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Tamil Nadu: Former Ministers C Vijayabaskar, MR Vijayabaskar to join TVK on July 2

Senior AIADMK leaders and former Tamil Nadu Ministers C Vijayabaskar and MR Vijayabaskar announced that they will be joining the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) on July 2, marking a significant political development in the state's evolving political landscape.

The Economic Times 1 Jul 2026 5:00 pm

Implementation of VB-G RAM-G without opposition amounts to failure in protecting Tamil Nadus financial well-being: Thangam Thennarasu

Under VB-G RAM-G scheme, which comes into force with effect from July 1, the States contribution has been increased to 40%. The Centre reducing its contribution for the Centrally-sponsored programmes will lead to fiscal strain on Tamil Nadu, he said.

The Hindu 1 Jul 2026 4:46 pm

Bars attached to Tasmac shops in Tamil Nadu to be closed; govt warns of strict action against anyone found consuming liquor in public

The current two-year licences were issued in January 2024. Although they were due to expire in January this year, they were extended until the end of June in view of the assembly elections.

The Times of India 1 Jul 2026 4:39 pm

Foreign Medical Graduates allowed to take up CRMI in 36 non-teaching hospitals in Tamil Nadu

This has fulfilled a long-pending demand of hundreds of FMGs, who had passed the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination and were waiting for the mandatory CRMI.

The Hindu 1 Jul 2026 3:42 pm

Tamil Nadu government moves Supreme Court against cow slaughter ban

The Tamil Nadu government has moved the Supreme Court challenging a Madras High Court order that imposed a statewide blanket ban on the slaughter of cows and calves. The order was passed on May 27 by the Division Bench of Justice GR Swaminathan and Justice V Lakshminarayanan while hearing a Public Interest Litigation filed by [] The post Tamil Nadu government moves Supreme Court against cow slaughter ban appeared first on India Legal .

indialegallive 1 Jul 2026 3:33 pm

CPI(M), CPI leaders meet Tamil Nadu CM Vijay, press various demands

The TVK-led Tamil Nadu government, before tabling a resolution in the Assembly on Mekedatu issue, should have called an all-party meeting to take the issue forward, said CPI(M) leader P. Shanmugam

The Hindu 1 Jul 2026 3:08 pm

Tamil Nadu Government Challenges Madras High Courts Ban on Cow Slaughter in Supreme Court

New Delhi, July 1: The Tamil Nadu government has filed a challenge in the Supreme Court against a Madras High Court order that mandated an immediate ban on cow slaughter across the state, enforcing a 1976 government directive. The special leave petition (SLP) submitted by the Secretary of the Animal Husbandry Department is currently listed ... Read more Tamil Nadu Government Challenges Madras High Courts Ban on Cow Slaughter in Supreme Court

Morningstar 1 Jul 2026 2:32 pm

Former Tamil Nadu Minister C. Vijayabaskar Joins Tamilga Vetrikazhagam, Marks New Political Chapter

Chennai, July 1: C. Vijayabaskar, the former Health Minister of Tamil Nadu and ex-MLA from AIADMK, has officially announced his decision to join the Tamilga Vetrikazhagam (TVK) led by Chief Minister Vijay. This move is seen as a significant political victory for the ruling party, which has been successfully attracting senior opposition leaders. The joining ... Read more Former Tamil Nadu Minister C. Vijayabaskar Joins Tamilga Vetrikazhagam, Marks New Political Chapter

Morningstar 1 Jul 2026 2:21 pm

'HC went beyond ... ': Vijay-led Tamil Nadu government moves SC against order banning cow slaughter even on Bakrid

Tamil Nadu's government has approached the Supreme Court, challenging the Madras high court's order for a complete ban on cow slaughter. The state argues the high court exceeded its jurisdiction by imposing a blanket prohibition, even on authorized slaughterhouses. Existing laws, they contend, regulate rather than prohibit the slaughter of older, unfit cows, and the government seeks an interim stay on the high court's directive.

