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International Election Visitors Program Kicks Off with Delegates from 17 Countries

New Delhi, April 21: The Election Commission of India has officially launched the second phase of the International Election Visitors Program (IEVP) 2026 in the national capital on Tuesday. This initiative is organized in the context of the upcoming general elections for the assemblies of Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar ... Read more International Election Visitors Program Kicks Off with Delegates from 17 Countries

Morningstar 21 Apr 2026 8:59 pm

My goal is to make Tamil Nadu a model state in South Asia, says T.N. CM Stalin

The Tamil Nadu Chief Minister accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of running a false campaign portraying the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) as anti-Hindu

The Hindu 21 Apr 2026 8:48 pm

Development vs. Appeasement: PM Modi and Mamata Banerjee Trade Final Blows Before Thursdays Vote

While all 234 constituencies in Tamil Nadu will vote in one go, 152 constituencies across 16 districts in West Bengal will go to the polls in the opening phase.

Deccan Chronicle 21 Apr 2026 8:40 pm

Assembly Elections 2026 highlights: Electrifying campaign for Tamil Nadu polls ends

The model code of conduct is already in place since the announcement of the Assembly election and will continue till the election process is completed

The Hindu 21 Apr 2026 8:38 pm

Tamil Nadu election 2026: TVK out of poll race in Edappadi constituency after rejection of nominations

Consequently, the original four-corner fight in the constituency has turned into a three-corner fight between the AIADMK, DMK, and NTK.

The Hindu 21 Apr 2026 8:19 pm

Kamal Haasan Urges Tamil Nadu Voters to Make Informed Choices in Upcoming Elections

New Delhi, April 21: Actor and politician Kamal Haasan has made a heartfelt appeal to the public regarding the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. He urged citizens to exercise their democratic rights and vote wisely. Voting for the Tamil Nadu elections is scheduled for April 23. In a video posted on the social media platform X, ... Read more Kamal Haasan Urges Tamil Nadu Voters to Make Informed Choices in Upcoming Elections

Morningstar 21 Apr 2026 8:09 pm

BJPs transgressions continue to escalate, says P. Chidambaram

Former Union Minister P. Chidambaram says, those who make a generalised statement that Tamil Nadu ranks first in drug circulation is unacceptable; they must realise that it is through the Gujarat port that drugs enter the country

The Hindu 21 Apr 2026 7:49 pm

Tamil Nadu elections: Vijay slams those who are dismissing him for being actor

Vijay hit back at critics during a Chennai rally, asserting he hasnt acted in politics and addressing the Karur stampede controversy. He denied allegations, pointing out that the event had official permission and was publicly documented

Mid Day 21 Apr 2026 7:24 pm

Tamil Nadu Elections: The Intersection of Cinema and Politics Captivates Voters

Chennai, April 21: The relationship between politics and cinema in Tamil Nadu has a long-standing history, and this bond is once again evident in the upcoming 2026 assembly elections. Several prominent film personalities are entering the electoral arena, making the competition even more intriguing. Popular actor Vijay is stepping into electoral politics for the first ... Read more Tamil Nadu Elections: The Intersection of Cinema and Politics Captivates Voters

Morningstar 21 Apr 2026 7:09 pm

Congress Confident of Secular Progressive Alliance Victory in Tamil Nadu

Chennai, April 21: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge addressed a rally in Velachery, Tamil Nadu, expressing confidence that the Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA) will secure victory in the upcoming assembly elections. Kharge campaigned in support of Congress candidate JMH Hasan Maulana in the Velachery constituency. The party is contesting 28 seats in alliance with the Dravida ... Read more Congress Confident of Secular Progressive Alliance Victory in Tamil Nadu

Morningstar 21 Apr 2026 6:58 pm

Chennai Poll Canvas: Tamil Nadu

Chennai Poll Canvas: Tamil Nadu

The Hindu 21 Apr 2026 6:26 pm

Election Campaign Concludes in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal Ahead of April 23 Voting

