Modis intervention to safeguard States finances and drive development

After meeting Modi in Delhi, Pinarayi Vijayan says Kerala and Centre will remain in a constant mode of productive engagement for national development and public welfare

Menstrual leave in Karnataka: Check policies and benefits across Indias other states as well

Karnataka has approved 12 paid menstrual leave days annually for women employees, a first for both government and private sectors in India. This policy aims to create supportive work environments by recognizing women's health needs. Other states like Bihar, Odisha, and Kerala have also implemented similar initiatives for employees and students, highlighting menstrual leave as a health necessity.

From Temple To Actor's Home: Untold Story Of Sabarimala Gold Door's Journey

An NDTV investigation has reconstructed a strikingly irregular chain of custody for a sacred artefact from Kerala's Sabarimala temple showing that the pieces were removed in July 2019, travelled across southern India for more than a month.

Kerala CM Pinarayi rejects allegations over his body-shaming remark in Assembly, calls it 'colloquial'

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan rejected allegations that his recent comment in the state assembly amounted to body-shaming of an Opposition MLA. Terming itamere colloquial usage, Pinarayi said he was only referring to an MLA trying to attack the watch and ward staffer, under the cover of special privileges guaranteed by the assembly. Speaking to the media in Delhi on Friday, the CM justified the remark. The usage is a colloquial expression. It simply means someone who is weak and could be blown away by the wind, the Chief Minister said. Even as there were reports that the remark was aimed at Muslim League MLA Najeeb Kanthapuram, Pinarayi indicated that he was not referring to the former. I saw a woman watch-and-ward staffer being pushed. The person who was attacking was weak, and that is why I used that phrase. I did not mean MLA Najeeb Kanthapuram, he said. The controversy began after the Chief Minister, during a discussion in the Assembly, made a sarcastic remark that was widely interpreted as mocking the height of an Opposition MLA. Without naming anyone, he referred to a member as a person who looks like hes been stacked up to eight and three-quarters, which the opposition slammed as derogatory and inappropriate. The CM's remark mocking the short stature of the UDF MLA ignited a body shaming controversy, with the Opposition demanding withdrawal of the unsavoury remark and an apology from him.

CPCB reiterates recommendation to fix 150-m safety distance between stone quarries, houses in Kerala

The CPCB seeks to reiterate the findings and recommendations of the joint committee in its report filed on March 3, 2023, said a reply dated September 20, 2025 filed by the central board before the Principal Bench of the tribunal

Probe suggests further misappropriation of gold in Sabarimala Sreekovil: Kerala HC