The Times of India 1 Jul 2026 1:39 pm

Tamil Nadu moves SC over Madras HC cow slaughter ban order

New Delhi: The Tamil Nadu government has moved the Supreme Court against the Madras High Court order imposing a blanket ban on the slaughter of cows and calves in the state. In its plea, the Tamil Nadu government challenged the May 27 order of the High Court, which directed the chief secretary and the director Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 1 Jul 2026 12:34 pm

Toxic Foam Crisis in South Pennai River Raises Alarm Among Farmers

Chennai, July 1: Toxic foam accumulating in the South Pennai River near the Kelavarapalli Dam has raised serious concerns among farmers in Krishnagiri district. They are urging the Tamil Nadu and Karnataka governments to jointly investigate the pollution sources and take immediate corrective actions. The foam has been visible in the river for nearly a ... Read more Toxic Foam Crisis in South Pennai River Raises Alarm Among Farmers

Morningstar 1 Jul 2026 12:21 pm

TNEA Counselling Rank List 2026 released at tneaonline.org; how to check ranks, counselling details and more

TNEA 2026 Rank list released: Tamil Nadu's engineering admissions for 2026 have seen a highly competitive year, with 53 students scoring a perfect 200. The TNEA rank list, featuring over 2.36 lakh candidates, was released on July 1st, marking the end of merit preparation. This paves the way for the crucial counselling and seat allotment stages for aspiring engineers across the state. Aspirants should monitor the official portal for further details.

The Economic Times 1 Jul 2026 12:20 pm

Tamil Nadu govt moves Supreme Court against Madras High Court order banning cow slaughter

Tamil Nadu has approached the Supreme Court challenging a Madras High Court order that imposed a complete ban on cow and calf slaughter. The state argues the high court's directive contradicts the Tamil Nadu Animal Preservation Act, 1958, which allows slaughter of older, unfit cattle under specific conditions. The high court's ban was issued following a Public Interest Litigation.

The Economic Times 1 Jul 2026 12:19 pm

TNEA 2026 rank list out: Dharmapuri's Aksitha S tops engineering admissions, check complete topper list by category

Tamil Nadu Engineering Admissions (TNEA) 2026 rank list is out, featuring over 2.36 lakh students. Fifty-three candidates achieved a perfect 200 cut-off in the academic stream, with Aksitha S topping the list. Counselling for special categories begins July 13, followed by general online counselling from July 20. Top scores were also recorded in vocational streams, highlighting intense competition for engineering seats.

The Times of India 1 Jul 2026 12:09 pm

TNEA rank list 2026 released at tneaonline.org: 53 candidates secure perfect 200 cut-off, counselling begins July 13

The TNEA Rank List 2026 has been released for 2,36,017 engineering aspirants, with Akshitha N of Dharmapuri securing the top rank and 53 candidates achieving a perfect 200 cut-off. Special category counselling will be held on July 1314, followed by online counselling from July 20 to 30 for admissions across Tamil Nadu.

The Times of India 1 Jul 2026 11:54 am

TNEA rank list 2026 expected to be released today at tneaonline.org: Check complete details here

The TNEA Rank List 2026 is scheduled to be released on July 1 after being postponed from June 29 to incorporate revised CBSE re-evaluation marks. Prepared on a standardized 200-mark scale, the merit list will determine candidates' eligibility and ranking for engineering counselling and seat allotment across Tamil Nadu. Candidates can check their ranks on the official TNEA portal.

The Times of India 1 Jul 2026 9:26 am

Tamil Nadus elusive Bengal foxes and their shrinking space

Bengal foxes are known for their monogamous behaviour. Forest Department officials said the species are now known to occur only in pockets in Dharmapuri, Tiruvannamalai, Salem, Madurai and Villupuram.