New Delhi, April 21: The election campaign in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal came to a halt on Tuesday evening, just 48 hours before the voting scheduled for April 23. In West Bengal, voting will take place for 152 assembly seats in the first phase, while Tamil Nadu will conduct elections for all 234 seats. ... Read more Election Campaign Concludes in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal Ahead of April 23 Voting

Morningstar 21 Apr 2026 6:23 pm

Tamil Nadu under DMK: Rich but indebted

The debt to GSDP ratio has been at elevated levels over the last five years. This ratio had been well under the FRBM mandate of 25 per cent, prior to 2020

The Hindu Businessline 21 Apr 2026 5:27 pm

From protest to politics: How Tamil Nadus melthundu became an identity marker

A simple shoulder cloth, the melthundu, has a rich history in Tamil Nadu. It began as a gesture of respect, was later used to challenge caste norms, and became a symbol of equality. Dravidian leaders adopted it as part of their identity. Today, the melthundu is re-emerging as a political branding tool for upcoming elections.

The Economic Times 21 Apr 2026 5:18 pm

Tamil Nadu election 2026: Vijay urges children to pester parents to vote for TVK

DMK will surrender to BJP leaders Narendra Modi and Amit Shah after poll defeat, claims the actor-turned-politician

The Hindu 21 Apr 2026 5:17 pm

Kharge calls PM Narendra Modi a 'terrorist'; later claims he meant PM terrorising opponents

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge sparked controversy in Tamil Nadu. He criticized Prime Minister Modi and the AIADMK alliance. Kharge highlighted opposition unity in defeating the Delimitation Bill. He accused Modi of terrorizing political opponents and the BJP of being anti-women. Kharge urged voters to support the Congress-DMK alliance for a progressive future.

The Economic Times 21 Apr 2026 4:57 pm

Mallikarjun Kharge Calls PM Modi A Terrorist, Then Clarifies

Mallikarjun Kharge was questioning the AIADMK's choice of BJP as an alliance partner for the Tamil Nadu polls when the he used the word terrorist for the PM.

NDTV 21 Apr 2026 4:52 pm

Photographer Jina Park explores India in debut exhibition Lyrical Encounter: India Through a Korean Lens in Chennai

Jina Park takes us through an immersive journey across the country from the ghats of Benaras to the mountains of Ladakh, and the deserts of Rajasthan, the bustling lanes of Mumbai, and through Tamil Nadu, where she now lives

The Hindu 21 Apr 2026 4:49 pm

Election Campaigns Intensify in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu Ahead of Assembly Polls

Kolkata, April 21: The election campaigns in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu have reached a fever pitch as parties make their final push ahead of the assembly elections scheduled for April 23. Following the Election Commissions directive to conclude campaigning by 6 PM, political parties are leaving no stone unturned, organizing rallies, roadshows, and public ... Read more Election Campaigns Intensify in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu Ahead of Assembly Polls

Morningstar 21 Apr 2026 4:44 pm

Stalin Is Divisive, Anti-India: Union Minister Piyush Goyal

The Union minister exudes confidence in victory in Tamil Nadu

Deccan Chronicle 21 Apr 2026 3:50 pm

Tamil Nadu polls: Bipolar fight evil force vs people force AIADMK leader hits out at DMK

AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami declares the upcoming election a direct fight between his party and the DMK. He criticizes DMK leaders for prioritizing family interests and dismisses their claims about the NDA. Palaniswami defends AIADMK's past achievements and its alliance strategy, asserting the party's commitment to Tamil Nadu's welfare.

The Times of India 21 Apr 2026 3:49 pm

Watch: Arvind Kejriwal: M.K. Stalin has stood for the country, for democracy

Arvind Kejriwal praises the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam and M. K. Stalin for their strong support, welfare policies, and governance in Tamil Nadu, saying they have brought significant relief to the poor and middle class. He highlights Stalins role in defending democracy and federalism at the national level, criticizes the Bharatiya Janata Party and its alliance with All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, and warns that a BJP-led government could reverse the states progress.

