A foreign traveller has praised India's road network, saying the country now has some of the best roads in the world after completing a journey of more than 2,500 km from Tamil Nadu towards the Himalayas. The drive took him through several states, including Karnataka, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Rajasthan, as India continues to expand its National Highway network.
Typhoon Champi kills 1 and injures 350 in Taiwan overnight as storm weakens
Kieron Pollard appointed as head coach for Mumbai Indians
Pollard replaces Mahela Jayawardene, whose two-season second stint ended with a disappointing IPL 2026 campaign for the team
Deepavali 2026 fashion trends: From jewel tones to modern saris, designers decode festive dressing
Channel your grandmothers vintage Kanjeevarams, add a liquid-satin gown and invest in draped skirts. This year designers are embracing individuality, drama and the freedom to be comfortable at Deepavali parties
Dragons Dogma 2: Dark Arisen is a massive improvement over the original
Send your pawns that back-to-work notice because Dark Arisen, the new expansion of Dragon Dogma 2, has a new area to explore and a whole host of improvements in tow
Are dating apps safe? Grindr, Tinder, Bumble and Hinge under scrutiny
Dating apps promise intimacy, but leaked photographs, sextortion and concerns over personal-data sharing reveal the risks of letting strangers into your digital life
Ariel, Umbriel and the man who made them real
The discovery of Ariel and Umbriel two of Uranus many moons took place 175 years ago on October 24, 1851. It was an amateur astronomer, William Lassell, who discovered these two satellites and two more as well. A.S.Ganesh tells you how Lassell played his part in astronomy
College Student Accuses TVK Functionary Christopher Of Sexual Assault, Seeks No Police Action
A college student in Tamil Nadu's Kanniyakumari district has accused Christopher, a functionary of the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), of sexual assault. However, the case took a new turn when she submitted a written request to withdraw her complaint a
Schools closed in six taluks of Nilgiris district in TN; Coimbatore bars special classes amid rain
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 24 (IANS) Schools in six taluks of the Nilgiris district were declared closed on Saturday following rain since Friday night, as wet weather continued across several parts of Tamil Nadu. District Collector Lakshmi Bhavya issued the order covering all schools in Udhagamandalam, Coonoor, Kotagiri, Kundah, Gudalur and Pandalur taluks. The holiday was announced in view of the continuing rainfall in these areas. In neighbouring Coimbatore district, the Collector announced a holiday for all categories of schools and directed managements against conducting special classes on Saturday. The instruction was issued amid forecasts of heavy rain, with schools told not to bring students in for additional teaching sessions. The directive applies to all types of schools across the district, the announcement said. The announcements came as rain affected the western districts and several central and southern parts of the State, bringing waterlogging to roads and disrupting travel in some localities. According to the weather information cited in the report, a low-pressure area has formed over the Bay of Bengal. The weather department indicated that the system could strengthen into a cyclone and move towards the Andhra PradeshOdisha coast, while Tamil Nadu could experience heavy rainfall. In Pudukkottai, heavy showers lashed urban areas for more than half an hour, bringing a marked change in the weather and cooler conditions. Tiruchirappalli city and its suburbs also received heavy rain. Water accumulated on several roads, making movement difficult for motorists and slowing traffic through affected stretches. The downpour left commuters negotiating waterlogged sections as rain continued across the region. Thanjavur witnessed a sudden spell of rain in the evening after a sunny morning. The showers brought relief to farmers, who welcomed the rainfall and its potential contribution to groundwater recharge. Rain in different parts of Karur Corporation similarly brought cooler conditions. However, overflowing rainwater on roads in Pallapatti caused inconvenience to residents and road users. In Theni district, widespread showers were reported from Andipatti, Bodinayakanur, Periyakulam and Cumbum. Thick fog covered the Bodimettu hill road, reducing visibility along the mountain stretch. Rain was also reported across the western belt, including the Nilgiris and Coimbatore, prompting the school-related announcements. The Nilgiris order specifically covered the six named taluks, while Coimbatores announcement included an express instruction that special classes should not be held during the holiday.
25-year-old student from Khammam dies of suspected heart attack in U.S.
Centre proposes stricter learners licence test, higher pass mark and expanded medical disclosures
The draft driving licence rules propose raising the learners test pass mark from 60% to 75%, requiring more medical disclosures and waiving fees for changes to a licence holders personal details.