The Hindu 1 Jul 2026 8:14 am

Rane Madras to buy HCL friction biz for Rs 370cr

The Times of India 1 Jul 2026 4:00 am

Indias Elderly Citizens Need Compassion

As Indias senior citizen population continues to grow, the need for comprehensive support systems for elderly care will become increasingly important A civilized society is not defined only by the opportunities it creates for the young, the ambitious and the able-bodied. It is also defined by the protection it extends to its senior citizens who have once contributed towards the building of the nation and now require support beyond the normal family structures. In that sense, the Atal Vayo Abhyudaya Yojana is more than a welfare scheme; it is a statement about the kind of country India wants to become. As per the estimates, the population of the countrys senior citizens was approx. 10 Crores in 2011 and is projected to rise to 23 Crores in 2036. The traditional family structures are transforming the country. Migration, emergence of nuclear families, smaller households, increasing life expectancies and changes in the informal support structures are a few of the key factors that are contributing towards the development of the policy framework based on the principles of Ageing with Dignity. A framework that must provide practical, accessible and sustained support. This is where AVYAY is making an important contribution. It adopts a holistic, comprehensive and humane approach toward the elderly welfare. While schemes for senior citizens have existed earlier as well, AVYAY signals a shift from fragmented welfare measures towards building an ecosystem of dignity, care and empowerment. One of the strongest pillars of AVYAY is the Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens, which supports senior citizen homes, continuous care homes, mobile medical units and physiotherapy units across the country. For thousands of elderly persons abandoned or left without support, these centres have become more than shelters they have become spaces of belonging. Take the example of 71-year-old Smt. M. Balasundari from Tamil Nadu. After the untimely demise of her husband, who worked as a tailor, she faced severe financial and emotional hardships. Her only son, who suffers from an eye problem, struggled to support the family. Owing to difficult circumstances and lack of adequate care at home, she was admitted to Ambujam Home for Senior Citizens, Nagapattinam District, under the Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens (IPSrC) in November 2024. When she arrived at the Home, she was anxious, lonely and deeply worried about her sons future. Through regular counselling, social interaction and participation in community activities, she gradually regained her confidence and emotional well-being. Today, she actively participates in gardening, yoga and spiritual activities, and enjoys a dignified and fulfilling life. Her son visits her regularly, providing emotional support and strengthening family bonds. The Home has provided her with free shelter, nutritious food, healthcare, recreational facilities and a safe environment. Her story demonstrates how institutional care and compassionate support under IPSrC can restore dignity, security and happiness to senior citizens facing difficult circumstances. Equally transformative has been the Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana, under which assistive devices are distributed free of cost to economically weaker senior citizens suffering from age-related disabilities. More than 46 lakh devices have been given to the 8.43 lakh beneficiaries. For many beneficiaries, a wheelchair, hearing aid or walking stick may appear to be a small intervention but in reality, it restores independence. In Koraput, Odhisha, 75-year-old Lalita Paik struggled with the activities of daily living. She had severe mobility issues, including difficulty in walking, needed support for standing and was suffering from low back pain & knee pain. Through the RVY scheme, she received a wheelchair and walking support. Her family members say the assistance changed her daily life, enabling her to move independently and participate once again in community activities. Such interventions demonstrate how welfare schemes can directly improve quality of life when implemented effectively. An important aspect of the RVY is the creation of the Pradhan Mantri Divyasha-Vayoshri Kendras (PMD-VKs). Aids and Assistive devices are being distributed through the Walk-In Mode to the eligible senior citizens through these Kendras. Perhaps the most significant and timely initiative under AVYAY is Elderline (14567) the national helpline for senior citizens. In a society where loneliness among the elderly often remains invisible, the helpline has become an emotional and social lifeline. The fact that over 29 lakh calls have already been received is both encouraging and concerning: encouraging because support systems are reaching people, and concerning because it reveals the scale of distress among senior citizens. There have been numerous instances where Elderline has intervened to rescue abandoned elderly persons, reconnect them with families, or provide urgent medical and emotional assistance. One case is of Sh. Anantlal Rajak. Sh. Anant Lal, 70 years old, was suffering from Dementia and unknowingly reached to Pune Railway Station. He was in an abandoned condition and could not recall anything. The Elderline team in Maharashtra successfully reunited Sh. Anantlal Rajak with his family in Patna, Bihar. Timely intervention from the Elderline reportedly helped to prevent a far more serious crisis. At the same time, Indias ageing challenge is not only a welfare issue it is also an economic opportunity. Under the PM-SPECIAL component of the AVYAY Scheme, more than 35,000 trainees have been trained as Geriatric Caregivers. The governments initiative to train geriatric caregivers reflects an important recognition that the care economy will become one of the largest employment sectors in the future. By training thousands of youth in elderly caregiving, India is simultaneously addressing unemployment and the growing demand for professional eldercare services. As Indias senior citizen population continues to grow, the need for comprehensive support systems for elderly care will become increasingly important. This presents an opportunity to further strengthen and expand the initiatives already underway under the Atal Vayo Abhyudaya Yojana. The scheme has established a strong foundation for promoting dignity, care and well-being among senior citizens, while also creating pathways for greater community participation and support. As India advances on its development journey, AVYAY offers a valuable framework for ensuring that every senior citizen can lead a life of dignity, security and active participation in society. (The Author is Secretary, Department of Social Justice & Empowerment, Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Govt. of India)

RisingKashmir 1 Jul 2026 1:22 am

Just 2 days after giving birth, she travelled 200 km for an exam: The story of Tamil Nadus first tribal woman civil judge

V. Sripathy, a 23-year-old from a remote Tamil Nadu village, achieved a historic feat by clearing the civil judge examination just two days after giving birth. Battling limited infrastructure and societal expectations, her journey from a farmer's daughter to the first civil judge from her tribal community exemplifies extraordinary grit and the power of education. Her determination inspires countless young women, proving that dreams can overcome significant obstacles.