The Hindu 21 Apr 2026 3:43 pm

Vijay Calls for Support Ahead of Tamil Nadu Elections, Criticizes DMK and BJP

Chennai, April 21: Vijay, the president of the Tamilga Vetrik Kazhagam (TVK), has made an emotional appeal to the people of Tamil Nadu, urging them to vote for his party in the upcoming assembly elections on April 23. He emphasized the importance of voting for the Whistle symbol. In a detailed statement addressing the states ... Read more Vijay Calls for Support Ahead of Tamil Nadu Elections, Criticizes DMK and BJP

Morningstar 21 Apr 2026 3:34 pm

Tamil Nadu election 2026: Poll bugle to fall silent across State on April 21

All political functionaries and party workers who are not voters of a constituency must clear out immediately after 6p.m. Tuesday

The Hindu 21 Apr 2026 3:33 pm

DMK leader Dhivya Sathyaraj says TVK supporters hurled slippers at her during election campaign in Chennai

Dhivya Sathyaraj, DMK IT wing deputy general secretary, reported being subjected to slipper-throwing and verbal abuse by TVK supporters during a campaign in Chennai's Nungambakkam. She described the incident as 'horrific' and a first in her political career, urging TVK president Vijay to curb abusive language against women, including his wife.

The Times of India 21 Apr 2026 3:32 pm

Arvind Kejriwal warns Tamil Nadu voters against NDA, says it would undo Stalin's good work

Arvind Kejriwal took a stand for Tamil Nadu's future, urging voters to reject the NDA at the polls. He argued that the BJP has a troubling track record of harming state development and negating positive reforms. Kejriwal expressed concerns that a win for the NDA would threaten the valuable achievements of Chief Minister M K Stalin.

The Economic Times 21 Apr 2026 3:27 pm

Tamil Nadu Voters Set to Teach Stalin a Lesson, Says Piyush Goyal

Chennai, April 21: Union Minister Piyush Goyal stated on Tuesday that the people of Tamil Nadu will deliver a significant victory to the NDA to teach Mr. Stalin a lesson. Speaking to a news agency, Goyal expressed his relief that Udhayanidhi Stalin and his father, M.K. Stalin, have finally realized that by undermining Tamil culture, ... Read more Tamil Nadu Voters Set to Teach Stalin a Lesson, Says Piyush Goyal

Morningstar 21 Apr 2026 3:19 pm

Tamil Nadu election: Stones pelted at NTK candidate in Ennore

A minor boy has been detained relating to the incident

The Hindu 21 Apr 2026 2:10 pm

Whats the difference between a double engine and a single engine sarkar? Chandrababu Naidu explains

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, campaigning in Chennai for the NDA ahead of the April 23 Assembly election, criticised the DMK over law and order and civic infrastructure in Tamil Nadu. He claimed that urban roads had not kept pace with growth and pitched the double engine government model, saying it would ensure faster development with stronger Centre-State coordination and funding.

The Hindu 21 Apr 2026 2:01 pm

MSC Elsa 3 shipwreck off Kerala: Tamil Nadu seeks 1,041.8-crore compensation for pollution impact, Union Ministry tells NGT

NGT Principal Bench asks Ministry to submit details of States and Union Territories that may have suffered environmental damage owing to the shipwreck after it took suo motu cognisance of a report in The Hindu

The Hindu 21 Apr 2026 1:45 pm

Tamil Nadu elections: NOTA count higher than victory margin in 13 seats last poll

In the Tamil Nadu elections of 2021, many voters opted for NOTA, a choice that exceeded the winning margins in 13 constituencies, indicating a significant level of discontent among the electorate. Although NOTA's influence has seen a decline since 2016, it still acts as a form of protest for voters dissatisfied with their options.