KOCHI: The investigation into the Sabarimala gold theft has revealed additional irregularities, with the Kerala High Court observing that the evidence gathered so far indicates misappropriation of gold in the side frames and lintel of the Sabarimala Sreekovil (sanctum sanctorum). The Court noted that the case appears similar to the earlier fraud detected in the gold plating of the Dwarapalaka idols. The Court stated that the probe revealed a substantial quantity of gold, around 474.9 grams, had been handed over directly to Unnikrishnan Potty, a priest-turned-businessman. However, records do not show that an equivalent quantity of gold was ever entrusted to the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB). Earlier, the Court had appointed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate all aspects of the Dwarapalaka fraud. In light of the latest revelations concerning the side frames and lintel, these matters will also fall under the purview of the SIT, in addition to any other issues that may arise during the investigation. The Court also suo motu included the State Police Chief as an additional respondent in the case. It directed that the report submitted by the Chief Vigilance Officer be placed before the TDB, which must immediately forward it to the State Police Chief. The Police Chief, in turn, shall direct Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) H. Venkatesh to register a case and proceed with the investigation in accordance with the law. The SIT has been instructed to submit its report before the Court within six weeks from June 10. If the ADGP deems it necessary to co-opt additional officers, the State Police Chief must facilitate the same. We expect the Special Investigation Team to conduct a thorough, impartial, and expeditious investigation to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice. The officers of the team shall be directly answerable to this Court and must conduct the investigation with utmost discretion and integrity, said the Division Bench. Protests over Sabarimala gold-plating row signal start of election campaign in Pathanamthitta The Court further directed that the SIT shall not divulge any information to the public or media until the investigation is completed, and must file a status report in a sealed cover once every two weeks. The Court also noted that records indicate the lintel was classified as copper plates, a highly suspicious circumstance. In 2019, the TDB issued an order handing over the copper plates covering the lintel to Unnikrishnan Potty. The lintel, however, was actually covered with copper plates and not wooden panels. According to the Courts order, it appears Smart Creations, the firm that undertook repair works at the temple, completed gold plating of the front and rear doors of the Sreekovil in 2019, issuing a certificate confirming the use of 321.6 grams of gold. Records show that one Govardhan had contributed 200 grams of gold initially, and later another 125.5 grams for the work. After the completion of the work, Unnikrishnan Potty and his associates reportedly informed Smart Creations that the Sreekovil door appeared brighter compared to the lintel and side frames, which looked dull and dirty. A decision was then made to gold plate the side frames and the Lord Shiva plate, comprising seven pieces in total. During inspection, technicians at Smart Creations observed oxidation and traces of gold cladding on these sheets. Potty was informed that the firm lacked the technology to re-plate existing gold-clad sheets. However, on his insistence, and due to time constraints, instructions were allegedly given to remove and strip gold from the seven copper sheets using a stripping solution. The Court noted that Smart Creations did not possess the technical capability to recover gold from such a solution. Nonetheless, gold recovery was reportedly carried out without involving a third-party specialist, raising further suspicion regarding the handling and recovery of the gold. 'I was given brass platings': Unnikrishnan Potti refutes allegations over gold-missing row in Sabarimala

Centre to approve elite marine operations battalion for Kerala, says CM Pinarayi Vijayan after meeting Amit Shah

Pinarayi says Amit Shah conveyed that Centre will bear a significant part of the cost of raising the battalion, including training, weapon procurement, and imparting operational readiness

Kerala HC intervenes after censor board denies certificate to 'Haal' over beef biriyani scene

KOCHI: The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has denied a screening certificate to the Malayalam film Haal , starring Shane Nigam, citing scenes showing the eating of beef biryani and the depiction of a Thamarassery Bishop among the reasons. The filmmakers have now approached the Kerala High Court, challenging the decision, arguing that the cuts demanded are excessive and infringe upon artistic freedom. According to the petition filed by producer Juby Thomas and director Muhammed Rafeek of Ernakulam, the CBFCs Revising Committee viewed the film and concluded that it was not suitable for unrestricted public exhibition. The Board said the film could be cleared only for adult audiences and only after carrying out several excisions and modifications. The directives included deleting dialogues such as Dhwaj Pranam, Abhyanthara Shathrukkal, Ganapati Vattam, and Sangham Kavalund (including from subtitles), removing the beef biryani scene, and blurring visuals showing a Rakhi. The CBFC also raised concerns over portions that could hurt Christian sentiments asking the makers to blur the name Holy Angels College of Nursing, delete certain dialogues, and submit written consent from the Thamarassery Bishops House for scenes depicting a bishop. The Board further observed that parts of the film portrayed the police and Kerala state authorities in a poor light and instructed the filmmakers to modify scenes suggesting discrimination against religious groups. Acting on the petition, the High Court has sought the response of the Central government on the filmmakers challenge to the CBFCs order.