The Times of India 1 Jul 2026 1:20 am

Rainfall to dip in T.N. over the next few days

IMD predicts above average day temperatures across most parts of the State in July

The Hindu 1 Jul 2026 12:45 am

Tamil Nadu doctor on Italy trip with family says Europe feels hotter than India: 'At least in India we have ACs'

A Tamil Nadu doctor travelling with his family in Italy during Europe's ongoing heatwave said the weather felt worse than in India despite lower temperatures. He pointed to the lack of widespread air conditioning as the biggest difference, while experts say Europe's infrastructure, built for colder climates, is increasingly being tested by more frequent and intense heatwaves.

The Economic Times 1 Jul 2026 12:29 am

Mental health fest in city to spotlight youth voices

The Times of India 1 Jul 2026 12:16 am

Godrej Properties acquires 47-acre land parcel in South Chennai, eyes 500 crore revenue

Godrej Properties already has four developments in Tamil Nadu, excluding the project it has currently signed

The Hindu 1 Jul 2026 12:10 am

Vijayabaskar & Vijayabhaskar to join TVK on Thursday

15 former MLAs, 5 former ministers, and hundreds of AIADMK cadres to switch sides

The Times of India 30 Jun 2026 11:56 pm

Tamil Nadu appeals to SC against Madras HC order on cow slaughter ban

The Madras HC order was based on the 1976 order which prohibited cow slaughter in the interest of milk production and improvement of rural economy.

The Hindu 30 Jun 2026 11:50 pm

T.R. Baalu and Annamalai withdraw defamation cases against each other

The DMK leader filed the case after the then Tamil Nadu BJP president alleged that the former had amassed wealth by corrupt means in 2023

The Hindu 30 Jun 2026 11:35 pm

Ex-banker, company CMD get 7-year jail for loan fraud

The Times of India 30 Jun 2026 11:20 pm

Decks cleared for implementation of 12,642-crore VB-G RAM G in Tamil Nadu on July 1

As part of the funding arrangement, which is 60:40 for the Union and State governments, the formers contribution will be 7,585 crore and the latters 5,057 crore, said an official in the State government.

The Hindu 30 Jun 2026 11:13 pm

Four from UP get 6-year jail for burglary

The Times of India 30 Jun 2026 11:12 pm

Cocaine seized from Kenyan woman at airport

The Times of India 30 Jun 2026 10:45 pm

Vaiko loses temper at press meet

The Times of India 30 Jun 2026 10:38 pm

Caste-Based Social Media Posts Surge in Tamil Nadu

Researchers say caste conflicts are being asserted on social media. Cops say Insta posts have tripled in the past year

The Times of India 30 Jun 2026 10:33 pm

VCK chief wants social harmony to spread across Tamil Nadu

Now, Dalit politics is being widely discussed in T.N. and it includes the discussion of having a Dalit CM; this is an achievement of the party, says Thirumavalavan

The Hindu 30 Jun 2026 10:28 pm

Puviyarasu, Renowned Tamil Poet and Translator, Dies at 96 in Coimbatore

His poetry gave me the courage to try my hand at writing poems, said Kamal Haasan

The Times of India 30 Jun 2026 10:28 pm

GCC cancels 150 tenders for violations

Rules Violated When Model Code Of Conduct Was In Place

The Times of India 30 Jun 2026 10:18 pm

K Annamalai: National parties, including BJP, dont speak the language of Tamil Nadu

After six years in BJP and now spearheading a We, The Leaders movement, 42-year-old K Annamalai believes politics is not a contest for power but an exercise in constant reinvention

The Times of India 30 Jun 2026 10:07 pm

Passengers take hazardous trail down at Perungudi MRTS

The Times of India 30 Jun 2026 9:47 pm

Massive tree felling and illegal construction pose threat to CHR lands in Idukki

Around 296 acres of land, claimed by local and Tamil Nadu residents, is being cleared under the guise of cardamom farming. Despite the Forest department registering three cases regarding rare tree felling, activities continue unabated. It also raises alarm over potential landslides and the destruction of critical wildlife habitats.