The Times of India 21 Apr 2026 1:39 pm

Only double engine government can bring bullet speed growth to Tamil Nadu: Chandrababu Naidu

Comparing Chennai with other cities like Bengaluru and Hyderabad, Mr. Naidu said the growth of Chennai had stagnated. According to him, the present facilities at Chennai airport are no match for those available at the Bengaluru and Hyderabad airports.

The Hindu 21 Apr 2026 1:36 pm

Tamil Nadu polls: DMK is confident theyve done good in the leaders fortress

Kolathur, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin's stronghold since 2011, is under intense scrutiny. Voters will cast ballots not just for their MLA but also for a referendum on Stalin's leadership. The constituency has seen significant development under the DMK government, boosting Stalin's personal connect and widening his victory margins.

The Times of India 21 Apr 2026 1:23 pm

Cuddalore-Puducherry administrations hold inter-State coordination meeting ahead of Tamil Nadu polls

The joint meeting was chaired by Cuddalore Collector Sibi Adhithya Senthil Kumar and Puducherry Collector A. Kulothungan.

The Hindu 21 Apr 2026 1:02 pm

BJP Claims Surge in Support for NDA in Tamil Nadu Ahead of Elections

Chennai, April 21: The spokesperson for the BJPs Tamil Nadu unit, A.N.S. Prasad, claimed on Tuesday that there has been a significant increase in public support for the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) across Tamil Nadu as the campaign for the assembly elections comes to a close. In a statement, Prasad asserted that the NDA, led ... Read more BJP Claims Surge in Support for NDA in Tamil Nadu Ahead of Elections

Morningstar 21 Apr 2026 12:59 pm

M K Stalin urges support for DMK alliance as campaign ends

On the final day of campaigning, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin urged voters to back the DMK-led alliance, highlighting governance achievements and calling the election crucial for protecting the states rights, culture, and development. Polling will be held on April 23

Mid Day 21 Apr 2026 12:19 pm

New chapter in Tamil Nadu's revolving-door politics as Vijay's TVK complicates DMK-AIADMK math

Tamil Nadu's politics has seen a major shift. The DMK has gained significant ground, winning recent elections. The AIADMK has experienced a decline. As the state gears up for the 2026 assembly polls, new alliances are forming. Actor Vijay's party will contest all seats. Voters will decide the state's future direction.

The Economic Times 21 Apr 2026 12:15 pm

Tamil Nadu election 2026: On final day of campaign, Vijay says he wont yield to anti-people fascist forces

In a statement addressing the people of Tamil Nadu, Mr. Vijay alleged that from the very day he entered politics, the DMK and the BJP had been exerting enormous pressure on him.

The Hindu 21 Apr 2026 12:13 pm

Tamil Nadu Seizes 1,200 Crore in Cash and Goods Ahead of Elections

Chennai, April 21: With just days remaining until the Tamil Nadu assembly elections on April 23, election officials have intensified their crackdown on illegal activities. Authorities have seized a staggering 1,200 crore worth of cash, gold, narcotics, alcohol, and other inducements across the state. The seizures include over 500 crore in cash and valuable items ... Read more Tamil Nadu Seizes 1,200 Crore in Cash and Goods Ahead of Elections

Morningstar 21 Apr 2026 12:04 pm

Heat Wave Hits Tamil Nadu, Rain and Storm Forecast for Coming Days

Chennai, April 21: Tamil Nadu is expected to experience a rise in temperatures over the next few days, particularly in its interior districts. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning that temperatures in some areas may remain 2 to 3 degrees Celsius above normal. In Chennai, the temperature is likely to hover around ... Read more Heat Wave Hits Tamil Nadu, Rain and Storm Forecast for Coming Days

Morningstar 21 Apr 2026 11:49 am

Tamil Nadu Authorities Seize 1,200 Crore Ahead of Assembly Elections

Chennai, April 21: With just days left until the voting for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections on April 23, election officials have intensified their efforts. A significant amount of cash, gold, narcotics, alcohol, and other inducements have been seized across the state. So far, the total seizures have reached 1,200 crore. The election monitoring teams ... Read more Tamil Nadu Authorities Seize 1,200 Crore Ahead of Assembly Elections

Morningstar 21 Apr 2026 11:43 am

Tamil Nadu SHOCKER! Mob Snatches Rs.13.44 Lakh from Election Commission Team After Raid at Karti Chidambaram Office

A mob looted Rs.13.44 lakh from Election Commission officials in Tamil Nadus Karaikudi after a raid at Karti Chidambarams office. Main accused is arrested.