DRI seizes foreign currency worth 1.56 crore from two passengers at Hyderabad airport
The agency seized the entire foreign currency, comprising $1,64,200, MYR 3,773 and SGD 2
Paris suburb attack: Macron warns against racist ideology
Cyclone brewing as low pressure area forms in east-central, Southeast Bay of Bengal | Live
Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) lists Konaseema, West Godavari, Krishna, Guntur, Bapatla, Prakasam and the Rayalaseema districts for rain
Cyclone Threat Looms Over Bay of Bengal, Fishermen Warned Against Venturing Out to Sea
Fishermen in Chennai are advised to stay ashore as a cyclone threat looms over the Bay of Bengal, with heavy rain expected in Tamil Nadu. Cyclone Threat Looms Over Bay of Bengal, Fishermen Warned Against Venturing Out to Sea
'Jailer 2' faces controversy in Tamil Nadu
Indonesia wildfires threaten worlds oldest cave paintings
Near the Maros-Pangkep cave, firefighters worked to put out fires as smoke drifted over the dramatic karst landscape that is a defining feature of the national park and UNESCO Global Geopark surrounding the cave
MHA to build 60,000-strong civil defence network in 12 states, UTs; Army to train volunteers
New Delhi, Oct 24: The home ministry will conduct a first-of-its-kind joint training with the Army to build a civil defence network of around 60,000 volunteers in 12 states and Union Territories (UTs) as part of a pilot project, according to an official statement. In the first phase, a three-day specialised training will be given for civil defence master trainers from the participating states and UTs, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said in a statement. The initiative stems from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Independence Day speech, in which he announced the vision of a vibrant civil defence network equipped with modern systems, technologies and contemporary preparedness capabilities to address emerging security challenges. In furtherance of this vision, the Directorate General of Fire Services, Civil Defence and Home Guards, Ministry of Home Affairs, is undertaking a first-of-its-kind pilot initiative to strengthen civil defence preparedness through specialised training of civil defence master trainers by the Indian Army, it said. Six hundred civil defence master trainers -- 50 from each participating state and UT -- will be trained by the second week of November 2026 through a three-day specialised training programme at designated Indian Army training establishments. The participating states/UTs are Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Delhi, Meghalaya, Sikkim, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, it said. The initiative seeks to enhance civil defence personnel's preparedness to respond effectively to contemporary security threats, hostile situations and emergencies, it said. The personnel will receive training in three broad areas: threat awareness, protection and emergency response, and communication and coordination. Each master trainer will have to train 100 civil defence volunteers in their respective state or UT. The initiative aims to prepare 60,000 civil defence volunteers across the participating states and UTs, significantly expanding its reach and impact, the statement said.
Mr. Maran in his letter, urging the Centre to withdraw the proposed draft rules in their current form and undertake a comprehensive review in consultation with independent animal welfare experts, scientists, veterinarians, research institutions and civil society organisations
How is Kerala planning to prevent child deaths linked to malnutrition and neglect? Explained
A State-wide vulnerability mapping will be held to identity children living in vulnerable conditions that pose a risk to their health, education, and safety. Once the vulnerable children are identified and their details collected, regular follow-ups will be held
Signs point to renewed major U.S. military operations against Iran
Neither the U.S. nor Iran has engaged in major attacks on land-based targets since early September, but that may soon change
Why is ITBP overhauling its training and combat strategy along the China border? Explained
The ITBP was formed on October 24, 1962 after the Indo-China war
Suvendu outruns old BJP on Hindutva turf
Taste Kolkatas Tangra-style Chinese food at Chao in Kochi
Tragic Hit-and-Run Claims Life of Bank Employee in Tamil Nadu
A hit-and-run incident in Kallakurichi, Tamil Nadu, led to the death of a 25-year-old bank employee, prompting police investigations. Tragic Hit-and-Run Claims Life of Bank Employee in Tamil Nadu
New form of carbon found: diamondiyne
Local humanitarian ceasefire with Russia will start on October 27, says negotiator
Ukrainian, Russian and U.S. negotiators reached a deal to provide humanitarian assistance in the Russian-occupied town of Oleshky, in the war-divided region of Kherson in southern Ukraine