The Hindu 30 Jun 2026 8:00 pm

Inter-Caste Teenage Couple Found Dead In Tamil Nadu, Police Suspect Suicide

According to the police, tensions had been escalating between the two families over the inter-caste relationship.

NDTV 30 Jun 2026 7:10 pm

Vairamuthu urges CM Vijay to build a memorial for Bharathiraja

Veteran lyricist Vairamuthu has urged Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin to build a memorial for the late filmmaker Bharathiraja at his burial site in Theni. Vairamuthu visited the site and emphasized Bharathiraja's significant contributions to Tamil cinema, particularly in showcasing rural life. He believes a memorial would serve as an inspiring landmark for future generations and a source of pride for the local community.

The Times of India 30 Jun 2026 7:04 pm

Tamil Nadu Government Schools To Hold First-Ever Student Elections In July

The newly elected student leaders will take their oath of office on July 10. Each house will also have its own flag, badges for student ministers.

NDTV 30 Jun 2026 6:47 pm

Mylswamy Annadurai made Chairman of Tamil Nadus reconstituted curriculum design panel

The government order stated that the tenure of the new committee would be for three years

The Hindu 30 Jun 2026 6:00 pm

Rotten and bullet eggs found in meals served to schoolchildren in Namakkal district

Under the noon meal scheme, each egg supplied should weigh at least 45 grams, but inspections by school management committees found that many eggs weighed less than 35 grams.

The Times of India 30 Jun 2026 5:27 pm

Tamil Nadu eyes bigger share of 3-lakh crore defence opportunity, invites industry to partner

The Centre had identified Tamil Nadu as one of the key partners in Indias defence manufacturing ecosystem

The Hindu Businessline 30 Jun 2026 5:09 pm

Tamil Nadu begins final phase of BharatNet broadband rollout

Tamil Nadu has floated a tender to procure 2.5 lakh Optical Network Terminals (ONTs), paving the way for high-speed broadband connectivity in rural areas under the BharatNet Phase II project.

Mid Day 30 Jun 2026 3:58 pm

Tamil Nadu CM Vijay to hold consultative meeting with alliance partners on July 1

The meeting convened by the TVK assumes significance against the backdrop of the disintegration of the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance following the 2026 Assembly poll debacle.

The Hindu 30 Jun 2026 3:57 pm

AC-only buses part of CM Vijays push to modernize public transport: Tamil Nadu Transport minister Parthiban

Tamil Nadu's Transport Minister announced all new government buses will be air-conditioned, aligning with Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay's vision for comfortable public travel. This move aims to enhance passenger experience and boost mass transit usage across urban and rural areas, addressing the state's climate. The initiative follows recent expansions and modernization efforts, with new AC buses set to be deployed soon.

The Times of India 30 Jun 2026 2:01 pm

When Chennai marched in every shade of the rainbow

One of the many voices at the gathering had a simple yet powerful appeal for Chief Minister Vijay.

The Times of India 30 Jun 2026 1:40 pm

Tamil Nadu Assembly Secretariat defends continuation of disqualification cases despite resignation of MLAs before Madras High Court

The Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly Secretariat has apprised the Madras High Court that the resignation of four AIADMK MLAs, who subsequently aligned with the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), does not have the legal effect of extinguishing or rendering infructuous the disqualification proceedings pending against them under the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution. The submission was [] The post Tamil Nadu Assembly Secretariat defends continuation of disqualification cases despite resignation of MLAs before Madras High Court appeared first on India Legal .

indialegallive 30 Jun 2026 1:08 pm

Wildlife documentary Wild Tamil Nadu to release soon on YouTube

The documentary, narrated by acclaimed actor Arvind Swamy, is directed by wildlife photographer and filmmaker Kalyan Varma

The Hindu 30 Jun 2026 12:48 pm

Tamil Nadu Woman Dies After Family's Wish For 'Natural Birth' At Home

According to investigators, Sasikala had undergone a Caesarean section (C-section) during her first pregnancy and had since developed an aversion to allopathic medicine.