Web Dunia 21 Apr 2026 10:53 am

Tamil Nadu assembly elections 2026: Whats open, whats closed on April 23 from 'dry days' to bank shutdowns

Tamil Nadu braces for assembly elections on April 23 with a public holiday and significant restrictions. Liquor sales are banned for three days, and schools will close as they host polling booths. Banks will shut, but digital services and ATMs remain operational. These measures aim for a smooth and high-turnout election.

The Times of India 21 Apr 2026 10:37 am

Tamil Nadu polls: Do you want an MLA or a newcomer staging drama, says CM M K Stalin

During a lively rally in Chennai, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin took a jab at the political aspirations of actor Vijay, casting doubt on his capability to handle politics. The atmosphere shifted as he later joined forces with Arvind Kejriwal for a vibrant roadshow, extolling the AAP leader's relentless struggle against the BJP's influence.

The Times of India 21 Apr 2026 10:31 am

Tamil Nadu elections: Amid accusations of betrayal, OPS looks to make it four in a row at stronghold

O Panneerselvam, a former AIADMK chief minister, campaigns as the DMK's candidate in Bodinayakkanur after being denied re-entry into his old party. His shift, marked by posters of Stalin and a new political alignment, faces skepticism from voters accustomed to AIADMK loyalty, raising questions about his ability to win over his traditional base.

The Times of India 21 Apr 2026 10:26 am

GECO Unveils New Packaging Identity Across Its Full Range of Products

VNC Group , a diversified enterprise with over four decades of market leadership across welding consumables, steel wires, and fencing solutions, has announced a comprehensive brand and packaging refresh for GECO, introducing a new visual identity that transforms its range of tile adhesives, grouts, sealants, and tapes into a standout modern brand.   GECO Reveals New Packaging Across Range   The vibrant new identity marks a significant milestone in GECO’s evolution from a product line into a fully realised brand platform. In a category long dominated by utilitarian, text-heavy packaging that often blends into hardware store shelves, the refreshed design breaks away from outdated industrial conventions and positions GECO as a bold, contemporary challenger in the tile and stone fixing solutions segment.   Commenting on the launch, Gokul Basker, Brand Founder, GECO and Partner, VNC Group, said, “ At the heart of GECO’s redesign is our distinctive gecko mascot, symbolising the unmatched grip and reliability our brand stands for. Complemented by a bold ‘G’ icon and a vibrant blue and magenta palette, the new identity brings a fresh, modern presence to the category while strengthening recall across retail and trade touchpoints. Furthermore, this refreshed identity reflects GECO’s commitment to clarity, performance, and purposeful innovation. While the look has evolved, product performance remains the same — reliable, high-performance solutions across our full portfolio of tile adhesives, grouts, sealants, and tapes .”   Industry Recognition The packaging refresh follows growing industry recognition for GECO. In 2024, the brand was named among the Top 10 Adhesives & Sealants Manufacturers by Industry Outlook , recognising its commitment to quality, reliability, and delivery excellence.   About GECO GECO delivers high-performance building solutions that hold strong, no matter the challenge. The product range — spanning tile adhesives, grouts, sealants, and tapes — is engineered to help professionals and creators complete their work efficiently and confidently. GECO is part of the VNC Group and is committed to continuous innovation, expanding its portfolio to meet the evolving needs of the construction and finishing industry.   About VNC Group VNC Group is a diversified enterprise with strong market leadership across welding consumables, steel wires, and fencing solutions. With over 40 years of commitment to creating lasting value, VNC’s BEST range of brands serves more than 8,000 retailers across South India. VNC launched GECO and Indicus Paints in 2021 and has been rapidly expanding product offerings across both categories. VNC is also a leading distributor for Tata Steel, managing a wide portfolio of their retail products across Tamil Nadu.   thegeco.in.