Kochi singer-songwriter Jeremiah de Rozario looks to a new dawn with latest track, Believers Curse

A year after his last release, Kochi-based singer-songwriter Jeremiah de Rozario is back with a new single, Believers Curse. Unlike the gentle ballads that built his name, this song marks a definite shift. It is louder, faster, and perhaps even restless. Its still hopeful, he tells TNIE , but not as naive. I wanted it to be more raw and honest. Those two words, raw and honest, run through this new work. Jeremiah, who once worked as a banker before turning to music full-time, says the song reflects the change he has gone through personally and musically. Indeed, for much of his early career, Jeremiahs songs looked inward: family, home, private ache. This time, the stories reach out. The earlier songs came from a place of naive hope. I used to think everything would just fall into place. Now I know we have to work for what we want. No ones handing it to us, he explains. The new track is built on that understanding. It opens his forthcoming four-song EP, The Heart Showcase, due early next year. Each song represents a part of my heart, he says. Believers Curse is about resilience. The others speak about love, self-reflection, and a kind of tempered hope. Jeremiah de Rozario Unlike his previous, softer soundscapes, the production here is stripped down yet alive and pulsing. We kept it minimal so that the words and melody could breathe, he says. The energy came from frustration. The arrangement tries to capture a believers thoughts, which are noisy, chaotic, but still holding on. That paradox, faith as both salvation and burden, sits at the heart of Believers Curse. There was a point where I questioned if Id made the right choice leaving my job, he admits. I was looking for something to blame. That belief and conviction that I can be a musician drives me, but it also traps me. Its a gift, but its also a curse. Jeremiah de Rozario This internal conflict also mirrors the struggle of being an independent musician today. Moneys still a big factor, Jeremiah says. Streaming services pay almost nothing, and most venues prefer cover gigs over original music. You can make all the songs you want, but taking them to people is still tough. Still, he calls the messages from listeners a big win. People say the lyrics hit hard. That keeps me going. But there has to be balance; some cultural or financial impact that lets you continue, he says. He looks to fellow indie artists as proof that persistence works. Theyve found ways to stay relevant without losing authenticity. I just need to find my version of that, Jeremiah adds. Jeremiah de Rozario And aiding that journey is his upcoming gig to promote the latest EP: at French Toast, Kacheripady, from 6pm on October 26. It will bring both old and new material together, a snapshot of the road so far and the one ahead. Its been five years since Jeremiah left the corporate world for music. This EP isnt a grand statement or a milestone, he stresses. Its more like a signal that things have changed. The sound is different, the mindset is different. Im still hopeful, but its quieter now. It knows where it stands.

NDTV Exclusive: Sabarimala Gold Door's 39-Day Journey Across South India

An NDTV investigation has reconstructed a strikingly irregular chain of custody for a sacred artefact from Kerala's Sabarimala temple showing that the pieces were removed in July 2019, travelled across southern India for more than a month.

Kerala to introduce AI chatbots that understand local Malayalam dialects for public services

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state government has initiated a major push to digitise spoken Malayalam, a move that will enable AI-powered tools to listen and respond to public service queries in local dialects. The initiative aims to eliminate language barriers for people who lack proficiency in English or even the formal Malayalam dialect. Soon, government websites will be equipped to accept voice commands in regional Malayalam, ensuring seamless access to services. For instance, an AI chatbot developed for the fisheries department will soon be capable of understanding verbal queries from fishermen across the state. Using a mobile phone, a fisherman could inquire about housing scheme allotments and receive responses not only from the state department but also from the Union Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying. A formal agreement to make this technological leap possible was signed on Wednesday with Bhashini (Bhasha Interface for India), a flagship initiative under the Digital India programme of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. Even prior to the signing of the agreement, Bhashini had begun collaborating with the International Centre for Free and Open Source Software (ICFOSS) to build local language expertise. Sunil T T, Director of ICFOSS, confirmed that the organisation has been working on digitising Malayalam, including its various dialects, for some time. We may need more data to bring out a glitch-free AI tool, he said, highlighting the importance of community participation in refining the technology. The adoption of indigenous language digitisation tools offers significant advantages for the government. Besides ensuring data security, they reduce costs compared with proprietary solutions offered by tech majors. If a department in the secretariat uses services like Google Lens or Translate to process thousands of pages or voice requests in a day, they are charged on a per-word basis, Sunil explained, pointing out the financial burden of relying on commercial platforms. Bhashinis suite of services includes voice-to-voice translation, voice-to-text, text-to-text, and text-to-speech capabilities. These tools are available through a dedicated application, and the basic software can be shared with other developers to build customised solutions. Amitabh Nag, Chief Executive Officer of the Digital India Bhashini division, emphasised the broader vision behind the platform. Our AI-driven language platform aims to make digital services accessible in Indian languages. It enables citizens to interact with digital services in their native languages, removing barriers posed by English-centric systems. We are taking governance and service delivery to the grassroots, he said. The Kerala State IT Mission is in the process of rolling out AI chatbots to enhance e-governance. Seeram Sambasiva Rao, Special Secretary of the Electronics and IT Department, has taken a leading role in the initiative.