NDTV 30 Jun 2026 12:41 pm

Ex-ISRO Scientist to Lead Tamil Nadu's State Board Syllabus Overhaul

The tenure of the 17-member committee headed by Annadurai, comprising educationists and academicians, will be three years from the date of issue of the government order

Deccan Chronicle 30 Jun 2026 12:22 pm

Gravitee and Lexington Soft Announce Strategic Partnership To Advance API Management and AI Governance Across North America and India

Denver, Boston, United States & Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India Business Wire India

The Hindu 30 Jun 2026 11:07 am

Tamil Nadu's Kingmaker, VCK Set To Quit DMK Alliance, Join Vijay-Led Front

Initial reports suggested the VCK would remain part of the opposition alliance while offering external support to Vijay.

NDTV 30 Jun 2026 10:32 am

Heavy Rains Likely in Western Ghats Region of Tamil Nadu

However, the maximum temperatures are likely to be above normal during the day from June 30 till July 3 over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal area

Deccan Chronicle 30 Jun 2026 9:46 am

She gave birth and travelled 200 km for exam: How this Tamil Nadu woman from a tribal village became state's youngest judge at 23

V. Sripathy, a young mother, achieved a historic feat by becoming the first civil judge from the Malayali tribal community in Tamil Nadu. Just two days after childbirth, she traveled over 200 kilometers to appear for the civil judge examination in November 2023, demonstrating immense determination. Her journey from a remote village highlights how education and persistence can overcome significant challenges, inspiring many.

The Economic Times 30 Jun 2026 9:07 am

100 boys, one girl, a curtain and no peeping

The Times of India 30 Jun 2026 8:36 am

National parties, including BJP, dont speak the language of Tamil Nadu': K Annamalai

Annamalai Kuppusamy, former Tamil Nadu BJP chief, has launched a new movement, 'We, The Leaders,' advocating for a fresh political culture and generational change. He believes established parties, including the BJP, have a vision mismatch with Tamil Nadu's evolving landscape. Annamalai emphasizes a balance between nationalism and regional aspirations, aiming to foster grassroots leaders and a more accountable political system, distinct from traditional party structures.

The Times of India 30 Jun 2026 8:35 am

I have no complaints against BJP, but I often felt constrained: Annamalai

K Annamalai, founder of 'We, The Leaders', reflects on his departure from the BJP, citing vision mismatches and a desire for grassroots leadership in Tamil Nadu.

The Times of India 30 Jun 2026 6:56 am

Address issues faced by government doctors, association urges government

Government doctors have demanded that pay band 4 be granted after completing 12 years of service and that the old pension scheme be restored

The Hindu 30 Jun 2026 12:47 am

Anna University study finds advanced sludge treatment can boost biogas production at Chennai STPs

The study found that sewage sludge generated in Chennai Metrowaters sewage treatment plants contained low concentrations of heavy metals within international standards, making it viable for reuse after treatment