News Voir 21 Apr 2026 9:49 am

Tamil Nadu: Firecracker unit blast death toll climbs to 25

The death toll in the explosion at a firecracker unit near Kattanarpatti has risen to 25, with many bodies charred beyond recognition. Authorities say identification is being done through personal belongings, while the factory owner remains absconding

Mid Day 21 Apr 2026 9:39 am

Assembly Elections 2026 LIVE: M.K. Stalin holds walk campaign in Chennai's Kannagi Nagar ahead of Tamil Nadu polls

BJP wants to hijack the entire election: Congress MP K.C. Venugopal

The Hindu 21 Apr 2026 9:24 am

Congress accuses BJP of trying to hijack Tamil Nadu polls

Congress leader KC Venugopal accused the BJP of attempting to hijack the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections using AIADMK. He said the polls would be a battle between secularism and divisive politics, expressing confidence in a DMK-Congress alliance victory

Mid Day 21 Apr 2026 9:17 am

DMK earns the ire of farmers in Tamil Nadus Cauvery delta

Farmers allege irregularities at paddy direct procurement centres (PDCs), along with problems in the transportation of paddy to warehouses and lack of proper power supply

The Hindu Businessline 21 Apr 2026 8:55 am

TN will continue to fight against delimitation, CM Stalin

Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin on Monday, April 20, said he would continue the fight against the Centres delimitation exercise and claimed that the BJP governments move to bring the delimitation bill in haste only showed its fascist mindset in running the government. Addressing a massive roadshow here, he said, despite warnings 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 21 Apr 2026 7:52 am

Dont vote for Anbumani-led PMK: Ramadoss

The Times of India 21 Apr 2026 4:16 am

Man held for prostitution racket in Chennai

According to police sources the accused was apprehended following complaints from residents about frequent movement of strangers to a house on Central Cross Street

The Hindu 21 Apr 2026 4:06 am

Tamil Nadu election 2026: Vote for Vijay will help AIADMK and BJP, says Thirumavalavan

Vijay has not taken clear positions on issues such as social justice, secularism, caste violence, and was focused primarily on opposing the DMK and Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, says VCK chief

The Hindu 21 Apr 2026 3:27 am

Showers and sunshine tame Indias emissions

The Times of India 21 Apr 2026 2:51 am

Hyundai and TVS Motor ink pact to develop e-3Ws in India

The Times of India 21 Apr 2026 2:16 am

DMK candidate outlines civic plans for Mylapore constituency

Dha Velu said the focus, if re-elected, would be on expediting ongoing infrastructure projects, particularly Metro Rail construction that is causing traffic congestion for commuters

The Hindu 21 Apr 2026 1:00 am

Tamil Nadu Assembly Election: DMK MLA and a new face of AIADMK lock horns in Alangudi

Many inlet channels have been encroached upon and have not been cleaned posing problems to farmers; If the Ambuliaaru and the Villuniaaru (streams) are included in the Cauvery-Gundar linking project, it would greatly improve the water table, say farmers

The Hindu 21 Apr 2026 12:37 am

15-year-old from South America treated for scoliosis at Chennai hospital

Following the surgeries, Sedis spine was 75% corrected, Appaji Krishnan, senior consultant, spine surgery said, noting that the entire process was a team effort

The Hindu 20 Apr 2026 11:30 pm

AIADMK has surrendered to BJP: Rahul Gandhi in Tamil Nadu

Rahul Gandhi accused the AIADMK leadership of surrendering to the BJP due to corruption, calling the regional party a hollow shell and a gateway for the BJP's expansion in Tamil Nadu. He asserted that the DMK-Congress alliance is united to defend Tamil language, culture, and history against the BJP-RSS's perceived attempts to impose a singular tradition and language.