Gajab Raat movie review: Manoj Bajpayee lights up a night to remember
With an electric ensemble and a gripping plot, director Ritesh Shah turns a routine police investigation into a breathless arena of institutional warfare
Here is a select list of stories to start the day
Election Commission sought explanation from officials as goof-up in voter list went viral
There is a possibility of mistakes when doing any work for the first time. Out of 14,81,310 entries in the voter list, there are a total of 158 entries in which the names of the voters or their relatives appear strange. The strangeness of these names is due to such a mistake, says statement released by Chief Electoral Officer, Uttar Pradesh
Students protest against SIR at Mumbai University, demand arrest of CEC Gyanesh Kumar
Organised by the Disha Students Organisation and Bhagat Singh Jan Adhikar Yatra (BSJAY), the demonstration also called for the repeal of the 2023 law governing the appointment of Election Commissioners
Assam government to present 1st Bhupen Hazarika National Award to Usha Mangeshkar: Himanta
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will present the award at the concluding ceremony of the singer's year-long birth centenary celebrations at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on November 29, says CM Sarma
Kobelco deepens excavator localisation to widen its reach
Asian football endorses Infantino re-election in apparent U-turn
The 56-year-old Swiss was present at a Tokyo meeting of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) when president Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim al-Khalifa gave his unequivocal backing, in a significant boost to Infantinos prospects of extending his reign
India wins historic first mixed doubles medal at Asian TT in 72 years
After taking the opening game 11-6, the Indians lost the next two, leaving themselves under enormous pressure. However, the duo responded impressively, winning the fourth game 11-9 before holding their nerve to clinch the decider by the same margin
S. Meghana retires from all forms of cricket
As I announce my retirement from all formats of cricket as a player, my heart is overflowing with gratitude, Meghana wrote in an Instagram post
Chennai Corporation ramps up preparedness amid monsoon, El Nio concerns
CMDA plans 8.34-crore road, drain works at Koyambedu market after clogging issues
A CMDA official says water stagnation on main roads reduced after a drain was constructed. However, clogging persists near the L and M blocks and inside the flower market, where old drains require cleaning
CREDAI Chennai sets up anti-corruption panel, frames SOP for reporting graft
All 357 Delhi villages brought under urbanisation process
No local body polls in Amaravati capital region villages of Andhra Pradesh
Elections in villages where land pooling is under way have been kept pending for the time being as the government is working on a separate governance framework for the mega capital city
Local body polls: 14 cases booked on the last day of nominations, says Andhra Pradesh DGP
36 platoons of Andhra Pradesh Special Police have been deployed as part of election bandobust
Three arrested for allegedly stealing two-wheelers in Amberpet
Cyclonic storm likely to hit North Andhra Pradesh coast on October 28, says IMD
Red warnings for extremely heavy rain issued for October 27 and 28; fishermen who have ventured into the sea asked to return to shore
CJP leaders appear before Delhi court for surety verification; asked to return on November 3
Saurav Das, Ashutosh Ranka and Ajinkya Shinde appear before the Special Executive Magistrate at Delhis Mandir Marg police station
Issue with ticketing gate poses inconvenience to some Metro Rail commuters
Arunachalam, a frequent commuter, said he often faced issues with the ticketing gates on the newly opened stretch, wherein it took multiple attempts to open them
Nurses association condemns DPH order restraining criticism against government
The association said that the order curtailed the freedom of speech guaranteed to citizens by the Constitution
Vandalur zoo to reopen tomorrow after bird flu scare
The zoo authorities have requested the public to cooperate with their staff and to follow the instructions issued during the visit
Artistes honoured by Rasika Ranjani Sabha Foundation
Bomb threat emails to Mumbai Mayors office, three Navi Mumbai schools trigger security alert
Prompted by the threat, law enforcement authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation to verify the authenticity of the message
CSR funds for sports development, better infrastructure on the anvil, says Minister
Karnatakas most backward districts see low applications for inclusion after SIR draft deletions
In several historically backward districts, including Kalaburagi, Mysuru, Raichur and Ballari, deletions at the draft stage exceeded 18% of the electorate.