The Hindu 30 Jun 2026 12:38 am

How the Future of AI Infrastructure Could Shape Tomorrow's Opportunities

The technologies shaping tomorrow's economy will depend not only on physical infrastructure but also on skilled people, research and innovation Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping how people live, work and communicate. Every online search, digital payment, email, video call, cloud service and AI chatbot relies on an invisible digital infrastructure that most people never see. At the heart of this infrastructure are data centres, specialised facilities filled with powerful computers that process, store and deliver digital information. As AI systems become increasingly capable, these facilities require growing amounts of electricity, land and cooling. This rising demand has prompted scientists and engineers to explore an extraordinary question: could some of tomorrow's data centres one day operate in space? Although the idea sounds like science fiction, it has become a serious area of scientific research. Technology companies, universities and space agencies are studying whether orbital computing could eventually complement terrestrial data centres. Jeff Bezos has long argued that some heavy industries may ultimately move into space, while Elon Musk has spoken about the long-term potential of expanding computing capabilities beyond Earth. Google researchers have also examined the engineering challenges of operating AI computing hardware in space, including radiation exposure and long-term system reliability. Meanwhile, organisations such as NASA, the European Space Agency (ESA), the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), the China National Space Administration (CNSA) and the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) continue advancing research in spacecraft technologies, computing systems and future space infrastructure. International organisations, including the International Energy Agency (IEA), the World Economic Forum and UNESCO, have highlighted the growing importance of artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, rising energy demand and the responsible development of emerging technologies. Meanwhile, researchers such as Nicolas Longp and Yonggang Wen, together with leading universities including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Stanford University, Harvard University, the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, the University of Toronto, the Technical University of Munich, the University of Tokyo, Tsinghua University and the Harbin Institute of Technology, are advancing research in artificial intelligence, advanced computing, robotics and space engineering that could contribute to future orbital computing systems. While the idea of orbital data centres is still under development, it offers valuable lessons for regions like Kashmir. The technologies shaping tomorrow's economy will depend not only on physical infrastructure but also on skilled people, research and innovation. Preparing young people for these emerging fields may prove far more important than predicting exactly where future computing facilities will be located. One of the principal reasons researchers are exploring orbital computing is energy. Modern AI systems consume enormous amounts of electricity. According to the International Energy Agency, electricity demand from data centres is rising steadily worldwide, placing increasing pressure on power generation, land availability and cooling infrastructure. As AI continues to expand, researchers are investigating new ways to improve efficiency while reducing environmental impacts. Recent engineering studies suggest that future solar-powered orbital computing platforms could potentially operate at the megawatt scale, although such concepts remain technically and economically challenging. From an engineering perspective, space offers both opportunities and challenges. Satellites in suitable orbits can generate solar power for long periods, and some specialised computing tasks could be carried out closer to where data are collected in space. However, these possible advantages come with major technical challenges that scientists and engineers still need to overcome. Cooling computers in space is much harder than on Earth because space is a vacuum, where heat cannot be carried away by air. Instead, spacecraft use specially designed radiators to release excess heat. NASA and the European Space Agency consider heat management one of the biggest engineering challenges in spacecraft design. These cooling systems make space-based computing platforms larger, heavier and more complex. Radiation is another major challenge. High-energy particles in space can damage computer chips, corrupt data and disrupt electronic systems. Researchers continue testing advanced computer hardware under simulated space conditions to understand how it performs in orbit. Their findings show that computers designed for space need much stronger protection than those used in conventional data centres. Reliability is equally important. On Earth, faulty servers can often be repaired or replaced within hours. In space, maintenance would be extremely expensive and technically demanding. Future orbital computing systems would therefore need to be highly reliable, equipped with backup systems, and capable of operating independently with minimal human intervention. Current research suggests that orbital data centres are more likely to complement rather than replace those on Earth. They could prove valuable for specialised applications such as processing satellite data, supporting deep-space missions and analysing information already generated in orbit. Every day, internet services, cloud computing and most AI applications are expected to continue relying primarily on terrestrial data centres for the foreseeable future. For Kashmir, the more important lesson is not where future data centres will be located, but why understanding emerging technologies will matter in an increasingly digital world. Tamil Nadu shows how long-term investment in research and infrastructure can help build a strong technology sector. It has become one of the country's leading data centre hubs, while Maharashtra, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh continue to attract major investments in cloud computing and AI infrastructure. Institutions such as the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) are carrying out important research in artificial intelligence, satellite technology, advanced computing and space science. Their work will help shape the country's technological future. Kashmir can learn from these developments. Universities and colleges can strengthen education in artificial intelligence, computer science, electronics, robotics, cybersecurity and space technology. Students can take part in research, innovation and entrepreneurship, while local startups can create digital solutions for agriculture, healthcare, tourism, disaster management, education and public services. These skills will remain valuable whether future technologies are developed on Earth or, one day, in space. The idea of data centres in space is about much more than satellites. It shows that every major technological breakthrough begins with curiosity, research, thorough testing and hard work. Kashmir's future in the age of AI will depend not on where future data centres are built, but on whether today's students become tomorrow's scientists, engineers, researchers and innovators. Technology will continue to change, but the greatest investment Kashmir can make is in its people. By investing in education, scientific thinking and innovation today, Kashmir can help create the technologies of the future instead of simply using them. (The Author writes on technology and artificial intelligence. bakshisuhaib094@gmail.com )

RisingKashmir 30 Jun 2026 12:14 am

Application process for MBBS/BDS begins in Tamil Nadu

Officials says the application window would remain open till at least one week after the NEET results are published

The Hindu 29 Jun 2026 11:45 pm

600 bellmouths set for revamp at city junctions

Phase-1 works at 94 sites to end by July 15

The Times of India 29 Jun 2026 11:22 pm

BJP slams Karnataka CM for releasing Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu

Bengaluru: Karnataka Leader of the Opposition R Ashoka has launched a sharp attack on the Congress government, alleging that it is secretly releasing Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu despite the state facing an imminent water crisis due to weak monsoon rains. Ashoka claimed that farmers in the Cauvery basin are once again gripped by fears Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 29 Jun 2026 10:44 pm