The Economic Times 20 Apr 2026 11:29 pm

Can R Vaishali's Candidates Success Spark a Chess Revolution for Indian Girls?

Tamil Nadu's chess prowess shines as R Vaishali eyes the Women's World Championship after her Candidates victory. Young A S Sharvaanica's U12 rapid title further highlights the state's growing talent. While these successes inspire, experts note the need for greater support and sponsorship to elevate women's chess participation and achieve global dominance.

The Times of India 20 Apr 2026 11:29 pm

AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami interview: Its a bipolar fight evil force vs people force

AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami dismisses Vijay's TVK, framing the election as a direct contest with the DMK. He accuses DMK leaders of prioritizing family interests and criticizes their claims of growth, attributing current progress to AIADMK's past governance. Palaniswami also defends AIADMK's relationship with the BJP, contrasting it with the DMK's alleged subservience and corruption.

The Times of India 20 Apr 2026 11:14 pm

Kejriwal asks people of Tamil Nadu not to vote for NDA, says BJP has captured AIADMK

If you vote for theNDA, theBJPand theAIADMKwill stop the good work carried out by theDMKgovernment because their intention is to loot the people, says the former Chief Minister of Delhi

The Hindu 20 Apr 2026 11:10 pm

Kashmirs missing skill

In Kashmir today, ambition is not the problem. Expression is. Students want to learn, grow, and build better futures for themselves and their families. Many learn from global platforms, watching lectures from Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Stanford University. In terms of access to knowledge, the gap with the rest of the world has reduced. But there is still something important missing. Soft skills. Many students understand their subjects well, but find it difficult to explain their ideas clearly. They have goals, but feel unsure when they have to speak, present themselves, or take initiative. Because of this, some opportunities are left unused. This becomes clear at important moments such as writing an application, sitting in an interview, and speaking in a discussion. These are not situations where marks alone matter. These are situations where clarity, confidence and communication matter. In simple terms, this is where soft skills make a difference. Soft skills are basic human abilities. They include communication, teamwork, problem solving, time management, adaptability and emotional understanding. These skills help people work with others and handle real-life situations in a balanced way. Around the world, research shows how important these skills are. Studies from institutions such as Harvard Business School suggest that as technology grows, basic human skills like communication and critical thinking are becoming even more important. Technical knowledge can help a person begin, but these skills support long-term growth. The World Economic Forum also highlights that skills like clear thinking, creativity, adaptability and continuous learning are important for the future. Many job requirements may change over time, but these human skills remain useful in every field. The idea is simple. Hard skills help you start. Soft skills help you move forward. We can see this in the lives of many well-known people such as Steve Jobs, Oprah Winfrey, Satya Nadella and SundarPichai. Their journeys show something important. Success is not only about knowledge. It is also about how knowledge is shared and used. A real example from India shows this clearly. A woman named Valarmathi from Tamil Nadu could not find a job after graduating. Instead of waiting, she started a small saree shop near her home. Over time, she expanded her work and explored new ways to grow. Her turning point came when she received training supported by the World Bank. This training focused on mindset, problem solving and initiative. The result was clear. She made better decisions and explored new ideas. Her work improved and her confidence grew. Her experience shows something simple. It is not only about what a person knows. It is about how they use what they know. Research in psychology and neuroscience also supports this. Skills like communication, confidence and emotional understanding improve with practice. The brain learns these patterns over time. This means soft skills can be developed step by step. There is also a practical side to this. In todays world, many tasks are done in groups. People need to communicate, listen, and work together. Clear communication builds trust and careful thinking helps solve problems. Being organized helps complete work on time. These are simple habits, but they make a real difference. In many classrooms, students focus mainly on written answers and exam preparation. But they may not always get enough chances to speak, discuss or express their ideas. As a result, some students have strong knowledge but feel less confident in expressing it. There can also be a language challenge. Many students think in Kashmiri or Urdu, but are expected to speak in English in formal settings. This can make them feel unsure and hesitant. They may focus too much on perfect words instead of clear meaning. Then comes hesitation. Students may speak less and avoid situations where they have to express themselves. Over time, silence becomes a habit. And this habit has a cost. Students may not fully show their abilities, even when they have the knowledge. At the same time, others who express themselves more clearly often find it easier to move ahead. The difference is not ability. It is expression. In Kashmir too, this can be seen in simple ways. Some students with strong academic records feel unsure in interviews or discussions, not because they lack knowledge, but because they are not used to expressing it confidently. This is not a weakness. It is a skill that can be learned. In todays world, clarity itself is a skill. The good news is that soft skills can be developed. Start small. Speak more in daily conversations. Write regularly. Explain what you learn and ask questions. Listen carefully and take small steps. Do not try to be perfect. Try to be clear. Simple words are enough. With time, confidence grows. Families and schools can also support this. Students should be encouraged to speak, share ideas and think independently. These skills are as important as academic learning. In Kashmir, talent is present in many places. What sometimes remains hidden is the ability to show it clearly. Soft skills make talent visible. They turn knowledge into action. In the end, the world does not reward silence. It responds to clarity and action. And often, the gap between where a student is and where they could be is not about ability. It is about the confidence to express it, and the willingness to act on it. Suhaib Bakshi is an engineer who writes on skills.