Kerala High Court orders registration of case over missing gold from Sabarimala idols

Travancore Devaswom Boards Vigilance wing submits report to Kerala High Court

Priyanka Gandhi's Kerala Visit Puts Cow 'Alia Bhatt' In Spotlight

Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi's visit to a dairy farm in Kerala's Wayanad has put the spotlight on a cow named Alia Bhatt.

Study finds emotional support as crucial as treatment in cancer recovery

THIRUVANTHAPURAM: A pioneering study on cancer patients has found that recovery from cancer is not just about medical treatment but also the social support that plays a crucial role in improving outcomes, as nearly half of the patients experience severe emotional distress and social isolation. The research, led by Dr Boban Thomas, Senior Medical Oncologist at Caritas Hospital, Kottayam, reveals that 49.82% of cancer patients undergoing treatment suffer significant emotional strain, with many feeling socially isolated. The study underscores that strong family and community support, along with psychological resilience, can substantially improve patients' emotional well-being and adherence to treatment. Cancer is not merely a physical illness; it reshapes how patients see themselves and their place in society, said Dr Thomas. Our findings show that resilience, empathy, and a supportive environment are as vital to healing as chemotherapy or radiation. The findings will be presented at the prestigious European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) International Congress in Berlin from October 17. The study, conducted in collaboration with Vinaya Boban, a Master of Social Work professional, led to the development of the Cancer Journey Emotional Well-being Scale (CJEWS), a culturally adapted tool that measures the emotional health of cancer patients in India. Unlike conventional scales that focus narrowly on anxiety and depression, CJEWS evaluates four dimensions: emotional distress, social stigma and isolation, social support, and existential well-being. Drawing on Viktor Frankls Logotherapy and Lazarus and Folkmans Stress and Coping Theory, the study highlights the need for psychosocial interventions that go beyond clinical care. Cancer care must address the emotional and existential journey, not just the physical illness, said Dr Thomas. The research, conducted among 225 patients across multiple cancer centres, found that those with higher emotional well-being adapted better to treatment and showed lower distress levels. Social stigma and isolation predicted depressive symptoms and reluctance to seek help, while strong family bonds and hope contributed to better resilience. Dr Thomas emphasised that oncology care in India must integrate psychological assessment and counselling as a standard practice. Recognising and addressing emotional suffering is not an optional extra its central to effective cancer care, he said. The studys findings reinforce the need for multidisciplinary cancer care that includes psychologists and social workers, ensuring that patients receive both medical and emotional support throughout their treatment journey.

Kerala HC Orders Registration of Criminal Case in Connection with Sabarimala Gold Issue

It appears that insofar as the side frames or lintels are concerned, misappropriation of gold has been carried out: Kerala HC

Kerala Tourism marks John Lennons 85th birthday with Imagine-inspired post celebrating peace

A picture featuring five women artistes clad in the traditional attire of three religious art forms and crossing a road with the tagline Imagine/ all the people/ livin life in peace reminds netizens of John Lennons message about peace

Suresh Gopi Suggests Probe Against Actors An Attempt to Divert Focus from Sabarimala Issue

Two film actors have been put before the Kerala public for judgment to play down the Sabarimala gold issue: Suresh Gopi