Sindhi College inaugurates renovated auditorium, modern infrastructure
Endocrinology conference focuses on advances in diabetes care
The sessions aim to improve disease awareness, address misconceptions and support informed decision-making and long-term disease management
Missing lorry driver beaten to death and buried near Sholavaram, two held
During interrogation, the two allegedly told the police that an altercation had broken out while they were under the influence of alcohol
For residents of Mylapore, a familiar park reopens and memories come flooding back
Residents welcome the reopening of Nageswara Rao Park, renovated by GCC at a cost of 8.49 cr.; while some prefer the old park for its familiarity, others want more childrens play equipment
Murder case accused arrested in Punjab
The accused was arrested in connection with the 2017 murder of Samidas in Korattur
Brazil court orders government to provide transportation for Indigenous voters in Sundays runoff
The state brings the ballot box to the forest but does not bring the voter to the ballot box, says Articulation of Indigenous Peoples of Brazil, known as APIB
MoU signed during Polish PMs visit
Tamil Nadus Neil Samraj breaks U-18 100m NR
Kerala artist Tom Vattakuzhys shows in London and Paris reflect the frailty of the human condition
Artist Tom Vattakuzhy on showing his works in strife-torn Paris, the excitement of Frieze Week in London and how he views his practice post the controversy surrounding his work at the Kochi Muziris Biennale
TVK, DMK walk out of Chennai electoral roll meeting
BJP has no bad option, Congress has no good option
Delimitation leaves the Bharatiya Janata Party with political opportunities and the Congress party with limited options
All MBBS seats allotted in state counselling
Three rescued after house collapse
Support govt work, dont obstruct: Sengottaiyan to Chennai mayor
Playing able-bodied shuttlers has helped Naveen Sivakumar grow
OCTOPUS IG urges students to cultivate discipline and courage
Society of Indian Screen Editors formed
Film editor Bina Paul is the chairperson
H.D. Kumaraswamy continues allegations against NICE road toll collection
Suspected murder: Cops to exhume body of missing man in Chennai
Girl's Family Objects To His Advances, Man Murders Her Mother In Tamil Nadu
Police said the suspect was acquainted with the family, and they had objected to his communications with their daughter.
Farmers urge authorities to desilt irrigation, supply channels
Talks between Ladakh groups, MHA fail to resume amid rift over govt. proposal
Civil society groups differ over Centres 32-draft proposal for the Union Territory
HC grants bail to man who created AI videos of CM to scam people
R. Senthamil Selvan is new chairperson of TNCCs Scheduled Caste department
He replaces M.P. Ranjan Kumar, who had been holding the post for the last four-and-a-half years
HR&CE reclaims 105 acres of temple land, collects 198 crore rent
TVK functionary booked for alleged sexual harassment of college student
Further investigations are under way
TNPDCL to introduce self-service meter readings
Rescuers search for survivors after deadly earthquake in Chinas Tibet region
The disaster struck Nagqu, a city north of Tibets capital, Lhasa, which is some 4,800 meters (5,249 yards) above sea level on October 22, 2026
Tasmac to float fresh bar tenders in Nov; new licences likely from Dec 1
Trump says will talk to Musk if Ukraine's Starlink not fixed
Elon will never do anything wrong. I know him very well, he is a fair person, the U.S. President said
Weather tomorrow, October 24: IMD forecasts heavy rain in Tamil Nadu, Kerala; check state-wise list
Weather tomorrow 24 October: The IMD has forecast heavy rainfall across several states on October 24, with Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal, Kerala and Lakshadweep among the areas facing very heavy rainfall warnings. Thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds are likely in parts of southern, eastern and northern India. Rainfall activity is expected to continue in several regions through October 29, with extremely heavy rain forecast in parts of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh on subsequent dates.
Law and order deteriorating, violent crimes on the rise: Kanimozhi
Bharat Petroleums net profit dips amid volatile crude prices in Q2
Bharat Petroleums revenues spurred 29% whilst net profit declined 22.5% on a year-over-year basis in Q2
Tamil Nadu: ECI Meet Flops As Parties Boycott
Only three of the 13 recognised political parties invited to the meeting took part in the deliberations causing an impasse: Reports
Kremlin says a first tanker of Russian diesel sets sail for U.S. despite Ukraine's protests
Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said earlier this week that the first shipment would amount to 40,000 tons of diesel, according to Russia's Interfax news agency