Greater Kashmir 20 Apr 2026 11:10 pm

Poll bugle to fall silent across Tamil Nadu on Tuesday evening

All political functionaries and party workers who are not voters of a constituency must clear out immediately after 6p.m. Tuesday

The Hindu 20 Apr 2026 10:50 pm

Independent candidates dominate Tamil Nadu elections; Their impact felt despite low winning odds

While independent candidates may not often claim victory in Indian elections, their influence is undeniable. These individualsranging from enterprising local heroes to charismatic street performersserve as catalysts for civic engagement. They can sway key votes and even instigate delays in voting, revealing a spectrum of motivations behind their candidacies and reflecting the rich democratic fabric of the nation.

The Times of India 20 Apr 2026 10:41 pm

Tamil Nadu election 2026: Intense battle on the cards in Sivakasi constituency

Besides being the hub for fireworks industry, it has hundreds of printing and match units that keeps the skilled and unskilled labourers engaged, in the otherwise arid region.

The Hindu 20 Apr 2026 9:51 pm

DMK alliance a model for India, says CPI(M) leader M.A. Baby

The BJP cannot suppress the South Indian states through the same tactics and oppression they use in the North and Northeast, as there are governments like M.K. Stalins administration in Tamil Nadu and Pinarayi Vijayans administration in Kerala that refuse to fall in line with their designs, says M.A. Baby

The Hindu 20 Apr 2026 9:45 pm

I love the people of Tamil Nadu: Rahul Gandhi

The Hindu 20 Apr 2026 9:17 pm

Tamil Nadu Elections: Chief Minister Mohan Yadav to Campaign Intensively on Tuesday

Bhopal, April 20: Chief Minister Mohan Yadav of Madhya Pradesh will embark on a one-day visit to Tamil Nadu on Tuesday for the upcoming assembly elections. This marks his first electoral tour in Tamil Nadu ahead of the voting scheduled for April 23. The timing of this visit is crucial as the official campaigning will ... Read more Tamil Nadu Elections: Chief Minister Mohan Yadav to Campaign Intensively on Tuesday

Morningstar 20 Apr 2026 8:49 pm

DMK objects to ECI's appointment of Avinash Kumar as IGP by replacing Senthil Velan

The party urged the ECI to withdraw its order dated April 19 appointing Kumar as the IGP intelligence.

The Times of India 20 Apr 2026 8:36 pm

Chennai Poll Canvas | Voting Made Simple: Facilities you should know | TN 2026

Chennai Poll Canvas is an election special programme from The Hindu, offering a comprehensive constituency roundup from in and around Chennai for the Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026

The Hindu 20 Apr 2026 8:25 pm